To you who now read this, know that the writing of this story was not Firefly’s idea. It was requested by me, so that all who fought and died on both sides of the Great Pony/Gryphon War would not be forgotten. Know also that even though it will tell of many fights and battles, this is less a tale of valor and glory than the enduring and unconquerable power of friendship.

To truly understand it, you must leave the peaceful era of the present and go back to a troubled time in Equestria’s past; a time when the hold of Harmony was far weaker and a still-young Equestrian nation faced many potential threats. It was a time when magical elements could not be wielded; a time when matters between races were too often settled not with words and diplomacy, but with steel and sorcery...

A time when one young mare took her fate by the reins, embarking on a journey whose legacy would long outlive her. And yet, for all her medals and honors, and for all her feats and victories, she would not wish to be remembered as a soldier, a leader, or even a warrior…

She would wish to be remembered as a mother, a sister… and a very beloved friend.

Signed,

Celestia Daybringer
Princess of the Sun
Diarch of Equestria

“You are wrong, Sergeant. She can,” I stated with surety, causing the Guardspony healer and recruiter to cringe. “For the amulet would not have chosen her unless she had great power it could bend to its will. And yet, nor could she have thrown off its influence unless she possessed an even greater will… and love for her friend,” I further noted, nodding down at their held hooves.

“If she could defeat such potent dark magic, ’tis certain she can overcome the harsh training of the Armored Guard. Please keep me apprised of her status and progress, Sergeant. And methinks it best you not tell her or anypony else I was here,” I finished, though my tone made clear it was less a request than an order.