Chapter twenty-two: The line between life and death.
Queen Twilight and Princess Daydream had arrived at the Banquet Hall of Canter-Lot Castle. They were greeted by Mrs Cake. She was working with her twins, her husband and Cheesy Sandwich. "Your Majesty we are surprised to see you". She says as they bow before the queen. "My friends it is good to see you again. My word the food does look heavenly". Replied the queen. And has she talked and laughed with Cheesy and the cakes about time in Ponyville, Daydream played with the Cake Twins. It was nice to see the queen smile, even though her heart was hurting. Eventually the queen says goodbye. "Mommy if you had died. How are you hear now as queen"? Daydream asked. The queen levitated her up and back onto her back. "You see its quite simple. I wasn't actually dead. I was just taken into the spirit world by the spirit from the tree. And remember that the spirit had been planning for Harbinger for a long time. It had planted the seeds of harmony in all the lands and kingdoms of the other creatures that call Equestria home. And in their legends the prophecy about Harbingers return. Well as I battled harbinger. The seeds that Stygian planted burst forth and showed our battle. "Awaken the Element of Love". I hear it was the spirit. And I realise my love for you, your brother and father are stronger than any magic I had.
Harbingers strike is stopped by a powerful forcefield. Created by me. A bright flash had come from me. My mane my tail where fire. My coat was coloured white. And I step forward. "YOU ARE NOT THE STRONGEST HERE". I boom. Harbinger shoots a beam at me. And I deflect it. "HARBINGER YOU WON'T WIN. BUT I RESPECT ALL LIFE. AND I WILL PROTECT ALL THE CREATURES THAT CALL EQUESTRIA HOME SO I WILL LET YOU LEAVE AND NEVER RETURN TO EQUESTRIA OR EARTH. AND BE AT PEACE". I say. "NEVER". Replied Harbinger. And shoots another beam, I simply deflect it. My power grows and I say. "So be it. Harbinger if you don't stop I and the Elements of Harmony will stop you". And again, he tries to blast me, but I don't need to put a forcefield up. The beam is split and reflected around me. "You see Harbinger I don't need to be the most powerful ever. And yes, I have failings". I say before more blasts and he was joined by the other Elements of Disharmony. More beams but I continue.
"And my flaws but, it doesn't matter. Because I am lucky. I am lucky to have the magic of friendship and family. Because if I fail or something is wrong my friends and family will show me that, their Honesty". And as I speak the Elements appear. And are worn by the respective bearer. Who was now able to move and rainbowfied. And as I continued to speak a beam shot out from the elements and hit me. But they don't hurt no they make me more powerful. And this included their human counterpart. I shoot a beam at Harbinger. "Their honesty will always stop the untruths from hurting me. Their kindness will protect me from the cruelty of those who darken the world. Their generosity will save me from those whose spite would break my spirit. Whose laughter powers my fun and never allow fear into my heart. Whose loyalty will be by my side through the powerfullest storm. Whose magic empowers me to give my magic freely. Whose forgiveness will not take my biggest mistakes to heart. Whose sense of justice will protect me from falsehoods. Whose humility will humble my angerand quell my rage. And whose faith in me gives me the strength to try and try again". I am now in front of Harbinger. And the flow of the beam moves back and forth. But the Element of love that I now embody gives me the strength needed.
Digging in I start to push back. Crack like energy spikes started to form over Harbinger and up my legs. But I wasn't stopping. My shattered crown starts to levitate of the ground. And as the two pieces near my head they fuse together, and the crown becomes larger. There at the crest is a large gold heart and containing the element crystal shaped like my cutie mark. I step closer my beam pushing Harbinger's back. The cracks in him growing. "Because you see there is one element in friendship and family that empowers all others". I say. And the power of my beam increases. "AND THAT ELEMENT IS LOVE. AND IT IS LOVE I WILL ALWAYS FIGHT WITH. THE LOVE OF MY FRIENDS, MY PARENTS AND SIBLINGS, MY NEICES AND NEPHEWS. AND MY CHILDREN. I WILL ALWAYS PUT MY LIFE ON THE LINE FOR THEM. SO, HEAR ME HARBINGER HEAR ME. YOU WILL NEVER HURT MY SON OR DAUGHTER EVER OR ANY OTHER PONY OR CREATURE NEVER AGAIN. SO, FOR EQUESTRIA'S SAKE, FOR ALL OUR SAKES WHY DON'T YOU JUST FUCKING DIE YOU FUCKING UNWANTED PUKE OF A BASTARD". I scream and the power of my beam pushes Harbingers right back and mine also hits him. And as he shatters your aunties hear. "How can a pathetic little welp like you beat me…me…me…meee". Suddenly there was a blinding flash. And after it dissipates Harbinger shatters into pieces. Defeated and would never return.
Having seen me sacrifice my own life for all of those who call Equestria home, the other Kingdoms rally behind Your Aunties and Uncles. And came in force. And were led by Vigil. But. My crown dropped to the ground scorched. Just like the ground where I had stood. I was gone. "Mom no". Cried Spike. And all there had tears in their eyes. "My master may have been destroyed but we are still here. Surrender or die". Tyrannirum said. "Never". All there said. "SO BE IT. OBSIDIANS ATTACK. WIPE THEM OUT AND BRING ME THAT CROWN AND THE BABY. YOU WILL NEVER STOP ME I WIL RULE FOREVER. BECAUSE YOU STAND ALONE". Shouts Tyrannirum. And a group of Obsidians begin to attack. As they get close in an object falls from the sky and the obsidians are destroyed. "No, they don't". Says a voice. It was Vigil. Suddenly human fighters zoom overhead, brought through the magic portal by Mr Brony. They start to attack the Obsidians "They are not alone. We Yaks will fight with pony heroes". Says Prince Rudderford. The yaks standing beside Vigil. "We also fight with them". Says Gilda as the griffins fly into view.
"The Kirin will stand for them too". Autumn Blaze added. "They gave us back our lands, we will stand for then today". It was Queen Novo, hippogriffs and sea ponies come into view. "Dam right they have never once put us down and helped show us another way to be". Says Dragon lord Ember. "That's right Prince Spike of Ponyville and Lady Flutter Shy helped save the next generation". Adds Garble as he and all the dragons land next to your aunties and uncles. Discord teleports forward and grabs you. "There my sweet let's get you to your father". He says to you sweet and teleports back. Chrysalis lights up her horn and the sound of her drones fills the sky as they arrive. "Protect the baby Princess Daydream, her mother died saving our hive". And soon the royal guards, the friendship guards and Axium's team appear. "They showed us Changelings another way". It was Thorax. His entire hive there. Then your brother and father step forward. "You think that we will surrender". Says your father. "Because this isn't the first time all these races have stood side by side. When we all defeated the bewitching bell and Chrysalis can contest to it". Adds your brother. Celestia steps forward and in the Royal Canter-Lot voices cries. "IN THE NAME OF FRIENDSHIP AND HARMONY. IN HONOUR OF PRINCESS TWILIGHT". All repeat. "IN HONOUR OF PRINCESS TWILIGHT". And they all start to fight. Axium was able to destroy Tyrannirum. Tirek seeing me defeat and destroy Harbinger, he flees. Leaving his fellow Elements. He was chased down by Detective Whitetail.
It took them several hours, but they eventually defeat the Elements of Disharmony. And the Obsidians. But the victory was bittersweet. For I was not there to enjoy and celebrate the victory. Your Brother picks up my crown. And starts to cry. Followed by all there. Even Garble was tearful. "I swear Spike I will make sure the future dragons will know and respect your mother". He says as he places his hand on your brother's shoulder. And in the days that followed, the rulers and leaders of all the kingdoms convened a summit. "So, it is agreed then. We the rulers of the respective kingdoms will all create a memorial to her". Says Luna tearfully. "We all will place one cultural item of significance into this carved statue plinth. That depicts all here with her crown to sit up on top". Adds Celestia. "And when she comes of age that Daydream will become Queen of all the Kingdoms as we would have done if her mother was still with us". Says Cadence. "And we as the leaders, with the Elements of Harmony will govern in her stead as a council until then". Adds Ember.
"So, let a show of hooves in favour". Asked Luna. And everyone stuck up a hoof. And all this was happening while I conversed with the spirit. "Twilight. Wake up Twilight wake up". Said a voice, it was the spirit. "So, she is the one". Says another voice. It sounded male. Then a voice I recognised spoke. "Yes, Your Majesty. She was the most gifted student of the Princess". It was Starswirl. "She is more than gifted. My love". Said another. And I see all the lost pillars standing there. With two other ponies and the Spirit. The two ponies move forward, and the pillars bow.
The ponies were alicorns. One male and one female. The female Alicorn was an off white or light greyish yellow in colour and her face looked familiar. Her mane and tail a light orange and dark blue. Her cutie mark was that of a galaxy. Her eyes had a slight red tint. She wore a warm and welcoming smile on her face. Which too was eerily familiar. And the male was slightly taller. His coat colour was a very dark blue with a star patterning. His mane and tale very dark violet and a very dark greyish violet. His cutie mark was a dark greyish blue star. I know my mind wanted to ask who they are but the words that came out were. "Is Spike and Daydream safe". The spirit towered over all even the two alicorns. They step aside and the spirit moved close to me. It waves a hoof and an image of Spike and you appear. "They are". It says. We are then joined by Stygian and a mare. They look at each other lovingly. Three little fillies prance around their legs.
Stygian looked happy. And then were joined by more Alicorns. Two more males. And four females. The one male looked just like the first male Alicorn. And several more appeared. Then a ghostly form identical to me appeared. Then spoke. "Friends it is good to see you again. So, you are the one. My reincarnated form. And like me you were willing to sacrifice yourself for your children, your family and friends. Good. Then it is time". Then I feel lighter. The spirit of the Tree of Harmony spoke. "Twilight it is time for you to fulfil the prophecy". And there is a bright flash of light. Back in Canter-Lot the dedication ceremony was taking place. "My Little Ponies and Fellow Creatures. We gather here in the name of Friendship and Harmony. To Celebrate the defeat of the Elements of Disharmony and their Obsidian army. But it is also a day tainted with sadness". Says Celestia.
"A day we give thanks to the Tree of Harmony for its power in creating the Elements of Harmony. But it is a day of sadness". Adds Luna. "We the rulers of the respective Kingdoms including the Rainbow Kingdom of Friendship give thanks to these heroes of Equestria. But it is also a time of sadness". Says Ember. "These Heroes save us Yaks saved all of us". Adds Prince Rudderford. And the crowd that gathered start to cheer and thanking your Aunties, uncles, Axium and his team, Sunset and her friends, Tempest and the others. "But there are those who we cannot thank. Those who gave their lives for we that are here". Adds Cadence.
"So, to honour them we will hold this day and those to come in years that follow as a day of remembrance in their name". Says Queen Novo. "And so, we have created this". Says Thorax. And Celestia, Cadence, Luna, Rarity and Tempest use their magic and lift the plinth up and placed it on the courtyard below the balcony right next to the Cutie marks of the first two alicorns I saw in the spirit world. Celestia and the others now move down to stand by it. "We the rulers of the kingdoms will add to it a sacred object of our cultures". Says Celestia. And removed her crown. Placing it on a statue of an Earth pony. Luna placed hers on a statue of a unicorn. Cadence placed hers on the statue of a Pegasus. Queen Novo place a piece of the magic pearl in between the hoof of a hippogriff and the flipper of a sea pony. Dragon Lord Ember pulls the jewel from her staff and placed it into the eye of a dragon statue. Autumn Blaze placed a Kirin scale and a bottle of water from the river of silence.
T horax placed a crystal of light which was created when the changelings celebrated their new life. Then chrysalis steps forward and lights her horn. The sound of Drones echoed through Canter-lot once more. Then Chrysalis spoke. "And to ensure that this shrine to our greatest heroes is never disturbed we add these shards of my throne around it to protect it for generations to come". As the drones placed the green coloured stone around the plinth. Then your brother and father step forward. "And to represent She who above all saved us through the last nine years from one threat or another. The Crown of the Rainbow Kingdom of Friendship". Your father says and as Spike flies to the top of the plinth there is a statue of me in full flight.
S pike then places the Libro Prophetiae ET Legatum before me and my crown on the statues head. And as it touched the detailed statue's mane the two cutie marks on the ground started to glow. The sun, the moon and the stars appear the crowd were in awe of the event. They thought it was a mark of respect towards me. But. Then there was a somewhat you would call the voice of an angel sounds out. "Rejoice rejoice for the darkness as gone. Rejoice rejoice for the chosen one as come. Rejoice rejoice and never be sad no more. For the time as cometh for the Queen of balance to dawn". Then the Libro Prophetiae Et Legatum begins to glow. My crown is renewed and shining bright. Suddenly the Elements of Harmony crystals appear. And form a circle. The centre of which turns white. And ripples like the magic portal.
Slowly the outline of several ponies appears. It was the pillars that were lost. They move out and stand either side the portal. And the now fully recovered Mage Meadowbrook moved up and hugs her fellow pillars before joining them. Then outcome the last Alicorns I saw before the bright flash. They were Rose Crystal and Valiant Heart. "Momma, Poppa". Cried Cadence. As she ran to them. They smile and hug her. They are followed by Prince Orion and Rose Quartz. "Brother Sister-in-law". Says Celestia shocked at their sudden appearance. "It is good to see you too Tia". Replied Orion. He smiled and nodded at Luna.
Then outcome two more they were Eclipse and Day Glow. Vigil appeared and so too did the Guardian that protected the Libro Prophetiae ET Legatum originally. "Mother, father it is good to see you". Says Vigil. "This is my friend and the protector of the book, Destiny". He adds.
Then three more Alicorns step forward from the portal. They were Luna's Celestia's and Orion's elder sister, Ingrid. Her husband Freeze Burn and daughter Snowflake. "Hello all". Says Ingrid. They are followed by Stygian. And the mare and fillies. All stand in a line. And wait. Celestia, Luna and Discord are shocked by who emerges from the portal next. For it was the first two Alicorns. Ingrid and Orion stand next to Celestia and Luna. "There you are my little ones. It is so good to see you Tee tee and you Lulu. Luna eyes welled up and she ran over to the Female Alicorn. And nuzzled her several times. "Momma. Momma I missed you. I missed you so much". She says. "I've missed you too Lulu". Said the alicorn. Who then looked at Celestia.
"Do you not have any words for your mother too Celestia". Said the male alicorn. But before she could speak the portal shone brighter. And out steps the Spirit of the Tree of Harmony. Then the Libro Prophetiae ET Legatum shot up and displayed its pages once more. Showing who each of the ponies were. Then a bright white ball of light shot out and from it I appeared. My crown flies off the statue and over to me. And gently lands on my head. There was a crash and the statue of me was standing on the ground. Wings folded. Slowly it moved over to me and the others. With every hoof step, cracks formed over it. Then when it stood right in front of me, the statue reared up on its hind legs, unfurled its wings to full span and started to glow. With a flash, the statue was replaced by the spectral form that was identical to me. But.
Now she wore a very large crown. A regal necklace, a long navy cloak with gold trim and fastened by a gold and jewelled clasp and gold and white silk shoes. She also had gold armour running up the front of her wings. "Queen Aurora it is a pleasure to see you again". Says Discord before bowing. Everyone goes to bow. "Do not bow before me. Though I am a queen I am not the chosen one. So, prepare to pay homage to the chosen one". Says Queen Aurora. She then lights her horn. You, your brother and father are suddenly beside me. The Libro Prophetiae ET Legatum then showed the prophecy about Harbinger and his defeat. Then Aurora said. "Harbinger, the darkness is going to return to Equestria, and all realms will suffer his wrath. Only the Eleven Elements will stop him. The Elements of Harmony. And with their power doubled by those of the two realms will Equestria live. And the Prophesied queen will be the one who destroys Harbinger. A queen neither light nor dark. Whose name means neither night nor day! She who will sparkle". Before lighting up her horn once more. Slowly out of the ground a plane marble stand arose. On it sat a velvet cushion. Sat on the cushion were two crowns.
And as they levitate my original crown did the same and they fused together. Then the one worn by Aurora then disappeared and reappeared up on your father's head. My replacement crown appeared. It seemed to split or even copied itself. One landed on the head of Spike the other shrank and then landed gently on your head. The new crown was now moving over to me. And has it lowers itself Aurora spoke once more. "So, Ponies and creatures that call the Dragon lands, Mt Aris, Seaquestria, Rainbow plains, Crystal Empire, the New Luna Republic, Solar Kingdom, Rainbow Kingdom of Friendship and the Island of Light home. I give you the Prophesied queen will be the one who destroys Harbinger. A queen neither light nor dark. Whose name means neither night nor day! She who will sparkle. Queen Twilight Sparkle Macintosh. All hail the queen". Then bows before me. Followed by the spirits of Queen Galaxia and King Cosmos, the other alicorns, and the Pillars.
They were followed by all. And since that day I have ruled. So, my sweet that is how I became queen". Says Queen Twilight. She and Daydream continued to walk the corridors of Canter-Lot castle. And as the day went on and doing most of her royal duties Queen Twilight had spent most of the day with Daydream. And now she only had one duty left before her meeting with the Chancellor of Fawnsburg. And that was to attend and witness the execution of five condemned prisoners. Knowing that those convicted for murder were sentenced to death, and normally that didn't get to the queen as much as todays did. She had tried to put it off as long as possible but could no longer do so. Oh, how she wished she didn't have this duty. She wished she didn't need to do it. But under New Equestrian law she had no choice in the matter. Entering the conference room, she heard familiar voices. "Lord Chancellor My wife and Sovereign of our nation will join us shortly she had a pressing matter that needed her attention. Unfortunately, our Human Allies are a fickle people. They won't discuss any matter no matter how trivial it is". Said Apple Mac knowing Twilight wanted to spend time with Daydream.
In the last six months she had been so busy with negotiations, the mundane duties of her rule and dealing with idiocies of Prince Blue Blood and other Courtiers. They have never really excepted him or their daughter. Blue Blood never accepted Twilight as Queen. So even though she would have to watch two good friends die, spending time with Daydream would at least take her mind off it for a little while. The Chancellor was about to speak when Twilight entered. The guards, the Chancellor and Cadence bow before her. "Chancellor Ramsbottom it is my honour to host you and your party during these negotiations. And I am so pleased to meet you. I will join you my husband and sister Cadence in our discussion of our alliance treaty shortly. I have one duty left to perform before we can. Cadence if you would please join me on the balcony" Queen Twilight said before adding venomously. "I JUST WANT TO GET IT OVER WITH". She walked towards the doors and the guards open them. Seeing the activity Daydream shot out onto the balcony.
D aydream had become excited as she watched with enthusiasm, she saw the royal guards erecting something. Four sets of runners. In a frame that fitted at the top of the runners and tied to a rope was a large heavy metal diagonal cutting blade. Their sharp edge glittering in the sun. The chancellor and Cadence had arrived on the balcony. On the opposite side on another balcony was Princess Celestia, Lord Sombra. Princess Luna, her husband Andy Whitetail and eldest daughter Antumbra. "Wow mommy what's going on, it looks exciting"? Says Daydream. Queen Twilight froze. She had forgotten Daydream was there. And she didn't want to have to do this. And she certainly didn't want Daydream to witness it. Especially with it to happen to two ponies close to her and Daydream. An execution was no place for a very young Foal. "DAYDREAM COME INSIDE NOW". Twilight says sternly. Daydream knew that tone. Whatever it was that was going on, her mother saw fit to not let her see and so slowly Daydream re-entered the room her ears drawn back and down and her tail between her hind legs. "But Daddy can't I". Daydream started but was cut off with her mother saying. "NO". sharply. "OCELLUS". Bellowed the Queen. A meek changeling guard entered.
"Yes, your Majesty". Replied Ocellus. "Yes. Ocellus would you please return Princess Daydream to the throne room until after this unpleasant business is over". Says Queen Twilight never once looking back. "But Daddy". Says Daydream. "DAYDREAM DO AS YOUR MOTHER SAYS". Replied Apple Mac in a stern tone. It was the first time he had spoken like that. Even when she was naughty, he had never spoken to her like that. Daydream now knew it was bad. "Yes, Your Majesty". Came the reply before Ocellus added. "Come along Your Royal Highness". Queen Twilight then used her magic and levitated Daydream up and out through the open door. And as Daydream's hooves gently touched the tiled floor the door slammed shut. "Celli why is mommy acting like that? And why won't she let me see what's going on in the courtyard"? Daydream asked. Ocellus swallowed hard that you heard the audible gulp. "Well you see your mommy is having to let something happen to five ponies that she will not be able to undo if the law courts were wrong. And two of those ponies are close to your mother". Whispers Ocellus before transforming into a Pegasus and says. "Race you Your Royal Highness". Daydream shot off saying. "You can't beat me Celli". But Daydream wasn't in the mood for racing. No, the thing that was about to happen was hurting her mommy. And Daydream was thinking of a plan to stop it. Her interest increased even more. If she was going to stop her mommy from being sad, she would first need to get back and away from Ocellus.
Inside the conference room however Twilight had heard every word Ocellus had said. She took two steps towards the balcony doors before she stopped. Ocellus though young was right. And she knew it. There were five ponies to meet their end today. Normally just unknown names on a list. But today two names stuck out like a sore hoof. Dr Whooves and Sunburst. And they were more than mere names on a list. Dr Whooves was the husband of the Element of Faith Derpy. Fathered her three daughters. And Sunburst was a friend, loyal supporter of hers and the father of Starlight and Trixie's twins and Trixie's unborn foal. Queen Twilight put a hoof to her tummy. She needed away to stop it. But how could she save them without drawing wrath of the courtiers like Prince Blue Blood. Grabbing the law book that she made appear read as fast as she could.
She then found the section needed. A loophole in the law that would help to save them. Clemency. An act of compassion/mercy for those sentenced to death. Commuting the sentence to life imprisonment instead. That could work! She thought to herself as she started to read the trial transcripts and records. They were tried with a third pony. Timber Spruce, for the murder of Arthas Mathas. The second suspect in the Rainbow Falls Primary School siege. But why would they kill. The fourth pony was a mare. Juniper Montage. Her case was not quite straight forward she killed the one who kidnapped and raped her over four days. The last pony was a Stallion called Veager. At first Twilight took no notice and carried on reading. Then stopped. She re-read the name. "It's him". She says out loud. He was found guilty of the rape and murders of several colts and fillies. As well as a teacher. And a human Federal agent, here to seek extradition of said pony to earth to stand trial. She read the names of the victims. As she did four stuck out. Gloriosa Daisy Spruce aged 24. Teacher raped and murdered. Starbright Lulamoon. Aged 12. Student Ponyville School. Raped. Adorra Doo. Aged 5. Student Ponyville school. Raped and murdered. Marcos Brony. Aged 30. Special Agent US Marshal service. Murdered. So that's why thought Twilight. She would do the same if it was Daydream or Spike. And facing the guillotine would be worth it. She picked up the law book again.
Apple Mac saw his loving wife, reading. He goes to say Twilight this isn't really time for you to read. But as he looks closer, he sees tears streaming down her face. The book she had was the current book of Equestrian Law Statures. "Twilight". He says softly. And looks at the page she was on. "I don't think you could grant Dr Whooves or Sunburst Clemency; Blue Blood would surely use it against you. The only way you could is if by all miracle they stop one of the other prisoners trying to escape". He says before kissing his wife's forehead. Suddenly Twilight shot up. An idea formulating in her head. But for her to put everything in place she needed to stall a bit longer. Still with tears flowing she drops into Apple Mac. Who promptly held her in a hug. She was sobbing. And as he held her and stroked her mane, Twilight lit her horn. Freezing Apple Mac in his current action. Using a spell Starlight once showed her, she created a clone. The clone took her place and sobs. Twilight then used an invisibility spell on herself and flew out the balcony doors.
Elsewhere in the castle Daydream was playing with Ocellus she had formulated a little plan. She wanted to be with her mother and stop her from being sad. She was teleporting from spot to spot. "You can't catch me Celli". She giggles. Ocellus transforms and says as she does. "I'm a big hungry bear and I want to eat you pony". "Help, Help there's a big mean old bear in here". Screams Daydream. The guard outside heard Daydream cry out. Opening the door the guard had let Daydream zoom past. "STOP YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS". Shouts Ocellus as she retakes her original form. Daydream however ran as fast as her little legs could carry her. She knew Ocellus would soon be behind her. All too soon as she hears. "My Princess please stop. Your mother has forbidden you to be there. She will be very angry". Ocellus calls. Daydream starts to teleport. Closing in on her destination. While Daydream had been racing back her mother Queen Twilight had been busy putting a plan of action to save Dr Whooves and Sunburst. She had flown down to the cells.
Though the most comfortable cells in the castle, their benign look, hiding their purpose. These were the cells that kept the condemned in their final days. There she found them. Sunburst and Dr Whooves were resided to and accepting of their fate. "I was glad that Her Majesty didn't take offence when Derpy slapped her". Says Dr Whooves speaking to Sunburst. "I know. But it probably hurt her more having no choice but to sign the warrants". Replied Sunburst. "Agreed my friend. But I bet it is killing her now in these final minutes". Says Dr Whooves. "Too true. But I bet it is worst knowing that she could not stop it, if she tried Blue Blood would use it to undermine her and try to take over. And Equestria would suffer". Replied Sunburst. This conversation touched Twilight so much that as she moved to the next cell, she let out a loud sob. Both Sunburst and Dr Whooves heard it and looked. But they didn't see any pony. Tearful Twilight stopped at the next cell. This held Timber Spruce. He was praying and said. "Well Gloriosa we will be together again soon enough in the afterlife".
Then the sound of a pony starting to cry was heard. It was coming from the next cell. This crying was coming from Juniper Montage. She looked Distraught, it was that the fact had now dawned on her that she was to about to lose her head and with it her life. Then the queen heard a cackle from last cell. "They won't go through with it. The queen has no stomach to approve the drop of the blade". Says Veager. Queen Twilight thought he might to be right she thought to herself. But, however. His next words sealed his fate. "When I get back to the prison, I'm going escape. And to thank the queen. By giving Princess Daydream a hot date". Queen Twilight knew exactly what he meant. Angered she dropped her invisibility spell as he said her name. shocking all there. Before the guards and prisoners could saying anything. Queen Twilight hypnotized the lot of them.
In each prisoner she implanted an order stroke command in their minds. Before wiping the memory of her visit. She used the invisibility spell once more and flew back to the conference room. Landing without Cadence noticing she disposed of her clone quickly and begins to sob again. Captain Tempest was in the courtyard overseeing the preparations. Looking up at the balcony were the queen would be standing, but she wasn't there. Tempest then looked towards princess Cadence. She turned and looked through the doors. She turned and back and with a gesture with her right hoof portrayed the message that the Queen was crying. Doing it in a way that the captain knew but the other royals didn't. Soon a courtyard door opened in steps several ponies and a human. Two of the ponies were courtiers they were sent to make sure that the queen did what was needed. "Princess Cadence may I ask what has her Majesty upset"? Asked the Chancellor. "Unfortunately today two of the condemned prisoners are two close friends of hers. And there is nothing she can do to save them. I think that these will be the last executions ever in Equestria". Replied Cadence.
After five more minutes of crying Queen Twilight pulled herself together and released her husband. He stands and returns the balcony. Seconds later Queen Twilight finally stepped out. She saw the other royals on the balcony. But they never looked over. Only detective Whitetail acknowledge her presence. Below in the courtyard Captain Tempest, Mortimer Brony, the two courtiers and several royal guards bow in respect. To the left of the outer courtyard doors was a heavily pregnant Trixie. She was with a very depressed Starlight. Trixie was trying to comfort her, for they were to lose the father of their children. Next to them was Derpy and her three children, Sparkler, Dinky and Ditzy. Neither Starlight nor Derpy looked up at Twilight. But Sparkler did. And it was a look of sheer hatred. Tempest looks and sees a very solemn looking Queen Twilight, who just nodded to get on with it. Queen Twilight's eyes start to water. Captain Tempest turned to the ponies on the platform then shouts. "BRING OUT THE PRISONERS".
Inside the cellblock the guards prepared the prisoners for the longest short walk in anyone or any ponies life. First out was Dr Whooves. They fitted with chains. Next was Sunburst, unlike Dr Whooves he was a unicorn so therefore they fitted a horn cap to stop him using magic to stop the drop of the blade. Next was Timber Spruce. Then it was Juniper finally Veager. Like Sunburst he was a unicorn, so he too was fitted with a horn cap. However, his was deliberately damaged by Queen Twilight. It was all part of her plan. Two large doors open out walk several guards escorting the five ponies in chains. "As a grace of their majesty's you will have a five-minute-long grace so you can say your final goodbyes". Says Tempest whose eyes were starting to water. The prisoners were consoling with their loved ones for the last time in this life. "Uncle I. I. I don't want die. Please help me. Don't let them kill me". Juniper cried as she rested her head on her uncles' shoulder.
"Your majesty Princess Celestia please show my niece mercy she shouldn't face that thing over there she is still a teen". Says her uncle. But Celestia just looks away. Luna is Shocked. Her uncle says with anger. "You would just ignore a plea. Just like that as though it is nothing. You may have lived over a thousand years, but you have been dead inside all that time". Now looking depressed. "I will offer mercy". Says Luna. The guards look at the queen, but she does not move. Telepathically she says to Luna. "Luna please stop. And don't do anything. I have put a plan into action to save Juniper, Dr Whooves, Timber Spruce and Sunburst. Just be patient". Luna looked at Twilight with surprised, but she played along.
Sunburst was hugging Trixie's swollen belly. There he could hear the heartbeat of their unborn foal. "very strong heartbeat just I will be gone before I meet her". He says. Trixie choked down a sob and gives him a sad smile a single tear trickled down her cheek. "Him". She croaked. Sunburst looked surprised. "Him"? He asked. Nodding tears streaming down Trixie replied. "He will be a good and loving colt. Just like his father". Trixie sobbed and looked away. "And Moonlight how is she"? He asked. Trixie faces Starlight and replied with. "She's an angel, just like her mommy". "And Starbright well"? He asked. "Taking it a day at a time. But this will be hard for her and will put the progress back, I will tell her that you were thinking about her". Trixie replied and started to shake. Sunburst turned her face to him and kisses her passionately. He then turns to Starlight. "Starlight sweetie. I am sorry Starlight. I regret a lot of things most of all leaving you to put up with Trixie on your own". A tearful Trixie rolled her eyes in pretend annoyance. "But truthfully I love you both, why do you think I married Trixie as well". He says. Starlight looks at Sunburst. "I don't want you to go without me". She says.
Sunburst kisses her. "Don't blame Twilight for this, though she signed the warrant. I see Blue Blood's filthy corrupt backstabbing hoof in this". Starlight looked surprised then collapsed to the ground crying. There was only one way she could ever be happy again. Was if Sunburst was spared his fate. Trixie was stroking her mane, and she looked up at Twilight. "Trixie if you can hear me. Do not react but Sunburst will be spared his fate. He will stop that evil pony at the back. When he tries to escape". Twilight says telepathically. Dr Whooves was with his family. "Daddy why do you have to leave us. It's not fair". Says Dinky. She was always close to both her parents. Ditzy didn't speak. Dr Whooves picks her up. "You be a good filly for your mother now Ditzy". He says. "I will papa". She replied. Dr Whooves teared up as he kisses her head.
Sparkler steps forward. Her eyes showed what she was feeling. "Sparkler why so quiet"? He says before she tears up, her lips quiver. She dives in for a hug and cries. "Daddy don't do this. Tell them the truth. Tell them". Dr Whooves looks at his young teen daughter and smiled. "I can't do that". He says. "But why. Daddy why. You need to protect us all and mom". Cries Sparkler. "My dear sweet baby girl that is what I am doing". He says as he hugs her tight. "Now you must stay strong for your mother and sisters". He adds before moving over to Derpy. "I knew from the first moment we met I was in love with you. And I couldn't ask for a better mare than you. Your sweet nature allows you to be like by all. I will always love you and we will meet again. Derpy my beautiful wife I love you". He says. Derpy doesn't say anything. She was trying so hard to stay strong for her three children. Dr Whooves moved closer and locks lips with his wife surely for the last time.
Tempest looks to the queen who, sadly gives a nod to say it is time. Tempest walks over to the group and with eyes full of tears and in a soft remorseful tone says. "I'm sorry every pony but I am afraid it is time". This was one duty Tempest despised. And one reason she had decided to resign. Slowly several guards moved up, two to each prisoner. Timber Spruce moved up to be first in line. Then Sunburst, followed by Dr Whooves. The guards pull Juniper and her uncle apart. And support her in the line. So far so good Queen Twilight's plan was working. It was nearly time for Veager to break free, and she would freeze all but the prisoners. Derpy pulls her two youngest close to her and starts to head away so they don't see. And as he was moved up, Tempest pulled several scrolls. They were the official warrant for their execution. "Timber Eric Spruce. Having been tried in a court of law, in which you were hereby found guilty of first-degree murder by a jury of your peers. You are here by sentence to death by beheading. May the spirit of harmony grant you mercy". She says. Then moved to Sunburst and reads the warrant out. "Sunburst Andrews. Having been tried in a court of law, in which you were hereby found guilty of first-degree murder by a jury of your peers. You are here by sentence to death by beheading. May the spirit of harmony grant you mercy".
She moved down one more pace. And starts to read the warrant. "Dr Xavier Whooves. Having been tried in a court of law". But she was interrupted by Sparkler. She looked at the guards at the top of the scaffold. They had moved a special gurney up to hold the condemned in. preventing them from moving. It lied down thus allowing the neck to be place in the right position. Giving the blade of the guillotine a straight run. And cleanly severing the head from the body. Instant and quick death for those sent to it. A small mercy shown. Junipers uncle had move up to face Queen Twilight as Tempest was reading the warrant for Dr Whooves. And he was about to speak when Sparkler ran up and shouts. "STOP". Tempest and the others were surprised and stopped Trixie had looked up and Derpy froze in her tracks. "Your Majesty please stop. Don't kill my dad and the others". She says. Dr Whooves Speaks.
"Your Majesty may I speak to my daughter for a minute. The queen gives a nod and Tempest looks at the guards who allow him to move over to his daughter. This distraction wasn't part of her plan, but it was helping it to work better. This was holding things up. "Sparkler, please go back to your mother. Losing one child in this family is hard enough. And I am not prepared to lose my daughter too". Dr Whooves says. "No dad you shouldn't die for what I did". Dr Whooves says sternly. "GO BACK TO YOUR MOTHER". And steps away. "Sparkler. While I applaud your effort to save your father's life, but without any new evidence to contradict the other. I am sorry but my hooves are tied". Says the queen. Who gives a look to Tempest. The guards take Dr Whooves back to his place. Tempest was about to start again when. "PLEASE STOP YOUR MAJESTY THEY DIDN'T KILL HIM. I DID". Screamed Sparkler. Derpy was moving over to her eldest readying to drag her away. "They didn't kill him I did, and I can prove it. He was stabbed nine times. But the blow that killed him was the blow to the eye. I did it with mother's Pluma Ferron. I found out my dad and the others caught him. They were going to hand him over the next day. So, I waited until they left. Then I entered". She says as she pulled out a blood-soaked cloth.
Derpy had stopped frozen once more reliving the horror. She unwrapped the item. And sure enough, there was a Pluma Ferron covered in blood. "If you check it you will see that the knife tip is missing broken off. You want to know the reason why. I asked him why. Why Adora Doo. And he laughed and said why not. As though she was nothing. I couldn't believe it. I just couldn't believe it. And I snapped that he laughed as though she was nothing. No worst that she was worth less than nothing. As though Adora didn't matter, my little Adora didn't matter. So, having moms Pluma Ferron in hoof I thrust it into him. Again, and again. Stabbing him until he stopped breathing. I never thought the police would arrest dad let alone the courts find him guilty. But as I watched the trial, I saw were it was going. And I finally told mom what I done. She must of spoke to dad because the next day she locked me in my room. It is because dad had changed his plea. Telling the court, he did it. I think he was betting on you. You having mercy on him. But then you go and sign the warrant. I hate you Queen Twilight. But most of all I hate myself. My little Adora forgive me I should have looked after you better. I should have let mom raise you. Some mother I was". She says.
Tears streaming down her face. She looks at her mother frozen in place and her father standing in line waiting to be strapped in and die for her. She turns slowly and heads to the front of the line and says. "I will be first". And slowly starts to ascend the stairs. Before any pony can say anything there is a roar. It was Veager. He had freed himself and tried to cast a freeze spell. Suddenly the guards and others were frozen. Queen Twilight was still. She in fact cast the spell. But Veager's had caught her. He zapped his chains and that of Junipers. "Your free do what you wish". He says to her. "Well, well, well. Isn't this a turn of events". He says as he walks over and grabs Sparkler.
And proceeds to drag her up the scaffold. And traps her in one of the guillotines. This wasn't part of the plan at all it was going wrong. Sparkler or the others weren't meant to get hurt or die. Sparkler now in fear flailed her legs in panic. Her little heart beating like a drum. He started to cut the line that held the blade at the top. Then Suddenly he is smacked in the jaw stopping him. It was Juniper. She didn't want to die. But she certainly wasn't going to let this scared 15-year-old die either. Screaming past him she bucked the neck holster and freed Sparkler. Then a right hoof hit Juniper in the side, followed by the left. Veager had gotten up. And angry. He takes it out on juniper. Using his basic combat skills, he knocks juniper from the scaffold. Jumping down he pulls Derpy's Pluma Ferron with his magic stands over Juniper and plunged it into her stomach.
He heard commotion and grabs little Dinky. "Dinky No". Cries Derpy. "Well your majesty I be leaving now. And tell Princess Daydream I look forward to our hot date". He says as he chuckles. Suddenly he is knocked to the ground and piled upon by Dr Whooves and Timber Spruce. Sunburst having been freed from the horn cap Teleported Dinky and the other two children onto the balcony next to the Queen. Queen Twilight's horn glowed and the sound of guards running towards the courtyard sounded. Veager using his magic stunned Timber Spruce and Dr Whooves. Sunburst faced him down until he grabbed Trixie. Twilight had enough of him. He was now threatening Trixie and her unborn foal. Slowly and with a little pain showing on her face, Queen Twilight started to unfurl her wings. The others saw this believing she was using all her might. And with a great flap of her wings Queen Twilight rose into the air. Before crashing into the ground.
With enough force it sent out a shockwave. Knocking all over. Queen Twilight stood over Veager. As Dr Whooves, Timber Spruce and Sunburst dived on him. Sunburst fitted Veager with his horn cap. As the Shadowbolts now led by Samuel entered. Seizing all the prisoners that were near the Queen. However, Juniper was badly injured. Bright Heart was treating her when one of the courtiers grabs her leg. And begins to drag her towards the scaffold. "You aren't going to miss your date with madam guillotine my dear". He says. But he is stopped by his fellow Courtier. "She just saved a teenager from being murdered by that Foal killer. And you want to terminate her. Not if I can help it. Your majesty. There is a case for these three colts and this mare to receive clemency is there not". Queen Twilight was now standing behind the courtier holding Juniper Montage and levitates him up to face her. "For Her actions here in preventing the murder of Sparkler Hooves and stopping the attempted escape of convicted Foal killer Luis Veager I hereby Grant her Clemency. I also declare that in fact that it has come to my attention that she should not have received the death penalty in the first place being only 15 at the time of her conviction so the warrant of execution is invalid. I there for release her from custody without restrictions. But we will have to discuss these three with the rest of the royal court". Says the queen.
The courtier bows and says. "You are indeed a wise and noble queen". "Tempy you okay". Says Samuel. He is being the other reason she was resigning. "Sam". She croaked. "Captain Day. Please escort those three prisoners back to their cell until we have decided their fate". Says the Queen and Samuel saluted, and three guards moved them from the courtyard. "Bright Heart see to it that Miss Montage is treated for her wounds. And check out Lady Trixie and young miss Sparkler too". Says the Queen. Bright Heart bowed and sets to work. Tempest sees that the queen looks unsteady on her legs. "You two help her Majesty back inside. She has had to use a lot of strength to defeat veager's magic".
Twenty minutes later having reset everything Queen Twilight had returned to the balcony. This time not upset about the prisoner to meet their end. The blade was pulled up to the top. Outside the courtyard in the main road that run along the wall was busy. Shoppers and visitors alike. Young and old. But as soon as the rasp of the single drum sounds. The road now infamously known as Dead Ponies Walk empties. Inside the drum starts it solemn rasp. "Luis Veager having been tried in a court of law. And being found guilty of multiple counts of rape and first-degree murder by a jury of your peers. You are hereby sentenced to death by beheading. Do you have any last words before sentence is carried out". Says Tempest. Veager begins to rant. "I will get you somehow Queen Twilight. I will make Daydream cry and scream for you as I use her for my pleasure. Mark my words you will suffer a fate worst". His rant was stopped abruptly by the blade. However, while he ranted Daydream burst through the doors shortly followed by Ocellus.
To Twilight's horror Daydream Teleported from the balcony right on to the scaffold next to Veager's face. Just as the blade hit. The blood spirted out and splashed upon Daydreams face. Frozen with shock Daydream just stirred. And as Veager's head rolled over his face faced up. Those dead evil eyes stirred up at Daydream with sheer hatred. Daydream squealed like she was being murdered. With dread Twilight shot from the balcony as Tempest, Brony and the guards as well as the other royals and the chancellor watch in horror. Landing next to her daughter. Queen Twilight was hurting. Daydream had just witnessed the deliberate killing of another pony. And worst her mother allowed it. She pushed and continued to push her mother away. Twilight did the only thing she could. Using her magic, she placed Daydream to sleep. She was joined by her husband who had gone to their private quarters to retrieve something. A small box. Inside a memory stone. Twilight used it to remove this memory from Daydreams mind.
Several hours later the concert the Rainbooms had just finished one song and were about to start the next. "Okay every pony this is our last song and is dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Twilight. It's called Shine like Rainbows".
(Shine like Rainbows by Daniel Ingram, Caleb Chan and Trevor Hoffman. Sung by the Rainbooms).
Once Upon a time you Came into my world and made the stars align. Now I Can See the signs, you pick me up When I get down so I Can shine
Shine like Rainbows
Shine like Rainbows
Shine like Rainbows
Friends, you are in my life and you can count on me to be there by your side and when the Music comes alive, You Sing us songs to lift us up so we can Shine.
And the sound that we hear in our hearts makes a crescendo. And the light that ignites in the dark makes us all glow. And Shine like rainbows
We Shine like Rainbows.
Shine like rainbows
We Shine like rainbows.
Together We stand as the rain begins to fall. And holdin' our heads up high as the Sun shines through it all.
And the sound that we hear in our hearts makes a Crescendo. And the light that ignites in the dark makes us glow and shine like rainbows.
S hine like rainbows.
We Shine like Rainbows.
Shine like rainbows
We Shine like rainbows.
After the song Sunset steps forward and says. "Thank you Equestria we've enjoyed playing for you today. You've been wonderful. We feel at home here". The crowd cheered and showed banners saying we love the Rainbooms. "And now say a big welcome to Princess Celestia of the Solar Kingdom. And her special some pony Lord Sombra. Princess Luna of the New Luna Republic. Her husband Detective Andy Whitetail. Queen Chrysalis Antumbra Crystal her Daughter. Princess Cadence and Prince Shining Armour and Princesses Flurry Heart, Skyla and Sunbeam Twinkle of the Chrystal empire. Ember Lord of the dragons. Prince Rudderford of Yak Yak-a-stan. Queen Novo of Seaquestria and Hipogriffia. Autumn Blaze of the Kirin. Thorax of the Changelings". She says and the crowd cheer as each leader appeared on the balcony above the stage. "And now announcing Prince Spike of Ponyville, his lady wife Applejack and their four children. Prince Cinnamon Stix. Princess Apple Blossom. Prince Apple Spike. And Princess Apple Spice. Her Royal Highness Princess Daydream of the Rainbow Kingdom of Friendship. And their Majesty's King Apple Mac and Queen Twilight Sparkle". Says Sunset.
The crowd cheered even louder. Queen Twilight teleported to the stage next to Sunset and stuck her hoof to quieten the crowd. "Thank you, my friends, my little ponies and creatures. No, my fellow Equestrians. It is good to be here with you. I wish to personally thank the Rainbooms for the wonderful music this morning. But let us all now fall silent for a moment to remember those that can't be with us to celebrate". She says. And they hold a two-minute silence. Including the courtiers who are seated in a royal box to the left of the stage. After the two minutes were up, Queen Twilight steps forward. "Today we gather here to celebrate Friendship and Harmony, two hours ago after much discussion we finalised a peace and trade alliance with Fawnsburg a nation that makes up a third of the sister continent to ours of Equestria, which lies far across the sea of Galaxia". She says. And the crowd cheer once more. The queen Sticks up her hoof once more to quieten the crowd. "Your Majesty I have a question". Says a mare. Queen Twilight looks up and sees the courtier who helped save Juniper earlier.
"Yes, my dear what is that"? Replied the Queen. "Your Majesty there was an execution earlier today. And I was near Dead Ponies Walk, heard the drum stop as the blade fell. But I also heard a little filly scream as though she had saw what happen and she was next. Please tell me that we haven't executed a child"? the mare asked. The Queen was going to speak when the courtier shouts. "The Foal Killer tried to escape by freezing all there including the Queen. He then went to place a young mare in danger, but thanks to a mare prisoner who was also there to be executed she was saved. He then beat and stabbed the mare for her troubles. And grabbed pregnant Mare and was threatening her, but three other condemned prisoners subdued him. This put everything behind schedule and so the little princess inadvertently witness that evil ponies' demise. And that was the scream you heard". He says. The crowd look to the queen who nods. "The wounded prisoner. Juniper Montage is now recovering in hospital. And when she has recovered, she is to be release without restrictions. For two reasons. One because of her actions today. An act of compassion was warranted. And two. It has now come to my attention that she should not have received the death penalty in the first place as she is only 16". Says the queen and the crowd cheer. "And as for the other three prisoners their actions have given them a short reprieve to their sentence". The queen says.
Then the courtier speaks. "Your Majesty I have read the case of those three colts. And they captured a dangerous pony. One of the two responsible for the Rainbow Falls School massacres. Where I see it, the pony died under mysterious circumstances. If they did take his life, then they did Equestria a big favour. So, I suggest that you release them". The crowd starts to chant free them. "If that is your wish. Then they will be released without prejudice. However, I must make a stand. The law is to protect us all, so I banish the three of them to the great desert. Only allowing them to return once every five years to see their families". Replies the queen. The crowd chant Queen Twilight the most fair and merciful queen. Queen Twilight. "Now then. If I can continue. With this treaty we can celebrate our festival with added happiness". And the crowd cheer. After two minutes of the crowd cheering as Queen Twilight waved. Suddenly she started to stagger. The crowd worried as Sunset grabbed hold of her. Forgotten she had the mic in her hand she asks with concern. "Your Majesty are you alright? Are you unwell? Is there anything we can do"? The concern echoed by the crowd. Queen Twilight smiled. She leaned closer to the mic and said. "I am okay my dear Sunset. I have just overexerted myself. Especially for a mare in my condition. I am pregnant". And as those words left her lips the crowd cheer louder than ever.
The end.
