Twilight's Pupil

Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8

Prologue

Twilight's Pupil Prologue

by Crystal Secret

The moon shone brightly down upon the dark and whimsy streets of Canterlot, lighting up Shinning Armour's path. He was on night patrol with a couple other Royal Guards. Several times that week it had been reported that a mysterious and misshaped figure had been lurking the streets of Canterlot after dark, so he had been ordered by the princesses to investigate.

He let out a resentful sigh, for once, Princess Celestia's orders had been a totally lost cause and since the Royal Guard had more urgent matters to attend to, it seemed to Shining Armour that he was wasting his time patrolling the streets at night.

Suddenly, a loud scream pierced his ears. His slow walk turned into a full gallop as he rushed to the direction of which the sound had come from. A few minutes passed but not another sound was to be heard. He turned down a dark alleyway on the backstreets in the outskirts of Canterlot. The buildings seemed to loom over the alleyway, forbidding the moon's light.

As he neared the end of the alleyway, he could hear the shivering and chattering of something. As he drew closer it became clearer and he could see that a small unicorn filly was lying unconscious on the ground. Deep cuts and scars covered the little filly's body, it had a dark purple mane and a light purple coat with moron eyes. However, the most interesting thing about this filly was that it didn't have its cutiemark, which most fillies of its age did.

In a split second decision, Shining Armour carefully levitated the little filly onto his back before heading up to the castle. As a Royal Guard, it was his duty to protect the citizens of Canterlot. He couldn't just leave this little filly out to die. It's condition was clearly fatal and he was prepared to take his chances.

He raced up to the entrance of the castle's hospital wing before rushing into the nearest vacant hospital room. The nurses looked eyes wide with bewilderment. He placed the filly on the bed but it was still unconscious, is breath quickening. The nurses seeing the state of which the feeling was in rushed to get the required equipment and medicine to heal the filly.

Within minutes the little filly was already looking slightly better, however it still had some pretty deep cuts in its side. Not to mention the scars on its hooves.

With that, he turned and left the hospital wing. He decided to alert the Royal Guard of his discovery. He made his way to the main quarters of the Royal Guard but upon doing so, was noticed by one of his fellow guards.

"Captain Shining Armour? Aren't you supposed to be on night patrol?" inquired the guard.

"Yes, but I made a discovery of which could be a vital part of finding our so called "threat". I was just going to alert the others of my discovery." he replied before heading up the winding flight of stairs that the guard was stationed at.

As Shining Armour entered the main base and meeting place for the Royal Guard, his fellow guards gave him some curious and questioning looks.

"I've come from my night patrol to alert you all of a discovery I made tonight. On the outskirts of Canterlot, in a dark alleyway I found an unconscious unicorn filly lying ready to take its last weary breath. Now I have theory that this may have something to do with the last several reports of a mysterious figure lurking the streets at night." said Shining Armour addressing the room of guards who were slightly confused by his presence.

"I`ll alert the princesses at once!" called out one of the guards, for a moment all eyes were on him as he made a quick dash out of the room.

Their attention turned to Shining Armour who was waiting for a response.

"What are you saying that the little filly is the mysterious figure scaring everypony?" asked one of the guards more seriously than he sounded.

"Actually, that's exactly what I was thinking. In a rich city like Canterlot, it is unlikely for a filly to be orphaned, especially a unicorn. So for this filly to be on the brink of death, lying in the streets of Canterlot unattended to makes me think that we've found our culprit." said Shining Armour confidently.

"Shining Armour, are you absolutely sure that a little filly would just go around scaring other ponies in the middle of the night? Don't you think that's a little bit far fetched? I think your wrongly accusing the poor filly. Besides, the Royal Guard has more important matters to contend with." said another guard and the other guards roared in the agreement.

Shining Armour let out a sigh before exiting the room and descending down the winding staircase. They were right, he was probably pointing hooves at the wrong pony, but for some reason he had this nagging feeling that the little unicorn filly was somehow connected to the culprit. But the Royal Guard were right, they did have more important matters to contend with and there really was no point in wasting time looking for a culprit who either didn't exist, or had make a run for it long before the reports were made.

He left the quarters of the Royal Guard and made his exit from the castle, returning to his night patrol. Stepping out onto the cold and dark Canterlot street once again, he could sense that something wasn't quite right. He shrugged it off and continued to patrol the streets making sure of the capital's safety, for now.

Chapter 1

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 1

by Crystal Secret

The Royal Canterlot Gardens were brimming with life at this time of year and it was also the perfect weather for a cup of tea with one's closest friends. Which is why Princess Celestia had decided to invite her most faithful student out for a cup of tea.

As Princess Twilight Sparkle took a sip of tea from her fragile, porcelain cup, she took in her surroundings.

Flowers all of kinds were in full bloom and their colors contrasted as they swayed lightly in the wind. Celestia's sun shone down upon the garden making it even more beautiful. It was a sight of which very few got to see and Twilight was one of the lucky few. Her attention soon turned to Princess Celestia, who was also enjoying the scenery.

"Thank you for inviting me out for tea Celestia. The royal gardens are so beautiful at this time of year, especially since all the flowers are in full bloom." said Twilight who was still admiring the scenery.

A smile lit up the purple alicorn's face as she took another sip of her tea.

"It's my pleasure Twilight. I actually have something I need to talk to you about." she asked as a look of concern spread across her face.

"And what's that Celestia?" asked Twilight noticing her sudden change of mood.

"Last night one of the Royal Guards informed me of a unicorn filly lying unconscious in the outskirts of Canterlot. He told me that Shining Armour had found her and brought her to the hospital wing. But that's not all, he also said that unicorn filly was on the brink of death and that it didn't have its cutiemark." said Princess Celestia taking a sip of tea.

"Is the filly alright?" asked Twilight in a concerned tone.

"Yes the filly is fine, the nurses are taking care of her. But that's not the only thing I wanted to talk to you about. The other thing is the next stage of your life which I am quite sure you are ready for." the princess took a sip of tea before continuing.

"You've been my most faithful student for a very long time now Twilight and I feel that you always will be, but I think it's time you had your own personal protege. A young filly with lots of potential and plenty of eagerness to learn. It will be your choice in the end of whom that shall be but remember, I will always be by your side every single step of the way." concluded Princess Celestia.

"Are you sure I`m ready?" asked Twilight after a few moments

"Yes, I am positively sure that you`ll succeed. If you want, you can think it over for a few days."

"Thanks Celestia, but how exactly will I choose my pupil?" asked Twilight uncertain of it all.

"Well Twilight, I was going to allow you to interview students from my school and then choose from that but whoever you choose is entirely up to you." replied Princess Celestia taking a sip of tea.

"Okay, I guess that could work."

The pair sat in a comfortable silence as they finished their tea. It would seem that there were no more words to be said and so they would just spend the rest of their time enjoying one another's company and looking out at the splendorous garden that seemed to just lay at their hooves. The flowers swayed in the wind, the sound of chirping birds hung lightly in the air and for just that moment, the world was at peace. The moment seemed to last forever but ended with the sound of hooves rushing towards them on the narrow stone pathway.

A royal guard soon appeared before them, panting and out of breath he quickly bowed in respect before the two princesses before addressing them.

"Your highness's, it is requested that you come to the hospital wing right away." said the royal guard still panting.

"What for?" asked Princess Celestia in her soft yet powerful tone.

"The unicorn filly, it has awoken." replied the royal guard.

"Well then, I guess we should hurry." said Princess Celestia

The royal guard escorted the two princesses to the hospital wing as they ran at top speed and it wasn't long before they arrived at the entrance.

However, before they could even enter the hospital wing, a flash of light escaped through the entrance and almost blinded the three ponies standing there. Bolts of lightning surged from inside and created large holes in the walls.

Suddenly, there was a flash of pink aura that created even bigger holes in the walls followed by another bright flash of light. As soon as the commotion died down, the royal guard escorted the two princesses into the hospital wing.

Inside the hospital wing was a row of beds on either side sectioned off by curtains. The royal guard led the princesses to a bed near the end of the row on the left side.

As the princesses stood in front of the bed they noticed that there was a little, dark purple unicorn filly sitting upright on the bed staring up at the princesses in awe. It's eyes were wide and it's cheeks were a rosy red and the filly looked as though it had just woken up from a very long sleep. The filly finally spoke.

"Um, where am I?" asked the filly looking rather confused all of a sudden.

"You're in the Canterlot Castle hospital wing. You were rescued by a royal guard who found you unconscious on the streets so he brought you here." replied Princess Celestia in a soft, comforting tone.

"Would you kindly tell us your name?" asked Twilight Sparkle with a friendly smile.

"Oh, um, it's Starlight Shimmer." replied the filly who still looked rather confused what was going. But to be perfectly honest, the princesses hadn't had the slightest idea what had happened either.

"Twilight? Why don't you and Starlight Shimmer get to know each other? I need to go and talk to the nurses." asked Princess Celestia.

"Oh, ok." was all Twilight could say in response.

Princess Celestia quietly walked away and left the two ponies to talk.

"So, Starlight Shimmer why don't you tell me a bit about yourself? So, where are you from?" asked Twilight in a friendly tone.

"Well, Im not exactly sure. You see, Im actually an orphan." replied Starlight in a disheartened tone.

"Oh. I`m sorry. What do you like doing in your spare time?" asked Twilight trying to change the mood.

"I draw pictures, read books and try to imagine what it would be like if I ever go to meet my real parents." replied Starlight simply.

The two ponies continued to chat slowly getting more comfortable with one another's company. Meanwhile...further down the hall...

"Nurse Redheart, would you be able to tell me what just happened a few moments ago?" asked Princess Celestia in her calmest tone.

"Well, I`m not expert on magical stuff but when the little filly woke up I think...I think...she had a magical outburst or something....

Nurse Redheart went over to the little filly's bed, it looked so peaceful lying there with its eyes shut.

Suddenly, the filly's eyes shot open and instead of a normal colored iris, it's eyes glowed white. The filly slowly ascended into the air and created a bright pink force field around itself. Nurse Redheart gasped at the sight.

The force field filled the room with a single flash of light that broke the surrounding windows and even put a couple of holes in the walls. As the light disappeared, bolts of lightning surged from the force field and shot out in random directions creating even bigger holes.

Then, there was a wave of pink aura and soon disappeared. As the filly started to descend, the force field gradually shrunk and the little filly sat on the bed in an upright position and completely oblivious to what had just transpired.

....and the last thing I remember seeing was the little filly sitting on the bed with an expression that showed that she had no idea what had just happened." Nurse Redheart finished her story with tears in her eyes and a worried look on her face. The princess listened intently as she finished.

"Thank you Nurse Redheart, your information has helped me understand the situation." replied Princess Celestia.

"Anything for you, your highness." replied Nurse Redheart.

Princess Celestia turned and walked back to the end of the row where Twilight was still talking to Starlight. Princess Celestia just stood there for a moment, watching the two fillies and how they interacted with one another. It would seem that the little filly had already befriended her mentor or at least she hoped so. She couldn't help but smile at how the Starlight was already giggling with Twilight. If this was truly meant to be then they would have an incredible bond for the rest of their lives.

Instead of interrupting them, Princess Celestia decided that she would wait for another time to tell Twilight of Starlight's great potential and what had happened inside the hospital wing while they weren't there. Besides, watching Starlight Shimmer playing and talking with Twilight reminded her of the times back when Twilight was only a filly, and she too had laughed and played with her teacher. Oh, what fun times they were. Now, it was the beginning of a new time and her most faithful student was about to enter a very important stage in her life, one that Princess Celestia hoped to see a lot of.

Chapter 2

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 2

by Crystal Secret

Princess Celestia and Princess Twilight Sparkle sat side by side on the balcony of the Royal Chambers, staring ominously into the distance. It was almost sunrise and it was also one of the biggest days in Twilight's life. It had been almost a week since the incident at the hospital wing where she had met Starlight Shimmer and had seen the filly's potential. Twilight shuffled around in her spot, she wasn't quite sure whether or not she was ready for the challenges of having her own pupil.

Celestia could sense her student's discomfort. She wrapped her left wing around the alicorn's shoulders, trying to make her feel more relaxed. The alicorn eased but in the back of her mind, Celestia knew that something wasn't quite right.

"What troubles you my most faithful student?" asked Princess Celestia breaking the silence.

After a few moments, Twilight humbly replied.

"Well, you see Celestia." she began. "Im not exactly sure if Im ready to have my own pupil." said Twilight simply.

"You know, after I had banished Luna into the moon, I wasn't entirely sure if I could take responsibility for not only night and day but for all of Equestria as well. Now, my sister is free and once again the ruler of the night. However, as the older sister it will always be my job to maintain the overall balance of Equestria and preserve the natural order of things. So even I wasn't sure of my abilities and I was an alicorn from birth. So you see my most faithful student, it's okay to be nervous but always have faith and you will prevail." the princess concluded.

Celestia's words were full of wisdom and after her speech Twilight found herself relaxing as they enjoyed the sunrise together. The sun took up most of the sky and as it rose it's radiant light beamed down upon the glorious landscape of Equestria, highlighting every inch of mountain, hill and plain they lied before them like an unrolled map.

"Now my most faithful student, do you think you're ready?" asked Celestia.

"Yes Celestia. I am. I know that it's not going to be easy, but I am willing to give it my best shot like I have done so for every other test you've given me." said Twilight her words full of confidence.

"Twilight." said Princess Celestia in a voice of much sadness and concern. "This is not a test. This is the next stage of your life of which you cannot pass nor fail. There is no right or wrong. How you choose to teach and raise this filly is completely up to you. I am not going to mark you on what you've done at the end. But I will be there every step of the way. Now, are you ready to go and choose your pupil?" asked Princess Celestia.

"Yes Princess I am." replied Twilight but she suddenly burst into tears.

"Twilight what's the matter?" asked Princess Celestia embracing her student in a hug.

"It's just that I don't want to stop being your student. No matter happens I want to be your most faithful student for as long as I live." replied Twilight who began to sob.

"Twilight, would you look at me for a moment?" asked Princess Celestia.

Twilight stopped crying and looked at the princess. Her eyes were red, her cheeks were covered in tears but she had the most eager smile. A smile that Princess Celestia was going to miss. A smile that reminded her of all the wonderful things that they had done together over the years.

"Twilight Sparkle, you will always be my most faithful student. Nothing can change that. It is a title that you have earned and nothing that you do will ever disown you of that title. Now, are you ready my most faithful student?" asked the princess in conclusion.

"Yes, I am and I`ll be sure to make you proud." said Twilight wiping the stray tears from her cheeks.

The princesses returned to the Royal Chamber to get Twilight ready for what would be a very important day. There was just one small problem.

Was Starlight Shimmer ready to the pupil of a princess?

As Princess Celestia, Princess Twilight Sparkle and Princess Luna entered the Grand Hall which was set up specifically for the both ceremonial and physical part of the event, trumpets sounded and everypony in the room bowed. To her surprise, Twilight's friends from Ponyville the very ponies of whom she had shared some of the most incredible experiences with were all standing on one side of the hall.

Most of Canterlot had come to see her choose her pupil and were standing on either side of the room. Even her beloved parents were in the audience. The princesses took their place on their thrones and yet another round of trumpet was sounded as the hall's doors opened and thirty or so fillies and colts walked through. They formed a single line before the princesses as they took a bow.

Twilight quickly scanned through the line and spotted Starlight Shimmer among them. She was relieved to find that Princess Celestia had been very diligent in selecting the fillies and colts. Of course, only one filly or colt would become her pupil but that was another matter entirely.

After a few moments Twilight stood before the fillies a smile lit up her face. She turned to look at her fellow princesses who only nodded in encouragement, ushering her to begin her opening speech.

"Fillies and colts. I, Princess Twilight Sparkle am here today to select my personal protege. A pony of whom I will not only teach but raise. If you have been selected by Princess Celestia and will each have a chance to prove to me your magical abilities. From this I will choose one of you to be my pupil. Good luck everypony!" concluded Twilight taking a seat on her throne.

Before long, fillies and colts were coming up and presenting their powerful magical abilities and Twilight watched them carefully, watching their movements and making sure that whoever she chose would be not only the most powerful but also had the most spirit. But she was waiting for one pony in particular and she wasn't sure if the incident at the hospital had just been a random burst of magical essence or if the filly actually had potential.

Finally, at the very end Starlight Shimmer got up. Her eyes wide with confusion. Her body was shaking out of nerves and the little filly looked lost. Did she know what she was up there for? Should she tell her? Suddenly the filly looks Twilight straight in the eye and for a split second the filly's eyes have a sudden spark in them and its almost as though there is another filly standing on the platform.

Starlight Shimmer closed her eyes as her horn started glowing with a fuchsia pink aura and suddenly, a sparks started flying out of her horn but before anypony could react the filly was gone. Gasps were soon followed by murmurs from the audience.

"A teleportation spell? But how?" Twilight whispered to herself in confusion. "Everypony please remain calm! Im sure that shell return in just a moment." called out Twilight trying to calm the audience.

Within a few moments Starlight Shimmer returned in the same state as she had left. Just as she had predicted, the filly had potential. What amazed Twilight was the fact that the filly could pull off a teleportation spell which she couldn't learn till she was a mare but this filly had done in it and with such diligence. It was by far the most incredible thing she had ever seen.

The filly left the stage but soon returned with the entire group of fillies and colts. They all lined up along the platform. It was decision time and Twilight was now reassured of her choice.

"I Princess Twilight Sparkle will now choose my pupil. This pony will be my personal protege and I will take full responsibility for them. I, Princess Twilight Sparkle have chosen....Starlight Shimmer to be my personal protege."

The audience clapped and cheered as Starlight made her way up to the princess.

"Starlight Shimmer. How would you like to be my personal protégé and live here at the castle?" asked Twilight in the most gentle voice she could manage.

"I would be honored." replied Starlight.

"I, Princess Twilight Sparkle hereby decree that Starlight Shimmer is now and forever more my personal protégé." stated Twilight to the audience.

The audience applauded as Starlight took to Twilight's side smiling eagerly at the princess. Soon afterwards, the audience departed and so did the princesses along with Starlight Shimmer. There was a lot for the Starlight to learn but the first thing that needed to be done was to write to the filly's parents.

As Starlight Shimmer sat in the hot, soapy bathtub, Twilight gently rubbed the filly head rubbing in the shampoo. Since the filly was covered in dirt, scratches and deep scars, Twilight decided to give her a bath while telling her about the life she would have here in Canterlot. Afterwards she would use some natural yet powerful healing spells that Zecora had taught her to heal the filly's wounds.

"Now, the first order of business is to write a letter home to your parents telling them that you're now my personal protégé and how you will be maintaining a residence here at the castle." said Twilight as she rubbed the filly's skull.

"But I don't have any parents." said Starlight simply.

"What do you mean you don't have any parents?"

"I`m an orphan. I've been an orphan for as long as I can remember. My sister left me as soon as I was old enough to fend for myself. I had to steal food in order to survive because I didn't have any money and I was homeless."

"Oh. Im sorry to hear that. Well, at least youll have a home and plenty of food. Trust me, from now on you`ll be living the high life. You can't get much better than this. It is a castle after all."

"Thanks princess. At least your kind to me."

"Please. Call me Twilight. There really is no need to be formal now that you're my student. However, in public it might be best that you at least called me princess. Otherwise ponies might get angry."

"I understand Twilight. I guess ponies would get pretty mad if I didn't use your proper title in public but what about around the castle?"

"Around the castle is okay. I was just getting to that. Life in the castle is pretty cushy but there is a couple of things I should probably tell you about. First of all, the royal guards that are all over the castle are there to protect you. You have absolutely no reason to be afraid of them. For the first couple of weeks Ill be escorting you around the castle and Ill also inform the Royal Guard that you are my personal protégé and that you have permission to go anywhere. Secondly, I would like for you to stay within the castle walls. Especially at night. Even though Canterlot is full of guards the streets is no place for a little filly like you. Especially now that you're my student. Lastly, although you`ll be dining with the princesses, whenever you enter the dining hall for a meal you must first bow. You will call them by their titles and show them respect. Any questions?"

"Why must I stay within the castle walls? I've been living on the streets of Canterlot night and day for a long time so why should I stay inside the castle?"

"To keep you safe. Now that you're all clean it's time to dry off."

Twilight levitated a towel from the rack and rubbed it around and along the filly's body. Quickly drying it's coat and mane. She hanged the towel up before escorting the filly out of the bathroom and down the hall.

"Twilight. What will you be teaching me?"

"Let's see, Magic, Astronomy, Equestrian History. All kinds of things. We shall begin in the morning. It's time for you to go to bed."

She escorted the filly to an empty bedroom chamber. It had a big four poster bed, lavish curtains that draped against the window and a chandelier that hung in the center of the room.

"I get to sleep here?" asked Starlight.

"Yes. I did say that you would be living in the castle now didn't I? Come on, let me tuck you into bed."

Starlight got snug under the covers of the four poster bed. Twilight levitated the blankets up to Starlight's chin.

"But Twilight, I`m not tired yet."

"Hmm...how about I tell you a story?"

"I would like that very much."

"Alright, how about I give you your first lesson in Equestria History?"

Twilight pulled up a chair and began to tell the tale of how Princess Luna was banished to the moon.

And that is how, Starlight Shimmer became Princesses Twilight Sparkle's protégé. However, they were both completely unaware of the difficulties and challenges lying ahead but most of all, of the evil that lurked the streets of Canterlot at night. The evil that was about to become a threat to the safety of not only one little filly, but all of Equestria.

This is the beginning of Starlight Shimmer's tale..

Chapter 3

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 3

by Crystal Secret

It was the dawn of a new day, the first day of her young pupil's new life. She had no idea what to expect in the time that was yet to pass but she was sure of one thing: That her pupil would exceed her expectations and would be the bringer of joy and harmony now and long after her death. She was unsure of how this was to be so but she was sure and almost certain that she made a good decision in choosing Starlight to be her pupil.

As Twilight rose from her four poster bed turning to run a brush through her mane. She diligently placed her tiara on her head and put on her royal garments ready for the day ahead. Even though she wasn't entering the public eye, she still wanted to keep up her appearance.

She exited her royal chambers and walked down the hallway that would lead her to the entrance of the royal dining hall. There, she would greet her fellow princesses and for the very first time she would be sitting and enjoying a meal with her pupil.

The young filly had a lot to get used to and so much to learn in such a small space of time but she was sure that she would prevail. Twilight had been prepared for this her whole life. It would seem that even Celestia was beginning to age a little now and soon there would be a new era for a new reign. She would someday be the sole ruler of this country and after her maybe it would be Starlight's turn. She wasn't certain but she knew that even after Celestia's death harmony would be maintained throughout the land.

As she entered the royal dining hall she noticed that both Celestia and Luna were already seated waiting for her. Prince Blueblood was among them and so was her brother Shining Armour but where was Starlight? After a few moments of waiting she quickly scanned the room. Starlight was nowhere to found. She made her way over to the table as a pair of hoof steps echoed behind her. Suddenly she could feel something bump into her behind and she quickly whirled around.

"Oh there you are Starlight. I was beginning to get worried that you weren't able to find your way. Well, you're here now so why don't you have a seat?" offered Twilight as the little filly pulled up a chair.

In all honesty the filly looked half asleep as its eyelids drooped closed. Then, the table shook as somepony got up and her eyes shot wide open.

"Starlight, would you like some breakfast?" asked Twilight quickly getting the filly's attention.

"Yes please." replied Starlight as she let out a stifled yawn.

After breakfast Twilight decided to take Starlight into an empty hall which was used for functions and events. The ceiling was high and the glass panes allowed plenty of sunlight into the room making it available for both night and day. It was big enough to cater for at least a hundred ponies and there was plenty of room for Starlight to practice her magic.

Starlight gazed in awe as she noticed the height of the ceiling that seemed to arch over her like the night sky.

"This is the room which we'll use to practise spells. There's plenty of room and in the afternoon Celestia's sun keeps the room warm. Now, would you like to get started?" asked Twilight leading the filly to the center of the room.

"Yes please. What spell will I begin with?"

"Something nice and simple, a levitation spell which is useful for daily purposes. Unicorns use it for well....everything. Now, why don't you try levitating that small chair for me?"

Starlight concentrated all of her magical essence on the chair, sparks soon flying from her horn and gradually picking the chair up. It soon made its ascendance into the sky, Twilight watched as the chair got higher and the filly became more and more strained.

"Well done, you have surpassed my expectations. You may drop the chair now." said Twilight smiling gently.

Starlight lowered the chair to the ground before turning to her teacher who stood there, smiling at her.

"I think that's enough for today. You look tired. Why don't you come for a stroll with me in the garden?"

"Alright."

Twilight and Starlight strolled through the Canterlot gardens together, taking in the wonder and beauty that nature provided for them. Starlight was captivated by everything she saw, heard, touched and smelled. There was nothing the little filly wasn't fascinated by.

"Princess, how did you become an alicorn?" asked Starlight suddenly finally taking an interest in something other than her surroundings.

"That's a very good question Starlight. Well, it was a very long time ago back when I was much younger than I am now. I used to Princess Celestia's student and well, it's kind of a long story." said Twilight realizing how long she had been Celestia's student for.

"Oh please tell the story. I would very much like to know how you became a princess." pleaded Starlight.

"Alright. Well I've been Princess Celestia's student since I was about your age and one day I was sent to Ponyville to supervise the preparations for the annual Summer Sun Celebration...."

As Twilight told her story Starlight never took her eyes off her teacher. They walked around the garden but instead of watching the bees pollinate the flowers she paid careful attention to her teacher's story.

"And that is how I became an alicorn. Are there any questions?" asked Twilight when she had finished her story.

"No, not really."

Twilight gazed up at Celestia's sun and noticed how late it was getting. It was almost sun down and she should probably get Starlight more familiar with the castle grounds.

"How about I show you around the castle?" asked Twilight, breaking the silence.

Twilight lead Starlight into the castle, she wanted to give her a very clear idea of how to get around the castle. She showed her every room but she saved the very best until last.

"This, my student, is one of four libraries that are scattered all over the castle. It took me years to find all four, for you see some of the libraries are hidden and are not easily spotted by the naked eye. I give you the challenge of find all of them. However, this is the biggest one." said Twilight before opening the door to the library.

The room was circular and was several stories high, shelves from floor to ceiling and each level represented a different letter so there were twenty-six floors. There were staircases leading up to the different sections and ladders to help you reach higher shelves. There was a chandelier hanging from the ceiling and the windows were draped with royal patterns. The afternoon's sun shone through the window and reflected on the polished shelves. The room was immaculate and perfect just the way a library should be.

Starlight stared in awe at the amount of books that were at her disposal. Who knew one room could contain so much knowledge, adventure, fantasy and romance? Who knew that somepony could own so many books? The room captivated and amazed the little filly but one thing prevented her from running up to a shelf, selecting a book and reading it. Just one small piece of knowledge stood in here way.

"Uh, princess? I was just wondering if maybe I could read in here once in awhile?" asked the filly.

Twilight just smiled and said, "Why of course you can Starlight, these books are here for you to read them whenever you like. Please, read at your own pleasure." replied Twilight encouragingly.

"Thanks princess, I`ll be sure to have a more thorough look at this collection when I have some free time."

With those words they turned to exit the library, Celestia's sun was beginning to make its descent behind the mountains as the two ponies causally strolled through the castle. The glass windows allowed light to stream through creating a colorful array of light. The afternoon was always the best time of day as it meant that soon, the stars were to be making their way into the deep and mysterious blue wonder that was the night sky.

Twilight had a many great deal of things planned for that evening. She had been waiting for this night for a very long time. She even had somepony special to share it with. Who knows what could happen? Why it had even lead her to believe that anything could happen.

Tonight she would be quite literally dancing among the stars....

Chapter 4

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 4

by Crystal Secret

It had been several months since Starlight began her journey as the princess’s student and the little filly was yet to get her cuitemark. One fine summery afternoon however, Twilight had found her student lying on the library floor, open books surrounding her. The following evening Princess Celestia had requested her presence on her balcony.

As Twilight stood by her fellow princess’s side she noticed a certain sadness in the princess’s eyes, one that she had not seen before. Her attention was turned towards the night sky. Twilight’s gaze joined hers as she took in the glorious night sky that hung there like an unscrolled map. Every star shone more brightly the next as the cool summer night breeze embraced her. There was not a cloud blocking the view of the stars and for some reason she could sense every fibre in her body telling her to hold her gaze there forever.

Every star shone more brightly than then next as they twinkled and glowed. It would seem that Princess Luna had truly outdone herself tonight. Perhaps there was a reason for the extra attention and effort put into tonight’s sky? Twilight pondered this as she lost herself in the sea of stars. After awhile however, she remembered the reason that she was there and snapped back into reality.

“Ahem. Um, Celestia, you wanted to see me?” she finally spoke up. Breaking the silence.

It was a little while before the princess replied and Twilight wondered if the princess was thinking hard about something or if she had simply not heard her. Whatever it was, she decided to wait for her answer.

“Yes Twilight, I did want to see you about something. I have this strong feeling that a force of great evil is about to return and I`m worried about Starlight not been ready in time.” Celestia replied, holding her gaze towards the night sky.

“What do you mean by her not been ready in time? Are you saying that Starlight will be the one to defeat this force of evil that you speak of? Celestia, I'm not sure that she’ll be the slightest bit prepared, I mean, she hasn't even gotten her cuitemark yet!” Twilight exclaimed loudly.

“Twilight, do you remember when you were my student and you had to defeat that Ursa Major that was attacking Ponyville?” asked Princess Celestia.

“Yes and I learnt that saving your friends while proving your abilities does not necessarily mean that you are showing off.”

“Well Twilight, I have known about Sunset Shimmer’s return for quite some time now, which is why I wanted for you to teach a young filly everything you know so that when both you and I are gone, Equestria will have a new leader to look to for guidance. She will be the one to defeat Sunset Shimmer and restore peace and harmony to Equestria that way the ponies will be able to trust her when the time comes.”

“Who’s Sunset Shimmer? I've never even heard of her before.”

“Sunset Shimmer was a former student of mine and she was my student before even you were. I doubt you've heard but she’s been roaming the streets of Canterlot lately and I`m the only one who knows of her presence. She is a threat to Equestria and needs to be eliminated.”

As the last few words hung in the air, Twilight turned to notice a tear roll down her cheek. The princess was clearly upset. It would seem that even now, she had a pretty close connection with her previous student.

“I understand. I will try my very best to make sure that she is prepared for the task ahead.”

“Thank you Twilight, you may go now.”

Without another word she left the princess standing on the balcony but as she turned to take one last glance at the glorious night sky, she realized what it was she needed to do. Her slow walk turned into a full gallop as he made her way out of the royal chambers and down the winding corridors that made up Canterlot Castle. After the ten years that she had spent living in the castle, she had come to navigate the castle like the royal guards, with much agility and pace.

She raced up the winding stair case that leads her up to her pupil’s room. She bursts through the door out of anticipation and eager excitement but instead of seeing the mauve unicorn look up at her the room is empty. The purple alicorn turns and runs back down stairs, rushing over to the nearest library.

When she reached the Canterlot Library she calmly opened the doors and scanned the room for her pupil. Instead, she finds an empty and darkened room. She quietly strolled over to the desk and turned on the lamp. There were stacks of books leaning towards her and papers scattered across the desk, compiling of detailed notes. When Twilight took a closer look at the notes, she noticed that the notes were written by someone quite intelligent, but what caught her attention was what the notes were about.

‘The Stars, Moon and the Night Sky.’ By Starlight Simmer

The notes were taken from the book ‘The Humbling Universe that Surrounds Us.’ By Starswirl the Bearded. Twilight smiled at the title reminiscing the days when she was reading his books which were only accessible at the Royal Canterlot Archives. Those were the days, back when she was Celestia’s pupil, not knowing of the future that she had paved out for her. Now, she was a princess of Equestria and she had her own pupil. How times had changed.

A cool, icy wind came through and sent shivers down her spine. She turned to find that somepony had left the door to the royal observatory open again. As she went over to close it she had the urge to go up there and investigate. She hadn’t been to the observatory in awhile; it couldn't hurt to pay a visit.

She made her way up the staircase that led to the observatory and when she entered she was surprised to find that Starlight was outside on the balcony, looking through one of the best telescopes that was accessible by anypony who was anypony. She also noticed that the little filly was taking notes on what she saw.

Twilight walked out onto the balcony and looked towards the sky; the sky hadn't change much since she had seen earlier that evening. It was still it’s glorious self.

“Oh, hello Princess, I`m glad you could join me this evening. I was just graphing the night sky. I thought I might take this opportunity while it lasts. You don’t get very many night skies like this you know.” said Starlight, continuing to look through the telescope.

“You’re right Starlight; we don’t see many night skies like this one.”

At that moment, a shower off shooting stars soared across the night sky, Twilight look up in bewilderment. Was it a coincidence? Or had Princess Luna planned for there to be shooting stars tonight?’

“Quick Starlight, try and figure which stars have just fallen.”

“Okay. It would seem that some stars from Goliath’s belt have fallen and also some from the saucepan. Oh look at that one there! Wow, I never knew I could identify so many stars!”

Suddenly there was a flash as a telescope symbol appeared on Starlight’s flank. Twilight’s eyes widened with surprised as it appeared. An overwhelming wave of joy washed over and she hadn't felt so proud in all her life.

“Starlight! Quick! Check your flank!” exclaimed Twilight jumping around excitedly.

“Wa-huh?” was all the little filly could say to Twilight’s sudden outburst. Starlight checked her flank only to be delighted to find that a telescope cuitemark now adorned it.

Within a few minutes of realising just what this all meant, Starlight was jumping around the room in excitement. After a few moments of doing so she calmed down and looked towards Twilight, who was smiling at her with pride.

“I can’t believe it! I've finally got my cuitemark! I never thought that it would be for astronomy though.” She said with a smile.

“I`m so proud of you Starlight.” Said Twilight as they turned to view the night sky she cloaked a wing over the filly’s back.

For some time, the princess and her pupil stood there on the balcony, watching as shooting stars fell from the sky like the broken shards of a crystal goblet. It was a truly spectacular sight for a truly eventful evening. One that the two ponies would remember for the rest of their lives, a night sky like the one before them was one that did not come often and it was just a coincidence that these two particular ponies got to enjoy it together.

~ Later ~

“I heard from Twilight that Starlight finally got her cuitemark. Apparently it’s for astronomy. I think that you were right in the beginning about all of this, especially about her.” Said Princess Luna her words full of pride and bewilderment.

“Hmm...It would seem that the time is almost upon us. I hope that Starlight is ready for the challenges that lie ahead. Twilight knows of Starlight’s destiny and the responsibility that she has to make sure that her pupil is prepared to rid Equestria of the evil that now lurks in the shadows, waiting for its time. Pray with me sister that when the time comes, she`ll be ready.” Replied Princess Celestia with an air of pride and concern for the filly.

“Indeed sister, I pray also that Twilight has chosen the right filly.”

“Trust me, she has otherwise I would have asked her to think a little more carefully about whom she had chosen.”

With those final words Princess Celestia turned and left the balcony.

“Where are you going sister?” implied Luna

“I am retiring for the evening.” She replied simply.

Regardless of her sister’s statement, Princess Luna remained standing on the balcony for awhile longer. She wanted to gaze up at her beloved masterpiece and be proud of the majesty in her name.

“Oh Twilight, I do hope that for my sister’s sake and mine, that Starlight is ready for the challenges that lie ahead. The fate Equestria is resting on her shoulders so please, ensure that she does not fail.”

Chapter 5

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 5[/center]

by Crystal Secret

The newly renovated Canterlot streets were bustling with ponies. The sound of noisy chatter was accompanied by the rustling of the leaves that swayed calmly in the wind. There wasn't a speck of garbage anywhere on the verdant stone pavement, doubtfully because of the local's vigilance. Just about every pony around their heads turned slightly upwards, as if looking straight ahead was too good for them.

Starlight took all of this in as she walked side by side with her teacher. Apparently, the princess wanted to take her out on a little excursion, she wanted to get used to the busy streets of the capital and what life was going to be like there.

Even though royalty was currently traversing the elegant streets of Canterlot, nopony seem to pay any attention. It was as though Twilight was just another common folk, but why was that so? This, thoroughly confused the filly and after while she wondered if there really was any point in questioning it.

The click clack of hooves on the street had a causal rhythm to it; no one was in any rush to get anywhere. Colourful stores with large glass windows were plentiful on this particular pathway through the city, offering wares such as fancy attire or jewellery with gemstones so large they must have had a noticeable weight when worn. Very impressive indeed, especially considering the fact this street was known for being the cheapest shopping in Canterlot.

Suddenly, they came to a pause and they stood there for a short moment in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Confused, Starlight turned to ask a question but was immediately cut off by Twilight.

“Look around you my pupil, what do you see? What is it about this street that defines it from all of the other streets that we have strolled through?” asked her teacher, her hoof outstretched and moving in the air around her.

She stood there and thought about Twilight’s question for a minute. She had been paying very close attention to her surroundings but all the streets seemed the same. Perhaps she wasn't looking hard enough. Then the answer hit her like a pie in the face.

“Unlike all the other streets, this one is known to be the oldest in all of Canterlot. ‘A Guide to Canterlot History: Volume I’ dictates that centuries ago, Canterlot was built and this was once the main street of the newly built capital. Just recently has it been restored to its former glory. The other streets have all been built around it less than a hundred years ago and so most of these streets are new and there aren't as many cracks and the paint is as washed out. Therefore the defining characteristic of this street is its newly returned beauty!” exclaimed Starlight excitedly.

A warm, proud smile lit up the princess’s face as she nodded her head lightly. “Very well said Starlight, you have obviously been burning the midnight oil with all the studying that you've been doing. I never knew that you had a keen interest for the history of Equestria.” She praised Starlight.

They continued to stroll through the street and the ponies that they walked passed continued to pay them no attention. The reasoning behind the behaviour of everypony still confused Starlight and she was bursting to find out what was going on.

“Um, princess? Why is it that everypony is ignoring your presence?” asked Starlight curiously. The question had been bothering her all morning and she wasn't going to let it lurk in the back of her mind any longer.

“I arranged for the ponies to be on their best, ignorant and submissive behaviour. I didn't want to attract any attention to myself so I asked the Royal Guard to inform the ponies ahead of time of my presence and to just ignore me because I didn't want to be disturbed every couple of minutes by the greetings and photographs of ponies. If that makes any sense.” She replied.

“It makes sense; I just thought that it was rather odd how the ponies were all ignoring you, especially since your royalty and everything.”

A loud, annoyed rumble came from Starlight stomach and at that moment she realized how hungry she was. They had been walking for hours and she couldn't see any food outlets nearby.

“Are you hungry my pupil?” asked Twilight with a knowing look in her eyes.

“Yes princess, I am.”

“Well, the nearest restaurant is still a couple more streets away. So, how about we...” Twilight levitated the little unicorn filly onto her back. “Fly the rest of the way. Hhm?”

Starlight let out a giggle of excitement. “Are you sure princess?”

“Yes, I am sure. Now are you ready?”

“Yes!”

With that, Twilight sprouted her wings and took off gracefully into the air. She glided effortlessly over the classy and old buildings of Canterlot, giving Starlight a bird eye’s view of the wealthy capital.

A light breeze ran through their manes as they flew. Starlight had never been so high up in the air before, nevertheless ridden on the back of an alicorn. She smiled from ear to ear as she hung on tight, the thrill of being so high up and trying something new was something she had never experienced before.

“Here we go!” exclaimed the princess as she did a few tumble rolls, spiralling effortless downwards towards the city.

After what felt like a lifetime’s worth of been above the ground, Starlight felt the wind rush through her mane as they flew towards the ground. It appeared that they would be landing soon and for some reason, she didn't want the moment to end. But, it did as Twilight landed on the stone paved street effortlessly.

As Starlight climbed off the alicorn’s back, she noticed that they had flown a couple of streets ahead and were now in the food district of Canterlot. Cafes, restaurants and other assorted food shops filled the street.

“Now, why don’t we go and get some lunch? I'm pretty hungry after that short little flight we just had.” suggested Twilight eagerly.

“That’s sounds great princess!” exclaimed Starlight excitedly. The truth was she had never eaten out before let alone with a princess. So the experience sounded fun and exciting, especially for a little filly who had barely even explored the streets of the place she now called home.

Twilight and her pupil sat and had lunch at Costello’s Pizzeria. It was known to have some of the best pizza around, she knew this because she had come here once after one of the many Grand Galloping Gala’s that she had been required to attend since her coronation.

They sat in silence as they watched ponies pass them by without even a glance their way. She didn't even have her royal gear on today due to the fact that it would probably draw her too much attention.

After a deliciously satisfying lunch, they continued their exploration of Canterlot’s finest but busiest streets. Towards the end of the day, Starlight became rather tired due to all the walking that had occurred and she found herself almost dragging her short legs along the street beside her teacher who also began to look exhausted.

But the day took a rather unexpected turn as a loud shriek of terror came from a group of ponies nearby. Twilight’s attention turned to the source of the sound, unsure of how to react to the hooded figure that had emerged from nowhere she stood there for a moment in utter confusion.

The cloaked figure came a little closer to where they were standing and for a moment Twilight could almost swear that she saw the pony’s eyes flash a different, more sinister colour from under the hood that concealed the pony’s identity from every pony else. Ponies around them starting running from the figure as large obstacles were levitated into the air and thrown into the space around them. Madness had just arrived in Equestria’s beloved Capital; Canterlot.

As the area cleared out, the cloaked figure walked slowly up to them and at that moment, Twilight knew that she had to get out of there and fast. Without a moment to lose she hoisted Starlight into the air and onto her back before taking off into mid-air. She flew fast, fast into the direction of Canterlot Castle.

Later that day, it had been reported that royal guards had arrived at the scene only to find an abandoned street. The cloaked figure was nowhere to found.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

The memory of the sinister colour in the pony’s eyes tormented the back of Twilight’s mind as she tossed and turned in her sleep. Beads of sweat ran down her face as blankets were strewn all over the floor. She was having a nightmare, a nightmare where the cloaked figure snatched her pupil away and ran off into the night. She feared the face of the pony whose identity was unknown.

Suddenly her eyes snapped wide open and she awoke to find her four poster bed a dishevelled and untidy mess. Knowing that she wouldn't be able to go back to sleep for quite awhile, she decided to have a little walk around. She rose from her bed and quietly made her way down the long and dark hallways of the castle.

As she walked down the quiet, empty corridor she eventually came across one of the largest and most profound libraries in the entire castle. Light emitted from the room and stood out in the corridor like one of the brightest stars in the night sky. Curious as to who would be up in the library at this hour of night she decided to take a peak, preferably without been noticed.

She tiptoed slowly up to the entrance and stood there on the corner leaning in slightly to see in. Peeking into the library she could see Starlight lying on the floor, books open around her with a small little lantern sitting beside her. She was burning in the midnight oil with her head stuck in books.

The sight of the little filly studying reminded Twilight of her early years when she was Princess Celestia’s protégé and how she used to stay up every night studying everything there was to learn in books. Not knowing of the things that could be taught through ponies and more importantly friends. Oh, those were the days. Now she was a princess, a political leader and ruler of a small portion of Equestria. Would this be Starlight’s destiny too? Or would she have a more scientific purpose now that she had her cuitemark for astronomy?

She decided not to disturb the little filly and her studying. Instead she quietly walked away and back towards her royal chambers. Perhaps now that she had seen her pupil stuck into her study, she could relax knowing that no harm would come to her, or at least for the time being.

Chapter 6

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 6

by Crystal Secret

Many weeks had passed since the incident in the central streets of Canterlot. Princess Twilight had become worried that time was running out, but a glimmer of hope appeared with the Summer Sun Celebration in a few weeks time. She just hoped that her pupil Starlight could defeat the evil threat that was about to descend upon them, was her pupil even ready for such a feat? The unicorn had a lot of potential and as powerful as she already was, she was going to be taking on one of the greatest sorcerers of all time and she wasn't sure if Starlight was ready to take it all on board.

With the glimmering marvel of the sea of stars above her, Twilight sighed in defeat. She hadn't slept a wink in days and nothing worried her more than what was to come. She had always worried of the future, regardless of how near that future might be. Nor was she utterly prepared to take on such a great challenge of mysterious boundaries that seemed to lie out before her like the glorious sky above her. Tears began to run their course down her pale cheeks of lavender, she cried in desperation for the answer to her seemingly ever growing problem.

"Oh why can't I prepare her for the challenges that are ahead of her?" She cried out to the stars as they twinkled in their own colossal mansion. "I just want her to be ready."

Twilight dragged her Alicorn form back inside her royal chambers, nothing could prepare Starlight for the rain of truth that was about to shower upon her like the thunderous sound of a dying heartbeat. She climbed onto her bed, and slowly drifted off into a deep slumber.

Meanwhile, in one of Canterlot castle's many impressive libraries, lying on the floor was none other than the very unicorn whom the fate of Equestria now rests upon. Books tower around her as she studies by candlelight. Starlight was intrigued by the never ending amount of books that held such secrets of wonders that led her to believe that she was just another unicorn in this ever changing world.

With her head stuck in the history of astronomy, she was oblivious to the unnerving sounds that came from down the passage; she couldn't even feel the presence of something quite peculiar. The sound of creeping hoof steps filled the halls. But she simply chose to ignore it as she continued to read. It went quiet for a moment; a moment of silence was what disturbed her. She raised her head in curiosity and decided to investigate.

Starlight quietly crept down the hall, her horn glowing with brilliant light. A muffled shriek called out to her in the dark, and she was sure something was up. She raced down the halls towards the direction of the noise. Suddenly, she could feel the warmth of another body as she bumped into some-pony, resulting in her falling onto her backside. When she returned to four hoofs she was meant with a cloaked figure that seemed rather surprised by the incident. The cloaked figure's eyes were wide with surprise and her mouth was agape. Something about the unicorn seemed oddly familiar.

"You're the princess's pupil? Why you're nothing but a pathetic commoner!" snickered the unicorn in disdain. "Besides, you won't stand a chance against me. You see, I am the former pupil of Princess Celestia and have been trained to be one of the most powerful unicorns in all of Equestria!" announced the cloaked figure, whose eyes haunted her as she cackled with delight.

Frightened and confused Starlight froze in her spot, her body trembled in fear. Her eyes were wide with shock and her mouth shook with the words she couldn't seem to form. After a few moments of terror, she finally spoke up.

"Then...what are you here for?" She asked, confused.

"Why to exact revenge of course, I will take out any of those who stand in my way. I shall force Princess Celestia to make me an Alicorn and then I will overthrow the throne and become the new sole ruler of Equestria! But for now, I must go and in three days time I'll be back and you so better be ready, because if you're not Equestria will be mine!" She cackled with delight as she turned and ran into the night

Frightened and shocked to the bone, Starlight stood frozen in the dark, dim lighted hallway for a moment longer. Her body simply trembled in utter terror as she took in what she had just witnessed. Now she understood her purpose for being here, she was to defeat the evil unicorn sorceress and prevent her from taking over Equestria. So, was that the only reason why she was the princess's pupil? Just to be some weapon for the princesses to use against evil? No, it couldn't be true! Surely her purpose in Canterlot was far greater than what anypony could imagine?

With those thoughts in mind, she turned and walked back down the cold, ominous halls of the castle. A cool, whispering wind waved over her making her body shiver in response. She suddenly missed the warmth and familiarity of the library in which she had spent countless nights studying all of which she found most fascinating.

Tears sprung to her eyes and raced down her cheeks as she ran down the dark hallways. She cried out loudly to the walls that only stood solemnly before her in reply. Suddenly, she felt all alone in this big, wide world. A world where she was nothing but a militaristic weapon to defend those more important than her, she suddenly wished to be back home with the parents who so dearly loved her but due to unfortunate circumstances perished with all the other beautiful, precious things her life. She considered herself to be one of these things and hoped she too, would perish.

Not knowing of where she was going, Starlight soon became lost. Lost beyond ever being found, fear began to creep up her neck like some unwanted to illness. She had stopped crying and when she took a good look around she soon realized where she was.

All around her were large, clear stained glass windows that told of grand adventures and important events in Equestrian history. The most previous one being the coronation of Princess Twilight Sparkle, light shone through the windows and created a row of dark shadows on either side.

Three large, colossal thrones sat before her. She stared at awe at the very place of which the rulers of Equestria sat. It seemed that ponies had a tendency to want their superiors to sit somewhere they’ll be noticed as being rather important.

It was dark, cold and rather foreboding. The room gave her a strange feeling that this was not the last time she would be here. Suddenly, her eyes went totally white and everything became dark for a few short moments.

She soon found herself in the same throne room that she was in just a few moments ago, except this time it was late afternoon and everything was much clearer. Not only that, she wasn't alone. She turned around only to be faced with the very unicorn of whom she now had to defeat; Sunset Shimmer. Fear raced through her veins and she then realized where she was.

It would seem that standing in the throne room had triggered her to have a vision, into the future. She was comforted by the fact that none of this was real and it would all eventually end but for now, she was faced with a dark force of powerful magic that was only growing stronger by the second.

"This is the end Starlight, not only for you, but for the rest of Equestria! Defeating you is going to be a piece of cake, especially in a world of which I control. Come on, try to defeat me. Give it your all and at least I'll have a small challenge if any at all." She said before cackling with ruthless laughter. Her words tormented Starlight, forcing her into a corner of which you could not move herself out of.

Not knowing of how to react or what to do next. Starlight stood frozen in fear as Sunset Shimmer came running towards her with her horn glowing with some kind of dark substance. The sound of her hooves grew louder and she braced herself for the impact but then, her eyes opened and she returned to the world she had just departed from.

What had just happened? She was standing in the throne room again and it would seem that she had not moved an inch and that none of what had just transpired had actually happened. It was all just some kind of vision that allowed her to see into the near future.

Lost and insecure she cried into the night, standing there as she shook with terror. Tears streamed down her face and she fell to the ground resting on her hooves. The events of the evening had made little sense to her and now she didn’t even know how to return to the comfort and safety of library.

The ever familiar and repeated sound of hoof steps drew her attention to the figure slowly walking towards her; the darkness shadowed the figure making it hard to decipher an accurate shape. Instead of running in fear or standing there in terror she simply gave up on all hope of ever being safe in the company of another.

“Starlight.” Said a familiar voice comfortingly,’ “Are you alright?”

A muffled cry was the only sound the filly made in response.

A warm, comforting wing wrapped its way around the small of her back and that’s when she realized who she was in the embrace of. She turned to look at the pony who had come to her rescue on this dark, frightening evening. A warm, kind smile lit up the pony’s face and suddenly, Starlight felt safe again.

“Twilight? But, how did you know where I was?”

“I could hear your cries and I followed them. Are you alright my student?” she asked.

“Well…”

“Look at you! You’re all covered in scratches and bruises! Come; let’s get you cleaned up and into bed. It would appear that you have had quite an eventful evening.”

“Yes, it has been.” Was all she could say in reply for after what had happened she was simply too traumatized to begin to explain even the briefs of her most thrilling tale.

Later that night, in her deepest slumber, Starlight had a dream. A dream where she was not a filly but rather a fully grown mare, not only that but she had wings and a crown too. She dreamt of being a princess, or had she envisioned it? She couldn’t be sure, whatever the case it seemed to settle her mind about one thing.

That her destiny truly was beyond anypony’s comprehension and that she would someday be somepony of great significance, somepony whose decisions actually mattered and would ultimately affect the fate of the rest of Equestria.

But first…she had to somehow defeat Sunset Shimmer and return harmony to Equestria once more…but there was just one question that left utterly dumbfounded.

How would she go about doing such an act?

Chapter 7

Twilight's Pupil Chapter 7

by Crystal Secret

"You really should be more careful Starlight; you could have gotten yourself hurt." Said Twilight, rubbing some shampoo into the filly’s mane, who just stared back at her in disappointment; clearly unaware of how much trouble she was just in.

"I'm sorry Twilight, I had no idea that danger lurked around the corner of someplace as safe as this castle." she replied, taking in a deep breath before going beneath the surface of the hot, soapy water.

"I've requested to increase the security around the city's perimeter and more importantly the castle. I will do everything in my power to prevent Sunset Shimmer from causing any more damage." She said in a concerned tone.

"Is that really necessary? I mean what's the point? She's already inside the castle so there really is no hope."

"The Summer Sun Celebration is tomorrow and ponies from all over Equestria will be there, so it's necessary that for their we set up some kind of militaristic defence against perhaps one of the most powerful sources of evil that we have had to deal with in a long time."

As Starlight swished around in the tub, the excess water overflowed and washed overboard, wetting the marble floor around Twilight. However, she didn't seem to mind though as she simply smiled and rinsed her pupil off in reply. She levitated a big, fluffy tower over to the tub as Starlight stepped out of it.

Twilight dried off the little filly’s body as she explained the premise of the events that would play out that evening.

“Tonight, you dine with royalty. So I got my friend Rarity to design you a dress to wear to the feast that will be hosted in our grand dining hall. There will be lots of important ponies attending so look sharp, remember always to please the eyes of many government officials.” She said wrapping the towel around the filly. “One last thing, there is nothing you can do that will make me any less proud of you.” She said with a sincere smile, her eyes gleamed like diamonds as she stared into the filly’s pupils for just a moment of silent sentiment.

She led the filly over to the wardrobe and pulled out the beautiful garment that Rarity had made for the occasion. Starlight’s eyes lit up with appeal and excitement, she had never seen such a gorgeous dress in all her life and she got to wear it. Oh how she longed to be in the limelight tonight would be her night to shine and in this dress oh how she could just imagine the praise and appeal of her superiors.

The dress was a lovely night sky blue, with a silver transparent layer over it and a short train. It had a matching neckpiece and tiara both with sapphires. It was spectacular, it was beautiful and it was hers. Twilight quickly helped her get into it as she pulled on the matching ballerina slippers.

When Starlight looked in the mirror she gasped at the sight. She looked for the first time in her life, like a princess going to her first ball and all of a sudden she could herself almost in tears.

“You look beautiful Starlight. Just like a princess would. Now, are you ready?”

The tears sprung to her eyes and she became overwhelmed by it all. Never before had she been so happy to be alive in her whole life. Twilight knew she was an orphan but she didn’t know of the troubling, horrific past that loomed in her mind.

“What’s wrong Starlight? Aren’t you excited about tonight?” she asked standing next to the filly in the mirror.

Starlight just cried in response but was able to mutter few words. “I’m sorry princess, it’s just that...’ ‘I’ve never been so happy in my whole life, or been treated quite as nicely as this.” She said as the tears continued to run down her cheeks.

“I`m sorry to hear that, but perhaps tonight can make up for all the sorrow and disappointment.” She said, eagerly trying to cheer the filly up but to no prevail. “We really must get going; otherwise we’re going to be late.”

With that, the two ponies left Starlight’s room and walked silently down the halls of the castle, their hoof steps echoing loudly throughout the castle. Starlight was completely unaware of the events that the new day would bring. Nor did she faintly realise of the potential danger she was in as they continued to walk down the halls, unguarded and completely vulnerable to the enemy.

After awhile, they were greeted by two large doors that were guarded by two Royal guards standing at attention. The guards opened the door for them as they silently made their entrance into the large, colossal room that occupied many familiar and yet unfamiliar faces of the very ponies whose lives rested upon the shivering shoulders of the little filly standing before them.

Her maroon eyes took in the sight around her; she was surrounded by a heavy, stiff atmosphere that seemed to lay a weight on her shoulders. The unicorn’s intuition told her that there was nothing to be afraid of as she noticed that the room was heavily guarded and there was plenty of security but what bothered her was the unfamiliar and tightening feeling her chest and she noted that there was a changeling sitting among them.

A crystal chandelier hung above a long, glass table that was adorned with a feast fit for a king. The princesses sat at the very top end of the table, with many unfamiliar faces sitting along the sides. She sensed a strong, unfamiliar presence of magic as she walked past a row of guests.

She took her seat next to Twilight at the top end of the table. With hope, she would get through this night without any hassle.

“Honoured guests, government officials and everyone seated at this table, I bid you welcome. I have gathered you all here tonight to celebrate the coming of the Summer Sun Celebration. Thank you, dinner will be served shortly.” said the Sun Goddess, finally taking her seat.

Flustered but not entirely confused Twilight had a wave of realisation wash over her as she realised with just one look down the table, she was being stared at by the demeaning, judgmental eyes of the other guests. It would seem that for the remainder of the evening her every move would be noted, judged and filed away for later referral.

Having sensed her panic and overwhelming wash of fear, Twilight quickly whispered some meaningful words into her ear. “Relax.’ She whispered. “Just be you and nopony will have any reason to wrongly judge you. Besides, it’s just a formal dinner party, nothing more.”

With those words Starlight let out a breath and smiled in relief. She couldn’t help but giggle at how worried she was. Twilight was right, she just need to relax. Besides, what could possibly go wrong?

“That over there is the governor general, he represent the princesses in their royal duties.” Explained the alicorn, pointing to an old, bored looking stallion sitting across from them. That over there is the duchess of Baltimare and sitting next to her is the government official for Cloudsdale.”

“How many government officials are there?”

“Well, there’s one for every city in Equestria.”

“That’s a lot of ponies.”

“Yes, but they’re not all ponies.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well some of them are griffons while others are zebras and even buffalos.”

“Wow. I had no idea Twilight.”

“Well now you do.”

The first meal was served in a flash. The waiters were in and out of the room before you can even exchange your meal for somebody else’s. What was served before them was even more impressive. As an entree, a delicious oven baked carrot topped with some sort of salad dressing was presented before them beneath a silver platter.

Starlight had never laid eyes upon such delightful food. All her life she had spent scrambling food off the sidewalk, her family were unable to provide for her. So when she gobbled up the delicacy, she found herself smiling in content. Oh how she wished she could eat like this every day.

“Your highness, a rumour has been going around that you have a protégé, is this indeed true?” asked a griffon in an inquisitive tone.

“Why yes. I do have a student. In fact, she is sitting right next to me. Her name is Starlight and I couldn’t be more proud of her.” The purple alicorn replied, more than willing to present her pupil to the world; may showers of praise rain upon her.

“Well, I apologize for not realising earlier. I just thought that she was your niece or some other relative.”

“That’s your pupil? Well, isn’t she just darling? I could just dress her up in my fabulous designs all day!” exclaimed the duchess who was simply overwhelmed by the fact that such a young unicorn was the pupil of the newly crowned princess.

Suddenly the table burst with chatter about Starlight and her teacher became extremely occupied with all the inquiring questions about the little filly.

“How old is she?” a griffon asked.

“Where did she come from?”

“What’s her special talent?”

“Can she do advanced calibration yet?”

And so on. Starlight became lost under all the conversation that for a moment she completely zoned out and didn’t notice the loud rattling coming from the roof. She took no notice of it as the conversation carried on, ranting about her origin and what her next level of training would be.

That is, until she heard again except louder. The two large doors that led to the outside of the castle were briskly pushed open and a royal guard came rushing in. The royal guard who came to be known as Flash Sentry looked well alarmed as he rushed over to Princess Celestia.

“Your Highness, there is an unknown threat attacking Canterlot. Many of our guards are severely injured and we are quickly losing ground!”

“Everypony head to the grand ball room immediately!” she ordered and everypony got up and exited the room through to the central doors to the left. “Everypony please remain calm! Flash sentry I want you to make sure that every Royal guard is on duty and is awaiting further orders.” She asked in a calmer tone.

“Yes your majesty, right away.”

“Twilight,’ she said looking at her with narrowed eyes. ‘You know what to do.”

The purple alicorn simply nodded in reply retuning the expression.

“Starlight, follow me.” She asked leading her pupil out of the room.

As the two ponies run off through the dark, echoing halls Starlight was utterly confused by what had just transpired. Canterlot was under attack and she had no idea why she wasn’t going to the designated area as well. As they passed a lantern, it went and this only confused her further. Where were they going? What exactly was going through Twilight’s head right now?

She found herself falling behind and her little legs were becoming increasingly tired. There wasn’t a doubt that she hadn’t done so much running in her life.

“Keep up Starlight! We must make haste!” Twilight called out from the dark.

“I`m sorry Twilight, it’s just that...” Her face collided with the cobblestone with a loud groan from Starlight and what resulted was a scrape to her forehead that began to severely hurt, leaving the little filly in tears.

“Starlight!” called Twilight of whom came rushing over to her within in an instant. She levitated the pony onto her back as she continued to run; nothing was going to stop them from reaching their destination.

They finally reached their destination, they were met by two foreboding doors which were easily opened with a little magic and the pair ran into the room finally coming to a halt. Twilight put the filly on the ground gently and gave her one last, loving embrace.

“Starlight, listen to me carefully. I want you to remember that no matter what happens I want you to be brave for me okay? And that I am proud of you. I have to go now but I’ll be back. It’s time that you were met with your destiny, I want you to stay calm and be the pony you were meant to be.” asked Twilight tears welling up in her eyes.

“But princess, what if I don’t know who that pony is? And what’s going to happen to me when you leave? Why do you have to go princess? Why?” asked Starlight, tears running down her cheeks as her face turns towards the cold, stone ground beneath her.

Instead of answering her questions, Twilight simply replied with; “Starlight, my most faithful student, this, is where someday you’ll find out the answers to all of those questions.” she replied, pulling her chin up towards her before giving her one last hug. “I love you Starlight.”

And with that, the alicorn disappeared into the night, leaving Starlight all alone in the royal throne room. The very place where her story would both begin and end, if only the little filly sitting in the very centre of the room would realise that.

Chapter 8

Twilight's Pupil: Chapter 8

by Crystal Secret

The throne room was cold, damp and mysterious as the future of the filly who sat in the centre of it, crying out in desperation and confusion. The air sent cool, icy chills down her spine and the only light was the light that shone in through the glass stained windows that told of events that would someday become legends bound up in a old dusty history books, untouched for centuries and forgotten by all those except the historians themselves.

She had been here for about an hour or so but there really was no way of telling the time besides by the position of the moon as it drifted slowly across the midnight sky; watching down upon her with its bright, beautiful beam of light.

An evil cackle of delight shook the walls and filled the room with a intimidating and fearsome roar as bolts of lightning struck the ground around her. A familiar figure approached her, smiling in utter delight at the little pony shaking on the ground before her.

“Get up you little brat. Are you going to fight me or not?” spat Sunset Shimmer.

Starlight rose shakily to her hooves, her body shuddering against the cold air around her. She closed to her eyes and tried to concentrate.

She snorted. "Bring. It. On." was all she had to say before they raced towards each other, their horns igniting with aura.

As the two unicorns clashed in a collision of magic and immense power, a spark ignited in the filly’s eyes. A spark that unleashed an incredible fury of power that sent lightning bolts raining down upon Sunset Shimmer, Starlight rose into the air as her eyes went milky white as a loud boom of thunder shook the entire colossal throne room.

When Starlight was finally released from her god like state she was faced with the body of her nemesis lying on the cold ground before her in a weak, deformed state. Panting out of pure exhaustion for the force of the spell had left her undeniably defeated. When she realised what had happened Starlight didn't relish in her victory, but rather went over to her defeated opponent had healed the worst of her wounds.

“What...what are you doing?” asked Sunset Shimmer confusedly.

“Healing you.” replied Starlight simply.

“But why? I mean, you did just defeat me right? Why would you want to help somepony like me?”

Starlight helped the unicorn rise to her hooves and looked her squarely in her eyes and said;

“You’re not an evil pony Sunset Shimmer, but you are a powerful unicorn and it was the way that you were using your abilities that was evil. I believe that there is good in everypony, you should just need to seek it out. In the same way that Twilight needed to seek out the magic of friendship.”

Sunset Shimmer simply stared at her in complete shock as to what the little had just said, it defied everything that Sunset Shimmer had ever known about herself and other ponies. Not only that, but it had been said in such a way that she had no other choice than to believe it.

“So what you’re saying is-”

But before she could finish her sentence, a huge burst of colour and light came through and broke all the glass stained windows. As they opened their eyes once more, beautiful, golden rays of sunlight streamed into the throne room and it became clear that the Summer Sun Celebration had just occurred.

“Come on. Let’s go greet the princesses.” eagered Starlight as she started walking towards the entrance.

“Wait! What are the princesses going to do if they find out I’m alive?” asked Sunset Shimmer.

“Well, they’ll probably make you apologize for causing such fear and chaos among the citizens of Canterlot. Oh, and the rest of Equestria too.”

“That’s all? They’re not going to lock me away or anything like that?”

“Their not cruel you know, now come on.”

And with those last words, the two unicorns walked down the long corridors that make up the castle’s interior. As they walked, the pair talked and laughed forming an unexpected friendship.

“You know Sunset Shimmer, you’re not so bad after all.”

“You’re not so bad yourself kid.”

They made their way out of the castle and down to the area where the Summer Sun Celebration was being held. The princesses were all standing on the stage as they had just finished their routine. Starlight and Sunset Shimmer walked up to the stage and Twilight gave them a confused look. As they stepped up to join them, Twilight whispered;

“What is she doing?”

“Just wait and see.” Princess Celestia replied. “Starlight, it’s good to see that you could make it. Now, is there something I can help you with?”

Starlight nudged Sunset Shimmer in the side, indicating for her to speak up.

“I..I uh, I just wanted to say that I’m sorry. Sorry for all the trouble I caused and if you want to punish me I would completely understand.”

“That’s quite alright. Spike, take a note please,’ Spike leapt up and pulled out some parchment. ‘I, Princess Celestia hereby decree that Sunset Shimmer to be no longer a threat to Equestria but rather a citizen and professor here in Canterlot. She will teach the art of magic to the young ponies at my school and will do so for the remainder of her time here in Canterlot.”

“Oh thank you Princess Celestia! I would be honoured.”

Later that day, as the sun made its descent beyond the horizon, Twilight and Starlight sat side by side out on her balcony, watching the glorious sunset.

“Twilight?” Starlight spoke up after awhile.

"Yes my faithful student?"

“What will happen to me now that peace has finally been restored to Equestria?”

“Well, you’ll continue being my pupil of course.”

“But wasn’t the reason I was your pupil was that there was a new threat in Equestria that needed taking care of?”

Twilight simply sat in silence for awhile contemplating on how to answer. She wrapped a wing around the little filly’s body and drew her in close.

“No. The reason why you’re my pupil is because out of all the ponies whose magical were put to the test, yours was the one that shined the brightest no because you were the most powerful but rather because you were the one who I knew would have the ability to understand the true meaning of friendship when it came to being kind to even your worst enemies. You showed me that you knew what the right was to do even after believing for so long that you ultimate goal was to defeat Sunset Shimmer. You still pulled through and realised that there was good in everypony. And that is why you’re my pupil.”

“Okay Princess, I understand now.”

“Starlight.”

“Yes?”

“Can you remember just one thing for me?”

“Sure.”

“‘Always remember that no matter what happens, I love you.”

The End