They say the magic of friendship grows, but that leads to an all-important question that many ask themselves. What if the magic of friendship grows so much that it dies out? Friendships change, for good or bad, but they can also diminish. You know the story of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. However, if you thought their story was over, that it ended there, you're wrong. What happened to them was only the beginning.


Location: Downtown Canterlot

Time: 2144 Hours (9:44 PM)

It was late as guards ran around. As they ran, however, they were separated by a huge blast. The blast had come from a unicorn stallion with eyes as white as snow and an aura around him that was so dark it would put even Sombra to shame. Below, Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends were trying to combat the stallion. Princess Cadence, Shining Armor, and Princess Flurry Heart had come from the Crystal Empire to assist them, as did the former rulers of Equestria, Princesses Celestia and Luna. The Four Pillars of Equestria had also appeared to help. The stallion landed and his aura flared more. Discord, the reformed Lord of Chaos and Disharmony, started to fight the stallion in close combat.

"You need to chill out." Discord said, placing the stallion in a snow globe. The stallion glared and the snow globe broke. Before Discord could utter another word, the stallion had kicked him away before sending a volley of spears at him.

"Look out!" Twilight said. Discord dodged them and grinned, but gasped as he felt a sharp pain in his chest. He looked down and saw the tip of a spear sticking out of his body and looked behind him. There, holding the spear in his magic, was the stallion.

"Burn in Tartatus, Discord." He said, his voice demonic. Discord started to try and fight back, but it was futile. Using his magic, the stallion set the spear ablaze, with Discord pierced on it. Discord managed to free himself, but the stallion then kicked him into the spear of a guard that had been killed by the blast. Discord let out a scream so loud, it echoed in the ears of those who were combating the stallion.

"Discord!" Spike said.

"You will burn for your crimes." The stallion said.

"No! Don't do it! I BEG YOU!!!!" Discord yelled. The stallion didn't listen as spears of fire surrounded Discord.

"Discord," Twilight said, "get out of there!" The stallion closed his eyes, and the flames grew closer to Discord.

"You're going too far!" Spike said.

"Discord, RUN!" Pinkie said. The flames then formed a dome around Discord and his eyes had a look of regret.

"Forgive me." Discord said.

"What are you doing?!" Spike asked.

"GET OUTTA THERE!" Rainbow yelled. That's when Cadence realized it and gasped, covering Flurry Heart's eyes.

"He can't." Cadence said. When Cadence said that, Spike gasped and ran towards the dome of flames.

"DISCORD, NO!" He yelled.

"Perish." The stallion said, his eyes shooting open. The dome then came down on Discord, causing him to scream in agony.

"DISCOOOOOOOORD!!!!" Spike and Fluttershy yelled. When the flames subsided, the burnt remains of Discord's body were all that remained. Not even the cobblestone that was on the ground was left behind. A soft wind blew and started clearing the dust. Everypony that was there watched as they saw the outline of Discord.

"Did he survive?" Spike asked. The dust cleared further, and the stallion glared.

"He was a fool to think he could match me. He fought with magic. So I countered with magic. The magic I used was once made to start a fire. However, it was modified to become an impenetrable dome of execution." The stallion said.

"Then… that means!" Twilight said. The stallion caused wind to blow and Discord was revealed, burned to a crisp. When the remains were revealed, they all gasped. Fluttershy teared up and Spike started to charge, only to be met with a wing in his way. That wing was from Twilight, and she had a look on her face that would make even Grogar tense up.

"Playtime is over." The stallion said.

"Now you've made me mad." Twilight said.

"You're also no match for me." The stallion said. Twilight charged at the stallion, fully bent on taking his life. The stallion gave a glare and sent her flying backwards with a kick to her chest, causing her to crash into the others trying to stop him. The force of the impact sent them all into a brick wall, crushing two guards to death. The stallion gave an unamused look. He had potentially taken over Equestria, and he hadn't even broken a sweat.

"He's…. too strong!" Shining said, struggling to stand up.

"Not even the Elements of Harmony would work on him!" Luna said, managing to stand.

"I don't even think ANYTHING would work on him!" Pinkie said.

"Something has to work! We can't give up!" Rainbow said.

"Tell that to your colleagues in the Wonderbolts. Oh, wait, I forgot. They had met the same fate Discord had!" The stallion said.

"Why you!" Rainbow said.

"So much for your loyalty." The stallion said. Rainbow gasped and charged at the stallion, only to be met with a swift kick into a wall.

"Rainbow!" Twilight said.

"Just calm down. I don't want to hurt you." Fluttershy said, tears still in her eyes.

"Tell that to your pet rabbit that you left behind. Talk about kindness." The stallion said. Fluttershy gasped and started to charge, only to be shoved into another wall.

"Fluttershy!" Twilight said.

"Somepony needs to smile a bit more." Pinkie said.

"Try telling that to the ones who lost someone. No laughter there." The stallion said. Pinkie had gasped and was suddenly sent into another wall.

"Pinkie!" Twilight said.

"Everything is gonna be fine Twilight. I promise you, what I'm saying is honest!" Applejack said.

"Where was that honesty when your sister asked about your parents?" The stallion asked. Applejack gasped and the stallion blasted her into another wall.

"Applejack!" Twilight said.

"Take my shield, Twilight! I'm not going to let this ruffian get the better of us!" Rarity said.

"Where was that generosity when your sister needed some fabric for a project she was working on?" The stallion asked. Rarity gasped and was blown into another wall.

"Rarity!" Twilight said.

"That's far enough! Your onslaught ends here!" Celestia said.

"Go ahead and try it. You've been out of action for so long that you can't even raise the sun anymore! How do you expect to stop me?! Huh?!" The stallion asked. His aura flared more, and the others were sent into walls far away from Twilight. Before Twilight could say anything, the stallion had put his magic around her throat and lifted her higher.

"I…. Will…. Stop…. You!" Twilight said, struggling to speak.

"How can you stop me when you don't have the magic of friendship you used to?" The stallion asked. Twilight gasped and the stallion used a sword that he had in his magic to stab her in her left flank, causing her to scream.

"TWILIGHT!" Her friends yelled.

"I'LL KILL YOU! YOU BASTARD, I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU!" Shining yelled. The stallion then threw her into a brick wall before throwing her onto the ground. The others ran to her and Shining, and Spike, stood in front, ready to fight the stallion.

"Are you okay, Twilight?" Cadence asked.

"I'll be fine. Worry about him!" Twilight said.

"He knows our weaknesses, Twilight!" Applejack said.

"We can't beat him!" Fluttershy said, tears streaming down her face.

"He's slaughtering us without even breaking a sweat!" Rainbow said.

"He hasn't even been harmed!" Rarity said.

"It's like fighting Tirek," Pinkie said, "but he's fused with Chrysalis, Cozy Glow, Grogar, Sombra, The Storm King and Discord!"

"Don't forget about Nightmare Moon!" Rainbow said.

"Not to mention Trixie when she was under the influence of the Alicorn Amulet!" Rarity said.

"Enough talking! We have to attack!" Shining said.

"With what?! Your weapons have no effect on me!" The stallion said.

"Why?" Twilight asked, starting to tear up.

"Why what?" The stallion asked in return.

"Why are you attacking?" Twilight asked.

"Because the whole world forgot about one stallion," the stallion said, "and he died for Equestria without getting the recognition he deserved."

"What?" Shining asked.

"Come again?" Spike asked.

"Allow me to show you what I mean." The stallion said. He then used his magic and started a flashback sequence, showing the death of a stallion in an alleyway. Shining tried to move, but couldn't as he had been anchored to the ground. Four other stallions had surrounded just one stallion who had been beaten and bruised.

"All these years," A stallion spoke, "and you've been playing us."

"It was just a job." The beaten stallion said. Another stallion showed up and had a sword within magic.

"Then your death will be your payment." The new stallion said. The beaten stallion tried to move, but got held down by the other stallions there.

"You fools. If you kill me," the beaten stallion said, "you won't be able to get Princess Twilight to cooperate!" The new stallion rose the sword and gave a glare.

"We have our methods." He said. Before anyone could say a word, the stallion had decapitated the beaten stallion and the flashback ended. Pinkie was frozen with a look of shock. She soon collapsed and curled up into a ball, shaking slightly. Rarity started to comfort her as Twilight had a realization.

"Wait," Twilight said, "this was…. Three days after my coronation day?!"

"So, it appears you do remember this day." The stallion said. He held a picture in his magic, looking at it solemnly.

"All of this because some lowlife was killed?!" Rainbow asked.

"HE WASN'T A LOWLIFE!!!!" The stallion yelled, sending Rainbow into a brick wall.

"Rainbow!" Applejack and Pinkie said, running to her.

"I don't understand. Why do you care about that stallion? Why are you doing this? Why are you trying to make me remember a day where I feel like I forgot something?!" Twilight asked.

"BECAUSE YOU DID FORGET SOMETHING! YOU FORGOT HIM!" The stallion yelled, showing the picture. Twilight gasped as she saw the picture. Celestia and Cadence both ran to Twilight and held her in place to prevent her from being blown into a wall.

"You're saying this is because of me?" Twilight asked.

"It's not because of you. It's because of who you forgot. Because you forgot somepony that was in the shadows. Somepony that SERVED EQUESTRIA from the shadows. You forgot him to the point you don't even know his name anymore!" The stallion said. Twilight shed a tear and sniffled.

"Who? Who was he?" Twilight asked. The stallion gave the picture to Twilight, his look unchanging.

"His name was Absolute Justice. He was undercover with the Canterlot Investigative Team from the day he got his cutie mark to the day he died. Rather, I should say, the day he was murdered. He was murdered three days after you were named leader of Equestria. That was the picture he had when he was killed. That picture is of two foals, one filly and one colt. That filly is you," the stallion said, "and the colt is him. He carried a picture of you and him when he was killed! He NEVER forgot you, but you went and forgot him?! WHERE'S THE SENSE IN THAT?!?!" Twilight looked at the photo and shed more tears, finally remembering everything.

"Twilight?" Rarity asked.

"I've been such a fool." Twilight said.

"What do you mean?" Pinkie asked.

"Is it about that picture?" Applejack asked.

"It is." Cadence said.

"I remember that picture. I had it taken in celebration." Celestia said.

"It even had Spike in it with Twilight holding him like a newborn!" Cadence said. Twilight wiped her eyes.

"That was when we got our cutie marks. How could I forget him?!" Twilight asked.

"He was undercover for years. It was understandable." Cadence said.

"I still forgot him! He…. He was the first friend I ever made. He showed me the copy of Predictions and Prophesies that I had Spike pull out when I said that Nightmare Moon would return! He's the reason I was social in school! I had made more friends after he left, and I completely forgot about the one friend that started it all! I'M SUCH AN IDIOT!!!!" Twilight yelled.

"So, you regret forgetting him?" The stallion asked.

"Yes," Twilight said, "I regret forgetting him. I regret not making amends with him! I regret not removing him from undercover work in the first place! I just…. Sighs I wish that I could help him. I wish I could go back in time and stop him from getting stuck as an undercover operative for Equestria. He deserved better than that! If I were in your position, Sighs I'd probably do all this, too." Twilight looked down in shame. This was the first time since she became Equestria's monarch, since she became Princess of Equestria, that she felt utterly worthless. Shining Armor managed to get himself balanced enough to get up and go to his sister to comfort her.

"Do you mean it? Do you truly wish to go back in time and save your friend?" The stallion asked. Twilight started shedding tears before nodding.

"Yes." Twilight said.

"Then I guess I can tell you." The stallion said, speaking normally. That piqued the interest of everyone.

"Tell her what?" Celestia asked.

"I can help. I know a song that can turn back time three days before he got stuck undercover." The stallion said. They all gasped and Spike stepped forward.

"How do you know it?!" He asked.

"More importantly," Starswirl said, stepping forward, "how in Equestria did you manage to decode my spell?!" That caught Rainbow's attention faster than Applejack kicking an apple towards her face.

"Wait," Rainbow said, "YOUR spell? You made that song?!"

"I wrote it as a last resort spell. The reason being the caster exchanges his own life to use the spell." Starswirl said.

"Then that means!" Pinkie said.

"That's right. Three days before Absolute Justice was stuck undercover was the day I was born." The stallion said. Twilight gave him a cautious look.

"Why would you do this for me?" Twilight asked.

"Because my father was the one who killed Absolute Justice," the stallion said, "and he said that he would do it again so long as he remained untruthful. Absolute Justice does NOT belong undercover."

"That we can agree on." Celestia said.

"Wait," Pinkie said, "I just realized something!"

"What is it?" Rainbow asked.

"You're considering going back in time to stop all of this from happening, right, Twilight?" Pinkie asked.

"I am." Twilight said.

"If that happens then she wouldn't have met us yet!" Pinkie said.

"When was he stuck undercover?" Applejack asked.

"The day Nightmare Moon returned. The 1000th Summer Sun Celebration!" The stallion said. Everypony had gasped and Twilight soon had a strong resolve in her heart, which then resulted with the same look on her face.

"I'll do it." Twilight said.

"This can't be happening!" Pinkie said.

"Relax." The stallion said.

"Why should I?!" Pinkie asked.

"Fate brought the six of you together," the stallion said, "and that will never change." Pinkie started to object, but soon shed a tear and nodded. The stallion then conjured a horn and Twilight looked at the others.

"If we ever make it to this day again," she said, "I hope we actually manage to win." They all nodded and hugged Twilight.

"See you soon, sugarcube." Applejack said. Twilight then shed a tear and the stallion started to play the horn he conjured. The melody was like that of a lullaby. Time soon felt like it was reversing. Twilight simply hugged the five friends she made the day Nightmare Moon returned, shedding a tear. As they were hugging, the view around them started to turn white until they were engulfed in it. Only the stallion remained as he started to cough up blood, his eyes popping out.

"Save…. Absolute…. Justice…." The stallion said. Twilight soon jerked awake and sat up panting heavily.

"That dream felt too real! I think I ACTUALLY became the Ruler of Equestria!" Twilight said. She looked around and saw that she was in her old room in her library. She looked at her body and saw that she didn't have wings anymore, but she still had her horn. It got her thinking and she looked at the time. It was 0530 Hours (5:30 AM), however, what got her attention was the date, and her eyes went wide when she saw it.

'The Summer Sun Celebration is three days away. I really did go back in time!' Twilight thought. She then jumped out of bed and ran out, grabbing her saddlebags and putting them on. As she did, Spike had woken up and was starting his chores. He was a bit stunned to see Twilight awake so early.

"Twilight?" Spike asked. Twilight looked at Spike and knew what had happened. She remembered everything, but those around her wouldn't remember.

"Spike," Twilight said, "I'm going to see Princess Celestia on an important manner! No matter what happens, don't open this door for anpony other than me, Princess Celestia, my brother, my parents, or anypony I give the password to. The password is TwiJust."

"What's going on?" Spike asked.

"I had a dream that felt all too real, Spike. I think I saw what might have been my future. I need to find out for sure," Twilight said, "so I'm going to consult Princess Celestia about it. Maybe she can help me understand it."

"What if somepony is posing as one of those you mentioned?" Spike asked.

"Then ask for the password. If they give you the wrong one, don't let them in." Twilight said.

"Understood!" Spike said, saluting. Twilight then nodded and left, locking the door behind her. She then saw her friend Minuette and went to her.

"Hey, Twilight!" Minuette said.

"Listen," Twilight said, "there's a chance I may forget about you and the others, including Moondancer. I don't want that to happen. If I must leave Canterlot suddenly, I'll have the Princess send a guard with a message explaining why I had to leave. Please make sure Moondancer gets the message. Promise me you will!"

"I promise. Is everything okay, Twilight?" Minuette asked.

"No," Twilight said, "everything is anything BUT okay. I have to stop the first friend I ever made from getting stuck undercover for an agency that can't solve a case to save it's life."

"You're talking about the Canterlot Investigative Team, right?" Moondancer asked, walking up to them.

"You know she is." Minuette said.

"What's so important about them?" Moondancer asked.

"There's an old friend of mine undercover with them," Twilight said, "and I had forgotten about him until I had a dream that showed me how he died! If I don't save him from getting stuck undercover now, he'll be undercover for the rest of his life!"

"Just who is this 'friend' of yours anyways? Sounds like you care about him quite a bit. He wouldn't happen to be that handsome colt you were with when you entered school, would it?" Minuette asked.

"That was my brother." Twilight said.

"Oh." Minuette said.

"Wait," Moondancer said, "did that dream you have start normal at first, but turn into something all too real?"

"Yeah." Twilight said.

"Go tell Princess Celestia. It might have been a vision of your future if he wasn't in it." Moondancer said.

"I was on my way to. I just needed to tell Minuette something first. See you around!" Twilight said. She then ran towards the castle and the guards around saluted. She soon saw Princess Celestia talking with one of the Canterlot Investigative Team leaders and approached them.

"Twilight," Princess Celestia said, "I was just talking about you."

"Princess Celestia," Twilight said, "you need to order this stallion to remove Absolute Justice from undercover work immediately." When Twilight said that name, Princess Celestia gasped, and the stallion had a shocked look on his face. Suddenly, a laugh had erupted from within the room. Twilight looked behind her and saw four members of the Canterlot Investigative Team approaching.

"I can't believe you would consider even thinking that!" The one who laughed said.

"She makes a solid point. He's been undercover longer than any of us combined. I was actually recommending that he be removed from undercover work and be placed in a local agency where his talents can be more useful." The leader said.

"I second that recommendation. I haven't talked to him in so long I had nearly forgotten about him! You have to remove him from undercover work!" Twilight said, borderline pleading.

"I don't see what the problem is, Twilight. I'm his handler, and he's done an excellent job! He's taken down many organized crime syndicates throughout Equestria, and he's even made it to where the drug trade is about to go out. Why should I take him out? Why do I have to remove Absolute Justice from undercover work when he's excellent at it? He's a master!" A stallion said.

"Because I saw what his future might be if he STAYS undercover!" Twilight said. This earned gasped from everypony in the room. The leader had a look of shock on his face and Princess Celestia had a look that showed not only worry, but also sincerity.

"What do you mean?" Princess Celestia asked.

"It may sound weird," Twilight said, "but I promise you it's the truth."

"This is preposterous!" A stallion said.

"Continue on, Miss Sparkle." The leader said, now having the same look as Celestia.

"I had a dream that I had become ruler of Equestria," Twilight said, "and I was attacked by somepony because I forgot Absolute Justice! He had been killed three days after I had become ruler of Equestria and he was killed while undercover!"

"Did somepony write that down? That would make a good book." Another stallion said.

"It's the truth!" Twilight said.

"Prove it then!" Another stallion said.

"How about I tap into her dream and we can see it for ourselves?" Princess Celestia asked.

"Do it." Twilight said. Before anypony else could utter a word, Princess Celestia started to use the spell and it showed what occurred in Twilight's dream to everypony that was in the room. After the dream ended, the members of the Canterlot Investigative Team were stunned, one of them running to a trash bin to hurl.

"My word." Princess Celestia said.

"That was…. horrific." The leader said.

"I heard that song before," a stallion said, "and it was in a video game I played called 'The Legend of Luna.' Granted, it was a bit slower, but it was the same song. That was the 'Song of Time,' if I remember correctly."

"If that's true," Princess Celestia said, "then there's a possibility that the one who made that game was the same stallion that attacked Twilight in her dream."

"Or at least a descendant of the one who made the game." The leader said.

"From what I remember being said," Twilight said, "that spell was made to be used as a last resort. According to what Starswirl said in my dream, the spell caster uses his own life in exchange for using it."

"Those types of spells were deemed unsafe when Celestia and Luna came to power!" A stallion said.

"So that stallion that attacked you gave his own life for you to change your future? That is the most absurd thing I've ever heard!" Absolute's handler said.

"It may be absurd," Celestia said, "but Starswirl the Bearded was mine and Luna's teacher. He told us about that spell, and that the effects of it would make it seem as if one had dreamt that it would happen." That got Twilight's attention.

"Does that mean what I think it does?" She asked, thinking she was going crazy.

"Yes," Celestia said, "and you aren't going crazy. What you saw in your dream was REAL. That stallion was probably the son of a unicorn that studied forbidden magic, and he used that spell so that his father wouldn't have to teach him the forbidden magic he hated."

"If that's the case," the leader said, "then I change my recommendation. I recommend that Absolute Justice remain part of the Canterlot Investigative Team, and search to find the stallion that studied forbidden magic."

"There's a cult he's undercover with that not only studies it," Absolute's handler said, "but they're also in the drug and sex trade. They're currently in Manehattan, and he's so deep undercover that he became one of their top lieutenants. We never had a chance to tell the Manehattan Police about our undercover operation due to other things taking priority." That caught Twilight's attention, and it angered her.

"Wait," Twilight said, "so they don't even know he's a cop?!"

"As I said," Absolute's handler said, "other things took priority and we never had a chance."

"YOU INCOMPETENT ASSHOLES!!!!" Twilight yelled, shocking the guards that were there. Among them was her brother, Shining Armor. Even Princess Celestia was surprised.

"Watch your language, young lady!" Absolute's handler said.

"What will you do if I don't?! Charge me with Assault?! You don't even know the first thing about undercover work, and the protocols that go with it! If you have an undercover operation, and it concerns what happens within a city, you tell the local authorities that watch over the city! The only reason you keep it a secret from them is if it CONCERNS them! For example, the Royal Guard placed one of their own undercover in the Manehattan Police to uncover the truth behind their fraternal organization 'The Blue Knights,' because they believed it to have ties to a group wanting to kill Princess Celestia! When they performed the operation, they didn't know how high the corruption went, so they never told the Manehattan Police! When it was revealed to them that they had crooked cops in their midst, they got those they could trust to find where they met up! They found them and charged them! One of them took their own life so that he wouldn't see the inside of a cell! I read about that in a book titled 'Blue Bloods: How the Manehattan Police Had Busted Their Own!' THAT is the ONLY reason you don't inform a local agency about an undercover operation! I know more about undercover work than you do, and I'm only a civilian!" Twilight said.

"Then what do YOU suggest for Absolute Justice?" The leader asked.

"I suggest he be removed from undercover work immediately and go on a new assignment that would be better suited to his talents!" Twilight said. Princess Celestia spread her wings and nodded.

"I agree with Twilight. Remove Absolute Justice from undercover work this instant! I have a new task for him." Princess Celestia ordered.

"No doubt the Manehattan Police is conducting their own operation into that group." The leader said.

"Well," Absolute's handler said, "you win some, you lose some."

"It's because of that attitude and mentality you have that I'm DISBANDING the Canterlot Investigative Team! Your incompetence has not only put an undercover investigator in danger," Celestia said, "but it potentially DESTROYED Equestria in a previous time! I want your badges, weapons, credentials, armor, and keys!"

"Your highness," the leader said, "that isn't what we-."

"NOW!!!!" Celestia yelled. The leader started to stammer, but soon closed his eyes and lowered his head.

"Yes, your highness." He spoke. They all sullenly turned over everything and the Royal Guard took every bit of it.

"Now leave my sight." Celestia ordered, practically seething with anger. They all left, skulking the entire way. Shining Armor then approached her and saluted.

"What are your orders, Princess?" He asked.

"Give Twilight the current location of Absolute Justice," Celestia said, "and what name he currently goes by." That confused Twilight a bit.

"Why me?" Twilight asked.

"I believe you know why." Celestia said. Twilight soon nodded and took the information, leaving and taking a chariot to where Absolute was.


Location: Warehouse District, Manehattan

Time: 1150 Hours (11:50 AM)

Twilight looked around until she saw a warehouse that had armed stallions guarding it. She approached it and saw the Manehattan Police gearing up for a raid of that location.

'I have to act fast!' Twilight thought. She hurried up to it and the stallions stopped her.

"Halt! This is a restricted area!" One of them said.

"I'm here on Royal business! I need to speak to Gold Shield. I have a message for him from Princess Celestia." Twilight said. A stallion soon stopped and approached Twilight.

"Is there a problem?" The stallion asked.

"This mare claims to be here on behalf of Princess Celestia. Says she has a message for you, Gold." The other said. Gold Shield looked at Twilight inquisitively.

"What's the message?" Gold asked.

"There's been a mistake in your tax return. You need to come with me to Canterlot to work it out." Twilight said.

"He can't leave for any reason right now." A stallion said. Twilight saw the Manehattan Police start to get in positions and mentally panicked.

"You need to leave, miss." Gold said.

"Wait, wait, wait!" Twilight said.

"What is it?" A stallion asked.

"That's not the only reason I'm here." Twilight said.

"How so?" A stallion asked. Twilight thought back to what she was told and knew the secondary cover, and it made her blush.

"I'm also here to 'assist' him." Twilight said.

"Why didn't you say that in the first place?" Gold asked.

"Because I'm new. It's my first day." Twilight said. Gold nodded and the guards at the entrance let Twilight in.

"We can use the back room." Gold said. Twilight stopped him and pulled him closer to her, having a lustful look in her eyes.

"How about right here and now?" Twilight asked. A few stallions whooped and cheered at that. Gold simply laughed.

"And give them a show? Not a chance." Gold said. Twilight smiled and kissed Gold.

"You're right." Twilight said. She knew where the back room was and led Gold to it, teasing him by rubbing her tail under his chin. When the door closed, Gold got serious and closed the blinds to it.

"Who are you? How do you know me?" Gold asked.

"You know who I am, Abs." Twilight said. When Twilight said 'Abs,' Gold tensed up.

"How did you find me?" He asked.

"Princess Celestia gave me your location." Twilight said.

"This room is only soundproof for three minutes. If they don't hear anything from in here," Gold said, "they're gonna think one of us used a soundproof spell."

"Do what you have to." Twilight said. Gold then kissed Twilight's neck, causing her to gasp and stifle a moan.

"You can be as loud as you want. They can't hear us." Gold said. Twilight knew then the soundproofing was deactivated and she led him deeper into the back room.

"If you want loud," Twilight said, "that'll be extra."

"I can pay that extra." Gold said, tackling Twilight down and kissing her. Twilight kissed back, going along with it.

"Then get your Bits worth, big boy." Twilight said. She then got out from under him and saw a back door. She stopped near it and leaned against a shelf, wiggling her rear to tease him. Gold went to her and started to mount her, leaning down to talk into her ear.

"You don't have to go along with this. Get me outta here." Gold mumbled.

"What's the matter? Think I won't be able to take it?" Twilight asked. She then wiggled her rear again, with Gold mounted on, and teased his member. Gold gave a slight gasp and instinctively thrust forward. Twilight gasped as Gold's member was in between her flanks.

"Doesn't matter if you can take it or not," Gold said, "this is happening." Twilight looked at Gold and grinned.

"Then get started already." Twilight said.

"What are you doing?" Gold mumbled.

"Just follow my lead. I'm doing this for three reasons. One," Twilight mumbled, "to keep my cover. Two, to keep YOUR cover. Three, I'm getting us away from the area. Locals are about to storm the place and they don't know you're here and undercover."

"I'm about to insert it. Is there a specific hole you want me to use?" Gold asked.

"You should know." Twilight said. She then raised her rear and lowered it on Gold's member, biting her lip. Gold stopped her and held her rear up.

"Didn't the CIT follow protocol and let the Manehattan Police know?" Gold mumbled.

"They said other things took priority." Twilight mumbled.

"Those idiots!" Gold mumbled.

"Is everything okay? You haven't done anything yet?" Twilight asked.

"Because I'm trying to find a condom. I don't want any cops snatching you up and running my DNA through their system." Gold said.

"I managed to get here under their noses. I can avoid them." Twilight said.

"If you say so." Gold said.

"You don't believe me?" Twilight asked.

"I didn't say that." Gold said. Twilight got from under him and faced him.

"You implied it!" Twilight said. She then went towards the door in the back room.

"Hey! Where are you going?!" Gold asked.

"Why do you care?! You don't trust me enough to keep this place secret!" Twilight said.

"Just calm down!" Gold said.

"How would you feel if somepony didn't trust you with something so important?!" Twilight asked.

"I wouldn't make a big deal out of it! Some things need to be kept secret!" Gold said.

"Like what?! The fact there might be something illegal going on here?!" Twilight asked. Gold rushed to her and held a knife near her throat in his magic.

"Are you trying to get yourself killed?" He asked.

"Kill me and Princess Celestia will have your head on a pike." Twilight said.

"I don't care what the Princess thinks." Gold said.

"Then prove it. Either take me, or kill me, or I'm walking out that back door." Twilight said. Gold pushed Twilight to the back wall near the door and held the knife across her throat. The look on his face was that of anger, and he was ready to slit Twilight's throat. However, he dropped the knife and kissed her neck instead. Twilight gave a sigh and held him close, using her magic to put a protective spell on her and him. Gold was shocked at first, but understood.

"Nothing personal." Gold said. As he said that, a loud boom was heard from the other room and yelling was heard.

"POLICE! DON'T MOVE!" Somepony yelled.

"COPS! COPS! COPS!" A stallion yelled. The back door was busted open and two cops in riot gear stormed in.

"Twilight Sparkle and Gold Shield? I'm Detective Gold Cuff, Manehattan Police. Come with me." One of them said. The two nodded and walked out with him.

"How did you know we were here?" Twilight asked.

"Princess Celestia told me personally. After we get to the staging area," Detective Cuff said, "I'll take your statements."

"What all did Princess Celestia tell you?" Gold asked.

"That you were undercover and placed there by the now DISBANDED Canterlot Investigative Team. Those guys were too incompetent and were as dirty as the day is long." Detective Cuff said.

"Wait," Gold said, "they were dirty?" Twilight tensed up and looked behind, seeing Detective Cuff's partner drawing an object she didn't know.

"Yeah," Detective Cuff said, "they were. We got tipped off by somepony about it. We don't know who it was that tipped us off, but they did us a favor." As he talked, Cuff's partner had aimed at Gold with murderous intent. She gasped silently and ran towards them.

"GET DOWN!" She yelled. She tackled the two of them to the ground as Cuff's partner used the object, a loud noise coming from it.

"What the Tartarus?!" Gold asked.

"What was that?!" Detective Cuff asked.

"Your partner had used some sort of object! I think that's a type of weapon! Had I not acted, he would have killed us!" Twilight said. Gold looked at Twilight and went on alert.

"Get to cover!" He said. The three then ran behind a concrete barricade and Cuff's partner used the object again. Something hit the barricade and caused dust to kick up.

"We need to stop him before he hurts somepony!" Twilight said. She then used magic and sent a blast towards Cuff's partner, hitting him in the face. That sent him behind cover and Twilight ducked down back behind the barricade.

"You two need to get out of here." Detective Cuff said.

"I can use a teleportation spell," Twilight said, "but I haven't had a lot of practice with it. It's gonna leave me drowsy for a bit after, but it'll do the trick."

"Alright," Gold said, "but how can you concentrate if we have somepony TRYING TO KILL US?!" Dust was kicked up again and Detective Cuff returned fire with a magical blast.

"I'll hold him off!" Detective Cuff said.

"That takes care of that." Twilight said.

"We can't stay in the same position. He'll find a way around." Gold said.

"Where's the next place for cover?" Twilight asked. They looked around and saw nothing in sight. Gold groaned loudly and aggravated.

"We're sitting ducks!" Detective Cuff said.

"Get us outta here, Twilight! Now!" Gold said.

"On it!" Twilight said, concentrating. Cuff's partner tried to use the object again, but Detective Cuff shot the weapon out with magic.

"It's over! Just give up!" Detective Cuff said. Gold looked at Cuff's partner who had a look of anger on his face.

"Your name isn't Gold Shield, is it?" Cuff's partner asked.

"No," Gold said, "it's not."

"Then what is it?!" Cuff's partner asked, having the weapon in his possession once more. Twilight started to use her magic and Gold held her hoof.

"My name is Absolute Justice." Gold said. Before Cuff's partner could use the object again, two officers had tackled him to the ground.

"Get outta here!" Detective Cuff said.

"Thank you." Absolute said. Twilight then teleported herself and Absolute to Canterlot and collapsed, Absolute caught her and she smiled.

"Thank you." She said.

"No thanks necessary." Absolute said. The two then started to walk to the castle, Twilight leaning on Absolute for support at times. They soon stopped at a table and sat down, Twilight looking like she was about to fall asleep.

"I hope I never see undercover work again." Absolute said. Twilight smiled and nodded.

"You won't. Princess Celestia is making sure of that. She has a new task for you. I'm just glad your cover wasn't blown before we got out of the-" Twilight said. Before she could utter another word, Absolute kissed Twilight, causing her to blush. However, instead of pushing him off, she returned the kiss in volumes. The two broke for air and smiled.

"You always were a talker." Absolute said.

"I missed you, Abs." Twilight said, taking his hoof into hers.

"I missed you, too, Twi." Absolute said. The two then stayed the way they were until they gained enough energy and continued to walk to the castle. After a few moments, they saw Princess Celestia in front of the castle. Absolute and Twilight stood in front of Princess Celestia and Absolute saluted. Twilight bowed and Celestia bowed in return.

"Princess Celestia," Twilight said, "I've brought Absolute Justice back from his undercover assignment, as you requested."

"Well done, Twilight." Princess Celestia said. She turned to Absolute and returned the salute before lowering it. Absolute lowered his as well and went into parade rest.

"Absolute Justice reporting for duty, Your Highness." Absolute said.

"You don't have to be so formal. You just left undercover work. I'll explain in brief detail about why you're here. I have a new task for you. One that will benefit from your talents. I fear that Nightmare Moon will escape during the Summer Sun Celebration. I want you and Twilight to go to this year's location and find the Elements of Harmony. They're the only things capable of stopping her. I also ask that you make some new friends while there." Princess Celestia said. That put Twilight on alert.

'So the events are the same,' Twilight thought, 'but the way they happen will change.'

"I understand. Classification?" Absolute asked.

"Top secret." Princess Celestia said. When Twilight heard that, she knew that it would be dangerous. Absolute gave it a thought and grinned.

"When do I start?" Absolute asked.

"You leave tomorrow. Just relax for now and unwind. I'm working on something that will assist you in your task. Until you hear from me," Princess Celestia said, "stay with Twilight and help her. If she needs anything, and I mean anything, you'll help her."

"Understood." Absolute said. She then smiled and motioned for him and Twilight to follow her. The two did and they found themselves in a secret room of the castle. Inside that room was a bed, a dresser, a chair, a desk, and a sofa.

"Why are you showing us this room?" Twilight asked.

"I think you know why, Twilight." Princess Celestia said.

"Huh?" Twilight asked.

"What do you mean?" Absolute inquired.

"Remember that promise you made when you went undercover, Absolute?" Princess Celestia asked.

"The one where I said I'd show her how much I loved her after I got back from being undercover?" Absolute asked.

"The very same." Celestia said.

"What about that promise?" Twilight asked.

"You promised that you would be the first to prove your love to him, Twilight. After all this time," Princess Celestia said, "and after you devoted yourself to your studies over the friends you've made, I felt the need to make this room specifically for the two of you. It's completely soundproof, by the way. Not a soul can hear in here, not even me. The two of you can prove your love all you want, and no one will be the wiser. It's not like the backroom of the warehouse you escaped from. When I say it's soundproof, I mean it." She then pushed the two of them in the room and started to close the door.

"Wait," Twilight said, "you thought I meant I'd-"

"There's more than one way to feel pleasure, Twilight." Princess Celestia said.

"What does that mean?" Twilight asked. Before the door fully closed, Princess Celestia gave a grin.

"Figure it out." She said. The door then closed completely and locked itself. Twilight was speechless and Absolute looked around.

"She put a lot of detail into this place." Absolute said.

"That's what you're focused on?! We have to get out of here!" Twilight said.

"Why are you in a panic?" Absolute asked.

"Because Princess Celestia thinks that when I promised you that I would show my love first," Twilight said, "she thought I meant I would 'sleep with' you! That's why I'm in panic mode! Granted, I made the motions that I would when we were at the warehouse, but that was to keep our covers! If I were to do that with you, I'd wait until we were married and were on our honeymoon! I wouldn't want to do that before then, even though I want to do it right now to the point if we don't get out of here I'd make up for all the years I never got to do it with you!" Twilight quickly covered her mouth as she had said that. Absolute looked at her in shock and blushed.

"Y-you want to do it with me that badly?" He asked. Twilight sighed and looked away.

"I'm sorry. I…. You must think I'm a slut for wanting it so badly." She said. Absolute went to her and gently forced her to look at him.

"Why in Equestria would you think that?" Absolute asked.

"Because that's what I was told I'd be if I craved it so badly. I just…. I want to know what it's like. I guess it's nothing but a pipe dre-" Twilight said. She was soon cut off by Absolute kissing her again. Again, she didn't push him away, but give in. Absolute ran a hoof through her mane and held her close. Twilight allowed it to happen, blushing as she broke the kiss to go for air.

"I would never think you were a slut, Twi. I agree that we need to wait," Absolute said, "but you said it yourself. The thought of experiencing it, the pleasure you might feel, it can be overwhelming. I think I know what Princess Celestia meant by her saying 'there's more than one way to feel pleasure.' I think she was talking about oral."

"That WOULD explain the soundproof room." Twilight said.

"It's a way to not only relieve stress," Absolute said, "but also test the waters of your partner. Would that be something you're interested in?" Twilight blushed red and nodded.

"If it's okay with you." Twilight said. Absolute smiled and held Twilight close, kissing her with passion. Twilight returned the kiss and the two had gone to the bed.


Location: Castle Grounds, Canterlot

Time: 1325 Hours (1:25 PM)

Twilight and Absolute walked towards the castle foyer when Princess Celestia stopped them.

"Allow me." She said. Before they could utter a word, Princess Celestia teleported them out. When they looked at where they were teleported to, they sighed. Twilight and Absolute were in Twilight's home as Spike walked out to run an errand. Twilight smiled and chuckled a bit.

"It's funny." She said.

"What is?" Absolute asked.

"All this time you were gone," Twilight said, "and they had no idea you and I were secretly dating."

"Princess Celestia said you devoted yourself to your studies over the friends you've made. I thought you were going to wait for me. What changed?" Absolute asked. Twilight gave a sigh and looked out the window. She walked to the window and closed her eyes.

"I won't lie to you. When you left I was hurt. I still tried to wait for you. I tried," Twilight said, "but I just delved further into my studies. The more I studied, the more I shut out the friends I made. I completely lost myself in my studies. It was to the point I nearly forgot the friends I made. I would have forgotten you had it not been for a dream I had."

"What dream?" Absolute asked. He walked next to Twilight and she looked at him. She looked out the window again and took a sigh.

"I was made ruler of Equestria and you were murdered three days after. That was when a strange stallion attacked Canterlot and showed me your death. I regretted forgetting you and wanted to go back in time to stop you from getting stuck as an undercover operative for Equestria your whole life." Twilight said. Absolute looked out the window and stared at the sky, seeing the Wonderbolts practice their performance routine. They each saw him and gave a salute to him. He nodded in return and they continued their practice.

"That was no dream. I think you saw what might have been a potential future for you." Absolute said.

"So you think it might be possible I could become ruler of Equestria?" Twilight asked. She looked at Absolute, her eyes saying that she wanted to show him something that could shock him. He didn't look at her, but answered her question.

"I believe that dream was either a potential future," Absolute said, turning to look at her before finishing, "or that the dream you had seen was real and you really DID travel back in time to save me using a spell that used the caster's life in exchange for the spell to work. Most would claim the former. Me, I know it was the latter." Twilight gasped in shock and Absolute smiled. Twilight then shed a tear before hugging Absolute tightly. He hugged back and rubbed Twilight's back, smiling.

"How did you know?" She inquired, almost sobbing.

"Because I was almost thrown into deep cover by a group of incompetents. I'd have so many secrets that it wouldn't be funny. I would have no choice but to stay undercover and report everything to them, only for my reports to fall on deaf ears." Absolute said.

"Resulting in your death undercover." Twilight said, piecing it together.

"I would die as I lived," Absolute said, "hidden beneath mystery and in the shadows. Gaining no recognition for my actions."

"The opposite of me." Twilight said.

"I almost envy you in a way." Absolute said.

"Why?" Twilight asked.

"You becoming a Princess is all but guaranteed." Absolute said. Twilight broke the hug looked into Absolute's eyes.

"Why do you say that?" She asked.

"You're the personal student of Princess Celestia. The last student that had that honor was said to be named a Princess. Her name was Sunset Shimmer. It's said that she was power hungry, and was boastful. She was going on and on about how she was the strongest unicorn in Canterlot. She got into several fights because of her boasting, and made it to where she nearly had a price on her head. It only increased after she became Princess Celestia's student. She claimed that since she was the personal student of Princess Celestia, she truly WAS the strongest unicorn in Canterlot. She put herself on par with Starswirl the Bearded. That was when she started to become even more power hungry. One day she took it too far and was going to be expelled. However," Absolute said, "she had escaped using a mirror to another world. It never occurred to her that she was power hungry, and Princess Celestia hoped that she would see the error in her ways. To this day, she hasn't been seen in Equestria. When I was sent undercover, I saw the world Sunset was in. That's a story for a different time. Still, just imagine being so blinded with power that you lose sight of who you are."

"That's a scary thought." Twilight said. Absolute then kissed Twilight's cheek and held her close.

"Don't worry, Twilight. I won't let you become like Sunset." Absolute said. Twilight blushed and teleported the two of them onto the sofa in her house. The two cuddled each other and a memory popped into Twilight's head. She smiled and giggled a bit.

"This reminds me of when we first met. I was scared because of a storm and you were the first one to comfort me. We've been friends ever since. Until the day we got our cutie marks." Twilight said.

"That's when we secretly started dating until I was sent undercover." Absolute said.

"Yeah," Twilight said, "and there were times we almost got caught. Like when my dad and brother walked in on us studying together."

"Or the time when your mom almost saw us kissing under a tree at the park." Absolute said.

"Or on Hearts and Hooves Day when my parents saw us on the bench at the park and said-" Twilight said.

"Don't say or do anything you can't take back because we aren't responsible for your actions." Absolute and Twilight said, simultaneously. Absolute snickered and the two of them laughed. Twilight smiled and nuzzled Absolute's cheek.

"That was the day we tried to get our picture taken," Absolute said, "but we didn't have enough Bits for it. It really sucked that we couldn't have that memento, but it all worked out. Our secret was safe, and nopony knew it."

"The only one who knew was Princess Celestia. She kept our secret this whole time." Twilight said.

"We'll have to thank her one of these days for keeping it." Absolute said.

"Well," Twilight said, "we originally kept it secret because you heard a rumor saying you were being sent undercover. You called me your 'undercover girlfriend' and that you were my 'undercover boyfriend.' In a sense, we were in an 'undercover relationship.' However, now that you're no longer undercover, we can think about making it official. That is…. I'm thinking about making it official. Are you okay with that, Abs?" Absolute smiled.

"Tired of keeping it a secret from everypony?" He asked.

"Yeah," Twilight said, blushing and looking to the side, "I am."

"Well," Absolute said, "I say we wait a bit before making it official. Just in case I'm thrown back into undercover work by a new agency."

"How long should we wait?" Twilight asked. Absolute then kissed Twilight's cheek and she looked at him.

"We'll know." Absolute said. Twilight blushed before kissing Absolute sweetly. He returned the kiss and Twilight smiled and went to his ear.

"I love you, Abs." Twilight whispered.

"I love you, too, Twi." Absolute whispered. Twilight jerked back in shock, blushing red. Absolute put a hoof on Twilight's and gently held it. Twilight smiled and her blush faded.

"Never change." Twilight said.

"You either." Absolute said. As the two of them were about to doze off on the sofa, Spike ran in with Princess Celestia in tow.

"Twilight!" Spike said. The two of them jumped and Absolute went defensive.

"Spike! Are you trying to give us a heart attack?!" Twilight asked.

"Were you about to sleep on the sofa with a stallion you just met?" Spike asked, confused.

"I know him, Spike! You know him, too! He was there the day you were hatched!" Twilight said.

"I don't remember him." Spike said.

"You silly dragon. It's me! Absolute Justice!" Absolute said.

"Absolute Justice? Wait, Abs?! You're back?!" Spike asked.

"We never had time to tell you because you left to run an errand!" Twilight said.

"I could have blasted you to the Dragon Kingdom the way you ran in!" Absolute said.

"It wasn't that hard." Spike said.

"You nearly took the door off its hinges!" Twilight and Absolute said, motioning to the door. Sure enough, it was almost off it's hinges.

"Oops," Spike apologized, rubbing the back of his neck, "sorry."

"I can have that fixed later. A situation has arisen. Twilight Sparkle and Absolute Justice, Equestria needs your combined strength. There's been a change of plans. The two of you need to leave for Ponyville at once!" Princess Celestia said. Twilight gasped and Absolute had a serious look on his face.

"What's happened?" Absolute asked.

"An organization known as the Equestrian Preservation Movement has surfaced," Princess Celestia said, "and they seek to destroy the Elements of Harmony so that Nightmare Moon may assist them in their quest to eliminate all non-ponies! I'm labeling them a terrorist organization. You must find the Elements of Harmony and get them to safety before the EPM destroys them!"

"What if Nightmare Moon refuses to help the EPM?" Twilight asked.

"We can't take that risk. We have to assume that the EPM and Nightmare Moon are working together to overthrow the current government and destroy Equestria. If that happens, any chance Equestria has of expanding our current relations will result in Equestria going to war with the nations we've yet to introduce! I refuse to let that happen. I'm taking this case!" Absolute said.

"You can't! You just got back! We still need to catch up!" Spike said.

"You can do that later, Spike." Twilight said, understanding the urgency of the situation.

"I'm going to need some armor and a weapon." Absolute said.

"That reminds me! When Absolute and I left the warehouse," Twilight said, "one of the Manehattan Police Detectives had a weapon I had never seen before!"

"I'm aware of it. I'm having the Royal Guard look into it." Princess Celestia said.

"That crooked cop must be a member of the EPM," Absolute said, "and he spilled the beans in order to save his job. If he had a weapon like that, then it's safe to assume that the EPM have the same weapons. We'll need armor to combat it."

"I'll arrange everything. Take these badges. They'll prove to be useful in your investigation. I'm naming the two of you the first agents of the Equestria Criminal Investigative Service. Spike will serve as a means of communication for now. Please be careful, and remain on alert. The fate of Equestria is in your hooves." Princess Celestia said, holding out two badges. Twilight and Absolute took them and put them in a safe place.

"I'll start packing." Spike said.

"We can use the Summer Sun Celebration as a cover. Make sure to send Spike a checklist so we know what needs to be done." Absolute said.

"Good thinking. I'll get the list for you." Princess Celestia said.

"Thanks, Princess. For everything." Twilight said.

"There's no need to thank me. Not yet, at least." Princess Celestia said. She then teleported out and Twilight looked at Absolute.

"What's the plan?" She asked.

"We'll know when we get the checklist." Absolute said.


Location: Ponyville Airspace

Time: 1549 Hours (3:49 PM)

Princess Celestia had arranged for Twilight, Spike, and Absolute to be transported to Ponyville via chariot. Spike was relaxing on Absolute's back while Twilight was looking over everything and nodded.

"Alright," Spike said, "what's the plan?"

"We need to find the Elements of Harmony and get them to safety before the EPM destroys them," Twilight said, "and before Nightmare Moon returns in three days."

"We also need to make sure everything is set up for the Summer Sun Celebration." Absolute said.

"What about making friends like the Princess said to you earlier?" Spike asked. Twilight and Absolute looked at Spike in shock and confusion.

"How do you even know about that? You weren't even there!" Absolute said.

"I never told him, either." Twilight said.

"Is there some invisible force out there that just made him say that?" Absolute asked.

[Author's Note: Static I have no idea what they're talking about. Static]

"Anyways," Twilight said, "that can happen on its own time. Right now, we need to prioritize. Making friends isn't on the list right now."

"You never know. The fate of Equestria may depend on it." Spike said.

"We'll see." Absolute said. The chariot then landed in Ponyville and the three got off and looked around.

"Thank you, sirs." Twilight said. The stallions pulling the chariot nodded and Spike got off Absolute.

"So," Spike said, "what do we do now?"

"Let's split up. Twilight and I will work on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. Before you ask, Twilight, I haven't forgotten the reason we're here, meaning Spike is only good for two things right now. Spike can look for information on the Elements of Harmony as well as a place for us to stay." Absolute said.

"Ah, rats." Spike said.

"Sorry about this, Spike. It's for your own safety." Twilight said. In a way, she wasn't wrong. With Spike being a dragon, it makes him a prime target for the EPM. The real reason Absolute didn't want Spike around is so he didn't distract Twilight from the stuff on the checklist by making her interact with the wrong ponies in an attempt to make friends.

"I understand." Spike said.

"Let's get to work." Absolute said. The three split up as Absolute held the list for the Summer Sun Celebration Overseer. As he looked over it, a pink pony walked to Twilight and Absolute, looking at them curiously. That's when Absolute remembered the badges that him and Twilight got from Princess Celestia.

"We should put our badges on. Let the locals know we aren't here as tourists." Absolute said. Twilight went into thought and gave a nod, pulling her badge out.

"I agree." Twilight said. Twilight and Absolute put their badges on and the pink pony gasped slightly.

"Are you two from the Canterlot Investigative Team?" The pony asked. Absolute sighed and facehoofed.

"We aren't with those incompetent fools. They've been disbanded. My name is Absolute Justice. This is my associate, Twilight Sparkle. We're here on behalf of Her Majesty, Princess Celestia, to oversee the Summer Sun Celebration preparations." Absolute said.

"Glad to hear the CIT is no more! They couldn't solve their way out of a paper bag!" The pony said.

"Even a rock could solve a case better than they could." Twilight said.

"Though, that brings up another question. You said you were here to oversee the Summer Sun Celebration preparations. Why the badges?" The pony asked.

"We're part of a new federal agency by the name of the Equestria Criminal Investigative Service." Twilight said. The pony had a face of confusion.

"That name sounds long. Why don't you shorten it? Call it…. ECIS!" The pony said.

"That actually works. Thank you… umm… What would your name be?" Twilight asked.

"Right, sorry! Where are my manners? I'm Ponyville's resident party planner! My name is Pinkie Pie!" The pony said.

"It's nice to meet you." Absolute said.

"You as well!" Pinkie said.

"You wouldn't happen to have a map of Ponyville, would you?" Absolute asked.

"Why the hay do you need a map?" A voice asked. Absolute looked up and saw a cyan Pegasus landing on a cloud.

"So we can know where everything is. We've never been here before until today." Absolute said.

"Well," Pinkie said, "you don't have to worry about completing that checklist right now. I bet you're hungry from the journey from Canterlot. Follow me to Sweet Apple Acres for some good eating!"

"That's actually the first place on the list!" Twilight said.

"Convenient!" Absolute said.

[Author's Note: Yes, that was a Fiery Joker reference. No, I don't feel any shame.]

"Lead the way, Miss Pie." Twilight said.

"You don't have to be so formal with me," Pinkie said, "just call me Pinkie!" Twilight nodded and Pinkie led Absolute and Twilight to Sweet Apple Acres.


Location: Sweet Apple Acres, Ponyville

Time: 1630 Hours (4:30 PM)

Twilight smiled as she saw the apple trees.

"Wow," she said, "there must be dozens of them." As they walked, an orange pony wearing a cowboy hat walked up to them.

"Howdy, Pinkie! If I had known you were coming," the pony said, "I would have prepared some more sweets!"

"Good," Pinkie said, "because these two are starving!" The pony looked at Absolute and Twilight and saw their badges.

"They with the CIT?" The pony asked.

"Why does everypony assume that?!" Absolute muttered.

"The CIT was disbanded! They're with ECIS! The Equestria Criminal Investigative Service! They're here for the Summer Sun Celebration," Pinkie said, "and this was the first place on their list!"

"Well," the pony said, "where are my manners? I'm Applejack! A pleasure to make your acquaintance. Welcome to Sweet Apple Acres!"

"I'm Twilight Sparkle," Twilight said, "and this is Absolute Justice."

"Care to join my family and I for brunch? We have plenty." Applejack said.

"Don't mind if we do." Absolute said.

A few moments later, Twilight stretched as she started to walk around.

"You were right, Pinkie. That WAS some good eating!" She said.

"I know, right?!" Pinkie asked. As they talked, Absolute went on alert and stopped them as the cyan Pegasus from earlier nearly tackled them down in a dive bomb.

"That was a close one." Absolute said.

"Are you alright?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah," the pony said, "I'm okay. Just a trick gone horribly wrong. I still need to work on it. Say, aren't you two the same cops who asked for a map of Ponyville?"

"Glad your memory is still intact." Absolute said.

"They're here for the Summer Sun Celebration!" Pinkie said.

"Really," the pony said, "bet you 90 Bits you won't guess what I'm in charge of."

"Weather?" Twilight and Absolute asked. The pony tensed up and chuckled.

"Did I say 90 Bits? I meant to say 20 Bits." The pony said.

"We never agreed on a bet." Absolute said.

"Oh." The pony said.

"I'm Twilight Sparkle," Twilight said, "and this is Absolute Justice."

"Name's Rainbow Dash!" The pony said.

"The forecast is calling for clear skies on the Summer Sun Celebration. As of right now," Absolute said, "this place is cloudier than VanHoover during the winter."

"I'll take care of the clouds after I practice." Rainbow said.

"For what?" Twilight said.

"The Wonderbolts! They perform at the Summer Sun Celebration every year," Rainbow said, motioning to a poster, "and I'm gonna show them my stuff!" Absolute scoffed and shook his head.

"Please," Absolute said, "I know Spitfire PERSONALLY and she's strict when it comes to Weather Patrols. She'd laugh you all the way out of the recruiting office if she saw this!"

"Hey," Rainbow said, "I can clear this sky in 10 seconds flat!"

"That's something I'd like to see." A voice said. Absolute then grinned and looked behind him.

"Were your ears burning, Spitfire?" Absolute asked. As he turned around, there stood three of the Wonderbolts. Their leader, Spitfire, and two others named Soarin and Fleetfoot. Rainbow's jaw dropped and hit the ground.

"If any recruits for the Wonderbolts let this happen," Spitfire said, "they'd be sent home. You clear this sky in 10 seconds flat, I'll give you a pass to see our practice session for our next show after the Summer Sun Celebration. Also, glad to see you with a badge, Justice. It looks good on you!"

"Looks like you have incentive." Pinkie said.

"Clock starts when you remove the first cloud." Spitfire said. Rainbow grinned and flew up taking out five clouds at once. She was so fast they could barely keep up with her.

"Loop-de-loop around and WHAM!" Rainbow said, landing after hitting the last cloud. The clock stopped and Soarin's jaw dropped.

"Well?" Twilight asked. Soarin looked up and had a look of shock, showing the stopwatch.

"Ten…. Seconds…. Flat." Soarin said. Fleetfoot's jaw dropped and Spitfire pulled out a file.

"That's an academy record!" She said.

"Say WHAT?!" Soarin asked.

"You're joking!" Fleetfoot said.

"You think I'd joke about this?! She just cleared an entire city sky in 10 seconds flat! That's a fucking academy record! Look for yourself!" Spitfire said. Soarin and Fleetfoot looked at the file and their jaws dropped to the ground.

"See," Rainbow said, "I'd never leave Ponyville hanging!"

"How is that even possible?!" Fleetfoot asked.

"I've had a need for speed since I was young." Rainbow said.

"That's insane!" Soarin said.

"I'm impressed! Forget just one show," Spitfire said, "you have a pass to see ALL our practice sessions!"

"Are you for real?" Rainbow asked.

"I'm a mare of my word." Spitfire said. Absolute smiled and Twilight giggled a bit.

"How about we check out the Town Hall, Pinkie?" Absolute said.

"Follow me!" Pinkie said, practically hopping along.

"We'll catch up later, Justice!" Spitfire said.

"You know it, Spitfire!" Absolute said.

A few short seconds later and they were at the Town Hall. Pinkie opened the door and Twilight gasped.

"Wow!" She said.

"That's definitely a check for décor." Absolute said. Pinkie approached a pony doing the decorations and tapped them on the shoulder.

"Not now," the pony said, "I'm 'in the zone,' as it were."

"You have guests." Pinkie said. The pony quickly finished what she was doing and turned around. She gasped when she saw Twilight and Absolute.

"Not the CIT again!" The pony said.

"Oh, for Pete's sake, we're not the CIT!" Absolute said. The pony jerked back a bit but stayed in place.

"They're with ECIS," Pinkie said, "a new agency that was formed because the CIT was disbanded."

"They've sure done a number on this town, haven't they?" Twilight asked.

"Indeed they have. I don't know how many times I've been charged with indecent exposure." The pony said.

"Those idiots! Don't they know we normally don't wear clothes?!" Absolute asked.

"Easy, Abs. Just breathe." Twilight said.

"Kind of hard to when you're being called a group so incompetent a rock farm could solve a case better than they could." Absolute said.

"Rocks don't do anything." The pony said.

"My point exactly." Absolute said.

"Oh, dear. My apologies. How about we start over?" The pony asked.

"I'm Absolute Justice and this is Twilight Sparkle. We're with the Equestria Criminal Investigative Service overseeing the Summer Sun Celebration preparations," Absolute said, "and were sent here by Her Majesty, Princess Celestia, herself from Canterlot."

"I'm Rarity. Charmed to meet you. Wait, did you just say you were sent from Canterlot by Princess Celestia herself? The last time the CIT came from Canterlot they charged half the town. Not even the Mayor was safe." The pony said.

"I'll talk to Princess Celestia," Twilight said, "see if any of the 'charges' against residents in Ponyville had stuck."

"Please do. The CIT left a bad taste in our mouths." Rarity said.

'And a bad feeling in my mare-hood that I needed to see a doctor to cure.' Rarity thought, keeping it to herself. However, Absolute could tell just from looking at her.

"How many doctor's visits?" He asked. Rarity gasped and looked at him in shock.

"Nearly every time they came down. How did you know?" Rarity asked.

"I know a victim when I see one. Just give me the names after all this is over," Absolute said, "and I'll make sure they're charged."

"Not even the Royal Guard could make the charges stick. What makes you think you could?" Rarity asked.

"Because I do my job right. The Royal Guard looks into inquiries from the Princess. I can ask for their assistance and the Princess would allow it. Just give me a copy of your medical records. I can use them as evidence." Absolute said.

"Some other time. I'm sure you have other things you should be doing." Rarity said.

"They just have one more thing to do!" Pinkie said.

"Sooner we get it done," Twilight said, "sooner we can relax."

"Agreed." Absolute said.

"I'll be seeing you around then." Rarity said.

"We're here until the end of the Summer Sun Celebration." Twilight said.

"If you ever need to talk," Absolute said, "find us, day or night. We'll be there for you."

"Certainly." Rarity said, holding back tears.

Within a few moments, they were walking along a path when they heard music. Pinkie smiled and motioned for them to look from behind the bush. Absolute did so and saw a pony directing a bird choir.

"Wow," Absolute whispered, "they're good." Twilight nodded then Pinkie motioned to follow her. The pony saw them as the birds got quiet.

"Oh," the pony said, "hello, Pinkie!"

"I have some visitors for you." Pinkie said. The pony saw Twilight and Absolute and tensed up.

"H-hello." The pony said, waving.

"That music was beautiful. I almost teared up." Twilight said.

"Oh," the pony said, "thank you! Um, if you don't mind me asking, could you give me your badge numbers?" Absolute was going to say something, but Pinkie stopped him.

"They aren't the CIT. They've since been disbanded. These two are from the Equestria Criminal Investigative Service." Pinkie said.

"My name is Twilight Sparkle," Twilight said, "and this is Absolute Justice."

"I'm… I'm Fluttershy." The pony said, almost mumbling.

"What was that?" Twilight asked.

"She said her name was Fluttershy. She's not used to strangers being around her. She's probably been like this since birth. It also seems like the CIT did a number on her as well. How many therapy sessions have you been to?" Absolute asked. Fluttershy gasped and looked at Absolute.

"How did you know?" She asked.

"He knows a victim when he sees one." Pinkie said, remembering what Absolute told Rarity.

"Then you know about Rarity." Fluttershy said.

"I do. Trust me when I say that the ones responsible will be charged." Absolute said.

"I can give you the names, too. When they hurt Rarity, I…. I was forced to watch. They said that if I looked away they'd… they'd… they'd do it to me next. They abused more than their power. I want them to rot in Tartarus for what they did." Fluttershy said. Absolute placed a comforting hoof on Fluttershy.

"You poor mare." Absolute said. Fluttershy shed a tear and hugged Absolute.

"Thank you. Thank you for listening to me." Fluttershy said. Absolute hugged back and smiled.

"Just doing my job." Absolute said. Twilight smiled and Pinkie wiped a tear from her eye. Fluttershy broke the hug and dried her tears.

"Our number isn't perfect. We still need to practice." Fluttershy said.

"We'll let you get to it." Twilight said, wiping a tear from her eye.

"We'll stop by when we have a chance to and hear your bird choir." Absolute said. Fluttershy nodded and smiled.

"Please do." She said.


Location: Golden Oak Library, Ponyville

Time: 1900 Hours (7:00 PM)

Spike had everything set up and was looking at a few books that interested him. As he started reading another book, Twilight and Absolute walked in with Pinkie.

"Thanks for showing us around, Pinkie." Twilight said.

"Not a problem! If you ever need a guide," Pinkie said, "or just want to talk, I'm at Sugarcube Corner! Sleep well, you two!" Pinkie walked away and Absolute closed the door and locked it.

"She was really nice." Twilight said, heading to the loft.

"They all were." Absolute said. Spike had soon fallen asleep and dropped the book on the floor. Absolute followed Twilight and saw two beds.

"I'm glad we came here," Twilight said, "but boy is this tiring."

"We never had a chance to take a nap before we got here." Absolute said. Twilight sighed and collapsed on a bed.

"I can't wait to go home after this." Twilight said. Absolute smiled and went to the empty bed.

"Well I'm just glad I don't have to be undercover anymore." Absolute said. He then got in the opposite bed and Twilight looked nervous.

"Hey, Abs?" Twilight asked.

"Hm?" Absolute asked, looking at Twilight.

"Could we… sleep together tonight? I don't know if I can stay calm enough to get some sleep. That dream I had did a number on me." Twilight said. She had a look that showed how scared she was. Absolute smiled and gave a nod.

"Sure thing." Absolute said. He then got out of the other bed and made it, having it look as if he were never in it. As he did so, Twilight smiled and scooted over to make room for him. After making the other bed, Absolute climbed into bed with Twilight, who held him close to her and curled up to him. Absolute smiled and kissed Twilight sweetly. She returned the kiss and smiled.

"Good night, Abs." Twilight said.

"Night, Twi." Absolute said. After simultaneously yawning, the two fell asleep immediately.


[The next day….]

Twilight and Absolute woke up to Spike making breakfast. They smiled and Twilight nuzzled Absolute, who kissed her sweetly.

"Morning, Twi." Absolute said. Twilight giggled and smiled.

"Morning, Abs." Twilight said. The two then got out of bed and made their sides. They were feeling completely refreshed. They went downstairs and Spike smiled.

"Well, good morning, lovebirds." Spike said.

"Don't make any assumptions, Spike." Absolute said.

"Who said it was an assumption? The two of you had cuddled each other in bed before sleeping last night." Spike said.

"That was only because of the dream I had, Spike. I was scared that I would wake up and find him gone. How would you feel if you woke up one day and I wasn't there?" Twilight asked.

"Good point." Spike said, dreading the thought.

"Exactly. If we hadn't cuddled each other," Twilight stated, "I wouldn't have been able to sleep. Now, with that out of the way, what's for breakfast? Wait, how did you know we cuddled each other last night? You were downstairs!"

"I came upstairs to use the bathroom and saw you two." Spike said. Before Twilight could respond, there was a knock at the door and Absolute opened it, seeing Pinkie Pie and the others.

"Hey, girls! Shouldn't you be working on the-" Absolute said.

"We need to talk." Rainbow said.

"Sure. What about?" Absolute asked.

"Not out here." Applejack said, looking around. Absolute nodded and let them in. After the last of the five were in, Absolute locked the door and placed a spell on the room to prevent anyone from walking in.

"What type of spell is that?" Rarity asked.

"I call it the SCIF spell." Absolute said.

"Why did you use it?" Fluttershy asked.

"In case prying ears tried to listen. The only reason you'd come here this early is for one reason. You have sensitive information." Absolute stated. Applejack nodded and Twilight walked in.

"What's going on?" Twilight asked, confused. Spike stayed hidden, unsure if he should be involved or not.

"We know that you being here for the Summer Sun Celebration is a cover. You're here about the Equestrian Preservation Movement, aren't you?" Applejack asked. Twilight gasped and Absolute got serious.

"Who told you?" He asked.

"I overheard a Guard say it when the Wonderbolts were doing their practice. Spitfire told me to warn you," Rainbow said, "and the others were worried about you and Twilight. Applejack caught on when she learned the CIT was disbanded."

"I told the others," Applejack said, "and we came down here to help."

"The EPM paid off the CIT. However," Rainbow said, "they don't know about you."

"You keep that to yourselves. If they discover we're onto them then there's a chance we could be targeted by them." Absolute said.

"We won't say anything." Rarity said.

"Good." Absolute said.

"What are they after here in Ponyville?" Pinkie asked.

"The Elements of Harmony." Absolute said.

"The Elements of Harmony?" Fluttershy asked.

"What in Tartarus is that?!" Rainbow asked.

"Rainbow! Watch your language and tone!" Applejack scolded.

"It's fine." Absolute said.

"Maybe this library has a copy of Predictions and Prophesies lying around somewhere. Let's look around!" Twilight said.

"That just says how they were used. What we need is a book on what they are." Absolute said.

"How about we split up?" Pinkie asked.

"Good idea! Let's see. Should we search numerical or alphabetical?" Twilight asked.

"Alphabetical. Makes it easier. Spike," Absolute asked, "get in here and help." Spike walked in and Fluttershy gasped.

"A baby dragon!" She exclaimed.

"Easy, Fluttershy. He's being very cautious of who approaches him." Absolute said.

"Understandable with the EPM being active." Rainbow said.

"How do you know about the EPM? Are you a spy?!" Spike asked, approaching aggressively. Twilight stopped him by using magic on his tail.

"Simmer down, Spike. They're friends." She said.

"These five are Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy. We met them when we were checking the preparations yesterday." Absolute said.

"Girls," Twilight said, "this is my assistant, Spike. I hatched him as part of a test to get into Princess Celestia's School of Magic for Talented and Gifted Unicorns.

"A pleasure to meet you." Spike said.

"You, as well." Rarity said. Spike nearly got awestruck at her, but stayed focus.

"Alright," Twilight said, "there's 26 letters in the alphabet, and there's eight of us. So, if we split it up evenly, then each of us should be able to search three each with two other areas not being checked."

"Alright. I'll search A through C." Spike said.

"Dibs on D through F!" Pinkie said.

"I'll take G through I." Applejack said.

"I'll do J through L." Rainbow said.

"I shall be searching M through O." Rarity said.

"I guess I can look through letters P through R." Fluttershy said.

"I'll take S through U." Twilight said.

"Leaving V through Z for me." Absolute said.

"We need to find the Elements of Harmony before they do." Twilight said. They all nodded and began searching. As they looked, Absolute was also watching for trouble. That caused him to stumble on a book titled The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide in the "Z" section. He pulled it out and looked at it.

'The Elements of Harmony were magical items that turned Discord into stone,' Absolute read, keeping to his thoughts, 'and the banishment of Nightmare Moon. There are six Elements, but only Five are known. Honesty, Generosity, Kindness, Laughter, and Loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery. When the five are present a spark will cause the sixth to appear and the Elements will be complete. Their last known location was the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters, which is located in what is now known as the Everfree Forest.' Absolute wrote the information down and got the attention of the others.

"Got something, Justice?" Applejack asked.

"I found out where they are. They're in the Everfree Forest at the Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters. Based on what I have, only five are present. The sixth will only be revealed by a spark. They've been dormant for 1000 years, Twilight. We need to get some help for this." Absolute said.

"We'll help ya." Applejack said.

"Are you sure?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah," Rainbow said, "we're sure. The Everfree Forest is extremely dangerous."

"The plants grow…" Applejack started.

"Animals care for themselves…" Fluttershy continued.

"And the clouds move…" Rainbow continued.

"All on their own!" The three finished, simultaneously.

"Sounds like a place I was sent to when I was undercover." Absolute said.

"Still," Twilight said, "we need all the help we can get."

"I know the way to it." Pinkie said.

"Alright," Absolute said, "the seven of us can go out and get them."

"What about-?" Rarity asked.

"I'm staying here. Someone has to let the Princess know." Spike said.

"Alright," Twilight said, looking at the others, "let's go." Spike started to write a letter to the Princess and the others left him be.


Location: Entrance of Everfree Forest

Time: 0900 Hours (9:00 AM)

Twilight and the others stared at the opening to the Everfree Forest and Absolute nodded.

"Alright," Absolute said, "we go in, get the Elements, come back out, and wait for the Princess. If we screw this up, Equestria is doomed."

"Talk about being under pressure." Rarity said.

"Right?!" Pinkie asked. Absolute stood in front and glared through the entrance, his badge glinting slightly.

"This may be dangerous," Absolute said, "but we have to make sure they don't fall in the wrong hooves."

"That dangerous, huh?" Rainbow asked, looking nervous. Absolute turned to look at them.

"If any of you wish to turn back," Absolute said, "and stay with Spike at the library, do so now. The others won't think any less of you. All those who wish to stand by mine and Twilight's sides, step forward." Twilight went to Absolute's side and the others took a step forward.

"Always the serious one." Twilight said.

"I'm just truthful." Absolute said. Twilight smiled and slightly giggled.

"That's one of the reasons I fell for you." Twilight said, making sure only Absolute heard it. Absolute smiled and nodded to them.

"Stay close," he said, "and be on your guard." They nodded and all seven walked in.

After a few moments, they all looked around.

"Not much has been written about this place." Twilight said.

"The ponies in town seem to avoid this place like the plague." Absolute said.

"This place isn't natural!" Applejack said.

"Why haven't they tried to investigate it?" Twilight asked.

"Nopony knows." Rainbow said, being spooky.

"Rainbow, quit it!" Applejack scolded.

"You know why?" Rainbow asked. Absolute went on alert and saw a dynamite trap connected to a trip wire, and Rainbow was almost below it!

'If she triggers that trap,' Absolute thought, 'this whole cliff could collapse!'

"Because anypony who comes in," Rainbow said, "has never… come… OUT!" Rainbow started to jump and Absolute gasped.

"DON'T MOVE, RAINBOW!" Absolute ordered. Rainbow stopped and looked up, seeing the tripwire and tensing up. The others gasped and Applejack went to Rainbow.

"It's gonna be okay, Rainbow." She said.

"You can't know that!" Twilight said.

"Listen to me. What I'm about to say is the honest truth. Just stay calm," Applejack said, "and we'll be okay." They all nodded and Rainbow slowly moved from under the wire. Absolute looked it over and used magic to analyze it. He soon conjured a tool bag and pulled out what he needed.

"I'm going to disarm the trap. Whoever made this is an amateur." Absolute said. He then carefully disarmed the trap, and nodded. The others breathed a sigh of relief as Absolute put the tools away. Twilight smiled and Applejack looked at the trap.

"He's right. An amateur made this trap. They rigged it to set off after the tripwire was triggered and it would level the cliff. They weren't expecting to have more than one pony," Applejack said, "and it was either an Earth Pony or a Unicorn. There's no secondary trap set up for if it was a Pegasus. Either the EPM is expecting the CIT, or they're dumber than a bag of bricks."

"How do you know so much about traps?" Twilight asked.

"I live on a farm. How am I supposed to make sure the crops stay good if I don't set up a few traps to catch the varmints destroying them?" Applejack asked.

"That would be difficult." Pinkie said.

"Let's move forward." Twilight said. The others nodded and they kept walking. As they did so, Absolute was on alert again. Fluttershy sensed it this time and looked at him.

"Is everything okay?" She asked.

"Uh-oh," Rainbow said, "not another tripwire!" Rainbow looked around only to tense up when a loud roar was heard.

"That was a Manticore." Absolute said.

"Get behind us, girls!" Twilight said. The four of them went behind Twilight and Absolute. Wait, only four?

"Let me deal with this." Fluttershy said.

"Are you sure?" Absolute asked.

"I'm sure." Fluttershy said.

"Alright," Twilight said, "lead the way." Fluttershy then walked forward a few paces and a Manticore jumped out.

"Called it." Absolute said.

"We don't mean you any harm." Fluttershy said. The Manticore was skeptical, but Fluttershy gave his paw a nuzzle. The Manticore then showed his paw and revealed a huge gash, causing all seven of them to gasp.

"Sweet Celestia!" Twilight said.

"How is that Manticore still alive?!" Absolute asked.

"You were attacked by the EPM," Fluttershy deduced, "weren't you?" The Manticore nodded and Absolute looked around. He saw some medicinal plants and picked them, using magic to turn them into a paste-like substance. He placed that substance on the gash and saw the body of a stallion that had a first aid kit. The Manticore looked ashamed when Absolute saw the body.

"He was an EPM hostage, wasn't he?" Absolute asked. The Manticore simply nodded and Absolute grabbed the first aid kit. He opened it up and pulled out the gauze, unrolling it a bit and starting to wrap it around the paste he made. After making sure it was tight, but still comfortable, he put the gauze back in the kit and handed the kit to Fluttershy.

"Good thinking." Twilight said.

"Why give it to me?" Fluttershy asked.

"Because of how kind you are towards animals. Plus," Absolute said, "I don't really have the necessary skills to patch others up." Fluttershy nodded and the Manticore smiled.

"Is it alright if we pass by you to stop the ones that did this?" Fluttershy asked. The Manticore nodded and stood to the side. They walked past and Twilight caught up to Fluttershy.

"How did you know about that gash in its paw?" She asked.

"I didn't," Fluttershy said, smiling, "but I was being sincere in my words and actions. Sometimes we all need to be shown a little kindness." They walked further and Absolute went on alert again.

"Stay close." He said. They all got close to him as the area around them became less visible. When the area was visible again, only five screams were heard as the trees had scary faces on them. Absolute deadpanned, and Pinkie laughed.

"Why aren't you two scared?" Fluttershy asked.

"I've seen scarier faces in a comic book!" Absolute said.

"Really?" Pinkie asked.

"Yeah," Absolute said, "but that isn't the only reason."

"I have a reason, too!" Pinkie said.

"What is it?" Absolute asked. Pinkie smiled and giggled a bit.

" When I was a little filly, and the sun was going down!" Pinkie sang.

"Tell me she's not." Twilight said.

" The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown!" Pinkie sang.

"She is." Rarity confirmed.

" I'd hide under my pillow from what I thought I saw," Pinkie sang, " but Granny Pie said that wasn't the way to deal with fears at all!"

"Then what is?!" Rainbow asked.

" She said 'Pinkie you've got to stand up tall," Pinkie sang, " learn to face your fears. You'll see that they can't hurt you. Just laugh and make them disappear!" Pinkie walked to a tree and smiled.

"Ha! Ha! Ha!" Pinkie laughed. The tree turned to normal and the girls gasped, Absolute simply grinned.

"Enough said. You can stop singing." Absolute said.

"What do you mean?" Pinkie inquired.

"I know what we have to do." Absolute explained.

"What's that exactly?" Twilight asked. Pinkie grinned and Absolute smiled.

" Giggle at the ghostly!" Pinkie sang.

" Guffaw at the grossly!" Absolute sang.

" Crack up at the creepy!" Pinkie sang.

" Whoop it up with the weepy!" Absolute sang.

" Chortle at the kooky!" Pinkie sang.

" Snortle at the spooky!" Absolute sang.

"And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you want to… hahahaha…heh…" Pinkie said.

"Finish it." Absolute said.

" Laaaaaaauugh!" Pinkie sang. The others had started laughing as well and all the trees were normal once more. Absolute smiled and closed his eyes.

'We needed a good laugh.' Absolute thought. After a few moments, they came across a rapid river and Absolute heard crying.

"This way!" Absolute said. He led the way for the others as they saw a serpent crying.

"Oh, what a world! What a world!" The serpent exclaimed.

"Why are you crying?" Twilight asked. The serpent looked at them and gasped.

"You seven must be here to stop those ponies who tried to KILL me!" The serpent deduced.

"Which way did they go?" Absolute asked.

"They went towards that abandoned castle. However, they RUINED me fashionably by cutting half of my beloved mustache clean off!" The serpent said.

"THAT'S what all the fuss is about?!" Rainbow asked.

"How would you feel if half your wings were cut clean off?" Absolute inquired. Rainbow tensed up and looked away.

"I didn't mean to be insensitive. Sorry." Rainbow said.

"No," the serpent said, "I understand! I know that it will grow back, but it took me YEARS to get it perfect!"

"This simply can't do. I can't let such a crime against fashion go uncorrected!" Rarity said. Rarity then took one of the serpent's scales and cut her tail off, causing the others to gasp. The serpent watched in awe as Rarity used her magic to mend the damaged mustache with her tail.

"You sacrificed your gorgeous tail for my sake?" The serpent asked.

"I'll make sure the EPM pays for what they did to you." Rarity said.

"Bless your generous soul!" The serpent said.

"Would you allow us to cross so we may pursue the ones responsible?" Absolute asked. The serpent nodded and helped them across. After a few moments, they reached a broken bridge.

"How are we going to get across now?!" Pinkie asked.

"Duh!" Rainbow said, flexing her wings before flying off.

"Oh, yeah." Pinkie said, realizing it. Rainbow flew down and Absolute went on alert. However, a faint glow eased his nerves and he looked towards it.

'What is that?' Absolute thought.

Meanwhile, Rainbow had made it to the other side and tied one end of the bridge off. As she was about to do the other, she looked and saw a stallion in a dress uniform.

"You're in the EPM." Rainbow said.

"We only wish to talk. The EPM is here to protect Equestria from outside foes." The stallion said.

"By killing all non-ponies?" Rainbow asked. The stallion was flabbergasted.

"The CIT told you." The stallion deduced.

"They've been disbanded because they couldn't cut it. A new agency was formed. The Equestria Criminal Investigative Service." Rainbow said.

"ECIS? They must have been formed overnight. Do you happen to know who leads this agency?" The stallion asked.

"Even if I did," Rainbow said, tying the other end of the bridge, "I still wouldn't tell you. What you plan on doing is mass genocide of all non-pony races. That's something I can't allow. Twilight! Justice! Get over here! There's an EPM member in a dress uniform trying to get me to join!" The stallion tried to run, but Rainbow caused him to trip and subdued him with a submission move. Twilight and the others came over and walked to Rainbow.

"Got any rope, Applejack?" Absolute inquired.

"Take it." Applejack said, holding it out. Absolute took the rope and went to the stallion, restraining him with what was known as a "hoof-cuff" knot. Rainbow and Fluttershy lifted him off the ground, and Absolute had a serious look on his face.

"You're under arrest for unlawful imprisonment and committing terroristic acts against Equestria." Absolute said.

"Good work." A voice said. They looked to the side and saw a Royal guard.

"Were others captured?" Twilight inquired.

"Only four. You caught a fifth." The guard said.

"Take him into custody." Absolute ordered.

"At once." The guard said. The guard then took the stallion into custody.

"Your loyalty is unquestioning. You would have made a fine soldier." The stallion said.

"In your dreams, ass wipe." Rainbow said. Rarity was about to say something, but stopped as a glow from the ravine caught her eye.

"What in Equestria is glowing down there?" She asked.

"We can investigate that later. For now," Absolute said, "focus on the main objective." They all nodded and walked forward. After a few moments, they arrived at the abandoned castle and Twilight opened the door. There, right in front of them, they saw the Elements of Harmony.

"The Elements of Harmony! We found them!" Twilight exclaimed. Absolute was in shock and started having flashbacks to when he found several magical items throughout his tenure undercover.

"They DO exist!" Rarity said.

"I thought you two were just spouting a bunch of hooey!" Applejack said.

"Unlike a certain investigation team." Twilight said, half-braggingly.

"Please don't bring them up." Absolute said. The girls laughed a bit and Absolute smiled. Rainbow then flew up and went to grab one of the Elements, this time being mindful of any traps or tripwires. As she went to pick one up, Absolute stopped her.

"What is it?" She asked.

"Have you ever lifted something that could break from the slightest strong vibration?" Absolute asked.

"I carry around apples all day." Applejack said.

"I've never carried anything more than a bunny or two." Fluttershy said.

"The Elements of Harmony are dormant," Twilight said, "but they still work. They just need to be bonded again."

"Perhaps a lesson on stress management is in order." Absolute said. Twilight nodded and the others looked confused.

After a quick lesson, the seven of them were walking back to the library. Twilight smiled and Absolute gave a nod.

"Thanks for your help, girls. I don't think we could have done this without your help." Absolute said.

"Not a problem! It's what friends do!" Pinkie said. That got Twilight's attention.

"Friends?" Twilight asked.

"Yeah, we see the two of you as friends!" Applejack said.

"For real?" Absolute asked.

"Oh, yes! I don't think I've met anypony as nice as you two!" Fluttershy said.

"You see us as your friends even though we only met yesterday?" Twilight asked.

"Of course, darling!" Rarity said.

"You two are the best ponies we could ever hang out with!" Rainbow said. Absolute was stunned.

"Other than Twilight," Absolute said, "I…. I never really had any other friends. To hear that you five would call us your friends so easily, it… it almost brings a tear to my eye."

"You didn't have any other friends in Canterlot?" Pinkie asked.

"I never had a chance. Not long after I got my cutie mark," Absolute said, "I was placed undercover in some of Equestria's most dangerous criminal organizations. Gangs, Mafias, you name it. I…. I was almost trapped undercover had it not been for Twilight urging the Princess to have me removed. It's because of me almost getting stuck undercover that the CIT was disbanded. I…. I owe Twilight my life." Fluttershy teared up, Rainbow and Applejack looked solemn, Pinkie looked like she was about to bawl her eyes out, and Twilight blushed. Rarity seemed to catch on to something, and had a look of solemnity and slight happiness.

"How long?" Rarity asked.

"Huh?" Absolute asked.

"How long have you two been dating?" Rarity asked. Twilight tensed up and the others gasped in shock.

"Dating?!" Pinkie asked.

"I never would have guessed." Applejack said. Twilight sighed and gave a look. Absolute nodded and took a breath.

"In secret," Absolute said, "Twilight and I have been dating. We got our cutie marks on the same day, and we were friends long before that. I was about… seven or eight when I got my cutie mark?"

"We were six." Twilight said.

"Thanks for reminding me. After we got our cutie marks," Absolute said, "Twilight heard a rumor that I was going to be sent undercover. She also confessed her feelings to me when she told me about the rumor. So, I decided that I would be her 'undercover boyfriend' and she would be my 'undercover girlfriend' to help train me on the basics of undercover work. It was about two or three months before it was confirmed that I was going undercover. After that, I was undercover for about… let's see. I was six when I first started undercover, and I'm about to turn 21. So…."

"You were undercover for the last 15 years?!" Pinkie asked.

"Yeah." Absolute said.

"My word!" Rarity said.

"You poor soul!" Fluttershy said.

"Those incompetent assholes!" Rainbow said.

"You tell it, Rainbow!" Applejack said.

"Anyways," Twilight said, "I had nearly forgotten about him because he was undercover for so long. If it weren't for a dream I had, I would have forgotten about him completely."

"What dream?" Pinkie asked.

"Well," Twilight said, "it concerns the five of you, too."

"Wait," Applejack said, "I knew I recognized ya! We met before! All five of us!"

"When?" Fluttershy asked.

"Wait," Pinkie said, "are you saying that Twilight met us before, but completely forgot about Absolute Justice. As a result, she came down here with no friends and was trying to find proof of Nightmare Moon's return, only to be interrupted by the five of us trying to be her friend, and her admitting that she saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return. We hear about the Elements of Harmony, go in the Everfree Forest, face several challenges that Nightmare Moon laid out for us and pass them, find the Elements of Harmony completely stoned over, leave Twilight alone so she could perform a spell to try and activate them only for Nightmare Moon to appear and take both them and Twilight to the other side of the castle, us going over to where Twilight was, the Elements bonding with us, and the six of us defeating Nightmare Moon and purging her from existence?!"

"Well," Applejack said, "if ya put it that way…."

"It sounds absolutely crazy." Fluttershy said.

'Talk about a nutcase explanation.' Twilight thought.

"Does anypony else think I got an accurate description down?" Pinkie asked.

'Not a chance.' Rainbow thought.

"What? Just me?" Pinkie asked.

"Yes!" The others said.

'She must never know.' Absolute thought.

"Guess I was mistaken. Sorry." Applejack said.

"It's fine." Twilight said.

"Regardless," Absolute said, "though it was in secret, Twilight and I had been dating for around two or three months."

"How bad did you miss her?" Rarity asked. Absolute held Twilight close to him and teared up.

"More than anything." Absolute said.

"I missed you, too." Twilight said.

"I'm not one for sappy stuff," Rainbow said, "but… this is the one time I don't mind it."

"Wait," Rarity said, "I just realized! The Summer Sun Celebration is only two days away! You're early, darlings!"

"Seriously?!" Twilight asked.

"When's the last time you changed your clock?" Absolute asked.

"It updates automatically. When we left Canterlot," Twilight said, "it showed that the Summer Sun Celebration was tomorrow."

"Seems like you weren't told yet. It was postponed due to Princess Celestia being 'under the weather' as of late." Rarity said.

"Looks like we have a head start." Absolute said.

"Guess we do." Twilight said.

"Just like last time." Absolute said. Twilight smiled and giggled.

"Yeah," Twilight said, "just like last time." Absolute smiled and kept himself from shedding a tear. Twilight hugged him and the others joined in. He hugged them back, a single tear falling before going into the shape of a heart and glowing faintly. When they broke the hug, Twilight dried Absolute's tears and the others smiled.

"We'll leave you two alone." Applejack said.

"Thanks again for your help." Absolute said.

"Not a problem!" Pinkie said. They then left and Twilight and Absolute brought the Elements into the library.

"We made some good friends, didn't we?" Absolute asked. Twilight smiled and nodded.

"That we did." She said, nuzzling Absolute's cheek. Spike then walked past them as they went up to the loft and took a nap. However, that nap turned into something else entirely, and they fell asleep soon after.

The next day, Applejack and the others finished what they were working on in terms of the Summer Sun Celebration, and Twilight had checked them off.

"I'd better go back to the library. If not," Twilight said, "Spike might think I'm getting him something special."

"We'll get you later when it's time to watch Princess Celestia raise the sun." Rarity said. Twilight then walked back to the library and walked in, seeing Absolute pacing.

"Is everything alright?" Twilight asked.

"He's been like this for the past few minutes." Spike said.

"He's probably worried about the case." Twilight said.

"I don't think it's that. I mean," Spike said, "we have the Elements of Harmony. We can just use them to deal with Nightmare Moon and the EPM in one shot, can't we?"

"The Elements have been dormant for over 1000 years." Absolute said.

"Good point. We don't know who they'll bond to." Spike said.

"I might have an idea," Twilight said, "but it's unconfirmed right now." Absolute groaned and Spike shook his head.

"I'm going to the loft. I don't want to be here when he wears a path in the floor." Spike said. He went upstairs and Absolute started muttering. Twilight sighed and stopped Absolute in his tracks, kissing him sweetly and looking into his eyes.

"Calm down." She said. Absolute sighed and looked sorrowful.

"I'm sorry, Twi. I just have a lot on my plate right now. We still need some armor and weapons to defend ourselves against Nightmare Moon and the EPM. What if we don't get it in time? Will we have to get it ourselves?" Absolute asked. Just then, Spike ran down.

"I just got a letter from the Princess! She's sending some armor and weapons here now!" Spike said.

"Ask and ye shall receive." Absolute said.

"How long until they get here?" Twilight asked.

"Within the hour." Spike said.

"Better hope they don't run into trouble." Absolute said. After a few moments, there was a knock at the door and Absolute opened it to see Shining Armor.

"Shining!" Twilight said.

"Princess Celestia told me about your task. We have some armor and weapons specifically designed for you. There's enough for you two and six more." Shining said.

"Who's with you?" Twilight asked.

"A recruit by the name of Flash Sentry." Shining said. That name caused Absolute to go on alert.

"I've never heard of a recruit named Flash Sentry." Spike said.

"He's a descendant of Flash Magnus," Absolute said, "and the son of Mounted 'Solid' Sentry."

"You know about Solid Sentry?!" Shining asked.

"Yeah," Absolute said, "I know about him. I also know that he started a movement to push the Equestrian Military to cut diplomatic ties with other kingdoms and force them to follow Equestria's laws and customs. He called that movement the 'Nazi Movement.' Based on what I learned about the EPM, they're following in Solid's hoofsteps. However, instead of breaking the ties with other countries, they seek to kill all non-pony races. It's a more radicalized version of the Nazi Movement, and it's one that could lead Equestria to a world war." Just then, a soldier from the Royal Equestrian Army ran up to Shining.

"Captain," the soldier said, "the EPM have mobilized their forces! They've set their sights on the Badlands!"

"That's Changeling Territory!" Shining said.

"It begins." Absolute said.

"Spike," Twilight said, "inform the Princess! We can't let them start a world war!" She then had a flashback to her past and saw a Changeling in a different form. It was quick, but it left an impact.

'Maybe there's a way to redeem the Changelings.' She thought.

"We also managed to find out more about that strange weapon you saw, Twily." Shining said.

"What is it?" Twilight asked.

"Recruit Sentry," Shining said, "I'll let you do the honors." A yellow-orange Pegasus then stepped forward and stood at attention.

"The weapon is called a 'pistol,' Agent Sparkle. We received some texts on it from the Manehattan Police. It's like a miniature cannon that can be held in magic or hooves. This is apparently a newer model." The Pegasus explained.

"A newer model?" Absolute asked.

"Yes, sir. This type of pistol started appearing during what was called the 'Age of Prohibition' in another world. There were older models as well that required smaller cannon balls called 'musket balls.' This one requires a different projectile called 'bullets.' We assisted the Manehattan Police in a raid of a warehouse, and found several of these weapons. We also found weapons called 'rifles' and a variety of explosives." The Pegasus said.

"Do we have the right equipment to combat them?" Absolute asked.

"Yes," Shining said, "because we learned how to use those weapons as well."

"We have updated armor for you," the Pegasus said, "and we included the weapons found. There was also some equipment to where more could be made if the need arose. We've taken the necessary measures. We brought the instruction manuals that we found in the warehouse as reference guides, and we also found instruction manuals on the explosives."

"We've decided to only grant permission to military and law enforcement personnel to carry these weapons. Civilians must take a class and be certified," Shining said, "and they must wait at least two or three weeks before receiving their weapons."

"What about the explosives?" Twilight asked.

"We're still testing them. The weapons have already been tested and are being distributed to those capable of wielding them." Shining said.

"What happened to the Detective that tried to kill us?" Absolute inquired.

"He flipped in an attempt to save his career. He said that all the organizations you took down while undercover were fronts for the EPM. You became a liability to them. They had you as a lieutenant to keep tabs on you. They had no idea you were a cop. They paid off the CIT to give information about cops. You weren't on their radar when they did that. It was only AFTER you were made a lieutenant in that cult did they learn about you. Your death would have been set in stone if you hadn't escaped when you did. The EPM may have paid off the CIT for information," Shining said, "but you'll be the one to bring them down. I know you can do it. I know you were there for Twilight when she needed it most, and I knew that you'd be the one to bring out the best in her. In a way, you're like a brother to me. That's why, if you ever decide to date my sister, I give you my blessing." Twilight blushed at that and looked to the side.

"Can you be anymore embarrassing?" Twilight asked.

"At least he didn't ask abo-" Spike said.

"So," Shining said, "when are you two having foals?"

"Spoke too soon." Spike said. Absolute and Twilight both blushed.

"Enough teasing!" Absolute said.

"I'll take the weapons and set them somewhere. You two can handle the armor." Spike said.

"I'll help." The Pegasus said. The two of them then walked in and Shining sighed.

"I need to know." Shining said.

"Did your parents ask?" Absolute questioned.

"Well," Shining said, "they asked, yes, but so did Princess Celestia."

"The Princess asked?!" Twilight inquired, shocked beyond all belief.

"I was surprised at that as well." Shining stated.

"Well," Absolute said, "you can tell them that we don't plan on having foals anytime soon. Right now, we're strictly friends and colleagues. Nothing more than that. Understand?" Twilight nodded in agreement and Shining smiled.

"I understand." He said.

"Thank you." Absolute said.

"How about we all get a bite to eat? I'm sure you're pretty hungry." Shining asked.

"Only if you're paying." Absolute said. Spike walked out with the Pegasus and had a shocked look on his face.

"You've never offered to take someone out to eat." Spike said.

"This is a special occasion." Shining said. Absolute deadpanned and sighed.

"Who are you wanting us to meet?" Absolute asked, catching on. Shining smiled.

"You'll see." He said.

"Alright. Let's go." Twilight said. They then walked to a bistro in town and sat at a table. After a few moments, Absolute quietly gasped and jumped up.

"TEN HUT!" He yelled. The guards, soldiers, cops, firefighters, and medics all jumped up to attention. Absolute went to attention and saluted. A soft giggle was heard as a mare approached.

"As you were." The mare said. Absolute lowered his salute and the others sat down.

"Princess Mi Amore Cadenza," Absolute said, "forgive my appearance. Had I known you were our guest, I would have requested a dress uniform." The mare giggled and shook her head.

"I thought I told you to call me Cadence." The mare said. Twilight gasped and jumped up.

"Cadence?!" She asked. Cadence looked at Twilight and gasped with joy.

"Twilight!" She exclaimed. The two then ran to each other and hugged before going apart and doing a stance.

"Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake. Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" They said, doing some sort of dance. The two then laughed a bit and Shining was confused.

"Wait," he said, "I thought you were afraid of ladybugs?"

"No thanks to you, Shining." Twilight said.

"It's something we came up with when I was her foalsitter." Cadence said.

"I see." Shining said.

"Glad to see you're still alive, Absolute." Cadence said, motioning for him to sit down.

"It's good to see you, Princess Cadence." Absolute said, sitting down.

"What brings you here?" Twilight asked.

"I'm here for the Summer Sun Celebration!" Cadence said.

"You're dating Shining Armor, aren't you?" Absolute asked. Shining nearly did a spit take and Cadence giggled.

"Always hypervigilant. You haven't changed a bit." Cadence said.

"I'm in law enforcement. Comes with the territory." Absolute said.

"Well," Twilight said, "I say we order." After they ordered and ate, they all walked around before going to the library.

"Well," Cadence said, "we have to get going. It was great to see you again."

"You, too, Cadence." Twilight said.

"Be safe, guys." Absolute said.

"You two, as well." Cadence said.

"Be careful." Shining said.

"Always." Twilight and Absolute said. Shining and Cadence then left and Twilight smiled. Absolute then saw a note and opened it.

'Take good care of Twilight. She's like a sister to me.' The note read. Absolute smiled and looked at the sky.

"We should get some rest now." Absolute said.

"I agree." Twilight said.

Later that night, there was a knock at the door.

"Can you get that, Spike?!" Twilight asked. Spike opened the door and saw Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie.

"Howdy, Spike. Twilight still here?" Applejack asked.

"Yeah," Spike said, "she's just gearing up. Come on in." They walked inside and saw Twilight and Absolute in what appeared to be vests of some sort.

"Hey, girls. Just give us a moment. We'll be ready soon." Twilight said.

"What in the world are you wearing?" Rarity asked.

"It looks like some sort of armor." Fluttershy said.

"Because it is. The EPM have weapons that aren't native to Equestria. We were given the same thing to combat them. What Twilight and I are wearing is called Kevlar." Absolute explained.

"Kevlar? Is that a new fabric?" Rarity asked.

"You could say that." Twilight said. Pinkie saw a vest and looked at it from the inside out.

"Hey," she said, "these have ceramic plates in them!"

"That's a waste of plates." Applejack said.

"The plates are layered so not all of them will break." Absolute said.

"Mind doing a check on me?" Twilight asked. Absolute made sure the vest was secured on her and that it was comfortable for her.

"You're good." Absolute said. Rainbow then looked to the sky and saw Spitfire.

'What is going on?' Rainbow thought. Spitfire did hoof signals that told Rainbow she needed armor. Rainbow then got a bad feeling and looked to Absolute.

"Is there any way we could get some armor, too?" Rainbow asked. That shocked the others.

"What brought this on? You NEVER ask to wear armor!" Rarity said.

"Call it a gut feeling." Rainbow said.

"We have enough for you." Absolute said. Twilight looked around and nearly groaned in frustration.

"Spike," Twilight said, "where'd you put those weapons? I need to do maintenance checks on them."

"They're on the table." Spike said. Twilight looked on the table and Spike went to the loft.

"Thanks!" Twilight said.

"Maybe we should wear the armor, too." Fluttershy said. Rainbow then saw what looked like the barrel of one of the weapons that were on the table and went on alert.

"It looks absolutely dra-" Rarity said.

"GET DOWN!" Rainbow yelled. She tackled Rarity down as two EPM soldiers started firing.

"GET TO COVER!" Absolute yelled. Twilight and the others did so and Spike was still upstairs. As they hid, several more EPM soldiers started firing. All their shots were focused on the library.

"Why are they shooting at us?!" Pinkie asked.

"Because we got to the Elements of Harmony before they could!" Twilight said.

"Wait," Absolute said, looking at the table, "one of the rifles is missing!" Twilight looked and gasped.

"That's the rifle we need to counter these guys!" Twilight said. Absolute saw one of the pistols near him and picked it up.

"This'll have to work." Absolute said. Before he could fire off a shot, one came from upstairs.

"That came from upstairs!" Twilight said. Absolute looked at Twilight and had a look of worry on his face. Twilight realized it and had that same look.

"SPIKE!" They yelled.

"Go on! We'll cover ya!" Applejack said.

"You don't have any weapons!" Twilight said.

"I'll go alone! Cover me!" Absolute said. Twilight nodded and grabbed one of the rifles with her magic before returning fire. Absolute then went upstairs and looked around, clearing the area before advancing. He looked around and saw Spike lying prone with the rifle that was missing. He fired one shot and Absolute was shocked.

'The shot came from Spike. He wants to help!' Absolute thought.

"FALL BACK! FALL BACK!" An EPM soldier yelled.

"You better run." Spike said.

"Nice shooting, Spike." Absolute said. Spike turned around quick, aiming the rifle. When he saw it was Absolute, he sighed and lowered it.

"You scared me." Spike said.

"Come on," Absolute said, "let's get you downstairs." Spike nodded and went downstairs with Absolute. When the others saw Spike holding the rifle, they were shocked.

"You were the one that shot from upstairs?!" Rarity asked.

"I don't care how drab you think the armor is, Rarity. We're wearing it!" Rainbow said.

"How in the world are we supposed to put this on?" Applejack asked. Absolute looked to Twilight and nodded.

"Help them get their armor on and I'll help Spike with his. We need all the help we can get." Absolute said.

"I agree." Twilight said.

"Gear up!" Spike said. The others nodded and grabbed one of the Kevlar vests. Spike put his on and Absolute adjusted it for him before making sure it was right. Twilight did the same for the others.

"Alright," Absolute said, "each of us will choose a weapon. It can be a rifle, a pistol, a sword, what have you. Keep this weapon with you at all times." The eight of them then grabbed a weapon and equipped it. Twilight chose an assault rifle, as did Absolute. Spike had a different rifle, a sniper rifle. Rarity chose to have a sword. A rapier, to be specific. Rainbow went with a weapon designed for both speed and combat, a bayonet. Applejack went with what appeared to be a rifle, but it had a shorter barrel.

"What weapon is that?" Pinkie asked.

"I don't know." Fluttershy said.

"It's called a shotgun." Twilight said.

"Isn't it a bit stereotypical for Applejack to have a shotgun since she works on a farm and lives in Ponyville's countryside?" Pinkie asked.

"How is THAT stereotypical?!" Rainbow asked.

"Just ask the writers!" Pinkie said. That confused the remaining seven.

"What in the hay are you talking about, Pinkie?! What writers?!" Rainbow asked.

"Well," Pinkie said, "I should say the writer. After all, he's the only one writing this!"

"Who are you talking about?" Twilight asked. [Author's Note: Pinkie, I swear to Celestia, if you break the fourth wall in this, I'll make you carry around a giant hammer in the upcoming fight scene.]

"That's not important." Absolute said. Fluttershy chose a weapon that could be used effectively and still be carried, a crossbow.

"Ooh," Pinkie said, "that's a good one! It's perfect for you!"

"You think so?" Fluttershy asked.

"It's light, easy to carry, and it suits your personality! Weak and feeble, yet strong and courageous!" Pinkie said.

"Oh, my." Fluttershy said. Pinkie giggled.

"You just sounded George Takei!" Pinkie said.

"Who is that?" Rarity asked.

"Someone from beyond the fourth wall." Pinkie said. A giant hammer then fell on Pinkie and caused her to see stars.

"That was as random as Pinkie was earlier." Rainbow said.

"Maybe she needs to tone down on the randomness." Twilight said. Pinkie slowly stood up, still groggy.

"Did anypony get the number of that zeppelin?" Pinkie asked.

"Yeah," Rainbow said, "it was 1-2-A-N-D-0-M."

"That's a funny number. It spells 'random' if you put them together." Pinkie groggily said.

"Shake it off, Pinkie." Spike said. Pinkie gently shook her head.

"Need something to deal with the headache?" Absolute asked.

"Yeah." Pinkie said. Absolute gave Pinkie two pills and a glass of water. Pinkie took the pills, popped them in her mouth, took the water, drank it to swallow the pills, and set the glass down.

"Maybe we should give them the helmets." Twilight said.

"Maybe just Pinkie, Rainbow, Fluttershy, Applejack, and Spike." Absolute said.

"That's right! You know my brother's shield spell!" Twilight said. Absolute nodded and Spike grabbed five helmets, putting one on for himself.

"I think only Spike should wear the helmet." Applejack said.

"Time check." Absolute said.

"We have about 11 minutes." Pinkie said. She then grabbed a pistol and a rifle.

"Only one, Pinkie." Twilight said.

"No," Absolute said, "I like her idea. All of us will have a pistol and rifle. We don't have a lot of ammo, so make every bullet count." They all then grabbed a pistol and rifle and placed them in their respected areas. Twilight then placed her badge on her vest and did the same with Spike and Absolute.

"Why am I getting a badge?" Spike asked.

"Because you earned it by helping to protect us." Twilight said.

"Enough talk. We need to move." Absolute said.

"He's right. Everypony is starting to go to the Town Hall." Applejack said.

"It's time to watch the sunrise!" Spike said, elated.

"Stay close." Absolute said. They all nodded and made their way to the town hall. However, Twilight and Absolute could barely get out the door.

"You go on ahead," Twilight said, "we'll catch up. We just have to do something real quick."

"We'll save a spot for you." Rainbow said. The others then left and Absolute sighed.

"I have to get new weapons. For some reason these make me feel… overpowered." He said.

"Then get a different one. We have time." Twilight said. Absolute looked and saw a blade that he hadn't seen in awhile. It was a samurai sword made from Damascus steel and mixed with crystal and obsidian. He set the rifles down and equipped the sword. He decided to keep a pistol, but the one he grabbed was a Glock 17. He switched it out for a Sig Sauer P229. Yet he still felt overpowered. That's when he put the pistol, holster, and magazines back before looking at Twilight.

"Let's go." He said.

"Why'd you leave the guns?" Twilight asked.

"Something tells me they'd only be a problem for me." Absolute said.

"Well," Twilight said, "that I can agree on. Besides, you look pretty cool with just a sword." Absolute sighed and started walking.

"We're gonna be late." He said. Twilight stopped him and nuzzled his cheek.

"Just relax. We already know what to expect." Twilight said.

"Always expect the unexpected." Absolute said.

"Abs," Twilight said, "you're not undercover anymore. Just relax." Absolute sighed and put a hoof on his head.

"I need to de-stress." Absolute said. Twilight looked concerned before giving a slight grin.

"Maybe I can help with that." She said, closing the door to the library. Absolute then gave a look and used a spell that stopped everything. Twilight was amazed.

"I learned this spell while undercover. It stops everything for about a few minutes. Afterwards," Absolute explained, "time resumes it's normal course. Nopony will suspect a thing."

"Can it hold up while you feel pleasure?" Twilight asked, gently caressing Absolute's face.

"We're about to find out." Absolute said. He then pulled Twilight close and took her to the floor while kissing her. Their shadows on the wall depicting the actions as time stood still, with the noises being so loud it would scare off any critter that heard them. However, Twilight got up and gave a look.

"I can't take it anymore. I need to feel it!" She exclaimed.

"Are you sure?" Absolute asked.

"I'm sure. I want to feel it. All of it!" Twilight said. She then cast a spell on herself that caused a faint glow to come from within her.

"What did you just do?" Absolute asked, worried.

"I cast an anti-pregnancy spell. One that ensures I won't get pregnant from my first time." Twilight said. Absolute was stunned, yet the excitement was overwhelming.

"You're sure about this? Once you do this," Absolute stated, "there's no turning back."

"I know." Twilight said. Absolute looked and saw time slowly starting to move again. Twilight felt it too and cast the same spell to reset the period of time it would take to move again.

"Are you sure about this?" Absolute asked.

"I am. I want you to be my first." Twilight said.

"We need to wait. If we do this now," Absolute said, "your judgement will be clouded. We need clear heads to take on Nightmare Moon and the EPM."

"Mine will be once I feel you inside me." Twilight said. Absolute saw the look in her eyes and knew. She was scared out of her wits, and it's caused her libido to overpower her. Absolute knew what he had to do. He gave a sincere look to Twilight and pinned her down. The fear in her eyes was all too clear at that moment. However, she kissed his neck in an effort to tease him into submission. He soon felt her back legs wrap around him and pull him towards her marehood. However, he gave a look and cast out Twilight's fear with one sentence.

"I'll be fine Twilight. I promise you I'm not going anywhere." He spoke. Twilight gasped in shock, and soon shed a tear.

"We'll finish this later." Twilight said.

"You know it." Absolute said.

"For now," Twilight said, "we should get going." Twilight and Absolute both resumed time and left, headed to the Town Hall. Twilight was looking around and saw several new ponies that she hadn't seen in town before. One approached her and Absolute went on alert. He gave a look and the pony stopped them. Absolute started to draw his sword, but the pony held up a hoof.

"I'm a representative from the Changeling Kingdom. I was asked to speak with you." The pony said. Absolute gave a look before standing firm.

"Which song is based off of an ancient spell created by Starswirl the Bearded in the game series 'The Legend of Luna?'" Absolute asked.

"The Song of Time." The pony said. Absolute eased up and looked serious.

"What is it?" He asked.

"The EPM attacking the Town Hall is a diversion. They want the Elements of Harmony so they can weaponize them." The pony said.

"How accurate is this information?" Twilight asked.

"Enough to where Queen Chrysalis herself sent me." The pony said. He then teleported away and Twilight had a worried look on her face.

"I've got a bad feeling about this." Twilight said.

"Stay close." Absolute said. Twilight nodded and the two walked into the Town Hall. They looked around and Twilight pointed over to an area where she saw Pinkie jumping up and down. They walked over and Absolute hoof bumped Rainbow. Around this time, the Mayor of Ponyville started her speech. Absolute looked around before seeing the stars close in behind the moon. However, something was off. Instead of the "Mare in the Moon" disappearing, a dark blue mist started surrounding the sky. The Mayor stopped speaking and Absolute went on alert.

"This can't be good." Absolute said.

"Girls, come here!" Twilight said. Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie went to Twilight as she held out five badges in her magic.

"Take these badges and put them on. I hereby deputize you five as Agents for the Equestria Criminal Investigative Service. Place them on the left side of your vest in the space provided. I have a bad feeling about this." Absolute said. They did just that as the mist went to the balcony and swirled around. Absolute gave a glare and got in a stance to draw his sword. Spike placed a claw on his pistol and was prepared to draw it. Fluttershy went for her crossbow, Applejack went for her shotgun, Pinkie went for her rifle, and Rainbow and Rarity got in a stance to draw their respected blades. Twilight went for her rifle as she saw shadows surrounding the area.

"You know that gut feeling you were getting earlier, Rainbow Dash?" Rarity asked.

"I still have it." Rainbow said.

"I'm getting it, too." Rarity said. Faint laughter was heard as the mist swirled faster on the balcony.

"She's about to return, isn't she?" Twilight asked. The laughter got louder and Absolute glared.

"She already has." Absolute said. Thunder rumbled and lightning faintly flashed. The laughter got louder until it was a loud, evil cackle. Lightning cracked as Nightmare Moon's silhouette was seen. Everypony gasped and Absolute started to draw his sword, but stopped as Spike held out a claw.

"It's an illusion." He said. The silhouette walked forward and revealed itself to be someone Twilight and Absolute never expected to see again.

"DETECTIVE CUFF'S PARTNER?!" They asked.

"Surprised to see me? I'd bet you thought I was locked up. Not a chance. I'm too valuable to the Manehattan Police!" The stallion said.

"Who are you?" Rainbow asked.

"My name is Detective Iron Wall, Manehattan Police Organized Crime Control Bureau." The stallion said, an evil smile on his face.

"Oh, ponyfeathers!" Applejack said.

"You've already lost! Now it's time to die for your BETRAYAL, ABSOLUTE JUSTICE!!!!" Iron Wall yelled, aiming a pistol at Absolute. However, before he had a chance to fire, a single shot was heard and a hole appeared from Iron Wall's head. He soon fell forward and collapsed, revealing a Changeling.

"Whoa!" Rainbow said.

"There's no time! Get to the Castle of the Two Sisters!" The Changeling said.

"We already got the Elements from there!" Pinkie exclaimed. That's when Absolute realized it.

"They took the Elements back to the Castle of the Two Sisters to weaponize them! They're gonna use them for their plans!" Absolute concluded.

"LET'S GO!" Twilight yelled. They all ran off and the Changeling held a medallion in his hoof.

"May the Patron Saint of Law Enforcement, Saint Michael the Archangel, be with you." They said.


Location: Entrance of Everfree Forest

Time: 0634 Hours (6:34 AM)

Absolute and Twilight were on alert as they stood at the entrance. Spike and the others stood behind them.

"This time," Rainbow said, "we're more prepared."

"I know Spike will follow us anywhere," Absolute said, "but what about the rest of you?" Twilight and Absolute looked at the girls in complete seriousness.

"Are you with us, girls?" Twilight asked. They looked at each other before Applejack smiled. The others smiled as well and Rainbow gave a grin.

"To Tartarus and back, Twilight." She said.

"No matter what the situation is," Applejack said, smiling, "we're sticking to you like caramel on a candy apple."

"Especially if they have candy apples in there!" Pinkie said. They looked at her in confusion which caused her to smile brighter. "What? Those things are good!"

"Stay close!" Absolute said, turning towards the entrance. "We're going behind enemy lines." They all nodded and walked in. Rainbow was cautious and looked around before seeing blue mist seep into the cracks of the cliff. The cliff shook and Absolute went on alert.

"LOOK OUT!" Rainbow yelled. The cliff then collapsed and Absolute fell with Twilight, Applejack, Rarity, and Spike.

"Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!" Fluttershy said. Applejack grabbed onto a root as Rainbow and Fluttershy flew down and caught Rarity, who managed to catch Spike soon after. Absolute and Twilight, however, weren't so lucky. They were sent near the edge and almost fell. Absolute held onto Twilight closely and grabbed the edge of the cliff. Twilight looked down and gasped before shutting her eyes and hiding her face in Absolute's chest. Applejack let go and slid down to them.

"Hang on! I'm coming!" She said. She reached them and grabbed onto Absolute's foreleg.

"What do we do?!" Twilight asked. Applejack was struggling to hold on before looking up. She then looked at Absolute and had a serious look on her face.

"Let go." She said.

"Are you CRAZY?! If he lets go," Twilight said, "we'll fall to our death!"

"I promise you. You'll be okay." Applejack said.

"You don't know that!" Twilight said. Absolute's foreleg slipped a bit and Twilight gasped.

"I'm slipping! I don't think I can hold on much longer!" Absolute said.

"You have to! I don't want to die yet! I haven't even had a real date with you yet!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Of all the days for me not to do my morning workout! Why did it HAVE to be today?!" Absolute asked. Twilight and Applejack looked confused.

"You have a morning workout?" Twilight asked.

"Don't you?" Absolute asked. The cliff shook again and a crack appeared.

"You have to let go!" Applejack said.

"No," Twilight said, "hang on!"

"Listen to me. What I'm about to say is the honest truth. Let go and you'll be safe. The BOTH of you will be safe." Applejack said. Absolute looked at Twilight, looking for confirmation. Twilight was scared, but gave a nod. Absolute closed his eyes, and took a breath.

"Saint Michael protect us." Absolute said. He then jumped off the side of the cliff and let go, positioning himself to where Twilight would survive if they hit the ground. Twilight screamed in fear before a loud boom had resonated. Absolute's eyes shot open as he saw Spitfire and Soarin fly down with Rainbow and Fluttershy. The four of them caught Absolute and Twilight, and gently started to lower them. Twilight looked and saw Applejack jumping down the cliff on ledges.

"That was a close one." Spitfire said.

"How did you know where we were?" Twilight asked.

"Something guided us here." Soarin said.

"Well," Absolute said, "I'm glad you were here." Absolute and Twilight were set down and Applejack landed with them.

"We should get going." Twilight said.

"Indeed." Absolute said.

"We'll see you back in Ponyville, Justice." Spitfire said.

"Don't forget those moves we showed you, RD!" Soarin said. The two then flew off and Rainbow blushed.

"So awesome!" Rainbow said, practically squealing.

"You can fan girl later." Absolute said. After a few moments, Absolute was looking around and Fluttershy gasped and ran forward.

"Oh, no!" She exclaimed. Absolute gasped when he saw several Royal Guards slaughtered. He looked around and saw the Manticore from before. However, unlike the last time, the Manticore was completely skinned from head to toe. One look told him the entire story…… the EPM had rescued their captured allies, and killed anyone or anything that got in their path.

"Damn." Absolute said. Fluttershy looked at Absolute and went to him.

"We have to stop these guys." She said.

"We will. This ends here!" Absolute said.

"Let's go!" Twilight said.


Location: Castle of the Two Sisters

Time: 2350 Hours (11:50 PM)

Absolute looked around and motioned for the others to move up. They all did so and Twilight looked around.

"Where could they have taken them?" She asked.

"They could be anywhere!" Rainbow said. Spike looked at one of the towers and pointed to it.

"There! That's the only tower left standing!" Spike said.

"Let's go!" Twilight said.

"Wait!" Pinkie said. They looked at her.

"What is it, Pinkie?" Twilight asked.

"Shouldn't we move tactically so we don't alert the EPM to our presence and look for any traps they may have set?" Pinkie asked. Absolute looked stunned.

"She has a point." Absolute said.

"Let's get going." Spike said. They got into tactical positions and noticed no traps as they went up the tower. When they reached the top, Twilight gasped as she saw the Elements of Harmony.

"There they are!" She said.

"Be careful. They could be booby trapped." Absolute said. Twilight nodded and all of them approached. Spike had a claw on his pistol, ready to draw it at a moments notice. The others were prepared to draw their weapons as well. Evil laughter was heard as they approached the Elements.

"She's here." Spike said.

"Alright, Nightmare Moon. You have our attention! SHOW YOURSELF!!!!" Absolute said. Blue mist then surrounded the area.

"Stay close, girls!" Twilight said. Applejack and the others stood near Twilight and Absolute, ready to draw their weapons.

"How precious." A voice said. Nightmare Moon appeared and the EPM stood next to her.

"Nightmare Moon." Twilight said.

"Perhaps you'd like to know these fine ponies with me?" Nightmare asked.

"We already know about the EPM. You've got some nerve joining them, Nightmare Moon; or shall I say Princess Luna?" Absolute asked. Nightmare gasped and the EPM were stunned.

"How do you know of that?!" Nightmare asked.

"Research." Absolute said.

"Damn you!" Nightmare said, going to charge. Absolute and the others drew their weapons and the EPM drew theirs.

"What makes you think we're just going to stand by and let you harm her?" An EPM member asked.

"Who said we were just after her?" Applejack inquired. Nightmare fired a few blasts, but Absolute deflected them and they hit two EPM leaders.

"How? How?! HOW ARE YOU THIS STRONG?!" Nightmare asked.

"I've been undercover for the past 15 years," Absolute said, "and I trained all day yesterday."

"Oh, you think you're cute?!" Nightmare asked.

"Bitch, I'm adorable!" Absolute said. Little did they know, the Elements of Harmony started to faintly glow. Applejack and the others stood in front of Twilight as she was stunned. It knocked her out of it and she started to feel concern for them. She wanted to be there for them, to protect them, to show them how much they meant to her. A spark occurred within her, and she had a realization. She had made something she hadn't done in years: friends.

"I don't care how tough you think you are! You'll never beat me!" Nightmare exclaimed. The Elements of Harmony then reacted and floated above the girls.

"What?! You haven't even attempted a spell to cause a spark!" An EPM member said.

"The spark did occur. It occurred within me just now." Twilight said.

"What?" Nightmare asked.

"You think you can weaponize the Elements of Harmony for your evil deeds," Twilight said, "but you fail to realize the spirits of the Elements are right here with me! Applejack, who instilled confidence in me when I was scared, represents the Spirit of Honesty. Fluttershy, who tamed a Manticore using her words and actions alone, represents the Spirit of Kindness. Pinkie Pie, who laughed at the face of danger, represents the Spirit of Laughter. Rarity, who sacrificed her tail to calm a sorrowful serpent, represents the Spirit of Generosity. Lastly, Rainbow Dash, who remained loyal to her country by alerting the authorities to your presence here in the Everfree Forest, represents the Spirit of Loyalty. These five ponies passed every challenge thrown at us. I just now realized that what they did was true. That caused a spark to happen. The spark occurred within me when I realized that you five… Sheds a tear are my friends!" A bright light then appeared and practically blinded Nightmare and the EPM. Twilight was shocked but soon grinned as the sixth element appeared over her. Nightmare was frozen in place when she saw all six Elements of Harmony.

"What?! How?! Why?! I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS!" Nightmare yelled. Spike put a bullet in the chamber of his pistol.

"Nopony cares." Absolute said. Spike grinned.

"Took the words right out of my mouth." He said, aiming his pistol at the EPM.

"GRAAAAAH!" A stallion yelled. Nightmare Moon and the EPM then charged at Absolute, Twilight and the others. Absolute's sword glowed faintly with electricity, and he closed his eyes.

"This is your only warning. Surrender." Absolute said.

"NEVER!" An EPM leader yelled. They went to strike Absolute, but saw that the others had stopped. He soon gasped and looked to Nightmare Moon, who was frozen in shock. There, right in front of the horde of enemies, was Absolute Justice. Spike was stunned as he had seen it.

"How did he move so fast?!" Spike asked. One EPM leader glared and went for a punch, but Absolute blocked it.

"Wrong move." Absolute said.

"Huh?" The leader asked. Several firearms were heard being racked and taken off safety. Absolute stood his ground, his eyes closed.

"You've just made a huge mistake." Absolute said. The stallion tried to force his strike forward, but failed as he was sent into a horde of soldiers.

"How did he?!" Another asked. Absolute's eyes shot open, revealing a Sharingan in both eyes. Nightmare gasped and Spike was stunned.

"SHARINGAN?!" Nightmare asked.

"So," Absolute said, "you've heard of this."

"How did you get it?!" Nightmare asked.

"Wouldn't you like to know." Absolute said. A bright light shone from the Elements and it blinded the EPM.

"I WON'T BE VANQUISHED!" Nightmare yelled. She then charged towards Twilight and the others, but Absolute stopped her and restrained her.

"There's no escape!" Absolute exclaimed.

"Screw this! We're getting outta here while the getting's good!" An EPM leader said. They all ran and Nightmare Moon was stunned. She tried to fight Absolute off, but to no avail. The Elements then bonded to the girls, turning into miniature versions of their cutie marks.

"Abs," Spike said, "get outta there! The Elements are about to activate!"

"If I move," Absolute said, "Nightmare Moon has a chance to escape! I can't let that happen!"

"You'll be purged with her!" Spike said.

"No, I won't. Just my evil will. This Sharingan I have was forced upon me by one of the crime syndicates I infiltrated. I've refused to use it unless I have to. Now," Absolute said, "I can be rid of it forever!" The Elements then activated and a rainbow beam surrounded Nightmare Moon and Absolute. The energy from it caused Absolute to grunt in pain. He was soon sent out by the energy and hit a pillar, dropping his sword.

"Abs!" Spike said.

"I'm fine!" Absolute said, his eyes clenched shut. When he opened his eyes, they were their normal color. He looked and saw a dark energy with Nightmare Moon as the rainbow beam grew around her. The dark energy was purged and Nightmare Moon gasped in shock.

"No! IMPOSSIBLE!!!!" She yelled. Spike grinned and helped Absolute up. They looked at Nightmare Moon and said only four words.

"TASTE THE RAINBOW, MOTHERFUCKER!!!!" They yelled. The rainbow beam then grew faster and Nightmare grunted in pain.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" She yelled. A bright light then started to engulf everything around. Absolute held Spike close to him, putting his face in his chest before shielding his eyes.


Location: Castle of the Two Sisters

Time: 0659 Hours (6:59 AM)

Twilight and the others groaned as Spike and Absolute gained their footing. Spike looked to Twilight and gasped. Absolute looked in that direction and ran to them.

"Twilight!" He exclaimed. She groaned again and looked up.

"Abs?" She asked.

"Are you okay?" Absolute asked.

"Everyone good?!" Spike asked.

"Twilight's good!" Absolute said.

"I'm good." Pinkie said.

"We're good!" Applejack said.

"Oh, my head." Rainbow said.

"Okay," Applejack said, "I'm dropping the Federal Agent persona for now. Everypony okay?" The girls nodded and Fluttershy noticed the necklace around Rarity.

"Why, Rarity, it's so beautiful!" She said. Rarity looked and saw her tail was back to normal.

"Yes," Rarity said, "I know! I shall never part with it again!" She then hugged her tail and Fluttershy shook her head while smiling.

"No," she said, "I mean your necklace! It looks just like your cutie mark!" Rarity looked down then noticed one around Fluttershy.

"So does yours!" Rarity said. The girls all looked and were shocked.

"Look at mine! Look at mine!" Pinkie said.

"Aw yeah!" Rainbow said. Twilight saw she didn't have a necklace, but a crown.

"Gee, Twilight. I thought you were just spouting a bunch of hooey. Though," Applejack said, "now that I see all this up close, I guess we really do represent the Elements."

"Indeed you do." A voice said. Absolute went on alert and went to the position of attention.

"TEN HUT!!!!" He yelled. Spike went to attention and Absolute saluted. When he did so, a bright light appeared from the horizon and went into the room they were in. The light landed and revealed itself to be Princess Celestia. Applejack and the others bowed while Twilight ran up to her.

"Princess Celestia!" Twilight exclaimed.

"Twilight Sparkle," Princess Celestia said, "my most faithful student. I knew you and Absolute Justice could do it. Where is he?" She then looked around and saw him saluting her with Spike at his side, both being at attention and Absolute saluting her. Princess Celestia gave a smile before going to attention and saluting back. Absolute dropped his salute the same time Princess Celestia did.

"Parade REST!" Absolute said. Absolute and Spike went to the position of parade rest and Princess Celestia giggled a bit.

"As you were." She said. The two stood normally and Twilight went to Absolute and hugged him.

"Thank you for being there for me." She said.

"It's not a problem." Absolute said. They broke the hug and looked at the others. Rainbow had a confused look on her face.

"Wait," Rainbow said, "how did you know where we were?"

"This used to be where I stayed over 1000 years ago." Celestia said.

"Princess Celestia saw the signs of Nightmare Moon's return," Twilight said, "and planned for Abs and I to come down and stop her."

"We were supposed to have waited for three days," Absolute said, "but the Princess got intel about the EPM. So, in an effort to stop them, the Princess sent us down early under the guise of preparing for the Summer Sun Celebration."

"I knew that they would go after the Elements of Harmony," Princess Celestia said, "but they could only work after Twilight let true friendship into her heart again." Twilight smiled and Absolute wrapped a foreleg around her, pulling her close and causing her to blush lightly. They all heard two groans and looked behind. Absolute went on alert and grabbed his sword before going in front of everyone, Spike aimed his pistol in that direction and Twilight gasped.

"No way! I thought she was purged!" She said. There lying before them was a small light blue Alicorn, and the one they had used the Elements of Harmony on: Nightmare Moon. The others looked and gasped in shock.

"What in Tartarus?!" Applejack asked.

"How did she survive?!" Rainbow asked.

"I don't know!" Pinkie exclaimed.

"Worry about that later!" Rarity exclaimed. Princess Celestia was stunned. Twilight started to approach, but stopped and looked at Nightmare Moon.

"Nightmare Moon?" She asked. Nightmare gasped and looked around.

"What happened?! Where am I?! Am I dead?!" She asked, panicked.

"You're not dead. Somehow the Elements of Harmony either spared you," Absolute said, "or gave you another chance because of what I did." Twilight was confused.

"What you did?" She asked.

"He kept Nightmare Moon in place while the Elements had activated," Spike said, "and he had something evil forced upon him while he was undercover."

"The Sharingan!" Nightmare Moon exclaimed.

"Huh?" Applejack and the others asked.

"It was an ancient power that was misused by a group of ponies. It was meant to be used to protect Equestria," Princess Celestia said, "but a group of people misused its power and committed crimes."

"I was sent undercover within that group," Absolute said, "and they forced a Sharingan on me. That Sharingan was evil, and I knew it had to be purged from within me before I was corrupted."

"Of course! The Elements knew your Sharingan was more evil than Nightmare Moon was," Twilight concluded, "so they purged the evil from the Sharingan and it manifested into Nightmare Moon, giving her a chance to change the error of her ways!"

"I…. I was spared because of the evil within you?" Nightmare asked.

"Bet you didn't see that one coming." Absolute said, a slight smirk on his face.

"She wasn't the only one." Pinkie said. [Author's Note: Pinkie…..]

"It's quite alright. No one expected this to happen. Not even me." Princess Celestia said.

"Huh?" Everyone, sans Pinkie, asked. [Author's Note: Oh, no. Not you, too! I swear if this goes any further South, we're gonna hit Space Mexico!]

"This is about as random as Pinkie on a Sunday morning before noon!" Rainbow said.

"O-kay." Twilight said.

"Regardless," Absolute said, "I think you've learned something, Nightmare Moon."

"As I hope somepony else has." Princess Celestia said. She started to approach the younger Alicorn. Absolute joined her as the others tended to Nightmare Moon. The younger Alicorn was confused.

"Princess Luna." Absolute said, getting her attention.

"It has been 1000 years since anyone has seen you like this. What happened before is in the past. We were meant to rule TOGETHER, little sister." Princess Celestia said.

"Sister?!" The girls asked.

"You didn't know?" Absolute asked.

"No," Rarity said, "we didn't have the SLIGHTEST idea!"

"You should have known this, Twilight. Remember before I left?" Absolute asked. Twilight thought for a bit then gasped.

"That book!" She exclaimed.

"Exactly. It told the story of the banishment of Nightmare Moon," Absolute said, "and it included the fact that Nightmare Moon was the YOUNGER sister."

"Princess Celestia had to banish her own sister?" Fluttershy asked.

"She's not proud of it. To everypony else," Absolute said, "the Summer Sun Celebration is an exciting time. To Princess Celestia, it's a terrible reminder that she had to banish her own sister. Imagine if YOU had to banish your own family. How would you feel?" The others thought about it before looking solemn.

"That would be just awful." Fluttershy said.

"I…. I…. Sheds a tear I didn't know you felt that way. I always thought it was an easy decision, but… banishing your own family…. I'd be heartbroken!" Nightmare Moon exclaimed. She started glowing and her evil demeanor was changed. Twilight looked and gasped.

"Back away!" Twilight said. Princess Luna gasped as she saw Nightmare Moon become surrounded by a bright light before shrinking down to a newborn foal. The others were stunned, and Absolute had a look of shock on his face.

"What… just happened?" Rainbow asked.

"I think the Elements turned Nightmare Moon back into a foal so she could live a life of her own." Absolute surmised.

"Wow," Twilight said, "my mind is officially blown!" [Author's Note: While mine just crashed. Eyes turn into a Windows blue screen]

"While mine just crashed." Pinkie said, her eyes going to some sort of blue screen effect. [Author's Note: DAMN IT, PINKIE!!!! Groans I'm about to ruin that mare's whole life by transporting her to the R34 dimension if she doesn't stop.]

"O-kay then." Absolute said, weirded out.

"What are we going to do about her?" Rainbow asked, motioning to Nightmare Moon.

"I want to entrust her to the care of one of the smartest ponies I know." Princess Celestia said. Absolute went on alert and shook his head.

"Oh, no. Not happening. Twilight and I are NOT raising her! Do you realize that not only did we thwart the EPM," Absolute said, "but they also know that ECIS is after them! They see us as a threat! They're gonna try and KILL us for Pete's sake!"

"I'm aware of this. However," Princess Celestia said, "I can't trust anypony else."

"What would that make us then? Her parents?" Twilight asked.

"No," Absolute said, "it would make us her guardians. However, she isn't safe with us."

"What if she was put up for adoption?" Fluttershy asked.

"Wouldn't work." Princess Celestia said.

"Placed with a foster family?" Pinkie asked.

"Too dangerous." Princess Celestia said.

"It would be MUCH too risky for you to raise her." Rarity said.

"Neither of us is even CLOSE enough to being able to raise her." Rainbow said.

"I guess there isn't much choice." Applejack said. Twilight and Absolute looked worried, but Princess Luna reassured them.

"It will be alright." She said.

"We'll be there to support you." Princess Celestia said. Absolute looked at the foal as she looked back at him. Her eyes were full of innocence. Twilight stood next to Absolute and looked at her. The foal lifted her legs up, wanting to be held. Twilight picked her up and she gave a soft smile. Twilight teared up before looking at Absolute, nodding. Absolute held Twilight close and looked at Princess Celestia.

"We'll be holding you to that." He said. Princess Celestia nodded and Absolute turned to the foal. She was smiling and reached a leg up, booping him on the nose. He jerked back a bit before giving a slight sneeze. The foal laughed a bit and Twilight smiled.

"I say we rename her." Twilight said.

"You are her guardians. It makes sense." Princess Celestia said.

"What should we name her?" Absolute asked. Twilight thought about it before giving a smile and looking at the foal again. She had fallen asleep with a smile on her face.

"Why don't you choose what to name her?" Twilight asked. Absolute was stunned a bit, but thought about it. He saw her sleeping and smiled softly. He thought of the perfect name for her, and it matched the way she looked.

"How about Dream Weaver?" Absolute asked. Twilight gasped slightly and Princess Celestia smiled.

"I agree with that name." Princess Celestia said. Twilight smiled and shed a tear.

"It's perfect. Princess Dream Weaver." Twilight said. Princess Luna started shedding tears and hugged her sister.

"I'm so sorry for everything!" She said. Princess Celestia hugged her back.

"It's alright, Luna. I forgive you." Princess Celestia said.

"I missed you so much, big sister!" Princess Luna exclaimed. Princess Celestia shed a tear.

"I missed you, too." She said. Everyone was heartfelt at the sight, and Pinkie went over the top and started crying. She then stopped all of a sudden.

"Hey," Pinkie said, "you know what this calls for?"

"A party?" Absolute, Twilight, Spike, Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna inquired. Pinkie was stunned before blushing and looking to the side.

"Am I really that predictable?" Pinkie asked. Everyone then laughed, and Pinkie joined in soon after.


Location: Town Square, Ponyville

Time: 0830 Hours (8:30 AM)

Ponyville's citizens were lined up and cheered as they saw Absolute and Twilight leading everyone back. The Mayor of Ponyville was stunned and the guards there went to attention and saluted. Absolute and Twilight then broke off the lead and let the others pass. Princesses Celestia and Luna were the first, followed by Pinkie Pie, who was hopping, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike, who was holding Dream Weaver. Absolute and Twilight walked behind them all as they approached the Mayor. Everypony bowed at the sight of the Princesses.

"You may rise, my little ponies." Princess Celestia said. They all rose up and the Mayor looked at the crowd that had gathered.

"Fillies and gentlecolts," she said, "as Mayor of Ponyville, it is my pleasure to welcome Princess Celestia to our humble town, and announce the return of her sister, Princess Luna!" Everypony cheered and Princess Luna was in tears.

"Thank you all! I must apologize for my actions as Nightmare Moon. I wasn't in my right mind. I know now that the night is just as important as the day. As such," Princess Luna said, "I vow to do my rightful duty as the Princess of the Night!" Everypony cheered and two young foals put a flower wreath around her. Princess Celestia then got the attention of everyone.

"I, too, have an announcement to make. For the past few days," Princess Celestia said, "I was making the preparations when I noticed the signs of Nightmare Moon's return. In anticipation, I had sent two ponies here to locate the relics used to stop her: the Elements of Harmony. As I was preparing for it, I caught word that an organization calling themselves the Equestrian Preservation Movement, or the EPM for short, had been plotting to weaponize the Elements of Harmony in order to achieve their goal: total domination of Equestria. As such, the two ponies I sent had two tasks: find the Elements of Harmony before the EPM and get them to safety before they were destroyed. These ponies not only found the Elements and kept them safe, but one of them had been the spirit of the Sixth Element. These ponies behind us are the ones who now bear the first five. Applejack, Bearer of Honesty, Fluttershy, Bearer of Kindness, Pinkie Pie, Bearer of Laughter, Rarity, Bearer of Generosity, and Rainbow Dash, Bearer of Loyalty. They were led and guided by the two ponies I sent, and one was willing to sacrifice their life so that Harmony would be preserved."

"Who are these ponies?!" Somepony asked, aggravated.

"I'm getting to that." Princess Celestia said.

"Get to it faster!" The pony said.

"As I was saying," Princess Celestia said, "these ponies are part of a new law enforcement agency. Fillies and gentlecolts, mares and stallions, foals of all ages, I am proud to introduce Equestria's newest protectors! My most faithful students, Twilight Sparkle and Absolute Justice!" Twilight and Absolute then approached Princess Celestia. Twilight bowed while Absolute went to attention and saluted. Princess Celestia gave a nod to them both. Twilight stood upright and Absolute lowered his salute.

"Reporting as requested, Your Highness!" Absolute said. Princess Celestia simply giggled a bit.

"No need to be so formal." She said.

"In the presence of a superior," Absolute said, "it is required that I show the utmost respect. That is what I learned from my tenure with the now disbanded CIT."

"At ease, Absolute Justice. It's okay. You can relax now." Princess Celestia said. Twilight grew concerned, and picked up on it. She discreetly set up a telepathic link between her and the others.

'Trouble. EPM is somewhere in the crowd. Be on alert!' Twilight sent. Spike had discreetly placed a claw on his pistol, having holstered it before leaving the Castle of the Two Sisters. Rainbow looked around and saw Spitfire with Soarin. They gave a motion to a group that was dead center. Rainbow looked towards that area and saw that they were headed towards Princess Celestia. Rainbow then recognized one of them and saw one of them aim a weapon at Princess Celestia. Spike then drew his pistol and aimed it at the group.

"DROP YOUR WEAPONS!!!!" Spike ordered. The group started to charge, but Absolute had appeared behind the leader of the group and held his sword at his neck.

"Eep!" The leader said.

"If you wish to keep your lives," Absolute said, "you'll drop your weapons and surrender." One in the group gave an evil glare before snarling.

"Fuck you." The pony said. They then charged and drew a dagger. However, Absolute had used his magic and gave one slice to the pony. He then forced off anything that was on the sword before sheathing it. When he did so, the pony that charged collapsed and their head rolled forward. Everypony around gasped and Absolute sighed. The group dropped their weapons and surrendered. Absolute then gave a look to Princess Celestia before walking off. However, he was stopped by a yellow filly with a bow in her hair.

"Please don't leave." She said.

"I have no choice. What I just did was inexcusable." Absolute said. He then walked past the filly, his heart heavy from the life he took. The entire crowd moved to make room for him to walk, but he was soon stopped by the one pony he never expected: Princess Luna.

"Don't leave. What you just did was honorable." She said.

"I took a life." Absolute said.

"You stopped a threat that the Royal Guard couldn't get to in time." Princess Luna said.

"Is that how you see it?! I killed somepony for fucks sake! I'm no better than the bastards I stopped while with the CIT!" Absolute said.

"ENOUGH!" A pony yelled. Absolute gasped and looked behind him, seeing Shining Armor. However, before Shining could approach, Absolute suddenly gripped his head as if he were in pain.

"GARGH!" Absolute yelled. Princess Luna gasped and started to check on him.

"The tree." A voice spoke, making sure it was only Absolute who heard it.

"Mister Justice! Are you alright?!" Princess Luna asked.

"Come to the tree!" The voice spoke again. After the voice spoke, an image flashed through his mind of a tree being surrounded by EPM. Absolute gasped and bolted towards the Everfree Forest at an alarming rate.

"Justice, stop!" Shining said. Absolute then used parkour and jumped onto the buildings.

"After him!" Princess Luna ordered. Absolute used his magic and created a smokescreen. The screen engulfed everypony in sight, even the Wonderbolts. When the smoke cleared, Absolute was nowhere to be seen.

"Where'd he go?!" Shining asked.

"I can't see him!" A guard said. Princess Celestia looked worried and solemn.

"Where did you go, Abs?" She asked.


Location: Gorge in the Everfree Forest

Time: 0919 Hours (9:19 AM)

Several members of the EPM were surrounding a tree that had a faint glow. One stallion stood before them all.

"Stallions," he said, "this tree is where the Elements of Harmony once came. It is the Tree of Harmony. For our goal to be achieved, we must destroy this tree! Then, we can show Equestria true peace by eliminating her foes!"

"SEIG HAIL!!!!" The ponies yelled, doing a weird salute. The stallion then gave a look and turned to the tree.

"This is your end." He said. He then held a flamethrower and was about to fire, but stopped as he felt a pain in his back. Just as soon as he felt it, it left. He looked in front of him and saw a stallion with a sword. It was the last thing he saw before his vision went and he collapsed. As soon as he hit the ground, the stallion split into two pieces. The others gasped in shock. They all looked at the one who killed their leader.

"Who are you?!" One asked. The new stallion simply gave a look and stood in a stance. The others then recognized him as one of those who thwarted their attempt to get the Elements of Harmony. The Tree of Harmony glowed brighter and revealed the stallion to be Absolute Justice. He gave a look and the Tree of Harmony glowed brighter.

"Your worst nightmare." Absolute said. The tree started glowing brighter and an aura was seen around him.

"What the?!" A pony asked. Absolute closed his eyes and the light surrounded him.

"Use this power wisely." A voice said. The light then dimmed and Absolute had a relic around his neck. He did some strikes with his sword in the air before holding it in front of his face.

"UNLEASH THE POWER!!!!" Absolute yelled. The relic activated and Absolute's sword started glowing a bright gold.

"You're DEAD!!!!" A pony yelled. The group then charged, but Absolute fought them off with stunning precision. One of them tried to stab him, but Absolute parried the attack and gave one strike to the pony. That strike sent a shockwave that blew back all the ones surrounding the tree. The sword started glowing brighter and Absolute jumped back before jumping off the ground and onto other surfaces before being so high in the air that the glow from the sword blinded the ponies, almost as if it were from the sun itself.

"You know what to do." The voice said. The sword glowed brighter and Absolute gave a sideways strike before doing a circling motion in front of him with the sword. As he did so, after images of the sword followed before they all went to the position the sword was at now. The sword glowed bright and Absolute gave a glare.

"SOLAR STRIKE!!!!" Absolute yelled. He then gave a slash and it turned into an arc of sunlight. That arc got sent to the ponies and it was so fast they couldn't act. One pony shed a tear and said only two words.

"Clever dick." He said. The arc then hit them all and the Tree of Harmony. The tree absorbed the attack and a blast of light came out of it, the blast shooting up. Absolute landed, forced anything on the sword off with a strike, and sheathed the sword. The light from the tree then exploded outward and it purified the area. Absolute sighed and took the relic off. He walked to the Tree of Harmony and placed the relic on one of the roots.

"Upon you," Absolute said, "I return this borrowed power. Thank you for granting me the power to use it." Absolute then turned to leave, but stopped as he saw Princess Celestia and Princess Luna with Twilight. He gave a look of shame, but it wasn't at them. It was at himself.

"Wipe that look from your face." Princess Celestia said.

"You have nothing to be ashamed of." Princess Luna said. Twilight ran to Absolute and hugged him tight. Absolute was shocked, but teared up and hugged back.

"I'm sorry, Twi." He said.

"You have nothing to be sorry for. You were doing your job." Twilight said. The Tree of Harmony glowed brighter and the relic rose up before turning into two rings. The two rings went to Absolute and Twilight, turning into lockets. The others showed up with Shining and the Wonderbolts. Even Princess Cadence was with them. Spike went to them with Dream Weaver in his arms. Twilight looked at them and opened a place up in the hug. Spike ran in and hugged Absolute. Dream Weaver rose a hoof up and wiped a tear from Absolute's eye. Spike and Dream Weaver then had lockets appear on their necks. Princess Celestia smiled and approached them.

"It appears the Tree of Harmony is indebted to you." She said. Absolute gave a look and looked at the tree.

"You owe me no debt. I'm not worthy." He said. The tree glowed bright and a beam of light hit his sword.

"You are worthy." The voice said. Everypony gasped when they heard it.

"Who said that?" Shining asked.

"This must be why Justice ran off the way he did!" Spitfire said.

"It is. I cannot say my name," the voice said, "but know that Absolute Justice is the one I contacted first. I had sensed the Tree of Harmony was in danger, and I felt Absolute's presence when the Elements of Harmony were used. He was willing to sacrifice himself to protect others. He is, what I would call, a warrior."

"So," Fluttershy said, approaching the tree, "this is the Tree of Harmony?"

"This is where the Elements of Harmony had come from when Princess Celestia and Princess Luna used them to defeat another threat to Equestria: Discord." The voice spoke.

"Discord?" Rainbow asked.

"The Lord of Chaos and Disharmony. He's a chimeric creature called a Draconequus." Absolute said. [Author's Note: Hope I spelled that right.]

"That is correct, Absolute Justice." The voice said.

"Well," Rarity said, "if the Elements were used to defeat Discord, why weren't they returned immediately after?"

"Because the prophecy foretold of events where the Elements of Harmony would be needed." Princess Celestia said. Absolute then connected the dots and his eyes widened.

"The EPM wasn't prophesized." He said.

"Correct." The voice said.

"I wasn't supposed to be prophesized either." Absolute said.

"What are you on about?" Shining asked.

"I was SUPPOSED to get stuck undercover, wasn't I?!" Absolute asked, starting to get furious.

"In a previous time." The voice said. Absolute gasped and looked at Twilight.

"Starswirl's spell." He concluded.

"You lost so many years of your life in that time. Now," the voice said, "you have a new destiny. The EPM is from the previous time you were in. They must be stopped." A relic then appeared and went around Absolute's neck.

"What the?" Applejack asked.

"This is a powerful relic. The one you used was only temporary. I bestow this power unto you, Absolute Justice." The voice said.

"Who are you? I need to know so I can throw you a welcome party!" Pinkie said.

"As I said before, I cannot say." The voice said. Absolute then connected the dots and came to a realization.

"You don't have to." He said.

"Huh?" Soarin asked. The relic glowed and Absolute stood firm.

"Reveal your spirit to us all, Golden Fire!" Absolute said. A bright light then shone and a stallion appeared. The stallion was a dark orange with gold flames as a cutie mark.

"It's been some time." Golden said.

"Why are you doing this, dad?" Absolute asked. Twilight gasped and looked at Absolute, then to Golden, then back to Absolute, then back to Golden, then to Princess Celestia, who was just as shocked, then back to Golden.

"That's your FATHER?!" Twilight asked.

"I'm not proud to admit it." Absolute said.

"Don't say that." Golden said.

"Oh," Absolute said, "you expect me to be GLAD my father was a serial arsonist, burglar, and serial killer?!"

"That was a long time ago." Golden said.

"What next?! Is mom gonna show up and try to make amends, too?!" Absolute asked.

"Your mother is no longer in the realm of spirits." Golden said.

"Oh," Absolute said, "so she left you!"

"She didn't leave me! She possessed a mare in a previous time and that mare told her son to CHANGE the PAST!!!!" Golden said.

"Did it backfire?" Absolute asked.

"Well… yes." Golden said.

"What mare did she possess?" Absolute asked.

"I don't know! Just some mare!" Golden said.

"She never told you, did she?" Absolute inquired. Golden sighed.

"No." He said.

"THAT MEANS SHE LEFT YOU!!!!" Absolute yelled.

"Damn it!" Golden said. Absolute gave a look and Golden tensed up, remembering there was a foal present.

"Mind your words." Princess Luna said.

"My apologies." Golden said.

"Regardless," Princess Celestia said, "you know of the time from whence he was trapped. Were you the one in Twilight's dream?"

"No. That REALLY was somepony who knew dark magic. His soul had been corrupted. I am here to tell a continuation of the prophecy." Golden said.

"So I'm prophesized in this time?" Absolute said.

"You are." Golden said.

"What about me?" Twilight asked.

"You, as well." Golden said.

"Wait, wait, wait. That thing Pinkie had said about us meeting before. It was TRUE?!" Rainbow asked.

"It was Applejack who said it." Absolute and Twilight said.

"Whatever. Pinkie gave an explanation! That was true?!" Rainbow asked.

"It was." Golden said.

"I don't believe you." Applejack said.

"I CAN'T believe you!" Rainbow said.

"Then perhaps I can prove it." Princess Celestia said. She then used the spell she did when Twilight said she had a dream, and the others watched it. Pinkie was frozen, Fluttershy fainted, Applejack was stunned, Rainbow was shaking at the knees, and Rarity had ran to the bushes to hurl.

"Sweet Celestia." Spitfire said.

"All that because of Twilight forgetting Justice?" Fleetfoot asked.

"Yes. It was because of the incompetence of the CIT." Golden said.

"Hence why they were disbanded in this time." Princess Celestia explained.

"I couldn't stand the fact of Equestria going into civil war because of a decision I made. I wanted to go back in time to prevent that from happening." Twilight said.

"So that stallion used Starswirl's lost spell to reverse time to before I was trapped undercover." Absolute said.

"Which changed the flow of time." Fluttershy spoke.

"Thus leading the future to change." Pinkie said, starting to understand.

"Meaning that everything that happens from now will change the future that we were once a part of!" Rarity said.

"This is amazing!" Applejack said.

"I'm happy you weren't trapped undercover. We can hang out!" Rainbow said.

"Not to mention you made some new friends." Spitfire said.

"Plus," Princess Luna said, "you now have a daughter to take care off."

"One that we'll raise together." Twilight said.

"How? We're federal agents." Absolute asked. Princess Celestia gave a smile before giving a motion to follow her.


Location: Town Square, Ponyville

Time: 0934 Hours (9:34 AM)

Everypony was gathered as Princess Celestia had Absolute next to her with Twilight next to him.

"These two ponies demonstrated what it means to be a protector of Equestria. As such," Princess Celestia said, "I am naming the two of them the Directors of ECIS. I also hereby decree that both Twilight Sparkle and Absolute Justice carry on a new quest for Equestria. They are to study the magic of friendship, as well as put a stop to the EPM and other criminals, from their new home in Ponyville!" The ponies cheered and Twilight smiled.

"Thank you, Princess. I promise I'll study harder than ever before!" Twilight exclaimed. Absolute smiled and gave a look to Shining Armor. Shining was smiling and held Princess Cadence close.


[Later that night….]

Location: Golden Oak Library

Time: 1940 Hours (7:40 PM)

Absolute smiled as he placed a photo of him, Twilight, and their friends on the wall of the loft. He then placed a picture of him, Twilight, Spike, and Dream Weaver on the wall. Twilight came up behind him and hugged him.

"Spike and Dream Weaver are in bed. We have the rest of the night to ourselves." Twilight said. Absolute turned around and kissed Twilight's forehead.

"What do you have in mind?" Absolute asked. Twilight smiled seductively and leaned closer to him.

"You should know." Twilight said, speaking softly. Absolute gave a smile before kissing her. The two then went to the ground. Absolute then turned out the lights with his magic and blew out the candles. Twilight then teleported both her and Absolute to the bed and they both placed a soundproof barrier over them.

Out the window, Princess Luna was watching from afar with Princess Celestia.

"I get the feeling this is the start of a strong relationship." Princess Luna said.

"It already was strong. The strength is simply growing." Princess Celestia said.

"After all he's been through," Princess Luna said, "he needs this position. Though, why did you name them BOTH the Director of ECIS?"

"Because they shared just about everything together. It's only fair that they share responsibility for ECIS." Princess Celestia said. The two felt a disturbance and looked before blushing intensely at what they saw.

"Let's give them some privacy." Princess Luna said. Princess Celestia gave a smile and nodded.

"Agreed, dear sister." Princess Celestia said. The two then flew off into the night.

"At least we're not in the mating season." Princess Luna said.

"True. Though," Princess Celestia said, "I get the feeling Twilight wouldn't care regardless."

Back at the library, Absolute and Twilight were cuddling each other. Twilight got comfortable and started to let sleep overtake her.

"Goodnight, Abs." Twilight said. Absolute smiled and kissed her head.

"Sleep well, Twi." Absolute said. The two then fell asleep in each others grasp. As they slept, their horns faintly glowed and formed two rings. One was on Twilight's horn, and the other was on Absolute's. It wouldn't mean anything now, but it would mean something soon. The rings had a faint glow to them, and that glow reflected off the wall and formed a heart around Absolute and Twilight on the picture of the two of them and their friends.