Time was short.

That was the literal sensation I've been feeling recently. Everything felt as though time itself was of the essence, the hunt for our villainous friend growing more and more desperate. And I don't seem to be the only one experiencing this gut feeling, judging how hurriedly the guards escorting me to the castle were behaving. On the outside, they displayed stern calmness as ever.

But I could sense the anxiousness within them. And I couldn't blame them.

And when we reached the front door to the old castle, two more stationary guards greeted us with salutes, although aimed at me. "At ease." They obliged. "Where is the Princess?"

"Within the old foyer sir."

I nodded in thanks, proceeding with the escort inside the ruined structure, greeted by more white, black and grey guards in gold and purple armour alike. The Canterlot castle? Oh no. More of the Castle of the Two Sisters. Indeed, royal guards were scouting out this place and the entirety of the Everfree Forest, seeking out Tirek now more than ever. With the Equestrian Games turning up around the corner, the search has increased dramatically.

It was now or never. Tirek had to be found.

Or else thousands will get hurt just like in the finale.

With all that time wasted interaction with your friends and your precious Princess, we may already be too late.

Hope springs eternal, Sombra.

The arrival into the foyer was quicker than expected. Even more guards were taking positions and searching through this room, grim resolve settled on their armoured features as they sought the dreaded Tirek.

And atop the front staircase, gaze fixed on the banner hanging from the wall generously decorated there by Rarity herself, stood a familiar blue alicorn. Blue mane glittering like stars and waving like water.

Both unicorns who had escorted me from the forest to here bowed respectfully. "Princess, we have brought him here as you requested."

In response, the mare of the night slowly turned, and a regal yet friendly teal gaze cast down on me. But was it just me, or was her expression kinda off? "Stardust Balance." Luna addressed almost neutrally, with a hint of warmness, as she walked down the steps to join us.

With a smile, I moved forward myself. "Princess Luna, it's good to see you again."

Regarding me openly, the Princess of the Moon eventually released a small smile herself. "Likewise." Almost as if she was making certain of something. Though I was curious as to what, I was also relieved to see her. Maybe now, finding Tirek can be finally done and over with.