The Power of Potentialby PonyFeatherzChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 1“The ‘H’ Cafe certainly knows how to put together a daffodil and daisy sandwich,” said Twilight Sparkle as she entered the library. “It wouldn’t hurt them to try a gem recipe or two,” mumbled Spike, following her. “I mean, I like hay fries as much as the next pony, but...” He shrugged, grabbed the broom, and proceeded to complete his daily chores. Twilight headed into the next room of the library in search of her afternoon checklist. I know I put it in here somewhere, she thought to herself. She was so intent on her search that she almost didn’t notice the figure in the corner. However, a slight rustle and a cough drew Twilight’s attention to that corner. It was a white pony with a black mane. She was wearing a black traveling cloak and resting on a pillow with a history book between her hooves. A saddle bag rested on the floor nearby. She was looking directly at Twilight. “Hello there,” said Twilight. The pony blinked. “You know, you’re the first pony I’ve seen in here actually reading history books, other than myself, of course. Most ponies would rather check out the next Daring Do novel. What’s your name?” The silent pony did not respond. She deliberately closed the book, stood up, and placed the book back on the shelf behind her. Ignoring Twilight completely, she scooped up her bag with her teeth, placed it on her back, and made her way out the door without so much as a backward glance. “Well, that was weird,” said Twilight. “At least now I can reshelve my books in peace without tripping over anypony.” She took a step back. Spike chose at that very instant to stand behind her with his broom. “I’m finished-” CRASH! Twilight, Spike, and the broom lay in a tangled heap on the floor. As Twilight stared disapprovingly at a sheepish-looking Spike, Pinkie Pie bounced into the room, took one look and jumped on top, yelling “Dogpile!” She giggled and said, “Hey Twilight, I just saw a new pony in Ponyville, one I’d never seen before, and I wanted to throw her a welcome party but she acted like I wasn’t even there, so I decided instead to throw her a surprise party, but then when I went to go look for her to bring her, she was GONE!” Twilight teleported herself out from underneath the jumble of hooves, claws, and pink mane, and began placing books back on the shelf, using the magic in her horn to levitate them into place. “I think saw the pony you’re talking about.” “REALLY?! Where is she? Huh? Huh? Huh? Is she hiding?” Pinkie Pie bounced up and started flinging books and cushions around, while Spike sat on the floor where she left him, staring grumpily at the mess she was making. “I can’t take it any more! I’ll be upstairs if you need me.” Spike got up and stomped up the stairs, dragging his broom behind him. “Calm down, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “You must have just missed her. She was here a few minutes ago, but when I asked her what she was reading, she got up and left. I have a feeling you may have to put her in the ‘Cranky Doodle Donkey’ category, if you know what I mean. Just leave her alone for now, and maybe she’ll come around.” “Oh.” Pinkie sat there for a minute, her mane threatening to deflate. “Maybe you could throw the welcome party anyway, and let her come if she wants to. Besides, everyone loves a good party. Especially your parties.” Twilight smiled at her kooky, exuberant friend. She could swear she saw Pinkie’s mane get even bigger as the idea sunk in. “Oh Twilight, that’s a great idea! I’m going to tell everyone in Ponyville!” And away she went, bouncing out the door into the sunshine. A second later she heard a thump and a splash and Pinkie's voice giggling, "Hi Rarity! Coming to my party later?" Twilight shook her head and smiled. *** The white pony with the black mane stood on a small hill outside Ponyville. It had been a risk, but it was worth it. Unfortunately, she had been interrupted by that lavender-coloured librarian before she had found exactly what she was looking for. Not to mention the crazy pink stalker she had to avoid all day. Still, she had come to the library she saw in her dream, and she was not going to leave until she found what she was looking for. She walked down the hill on the side facing away from Ponyville. There was a small cave there, where she had been staying. There was a small pile of books hidden under a rock in there, but she did not bother with them just yet. Instead, she settled down on the ground near the entrance, pulled her cloak closer around herself, and waited for night, when the dreams would come. And as she closed her eyes, she began to levitate. *** Luna watched from her sister's balcony through the telescope. Though she usually gazed up at the stars, tonight she was watching the unusual white pony. She had been watching her for some time now, and her existence was like a nagging itch in the back of Luna's mind, reminding her of her presence. It was this feeling that guided her search for this strange pony every night for two years, and no matter where she travelled, Luna always knew where she was. As part of her duties, she monitored the dreams of everypony, but tonight she was interested in this one pony. This pony's dreams were unsettling and confusing, and though she had been tempted to enter them, something always held her back, while at the same time drawing her in like a magnet. She had resisted the siren song of this pony's dreams. But sometime soon, she would visit the dreams... Author's Note So, this is basically my first story ever. Just thought I'd mention it. Chapter 2Oh great, it’s the crazy pink stalker again! She ran this way and that, down alleys and under bridges, with the sound of Pinkie’s screeching ringing in her ears. I thought a week would be long enough to make her move on to stalking some other pony. Suddenly, she skidded to a halt in front of a brick wall. It was a dead end. She was trapped. Intense panic overtook her logic, and before she could stop herself... Pinkie Pie covered her face as a blinding flash of light filled the alley. She squinted at the light from behind her hooves just in time to see the strange mare she had been chasing sprout an enormous pair of beautiful white wings out from underneath her travelling cloak. The pony took to the skies faster than even Rainbow Dash, while Pinkie’s mouth dropped open as she stared at the departing figure. *** Rainbow Dash was just settling down for an afternoon siesta when a white lightning bolt with a black mane whisked past her. “Hey! What the-? Come back here, you!” Rainbow took off after her, and just as she was about to catch up, the white pony disappeared into a cloud bank. “Nopony beats Rainbow Dash!” yelled Rainbow. Whipping up her wings, she blasted the cloud bank away into a hundred little puffs of cotton-like balls. “Come back here and race me properly!” But when the clouds finally dissipated, she was gone. Rainbow Dash humphed and went back to her cloud for a well-deserved nap. *** Meanwhile, Rarity was just finishing the last of her laundry when a white unicorn with gorgeous black mane landed in her backyard with a whump. “Oh my stars!” Rarity rushed outside to help, but the other pony was faster. She had landed in a bush, and scrambled out of it just as Rarity was approaching. Rarity saw her wince and hold her left foreleg off the ground, but before she could even offer to get some ice, the pony’s horn lit up, and she teleported, leaving Rarity staring at her ruined bush. Concerned, Rarity looked around for a bit, but it was clear the pony was gone. She glanced back at her mangled foliage. “Oh well, I wanted to replace that one anyway.” She was about to go back inside when she noticed a scrap of cloth swaying gently in the breeze, caught on a small branch extending from the bush. “Hello, what’s this?” Curious, she levitated it out of the bush and went to her workroom. *** In the library, Twilight was just settling in to her latest project, a research paper on the debate about the influence earth ponies have on inherent magic. In order to understand magic in its fullness, Celestia said she needed to understand how earth ponies affected the flow of magical energy, if at all. It wasn’t the most thrilling of topics, but it was challenging, and Twilight felt she was up to the task. However, no sooner had she organized her writing desk for an afternoon of writing, when a flash of light and magic caught her attention. “You!” Twilight gasped. “But I thought-” “I need your help, but there’s no time to explain,” the white earth pony - no wait, unicorn, gasped. “I need to get out of Ponyville before they all find out.” Her eyes flicked this way and that, looking for any sign that she was being followed. Then she glanced at Twilight. “Close the windows! Lock the doors!” Twilight did as she asked, then watched as the unicorn examined her left foreleg. It seemed twisted, and not fit to walk on. “Do you want any help?” offered Twilight. “I know a healing spell or two-” “No, I can do it myself. Just stand guard.” Is this pony in trouble? And why does she suddenly have a horn? I don’t remember seeing that before. Twilight was full of questions, but one look at the mare’s face made it abundantly clear that she did not appreciate questions. A magical glow surrounded the foreleg. The white pony started sweating from exertion and pain, and Twilight could see it was taking a great deal of effort. Then, before the procedure was complete, the weariness of all her transformations overtook her, and her horn started shrinking. “No! Just a little more...” It was too late. The horn was gone, and the foreleg unhealed. Twilight’s eyes met the white pony’s. “Let me help you.” The pony bowed her head, and Twilight performed her own healing spell. In a moment it was done, and the white pony turned to go. “Wait! Come back! You don’t have to go. I can leave you completely alone if you want me to.” Twilight rushed to the door. “Please, don’t leave on my account. I didn’t mean to disturb you last week.” The white pony stopped. She looked Twilight over, evaluating her. “Perhaps, in time. I have been searching for this library for a long time. You may be of some assistance to me after all,” she said. “I will come back soon.” “What is your name?” The white pony didn’t answer the question. She said simply, “Until next time, Twilight Sparkle.” And with that, she was gone. *** That night, the dreams took on a new direction. She dreamed of the library, of Twilight Sparkle, of bright rainbow colours and strong power. She dreamt of sadness and isolation, of a loneliness only felt when one is completely lost and without a sense of direction. And then she dreamt of the moon. She had always liked the sense of comfort the moon gave her. Luna watched all of this through her telescope and her mind’s eye. She was so intent on her watch that she didn’t hear Celestia come in until a gentle hoof on her shoulder startled her. She looked up into the warm, smiling face of her sister, and smiled back. “Seems like you’ve found a new project,” Celestia observed. “I have been watching this pony’s dreams for many nights, sister. Her dreams are strong and powerful, and unlike anything I have ever seen before. I believe she has great power, but is unsure of what to do with it. I also sense loneliness, which I know can turn into bitterness and resentment without the proper guidance.” Both Luna and Celestia were silent for a while, remembering the heartache and pain of those long ago years. Suddenly, Luna broke the silence. “I would like to mentor her, much as you have done for Twilight Sparkle. A pony with this much unfocused power needs direction and guidance. I would like to help.” Celestia frowned in thoughtfulness. “Are you sure you are up for this? When you take on this kind of responsibility, it lasts for life. You will be responsible for everything, for her mistakes and well as her successes. You don’t even know her name or her cutie mark. Are you sure you want to do this?” Something inside Luna clicked, and she knew the answer. “Yes, I do, sister. I feel, in some way, like I am meant to be connected with her. I don’t know how or why, but I cannot abandon her to fate.” “Very well. Good luck, my sister.” Chapter 3Morning in Ponyville commenced with a meeting in the library, with Pinkie Pie re-enacting her encounter with the mysterious mare. Books, quills, and parchment went everywhere as she bounced from one corner to another in her excitement. “I’d never seen any pony move so fast!” squealed Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash glared at her. “And then she was like - poof - and then she had wings and then she took off like - whoosh!” She knocked over an inkwell. “I just don’t get how she disappeared. It wasn't a fair race if you ask me,” Rainbow grumped. “I mean, maybe I could take it if she actually won a race fair and square, but she just totally dropped out of the sky.” “Speaking of which, I believe I had a visit from this strange pony,” Rarity interjected. “She really must have dropped out of the sky to do as much damage as she did to my hedge. Quite startling, really. Only, she didn't have wings. She was a unicorn. Oh, yes, and she also tore her cloak just before she teleported. I took it into my shop for a better look, and really, I believe this is one fabric that I lack in my collection. It could be from Saddle Arabia for all I know.” Applejack piped up. “Ah don’t know anythin’ about horns and wings, but Ah’ve caught her swipin’ apples from the trees on the edge of the south field. If she just asked me, Ah’d’ve gladly given her some. But stealin’, that don’t go over too well with the Apple family.” Twilight was running after Pinkie Pie in an effort to save her freshly-organized shelves from total chaos and destruction, when Fluttershy unexpectedly spoke up. “A few days ago I saw smoke coming from the edge of the Everfree Forest. It didn't seem like it was spreading, so I asked some of my critter friends if they knew anything about it. Some squirrels told me it was campfire smoke coming from a cave. I wondered if that was where the new pony was staying, but I was too afraid to go find out.” She looked down and began scuffing the ground with her hoof. “Let’s go check it out!” Rainbow Dash leaped in the air, wings extended, when she was unexpectedly stopped short with a yank on her tail. “Slow down, sugar cube,” Applejack said through a mouthful of tail. “We still don’t know anythin’ about this pony. Twilight?” All eyes turned toward Twilight. She was using her magic to balance a stack of books on the edge of a table while using her back leg to hold a figurine in place on a shelf. Pinkie Pie was giggling at an ink-covered Spike, who was looking very unimpressed with her. Twilight managed to put things back in place and thought. “She seemed very mysterious. When she was in the library, she seemed really upset that I bothered her studying, but when she appeared out of nowhere in the middle of the room, she was injured and frightened. It’s like she had no choice but to let me help her, but she resented it all the same. I watched her horn disappear and she became like a regular Earth pony again.” Twilight turned thoughtful. “I suppose there’s nothing we can do except be friendly to her whenever we see her, but she clearly wants to be left alone. I guess we just wait and see what happens. In the meantime -” she glanced at Spike, still soaked in ink - “I need to give a baby dragon a bath.” *** In an obscure tower in the Canterlot Castle, Princess Luna was looking through some old books on dreams. She had entered dreams before - with a fond smile she remembered Scootaloo - but this dream environment was too different for her to simply trot in blindly. It had been a long time since she had felt the need to consult references other than her own experience, so research was progressing rather slowly. Hmm, moonstone gems are referred to quite often in this text. I wonder what they do...and what is this about blending magic? This book is even older than Equestria! She frowned in concentration and used her horn to bring another stack of books closer. Parchment and quills were everywhere, and there was even an ink smudge on her nose. Unbeknownst to her, Princess Celestia watched her around the corner and smiled at her sister’s perseverance. She slipped away as quietly as she came, hoping for her sister’s success. As much as she wanted to help her, Celestia knew this was something Luna needed to do for herself. *** Back in her cave, the strange white pony paced nervously. What had she gotten herself into? In the library, it seemed like the right thing to do to trust the purple unicorn, but now, she doubted herself. She had never permitted anypony to help her, and certainly never asked for it. Her…condition...made it impossible to mingle with regular ponies, and she found it easier to keep to herself. Now that she had actually interacted with the one pony who could possibly help her find what she was looking for, she was nervous. Perhaps she should sleep, and take comfort in the dreams...or maybe she should simply face the situation by marching straight to the library, purple librarian and all. Thinking, she pulled a book out of her secret stash under a rock and went over her notes. She had kept a record of all the old pony tales she came across, especially the ones about Nightmare Moon or about the Elements of Harmony. However, from what she could tell, the Elements were all well and good and very powerful, but she needed older magic to solve her mysterious condition. The dreams told her so. She needed control over her aimless wandering in the dream world, as well as over her own body. It was only a year ago when things started to get really strange, but it felt like a lifetime ago. It was time to face that annoyingly-inquisitive purple librarian and find some answers. Chapter 4That afternoon, after Spike finally got all the ink out of his scales, he and Twilight Sparkle were cleaning up the rest of Hurricane Pinkie Pie. As Spike swept, Twilight reorganized the shelves and tidied her writing supplies. They were both so absorbed in their tasks that they almost missed the quiet click of the library door closing. Twilight turned to see who had entered, and gasped when she saw the mysterious mare from yesterday standing on the welcome mat. She was still wearing her travelling cloak, patched where it had torn on Rarity’s hedge, and her saddlebags looked full to bursting with books and parchments. “Hello,” said Twilight. Silence. “I’m Twilight Sparkle,” continued Twilight awkwardly, “and this is my assistant Spike.” She gestured toward Spike, who was trying very hard to not look interested as he swept the floor at the opposite end of the room. “My name,” said the pony, “is Blank Flank.” She flipped up her cloak, and Twilight’s jaw dropped open. Spike didn’t even pretend to sweep. He just stared. For where a cutie mark should have been, there was nothing, not even a speck. “You can see now why I prefer to keep to myself,” said Blank Flank, lowering her cloak. “I should be used to the reactions by now, but...well, never mind. I would have never ventured into this library if I didn’t need to, but unfortunately I need your books for my research.” Twilight closed her mouth, and with a burst of magic from Twilight’s horn caused Spike to perform the motions of sweeping, though he continued to stare at Blank Flank’s lack of cutie mark. “Well...umm...I never want to stand in the way of research. Is there anything I can do to help?” Blank Flank headed back toward the reading room. “Judging by your expression, I gather that you have never seen a full-grown pony without a cutie mark. It appears that neither has anypony else. My research so far has indicated that I am indeed the only pony in history to have reached adulthood without a mark. After this library, my last hope is the Canterlot library.” She sighed and pulled out the history book she had been reading earlier. “If I cannot determine my destiny by the end of my research, I can only conclude that I am to remain cutie markless, and therefore, have no destiny.” Twilight thought as she levitated several books off the shelves toward herself. “What about your horn and wings?” she asked. “I believe that too is connected to my -” she grimaced “- blank flank.” They searched through the books in silence, piling book after book on the center table. After a bit, Blank Flank asked, “Are you familiar with the theories of parental predestination?” she asked. Twilight nodded. “According to my research, the theories of parental predestination speculate that the name a pony is given at birth strongly influences the cutie mark he or she eventually receives. The theories are based on various naming patterns and corresponding cutie marks, but no solid proof establishing the theory as fact.” Twilight’s eyes widened. “Did your parents-?” “I know what your next question will be, Twilight Sparkle, and I am not comfortable discussing that topic at this time. I will tell you what I think is necessary for you to know, nothing more. I know about your connection to the Elements of Harmony, and while I admire your abilities and intellect, I do not desire your friendship or your pity.” There was a tone of finality in Blank Flank’s voice that Twilight dared not challenge, so they sifted through books in silence until Spike brought in some candles. “Oh my, is it dusk already? I really must be going.” Blank Flank resumed her cloak and saddle bag and headed for the door. “Will you be back tomorrow?” Twilight asked. “I might have some information for you by then.” “I will return tomorrow. There are still many books I haven’t looked through yet.” Then she was gone. Twilight looked at the piles of books scattered around her thoughtfully. She thought about writing to Princess Celestia about this, but something told her that would not be a wise move if she wanted to stay on Blank Flank’s good side. Nevertheless, she was curious. “Spike, I think I’m going to need a few more candles. It’s going to be a long night.” “Right on it, Twilight!” Spike grinned. She looked through the stacks of books Blank Flank had selected for her own research. There were some on genealogy and some on the magical properties of horns and wings. Glancing at the shelves, Twilight saw that Blank Flank had selected most of the section on dreams and dream interpretation. “That’s odd,” said Twilight thoughtfully. “What’s odd?” asked Spike, returning with an armload of candles and a tray with tea and cupcakes. “Blank Flank never mentioned anything about dreams in connection with her cutie mark problem. I wonder what that’s all about.” She thought. “Spike, take a letter.” “Do you think that’s a good idea?” Spike asked. “That pony seems like she wants to keep this to herself. You haven’t even told your Ponyville friends. What makes you think telling Princess Celestia about her is a good thing?” Twilight used her magic to clear some space on her writing desk. “I thought about writing to Princess Celestia, but decided not to. However, if dreams are involved, there’s nothing stopping me from asking Princess Luna a few questions. For research purposes, of course. Maybe she has some advice about where to look.” Spike grabbed a quill and some parchment and began to write as Twilight dictated. *** “There is only one reason your protege is asking me about dream interpretation. The pony I’ve been watching is in Ponyville, searching for answers,” Luna said solemnly. “What are you going to do?” Celestia asked. “I believe the time has come for me to visit her dreams, and to lend guidance to her thoughts. Perhaps if I become familiar to her in the dream world, she will more readily accept me as her mentor in the real world. Her dreams are stranger than any I’ve ever encountered, but the time has come to put my research into action.” Celestia embraced her sister with her wings, and the two lovingly touched horns. Chapter 5Blank Flank returned to her cave flustered and on edge from her time spent with Twilight, but also strangely satisfied. It had been a long time since she had spent any amount of time with another pony that didn't end in disaster, and it was refreshing to meet somepony that was her equal in intellect. And, as uncomfortable as the social interaction was, the mental stimulation was...exhilarating. She smiled as she checked her stash of books and prepared for sleep. And as she slept, she dreamed. ***** Blank Flank found herself suspended in the swirling blue dreamscape that had become so familiar to her over the years. This time, she was balancing at the centre of an immense cosmic spiderweb. From her position, she felt like she could see the whole universe, with each strand of the web extending out from the epicentre into different dimensions, locations, and times. She could go anywhere, do anything. Horns, wings, and cutie marks didn't matter here. She shifted her travelling cloak to a more comfortable position. It was strange, but even in her dreams she wore her cloak, so strong was her instinct for secrecy and self-preservation. She kicked gently at one of the strands. It hummed a rich, warm tone in response. She tried another one, and it twanged strongly, but not unpleasantly. She tried two at once, and the harmony made the fur on her neck tingle with excitement. She thought about which direction she should take, kicking various web strands as she thought. Some places looked bright and inviting, while others looked dark and mysterious. Still others looked downright dangerous and forbidding. She turned around slowly as she perused the different paths. Suddenly, she noticed a figure flying towards her through the swirling dreamscape. The figure landed on a strand with a gentle thwang, and balancing carefully, made her way to the centre. As the figure approached, Blank Flank could make out a pair of the most beautifully sculpted wings she had ever seen, then a long, spiraling horn. Her hooves sparkled with silver, and though her coat was indigo, it shone with an ethereal glow. “You are a most intriguing pony,” Princess Luna said, with a hint of a smile. “I am Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night and Keeper of Dreams. I have been watching your dreams for some time now, and I feel the time has come that we become acquainted.” Blank Flank narrowed her eyes. “Forgive me, Princess, but why in Equestria are you interested in me? I can take care of myself, and I don’t need pity, royal or otherwise. I already told the nosy librarian in Ponyville as much, and I say the same to you. Go back from wherever you came from, and don’t bother me anymore. Please.” Luna took a deep breath. This is going to be harder than I thought. “It is not pity I offer, but guidance. I have felt the power of your dreams, but have never observed them. I admit, I do not even know your name, place of origin, or cutie mark. Even in dreams, you wear your cloak as though it was a second skin. You are secretive at a time when others are usually at their most vulnerable. This, among other matters, interests me, and I wish to work with you, and guide you to the potential I know you have.” Blank Flank sighed and willed herself awake. ***** “Did you know that you levitate when you sleep?” Blank Flank’s eyes snapped open. A kindly, regal-looking indigo face was looking down at her with bemusement and fascination. Blank Flank scrambled to her hooves and adjusted her cloak. “How dare you spy on me like that!” Luna stepped back. “It was the only way I could penetrate the depth of your dreams far enough to make contact with you. Your mental strength is astounding!” Blank Flank was not amused. “Can I be done being your science experiment now? I thought that crazy pink Ponyville stalker was bad enough, but you - you are something else!” Silence hung in the air. Luna sighed. “This is going rather badly, is it not?” Blank Flank relaxed into a wry grin. “Definitely not the best first impression.” “Shall we try again?” Luna eased herself onto the grass, folded her wings, and looked at Blank Flank expectantly. “I do not expect to win your trust in one night, but rest assured, I am not your enemy. Give me a chance to make amends, and if you wish, we will part ways.” Blank Flank closed her eyes, took a deep breath, then opened them. She lay on the grass facing Luna and shrugged. “I suppose I could allow you that. Besides,” she smiled, rolling her eyes, “sharing all my deep dark secrets twice in one day will be a new record for me.” Luna smiled back, then became pensive. “I, too, bear deep dark secrets of my own, not the least of which are those concerning my time as Nightmare Moon. I was prepared to tear the world apart in my hate and rage against all I felt was unfair. I still have...consequences...left from my previous life that haunt me every day, and which I hope to rectify one day.” She shook her head and smiled again. “Now then. Let us begin with proper introductions.” With mock formality, she stuck out her foreleg and said, “Greetings. I am Luna.” Blank Flank returned the mock formality with “Greetings. I am Blank Flank,” and joined her hoof with Luna’s. Before Luna could react to Blank Flank’s name, she felt a strange surge of power flow from her body into Blank Flank’s, and watched in astonishment as a pair of wings and a horn equal to her own began to grow on Blank Flank. Suddenly Blank Flank pulled her hoof away and the additional extremities shrank away. “You...you...how did you do that?” Luna sputtered. Blank Flank shrugged. “And that’s not all I can do. But perhaps I should start at the beginning. I am entertaining royalty, after all.”
Chapter 1“The ‘H’ Cafe certainly knows how to put together a daffodil and daisy sandwich,” said Twilight Sparkle as she entered the library. “It wouldn’t hurt them to try a gem recipe or two,” mumbled Spike, following her. “I mean, I like hay fries as much as the next pony, but...” He shrugged, grabbed the broom, and proceeded to complete his daily chores. Twilight headed into the next room of the library in search of her afternoon checklist. I know I put it in here somewhere, she thought to herself. She was so intent on her search that she almost didn’t notice the figure in the corner. However, a slight rustle and a cough drew Twilight’s attention to that corner. It was a white pony with a black mane. She was wearing a black traveling cloak and resting on a pillow with a history book between her hooves. A saddle bag rested on the floor nearby. She was looking directly at Twilight. “Hello there,” said Twilight. The pony blinked. “You know, you’re the first pony I’ve seen in here actually reading history books, other than myself, of course. Most ponies would rather check out the next Daring Do novel. What’s your name?” The silent pony did not respond. She deliberately closed the book, stood up, and placed the book back on the shelf behind her. Ignoring Twilight completely, she scooped up her bag with her teeth, placed it on her back, and made her way out the door without so much as a backward glance. “Well, that was weird,” said Twilight. “At least now I can reshelve my books in peace without tripping over anypony.” She took a step back. Spike chose at that very instant to stand behind her with his broom. “I’m finished-” CRASH! Twilight, Spike, and the broom lay in a tangled heap on the floor. As Twilight stared disapprovingly at a sheepish-looking Spike, Pinkie Pie bounced into the room, took one look and jumped on top, yelling “Dogpile!” She giggled and said, “Hey Twilight, I just saw a new pony in Ponyville, one I’d never seen before, and I wanted to throw her a welcome party but she acted like I wasn’t even there, so I decided instead to throw her a surprise party, but then when I went to go look for her to bring her, she was GONE!” Twilight teleported herself out from underneath the jumble of hooves, claws, and pink mane, and began placing books back on the shelf, using the magic in her horn to levitate them into place. “I think saw the pony you’re talking about.” “REALLY?! Where is she? Huh? Huh? Huh? Is she hiding?” Pinkie Pie bounced up and started flinging books and cushions around, while Spike sat on the floor where she left him, staring grumpily at the mess she was making. “I can’t take it any more! I’ll be upstairs if you need me.” Spike got up and stomped up the stairs, dragging his broom behind him. “Calm down, Pinkie,” Twilight said. “You must have just missed her. She was here a few minutes ago, but when I asked her what she was reading, she got up and left. I have a feeling you may have to put her in the ‘Cranky Doodle Donkey’ category, if you know what I mean. Just leave her alone for now, and maybe she’ll come around.” “Oh.” Pinkie sat there for a minute, her mane threatening to deflate. “Maybe you could throw the welcome party anyway, and let her come if she wants to. Besides, everyone loves a good party. Especially your parties.” Twilight smiled at her kooky, exuberant friend. She could swear she saw Pinkie’s mane get even bigger as the idea sunk in. “Oh Twilight, that’s a great idea! I’m going to tell everyone in Ponyville!” And away she went, bouncing out the door into the sunshine. A second later she heard a thump and a splash and Pinkie's voice giggling, "Hi Rarity! Coming to my party later?" Twilight shook her head and smiled. *** The white pony with the black mane stood on a small hill outside Ponyville. It had been a risk, but it was worth it. Unfortunately, she had been interrupted by that lavender-coloured librarian before she had found exactly what she was looking for. Not to mention the crazy pink stalker she had to avoid all day. Still, she had come to the library she saw in her dream, and she was not going to leave until she found what she was looking for. She walked down the hill on the side facing away from Ponyville. There was a small cave there, where she had been staying. There was a small pile of books hidden under a rock in there, but she did not bother with them just yet. Instead, she settled down on the ground near the entrance, pulled her cloak closer around herself, and waited for night, when the dreams would come. And as she closed her eyes, she began to levitate. *** Luna watched from her sister's balcony through the telescope. Though she usually gazed up at the stars, tonight she was watching the unusual white pony. She had been watching her for some time now, and her existence was like a nagging itch in the back of Luna's mind, reminding her of her presence. It was this feeling that guided her search for this strange pony every night for two years, and no matter where she travelled, Luna always knew where she was. As part of her duties, she monitored the dreams of everypony, but tonight she was interested in this one pony. This pony's dreams were unsettling and confusing, and though she had been tempted to enter them, something always held her back, while at the same time drawing her in like a magnet. She had resisted the siren song of this pony's dreams. But sometime soon, she would visit the dreams... Author's Note So, this is basically my first story ever. Just thought I'd mention it.
Chapter 2Oh great, it’s the crazy pink stalker again! She ran this way and that, down alleys and under bridges, with the sound of Pinkie’s screeching ringing in her ears. I thought a week would be long enough to make her move on to stalking some other pony. Suddenly, she skidded to a halt in front of a brick wall. It was a dead end. She was trapped. Intense panic overtook her logic, and before she could stop herself... Pinkie Pie covered her face as a blinding flash of light filled the alley. She squinted at the light from behind her hooves just in time to see the strange mare she had been chasing sprout an enormous pair of beautiful white wings out from underneath her travelling cloak. The pony took to the skies faster than even Rainbow Dash, while Pinkie’s mouth dropped open as she stared at the departing figure. *** Rainbow Dash was just settling down for an afternoon siesta when a white lightning bolt with a black mane whisked past her. “Hey! What the-? Come back here, you!” Rainbow took off after her, and just as she was about to catch up, the white pony disappeared into a cloud bank. “Nopony beats Rainbow Dash!” yelled Rainbow. Whipping up her wings, she blasted the cloud bank away into a hundred little puffs of cotton-like balls. “Come back here and race me properly!” But when the clouds finally dissipated, she was gone. Rainbow Dash humphed and went back to her cloud for a well-deserved nap. *** Meanwhile, Rarity was just finishing the last of her laundry when a white unicorn with gorgeous black mane landed in her backyard with a whump. “Oh my stars!” Rarity rushed outside to help, but the other pony was faster. She had landed in a bush, and scrambled out of it just as Rarity was approaching. Rarity saw her wince and hold her left foreleg off the ground, but before she could even offer to get some ice, the pony’s horn lit up, and she teleported, leaving Rarity staring at her ruined bush. Concerned, Rarity looked around for a bit, but it was clear the pony was gone. She glanced back at her mangled foliage. “Oh well, I wanted to replace that one anyway.” She was about to go back inside when she noticed a scrap of cloth swaying gently in the breeze, caught on a small branch extending from the bush. “Hello, what’s this?” Curious, she levitated it out of the bush and went to her workroom. *** In the library, Twilight was just settling in to her latest project, a research paper on the debate about the influence earth ponies have on inherent magic. In order to understand magic in its fullness, Celestia said she needed to understand how earth ponies affected the flow of magical energy, if at all. It wasn’t the most thrilling of topics, but it was challenging, and Twilight felt she was up to the task. However, no sooner had she organized her writing desk for an afternoon of writing, when a flash of light and magic caught her attention. “You!” Twilight gasped. “But I thought-” “I need your help, but there’s no time to explain,” the white earth pony - no wait, unicorn, gasped. “I need to get out of Ponyville before they all find out.” Her eyes flicked this way and that, looking for any sign that she was being followed. Then she glanced at Twilight. “Close the windows! Lock the doors!” Twilight did as she asked, then watched as the unicorn examined her left foreleg. It seemed twisted, and not fit to walk on. “Do you want any help?” offered Twilight. “I know a healing spell or two-” “No, I can do it myself. Just stand guard.” Is this pony in trouble? And why does she suddenly have a horn? I don’t remember seeing that before. Twilight was full of questions, but one look at the mare’s face made it abundantly clear that she did not appreciate questions. A magical glow surrounded the foreleg. The white pony started sweating from exertion and pain, and Twilight could see it was taking a great deal of effort. Then, before the procedure was complete, the weariness of all her transformations overtook her, and her horn started shrinking. “No! Just a little more...” It was too late. The horn was gone, and the foreleg unhealed. Twilight’s eyes met the white pony’s. “Let me help you.” The pony bowed her head, and Twilight performed her own healing spell. In a moment it was done, and the white pony turned to go. “Wait! Come back! You don’t have to go. I can leave you completely alone if you want me to.” Twilight rushed to the door. “Please, don’t leave on my account. I didn’t mean to disturb you last week.” The white pony stopped. She looked Twilight over, evaluating her. “Perhaps, in time. I have been searching for this library for a long time. You may be of some assistance to me after all,” she said. “I will come back soon.” “What is your name?” The white pony didn’t answer the question. She said simply, “Until next time, Twilight Sparkle.” And with that, she was gone. *** That night, the dreams took on a new direction. She dreamed of the library, of Twilight Sparkle, of bright rainbow colours and strong power. She dreamt of sadness and isolation, of a loneliness only felt when one is completely lost and without a sense of direction. And then she dreamt of the moon. She had always liked the sense of comfort the moon gave her. Luna watched all of this through her telescope and her mind’s eye. She was so intent on her watch that she didn’t hear Celestia come in until a gentle hoof on her shoulder startled her. She looked up into the warm, smiling face of her sister, and smiled back. “Seems like you’ve found a new project,” Celestia observed. “I have been watching this pony’s dreams for many nights, sister. Her dreams are strong and powerful, and unlike anything I have ever seen before. I believe she has great power, but is unsure of what to do with it. I also sense loneliness, which I know can turn into bitterness and resentment without the proper guidance.” Both Luna and Celestia were silent for a while, remembering the heartache and pain of those long ago years. Suddenly, Luna broke the silence. “I would like to mentor her, much as you have done for Twilight Sparkle. A pony with this much unfocused power needs direction and guidance. I would like to help.” Celestia frowned in thoughtfulness. “Are you sure you are up for this? When you take on this kind of responsibility, it lasts for life. You will be responsible for everything, for her mistakes and well as her successes. You don’t even know her name or her cutie mark. Are you sure you want to do this?” Something inside Luna clicked, and she knew the answer. “Yes, I do, sister. I feel, in some way, like I am meant to be connected with her. I don’t know how or why, but I cannot abandon her to fate.” “Very well. Good luck, my sister.”
Chapter 3Morning in Ponyville commenced with a meeting in the library, with Pinkie Pie re-enacting her encounter with the mysterious mare. Books, quills, and parchment went everywhere as she bounced from one corner to another in her excitement. “I’d never seen any pony move so fast!” squealed Pinkie Pie. Rainbow Dash glared at her. “And then she was like - poof - and then she had wings and then she took off like - whoosh!” She knocked over an inkwell. “I just don’t get how she disappeared. It wasn't a fair race if you ask me,” Rainbow grumped. “I mean, maybe I could take it if she actually won a race fair and square, but she just totally dropped out of the sky.” “Speaking of which, I believe I had a visit from this strange pony,” Rarity interjected. “She really must have dropped out of the sky to do as much damage as she did to my hedge. Quite startling, really. Only, she didn't have wings. She was a unicorn. Oh, yes, and she also tore her cloak just before she teleported. I took it into my shop for a better look, and really, I believe this is one fabric that I lack in my collection. It could be from Saddle Arabia for all I know.” Applejack piped up. “Ah don’t know anythin’ about horns and wings, but Ah’ve caught her swipin’ apples from the trees on the edge of the south field. If she just asked me, Ah’d’ve gladly given her some. But stealin’, that don’t go over too well with the Apple family.” Twilight was running after Pinkie Pie in an effort to save her freshly-organized shelves from total chaos and destruction, when Fluttershy unexpectedly spoke up. “A few days ago I saw smoke coming from the edge of the Everfree Forest. It didn't seem like it was spreading, so I asked some of my critter friends if they knew anything about it. Some squirrels told me it was campfire smoke coming from a cave. I wondered if that was where the new pony was staying, but I was too afraid to go find out.” She looked down and began scuffing the ground with her hoof. “Let’s go check it out!” Rainbow Dash leaped in the air, wings extended, when she was unexpectedly stopped short with a yank on her tail. “Slow down, sugar cube,” Applejack said through a mouthful of tail. “We still don’t know anythin’ about this pony. Twilight?” All eyes turned toward Twilight. She was using her magic to balance a stack of books on the edge of a table while using her back leg to hold a figurine in place on a shelf. Pinkie Pie was giggling at an ink-covered Spike, who was looking very unimpressed with her. Twilight managed to put things back in place and thought. “She seemed very mysterious. When she was in the library, she seemed really upset that I bothered her studying, but when she appeared out of nowhere in the middle of the room, she was injured and frightened. It’s like she had no choice but to let me help her, but she resented it all the same. I watched her horn disappear and she became like a regular Earth pony again.” Twilight turned thoughtful. “I suppose there’s nothing we can do except be friendly to her whenever we see her, but she clearly wants to be left alone. I guess we just wait and see what happens. In the meantime -” she glanced at Spike, still soaked in ink - “I need to give a baby dragon a bath.” *** In an obscure tower in the Canterlot Castle, Princess Luna was looking through some old books on dreams. She had entered dreams before - with a fond smile she remembered Scootaloo - but this dream environment was too different for her to simply trot in blindly. It had been a long time since she had felt the need to consult references other than her own experience, so research was progressing rather slowly. Hmm, moonstone gems are referred to quite often in this text. I wonder what they do...and what is this about blending magic? This book is even older than Equestria! She frowned in concentration and used her horn to bring another stack of books closer. Parchment and quills were everywhere, and there was even an ink smudge on her nose. Unbeknownst to her, Princess Celestia watched her around the corner and smiled at her sister’s perseverance. She slipped away as quietly as she came, hoping for her sister’s success. As much as she wanted to help her, Celestia knew this was something Luna needed to do for herself. *** Back in her cave, the strange white pony paced nervously. What had she gotten herself into? In the library, it seemed like the right thing to do to trust the purple unicorn, but now, she doubted herself. She had never permitted anypony to help her, and certainly never asked for it. Her…condition...made it impossible to mingle with regular ponies, and she found it easier to keep to herself. Now that she had actually interacted with the one pony who could possibly help her find what she was looking for, she was nervous. Perhaps she should sleep, and take comfort in the dreams...or maybe she should simply face the situation by marching straight to the library, purple librarian and all. Thinking, she pulled a book out of her secret stash under a rock and went over her notes. She had kept a record of all the old pony tales she came across, especially the ones about Nightmare Moon or about the Elements of Harmony. However, from what she could tell, the Elements were all well and good and very powerful, but she needed older magic to solve her mysterious condition. The dreams told her so. She needed control over her aimless wandering in the dream world, as well as over her own body. It was only a year ago when things started to get really strange, but it felt like a lifetime ago. It was time to face that annoyingly-inquisitive purple librarian and find some answers.
Chapter 4That afternoon, after Spike finally got all the ink out of his scales, he and Twilight Sparkle were cleaning up the rest of Hurricane Pinkie Pie. As Spike swept, Twilight reorganized the shelves and tidied her writing supplies. They were both so absorbed in their tasks that they almost missed the quiet click of the library door closing. Twilight turned to see who had entered, and gasped when she saw the mysterious mare from yesterday standing on the welcome mat. She was still wearing her travelling cloak, patched where it had torn on Rarity’s hedge, and her saddlebags looked full to bursting with books and parchments. “Hello,” said Twilight. Silence. “I’m Twilight Sparkle,” continued Twilight awkwardly, “and this is my assistant Spike.” She gestured toward Spike, who was trying very hard to not look interested as he swept the floor at the opposite end of the room. “My name,” said the pony, “is Blank Flank.” She flipped up her cloak, and Twilight’s jaw dropped open. Spike didn’t even pretend to sweep. He just stared. For where a cutie mark should have been, there was nothing, not even a speck. “You can see now why I prefer to keep to myself,” said Blank Flank, lowering her cloak. “I should be used to the reactions by now, but...well, never mind. I would have never ventured into this library if I didn’t need to, but unfortunately I need your books for my research.” Twilight closed her mouth, and with a burst of magic from Twilight’s horn caused Spike to perform the motions of sweeping, though he continued to stare at Blank Flank’s lack of cutie mark. “Well...umm...I never want to stand in the way of research. Is there anything I can do to help?” Blank Flank headed back toward the reading room. “Judging by your expression, I gather that you have never seen a full-grown pony without a cutie mark. It appears that neither has anypony else. My research so far has indicated that I am indeed the only pony in history to have reached adulthood without a mark. After this library, my last hope is the Canterlot library.” She sighed and pulled out the history book she had been reading earlier. “If I cannot determine my destiny by the end of my research, I can only conclude that I am to remain cutie markless, and therefore, have no destiny.” Twilight thought as she levitated several books off the shelves toward herself. “What about your horn and wings?” she asked. “I believe that too is connected to my -” she grimaced “- blank flank.” They searched through the books in silence, piling book after book on the center table. After a bit, Blank Flank asked, “Are you familiar with the theories of parental predestination?” she asked. Twilight nodded. “According to my research, the theories of parental predestination speculate that the name a pony is given at birth strongly influences the cutie mark he or she eventually receives. The theories are based on various naming patterns and corresponding cutie marks, but no solid proof establishing the theory as fact.” Twilight’s eyes widened. “Did your parents-?” “I know what your next question will be, Twilight Sparkle, and I am not comfortable discussing that topic at this time. I will tell you what I think is necessary for you to know, nothing more. I know about your connection to the Elements of Harmony, and while I admire your abilities and intellect, I do not desire your friendship or your pity.” There was a tone of finality in Blank Flank’s voice that Twilight dared not challenge, so they sifted through books in silence until Spike brought in some candles. “Oh my, is it dusk already? I really must be going.” Blank Flank resumed her cloak and saddle bag and headed for the door. “Will you be back tomorrow?” Twilight asked. “I might have some information for you by then.” “I will return tomorrow. There are still many books I haven’t looked through yet.” Then she was gone. Twilight looked at the piles of books scattered around her thoughtfully. She thought about writing to Princess Celestia about this, but something told her that would not be a wise move if she wanted to stay on Blank Flank’s good side. Nevertheless, she was curious. “Spike, I think I’m going to need a few more candles. It’s going to be a long night.” “Right on it, Twilight!” Spike grinned. She looked through the stacks of books Blank Flank had selected for her own research. There were some on genealogy and some on the magical properties of horns and wings. Glancing at the shelves, Twilight saw that Blank Flank had selected most of the section on dreams and dream interpretation. “That’s odd,” said Twilight thoughtfully. “What’s odd?” asked Spike, returning with an armload of candles and a tray with tea and cupcakes. “Blank Flank never mentioned anything about dreams in connection with her cutie mark problem. I wonder what that’s all about.” She thought. “Spike, take a letter.” “Do you think that’s a good idea?” Spike asked. “That pony seems like she wants to keep this to herself. You haven’t even told your Ponyville friends. What makes you think telling Princess Celestia about her is a good thing?” Twilight used her magic to clear some space on her writing desk. “I thought about writing to Princess Celestia, but decided not to. However, if dreams are involved, there’s nothing stopping me from asking Princess Luna a few questions. For research purposes, of course. Maybe she has some advice about where to look.” Spike grabbed a quill and some parchment and began to write as Twilight dictated. *** “There is only one reason your protege is asking me about dream interpretation. The pony I’ve been watching is in Ponyville, searching for answers,” Luna said solemnly. “What are you going to do?” Celestia asked. “I believe the time has come for me to visit her dreams, and to lend guidance to her thoughts. Perhaps if I become familiar to her in the dream world, she will more readily accept me as her mentor in the real world. Her dreams are stranger than any I’ve ever encountered, but the time has come to put my research into action.” Celestia embraced her sister with her wings, and the two lovingly touched horns.
Chapter 5Blank Flank returned to her cave flustered and on edge from her time spent with Twilight, but also strangely satisfied. It had been a long time since she had spent any amount of time with another pony that didn't end in disaster, and it was refreshing to meet somepony that was her equal in intellect. And, as uncomfortable as the social interaction was, the mental stimulation was...exhilarating. She smiled as she checked her stash of books and prepared for sleep. And as she slept, she dreamed. ***** Blank Flank found herself suspended in the swirling blue dreamscape that had become so familiar to her over the years. This time, she was balancing at the centre of an immense cosmic spiderweb. From her position, she felt like she could see the whole universe, with each strand of the web extending out from the epicentre into different dimensions, locations, and times. She could go anywhere, do anything. Horns, wings, and cutie marks didn't matter here. She shifted her travelling cloak to a more comfortable position. It was strange, but even in her dreams she wore her cloak, so strong was her instinct for secrecy and self-preservation. She kicked gently at one of the strands. It hummed a rich, warm tone in response. She tried another one, and it twanged strongly, but not unpleasantly. She tried two at once, and the harmony made the fur on her neck tingle with excitement. She thought about which direction she should take, kicking various web strands as she thought. Some places looked bright and inviting, while others looked dark and mysterious. Still others looked downright dangerous and forbidding. She turned around slowly as she perused the different paths. Suddenly, she noticed a figure flying towards her through the swirling dreamscape. The figure landed on a strand with a gentle thwang, and balancing carefully, made her way to the centre. As the figure approached, Blank Flank could make out a pair of the most beautifully sculpted wings she had ever seen, then a long, spiraling horn. Her hooves sparkled with silver, and though her coat was indigo, it shone with an ethereal glow. “You are a most intriguing pony,” Princess Luna said, with a hint of a smile. “I am Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night and Keeper of Dreams. I have been watching your dreams for some time now, and I feel the time has come that we become acquainted.” Blank Flank narrowed her eyes. “Forgive me, Princess, but why in Equestria are you interested in me? I can take care of myself, and I don’t need pity, royal or otherwise. I already told the nosy librarian in Ponyville as much, and I say the same to you. Go back from wherever you came from, and don’t bother me anymore. Please.” Luna took a deep breath. This is going to be harder than I thought. “It is not pity I offer, but guidance. I have felt the power of your dreams, but have never observed them. I admit, I do not even know your name, place of origin, or cutie mark. Even in dreams, you wear your cloak as though it was a second skin. You are secretive at a time when others are usually at their most vulnerable. This, among other matters, interests me, and I wish to work with you, and guide you to the potential I know you have.” Blank Flank sighed and willed herself awake. ***** “Did you know that you levitate when you sleep?” Blank Flank’s eyes snapped open. A kindly, regal-looking indigo face was looking down at her with bemusement and fascination. Blank Flank scrambled to her hooves and adjusted her cloak. “How dare you spy on me like that!” Luna stepped back. “It was the only way I could penetrate the depth of your dreams far enough to make contact with you. Your mental strength is astounding!” Blank Flank was not amused. “Can I be done being your science experiment now? I thought that crazy pink Ponyville stalker was bad enough, but you - you are something else!” Silence hung in the air. Luna sighed. “This is going rather badly, is it not?” Blank Flank relaxed into a wry grin. “Definitely not the best first impression.” “Shall we try again?” Luna eased herself onto the grass, folded her wings, and looked at Blank Flank expectantly. “I do not expect to win your trust in one night, but rest assured, I am not your enemy. Give me a chance to make amends, and if you wish, we will part ways.” Blank Flank closed her eyes, took a deep breath, then opened them. She lay on the grass facing Luna and shrugged. “I suppose I could allow you that. Besides,” she smiled, rolling her eyes, “sharing all my deep dark secrets twice in one day will be a new record for me.” Luna smiled back, then became pensive. “I, too, bear deep dark secrets of my own, not the least of which are those concerning my time as Nightmare Moon. I was prepared to tear the world apart in my hate and rage against all I felt was unfair. I still have...consequences...left from my previous life that haunt me every day, and which I hope to rectify one day.” She shook her head and smiled again. “Now then. Let us begin with proper introductions.” With mock formality, she stuck out her foreleg and said, “Greetings. I am Luna.” Blank Flank returned the mock formality with “Greetings. I am Blank Flank,” and joined her hoof with Luna’s. Before Luna could react to Blank Flank’s name, she felt a strange surge of power flow from her body into Blank Flank’s, and watched in astonishment as a pair of wings and a horn equal to her own began to grow on Blank Flank. Suddenly Blank Flank pulled her hoof away and the additional extremities shrank away. “You...you...how did you do that?” Luna sputtered. Blank Flank shrugged. “And that’s not all I can do. But perhaps I should start at the beginning. I am entertaining royalty, after all.”
