I Run from the Monsterby Ruby RevengeChaptersPrologueThoughtsFriendship is...?QuestionsPrologue-Prologue- | ~ | "Alone, against a serried world he stood, His few companions melted from his side, Yet all his life he ceased not in the strife— Nor had he won the battle when he died." -The Forlorn Hope by Isabel Ecclestone Mackay My name is Twilight Sparkle. Right now, I'm living something I used to only dream of. I... I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Prin- er, Celestia wants me to stay here in Canterlot permanently. As in forever. She wants me to live here, as the third Princess of Equestria. I wanted to say no, I wanted to argue with her and get my way. I wanted to go back to the library, back to my friends. But... I didn't. I just agreed with her. I mean, she is the eldest of the Princesses, and my former mentor, so I should listen, right? So I'm not going back to Ponyville, or at least not to live there. It would be weird for a Princess to live in a small town anyways, so I guess it makes sense... There I go making excuses again. I just don't think I can do it. My friends... well, they're the only reason I even got to "fulfill my destiny", and become an alicorn! I wouldn't be here if it weren't for them! I.. I wouldn't... So many ponies wouldn't be here if not for them. I didn't do anything when Nightmare Moon returned; I fought against what I was supposed to do, what Celestia told me to do, as best as I could. It was only because of my soon-to-be friends that my selfish eyes were opened, and the sixth element appeared. I never would've understood friendship. I wouldn't have ever had those amazing times in Ponyville. No friendship reports. No elements of harmony. Nightmare Moon would have likely taken over Equestria, leaving Celestia locked in the Sun forever. Luna would have never had her second chance. We would all be in a shroud of darkness. I could have very well died by now. And what about discord? Or Queen Chrysalis? Sombra? What about those other villains? Discord could have overthrown Nightmare Moon, and warped the land into a Kingdom of Chaos. Queen Chrysalis could have slowly but surely enslaved all of ponykind from behind the scenes. I honestly don't know what Sombra would have done, but he seemed to have substantial magic capabilities that rivaled my own in his weakened state. Either one of them could have even joined forces with Nightmare Moon. All I know is that without my friends, the element bearers, Equestria wouldn't be the same. I wouldn't be the same. So first they help me achieve princesshood, and now I'm just going to abandon them? How could I? And just after I attained a full understanding of friendship, too. I don't know what I'll do without them. I don't think I can live without them. I guess I'll still get to see them, but not as much as I am used to. Not everyday. No more weekly lunches, random get-togethers, Pinkie parties... my life will be so different now. "Oh look, the Princess of Friendship, bearer of the sixth Element of Harmony, Magic, stuck up in Canterlot all alone. Some friend she is. I guess friendship isn't that important to her. Maybe it just isn't." That's what they'll say. It won't only make me look bad, but it will make friendship seem worthless! It isn't a waste of time! I already learned that! I can't just let it go.. I need them. And I can only hope that they need me. I've been thinking about this over and over for a few days now, as soon as my former teacher told me of my new future. I'm in Ponyville right now, supposedly packing my things. I should be making preparations, writing lists, and hanging out with my friends while I can. I should be telling them about how I feel, that I don't want to leave them. But I've locked myself away instead. I've been in my room, and everypony thinks I'm doing what I'm supposed to. I know that Spike, bless him, has made up a few checklists for me, and has even started some of the packing. None of the books, of course. They belong to the Ponyville Library, yet another thing I'll miss. Spike may think something is wrong, he's always very silent when he does. He always knocks on my door, and has been making most of our meals since we got back. He doesn't really say anything though. He just acts like everything is normal. Does he know how I feel? Does he even care? Countless ponies have tried to come visit me here since I've come to Ponyville to get my things, and Spike has sent them all away on the account that I am "very busy packing". I told him to tell my friends that too. I can't talk to them right now. Not until I've sorted all of this out. Not while I feel as if I'm betraying them. I wonder how it will be like, once I'm in Canterlot. Luna told me that they are converting Cadance's old chambers into a slightly larger version to accompany me, as she now resides solely in the Chrystal Empire. What will my jobs be? Will I be able to do anything? I feel like I've been doing too much thinking lately. I feel so lost. So alone. I know it's all in my head, but in the same breath, I don't. My heart aches so bad; I feel broken. And I haven't even left them yet. How will I feel when I have? I can't bear to think about it, and I don't want to feel like this anymore. I should tell them. I should tell Celestia. I should tell Luna, Cadance, anypony! But I can't. I... I'm afraid. Afraid that they'll laugh at me. Afraid that they'll call me weak. How can I be me without them? Without them, there's no Laughter, no Loyalty, no Honesty, no Kindness, and no Generosity in my life. I'm still the same selfish pony I was before them, and I always will be. And I hate it. I hate feeling helpless. Alone. Crushed. Stupid. It's all in my head, and I know it! So why do I feel this way? Just please, anypony help! Anypony! Please... Help me.... Author's Note Hello, my name is Ruby, and this is my first ever Fan-fiction. Ever. So BEWARE and feel free to criticize, point out mistakes, bash, etc. to you heart's desire! :3 Thanks for reading! Thoughts-Chapter 1- | ~ | "Every time you smile at me, I want to smile too. You brighten a dark day. You make the sun come out from behind the clouds in my heart. Now, you're gone. My heart is broken. Everything is crashing down on me. I need someone to take this weight off my shoulders. I need someone to dry my tears." -Every Time I See You by Unknown Sometimes, you don't really account for long term consequences, and only pay attention to the matters at hoof. You can get so wrapped up in the now, that you blow things out of proportion, and don't even realize that something far, far worse is ahead. You can distract yourself to a point that you cannot see an attack coming, right for your very soul. All of this was very true for one particular alicorn, one by the name of Twilight Sparkle, Princess and Element of Magic. It wasn't that she's been a Princess for very long--She'd just had her spectacular and surprising coronation just last week--or that she'd been in a fight with somepony. It was because of her own tendency to worry herself that brought her to this. For you see, Celestia--as she was to call her equal--suggested that moving to the castle would be better suited for the new Princess. It would allow for better protection, an easier way for Twilight to participate in politics, and would simply be viewed as normal to the public. Her former teacher saw no faults with the option, and Twilight had instantly agreed. So why was she upset? After returning home to pack, she did much thinking. She began to realize that she'd be moving away from her friends, some of the ponies she cared about the most, and felt regret from making her choice. She didn't want to have to tell anypony that she wanted to stay in ponyville, as preparations were already being made for her to move to Canterlot, so she reached out to blame. She tried to blame anypony, including herself, and felt pressured to continue her move to the castle. Anypony else outside her inner conflict would say that this was all very silly, and that she should be able to see what was really important and could speak up for herself. But to Twilight, it was all very real to her, and it was all she could think of. She felt hatred. Then betrayal. Then sadness. She felt lost alone, thinking of her soon-to-be future. She didn't know what to do, and felt broken and alone because of it. She couldn't stop feeling these negative feelings, and she hated it. Just what was she to do about it? This was just the type of thing a certain somepony was waiting for, waiting for the right time to return. For nothing can ever be truly destroyed or eradicated, and this was her chance. This was her one and only chance for the time being, and such a thing like this could possibly never happen again. She couldn't wait any longer. It was time. Twilight was still in the Library, and was asleep in her bed. Or at least trying to sleep anyway. She was looking out the window, pointing out as many constellations as she could. She was trying to distract herself, but to no avail. Through quiet tears she looked to the night sky. "..Big dipper, l-little dipper, heh-ho-Orion's belt..." she stopped as she took a sorrowful sniff, "O-of course I'm-m picking out the e-easy ones fir-rst... I'm so pathetic!" she wailed her last few words, before breaking down again. She sobbed into her pillow, silently hoping to not wake spike up. "Why can't I stay here?" she whispered, "why won't she let me?" She whimpered as she thought of the coming results of her moving. Without her friends, would she forget what friendship was? Would the Elements become useless? Would disharmony spread? "Is this what you wanted, Celestia?" she asked, ice hanging from every word. She seemed to have concentrated all her hate into the short sentence, and surprised herself. Hooves went to her mouth as she realized what she'd just said. "Oh- oh my... I didn't mean that..." "Didn't you?" a voice asked from the darkness, the words feeling more like a statement than a question. "Wh-who's there..?" was the only answer that came to the unicorn's mind, her voice somewhat quieter than what she'd have liked. "A friend," it sounded warm, and inviting. Was it truly her friend? Had she not been able to recognize the voice completely, she would have thought so. "Who are you?" she asked, sounding more confident than before. "Like I said, a friend," it really did sound friendly, but so did most ponies who were out to harm you. Twilight decided to remain on the offensive, though just a little. "Why are you here?" curiosity was driving her forward. "To help you," its words sounded sincere, as if it really did want to help her. Could she trust it? It felt like she could, she felt like she should. No, she wanted to. "With what..?" her words were getting shaky again. "I can help you save them," it sounded... sad? "Save who?" "You're friends," its answer was short and sharp, but with an undertone of comfort. Like it knew something she didn't. Like... like... "M-my friends..? What's wrong wi-" "They won't live forever," it interrupted Twilight, words forceful and unkind. "..What are you..? I didn't even thi-" "They'll all die sooner or later," "..." "You'll be left all alone," it was mocking her now. "I... stop.." "You won't be able to handle it. Celestia will be disappointed in you," "...Shut up!" "Are you ready to be alone for the rest of your life, Twilight? To feel broken? To feel much, much worse than you do as of now?" "..how do you know how I feel..?" "I know all, Twilight Sparkle. I know that you don't want to leave your friends. I know that you feel betrayed by Celestia. I know that you already feel alone even though your solitude hasn't even begun. You are not ready to face your future. But I can help you; or are you ready to be truly alone?" "I... I... No..." she was crying again. How could it know? How could it? "That's what I thought," it sounded smug and happy, "It doesn't make any sense to be immortal when the ponies you care about won't be there forever, now is it?" Its tone had a sort of motherly feel to it now, and Twilight couldn't help but feel comforted. "N-no.." she sobbed as she spoke, hugging her pillow as she buried her head in it. "So let me help you keep them with you. Forever," Twilight looked up, though she could still see nothing, sniffling as she heard the offer. "R-really? How?" "Now that's not important, my little pony. Do you want my help?" "I- I think..." she sputtered. "Yes?" "...I want your help... so.. yes..." "What was that? I couldn't quite hear that," "Yes! Please help me! Please... just please... I need your help.." she cried into the darkness, frantically begging the unknown. She didn't care to think about who or what it was. She only cared about the fact that somepony was willing to help her, to guide her. She needed somepony to give her this foundation; she didn't wait to see who it was. "That's all I needed to hear," Laughter echoed throughout the room, and suddenly, Twilight felt that she could be in danger. She felt afraid. "Are you ready, Twilight Sparkle?" it sneered, and at that moment, she recognized the voice. Her eyes flared up at the recognition, and her fear grew. "N-no! Stay away from me!" she shrieked, silently hoping that somepony, anypony, would hear her. "Oh, but it is far too late for that," it whispered directly into her ear. The room became darker still, and the temperature seemed to drop to a freezing point. A piercing coldness pierced her chest, pain shooting through her body in mere seconds. She let out a scream as her heart sped up, and she began to sweat and breathe heavily. She stumbled out of bed and over to a desk, fumbling for a pen and paper. It was dizzying to try and write, but she forced herself to try. She had to. De a r Ev e r y p o n y : I ' m S o r r y She barely managed to finish the short note before collapsing onto the floor with a loud thud. Her breathing stopped. Her heart came to a rest. Silence reined the night once more. Bum bum bum bum bum bum bum bum bum "Oh, Equestriaaa... I'm BACK!" Friendship is...?Chapter 2 | ~ | "Knowing you hate me, Is it a terrible fate? I thought the there was hope, But it was too late." -Now You are Gone by Quenette L. Hernandez Celestia's eyes snapped open as she let out a gasp. She'd been awoken by a large magical surge almost instantly, and knew exactly what it was just about as quickly. "No, no, no, no!" she mumbled to herself as she raced from her chambers to find her sister. She was sure she'd felt it, but she hoped she was wrong. "It can't be..." She passed by guard after guard, both her own and Luna's, not caring to act calm and collected as she usually did in a time of crisis. She had to find Luna, and fast. "Luna! Luna!" she called when she reached the top of the castle, at one of the various balconies. When she did not receive an answer as soon as she liked, she took flight. "Luna! Where are you?" She soon spotted the dark blue alicorn laying atop a grassy hill on the side of the mountain, looking up at the night sky. She made a swift dive and landed beside her. "Luna! Thank the stars I found you; did you feel it as well?" she asked her sister in a partially flustered tone. Her sister responded by looking at her with a tear stained face, with new tear after tear streaming from her sorrowful eyes. "Oh, Luna..." Celestia huddled closer to her, and she buried her face into her coat. The elder rested her wing upon the younger, and sat in a comforting silence as the other wept. "Sh-she's back..." she sobbed, "why, Tia? Why?" "I... I do not know, Luna," she replied truthfully, "I can only be thankful that she has not taken you this time." "But that's even worse!" she cried in response, "She's taken another pony... I could have dealt with her this time around! She's my problem!" "I know that you feel... responsible for her, little sister, but please remember that she is not. She took you when you were emotionally distraught, when you were not yourself. It was not your fault." "..I still could have done something..." she said quietly as Celestia wiped away her tears, "but I suppose we must not worry about that now... we must worry about the present," "That's my little mare," she said in a comforting tone, putting on a smile for her sister. Luna couldn't help but give a smile back, and even a small giggle escaped her. "And you are right. We must worry about what is happening here, and now. This cannot wait- we must find her at once." "But where could she be?" "In truth? I have no idea. We must first try to trace the magic flare to wherever it took place, even if she has moved since now. We should notify Shinning Armor, and get the Guard and the Military on full alert. Investigations should be sent out immediately," "..Shouldn't we keep this, how you say, on the down low?" she asked, "I understand the urgency, but do we not want to alarm our subjects?" "Normally, we would. But I fear that the gravity of the matter is far too great this time. It would not be fair to keep it from them, when they might become directly influenced by her actions. We will make an announcement in the morning." "A-alright," she relented softly, looking down to her hooves. "Hey," she lifted up her chin with her hoof, "it's going to be ok. We've subdued her before, remember? And as long as we have Twilight and her friends wield the Elements, she doesn't stand a chance!" "I guess you're right..." she agreed, a smile growing on her face, "I think I may be feeling better now already!" Celestia chuckled, and they both smiled at each other before returning to the castle, each feeling better about their standings than before. Celestia is right... as long as we have Twilight and the Elements... everything will be just fine... -oOo- Fluttershy was sitting in her kitchen wide awake, drinking a cup of her favorite tea. She was, in fact, very tired, as she had been working the entire day, just getting to sit down and relax right then. Even though it had been an entire week since the switched cutiemarks incident, she was still sorting out problems at her cottage. Rainbow had helped her clean up--she had made the mess, whether directly or indirectly, after all--the first few days, and she'd taken the chance to reorganize her home and schedule. She'd finally finished that today, and was glad that something good had come out of the mishap. She was also embarrassed to find some of the things that her pegasus friend had left behind, mostly being pictures of Soarin and Male Athlete Supermodel Magazines. Fluttershy wasn't a jugmental pony, but she still thought the possessions a bit wierd. She'd drop them off at Rainbow's house in the morning. Or afternoon. Or... someday. She was too tired to plan, and her tea was making her sleepier by the minute. No, she'd return them right now, before she forgot! What if they were special to Rainbow dash? What if she thought she lost them? If she didn't return them immediately, she wouldn't be a very good friend then, right? Satisfied with her decision, she grabbed a coat, checked on the sleeping animals, and locked up the cottage. She'd have to be fast; she didn't want to leave them alone in the middle of the night for long. Plus, she didn't exactly like being out alone at this time of night. She trotted in Rainbow's house's direction, it being too cold for her to feel comfortable flying. It was also easier to see as she walked, with the few lit light posts that lined the road. Soon, she was under the house of clouds. She was happy to see that the lights were on, meaning that her friend was probably awake. "Rainbow!" she called in a harsh whisper, "Rainbow dash!" There was no answer. With a sigh, Fluttershy realized that she probably couldn't hear her quiet call, and resolved to fly up to the door. Shivering all the way up, she slowly made it to the porch. She reached out and gave a soft knock to the door. No answer. She knocked harder. No answer. She knocked as loud as she dared, fairly sure that Rainbow would have to have heard her this time. Yet there was still no answer. She tried the door. It was unlocked. "Maybe.. maybe I'll just leave them on the table.." she mumbled to herself, and proceeded to let herself in. They were close friends after all; surely she wouldn't mind? If she wasn't home, she'd understand something like this. She was probably out at a bar or something having fun. "I wish I could be that out-going.." she sighed softly. As soon as she entered the house, she knew something was wrong. It seemed as if a massive tornado had gone through the rooms; chunks of cloud were every where, furniture was broken, and various items were strewn about. There was a half-eaten meal left on a table, long since cooled off. "...but not this out going!" she gasped, "Rainbow dash, what happened to you?" Forgetting about the magazines and photos, Fluttershy dropped her friend's possessions and rocketed off the porch towards Rarity's boutique, who was the closest to the floating house at the moment, to tell her what she'd seen. This was most definitely an emergency, and the fashionista would understand being woken up at such an hour. By the time she arrived, she'd already gone through hundreds of possibilities of Rainbow's well-being through her head, worrying herself sick. She knocked quite loudly, even for a normal pony, making sure to get Rarity's attention right away. "Rarity! Rarity!" she called as the knocked. No answer. Terror ate away at her chest as she feared the worst. She tried the door. It was unlocked. She grimaced as she went in. There were burn marks everywhere. It looked like a unicorn, probably Rarity, had been firing magic at something, and had missed many times. The marks were on the wall, the floor, the ceiling... "..oh dear... even on her fabrics.." she whispered in shock. For various supplies had also been damaged, with holes and burns littering her creations. There were too many, she realized, for it to have only been her friend. There had been a fight. And Rarity had lost. She raced off to Sugar Cube Corner, fear tugging at her heart. Please be ok, please be ok! she pleaded, hoping that Pinkie would be found where she should be. In a matter of seconds, she had flown up to her friend's window. She tapped on the glass, sure that it would wake up the pink mare. No response. She peered in the window, making out the room the best she could. All the blankets and pillows from the bed were on the floor, and there was a partially eaten cupcake on the desk. A partially eaten cupcake. "No, no, no!" she whimpered. "Not you too!" Three of her friends had mysteriously disappeared. What could she do? Check on her remaining friends. Twilight being the closest, she flew to the Library as fast as she possibly could. She knocked on the door frantically. Please answer, please answer, please answer... Her heart jumped when the lights turned on, and hoofsteps were heard. "Twilight?" she asked through the door. The door was opened by a small purple dragon, yawning and rubbing his eyes. "Oh, hey Fluttershy..." he said sleepily, "What are you doing up so late?" "I-is Twilight here?" she asked, hesitant. "Yeah, hold on a sec. Or actually, come in; it's kinda cold outside," he answered, letting her in. She waited downstairs as Spike went to go get Twilight. Oh thank goodness Twilight is he- "Fluttershy!" a yell came from upstairs, soon followed by a small dragon tumbling down the stairs, "Sh-she's gone!" Her heart sunk at the news. "B-but don't you sleep in the same room with her? How could she be gone?" "Well, I was kinda camping out down here in this awesome book fort I made..." he gestured over to a slightly impressive structure composed of books, blankets, and pillows, "And I always go to be before her anyway... I... Fluttershy..? Where is she?" He looked up to her with round, scared eyes. "..I.. well.. I.. I don't know..." she admitted, struggling to seem calm for the young dragon's sake, "I, um.. why don't you come with me?" He gave a small nod, now afraid to be left home alone. Fluttershy grabbed a blanket from off the back of a couch, and motioned for Spike to climb up onto her back. Once he was safely on, she draped the blanket over him. She felt his small arms hugging her neck, and realized that she was probably very lucky that Spike had still been there. She thanked fate that he'd made a book fort that day. "We're going to head over to Apple Jack's, ok?" she said softly as they left the Library, walking now that she carried Spike. "Why Apple Jack? I mean, aren't Rarity or Pinkie Pie closer?" he asked. "They.. they aren't really home right now, Spike," "Oh, are they on vacation?" Fluttershy didn't know how to answer. "Fluttershy... are they missing too..?" She paused before giving a slight nod. "Wh-what about Rainbow dash?" he asked, voice shaky. She answered with a shake of her head. "...oh.." They continued onward in silence. In a few minutes, in what seemed like forever, they made it to Sweet Apple Acres. "..Do you think Apple Jack is..?" the baby dragon didn't finish his sentence. "I, well I hope not.." she answered softly, silently hoping that at least she'd be alright. She knocked on the door. A few seconds later, Big Mac opened the door with a questioning look. "Oh, um, hello," Fluttershy began, shrinking back and looking away from the large stallion, "I, uh, is Apple J- er, what I mean to say is, um.." "Hey, is Apple Jack home?" Spike asked for her. "Well, she should be," he said slowly, as if trying to sort out why such a question would be asked of him at such a late hour. "Can you go get her?" "Eeyup," leaving the door open, he walked away. Fluttershy and Spike waited, neither saying a word to one another, both hoping for the best. The stallion soon returned, a confused and slightly worried look on his face. "I don't know what you're pulling, but she ain't there," he said carefully, "where is she?" "I- I don't know.." Fluttershy whispered, and Spike looked at the ground. "Fluttershy. Where is my sister?" his eyes held more worry by the second. The pegasus responded with a squeak, and looked at her hooves. Spike looked up, his face showing fear. "I think she's missing, like everypony else," he said, lip quivering. "Like everypony else? Who else is missing?" he asked, "Where are they?" "All the girls... Twilight... Rarity... all of them..." Spike answered through sniffles before burying his face in Fluttershy's mane. "Where are they? Where is my sister?" he repeated, but Spike was already crying. Fluttershy looked up again, her eyes watery. "Mr. Macintosh, sir, we don't know.. I.. I'm going to go to the Princesses... it can't be a coincidence.. I think they were foalnapped.." He just stared blankly at her for a moment as the realization sunk in. "So.. you're telling me, that Twilight, who is now an alicorn princess, and all your friends got foalnapped? But y'all are all..." "I went to all their houses. There were signs of struggle in each one.. except for the Library.." "Whoever did this.. is gonna pay.." he seethed, nostrils flaring. His eyes were closed, as if trying so very hard to think up a solution, one that would tell him where his sister was. They stood in silence for a bit, Spike still weeping as he clutched her neck. "..I.. Spike and I, we're going to Canterlot to tell the Princesses.. right now..." "..but the train don't leave 'till morning," "I know," "You.. you're not gonna fly, now are you?" "Yes, yes I am," traces of stubbornness were found in her voice, "this can't wait. They're missing! Not only are they important to us, but also Equestria! This is serious..!" Big Mac looked at the pegasus in surprise. Fluttershy was looking up at him with big, scared eyes. Scared for her friends. Scared for her home. "Any 'normal' pony couldn't have foalnapped them.. it was somepony powerful, a threat. I have to tell the Princesses immediately," her tone told the stallion that there was no room for interjection. "Well, I wish I could come with ya," he sighed, defeated, "but I gotta stay with my family, especially with a foalnapper running about. Also, I can't exactly fly," he ended with a slight chuckle and a small smile. Fluttershy smiled back, welcoming the small relief he was giving her. "Bye, Big Mac, um, sir. Please keep a look out... for anything, ok?" "Of course. You be careful now, you hear me?" "I- I'll try.." "Ok, Spike- hold on tight, ok?" she said in a motherly tone, both reassuring and caring, "I'm going to fly, and I don't want you falling. But if you do fall, I'll catch you. I promise," "O-ok.." he nodded, wrapping his arms around her, interlocking his fingers. And with that, she was off. "Be careful, Fluttershy.. I have a real bad feeling about this..." QuestionsChapter Three | ~ | "Am I Hearing the Truth, Or Have I Just Been Deceived? Who Can I Trust? Who Can I Believe?" -Am I by Linda - A "So; what are we going to do today?" "Inform, reassure, present!" "What are we going to inform them of?" "Her return!" "How are we going to reassure them? "We have beaten her before!" "What are we going to present?" "The Elements of Harmony and the bearers!" "And?" "Cadance, Shining Armor, the Military, and the Guard!" "And?" "Twilight Sparkle?" "Close enough!" Celestia answered her sister, as she walked around the younger alicorn. They were preparing themselves, both physically and mentally, for their announcement and meetings that were about to commence. "We need to show them that we've been going through a time of prosperity- two new alicorns in such a short time is welcoming, and gives us a better chance. We are one of the most powerful nations, something that will hopefully give our subjects confidence that we will come out victorious," "Ma'am, yes ma'am!" Luna shouted jokingly, and they both erupted in small giggles. They had found that over the ages, mirth is a good distraction from nervousness. "Luna," Celestia began, in a more serious tone than before, "you must make sure that you are fully prepared for the topic. Some may think..." "It's ok, big sister," she said with a smile, "I'll be fine. Last night... I was just surprised is all," "Are you sure?" "Yes, I am sure," "Then I suppose we must get going," she was smiling again. "Yes, let's g-" She was interrupted by somepony knocking at Celestia's chamber's door. "You may enter," Celestia called in her usual formal voice. A Solar guard enter, his green eyes tinged with worry, panting ever so slightly. "Your Highnesses," he addressed them, clearly surprised to see Luna, "The Bearer of the Element of Kindness and Spike the dragon were just found at the outskirts of the city. Neither showed any injuries, except maybe some extended wing use, but it did look as if they had crashed, Spike the dragon being a passenger. They were both unconscious, and were taken to the hospital immediately," "Fluttershy?" Luna asked, taking in the surprising and large amount of information in. "Have they awoken yet?" the elder sister asked, and the guard shook his head, steely expression back on his face, "We must got to them immediately. Send for the rest of the Elements." He gave them a swift nod before dashing away, off to do what he was told. Using her magic, Celestia picked up a cylindrical piece off the wall, and proceeded to speak into it. "Prepare a carriage for Luna and I, we are going out. I need a room prepared for Princess Cadance and her husband, Earl of the Crystal Empire and Captain of the Royal Guard, Shining Armor. We will welcome them later today, at precisely 4:30." she levitated it back to its post on the wall. "Come, Luna," she said to her sister as she walked out into the hall. Both sisters made their way down to the carriage, Celestia stopping here and there to answer questions and give orders. Luna was also asked a few things, but mostly about her appearance wardrobe for the announcement that they would be making soon. They soon made it to their carriage, the one specifically used for the both of them, with was made up of pure white ivory on one side, and fine obsidian on the other. The ivory was crested with gold and inlaid with diamonds, while the other held silver and sapphires. The four wheels were all identical, each being crafted of iron, and coated in silver and gold paints. The inside was filled with cloud cushions, the finest of Cloudsdale, making it quite comfortable for the two alicorns. This was the carriage of the Two Alicorn Sisters, a relic so rarely used that the Lunar and Solar guards who were assigned to pull it were as excited as four foals with energy drinks in a candy store. But they couldn't show it of course. They were given orders to take the Princesses to the Hospital at once, and they saluted before taking off. Now, you'd think a carriage built almost entirely of metals would be much too heavy to carry, and you'd be right. But the sisters' method of transportation was heavily enchanted with weight deduction spells, balance distribution spells, and spells that increased its over all aerodynamics, making it easier to pull than an empty cart on the ground. Celestia had long since forgotten just how many spells had been cast on the thing. They made it to the Hospital in no time, and the two alicorns stepped out of the carriage and through the doors without a word. This left the guards and carriage to be viewed by the public, a marvelous sight to see. But to some, who knew what it was, they realized that something important was happening. Something big. But the guards were happy. -oOo- Fluttershy awoke with a loud gasp, catching the attention of a nearby unicorn nurse. "Oh.. oh my..." she panted, eyes darting this way and that, trying to figure out where she was. The nurse rushed over, carrying a clipboard with her magic. "You're awake!" she greeted the pegasus cheerily, a bright smile on her face, "It's ok; you're just at the Royal Canterlot Hospital!" "Th-the hospital..?" "Yes, but don't worry; you don't have any injuries or sicknesses or anything. You were just found unconscious somewhere, and your wings showed a little stress," her words sped out quickly, "So, we deducted that you collapsed from exhaustion from attempting to fly here from Ponyville, and that that little baby dragon was just asleep--he woke up right away the little dear--but we left you here just in case!" "Um... thanks...? Ms..." "Periwinkle," she answered, "but you can just call me 'Wink' for short!" she offered, giving her a wink to emphasize. "O-ok, Ms. Wink ma'am," she said quietly, eyes searching for somewhere else to look. This mare was making her quite uncomfortable. Wink gave a giddy laugh as Fluttershy spoke her nickname, and clapped her hooves. "Nurse Periwinkle," a stern voice said from the hallway, causing the said nurse to freeze, "are you bothering the patient?" "N-no Doctor Thin Needle," she called back, slowly scooting away from Fluttershy as she did, "just checking up on the Element Bearer..." "Ah! The Element Bearer! I almost forgot!," a grey stallion walked in, a pegasus, with a darker grey mane. As he walked in, Wink mouthed 'oh my Celestia' in an exaggerated manner to Fluttershy. "How are you feeling?" "Oh! Umm, fine.. " "Thank goodness! When the ambulance brought you he-" "An ambulance?" "Ah, yes. When it broug-" "Why?" "Er, I.. it was an emergency, an I-" "What if somepony else had needed it more than I did?" she stood up on her bed, looking down on the doctor. "Well, erm," "I was only exhausted!" she was hovering above him now, a disappointed expression on her face. "But you ar-" "Yes, I am an Element of Harmony, but that doesn't make me better than everypony else," "I uh.." "Now I know that this may not be your fault, but you will make sure that emergency transportation like this is used correctly in the future, yes?" "What were they supposed to do? Carry y-" "Yes?" "Yes, ma'am," he sighed reluctantly. Lady doesn't know what the hay she's talking about. For all we knew, she'd had a concussion! And I'm not even the one who sent the ambulance! Satisfied that she'd done some good, she floated down to the floor. "Thank you, sir," she smiled, "now, I mean if you don't mind me asking, where's Spike?" "The dragon? Out in the lobby," "Oh, ok," she gave him a thankful nod, and turned towards the door. But before she could even reach for the handle, the door flew open, making way for two alicorns. "Fluttershy! Are you alright?" Luna, who'd been the one to open the door, called out in the Royal Canterlot Voice, holding a look of concern on her face. "Luna, you might want to quiet down a bit; some patients are trying to sleep," Celestia whispered into her sister's ear in amusement, causing her to blush slightly. "I'm glad to see that you are well, Fluttershy," she said, turning to the pegasus, "but may I ask what caused you to collapse like that?" "Well, you see-" "Fluttershy!" the voice of a young dragon yelled, following the dragon himself as he rushed in from behind the Princesses, "You're ok!" "Of course she's ok; she's at the best hospital for miles around! We did everything we could," Thin Needle boasted, bowing to the Royal Sisters. "She didn't need any medical attention," Nurse Periwinkle reminded him, rolling her eyes, "we didn't do anything." "You still want that raise?" he said through his teeth as he kept up his smile. "Yep, we're the best!" "I'm sure you are, my little ponies, but I think we should hear what Fluttershy here has to say," Celestia said evenly. "Your Highnesses," two guards had appeared, one Solar and one Lunar, "We were assigned to accompany you." "Of course," Luna sighed. "..I.. uh.." Fluttershy mumbled. "Yes?" Celestia asked. "The reason I tried to fly here is-" "Princess Luna, please don't touch that... " "Why not? I want to see the x-ray of my body!" "But... I'd better get somepony over here..." "I..." Oh, why won't anypony let me talk? "Ahah! The fun has been doubled!" "No! That's not supposed to work like that!" "Princess Celestia! All the Elements, besides Fluttershy, have been foalnapped!" Spike suddenly errupted, seeing as Fluttershy would probably never get a word in. This exclamation silenced everypony in the room, and all eyes looked to the small dragon. "Did you say foalnapped" Luna asked, returning from the x-ray machine. She was followed by a frazzled Periwinkle with a smoking coat. Celestia had her eyes closed, and seemed to be concentrating. "Yeah, last night... Fluttershy and I were lucky to get out of there!" Spike continued, "She went to all of their houses, and everypony was gone--all our friends I mean--and she took me with her to go check on Apple Jack, and even she had been foalnapped, right under the Apple Family's noses! After talking to Big Mac for a little bit, Fluttershy took off for Canterlot to tell you guys, erm, Princesses I mean. With me riding on her back," "It sounds like she left her house at just the right time..." Luna thought outloud, "Tell me, Fluttershy, what made you leave your cottage at such an hour?" "Well.. I uh..." she fidgeted with her hooves as she started to blush, "Rainbow dash left her modeling magazines and Soarin photos at my house, and I was too embarrassed to leave them there, so I just had to take them to her!" "What?" everpony--except Celestia--in the room asked, her fast spoken sentence to quiet to be heard. "Rainbow left some, ah, important things at my cottage that I just had to return immediately," she revised her previous statement, "but when I got there, her house was a mess! And she was gone..." "And that is when you went to check on your friends, correct?" Celestia asked, opening her eyes again. "Y-yes.. Rarity first, then Pinkie Pie, then Twilight, then Applejack. They were, are, all missing..." "I see..." her tone was steady as she nodded her head, closing her eyes once more. "Sister... could it be..?" "Yes, it seems as if it is," "What, Princess?" Spike asked, looking up to the tall Alicorn. "Fluttershy, Spike; I think it would be best if you came with us," her eyes snapped open and a blinding flash was sent through the room. "They're gone!" Thin Needle exclaimed, seeing as the Princesses, the guards, Fluttershy, and Spike were all missing from the room. "It's called a teleportation spell, genius," Nurse Periwinkle muttered under her breath. "What?" "Nothing,"
Prologue-Prologue- | ~ | "Alone, against a serried world he stood, His few companions melted from his side, Yet all his life he ceased not in the strife— Nor had he won the battle when he died." -The Forlorn Hope by Isabel Ecclestone Mackay My name is Twilight Sparkle. Right now, I'm living something I used to only dream of. I... I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Prin- er, Celestia wants me to stay here in Canterlot permanently. As in forever. She wants me to live here, as the third Princess of Equestria. I wanted to say no, I wanted to argue with her and get my way. I wanted to go back to the library, back to my friends. But... I didn't. I just agreed with her. I mean, she is the eldest of the Princesses, and my former mentor, so I should listen, right? So I'm not going back to Ponyville, or at least not to live there. It would be weird for a Princess to live in a small town anyways, so I guess it makes sense... There I go making excuses again. I just don't think I can do it. My friends... well, they're the only reason I even got to "fulfill my destiny", and become an alicorn! I wouldn't be here if it weren't for them! I.. I wouldn't... So many ponies wouldn't be here if not for them. I didn't do anything when Nightmare Moon returned; I fought against what I was supposed to do, what Celestia told me to do, as best as I could. It was only because of my soon-to-be friends that my selfish eyes were opened, and the sixth element appeared. I never would've understood friendship. I wouldn't have ever had those amazing times in Ponyville. No friendship reports. No elements of harmony. Nightmare Moon would have likely taken over Equestria, leaving Celestia locked in the Sun forever. Luna would have never had her second chance. We would all be in a shroud of darkness. I could have very well died by now. And what about discord? Or Queen Chrysalis? Sombra? What about those other villains? Discord could have overthrown Nightmare Moon, and warped the land into a Kingdom of Chaos. Queen Chrysalis could have slowly but surely enslaved all of ponykind from behind the scenes. I honestly don't know what Sombra would have done, but he seemed to have substantial magic capabilities that rivaled my own in his weakened state. Either one of them could have even joined forces with Nightmare Moon. All I know is that without my friends, the element bearers, Equestria wouldn't be the same. I wouldn't be the same. So first they help me achieve princesshood, and now I'm just going to abandon them? How could I? And just after I attained a full understanding of friendship, too. I don't know what I'll do without them. I don't think I can live without them. I guess I'll still get to see them, but not as much as I am used to. Not everyday. No more weekly lunches, random get-togethers, Pinkie parties... my life will be so different now. "Oh look, the Princess of Friendship, bearer of the sixth Element of Harmony, Magic, stuck up in Canterlot all alone. Some friend she is. I guess friendship isn't that important to her. Maybe it just isn't." That's what they'll say. It won't only make me look bad, but it will make friendship seem worthless! It isn't a waste of time! I already learned that! I can't just let it go.. I need them. And I can only hope that they need me. I've been thinking about this over and over for a few days now, as soon as my former teacher told me of my new future. I'm in Ponyville right now, supposedly packing my things. I should be making preparations, writing lists, and hanging out with my friends while I can. I should be telling them about how I feel, that I don't want to leave them. But I've locked myself away instead. I've been in my room, and everypony thinks I'm doing what I'm supposed to. I know that Spike, bless him, has made up a few checklists for me, and has even started some of the packing. None of the books, of course. They belong to the Ponyville Library, yet another thing I'll miss. Spike may think something is wrong, he's always very silent when he does. He always knocks on my door, and has been making most of our meals since we got back. He doesn't really say anything though. He just acts like everything is normal. Does he know how I feel? Does he even care? Countless ponies have tried to come visit me here since I've come to Ponyville to get my things, and Spike has sent them all away on the account that I am "very busy packing". I told him to tell my friends that too. I can't talk to them right now. Not until I've sorted all of this out. Not while I feel as if I'm betraying them. I wonder how it will be like, once I'm in Canterlot. Luna told me that they are converting Cadance's old chambers into a slightly larger version to accompany me, as she now resides solely in the Chrystal Empire. What will my jobs be? Will I be able to do anything? I feel like I've been doing too much thinking lately. I feel so lost. So alone. I know it's all in my head, but in the same breath, I don't. My heart aches so bad; I feel broken. And I haven't even left them yet. How will I feel when I have? I can't bear to think about it, and I don't want to feel like this anymore. I should tell them. I should tell Celestia. I should tell Luna, Cadance, anypony! But I can't. I... I'm afraid. Afraid that they'll laugh at me. Afraid that they'll call me weak. How can I be me without them? Without them, there's no Laughter, no Loyalty, no Honesty, no Kindness, and no Generosity in my life. I'm still the same selfish pony I was before them, and I always will be. And I hate it. I hate feeling helpless. Alone. Crushed. Stupid. It's all in my head, and I know it! So why do I feel this way? Just please, anypony help! Anypony! Please... Help me.... Author's Note Hello, my name is Ruby, and this is my first ever Fan-fiction. Ever. So BEWARE and feel free to criticize, point out mistakes, bash, etc. to you heart's desire! :3 Thanks for reading!
Thoughts-Chapter 1- | ~ | "Every time you smile at me, I want to smile too. You brighten a dark day. You make the sun come out from behind the clouds in my heart. Now, you're gone. My heart is broken. Everything is crashing down on me. I need someone to take this weight off my shoulders. I need someone to dry my tears." -Every Time I See You by Unknown Sometimes, you don't really account for long term consequences, and only pay attention to the matters at hoof. You can get so wrapped up in the now, that you blow things out of proportion, and don't even realize that something far, far worse is ahead. You can distract yourself to a point that you cannot see an attack coming, right for your very soul. All of this was very true for one particular alicorn, one by the name of Twilight Sparkle, Princess and Element of Magic. It wasn't that she's been a Princess for very long--She'd just had her spectacular and surprising coronation just last week--or that she'd been in a fight with somepony. It was because of her own tendency to worry herself that brought her to this. For you see, Celestia--as she was to call her equal--suggested that moving to the castle would be better suited for the new Princess. It would allow for better protection, an easier way for Twilight to participate in politics, and would simply be viewed as normal to the public. Her former teacher saw no faults with the option, and Twilight had instantly agreed. So why was she upset? After returning home to pack, she did much thinking. She began to realize that she'd be moving away from her friends, some of the ponies she cared about the most, and felt regret from making her choice. She didn't want to have to tell anypony that she wanted to stay in ponyville, as preparations were already being made for her to move to Canterlot, so she reached out to blame. She tried to blame anypony, including herself, and felt pressured to continue her move to the castle. Anypony else outside her inner conflict would say that this was all very silly, and that she should be able to see what was really important and could speak up for herself. But to Twilight, it was all very real to her, and it was all she could think of. She felt hatred. Then betrayal. Then sadness. She felt lost alone, thinking of her soon-to-be future. She didn't know what to do, and felt broken and alone because of it. She couldn't stop feeling these negative feelings, and she hated it. Just what was she to do about it? This was just the type of thing a certain somepony was waiting for, waiting for the right time to return. For nothing can ever be truly destroyed or eradicated, and this was her chance. This was her one and only chance for the time being, and such a thing like this could possibly never happen again. She couldn't wait any longer. It was time. Twilight was still in the Library, and was asleep in her bed. Or at least trying to sleep anyway. She was looking out the window, pointing out as many constellations as she could. She was trying to distract herself, but to no avail. Through quiet tears she looked to the night sky. "..Big dipper, l-little dipper, heh-ho-Orion's belt..." she stopped as she took a sorrowful sniff, "O-of course I'm-m picking out the e-easy ones fir-rst... I'm so pathetic!" she wailed her last few words, before breaking down again. She sobbed into her pillow, silently hoping to not wake spike up. "Why can't I stay here?" she whispered, "why won't she let me?" She whimpered as she thought of the coming results of her moving. Without her friends, would she forget what friendship was? Would the Elements become useless? Would disharmony spread? "Is this what you wanted, Celestia?" she asked, ice hanging from every word. She seemed to have concentrated all her hate into the short sentence, and surprised herself. Hooves went to her mouth as she realized what she'd just said. "Oh- oh my... I didn't mean that..." "Didn't you?" a voice asked from the darkness, the words feeling more like a statement than a question. "Wh-who's there..?" was the only answer that came to the unicorn's mind, her voice somewhat quieter than what she'd have liked. "A friend," it sounded warm, and inviting. Was it truly her friend? Had she not been able to recognize the voice completely, she would have thought so. "Who are you?" she asked, sounding more confident than before. "Like I said, a friend," it really did sound friendly, but so did most ponies who were out to harm you. Twilight decided to remain on the offensive, though just a little. "Why are you here?" curiosity was driving her forward. "To help you," its words sounded sincere, as if it really did want to help her. Could she trust it? It felt like she could, she felt like she should. No, she wanted to. "With what..?" her words were getting shaky again. "I can help you save them," it sounded... sad? "Save who?" "You're friends," its answer was short and sharp, but with an undertone of comfort. Like it knew something she didn't. Like... like... "M-my friends..? What's wrong wi-" "They won't live forever," it interrupted Twilight, words forceful and unkind. "..What are you..? I didn't even thi-" "They'll all die sooner or later," "..." "You'll be left all alone," it was mocking her now. "I... stop.." "You won't be able to handle it. Celestia will be disappointed in you," "...Shut up!" "Are you ready to be alone for the rest of your life, Twilight? To feel broken? To feel much, much worse than you do as of now?" "..how do you know how I feel..?" "I know all, Twilight Sparkle. I know that you don't want to leave your friends. I know that you feel betrayed by Celestia. I know that you already feel alone even though your solitude hasn't even begun. You are not ready to face your future. But I can help you; or are you ready to be truly alone?" "I... I... No..." she was crying again. How could it know? How could it? "That's what I thought," it sounded smug and happy, "It doesn't make any sense to be immortal when the ponies you care about won't be there forever, now is it?" Its tone had a sort of motherly feel to it now, and Twilight couldn't help but feel comforted. "N-no.." she sobbed as she spoke, hugging her pillow as she buried her head in it. "So let me help you keep them with you. Forever," Twilight looked up, though she could still see nothing, sniffling as she heard the offer. "R-really? How?" "Now that's not important, my little pony. Do you want my help?" "I- I think..." she sputtered. "Yes?" "...I want your help... so.. yes..." "What was that? I couldn't quite hear that," "Yes! Please help me! Please... just please... I need your help.." she cried into the darkness, frantically begging the unknown. She didn't care to think about who or what it was. She only cared about the fact that somepony was willing to help her, to guide her. She needed somepony to give her this foundation; she didn't wait to see who it was. "That's all I needed to hear," Laughter echoed throughout the room, and suddenly, Twilight felt that she could be in danger. She felt afraid. "Are you ready, Twilight Sparkle?" it sneered, and at that moment, she recognized the voice. Her eyes flared up at the recognition, and her fear grew. "N-no! Stay away from me!" she shrieked, silently hoping that somepony, anypony, would hear her. "Oh, but it is far too late for that," it whispered directly into her ear. The room became darker still, and the temperature seemed to drop to a freezing point. A piercing coldness pierced her chest, pain shooting through her body in mere seconds. She let out a scream as her heart sped up, and she began to sweat and breathe heavily. She stumbled out of bed and over to a desk, fumbling for a pen and paper. It was dizzying to try and write, but she forced herself to try. She had to. De a r Ev e r y p o n y : I ' m S o r r y She barely managed to finish the short note before collapsing onto the floor with a loud thud. Her breathing stopped. Her heart came to a rest. Silence reined the night once more. Bum bum bum bum bum bum bum bum bum "Oh, Equestriaaa... I'm BACK!"
Friendship is...?Chapter 2 | ~ | "Knowing you hate me, Is it a terrible fate? I thought the there was hope, But it was too late." -Now You are Gone by Quenette L. Hernandez Celestia's eyes snapped open as she let out a gasp. She'd been awoken by a large magical surge almost instantly, and knew exactly what it was just about as quickly. "No, no, no, no!" she mumbled to herself as she raced from her chambers to find her sister. She was sure she'd felt it, but she hoped she was wrong. "It can't be..." She passed by guard after guard, both her own and Luna's, not caring to act calm and collected as she usually did in a time of crisis. She had to find Luna, and fast. "Luna! Luna!" she called when she reached the top of the castle, at one of the various balconies. When she did not receive an answer as soon as she liked, she took flight. "Luna! Where are you?" She soon spotted the dark blue alicorn laying atop a grassy hill on the side of the mountain, looking up at the night sky. She made a swift dive and landed beside her. "Luna! Thank the stars I found you; did you feel it as well?" she asked her sister in a partially flustered tone. Her sister responded by looking at her with a tear stained face, with new tear after tear streaming from her sorrowful eyes. "Oh, Luna..." Celestia huddled closer to her, and she buried her face into her coat. The elder rested her wing upon the younger, and sat in a comforting silence as the other wept. "Sh-she's back..." she sobbed, "why, Tia? Why?" "I... I do not know, Luna," she replied truthfully, "I can only be thankful that she has not taken you this time." "But that's even worse!" she cried in response, "She's taken another pony... I could have dealt with her this time around! She's my problem!" "I know that you feel... responsible for her, little sister, but please remember that she is not. She took you when you were emotionally distraught, when you were not yourself. It was not your fault." "..I still could have done something..." she said quietly as Celestia wiped away her tears, "but I suppose we must not worry about that now... we must worry about the present," "That's my little mare," she said in a comforting tone, putting on a smile for her sister. Luna couldn't help but give a smile back, and even a small giggle escaped her. "And you are right. We must worry about what is happening here, and now. This cannot wait- we must find her at once." "But where could she be?" "In truth? I have no idea. We must first try to trace the magic flare to wherever it took place, even if she has moved since now. We should notify Shinning Armor, and get the Guard and the Military on full alert. Investigations should be sent out immediately," "..Shouldn't we keep this, how you say, on the down low?" she asked, "I understand the urgency, but do we not want to alarm our subjects?" "Normally, we would. But I fear that the gravity of the matter is far too great this time. It would not be fair to keep it from them, when they might become directly influenced by her actions. We will make an announcement in the morning." "A-alright," she relented softly, looking down to her hooves. "Hey," she lifted up her chin with her hoof, "it's going to be ok. We've subdued her before, remember? And as long as we have Twilight and her friends wield the Elements, she doesn't stand a chance!" "I guess you're right..." she agreed, a smile growing on her face, "I think I may be feeling better now already!" Celestia chuckled, and they both smiled at each other before returning to the castle, each feeling better about their standings than before. Celestia is right... as long as we have Twilight and the Elements... everything will be just fine... -oOo- Fluttershy was sitting in her kitchen wide awake, drinking a cup of her favorite tea. She was, in fact, very tired, as she had been working the entire day, just getting to sit down and relax right then. Even though it had been an entire week since the switched cutiemarks incident, she was still sorting out problems at her cottage. Rainbow had helped her clean up--she had made the mess, whether directly or indirectly, after all--the first few days, and she'd taken the chance to reorganize her home and schedule. She'd finally finished that today, and was glad that something good had come out of the mishap. She was also embarrassed to find some of the things that her pegasus friend had left behind, mostly being pictures of Soarin and Male Athlete Supermodel Magazines. Fluttershy wasn't a jugmental pony, but she still thought the possessions a bit wierd. She'd drop them off at Rainbow's house in the morning. Or afternoon. Or... someday. She was too tired to plan, and her tea was making her sleepier by the minute. No, she'd return them right now, before she forgot! What if they were special to Rainbow dash? What if she thought she lost them? If she didn't return them immediately, she wouldn't be a very good friend then, right? Satisfied with her decision, she grabbed a coat, checked on the sleeping animals, and locked up the cottage. She'd have to be fast; she didn't want to leave them alone in the middle of the night for long. Plus, she didn't exactly like being out alone at this time of night. She trotted in Rainbow's house's direction, it being too cold for her to feel comfortable flying. It was also easier to see as she walked, with the few lit light posts that lined the road. Soon, she was under the house of clouds. She was happy to see that the lights were on, meaning that her friend was probably awake. "Rainbow!" she called in a harsh whisper, "Rainbow dash!" There was no answer. With a sigh, Fluttershy realized that she probably couldn't hear her quiet call, and resolved to fly up to the door. Shivering all the way up, she slowly made it to the porch. She reached out and gave a soft knock to the door. No answer. She knocked harder. No answer. She knocked as loud as she dared, fairly sure that Rainbow would have to have heard her this time. Yet there was still no answer. She tried the door. It was unlocked. "Maybe.. maybe I'll just leave them on the table.." she mumbled to herself, and proceeded to let herself in. They were close friends after all; surely she wouldn't mind? If she wasn't home, she'd understand something like this. She was probably out at a bar or something having fun. "I wish I could be that out-going.." she sighed softly. As soon as she entered the house, she knew something was wrong. It seemed as if a massive tornado had gone through the rooms; chunks of cloud were every where, furniture was broken, and various items were strewn about. There was a half-eaten meal left on a table, long since cooled off. "...but not this out going!" she gasped, "Rainbow dash, what happened to you?" Forgetting about the magazines and photos, Fluttershy dropped her friend's possessions and rocketed off the porch towards Rarity's boutique, who was the closest to the floating house at the moment, to tell her what she'd seen. This was most definitely an emergency, and the fashionista would understand being woken up at such an hour. By the time she arrived, she'd already gone through hundreds of possibilities of Rainbow's well-being through her head, worrying herself sick. She knocked quite loudly, even for a normal pony, making sure to get Rarity's attention right away. "Rarity! Rarity!" she called as the knocked. No answer. Terror ate away at her chest as she feared the worst. She tried the door. It was unlocked. She grimaced as she went in. There were burn marks everywhere. It looked like a unicorn, probably Rarity, had been firing magic at something, and had missed many times. The marks were on the wall, the floor, the ceiling... "..oh dear... even on her fabrics.." she whispered in shock. For various supplies had also been damaged, with holes and burns littering her creations. There were too many, she realized, for it to have only been her friend. There had been a fight. And Rarity had lost. She raced off to Sugar Cube Corner, fear tugging at her heart. Please be ok, please be ok! she pleaded, hoping that Pinkie would be found where she should be. In a matter of seconds, she had flown up to her friend's window. She tapped on the glass, sure that it would wake up the pink mare. No response. She peered in the window, making out the room the best she could. All the blankets and pillows from the bed were on the floor, and there was a partially eaten cupcake on the desk. A partially eaten cupcake. "No, no, no!" she whimpered. "Not you too!" Three of her friends had mysteriously disappeared. What could she do? Check on her remaining friends. Twilight being the closest, she flew to the Library as fast as she possibly could. She knocked on the door frantically. Please answer, please answer, please answer... Her heart jumped when the lights turned on, and hoofsteps were heard. "Twilight?" she asked through the door. The door was opened by a small purple dragon, yawning and rubbing his eyes. "Oh, hey Fluttershy..." he said sleepily, "What are you doing up so late?" "I-is Twilight here?" she asked, hesitant. "Yeah, hold on a sec. Or actually, come in; it's kinda cold outside," he answered, letting her in. She waited downstairs as Spike went to go get Twilight. Oh thank goodness Twilight is he- "Fluttershy!" a yell came from upstairs, soon followed by a small dragon tumbling down the stairs, "Sh-she's gone!" Her heart sunk at the news. "B-but don't you sleep in the same room with her? How could she be gone?" "Well, I was kinda camping out down here in this awesome book fort I made..." he gestured over to a slightly impressive structure composed of books, blankets, and pillows, "And I always go to be before her anyway... I... Fluttershy..? Where is she?" He looked up to her with round, scared eyes. "..I.. well.. I.. I don't know..." she admitted, struggling to seem calm for the young dragon's sake, "I, um.. why don't you come with me?" He gave a small nod, now afraid to be left home alone. Fluttershy grabbed a blanket from off the back of a couch, and motioned for Spike to climb up onto her back. Once he was safely on, she draped the blanket over him. She felt his small arms hugging her neck, and realized that she was probably very lucky that Spike had still been there. She thanked fate that he'd made a book fort that day. "We're going to head over to Apple Jack's, ok?" she said softly as they left the Library, walking now that she carried Spike. "Why Apple Jack? I mean, aren't Rarity or Pinkie Pie closer?" he asked. "They.. they aren't really home right now, Spike," "Oh, are they on vacation?" Fluttershy didn't know how to answer. "Fluttershy... are they missing too..?" She paused before giving a slight nod. "Wh-what about Rainbow dash?" he asked, voice shaky. She answered with a shake of her head. "...oh.." They continued onward in silence. In a few minutes, in what seemed like forever, they made it to Sweet Apple Acres. "..Do you think Apple Jack is..?" the baby dragon didn't finish his sentence. "I, well I hope not.." she answered softly, silently hoping that at least she'd be alright. She knocked on the door. A few seconds later, Big Mac opened the door with a questioning look. "Oh, um, hello," Fluttershy began, shrinking back and looking away from the large stallion, "I, uh, is Apple J- er, what I mean to say is, um.." "Hey, is Apple Jack home?" Spike asked for her. "Well, she should be," he said slowly, as if trying to sort out why such a question would be asked of him at such a late hour. "Can you go get her?" "Eeyup," leaving the door open, he walked away. Fluttershy and Spike waited, neither saying a word to one another, both hoping for the best. The stallion soon returned, a confused and slightly worried look on his face. "I don't know what you're pulling, but she ain't there," he said carefully, "where is she?" "I- I don't know.." Fluttershy whispered, and Spike looked at the ground. "Fluttershy. Where is my sister?" his eyes held more worry by the second. The pegasus responded with a squeak, and looked at her hooves. Spike looked up, his face showing fear. "I think she's missing, like everypony else," he said, lip quivering. "Like everypony else? Who else is missing?" he asked, "Where are they?" "All the girls... Twilight... Rarity... all of them..." Spike answered through sniffles before burying his face in Fluttershy's mane. "Where are they? Where is my sister?" he repeated, but Spike was already crying. Fluttershy looked up again, her eyes watery. "Mr. Macintosh, sir, we don't know.. I.. I'm going to go to the Princesses... it can't be a coincidence.. I think they were foalnapped.." He just stared blankly at her for a moment as the realization sunk in. "So.. you're telling me, that Twilight, who is now an alicorn princess, and all your friends got foalnapped? But y'all are all..." "I went to all their houses. There were signs of struggle in each one.. except for the Library.." "Whoever did this.. is gonna pay.." he seethed, nostrils flaring. His eyes were closed, as if trying so very hard to think up a solution, one that would tell him where his sister was. They stood in silence for a bit, Spike still weeping as he clutched her neck. "..I.. Spike and I, we're going to Canterlot to tell the Princesses.. right now..." "..but the train don't leave 'till morning," "I know," "You.. you're not gonna fly, now are you?" "Yes, yes I am," traces of stubbornness were found in her voice, "this can't wait. They're missing! Not only are they important to us, but also Equestria! This is serious..!" Big Mac looked at the pegasus in surprise. Fluttershy was looking up at him with big, scared eyes. Scared for her friends. Scared for her home. "Any 'normal' pony couldn't have foalnapped them.. it was somepony powerful, a threat. I have to tell the Princesses immediately," her tone told the stallion that there was no room for interjection. "Well, I wish I could come with ya," he sighed, defeated, "but I gotta stay with my family, especially with a foalnapper running about. Also, I can't exactly fly," he ended with a slight chuckle and a small smile. Fluttershy smiled back, welcoming the small relief he was giving her. "Bye, Big Mac, um, sir. Please keep a look out... for anything, ok?" "Of course. You be careful now, you hear me?" "I- I'll try.." "Ok, Spike- hold on tight, ok?" she said in a motherly tone, both reassuring and caring, "I'm going to fly, and I don't want you falling. But if you do fall, I'll catch you. I promise," "O-ok.." he nodded, wrapping his arms around her, interlocking his fingers. And with that, she was off. "Be careful, Fluttershy.. I have a real bad feeling about this..."
QuestionsChapter Three | ~ | "Am I Hearing the Truth, Or Have I Just Been Deceived? Who Can I Trust? Who Can I Believe?" -Am I by Linda - A "So; what are we going to do today?" "Inform, reassure, present!" "What are we going to inform them of?" "Her return!" "How are we going to reassure them? "We have beaten her before!" "What are we going to present?" "The Elements of Harmony and the bearers!" "And?" "Cadance, Shining Armor, the Military, and the Guard!" "And?" "Twilight Sparkle?" "Close enough!" Celestia answered her sister, as she walked around the younger alicorn. They were preparing themselves, both physically and mentally, for their announcement and meetings that were about to commence. "We need to show them that we've been going through a time of prosperity- two new alicorns in such a short time is welcoming, and gives us a better chance. We are one of the most powerful nations, something that will hopefully give our subjects confidence that we will come out victorious," "Ma'am, yes ma'am!" Luna shouted jokingly, and they both erupted in small giggles. They had found that over the ages, mirth is a good distraction from nervousness. "Luna," Celestia began, in a more serious tone than before, "you must make sure that you are fully prepared for the topic. Some may think..." "It's ok, big sister," she said with a smile, "I'll be fine. Last night... I was just surprised is all," "Are you sure?" "Yes, I am sure," "Then I suppose we must get going," she was smiling again. "Yes, let's g-" She was interrupted by somepony knocking at Celestia's chamber's door. "You may enter," Celestia called in her usual formal voice. A Solar guard enter, his green eyes tinged with worry, panting ever so slightly. "Your Highnesses," he addressed them, clearly surprised to see Luna, "The Bearer of the Element of Kindness and Spike the dragon were just found at the outskirts of the city. Neither showed any injuries, except maybe some extended wing use, but it did look as if they had crashed, Spike the dragon being a passenger. They were both unconscious, and were taken to the hospital immediately," "Fluttershy?" Luna asked, taking in the surprising and large amount of information in. "Have they awoken yet?" the elder sister asked, and the guard shook his head, steely expression back on his face, "We must got to them immediately. Send for the rest of the Elements." He gave them a swift nod before dashing away, off to do what he was told. Using her magic, Celestia picked up a cylindrical piece off the wall, and proceeded to speak into it. "Prepare a carriage for Luna and I, we are going out. I need a room prepared for Princess Cadance and her husband, Earl of the Crystal Empire and Captain of the Royal Guard, Shining Armor. We will welcome them later today, at precisely 4:30." she levitated it back to its post on the wall. "Come, Luna," she said to her sister as she walked out into the hall. Both sisters made their way down to the carriage, Celestia stopping here and there to answer questions and give orders. Luna was also asked a few things, but mostly about her appearance wardrobe for the announcement that they would be making soon. They soon made it to their carriage, the one specifically used for the both of them, with was made up of pure white ivory on one side, and fine obsidian on the other. The ivory was crested with gold and inlaid with diamonds, while the other held silver and sapphires. The four wheels were all identical, each being crafted of iron, and coated in silver and gold paints. The inside was filled with cloud cushions, the finest of Cloudsdale, making it quite comfortable for the two alicorns. This was the carriage of the Two Alicorn Sisters, a relic so rarely used that the Lunar and Solar guards who were assigned to pull it were as excited as four foals with energy drinks in a candy store. But they couldn't show it of course. They were given orders to take the Princesses to the Hospital at once, and they saluted before taking off. Now, you'd think a carriage built almost entirely of metals would be much too heavy to carry, and you'd be right. But the sisters' method of transportation was heavily enchanted with weight deduction spells, balance distribution spells, and spells that increased its over all aerodynamics, making it easier to pull than an empty cart on the ground. Celestia had long since forgotten just how many spells had been cast on the thing. They made it to the Hospital in no time, and the two alicorns stepped out of the carriage and through the doors without a word. This left the guards and carriage to be viewed by the public, a marvelous sight to see. But to some, who knew what it was, they realized that something important was happening. Something big. But the guards were happy. -oOo- Fluttershy awoke with a loud gasp, catching the attention of a nearby unicorn nurse. "Oh.. oh my..." she panted, eyes darting this way and that, trying to figure out where she was. The nurse rushed over, carrying a clipboard with her magic. "You're awake!" she greeted the pegasus cheerily, a bright smile on her face, "It's ok; you're just at the Royal Canterlot Hospital!" "Th-the hospital..?" "Yes, but don't worry; you don't have any injuries or sicknesses or anything. You were just found unconscious somewhere, and your wings showed a little stress," her words sped out quickly, "So, we deducted that you collapsed from exhaustion from attempting to fly here from Ponyville, and that that little baby dragon was just asleep--he woke up right away the little dear--but we left you here just in case!" "Um... thanks...? Ms..." "Periwinkle," she answered, "but you can just call me 'Wink' for short!" she offered, giving her a wink to emphasize. "O-ok, Ms. Wink ma'am," she said quietly, eyes searching for somewhere else to look. This mare was making her quite uncomfortable. Wink gave a giddy laugh as Fluttershy spoke her nickname, and clapped her hooves. "Nurse Periwinkle," a stern voice said from the hallway, causing the said nurse to freeze, "are you bothering the patient?" "N-no Doctor Thin Needle," she called back, slowly scooting away from Fluttershy as she did, "just checking up on the Element Bearer..." "Ah! The Element Bearer! I almost forgot!," a grey stallion walked in, a pegasus, with a darker grey mane. As he walked in, Wink mouthed 'oh my Celestia' in an exaggerated manner to Fluttershy. "How are you feeling?" "Oh! Umm, fine.. " "Thank goodness! When the ambulance brought you he-" "An ambulance?" "Ah, yes. When it broug-" "Why?" "Er, I.. it was an emergency, an I-" "What if somepony else had needed it more than I did?" she stood up on her bed, looking down on the doctor. "Well, erm," "I was only exhausted!" she was hovering above him now, a disappointed expression on her face. "But you ar-" "Yes, I am an Element of Harmony, but that doesn't make me better than everypony else," "I uh.." "Now I know that this may not be your fault, but you will make sure that emergency transportation like this is used correctly in the future, yes?" "What were they supposed to do? Carry y-" "Yes?" "Yes, ma'am," he sighed reluctantly. Lady doesn't know what the hay she's talking about. For all we knew, she'd had a concussion! And I'm not even the one who sent the ambulance! Satisfied that she'd done some good, she floated down to the floor. "Thank you, sir," she smiled, "now, I mean if you don't mind me asking, where's Spike?" "The dragon? Out in the lobby," "Oh, ok," she gave him a thankful nod, and turned towards the door. But before she could even reach for the handle, the door flew open, making way for two alicorns. "Fluttershy! Are you alright?" Luna, who'd been the one to open the door, called out in the Royal Canterlot Voice, holding a look of concern on her face. "Luna, you might want to quiet down a bit; some patients are trying to sleep," Celestia whispered into her sister's ear in amusement, causing her to blush slightly. "I'm glad to see that you are well, Fluttershy," she said, turning to the pegasus, "but may I ask what caused you to collapse like that?" "Well, you see-" "Fluttershy!" the voice of a young dragon yelled, following the dragon himself as he rushed in from behind the Princesses, "You're ok!" "Of course she's ok; she's at the best hospital for miles around! We did everything we could," Thin Needle boasted, bowing to the Royal Sisters. "She didn't need any medical attention," Nurse Periwinkle reminded him, rolling her eyes, "we didn't do anything." "You still want that raise?" he said through his teeth as he kept up his smile. "Yep, we're the best!" "I'm sure you are, my little ponies, but I think we should hear what Fluttershy here has to say," Celestia said evenly. "Your Highnesses," two guards had appeared, one Solar and one Lunar, "We were assigned to accompany you." "Of course," Luna sighed. "..I.. uh.." Fluttershy mumbled. "Yes?" Celestia asked. "The reason I tried to fly here is-" "Princess Luna, please don't touch that... " "Why not? I want to see the x-ray of my body!" "But... I'd better get somepony over here..." "I..." Oh, why won't anypony let me talk? "Ahah! The fun has been doubled!" "No! That's not supposed to work like that!" "Princess Celestia! All the Elements, besides Fluttershy, have been foalnapped!" Spike suddenly errupted, seeing as Fluttershy would probably never get a word in. This exclamation silenced everypony in the room, and all eyes looked to the small dragon. "Did you say foalnapped" Luna asked, returning from the x-ray machine. She was followed by a frazzled Periwinkle with a smoking coat. Celestia had her eyes closed, and seemed to be concentrating. "Yeah, last night... Fluttershy and I were lucky to get out of there!" Spike continued, "She went to all of their houses, and everypony was gone--all our friends I mean--and she took me with her to go check on Apple Jack, and even she had been foalnapped, right under the Apple Family's noses! After talking to Big Mac for a little bit, Fluttershy took off for Canterlot to tell you guys, erm, Princesses I mean. With me riding on her back," "It sounds like she left her house at just the right time..." Luna thought outloud, "Tell me, Fluttershy, what made you leave your cottage at such an hour?" "Well.. I uh..." she fidgeted with her hooves as she started to blush, "Rainbow dash left her modeling magazines and Soarin photos at my house, and I was too embarrassed to leave them there, so I just had to take them to her!" "What?" everpony--except Celestia--in the room asked, her fast spoken sentence to quiet to be heard. "Rainbow left some, ah, important things at my cottage that I just had to return immediately," she revised her previous statement, "but when I got there, her house was a mess! And she was gone..." "And that is when you went to check on your friends, correct?" Celestia asked, opening her eyes again. "Y-yes.. Rarity first, then Pinkie Pie, then Twilight, then Applejack. They were, are, all missing..." "I see..." her tone was steady as she nodded her head, closing her eyes once more. "Sister... could it be..?" "Yes, it seems as if it is," "What, Princess?" Spike asked, looking up to the tall Alicorn. "Fluttershy, Spike; I think it would be best if you came with us," her eyes snapped open and a blinding flash was sent through the room. "They're gone!" Thin Needle exclaimed, seeing as the Princesses, the guards, Fluttershy, and Spike were all missing from the room. "It's called a teleportation spell, genius," Nurse Periwinkle muttered under her breath. "What?" "Nothing,"
