Good news today. Luna said that she's figured out a possible way to separate the Elements of Harmony from the Tree of Harmony, though, just like I was thinking, it apparently means that the tree will be at least partially destroyed in the process. She's already discussed the plan with Starlight, but I think she cut out the part about shattering the tree. Something about Starlight apparently having a closer tie to it now than she herself did, or something like that. Either way, she's set to chip just enough away to create new elements, though I have no idea how long the tree would last without those pieces of itself.
Anyway, I think now that we have both a rough idea of where we'll be headed in Canterlot, as well as how we're going to beat Daybreaker, we should be able to have at least a fighting chance. Still not really sure when we're gonna follow through, but with so many pieces falling into place, it's only a matter of time.
Hmm. I'm wondering whether those pieces would only be able to form temporary Elements since the product wouldn't really be the genuine Elements of Harmony. In that case, if the tree does die, Equestria would be without a source of security. I'm not sure if the Ashen (I think that's the group name, but I might have forgotten. ) are aware of that risk.