Chapters “Wake up Mr. Simon”
What?
“Mr. Simon please wake up, we are already two minutes behind schedule.”
Schedule? What schedule?
“MR.SIMON!” The voice shouted a little more forcefully.
“I’m up, I’m up.”
“Good. Now Mr. Simon, we may begin. Please stand up and walk to the door.” The voice enjoined.
Simon got up off the floor and took quick noticed of the room he was in. It was small with white walls and a single mirror. The floor was blazoned with books that covered everything from the theory of levitation to the art of transmutation. Simon could not actually see any speakers or origin point from where the voice was coming from.
“Where am I exactly?” Simon asked.
“Don’t you know Mr. Simon?”
“Uh, no actually I don’t.”
“Well I am sorry to say there is no time to debrief you on your current endeavors as we are already fifteen minutes behind schedule. All you need to know is that behind that door lies Ponyville.”
“Ponyville?” What’s that?”
“Ugh. Mr. Simon, Ponyville is the place where you will start your mission. It is the place where you will meat a variety of ponies ranging from the common earth pony to the esteemed unicorn. Now please leave so that the mission may begin.” The voice pleaded.
Simon walked over to where the mirror hung on the wall. Judging by the horn on his head he was a unicorn who had a white coat with a black mane. This realization did not bring him any closer to understanding who he really was.
“Mr. Simon my patience is wearing thin. Either step out of this room or I shall force you to leave.” The Voice warned.
“Oh yea? How are you going to make me leave? You’re not even in the same room as me. Also, you do realize that the amount of time since I woke up to the time this conversation started you could have told me what the hell you want.”
“Well…I…I…GET OUT!” The voice shrieked.
The room that Simon was standing in started to dissolve around him, until it eventually disappeared. All around Simon was an empty void. I’m dreaming, Simon thought, I’ll close my eyes and when I open them I’ll be home . Simon shut his eyes, counted to ten and then opened them up. He was standing in the center of a town that had a few street vendors and about a hundred closely knit homes. Some pony was starting at him from across the street. She was pink, energetic, and was able to move across the street with such speed; Simon didn’t even have enough time to say hi.
“Hi there! My names Pinkie Pie, what’s yours?”
“Um…”
“Um? Well nice to meet you Um, and let me be the first to welcome you to Ponyville!”
“Thank you, and my names not Um it’s actually-“ The clock in the center of town struck twelve as Simon was about to finish.
“No time to talk now Um, I’ve got work to do, but hey if you need some one to talk to why not try my friend Applejack! She loves to make new friends and she lives just up the road here, or is it down the road? I can never tell the difference between the two. Either way that road will take you to Applejack.” Pinkie Pie rushed as she ran off to some shop named Sugar Cube Corner.
“Uhh, thank you, I think.” Simon replied confused about what had just happened. With no where to go and no pony to talk to Simon decided to head off to meat this Applejack, praying that she was a bit more stable than the filly he had just met.
Upon arriving at the gate to a giant farm field, that had what he could only guess to be a million apple trees, Simon thought that he should start out with the introduction this time, just to be safe.
“Hello…Applejack? Some pony named Pinkie Pie told me to come and see you.” When Simon was finished an orange pony with a blond mane raced down a hill at an incredible pace, chasing what he could only make out as a barrel of apples. Believing that this pony might need his help, Simon ran up the hill.
As he charged up the hill, Simon’s head started hurt and he stopped halfway. It was a memory of him in some kind of classroom. The class was big and took place in what he could only imagine as some sort of prestigious preschool.
“All right class, today’s lecture is that in levitation.” The teacher at the front of the class began.
“In order to levitate an object on must first put all their focus on said object, and then command their magic to do what they want.” The teacher explained as she was levitating three barrels and two students.
“Would any other pony like to try?” The teacher asked. What she received was a mix of I don’t knows and no way in Celestias.
“Very well I suppose I’ll just pick…how about you Simon? Please walk to the front of the class room and levitate this apple.”
As Simon rose from his seat he could feel fear rising up inside of him. He had practiced levitation about a hundred times at his house. Still, the fear of all his classmates watching and judging him was enough to make any six-year-old race home to his parents. As he approached the apple, Simon remembered something that he had heard from…some pony. The saying was that as long as you try you never truly fail. This saying filled him up with confidence and he put all his focus on the apple. At first nothing happened, and he could just feel the judgment that was crashing down on him from his other classmates. Simon knew how it would start, first would come the laughter that the teacher would try to control and fail to contain. Then the class would shun Simon for the rest of the year, and maybe the rest of his life. All this was racing through his head as he attempted to lift the apple once more. Stupid apple , Simon thought as sweat poured down his face, you will rise or I will destroy you . All that built up fear and anger finally transformed into something constructive, and he was able to raise the apple all the way up to the ceiling. The class applauded and the teacher even gave him a gold star.
“Help!”
The cry for assistance finally brought him back to the present. Simon looked at the barrel that was racing down the hillside and did just what his teacher had told him. Just focus on the barrel and …The barrel came to a complete stop as Simon lifted it above his head and set it down next to him. The orange pony finally arrived at the bottom of the hill, exhausted and out of breath.
“Thank you very much kind sir. I don’t know what I would’ve done if you hadn’t stopped that barrel.”
“It was really no trouble.” Simon said tiredly. That spell took some of his energy away, more than he would care to admit. “If you don’t mind me asking, what did it matter if the barrel had crashed? All that would’ve been damaged are a few apples. Hardly anything to get so worked up about.”
“There aren’t any apples in this here barrel.” She said rather angrily.
The orange pony tipped over the barrel as three young ponies toppled out. One was regular, the other a pegasus, and the third a unicorn just like him.
“Apple Bloom what in the hay did you think ya’ll were doing? You could have been seriously hurt!”
“We thought we could get barrel tumbling cutie marks by…well…tumbling down the side of a hill in a barrel.”
“Well now ya’ll are just lucky Mister…”
“Simon.”
“Mr. Simon was here to save you. Now go to your room and stay there for the rest of the day.”
“All right Applejack I’ll go” Apple Bloom sighed. “See you tomorrow Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle.”
“See you later Apple Bloom.” The two young ponies shouted as they raced off towards town.
Once Apple Bloom was inside, it was just Simon and Applejack. Pinkie Pie had said she could help him, and it wouldn’t be so bad to have at least one friend.
“Umm…Applejack I came here because a pony by the name of Pinkie Pie said you might be able to help me.” Simon began
“Well shoot, ya’ll know Pinkie Pie?” Applejack said excitedly “Any friend of Pinkie Pie’s is a friend of mine. What do you need sugar cube?”
“ I don’t know if you can help me with much, but I guess I’ll start with the basics. First question where am I in the world exactly?”
“Where are you? Why, you’re in Equestria, the land that is ruled by both Celastia and her sister Luna…but I’m guessing you already knew that much.”
“Actually no, thank you”
This response seemed to put Applejack off a little bit, as if she hadn’t known anyone who didn’t know who Luna and Celestia were. Was it really so strange the he didn’t know who the royal family was? I’d better move on before she starts to think I’ve gone crazy.
“Uh, second question, do you know of any pony that might know me? Anyone that might have mentioned my name?” Simon asked hopefully.
“Hmmm…nope sorry, can’t think of any pony mentioning some one named Simon.”
“Oh…that’s okay.” Simon replied disappointedly.
“Simon are you feeling okay? You’re starting to worry me.”
Simon took another look at Applejack’s sympathetic expression and thought about the day’s events. He was dropped into a world he didn’t understand, and was pelted with memories he didn’t remember having. It was enough to drive anybody into frustration. I mean how much can one unicorn take he thought angrily.
“No Applejack I’m not okay. As you’ve probably guessed I don’t know who I am exactly. I don’t know where I’m going, and I don’t know what to do.”
“Well hey now that’s okay. My friends and I will do everything we can to get you back on track. Do you remember how you got here?”
Simon immediately realized that discussing his arrival would probably be best not to share…at least not yet any way.
“Nope, no idea. I just kind of woke up in the middle of town.” Simon lied.
“Well all righty then. We’ll just figure you out in on our own then. First things first we should probably identify your cutie mark first.”
“My what?”
“Your cutie mark. Ya’ll know, that image that you have on your flank.”
Simon turned his head to take a look at what Applejack was talking about. Sure enough there was an image on his flank. It was a broken shield with two swords sticking out of it. I don’t remember getting a tattoo like this Simon thought embarrassed.
“Ahem…I am so sorry you have to see this.” Simon apologized.
“What are you sorry for? Everyone has a cutie mark, see” Applejack assured as she showed off her own.
“Oh…I see.” Simon said embarrassed once more.
“ Hey now don’t worry about it. Now what I want you to do is close your eyes and attempt to connect with your cutie mark.”
All right, seems easy enough . Simon thought as he closed his eyes. He focused with all his might on his cutie mark. He caught glimpses of images, like of the moon and the sun, but nothing solid. After a few more minutes he gave up and opened his eyes.
“Well what did you see?” Applejack asked.
“Nothing solid, just glimpses of images.”
“Well it’s getting dark now, you should probably head ho-“ Applejack began.
“No it’s fine. I’ll probably stay at one of the local Ins until I find a place.”
“Hold on, you don’t have any money do you? How are you goanna pay?”
“I’ll think of something Applejack don’t worry.”
Applejack bit her bottom lip like she wanted to tell him something, but couldn’t get the words out. At last she asked “Would like to stay in the library? My friend Twilight still lives there but only on the weekends when she visits from the palace.”
“That would be great, thanks.”
Applejack looked very pleased with his response and escorted him to the library. As they traveled back into town Simon once again stared at the massive farm he had just exited from, and stopped. Something about this place seemed familiar to him, almost as if he had been there before.
“Hey Applejack. You’re sure no ones ever mentioned me or at the very most seen me?” Simon questioned.
“Nope. Me and my friends keep pretty close tabs on anyone who enters this here town.” Applejack assured him.
“Right…okay then.”
Upon arriving at the museum Simon couldn’t help but stare in aw and wonder. The building was a giant tree! That was an architectural feat if he ever saw one. Applejack must have seen him staring because she started to ask him if he actually wanted to stay there. Yes was all Simon could mutter.
“Ill be back tomorrow with some friends.” Applejack promised as she handed Simon the keys. “We’ll figure things out one way or the other.”
When Applejack left for home Simon checked out his new living arrangements. There was one shelf that was covered in books, which circled the foyer. There was a basement that had a lot of mad scientist like equipment. There was also a folder on the floor marked Subject Pie that had a lot of pictures of balloons and candy inside. Weirdoes , Simon thought as he headed back upstairs. The bedroom on the top floor was less interesting. Containing only two beds, one big and one short, as well as more bookshelves there was not much to look at. On the nightstand next to the bed there was picture of Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and four others Simon didn’t recognize. I’m sure these are the friends Applejack was telling me about Simon thought tiredly.
As he climbed in the bed he gazed at the moon through the window. “Wow it’s really bright tonight.” Simon muttered to himself, as he was about to fall asleep. “It kind of reminds me of that night I went to the galloping gala with my family and we-.” Simon was stopped in midsentence as another memory started to intude his mind once more.
It was the galloping gala, and Simon was younger than he was in his previous memory. He could’ve been…no more than five when he first attended the gala. His parents were excited because they were finally going to meet Celestia. Dad was going to try and cut a business deal of some sort and Mom was going to try and get in good with the other business wives. All they expected Simon to do was sit in the corner and not cause any trouble. Except Simon didn’t appreciate that role for some reason, and decided that it would be more exciting to explore the castle instead.
The castle was big and seemed to go on forever. As he walked around he noticed a set of stairs that appeared to lead to the second floor. Being so young and so brash, Simon eagerly raced up the staircase. After all, young Simon thought what could go wrong? Upon arriving at the top of the stairs Simon saw that he was outside and very high up. In fact he appeared to be in the tallest tower in the castle. Simon looked over the banister and saw more guests arriving, eager to get the chance to meet the princes. Simon was so amazed by how high up he was, that he didn’t immediately noticed the pony who would completely change his life.
“Who are you little one? Shouldn’t you be down stairs with your parents?” Luna kindly asked.
“N-n-no.” Simon stammered. “All they asked me to do was stay out of their way for the night and not cause trouble.”
“Hmm…I see. They must have noticed your absence by now. You see little one, even when it may seem like your family is ignoring you they still maintain a loving and protective eye. Come now let us go down stares so you may see for your self.”
As Luna escorted down the steps, he couldn’t feel a sense of accomplishment. After all, he had gone to seek adventure and finding a princess doesn’t get more exciting than that. When they arrived at the bottom of the steps, princess Luna had been right. Although they weren’t showing it his parents had been freaking out trying to find him. When they spotted him they hurried over to his location, oblivious to who he was with.
“Oh Simon there you are. Where did you run off to? You had your father and me worried sick.” Scolded his mother.
“Please do not be upset with young Simon here. He merely wandered the grounds searching for a friend.” Luna offered.
“Why thank you princess Luna but I don’t…p-p-princess Luna it is an honor to meet you! Tell me is this castle insured, because I have an amazing deal on roof insurance.” his father offered.
“Yes…well…thank you but no. The castle is quite safe.”
“Luna? What are you doing down here? I thought you were skipping the gala so that you could keep watch over the night.” Celestia asked, surprised when she saw her sister.
“I came down here to escort young Simon to his parents after he found the stairs leading up to the tower.”
“He found the stairs? All on his own? Are you sure he didn’t have any help?”
“Yes sister I am sure, which is why I am offering him a full scholarship to Luna’s school for gifted young unicorns.”
“Yes! Yes, of course he’ll go. Come now Simon lets go home and get you prepared for school! Lets see…we’ll need quills, parchment…” Simon’s mother droned on, creating a list of supplies he would need for school.
When Simon awoke from his memory he felt such a rush of hope. Another clue to figuring out his past! He was somehow connected to Luna. Simon rushed down stairs and searched for any book that discussed Luna. The first book he uncovered was titled Luna: Powers and Magic.
“All right then, lets see who I’m dealing with”
The first chapter discussed who she was, what she did and how she shaped Equestria using her magic. At last Simon found a section that he thought was particularly interesting. According to the book Luna visited the dreams of those in need.
“Well memory loss doesn’t get more needy than anything any other pony could possibly be dealing with at the moment.”
Simon rushed into bed, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Luna. Needless to say, she never showed.
“You let him what?!”
“Now Twilight he needed a place to stay.”
Who needed a place to stay?
“I’m with Twilight on this one Applejack. Letting some other pony crash at her place without asking is so not cool.”
Crash…cool…what time is it?
“Yea, Applejack how could you let some stranger sleep in Twilight’s house. If anything you should have let my new friend Um stay there. I can’t wait till you guys meet him!”
Simon slowly rose out of bed to see what all the commotion was about. As he looked out the window that was next to him, he saw Applejack arguing with Pinkie Pie and four other ponies. I should really go down there and see if I can help . Simon thought. As he got out from the warmness of the bed, Simon started planning out his strategy as to what he was going to say. One of the ponies Applejack was talking to clearly owned the Library he was staying in, and he wanted to make sure that it was okay if he continued to live there.
“I must say Applejack, that Rainbow Dash is absolutely right. I mean you barely know anything about this unicorn. After all he could be a thief, or a freeloader, or a-“
“Sorry to interrupt.” Simon apologized as he exited the building. It was sunny outside and Simon couldn’t help but take a moment to let the warmth from the sun fall on his face. “I thought it would be best if I came out here and apologized for taking advantage of Applejack’s hospitable nature.”
“Um? What were you doing in Twilight’s place? Do you know this Simon guy?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Uh, right. Ya’ll this here is Simon, the unicorn I was telling you about. Simon this is Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Spike, and of course Twilight Sparkle.” Applejack introduced.
“Applejack failed to mention that our new friend was so…handsome.” Rarity swooned. Rarity was a unicorn like Simon, and even had a white coat but a dark purple mane.
“He’s not that handsome.” Spike muttered. Spike wasn’t a pony but was instead a small dragon with light purple scales and green spikes.
“Besides Rarity it doesn’t matter how he looks. All that matters is that he’s staying at Twilight’s house without her permission. Besides…I don’t trust him.” Rainbow Dash argued. Rainbow Bow dash was a pegusus with a rainbow colored mane and a light blue coat.
“Oh, I don’t know Rainbow Dash, he looks like a nice enough person. After all he did come out to apologize.” Fluttershy whispered. She was pegasus, like Rainbow Dash, except she had a light yellow coat and a light pink mane.
“ No, Rainbow Dash is right Fluttershy. I stayed at Twilight’s house without here permission, and for that I apologize. If you wish me to move out than I shall.” Simon promised Twilight. Twilight was an alicorn who had a dark purple coat as well as a dark purple mane that had a pink stripe running down the side of it. She looked from Applejack to Simon as if deciding weather or not she should take her word for him.
At last, Twilight said “It’s okay if you stay Simon. I’ll just stay somewhere else this weekend.”
“Thank you.”
“Really it’s no trouble at all. Now Applejack was telling us that you were having a problem with your memory, is that true?”
“Yes, I can’t remember much from my past.”
“Well did you remember anything after I left last night?” Applejack asked.
Simon looked around at all the ponies that were before him. He didn’t know most of them and didn’t owe half of them anything. Simon felt as though his memory was a personal burden that he alone should carry. Except… except there was something about these ponies, something that he couldn’t quite put his hoof on. He felt as though he could trust them and proceeded to tell the events of last night’s memory. When he had finished everyone was seemed to be stunned, especially Twilight.
“You were friends with Luna?!” Twilight asked, shocked.
“I don’t really know. All that came from the memory was that I had met here and that she let me join her school.” Simon said.
“Either way you’re involved with royalty! That’s very impressive here Simon and quite the accomplishment.” Rarity swooned once more.
“It’s not that impressive.” Spike muttered again.
“Right…anyway, Twilight, Applejack said that you are a princess? Do you know Luna? Has she ever mentioned me?” Simon asked, hopeful that Luna could fill in his memory gaps.
“Uh, sorry Simon but Luna has never mentioned you.” Twilight said sympathetically.
“Oh…that’s fine. You can take me to see her though, right?”
“No, I’m afraid Luna has gone away on a secret diplomatic mission. She won’t be back for at least a week.”
Simon couldn’t help but freak out a little on the inside. He had come so close to discovering who he was. Now it turned out that his best hope was probably thousands of miles away. Diplomatic missions were risky business, Simon at least knew that much. What if she never returns! Simon mentally freaked out. I’ll be stuck in Ponyvile for the rest of my life never knowing my true identity!
Twilight must have been able to sense that Simon was having some sort of mental breakdown, because she promised that she and her friends would help in anyway they could.
“Thanks Twilight. Thank you all.” Simon offered.
“It’s no trouble Simon. If you don’t mind me asking, you said that you attended Luna’s school for gifted young unicorns?” Twilight questioned.
“Yea…why do you ask?”
“I’ve never heard of that school before. Hmm, something’s not right. Simon why don’t you go and explore the town for a little bit, I have some research to do. Spike, come along now.” When Twilight entered the Library, it was just Simon and the rest of the gang. He thought it would be best if one of them showed him around, since he had no idea where he was going, and asked if any of them would like to join him.
“I would like to Simon, but the harvest doesn’t bring its self in.” Applejack apologized.
“I would to, but I just got a big order for one hundred dresses.” Rarity practically cried.
“Yea I would like to but…no.” Rainbow Dash said rather bluntly.
“Oh…um,…sorry…but, no.” Fluttershy whispered apologetically.
“I would like to Simon, but I need to find Um first. He could be lost or worse!” Pinkie Pie shouted as she away before Simon could explain that he was Um.
They all left to do their own thing and left Simon standing alone in front of the library. Not wanting to waste the day sitting on his butt waiting for Twilight to finish her research, he went off to explore the town on his own. As far as he could tell there was nothing exceptionally special about Ponyvile. It was a small community consisting of a variety of ponies, just as the voice had promised.
As he walked past the local playground, school had just been let out. The children all ran outside eager to be done with their studies and play with their friends. Simon was about to walk away, eager to continue exploring the town, when he witnessed three students being bullied.
“Well, well, well, if it isn’t the cutie mark wannabes. Discover your special talent yet?” Diamond Tiara teased.
“Oh don’t worry they’ll figure it out soon. As matter of fact I’m already predicting what it is…being losers.” Silver Spoon joined in.
“What seems to be the trouble here?” Simon asked as he walked over.
“W-w-well…umm…” Diamond Tiara struggled, searching for an answerer to get out of this situation.
“Nothing! Nothing’s going on.” Silver Spoon pitched in. seeming pleased with her answer.
“Well that’s good, because for a minute there I thought I was going to have to get the teacher.” Simon threatened. “However, since nothing is going on then you have no reason to speak to these three anymore and you can be on your way.”
“Well…I…come on Silver Spoon let’s go.” Diamond Tiara enjoined.
When they had both left Simon got a chance to see who was being bullied. It was Apple Bloom and her two friends, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle.
“Thanks for helping us out Mr. Simon.” Apple Bloom said with a touch of gratitude.
“Yea that was awesome! You totally got her all freaked.” Scootaloo said with admiration.
“Can you teach us how to do that?” Sweetie Belle asked.
“Um…no, but you’re very welcome. I have to ask though, what were they teasing you about?”
The three friends looked at each other with sadness in their eyes.
“We don’t have cutie marks.” Apple Bloom explained sadly.
“We’ve tried everything, but nothing’s turned up.” Scootaloo sadly stated.
“We’ve asked every pony in town how they got theirs…but no ones been particularly helpful.” Sweetie Belle remarked.
“Can you tell us how you got yours?” Apple Bloom asked.
“My cutie mark story? That takes me back. I was a little older than you three, and I had a big examine-“ Simon was cut off by another memory surfacing in his head.
It was the day of the big finale. The subject was ward dismembering. Basically what that meant was disarming protection spells, and Simon was quite adapt to that skill. Everyone said he was a natural at it, but Simon still thought he had a lot to learn. As the teacher came around passing out tiny locked chests, she started to rattle off instructions.
“You will have five minutes to open the chest using your magic. You may not get assistance from another student. Doing so will guarantee an automatic failure. If you do not open the box within the time limit you will not move on to the next level.” The teacher instructed.
“This is going to be a walk in the park! Right Simon?” The pony next to him muttered.
“Yea…easy.” Simon swallowed hard.
“You may begin!” The teacher said when the time limit started.
Okay…okay, just breathe, you can do this ! Simon motivated himself. Just focus on the box, and the say the spell in your head . Simon thought as he started to focus on the box with all his might. When nothing happened the first time he tried again…and again…and again.
“Two minutes left.” The teacher warned.
Simon looked all around the room. Nearly half the class had managed to open their chests. Simon started wasting time by looking at his box and then at another students, believing that his must be defective.
“One minute left.” The teacher warned again.
Simon’s hooves started to tremble on the tabletop. I’m going to fail . He thought as the clock started moving at what looked like warp speed. Simon sat there and thought about what going home would be like. His mother would greet him at the door and ask how his test went. His father would already be prepared with a present for his assumed success. Then would come the moment where he had to fess up to failing the test. His parents would go into another room and yell about he had slacked off too much. Then they would ground him and force him to attend the graduation of his fellow students. He would awkwardly congratulate them all, knowing the whole time they would just feel pity for him, and whisper about how much of a loser he was.
“Thirty seconds left.” The teacher warned for the last time.
All the anger Simon was feeling toward the chest was…well, it was hard to put into words exactly. He was so angry that he felt like he was going to destroy Equestria if the box didn’t open. Open darn you! Open...open…open! Simon commanded. To his surprise the lid flew open so fast that it came undone and hit the ceiling.
“Time! Please cease all magical activity now.” The teacher commanded.
Simon had done it he had passed the test. At that moment whom should walk in but princess Luna herself, congratulating all who had passed. When she walked over to Simon, he couldn’t help be feel a rush of gratitude. After all if it weren’t for her, then he would never be in the class in the first place.
“Princes Luna, I did it, I passed.” Simon excitedly shared.
“Yes young Simon I know. There was never a doubt in my mind, not after you were able to climb the stair case to the observatory.” Luna beamed.
“What do you mean? They were just stairs right?”
“There is a reason why Celestia and I only fly to the top of the tower. It is because that the stairs are protected with powerful wards to keep out intruders. So you see, that was the reason I wanted you to attend my school. You were a natural at breaking wards.” Luna smiled.
Simon just sat on the ground, processing the information that had been presented to him. He loved breaking enchantments that much was clear to him. He was also a natural at it. Then he looked at Luna and thought about how much she had believed in him. This is what I’m meant to do…no question about it. Simon thought. Just then his cutie mark had appeared. The cutie mark started whispering to Simon, letting him know why it was there. He already knew though, and for the rest of his education he started to train in order to become-
“Mr. Simon! Are you okay?” Apple Bloom asked, terrified that Simon was in some kind of pain.
Simon came back to the present with a group of ponies standing around him.
“I’m fine…I just…I just need to go lay down for a while.” Simon said, embarrassed for causing a scene.
“But you never told us about your cutie mark.” Sweetie Belle complained.
“I’ll tell you later.” Simon promised as he ran off to the library.
Twilight stood in front of the library, nervously awaiting Simon’s return. In her hoof she held a book known as The History of Ancient Equestria. When Simon finally arrived he couldn’t wait to share what he had discovered, but her expression told him it would be best to just listen.
“I’ve been doing some research on the school that you had mentioned earlier.” Twilight began. “Sure enough it did exist.”
“Did?” Simon asked.
“Simon that school…that school was shut down over a thousand years ago.”
“What?!”
“I need you tell me the last thing you remember.”
“Well just to day I learned how I got my cutie mark.” Simon told Twilight the events that lead up to such a momentous occasion. When he had finished Twilight stared at him with disbelief.
“What is it? Doesn’t my story make sense?” Simon questioned.
“Well…” Twilight started.
“Well what?” Simon demanded.
“Luna has never been known to be so…generous. Especially after she turned into Nightmare Moon.”
“Who?”
“Nightmare Moon? You know…the person Luna became after growing jealous of Celestia.” Twilight began.
“No…I’m sorry but I don’t know who that is. Usually a memory will come to me after a certain word or phrase is said. This time however, it doesn’t ring any bells.”
Twilight sat there and thought for what seemed like forever. To Simon, it looked as if she were trying to understand why this, Nightmare Moon person, didn’t start any type of memory.
“Simon, I’m going back to Canterlot. The library there is vastly superior to the one here in Ponyvile. This is a mystery that can’t be solved by just looking for clues.”
“Can I come with you? Maybe I can talk to Celestia or someone else?” Simon pleaded.
“Sorry but you need to stay here and continue recovering your memory. If all else fails we can still rely on you to figure yourself out. Tell my friends I said good bye for now.” Twilight requested as she flew off to Canterlot.
For the second time in today, Simon found himself sitting in front of the library not knowing what to do. The day was growing short as the night was rising and he thought it would be a good idea to go inside.
“Hello Mr. Simon.” A voice greeted as Simon entered the library.
“Who’s there?” Simon called.
“Don’t you remember?” The voice teased.
“Oh…its you. What do you want?”
“I just wanted to let you know that everything is right on schedule.”
“How? I don’t even have all of my memories.”
“I know! That’s part of the game were playing here.”
“Game? What game?”
“Oh you’ll find out soon enough. Think of you finding your memories as…part one.”
“Part one? Then what’s part two?”
“That will only be discovered when all your memories have been recovered. Hey that rhymed.”
“Well bad rhyming aside, why don’t you just give me my memories back?”
“Think of it as a journey of self discovery.”
“Well that’s just stupid. What’s the real reason?”
“Very well, I suppose giving you some information wouldn’t hurt. You see Simon…I didn’t capture you. I only released you. That is why I can’t give you back your memories…because I don’t really know you. All I do know is that in that little head of yours is the secret history of Equestria.”
“W-what? Secret history…I don’t know…”
“Oh I know you don’t know. That’s why you’re in Ponyvile, to discover your true self.”
“Yea, or I could wait until next week and just talk to Luna.” Simon challenged.
“I took care of that.” The voice assured.
“What does that mean?” Simon asked.
“That’s for me to know and you to find out. Ta-ta for now.” The voice taunted as it left.
“What does that mean?” Simon whispered into the darkness. “WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?!”
“Now can we ask him?”
“Afraid not Apple Bloom, I think he’s still asleep.”
Sleep…afraid…apples…
“I don’t see what the big deal is. I mean, my story is way better.”
“No doubt you’re the coolest Rainbow Dash, but we really want to know.”
Rainbows are pretty cool…am I still asleep?
Simon woke up once more to the sound of ponies outside the library door. This had become a common occurrence since his stay in Ponyvile. He looked at the clock that was beside his bed and noticed that it was twelve o’clock. Crap! I’ve nearly slept the day away . Simon thought as he clambered out of bed. He was emotionally exhausted after the conversation he had, had with the voice the other the night.
He went downstairs and looked out the window that was beside the door. The voices he had heard earlier were Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Applejack, and Apple Bloom. Alongside them were Sweetie Belle and Rarity. They were all waiting outside, clearly hoping that Simon would join them.
“I wonder what they want.” Simon thought aloud. When he exited the library the three young fillies looked at him accusingly.
“Uh…good morning.” Simon began.
“Finally we’ve been waiting all morning.” Scootaloo started off.
“Waiting for what?” Simon asked.
“To hear the story of how you got your cutie mark.” Sweetie Belle chimed in.
“Oh…okay.” Simon began telling the story of how he had obtained his cutie mark. He described the exam he had to take and the realization that lead to the cutie mark revealing itself in the first place. Simon was a bit nervous this time around while telling his story. Not because he thought it was embarrassing or anything like that, but just at the number of listeners that were present. He was never good in front of large crowds.
“And that’s how I got my cutie mark.” Simon finished.
“Well I must say Simon, that was a very refined story.” Rarity said as she started inching towards him.
“Yea it was okay…but definitely not as cool as mine.” Rainbow Dash boasted.
“So you’re kinda like Twilight then.” Applejack offered.
“Huh? Why would you say that?” Simon asked. Applejack proceeded to tell him Twilight’s cutie mark story. It was practically identical to Simon’s, except she received hers at a much younger age.
“Speaking of which, where is Twilight?” Applejack asked.
“Oh, she said that she wanted to take a look in the Canterlot library to see if there was some way to help me.” Simon replied.
“So Twilight just left…without telling us?” Rainbow Dash questioned.
“Please Rainbow Dash, you are being much to skeptical of our new friend, Simon.” Rarity helped.
“Wait a second. Did ya’ll just say that Simon can’t remember anything?” Apple Bloom asked.
“That’s right sugar cube, Simon has a touch of amnesia.” Applejack explained.
“Well then why don’t we take him to Zecora?” Apple Bloom suggested.
“Well because…I…” Applejack struggled.
“Because if there was a potion that could bring back a ponies memory, then Twilight would have already found it.” Rainbow Dash helped.
“Yea but-“ Apple Bloom started to argue.
“Not now Apple Bloom, we need to get back to the farm and start harvesting.” Applejack interrupted.
“Wait, we still have more questions for Simon though…about his cutie mark.” Scootaloo said rather hastily.
Applejack stood there and paused for a minute thinking about weather or not Apple Bloom needed to be at the farm right then and now. After a few minutes she agreed and left. So did Rainbow Dash claiming that she needed to practice, and Rarity saying that she had more clothes to make. Once they had all left, it was just Simon and the kids.
“So…uh…what else do you need to know?” Simon asked.
“Don’t worry about your memory Mr. Simon, the Cutie Mark Crusaders are here to help.” Sweetie Belle promised.
“The Cutie…what?” Simon confusingly asked.
“It’s a group that we started to help those who don’t have cutie marks. But we do other stuff to.” Scootaloo explained.
“So now, were going to take you to Zecora.” Apple Bloom promised.
Simon, having nothing better to do, agreed to let them take him to see Zecora. They seemed pretty confident that she could restore his memory, and Simon felt as if he was running out of options. After all, Twilight wasn’t back yet, Luna was missing, and the possible fate of Equestria may lie on his shoulders (at least according to the voice). The Crusaders stopped when they came to edge of a forest. They started shaking, only just a little, but Simon was able to notice.
“What’s wrong?” Simon asked.
“It’s just that…well…this is the Everfree Forest.” Scootaloo said as if that explained it all.
“Yea, and…” Simon pressed.
“The forest is filled with all kinds of crazy monsters and weird plants.” Apple Bloom explained.
“Then you all wait here. I’ll look for Zecora myself.” Simon offered.
“No way! The Crusaders never back down. C’mon girls, we need to get Simon to Zecora.” Sweetie Belle enjoined.
That seemed to the trick, because pretty soon they were all deep in the Everfree Forest. The forest was big and it took a long while until they found Zecora’s hut. It was small with a bunch weird talisman around it. Simon started to back away. The place looked like it belonged to some kind of dark of wizard. Then he started to remember how reluctant the others were in coming. Maybe there was a reason … Simon started to think.
“Who is out there? Please do not be scared.” A voice rhymed from inside the hut. A black and white pony emerged and started to smile as soon as she saw Apple Bloom.
“Why, if it isn’t young Apple Bloom. What brings you to my hut this afternoon?” She asked.
“Zecora this Simon. Simon this is Zecora, and she’s the zebra that can help you get your memory back.” Apple Bloom explained.
“So, your memory has become weak? Then I do have the remedy that you seek.” Zecora promised.
“Great…what is it?” Simon asked.
“Two ingredients, we do contain. The fang of a timber wolf, we must obtain.”
“A…what?” Simon asked.
“A timber wolf. You know, wolves that are made of wood and are practically indestructible. They live here in the forest” Scootaloo explained.
“Alright then. You three wait here, and I’ll look for the wolf.” Simon shouted as he raced into the forest.
Simon had no idea how to find a timber wolf, nor any way of identifying it. Though according to Scootaloo it shouldn’t be that hard. How am I even going to get its fang? Simon thought as he maneuvered his way through the forest. Simon couldn’t remember having any skill in fighting. In fact, he thought that he was quite passive. I might be able to use magic to get it. Simon thought. Or maybe I could-
“Help!” A voice shrieked from the woods. Not one to ignore a cry for help, Simon quickly dashed his way to the voice’s origin.
When he arrived his instant thought was how dead he was going to be, when he returned to Ponyvile. Timber wolves were surrounding Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle. Crap ! Simon thought. What in the hay am I going to do ! He looked around, trying to see of there was any type of advantage that would produce an edge. He found none. No low hanging branches, no rocks, no nothing. It was just a field where nothing but grass was growing. Simon searched for any way out of the situation, any way to rationalize leaving. The thought was crossing his mind, but he quickly pushed it aside. No way was he going to be responsible for their deaths. At last he came to one conclusion.
He charged the nearest timber wolf and sent it packing right into some others. Hearing the commotion that was going on, the other timber wolves took quick notice of Simon and started to circle him. The silence was defining, and all that could be heard was the wind. Simon looked his foes in the eyes and then looked at Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom. They were still standing there struck by fear, and by the possibility that Simon might die. He looked up at them and broke the silence. “Run!” He shouted at them.
The first timber wolf came Simon’s hind leg. Big mistake, because Simon was able to hear it coming. He quickly stretched out both legs, and he felt the connection as his right hind leg broke its jaw. The next one came in front, but Simon was able to levitate it and swing it in a big circle, taking three more down. I’m pretty good at this! Simon thought as adrenaline started to pump through his body. He started to celebrate a bit to soon though, as the timber wolves that were circling him attacked at once. They pinned him to the ground and were snapping at his back. Simon always thought that in a moment like this, one couldn’t feel the pain. He was wrong…so horribly wrong. The wolves weren’t ripping off his flesh, they were just putting their fangs deep into his body. One almost reached bone. It was like a thousand daggers being forced into his body. The pain was immersive, and at last he passed out.
The coma wasn’t much better, in Simon’s opinion. He wasn’t dead…he was sure of that. He wasn’t awake either. Once again, he was in a white room. He looked around the room to see if there was anything of interest. As far as he could tell there was none.
“Maybe I am dead.” Simon thought aloud. “Maybe this is it. I’m finally at peace. No more voice, no more Ponyvile, no more memory. Yep…seems about right.” Simon paced around the room and continued to talk with himself. “To think…the entire reason that I’m here is because someone wanted to know the secret history of Equestria. If I had just left it alone and waited for Twilight…I might still be alive. Instead I’m in this bucking room! With a bucking book right in the middle of it!” Simon shouted angrily.
Then the moment of real clarity came. He rushed over to where the book was. It had just appeared…Celestia knows when. He looked at the title and it read Simon’s Memories. Simon looked at the book with hope in his eyes. This was it, the moment that he had been waiting for. Then there was another book that had just appeared at Simon’s side. Curious, he looked at its title, which said Simon’s New Memories. Confused, Simon decided to take a step back. Clearly he had to make a choice of some sort. To either except who he once was, or to become something else. The choice was obvious, to take his old memories…but. Simon had to admit that maybe there was a reason his memories had been removed.
Simon continued to ponder on this when the books changed shape again. One became the shape of the moon, and the other the sun. Simon, confused once more, sat down and thought. He thought for what seemed like hours, searching for what he really wanted. At last he decided on the moon. As he approached the moon, all of his old memories rushed back. Simon drew closer slowly, not wanting to go into a deeper coma. When he touched the moon, everything became clear.
Simon awoke inside Zecora’s hut with Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash staring over him. In the corner were the Cutie Mark Crusaders, crying at the possible loss of their new friend.
“Simon? You’re awake! Oh thank Celestia…” Applejack exclaimed, relieved at Simon’s recovery.
“Sweetie Belle told us what happened and we rushed to save you. We thought you were…” Rarity struggled.
“We thought that you were…gone. Lucky for you, I’m one of the best fighters in Equestria.” Rainbow Dash bragged, though clearly glad that Simon was okay.
“Thanks…how did you find me so fast?” Simon asked.
“After Apple Bloom didn’t come home after an hour, we figured they had taken you to Zecora, so we were already looking.” Applejack explained.
“Mr. Simon…we’re…” Apple Bloom tried to find the right words.
“It’s okay…don’t mention it…” Simon assured. “Now… we really have to get to Canterlot.”
“Why? What do you need in Canterlot?” Rarity asked
“I just got my memory back.”
The train was moving way too fast, in Simon’s opinion. He wanted to get to Canterlot quickly, but no this fast. He both dreaded and anticipated what was awaiting for him. Although he really wished that he was alone.
Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and even Fluttershy, all accompanied him on his journey to the truth. Except, they didn’t know the truth. The reason they asked (or rather demanded) to come, was to keep an eye on Simon’s injuries from his fight with the timber wolves. He had spent three days in recovery, and was only able to escape by lying about his health. The doctor was able to tell that Simon was lying, of course, and asked Applejack to go with him to Canterlot. Everyone was happy to come along, everyone that is, except Rainbow Dash.
“What are we doing?” Rainbow Dash asked for what seemed like the millionth time.
“I told you Rainbow, were going to help Simon.” Applejack answered.
“Yea, but what does that mean?” Rainbow Dash glared at Simon.
“It means that…I’m going to see an old friend.” Simon replied.
“What type of friend?” Pinkie Pie asked. “Is it a tall friend, or a short one? Do they like to laugh? Do they like cake? Can they hold their breathe for a long time like this?”
“Pinkie Pie I don’t think that’s such a-“ Simon began.
“Hold on Simon, I think that we would all like to see how long this can last.” Applejack interrupted.
“Can we please stay on topic here?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Are you still saying that Simon is some sort of…ruffian?” Rarity questioned. “Even after he saved my sister’s life, including Apple Bloom and Scootaloo’s?”
“I’m not saying that the old Simon was a bad guy.” Rainbow Dash began. “But now he has his memories back, and who knows what he could be thinking.”
Simon looked out the window, hoping that Rainbow Dash would stop asking questions. Simon did have a (what some might call) sinister purpose for wanting to go to Canterlot. In truth, Simon was glad that his friends were with him. Although, I doubt we’ll stay that way for long …Simon thought as the train raced on.
Rainbow Dash did eventually calm down, and soon the train started to slow down. The ride actually became comfortable, as Simon and the gang started to play twenty questions (which Pinkie Pie constantly won at), I spy (which Rainbow Dash was a natural at), and truth or dare (Fluttershy refused to play this one). The ride to Canterlot became so much fun, that Simon soon forgot about his journey entirely. Unfortunately, like all good things, the train came to a screeching halt.
As the train stopped, the conductor announced their destination. Every pony on the train started to leave. First rainbow Dash shot out, happy to be finally spread her wings. Applejack followed, then Rarity, then Fluttershy, and then Pinkie Pie. Simon was the last to step off the train. As excited as he was to finally be in Canterlot, he wasn’t ready to face what was awaiting him. He took so long getting off that the conductor asked if he needed some type of special assistance. Simon thanked him for asking, but declined his help. After a few more minutes of waiting Simon finally exited the safety of the train.
“What took ya so long Simon?” Applejack asked. “Aren’t ya excited to be in Canterlot?”
“Well…I…Yea I am.” Simon lied.
They exited the train station quickly so as not to get in any ponies way, and finale entered the city. The first thing Simon noticed, were the buildings. They were huge, a lot taller than was Simon remembered. There were also a lot more ponies (unicorns to be precise) than he recalled as well. The others must of noticed how shocked Simon was because Rarity asked him if he needed to sit down.
“No, I’m all right, it’s just…a lot to take in right now.” Simon assured.
“So Simon, what do you want to do first?” Fluttershy asked.
Simon looked around the street they were on. It seemed familiar, almost like he had been on it before. Then he remembered that this street led to one of his favorite places of all time. He raced around the corner without explaining what he was doing. His only thought was that this little side mission would distract from his original goal. After a few more blocks, Simon came to a halt. He looked around trying to find his favorite bar, but all that was there was some donut shop. Simon felt a little heart broken as the others caught up.
“What’s wrong Simon?” Applejack asked.
“It’s really nothing, but…there used to be a tavern here.” Simon admitted.
“What are you talking about?” Rainbow Dash asked. “According to Spike, who never shuts up about this place, this shop has always been here.”
“Well…I…uh…” Simon stumbled.
“It is quite all right Simon.” Rarity said, coming to his rescue. “Rainbow, Simon might still have trouble remembering things, there’s no need to get so critical.”
“All right then, fine.” Rainbow Dash said defensively. “Then let’s go ask Doughnut Joe where this tavern is.” She said, as she started to drift into the donut shop.
“Yea donuts!” Pinkie Pie shouted.
Oh crap . Simon thought as they started to follow. He started to get worried that this little side journey might reveal more than he was willing to let out. As he entered though, his fears started to fade away. The tavern might not have been there, but the memories were. Simon stood in the doorway for about five minutes, remembering all the good times he had in the tavern. Of course there was no time to completely reminisce, as Rainbow Dash was already talking to the owner.
“Hey Doughnut Joe, my friends got a question for ya.” Rainbow Dash said as she sat down on one of the stools that was by the counter.
“Go ahead and shoot.” Doughnut Joe replied.
“I was just wondering if the Black Dragon is still around.” Simon inquired as he took a seat next to Rainbow.
“The Black Dragon huh, well I haven’t heard that name in years.” Joe began. “Why do you want to know?”
“Well, last time I remember being in town that tavern was still here.”
“Uh huh, so when was the last time you were in town.”
“I only remember it being a while ago.”
“Well then, I’m sorry but I can’t really help you.”
“Why not?”
“The Black Dragon is a popular name around here. There have been so many opening and closing it’s hard to keep track.”
Simon smiled at this revelation. His secret might be kept safe just a little longer. He thanked Doughnut Joe and exited the shop. Simon was happy that nothing was revealed and that he could keep everything know until they reach the castle. At least that’s what he thought, until Applejack asked one of the worst possible questions.
“Well sorry that turned out to be a bust.” Applejack began. “But it’s probably for the best. After all, ya don’t wanna be drunk when we see your folks.”
“I-I’m sorry?” Simon asked not sure he heard correctly.
“Ya know, your parents.”
“We can’t!”
“Uh, why not?”
Then Simon gave the worst reason. “They’re dead.”
He could have said anything other than that. They’re on vacation this time of year, they’re at the castle, anything than they’re dead. It wasn’t a lie or anything, his parents were dead. The only thing wrong was that their death, might come off as a little shocking.
“Would like to go visit them anyway?” Rarity asked.
“No! I mean…they made me promise that when they passed I wouldn’t linger to much on their memory.” Simon said quickly. He hoped that this would put the argument to rest, he prayed that it would.
“Aw, c’mon Simon, at least let us see your house.” Pinkie Pie pleaded.
Now this would be easy to explain. Simon agreed to show them where he grew up, and he himself wanted to know what had become of it. He lead past a few streets and through a few allies, navigating like a pro. Although there might be new buildings and roads, it was still the same town he grew up in. When they had finally reached his street, Simon was once again hit with a wave of nostalgia. He remembered coming home late at night, because his training sessions ran a little longer than expected. He also remembered how he used to come home with a bunch of bruises and marks after school. Canterlot was safe enough, and the ponies that lived there were nice enough. Simon was just really strong in his political beliefs, as was every pony else. So whenever he went out and some pony started to put down Luna, Simon would put down Celestia.
“So which house is yours?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Well it was that one.” Simon pointed to a fairly large building that used to be a two story house, but was now an apartment complex.
“You used to live in…that?” Rarity asked, clearly confused considering Simon’s education.
“Well it used to be a regular house.” Simon explained. “But after mom and dad died, I guess it got turned into an apartment complex.”
“Hold on a minute…you guess? As in you don’t know?” Rainbow said, excited at the notion that she might have caught Simon at last.
“Hey now, I wasn’t living here when they died.” Simon explained. “I was living on the castle grounds. When they died, I didn’t feel like coming back.”
“There now, are you happy Rainbow Dash.” Rarity asked. “Honestly, ever since we got here all you’ve been trying to do is get Simon in trouble.”
“He’s not the same.” Rainbow Dash explained.
“Rainbow Dash, I promise you that everything will be revealed, once we get to the castle.” Simon explained.
“Why do we need to go there?” She questioned. “Why not just tell us right here an now?”
Simon started to walk in the direction of the castle. He turned back to look at Rainbow Dash, and just smiled. Doing anything else, in his opinion, would arouse more suspicion. Finding the castle wasn’t that hard, after all it is the biggest building in all of Canterlot. It towered over the city like a god over its people. That was one of the reasons Simon enjoyed the castle, it demanded respect from all gazed upon it. When they finally reached the castle, Simon froze up again. He couldn’t move, and his legs started to shake.
“What’s wrong Simon?” Fluttershy asked.
Simon couldn’t answer though, his ability to speak also left him the moment he saw the stairs. This is it . He thought. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for . The moment when the truth comes out . The moment where I confront Celestia . Simon took that first step, and courage started to enter his body. He took another, and another, until he was finally at the door. There were two guards at the entrance, but as soon as they saw the elements of harmony, they let them pass.
The inside of the castle hadn’t changed one bit since Simon had last been there. If memory served the thrown room down the hall to the left. Simon was headed in that direction when he heard a voice from behind call his name.
“Hey Simon! What are you doing here?” Twilight shouted from down the hall. She raced towards her friends and gave them all a hug. It was only then that Simon noticed another alicorn appear from the same room Twilight was in…only this one was pink.
“Twilight, aren’t you going to introduce me to your new friend?” Cadence asked.
“Oh, of course! Cadence this is Simon, the unicorn I was trying to help. Simon this is princes Cadence, ruler of the Crystal Empire.” Twilight explained.
“Your highness.” Simon bowed. “So there are four alicorns now? When did you become a princes, if you don’t mind me asking.” Simon questioned.
“It couldn’t have been more than ten or thirteen years ago.” Cadence began. “In fact, I became the first alicorn princess, since the banishment of Nightmare Moon.”
“Really…” Simon felt disgust at this realization.
“Simon you didn’t answer my question, though. Why are you here? I didn’t find a cure for you yet.” Twilight said apologetically.
“I got my memory back three days ago.” Simon explained. “I’m here to see Celestia. Is she in?”
“Why do you need to see Celestia?” Twilight asked.
“Is-She-In?” Simon repeated pronouncing every word as though they were a sentence.
“Y-yes.” Twilight stammered.
Simon continued to walk to the throne room as the others trailed behind him. The doors were massive, standing over them like giants. Simon summoned up his courage, took a deep breath, and walked in.
There she was. Celestia, sitting on her throne, reading over some documents. She didn’t even notice her guests until they were halfway across the room. She smiled, as if though this was an expected visit.
“Twilight, what brings your friends here this evening?” She asked.
“Well I-“ Twilight began.
“What brings us here is me.” Simon stepped out in front of the group.
“Who are you?”
“I doubt you’d forget me.”
Celestia squinted her eyes as she looked at Simon, searching for some distinctive feature. At last she said, “I’m sorry, but I really don’t know.”
“It’s me Tia, Simon, captain of the night guard.” Simon said definitively.
Celestia’s face never broke character, never showed any sign of surprise. On the inside however, she died just a little bit.
“Of course, Simon, how could I forget? It has been a long time indeed. Come, walk with me in the garden.” She enticed.
“How about no?” Simon asked.
“I really think you should come Simon, before you say something…regretful.”
“Just go Simon.” Twilight whispered. “Tell us what you want to say when you get back.”
Simon looked from Twilight to Celestia. It was clear that if and when a fight broke out, they would all cover their princess. Simon gave in and agreed to take the walk that Celestia had asked for.
The garden was bigger than Simon remembered. For starters there was this huge maze that Celestia started walking towards. I see what your game is . Simon thought. Get me in the maze and then kill me .
“I’m not going in there.” Simon stopped.
Celestia turned around and smiled. “You don’t really have a choice.” Her horn started to glow.
Realizing that it would not do for Simon to be killed before he got to spread the truth, continued to walk in the maze. Along the way he started to memorize every twist and turn they took. If he needed to flee, he would know the right path. At last they stopped in the center of the maze, which was an opened area shaped in a circle.
“So tell me Simon, what do you remember?” Celestia asked.
“I remember everything.” Simon promised.
“Indulge me a little.”
“All right fine.” Simon began. “I remember how I trained to become a soldier for the night guard. After all it was my dream to serve under Luna, and help in any way I could. I went through grueling months of training and studying. I was top in my division, and in just two months after graduating, I was assigned to Luna’s personal guard.” Simon paused looking at Celestia’s reaction. This part of his history didn’t faze her…but why not?
Simon continued, “After I had been assigned, I guarded Luna under all sorts of conditions. Assignations, diplomatic missions, I even stopped an angry citizen from attacking her in the street once. Heh, probably saved the guys life in the process as well.”
“After a few years, Luna and I had grown close…as friends. She confided in me her hopes, and fears. I talked to her about my family the issues we faced. We became so close and trusted each other so deeply that she appointed me captain of the night guard.” Once again Simon paused to see Celestia’s reaction. Again he saw no sign of fear so he continued, “No surprise that meant seeing each other less and less. I was only around for important issues, like what nation we would go to war with, and who needs to be, taken care of . Yea, it wasn’t the most ideal way to continue a friendship, but we made it work. Even though I may have been her only friend…I wasn’t her only fan.” This last sentence mad Celestia tense up a little. Now I got you.
“Luna was loved by all a thousand years ago. Her night was worshiped just as much as your day. While every pony was up to appreciate the evening, Luna’s night brought parities and festivals. The citizens adored her, because she was more involved than you were. She was prepping them for the day, by helping them solve their issues at night.” Celstia started subtly to look from the ground to Simon.
“Every day, all you heard were praises of the night. The wild parties, the good dreams, it was all Luna. You grew jealous, and began to despise Luna. The real tipping point, however, came at the three hundredth royal meeting.” Tears started to form in Celestia’s eyes.
“Do you remember that meeting? I do, but that’s only because it was the last one I ever attended. Luna was absent, and sent me in her place. She was away at the Griffon Kingdom, trying to restore the peace after some pony commited a hate crime in their city. Anyway, at the meeting, it was me, you, and the elders from the major cities of Equestria. The elders, as you recall, worked in the shadows and gathered information from our citizens. For example, they retrieved information about who was more popular, you or Luna. It was no surprise when they brought up that popular demand wanted Luna as full time ruler. You became infuriated, remember? You threatened to kill everyone in the room if that information ever reached Luna. We all swore to silence, understanding that you had your rightful place.” Celestia looked like she was about to throw up.
“That night, however, I followed you to your room. I wanted to assure you that even if Luna got the information, she would never accept it. I wanted to assure you that she loved you too much to betray you. Except what I found was much worse. You were summoning the spirits of vengeance and betrayal, an act that was forbidden, even to you! As soon as I saw what you were doing I tried to stop you. Unfortunately you sent them away before I could reach you. Then upon seeing me…you destroyed me.” Simon finished.
Celestia was practically crying when he was done. All those memories that she had tried to push down were coming back up, all at once. She could barley even look at Simon, much less defend herself. Simon waited until she was done having her mental breakdown to ask the one question that had been on his mind since his arrival in Ponyvile.
“Who brought me back?” Simon asked.
“W-what?” Celestia sniffed.
“Who brought me back?” Simon asked a little more forcefully.
“Perhaps, I should explain some things first.” Celestia said, bringing herself back to her royal decorum. “I didn’t kill you Simon. I didn’t have time to think of a proper sentence in the five seconds it took you to reach me from the door. I merely banished you to…well lets just call it a room outside of time. There you were in a kind of stasis, one in which you could not age. After the defeat of Nightmare Moon, my attention was once again turned to you. I didn’t want any more blood shed…at least none that was my fault. I decided that once Luna returned, she would need a friend, someone to connect with after being gone for so many years. Yet, I couldn’t let you keep your old memories, I thought that would be…hazardous. So while you were in your stasis I supplied you with information from the changing world (that’s why you speak more modern equestrian) and I started to put in a few memories of my own. Obviously that didn’t work out quite the way I wanted. As for who broke you out…I have one guess.” When Celestia had finished she shot what appeared to be a small, weak, blast that covered the entire maze.
“Now honestly Tia, that was uncalled for.” The voice complained. Out from the shadow stepped a beast that not even Simon could describe.
“How much did you hear Discord?” Celestia asked.
“Well I dozed off when Simon was talking about that heartwarming gunk. But I did hear that you were a chaotic little princess.” He smiled.
“Why? Why did you break him free…and how?”
“That’s simple. You know my power beats yours by a thousand. Also you talk in your sleep.”
Celestia zapped Discord and turned him into stone. He just sat there, looking proud of himself. Celestia turned to Simon with rage in her eyes. Well this is it. Simon thought as he backed into a corner. I’m no match for Celestia . I should have just stayed in Ponyvile . He waited for the blast…but it never came. Simon opened his eyes to see Celestia looking back.
“Aren’t you…going to kill me?” He asked.
“No Simon. Like I said, you were supposed to be a gift.”
“So then…what? You’re going to send me back to the room?”
“No. I’m going to give you a choice. Accept the new memories that I have crafted for you, or, keep the ones you have.”
“You’re kidding right? Why would I accept your memories?”
“Celestia sighed and look up towards the sky. It was cloudless and the sun was shining brightly. She looked back at Simon and smiled. “I don’t expect you to accept the ones I made. But if you refuse, all I ask is that you remain silent.”
“You know that won’t happen. I might have accepted if…” Simon trailed off.
“If what?” Celestia asked.
“If I hadn’t met Cadence. She seems so…useless. You created her as an alicorn, only to replace the loss you felt by Luna. When Luna came back however, you pushed Cadence off to the side. Then when Luna wasn’t the same as you remembered, you made Twilight an alicorn.” Simon accused.
“All true. Twilight is at least bearable, but Cadence…was a mistake.” Celestia smiled once more. “However all of that aside, what do you choose?”
“Why should I take your memories?”
“Simon, if you refuse to take my memories and speak of the past, then Equestria will fall into a civil war. Thousands of lives will be lost, nations destroyed. Ask yourself, do you want that on your conscience?”
Simon…had not considered that a civil war could ensue. He had to think this through. The truth was important, obviously, and Luna deserved to know. Except…in the process thousands of lives would be lost.
“Celestia…what happened after you banished Luna?” Simon asked hoping to prolong the decision he would have to make.
“After I banished Nightmare Moon, Equestria became…sadder. My citizens became less prepared for the day than usual. Progress slowed down, the night became meaningless and the day became simply the present. I tried to banish the demons that possessed my sister a thousand times over.” Celestia started to pace back and forth, relieved that she could finally talk of her true past. “It was lonely…and in my loneliness, I became a more merciful ruler. One that was more compassionate, more in control. Luna’s banishment forced me to grow up, and take a more active role in my kingdom. Still…if I could I would take it all back.” She finished.
Simon looked at her and then at what she had done, and lastly what she had been through. He wasn’t one to hold a grudge, but even he could not forgive her. Celestia had banished her only sister for a thousand years because of a mistake that she made. Then she proceeded to lie about it, and now, tried to justify her actions by claiming that it made her a better ruler. For a thousand years, Luna was forced to watch her friends grow and die from the seclusion of the moon. The worst part was knowing that Celestia did nothing to help her sister, did nothing to restore her reputation.
“What would my new memories include?” Simon questioned.
“They would simply say that I rescued you from Nightmare Moon’s wrath. That you have no recollection of what I did or what the council said. Basically it never happened.”
“I…accept. There is only one thing I would like to change.”
“Which would be?”
“Before Luna turned, in her final act of grace, she saved me from herself.”
Celestia smiled. “That can be arranged.”
All at once Simon was thrown back into the room. His room, he realized. A room of truth and justice. Once again two books appeared before him, one with the sun, and one with the moon. He looked at the moon with fondness. It’ll always be there…just locked . He thought with a sense of happiness. He turned to the sun, and with the thought that he was saving millions of lives, begrudgingly walked towards it.
Simon woke up a little shaken, with princess Celestia standing before him. To the right of her was the statue of Discord. He walked forward a bit, still a little dazed.
“Simon…are you alright? Tell me, what’s the last thing you remember?” Celestia asked.
“I…I remember Discord waking me up too early to give him a history lesson. He then tried to warp my mind and you stopped him before he could. Then I blacked out.” Simon concluded.
“That’s right. Simon go inside the castle and wait for me.” Celestia commanded. “I need to wipe Discord’s mind a little bit.”
Simon, not understanding that last part, saluted and walked inside. Upon entering the castle he was met with a barrage of questions, mainly from Rainbow Dash.
“Where’s Celestia?” She demanded.
“In the maze with Discord.” Simon answered.
“What did you ask her.”
“What’s happened in the past thousand years.”
“Wait, what?”
Simon explained what Luna did for him, and why he needed to meet Celestia. To find out what happened after Luna turned.
“Speaking of which where is Luna?” Simon asked. “Isn’t she back yet?”
“She should be back any minute.” Twilight replied.
So Simon waited…and waited…and waited. All the while thinking about what life was going to be like from now on. What would happen after he and Luna reunite? Would she give him back his old position? Simon didn’t know, and to be honest, he didn’t care. He left the throne room, and proceeded up the stairs to the tower. The tower that started his life. It was twilight now and the night was rising.
“Excuse me, but, who might thou be?” A voice asked from behind.
Simon turned around, “Hello, Luna.”