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Chapter 1: Elsewhere.

Fizzy laughed joyfully as she raced across the fields of Dream Valley, with Northstar following behind her. It was the height of summer, which was Fizzy's favourite time of year. Of course, spring, autumn and winter were Fizzy's favourite time of year too. She was always happy as long as she was with her friends and sisters. Still, it was more than just the warmth of the sun on her mane, the smell of the fresh grass or the gentle breeze in the air that made Fizzy so happy. It was something far greater, that seemed to lend a greater energy to the activities of all in Dream Valley. It was peaceful. Just thinking of it filled Fizzy with excitement, that she hadn't felt since she was a foal. She felt that she could run a thousand miles, she was so excited.

A voice behind her indicated that Northstar did not share her boundless energy:

"Geez, Fizzy, don't you ever run out of steam?" She panted, shaking her purple mane in disbelief, slumping to the ground and resting her head on her front legs. Fizzy cantered around her giggling madly, before settling on the ground next to Northstar. Her green coat, only a few shades lighter that the grass, seemed to shine and her multi-coloured main shook with her gentle laughter.

"Sorry, but I still can't believe it. There's been no sign of Hydia for weeks! Imagine if she's gone forever." Fizzy's eyes sparkled like diamonds at the thought.

"I'd like to think that too, Fizzy, but we just can't be sure. For all we know, she's just lying low, planning her next evil scheme. Anyway, until she does show up again, I'm going to enjoy the sunshine." With that, Northstar closed her eyes, basking in the sun. Fizzy smiled softly; she always liked it when Northstar finally relaxed and took it easy for a while.

"She needs some rest, as much as any of us. She takes everything way too seriously, sometimes." Still, Fizzy was just as restless, nothing seemed to be able to dampen her good mood. Looking across the field, she could see the rest of the inhabitants of Dream Valley were also making the most of the sunshine. Paradise was resting on the grass, surrounded by many woodland animals, as well as several baby Ponies. Judging by their captivated expressions, she was recounting yet another legend from Dream Valley's past. Towards the centre of the field, however, was where the main action was, for Magic Star was organising a game of Frenzy. Even though everyone told her that the rules were easy, Fizzy still got confused sometimes. Still, she understood the purpose of the game perfectly. Originally intended as a lesson for the Baby Ponies, the game had quickly become very popular with the adults as well, for it embodied the spirit of Dream Valley. The aim of the game was to collect the ball from the centre of the field and return it to their home goal. However, victory could not be achieved alone. Playing Frenzy impressed upon the young Ponies the value of co-operation and teamwork, as well as showing them that each of them had a part to play. Even as she watched, Fizzy saw evidence of this as Baby Lofty swept down to snatch the ball away from Gingerbread, wings beating furiously as she raced for her own goal. Suddenly, Windwhistler and Magicstar appeared, boxing her in, attempting to make her drop the ball. Desperately, Baby Lofty threw the ball towards Cupcake, who had a clean run for the goal. Desperately, Cupcake raced forward to intercept, determined to score. From across the field, Ribbon winked out, appearing in front of the startled Cupcake, capturing the ball, dribbling furiously as she raced back towards her team members, caught out of position. Immediately, Shady and Lickety-split gave chase, rapidly closing on the fleeing Unicorn. Knowing that she could never escape the great speed of the Eartherns, Ribbon kicked with all her might, sending the ball into the air, where it was neatly intercepted by Surprise, who shot back across the field. And so it continued, back and forth, each member of the teams using their unique abilities, together, to gain the advantage. Feeling that some energetic competition would be just what she needed, Fizzy got to her hooves and cantered over to join them, leaving Northstar to snooze. Life was definitely good.

# # # # # # # # # # # # # #

Smoke, foul and acrid, rose of the blood-red surface of the scrying pool, shrouding the room from sight. However, the evil stench did nothing to deter the figure bending over it, gazing raptly at the rippling surface. When he spoke, his voice was a silibant, cruel hiss:

"Detestable creatures. So pure. So…good and noble. Still, they will make an excellent addition to my…collection, especially the young ones. Properly raised, who can say what potential they will achieve." He swept from the room and whether his departure changed the air currents, or some other force was at work, the billowing smoke swept aside, to reveal the grass plains of Dream Valley..

# # # # # # # # # # # # # #

Shady awoke to a room filled with shadows, and barely managed to keep from screaming, although she couldn't stifle a small gasp of horror. Dark stones wall surrounded her, jagged like teeth or seeming to resemble cruel, leering faces. Desperately, Shady tried to crawl backwards, to escape, only to find that she couldn't move. Looking down, she gazed in horror at the glowing chains that were attached to metal collars around her legs and neck. The chains ran to the floor, where they were secured to strong iron rings.

"Oh, why does this always happen to me? Maybe I am unlucky, after all."

Shady moaned, her voice trembling slightly.

"If you're unlucky, Shady, then we all are!"

Shady snapped her head around and her face broke into a grin:

"Windwhistler? Is that really you?"

Windwhistler nodded:

"It's us, Shady! And we're not alone in here."

As her eyes adjusted to the gloom, she saw that Windwhistler wasn't kidding. All around the room, every pony from Dream Valley was present, even the baby Ponies and Spike, Molly and Danny.

"Not that anybody has any idea where here is!" Megan added.

Even though she sounded calm, Shady could detect a faint hint of uncertainty and fear in her voice, something she imagined that they were all feeling. They were all similarly restrained, even Megan, who was secured at the wrists. Still, unlike the others, she wasn't chained to anything, and was able to move around. This wouldn't do them much good, as there was no obvious way out of their prison. Still, as scared as she was, she didn't give up hope. She was with Megan, and Northstar, and Masquerade, and all the others. As long as they were together, all was not lost. Still, it was the babies that she was worried about. Even though they were quiet, and nobody cried, she could see in their eyes that they were scared. Clearly, Megan could see it too, for she moved over to them, offering hugs and whispering words of comfort.

"Oh, Megan, I'm scared. I don't like this place!" Baby Moondancer whispered, her voice quavering.

Megan wrapped her arms around her neck, stroking her mane soothingly.

"I know, Baby Moondancer. And I'll tell you a secret; I'm scared, too. But, we need to act brave, okay. Can you do that for me?" She asked, flashing her a warm smile.

"O…okay, Megan. If you're scared, then I guess it's okay for me too be scared, too."

"Good girl." Megan whispered, planting a kiss on her forehead, before turning back to the others.

"I wonder where we are? This doesn't seem like anywhere in Dream Valley that I've ever seen!"

"I don't believe that we are in Dream Valley. From the architecture of this room, not to mention the composite building materials involved…"

"Windwhistler, ah do declare! What are you talking about, sugah?

"I was merely stating that the style evident in this building, as well as the stone-based materials used…" Seeing the expressions on everyone's faces, she stopped.

"In other words, there are no buildings like this in Dream Valley."

"Windwhistler is right." Magicstar added.

"Think back. Hydia's lair, the castle of Katrina, Porcina's Fortress; none of them looked like this."

"Oh, Megan, how are we ever going to get home?" Molly asked, huddling closer to her sister.

"Have faith, Molly. We'll get out of this yet."

"Quiet." Northstar's voice was deadly soft, cutting through the nervous chatter.

"Someone's coming."

Suddenly, every ear was straining, and then they heard it. The dull clank of armoured footsteps marching over stone. All eyes turned to the cell door, waiting anxiously as the unseen people approached. Ominously, the door creaked open and two creatures walked in, moving to either side of the door. With dark coloured skin ranging from black to purple, they looked like large cats, emaciated and cruel, with thin, wiry limbs, vicious claws and snarling faces with jagged fangs.. Wings, powerful and leathery, protruded from their backs. Red eyes gleamed from the shadow of the crude helmets upon their heads and faint growls could be heard. Suddenly, Megan felt the air go chill as another figure entered. He was wrapped in a black cloak that seemed almost like a rippling shadow and he wore a crown made of black metal, jagged like thorns. However, between the cloak, nothing could be seen except two yellow eyes that burned like ice.

His burning gaze travelled around the room, staring at each in turn, seeking some weakness. However, if he was seeking to intimidate them, he would be disappointed. No-one, not even Shady, backed down before him, meeting his gaze with a steely determination. With a short hiss, that may have been a laugh, he moved toward the centre of the room.

"Excellent. Fire of spirit. You will make excellent additions to my research. I have high hopes for all of you, especially these young ones."

"Leave them alone!" Fizzy yelled, struggling against her chains.

"If you hurt them, you will regret it." Masquerade challenged, glaring into their captors eyes."

"Please, we've done nothing to you. Just let us go!" Megan pleaded.

Their captor simply laughed.

"I think not. We have…"

"Lord Kahn!" Came a voice that sounded like stones falling down a mountain.

Kahn turned, as another figure entered the room, the fiery glow that emanated from the fissures in his rocky form bathed the room in a flickering red light.

"My Lord, we are under attack. The tower has been breached."

"Who would dare, Rresk? Unless…Setak, remain and guard these pathetic creatures. Despair and lonliness will make them easier to bend to my will." With that, he drifted out of the door, followed by Rresk, the door slamming shut behind them.

Everyone exchanged concerned glances, until Buttons broke the silence.

"This tower's being attacked. The question is, will it be good or bad for us?"

" 'The enemy of my enemy is my friend'."

Windwhistler quoted.

"This may be just the opportunity that we require."

Ribbon shook her head:

"I hate to rain on your parade, Windwhistler, but that only really helps if you get a chance to actually make friends before the fighting starts."

"Still, the confusion may be useful to us, if we get a chance to escape."

Lofty added, ever the optimist.

Suddenly, every eye turned towards the door, as two loud shrieks sounded, followed by an almost deafening silence.

"What was that?"

Danny asked, nervously.

Slowly, the door creaked open and another head poked in, glancing around quickly, before slipping inside. Despite all that Megan had seen during her days in Dream Valley, she found that she was constantly being surprised and this stranger was no exception. Although he had arms and legs like a human, that was where the similarity ended. His skin was ebony black, decorated with three silver spots that ran across his forehead. His eyes were perfectly blue, with no iris or pupil and silver dreadlocks cascaded around his neck and shoulders. He was dressed in a grey leather jerkin, dark green trousers and a rough travelling cloak with numerous stains that suggested a lot of use on a long journey. He wore a bow across his back and had a sword slung at his side.

Several of the Baby Ponies screamed as he started towards them, and the Unicorn's acted. At the same time, Fizzy, Buttons, Ribbon, Gusty, and Galaxy called upon their magic, desperate to defend the Babies. However, instead of the outburst of power, the chains around them glowed, seeming to constrict the more they struggled to use their abilities.

However, instead of attacking, the figure knelt down, resting one hand on the head of Baby Lickety-split, who had been visibly trembling.

"Relax, little one. I'm here to help." His voice deep and calm.

With that, he reached down, examining the chains that ran around her ankles.

"Hmm. I see. Energy-refracting chains. How typical of Kahn's cruelty. Still, simple enough to deal with."

Grasping the chain with both hands, he closed his eyes, as the spots on his forehead began to glow with a white light. The chain glowed brightly for a second, before splintering into fragments. Swiftly, he moved around the room, freeing the others, then moving back to the door, listening intently for a moment.

"All clear. Follow me, and stay close."

Without waiting for an answer, he opened the door and slipped out into the corridor. Exchanging a look that said they had nothing to lose at this point, Megan lead the Ponies out into the corridor, past the forms of the Setak that had been their fairly pointless jailers. Across the corridor, their rescuer was checking around the corner and waved them towards him, gesturing for quiet. Megan slipped over to join him, with Lofty and Ribbon close behind her. Crouching beside him, Megan looked up at him, whispering:

"Thank you for saving us.

"You're welcome!" His voice was calm, composed, with a faint hum of energy that seemed to accompany it.

"I'm Megan, and this is Lofty and Ribbon."

"Nice to meet you! Syrus is my name."

Despite his clipped replies, understandable given the danger that they were in, his tone still remain warm. Even though he had to keep his mind on the job, he wasn't discouraging conversation, either.

"Anyway, we were wondering what's happening around here."

Lofty asked, gently, as Syrus stepped round the corner and began making his way down the corridor, constantly watching his surroundings.

"Let's just say that you've picked a really bad time to visit. Lord Kahn, whom I gather you've met, is the Master of this tower, and as evil a tyrant as you're ever likely to meet. He's been raising an army, taking prisoners and gathering animals to twist and corrupt, bending them to his will. He would have done the same to you, too."

"He could try." Ribbon answered, her eyes flashing with defiance.

Syrus smiled, before continuing.

"However, his actions have not gone unnoticed. My partner and I were sent here to spy on Kahn and gather information on his actions. We had planned to breach his tower anyway but, when we heard that he'd captured beings never seen in these lands before, we knew we had to take a look. Allowing him to make more additions to his army is unacceptable, as is leaving anyone at his mercy."

"Where is your partner, anyway?" Lofty asked.

"He went to cause a distraction, while I slipped in here through the confusion.' Syrus answered. "Our plan called for us to…"

His stopped as a piercing shriek reverberated through the halls, chilling their hearts, as Syrus flung out his arms to stop them.

"Stay here." He commanded, before advancing several paces, drawing his bow and aiming it down the corridor, just before five Setak rounded the corner, pursuing a large bird about twice the size of the largest Eagle Megan had ever seen. With brilliant red and orange feathers, it did not seem like the kind of creature that Kahn would favour, suggesting that this was Syrus' partner. Around it flickered a strange light, almost as if the bird was generating fire from within itself. This proved to be the case as the bird wheeled about in the air, waving it's wings to send a wave of fire towards one of the pursuing Setak, sending it slamming into the stone wall. However, the creature seemed unhurt, spring back to its' feet immediately and continuing the pursuit. Aiming at the closest Setak, Syrus began chanting under his breath, white light coalescing to form a sparkling arrow, which he calmly fitted into his bow, and fired. The arrow struck the lead Setak in the neck, erupting in a storm of lightning that coursed around it, driving it to the floor with a moan. Even before it finished collapsing, he had aimed and fired his next shot. However, alerted now to the new threat, the Setak dodged aside, the arrow harmlessly whistling past, before continuing its' charge. Seeing that Syrus was about to be overwhelmed, Lofty yelled:

"Pegasus, with me."

She leapt into the air, wings beating furiously as she flew towards the closest Setak, zipping inches past it's head and felt the rush of air as it's jaws closed where she had just been. Before it could react, her hooves flashed out as she passed, striking the creature on its' snout, knocking it sideways. Pony hooves were hard as diamond and, although she hated violence, she was glad that she had them when she in danger. Wheeling around, she took in the fight and saw that there were several Pegasus fighting each Setak, using their superior speed and agility to evade their foes. As she watched, she saw Northstar draw an attack by diving past a Setak's nose, pulling up while staying as close as she could so that the creature was tempted to attack. As soon as it made it's move, Windwhistler swept down from above to land a punishing blow between its' shoulder blades, darting away from the return attack, giving Whizzer an opening. However, the Setak were physically powerful and Lofty knew that it would take a lot of effort to defeat them. Suddenly, Lofty saw that Galaxy had arrayed the Unicorns and Spike together and nodded rapidly when she saw Lofty looking her way. Nodding back, and predicting her plan, she called again, commanding the Pegasus to follow her, abandoning the fight. As soon as they were clear, the Unicorns unleashed their magic, filling the corridor with a mass of lights and sound that nearly drowned out their dreadful wails of the Setak. It was hard to follow exactly what happened next. One Setak was caught by Gusty's wind power and another by Button's Telekinesis and were swept of their feet. Fizzy's bubbles caught under the feet of two more, unbalancing them enough for Galaxy's stars and a fireball from Spike drove them back several paces. Ribbon managed to keep the last two distracted, using her Telepathy to link their minds, overwhelming them with the sudden amplification of bloodlust and rage that they felt, holding them until the other could direct their magic towards them as well. Before they could recover, the Earthern's charge, leaping over the Unicorns, racing towards the stunned Setak. Bounding towards them, they sprang, coming down hard on their heads or backs, driving them to the floor. When the last stragglers Shady and Magicstar had landed, they turned back, their eyes widening in horror as the Setak rose again, despite the punishment they had suffered. Lofty prepared to lead her Sisters in for another attack, when a beautiful sound filled the air, seeming to fill her heart with joy. However, for the Setak, it was clearly less pleasant. Discordant screams tore from their throats and they turned and fled, nearly trampling one another in their madness to escape. Looking up, she saw the fire-bird hovering in the air above them, the air around its' head seeming to ripple slightly and she realised that this was the source of the mysterious song. She started to give a shout of joy, which died in her throat when a lance of fire shot across the corridor, striking the fire-bird in the chest. As it struck the floor, Lofty looked round to see Rresk standing with his arm upraised, a look of cruel satisfaction on his face, as the fire-bird vanished in a burst of flame.

# # # # # # # # # # # #

As soon as Windwhistler saw their rescuer fall, she knew two things at once. One, there was nothing that they could do. Two, they had to leave now, or they would never escape.

Everyone was in state of shock, especially the Babies, and Fizzy and Shady were already in tears.

Her mind worked fast, strategies crystallising.

"Fizzy, Shady, Lofty, Lickety-split, Ribbon, get the Babies moving and keep them together. Northstar, Magicstar, scout ahead. Watch out for Setak and try to find us a way out. Large windows for preference, stairs will do just as well. Everyone else, keep together and keep your eyes open."

She saw Syrus kneeling where his Partner had lain and called:

"Syrus! Come on, we've got to get moving."

Silently, Syrus stood and followed her, and Windwhistler thought she saw a glimpse of gold in his hand. However, she had no time to dwell on the mystery.

With the two Pegasus performing lookout, they would have advance warning of any danger, and were more likely to find a way out than they would by splitting up. Also, by keeping Fizzy and Shady busy with watching over the Babies, they would have less time to dwell on what had just happened. Windwhistler could still not believe it; how their life could go from fear to hope to sorrow in less than an minute. Still, Windwhistler was pragmatic by nature and, however terrible the tragedy was, he had saved their lives to give them the chance to escape. To Windwhistler's mind, not to make full use of the chance that he had given them would belittle his sacrifice.

Ahead, Northstar and Magicstar landed, exchanging excited glances.

"Windwhistler! Everyone, over here."

Seconds later, everyone was standing by a large doorway, looking out at the night sky. Quietly, they slipped through the arch, out into the cold air to emerge onto a large balcony. Tall mountains spread their shadow over the cracked stone and the quiet of the night hung heavy around them.

"Well, this does us a lot of good, doesn't it?" Danny said, a shade sarcastically.

Ordinarily, Megan would have criticised Danny for his attitude, but she knew that he was just blowing off some steam, so she let it slide.

"Actually, Danny, it just might. Look over there!"

Megan strode to the edge of the balcony, pointing to a spot on the mountainside, about 5 feet below them.

"See, there's a ledge over there, and it looks like a path too."

Quickly, the others clustered around, staring vividly at the spot Megan indicated.

"I see it, Megan." Masquerade called excited.

"And it looks like we could jump it, too." Lickety-split added.

"Maybe we could, Lickety-split. But, what about the Babies? It's too far for them!"

Gingerbread put in.

"One thing at a time, Gingerbread. We need to make sure that the ledge is actually safe and doesn't just lead us to a dead-end. Perhaps Heart-throb and I should fly over there, check things out, before we get too far ahead of ourselves."

Lofty could always be counted on to think things through, keeping their feet on the ground.

"Good idea. Meanwhile, let's see if we can close this door, to buy us a bit of time."

Megan said, as the two Pegasus took to the air.

"Leave that to me." Syrus said, his voice sounding flat and hollow. He crouched by the door, chanting softly and a white outline traced around the door, before fading.

"There, that seal should hold even if Kahn himself comes after us."

By that time Heart-throb and Lofty had returned, and there news was hopeful.

"The ledge is safe, Megan, and the path does lead into the mountains."

"Thank you, Lofty. Then, I guess we should get moving."

Raising her voice, she addressed the assembled Ponies.

"Listen up, everyone. Here's what we do. Pegasus Ponies will go first, leading the Baby Pegasus with them. Also, you've carried me for miles, so it shouldn't be difficult to carry across any Baby Eartherns who can't make the jump, right.

The Pegasus nodded, so Megan continued.

"Unicorns go next. Winking over there won't be a problem for you. Everyone buddy up with a Baby to help them out. Once you arrive, both parties head down the path to clear the way for the Eartherns. Eartherns, you'll have to jump. There's no other option. One at a time, to avoid getting in each other's way. And remember, get clear as soon as you land, in case someone is coming in right behind you. Is that clear? All right, Pegasus, let's go."

Quickly, the Pegasus formed up, with Northstar carrying Baby Tiddlywink; Masquerade carrying Baby Lickety-split; Heart-throb carrying Baby Shady; Surprise carrying Baby Sundance; Whizzer carrying Baby Cuddles; Magicstar carried Molly; Paradise carried Danny and Windwhistler carried Megan. As one, they raced towards the edge of the balcony, wings opening with a snap to carry them through the air, sweeping down towards the safety of the ledge. Megan could only hang on, gripping Windwhistler sides with her knees desperately. She knew that there was no real risk, for Windwhistler had carried her for years and had never endangered her, but she couldn't help worrying. However, long seconds later they touched down on the ledge, without so much as a Baby Pony slipping. Quickly, Megan slipped off Windwhistler's back, following the others to the back of the ledge, to clear the area for the Unicorns.

A flash of light heralded the arrival of the first pair of Unicorns, fading to reveal Ribbon and Baby Ribbon. Seconds later, Fizzy appeared, followed closely by Buttons, with Baby Buttons. Then came Moondancer and Baby Moondancer. Finally, Gusty and Galaxy winked in, announcing that they was the last Unicorns to wink across and that the Eartherns were ready to begin their jumps. This was the part Megan had been dreading but, as she was already across, there was nothing she could do but wait and hope.

# # # # # # # # # # # # # # #

Sundance breathed a sigh of relief as she saw Surprise land safely, her precious baby still clinging to her back. While she trusted Surprise with her life and more, it was never easy to trust the safety of your child to someone else. Still, she had accepted the necessity of it and knew that the risk would have been greater if the babies had attempted to jump that distance. At least she had not been alone with her nightmares, for Shady and Lickety-split had been forced to make the same decision. So, they had stood together, watching helplessly as their babies were carried away to safety, Shady sobbing softly, as Lickety-split tried to comfort her. Now that the Pegasus had landed safely, the terrible tension passed, and Sundance felt tears in her eyes as well. While the Big Brother Ponies tended to hide their emotions when in danger, Sundance preferred to feel and accept them, so that they would not distract her later. So, with tears of relief flooding down her face, she nuzzled against Shady, sharing their joy.

Now, however, they had to think about their own safety. Eartherns were the best jumpers in Dream Valley and they had all made longer jumps in their time. However, the risks had never been this great, for if they missed, then there would be no second chances.

Sundance looked around at the assembled Ponies, considering.

Gingerbread, Cupcake, Posey and Cherries Jubilee she wasn't worried about; they were all competent jumpers, calm under pressure. Shady, however, was another matter. While she was actually the best jumper in Dream Valley, with potential that none of the others could match, she suffered from a lack of confidence that could spell her undoing. Sending Shady first would not be wise, as this would just add to her pressure. However, leaving her until last, to make the jump alone, could be even worse. Still, they had to start soon, before they were caught.

"Alright everyone. It's our turn, so let's get out of here. Remember, we've done tougher things than this. Just trust in yourselves and you'll do fine. Gingerbread, are you ready?"

"Are cookies sweet?" Gingerbread joked, drawing a faint smile from the others, before breaking into a run, heading straight for the edge, springing forward to launch herself over the chasm.

Time seemed to stretch into infinity, as Gingerbread sailed through the air. A thousand horrors crystallised in Sundance's mind, imagining Gingerbread plunging into the void, which shattered into nothing as her hooves landed on stone with a clatter, and she cantered away from the edge.

Posey, Cherries Jubilee and Cupcake went next, their powerful muscles propelling them effortlessly across the gap to land safely on the other side.

Now, it was time for her and Shady to jump. However, Shady had backed away from the ledge, clearly afraid.

"Shady…" Sundance began, softly.

"It…it's too far, Sundance. I'll never make it." Shady stammered.

"Of course you will, Shady. You're the best jumper Dream Valley has ever seen. I'll be with you every…"

Sundance stopped, her voice lost as a loud crash reverberated across the balcony, and the wooden door shook as though a massive fist had struck it. Both Ponies backed away, nervously, as the door shook enough to rattle the hinges. Neither Pony needed any further encouragement, they turned and ran towards the edge, spurred on by terror. Behind them, there was a splintering crash and Sundance risked a look back to see a pack of Setak flooding through the door.

"Faster, Shady." Sundance yelled, redoubling her own efforts, the edge of the balcony rushing up to meet them. With a yell of terror, Shady sprang, Sundance right behind her and then they were over open air, the ledge rushing up to meet them. Despite her worries, Shady landed safely and Sundance breathed a sigh of relief. No, she just had to worry about herself. Bracing herself for impact, she struck the ledge hard, four legs evenly distributing the shock, allowing her a gentle landing. Suddenly, she heard a faint cracking and felt the ground shift beneath her feet. With horror, she realised that the repeated impacts of hard Pony hooves had weakened the stone, causing it to crack. Desperately, her feet scrabbled, unable to get any purchase on the shifting surface.

Suddenly, she was aware of something yellow waving in front of her nose and she acted without thinking, her mouth closing around it, her hooves kicking with desperate strength. Without warning, she found herself flying forward, tumbling across the stone to land in a heap against something soft, which gave a muffled yelp. That 'something soft' turned out to be Fizzy, who was staring at her with a somewhat dreamy expression.

"Hi, Sundance." She said, nuzzling her neck gently. Shaking the stars from in front of her eyes, Sundance got to her feet, looking around at the assembled Ponies, relieved to see that they were all okay, especially the Babies. Buttons, Ribbon and Lofty sat next to their children, tails wrapped around them protectively as if they never intended to let them out of their sights again. While the Baby Ponies contrived to look slightly grumpy about this, she could tell from the way that they rested against their mother's sides that they needed comforting too. However, Sundance's eyes were drawn to a tangle of Ponies lying next to Molly. She smiled as she recognised Shady, lying atop Galaxy and Windwhistler. Abashed, Shady slid off them, allowing them to get to their feet. Windwhistler stood slowly, trying to appear dignified, despite the dishevelled state of her mane and the twigs and leaves caught in her coat. Galaxy, however, was laughing uproariously, unable to control herself. Sundance looked towards Shady and gasped as realisation hit her. It was Shady's tail that she had grabbed, stopping her from going over the cliff. She raced over, burying her head in Shady's yellow mane, tears flowing down her face.

"Shady, my precious, my darling. Never, ever, say that you're unlucky again."

Shady blushed deeply, clearly embarrassed.

"It was nothing…" She muttered, looking at her hooves

"Nothing? Sweetie, it was the bravest thing I've ever seen! You should be so very proud."

"Really?" Shady asked, raising her head slowly.

"Of course. You put yourself in danger, again, to save her. You don't think that was brave?" Megan said, stroking Shady's mane.

"But I was so scared!"

"Exactly. You were scared, but you did it anyway. You were brave enough to overcome you're fear."

Windwhistler, who had been watching the balcony, spoke up.

"I hate to break this up, but we should be moving on. The situation in the castle is seems very precarious, and the further removed we are from the vicinity of this fortress, the more secure we shall be."

Seeing the other's confused expression, Megan allowed herself a soft smile, before translating.

"Windwhistler's right, we should be moving on. C'mon, let's see if we can find a way down from here."

Everyone seemed relieved by this suggestion, quickly making their way along the mountain path. However, nobody made a sound, all ears straining to hear anything over the echoes of their hooves that rebounded from the stone walls. However, the tunnel was not a long one and they soon found themselves standing on a wide plateau, staring in wonder at the sight before them. Vast plains stretched before them, further than the eye could see, interrupted only by the small city to the west. Even from this distant, it seemed dreary and foreboding.

"Where's that?" Northstar asked, more to herself than anyone else.

"That's Blackvale." Syrus answered. "A settlement near to Kahn's tower, but one he has little interest in."

"Megan! Everyone, come and look!"

Molly shouted, pointing excitedly towards the edge of the ledge. Swiftly, everyone was at her side, smiling at what they saw. Stretching down from the cliff was a broad ramp of stone, easily wide enough for three Ponies to walk abreast.

"Well done, Molly." Megan said, pleased that getting down from here would not necessitate the drastic measures that they had needed earlier.

"All right, everyone, let's go!"

"We tired, Megan. We wanna rest." Pouted Baby Ribbon.

"I know, Baby Ribbon. I'm tired too. But, we're not safe yet. Just another few minutes more, and you can all rest, I promise. "

Reluctantly, and with much cajoling and encouragement, they shepherded the Babies down the hill. When they reached the bottom, however, all the Babies complaints faded. At the base of the cliff, hidden in the shadow of an overhang, was a fresh spring. Eagerly, the Babies galloped over to drink, 'accidentally' splashing each other in their excitement. The adults stood back, enjoying the moment of seeing their children so happy, before moving to separate their children and get a drink for themselves.

After they had all drank their fill, they sat in the shade under the overhang, which would also shield them from any unfriendly eyes above. Gratefully, Megan sank to the floor, which felt as wonderful as the softest of pillows and was unsurprised to find Fizzy and Windwhistler settling down next to her. Even though she loved all the Ponies dearly, the three of them had always shared a close bond. With a yawn, Fizzy placed her head in Megan's lap, her eyes drooping, as Megan stroking her mane reassuringly. Unlike Fizzy, Windwhistler sat stiffly, clearly listening for any sound that might warn them of danger. Megan smiled softly; while Fizzy was extremely laid back, Windwhistler was the polar opposite, always so serious. An admirable trait, except that she rarely took time for herself, to relax and unwind, something she desperately needed at this point. Using one hand to continue stroking Fizzy's mane, Megan wrapped her other arm around Windwhistler's next, gently pulling her towards her shoulder, kissing her tenderly on the forehead.

"Windwhistler, you need to relax. We safe enough here and you've been on the go for too long."

"We need to be prepared, Megan, just in case." Windwhistler argued, patiently.

"We are prepared." Megan countered. "We're away from danger, in the safest place we can find. The best way to prepare now, is for us all to get some rest, even you. You'll be no use to us if you're sleep-walking."

Gently, she began to stroke her mane as well, softly soothing her, smiling as Windwhistler relented, snuggling up next to her and resting her head against her shoulder.

"I've never sleep-walked!" She murmured, sounding so painfully affronted that Megan knew she was kidding.

Looking around, she saw that Syrus was sitting by himself, staring at something that he was cradling in his hands, looking like a golden orb.

"Syrus, what's that?" Megan asked, gently.

"Please. Just…give me a moment." He said, his voice sounding strained.

Even as he spoke, faint lines of golden light spread across the surface, glowing brighter until the orb cracked, the top bursting apart. From the jagged gap, red sparks began to fly, in a steady stream. Like a firework, they hung in the air, filling the world around them with sparkling red stars. Slowly, the sparks began to drift together, each individual glowing brighter and brighter, until the light became so powerful that they had to shield their eyes. When they could finally open them again, it was to see a familiar bird standing on the grass in front of them, although this time it was about the size of a pigeon. It was flame red, with a plume of orange feathers sweeping down towards its back. Faint red sparkles flickered across its body, twinkling like minute stars. Slowly, it spread it's wings, opening it's beak to produce the most beautiful sound Megan had ever heard, soft and melancholy. Closing it's wings again, the creature continued to stare and Megan got the distinct feeling that there was an intelligence behind those sparkling eyes.

"Syrus, is this…?" Megan asked, cautiously.

"Yes, Megan. This is my Partner, Lumir." Seeing Megan's confused expression, he continued.

"Lumir is an ari'nasid. If they are mortally wounded, they burst into flames and are reborn from an egg. However, the process leaves them weakened and much of their power and memory is lost. To be made whole, the must return to their home in the Dwindling Mountains and bathe in the Sacred Fires. Without them, Lumir will forever remain a shadow of his former self.

"He's a Phoenix!" Megan exclaimed.

Seeing Syrus look of confusion, she explained.

"In the legends of my world, we have tales of Lumir's race. We named them Phoenix; a bird reborn from the ashes."

Syrus closed his eyes, lowering his head to his chest, appearing to be deep in thought.

After several minutes, he looked up slowly, as if waking from a deep trance.

"Phoenixes have visited many worlds, so legends say, even beyond this one. It is not inconceivable that they may have visited yours."

"How far are the Dwindling Mountains?" Megan asked.

"Megan, you cannot be considering such a journey?" Windwhistler asked, horrified.

"Our children are here, Megan." Ribbon added, sounding equally scared. "You can't ask us to put them in such danger."

"I don't think we have a choice, Ribbon. You remember the view from the top of the mesa; there was no shelter and no cover for many miles. We don't even know where to find food in this dreadful place. Syrus is there anyone around, any village that would provide sanctuary for the children?"

Sadly, Syrus shook his head.

"Even before Kahn's return, this was an inhospitable land. Blackvale, that you saw earlier is a dangerous place, ruled by powerful men who always have their own interests at heart. You will find no guaranteed sanctuary before the Dwindling Mountains."

It was Galaxy who finally spoke:

"I say that we do it. Even if there will be danger, we're no strangers to that, not even the Babies. They've been by our side during some of the worst times in our history and we've always kept them safe. Sometimes, they've been the ones to save us."

At this, the Babies stood up proudly, surprised by the complement.

"Yeah, we Little Ponies, too. We not afraid." Said Baby Lofty.

"We wanna see Phoenixes." Added Baby Heart-throb.

"Pleeasse." Begged Baby Shady.

Soon, all the Babies were talking at once, chattering loudly and excitedly until Megan managed to shush them.

"Are we all agreed?" Megan asked, eyeing each of the Ponies, even though she already knew the answer. She could tell from the sparkle in their eyes that they were ready to take the risks, whatever they may be.

However, Buttons answer dispelled any doubt.

"Well, what are we waiting for?"

Megan smiled: Buttons enthusiasm was as strong as ever.

"Hold on, Buttons. It's been a long day and we're all tired. Some of us more than others." She added, as Fizzy stifled a yawn.

" I know how urgent things are, Syrus, but we've had a long day and we could all do with a rest. Besides, it's getting late and we'll do no good blundering around in the dark. So, unless there's any great danger, we'll make camp here for tonight and set off in the morning."

Syrus nodded. "This place is a safe as any. However, building a fire would be a wise precaution. As to Kahn, I do not believe we have much to fear from him, as it will be dawn soon and his creatures do not travel beneath the sun.

Under Megan's direction, they arranged a large ring of stones, pilling it with firewood. Fortunately, there was plenty lying around because, as Syrus explained, Kahn's forces routinely stripped this area, felling trees to feed his furnaces. In their frenzy, it was not hard to find enough to build a large fire, with plenty to keep it burning through the night. Megan was an experienced camper and, within half and hour, that had a nice roaring fire going, casting flickering shadows across the ground. Still, despite the fire, the darkness still seemed to press around very close. Megan sat next to the fire, with her arms wrapped around Molly and Baby Cuddles. Even though it was late, nobody seemed in the mood to sleep, everyone huddling in twos or groups, seeking some comfort from their exhaustion and fear.

"I'm scared, Megan. Sing us a song. Please." Baby Sundancer asked, her voice quavering slightly.

Softly, Megan began to sing a lullaby that she had used to soothe the Babies back in Dream Valley, when there was a storm, or they had just woken from a nightmare.

Suddenly, she stopped, as a strange music reached her ears. Looking around, she saw Lumir had closed his eyes and was singing too. Smiling, Megan picked up the thread of the song again, feeling a sense of calm settle over her. Clearly, this effect was spreading to the others as well. The Babies were already fast asleep, curled up and the adult's eyes were drooping slightly. A soft snore, close by, told Megan that Molly had fallen asleep. Danny and Spike now sat back to back, heads resting on their chest, snoring loudly.

"…sleep though the deepest night, forevermore." Megan finished, Lumir's magical notes fading away as well. All around, Ponies lay curled up, heads resting on their forelegs, or against each other, deep asleep. As sleep took her, Megan saw Syrus and Lumir sitting together, seeming alone and distant.

End of Chapter 1

Hope you enjoyed it. Will be posting additional chapters, particularly if I get requests.

Any comments/reviews would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Frontline.