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Firefly's Light
Megan stood outside the door, afraid to step inside, and yet desperate to do so. Taking a deep breath, she opened the door and stepped through. Even though she knew what to expect, it still tore at her heart when she saw her friend. Her pink coat and blue mane were just as she remembered, as was the lightning bolt symbol on her rump.
"Firefly." Megan whispered.
Firefly looked up, staring at Megan for a long second.
Then, the wall broke and Megan raced forward, throwing her arms around her neck and burying her face in her mane, tears running down her cheeks. Reluctantly, she broke the hug, moving round the room and hugging the others in turn; Medley, Applejack, Twilight, and Blossom. These were her friends and she had missed them terribly.
Wiping away her tears, she sat back, unable to speak.
Eventually, she found her voice, asking;
"What happened to you?"
"It's a long story, Megan." Firefly said, with a sigh. "Kahn abducted us from Dream Valley and brought us here, to his fortress. When the Ari'nasid attacked and banished Kahn, there was no way for us to get back to Dream Valley. We tried to make the best life we could here. We never gave up hope of seeing you again, though."
Firefly sat quietly, unsure if she should continue.
"How did you get here?"
"That's also a long story."
Megan said, settling down onto a cushion.
Morning had come and it was breakfast in the Dwindling Mountains. Despite the sudden arrival of their guests, the Ari'nasid had gone out of their way to make them welcome. A large, low table had been set up in one the Communal Caves that the Ponies could easily reach, along with soft cushions. While tucking into her bowl of soup, Magicstar sat next to Fizzy and Windwhistler, casually sneaking glances at her friends from the corner of her eye. Despite their recent ordeal, it was heartening to see them chatting and laughing together. The Babies had finished eating already and were sitting on the floor, playing with Dinah. Finishing her soup, Magicstar stood up, slowly. She felt the need for a walk, and she wanted to explore.
"Do you want to go for a walk?"
She asked, turning to Fizzy and Windwhistler, who nodded. They left the cave, walking through the tunnels
Several minutes later, Magicstar was not surprised to find them emerging onto a wide rampart carved into the mountainside It was still early in the morning and the sun was just rising over the mountains, creating a breath-taking view. The mountains stretched left and right, all jagged clefts and broad plateaus. The smell of the dawn air was invigorating and Magicstar felt her spirits lift.
"Good morning, my friends."
Magicstar spun around; she'd been so taken with the view, that she hadn't noticed they weren't alone.
"Winglord Dis'ya."
Magicstar said, bowing her head, respectfully.
"Please, there is no need for such formality. This is a favourite place for contemplation. Come, join me."
Magicstar, Fizzy and Windwhistler moved to stand next to Dis'ya, feeling the wind stir their mane.
"I have always enjoyed the view from here, and it has always brought me peace, until now. Now, it only serves to remind me of what we are facing. "
She finished, with a sigh.
Magicstar followed her gaze and, just on the horizon, she could make out a black shadow.
"Is that...?"
"Kahn's Fortress? Yes. Even now, he is marshalling his armies. If he has even a fraction of his former forces, he will still have an army greater than any in Tollar. Still, this day has not been unanticipated. I only hoped that our preparations would be unnecessary."
Magicstar's heart went out to her; she'd never asked to bear this burden.
"At least we've got some warning, Winglord. And you won't be alone. "
Dis'ya lifted her head to look at Magicstar, for a second.
"This is not your fight, Magicstar. I cannot ask you to risk yourselves. "
Magicstar looked her straight in the eye.
"Winglord, you've given us sanctuary, when you have troubles enough. Besides, we don't abandon our friends. We've already discussed this and we're in agreement. This is our fight, now."
"We're not afraid."
Fizzy declared, her eyes sparkling.
"Logically speaking, it makes sense to combine our strengths."
Windwhistler added.
Dis'ya was quiet for a moment, before she said;
"Thank you, my friend. If Kahn is expecting us to just surrender, then he will be disappointed. Now, my Council are assembling. However, I am grateful to have spoken to you. My heart feels lighter, now.
Dis'ya had assembled the Council in the Hall of Fire. Aside her advisors, Grifor, Lumir and Syras were also present, all looking serious.
The Hall fell silent as Dis'ya got to her feet, surveying the room.
"You all know why we are here. The news that Kahn has returned is something that we have all been dreading. As much as any of you, I had dared to believe that this day would never come. However, we cannot hide from this reality. We face a difficult decision. On one hand, to oppose Kahn would place us in great peril. However, can we truly stand by and do nothing? Even if we survive, there would be no sanctuary for us in Tollar. My friends, this is not a decision that anyone should make alone. Before I decide, I wish to hear from you this is no time to stand on ceremony. Please, speak your minds. "
There was silence for several seconds, before Grifor spoke, his voice calm and level.
"Winglord, we have 500 warriors here at the Dwindling Mountains, as well another 200 at our outposts. If we recall them, we will have sufficient forces to defend the Mountain. I believe that, if it comes to a fight, the odds are favourable."
Dis'ya nodded, silently thankful for the support that her Master at Arms had given her.
"Thank you, Grifor."
There was silence for a moment, until Cleric Minore spoke up;
"Winglord, I have grave doubts about this. If Kahn's power has grown to anything like it was, then how can we hope to stand against him? We barely managed to defeat him in our last encounter."
Dari, her Chief Tactician, interjected;
"What do you suggest? Retreat? We have the best chance of defending ourselves here, within our Mountains. If we leave, we will be vulnerable."
"Better than sitting here and presenting an obvious target. If Kahn attacks, we could easily find ourselves trapped within these halls."
Minore retorted.
"We cannot allow Kahn to go unopposed. If he is not stopped, what will happen to Tollar? Besides, even if we do escape, will there be anywhere safe from Kahn?"
Grifor said, his voice becoming steely.
Dis'ya raised her hands for silence;
"Peace! We have enough enemies without making more amongst ourselves. "
Both Minore and Griffor accepted the rebuke gracefully, and Dis'ya resumed the discussion.
"Syras, do you have anything to add?"
Minore raised his voice in protest:
"Winglord, you cannot listen to the words of this..."
"Peace, Minore. You have made your views on this matter quite clear. Syras, if you please.
Syras stood slowly, shooting a quick glance at Minore, before speaking.
"Kahn is powerful, but he is also arrogant. He will not believe that we can defeat him, even though he recognises that we are a threat to him. This is a weakness that we can exploit."
Dis'ya gave her a brief smile, before turning back to face the Council.
"I appreciate your forthrightness, my friends. Now, here are your orders. General Grifor, recall our outlying forces and prepare the Mountain for a siege. Minister Minore, organise the civilian population for the siege. I will also need plans for evacuation, if the worst should happen. Dari, present your battle plans to Grifor as soon as possible. May the eternal flame guide you all."
Grifor stood up, almost before Minore had finished speaking.
"I disagree. Intelligence will be our most vital asset in our struggle against Kahn. We need to make the most of what he can tell us. "
"But, can we even trust what he tells us?"
Asked Dari, Dis'ya chief tactician.
Dis'ya nodded slowly, before turning to the Ponies.
"My friends, I would hear your input, as well."
They exchanged glances, before Windwhistler spoke.
"Logically speaking, a trap that is expected is a less efficient trap. I believe that the risk is worth taking. Besides, how can we safely release him? He's been inside the mountain and knows about us. He cannot be allowed to go free."
Everyone seemed shaken by her words, perhaps realising that they had less options than they thought.
Poesy added;
"Several of us have been to see him. He feels...sad, and there is darkness inside him. But, I don't feel he means us any harm."
Dis'ya was silent for several moments, before she spoke;
"Thank you, everyone. I agree that this is an opportunity that should not be ignored. However, the concerns that you have raised are valid. Therefore, these are my instructions. Grifor, prepare the mountain for a siege. And dispatch messengers to Gerrius and the Awiro, immediately. We will need their aid, if Kahn should attack. Meanwhile, I will begin to interview our guest. May the eternal flame guide us all?"
Fizzy, Shady and Ribbon were walking together, discussing the news of Dis'ya's meeting.
"You don't think Kahn really will attack, do you?"
Fizzy asked, nervously.
"It's possible."
Ribbon said.
"Still, we've got our best chance of withstanding him here."
"I hope so."
Shady said.
"Hey, there's Syras."
Ahead of them, they could see Syras, standing with two ari'nasid, dressed in the livery of the Guard. As they got closer, they could hear their discussion.
"...not welcome here. Even if the Winglord has allowed you sanctuary. You're as dangerous as that creature we've got locked in the dungeon."
Both ari'nasid turned and strode away; when they had rounded the corner, Syras leaned against the wall, seeming very tired. When he saw the Ponies approaching, he stood up, although he seemed distracted.
"Greetings, my friends."
"Syras, what was that about?"
Ribbon said, clearly concerned.
When Syrus answered, his voice sounded unnaturally cheerful.
"It's nothing, really. Just...some ancient history. I have to see Lumir."
Before they could say anything else, Syras turned and walked away.
"What was that about, huh?"
Fizzy asked.
"I don't know, Fizzy. He'll tell us when he's ready, I hope. There's no point in pressuring him.
Rresk stood in the centre of the Battlepit, staring casually at his opponent, a Girix. Created to serve his Master in battle, the Girix were a brutish race. Tall and muscular, with dark grey skin, they had only a simplistic intelligence. Behind its helmet, Rresk could see its red eyes burning malevolently. Rresk knew that it would tear him limb from limb, feeling nothing but animal satisfaction.
Despite his rocky skin, armoured gauntlets, greaves and helmet, Rresk looked to be no match for the towering behemoth.
A gong rang throughout the arena and, with a deep below, the Girix charged, its massive fist swinging down towards him. A second before impact, Rresk sprang upward, the Girix striking the ground where he had been standing. Rresk landed lightly, several feet away, and the Girix rounded on him, aiming another crushing blow. This time, Rresk stood his ground, his eyes glowing yellow. A second before impact, a wall of stone leapt from the ground, and the Girix struck it, releasing a roar of pain. Before it could strike again, Rresk focused his will, and the wall became a battering ram, striking the Girix in the chest. Unsheathing his battle hammer, Rresk leapt, delivering a vicious blow that caught the creature under the chin and pitched it backs. The Girix hit the ground, unconscious, although it would not be permanently harmed. Rresk felt a moment's anger that he was unable to finish the creature, but he pushed it aside. Inferior though these creatures were, they were still crucial to his Master's plans.
Unlike them, however, Rresk knew his purpose. He had been created to be a fighter, a champion in his Master's grand war. He would face his master's enemies and he would defeat them. Turning his back on the defeated Girix, Rresk strode from the Pit into the catacombs.
"A most impressive display of ruthlessness, Rresk. I'm surprised that you don't feel more kinship with those mindless brutes."
Came a voice from the shadows, etched with sarcasm and scorn.
Rresk turned slowly, to see Lyche stepping out of the shadows. With his whip thin body, and elongated skull, he was the physical opposite of Rresk. Lacking Rresk's physical strength, Lyche had an aptitude for magic that made him a dangerous opponent. Even so, Rresk despised him. To fight your opponent in such a manner, without looking in the eye, was only a step removed from cowardice.
"Have a care, Lyche. Only your usefulness to the Master keeps me from challenging you in the Arena. When we attack the Dwindling Mountains, you had best hope you do not fail him. Keep that in mind, if you value your life."
Turning away from Lyche, Rresk strode away, deeper into the Tower. His Master wished to see him and Rresk existed only to serve.
Kahn sat on his throne, stretching his senses out across Tollar, focusing on the Dwindling Mountains. Even from this distance, he could feel the presence of the hated ari'nasid, as well as those despicable creatures that had recently escaped from him. Then, his mind brushed against a presence that stood out like a beacon. Focusing harder, Kahn entered his mind, feeling a raft of impressions roll over him. With a sense of satisfaction, Kahn released his hold, opening his eyes. He focused his mind again, sending a summons to his War Marshall.
Attend me, Marshall Rresk.
In the Dwindling Mountains, Syras shook his head, feeling like he had just woken from a dream. Putting it down to exhaustion, he continued on his way.
Rresk entered his Master's Sanctum, kneeling before his Dias.
"Master, you summoned me."
"War Marshall, report to me. How stand the preparations for my conquest?"
"My Lord, your Chief Beastier informs me that you will have a force of 8000 Darkling Beasts in four days time. Night-mares, Shadow-souls, Girix, Terror Talons, Firehorns, Whisper-blades. Exactly as you commanded."
"And, have they been evaluated, War Marshall?"
"My Lord, I have spent the past two days competing in the Arena, against prime specimens. They are, to my mind, formidable opponents."
"Excellent, War Marshall. I have some news that I wished to share with you. During my scrying, I felt a presence within the Dwindling Mountains that will be of great interest to you."
Rresk's eyes narrowed;
"Syras."
"Yes. The Traitor. It is ironic that one who deserted will now play a part in our final victory. Even from these distances, his mind is vulnerable to my influence. When the time is right, he will open the way into the Dwindling Mountains. Continue your preparations, War Marshall. The ari'nasid are expecting our attack, and we shall not disappoint them. Our victory is assured.
Shady, Lofty, Ribbon, Molly, Gingerbread and Fizzy were in the cave that they had been given to use as a Crèche, overseeing the Baby Ponies, when Dis'ya walked in. As they hadn't seen her, Dis'ya stayed quiet, watching. The Babies were seated in a semi-circle around Lofty, answering her questions.
"Okay, who can spell 'lightning'? Anyone? Baby Tiddlywink?"
"L-I-G-H-T-N-I-N-G."
Baby Tiddlywink answered, and Lofty gave her a smile.
"Well done. Now, who can tell me what lightning is, and why it's dangerous?"
Lofty looked up, and saw Dis'ya, coming to her feet.
"Winglord, I'm sorry. I didn't see you."
Dis'ya smiled;
"Don't concern yourself with that, Lofty. I just came by to see how you were doing. However, I can see that you're busy, so I'll leave you in peace."
"Hold on a moment, Winglord. We were just about to take a break, and I'm sure that the Babies would love to meet you."
This was born out by the way the Babies had all sat bolt upright, with eager expressions.
Dis'ya seemed slightly taken aback, as well as a little pleased.
"Well, I suppose I can spare you a few minutes."
Dis'ya said, sitting down on a bench.
"Hello. I'm...Dis'ya. It's very nice to meet you all."
There was a chorus of greetings, and Baby Shady asked;
"What's a Phoenix?"
"That...is a question with a great many answers. As ari'nasid, or Phoenixes, we all have a connection to the Sacred Fire that gives life to us. For myself, I am a peacemaker. I would like to see peace for my people."
"Would you sing us a song please, Dis'ya?"
Baby Shady asked.
Dis'ya hesitated for a second, before standing up. Her crown of feathers began to glow golden and she sang in a clear, ringing voice. There were no words, but the melody was powerful and uplifting.
Dis'ya finished singing, opening her eyes to find the Babies staring at her, wide-eyed.
Ribbon interrupted;
"Okay, everyone. We'll go and get you some food. Take a break, and play nicely, okay?"
Dis'ya stood up as the Babies broke up at random, spreading out across the room.
Feeling slightly overwhelmed, Dis'ya moved over to Gingerbread, who was watching from the corner.
"I'm sorry, Dis'ya."
Gingerbread said, as she saw her approaching.
"I hope they didn't make you uncomfortable."
Dis'ya smiled;
"Not at all. I find talking to them...very fulfilling."
"Well, they've taken to you, that's for sure."
Gingerbread paused, before continuing.
"You're welcome to eat with us, if you'd like."
"I...would like that."
Dis'ya said, seeming slightly taken aback.
Gingerbread imagined that she hadn't had much opportunity to relax. They moved towards the stone tables that ran across the back of the cave, as Ribbon and the others returned with the food, as Dis'ya was watching the Babies at play.
Ribbon called the Babies together, and got them sitting down, while Molly and Lofty shared out the food.
For the next hour, they sat together, sharing stories and Ribbon could see some of the tension leaving her. From what Ribbon had seen, she worked too hard, sometimes. Ribbon quietly resolved to keep an eye on her; she would face some great burdens in the days to come.
Dis'ya stood on the playing field, dressed in a lightweight tunic and trousers, still not sure why she had agreed to Firefly invitation for a game of Frenzy. Apparently, it was a game from her home, that required teamwork and co-ordination. The Ponies had split into two teams, with a mix of adults and Babies. Also, Syrus had joined in on the opposite team, for parity. Firefly and Buttons advanced to the middle of the playing field, where the ball was sitting. At an unspoken signal, they both darted for the ball. Firefly was a second faster, kicking the ball back to Shady, who received it neatly. Dis'ya launched herself into the air, her wings carrying her above the game. From her vantage point, she saw Shady punt the ball towards Cupcake. Suddenly, with a flash, Fizzy was there, heading the ball towards Baby Moondancer. With a sudden insight, Dis'ya realised that the game
involved each player using their natural abilities to contribute. As she watched, she saw Megan snatching the ball from the air, volleying it to Medley, before Truly could intercept her. Dis'ya swept down, deciding that if she was going to play, then she would make the most of it. She raced towards Baby Moondancer, intending to grab the ball. However, Baby Moondancer dodged aside, sending the ball towards Applejack, who kicked it hard towards the goal. Surprise tried to intercept, but the ball shot passed her to strike the back wall. The game proceeded in fierce pace, with three more goals being scored by Windwhistler, Baby Moondancer and Cherries Jubilee. The score now being even, and time running out, both teams redoubled their efforts. Danny tackled Molly with a triumphant smirk, passing it to Galaxy. Dis'ya flung herself back into the game, snatching the ball away from Ribbon, passing it to Buttons. Buttons raced down the court, winking past Gingerbread and Masquerade, speeding straight for the goal. Out of nowhere, Firefly shot down, sweeping ahead to block Buttons. Buttons feinted left, quickly reversing direction and shooting. The ball sailed past Firefly and struck the goal, despite Poesy's best effort. Next second, Megan called;
"Time!"
Buttons gave a whoop of victory and cantered in a circle, tossing her head excitedly.
Firefly landed in a clatter of hooves, and stormed towards Buttons, her expression furious.
"That wasn't fair!"
She yelled, angrily.
"What do you mean?"
Buttons retorted.
"I never broke the rules."
Firefly snorted;
"Oh, please. There's no way you could have beaten me."
Megan voice rang out, calm and commanding.
"Buttons. Firefly. That's enough. The game's over."
Both Ponies glared at each other, before turning their backs and stalking away.
Megan shook her head, before walking over to Dis'ya.
"Did you enjoy yourself, Dis'ya?"
She asked, with a smile.
Dis'ya nodded, and then asked;
"I saw the argument. Aren't you concerned?"
"Buttons and Firefly are both very competitive and strong-willed. These conflicts are natural. They'll come around."
"I hope so, Megan. There will be enough fighting before long.
Dis'ya led the Ponies, Megan, Molly and Danny into the Forge, which was bathed in the flickering light of the furnace. All the adult Ponies were present, and the Babies were in the Crèche.
"What did you want to show us, Dis'ya?"
Megan asked.
"In good time, Megan. First, let me introduce you to Ryy'a."
She indicated the ari'nasid who was staring into the Forge.
"This is Ryy'a, my Chief Armourer. Ryy'a, these are our guests from Dream Valley."
"I am delighted to meet you, my friends. And I have something that may interest you."
Ryy'a led them across the room to a large stone alcove that stretched the length of the wall. Inside, sitting on the shelves were helmets, breast-plates and greaves. Ryy'a picked up one of the helmets and passed it to Megan. She turned it over in her hands; it was obvious that it had been made for the Ponies.
"These are for you, my friends. Megan, we have armour for you, Megan, as well as Molly and Danny.
"What are they for, Dis'ya?"
Buttons asked.
"For your protection. There will be a battle here, before long. And, whatever you decide to do, these will serve you well."
"Thank you, Winglord."
Megan said, solemnly.
"But, how did you get these finished in time?"
Dis'ya smiled;
"In fact, these were originally designed for Firefly and her friends. Now, they are gifts to you all. I hope that they will keep you safe when the battle comes."
End of Chapter
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