Pony Storiesby GullibleCynicChaptersInvisible ShipReunion Beneath CanterlotRemindersTime for a friendDeterminationEquestria OriginsPrincess's SpeachNew BeginingJudgementInvisible Ship“Soooooo, Apple Bloom….” Sweetie Bell grinned at her fellow crusader. Winter had just arrived and Applebloom was was busy making some much needed repairs to the clubhouse after the previous day of crusading. They had decided that Cutie Mark Crusaders demolitions experts probably wasn’t for them after all. Really it had only been a few left over fireworks, but Scootaloo would still need to rest up until at least tomorrow. Luckily the first snow of winter had covered most of the incriminating evidence. “What’s on your mind Sweetie Belle?” “Oh, I’m just wondering.” Applebloom sighed. “Wondering what?” She was looking right at Sweetie Bell now, noticing for the first time her very pleased grin. “Oh, nothing. I’m just wondering what you think of Scootaloo?” “Well, you and her are my best friends. I’d do anything for either of you, you know that.” “Oh yes!” Sweetie continued to grin. “I know how you feel about us, but how how do you feel about her?” Applebloom blinked. “What’s this all about?” “Well….I couldn’t help but notice that you got Scootaloo to the lake pretty fast yesterday.” “Her tail was on fire.” Apple Bloom said in a hesitant tone. Hedging her bets she slowly added “And ah would have done the same for you.” “Oh, I know you would.” Sweetie Belle’s grin grew. “But I’m not so sure you would dive into the lake with me, or be quite so thorough drying me off once I got out.” Apple Bloom felt a little embarrassed about jumping into the lake too. She hadn’t planned on going in herself, but at the time she did not want to admit that she had just tripped. “Look, its a bit embarrassing, but I tripped. As for drying us off, well just look at all the snow out there, I did want either of us to catch a cold.” “The snow wasn’t there yesterday.” “And? The lake was still pretty cold.” A little annoyed she added “Ah can show you if you like.” Ignoring the threat Sweetie Belle plunged ahead. “And, I’m just wondering if you wanted Scootaloo to be your very special somepony?” Apple Bloom raised her hoof to her forehead reflexively. “Didn’t you learn the lesson from Cheerilee and mah brother?” This was quickly becoming very awkward for Apple Bloom. “So you admit it!” Sweetie Belle clapped her hooves with glee. “Stop that.” Apple Bloom growled. Sweetie Bell calmed herself, for the moment. “There ain’t nothing to admit and you’re missing the point! We’re supposed to leave other pony’s feeling alone, we don’t want anypony to get hurt. Again.” Sweetie Belle considered this for a moment. “I thought the real lesson was that we weren’t supposed to force two ponies to like each other. But if we find out two ponies like each other already its okay to help them. And thats what Im doing. I think you two want to be each other’s very special somepony and I’m asking to make sure!” Apple Bloom frowned and thought for a minute. No, she was pretty sure Scootaloo was just one of her two best friends. Before Apple Bloom could respond Sweetie Belle spoke up again. “You have to admit, there is a certain similarity between you two and a certain other pony pair. A certain apple farm mare and a dashing pegasus mare.” “Ah don’t know what you’ve heard, but they’re not a couple.” “My sister says they are, even if they don’t know it yet.” “Rarity reads too many of them romance books, they give her all sorts of crazy ideas. And it looks like that craziness is rubbing off on you.“ “Well, naturally you won’t admit it, at first anyways!” Applebloom let out her heaviest sigh yet. This had passed from awkward to full out uncomfortable now. “Look, is there anyway to convince you that there’s nothing between Scoots and me? Or at least get you to stop bothering me with the idea.” To her credit Sweetie Bell actually considered to question for a moment. Unfortunately she came up with the worst possible answer. “Nope!” At this Applebloom sighed for the last time, stepped away from her repairs and proceeded to leave the clubhouse. Still grinning Sweetie Bell asked the obvious question “Where are you going Applebloom?” “Ah’m goin to find mah sister, see how she deals with all this shipping nonsense.” Author's Note The prompt: One of the Cutie Mark Crusaders ships two of the others. I think I over did it on the accent Reunion Beneath CanterlotJust before morning Twilight stood in awe in the cave beneath Canterlot. If Celestia was to be believed these were the original caves in which the founding ponies of Equestria had discovered the Fires of Friendship. Twilight had known Celestia for many centuries now and though she could be manipulative and leave out important details, Twilight doubted she would bother to lie about something like that. This connection to Equestria's past tingled her old librarian sense, she never got tired of learning. Mostly though, it made the sight before her seem more appropriate. Before her a great purple dragon with green spines was sleeping. Yes, this is where he should be, at the heart of friendship, surrounded by his friends when he wakes up. “When is he going to wake up? It feels like its been a hundred years already!” Rainbow Dash kicked a few of the scattered gems near her feet for emphasis. “Rainbow, it has been a hundred years.” said Rarity “Oh, I do hope our little Spikey-Wikey will remember us.” “Of course he’ll remember us. From his perspective he just went to sleep a little while ago. Now, if my calculations are correct as soon as the sun rises Spike should wake up.” Said Twilight with a little nod and a satisfied smile. Princess Celestia took this as her cue. “I shall see to it my faithful student.” Twilight cringed slightly at her old appellation. She still had not forgiven Celestia entirely, not yet. Is she was being honest with herself Twilight would admit that she would have brushed off such a minor thing years ago before she had become an Alicorn. But that was the point, she had time now. Time enough to treat her friends with love and respect. Time enough to treat them like adults capable of making the correct choice. Pinkie decided that now would be an excellent time to interrupted Twilight’s serious train of thought.“Oh I hope he’s going to love his waking-up-from-a- hundred-year-dragon-nap party!” Bouncing around the cave, it was all she could do to not conjure a party cannon then and there. Just as Pinkie looked ready to burst the first rays of Celestia’s sunlight reached the sleeping dragon causing his eyes to flutter open slowly. “How are you feeling my number one assistant?” Twilight beamed Spike smiled at his most prized title. Inwardly Twilight thought of Celestia. Perhaps it was time to let bygones be bygones. “Twilight!” The dragon bellowed. Lifting up the purple Alicorn in the palm of his claw, Spike gave Twilight a long nuzzle. After a few moments Spike realized that they were not alone. “Ah.... You guys didn’t all have to be here when I woke up …. I mean its great to see all of you... oh, this is a bit embarrassing.” Everypony chuckled a bit at this. Spike blushed as he stretched the century old kinks out of his body. Yawning the last of the sleep out of his eyes Spike asked the first question he always asks “So, what is the plan for today Twilight?” Twilight would make sure she would always be deserving of his loyalty. Author's Note The prompt: I don’t need my own dreams if I can help you achieve yours. Inspired by this: Reunion Beneath Canterlot RemindersNightmare Moon was gone. And so was Luna, not to return for a thousand years. Luna had been the more sensitive of the two sisters. Before Sombra, that power hungry Archmage of Equestria had started corrupting her, feeding off her insecurities and fears, Luna had always worked to better the lives of her ponies in anyway she could. Mostly behind the scenes at it turned out. It was her idea to build a new capital away from the imposing peaks and detached atmosphere of Canterlot. To be closer to the ponies that really mattered, not the nobles or the politicians. Where her home had stood there was now only ruin. The scars of that battle could still be seen from high above. Celestia had ordered the city evacuated hours before, and no lives were lost. At least as far as anypony told her. It pained Celestia but she ordered that the city not be rebuilt and the Royal Court be restored to Canterlot. Only a wild and untamed forest would remain around the ruins of the new capital. It would make it easier for ponies to forget. After Luna’s fall Celestia quickly felt the strain of ruling the Kingdom and moving the Sun and the Moon alone. When the strain became too much Celestia rearranged all the heavenly bodies so they could continue to rise and set on their own. After all if Luna could fall, so might Celestia. With no choice Celestia had placed the sun at the center, it was simply more powerful than the moon, the reverse would never have been stable. But this gave Celestia the opportunity to create an event that had never occurred before. The new ‘Solar System’ would have an eclipse periodically, Luna’s time to outshine her sister. As the years passed Celestia often pondered on the causes of Luna’s fall. It was true, few ponies appreciated the night as much as they could. Celestia thought about what would be required for ponies to make the night their own. After centuries of development, with lights and electric dams to power them ponies could enjoy the night as much as the day now. These things even turned the cities of Equestria into homage to Luna’s sky. One thousand years later: It was over. Nightmare moon was gone and would not return. Celestia had done it, she had stopped her sister without restoring to … the unthinkable. She had given her sister the kindness of a second chance. And the cruelty of facing this new world full of reminders of her sister’s love. Reminders created because of Luna’s betrayal. Author's Note The Prompt: Kindness can be the greatest cruelty of all. Time for a friendThey had not planned it, but they were having a rather unconventional afternoon together and enjoying it thoroughly. When Twilight had arrived at Ponyville park she was surprised to see Pinkie already under the groups usual tree. Even more surprising, Pinkie did not jump up to greet her. Pinkie has smiled quietly but honestly at Twilight and patted the ground next to her. Twilight Returned the smile and gave a small nod. Twilight folded her wings and took a seat by her friend. It was an absolutely beautiful day, bright blue sky, a smattering of fluffy clouds for decoration and two good friends enjoying each other’s quiet company. Twilight and Pinkie were relaxing under a large tree, the contents of two small one pony picnics laid out and shared between them. That sunny afternoon there were no major threats on the horizon, no unusual revelations about one of their friends, no unexpected visits from a coy Princess. As the birds flew by and several foals played off in the distance both ponies were content to observe the scenes of the day pass by with the silent company of the other. It was the type of day that would have made all those other days worth it, no matter how trying they might have been. The two friends felt no need to speak or study or throw a party that day. It felt like they had all the time in the world. Both were curious about the other’s odd behaviour, of course but there was no rush. As afternoon turned into late afternoon and both had soaked in the tranquility of the day, Pinkie spoke up. Smiling softly she waved a hoof at Twilight. “You first” “Well, I guess it just feels like we’ve been through so much. And I've never been good at unwinding.” She said absently, not quite ready to give up the quiet. A minute later Twilight continued. “Of course I've read all about the benefits of letting go for a while, but I thought it mostly meant relaxing. I’ve always just read to relax. But theres more to it than that, I have to let my mind wander where it wants, see what it comes up with.” “I didn't get that opportunity very often before. I’ve always had something to focus on.” Twilight grinned broadly. “And you know how I can be when I get focused.” Pinkie giggled at this. Twilight smiled and waved her hoof at Pinkie. “Your turn.” “Oh, I’ve always taken a day here of there just to relax and recharge.” Pinkie scrunched up her face slightly. “But it has been a while.” Neither of them spoke for a long time. There was no need to hurry. When Pinkie spoke again it was with more of her usual energy. “Sometimes, when it isn't anypony’s birthday or I haven't met a new friend or all the other great reasons for a party I just like to take a day. It not really even a day for me, its more a day for the whole world!” Pinkie reached out as if to hug the whole world, her smile was from ear to ear. “I like to remind myself just how amazing the world is! I try and imagine the whole thing, each part of it a party in its own way! And if I imagine hard enough -” Pinkie closed her eyes tightly “- I can see myself there, celebrating with everything!” Twilight hugged her friend. She had to keep reminder herself not to underestimate Pinkie. Besides her obvious qualities of being funny and friendly she could be oblivious and crazy and party obsessed, there was no denying this. But she was at times surprisingly deep and strong and sensitive. And Twilight would not change her for anything. Eventually late afternoon gave way to evening. Twilight got up and started packing the picnic supplies, letting Pinkie continue to enjoy to last lights of the day. She enjoyed this rarely seen contemplative side of Pinkie too much to disturb her. Before she turned to leave Twilight “I’d say we should do this more often, but this isn't really the type of day you can plan.” “I’ll say. Hey Twilight, you’ll be able to make it to my next party right?” “Anytime.” With that Twilight took to the sky and was soon out of sight. As Pinkie got up to leave she stretched her wings and unconsciously scratched her horn. Yes, there was time now. Author's Note The prompt: Choose at least one of the following. I think this may have been stronger if not for my attempt at the twist ending. Not sure. DeterminationClover the Clever instructs a young Celestia in the magic of the sun and the moon The memory of the old homeland was just starting to fade. The three tribes had taken well to Equestria and were divided no longer. Government would always remain government however. Fortunately for Clover the Clever it was his turn to instruct the foals. As Clover walked through the halls of the capitol building in the early hours before dawn he was shadowed by a small white filly. She was still quite small and had a hard time keeping up at her normal walking pace. As always she was excited and full of questions, even at that early hour. “Why isn't Lulu joining us Miss Clever?” the filly asked, looking up at her mentor for the day. “My dear Celestia, your sister is still too young for this, she needs her rest. But worry not, her time will come, she will not be left out.” That seemed to satisfy the filly for the moment. Celestia’s desire to include Luna in everything always warmed Clover’s heart. Before long Celestia’s questions began again. “You still haven’t told me what we’re doing up so early though.” “I thought you liked surprises.” Clover retorted “I like causing surprises. There’s a difference.” Clover smiled at this. “Well, hypothesize then. You have some data, what conclusion can you reach?” “Well, I know that you are here and you are the Archmage of the Unicorns are are very powerful. I know that Lulu is too young for what we are about to try. And I know that it is almost dawn.” The look of realization shot across Celestia face in an instant. “Oh, that makes it obvious!” Celestia giggling filled the halls as she bounced all around the older pony, a wide smile on her face. “Are we really going to see the unicorns raise the Sun? Are we, are we?” Queen Platinum would have had a conniption if she saw Celestia acting with such lack of decorum. The thought broadened Clover’s smile just a bit wider. “Well done, yes we will and perhaps more than that someday. But for now we are almost there.” Of course Celestia knew how to present herself properly, but this was the most important and powerful of Unicorn magic, and she was going to learn about it first hoof! Soon they exited the hallway and emerged on a platform overlooking the lands and facing to the east, the direction of the rising sun. In a circle all around the platform there were unicorns wearing the highest level mage robes. They had already started their chanting, warming up the spell. Clover made her way to the middle, beckoning the now slightly hesitant filly to join her. “Alright Celestia, stay close to me. And don't worry, the first time is always a bit disorienting.” This did not fully reassure Celestia. Slowly the air around them started to shimmer and the familiar scenes to the city and countryside below gave way to a strange, ethereal space full of stars and nebulae. “This is the astral sea.” Explained Clover. “Many powerful magics can be performed here. Memory spells to relive events of a pony’s life. Augmentation spells, to increase a pony’s magic. “And it is from here that we can most easily raise the sun and the moon. But more importantly, it is from here that we can show new unicorn mages why we must cast these spells.” An image of the world as if seen from high above still dark from the night appeared before Celestia. All of a sudden she felt very far from home. From this distance it would take Celestia many days of flying at her top speed to get back to the world below. But the calm presence of Clover reassured her. Far off in the distance she could see another smaller orb glowing brightly. “The moon” Clover explained as Celestia pointed at the curious object.. Then she saw a third sphere peak out from behind her world. It was about the same size as the moon and about the same distance from the planet. “Is... is that another moon?” “No.” Clover sighed. “That is the sun.” Celestia had never seen it from this perspective before. She had always assumed it was much larger than the moon, it was much brighter after all. As the unicorns around them started casting their sun raising spell Clover conjured a simplified diagram of the planetary system. “The truth is if we stopped casting our spells day and night would continue, for a time. But do you notice anything about the way these objects are arranged Celestia?” Celestia stared, but couldn’t see anything that struck her as odd. Though, truth be told she did not have much of a basis of comparison. She shook her head no. Clover nodded. “It is very subtle. Essentially, this is not a stable configuration. The sun and the moon never cross paths. The sun is only seen during the day, the moon at night. But, unless they are both at the exact same distance from the planet and have the exact same mass this can not happen naturally. And it probably didn’t. We don't know how this arrangement came to be, but without us nudging everything back into place it would all fall apart very quickly.” Clover was somber, but the look of understanding on celestia’s face filled her with hope. I that moment Celestia looked more determined than Clover had ever seen her. “Someday Luna and I will make sure that the sun and the moon will no longer be an impending disaster hanging over our heads. I promise Miss Clever.” Author's Note The Prompt: "That’s no moon!" Link Equestria OriginsTwilight Sparkle was neck deep in a pit of her own creation. And she could not be happier. It wasn't quite studying magic or astronomy, but over the years she had acquired a fondness for archaeology. It was, after all, another way to learn more about the world. “Its like the whole world is a book, you just have to learn how to read it,” Twilight mused aloud. Turning to set her tools down she was startled by an unexpected visitor. “Gah! Princess Celestia, I didn't see you there.” The Princess chuckled softly. “I just wanted to see you in your element. And please, just call me Celestia.” A warm smile on her face. “Sorry Prin--- er ,Celestia, old habits and all that.” Twilight said, rubbing the back of her head. “I know the feeling. So what can you tell me about this find, in your last report you made it sound important.” “Of course.” Twilight was only too eager to share her finding and speculation. “As you know from our experiments with the Quantum Mirror that our universe is very unusual. Most others are huge containing billions of suns, moons and planets. Ours by comparison only has the one sun, one moon and one planet. And our ‘stars’ are magical objects not too far from us. That is probably the strongest evidence for my new hypothesis.” Celestia dutifully asked the obvious question. “And what is your new hypothesis?” “That our universe is artificially constructed.” Celestia was still not quite used to all of Twilight’s new terminology, but as far as she understood the idea she was genuinely surprised. “I think you may need to explain this one to me Twilight. I have believed that our world has always existed.” “I know Princess, I did too, but we didn’t really have any evidence for that. Its a matter of probabilities. What is more likely, our universe having been created so that from the surface of the planet it superficially resembles the naturally occurring universes but can be influenced by pony magic, or that it has always existed, which still doesn’t answer the question of how the universe exists at all.” Twilight took a second to catch her breath as Celestia digested this. “And you believe your find here is evidence in support of this hypothesis?” “In conjunction with the find in Zebrica last year, I do.” Celestia shuddered at the memory. “I don’t like to think of that thing. I regret that it had to be destroyed but it was a threat to my little ponies.” The giant crab like thing was black as night and seemed to be alive even after millennia underground . Many ponies still had nightmares about it, its screeches echoing through their minds. “It was dangerous. You did what you had to Princess. But back to the matter at hand. I believe that was a vessel, like one of our airships, only much more advanced. And, I believe this is a vessel too.” Twilight pointed into her digsite. There were long protrusions on the body of the thing, like tentacles on a squid. The entire vessel was green with black markings here and there. “I think this was the competitor race to the ones who built the crab-ship. Looking at the basic components of our world think they each represented a basic aspect of magic: Chaos and Order. Given the results of our encounter the crab-ship people seem to be Chaos. This race -” pointing at the squid-ship “- seem to represent order. “Essentially, we are a proving ground. We were supposed to determine which philosophy is superior. I don’t think they would have imagined that we would find a third way. The harmony for friendship and finding strength in each other’s differences shows that chaos and order are both incomplete.” Author's Note The Prompt: How The Moon Got Her Spots or The Prompt: How The Sun Got Her Fire A little B5 reference for you fans. Princess's SpeachCelestia and Twilight were sitting in one of the larger speaking halls in Canterlot castle. Twilight had been unnerved by the number of ponies that had crowded the hall when Celestia had made important speeches. Twilight felt the sheer size of the hall felt even more now that it was empty and completely quiet. As a soon to be crowned Princess of Equestria Twilight had a fair idea of why she and Celestia were here and she was not looking forward to it. “I suppose you know why I brought you here Twilight,” Said Celestia Twilight sighed. “I have to make an important speech after my coronation. You want me to practice.” “Practice, yes. For that speech and the many to follow. As well as practicing for the nobles, ambassadors and dignitaries that you will need to deal with from time to time.” Twilight cringed at the thought. She was a scholar, an academic, not a politician. Twilight’s discomfort did not escape Celestia’s notice. “I understand that such interaction are not your calling. And, I assure you that I will attempt to call upon you sparingly, just ask Cadence and Luna, but this is a necessary skill. “Truth be told Luna still has difficulty. she gets so nervous she slips into the Royal Canterlot voice half the time.” Twilight chuckled softly at her memory of the last Nightmare Night. Though Luna did seem more comfortable around herself and her friends now. “You’ve been very quiet so far Twilight. Why don’t you get up on stage and try a little improvisation. Its a good skill for speeches and a better one for one on one meetings.” Twilight gulped and started walking towards the stage. Upon reaching the podium Twilight felt like she had become Fluttershy. Even with only a patient Princess in the audience Twilight felt like she was being judged by all the empty seats. “Um, Fillies and Gentalcolts … um … Hi?” Twilight was had no idea what she was doing. “Just imagine you are giving a lecture on Magic,” suggested Celestia. “Ok, how about you start by actually giving a lecture on Magic.” “Ooo, where should I begin?” Twilight’s eyes were wide with anticipation. "Ahem." After clearing her throat a giddy Twilight began what sounded like a thesis recitation. “According to Thornhoof the four fundamental component of magic are the elemental domains of air, earth, fire and water. But, I am going to show you here tonight that these magics, as well as all others in fact emerge from the conflict between two much more fundamental forces of magic: Order and Chaos magic.” Five minutes into what would undoubtedly have been a long and thorough and long and did I mention long lecture by Twilight, Celestia raised a hoof to silence her. “Very good, Twilight. Perhaps now you could try a speech on the ‘Greatness of Equestria’. Such speeches can do much to raise the spirits of our little ponies.” “Hmm, well, of all the nearby nations Equestria has the highest standard of living and lowest crime rate. Only Saddle Arabia has a comparable GDP and that is due to their strategic location on the major trade routes. In fact, the Griffon Kingdom is kept afloat by Equestrian investments in most of its major industries. Not to mention the Equestrian military presence in -” Twilight was cut off by Celestia “Try less facts and more emotion.” “Um, Equestria is … great? Yay?” Twilight gave a weak hoof pump Celestia sighed. “Perhaps we should stick to prepared speeches for now.” Twilight gave a crooked grin. “Memorization I can do.” “Alight, that is enough for now. Meet me back here tomorrow at the same time.” Twilight looked at the clock on the well. Not much time had passed since they started. “If you say so.” Even though Twilight knew this was training, not a test she could not help ask “So, how did I do? For my first attempt I mean.” Celestia walked up Twilight and put a wing across her back.“I am always proud of you.” This made Twilight beam with joy. “But, I think that I am going to arrange for some extra help.” Embarrassed, Twilight responded weakly “Yeah thats probably a good idea.” The next day Celestia arrived to find Twilight already trying to practice. Telling terribly unfunny jokes and listing off facts. Anything to try and become more comfortable. “Practice makes perfect my Faithful Student. But I do fear your desire to impress me may be distracting you from actually learning this skill. As such, I have arranged a tutor to help you learn how to ‘put on airs.’ Here she comes now. Twilight looked around Celestia and was very surprised to see the approaching mare. “Ah, Sparkle, are you ready?” A familiar show pony said. “Trixie? YOU are going to be my teacher? Why did you agree to this? No offence but I was under the impression that you still didn’t like me much.” “You have taught Trixie something valuable. Trixie will now return the favour.” Author's Note The Prompt: The Great and Powerful Twilight Sparkle! New BeginingIt was getting late in the evening when Rarity and Rainbow Dash stumbled into their house located in the most upscale neighbourhood of Canterlot. In truth it was actually Rarity’s house and Rainbow had been using the guest room across from the master bedroom for the past four years, but neither had felt the need to bring that up for the past three. They had not spoken much on the trip home, each lost in their own thoughts of their latest adventure with their friends. As Rainbow started making her way up to her spartan bedroom Rarity spoke up. “Would you like to join me for some tea Rainbow?” Rainbow turned to look at Rarity and blinked in confusion for a second. “Umm, its late and I’m pretty tire Rares, you probably are too. We’ll talk tomorrow ‘k?” Rainbow forced a smile onto her face. “Please Rainbow, we need to talk about what happened.” Rainbow grit her teeth. “We saved the world. Again. Everypony is safe, nopony got hurt. Its a win. Nothing much to talk about.” Rainbow turned back to the stairs, stomping her hoof on the first step, cracking the tile. “Oh, Celestia… I’m sorry Rares, look, I’ll pay for that, but I really dont want to talk right now.” She hung her head and sighed. She knew bed would probably going to have to wait now. “Rainbow, you know I don’t care about some silly old tile, I was thinking or redecorating anyways. But you really shouldn’t go to bed angry. Please, talk to me.” Rarity said. Rainbow sighed. Turning back she found that Rarity was sweeping the ground with her front hoof. To the casual observer it was a rare nervous habit. Rainbow knew better, she was upset too. Rainbow turned around “Sure Rares, I’ll even have some tea, don’t think cider will effect me much anymore.” “Thank you, I’ll join you in the lounge in a moment.” Rarity normally had normally insisted that tea should be had on her balcony overlooking the Canterlot waterfall. Rainbow made her way to the lounge and made herself comfortable in her favourite chair. Though not quite as welcoming as her bed, it was one of her favourite spots in the house and she was grateful for Rarity’s gesture. A minute after Rainbow had settled in Rarity entered the room her, levitating a teapot and two teacups. No saucers. “This is really getting to you too, isn’t it?” asked Rainbow. Rarity set the tea and sat down on the loveseat across from Rainbow. “Oh, you must think I’m just ever so selfish and egotistical and ungrateful and …” “Vainglorious?” suggested Rainbow “Twilight’s word-a-day calendar?” “Its the gift that keeps on giving.” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Be that as it may, I think that one describes both of us Dear.” Rainbow snorted, not quite a full laugh, but it was a welcome relief. “At any rate, I do feel simply awful worrying about my career when yours is so, well … uncertain.” “No, its pretty certain. Its over. Twilight and Pinkie are thrilled, AJ and Fluttershy dont really care. But for me?” Dash shook her head and let out a breath. “I’ve always wanted to fly with the best. I’ve been a wonderbolt for five years. Been captain for a month. Done ten shows since then, each one better than the last. But now, I cant keep flying with them, its not fair to them, not to mention not safe. So I can be a desk Captain with the occasional solo act or quit.” Rainbow tried to levitated her tea to her. After failing to do much more than rattle the cup she grabbed it with her hooves and took a sip. “When are the coronations?” “Two months from now. Princess…. er, Celestia has scheduled a single mass coronation for all six of us. Personally I think its to prevent subjecting Canterlot to six Alicorn level Pinkie-parties in a row.” Rarity said a bit more brightly, gossip always help pick her up. “Its going to change things for you too, isn’t it? Being a princess I mean.” asked Rainbow “I’m afraid so. Ponies will too easily claim that I'm using my status to promote my works. And truth be told, I’d never be sure if my wears really are standing on their own merits or just riding my coattails. And I was doing so well too! Two shops in Canterlot, two in Manehatten, a new is opening in Baltimare next week!” Rainbow nodded, she was actually looking forward to the grand opening of that one. “All good things come to an end I suppose.” Rarity stretched her wings a bit before taking a sip of her tea. “Oh, like you I have options, I could continue to create under an assumed name, in fact I likely will for awhile, but …” “Its not quite the same?” suggested Rainbow “Exactly. Whats the point of being the best if we are no longer allowed to compete?” Rainbow raised her tea cup at this a took a swig. Rarity was too focused on her developing rant to notice the faux pas. “And don't even get me started on the effects to my personal life! Finding a worthy Prince has been difficult enough, now, NOW I’m going to have to fend of all sorts of ‘suitors’. I suppose I should just abandon such a notion outright. Celestia seems to do fine on her own. That another dream thats going to end tonight. Seems like the occasion for it, doesn’t it?” Rarity’s eyes had begun to well up by this point. Rainbow quickly left her favourite chair and joined Rarity on the loveseat. As Rainbow wrapped Rarity in her wings Rarity began to cry. Sofly. Quietly. After a minute Rarity’s breathing deepened and she started ruffling her wings. Rainbow took this as her cue to loosen the hug, but she didn’t completely let go. “Rares you really need to let me teach you how to preen.” said Rainbow Rarity snickered at this. “And I should show you the basic of Unicorn magic.” Rarity rested her head on Rainbow’s shoulder for several minutes after this, each enjoying the calm. After almost ten minutes had past Rarity turned to look Rainbow in the eyes. “Rainbow, what are we?” “Friends Rares.” Rainbow broke eye contact and shrugged “Two of the best friends that ever were.” “It seems you and I are going to be around a long time. I for one would like to make that journey with somepony that will never leave me ‘hanging’ as it were.” said Rarity “Come its bed time. End of the day.” Author's Note Well, here it is. Last submission to the last prompt for 30 minute pony stories. I wish I had participated for more of them, but it was fun being part of the last hurrah at least. Guess we can change these type of stories to complete now. JudgementThe Royal Wedding had just ended and Celestia had one final task to attend. Sitting side by side in the now vacant courtyard, Celestia was eye level with her student, her wings firmly stuck to her sides. Twilight was pawing at the ground, not making eye contact. “I am truly sorry for not hearing you out Twilight. You have more than earned my trust. I-” “No, Princess. Y-you were right to question me. I was right, but for all the wrong reasons. In the end I wasn’t any cleverer or more observant than anypony else, I just got lucky.” Celestia nodded slowly. “Perhaps so, but even if I was right to be skeptical you deserve more respect. Again, for how I treated you I am sorry.” “You showed more respect than I did.” Twilight mutter. With a teary eyed smile Twilight finally met Celestia’s gaze. “Maybe neither of us were at our best.” At this Celestia finally embraced Twilight in a wing hug and nuzzled her gently. “There are many powerful ponies in this world,” A coy smile graced Celestia’s lips “And even if you don't always want to admit it, that includes you. But I believe we both learned an important lesson. We are only equine, each one of us. It is a lesson I have had to relearn time and time again.” “I-I’m not sure that makes me feel any better. But at least it puts things in perspective.” With that Twilight let out a massive yawn which she utterly failed to stifle. “Oh my. I’m sorry Princess, it’s just been such a long day.” “No need to apologize. Please Twilight, get some sleep, we’ll speak again in the morning.” Celestia reluctantly removed her wing from Twilight’s back. Her impromptu blanket gone, Twilight nodded and rose. “Sleep sounds wonderful. Good night Princess.” “Good night Twilight.” Celestia sat alone in the empty courtyard for several minutes before speaking again. “I know you are there, you might as well show yourself.” This time of night provided ample shadows for Luna to step out of, so naturally she appeared right behind her elder sister. Luna noticed the tiny ear flick that followed. Celestia may as well have been a panicked foal, screaming at a nightmare night prank. “I still find it curious that you can sense my presence while shadow walking, yet you still jump like a filly when I appear. It is almost as if you do not actually know where I am and just speak to empty rooms from time to time.” Celestia smirked at this. “Wouldn’t you like to know, Sister.” Luna moved around her sister and sat facing her. “What I would like to know is why you are coddling her. You know her steel and her wisdom. It won't be too much longer before real responsibility finds her. Relatively speaking of course.” “Youth and innocence are precious things Luna. They can not be regained once lost, not in the same way.” “She has graduated in every way except in your mind and, by extension, hers.” Luna sighed. “We have few confidants, you and I, and even fewer friends. And perhaps once or twice a generation we can find ponies who can also be our peer. We both know Twilight Sparkle will make Archmage. Perhaps more.” Celestia raised an eyebrow at that. “What are you suggesting?” Luna waved her hoof. “In terms of ability she is already our peer. Only our power and experience keep us separate from others. One lifetime may not be enough to bridge that divide, but she can already see across it. I think we would both prefer her to be a friend as well. For that she needs to be able to tell us we are wrong. To contradict our orders.” “My orders.” “Yes.” “I will not set her up to fail.” “Then don’t. Trust that she will do the right thing no matter what you say. If she doesn't then she is not the mare we think she is.” “Luna, I know Twilight very well, I know what it would take, but it would be dangerous, recklessly so. Not just for her either.” “She is probably the most powerful mare of this generation. She will only become more powerful as time goes on. Having her act on what she believes you want is infinitely more dangerous than teaching her to trust her own judgement.” “Perhaps you are right.” Celestia thought for a moment. “Do you remember the Crystal Empire?”
Invisible Ship“Soooooo, Apple Bloom….” Sweetie Bell grinned at her fellow crusader. Winter had just arrived and Applebloom was was busy making some much needed repairs to the clubhouse after the previous day of crusading. They had decided that Cutie Mark Crusaders demolitions experts probably wasn’t for them after all. Really it had only been a few left over fireworks, but Scootaloo would still need to rest up until at least tomorrow. Luckily the first snow of winter had covered most of the incriminating evidence. “What’s on your mind Sweetie Belle?” “Oh, I’m just wondering.” Applebloom sighed. “Wondering what?” She was looking right at Sweetie Bell now, noticing for the first time her very pleased grin. “Oh, nothing. I’m just wondering what you think of Scootaloo?” “Well, you and her are my best friends. I’d do anything for either of you, you know that.” “Oh yes!” Sweetie continued to grin. “I know how you feel about us, but how how do you feel about her?” Applebloom blinked. “What’s this all about?” “Well….I couldn’t help but notice that you got Scootaloo to the lake pretty fast yesterday.” “Her tail was on fire.” Apple Bloom said in a hesitant tone. Hedging her bets she slowly added “And ah would have done the same for you.” “Oh, I know you would.” Sweetie Belle’s grin grew. “But I’m not so sure you would dive into the lake with me, or be quite so thorough drying me off once I got out.” Apple Bloom felt a little embarrassed about jumping into the lake too. She hadn’t planned on going in herself, but at the time she did not want to admit that she had just tripped. “Look, its a bit embarrassing, but I tripped. As for drying us off, well just look at all the snow out there, I did want either of us to catch a cold.” “The snow wasn’t there yesterday.” “And? The lake was still pretty cold.” A little annoyed she added “Ah can show you if you like.” Ignoring the threat Sweetie Belle plunged ahead. “And, I’m just wondering if you wanted Scootaloo to be your very special somepony?” Apple Bloom raised her hoof to her forehead reflexively. “Didn’t you learn the lesson from Cheerilee and mah brother?” This was quickly becoming very awkward for Apple Bloom. “So you admit it!” Sweetie Belle clapped her hooves with glee. “Stop that.” Apple Bloom growled. Sweetie Bell calmed herself, for the moment. “There ain’t nothing to admit and you’re missing the point! We’re supposed to leave other pony’s feeling alone, we don’t want anypony to get hurt. Again.” Sweetie Belle considered this for a moment. “I thought the real lesson was that we weren’t supposed to force two ponies to like each other. But if we find out two ponies like each other already its okay to help them. And thats what Im doing. I think you two want to be each other’s very special somepony and I’m asking to make sure!” Apple Bloom frowned and thought for a minute. No, she was pretty sure Scootaloo was just one of her two best friends. Before Apple Bloom could respond Sweetie Belle spoke up again. “You have to admit, there is a certain similarity between you two and a certain other pony pair. A certain apple farm mare and a dashing pegasus mare.” “Ah don’t know what you’ve heard, but they’re not a couple.” “My sister says they are, even if they don’t know it yet.” “Rarity reads too many of them romance books, they give her all sorts of crazy ideas. And it looks like that craziness is rubbing off on you.“ “Well, naturally you won’t admit it, at first anyways!” Applebloom let out her heaviest sigh yet. This had passed from awkward to full out uncomfortable now. “Look, is there anyway to convince you that there’s nothing between Scoots and me? Or at least get you to stop bothering me with the idea.” To her credit Sweetie Bell actually considered to question for a moment. Unfortunately she came up with the worst possible answer. “Nope!” At this Applebloom sighed for the last time, stepped away from her repairs and proceeded to leave the clubhouse. Still grinning Sweetie Bell asked the obvious question “Where are you going Applebloom?” “Ah’m goin to find mah sister, see how she deals with all this shipping nonsense.” Author's Note The prompt: One of the Cutie Mark Crusaders ships two of the others. I think I over did it on the accent
Reunion Beneath CanterlotJust before morning Twilight stood in awe in the cave beneath Canterlot. If Celestia was to be believed these were the original caves in which the founding ponies of Equestria had discovered the Fires of Friendship. Twilight had known Celestia for many centuries now and though she could be manipulative and leave out important details, Twilight doubted she would bother to lie about something like that. This connection to Equestria's past tingled her old librarian sense, she never got tired of learning. Mostly though, it made the sight before her seem more appropriate. Before her a great purple dragon with green spines was sleeping. Yes, this is where he should be, at the heart of friendship, surrounded by his friends when he wakes up. “When is he going to wake up? It feels like its been a hundred years already!” Rainbow Dash kicked a few of the scattered gems near her feet for emphasis. “Rainbow, it has been a hundred years.” said Rarity “Oh, I do hope our little Spikey-Wikey will remember us.” “Of course he’ll remember us. From his perspective he just went to sleep a little while ago. Now, if my calculations are correct as soon as the sun rises Spike should wake up.” Said Twilight with a little nod and a satisfied smile. Princess Celestia took this as her cue. “I shall see to it my faithful student.” Twilight cringed slightly at her old appellation. She still had not forgiven Celestia entirely, not yet. Is she was being honest with herself Twilight would admit that she would have brushed off such a minor thing years ago before she had become an Alicorn. But that was the point, she had time now. Time enough to treat her friends with love and respect. Time enough to treat them like adults capable of making the correct choice. Pinkie decided that now would be an excellent time to interrupted Twilight’s serious train of thought.“Oh I hope he’s going to love his waking-up-from-a- hundred-year-dragon-nap party!” Bouncing around the cave, it was all she could do to not conjure a party cannon then and there. Just as Pinkie looked ready to burst the first rays of Celestia’s sunlight reached the sleeping dragon causing his eyes to flutter open slowly. “How are you feeling my number one assistant?” Twilight beamed Spike smiled at his most prized title. Inwardly Twilight thought of Celestia. Perhaps it was time to let bygones be bygones. “Twilight!” The dragon bellowed. Lifting up the purple Alicorn in the palm of his claw, Spike gave Twilight a long nuzzle. After a few moments Spike realized that they were not alone. “Ah.... You guys didn’t all have to be here when I woke up …. I mean its great to see all of you... oh, this is a bit embarrassing.” Everypony chuckled a bit at this. Spike blushed as he stretched the century old kinks out of his body. Yawning the last of the sleep out of his eyes Spike asked the first question he always asks “So, what is the plan for today Twilight?” Twilight would make sure she would always be deserving of his loyalty. Author's Note The prompt: I don’t need my own dreams if I can help you achieve yours. Inspired by this: Reunion Beneath Canterlot
RemindersNightmare Moon was gone. And so was Luna, not to return for a thousand years. Luna had been the more sensitive of the two sisters. Before Sombra, that power hungry Archmage of Equestria had started corrupting her, feeding off her insecurities and fears, Luna had always worked to better the lives of her ponies in anyway she could. Mostly behind the scenes at it turned out. It was her idea to build a new capital away from the imposing peaks and detached atmosphere of Canterlot. To be closer to the ponies that really mattered, not the nobles or the politicians. Where her home had stood there was now only ruin. The scars of that battle could still be seen from high above. Celestia had ordered the city evacuated hours before, and no lives were lost. At least as far as anypony told her. It pained Celestia but she ordered that the city not be rebuilt and the Royal Court be restored to Canterlot. Only a wild and untamed forest would remain around the ruins of the new capital. It would make it easier for ponies to forget. After Luna’s fall Celestia quickly felt the strain of ruling the Kingdom and moving the Sun and the Moon alone. When the strain became too much Celestia rearranged all the heavenly bodies so they could continue to rise and set on their own. After all if Luna could fall, so might Celestia. With no choice Celestia had placed the sun at the center, it was simply more powerful than the moon, the reverse would never have been stable. But this gave Celestia the opportunity to create an event that had never occurred before. The new ‘Solar System’ would have an eclipse periodically, Luna’s time to outshine her sister. As the years passed Celestia often pondered on the causes of Luna’s fall. It was true, few ponies appreciated the night as much as they could. Celestia thought about what would be required for ponies to make the night their own. After centuries of development, with lights and electric dams to power them ponies could enjoy the night as much as the day now. These things even turned the cities of Equestria into homage to Luna’s sky. One thousand years later: It was over. Nightmare moon was gone and would not return. Celestia had done it, she had stopped her sister without restoring to … the unthinkable. She had given her sister the kindness of a second chance. And the cruelty of facing this new world full of reminders of her sister’s love. Reminders created because of Luna’s betrayal. Author's Note The Prompt: Kindness can be the greatest cruelty of all.
Time for a friendThey had not planned it, but they were having a rather unconventional afternoon together and enjoying it thoroughly. When Twilight had arrived at Ponyville park she was surprised to see Pinkie already under the groups usual tree. Even more surprising, Pinkie did not jump up to greet her. Pinkie has smiled quietly but honestly at Twilight and patted the ground next to her. Twilight Returned the smile and gave a small nod. Twilight folded her wings and took a seat by her friend. It was an absolutely beautiful day, bright blue sky, a smattering of fluffy clouds for decoration and two good friends enjoying each other’s quiet company. Twilight and Pinkie were relaxing under a large tree, the contents of two small one pony picnics laid out and shared between them. That sunny afternoon there were no major threats on the horizon, no unusual revelations about one of their friends, no unexpected visits from a coy Princess. As the birds flew by and several foals played off in the distance both ponies were content to observe the scenes of the day pass by with the silent company of the other. It was the type of day that would have made all those other days worth it, no matter how trying they might have been. The two friends felt no need to speak or study or throw a party that day. It felt like they had all the time in the world. Both were curious about the other’s odd behaviour, of course but there was no rush. As afternoon turned into late afternoon and both had soaked in the tranquility of the day, Pinkie spoke up. Smiling softly she waved a hoof at Twilight. “You first” “Well, I guess it just feels like we’ve been through so much. And I've never been good at unwinding.” She said absently, not quite ready to give up the quiet. A minute later Twilight continued. “Of course I've read all about the benefits of letting go for a while, but I thought it mostly meant relaxing. I’ve always just read to relax. But theres more to it than that, I have to let my mind wander where it wants, see what it comes up with.” “I didn't get that opportunity very often before. I’ve always had something to focus on.” Twilight grinned broadly. “And you know how I can be when I get focused.” Pinkie giggled at this. Twilight smiled and waved her hoof at Pinkie. “Your turn.” “Oh, I’ve always taken a day here of there just to relax and recharge.” Pinkie scrunched up her face slightly. “But it has been a while.” Neither of them spoke for a long time. There was no need to hurry. When Pinkie spoke again it was with more of her usual energy. “Sometimes, when it isn't anypony’s birthday or I haven't met a new friend or all the other great reasons for a party I just like to take a day. It not really even a day for me, its more a day for the whole world!” Pinkie reached out as if to hug the whole world, her smile was from ear to ear. “I like to remind myself just how amazing the world is! I try and imagine the whole thing, each part of it a party in its own way! And if I imagine hard enough -” Pinkie closed her eyes tightly “- I can see myself there, celebrating with everything!” Twilight hugged her friend. She had to keep reminder herself not to underestimate Pinkie. Besides her obvious qualities of being funny and friendly she could be oblivious and crazy and party obsessed, there was no denying this. But she was at times surprisingly deep and strong and sensitive. And Twilight would not change her for anything. Eventually late afternoon gave way to evening. Twilight got up and started packing the picnic supplies, letting Pinkie continue to enjoy to last lights of the day. She enjoyed this rarely seen contemplative side of Pinkie too much to disturb her. Before she turned to leave Twilight “I’d say we should do this more often, but this isn't really the type of day you can plan.” “I’ll say. Hey Twilight, you’ll be able to make it to my next party right?” “Anytime.” With that Twilight took to the sky and was soon out of sight. As Pinkie got up to leave she stretched her wings and unconsciously scratched her horn. Yes, there was time now. Author's Note The prompt: Choose at least one of the following. I think this may have been stronger if not for my attempt at the twist ending. Not sure.
DeterminationClover the Clever instructs a young Celestia in the magic of the sun and the moon The memory of the old homeland was just starting to fade. The three tribes had taken well to Equestria and were divided no longer. Government would always remain government however. Fortunately for Clover the Clever it was his turn to instruct the foals. As Clover walked through the halls of the capitol building in the early hours before dawn he was shadowed by a small white filly. She was still quite small and had a hard time keeping up at her normal walking pace. As always she was excited and full of questions, even at that early hour. “Why isn't Lulu joining us Miss Clever?” the filly asked, looking up at her mentor for the day. “My dear Celestia, your sister is still too young for this, she needs her rest. But worry not, her time will come, she will not be left out.” That seemed to satisfy the filly for the moment. Celestia’s desire to include Luna in everything always warmed Clover’s heart. Before long Celestia’s questions began again. “You still haven’t told me what we’re doing up so early though.” “I thought you liked surprises.” Clover retorted “I like causing surprises. There’s a difference.” Clover smiled at this. “Well, hypothesize then. You have some data, what conclusion can you reach?” “Well, I know that you are here and you are the Archmage of the Unicorns are are very powerful. I know that Lulu is too young for what we are about to try. And I know that it is almost dawn.” The look of realization shot across Celestia face in an instant. “Oh, that makes it obvious!” Celestia giggling filled the halls as she bounced all around the older pony, a wide smile on her face. “Are we really going to see the unicorns raise the Sun? Are we, are we?” Queen Platinum would have had a conniption if she saw Celestia acting with such lack of decorum. The thought broadened Clover’s smile just a bit wider. “Well done, yes we will and perhaps more than that someday. But for now we are almost there.” Of course Celestia knew how to present herself properly, but this was the most important and powerful of Unicorn magic, and she was going to learn about it first hoof! Soon they exited the hallway and emerged on a platform overlooking the lands and facing to the east, the direction of the rising sun. In a circle all around the platform there were unicorns wearing the highest level mage robes. They had already started their chanting, warming up the spell. Clover made her way to the middle, beckoning the now slightly hesitant filly to join her. “Alright Celestia, stay close to me. And don't worry, the first time is always a bit disorienting.” This did not fully reassure Celestia. Slowly the air around them started to shimmer and the familiar scenes to the city and countryside below gave way to a strange, ethereal space full of stars and nebulae. “This is the astral sea.” Explained Clover. “Many powerful magics can be performed here. Memory spells to relive events of a pony’s life. Augmentation spells, to increase a pony’s magic. “And it is from here that we can most easily raise the sun and the moon. But more importantly, it is from here that we can show new unicorn mages why we must cast these spells.” An image of the world as if seen from high above still dark from the night appeared before Celestia. All of a sudden she felt very far from home. From this distance it would take Celestia many days of flying at her top speed to get back to the world below. But the calm presence of Clover reassured her. Far off in the distance she could see another smaller orb glowing brightly. “The moon” Clover explained as Celestia pointed at the curious object.. Then she saw a third sphere peak out from behind her world. It was about the same size as the moon and about the same distance from the planet. “Is... is that another moon?” “No.” Clover sighed. “That is the sun.” Celestia had never seen it from this perspective before. She had always assumed it was much larger than the moon, it was much brighter after all. As the unicorns around them started casting their sun raising spell Clover conjured a simplified diagram of the planetary system. “The truth is if we stopped casting our spells day and night would continue, for a time. But do you notice anything about the way these objects are arranged Celestia?” Celestia stared, but couldn’t see anything that struck her as odd. Though, truth be told she did not have much of a basis of comparison. She shook her head no. Clover nodded. “It is very subtle. Essentially, this is not a stable configuration. The sun and the moon never cross paths. The sun is only seen during the day, the moon at night. But, unless they are both at the exact same distance from the planet and have the exact same mass this can not happen naturally. And it probably didn’t. We don't know how this arrangement came to be, but without us nudging everything back into place it would all fall apart very quickly.” Clover was somber, but the look of understanding on celestia’s face filled her with hope. I that moment Celestia looked more determined than Clover had ever seen her. “Someday Luna and I will make sure that the sun and the moon will no longer be an impending disaster hanging over our heads. I promise Miss Clever.” Author's Note The Prompt: "That’s no moon!" Link
Equestria OriginsTwilight Sparkle was neck deep in a pit of her own creation. And she could not be happier. It wasn't quite studying magic or astronomy, but over the years she had acquired a fondness for archaeology. It was, after all, another way to learn more about the world. “Its like the whole world is a book, you just have to learn how to read it,” Twilight mused aloud. Turning to set her tools down she was startled by an unexpected visitor. “Gah! Princess Celestia, I didn't see you there.” The Princess chuckled softly. “I just wanted to see you in your element. And please, just call me Celestia.” A warm smile on her face. “Sorry Prin--- er ,Celestia, old habits and all that.” Twilight said, rubbing the back of her head. “I know the feeling. So what can you tell me about this find, in your last report you made it sound important.” “Of course.” Twilight was only too eager to share her finding and speculation. “As you know from our experiments with the Quantum Mirror that our universe is very unusual. Most others are huge containing billions of suns, moons and planets. Ours by comparison only has the one sun, one moon and one planet. And our ‘stars’ are magical objects not too far from us. That is probably the strongest evidence for my new hypothesis.” Celestia dutifully asked the obvious question. “And what is your new hypothesis?” “That our universe is artificially constructed.” Celestia was still not quite used to all of Twilight’s new terminology, but as far as she understood the idea she was genuinely surprised. “I think you may need to explain this one to me Twilight. I have believed that our world has always existed.” “I know Princess, I did too, but we didn’t really have any evidence for that. Its a matter of probabilities. What is more likely, our universe having been created so that from the surface of the planet it superficially resembles the naturally occurring universes but can be influenced by pony magic, or that it has always existed, which still doesn’t answer the question of how the universe exists at all.” Twilight took a second to catch her breath as Celestia digested this. “And you believe your find here is evidence in support of this hypothesis?” “In conjunction with the find in Zebrica last year, I do.” Celestia shuddered at the memory. “I don’t like to think of that thing. I regret that it had to be destroyed but it was a threat to my little ponies.” The giant crab like thing was black as night and seemed to be alive even after millennia underground . Many ponies still had nightmares about it, its screeches echoing through their minds. “It was dangerous. You did what you had to Princess. But back to the matter at hand. I believe that was a vessel, like one of our airships, only much more advanced. And, I believe this is a vessel too.” Twilight pointed into her digsite. There were long protrusions on the body of the thing, like tentacles on a squid. The entire vessel was green with black markings here and there. “I think this was the competitor race to the ones who built the crab-ship. Looking at the basic components of our world think they each represented a basic aspect of magic: Chaos and Order. Given the results of our encounter the crab-ship people seem to be Chaos. This race -” pointing at the squid-ship “- seem to represent order. “Essentially, we are a proving ground. We were supposed to determine which philosophy is superior. I don’t think they would have imagined that we would find a third way. The harmony for friendship and finding strength in each other’s differences shows that chaos and order are both incomplete.” Author's Note The Prompt: How The Moon Got Her Spots or The Prompt: How The Sun Got Her Fire A little B5 reference for you fans.
Princess's SpeachCelestia and Twilight were sitting in one of the larger speaking halls in Canterlot castle. Twilight had been unnerved by the number of ponies that had crowded the hall when Celestia had made important speeches. Twilight felt the sheer size of the hall felt even more now that it was empty and completely quiet. As a soon to be crowned Princess of Equestria Twilight had a fair idea of why she and Celestia were here and she was not looking forward to it. “I suppose you know why I brought you here Twilight,” Said Celestia Twilight sighed. “I have to make an important speech after my coronation. You want me to practice.” “Practice, yes. For that speech and the many to follow. As well as practicing for the nobles, ambassadors and dignitaries that you will need to deal with from time to time.” Twilight cringed at the thought. She was a scholar, an academic, not a politician. Twilight’s discomfort did not escape Celestia’s notice. “I understand that such interaction are not your calling. And, I assure you that I will attempt to call upon you sparingly, just ask Cadence and Luna, but this is a necessary skill. “Truth be told Luna still has difficulty. she gets so nervous she slips into the Royal Canterlot voice half the time.” Twilight chuckled softly at her memory of the last Nightmare Night. Though Luna did seem more comfortable around herself and her friends now. “You’ve been very quiet so far Twilight. Why don’t you get up on stage and try a little improvisation. Its a good skill for speeches and a better one for one on one meetings.” Twilight gulped and started walking towards the stage. Upon reaching the podium Twilight felt like she had become Fluttershy. Even with only a patient Princess in the audience Twilight felt like she was being judged by all the empty seats. “Um, Fillies and Gentalcolts … um … Hi?” Twilight was had no idea what she was doing. “Just imagine you are giving a lecture on Magic,” suggested Celestia. “Ok, how about you start by actually giving a lecture on Magic.” “Ooo, where should I begin?” Twilight’s eyes were wide with anticipation. "Ahem." After clearing her throat a giddy Twilight began what sounded like a thesis recitation. “According to Thornhoof the four fundamental component of magic are the elemental domains of air, earth, fire and water. But, I am going to show you here tonight that these magics, as well as all others in fact emerge from the conflict between two much more fundamental forces of magic: Order and Chaos magic.” Five minutes into what would undoubtedly have been a long and thorough and long and did I mention long lecture by Twilight, Celestia raised a hoof to silence her. “Very good, Twilight. Perhaps now you could try a speech on the ‘Greatness of Equestria’. Such speeches can do much to raise the spirits of our little ponies.” “Hmm, well, of all the nearby nations Equestria has the highest standard of living and lowest crime rate. Only Saddle Arabia has a comparable GDP and that is due to their strategic location on the major trade routes. In fact, the Griffon Kingdom is kept afloat by Equestrian investments in most of its major industries. Not to mention the Equestrian military presence in -” Twilight was cut off by Celestia “Try less facts and more emotion.” “Um, Equestria is … great? Yay?” Twilight gave a weak hoof pump Celestia sighed. “Perhaps we should stick to prepared speeches for now.” Twilight gave a crooked grin. “Memorization I can do.” “Alight, that is enough for now. Meet me back here tomorrow at the same time.” Twilight looked at the clock on the well. Not much time had passed since they started. “If you say so.” Even though Twilight knew this was training, not a test she could not help ask “So, how did I do? For my first attempt I mean.” Celestia walked up Twilight and put a wing across her back.“I am always proud of you.” This made Twilight beam with joy. “But, I think that I am going to arrange for some extra help.” Embarrassed, Twilight responded weakly “Yeah thats probably a good idea.” The next day Celestia arrived to find Twilight already trying to practice. Telling terribly unfunny jokes and listing off facts. Anything to try and become more comfortable. “Practice makes perfect my Faithful Student. But I do fear your desire to impress me may be distracting you from actually learning this skill. As such, I have arranged a tutor to help you learn how to ‘put on airs.’ Here she comes now. Twilight looked around Celestia and was very surprised to see the approaching mare. “Ah, Sparkle, are you ready?” A familiar show pony said. “Trixie? YOU are going to be my teacher? Why did you agree to this? No offence but I was under the impression that you still didn’t like me much.” “You have taught Trixie something valuable. Trixie will now return the favour.” Author's Note The Prompt: The Great and Powerful Twilight Sparkle!
New BeginingIt was getting late in the evening when Rarity and Rainbow Dash stumbled into their house located in the most upscale neighbourhood of Canterlot. In truth it was actually Rarity’s house and Rainbow had been using the guest room across from the master bedroom for the past four years, but neither had felt the need to bring that up for the past three. They had not spoken much on the trip home, each lost in their own thoughts of their latest adventure with their friends. As Rainbow started making her way up to her spartan bedroom Rarity spoke up. “Would you like to join me for some tea Rainbow?” Rainbow turned to look at Rarity and blinked in confusion for a second. “Umm, its late and I’m pretty tire Rares, you probably are too. We’ll talk tomorrow ‘k?” Rainbow forced a smile onto her face. “Please Rainbow, we need to talk about what happened.” Rainbow grit her teeth. “We saved the world. Again. Everypony is safe, nopony got hurt. Its a win. Nothing much to talk about.” Rainbow turned back to the stairs, stomping her hoof on the first step, cracking the tile. “Oh, Celestia… I’m sorry Rares, look, I’ll pay for that, but I really dont want to talk right now.” She hung her head and sighed. She knew bed would probably going to have to wait now. “Rainbow, you know I don’t care about some silly old tile, I was thinking or redecorating anyways. But you really shouldn’t go to bed angry. Please, talk to me.” Rarity said. Rainbow sighed. Turning back she found that Rarity was sweeping the ground with her front hoof. To the casual observer it was a rare nervous habit. Rainbow knew better, she was upset too. Rainbow turned around “Sure Rares, I’ll even have some tea, don’t think cider will effect me much anymore.” “Thank you, I’ll join you in the lounge in a moment.” Rarity normally had normally insisted that tea should be had on her balcony overlooking the Canterlot waterfall. Rainbow made her way to the lounge and made herself comfortable in her favourite chair. Though not quite as welcoming as her bed, it was one of her favourite spots in the house and she was grateful for Rarity’s gesture. A minute after Rainbow had settled in Rarity entered the room her, levitating a teapot and two teacups. No saucers. “This is really getting to you too, isn’t it?” asked Rainbow. Rarity set the tea and sat down on the loveseat across from Rainbow. “Oh, you must think I’m just ever so selfish and egotistical and ungrateful and …” “Vainglorious?” suggested Rainbow “Twilight’s word-a-day calendar?” “Its the gift that keeps on giving.” Rainbow said with a smirk. “Be that as it may, I think that one describes both of us Dear.” Rainbow snorted, not quite a full laugh, but it was a welcome relief. “At any rate, I do feel simply awful worrying about my career when yours is so, well … uncertain.” “No, its pretty certain. Its over. Twilight and Pinkie are thrilled, AJ and Fluttershy dont really care. But for me?” Dash shook her head and let out a breath. “I’ve always wanted to fly with the best. I’ve been a wonderbolt for five years. Been captain for a month. Done ten shows since then, each one better than the last. But now, I cant keep flying with them, its not fair to them, not to mention not safe. So I can be a desk Captain with the occasional solo act or quit.” Rainbow tried to levitated her tea to her. After failing to do much more than rattle the cup she grabbed it with her hooves and took a sip. “When are the coronations?” “Two months from now. Princess…. er, Celestia has scheduled a single mass coronation for all six of us. Personally I think its to prevent subjecting Canterlot to six Alicorn level Pinkie-parties in a row.” Rarity said a bit more brightly, gossip always help pick her up. “Its going to change things for you too, isn’t it? Being a princess I mean.” asked Rainbow “I’m afraid so. Ponies will too easily claim that I'm using my status to promote my works. And truth be told, I’d never be sure if my wears really are standing on their own merits or just riding my coattails. And I was doing so well too! Two shops in Canterlot, two in Manehatten, a new is opening in Baltimare next week!” Rainbow nodded, she was actually looking forward to the grand opening of that one. “All good things come to an end I suppose.” Rarity stretched her wings a bit before taking a sip of her tea. “Oh, like you I have options, I could continue to create under an assumed name, in fact I likely will for awhile, but …” “Its not quite the same?” suggested Rainbow “Exactly. Whats the point of being the best if we are no longer allowed to compete?” Rainbow raised her tea cup at this a took a swig. Rarity was too focused on her developing rant to notice the faux pas. “And don't even get me started on the effects to my personal life! Finding a worthy Prince has been difficult enough, now, NOW I’m going to have to fend of all sorts of ‘suitors’. I suppose I should just abandon such a notion outright. Celestia seems to do fine on her own. That another dream thats going to end tonight. Seems like the occasion for it, doesn’t it?” Rarity’s eyes had begun to well up by this point. Rainbow quickly left her favourite chair and joined Rarity on the loveseat. As Rainbow wrapped Rarity in her wings Rarity began to cry. Sofly. Quietly. After a minute Rarity’s breathing deepened and she started ruffling her wings. Rainbow took this as her cue to loosen the hug, but she didn’t completely let go. “Rares you really need to let me teach you how to preen.” said Rainbow Rarity snickered at this. “And I should show you the basic of Unicorn magic.” Rarity rested her head on Rainbow’s shoulder for several minutes after this, each enjoying the calm. After almost ten minutes had past Rarity turned to look Rainbow in the eyes. “Rainbow, what are we?” “Friends Rares.” Rainbow broke eye contact and shrugged “Two of the best friends that ever were.” “It seems you and I are going to be around a long time. I for one would like to make that journey with somepony that will never leave me ‘hanging’ as it were.” said Rarity “Come its bed time. End of the day.” Author's Note Well, here it is. Last submission to the last prompt for 30 minute pony stories. I wish I had participated for more of them, but it was fun being part of the last hurrah at least. Guess we can change these type of stories to complete now.
JudgementThe Royal Wedding had just ended and Celestia had one final task to attend. Sitting side by side in the now vacant courtyard, Celestia was eye level with her student, her wings firmly stuck to her sides. Twilight was pawing at the ground, not making eye contact. “I am truly sorry for not hearing you out Twilight. You have more than earned my trust. I-” “No, Princess. Y-you were right to question me. I was right, but for all the wrong reasons. In the end I wasn’t any cleverer or more observant than anypony else, I just got lucky.” Celestia nodded slowly. “Perhaps so, but even if I was right to be skeptical you deserve more respect. Again, for how I treated you I am sorry.” “You showed more respect than I did.” Twilight mutter. With a teary eyed smile Twilight finally met Celestia’s gaze. “Maybe neither of us were at our best.” At this Celestia finally embraced Twilight in a wing hug and nuzzled her gently. “There are many powerful ponies in this world,” A coy smile graced Celestia’s lips “And even if you don't always want to admit it, that includes you. But I believe we both learned an important lesson. We are only equine, each one of us. It is a lesson I have had to relearn time and time again.” “I-I’m not sure that makes me feel any better. But at least it puts things in perspective.” With that Twilight let out a massive yawn which she utterly failed to stifle. “Oh my. I’m sorry Princess, it’s just been such a long day.” “No need to apologize. Please Twilight, get some sleep, we’ll speak again in the morning.” Celestia reluctantly removed her wing from Twilight’s back. Her impromptu blanket gone, Twilight nodded and rose. “Sleep sounds wonderful. Good night Princess.” “Good night Twilight.” Celestia sat alone in the empty courtyard for several minutes before speaking again. “I know you are there, you might as well show yourself.” This time of night provided ample shadows for Luna to step out of, so naturally she appeared right behind her elder sister. Luna noticed the tiny ear flick that followed. Celestia may as well have been a panicked foal, screaming at a nightmare night prank. “I still find it curious that you can sense my presence while shadow walking, yet you still jump like a filly when I appear. It is almost as if you do not actually know where I am and just speak to empty rooms from time to time.” Celestia smirked at this. “Wouldn’t you like to know, Sister.” Luna moved around her sister and sat facing her. “What I would like to know is why you are coddling her. You know her steel and her wisdom. It won't be too much longer before real responsibility finds her. Relatively speaking of course.” “Youth and innocence are precious things Luna. They can not be regained once lost, not in the same way.” “She has graduated in every way except in your mind and, by extension, hers.” Luna sighed. “We have few confidants, you and I, and even fewer friends. And perhaps once or twice a generation we can find ponies who can also be our peer. We both know Twilight Sparkle will make Archmage. Perhaps more.” Celestia raised an eyebrow at that. “What are you suggesting?” Luna waved her hoof. “In terms of ability she is already our peer. Only our power and experience keep us separate from others. One lifetime may not be enough to bridge that divide, but she can already see across it. I think we would both prefer her to be a friend as well. For that she needs to be able to tell us we are wrong. To contradict our orders.” “My orders.” “Yes.” “I will not set her up to fail.” “Then don’t. Trust that she will do the right thing no matter what you say. If she doesn't then she is not the mare we think she is.” “Luna, I know Twilight very well, I know what it would take, but it would be dangerous, recklessly so. Not just for her either.” “She is probably the most powerful mare of this generation. She will only become more powerful as time goes on. Having her act on what she believes you want is infinitely more dangerous than teaching her to trust her own judgement.” “Perhaps you are right.” Celestia thought for a moment. “Do you remember the Crystal Empire?”
