~The Jewel Empire - Book 2~ Posting not welcome

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Prince Storm Cloud's point of view.

I heard a knock on the door. “Enter!” I called, waving my hoof. I was looking intently at a map, complete with figurines representing the other kingdoms’ armies.
I looked behind me and saw Princess Luna enter, see-through mane swishing behind her. “Hello Princess Luna.” I said, levitating a figure of a zebra according to a piece of paper pinned to the wall in front of me.
“Greeting, Prince Storm Cloud.” Said the Night Princess. “We have received a message from Princess Twilight in Equestria stating that the Equestrian army is ready for orders.”
I looked up. “Oh, thank you! Now we just need to organise a place for them to enter the Empire.”
“Of course. We will be here helping for a while, as our sister is helping Aka with the changeling soldiers. Please feel free to request my assistance.” Said Luna formally.
“OK. Blue Moon should be back in a moment with the latest update of the storm’s progress. We need a clear spot on the Equestrian border to get the soldiers through safely…” I said, putting my hoof on the map. Luna walked around to the other side of the table and sifted through my notes. I knew she was wise and was doing something worthwhile, so we sat in silence.
I checked a few more bits of paper. Yes, the Clopswanian army would be able to get through there…
Within a few seconds I heard the door knock again and I opened it absently with my magic. Somepony came up near me and saluted.
“Blue Moon! Have you got the storm’s update?” I asked. He and a few other soldiers had been flying over the Empire, carefully checking where the storm was. It was absolutely essential that we knew where it was constantly.
“Yes. It still hasn’t covered the area where the Clopswanian soldiers are getting through, but it’s getting close. As a knight I would recommend getting them in as quick as possible and readying their camp.” Said the Pegasus. I nodded slowly. “The Equestrian border is free, but the storm is getting dangerously close. You’ll definitely need to act now. And also, the changelings have successfully set up base and are ready to fight.”
“Thank you, Moon. That was very useful information.” I said. He saluted me once again, before swiftly leaving the roof. I suddenly heard a huge crash of thunder outside and winced. Those poor ponies outside…
I saw that Luna was levitating notes around her in circles, intently reading each one. I couldn’t even remember what they were all about. Some of it was completely useless though. I’d been working all day, and now it was evening. I wasn’t exactly the best with all this reading, mapping, and planning. I was more into the action and excitement of battle, not sitting in a badly-lit room full of paper.
I decided that enough was enough. I’d done a lot of work, and with my tire and frustration it was probably best if somepony else should take over. Preferably somepony who had the energy to stay up in the night.
“Um, Luna? Is it OK if you could take over from me? I trust you’d do a good job.” I asked the Princess. She looked up at me through narrow eyes.
“OK, Prince Storm Cloud. Thou should get something to eat and some rest. We will work on your map.” Said Luna, walking around the table. “Please inform any close soldiers and guards of your absence and let them know we’re in charge.” I sighed with relief and got up from my chair, to have it replaced by Luna. She brought her notes over and began to work.
I exited the room and walked up the marble corridor. A few armoured soldiers galloped past me. It was very busy at the moment.
As I rounded a corner I saw a mare and a stallion carrying clipboards in their magic, talking hurriedly. The mare scribbled down on her paper extremely fast. Another stallion came and joined them, with a briefcase in his mouth. All the business ponies were also working flat-out, as it was not just the soldiers, knights and generals doing all the work.
I sighed and kept walking. Eventually I found myself in the dining hall, and I saw many ponies leaving and arriving, hurriedly eating their meals before rushing off to do their jobs. I didn’t even both sitting. With my green magic I picked up a small bowl of soup and drank it like tea. I got some buttered toast and wolfed it down. I then grabbed a cup of steaming coffee and poured it down my throat. When I put it down I noticed a unicorn mare was looking at me strangely. She then shook her head and mouthed something.
I suppose I could’ve used better manners.
I began making my way out of the hall. But just as I opened the large door I bumped into somepony.
“Oh!” I said in surprise, looking at who it was.
Lady Gamila.
My whole face flushed red and I shrunk back. And I had no idea why. Gamila just smiled.
“Hey, it is OK.” She said happily. “Have you already eaten?”
I thought about that question. Well, of course I’d eaten! But why was she asking me? Well, maybe she’d get lonely eating by herself… I mean, the other Saddle Arabians weren’t there, so she was by herself…
“No, I was um, just about to!” I replied nervously, my face flushing once again. She beamed.
“Oh great!” she giggled. “Um, would you like to eat with me?”
“OK!” I said. Oh gosh, why did I want to? I barely knew her! Oh well, I was hungry again anyway. And eating took my mind off everything that was going on.
Gamila seated herself down and summoned her magic. She closed her eyes and strained, and I watched as she slowly levitated a cup of tea over. She was using all her energy just for this.
When it was halfway towards her, I suddenly saw her eyes fly open and her magic fail. I gasped and grabbed the teacup in my magic, preventing it from falling.
“Oh, thank you!” exclaimed Gamila in relief, as I brought the cup over.
“That’s OK.” I said, setting it down before her. She leaned over and took a sip, not bothering to levitate it. Wow, I thought. It must be so hard for her… “Gamila, um, do you need somepony to teach you magic? It could be important at this time… just thinking.” I waited in silence. Gamila’s eyes widened and she looked at me.
“Oh my gosh! Yes, of course! I’d love somepony to teach me magic!” she cried in delight. “Oh Storm, can you teach me?” she squealed, her eyes sparkling.
“Sure!” I said. I felt myself squeal inside. I was going to teach Gamila magic! I was so excited! And yet I still had no idea why.
“Oh, when will we start?” asked Gamila.
“Whenever you want! I have more time tonight, if you want to…” I replied, getting more soup.
“Oh, only if you honestly don’t have anything to do. I know you might be busy.” She replied, sipping her tea.
“Don’t worry, Princess Luna took over my mapping job. And this could be important! I mean, if you got into a bad situation, you might need magic to fend for yourself.” I said, rolling my eyes in a friendly manner.
“Yes! Oh, thank you so, so much Storm!” she squealed, bouncing in her chair.
“That’s OK!” I said, feeling my face go red and hot again. “How about you go and get ready, I’ll meet you there in… half an hour.” I offered. Gamila beamed, leaping from her chair and galloping from the room. Gosh, she was enthusiastic.

* * *
I walked down the hall towards my room, where I knew Gamila was waiting with her things. I heard the storm crash outside, but I tried to push it out.
I thought I should let Aka know where I was and that Luna was working. I turned and walked towards my parents’ door, knocking upon.
“Come in.” said a small voice. Aka?
I opened the door with my magic and stepped into her elegant bedroom. Looking around, I suddenly spotted the Queen herself, sitting upon her bed.
Crying.
I gasped and trotted over to her. She looked up at me. Her eyes had large, grey, bags beneath them, her eye whites were red, and her cheeks were deeply stained from tears.
“Mother!” I cried. “What’s wrong? Are you OK?”
Aka sniffed, levitating a book over to her bedside table. She shook her head. “No. And I’m so sorry you should see me like this…”
“But… what’s happened? Is something else wrong?” I asked, hopping up beside her.
“I just… Storm… could I have been a better mother to my daughters?” she asked me.
“I… I’m not sure…” I stuttered. I didn’t know how she acted towards my sisters. I’d never even thought about it…
“I could’ve. I’m a horrible mother.” sobbed Aka. It was awful seeing her crying like this! “I could’ve stopped Wildfire those few months ago, I could’ve listened to her! But I was too busy, caught up in my duties as queen… And now! I should’ve listened to you and the others when you were telling me about the Hiems! I could’ve stopped all this early… given the girls protection… and now they’re gone.” Aka burst into a flood of tears, and my heart cracked in two. Nopony should ever see their mother, their queen, crying like this. It broke my heart!
I put my head beneath her chin and shuffled closer. Her tears hit my face.
“I’m so sorry Storm Cloud. You could have your sisters now, but instead you have a careless, foolish mother who can’t even save her kingdom without help.” She muttered, turning her head away. I opened my mouth to retaliate. “No. You can’t argue.” She said, sighing.
All of a sudden I heard a creak and hoof-steps.
“Storm? I was looking for you, I thought you’d…” I turned to see who was at the door. Gamila. Her eyes widened. “Oh, I’m so sorry… it’s a family moment. I’ll just…”
“No, Gamila. Storm’s coming. Just leave me be, son. I can sort it out myself.” Said Aka, nudging me. I sighed and got up, walking towards Gamila.
She gave me a questioning, longing look, but I shook my head, closing the door behind me.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from King Whirlwind's point of view. Be prepared to meet a brand new character...

I beat my wings as hard as I could, trying to get to the border, soaring through the night. Flare swooped along behind me, trying her best to keep up.
“Whirlwind… I’m… getting…. Puffed…” she panted, flapping her violet wings.
“I know, but we need to get out of the Empire,” I said. “And I can’t slow down. You can do it!” She strained and flapped.
I steadily maintained the force-field around us, which was protecting us from the storm. But it wouldn’t last if the Hiems noticed it was the King flying through…
All of a sudden there was a huge flash of lightning. I gasped, slowing to a stop. I looked overhead and saw we were in a very dangerous spot. The clouds were terrifyingly large and black, and I could hear the screeching. Flare squeaked in fear.
As I watched the storm carefully, just about to move along, I saw some leap out of the clouds. A white, ghostly face, with yellow, slit eyes and swirling aqua mane. It screeched, baring its fangs.
A Hiem has spotted us.
Flare screamed as it leapt towards us, lightning bolts shooting down either side. I gasped and yelled to Flare, blasting a jet of magic behind me.

“Flare! Fly downwards, now!” I yelled, shoving her. I continued shooting at the Hiem. It was trying to come towards me, screeching. All of a sudden my huge jet of glowing magic hit the horrid creature square in the chest. It screamed and fell, wings bent and withered. I watched in shock as it plummeted towards the earth, when all of a sudden it vanished. Into thin air. It’s body disintegrated, turning into snowflakes. My mouth fell open. It was getting creepier and creepier.
“Whirlwind! Hurry! More will see you!” cried Flare, halfway towards the forest beneath. I nodded and swooped down to her, catching up. Together we shot to the ground, flying into the forest.
We went through the canopy and soon landed. The woods were dark, and wind blew onto us. The trees cast long shadows from the moonlight, and I shivered. Flare stepped backwards and bumped into me.
“Sorry.” She muttered, head down.
“It’s OK. Come on, let’s find a place to rest. We’ll try to go by hoof until we reach the edge of the Empire.” I said reassuringly, and she nodded nervously.
We began to walk through the dark. The forest was thick and black, with creeping vines and sparkling leaves. It was so scary by night. And the fact it was probably swarming with manticores, dragons, and other strange creatures didn’t help.
Soon we were going up a slope. So far there was no noise in the dead-still place except our hoof-steps over the soil and leaves.
We reached the top of the hill and I looked around. Just more forest. I sighed and kept walking down.
A few minutes later we were on flat ground. We must’ve been in a bowl. A dip in the woods. I heard a small flutter in the tree-tops and Flare whimpered, jumping near me. I put my wing over her. I’d known her so long, she was almost a daughter to me. And yet I barely knew anything about her past…
All of a sudden we reached the edge of the trees. A clearing? That was abrupt. I stepped ahead when suddenly I spotted a silhouette against the undisturbed night sky of the forest.
A stone castle.
Crumbled, tall, scary. Bricks lay scattered through the bushes and grass, near the ancient castle. Where did this come from? In no history books I’d read so far it mentioned anything about a palace, other that the one I lived in, Laheb City Palace.
“Wow.” Muttered Flare. “Do you think its safe to go in?”
“Well, there can’t be anypony living here. Nopony can even survive in this forest. Come on, it’s the only practical thing we can sleep in for the night.” I replied, walking forward. I beat my wings and flew up, shooting to the top of a crumbling wall. I alighted upon it and Flare landed too.
I walked along the wall to a tower, entering it. There was a flight of stairs leading down. I lit up my horn for some light and descended.
As I went down, a few bricks broke and fell beneath my hooves. Flare treaded lightly, watching where I walked so she knew where to step.
We soon reached the bottom. We were standing in a large hallway, a disintegrated rug stretching down to the end. I stepped onto it and it dissolved beneath me.
“Well, it’s pretty old.” Muttered Flare, walking slowly before me.
Our hooves echoed around the place. I looked around, seeing many large holes in the ceiling. I saw the stars from inside a hall.
We came to the end of the corridor, and saw a wide flight of stairs. Oh good, another floor. I trotted up, trying to find a nice place for the two of us to rest.
We arrived at the top, in a shadowy hall surrounded by rooms. The doors were missing, and you could see into some rooms through holes.
I walked along, and soon found a nice room. It had no holes except for the window, which amazingly, still had it’s glass intact.
“Flare! Over here, I found a room.” I called. She galloped over to me and peered in.
“Cool,” she started, when all of a sudden there was a noise.
“Who goes there?” called a nervous male voice. I gasped, stepping back. A shiver ran up my spine for some reason. “Get out! Get out of my home!”
“It’s OK! We don’t mean to harm you!” I replied. Flare whimpered and ducked behind me. She was being very scared at the moment. “Please, step into our sight! We honestly mean you no harm!”
“How can I trust you?” whimpered the voice.
I sighed. “Because I’m the King. Please, come out.”
“The King?? Oh my! Oh please… don’t hurt me! I’m coming out now.” Replied the voice. I watched as a dark figure came out of the shadows.
Yes, it was a pony. A unicorn, tall as Flare. He was dark grey, with black, swirling mane and tail. His eyes were shining blue, hooves dark navy, and cutie mark two waves of black and blue sparkling light. He timidly stepped towards us, then collapsed in a bow.
“Your highness, King… um…” Wait, how didn’t he know my name?
“Er, Whirlwind.” I said, beckoning for him to stand. “How come you don’t know me?”
“Sorry, your majesty, I never learned the names of royalty… I’ve barely even come into contact with other ponies…” he muttered. He was rather thin for his age, and appeared to be in his teen years. And although his body seemed dull and worn, his eyes were bright and lively.
“Who are you?” asked Flare.
“First, come into my room. You clearly are in need of accommodation.” Said the colt, leading us into his room. The moonlight lit most of his dark, spacious area. In the corner was a roughly-made bed.
He sat down in a shadow, and we sat in front of him. “Do you live here?” I asked, looking around. “Please, tell us about yourself.”
“Um… OK.” He said quietly. “Well, I lived here all my life. I’ve only met a few other ponies before. I never knew my parents.”
“Who taught you everything? Who fed you?” asked Flare.
“Well, when I was born my parents died. I’m not sure what from, but my ‘mother’ said they may have died in the forest. It’s so dangerous after all.” He replied. “When I was a newborn I was picked up by a dragon. She raised me in her cave, and taught me everything. Speech, magic, food… you know.”

“Wow! More please.” Said Flare, resting her chin on her hooves as she stared at him. She was very interested in this story.
“OK. Well, when I was about 6, my mother, her name was Venia, was killed by merciless dragon hunter ponies. I was terrified, now completely scared of other ponies. I found this place, and lived here. But before she died, Venia told me my history. She managed to determine it by looking at me, studying me, asking me random things, and looking closely at my talent.” Continued the colt.
“Oh! Oh!” cried Flare. “I have some questions. One; what’s your talent? And two; you still haven’t told us your name, silly!”
The colt blushed from embarrassment. “Right, well, my talent is darkness. I don’t really know if it’s very different from other’s talents, because I’ve never seen other magic before. And my name is Tenebris.”
“Tenebris? Whoa, that’s a cool name! And darkness? How in the name of Celestia do you do that?” asked Flare.
Tenebris shrugged, lighting up his horn. It was black and blue magic. Out of the tip of his horn came a dark, silhouette-like swirl. It danced around, then branched out. It coated the place in dark, sparkling shadows, blocking my vision.
That was special magic. Never in my very long life had I witnessed such a unique type of magic. Darkness was an element! A natural thing of no light! And this young, abandoned colt could do it as easily as levitating a spoon.
“Oh my stars!” I exclaimed, watching as he sucked the shadows back into his horn. “You have an extraordinary talent! Tenebris, when we come back from our mission I’d like to have you be taught at the palace by,”
“No! I can’t! Not royalty! I can’t go to the palace! I don’t even know where it is… and there are ponies there! Oh, and your wife would be there too… Sorry your highness I can’t.” said Tenebris, turning his head away.
“What? What’s wrong? Why can’t you meet royalty?” asked Flare in disappointment. “Is there something missing in you story? Wait! Your history! You haven’t old us what Venia told you!” Tenebris’s pupils dilated.
“Well… um…” he muttered. “OK. Well, please, please, don’t kill me for it. But, Venia told me I’m very likely to be the very last living descendant of the Shadows. Apparently they tried to take the Empire hundreds of year ago…”
“The Shadows? Really? I thought they were all gone!” I exclaimed, surprised. I felt like I should be wary of the colt, but something made me ignore it. He was so shy, so innocent… so lonely. “And the Shadows are supposed to be, through births and marriages and a long line of ponies, related to the wicked unicorn who tried to take over the Crystal Empire a few years ago. Something like… King Sombra. Wow.”
“I’m so sorry… please don’t be mad.” Whispered Tenebris.
“Oh no! We’re not!” said Flare. “That’s amazing! Hey, you’re really lonely here by yourself. Do you want to come with us?”
Tenebris gave a questioning look.
“We’re going on a quest to save my three daughters. You may not have noticed, but the Empire’s under attack by these creatures, and the ruler said they took the princesses…” I sighed. “Please, we need all the help we can get.”
“Please?” said Flare.
Tenebris looked at the floor, searching for an answer. “How about we talk in the morning. I’m tired.” He said, and with that final word, he put his head down and shut his eyes. That was quick.

* * *
“Come on, Flare. Get up.” I whispered, nudging the filly with my nose. Early morning light spilled in the window; the first I’d seen in many days. Flare’s eyes slowly opened.
“Morning.” She groaned, rolling over. As she stood and stretched her wings, I saw Tenebris was sound asleep in the corner.
I made my way to the door, ready to leave. “Whirlwind! Can’t we let Tenebris know where we’re going?” whined Flare, staying in the room. I sighed.
“No, come on. He clearly doesn’t enjoy other ponies’ company, so leave him be.” I replied. She sighed.
“Fine.” She muttered, following me. We began walking down the hall to a broken wall at the end where we’d fly out of.
We soon reached it and I spread my wings. I was just about to jump when suddenly there were galloping hooves behind me.
“Wait! No!” cried Tenebris, charging up behind us. He was woken pretty quick. “Um… I want to do something more with my life than be a hermit here… can I come with you?”
At his words Flare’s face lit up. “Yes! Whirlwind, can he come?” she beamed. I folded my wings.
“Well… OK. But you can’t fly. How will you come when we start flying again?” I said.
“Well, I can either use a flying spell, I’m not sure if you’ve seen it before, or teleportation.” He replied.
“That’s good enough! Come on, Whirlwind!” said Flare in satisfaction.
I chuckled and shook my head. “OK. We’re just flying down to the ground, then walking. Just teleport down there, OK?” I said. Tenebris nodded. Suddenly his horn lit up and he vanished in a puff of shadowy flames. I spread my wings and leapt from the castle, swooping out. I went over a couple of walls and towers, before soaring down onto the grass below.
Tenebris galloped over and Flare alighted beside me.
“Alright? Let’s go! We’ll head straight for the Empire’s border. From there… well… it’ll just be a pile of wild guessing.” I said. Flare smirked. I then began walking towards the edge of the forest, prepared for my dangerous journey ahead.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Onyx Charmer's point of view. Onyx and Marta belong to my sister -MartaRules-, and Arrow and Dragon Stone belong to Eeveeprincess01. Colour in o my lineart by -MartaRules-.

“Marta! Run! Now!” I yelled, charging down our house’s corridor. My wife Marta stood in the kitchen, preparing tea.
“What?” she cried, as I leapt behind her.
“Get out! The roof’s collapsing!” I said, shoving her. She gasped and galloping towards the door. Leaping up onto it she tried to get it open.
“It’s not working!” she whined, shoving. I could hear the roof crack. I looked at the ceiling and saw a large break coming from the corner to the centre. I shoved Marta aside and tried myself. I used my yellow magic to try and get the door open. I turned the knob and pushed.
“Oh no! We must be snowed in!” I cried. Marta whimpered in fear, seeing the roof get a big bulge.
All of a sudden plaster fell, sprinkling the floor. Marta cried out.
“NO!” I yelled, watching the ceiling explode open and debris fly randomly. Without thought, I grabbed Marta’s shoulder and teleported.
The fire disappeared around us and my breath came back a moment later, as the two of us were thrown out of my teleportation tube. I landed hard in a pile of snow, and Marta landed next to me.
But I could barely stand before I felt the snow, rain and hail pound down on us. We needed shelter! I looked around frantically and spotted a carriage going into the castle gates. They were open! We were in Laheb City!
Marta was already up. She spotted the carriage as well and we both ran over. Yes, I knew that going into the castle with no permission was trespassing, but we needed to get to shelter. All of the buildings around we already buried.
The carriage swiftly went through the gates and we both galloped after. As we got into the dry, safe area of the castle, the guards opening the gates spotted us.
“Hey! What are you two doing here!” asked one of them. I opened my mouth to answer, but the other spoke.
“No, Forest. Look. We need to get him to the Queen urgently.” Muttered the other. Marta whimpered.

* * *
The guards calmly led my wife and I into the palace. It was amazing. I’d never set foot in the castle, and it was magnificent! The stunning white marble and gorgeous decorations made Marta’s eyes sparkle as we walked down the corridors.
Soon we came to the throne room. They showed us in and we nervously made our way to the centre of the room. Upon the large marble platform, on a silver throne, was Queen Aka. With bags beneath her eyes she sorted through some notes.
When the Queen spotted us, we both fell into a bow.
“Rise, my subjects. Are you in need of something?” she asked wearily.
“Well, I’m not actually sure. We came here by accident, and your guards led us to you,” I started.
“Your highness, please look at the cutie mark of this stallion.” Said one of the guards gruffly. Aka looked suspiciously at me and got down to us.
“Oh my stars! Oh, dear colt we’ve been looking everywhere!” she exclaimed.
“Er… for what exactly?” I asked awkwardly. Marta giggled nervously.
“For an archery squad captain! In fact, we don’t even have a squad yet. State your full name.” said the Queen.
“Onyx Charmer.” I said. Excitement bubbled deep inside me.
“Well, dear Onyx Charmer, is your talent archery?”
“Oh yes, he’s the best archer in the Empire!” exclaimed Marta proudly. “I actually watched him get his talent and saw him practise!”
“The best? Oh, you’d be perfect!” said Aka. “Mister Onyx Charmer, will you serve the Jewel Empire’s army in becoming the captain of the archery squad?”
My jaw dropped. My eyes popped. C…captain of the archery squad? For the Queen? For the Empire? I was lost for words. I literally couldn’t say anything.
“Er, your highness, that means yes.” Giggled Marta. Aka smiled in satisfaction.
“Oh, hold on. I do know of somepony who can also do it. I honestly can’t do it be myself.” I said nervously. The Queen looked at me in interest. She gave me a ‘go on’ look. “I know a stallion in Equestria with an immense amount of archery skill, who would do perfectly.”
“What is his name? I must contact him immediately.”
“Arrow.”
* * *
After waiting a while, the doors of the throne room burst open. A unicorn soldier used for teleporting Pegasi and earth ponies to the palace came in, and two others followed.
A grey Pegasus mare with short, red and black hair came into the room alongside a yellow-brown earth pony stallion.
“What’s wrong? Oh, your highness!” exclaimed the stallion. He bowed.
“Huh? Arrow, are you OK? Why are you on the ground?” cried the Pegasus.
“Stone, I’m bowing.” Muttered Arrow, rolling his eyes.
Aka chuckled and walked over. “Hello, my Equestrian friends. Onyx Charmer here has requested you come. Arrow, is it?”
“Yes, Queen Aka. And this is my friend Dragon Stone.” Replied Arrow.
“Dragon Stone? Oh, what is your profession?” asked Aka.
“My job? Oh, yeah, I train dragons in the Everfree Forest.” Replied Stone.
At her words Aka’s eyes lit up. “You, you train dragons?” Stone nodded. “Oh my stars! You two are perfect! Arrow, if it is OK, you may lead the archery squad alongside Onyx Charmer, and Dragon Stone will you train dragons for our army?”
“Train dragons for the army? YES!” cried Stone, leaping into the air and doing a loop. “I won’t let you down, your highness.”
“Thank you so much you three! It’s great you can do it on such short notice. Dragon Stone, I will introduce you to your training grounds soon, Onyx and Arrow I will help you begin to hire archers from over the Empire.” Said Aka.
My hind legs started stomping up and down with excitement. I was going to lead an archery squad for the Queen, and I was not going to let the Empire down.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Frost Bite's point of view. It should be interesting, I hope. Frost belongs to hdmwolf, and the art is also done by her.

“Ugh, Aqua, turn the light off already! I can’t sleep!” groaned Moonflash, putting a pillow over her face. I rolled my eyes and continued staring at the ceiling, watching Aqua’s shadow move.
“You’ve been studying for hours.” Muttered Emerald, sitting up in bed, hair ruffled. “Aren’t you tired?”
“Nup.” Mumbled Aqua, turning the page in her magic. Moonflash moaned again.
“Wait, what are you reading about anyway? I kinda lost track.” I said, rolling over and peering across Lunar’s sleeping bag to where the unicorn read her book intently.
“Hm? What? Huh?” moaned Lunar, eyes opening. “Why’s everypony still awake?”
“Wow, Lunar, how are you even still asleep?” I asked, surprised she hadn’t been kept awake by the pony next to her. The alicorn shrugged and flopped her head back down onto the pillow.
“I’m trying to find out more about Hiems.” Said Aqua. All of us had been stuck in her cottage for a few days, arguing about the Hiems. Turns out they were quite real, as Golden Bubble had charged into the house the previous day screaming that she saw a creature in the clouds. Even though we’d already seen a Hiem in the city square, we needed more proof. That sealed it.
Aqua suddenly slammed the book shut, making us all jump. Moonflash cursed and shoved her face deeper into the pillow.
“I know what we need to do. And it won’t be easy.” Said Aqua seriously. Bubble, Rainbow and Solar snored in the corner. “Wake them up.” Emerald smiled wickedly, making us giggle, as she leapt to her hooves. She stood on her hind legs over Rainbow who was between the others…. and started doing the can-can. Without a tune, she yelled out.
“Wake up Rainbow Bliss! Wake up! Wake up Golden Bubble! Wake up! Wake up Solar Eclipse! Wake up!” she hollered, making us fall into random fits of giggles and Flash to growl unpleasantly.
“Crap!” yelled Solar, jerking up. Her eyes bulged, then she noticed Emerald.
“Sweet Celestia!” gasped Rainbow, seeing Emerald dancing on her sleeping bag.
“Ohmygoodness!” Bubble jibbered.
“And, they’re, awake!” said Emerald finally, spreading her front hooves out wide. A green and pink striped sock slipped off her hoof and landed on Rainbow’s face.
“Why… did you have to…. Wake us…. Up?” mumbled Solar, yawning.
“Aqua has an announcement.” Said Emerald in satisfaction, trotting back to her bed and lying down.
“OK, everypony. Now, in order to get a better look at these creatures, we need to… well… capture one.” Said Aqua. There were a few gasps and mutters. “It’s going to be really hard, but the storm is surrounding Naracolt and we may be able to get a Hiem.”
“OK, genius, let’s catch a Hiem. One problem; they’re freaking dangerous! You even said it; ‘frost bite comes at a single touch’, ‘magic powerful enough to freeze a pony solid’ you know!” said Flash.
“I know, I know. But six of us here have horns, and Solar and Lunar are alicorns! They’ll have stronger power than all of us.” Replied Aqua.
“We’re not that strong,” started Lunar.
“You two are taught by Celestia and Luna themselves. Of course you’re strong.” Aqua rolled her eyes.
“Well, tell us the plan!” I said.

* * *
“Is it done?” asked Lunar. Flash came out of the sheep-shed looking pleased with herself.
“Yep!” she said proudly. Flash had just been making a small contraption used to help get the Hiem. Lunar nodded and trotted into the shed. We watched a few dark blue sparks fly from the shed as she enchanted it. Soon she was out, dragging the thing behind her. It was a large, metal cage on wobbly wheels with a door. Just something to keep the Hiem in when we caught it…
“Alright everypony? Let’s go!” said Aqua. All eight of us set off to capture a Hiem. And it wasn’t going to be very easy.
Just a kilometre from the road out of Naracolt was the raging, booming storm. It was coming closer and closer, making its way along. Over the past few days we had been preparing; making a safe place for all of Aqua’s animals, organising a shield spell to be put up, taking fragile and valuable things inside… that sort of thing. Rainbow and Flash briefly whizzed around town telling everypony to do the same, so we all hoped it would happen.
We all trotted along, with Lunar leading the wobbly, creaking cage along with her magic. It bumped over the gravel as we headed slowly to our destination.
In a moment we were fully out of town, walking along a country road surrounded by green fields. But the green didn’t last long; up ahead we saw everything completely coated in snow.
Aqua then made a quick turn, opening a gate into a paddock. On the other side a shepherd ran along, herding his sheep out with the help of a dog. He probably wanted to get them as far away from the storm as possible.
We ventured through the short, munched-on grass to the edge of the paddock. We all stood by the fence as Lunar placed the cage down near us.
We were only around one hundred metres from the storm. The wind power was incredible, and my grey mane blew around my head furiously. I shielded my eyes from the oncoming snow.
I watched Solar put up a spell. Her orange magic swirled around and encircled her, the aura connecting with her body. It made a huge glow, and her coat flashed. Then it was gone. I knew that Solar had a tough past, one that forced her to have real flames for hair. This meant she needed a special spell that she performed now and then to protect her from water. If water completely drenched her hair and put it out, she could die.
All of a sudden a bolt of lightning blasted down near us. Emerald squeaked and jumped out of the way.
The storm was upon us.
Swiftly our ankles were buried in snow. I began to shiver. Even I was cold, and I was a snowflake-maker.
“Hey! Look at us! Look down here, you filthy creatures!” yelled Flash. She jumped up and flew a few metres into the air. “Come get me!”
“Flash, be careful…” said her sister. Flash winked. But all of a sudden she gasped.
A white face came out of the clouds, yellow eyes glaring at us threateningly. It opened its mouth and hissed, its weird mane spreading and flaring.
It dove towards Flash, and she screamed. The Pegasus took off. The Hiem leapt from the clouds and took off towards her.
It had huge wings and a slender build, and was way faster than her. We all galloped along beneath, very anxious. “Flash! Fly as fast as you can!” I yelled.
“Go around in a circle! Bring it back! We’ll try to get it!” cried Lunar. Yes, we knew the Hiem could hear us. But all it wanted was to kill Flash. It blasted her with jets of icy light, but she easily dodged it.
“WOO HOO!” she yelled, zooming like rocket around in a circle. She flew back towards us, and all of us, except Rainbow, readied our horn.
“One!” yelled Aqua.
“Two!” cried Lunar.
“THREE!” hollered Solar. All of a sudden bright blue magic burst from my horn and shot towards the Hiem. My magic was not made to hill, more to sedate. As were the others. Flash dodged our blasts but it hit the Hiem, enclosing it with an array of colours.
It screamed and stopped still. Its legs spread and it screeched as our magic pierced the body. All of a sudden there was a flash and the creature dropped to the ground. Flash landed next to it.
“Knocked out completely!” she exclaimed. “It’s safe to carry it over now.”
Lunar nodded and grabbed the Hiem in her magic, bringing it towards the cage back at the fence. By then you wouldn’t even know that this place was a grassy field, it was so snowy.
We got to the cage and Lunar violently threw the unconscious body inside.
“Come on, we need to get going. We’ll get spotted again if we don’t move.” Said Aqua. We all nodded in agreement and made our way home.

* * *
The door slammed behind Solar as she finished performing shield spells. The rest of us had gathered in the lounge room, with the big cage in the centre. The unconscious body lay in it, waves of freezing cold emitting outwards.
Emerald threw a jet of light at the fireplace, which burst into flames.
“Whoa… they’re so weird up close!” said Bubble, putting her hooves up on the cage bars. “Ow! The bars are cold!” She drew them back quickly. Flash sniffed.
I had a close look at the Hiem too. The coat was silky smooth and very shiny. It was almost icy, but not quite. The ears were long and pointed. The horn, smooth and curved. The hair swished without wind in the same manner as Celestia’s, and was rather translucent. The same sort of hair came out of its ankles. Its armour was made from magically hardened lapis lazuli, and it was very pretty indeed. Its bent wings were large, and its body shape was the size of a normal pony, but the shape of an alicorn princess.
All of a sudden there was a little bit of stirring. The Hiem’s feet shifted. Abruptly, from the corners of its eyes erupted a swirling aqua aura.
“Look! It must be awake! The aura’s back!” I whisper-yelled to the others. They gasped and looked intently into the cage.
As if it had magical speed powers, the Hiem leapt to its hooves. It gave me a fright at how fast it did it.
“Aqua! Quick! Get rid of its magic!” cried Rainbow. Aqua gasped and shot a jet of light at the Hiem’s horn, which encircled it with light. All of a sudden there was a bang and it was gone. Aqua had temporarily ruined its horn.
“Stop!” hissed the Hiem in anger, baring its terrifying fangs. “What have you done to me?” its voice was not normal-sounding, but it was good speech.
“We just became the first ever ponies to capture a Hiem.” Said Flash, holding up her hoof. Bubble hoof-bumped it.
“Shut up and get me out.” Whispered the Hiem dangerously.
“No. We can’t let you out. You and your Queen have destroyed half the freaking Empire! You don’t deserve to even be alive right now. And yet you’re here.” Replied Solar.
“Our Queen is noble and brave. It was rightfully hers in the first place. How do you think it feels to be frozen in ice for 3000 years?” screeched the Hiem.
“It’s your fault. If you hadn’t taken the Empire all those years ago and just stuck with Death Points, you would’ve been happy!” replied Aqua. The Hiem looked at its hooves.
“Come on, you know it,” put in Flash.
“No! It’s not my job to know. I’m just…. A Hiem. I’m not supposed to know anything, just do.” Said the Hiem, turning away.
I suddenly felt sorry for this creature. What did they do, really? And now it was in a cage.
“I have a question, and please don’t be offended. Are you male or female?” I asked.
“Female.” Muttered the Hiem. Oh, a girl.
“Do you have a name?”
“I don’t remember.” She replied.
I was beginning to get a better image of her. Like she was more pony. She still freaked me out, amazed me, and gave me an impression she had no feelings, but a pony I guess.
“Do you give yourself a name?”
There was silence for a moment. The Hiem had her back to us. All of sudden she whipped around, fangs bared.
“No! I can’t have a name! I’m just a Hiem! Just an ant, slave to the Queen! Leave me alone, ponies.” She spat. “The only reason I’m speaking to you is because you’ve cut off my magic. With my horn working the Queen can channel magic into me, which makes me do what I do. And I can’t help it.”
My heart snapped. Then I did feel sorry. “Are you,”
“NO! Go away. I don’t want to speak to any of you ponies. Leave me be.” She hissed, lying down and curling up.
Flash opened her mouth to yell at the Hiem, but Rainbow shoved her hoof into her mouth and we all walked out of the room.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Tenebris's point of view. Not overly proud of this one for some reason...

Beneath the shelter of the thick forest canopy, the three of us traipsed slowly along. The rain and snow could barely reach us, so it was a relaxing trip.
I trailed along behind my new friends Whirlwind and Flare. Well, my first friends. It was so strange to be able to talk to somepony after about ten years of solitary life, and it wasn’t so bad.
Apparently Flare hasn’t seen her parents in years either, and she was the same age as me when I lost Venia, when her mother apparently abandoned her. She seemed reluctant to talk about her past, but boy she could talk a lot.
The light was fading fast, and woodland creatures began coming out of hiding and scuttling around. They fled from the other two but were calm around me. Animals were the only things I spoke to anyway.
As a small crash of thunder boomed behind us, I scurried up and walked beside Flare. She smiled when she saw me.
“Hello Tenebris!” she said.
“Um… hi… I saw you just a few minutes ago.” I replied awkwardly.
“I know. You’re supposed to walk with us!” she giggled.
“Oh… um, OK.” No, I didn’t know how to properly converse with others. Flare smiled and turned to Whirlwind.
“Whirlwind, where are we stopping for the night?” she asked him.
“There’s a small town on the border up ahead. In the morning we can get out of the Empire.” He replied.
“Oh goody!” said Flare, jumping as she went along.
We came down a slope and the trees thinned. Looking overhead I noticed that the sky was clearing, and the storm was soon behind us. We walked down the hill the trees were so thin they vanished.
Near the bottom of the slope was a small dirt track, lined with hedges and neat trees. We stepped onto it and started off towards our destination.
I began to get nervous. I’d never been to a town before. It was probably full of lights and buildings and ponies… I was worried.
In a few minutes we were at the edge of the town. Unlike the landscape we’d passed, the town was untouched by the horrid weather. There were many streets, with neat little buildings, what I knew were ‘fences’, and lights lit the dark place. Happy ponies stood outside, drinking different drinks and having chats.
The three of us began to walk down the street. At once two mares spotted us.
“Oh, girls! It’s the king!” They said to their other friends. They all looked over. Whirlwind smiled and approached them. All the mares bowed down. Actually, they looked more like older fillies.
“Oh, your highness!” exclaimed what seemed like the eldest. “What brings you here?”
“Hello ladies! I was wondering; is there any place we can have some accommodation?” asked Whirlwind politely.
“Oh, there’s always my,” started one with a giggle.
“Shut up Sunny. It’s the king…” growled her friend.
“Ignore them, your majesty. Just down the road is the Bar Hotel, which provides quality overnight rooms. Hope it helps!” said the eldest. Whirlwind smiled.
“Thank you girls!” he called over his shoulder as we walked away.
We trotted along the street to where the filly pointed, and we were headed towards a three-storey building with the lights on. I heard many voices inside.
Whirlwind opened the door. We came into a large hall, with chairs and tables around. Ponies were seated here and there, and there was a bench on the other side of the room. Behind the mare at the counter was a shelf with bottles lining it.
As we came to the bench some ponies around gasped and muttered, surprised by the King’s arrival.
Flare and I stepped back as Whirlwind spoke to the mare at the counter.
“Some ‘high-quality accommodation’.” Muttered Flare.
“What’s wrong with it?” I asked.
“Pfft, it’s just a village pub. I mean, why would Whirlwind want to stay here?” she replied.
Just as I was about to say something, a group of fillies approached us. They were about the same age, but smaller, obviously. We were both rather tall.
“Hey, handsome.” Purred one. “What are you doing here?”
“Girls, he’s here with the king. He must be important.” Said another, giggling.
“Do you wanna get a drink with me, muscles?” asked a third. Flare growled.
“Oh, go away you horrid fillies!” she huffed.
“Why? He’s clearly not yours!” hissed a filly.
“Wait, aren’t you that adopted princess living with the royals?” asked one.
“Yeah. And this one’s mine. Go away and bother somepony else.” Said Flare dangerously, putting her hoof around my neck and dragging me over to Whirlwind.
“Hey, come on. We’ve got a room upstairs. A suite, because I’m the king.” He said, winking. Flare smiled, poking her tongue out at the fillies scowling behind us.
We walked up the stairs. For something that Flare called a ‘village pub’ this place wasn’t that bad. The hall was painted soft blue, with varnished wooden stairs and rails. The lighting was soft and not harsh on my eyes.
When we reached the corridor we walked along it, arriving at a door at the end by the balcony. Whirlwind levitated the key into the hole and opened the door.
We entered the room. Wow, I thought! It really was rather nice. I hadn’t slept in an actual bedroom other than my pathetic little hole in the castle, so this was pretty fancy for me. There was a bathroom, some little tables, a balcony, a double bed, and two single beds, amongst other things. Flare charged up to one of the beds and leapt onto it.
“Weeee! Yay!” she cried, laughing. She buried her head into the soft pillows.
I smiled and gently got onto mine, and it was soft. I sighed, sinking into the fluffiness. My bed I had conjured up years ago, so it was old and rough. This one, on the other hoof, was ten times better than mine had even started out! I rolled onto my back and stared at the white ceiling.
“Comfy, you two?” asked Whirlwind. Flare nodded. “I’ll just duck downstairs and grab a couple of small meals.” He then left.
“Oh, isn’t this great?” I said quietly.
“Yes! Oh, it’s wonderful!” replied Flare.
“And we get meals! I’ve never tried an actual dish before.” I said with a sigh.
“Really? Wow. You need to.” She said.
Within a few minutes Whirlwind arrived back in our room, levitating a tray. He set it down on the table in the corner, and sat down.
I gasped and ran over to see. On the tray were some little meals that I’d never seen in my life. I levitated one up to my eye level.
“What is it?” I asked.
Flare looked up. In her magic were two bits of food, and her mouth was full. She swallowed. “A sandwich! They’re delicious. Try it!”
I brought it to my mouth and took a bite. I chewed the ‘sandwich’. Wow! I thought. It was amazing! It was really nice! I chucked the rest in my mouth and gobbled it up, grabbing two more. I was really hungry now.
I stuffed down both sandwiches and looked at which else there was. In a small bowl was some orange liquid, with small herbs sprinkled on top.
“Pumpkin soup.” Said Flare through a mouthful of something. I nodded and got a spoon, dipping it into the soup. I brought it to my lips and put it in my mouth.
Oh, that was good. Hot, sweet and delightful. It warmed me up and I smiled. I quickly chugged the rest. Tonight was going to be rather nice.

* * *
Whirlwind shook my shoulder gently and I woke with a start. I wasn’t used to being woken by anypony.
“Morning, kid. Come on, get up.” He said quietly. He then walked away from my bedside.
I looked over and saw Flare groaning with a pillow on her face. “I don’t wanna get up… go one without me….” Said her muffled voice.
I stepped out of bed and stretched. Whirlwind was over by the bench assembling his armour. Flare’s armour sat scattered on the floor by her bed. I watched her sheets ruffle around and suddenly the alicorn fell out of bed with a thump.
“OW!” she yelled.
“Flare? Are you OK?” I asked cautiously.
“Mm. Morning.” She mumbled.
I shook my head and went to join Whirlwind. “Morning.” I said quietly.
“Hey. Ready to go?” he asked.
“Go without me! I’m happy here!” called Flare from the floor on the other side of her bed, waving her hoof.
“Come, lazy.” Replied Whirlwind rolling his eyes.
It wasn’t long before Whirlwind was completely ready and Flare had finally put her armour on after a bit of complaining. She joined us at the door. “Let’s go!” said the King. We exited the room and stepped into the corridor.
We walked down, descended the stairs, and arrived in the dining area of the bar. There were a few ponies having breakfast, and they all looked over at us. The mare at the bar spoke.
“Aren’t you going to stay for breakfast, your majesty?” she asked.
“No thank you. We really need to get going.” Whirlwind replied. “Thank for that accommodation! It was wonderful.” And with that, we marched from the building onto the streets.
We walked down the road, many ponies walking around near us going to work. A few muttered and whispered at the sight of Whirlwind, but he ignored it.
We came to the edge of town and found a small stream, with a lovely wooden bridge over it. We crossed and entered a lovely pine forest.
There was a track through the forest. This place was clearly kept rather tame by the townsponies, as it wasn’t overgrown and crawling with strange creatures. Flowers lined the path pleasantly.
I listened to the gentle wind and birds, patches of morning light shining down. I was beginning to feel rather…. Happy? Like, my heart was lifted. True happiness hadn’t come in such a long time… so why now?
In a moment the track led to a clearing. Right then the happiness was amazing. Overpowering. It just wasn’t natural, especially for me. But it was precisely like every ounce of pain had just left….
“You two, look.” Said Whirlwind in a hushed voice. I looked across the clearing. Hidden amongst overgrown shrubs, vines and bushes, was a tiny stone cottage. Smoke wafted from the spout at the top. Pretty sure it was a ‘chimney’. Somepony was inside. But it was so strange… all alone in such a beautiful forest, was a cottage so ugly and bare.
We walked up to the door and Flare knocked.
“Hello? Anypony there?” she called. It opened.
A tall, thin, dark grey-blue Pegasus mare stood before us. Her mane was long and draped down around her, all black with streaks of navy. Her eyes were faded, cheeks tear-stained, and around her neck was a swirling blue gem attached to a thick piece of leather.
“Can I help you?” she asked. She had a lovely voice, but it was so… gone. So sad. So lonely.
“Hello. We were just wondering… well… I’m not sure. Are you OK?” asked Flare.
“I’m… fine.” She replied, eyes drifting to me. As she saw who I was, she froze. “Come in.” she said. That was odd.
The mare led us into her home. We walked inside. The house was neatly-kept. It had lovely furniture, pleasant decorations…. But the sunlight was blocked by the trees outside. It was dark. It was sad.
“Hello.” She said. We waited in an awkward silence.
“Um… did you want us for something?” asked Flare.
“Yes. There’s something about you that’s familiar.” She replied, looking at me. My ears flopped. Me? I didn’t want attention.
“What’s so familiar?” I asked.
The mare sighed. “You look just like my mother.” she said. Flare gasped.
“Oooh! This is interesting…” she said. “Hey, why are you so sad?”
“It’s my job. It’s my special talent.” Replied the mare.
“What’s your talent?” asked Whirlwind.
“I take away other ponies’ sadness, darkness and pain. And I take it into me. So it’s mine. You must have felt pleasant on your way here.” She replied quietly.
“Yes.” Said Flare, now listening more intently.
“Look.” Suddenly the mare lit her necklace jewel up, and I felt my chest lurch. Swirling ribbons of light drifted from both Flare and I, travelling to the mare’s necklace. I watched as a tear escaped her eye, and she grit her teeth.
“Stop! Stop! You’re crying!” cried Flare. The mare cut her magic off abruptly. “Why would you do this? This is tearing you apart!”
“Yes. But it makes other ponies happy. That’s all I want.” Tears spilled out and hit the floor with little splashes. It was painful to watch.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Princess Flare's point of view. Sorry it's short, but it reveals something....

“Ssh, ssh.” I whispered, putting my hoof on the mare’s back. Her body was cold. As sorry as I felt, all the pain had just… vanished. My chest was light, my heart lifted, and I was happy. The memories of my dark past made no difference. This mare possessed the ability to take away anypony’s sadness… only to take it into herself. The hurt and sadness built up inside her would be dreadful, and experiencing no happiness at all would kill me.
“I’m OK. It happens all the time.” She replied in her dull voice. “I can’t help it. And if it makes you guys happy, I’m fine.”
“No, it’s not fine.” I replied. “What’s your name?”
“Maera.” She said.
“Maera. Now, just stop for a moment. Stop taking away our sadness. We’re fine.” I said softly. Using my magic, I gently removed the pendant tightly strung around her neck. I placed it on the table and she looked at me suspiciously.
“Why are you here?” she asked.
“Well, we first just stopped to see if anypony was here.” Replied Tenebris. “But then what you said before…”
“What did she say before?” I quipped, sharply turning to my companion.
“That… well… I looked like her mother.” he replied, surprised.
“You do.” Said Maera.
“What? Really?” I said, getting excited. “Oooh… say more!”
“You… your eyes. They’re exactly the same as hers… and your coat.” Muttered Maera.
“What was your mother like?” asked Tenebris.
“She was one of the two last remaining Shadows. She said a stallion existed.” She said.
“Hold on… I am the last remaining full-blood Shadow.” Said Tenebris, eyebrows raised. “You don’t mean that…”
“We have the same mother…?” Maera’s eyes widened, looking at Tenebris.
My wings flew out from excitement, making the others jump. “OH MY GOSH!” I gasped.
“I have a sister?” exclaimed Tenebris, shocked.
“This is amazing!” I cried. I turned and saw Whirlwind was watching our conversation. His eyebrows were raised.
“My mother, when she left my father and I, must have met your father.”
“My parents are… dead.” Replied Tenebris.
“Don’t worry.” Sighed Maera. “I never liked my mother. And my father died when I was little.”
“Oh, I’m sorry. You’re older than me then.” Said Tenebris.
“Yep, I have a little brother now.” Said Maera, giving the first smile she’d shown since we arrived.

* * *
We walked towards the door. Whirlwind stepped outside, so Tenebris and I followed.
“Do you want to join us?” asked Tenebris.
“I don’t know….” Mumbled Maera.
“Oh PLEASE?” I whined, running up to the Pegasus. “Come on, I need a girlfriend with me.” I gave her puppy eyes.
“Oh, um, I’ve never had a friend before…” she replied.
“Then it’s settled.” I said, walking up behind her and giving her a shove. “Let’s go!”
“Flare! You have to ask Maera properly.” Scolded Whirlwind, with a slight smirk.
“Don’t worry. I’ll join you. I can fly, if that helps?” she offered.
“Perfect, to make up for the uselessness of the unicorn.” Added Tenebris, smiling.
“Yay! Oh this is great! All four of us! Yay!” I squealed, trotting over to Whirlwind and Tenebris.
“Oh, hold on,” said Tenebris, running inside. He came back out a moment later, levitating Maera’s pendant.
“Oh, thank you,” started Maera.
“No! Bad. This is painful to you, so we’re keeping it during the trip.” I said, grabbing it from Tenebris and holding it away. Maera gave me a cranky look, before rolling her eyes.
“OK.” She said. I smiled.
“Then let’s go!”

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Princess Wildfire's point of view. Sorry it's short, but it's a filler.

“Hurry up you two! I can’t hold it much longer!” yelled Sparkle Flame, straining. I glanced behind me and saw her, standing knee-deep in snow with her mane swirling violently around her body. Out of her horn she projected a large, blue force-field, that she had recently discovered. The particular type that was able to hold back storms not created by ponies.
“We’re trying!” I yelled over my shoulder, as a huge rock went flying above my head. “Careful Fighter!”
“Sorry,” she muttered, continuing to blast at the rock in the hillside before us. We were busy building a cave in the mountainside. We hadn’t been able to previous nights, because Sparkle Flame had only discovered her new spell that morning. “I’m getting puffed, Wild, you take over.” Panted Fighter. I nodded and went into the hole she’d dug. I used all my magical strength to shoot a huge jet of magic at the wall in front of me, sending rock flying.
After I’d went in deep enough, I began going around in circles, creating a round room. I spotted a few loose rocks, and broke them away. Fighter entered and helped a little more.
“We’re gonna need a door…” she muttered.
“Oh, a boulder will do. I galloped outside into the snow and spotted a round boulder just above. I levitated it carefully out of the snow, and went back.
“It’s going to break! Everypony into the cave!” yelled Sparkle. I gasped, dropping the boulder. I charged inside, and all of a sudden there was a huge bang. Sparkle Flame screamed, as the storm came rushing back in, tons and tons of snow wafting at 100 miles an hour towards us. As I joined Fighter, Sparkle grabbed the boulder, ran in, and shoved it firmly into the entrance.
“That…. That was scary.” She puffed, head down.
“You did awesome! Thanks Sparkle.” I said. She smiled, looking at the floor.
“Ugh, but now we need to sleep here. And I’m SO hungry!” whined Fighter.
“Look, I will figure out a way to feed us. While you two sleep, I’ll practice something.” Replied Sparkle, lying down. I nodded and curled up in a corner, with Fighter joining me.

* * *
"Look around, my little Princess Wildfire. We have both been stripped of everything. Cutie mark, jewellery, family, surroundings. We are both pure now. So tell me, who is the greater being? Me, or you? The soft little obedient Princess Wildfire or the Queen Wildfire who turned the mess of an empire into a glorious land....?"
“No, no....”
“NO!” I yelled. My eyes flew open. Sweat dripped down my forehead. Oh, a nightmare. I shook my head. Ever since my whole ordeal, I’d been having horrid dreams about Evil Wildfire... she was so awful.
From the corner of my eye I noticed that Sparkle was sitting in the corner, with her horn lit up. Sparks were flying everywhere. I knew not to disturb her, but I watched. Her eyes were shut and she was biting her lip. All of a sudden the light vanished.
“Ugh!” she cried in frustration. I saw her eyes drift to me. “Oh, hey Wild.”
“Hi. Got a spell yet?” I asked.
“Pff, no. But I promise I will. I know I’ve learnt one, and it’s used to fill empty stomachs with nothing, to make it feel full. But I think it also means you don’t actually even need to eat, gaining the nutrients and fat you’d need. It was be really useful, if only I could remember...” she replied. Oh, that sounded interesting...
“I know you can do it, Sparkle. You’re amazing.” I smiled.
“Thanks Wild.” She replied.
I wrapped my head back around my body and stared at the wall. What were we going to do? There was no way out of Latinix’s hell-hole, and if Sparkle couldn’t figure out the spell it was likely we’d die... and we couldn’t stay in the pit forever! At that moment Sparkle Flame’s magic was the very thing we all depended on....
I sighed and closed my eyes.

* * *
“Wild. Hey, Wildfire.” Whispered a voice in my ear. I gasped and awakened, seeing Fighter before me. “Sparkle and I are just going to try to get some water. You stay here, K?”
“Sure. Is there anything you’d like me to do? I’m bored.” I replied.
“Ah, yes. Would you be able to make our space bigger? And if you find anything that can be added, please do.” She said. I nodded and smiled as Fighter followed Sparkle out. Sparkle braced herself, then opened the boulder. The moment she did so she threw up a force-field around herself and Fighter, before pushing the boulder shut again.
I shivered and looked around. Our pit was small, rocky, and dark. Lovely. For somepony used to living in a palace this was rubbish. Well, for anypony! I sniffed and stood up.
I lit up my horn with warm magic and began to blast the wall away. I shot huge jets of magic at the rocks, carving it slowly away. Stones whizzed everywhere as I dug deeper.
Soon the cave was rather spacious, and I’d done a pretty good job. The roof was high enough for a little bit of space above our heads, the floor was smooth, and it was good enough to live it. I mean, you literally couldn’t get any better than this here.
I then tried the spell I used in our old cave. That mysterious, strange little floating flame. And Sparkle said she’d never seen magic of the sort! She was practically the magical queen here, so how did that work?
I sighed and lit up my horn again. The tip began to sparkle and glow with orange light. The glow expanded, when all of a sudden the tip of my horn caught on fire. I gasped, as the small flame exploded and leapt from my horn, floating outwards. It travelled away from me then hovered in the very centre. I looked at suspiciously, feeling the warm glow against my freezing face.
My horn then lost its glow, and the only light provided was the flame floating above the ground. I smiled in satisfaction.
Looking around, I saw bits of rock lying randomly around. As I lit my horn up again, the rocks were surrounded by orange aura, until suddenly they all vanished. The place was perfect.
“Oh well.” I sighed, sitting back down.
Quietly, I waited for my sisters to return.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Midnight Swooper's point of view. (Even though in My Documents I accidently named it Muder Rose. XD)

My hooves thundered over the frozen street. Ponies all around us screamed in terror and pain, and it pierced through my ears. Rose ran ahead of me, and I tried to keep up. Her legs were longer than mine. And I was getting tired. My wing was injured badly so I couldn’t fly, and I was terrible at running.
“Rose! We need to get out of here!” I called.
“Hold on! I need to see what’s going on!” she replied, not looking behind. I shivered and drew my cloak over my head as I forced my legs to move faster.
“In here!” said Rose. I gasped as she made a quick turn, and I slipped sharply on the ice. She dashed into a building and slammed the door behind us.
I stopped still and began to pant. We were in a shop, and it seemed to be one of the only buildings not snowed in or destroyed.
“Why is this place OK?” I whispered.
Rose looked around, eyes narrowed in their usual way. Suddenly she stopped. “Enchantments.” She muttered. “There’s somepony here.”
Rose snuck across the room and opened a door, where she drew out of her ruby-studded dagger. I silently followed.
All of a sudden Rose sprang around a corner, lifting her dagger up high. A pony before her screamed.
“No! Rose! Stop!” she screamed. My partner was just about to hurl the knife when all of a sudden she gasped. She dropped the dagger and it clattered the floor. I held my breath.
“Oh, Angel! I’m so sorry! I should’ve known.” Muttered Rose.
She stepped back and a tall Pegasus mare came out of the shadows. Her coat was a light shade of red, her mane was orange with black streaks. Her wings were tipped black and they sparkled strangely. On her tall black shoes were purple glowing gems, as well as around her neck. Her green eyes glowed in the dull light of the room.
It was Red Angel, the best, sneakiest assassin in the Empire. She was allies with Rose, but I had never met her face-to-face. A shiver ran up my spine. She was creepy.
“Hello Rose. So nice to see you after all this time.” She purred.
“Hello Angel. Wait, who’s putting up the enchantments?” replied Rose.
“My coltfriend.” She said.
“You have a… coltfriend?” asked Rose, tilting her head. Angel nodded.
“It must be strange for you. You kill every coltfriend you ever have.” She said with an eye-roll.
“That’s my strategy. Lure them in, and then kill them the next morning. It works unbelievable well.” Said Rose with a sniff.
Hearing their conversation, I winced. My old coltfriend Star Blade, who had been a member of Queen Wildfire’s court, was locked away after Aka and Whirlwind came back to power. I tried to forget it… but he was special. I was able to escape thanks to Rose.
“Can you introduce us?” asked Rose. Angel gave a small nod and led us out of the room. We went through the dark building to a set of a stairs, which we walked up.
The next room was an old storage area, with equipment and cargo lying everywhere. And in the corner, sharpening weapons, was a unicorn stallion. As well as lifting up the things he was working with, he was providing the enchantments around the building. That was advanced magic.
“Oh, hey Angel.” He said smoothly. He walked up to her and gave her cheek a kiss.
“Glory, this is Murder Rose and Midnight Swooper. Swooper, Rose, this is Dark Glory.” Said Angel, introducing us.
“Hello.” Said Rose. She wasn’t friendly, but kept her distance. She had a way was being wary around other ponies. I nodded and gave a small smile.
“OK, Rose. I was going to ask you something. Now that you’re here, I’ll say it face-to-face.” Said Angel. “I,”
All of a sudden there was a bang and creak. I gasped, leaping behind Rose and Angel.
“Crap, the door’s open!” hissed Angel.
“Somepony’s here!” added Rose.
“Hello? Is anypony there?” called a female voice.
Angel widened her eyes and nudged Rose. She went towards the stairs and stepped down. I followed, keeping my distance. Rose put away her dagger.
We reached the bottom of the stairs and saw the young mare standing by the door. She tried to flick on the light but it didn’t work.
“Um, hello?” All of a sudden she sighted Rose and I. “Oh, thank goodness somepony’s here!”
“Are you in need of anything?” asked Rose sweetly. I loved it when she did that, it was so different from her. It was amusing. But I watched her eyes drift over to me, and her head tilted forward slightly in a tiny nod.
I smiled wickedly.
“Yes, thank you! It’s horrible out there, can you let me stay here?” asked the mare. She and Rose continued to talk as I slunk silently around.
I kept to the shadows and went up behind her. My partner continued the conversation, as I crept along.
I put my head beneath my cloak and drew out a small dagger in my teeth. I maneuvered it around so the handle was in my mouth.
All of a sudden Rose leapt back, making the mare gasp. I leapt into the air, knife aloft. The mare whipped around and screamed, but it was too late. I came down swiftly upon her, as the dagger plunged into her neck. She choked, before suddenly dropping to the floor. I removed the weapon carefully, and not a drop of blood was spilled.
“Well done Swooper!” exclaimed Rose. I smiled, putting it away.
The stair creaked behind us as Glory and Angel came down.
“Perfect! Now we shan’t worry.” Said Angel, prodding the mare’s body with her hoof.
“Should we get rid of it?” asked Glory.
“No, it would take too long. Let’s get out of here.” Replied Angel. She glanced out the window. The storm was raging on.
“How are we going to get out of this place?” I asked. “Those… things, are everywhere! They’re killing off everypony.”
Suddenly Angel’s eyes flashed. She whipped around and stared at me. I shrunk back. “Killing off?” she muttered, her eyes drifting through me.
“Yes… what are you thinking Angel?” asked Rose nervously.
“They’re killing off! They’re killing ponies! That’s what we do! We kill. They kill. What if we became allies….” She exclaimed.
“We can’t be allies with those… THINGS!” argued Rose. She waved her hoof at the window.
“Yes, Rose. We can! I just have no idea how…” said Angel, looking at the floor in thought.
“We don’t even know what they are. They’re not ponies.” I mumbled, agreeing with Rose.
“Come on, we have to. It’s what we do. It’s literally part of us.” Replied Angel, pointing to all the cutie marks around the room. I looked at mine. A bat over a moon. I was a silent murderer. I sighed.
“Rose?”
“Fine. “ she muttered.

* * *
“Run, run, run!” yelled Glory, shoving me along. I leapt up, fluttering my wings. I winced as the pain jolted through me, preventing me from flying. Angel rocketed along in front of us, and I was desperately trying to keep up.
We went up the road of the slope, and we soon reached the top. Angel landed, and Glory, Rose and I skidded to a stop. My hood blew off and my mane whipped savagely around my head.
I looked up and saw a black, circular, swirling storm, with lightning lashing out towards the ground. It was daunting, and I shrunk back.
“Remind me why we’re standing at the top of a hill in a cyclone!” I hollered at Angel.
“Waiting for them to come out! They live in clouds!” she replied, shielding her eyes with her hoof.
All of a sudden there was a crash and I gasped as something leapt from the low clouds above out head. A white, sinister face with piercing yellow eyes, screeching at us.
It leapt towards us, shooting a bolt of icy blue light from its curved horn. Rose leapt forward and threw up a huge, red shield over the four of us, as the creature continued to blast at us.
“Stop! We need to speak! Stop now!” yelled Glory.
“We’re not normal ponies! Don’t hurt us!” I agreed. Rose began to sweat as she closed her eyes.
Suddenly the creature stopped. It looked at us suspiciously and lowered itself to the ground. Angel nodded to Rose and she broke off the spell, before suddenly collapsing into the snow. I looked down with a fright but she shook her head.
“Please. We’re not normal ponies. We want to help you!” said Angel. The creature hissed.
“Can you take us to your leader?” asked Glory.
Abruptly, the creature screeched, lightning its horn. As though nothing happened, it vanished.
“Hurry! Everypony grab my shoulder. I can follow the magic current…” said Glory. Rose shakily stood and I rushed over to the stallion. I put my hoof on his shoulder and all of a sudden we vanished in a puff of flames.
I gasped as I was spewed out of the choking tube onto a hard, cold floor. I groaned as I landed on my sore wing, and stood up. The other three joined me and we looked around.
We were standing in a massive room made of pure ice. Pillars of spiky, white ice stretched to the ceiling. The place was cold and I shivered. Who makes a palace of ice?
I saw the white, thin creature walking down a corridor. Angel began to follow, then Glory, Rose and I went along. We came to a large entrance and walked through to a hall. It was magnificent, decorated with carved ice statues.
At the end of the room was a white pyramid, and upon it was a tall, spiked throne. Seated upon it was a creature.
She looked similar to the others, but she was tall as an alicorn Queen. Her wings were large with spikes, her eyes were yellow with aqua aura in the corners. Her mane swirled down around her, and she wore armour and a tiara of hardened, shiny lapis-lazuli. She glared down at us.
“Filthy ponies! Why are you in my palace?” she screeched, flaring her wings and leaping from her throne at light-speed. I collapsed in a bow along with the others.
“Please, we’re here to become your allies,” said Angel. “We hate other ponies too!”
“How dare you call me a pony?” hissed the creature. “I am the Hiem Queen, Queen Latinix. And joining forces with ponies makes me sick.”
“Hiem?” I asked.
“Yes. Your superiors. And we have powers you’ll never match. If a Hiem touches you, you will get frost bite. We can move at speeds of up to 300 kilometers an hour if we wish. With one jet of magic any pony will be frozen solid in an untouchable block of ice. We can create storms that are way out of range of the feeble unicorn magic or Pegasus wings. And that’s just scratching the surface of our powers.” Said Latinix. “Can you even imagine what I can do? As Queen?”
I suddenly felt very, very small. I cowered down, still in my bow.
“Oh, such powers, your highness. Bu as ponies, maybe some will trust us? We could get closer,” started Angel.
“No! Not now. At the moment your powers are useless to me. I may think about it but now…” all of a sudden Latinix’s horn lit up. Out of the floor emerged huge, spiked pillars. They began to grow, very quickly, encircling us. I gasped, bumping into Rose. Soon the pillars were towering high above our heads. Rose lit up her horn and vanished in a puff of red flames. A few seconds passed before she sudden re-appeared.
“What…?” she muttered. I looked above. There was a gap at the top, but it was tiny and very spiky.
“You can stay here for now. You were foolish to come.” Cackled Latinix as her hoof-steps faded away.

[Kodabomb]

This is written from King Whirlwind's point of view.

As the sun set below the horizon, the four of us made our way through a small town. We weren’t in the Empire any more, and I knew there were a number of neighbouring countries around. I had lost track of what direction we were going in, and we hadn’t been given a clue as to where we were.
As we trundled along, we were given many strange looks, especially Flare and I. We were alicorns, royalty. But foreign, unknown royalty to the locals, so it was fine. We just needed a safe resting place, and a path to get onto to find my daughters.
“Ugh, we’ve been walking for HOURS!” whined Flare, leaning against me.
“Oh stop it, cranky. We’ll find a spot soon. We need a library at the moment.” I replied, shrugging. She got off and continued to walk, her face practically scraping along the road. I rolled my eyes.
“Sorry, your highness, what’s a library?” asked Tenebris quietly.
“It’s a place full of books. You can read there, whatever you like.” I replied.
“Oh… Venetia had a few books that she showed me… Gee, that was a long time ago…” he trailed off.
We came around a corner and soon saw a large building, lights shining down. In large letters was ‘Motel’. Perfect.
I opened the door with my magic and the others filed inside. I followed them and we walked through the lobby. It wasn’t another village pub, just a simple inn for travellers and tourists. I walked to the desk.
“Hello. I’d like to get a room for myself and my friend please.” I said to the stallion. He gave me a strange look.
“Forgive me sir, but are you an… alicorn?” he asked, as he levitated a book in front of him and a pen.
“Yes. Royalty.” I replied.
“Royalty? From where? You’re not the king.” He said, cautiously placing his book down and closing it.
“The Jewel Empire. Just over the border.” I replied.
“Ah, yes. So sorry, your highness.” He said, shaking his head. “Well, here’s the key to room 37, three floors up.” He gave me the key.
“I’ll pay in the morning. Thank you!” I said. He nodded. “Come on.” I beckoned for the others to come. They followed me to the stairs.
We ascended a few flights, then walked down a corridor. I put the key into the lock an went inside. Wow, two hotels in just a few days…

* * *
After paying the stallion at the checkout out of the saddle bag over my back, we all went back out to the streets of the town. I still hadn’t learned the name.
It was barely daylight and my companions were groaning they’d been woken too early, after staying up all night to talk. Well, Tenebris and Flare. Maera was extremely quiet for a filly her age. She looked about Fighter’s age.
Just as we had walked a few blocks, I saw a big, brick building with a book painted across the words ‘Library’. Well, it was a library.
I went to the door and quietly opened it. A mare was bustling around in the shadows, as well as flicking the lights on with her magic. All of a sudden she spotted us and jumped.
“Oh my goodness!” she gasped, putting her hoof on her chest. “So sorry, I didn’t expect anypony in the library this early…” she said, blinking.
“Sorry, ma’am. We’d just like to have a look at some things.” I said.
“Of course. Please, help yourself.” She said in a shaky voice.
I led the others into a shadowy aisle. “OK, you three. We need some maps of the kingdoms around, some history books, books on different creatures, and anything you can find out about the Empire.” I said.
“I can’t read that well…” mumbled Tenebris.
“It’s OK. The others will help. Let’s go!” I said, as they dashed away. I looked at the signs over the shelves. ‘Animals’, ‘Fiction’, ‘Non-fiction’, ‘Foals’ books’, ‘Maps’.
“Maps will do.” I muttered, walking over. In different trays lining the shelves were piles of folded maps. The trays were labelled. I ran my eyes along and saw ‘Staria and neighbouring kingdoms maps’. Perfect! Using my magic I lifted a few of them out. Some were rather old and tattered, but I found a map that was quite new. I returned the others and found a table, spreading the map out.
Staria. Yes, I knew Staria. A very tiny kingdom ruled by the young couple Prince Star Beam and Princess Stellar. Star Beam was an alicorn, descended from royalty, and Stellar was a unicorn. The most recent news we’d received was that the couple was married and took the throne from Star Beam’s widowed mother, who had died of old age. She was a unicorn.
I looked at the map. There was the Jewel Empire, stretching wide across the left side of the page. I saw Staria, a small splodge of land that ran halfway down the Empire’s border. Above it and the top of Jewel Empire was Equestria. Many other kingdoms were around, and I needed to figure out a way to find where my daughters were.
In a moment I heard hoof-steps, and I glanced around to see that Flare was approaching. In her magic she held a pile of books, which were thrown down onto the table next to me.
“Hi!” she said happily, looking over me at the map.
“Hello. Look, there’s Volglacia.” I said. Volglacia was the kingdom of Flare’s origin, but that was all she told us. Nothing about her parents, any siblings, appearance of the kingdom itself or her past in general. I asked her if she could take us there, but she refused, muttering there was absolutely no reason at all to go.
“Yep.” She muttered, grabbing up a book and shoving her nose into the pages to read. I stared at her blankly her a moment, before shaking my head and looking back down.
I ran my eyes over the map, thinking about every single country on it. None of them seemed to have any connection to my daughters or the Hiems… not that I knew much about them anyway. It didn’t make sense… and Latinix wouldn’t have put them too far out of her reach anyway, so they needed to be close. I began to rule out every detail…
“Whirlwind, I have something on the Empire.” Said Maera very quietly. I didn’t even hear her come. She was unbelievable silent. She was flapping her wings as she hovered above the floor, holding the books in her hooves.
“Really?” I exclaimed. “Can I have a look?” She nodded, alighting and giving me the books. I put them on the map and sorted through.
“Strange Happenings of the Jewel Empire… History of the Jewel Empire - Magical Events…. Family Tree and History of the Jewel Empire’s royals… Wow, they must have a whole section on us over there!” I exclaimed.
“Almost. There’s a section to do with different countries around the place. The Empire had quite a lot.” Replied Maera in her tiny, almost whispering voice.
“Good. Thank you Maera! I’ll have a look through a few of these, you take a couple too.” I said. Maera lifted herself off the floor and I levitated the books into her forehooves.
I grabbed the book titled ‘Strange Happenings of the Jewel Empire’. Flicking to the first page I was surprised by the publishing date. It was about 2000 years ago… 1000 years after Latinix was first defeated. It was OLD. I began to wonder just how it had survived that long. Maybe it was enchanted…
I turned carefully over to the index, where a list of chapter were shown, printing in beautiful, old-fashioned writing. ‘Introduction’, ‘Shadows’, ‘Odd Royal Births’, ‘Strange Spell-Makers’, ‘Hiems’… Hiems? I quickly turned to page 214, and the first picture gave me a big fright.
It was an ancient, but absolutely stunningly beautiful illustration, of a Hiem. It creeped me out quite a lot. The white, slim face was exaggerated by the artist, the aura in its eyes swirled around the picture like a border. Slit, yellow eyes pierced out of the page, and the hair around the creature was so beautifully curved and swirly that it looked like it was moving.
I shook my head quickly. Stop gazing at a picture, Whirlwind, and get reading. I told myself. The first paragraph was started with a large, detailed drawing of an ‘H’.
Hiems were strange, unexplored creatures of the dawn of the Empire’s founding. Beasts of such mystery and evil, that nopony of the time wanted to go near them. Events and happenings across the kingdom have been explained in detail, from the curious writers that wanted more.
Hiems were dangerous and cruel. Some authors tried to get close, only to be killed mercilessly by the indestructible beings. It was then that ponies went into hiding, and their Queen slowly began to crush them under the weight of their collapsing houses. She began to crush the kingdom.
Storms were created from an odd source of power, that not the strongest of Pegasi and unicorns could defeat. Lightning rampaged over the earth constantly, destroying forests and killing all things in sight. Snow, ice and rain coated the surface of the ground, thus creating enormous rivers that instantly crushed towns in their path.
But strangely, the Hiem Queen avoided the Palace in the capital, joyfully destroying the rest until the King and Queen noticed. And it was a long time before the foolish couple realised what was going on, letting the Hiems go untouched to ruin their country and kill their subjects.
Survivors said that the Hiems would move at speeds not even the fastest Pegasus could reach, that their magic could freeze ponies solid without effort. If any body part touched the creature, it would be severely inflicted by frost bite. They cast spells and spun around inside the clouds, making small, but deadly cyclones.
It was one night that the royals awoke suddenly and heard of the storm. They went to investigate it, seeing that the weather had reached their palace. They begged whatever it was out there to stop, to be suddenly greeted by the Hiem Queen.
Nopony is sure precisely what the going-ons were that night, but the King and Queen said they had defeated the Hiem Queen and sent her away to an untouchable place far away. To be frozen forever inside the ice. They restored the kingdom to its original state, promising eternal peace for the rest of eternity.
It was then that they named the place ‘Death Points.’
For a few moments I gazed at the paper. I re-read it. I re-read it about 3 times. That was the history of Hiems? It was so…. Unknown! So… strange. All the happenings in that article were exactly what was happening in the Empire. But it wasn’t enough information…
I sighed and my face hit the table. It was getting us nowhere. It wasn’t….
Wait, I thought.
I lifted my face up quickly and read the last sentence.
It was then that they named the place ‘Death Points.’
Death Points? I hadn’t heard of it before… Had I? Death Points… Death Points… Death… Points…
“You three! Come here!” I suddenly called out, ignoring the library silence rule. I had grabbed the attention of my companions, and they nervously approached me.
“Yes Whirlwind?” asked Flare.
“I have a path to get to the Princesses.” I said. The others perked up their ears. “We’re going to Staria Palace.”

[Kodabomb]

This is written from Maera's point of view.

Whirlwind, Tenebris, Flare and I walked up the house-lined road. I looked up and saw an enormous stone wall, towering above us.
The walls of Staria Castle.
We soon stopped at some massive golden gates, beautifully crafted to make lovely patterns. On either side of the gates, as well as on the inside, were black, armoured stallion guards, holding tall spiked spears.
Whirlwind knew what to do, as he walked forward. The two guards slammed their spears down before him, but he didn’t back up or be afraid.
“For what reason do you wish to enter the palace?” demanded one. Whirlwind lifted a hoof across his armoured chest.
“I am King Whirlwind of the Jewel Empire. For good reasons, I wish to speak with your Prince and Princess. I promise I mean no harm.” He said calmly.
“Your highness, please enter.” Said the other guard, lifting away his spear, and opening the gates with his magic. Whirlwind nodded, and I timidly followed the other three through the gates.
We walked up a neat cobblestone track as we approached the main doors.
“Greetings, sirs.” Said Whirlwind to the guards waiting. “I have already informed the guards at the main gate, and they have allowed us to enter. I am King Whirlwind.” He said to them. They nodded, opening the doors.
We then walked into the castle. The entrance hall was magnificent! Gorgeously decorated with statues, painting, and rugs, where the colours contrasted in perfection. I gazed. I’d never seen such beauty. My cottage was so bland. Not that I cared anyway. But Whirlwind keeping my jewel away was helping…
All of a sudden I heard clopping hooves, and out of a door to the side of a hall came a unicorn mare. In her magic she carried a clipboard, when suddenly she looked up and spotted Whirlwind.
“Oh my goodness! Hello there!” she said in surprise.
“Hello. I’m King Whirlwind of the Jewel Empire. Can I request a meeting with the Prince and Princess?” asked Whirlwind kindly.
“Oh… yes, they weren’t expecting any visitors today. It’ll be quite the surprise!” she said breathlessly. “Oh, your highness, I am Diamond Glow, the couple’s royal advisor. Please come this way!”
Flare turned to me and smiled, and I gave her a nervous look.
“Come on, smile!” whispered Flare as she began to walk along with the others.
We ascended a few flights of stairs, with Diamond trotting along in front, levitating her clipboard and scribbling many notes.
We soon arrived in a corridor, and on the side was a large door with a star on the front. “This is their casual room. No royal business today!” said Diamond. She opened the door and entered.
As we went into the room I felt my jaw drop. It was very stunning for a ‘casual room’! With the elegant deep purple carpet, some large, soft couches, books, cushions, tables, paper…. It was nice.
“Your highnesses! I have a royal visitor from the Jewel Empire who wishes to have a meeting.” Said Diamond.
I saw from the corner of my eye an alicorn stallion. He came from around the corner. My eyes widened. He was very…. Handsome. He was the height of Tenebris, with a slender, yet muscly figure. He was a dark shade of navy with lovely white hair and purple eyes. He looked rather casual.
“Oh, hello?” he asked. “Is that..? Oh my stars, King Whirlwind!” he exclaimed, approaching.
“Hello, Prince Star Beam.” Smiled Whirlwind.
“Oh, Whirlwind, it’s truly an honour for you to come and visit today! Please, sit down. You may remove your armour if that’s more comfortable.” He added.
In a moment Flare and Whirlwind were out of their armour and Whirlwind sat on the couch. Flare, Tenebris and I waited awkwardly in the corner, and I watched as Diamond quietly left the room.
“Oh, are these your friends?” asked Star.
“This is Flare, one of my daughters’ friends, Tenebris, and his half-sister Maera. Long story, I’ll explain in a minute.” Replied Whirlwind.
“Please, sit down! Oh, Stellar’s just around there…” said Star, turning his head. “Stellar? Are you over there? Please, come see the guests.” He called.
“Star? Oh, I am so sorry! I thought it was your royal advisors.” Replied a female voice in an elegant, flowing accent. In a moment a pony came around the corner.
She was a white unicorn, with long, beautiful dark blue hair tied back rather messily. She had sparkling eyes, a gorgeous figure… and her belly was swollen largely.
Star got up from the couch and went over to his wife. “Whirlwind and others, this is my lovely wife, Stellar.” He said. “And… we’re expecting a foal.”
“A foal?” gasped Flare. “Oh my goodness! Really?? Congratulations!” she squealed. I face-hoofed.
“Indeed, congratulations to the royal couple.” Said Whirlwind with a kind smile. Star kissed Stellar’s cheek and returned to his seat. She came next to him.
“So, what was it you’d like to talk to us about?”
“Well… we were wondering if you could help us. I expected you would know more about the area and maybe the history, because we have a slight problem.” Said Whirlwind.
“Whirlwind, it’s a MASSIVE problem.” Put in Flare.
“Yes. You see…. Our Empire’s under attack. We don’t know much about them, where they came from… or where they put my daughters.” Said the King. Stellar gasped.
“They got your daughters? Zis is awful! Star, your must ‘elp ze Jewel Empire!” she cried.
“Your daughters? The Princesses? Oh my stars… how can we help? Do you need an army? Soldiers? Archers? Advisors? Anything, just name it,” started Star.
“No. We don’t need any more. We need you to help us with some information. It’s really important, and we think it can help.” Said Whirlwind gravely. He used his magic to open his saddlebag and draw out a book borrowed from the library. “Read this.”
With looks of concern on their faces, Star Beam and Stellar took the book and lay it on the table. Whirlwind flicked to the right page for them, and both started to read.
A few minutes ticked by. I waited in my usual silence, looking around the room randomly. Suddenly I heard a voice.
“Wow. Whirlwind.” Said Star. “You have a really serious case on your hooves.”
“How serious? Wait, you know about Hiems?” asked the King.
“Of course! Death Points is a place that was discovered by some ponies in Staria many years ago. They were able find out more about it, researching a lot. Especially the history of the Jewel Empire. Now Death Points is very well known here.” Replied Star.
“Really? Can you tell us more?”
“It’s absolutely inhospitable. Ponies just…. They can’t survive there. The temperature is unbelievably low, the terrain murderous, and the storms unimaginable.” Said Star gravely. “Are you suggesting that your daughters were taken there?”
Whirlwind’s expression literally flopped over. His deep grey face went white and his ears flopped unnaturally.
“Whirlwind?” asked Tenebris.
“Oh… oh no…” muttered the alicorn, pressing his hoof against his forehead. “Come on, there must be… some way they could survive?” he sounded woozy.
“Look, I have no idea. Nopony been into the depths of the place… what I was telling you are the minimum conditions of Death Point’s centre.” Said Star, shaking his head. He lowered it and stared at the floor.
“Ze Death Points, it is… not a place for ponies. But I sink that your daughters, ze princesses, may ‘ave a chance of survival.” Added Stellar, glancing at her husband for a moment.
Whirlwind perked up. “Really? Um… how?”
“Zey are Princesses, alicorns. Zey ‘ave more power zan ze average pony, zey are strong. Zey ‘ave each other.” Said Stellar, the corner of her mouth raising.
I was just silently watching. This was all coming together… would we have to go to Death Points?
“Can you tell us where this place is? I want to get there… before something bad happens.” Said Whirlwind, now series. He had regained the colour in his face.
“Can we have a map?” asked Flare.
“Yes… probably. Hold on a second.” Said Star. He got up and walked across the room to the bookshelves. We heard a fair bit of rustling, a thump, and a curse, until a moment later Star Beam returned levitating a small wooden box. He set it down on the table near the couch, and we all gathered around.
The box made of wood, carved with lovely patterns and a golden latch. Star opened it and revealed the contents.
There were many old little treasures, like jewellery, gems, some little dolls, paper and more little trinkets.
“These are a few little heirlooms of my family. Not public things like buildings, crowns or clothes, just simple things many families would have.” Said Star. “I know there are some ancient, detailed maps too, that could give you a guide. Death Points isn’t an easy place to pinpoint for many cartographers, even now.” He lifted out three folded, tattered pieces of paper and placed them down very gently. While the others began to have a look, I peered over at the box to see what else there was. A large, silver compass lay at the bottom, an adorable little pony doll with button eyes, a couple of necklaces, three shining gems, and more little things that I didn’t recognise. I turned back to the maps.
Whirlwind had spread an old one out. In the very centre of it was Staria, the Jewel Empire was on the side, Equestria was toward the top, and some other countries were scattered everywhere.
“See, look over here.” Said Star, placing his hoof in the corner. “There’s a large white splodge. It’s faded, but you can see ‘Storms of the Unknown’ printed on it.”
I squinted and had a look. He was right! Upon the splodge of white near some other countries, nearly touching the Empire, were the words. Storms… that had to be it.
“OK, it’s Death Points. It has to be! How would we get there? It’s so far…” said Flare enthusiastically.
“I wouldn’t recommend going until you have a full idea. Right now, I will invite you to stay at Staria Castle.” Offered Star. “I know you need to get onto it as soon as possible, but I suppose you’d like some quality accommodation.”
Whirlwind sighed, glancing at the window. “OK. One night, and you three better behave.”