Title:           Exchange - 7
Author:          getmeouttahere
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/F7uXfzSg
First Edit:      Sunday 7th of April 2013 08:17:27 AM CDT
Last Edit:       Sunday 7th of April 2013 08:17:27 AM CDT

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||- Chapter 7 -||
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>"What's that?"
>The red stallion turns his head to follow the pointing yellow hoof. "That's a power conduit. It takes power from the engine an' feeds it to other things on the ship, like the lights, stove and refrigerator."
>"And what's that?"
>"That's an access panel, so you can get ta the portion of the engine housing that's underneath the floor if you have ta."
>"And what's that?!"
>"That's an allen wrench." The stallion reaches over and pulls his little sister into his hooves. "Now you're just bein' a smart aleck."
>The filly giggles as a giant hoof gently tussles her mane, careful not to disturb the carefully tied bow there.
>"Okay! Okay, ya got me!" she manages to gasp out between her laughter. He relents and the filly spins around in his grasp, her smile fading a bit.
>"Big brother... I'm really, really sorry about skippin' school and sneakin' on the ship. I just really thought it was neat an' wanted ta explore a bit." Her ears droop and she turns away. "But now I'm stuck here away from my friends an' Applejack's so mad with me I saw steam comin' out her ears. I dunno what ta do..."
>Mac chuckles. "Don't you worry about her none, ah'll talk ta her later. Do you wanna know a secret?"
>Her face lights up. "A secret? Sure!"
>"Well, ah'm really not surprised you're here, and ah ain't mad with you about it. Ah would'a done the same darn thing at your age, and so would AJ..." He looks around a few times and leans down. "...but if ah don't pretend ta be upset when she's around she yells at me too fer bein' irresponsible!"
>Applebloom begins to giggle again. "So ya really ain't angry with me?"
>"'Course not, sugarcube. You're an Apple, and Apples don't fall far from the tree. Nothin' you do really surprises me, but don't tell your big sister ah said that."
>"I won't. But were ya really like me when you were little?"
 
>Now it's the stallion's turn to giggle. "Eeyup. When AJ was just a baby ah was a right little hellion, shirkin' mah chores ta go off with mah friends on make believe adventures, pretendin' ta be a sky pirate or a knight on a quest. It lasted 'till Pa bought me some books on airships one year for Hearth's Warming. He knew ah was interested in 'em and wanted ta focus that interest inta somethin' productive... an' ah took to it like a fish ta water. Ah stopped goofin' off an' started helpin' around the house more so ah could have more time ta read. Ah figured ah'd found mah special talent, and so did Pa." He nods proudly. "He even started puttin' money away ta send me ta school in Manehatten where ah could apprentice under the family's master shipwrights."
>Applebloom glances back at her brother's cutie mark. "But ya didn't go?"
>Mac adopts a gentle smile. "Sometimes things change, and sometimes your responsibilties're more important than what you want ta do. Mah two little sisters needed me at the farm, so that's where ah stayed."
>With an effortless motion, the red stallion bites the filly by the scruff of her neck and tosses her into the air. She squeals with delight before safely landing on his large back. He closes the engine panel and puts his tools away as she settles in, and together the two begin a leisurely trot down the hallway to the living quarters.
>"But don't get me wrong. Ah didn't regret it for one minute. Havin' the two of you in mah life is the greatest blessin' ah can think of, and ah'm thankful for every single day that ah had the opportunity to watch y'all grow and to help you in any way ah could. Even if the two'a you sometimes get under mah coat somethin' fierce."
>The two ponies share another laugh together as they walk.
 
>"We must've been gettin' under yer coat a lot lately, considerin' how eager ya were ta hop on this ship and chase that old dream of yours this mornin'."
>Applejack stands in the hallway, oddly hatless, with a cooking apron tied to her back and a smirk on her face. Mac's expression sours and Applebloom attempts to hide herself behind her brother's head.
>"It was only supposed ta be a vacation, AJ. Ah would'a given you more warnin' but this is just how it worked out."
>Applejack folds her ears back and flashes an apologetic smile. "Sorry... ah didn't mean for it ta come out that harsh. Ah love ya, big brother, and ah want ya ta be able ta follow yer dreams. But at the same time... we still need ya. Both of us."
>Mac smiles and nods. "Eeyup. Ah'd hate ta see what'd become of the Acres if ah were gone for too long. Why, we'd probably be growin' pears or somethin'."
>Applejack rears back in shock. "Don't you even joke about that kinda stuff, Mac! Yer terrible!" This incites a giggle from Applebloom which quickly spreads to the red stallion and orange mare.
>The stallion stretches his neck. "Truth be told, ah'm glad things worked out like this. Ah'd probably be homesick already without the two'a you here."
>The orange mare smirks. "Of course ya would. 'Cause no matter where in the wide world ya travel, you'll never find a pair'a sisters better than us, right Applebloom?"
>The yellow filly emerges from her hiding place behind her brother's mane with a hearty "Eeyup!", but she realizes her error when she sees her sister's face and moves to hide again. Acting quickly, Applejack closes the distance before she can.
>"Now hold on there, sugarcube, there's no need ta hide. Ah ain't mad at ya anymore. Bein' angry at each other fer the entire trip doesn't do anypony any good."
>She peeks out from her hiding place again, eyes sparkling with hope. "D'ya mean it, Sis?"
 
>"Don't get me wrong. Yer still grounded fer a month after we get back." And with that, the hope vanishes. "But fer now we should enjoy our family vacation together. Now go on and get washed up, dinner's almost ready."
>"Okay, Sis..." She hops from her brother's back and scurries off down the hall while the two remaining Apple siblings watch on.
>"You don't give her an inch, do you?"
>"Ah gotta be strict 'cause you always spoil her rotten, just like ya did with me." She walks over and nuzzles her brother. "But ah don't mind bein' the bad guy. It's just one of the ways ah can say thanks fer everything ya do fer us."
>Mac laughs. "You weren't lyin' when you said you were the best pair'a sisters."
>Applejack responds by hoofing him in the side. "Ah'm the Element of Honesty, Mac! Don't y'all forget it! Now c'mon, you go wash up too, an' be quick about it. Ah have a feelin' this food's gonna disappear fast."
>Mac raises an eyebrow. "Cobbler?"
>"An' fruit salad, with homemade ice cream fer dessert. Pinkie helped."
>The stallion vanishes down the hall in a flash, leaving a chuckling orange mare in his wake.
 
~~~~~~~~~
 
>The endless waves of Equestria's Great Ocean roll ever onward far below you. You stand at the pilot's console, hands on the controls for no real reason other than the fact that it's still exhilarating for you. Celestia lounges nearby, curled up on the deck next to the console, and two of you stare off into the sunset.
>"There's something you're forgetting." The alicorn's soft voice breaks the silence, though she keeps her gaze on the sun.
"Oh? What's that?"
>"The ship needs a name."
>You tap the console with your fingers, relishing the fact that it even exists.
 
"I knew its name from the moment I saw it. 'Dawn Star'."
>Now she turns back to you, a slight smile gracing her lips.
>"There's a story behind your choice, and I want to hear it." Even though her mane no longer shines with its own light, the halo around her from the setting sun makes her look absolutely radiant and you're forced to avert your eyes.
"It's not much of a story. Sometimes, back on Earth, you could see the planet Venus shining like a star on the horizon just before sunrise, after all the other stars would begin to fade away as the sky started to lighten. When I was little and didn't know it was really a planet, I called it the Dawn Star because it was always a sign that dawn was just around the corner."
>She turns away from you and back to the sun, now barely visible between the clouds that clutter around it in the distance. "It sounds lovely, but that doesn't explain why you chose to name the ship after it."
>You chuckle a bit as you reach down and run your fingers between the strands of mane that rest between her ears. She tenses at the contact before leaning into your palm.
"I know it sounds stupid, but I always kind of saw that 'star' as a promise. You know, that the sun would rise again. And it's how I see this ship, too... as a sort of promise between us."
>Her wings flutter just a bit as she turns to face you. The dancing light and long shadows of dusk mask her expression so it's tough to tell what's going through her mind at the moment.
>She opens her mouth to speak, and then the loud ringing of the dinner bell manages to drown out whatever words happened to slip out. You turn your head toward the sound and cross your arms.
"So, did that bell come standard, or did our little country chef bring it from home?"
 
>"From home. The tone is quite distinctive. Perhaps it's something to remind them of Sweet Apple Acres." She shakes her head and rises to her hooves. "Shall we go?"
"I can lock the ship's course, but someone needs to stay out here to watch for threats. Who knows what else our favorite Purple Princess has planned..."
>Sun Horse playfully smacks you in the side with her tail as she passes. "Such over cautiousness is a bit unbecoming, Captain. The fleet we left behind should only be able to match our speed at best, and we're too far out over the ocean for a pegasus to fly unassisted. It'll be fine."
>You chuckle in response before following her swishing strawberry tail down to the living quarters.
"Famous last words. If we get ambushed by something you can fight it off while we all chow down. I promise I'll save you a plate of leftovers."
>"How generous."
"I try."
>The rest of the ponies have already gathered around the dining room table by the time the two of you arrive. Your mouth begins to water uncontrollably as it seems every inch of the table is covered by a variety of delicious looking dishes.
"Wow, this looks amazing!"
>Applejack winks. "Between me and Pinkie here ah reckon y'all are gettin' the best meal Ponyville has ta offer! Don't be shy, grab a plate and dig in!"
>You happily comply, spooning yourself a large helping of apple cobbler and salad, and soon enough the six of you are all seated together, stuffing your faces with good food and merrily talking with one another when time allows.
>You note that Celestia in particular is going to town on her cobbler with gusto. Pinkie leans over and giggles at the sight.
>"Wow, Celly, you're sure comfortable eating without your magic!"
 
>Applejack chuckles. "That's an understatement if ah ever heard one. Most unicorns're nothin' but four left hooves when they can't do their sparkly levitatin' thingamajig. Can ya imagine Rarity eatin' like that?"
>Celestia, her cheeks slightly rosy with embarrassment, removes her face from her mostly eaten cobbler and daintily dabs a napkin across her muzzle with a hoof. "Yes, well, unicorn foals have use of their magic from a very early age, so when they temporarily lose it through injury or other means it feels to them as if they're missing a limb. It's not surprising that they're left a bit flustered as a result."
"But it's different for alicorns?"
>She nods. "In some cases. Pass the salad, please."
>You do so and turn to Pinkie as she refills her own plate.
"What're the Cakes gonna do without the two of us? Are they okay with running Sugarcube Corner by themselves?"
>Pinkie giggles. "They'll be fine, Non-non." Her ears fold back and she leans in to whisper to you. "This is a secret, but before we hired you we were losing money every day because I was eating a liiiittle too much of what we were baking..."
"Why am I not surprised?"
>Pinkie gestures wildly, her voice returning to its normal volume. "But it's important, Non-non! We always need to taste test... what if we made a bad batch of cupcakes or muffins?! If we try seven out of each dozen the odds of having a bad one are really, really low!!"
>You facepalm.
"So you're telling me that instead of baking, my real job was to..."
>"Prevent me from pilfering pastries like a problematic predatory piggy-wiggy-Pinkie!" She grins and you can almost see a halo appear over her head. You upgrade to a double facepalm.
"And when they found out I was leaving..."
 
>She nods again. "Yep, they pretty much kicked me out. So I grabbed Gummy and came to find you!"
>Said alligator pops out of her frizzy mane for a minute, hisses at those present and then returns to its cotton candy lair. You attempt to push this new revelation out of your mind by jamming another spoonful of cobbler in your mouth.
"Well, regardless, I'm glad to have you on board. You really, REALLY saved us with those cannons you brought."
>Pinkie salutes. "It was no problemo, Cap'n! Weapons Officer Pinkie Pie always finds her mark!" Her blue eyes wander over to the refrigerator. "And right now her sights are set on the most delicious prey of all... home~made~ice~cream~~~!"
>Applejack is quick to intercept her. "Oh no ya don't ya little varmint. Yer gonna finish what's on yer plate before ya get dessert. There ain't gonna be any wastin' of food on this ship while ah run the kitchen. And don't even think about tryin' to sneak in fer a midnight snack 'cause that fridge is padlocked, ya hear?"
>"B-but..." The pink mare's mane deflates a bit while the rest of you share a laugh.
>Celestia turns to you. "Speaking of midnight snacks, have you decided how we're going to handle the sleeping arrangements?"
>You ponder for a bit. Good question... you have three bedrooms: the relatively spartan crew quarters with four single beds, a queen bed in the guest bedroom, and a king in the master.
"I want Cel in the master bed while she recovers. I guess that means we'll divide it by gender. The girls can have the crew quarters, Mac can have the guest bed and I'll crash on the couch in the living area."
>You nod with satisfaction. Yep, that plan makes the most sense. Surely they'll...
>"Absolutely not!"
>"No way, no how!"
>And two mares immediately object. You groan.
"In the interest of avoiding a mutiny, I'm willing to hear your concerns."
 
>Applejack speaks first. "There ain't no way ah'm sharin' a room with Pinkie Pie." She turns to the pink mare and flashes an apologetic smile. "Sorry, hun, but ah've had enough sleepovers with you an' the girls ta know that ya literally bounce off the walls when yer snoozin'. There ain't no way ah'll manage ta get ta sleep with the two'a us in a cramped room like that."
>Pinkie giggles. "Guilty as charged!"
>You rub the bridge of your nose and turn your attention to Sun Horse.
"Fair enough. What about you?"
>She huffs. "We talked about this yesterday. It is absolutely ridiculous to give me the master bed. This is YOUR ship. And that couch barely qualifies as a place to sleep; it's tiny!"
"This again? I thought I made myself clear: you're injured and you need your rest, so you should get the comfiest bed. It's also the only one that'll hold you if you decide you want to stretch your wings or something."
>She rears back. "Are... are you saying I have fat flanks?!"
"Are you seriously trying to argue that you don't have the biggest flanks here?!"
>The rest of the assembled ponies try to stifle their laughter. Mac utterly fails and lets out a hearty guffaw while banging a hoof on the table.
>Celestia narrows her eyes. "I'm glad you find that so amusing, Mr. Apple, because I'll be taking the guest bed from you."
>Pinkie perks up. "But wait, what about me? I know, Maccy can keep the guest bed and I'll share with him! We can be bedtime buddies!" She hops over and pulls him into a big hug.
>"EENOPE!" The color drains from the stallion's face as he tries to pull himself from Pinkie's vice-like grip.
>Applejack stomps a hoof. "There ain't no way that's happenin', so just forget about it right now Pinkie Pie."
>"That's right, Ms. Pie, it ain't proper!" Mac gasps as he tries to free himself.
 
>Great, the situation is rapidly descending into chaos...
>"Wait! I don't get it..."
>Applebloom's voice rises over the cacophony of shouts and everyone stops to pay attention to her. "I mean, Anon n' Celestia were sharin' the big bed just fine this mornin'. They looked really comfy and everything! Why can't they just keep sharin' it? Then Pinkie can have the other room ta herself and big brother an' sis an' me can share the crew room. That'll work out fer everyone, right?"
>Silence descends upon the room and all eyes move to you and Celestia.
>"Well ain't that somethin'!" Applejack grins and wiggles her eyebrows at you. "Don't forget me when it's time ta send out the weddin' invitations, y'all!"
>Mac flashes you a sly smile and holds up one of his hooves. You have a sneaking suspicion that if he had fingers he'd be giving you a thumbs up.
>You hold up your hands in defense.
"It's not what it sounds like. We were both tired and we--"
>Pinkie completely ignores you and hops from her seat over to Celestia to exchange a hoof bump with her. "Woohoo! Way to go, Celly! C'mon, you can share, what was it like?!"
>Celestia smiles. "I'm happy to report that he was sufficiently cuddly." The two share a giggle. Applebloom continues to look totally confused while you rest your head in your hands and massage your temples.
"Someone, please, just kill me now..."
>Applejack chuckles. "Aw... there, there, sugarcube, it ain't so bad. Ah think Applebloom's idea is the best option we have." She turns to Celestia. "Gotta say, ah'm kinda jealous. Too bad Mac ain't nearly as cuddly as he was when we were foals."
>Big Mac snorts. "Says you. Cheer-Cheer thinks ah'm plenty cuddly."
>Silence descends upon the room again. This time, all eyes fall on the red stallion, whose coat somehow gets even redder from the attention.
 
>Applebloom looks around. "Who's Cheer-Cheer? Was that one'a yer stuffed animals, big brother?"
>Applejack has the most devilish grin you think you've ever seen on a pony. "Well ah'll be... so yer tellin' me their crazy little plan actually worked in the end?!"
>Mac levels a death glare at his sister. "If you breathe one word ta her about this before ah'm ready ta tell her mahself, ah promise ta end you, AJ."
>The orange mare is fighting her laughter as hard as she can. "My-my lips're sealed, Mac! Pffthahahahaha~!"
>You find yourself getting caught up in the raucous laughter that echoes throughout the room. In a brief moment of respite you catch Celestia's gaze and lean over to her.
"I'll agree to this if you promise to behave yourself."
>"I'll behave myself as long as I'm conscious, but what I do in my sleep I can't be held accountable for."
>You simply roll your eyes as Pinkie hops over with a huge bowl of homemade ice cream on her back and a padlock with a lockpick dangling out of its keyhole in her mouth.
>"Now this feels like a real party! Who wants ice cream?"
 
~~~~~~~~~
 
>Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Equestria and Herald of the Sun, dines alone in one of the grand banquet halls of Canterlot Castle. The sound of a nearby door opening pulls her attention from the immaculate five star meal prepared by the castle's master chefs. She spies a unicorn guard approaching, levitating the item she requested.
>With the utmost care, the guard places the item on the table in front of her, bows, and exits the room.
 
>The Princess' horn shines, and in a flash the plates of leftovers are cleared from around the spherical object. She begins the process of channeling energy through it, and in time the wavy image of a pristine white unicorn appears in the air before her. The unicorn startles, then primps her perfectly styled purple mane a bit before speaking.
>"Ah, Princess Twilight... how delightful of you to call, darling. You're doing well this fine evening, I take it?"
>Twilight smiles. "Yes, I'm doing fine, Rarity."
>The unicorn nods. "Good, good! That's always wonderful to hear."
>The purple alicorn's eyes narrow. "But I'd be doing better if I had my future husband by my side where he's supposed to be." Her eyes shift to the empty chair beside her own. "I don't see a pair of delicious, hairless monkey buttocks that I could knead with my hooves and bury my face in forever and ever currently seated in that chair, do you?"
>Rarity begins to sweat. "W-Well, no... I'm afraid I don't..."
>Twilight levitates over a wine glass and takes a sip of its contents. "I also haven't received word of the Purple Wings returning to port. I can't help but wonder if these two observations are related."
>"You see... there was a bit of a complica--"
>"Rarity~~"
>Twilight slams a hoof on the table.
>"Where.
>Is.
>My.
>Human?"
>The white unicorn cringes at the outburst, then squares her shoulders and adopts a perfect Canterlot pony pose as she mentally regains her composure.
>"Well. If you must know, that bipedal fiancee of yours is quite elusive. He evaded the ambush we arranged and is currently en route to Latigo. Not to worry, though, because I have the squadron in full pursuit. We shall overtake them the moment they reach their destination."
 
>Twilight sighs, then takes a large gulp from her glass. "See that you do. The effects of the Geas will fully dissipate by tomorrow afternoon. If you can't capture him before then, you need to at least prevent him from reaching the island until I arrive."
>Rarity holds a hoof to her chest. "It shall be as simple as threading a needle, darling. Though, I must admit, I'm still a bit unclear as to why you chose me for this task. Wouldn't something like this be more your brother's purview?"
>Twilight rolls her eyes. "Apparently -Luna- thinks that seasoned military commanders like Shining are better positioned near the border to deal with the ongoing Changeling incursions, and the Council agrees with her! Can you believe that?! I mean, REALLY?! What could be higher priority than retrieving the kingdom's future Prince?!"
>Rarity solemnly nods. "Truly, they've lost sight of what's most important. As the famous romance novel authoress Mistress Notfluutershai would say, 'love comes before all'. I, for one, feel you're doing the right thing, and I'm happy to help in any way I'm able."
>The purple alicorn sighs, then adopts a tired, somewhat goofy smile. "Thanks, Rarity. You're a good friend. It's a shame I couldn't devote more resources to go after Anon, but at least I was able to convince them to deploy the Purple Wings." She giggles and twirls around once in delight as she paces about the room. "The fifteen fastest vessels in the royal armada should have no difficulty catching that puny little airship Celestia had commissioned!"
>Rarity coughs. "Thirteen, darling."
>The Princess turns back, her smile unbroken. "Come again?"
>"Thirteen. Your good fiancee... may have ended up sinking two ships as he made his departure."
 
>Twilight's eye twitches. "Oh. How interesting." She downs the rest of her glass, then refills it from a nearby decanter before downing the contents again. Her friend's ears fold back with worry at the sight.
>"Princess? Dear? This might be a bit presumptuous of me to say, but... perhaps you should slow down? You were never really good with alcohol, if I recall correctly..."
>"Oh, this?" Twilight beams, holding up the empty glass. "This isn't wine. It's really Poni-Sun. I get the servants to squeeze it out of the little pouches for me so I can drink it in a glass."
>Rarity gasps. "My word! How deliciously decadent!"
>Twilight giggles. "I know, right? I also had my servants retrieve something from Ponyville for me. I think you'll be interested in it..." She turns away and lifts up an item with her telekinesis. "Remember this?"
>The unicorn's nervous smile immediately fades as a look of horror washes over her face. "No... no, it can't be... I thought that abomination was destroyed!"
>A deep purple robe, covered with perfectly accurate constellations, floats in the air along with its matching starry headpiece. "Nope~! It was still in my closet where I left it!"
>The purple alicorn adopts a menacing grin. "There's a banquet for the nobility in a few days. Everypony who's anypony in Canterlot is going to be there. I might just wear this little number to it... and if I do I'll be sure to let everypony know that it's a Rarity original~"
>The unicorn gasps and wobbles on her hooves as if on the verge of fainting. "You... you -fiend-! How could you?!"
>Twilight places the disastrous dress aside and smiles cheerfully as a few more giggles escape her mouth. "Though, as long as you don't fail me, you have nothing to worry about. Bring me my Anon and you have my word that this dress'll never see the light of day again. Simple, right?"
 
>Rarity dramatically hangs her head in defeat. "Yes... you've made yourself very clear, Princess. I, Rarity, shall do as you request."
>"Great! I expect a favorable report upon my arrival tomorrow." With a flash of her horn, the image fades leaving Twilight alone in the room once again.
>She reclaims her seat at the table and pours herself another glass of Berry Blast(tm) flavored Poni-Sun. Swirling the liquid in front of her, she stares at her own reflection as it dances across the surface.
>"Soon, Anon my sweet... soon you'll be where you belong. With me. We'll make beautiful, passionate, incredibly kinky love with one another, and you'll realize your true feelings..."
>She downs the glass. "And then you'll be mine, just like I've dreamed about since you first appeared in my life. Mine and mine alone..."
>She slumps forward and lays her head on the table. "The Princess and her dashing Prince... just like in all those old stories..."
>The alicorn yawns and closes her eyes, and before long the only sounds in the large dining hall are the regal snores of a Purple Pony Princess.
 
~~~~~~~~~
 
>It's hard to pinpoint a single one of the many thoughts that are swirling around your head at this particular moment. At best, you can sort of describe it as a wild west standoff.
>You're on one side.
>Cel's on the other.
>The bed's between you.
>And neither one of you dare make a move.
>"I'm not going to bite or anything."
"I know."
>She giggles. "Well, as amusing as this is, I think we need to get our rest for tomorrow." She slides the covers aside and wiggles between them like before. "A little help?"
>You move over and tuck her in without a second thought. She lets out a contented sigh and burrows into the soft sheets and pillows while you move away from the bed, pacing in thought.
 
>"Anon?" Her magenta eyes are open and tracking you when she hears your retreating footsteps. "A fair warning, but if you leave this room and attempt to sleep on the couch I'll follow you."
>You chuckle.
"Again, I know. I'm not leaving; I just realized this is the only pair of clothes I have left after Twilight nuked the house. I'm wondering if I should sleep in them again or try to wash them now."
>"Have you checked the dresser? Pajamas are in the top left drawer."
"Very funny."
>You walk over and open the drawer to humor her, only to find a pair of silk pajamas waiting there. Surprising to be sure, but what really floors you is the fact that they're not horse pajamas.
"What the...?"
>You immediately begin opening the other drawers only to be greeted by an assortment of clothes, all perfectly sized for you, some of which look like near approximations of the hiking / climbing clothes you used to use back on Earth.
>Your heart nearly stops. All those conversations you had about climbing, all those little questions she asked... not only did she listen to every word, she remembered them almost perfectly...
>You turn back to Celestia and attempt to speak but no words end up coming out. She simply smiles in response.
>"They were made by Twilight's little unicorn seamstress friend. I requested the kitchen and pantry be fully stocked upon delivery of the ship, and the same was true for the wardrobe. Knowing you, you'd likely want to head out on an adventure immediately without giving these sorts of things any consideration, so I had to be prepared. Why do you think I kept insisting that this room belonged to you?"
>You simply sigh and shake your head in wonder as you strip down to your boxers and don the pajamas without a second thought. As you begin to button the shirt your eyes wander to your wrists and again your heart threatens to cease beating.
 
>The Geas bands are nearly gone. With everything that's happened you tried to push what Twilight said out of your mind, but now it's become impossible to ignore. She said it would last two days, and the end of that time is rapidly approaching. It should be around noon tomorrow if you remember right.
>You move to the bed and slide under the covers, then extinguish the nearby light. There's no question... she'll be after you like a bat out of hell the moment it's gone. If you're not at Equus by then...
>"You don't need to be afraid."
>Celestia's voice pulls you from your thoughts. You'd almost completely forgotten she was there, but now that she's spoken you can feel her weight on the other side of the bed along with the warmth she provides. An involuntary smile begins to form on your face. It's kind of cute how she's still attempting to calm your fears about sleeping together.
"I trust you. You promised you'd behave yourself, after all."
>Her wings twitch a bit and you feel the covers move in response. "Yes, that's true, but that's not what I was talking about. I saw your eyes wander a moment ago. Anon, you don't need to be afraid. The Geas was an extension of myself, and though it will soon be gone, I'm still here, and I will protect you."
>You close your eyes, but your smile doesn't fade. You're no magic expert, but it doesn't take one to see that there's no way this silly horse, who can't even muster the magical energy to pull up her own sheets or lift a fork at the dinner table, can stand against Twilight as she is now, or probably even as she was before. Your rational mind tries to tell you those words were merely meant to comfort you, like a parent telling their child everything's going to be fine as the house burns around them.
 
>But it's unmistakable. The way she said it... it wasn't false bravado, or a lie to oneself that you believe, if told, could help you eventually turn it into truth. No, she said it like a simple statement of fact. Like 'the sky is blue'. Like it was so readily apparent that it almost need not be spoken at all.
>Your hand travels past the cold space between you and finds her back, and your fingers begin to dance up and down its length, coaxing a contented sigh from her. For an instant, your mind flashes back to the ride you enjoyed together through the snow just yesterday morning, when everything seemed so perfect.
>Yet, despite all that's happened since... what has she seen and experienced over the thousands of years of her life to give her such unshakable conviction? Whatever it is, it's convinced you that what she just said is true. You believe her wholeheartedly, and it puts you at ease.
>You feel her body shift as she rolls over toward you. Two hooves reach out and pull you to her in a light embrace. Your head finds its space below her muzzle and you lean into the soft coat of her neck.
"Uh, Cel...?"
>She breathes out and mumbles a bit, teetering on the edge between consciousness and sleep.
>"We're going to end up like this by morning anyway. Might as well get it over with now."
>Your smile widens as you close your eyes. This, too, you believe wholeheartedly.
 
~~~~~~~~~
 
>By morning, the rolling ocean below you has been replaced by the vast plains and deserts of Latigo. You stand on deck with Celestia, Pinkie and the Apple siblings, sipping some coffee to help wake up while gazing out across the land.
"It feels weird to see it from the air like this."
>Celestia nods. "Yes, and much has changed since I was last here. Without ponies to temper it, nature now runs free. What were once lush forests are now rolling deserts, and what were once barren wastelands now teem with life."
>Applejack turns to the pink-maned alicorn. "Yer sayin' ponies used ta live here?"
>"Yes. It's believed that all life emerged from the Cradle of Equus Island and naturally migrated to Latigo. You're familiar with the Hearth's Warming story, correct? Before the Tribes discovered Harmony and found the land we now call Equestria, they lived here."
>Mac stares with a hint of sadness at his now empty mug. "If ah recall correctly, they didn't teach us about much prior ta the Unification in school."
>Celestia closes her eyes. "No records exist from before that time, as nearly everything was abandoned during the migration. Archeologists sometimes come here from Equestria in an attempt to dig up relics of the past, but even those are few and far between. The Earth Ponies were nomads, leaving nothing behind as they moved about the land. The great cloud city of Pegasopolis was torn apart and scattered in the wind, and the sprawling towers of the Unicorn capital of High Crown have long since crumbled along with the mountains they were built upon. Hardly anything remains."
>Pinkie giggles. "Well, if they wanna know what happened so bad, why not just ask somepony who was there?" She gives Celestia a big smile, only to find a gentle one returned back to her.
 
>"I've learned many things over my long lifetime, Pinkie Pie, but perhaps the most important is that we should live in the present. The past is the past, and the future is unwritten. Lessons can be learned from yesterday, and elaborate plans made for tomorrow, but only through actions taken in the present do we forge who we are."
>You take a sip of coffee.
"Sounds like someone's got some skeletons in her closet."
>A pink tail lashes out to swat you in the side, and you turn to see a playful smile tugging at Sun Horse's lips. "Fortunately for you, I left them all behind when I moved out of the castle." She yawns and steps away from the railing. "In truth, the history of Latigo before the Unification has little bearing on the world of today, and Luna and I do not like to speak of it, so we don't. Though we do secretly enjoy the frustration on the scholars' faces when we're inevitably asked the same questions over and over again with each new generation."
>Applejack continues to peer at the ground below with concern. "Well... ah always figured the Hearth's Warmin' tale was mostly a fable. But how much'a it is true?"
>"Bits and pieces. But the most important part, that the friendship forged between the Pony Tribes banished the cold darkness surrounding them, is true. Equestria could've never come to be were that not the case."
>Applebloom perks up. "So if ponies don't live here anymore, who does?"
>"Many creatures call Latigo their home, though most are feral. Murderhounds, for example, while rare in Equestria, happen to thrive here. There's also a fairly large retirement community for minotaurs that I hear is quite popular..."
>You shudder.
"Don't remind me."
 
>"...along with several Dragon Clans who call a large network of caves in the north their home. The most notable inhabitants, at least when I last visited, were the Kiang, who inhabit the plateaus and valleys near the Inland Sea. They are a friendly, if somewhat eccentric tribe."
"They're fucking crazy."
>Applejack laughs. "Sounds like ya've got some stories ta tell of yer own, Anon."
>You look over at Celestia, who has that little shit eating grin she sometimes gets on her face. An unspoken conversation takes place and you suddenly feel you understand her a little better.
"I don't like to talk about it."
>The orange pony shrugs. "Suit yerself. But ah do want ya ta tell us what yer plan is. We got attacked by a bunch'a airships yesterday, so if yer plannin' on somethin' like that happening again ah'd like a little warnin', Captain."
>You laugh.
"Do I plan on having us get attacked by an airship fleet? No. But would you really be surprised if it happens? You guys didn't seem too shocked in the aftermath of all that stuff yesterday..."
>Now it's Applejack's turn to laugh, though it's more out of exasperation than joy. "Twi's always been a little... overeager about certain things. But back before all this Princess stuff happened, me an' the girls were always able ta help steer her in the right direction whenever she got too off kilter. That's kinda how we worked as a group; if one'a us started ta go bonkers or lose sight'a what was important, the others would be there ta help her."
 
>She removes her hat and sighs. "But after that whole coronation mess, she stopped listenin' ta us an' figured she knew best about everything. Ah realized it when she sent out that decree ta prevent Celestia from workin'... with nopony there ta stop her, she'll do anythin' ta get what she wants, even if it ends up hurtin' others." Her emerald eyes gaze at you with sympathy. "A fleet'a airships shown' up ta take what she thinks is hers doesn't surprise me at all."
>She turns to Celestia. "Ah understand what yer lookin' ta accomplish here... ya want ta get some magical rock thing that'll bring yer power back. But what ah want ta know is... what are ya plannin' on doin' afterwards? Ah hate ta be the bearer of bad news, but ya unleashed a monster on us and ah need ta know if you intend ta do anything about it."
>Celestia closes her eyes and the wind whips her strawberry mane around amidst the silence.
>"It's true... this burden is mine to bear, and there are some duties that, once accepted, can never be relinquished. When my power is restored we'll depart for Canterlot. Twilight is young. She has many lessons left to learn, and I am still her Teacher, whether she agrees or not."
>She trots over to the bow of the ship to watch the earth moving below. "But that is yet to come. As I said earlier, we should focus on the present. Soon we'll reach the Inland Sea, with Equus just beyond. That's when this trial will truly begin, and unless we prevail any hope of dealing with Twilight will remain only that."
>You grit your teeth and pound a fist into your open palm. As much as you want to throttle that little sperglord of an alicorn now, Celestia's right. You need the Orb of Ascension to stand any chance...
>"Um... big brother?"
>The red stallion looks down at the filly tugging at his leg. "Yeah, sugarcube?"
>"I think ya really should take a look at what's behind us..."
 
>The six of you turn to the aft of the ship, and...
 
>[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDgEaq9qAyc ]
 
>...the black silhouettes of a rapidly approaching fleet of airships are there to greet you.
>Celestia rolls her eyes at the sight. "Speak of the devil and he shall appear, as they say."
"They're the same ones from before... are they faster than us?"
>Mac scowls. "Eenope. Not normally, but they probably magically overcharged their engines. It ends up damagin' the equipment in the long run but it could put their top speed over ours fer a while."
>Applejack replaces her hat and looks around nervously. "So yer sayin' we're gonna be forced ta fight 'em?"
"If we can't outrun them, I don't see how we can avoid it. Pinkie, we're gonna need you to do your thing."
>The pink mare salutes. "Aye aye, Cap'n!" In a flash she's disappeared below deck to prepare the cannons. You run to the controls and disengage the heading lock, then start the process of the turning the ship around to face your pursuers.
>Thirteen military class airships slide into your vision as the turn completes and you feel your legs start to shake. Imagine that... turns out they look much more menacing up close.
>"Ahem. Is this thing on? Testing, one, two, testing..."
>A prissy voice echoes in your ears as a wavy image of a pristine white unicorn sporting a stylish commander's uniform appears on deck before you. "Yes, well... erm... attention unidentified vessel! By order of Princess Twilight of Equ--APPLEJACK?!"
>"RARITY?!" The farm mare runs up to the image, a look of shock on her face.
>"Applejack, what in the world are you doing here, darling?" She looks around. "And your brother and sister too! I... wh-what? I'm completely lost."
 
>"What in tarnation are ya doin' ridin' on a battleship wearin' that getup and chasin' after Anon? Have ya gone nuts?!"
>The unicorn's face scrunches. "Well! What I decide to do in my spare time is my business. You don't see me judging you for running around another continent with a strange ape creature, now do you?"
>Applejack adopts a deadpan expression. "Not until ya just said that, ah didn't. Rarity, don't tell me yer tangled up in whatever crazy scheme Twi's got goin' on now. Ah figured ya had more sense than that."
>"And -I- figured you would be a more understanding friend. Twilight is in -love-, darling, and love sometimes makes one crazy. Or in her case, more crazy than usual. But you get what I'm saying. I admit, I don't understand the attraction, but you should see how happy she looks when she talks about him! If I can do anything to help her realize her love, I shall."
>She turns her attention to you and Celestia. "Ahem. Anonymous, Celestia, by order of Princess Twilight you must immediately return to Equestria under my custody. If you refuse to do so willingly, I am authorized to use force to make you comply, but I'm hopeful that it won't have to come to that."
"Wow, thanks for the ultimatum, Squiggletail. Real considerate of you to give us one after you ambushed us and opened fire without warning yesterday."
>Celestia approaches Rarity's image without fear, her eyes locked with the unicorn's own. "I understand your loyalty to your friend, and I do not envy your position. But I must warn you, this course of action will end badly for you if you choose to pursue it."
>You feel the temperature around you drop by several degrees. Holy. Shit. The way she said it and the look on her face... this is a side of Celestia you haven't ever seen before, aside from little glimpses of it back when she was a Princess.
 
>Yet, if you think you were affected by Celestia's icy tone, the poor unicorn on the other end of the magical link is trying to suppress the shivers of fear running up her legs, though she does an admirable job.
>"W-W-Well, then! I suppose it's settled! I don't know what you intend to do when it's thirteen against one, but our rescue teams shall be on standby to retrieve you once we inevitably sink your ship. Good day!" She haughtily turns up her nose as the image fades away.
>"Get back here, Rarity! Ah ain't done talkin' ta ya!" Applejack stomps a hoof in frustration. "What in the hay's gotten inta her?!"
>You nervously rub the back of your neck.
"Damn, Cel, you must have a hell of a plan to be so confident. I'm surprised she didn't piss herself."
>Celestia's confidence doesn't waver. "No, not particularly. The odds of us winning a direct confrontation with thirteen military airships which can outpace us are practically zero. I was actually hoping my bluff would cause her to turn tail and run..." She flashes you an apologetic smile and you let out a hearty laugh and slap her on the back in mirth.
"Ha Ha! So that's what you were doing, you silly horse! ARE YOU FUCKING CRAZY?!"
>The alicorn ignores your outburst and continues. "Even if Pinkie Pie turns out to be the best shot on the planet and we miraculously manage to sink the entire fleet, they'd still achieve their goal." She glances down to the Geas bands on your wrists which have all but disappeared. "They're attempting to stall us from reaching Equus in time. Not only can we not win here, we can't even afford the time to fight back."
>Applejack rolls her eyes. "Whoa there, nelly, we wouldn't want any -optimism- ta slip past yer yapper." She trots over to her brother. "Mac, ya've had yer muzzle in them doggone airship books all yer life. Ah know ya've gotta have an idea of somethin' we can do."
 
>The red stallion nods. "Eeyup. Our Junior Engineer is on her way with our secret weapon right now."
"Secret weapon?"
>"I got it, I got it!" Applebloom bounds up the stairs from below deck with a strange metal rod in her mouth. It sort of looks like a cross between something you'd see hanging in an auto repair garage and some weird D&D scepter. The filly gives it to her brother who presents it to you.
"What the heck is this?"
>"That there's called a Harmonic Tuner. It's one'a the tools used ta maintain an airship's magical engine. 'Specially useful when you ain't a unicorn. Go on, give it a try." He gestures to a trigger on the handle of the device.
"Are you sure about this?"
>He nods. "'Course ah am. Go ahead an' aim it at me."
>You shrug, then do as he says and pull the trigger. A small bolt of magic arcs from the tool to his body, but it doesn't seem to have any effect.
>The stallion grins. "See? The spell's completely harmless ta ponies, 'cause it's only designed ta interact with the spell that empowers the engine."
>Applejack scratches her head. "That's great 'n all, but how does it help us?"
>"Well, lil' sis, when you use this thing on an engine it helps you retune the spell ta the proper timin' ta work with the ship's other systems. It's normally harmless, but if you use it on an engine that's been overcharged..." He adopts a sinister grin. "It tends ta make the engines tear themselves apart from the inside out due ta a mismatch in timin'."
>You eyes widen in shock.
"So you're saying we could take out an airship in one hit with this thing?!"
 
>"Eeyup. But you gotta get real close ta use it. Naturally you ain't gonna be able ta hit the engine itself since it's inside the ship, but if you hit one'a the turbines the spell'll jump ta the engine and it'll work just the same. Problem is, we can't normally get that close without gettin' torn up by cannon fire or causin' a midair collision."
"...So we're still doomed, then."
>"Eenope." He shakes his head and then glances over his shoulder. You follow Mac's gaze to see Celestia standing there with a surprised look on her face. She lifts one of her massive white wings and the two of you exchange a glance.
"You can't be serious."
>"You got any better ideas, partner?"
"Fuck..."
>You hit the intercom button on your pilot's console. "Pinkie, you there?"
>"Ready and waiting, Cap'n!"
"I want you to target cannon fire on the six ships on the enemy flagship's port side. Cel and I are gonna deal with the six on the starboard. Think you can handle that?"
>"Yepperoonies!"
>You turn to Mac.
"I guess you've got the helm. Try not to get her too scuffed up."
>He salutes. "Good luck, Captain."
>You walk over to Sun Horse and pat her on the back a few times and she lays down and presents her back to you, just like she did during the blizzard. You're honestly surprised by how quickly and gracefully she did it, and the look on her face shows she's a little surprised too. You straddle her back, the Harmonic Tuner in your hand, and she stands and paces around, fluttering her wings.
>"This plan is absolute madness, you know."
>You lower your flight goggles and grip her mane.
"Compared to what we've dealt with recently? I'd say it just barely qualifies as insane. You ready?"
>"As I'll ever be, I suppose."
>You pat the side of her neck a few times.
"Then let's go."
 
>She begins to gallop, then takes a great leap over the deck's railing. You experience the weightlessness of falling for a few moments until her wings extend and the two of you are flying, just as the sounds of cannon fire begin to rip through the air.
>Under Mac's capable hooves, the Dawn Star turns to avoid a volley as an explosion rips through the first of the port side enemy ships. Severely crippled, the ship begins to break formation as it loses altitude. The column of dark smoke that spills from its hull begins to blanket several other ships, impairing their ability to aim and navigate. You notice rescue pegasi take wing from several of the other ships to assist the crew of the damaged vessel.
>Celestia banks hard as she pulls herself around to the rear of the first ship in the starboard line. You grip the Tuner as she begins her approach toward the underside of one of the two large turbines...
 
|-------|
 
>"Unit 7 is hit! Reports critical damage to engine; losing altitude!"
>"Unit 12 reports same! Requesting rescue team for evac!"
>"It's unreal... the accuracy of their gunner is unreal!"
>"Units 4, 14, 10 indicate difficulty tracking target; the speed matches our best equipment and movement patterns are erratic!"
>Battle reports continue to flood into PW-01's bridge, where an oddly calm looking unicorn stands and considers the data before her. She primps her purple mane a bit before raising her head to address the assembled crew.
>"Proceed with rescue operations for 12 and 7; have the remaining portside ships disengage and pull back to cover. Starboard group is to move forward and shell the target."
>"Aye, madame!"
 
>She smiles. As an artist who has created countless incredible dresses in the midst of the storm of chaos that is her little sister Sweetie Belle, a frenzied battlefield like this is nothing. She can see the design in her mind; all that's left is to realize it.
>For a moment, an image of Twilight's horrendous constellation dress flashes through her thoughts, but she pushes it away. As long as she remains focused, victory is sure to follow...
 
|-------|
 
>A cannonball sails past the Dawn Star's starboard side and clips one of the vertical turbines, ripping it from its attachment point. The ship shudders at the impact and takes time to reorient itself.
>"Consarn it, Mac! What the hay are ya doin?!"
>"Ah dunno if you realized this, but these controls ain't exactly designed fer hooves! If you think you can do better, she's all yours!"
>"Ah've got my hooves full with this!" Applejack holds up a leg with a trembling yellow filly clutching onto it for dear life.
>"Are... are we gonna make it, big sis?"
>"We're gonna be fine, sugarcube, as long as butterhooves over there doesn't get us sunk!"
>"Ah swear ta Celestia, AJ..."
>The orange mare sticks out her tongue. "Well too bad fer you, 'cause she ain't here!"
>The intercom in the pilot's console crackles. "Hold it still, Maccy! I'm trying to line up another shot!"
>"We've lost a vertical stabilizer Ms. Pie; it ain't gonna be as smooth a ride as it was before."
>Pinkie giggles. "That's fine, just point the bow where it needs to be and I'll do the rest!"
 
|-------|
 
>"Unit 14 reports target hit! Target stabilizer damaged and movement impaired!"
>The unicorn takes a sip of her wine. "This is checkmate, my dears. When you can no longer flee it is all but over." She giggles to herself. "Perhaps Twilight was right, and I have a talent for this sort of thing after all...?"
 
>"Unit 14 reports complete engine meltdown; all control lost; requests immediate assistance!!"
>"Unit 10, hit by enemy cannon! Steering offline!"
>"Unit 3, Wing 2, reports same as 14! Complete engine meltdown; cause unknown; unit was not struck by enemy weapon!!"
>The glass of wine falls from her magical grasp and shatters on the floor as one of her eyes begins to twitch involuntarily. "What... what is happening?! WHAT IS HAPPENING?!"
 
|-------|
 
>The effect is immediate. As soon as you bring the Harmonic Tuner near the turbine and pull the trigger a sickening screech can be heard from the belly of the ship, followed by the sound of gears grinding and coming undone as the engine rips itself to shreds. An explosion serves as the process' grand finale, followed by the ship's slow descent to the ground below.
>Celestia pulls herself away from the crippled airship's frame and lines up the next target. Despite the incredibly strong crosswinds that prevent you from even speaking to one another, she places you at the perfect angle to deliver the fatal charge.
>Another screech, another ship falls, and Celestia pulls away once more.
>By now the rescue pegasi who've come to assist the first crippled ship have spotted you and figured out what you've been up to. The decks of the remaining ships shimmer with light as unicorns fire bolts of magic after you and pegasi start their pursuit. It's a valiant effort, but Celestia is beyond their reach. She moves with a grace that defies description, and the bolts of magic which sail past serve more to accentuate her beauty than pose as a threat. Her powerful wings easily propel her into drafts and thermals through which normal pegasi can't hope to follow. All too soon, you find yourself underneath the third ship's turbine.
>You bring the Harmonic Tuner forward, aim, and fire.
 
|-------|
 
>The unicorn rears back in shock. "Celestia and Anonymous are WHAT?!"
>"Yes, madame, they're in independent flight and triggering harmonic cascades in the engines of Wing 2! We've lost half already; if we don't do something we'll lose the entire group!"
>"But I was told Celestia had little to no magic... how are they doing this? Explain immediately!"  
>"We believe it's being done via a standard maintenance tool; our engines are vulnerable to the effect due to the overcharge you ordered!"
>She bites on one of her perfectly pedicured hooves with worry. "Well... well then, cancel the overcharge at once! And capture them while you're at it!"
>"But madame... that would require us to discharge the engines! We wouldn't be able to move for several days afterward!"
>"And are several days of immobility worse than having the engines completely destroyed and the ship lost?"
>"W-well, no madame..."
>She stomps her hooves in frustration. "Then make yourself useful and do as I say! Nooooowwwwww! And don't forget to capture themmmm!" With each word her tone gets a little whinier.
>The young officer runs off and she can feel the anger starting to pool within her. Her face contorts, snout scrunches, teeth grind, and then... she smiles, eyes shining with happiness.
>"It's fine! Yes, yes, completely fine! I believe I'll step outside for some air! You there, take charge here!"
>She trots from the bridge toward the flagship's open deck, a skip in her step.
 
|-------|
 
>"What in the hay are they doin' now? They've stopped movin' completely!"
>Mac smirks, then bites the scruff of Applebloom's neck to peel her away from Applejack's hoof, gently setting her down on deck. "They've discharged their engines, so they can't move fer a while." He turns to the yellow filly. "It's okay, sugarcube, the worst'a it is over."
 
>The filly looks up with frightened eyes. "R-Really?"
>The stallion nods. "Eeyup. But now we need ta get Anon 'n Celestia back. There's nothin' more they can do out there." He gestures over to a panel near the deck's railing. "AJ, fire off a flare and let's get the hay outta here."
>The Dawn Star begins to turn away, much more slowly this time due to the damage it sustained, and once again locks its course on Equus Island in the distance. An orange flare rockets into the sky and ignites above it, bathing everything nearby in a soft light.
 
|-------|
 
>The shine of the flare is unmistakable, but Celestia's focus is elsewhere as she dodges magic bolts and pegasi. You pat her neck three times to get her attention and she notices the flare as well.
>With a beat of her mighty wings she carries the two of you back to the ship. Soon enough you're out of range of the unicorns' magic and the pegasi give up the chase in order to help their comrades as they originally intended.
>The remaining ships make no move, either, as if they've suddenly lost power. In cases like these you've found there's no point in questioning your good fortune, so you pay it little mind.
>You don't even bother to look back. You only have one goal: reach Equus as fast as possible. That ever so familiar feeling of dread is creeping up on you once more and every instinct you have is screaming at you to flee.
>Celestia touches down on the deck of the Dawn Star and lays down to allow you to dismount. As you do, you run an encouraging hand through her mane and scratch behind her ears a bit.
"Well done, Cel. Looks like we made it back in one piece."
>You notice she's panting for breath, though she's smiling all the same. "It's... been a while since I've exerted myself like this... but it was oddly thrilling, too."
 
>You run over to the controls where Mac is standing.
"How'd we do?"
>"Lost one of the stabilizin' turbines. Our turnin' speed is a lot slower now, but forward speed an' acceleration should be the same. Pinkie ended up takin' out four ships, and y'all got three."
>Applebloom hops around you, her confidence restored. "It was the most amazin' thing I ever saw! It was like whoosh, boom! An big brother was flyin' the ship, an' Miss Celestia was flyin' like a Wonderbolt, an..."
>Applejack scoops up her sister. "Okay now, suguarcube, you can tell 'em all about it later. Anon's got stuff ta do now."
"We on course for Equus?"
>"Eeyup."
"That's all I need to know."
>You punch the throttle and the ship rockets off.
 
|-------|
 
>It wasn't until she was standing out on deck that she realized the extent of the damage the fleet suffered during the battle.
>Seven ships sunk, three of which are probably beyond repair. Great columns of smoke climb into the sky from the wreckage. Thankfully the rescue crews did their jobs and everypony is safe.
>But even so, she has failed. The retreating silhouette of Anon's ship in the distance is a testament to that fact.
>"I am Rarity."
>She trots to the bow of the flagship, speaking to no one in particular.
>"A great crime against fabulosity is about to be committed, and I would rather abandon my title of fashionista than live with myself knowing that I didn't do everything I could to stop it."
>Her horn glows and a dazzling series of sparkling gemstones levitates into the air around her. Carefully, she arranges them into a perfect pattern.
>"Anonymous... Celestia... Applejack... I will not forget this day. I will not forget this ignominy. From Tartarus' heart I stab at thee."
 
>Her horn shines again and a beam of light strikes the first gem. The beam jumps to the second in the series, then the third, the fourth, and beyond as it continues down the line, refracting and amplifying in power with each jump.
>At last, when it reaches the end, the beam is blinding in intensity, and it rockets toward the retreating airship in the distance as the gems used as focal points for the spell melt and waft away in the air.
>She turns and trots away. There's no need to watch the rest.
>"Until we meet again, darlings."
 
|-------|
 
>The sky darkens and a thin beam of light rips through the Dawn Star's helium frame, damaging one of the main turbines and several stabilizing fins in addition to punching entry and exit holes through the structure itself.
>The ship shudders from the assault and immediately begins pulling off course. You grip the controls and fight them with all your might in an attempt to regain control.
"Dammit, what just happened?!"
>Mac runs around trying to get a better vantage point to inspect the damage. "It ain't good; whatever they hit us with did a number on the frame! We ain't gonna be able ta stay airborne without some serious repairs, so we're flyin' on borrowed time."
"Shit... do you think we can make it to the island?"
>He ponders. "Ah'll have ta run some numbers, but maybe. It's gonna be close fer sure."
>The stallion heads below deck to perform the ancient arcane magic of fancy mathematics, but you know no matter what answer he comes back with you have no real choice. You -have- to reach Equus or it's all for naught. You keep the throttle at max while constantly correcting your course with the controls to compensate for your damaged main engine.
 
>Celestia calmly paces the deck as you fly, though she remains oddly silent. Applejack stands at the stern of the ship, looking back at the rising columns of smoke that are rapidly disappearing in the distance with a scowl on her face. Pinkie helps Mac out with the math (?!) and planning the ship's repairs while Applebloom watches on.
>The land below you transitions to water again as you cross the threshold of the Inland Sea. Since you're constantly losing altitude due to the escaping helium, the water is much closer than it was before. Strange dolphin-like creatures leap from the waves, following along in your wake.
>Mac eventually returns, but he has no answers other than to tell you that once you land the ship won't be flying again for quite some time. You turn and stare up at the sun's position... it must be a little past noon, now. A glance down at your wrists confirms your worst fear.
>The Geas is gone.
>You grip the controls even tighter, as if doing so would increase the ship's speed in some way.
>"I see somethin'! I can see somethin' out there in the distance!" Applebloom does a little dance of joy near the ship's bow.
>You squint your eyes to be sure, but...
"That's really it. It's Equus!"
>Pinkie bounds over to get a look, along with Applejack and Big Mac. "Tarnation... even from this far out, it's huge!"
>There's no mistaking it; you could tell the island's distinctive shape from anywhere. It looks especially familiar considering how close to the water you are on your approach.
>The island is essentially a giant volcano that descends straight into the sea. There's nothing on the volcano's face but barren rock so steep that attempting to climb it would be suicidal.
>The true Island of Equus lies within the volcano's caldera; a place overrun with life, where the sun has limited influence and many wonders await.
 
>Celestia trots over to stand by your side. Again, it's hard for her to find her words, but she eventually speaks.
>"This is a great triumph for us, but we can't enter the island the normal way as things stand."
>She's right about that. The normal way to enter the island is via a great bridge that stretches from the mainland across the sea to the volcano, where a huge gate has been carved straight through the mountain to the caldera. Since you're approaching from sea you can't take this option.
>The way you were intending to enter, through the volcano's top, is now also impossible due to the fact that you can't gain altitude anymore. The ship's belly scrapes the water for a bit, then leaps back into the air as if to accentuate that point.
"We'll worry about it later. We just need to reach the island..."
>You check once again to ensure that the throttle is maxed out. It is, but even so, that feeling of dread grips your heart, and you find that you're shaking with fear.
>A pony's nose nuzzles your shoulder and you turn back to find Celestia staring at you with comforting eyes. She still looks tired, her mane and tail are a mess from all the flying, and the feathers in her wings are sticking out all over the place.
>"Remember?"
>That's all she says, but the conviction behind that single spoken word is more than enough. You smile back and your trembling stops.
"I do."
>And then you hear it. That distinctive crackling sound in the air. It's a steady pattern, but you'd know it anywhere.
>How many times did you awaken in your home to this sound, to start another day?
>How many times did it haunt your dreams, and you'd wake to find nothing was there at all?
>There's a flash of light and the crackling thunders in your ears. And when the light fades, there, standing on the deck before you, is Twilight Sparkle.
>"Hello, Anon."
 
>Your blood runs cold and your fists clench. This is no projection. This is no illusion. She's actually here.
"Twilight..."
>The purple mare pants a bit. "Whew! I had to chain-teleport the rest of the way here once I reached the fleet." She lifts a purple wing. "I'm not as fast as Rainbow Dash, I'm afraid. Not -yet-, at least..."
>She folds her wings again and looks around. "Oh, you've brought some new friends with you this time. Hi Applejack, hi Pinkie Pie. How have the two of you been?"
>Pinkie waves her hoof excitedly. "Hiya, Princess! We're going on an adventure!"
>Applejack scowls. "Howdy, Twi. How's the whole rulin'-with-an-iron-hoof thing been treatin' ya?"
>Twilight smiles. "It's been great!" Her ears fold back and she blushes. "But I have to admit, most of my time lately has been devoted to wedding planning. I've had to leave some of my responsibilities in Luna's hooves as a result."
>Applebloom scurries over. "Oh! Oh! Who's gettin' hitched, Princess?"
>Twilight beams. "Who else? Anon and myself, of course!" She turns on the patented Sparkle Bedroom Eyes. "That's why I'm here... to retrieve my errant, but deliciously sexy groom..."
>She takes a step forward, and you almost take a step back until you realize that you need to stay at the controls to keep the ship on course. Your hand constantly touches the throttle as a reminder that it is, in fact, maxed out. You peer around Twilight to the island in the distance... if you can stall her for just a few more minutes...
>Applebloom scratches her mane. "Huh. I don't get it. I mean, I'm pretty sure Anon loves Celestia, but ya say he's marryin' you? Weird."
 
>You see Twilight's eye twitch and a few strands of hair pop out of place in her mane and tail. All the other ponies present aside from Applebloom and Pinkie have looks of shock on their faces... holy fuck that was the worst possible thing she could've said...
>"W-Well, Applebloom, you'd be wrong! Anon loves me, and only me! He just doesn't realize it yet!" She takes another few steps forward, but Celestia moves in front of her to block her from reaching you.
>Twilight flashes a crooked grin. "Oh, hello, Teacher. I almost didn't see you there. It's funny, but after I ascended I've found that creatures which such little magic barely register in my perception. How have you been?"
>Celestia closes her eyes and shakes her head. "Twilight Sparkle... it pains me to see you like this. I truly thought you were prepared, but it seems my teachings were deficient, and you were not ready for the burden of true power or leadership, though admittedly a pony rarely is." She opens her eyes again and you see only sadness reflected in them. "I'm afraid, once this is all over, that I'll have to take back the crown until such time as you can prove you are truly worthy of it."
>Twilight laughs. She laughs so hard that tears spill forth from her eyes, which she wipes away with a hoof. "T-Take back the crown! That's rich! Look at you! I mean, really, look at you! You're NOTHING! I can feel it! Can you even lift a teacup now, or even one of your own feathers?" She shakes her head, a few giggles still escaping her lips. "You say it pains you to see -me- like this?! For me to see my former teacher, the pony I looked up to above all else, in such a pathetic state, pains ME!"
>The purple alicorn's eyes narrow. "You need to face it, Celestia. I've beaten you. The sooner you admit it, the sooner you can move on."
 
>Celestia's eyes narrow in response. "And you need to understand, my student, that I made you, and I can unmake you if I so choose. Even if not one of my lessons ultimately took hold in your heart, I will see that you remember this."
>Twilight steps back and smiles. "Brave words. I know what you're doing, you know. You're trying to stall me until you reach Equus Island's secondary magic field and force me out, but there's no need for that. We crossed over the primary magic field boundary the moment after I arrived." She closes her eyes and channels some magic, but her horn merely sparks a bit before the light dissipates.
>"Your timing is impeccable. Had Rarity been able to delay you for only a minute more, Anon would already be mine. But now I suppose I'm simply here to give you a warning..." Her smile begins to change into a sinister grin. "This won't work. You're fleeing to your own prison." She giggles. "But go on, don't let me stop you. Run and find another Orb of Ascension if you want. Just remember that you'll never be able to use it..."
>She turns to you. "Goodbye for now, my love. I'll be sending an escort to retrieve you for the wedding." She spreads her purple wings and approaches the rail. "It won't be long, now. The Pleasure Sphere is waiting for us..."
>With a leap and a beat of her wings, she takes to the sky, just as the Dawn Star touches down in the water for the final time. You all grab on to whatever you can as the ship shakes, and you ease back on the throttle a bit now that the immediate danger has passed. After several minutes of coasting on the water you reach the island's shallows and maneuver into a position where you can drop anchor.
 
>You stand at the rail along with your crew and gaze upon the obsidian stone face of Equus Island. A hand trails down Celestia's back as you take in the sight, more to comfort yourself than her.
"Well... I guess we made it. Sort of."
>Celestia sighs. "Yes. It's doubtless that Twilight will send agents to the island in an attempt to capture us, but I'm not too concerned about that now. Equus itself is the real danger."
>You feel the tension in her voice, and a quick glance around reveals that the others can too. Worse still is the fact that she's probably right.
>"But for now..." The white alicorn yawns and stretches, then turns to you and the assembled ponies. "We should rest and lick our wounds while they do the same." She looks over to Applejack. "We have something yummy planned for lunch, I hope? All this flying has made me absolutely famished!"
>The farmpony smiles. "Hold yer horses, there. Ah'll go whip up somethin'."
>Pinkie bounds after her. "I'll help!"
>Mac surveys the damage to the frame. "Ah suppose ah'll get started on what ah can. Can you lend me a hoof, Junior Engineer?"
>Applebloom beams. "Leave it ta me!"
>And with that, you and Celestia are left alone on deck. You sit down and lean back against the pilot's console, utterly exhausted, and Sun Horse trots over and curls up beside you, placing her head in your lap. You humor her with some ear scratches.
>"Applebloom seems to think you love me."
"Well, you know what they say. Sometimes kids are even more perceptive about certain things than adults."
>You can feel her smile, even if you don't see it.
>"Yes, that's certainly true."
>You close your eyes, and the sound of the waves gently rolling onto the island's shore lulls you into a calm sleep.
 
Next Time on Exchange: The Four Friends