On Wings of Grace

Chapters

Prologue: The Last Song of the Forest
Ch 1: A Storm Over Everfree
Ch.2: The Unknown Alicorn
Ch 3: Oh My Hydra
Ch 4: An (Unexpected) Royal Visit
Ch 5: The Heart's Melody
Ch 6: Old Friends and New Enemies
Ch 7: A Past Forgotten
Ch 8: The Maiden and the Trickster
Ch 9: Shadows of Betrayal
Ch 10: Rescue from Nightmare

Prologue: The Last Song of the Forest

1258 years prior to present

Shining Cloud ran through the forest as quickly as her hooves could carry her, her breath coming in rapid pants as her pursuers gained on her. She tightened her grip on her foal as she leaped over a bundle of fallen trees. She hissed in pain as her hoof clipped a large stone protruding from the forest floor, but she did not stumble. She could not allow her pursuers to take her and her filly. So she ran.

Now the Everfree forest was known for its dangerous creatures and plants; but if one was familiar with its inhabitants as she was, then they could navigate it safely and surely. And nopony was more familiar with the accursed forest than Shining Cloud, Princess of the Song Kingdom, whose existence was unknown to even the newly risen princess of the sun, Celestia and her sister, newly risen princess of the moon, Luna. And they never would, as Shining Cloud and her filly were the last remaining survivors of the Song Kingdom, as she had watched the griffon invaders slaughter her subjects. Her husband, Ivy Shield had remained behind to give her a chance to escape, and forced her to do so despite all of her begging for him to come with her. She had watched from the edge of the forest as her kingdom burned. Then she ran.

It was not long after that the invaders had taken chase, noticing that the Princess was not among the fallen ponies. What few guards that had escaped with her had been lost prior as they engaged the numerous groups of pursuing griffons. Shining Cloud was bleeding from numerous severe wounds and her vision was fading in and out as the blood loss began to take its toll on her. The only thing keeping her going was pure adrenaline and the absolute need to protect her daughter. She stumbled on a root and fell face first to the ground, her filly still clutched tightly in her hooves. She could hear the invaders approaching and silently prayed to any force that would listen, begging for a miracle to save her daughter’s life, even at the expense of her own. From above her she heard a low, threatening growl and looked up to see two Timberwolves glaring down at her, red and blue orbs following her movements. They dropped to the ground and slowly approached her, yet they did not attack, but instead drew closer so that they could catch her scent. After doing so, they lowered their muzzles and licked her face, a protective tone in their whimpers at seeing her injuries. Instead she pushed her foal across the ground towards them, the rest of her body unwilling and unable to respond to her commands. She looked up into their eyes and quietly whispered, “Please, protect her. Protect her as you would your own princess, for she is now the last remaining Song.” An understanding look appeared in their eyes as one of the Timberwolves approached and gently picked up the foal in its jaws. She watched as the two Timberwolves escaped into the forest, the Song Kingdoms last hope clenched in their jaws.

The ponies were almost upon her now and she closed her eyes as she happily accepted her fate, knowing that her daughter was safe. She didn't even feel the burning spears pierce her side as only a few words escaped her lips. “Mommy loves you, my Winter Song.”

Ch 1: A Storm Over Everfree

Present Time

Rainbow Dash looked at the approaching clouds apprehensively as she flew over the Everfree forest. Twilight had asked her to gather some of the plant life that only grows in the forest so that she could make a new potion. Rainbow had relented at first, saying that it was boring egghead work and that she should do it, but at the promise that Twilight would fly with her afterwards prompted the Pegasus to accept the offer. The wind tore at her mane as she flew towards the edge of the forest, Sweet Apple Acres quickly coming into view. But before she could escape the forest, a haunting melody reached her ears, almost causing her wings to snap shut so that she may listen. It was unlike anything she had ever heard before, and just the sound of it made her heart ache with a feeling she could not explain as a few unwanted tears rolled down her face. When the song ended however, she was snapped out of the trance just in time to see the storm clouds fall upon her.

She was tossed around like a rag doll, the wind whipping her mane into her face so that she couldn't see in front of her own hooves. She kept her wings shut so that the wind wouldn't cause any outward damage to them. She tried to maneuver her way out of the storm, but only succeeded in losing sight of Sweet Apple Acres. She didn't see the tree as it came rushing towards her, its barren limbs ready to break her body upon impact. The breath was knocked out of her as she slammed into the tree, narrowly missing the deadly tree limbs. However, she heard a sickening crunch as she hit the tree, and a massive wave of pain centering from her right wing threatened to send her under. She received numerous cuts and scrapes as she plummeted towards the forest floor, her mane and tail catching hold on some of the branches only to have clumps of hair yanked out.

When she hit the ground, she couldn't move, her own limbs not following her commands. When she tried to fold in her wings she let out a gasp as a sharp pain surged through the ravaged appendage. The pain brought tears to her eyes and Rainbow couldn't hold them back as she silently sobbed at the pain, her meal from earlier threatening to come back up as the nausea hit. She tried to move, but found herself pinned beneath a mound of tree limbs, their weight only causing her wing further pain. She froze however, when she heard a low threatening growl and slowly turned her head so that she could stare straight into the emotionless and hungry blue eyes of a Timberwolf. It slunk towards her, its body low to the ground as it prepared to lunge at its wounded prey. Rainbow Dash laid her head down on the ground, knowing that she could not face the predator in her wounded state.

But instead of feeling the vice-like jaws snap around her neck, she heard a most melodic voice call out to the creature, causing it to back away as the most beautiful pony Rainbow had ever seen stepped into view. She said something to the two wolves before picking Rainbow up in her magic, but her words were quickly swept away by the roaring wind and pounding rain. The last thing she saw before blacking out from the pain was the pony kneeling down and looking straight at her with crystalline green eyes.

Rainbow woke up to the soft feel of a cushion beneath her. She tried to move, but only succeeded in sending pain lancing through her backside. “Easy now or you’ll hurt yourself even worse.” said the pony she had seen earlier in the woods, setting a steaming mug of tea in front of her. Rainbow hadn't actually gotten a good look at the pony in the woods and was surprised by her beauty. She had a dark navy blue coat with a mane and tail that was a mix of gold, white, and baby blue. Her cutie mark was in the shape of a sun cresting above two snowflakes. Rainbow tentatively reached out and took the mug, eyeing it suspiciously before taking a sip. She sighed in relief as the first soothing gulp went down, tasting of honey and other spices. Almost instantly, the pain in her wing and back began to recede. “It’s a special blend of Everfree herbs. It numbs pain so that injuries can heal.” she said, setting down her own cup of what Rainbow assumed was normal tea. “Who are you?” asked Rainbow Dash, setting down her drink and eyeing the unicorn sitting across from her. The unicorn returned the look, albeit less suspicious and more amused. “My name is Winter Song and this is my home. I should be the one asking who you are.” asked Winter as she looked Rainbow over, actually looking surprised to see another pony this deep in the dangerous wood. At this Rainbow puffed her chest out as she got that proud glint in her eyes. “Oh, you don’t know? I am Rainbow Dash, the fastest flyer in all of Equestria and future Wonderbolt.” said Rainbow Dash. Winter was barely suppressing a laugh at seeing the injured pony in front of her boasting.

A growl from across the room drew Rainbow’s attention. The Timberwolves she had seen earlier were lying near the fireplace, their beady eyes watching Rainbow’s every move. “Watch out Winter. There are two Timberwolves in your living room.” whispered Rainbow, trying to put herself between the wolves and Winter. Winter looked over at them and rolled her eyes. “Oh don’t mind them, Aros and Delos are both sweethearts when you get to know them.” said Winter as she threw a piece of wood at the blue eyed wolf. It caught it in its teeth and began to gnaw happily on it.

Rainbow shivered at the sight of the two wolves fighting over the piece of wood. It was at that moment that she glanced out the window to see the sun slowly setting. She started to panic, as she had no idea how long she had been out cold. “Do not fret. It has only been two days.” offered Winter, her multicolored mane falling over her eyes, causing her to blow it back up. “Oh no, I should have been back days ago. The girls have to be so worried.” whined Rainbow as she tried to stand, only to gasp in pain at the sudden movement. Winter looked at Rainbow almost scornfully after witnessing her reopening her wounds in a panic.

She stood and began to make her way to the door, motioning for Rainbow to follow her. With a little reluctance at having to move her injured wing, Rainbow walked to the door, only to see Winter staring up at the sky, her eyes sparkling with amusement. Winter wasn't a small pony by any standards. In fact, she towered over Rainbow, nearly twice her height. She seemed to have the same height advantage that Princesses Celestia and Luna had. But that was crazy. Only Alicorns could grow to the princesses’ size. And Winter certainly wasn't an Alicorn. She’d seen Winter’s horn, but she knew that Winter didn't have a pair of … wings. Rainbow’s mind stuttered as she watched Winter stretch out a pair of 15ft wings.

She looked back at Rainbow, that same amusement glimmering in her eyes as she flexed the powerful muscles in her wings, wings that appear as though they have seen plenty of use. “Still willing to bet you’re the fastest?” taunted Winter as she beckoned for Rainbow to climb on her back. Rainbow was hesitant at first, but eventually her curiosity won out over her fear as she clambered onto Winter’s back. It would be fun to know what it felt like to fly with an Alicorn.

When they finally landed at the edge of Sweet Apple Acres, Rainbow’s mane was stuck back in a jet blown fashion, the wind from the flight having plastered it against her face. And yet, she had enjoyed the flight, more so than she even had with her own wings.Something had clicked between the two as they had flown towards the orchard and Rainbow couldn't explain it, but something about Winter had stirred something inside her. Almost reluctantly, she slowly slid off of Winter’s back, just barely keeping herself from falling to the ground, her legs trembling. Upon seeing Applejack bucking trees in the distance, Rainbow was about to call out to her to introduce her to Winter when she noticed Winter backing into the forest, her eyes filled with fear upon seeing the earth pony. “Winter, what’s wrong?” asked Rainbow, her face filled with confusion and concern. “I-I can’t be around other ponies. I just can’t. I’m s-sorry. You’re going to have to go the rest of the way on your own.” whimpered Winter as she shrank back into the thick brush of the Everfree forest. “But Winter…” said Rainbow Dash, trying to find Winters blue coat the in the shadows of the trees, but even her vibrant colors had disappeared into the gloom. But her voice lingered, carrying her last words. “If you want to visit, come to the edge of the Everfree and call for Aros and Delos. They will lead you safely to my hut.” whispered the wind as it carried those words away.

Rainbow Dash was just about to go back into the forest to look for Winter when she heard a familiar country twang. “R-Rainbow, is that you?” asked Applejack as she stared at Rainbow Dash, who looked back at her, smoothing her mane back down. “Hey Applejack. What’s up.” said Rainbow as casually as she could. Applejack galloped over to her, dropping the bucket of apples she had been carrying in exchange for wrapping her hooves around Rainbow’s neck, tears streaming’ down her face as she nearly strangled her. “Easy AJ, watch the wing.” said Rainbow as she gently unwound AJ’s hooves. Applejack worriedly looked at her wing, which was still bound tight to her side with a clean cloth.

“What happened to yer wing? Where in tarnation did ya go? How did ya fix up that wing? I didn't know ya knew how to do that.” rambled Applejack before Rainbow put a hoof into her mouth in order to stop her string of babble. “Before anything else, I need to go talk to Twilight. It’s really important.” said Rainbow as she prepared to take flight, before she felt a twinge of pain coming from the appendage, reminding her that she was grounded for the time being. That was before she felt a hoof on her shoulder. “Alright then. You can explain afterwards. Come on, ya can hitch a ride in the apple cart on my way to set up the stall. Fastest way besides wings to get to town.” said Applejack, already heading towards the cart that was sitting beneath an unbucked apple tree, already half full with buckets of apples. Before following her, Rainbow Dash cast one last gaze towards the shadows of the Everfree forest and the mysterious mare who dwelled within.

Ch.2: The Unknown Alicorn

The Golden Oaks Library still stood in the center of town, unchanged, albeit an extra room built to accommodate Trixie after she had returned two months ago to patch things up with Twilight. And she has been staying with Twilight ever since. Twilight was happy to finally have her marefriend back after having to chase her out of town after the alicorn amulet event, and she was thrilled when Trixie came back to apologize. And it was towards this library that Rainbow headed with the intent to talk to Twilight about Winter.

When she knocked on the door, Rainbow wasn’t too surprised to find it answered by Spike, Twilight’s number one assistant. “Hey Rainbow, what happened to you?” asked Spike as he looked over the bandages, his eyes going wide. “I’ll explain later. Right now I need to talk to Twilight, is she here?” asked Rainbow, looking inside the door. “Yeah she’s here. Come on in.” said Spike, opening the door wider so that Rainbow could walk inside. Once inside, Rainbow noticed that a few new decorations had been added to the library since she had last been there, such as a rack for Trixie’s hat and cape, as well as some new cases for books Rainbow had never seen before, most likely ones belonging to Trixie. “Rainbow!!” cried Twilight as she just about tackled Rainbow Dash to the ground in her excitement and worry. “Easy there Twilight.” said Rainbow as she gently push Twilight off of her, a few tears brimming in her own eyes from seeing her friend again.

So she wasn’t expecting the strike when it came. One minute she and Twilight her hugging and the next, there was a stinging pain in her cheek. When she looked back at Twilight she saw her friend’s tear filled eyes filled with an equal amount of concern, worry, and anger. “Twilight, what did you hit me for?” asked Rainbow, rubbing the spot where she had been hit. It actually hurt quite a bit. “Where did you go? How could you just up and disappear on your friends like that. Did you think we wouldn't worry? Did you think that we wouldn't be scared for you?” demanded Twilight, stamping her hoof in her frustration. Trixie had come downstairs after being woke up by the commotion, so when she saw Rainbow standing in the lobby, she was shocked. But she quickly hurried to Twilight’s side when she saw how upset she was and held her tight in her hooves as Twilight calmed down, the tears finally subsiding. “Listen Twilight, I really need to talk to you about something important. But I don’t want anyone else to hear what I have to say just yet. So do you think you could send Trixie and Spike out for a while?” asked Rainbow, looking over at the two in question, who were just watching the exchange take place. Trixie nodded in understanding and turned to Spike, pushing him towards the door. “Come Spike, you will assist Trixie in her morning activities while Twilight and Rainbow talk.” said the showmare as she trotted out the door, dragging a reluctant baby dragon along behind her. “But I wanted to hear what was so important.” mumbled the baby dragon, arms crossed.

Twilight turned to Rainbow, motioning for her to follow her to the reading room on the other side of the library. Rainbow followed, not really looking forward to revealing Winter; and yet she had to tell somepony and Twilight was the most likely to understand and be able to explain the situation. Rainbow sat across from Twilight as Twilight levitated some freshly made coffee from the kitchen in her magic. Twilight then flared her wings and then resettled them to get into a more comfortable position. It had been four years since Twilight had become a princess, and yet she still wasn’t completely comfortable with her new wings, despite Rainbow’s and Fluttershy's help.

“So what do you want to talk about Rainbow? And you better explain how you got so hurt.” demanded Twilight, taking a drink of the bitter beverage in order to wake up her still groggy mind. “Well, before any of that, I need to ask. Are you certain that the only other alicorns besides you are Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadance?” asked Rainbow in all seriousness, her coffee sitting untouched and quickly becoming cold on the table. This caused Twilight to lower the cup from her lips, a puzzled expression on her face. “I’m quite sure. Princess Celestia herself told me that there were no other alicorns in existence, though I am unsure just how much of what she told me is actually true. But how does this relate to you getting hurt?” asked Twilight, setting her cup down and eyeing Rainbow. Rainbow just twiddled her hooves and stared at the floor, unsure of how much she could actually tell her friend without getting Winter in trouble. “Rainbow.” said Twilight, her tone questioning. Finally Rainbow Dash sighed in defeat and lifted her head, her troubled eyes meeting her friend’s. “Well, do you remember when you sent me out into the Everfree in order to gather some herbs for your experiments?” asked Rainbow. “Yes, I do remember.” said Twilight. “Well, there was a pretty big storm that was coming towards me from across the forest. I was certain I would be able to outrun it and get back to Sweet Apple Acres before it hit and I was just about to when I heard… something… coming from the forest.” said Rainbow, looking at Twilight expectantly.

“What did you hear?” asked Twilight, her attention now completely on Rainbow. “Well, when I was flying over the forest, I started to hear singing.” muttered Rainbow. “Singing.” said Twilight disbelievingly. “Yeah, it was unlike anything I've ever heard before. It was like the song was calling me to it, beckoning me to come and discover its source and experience the same joy that it was promising. But at the same time, it was filled with such sorrow and pain that it made my heart hurt and brought tears to my eyes. Something about it just made you want to crawl into a hole and cry, but at the same time made you want to get up and dance the night away.” said Rainbow, recounting her experience with the strange song. “That may be… strange, but it still doesn't explain how you got all banged up like this and fixed up at the same time.” said Twilight. “Well, I was so caught up by the song, that I didn’t realize the storm was right above me until I got caught up in the turbulence. It flung me around so much that I lost track of which way was Sweet Apple Acres. Then the wind threw me into a tree and I… broke my wing.” said Rainbow, gesturing to her injured limb. “So how did you get fixed up if there was a storm raging overhead and you couldn't find your way to Sweet Apple Acres?” asked Twilight, leaning forward to hear Rainbows answer.

“It’s not how I was saved that is the important part. It’s who saved me.” said Rainbow, looking out the window towards the edge of town. “Why is it so strange that someone saved you?” asked Twilight, completely enraptured by Rainbow’s tale. “Because… it was an alicorn who saved me. And she wasn’t one of the princesses.” said Rainbow, reaching the part of the tale she dreaded telling the most.

What she wasn’t expecting was for Twilight to burst out laughing, earning an angry glare from Rainbow. “What’s so funny?” demanded Rainbow. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. It’s just that I thought you were actually going to tell me. But it’s alright if you don’t want to.” said Twilight, wiping a tear from her eye. “But I am telling you the truth.” said Rainbow. At this, Twilights gaze turned annoyed and a little angry. “Rainbow, you’re my friend and I would trust you with my life. But you can’t just lie to my face and expect me to believe you. It’s not right.” said Twilight, shaking an accusing hoof at Rainbow. “I’m not lying!!” yelled Rainbow. “I know for a fact that there are no other Alicorns. Princess Celestia told me herself.” argued Twilight. “And what if the Princess is wrong.” yelled Rainbow before realizing what she said. “Twilight, I-I didn’t…” Rainbow started. “Take it back.” growled Twilight. Rainbow looked away, her face showing her guilt. “I’m sorry Twilight. But how can you be so sure that Princess Celestia is always right. She has been wrong in the past.” whispered Rainbow. Twilight looked at the floor, also guilty at having overlooked such a detail in her flight to protect the princess’s honor, though she didn't really have a reason to. “I-I suppose. But I can’t just believe something so outlandish without proof.” said Twilight. “I could always take you to meet her, but we can’t bring our friends, not yet.” said Rainbow, her face alight with excitement at seeing Winter again. “Why not?” asked Twilight, that suspicious glint in her eye. “She’s… not entirely… comfortable around groups of ponies.” said Rainbow. At this Twilight’s gaze softened and she placed a reassuring on Rainbow’s shoulder. “I’m sure all she needs is a few friends.” said Twilight. “. Rainbow nodded and motioned for Twilight to follow her.

When they reached the edge of the Everfree forest, Twilight hesitated as did Rainbow. Rainbow trusted Winter, but was not so certain of her Timberwolf “guard dogs”. Rainbow had told Twilight about the guard dogs, but she was still heavily skeptical. It was understandable, as many of the Everfree’s inhabitants were… less than hospitable. So while Twilight hung back at a safe distance, Rainbow approached the forest. Then, at the top of her lungs, shouted for the wolves. “AROS, DELOS.” She called out. She then took a few steps back and waited patiently. Sure enough, a howl rang out across the wood, quickly followed by another. Twilight’s eyes grew wide as she heard the howls and she went to take a step back, but seeing Rainbow just standing there, no fear on her face, strengthened her resolve and she stood her ground.

Rainbow heard the pounding of wooden paws on soft earth before she saw them. They burst out of the foliage, causing some of the smaller trees to be pushed aside, almost knocked over. Twilight backed away, fear etched into her features, but Rainbow simply approached the wolves with what looked like a block of wood in her hooves. She tossed it at one of the wolves and it caught it in its teeth. It happily started gnawing on it, giving her a playful look. It yipped and lapped at her face, leaving her mane stuck up at odd angles. Twilight just looked at her strangely, as if she couldn't believe what she was seeing. The other Timberwolf gestured with it head back towards the forest, telling them to follow. Rainbow trotted after them, her wing still bound tight to her side with fresh bandages, and Twilight reluctantly followed.

The sounds of the Everfree echoed around them as the two ponies made their way deeper into the forest, quietly following their two guides. It didn’t take long for Twilight to begin to feel the change in atmosphere. It was almost as if someone had lifted away the depressing veil that always seemed to cloak the Everfree and instead replaced with joyous, welcoming warmth. Instead of the usual poison joke or strangle vines, unnaturally large flowers in all colors dotted the fallen trees and vines that somehow didn’t seem as menacing as before. The sounds of different animals calling to each other in reaction to the new arrivals echoed throughout the trees, seeming almost sing-song in nature. Twilight didn’t even realize she had been relaxing until she felt her flared wings settle back into the grooves of her back. Twilight didn’t even realize she had been gawking at the flora and fauna until she bumped into Rainbow’s backside, causing her to fall onto her flank. “We’re here.” exclaimed Rainbow as she gestured in front of her. Twilight looked around her form to see a cottage not too different from Fluttershy’s sitting comfortably among the huge flowers.

“Rainbow, what is this?” asked Twilight, awed by the sight of a home so deep in the Everfree, and one so well kept. She noticed the two Timberwolves had already slipped from view. “This is Winter’s place. She told me I could visit whenever I felt like it. Just… when we meet her… don’t get too excited. We don’t want to spook her.” warned Rainbow. Twilight just nodded, only just now having gotten her wits about her. “So where is this “Winter?”” asked Twilight. Rainbow didn't answer as she was too busy staring at something straight ahead, a giddy smile on her face. Twilight followed her gaze and froze at what she saw. Standing only a few feet away, using her magic to water some of the flowers, was a navy blue Alicorn with a multi-colored mane oblivious to the two ponies watching her water the plants.

“Hey Winter.” said Rainbow as she called to Winter from across the yard. The alicorn looked up in surprise at the use of her name, and a soft warm smile lit up her face. And then she saw Twilight and her joy filled eyes were quickly overcome with fear. She started to back away, only for her hoof to catch on the dropped watering can, causing her to trip and fall. Rainbow trotted over and helped Winter to her hooves. Winter looked as if she wanted to bolt, or do anything that would get her away from the unfamiliar pony. “Winter, it’s okay, she’s a friend of mine.” reassured Rainbow. Winter looked at Twilight, the fear still in her eyes, but it had diminished from before. “H-hi. My name is Twilight Sparkle.” said Twilight, holding out her hoof. Winter slowly approached and reluctantly took her hoof in response. “W-Winter Song.” said Winter. “So… you really are an alicorn.” stumbled Twilight, moving around Winter’s side so that she could stretch out one of Winter’s wing and examine, stunned to find that it is real. “Um, could we go inside and talk Winter. I’m sure that Twilight has a lot of questions to ask you.” said Rainbow, gently pulling Twilight away from Winter’s wing. “Um, s-sure. Follow me.” said Winter, beckoning them to follow her.

Ch 3: Oh My Hydra

The inside of the cottage wasn’t nearly as extravagant as the outside had been. There was a couch, fireplace, kitchen, and assorted rooms, but other than that it was no different from Fluttershy’s cottage, albeit not filled to the brim with animals and their homes. The three ponies sat around the kitchen table, an awkward silence permeating the air between them. Rainbow and Twilight exchanged nervous glances while Winter just stared down into her cup of tea. It was Rainbow who spoke first, hoping to break the silence and get the conversation rolling. “So, Winter, have you ever been to Ponyville?” asked Rainbow, looking up at Winter, who took a while to answer. “No. I've never really left the Everfree Forest all that much. In fact, I've only seen a few other ponies over the past few years when I've watched them stomp through the forest, attracting the attention of every creature out there.” said Winter, looking up from her tea. “Wait, so you've never left the Everfree. Then how have you survived out here?” asked Twilight, her natural curiosity peaked. “Well, since I've always lived here, I know what kind of plants can and can’t be eaten. And Aros and Delos help by gathering any herbs I need. It’s not so hard to live out here when you know what you’re doing.” said Winter.

“She sounds just like Zecora.” said Rainbow, finishing her tea and setting the glass back down on the table. “The zebra?” asked Winter. “How do you know Zecora?” asked Twilight. “Well, I've only really spoken to the zebra a few times, whenever we've crossed paths while gathering herbs. But other than that I only know of her. She is a bit… odd with how she speaks.” said Winter. “Yeah, apparently the rhyming is part of her Zebrican culture or something.” said Rainbow. Twilight was thrilled to finally have the other alicorn speaking, but these questions weren't really answering any of the questions she had about the alicorn. So she decided to take a leap and ask something a little more personal of the alicorn. “So… where are your parents Winter?” asked Twilight, earning a reproachful glare from Rainbow. “Twilight, don’t ask her…” started Rainbow, only to be cut off by Winter. “No, it’s alright, I can tell her.” said Winter, turning back to an expectant Twilight. “My parents were both killed when I was just a foal. I don’t really remember them all that well, and the memories I do have are too hazy to really go off of. I wish I knew more about them, but I just don’t, so i don't beat myself up over the fact.” said Winter, matter of fact.

“Oh. I-I’m sorry to hear that.” muttered Twilight, feeling guilty about bringing it up. Then she felt a comforting hoof on her shoulder and looked up to see Winter looking at her with such, warm, forgiving eyes that she was temporarily reminded of Celestia back before she... changed. “It’s alright, dear. Those memories are in the past and I do not trouble myself with them and instead focus on making new memories.” said Winter. Rainbow was looking at Twilight with an encouraging smile and Twilight looked back at Winter with a similar smile. “Thank you. I hope we can still be friends.” said Twilight, earning a laugh from Winter. Winter’s laughter was like the tinkling of water over glass and Rainbow couldn't help but try to catch every second of it. “I like her laugh.” thought Rainbow nonchalantly before realizing what she had just thought. She shook her head to clear it of the unwanted thoughts. “No, she is just a friend. Just a friend.” she reassured herself. Then she looked back at Winter, who was wiping a joy-filled tear from her eye. “Right?” Rainbow asked herself.

“So Winter, does Princess Celestia know about you?” asked Twilight, her momentary lapse into guilt long over with. “Who is Princess Celestia?” asked Winter, truly unsure of just whom Twilight was talking about. If Twilight had still been drinking her tea, she would have spit it out all over Winter’s dining room table. Rainbow patted her on the back as she coughed, trying to catch her breath. “Y-you don’t know Celestia. Regent of the sun and Princess of Equestria?” asked Twilight, dumbfounded. “I didn’t realize the sun a ruler.” said Winter, cocking her head in confusion. Twilight was struck dumb, unable to believe that there was a pony who didn’t even know who Celestia was. She was about to continue the matter when a Timberwolf came charging into the room and Winter went to go see what it wanted, leaving the two ponies to ponder what they had heard.

“Rainbow, how can she not know about Princess Celestia?” asked Twilight to the cyan mare. “Well, she did say that she doesn't ever really leave the Everfree, so maybe she really hasn't heard about her. It isn't all that hard to believe.” said Rainbow, trying to calm her friend. “But she doesn't know who PRINCESS CELESTIA is?” said Twilight, her stunned expression more than matching Rainbow's cool-headed reaction. Rainbow had to admit, it was quite funny to watch Twilight freak out over nothing like this. It was at that moment that Winter returned with a concerned expression on her face. “It would appear that a matter requiring my attention has returned and I must leave to address it immediately.” she said, quickly gathering her thing and putting her saddlebag on her back. “What could possibly happen that would have you so worried?” asked Twilight, her panic subsiding a bit in response to Winter’s serious expression. “It would appear that a hydra has become injured and requires medical attention. If you wish to follow me, you may, but I warn you to be careful. An injured hydra can be even more dangerous than a healthy one.” said winter as she opened and exited the back door, Rainbow and Twilight at her back.

They could hear the roars before they even saw the hydra, its titanic body writhing on the ground in pain. Twilight and Rainbow stopped following Winter once the first head came into sight; the other four were glaring at it, even though the pain could be seen on all of their twisted faces. But it was the fifth head that looked the worse. They shook in fear at the sight of the enormous beast, but Winter just walked right up to it, her saddlebags already opening, withdrawing what looked like a bundle of dried grasses tied together. She waved it in the air with her magic, its invisible scent attracting the beast, even the pained head. The five heads swiveled to look directly at Winter, their bright green eyes focused on her. “Winter… no.” warned Rainbow, but Winter continued towards the hydra, finally reaching the injured head. It growled at her but didn’t attack, choosing instead to set its most searing glare at her.

Then Winter laid her hoof upon the injured head and started stroking its scales, receiving a contented purr from the creature as the five heads lost their glare in exchange for a more pleasant expression, if a hydra can have such a thing. Then the fifth head gritted its teeth again, letting out a pained growl. “Shh, it’s okay. I’m here to help.” said Winter, continuing her gentle stroking. The fifth head looked at her with a pleading expression and she just nodded, ceasing her stroking and backing up a few steps. Rainbow and Twilight had cautiously approached the beast, stopping a few feet away from Winter, an awed expression on both their faces.

The fifth head then opened its mouth wide and to the shock and horror of the two observing ponies, Winter wiped her hooves in the grass and stepped into the hydra’s gaping maw. Rainbow tried to run forward to stop her, but was stopped by Twilight’s magic as she gestured for her to look more closely. Winter’s horn was alight with a soft green glow as she swept its light from side to side, a puzzled frown on her face that seemed to have nothing to do with the fact that she was standing in the mouth of one of the most violent, pony-hungry, and largest creatures known to ponies.

Soon however, a smile graced her face as she found the object obviously causing the hydra so much pain. “Don’t worry, I found what’s hurting you so bad. I’m going to put a sedation spell on you so that you won’t feel any pain when I pull it out, okay.” said Winter, once again lighting her horn and casting a sedation spell on the hydra, covering it in a green coat as she focused on the obstruction. A light sheen of sweat appeared on her coat as she yanked on the object. A shard of stone the size of a small carriage dislodged itself from the creature’s gums. Almost instantly the hydra seemed to relax, its source of pain gone. Winter walked out of its cavernous mouth and patted the side of its head gently, receiving a cacophony of licks, from the hydra, resulting in her mane and coat being stuck out in all directions. But then she turned and faced the hydra, a stern motherly expression on her face. “Now, I thought I told you to stop gnawing on boulders. It’s not good for you, as I've told you before.” said Winter, scolding the hydra. It shamefully lowers its heads, but then Winter smiled and patted its head again. “But it’s okay, because I forgive you. Now go on home.” said Winter as the hydra licked her once more before tramping off back into the woods.

Twilight and Rainbow were staring wide eyed at the event they had just witnessed as Winter approached. “Well, shall we head back to the cottage?” said Winter as she trotted back the way she had come. Twilight and Rainbow followed in silence, still stunned by Winter’s actions. It was a few hours later that Twilight and Rainbow departed from Winter’s home. They had sat around and talked a bit more, mainly the two ponies asking the older alicorn how she had tamed the hydra so easily. Winter just told them that she had that kind of calming effect on anything she was around, animals, ponies, and even plants, although she couldn't explain how it happened. Twilight offered that it might be her special talent, but Winter dismissed it immediately, saying that she knew what her special talent already was, but said that she wasn’t going to tell them, at least not right now. So after saying their goodbyes and being teleported back to Ponyville by Twilight, Rainbow and Twilight went their separate ways.

Twilight sat at her desk with Spike waiting patiently at her side. She hadn't told him what the letter was about or why it was so important, but he trusted her and so waited to send the letter, despite it being so late. Twilight on the other hand was abuzz with activity. She had found a brand new alicorn, one that even princesses Celestia and Luna knew nothing about. An alicorn with untold abilities who could possibly help Equestria, depending on how she was introduced to the princesses. For all she knew, Winter could be a princess herself, unbeknownst to the new alicorn. And so, as soon as she had arrived back at the library, she immediately called for Spike, but chose to write this one herself. This peaked Spike’s interest, but he knew better to barge in on Twilight’s business when she got like this. And so, quill and parchment in hand, Twilight began to formulate her letter to Princess Celestia.

Dear Princess Celestia,

You are not going to believe what I found out today. I don’t know if I believe it myself honestly. But I saw it with my own eyes. I saw HER with my own eyes. A full grown alicorn. Not you, me, Luna, or Cadence, but an unknown alicorn whom we had known nothing about. Her name is Winter Song. She says that she herself does not remember her own origins, if she even knows what they are. I cannot say for certain, but when I was around her, there was some kind of… atmosphere… that just seemed to affect me and Rainbow Dash. I can’t… really explain it. You kind of have to experience it for yourself to really understand what I’m talking about. She’s amazing though. She has pet Timberwolves and tamed a full grown hydra like it was a little dog. A HYDRA. But, she’s not exactly comfortable around other ponies. I don’t know why, because she won’t tell me or doesn't know herself, but I think something happened to her when she was younger that caused her to be afraid of other ponies. I hope you can help me figure out how to handle this, as I’m sure you have much more experience with this kind of thing than I do.

Your fellow Princess,

Twilight Sparkle

Once her letter was composed, Twilight let out a loud yawn and gave the letter to Spike to send to Princess Celestia. She stayed there to make sure he didn’t read it and once he sent it, she got up from her chair and headed up the stairs to her room, which now had a bright blue wand engraved on the door next to her cutie mark. Trixie had her own room now, but she usually just kept her show things in it and only really used it when she wanted to be alone. She preferred to share Twilight’s bed, an action that Twilight didn’t really contest, not that she wanted to. In fact, Trixie was currently curled up in Twilight’s sheets; her mane messed up in a way that only made her look even cuter while she slept. Twilight smiled and went over to the bed, snuggling up to Trixie and nuzzling Trixie’s cheek, receiving a happy mumble in return as Trixie snuggled deeper into Twilight’s embrace. Stifling a yawn, Twilight placed a wing protectively over the showmare’s sleeping form before finally falling into a well-deserved slumber.

Ch 4: An (Unexpected) Royal Visit

All Celestia could do was gawk at Twilight’s most recent letter, her jaw hanging agape. Another alicorn and one living so near Ponyville no less. It was a shocking discovery that not even Celestia could fully wrap her mind around. The letter had arrived shortly after Luna had already left to raise the moon, so Celestia was just about to lie down to sleep. She had almost opted to set the letter aside to read in the morning, but something told her that she had to read it immediately. She was about to storm out of the room to alert the guards and head to Ponyville when she stopped herself and thought about it for a moment. If she suddenly appeared in Ponyville with an entire platoon of guards at her back, not only would she cause a panic among the town’s residents, but she might also scare off this new alicorn, if what Twilight said about this Winter’s less than enthusiastic approach to other ponies was true. So instead, Celestia decided to go visit Twilight alone and off the chart. She would speak to Luna about it first though so that she wouldn't panic at Celestia’s sudden disappearance.

Luna was still sitting in the garden, staring up at her charge when Celestia came and sat beside her, stretching a wing to encompass her little sister. Luna leaned into the embrace, thankful to have a moment to speak to her sister without the nagging interruptions of the Canterlot nobles, whose only cares were how they were going to make their next profit. “How come you are not asleep yet sister?” asked Luna, looking at her sister questioningly. “Something… important… has come up that requires my immediate attention.” said Celestia, hoping that her sister would not question further. It is not that she did not trust her younger sister, but rather that she wished to be sure of this new alicorn herself before she revealed it to anyone else. A new alicorn not under her lead could cause... problems... further down the road, just as Twilight had. “No need to cause a panic.” thought Celestia. “Alright, I hope it does not take you too long to handle You know how much I despise those pesky nobles. I don’t know how long I would be able to handle double the amount of headaches.” complained Luna, causing Celestia to laugh. “Do not fret, dear sister. I will not be long.” said Celestia. “At least I hope not.” thought Celestia to herself as she flared her wings and took flight into the sky.

The stars of Luna’s skies showed bright above Celestia as she flew through the cloudless skies, her pristine white wings catching the shafts of moonlight, making her appear almost like a specter to any who might spot her below. Luna’s moon lit the way as she came upon the quaint town of Ponyville. Although she had come to visit Twilight and her friends multiple times, Celestia had never actually seen the town nor cared to do so, aside from the occasional visit to the Carousel Boutique.The Golden Oaks Library came into view as she coasted in to land, her wings tilting in order to slow her descent. She landed softly upon the balcony that led into Twilight’s room, not making a sound as she did so. She was just about to open the balcony door when she noticed something out of place in her room. She leaned in closer to get a better look when she noticed the blue showmare nestled against Twilight’s side, held close by Twilight’s protective wing. Celestia’s eyes widened upon seeing the mare, as Twilight had told her nothing about any sort of relationship. She was so shocked at the sight that she stumbled back, her hoof snagging on the balcony railing, sending Celestia toppling over the side to the streets below. Celestia sneezed as she inhaled the dust scattered by her less than preferred landing. A steely glare settled into Celestia’s eyes as she thought about somepony else being with her former student.

She felt the need to barge into the library and confront her former student and this mysterious mare that had stolen Twilight’s heart, but then she stopped as a thought crossed her mind. “I’m jealous of a simple unicorn mare that I haven't even met. And I was just about to barge into Twilight’s home uninvited. How foolish that would have been?” thought Celestia as she chuckled to herself. “And what would Twilight have thought of me just appearing on her doorstep, asking about a mare I don’t even know.” thought Celestia. Celestia instead gently opened the door to the library and walked inside, feeling a bit nostalgic about the last time she had been in the library, which had been when she had come to Ponyville for the element of Laughter, Pinkie Pie’s, birthday. That had been a party that she would never forget, as the pink party pony had made it all too memorable. Celestia also learned from that party, that when Pinkie mentioned a Party Cannon, it was best to duck. She opted to lie on the couch in the living room, as it appeared to be large enough to support her larger size. Celestia laid her head down in her hooves as she shut her eyes, waiting for sleep to take her. Celestia would confront her former student in the morning, as it would be more appropriate and polite to do so after she was already awake rather than wake her in the middle of the night.

Twilight woke with a start as she realized that her warm barrel heater was missing. At a cough from the doorway, Twilight raised her head, stretching her wings in the process as she climbed down off of the bed. Trixie was standing in the doorway, her mane still disheveled from last night, and a nervous expression on her face. Twilight walked over and nuzzled the side of Trixie’s face, happy that the first thing she saw in the morning was her love’s face. She was surprised when Trixie did not return the gesture, choosing instead to gesture for Twilight to follow her. Twilight was surprised, but not overly concerned as she followed Trixie to the bottom of the stairs and into the living room. It was not until she saw who was waiting in the living room that a knot of fear began to tie itself in the pit of her stomach. “C-Celestia!!” cried Twilight, staring at the regent of the sun standing in her living room, a stormy expression on her face.

Rainbow Dash twisted in her sleep, tossing and turning as she was caught in her dreams. She was flying high above the clouds as usual, performing breath taking stunts and dives as she went along. Her mane streamed behind her, taking on that familiar chromatic trail as the wind obeyed her commands. The shafts of sunlight showed brightly against the white clouds, promising a beautiful day. But then suddenly the clouds started to swirl around her, taking on a dark tone that flashed with lightning. Before she could react, rain started to fall, each drop like a miniature explosion as they hit her. The cold was freezing her to her very core and her wings were becoming stiff and unresponsive. Tears started rolling down her face as she plummeted towards the ground below, unable to spread her wings and take flight once more.

Without even realizing she was doing it, she called out the one name she wanted to save her most of all. “Winter, save me!!!” cried Rainbow, her limbs flailing in the wind. Almost instantly she was surrounded by a wave of snow that quickly encompassed her form, slowing her descent until eventually stopping her completely. She expected it to be even colder than the rain had been, but it wasn’t. It was warm, accepting, and loving as it slowly took form. Rainbow only shut her eyes for a few seconds, but when she opened them, she wasn’t sitting on a cloud of snow anymore. She was sitting on Winter’s back as she flew through the sky, her head turned so that her deep green eyes were staring back at Rainbow. “Hello dear. Are you alright?” asked dream Winter. Rainbow Dash was overjoyed at the appearance of Winter in her dream and held onto the alicorn's back as she completed a few loops and curls in the empty air. Rainbow once again felt that warm feeling stir in her chest, warming her from the inside out as she clung to Winter, her muzzle buried in the alicorn's soft blue fur.

But before she could continue to enjoy the dream, something started to pull Rainbow away. She looked behind her and saw the dream world beginning to fade away and turned back to see the dream Winter suffering the same fate. “No. NOOO.” cried Rainbow as she woke up in a cold sweat. She almost started to cry as she remembered the dream she had just been having. She had accepted that she had strong feelings for the alicorn when she had come home from Winter’s the other night, but she was afraid that Winter may not return her feelings. Rainbow then rocketed out of bed as another round of knocks echoed throughout her home, a little more forceful this time. She grumpily walked through the halls of her house until she reached her front door, her dream still at the forefront of her mind. She was about to grudgingly yell at the pony that had interrupted her dream, but when she saw who was at her front door, the words froze in her throat.

Princess Luna stood at Rainbow’s doorstep, her usual travelling cloak adorning her figure. Her expression was a mixture of shock, anger, bewilderment, and curiosity as Rainbow quickly stepped back into her home, inviting the princess in. Luna looked genuinely curious as she stepped into the Pegasus’s sky home, having never seen one like it before. “Rainbow Dash I presume.” said Luna as she sat down on the cloud couch. “Y-yes princess. How can I help you?” asked Rainbow Dash as she looked at the flustered alicorn. “I was just coasting through the dream realm when I came across your… ahem… dream.” muttered Luna, looking away, a heavy blush on her face. Rainbow looked away, an even heavier blush adorning her face. “O-oh. You saw… that dream.” said Rainbow Dash. “I-indeed. But, um, that is not why I have come. I have actually come because of who I saw in that dream.” said Luna as she towered to her full height over Rainbow Dash, whose nose was practically touching the floor in a submissive bow. “What about her?” asked Rainbow Dash. “Who was that other alicorn?” demanded Luna, forcing Rainbow Dash to explain.

“So she is real, Twilight. Your letter wasn’t just some joke?” asked Celestia, Twilight and Trixie shivering beneath her icy glare. “Y-yes Celestia. I promise you it’s the truth.” said Twilight. Although Twilight was a princess as well, she still knew how much power Celestia had locked away and was not willing to upset Celestia without good reason. Celestia then turned and started towards the front door of the library, her golden magic opening the door before her. “Celestia, where are you going?” asked Twilight as she followed the irate princess.

“A new alicorn. And Celestia told me nothing of it. How dare she keep such important information from me?" said Luna as she paced in front of Rainbow, who was looking at her with a mix of concern and worry. More for Winter really than Princess Luna. "Well, I guess I shall just have to find this new alicorn myself and get to the bottom of things” said Luna as she headed towards the door of the Pegasus’s house, her dark blue magic practically wrenching it off of it's hinges. “Where are you going princess?” asked Rainbow Dash, cautiously following her at a safe distance.

“TO FIND THIS ALICORN!!” yelled the two princesses in unison.

Ch 5: The Heart's Melody

The two princesses made their ways towards Winter’s cottage, completely unaware of the other princesses’ presence, each followed by their fearful entourage. Rainbow and Twilight were both unsure of how Winter would react to two frustrated alicorn princesses showing up at her front door when she had so obviously panicked at seeing just Twilight. They didn’t have long to wonder as they broke through the brush and arrived at Winter’s house. She was sitting in her garden, smiling down at a pair of cockatrices that were eating feed corn from her hoof. Rainbow was just about to call out when the princesses made themselves known. “UNKNOWN ALICORN, I am here to meet and speak with you.” said Celestia and Luna at the same time. They turned and looked at each other upon hearing the other’s voice. A competitive glare sparked between the two as they both made their way over to a startled Winter, who was watching the cockatrices she was feeding run back into the forest, having been scared off by the sudden loud noise.

“B-b-big p-ponies.” whimpered Winter as she cowered beneath the gaze of the two princesses. Celestia held out her hoof first. “I am Celestia, and I am…” started Celestia, only to be interrupted by Luna, who stuck her hoof out in front of Celestia’s hoof. “I am Luna, and I am here to…” started Luna before her vision was filled by an alabaster chest. “What do you think you’re doing here Luna?” demanded Celestia, irritation in her voice. “I came here to meet the new alicorn that you kept hidden from me.” said Luna with an equal amount of irritation in her voice. “I told you I would handle it.” growled Celestia. Winter was quickly backing away, her fear growing as the two princesses grew even angrier. Twilight noticed this and tried to intervene and calm the princesses down. But they didn’t even seem to notice her, the air crackling with the tension between the two. Winter’s whimpering was audible now as she was almost at the edge of her yard. Luna was digging her hoof into the ground as her voice continued to gain volume and timbre as she slipped into the royal Canterlot voice. “I have just as much right to meet this new pony as you do sister.” said Luna. “LUNA, I said I would handle it!” yelled Celestia, stamping her hoof, tearing the ground beneath it. At this Winter let out a yelp, her fear reaching its peak. She turned and darted into the woods, not caring where she went so long as she was able to escape the two angry ponies.

“Look what you've done.” growled Rainbow as she darted off after Winter into the woods. As Twilight followed after Rainbow, she turned and glared at the two princesses, disappointment in her eyes and voice. “I hope you two are happy. You terrified her.” said Twilight before galloping into the wood. Luna and Celestia looked at each other, guilty looks adorning their faces. “Look at us, bickering over something so silly. And we managed to scare away this new pony with our arguing. What fools we are.” mumbled Celestia. “Yes. But we may yet make up for it. We need to look for her before she gets hurt.” said Luna, flaring her wings and taking flight. Celestia soon followed suit, but only after catching a glance at the two Timberwolves who were watching the exchange with only mild interest, as if they knew what was going to happen, but would not say.

The thorns and bramble scratched and tore at Rainbow’s coat and mane as she galloped through the forest, but she didn’t care. All she cared about was finding Winter, who was most likely lost and terrified by now, if her complete disregard for which direction she had been running in held up. She was just about to run through a grove of Melata trees when she heard soft weeping from behind one of the trees. She quietly trotted over to the tree and looked behind it, only to see Winter curled up, her body shaking as she wept. Her mane was dirty and matted, her coat torn in places that had been snagged by the branches of the trees. “W-Winter.” whispered Rainbow as she slowly inched closer. Winter stopped sobbing, her eyes lifting to meet Rainbow’s before she pressed herself even further into the indentation under the tree to continue her sobbing. Rainbow trotted over and laid herself down next to Winter, feeling her tense up next to her before eventually relaxing.

“Why did you run away Winter?” asked Rainbow, being careful not to do anything to spook the mare. “I don’t know. It’s just, when they were fighting, it looked so… familiar to me, as if I've seen it before. But I can’t figure out why. So I ran. Not merely because I was afraid, but because I was confused by what I saw and what my memories might hold.” said Winter, tears still rolling silently down her face as the unwanted memories surfaced once more. Rainbow raised a hoof to Winter’s cheek and gently wiped away the tears that were falling. Winter turned to look at Rainbow, confusion, shock, and… hope in her eyes. Rainbow draped a wing over Winter, looking up at her face, tears streaming down her own face, not because she was sad or angry or happy, but because she could be there for her. For the mare she loved and cherished above all others, although she had tried to deny it at first. “It’s okay to be afraid, Winter. Even I can be scared sometimes. But you don’t have to let that fear rule your life. If those memories are hurting you so much and causing you to be so afraid, then let me take some of the burden. Let me stand by your side, to support you when you fall and praise you when you succeed. Let me be in your heart when you are alone, so that you may always have someone at your side. You don’t have to stand alone. You don’t have to close off your heart so that it can’t be hurt. You can be strong and brave and heroic. You can be and do so much Winter. Just… let me in. Let me be with you.” said Rainbow, baring her heart and feelings to Winter, tilting her head so that she could gaze into the eyes of the most beautiful mare she had ever known. And then she leaned in and kissed her.

Winter’s eyes widened at the kiss, her mind freezing up as Rainbow’s soft lips locked with her own. But she didn’t resist. In fact, it felt quite… nice. As she closed her eyes and leaned in to meet Rainbow, the only thought that clouded her mind, pushing aside all her worries, fears, and anxieties, was that she loved this mare. She couldn't explain why or how, but she just knew that she would do anything, be anything for her. The tension that had earlier claimed her now slid off of her like water, a warm, tingly feeling taking its place in her heart. She would have been content staying there, embracing Rainbow for hours until she heard a loud piercing scream followed by a terrible roar. Her head shot up as she recognized the roar for what it was. It was the roar of a manticore and an angry one at that. Before Rainbow could realize happened, Winter had lifted her with her magic and placed her on her back. Winter spread her majestic wings and took to the skies, the trees and clouds twisting away from the air current she produced.

Twilight was backed against a stone wall, six manticores having cornered her in a dead end. She couldn't move her right wing, as one of the manticores had struck it with its claw. The lead manticore roared again, taking another step closer to Twilight. Twilight’s back hoof struck the stone of the wall, signaling the end to her movement. Twilight closed her eyes in acceptance of her fate, so she didn’t see the blue blur that swooped down and landed in front of her, letting Rainbow slide off her back and go stand next to Twilight, who looked at her and then at Winter in shock. The manticores were surprised by the new arrival but not too intimidated, although they could feel the power rolling off of this new pony.

The manticores all roared in unison, hoping to intimidate the new challenger, but Winter just stared them down. The air thrummed with power as Winter prepared her spell, her horn glowing with a threatening green magic. The trees around her groaned and creaked as her magic surged into them, their roots and branches reaching out for the manticores, who took a few steps back, eyeing the advancing foliage given life warily. The wind had also picked up, feeding off of the protective nature of Winter’s magic. It was whipping around, picking up branches, rocks and whatever else it could, throwing them around at high speed. The clouds above took on a dark, menacing color as the temperature began to drop drastically. Snow had begun to fall as the clouds surged together to form one endless storm cloud covering the entire sky. Frost was forming on the forest floor, the trees and everything else the snow touched. Winter’s eyes now glowed a hateful blue as she glared at the manticores, whose eyes were finally filling with fear. Icy frost was exhaled with every breath and the ground rumbled beneath Winter’s feet as her spell became more intense. Ice was forming around the manticore’s feet and they were frantically trying to break out so they could escape, now terrified of the god-like Winter. She could hear somepony speaking frantically to her, but the actual words were drowned out by the roar in Winter’s ears. Winter’s eyes widened as she realized what was happening and the memories that resurfaced due to her actions horrified her. “No.” she whispered, tears streaming down her frost covered cheek.

Celestia and Luna had to fight against the freezing winds to keep from being thrown to the ground. The snow only made it harder as it stuck to their wings and the cold began to numb the tired appendages. The storm had appeared out of nowhere, blanketing the entire Everfree forest with the cold white sheet. It raged far harder than any natural storm and it was beginning to spread outside of the Everfree’s borders, touching the outskirts of the apple orchard in the distance. The trees that were touched by the snow froze solid almost instantly, shriveling into unrecognizable black forms. And the storm was only growing more powerful with each passing second. Even Luna’s moon seemed to be growing paler as the cold settled into her sister’ body. A normal Pegasus or unicorn, no matter how powerful would be able to create a storm like this. And Celestia knew Twilight, despite being an alicorn and having as much power as she did, would not be able to form such an intense blizzard, if it could be called that anymore. So that left only one other alicorn who could possibly summon the power to create it and it was the one alicorn Celestia knew nothing about and the one that caused her much worry… Winter Song.

Winter stood in the center of the clearing, her powers growing wildly out of control. Twilight cowered against the stone wall, frost covering her form and making her appear almost white. The manticores were now entirely encased in ice, their last expression one of pure terror as they had tried to flee from their impending doom. Tears rolled down Winter’s face as she tried to make her power stop, but it just wouldn't listen to her. Celestia and Luna landed a distance away from Winter, folding their wings in to prevent them from being snapped off by the powerful wind. Both princesses could feel the emotions of terror and sadness reverberating through the air, their very presence making the snow feel even heavier. But their source was not Twilight Sparkle nor Rainbow Dash, but the alicorn that was the center of the storm. The princesses could not even approach the alicorn, as the magic that was surrounding her would not let any pony near. But one pony stood from her place among the snow and began to trudge towards Winter, ignoring the biting wind and flaring magic that beat against her coat. Rainbow Dash would not let Winter suffer alone.

Far from the epicenter in the dusty badlands, the Hive of Queen Chrysalis was just starting to feel the effects of the emotional blizzard. The changelings had all taken cover inside the protective walls of the hive, preferring not to take their chances with the violent winds outside. Even Queen Chrysalis refused to venture out into freezing winds, although she, like the entire hive, could feel the powerful emotions coursing through each blast of cold. She wanted to send out a scouting party to determine the source of the powerful emotions, but she was not going to risk any of her children just to find out what she already had a strong feeling about. The emotions that were pouring out of the winds felt just like the ones she had experienced long, long ago. Almost 258 years later and she still remembered the face of the one true friend she had managed to make when she was but a young mare. Chrysalis hoped that once the storm subsided, she would be able to go and see her old friend once more.

Rainbow pushed her way through the opposing wind and snow so that she could get to Winter. “Winter.” cried Rainbow, almost near Winter now. Winter turned her head, her eyes still shining an icy blue, tears turning to ice before they even left her face. “Please, stay away from me. I don’t want you to get hurt.” she begged, turning to face the mare she loved more than anything else. “No. I already told you that I wouldn't let you be alone. Whatever happened in your past and whatever you’re suffering through now, we can face it together.” said Rainbow, moving even closer to Winter, managing to grasp Winter’s tail in her mouth and pull herself closer. “Please. I beg you. Leave.” pleaded Winter. “No. I won’t.” said Rainbow as she wrapped her hooves around Winter’s neck, pulling her close. Winter’s tears stained Rainbow’s coat, but Rainbow didn’t care, continuing to hold Winter until the wind started to die down and the air started to warm. Winter’s sobbing began to soften until it stopped altogether and she turned to look at the mare that had stopped her violent outburst. Rainbow was just smiling up at her, her eyes sparkling with happiness. Without another word, Rainbow buried her muzzle in Winter’s chest, wishing to lose herself in her love’s blue coat. Celestia was watching the exchange with a measure of disdain, an expression that did not go unnoticed by her sister, who looked at her sister with worry.

Chrysalis noticed the dying winds and quickly made her way to the balcony that was just starting to clear of the thick blanket of snow that had accumulated. Unfurling her gossamer wings, she quickly took to the air. She would not miss this opportunity to meet with her old friend and the one mare who had stolen Winter's heart. She sent a message through the hive-mind to not follow her.

What she didn’t realize was that a pair of hateful, envious eyes were watching her disappear into the distance, a devious plan forming in his mind.

Ch 6: Old Friends and New Enemies

Winter was laying on her couch next to Rainbow Dash, who was nestled against her side, asleep. It had not taken long for the results of Winter’s magical outburst to disappear, leaving behind many questions in the minds of Ponyville’s residents. Luna sat in a chair across from Winter, listening to Twilight Sparkle and her sister argue outside the door. It didn’t sound good at all. She knew that Winter could hear the words being spoken, but at the same time knew that she was more concerned with other things, such as the young cyan mare asleep at her side. Winter lowered her head so that she could nuzzle Rainbow’s cheek. Rainbow mumbled happily as Winter draped a wing over her form.

“She is unpredictable and dangerous. She must be taken to Canterlot for observation so that she won’t cause any harm!” yelled Celestia, pacing back and forth in front of Twilight, who stood her ground and gave Celestia a steely glare. “Won't cause any harm to you, you mean. She is not some object to be kept in a vault and watched. She is her own pony and she is not somepony you can just order around.” argued Twilight, placing herself protectively in front of Winter’s door. “I AM HER PRINCESS!” yelled Celestia, stamping her hoof as if she were some foal throwing a temper tantrum. “You are A princess. So is she. You can’t just assume you can tell everypony what to do. You do not have the right.” yelled Twilight, her mane starting to glow a soft orange as her anger grew. Celestia was stunned at how Twilight had just spoken to her. “You will not speak to your princess that way.” said Celestia, using her full regal force to try and force Twilight to submit. But Twilight just countered using her own regal power, her mane now appearing as a burning flame. “You’re not my princess anymore. Now. Get out!” commanded Twilight using her own magic to open the door and force Celestia out, practically throwing the princess onto the muddy ground outside. Celestia just looked back as the door slammed shut, a shocked and angry expression on her face. “Twilight Sparkle, you will regret those words. That is a promise.” snarled Celestia as she flared her wings and took flight.

Chrysalis watched the exchange from the shade of the trees, shocked by Twilight’s expulsion of princess Celestia, as well as Celestia’s hateful last words. She felt a twinge in her hive-mind, something that almost felt like… gloating. But she ignored it and instead stepped forward out of the brush. “Twilight Sparkle, I presume.” said Chrysalis, still unsure of whether approaching the angry mare was a good idea at the moment. Twilight turned her burning gaze onto Chrysalis, before it turned to one of confusion and irritation. “Oh. It’s you. What do you want Chrysalis?” demanded Twilight, too irritated to do more than glare at the changeling. Twilight had pretty much made peace with Chrysalis a few years after the Canterlot invasion, though that wasn’t to say they were friends, or anywhere near it. They were more like mutual acquaintances.

Of course, Celestia had been most adamant about the fact that Twilight had settled things with Chrysalis, saying that they should not have to go crawling on their bellies to those insects, begging for forgiveness. The rift between Celestia and Twilight Sparkle had formed during that argument and has only been growing worse since. The events of tonight were just the final breaking point. All of Equestria and even some of the neighboring nations knew of the increasing tension between the two princesses, and some were even worried about what would happen should the two princesses decide to break away from each other. Some feared war would soon follow as the factions backing princess Celestia and the factions backing princess Twilight fought for control of Equestria. Those who could remember feared a repeat of the War of Sun and Moon, when Celestia and Luna had first fought and Luna was banished. All of Equis was on edge, uncertain of how things would turn out.

“I’ll ask again Chrysalis. What do you want?” asked Twilight. Chrysalis snorted, barely stifling a laugh at seeing the normally so uptight and organized princess so out of sorts. “Why, can’t I simply stop by and see an old friend.” mocked Chrysalis. Twilight huffed, not in the mood to deal with the changeling’s antics. “I’ve told you this before Chrysalis. We are not friends; all we are is allies in case of emergency and that’s it.” said Twilight, turning to shut the door on the changeling. “But I was not speaking of you. I was talking about dear Winter.” said Chrysalis. Those words froze Twilight’s feet to the ground and she turned to face the changeling queen, who was now making her way up the steps towards the door. Before she could cross the threshold however, Chrysalis was encompassed by a light purple glow, lifting her off her feet and bringing her face close to Twilight’s. “What do you know about Winter?” demanded Twilight, putting a slight amount of pressure on the queen. “We’re old friends, like I said. Just let me see her and I’ll explain.” said Chrysalis, her facing turning slightly blue as she tried to breathe. Twilight eyed her for a bit before gently letting her down. “Fine, but if you do anything to try and hurt my friends, you will pay.” said Twilight, walking through the door with Chrysalis right behind her.

Winter had just finished moving off the couch without waking Rainbow when she heard Twilight yell at Celestia, telling her to leave. She looked at Luna, about to ask if she had heard the same thing, only to see tears streaming down the night princess’s face, a pained and sorrowful expression showing. Luna was not crying because Celestia had been cast out. She was crying because she knew why she had been cast out. Celestia’s stubbornness and unwillingness to accept something she could not control had always gotten her in trouble with others. Even when they were fillies, Celestia always had to be in control and always freaked out when she lost it. Luna had thought that old habit buried when Celestia became Princess of Equestria, but was now seeing signs of its still strong presence in her sister, and she was worried about the implications that discovery meant. Luna was going to have to have a talk with her sister.

The door to the room opened and Twilight entered, a scowl adorning her features. And following close behind her was a pseudo-pony Winter never thought she’d see again. “Chryssie.” said Winter before galloping over and nuzzling the side of Chrysalis’s face, not believing it was truly her old friend. “Hello Winter. It is wonderful nice to see again after so many years.” said Chrysalis returning the nuzzle. Luna was eyeing the changeling warily, but at the same time her curiosity was piqued by her presence and seemingly close relationship to Winter. “What are you doing here Chrysalis?” asked Luna. “What? I can’t come and visit an old friend I didn’t even know was alive until a few moments ago.” said Chrysalis, lying down on the cushion Winter set on the floor for her. “Your… old friend?” asked Luna, questioningly. Chrysalis nodded, another smile spreading across her fanged face. “Indeed. I owe her my life after all. And she was the first real friend I ever made.” said Chrysalis as she settled into a comfortable position. Twilight and Luna looked at each other, shocked by this new information. “Tell us.” said Twilight. So Chrysalis began to recount her experiences with Winter, starting with their first encounter.

Zurgis had watched Queen Chrysalis walk inside the cottage with the ponies, completely of her own free will and smiled to himself. “She is friends with the ponies.” thought Zurgis, a disgusted tone attached to the thought. The hive-mind connected to him recoiled as the thought surged across the connection. They were both shocked and angry, although a large part of the hive was content, almost happy that their queen was more than willing to make peace with the ponies. Zurgis considered that part of the hive the part that was weak and unworthy to be part of the new queen’s glorious kingdom once Chrysalis was deposed. And after watching the purple pony toss the one known as princess Celestia into the mud and then Celestia’s furious exit, Zurgis knew exactly how to work their conflict to the hive’s advantage. He silently laughed to himself as he slipped back into the shady woods, already plotting his route towards Canterlot.

Ch 7: A Past Forgotten

Chrysalis had just been chosen as the next queen, though she wouldn't become the actual queen until the old one died. So she was still in training, and as her final lesson, she was to go out into the pony world and replace somepony so that she could gather love for her hive. She was to do this alone, without escort, as any queen of note should be able to defend herself against the dangers of the outside world if they are to defend the hive. So Chrysalis set out to discover a pony to collect love from, unaware of the dangers that awaited her.

Chrysalis ran harder than she ever had before, her hooves aching from the effort, the Ursa Major close behind her. She had been hungry and had unknowingly stumbled onto the lair of a sleeping Ursa Major. Safe to say it was less than happy to see her as its mood suggested. It swung its trunk-like arms and cut a large gash down Chrysalis’s side, splitting the chitin and sending an bolt of pain throughout her body. Chrysalis saw a hiding place up ahead and ducked underneath a fallen tree as the Ursa Major thundered past, unaware that its quarry had escaped. Chrysalis let out a shuddering breath, crawling out from under the tree only after she had made sure the Ursa was gone. She stumbled to a nearby tree, placing a hoof against it to try and steady herself. She saw dim lights in the distance and began to stagger towards them, her injured leg dragging behind her. She only made it a few more yards before collapsing to the ground, letting out a cry of pain as she hit the unforgiving rock.

Her breathing was labored as she laid there, her own blood pooling around her. She tried to reach out to the hive-mind to call for help, but the connection was fuzzy, almost nonexistent. She began to cry as she realized she was all alone, the green tears rolling down her muzzle. Broken, dying, and all alone. She began to get desperate and started to cry out into the dark to anyone who would listen. “H-help. Help me. A-anyone. Please, someone h-help me.” cried Chrysalis, her tears coming unobstructed now. She was beginning to feel cold, losing the feeling in her limbs. She could see the pool of blood growing around her as her vision began to grow clouded. Her voice had died down to a whisper, her throat raw from crying for help.

She was dipping in and out of conscience now, and her heart was slowing down as her body chilled. She accepted her coming death with silence, for that was all she could give now. Chrysalis was so out of it that she didn’t even notice the blue blur rocketing towards her, flanked by two brown blurs. “Hang on. Don’t die on me.” cried a voice that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. She listened to it, happy at least to know she wasn’t alone in her final moments.

It was quiet at first and Chrysalis couldn't hear a thing. Then suddenly she began to hear something. Was… was that her heart. She listened closely and recognized the constant thump of a heart beating strong and true. She could hear her own breath, faint but steady. This, coupled with her heartbeat, was more than enough to convince Chrysalis that she was alive. She cracked open her eyes to see the inside of a cave, lit by the faint flickering of a candle. There was nothing in the cave aside from the bed of matted leaves and plants that she was laying on and another identical mat across from her. There was a blue mass lying on the mat, its side rising and falling in tone with its breathing. She looked around, noticing the faint hint of light peeking in from the distant entrance and walked towards the source. When she emerged from the cave, she was bathed in the refreshing light of the sun; her wings buzzing excitedly as she felt the warmth permeate her chitin and spread throughout her body. She looked down at her body, just now noticing the thick bandages made of tightly woven leaves wrapped around her torso. She was surprised to be alive, but at the same time, happier than she ever had been before.

Then she remembered who else was sleeping in the cave when she had come to. She walked back into the cave and quietly approached the blue mass. The first thing she saw was a flowing mane, made up of many indescribable colors that currently covered most of her face and neck. She was a pony, of that Chrysalis was sure. At this discovery, her eyes narrowed threateningly as she slowly approached the sleeping pony, prepared to end her life.

And then the pony opened her eyes, her impossibly beautiful green eyes.

They were filled with such a warm, understanding sense of love that was so intense that Chrysalis could only stare into them, hopelessly trying to reach the other side of the ocean that filled her gaze. A wave of warmth flowed over her, filling her with its energy. The sudden surge of love forced Chrysalis to her haunches, unable to withstand the flow. “Oh, you are awake. That’s good. I was so worried that I might not have made it in time.” said the mare as she sat up, stretching her legs and back and blowing her mane out of her face, allowing Chrysalis another look at those impossibly green eyes. “T-thanks.” stuttered Chrysalis, just now shaking off the feeling of the mare's gaze. The mare looked back up into Chrysalis’s eyes, curiosity lingering longer than anything else. Chrysalis realized that she was still in her natural form, and quickly gathered her magic so that she could change. She shifted into some unrecognizable pony, looking back up at the mare, who was looking at her with fascination instead of the fear Chrysalis had expected. This startled her, as she had expected all ponies to hate her and her kind.

“Are you not afraid of me.” asked Chrysalis, shifting back to her original form, confused by the mare’s lack of fear. “Of course not. I’ve seen things a lot scarier than you. In fact, I think you’re pretty… cool.” said the mare as she touched Chrysalis’s chitin covered back and ran her hoof through her mangy mane. Chrysalis wasn’t sure whether to take that as an insult or a compliment, so she simply went with the latter. The mare was now circling Chrysalis, trying to see if there were any other strange features. Her curiosity was like that of a newborn foal, eager to learn whatever she could. “What’s your name?” asked the mare, finally sitting down across from Chrysalis, apparently having had her fill of new knowledge. Chrysalis was hesitant at first, but at seeing the mare's pleading and innocent gaze, she just let out a sigh of defeat. “Chrysalis. And your name?” asked Chrysalis. “Oh, I’m Winter Song. Mom and dad are out right now, so I can’t leave the cave. But we can still have fun while we wait for them to return.” said Winter, bouncing around Chrysalis like a little filly. Chrysalis couldn't help but smile at the energy the young mare put forth, and she was even more puzzled by the constant flow of love that was coming off of her, even though she wasn’t consciously doing it.

“How are you doing that?” asked Chrysalis, determined to get an answer from the mare. Winter just stared back at her, confused. “Doing what?” asked Winter, who had ceased her bouncing and was staring intently at Chrysalis. “How is it that you have so much love.” asked Chrysalis, causing Winter to look at the ground in thought. “I don’t know. It’s always just been like that. Whether I’m taking care of the creatures of the Everfree or just walking through the forest, it always just seemed like everything around me got a little brighter when I was around. Have you ever felt that way Chryssie?” asked Winter, looking up at the startled changeling. “C-Chryssie. Why would you change my name so easily?” asked Chrysalis, unsure of how to respond to the out of the blue nickname. “Well, friends call each other nicknames, don’t they?” asked Winter. “I- I wouldn't know. Where I’m from, there aren't really a lot of opportunities to make friends.” said Chrysalis as she thought back to her hive. Even now, as she tried to reach for it, the connection was still just out of reach and she felt isolated once more.

That is, until she felt a pair of hooves wrap around her, pulling her into a comforting embrace. “Well then, I guess we’re just going to have to fix that, best friend.” said Winter, releasing Chrysalis from the hug and holding out her hoof. Chrysalis looked at it skeptically before a smile spread across her face. She raised her own hole-filled hoof and bumped it against Winter’s as the two giggled like little fillies. “Best Friends Forever.” agreed Chrysalis.

“And ever since that moment, Winter and I always did the some of the craziest things together. We were inseparable.” said Chrysalis as Luna and Twilight listened intently. Rainbow was still fast asleep, exhausted from the night’s activities. Winter was curled protectively around her, a happy smile adorning her tired face as she settled in to sleep next to the mare she loved. Chrysalis looked at them, happy that her friend could find her own special somepony, even if she had been rather shy around other actual ponies when she was younger. “But what happened. You said you hadn't seen her for years, but at yet you say you were inseparable.” asked Twilight, enthralled by the changeling’s tale. At this, Chrysalis’s face darkened as the painful memory returned to her. Her sudden change of attitude did not elude the princess of the night’s sight and she began to listen even closer to the story. “Well, it was a few years later and we were both older, more mature. Winter had to go into town to get some supplies for medicines that she could not get in the forest. And I decided to go with her, so I could see what a pony village looked like. It was the first time I had ever seen her lose control of her magic.” said Chrysalis as she slipped back into her tale.

“So this is what a pony village looks like.” said Chrysalis as she followed close behind Winter, wary of the odd, if not angry looks she was receiving from the ponies they passed. “Yep. I’ve only ever been here twice, but I assume it is alright.” said Winter, levitating the list of supplies she needed in front of her face, scrutinizing it closely. “Hmm, it seems the first item we need is Veranda Hanging Lilies for the new pain reliever medicine I’m working on. I can’t really find a lot of them in the forest, although I hear that they are quite common in this village. Why don’t you wait outside for me while I go in and buy some.” said Winter, gesturing for Chrysalis to wait by the door before she walked into the store. Chrysalis did so and then reached for her hive-mind connection. It grown far stronger and she could now feel the thoughts of her fellow changelings as they went about their day, bland as they may have been.

She was so in tune with the hive-mind that she didn’t hear the buck coming before she was sent flying over the railing of the store, legs flailing in the air. She hit the ground hard as the wind was knocked out of her. She looked up to see numerous angry ponies gathering around her, murderous intent in their eyes. “Look, it’s another monster from the Everfree.” said one of the ponies. “Yeah. Come on everypony. Let’s teach this monster that we won’t let them push us around anymore.” said one of the larger stallions before kicking Chrysalis in the stomach, causing pain to shoot through her as she felt one of her ribs crack. Another kick came. And another. And another. They just kept coming, and all Chrysalis could do was curl up in a ball and try to limit the damage as much as possible. “W-Winter. Winter. Please, help me.” cried Chrysalis, gasping the words through gritted teeth as another kick sent a wave of pain through her. That one actually caused her to spit up blood, the bright red contrasting sharply against the sandy ground.

She didn’t know exactly what happened, other than the fact that the kicking had stopped. She shakily looked up and saw a sight that would forever be burned into her mind. Winter stood just outside the door of the store, her eyes shining an icy blue, her mane flowing in vibrant waves of its own accord despite no natural wind being present. Her coat seemed to have taken on a magical luster as frost began to coat it. Ice was quickly forming around the area that Winter stood in, the winds picking up as storm clouds began to form above. “You. You ponies. You ponies dared to hurt my friend.” growled Winter as she stalked forward, the ground freezing wherever she stepped. A wall of white had surrounded the town, the frigid wind blocking anypony from seeing in or out. Many of the ponies had back away, cowering in fear at the sight of the godlike figure before them. But a few stood up to her, the same arrogant, contemptuous scowl on their faces as when they had beaten her. “Who are you to stop us from beating this monster? Are you in league with it or something?” demanded the pony.

He didn’t get an answer though as a bright green aura surrounded him, picking him up high off of the ground. “So you think she is a monster. Only a monster would attack an innocent pony. And you are the ones who attacked her.” screamed Winter as she used her magic to snap the ponies neck, dropping his body to the ground. The ice was now growing on anything that was the source of Winter’s anger. Ponies only made it a few feet before being frozen solid, their coats becoming blue as they were encased in ice. The wind began tearing the shingles and boards from the buildings around her as Winter’s magic grew to unimaginable heights. The destruction caused was unbelievable. But that wasn’t what Chrysalis was worried about. She began to crawl towards Winter was glaring hatefully at the now frozen ponies.

“W-Winter. Please. You have to stop. This has gone too far.” said Chrysalis, reaching out a hoof to grab hold of Winter. She didn’t get far before being hit with a telekinetic blast that knocked her off of her hooves, sending her flying back several feet. When she looked back up, it wasn’t Winter looking back at her, but something else entirely. “NO. They deserve far worse than what I have done to them.” yelled Winter, before looking at the injuries she had caused to her best friend. Her eyes slowly returned to their normal green color as the rest of her soon returned to normal as well. The wall of snow that had surrounded the town soon dissipated, revealing the destruction caused by Winter’s out of control magic.

“No. What have I done?” whimpered Winter, backing away from Chrysalis. She looked around and saw the frozen ponies and the destroyed buildings, all surrounded by thick layers of snow and ice. “What have I done?” sobbed Winter as she spread her wings, preparing to take flight. “Winter.” said Chrysalis, reaching out a hoof to comfort her friend. But Winter just flinched away, her eyes full of fear and concern, but not for herself, but for her friend and any other ponies that might cross her path. “No. I’m a monster. I hurt all of these innocent ponies and they didn’t even have a chance. Please Chryssie, stay away from me. I don’t want to hurt you too.” cried Winter as she took to the skies, flying away from the place as quickly as she could, not even looking back. Not wanting to look back at the destruction she had caused. Chrysalis just sat there, watching her friend fly away, not knowing where she was going or if she would ever see her again. But Chrysalis knew one thing. Winter was no monster. She had seen the tears that Winter had cried for the ponies she had hurt. No monster would have cried for her victim.

Chrysalis knew she wouldn't be coming back, so she painstakingly rose to her hooves, her injured body protesting the continued abuse. She began to walk back into the Everfree, planning to walk all the way back to her hive, for that was the only place she had left that even closely resembled a home and family. Her true home for the past few years had been that cave with Winter. Laughing with her. Crying with her. Comforting her and being comforted by her. That had been true family. That had been real love. So with tears falling down her face, Chrysalis began the long trek back to her hive, vowing that if she ever got the chance to see her friend again, she would apologize. She would apologize and hold her close, assuring her that everything would be alright and that tomorrow would be better. With this promise in mind, she walked.

Chrysalis didn’t even realize she had been crying while she told the story until Twilight levitated a tissue over to her, motioning for her to take it. Chrysalis gratefully did so and wiped the tears from her eyes. Luna was just looking at Chrysalis thoughtfully as she finally came to understand just what Winter meant to Chrysalis and what everypony meant to Winter. “She was more afraid of using her power and hurting other ponies than not using it and being hurt herself.” said Luna quietly as she stood and began to trot towards the door. “Where are you going, princess?” asked Luna. Luna just looked over to the sleeping forms of Rainbow Dash and Winter Song, both snoring happily as they embraced one another. A smile crossed her face before being replaced with a frown once more. “To have a word with my sister.” said Luna as she stepped outside and took flight, heading towards Canterlot.

Twilight and Chrysalis looked at each other with worried expressions before Twilight sighed and looked back at Chrysalis. “Come on. We may as well find you somewhere to sleep.” said Twilight before walking off deeper into the house, followed by Chrysalis.

Ch 8: The Maiden and the Trickster

Celestia sat on her throne, her mind a maelstrom of thoughts as she once more went back to what Twilight said before tossing her into the mud. “You’re not my princess anymore.” thought Celestia darkly as she imagined what she would do to her faithful student if she got the chance. Celestia needed to remind Twilight just who her ruler was and who had given her those wings she so gallantly paraded around. This thought and others of its kind were all that took root in her mind as one of her guards let in an unannounced pony, resulting in an icy glare from her in the guard’s direction. He bowed before quickly leaving the throne room, shutting the door behind him, but not before she saw the flash of fear on his face. “That guard may have an unfortunate accident later.” thought Celestia maliciously, the gears already turning in her mind.

She eyed the pony, who was just looking up at her eagerly, an evil grin on his face. He could most likely sense her irritated mood, seeing as how the other ponies that came to petition her were all too eager to dash out of the throne room at first chance they got. But this pony just stared up at her, and all she could feel from him was a cold determination. But for what she did not know, but his expression unnerved her. “What is it that you wish to ask of me?” asked Celestia, her voice belaying her barely suppressed anger. The stallion chuckled, looking back up at her before a green flame surrounded him and Celestia had to avert her eyes. When she looked back, a changeling stood in place of the stallion. Celestia’s eyes took on a hard edge as she spoke, her voice like a wisp of death. “Get out of my city, you pest, before I squash you myself.” she snarled, already preparing a lethal spell. The guards were just outside the door and a simple word from her would bring them running in, ready to skewer the bug. But his next words froze the command in her throat. “I’ve heard you’re having control issues with dear Twilight Sparkle.” said the changeling, trotting up so that he was practically right in front of her throne.

She narrowed her eyes at him, but didn’t say anything. She had no reason to respond to the changeling. At least, not any that she wanted to voice. Noticing her silence, the changeling continued, eager to place his offer on the board. “Yes. I have heard of your little fallout with the princess of magic. Most of Equestria has. In fact, I’ve heard that a large portion of the ponies living here in Equestria have begun siding with her, as they see her as a preferred choice to you.” taunted the changeling as he began to circle the throne. Then he leaned in next to her ear before whispering ominous words into her ears. “They prefer her over the Insane Princess. Although you would never openly show how much that gets to you.” whispered the changeling, disappearing in a puff of smoke and green fire as he appeared before her once more. Those simple words had almost sent her over the breaking point, but she managed to rein herself in. Just barely, though. She knew her mind had been going for a while now, as her actions had become less and less reasonable and more… costly. Even Discord had expressed his concern, and for him to be concerned about anything, the situation had to be serious.

But she was unwilling to relinquish her control over an entire country, one she had fought tooth and hoof for, to a filly still getting used to her new wings. Wings that Celestia herself had given her, expecting a loyal subject, not a rebellious foal to fight against her. She scowled, remembering the days when Twilight would follow her every command to the letter, comparing it to the now unwilling princess. She looked back at the changeling with renewed interest as his words flowed across the empty air like sweet honey.

“You are practically alone now. No friends. No allies. No one to keep the dagger from your back.” said the changeling. At this, Celestia’s head swiveled, her magenta eyes catching the changeling’s cold blue ones. “That is not true. My sister will always have my back. We've always watched out for each other.” said Celestia, though there was a sliver of doubt in her words, a fact that Zurgis did not dismiss. “Oh, she does, does she? Is that why she has been dead-ending so many of your decisions lately? Is that why she stayed behind with the other alicorn while you were tossed into the mud? As far as I know, she has just been leaving you behind while she continues to move forward; always looking to the future while you dwell on the past. To her… you are nothing more than an old toy that she keeps around to amuse herself.” said the changeling. Once more by Celestia’s ear, the changeling whispered its accursed words. “To her and all of the other ponies that call you their princess, you are nothing more than a liability. You are a relic of the past that they wish to forget in exchange for their shining new idol, Princess Twilight Sparkle.” said the changeling, backing away.

But then a smile graced his face, the smile of a predator that sees his wounded prey limping toward him. Celestia knew of his game, but his words still haunted her, echoing around inside her skull. “But you are not worthless to us. Chrysalis has grown soft, becoming friends with ponies instead of using them to further our hive. In fact, she has become friends with the pony you loathe more than any other. She no longer deserves the title of queen. But you. We know of your immense power, your incalculable wisdom, and your love of leadership. We respect and admire such qualities, especially when they can help us.” said the changeling, his words finally sinking in. “What is it that you want of me?” asked Celestia, her normally powerful, regal voice now soft and barely more than a whisper. The changeling’s smile spread wider than ever, his fangs gleaming as he realized his triumph. “I want you to become our new queen. Unite the kingdoms of changeling and pony and usher in the age of a new and glorious empire.” said the changeling.

Her mind raced with the possibilities as his offer sung in her thoughts, promising her the world. But his next words stung her, but only slightly as the words truly sounded appealing. “Then you can end the life of Twilight Sparkle and take control of your new kingdom while providing us with food.” said the changeling, looking up at Celestia expectantly. Celestia was very nearly on the cusp of giving him the answer he wanted, but something held her back. It was an annoying something, but it was there. That irritating hesitation would not let her simply give him the answer both he and she wanted. So instead, she turned to him, a smile on her face. But it was cold, emotionless. After all, if she was to be a queen, she must start acting like one. “I… agree with your words. However, I would like some time to mull it over, as it is not a decision made so lightly.” said Celestia, smiling down at the changeling, who shivered beneath her gaze. But at the same time, he smiled. “Of course, my queen. Should you wish to contact us with your answer, you need only speak into this and we will hear you and come to begin your coronation.” said Zurgis before hacking a glob of green goo into his hoof, watching as it hardened into a dark green crystal. He placed it on the floor in front of Celestia and quietly made his way out of the throne room, donning his disguise once more, a smile on his muzzle.

Luna landed on the balcony outside of the throne room, her appearance earning her a greeting from her night guard. She asked where her sister was and they directed her to the throne room. As she neared the door, she could almost feel the dark emotions flooding out from inside, but on the outer edges, there was something… darker. Something that deeply disturbed Luna to a degree she hadn't felt since she had been Nightmare Moon. She felt madness leaking from her sister. The darkest emotion one could feel, for it fueled all the others. She braced herself and pushed open the throne room doors.

Celestia heard the throne room doors open and quickly stashed the green gem she had been looking over in her magical mane. She smiled as Luna walked into the room, closing the doors behind her with her dark blue magic. “Hello dear sister. I am so happy that you decided to return to my side rather than stay with that little filly, Twilight.” said Celestia as she giddily leaped off of her throne and moved to embrace her sister. But she was stopped by Luna’s hoof, causing her to look up into Luna’s eyes. Her sister’s eyes were soft, yet firm and determined, as the changelings had been; only her sister’s eyes were flooded with emotion. Pain, sorrow, regret, joy, hope, and desperation all held a place in her eyes. “Sister, what is wrong?” asked Celestia, worry filling her voice. “Sister, I need to speak with you and I need you to listen.” said Luna, pushing Celestia away. Celestia looked at her sister. That madness showed its ugly head again as Luna began to speak.

“You have to make up with Twilight Sparkle, sister. This rivalry is tearing Equestria apart.” said Luna, not bothering to sugarcoat her words. At this Celestia’s eyes hardened, her affection for her sister being pushed aside by her pride. “I do not need to apologize for anything. She is the one that has offended me. She should be the one begging for my forgiveness.” said Celestia, her voice icy. “Celestia, you've been making worse and worse decisions since Twilight received her wings. Your jealousy is clouding your better judgment.” said Luna. “I AM NOT JEALOUS.” yelled Celestia, the energy crackling around her. Luna stamped her hoof, actually cracking the stone floors as she tried once again to force the truth into her sister’s thick skull. “You are jealous. You are acting like a foal that is not getting what she wants and your kingdom is suffering for It.” yelled Luna. “I am not a FOAL. I am protecting this country!!” screamed Celestia, her eyes flashing dangerously as her mane flashed with power around her.

Luna stared into Celestia’s maddened eyes before asking a single question. “How?” asked Luna. This surprised Celestia, temporarily stopping her mad rant. “What?” asked Celestia. “How are you protecting this country if you act like this?” asked Luna, taking a step forward until she was right in Celestia’s face. “Answer me.” said Luna in a low, whispering voice. But Celestia couldn't because she had no answer to give. “Until you can give me a certain answer, I am relieving you of your title. And should you choose to do something foolish. Just know that I will be taking Twilight’s side, for she wants what is truly best for this country.” said Luna as she walked out of the throne room, not looking back at her sister. As the door closed, a single tear slipped down Celestia’s cheek as she shakily brought out the green jewel from her mane and held it up to her face.

“C-changeling.” called Celestia to the stone, not expecting an answer. So she was surprised when a multi-toned voice responded from the jewel. “Yes, my queen. Have you decided?” asked the changeling. “Do it. I wish to become your queen. When can it be done?” asked Celestia, her voice still shaky, but certain of her decision, whatever consequences it may bring. “We can be there and complete the process tomorrow, my Queen.” said the changeling. “Good. I want it done as soon as possible.” said Celestia, already heading towards the throne room doors. “What are you planning, my queen?” asked the changeling. Celestia cast sleep spells on all the guards she passed, putting them to sleep so they would not remember her walking by. When she reached Luna’s bedchambers, she gently pushed them open, seeing her sister sleeping peacefully, curled in her dark blue sheets; her traitorous sister. Horn glowing brightly with her spell, Celestia breathed her answer into the gem. “Taking care of my first problem as queen.” she said, casting the spell.

Ch 9: Shadows of Betrayal

Celestia had ordered all court petitions to be cancelled for that day, despite the frantic search for Princess Luna currently underway. Celestia was even able to fake concern for her dear traitorous sister, an act which almost made her laugh anytime someone tried to comfort her about her missing sister. She also told the guard to keep their patrols to the outside of the castle and to allow no one in unless allowed by the princess herself. Knowing of her legendary temper and the punishments she doled out to those who did not obey her, the guards more than willingly obeyed. So Zurgis and his group of changelings were the only ones allowed into the castle.

They met their future queen in the throne room, finding her waiting patiently on her throne, her brilliant rainbow mane contrasting deeply with her cold, hard eyes. They all bowed to her, their muzzles practically touching the floor. She appreciated the obedience, despite her still being a pony; for now anyway. “If you are ready, we can begin the conversion process now, my Queen.” said Zurgis, his nose still to the floor. “Yes. I would like to be done with this soon so that I may begin my plans.” said Celestia, stepping down from her throne to stand in the middle of the throne room. Zurgis nodded and motioned for the other changelings to take their places in a circle around their future queen. They all began to hack up the green goop from before, only it was for a different purpose this time and so had different chemical properties. The goop covered Celestia from head to hoof, completely encasing her body. The last thing Zurgis saw before his queen was completely encased was a grim smile on her face. Then he turned to the other changelings, who were now staring at the pod, excitement radiating from them at the prospect of having a powerful new queen. “Now, take up defensive positions around our queen. We must protect her until she awakens.” said Zurgis as the changelings positioned themselves around the throne room.

Rainbow and Twilight looked at each other, not bothering to hide their worry. They had decided that it was time that Winter met the rest of their friends and Winter had reluctantly agreed. So, with a cloaked Winter in tow, they were headed towards Sugar Cube Corner where the rest of their friends had already agreed to meet them. Winter was looking around the town eagerly, happy to see other ponies after so many years. Yet there was still that sliver of fear as she eyed the ponies that passed her by, giving a warm hello. At last they stepped through the doors of Sugar Cube Corner, the smell of baking sweets greeting their noses. Winter raised her nose and gave a happy sniff, a thin line of drool leaking down her face before she noticed it. Rainbow smiled and gently wiped it away with her hoof, earning an embarrassed smile from Winter.

Before they could take another step, they were assaulted by a pink blur, her mouth moving almost as fast as she was. “OHMYGOSHOHMYGOSHOHMYGOSH. You must be that new pony Twilight was talking about. Wow, you’re so tall just like the princesses. Are you a princess? Ooh, do you have wings. What’s your talent? Can I throw a party for you? What’s your naufffmmpph.” stuttered Pinkie Pie as Applejack put a hoof in her mouth and pulled her away. “Easy there, sugar cube. Give her some room to breathe. Howdy there, m’name’s Applejack. It’s nice to meetcha.” said Applejack, extending a hoof. Winter took it and shook it, thankful that Rainbow’s friends were so nice. “Come now darling. This isn’t the place to chat. Let’s take a seat. Besides Twilight, there’s somepony whose been waiting for you to return.” said Rarity as she too shook Winter’s hoof. “YEAHYEAHYEAH. She’s waiting in the kitchen. I’ll go get her and some sweets to snack on.” said Pinkie Pie before disappearing into the kitchen.

As they were sitting around the booth, talking, Rainbow and Twilight managed to introduce Winter among the constant chatting. Fluttershy was especially enthusiastic when Rainbow told her about how Winter takes care of animals in the Everfree. They were just in the middle of a discussion about the hydra incident when Twilight felt her body get lifted up out of her seat and floated over the table, trapped in a light blue aura. “Twilight Sparkle! You dare leave Trixie all alone for several days in a row without even telling her why. How could you?” said Trixie as she turned Twilight around in her magic so that she was facing her. “Well- um- Trixie-I…” stuttered Twilight, but she wasn’t able to finish as the light blue mare stormed out of the bakery, Twilight still wrapped in her magic. “You and Trixie have much to catch up on.” said Trixie as the doors closed behind her.

“What just happened?” asked Winter, puzzled by what she had just seen. “Well. You see Winter, those two are together just like us. And well, they haven’t seen each other since she last left with Rainbow, which we just learned was time she spent with you at your cottage. So i would assume that Trixie has a lot to talk about with Twilight.” said Rainbow, taking a hefty bite of one of the cupcakes Pinkie had left on the table before dashing out of the bakery, mentioning something about going to talk to a certain somepony. She had an odd look on her face when she said it though and it worried Rainbow. “Wait a minute. You mean you and this pony are… special someponies?” asked Applejack, looking at Winter with an expression that was almost… jealous. “Yeah. She’s like… the most awesome mare ever. She can fly just as fast as I can and do awesome stunts, not to mention her magic is super strong. And she’s not a bad kisser either when it comes down to it.” said Rainbow, not aware of Winter’s glowing red face. Rarity and Fluttershy were also blushing, most likely due to the fact that they had their own special someponies. Everyone knew about Fluttershy’s progressing relationship with Discord and Rarity’s very personal business dealings with Fleur De Lis.

But then Fluttershy realized that Rainbow had said that Winter had flown, although she clearly saw that Winter was a unicorn, albeit a large one. “But… um… Rainbow, Winter… can’t fly. I’m sorry.” said Fluttershy in her naturally soft voice. “Ooh, show them. Show them.” prompted Rainbow, pointing to Winter’s back. Winter realized she hadn’t removed her cloak since entering the bakery and used her magic to slide it off of her. The girls all gasped when Winter spread her wings, one of which pulled Rainbow closer to her side and Rainbow responded by wrapping herself in the soft downy feathers. “S-s-she’s an… alicorn.” muttered Rarity, staring at Winter’s wings. “Y-yes, I was born this way.” said Winter, trying to shrink farther into herself. But at the reassuring touch of Rainbow Dash, she took a deep breath and relaxed.

But she was surprised when she saw the looks of kindness and understanding on the faces of the ponies. “Well, that is lovely dear. And I so do love the color of your mane. I can think of so many outfits that would suit that color just perfectly.” said Rarity as she quickly sketched Winter’s mane in her idea notebook, taking note of all the different tones in her mane. “Yeah, an’ my grannie taught me that it ain’t right to judge somepony just cause of what they are.” said Applejack, giving a reassuring smile. “And everypony deserves a little kindness.” whispered Fluttershy. Then Applejack looked at Winter’s wings once again, curiosity in her eyes. “So, can ya really fly with them there wings?” asked Applejack, earning a smile from Rainbow as she said it. “You bet. Come on, let’s show em’ Winter.” said Rainbow, flaring her own newly healed wings as she flew out of the bakery, quickly followed by her friends. Winter smiled as she walked out of the bakery behind them, staying at a respectful distance while they talked excitedly. Maybe she could actually have friends once again after so long.

Zurgis woke with a start as a loud tearing sound filled his sound. His head swiveled as he tried to pinpoint the source of the sound until his eyes locked onto the large green pod in the center of the throne room. A large rip was spreading across the green surface as the occupant went about freeing itself from the cocoon. He quickly sent a thought across the hive-mind, carefully blocking Chrysalis however, telling them to pay attention to the rebirth of the new queen. The other changelings who had been in the room also turned to watch as their new queen stepped out of the cocoon, the green ooze easily sliding off of her new carapace.

Celestia breathed in a breath of fresh air as she looked around the throne room with her new eyes. She could hear all of the changelings chattering excitedly in her mind and she smiled at the immeasurable quantity that responded to her joyous call. “My queen, you look glorious.” said Zurgis, bowing to his newly changed queen. “Bring me a mirror. Now.” ordered Celestia, eager to see her new appearance. One of the other changelings brought forth a vanity mirror that had been sitting in the corner of the throne room, forgotten. Celestia grinned as she looked at her new body. Her eyes were still the same and her mane was still a rainbow of colors, if a little flat and dim. But the rest of her body had changed. She now had an alabaster white carapace covering her back and black chitin covered the rest of her body. She looked down to see that her hooves also had the holes in them that all changelings did. She even felt long fangs drooping down from her upper lip. She looked amazing and felt even more powerful than she had ever before.

Before she could continue to admire her new form, a pink blur rushed through the door, inviting a combined hiss from the changelings gathered, even Celestia, although Zurgis just looked pleased. The changelings moved in to capture her, but Zurgis just held up a hoof, stopping them. Celestia looked at him, bewildered, wondering if he had betrayed her trust already. “What is the meaning of this Zurgis? Allowing the element of laughter to see me in this form before I wish to be known.” demanded Celestia, knowing the changelings name from the hive-mind. “She is no enemy of yours my queen. In fact, she is more of an ally than you think. Show your queen your true form.” ordered Zurgis. Pinkie Pie nodded her head and then, to Celestia’s amazement, green fire erupted from her hooves, covering her entire form. When the smoke cleared, a changeling stood where Pinkie Pie had previously been. She looked just like any other changeling drone, only her mane was springy and pink as was her carapace.

“What is this? How long has this changeling been impersonating the element of laughter?” asked Celestia, still bewildered by the changeling’s appearance. “She has not been impersonating anypony, your highness. She has always been a changeling, ever since birth. She was just able to get inside the traitorous princess Twilight Sparkle’s inner circle easier than any other changeling before her.” said Zurgis. The changeling Pinkie Pie bowed her head, happy to hear words of praise from her superiors. “It is my honor to serve you, your highness.” said Pinkie Pie, her multi-toned voice making her normally energetic and perky voice sound dark and twisted. Celestia smiled once more, although it felt a little awkward to do so with her new fangs. “And it is a pleasure to know that Twilight’s friends aren’t as faithful and true as she would like to believe.” said Celestia smugly. Pinkie Pie just smiled and giggled in response to her queen’s words. “Indeed. She shall be quite heartbroken at the betrayal, my queen.” giggled Pinkie Pie. “Yesss, just like my sister did me.” said Celestia in a voice like death, not minding the hiss in her voice.

But then she smiled; a look that sent shivers down Zurgis’s spine. “Though I will no longer have to tolerate her… intrusions.” said Celestia. “And why is that, your highness?” asked Zurgis, who was the only one besides Pinkie Pie willing to openly speak to the new queen. “Because I have sealed her away in the Mirror of Nightmare, a terrible place where nopony is able to return from, for they are all consumed by their nightmares. It is ironic really. The mirror was created by Nightmare Moon combining her magic with the remnants of Sombra’s magic, for she planned to trap me inside. But instead I have sealed HER inside of the mirror. No one knows where or even what it is aside from myself and Luna. And nopony will free her. That is a promise.” said Celestia.

“What would you have us do then, your majesty.” asked Pinkie Pie. Celestia once more looked to the mirror as she stepped up to it and placed her hoof on it. “Begin gathering the changeling hordes from all over Equestria. I want them ready for a full scale invasion when I am ready to begin my attack.” said Celestia, putting more pressure on the mirror, feeling it creak under the strain. “Yes, your highness. But how will we feed them all? There is not enough spare love for such a large army.” asked Zurgis. “Who said anything about spare love? I am queen of Equestria and so Equestria is mine to do with as I please. I want you to start taking ponies, any ponies and begin absorbing their love. Take the form of my guards and say that you are arresting them for suspicious activities. If anyone should question your authenticity, I will personally vouch for you.” said Celestia, a crack now spider webbing throughout the mirror. “And what shall we do if the element of magic interferes?” asked Zurgis, a smile spreading across his face at his queen’s ruthlessness. At this Celestia smiled her darkest, most viscous smile, her fangs gleaming in the sunlight. “You leave her to me. If she gets in my way, then I will make sure to…” started Celestia, applying even more pressure to the window, shattering it beneath her hoof. “… break her.” finished Celestia as she began to laugh, a cruel, hateful laugh that was echoed by all of the changelings present, including Pinkie Pie. “This is going to be some party.” thought Pinkie Pie.

But none of them noticed the bright yellow eyes of one of Luna’s night guard looking through the crack in the door, a shocked expression on his face. Princess Celestia had trapped his princess in that cursed mirror. He had heard of it of course. Luna often threatened to send any guard who failed her there, though she only said it as a joke. He knew of the mirror. It was part of his training to stay in the same room as it for an hour, as it emitted unbelievably powerful dark magic and made you see your worst fears. And if his lady was now trapped in that mirror, than she was in danger. And he knew of only one other princess who could help free her.

Ch 10: Rescue from Nightmare

Luna ran through the blackened halls, her breath coming in pants as she skidded around a turn, her shoulder clipping the stone. She could hear the echoed hooves behind her as she ran, that cold, dark laughter reverberating through her skull. It was a laugh she knew all too well and one she thought she had escaped long ago. “Dear Luna. Where do you think you can run?” laughed the voice, sounding closer than before. Luna didn’t answer, preferring to continue running, her dark blue magic lighting her way. The last thing she remembered was going to sleep and then waking up in this place. Her shoulder clipped another corner as she rounded it, this time drawing blood. Luna had already tried to fly, but whenever she rose more than seven feet off the ground, the black ash that floated above her would burn her wings. She was afraid. She was terrified. And the horrible beast that chased her knew it and used it to her advantage. The smoke curled around her legs as she ran, leaving dark streaks in her blue fur. “You cannot escape me dear Luna.” taunted the voice as it shrank into the distance. Luna emerged into a pitch black room and she struggled to see what was in front of her. She stopped when she heard stone grate against stone behind her. She was sealed in. That could only mean… “You cannot escape from yourself, dear Luna.” laughed Nightmare Moon as she glared down at Luna.

Twilight was placing books back into their spots on the shelves when a gray blur burst through her front door, skidding to a stop mere feet from her. Twilight turned and looked at the pony in shock, unsure whether to attack or flee. When she saw that it was only one of Luna’s night guards, she relaxed and resumed placing the books back on the shelf. She was even more surprised when the guard stamped his hoof in impatience, his disciplined training preventing him from speaking out until the princess had addressed him, no matter how dire the matter was. She turned to look at him, eyes wide at the outburst from the guard, but regained her composure enough to answer him. “Yes, what is it?” she asked, placing the book she had been holding back in the stack. “Princess, I have urgent news from Canterlot that must be relayed to you at once.” said the guard, saluting at her recognition. Twilight rolled her eyes, slightly annoyed by the guard’s rather bland personalities, though she had met some who were actually rather fun to be around. “Yes, what is it?” asked Twilight, not bothering to hide her annoyance at his interruption. His next words froze the breath in her chest, it’s icy fingers clenching around her heart.

“Princess Luna has been captured by Princess Celestia and sealed inside of a cursed mirror.” said the guard, the exhaustion evident in his features. “What?” asked Twilight, not really believing the pony’s words, but she was sure he was telling the truth, no matter how much she didn’t want to believe it. “I can’t believe Celestia would so far as harming her own sister. She truly has lost her mind.” thought Twilight before getting a hard glint in her eyes. She turned back to the guard, her regal manner in place for the situation at hand. “Guard, I want you to go gather the other elements and bring them back here, but leave the element of Loyalty alone. I do not wish her here with the others.” ordered Twilight, choosing not to involve Rainbow Dash, as she did not want to leave the chance for Winter and Chrysalis to be left alone. She was not worried about Chrysalis betraying them for she had actually grown to trust the changeling, but rather, she was worried that Celestia might try to do something to Winter in her absence and felt more comfortable having Rainbow there. The guard nodded and galloped back through the door, leaving a planning Twilight behind.

The guard returned several minutes later with Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy in tow. They all looked as shocked as Twilight had so she assumed the guard had already told them what he had told her. “Twilight, tell us this ruffian is lying about the princess.” said Rarity as she shut the door behind her. “I’m sorry Rarity, but It appears that he is telling the truth. I just hope that Luna’s disappearance doesn't have anything to do with the mass kidnappings going on around Equestria.” said Twilight as she gathered the items necessary for her spell. “B-but this is Princess Luna, sugar cube. She wouldn’t be beaten so easily, not even by Celestia.” said Applejack. “Unless Celestia got to her when she wouldn’t be expecting an attack.” said Twilight, drawing the magic circle on the floor, the edges already crackling with the energy that she was pouring into it.

“Um, what… are you doing Twilight?” mumbled Fluttershy. “I’m drawing a teleportation circle. Even I don’t have enough power to teleport us deep into Canterlot castle. If what the guard said is true, than the supposed mirror should be in a storage room in the back of Canterlot. I’m going to teleport us there so that we can go into the mirror and save Princess Luna. You girls don’t have to come with me if you don’t want to.” said Twilight. Then she felt a hoof on her shoulder and turned to see Applejack standing next to her with Rarity and Fluttershy at her back. “Ya know we’ll always have yer back. Ah just wish ah knew where Pinkie Pie had gone off to.” said Applejack as she followed Twilight’s directions to step into the middle of the circle. At this the guard remained silent, which Twilight found odd, even for a guard. Rarity, Fluttershy, and the guard followed suit, stepping into the circle. The purple energy flashed once and then they were gone, only to reappear in a dusty old room.

Twilight felt it before she saw it. The mirror sat against the back wall, its jagged black edges almost appearing as if they were tearing into the darkness itself. Its smoky glass surface seemed to absorb any light that approached it, and Twilight made sure not to touch it. But it was the powerful dark magic it gave off that scared her the most. It exuded it and if she wasn’t mistaken, she swore she could here wicked laughter coming from it, almost taunting her. Fluttershy had backed against the wall, the atmosphere around the mirror terrifying her. Rarity put a reassuring hoof on her shoulder and eyed the mirror warily. The guard walked up to it and gestured to the smoky black surface. “This is the entrance into the nightmare realm in which my lady, Princess Luna is trapped. In order to save her, you will have to enter this realm of your own free will. Then you will have to face your greatest fears to earn the right to escape.” said the guard.

Twilight nodded and approached the mirror, hesitantly approaching the mirror before placing her hoof in it and stepping through the glass, reluctantly followed by Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy. The guard then watched as all four ponies entered the mirror before letting a small smile escape his façade, his magenta eyes flashing maliciously. White fire surrounded him before encasing him completely. After the smoke cleared, Celestia stood there, her white carapace glinting in the few rays of sunlight that managed to enter the room. “Oh my dear, dear Twilight, what a fool you are.” said Celestia before turning her back on the mirror and sending her hind leg through the glass, shattering it. “I will not let you stand in the way of my plans anymore. Of that I will make sure.” laughed Celestia before exiting the room, leaving the remains of the mirror lying where the shards of glass had fallen.

Twilight could barely see as she walked through the fire blackened halls. She had panicked as when she had come to because she could not find the other girls. The only thing lighting the way were torches that lined the walls and she cautiously followed them. When she stepped out into the open, she was able to see much better. Somehow she had managed to find her way to the hall of stained glass, the sunlight shining through the windows, making spectrums of color. She saw princess Celestia sitting in front of one of the mirrors, looking up at it with tears in her eyes. Twilight felt she had to comfort her and went over to where she sat. “Princess.” said Twilight, shocked by the emotion in her voice. The princess’s head snapped up and her eyes soon found Twilight, who had taken a step back at the sudden action. The princess’s eyes flared with anger and her voice was colder than the far north when she spoke. “How dare you come back here, traitor.” she growled, taking a forceful step towards Twilight. “What do you mean, princess?” asked Twilight. “You commit such atrocities and then dare to return to Canterlot.” snarled Celestia. “But what I have I done to deserve your anger?” asked Twilight, fear in her voice.

“What have you done? WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!? MY SISTER IS DEAD BECAUSE OF YOU!!” cried Celestia, her mane flaring like the sun. Twilight cringed back at those words, her blood ice cold in her veins. “B-but, Luna was still alive when I last saw her.” argued Twilight. She didn’t see the hit coming until she was knocked to the floor, a bright red mark appearing on her face. Celestia was shaking her hoof and she had a dent in her golden sandal. Twilight spit up blood from the hit and looked at Celestia disbelievingly. “Don’t you dare say her name you filth. You don’t deserve to say it. She tried to defend you; tried to prove that you were innocent of such treachery as the murder of the Element of Kindness. And you stuck a knife in her back.” said Celestia, a tear rolling down her face. It sizzled when it struck the floor, a scorch mark appearing where it landed. “She’s right Twi.” mumbled an angry country twang.

Twilight turned and saw Applejack walk up to her, her face an unreadable mask, save for the angry tears that rolled down her face. “Fluttershy just wanted to help you. She knew you had anger issues and still tried to help. And you crushed her skull for it, you monster.” growled Rainbow Dash, kicking Twilight in the stomach. She felt another kick and another, but all she could feel was shock, no pain. “Yeah, you’re a monster and Princess Luna tried to help. And you killed her. Such a monster you are, you naughty pony.” chanted Pinkie Pie as she bounced around Twilight, her mane flat. “How could you, you horrid fiend. I can’t believe I was ever friends with such a beast.” scorned Rarity, her eyes livid with emotion. “But I’m not a monster. I didn’t do any of that. I swear.” said Twilight shakily, her voice cracking. “Monster, monster, monster, monster.” chanted every single pony in the room, their maniacal grins threatening to split their faces in half. Twilight just slumped to the ground, her resolve broken and her emotions rampant. She sobbed into her forelegs, trying to drown out the shadows’ taunting. But they wouldn’t stop and she feared… she was actually starting to believe them. “This is just a nightmare. This is just a nightmare. This is just a nightmare.” Twilight repeated over and over, trying to counter the shadows, but it was too late. “And I just want to wake up.” sobbed Twilight. She was so heartbroken and distraught that she did not see the light building just behind her, piercing green eyes looking in.

Rarity’s vision was clouded until a bright light appeared, temporarily blinding her. When she could see clearly once more, she was shocked to find that she was in her boutique. But, something was wrong. It was run down and several of the roof boards were sagging, threatening to cave in. Her once beautiful purple and white paint was now a sickly brown as rot set into the wood. The once proud dress clad mannequins were long since broken, their heads and legs strewn about the room. She was about to run throughout the boutique to see if anything else was damaged, but she suddenly found herself lifted off the ground by a pair of strong hooves. “I thought we told you to stay out lady. This ain’t your building no more.” said a gruff voice as she was dragged towards the door of her boutique.

“But this is my boutique. I paid for every board used to build this place.” cried Rarity, trying to tear herself away from the hooves of the older stallion. “It hasn’t been yours since your clothes line sank. Not even a commoner would buy your service and you went bankrupt. We told you we would be tearing this place down today and I expected you to leave peacefully. Apparently it’s going to have to be the hard way.” said the stallion as he pushed open the doors and threw her outside into a mud puddle that just happened to be there. Her pristine white coat and perfect mane were soon ruined by the dirt and she tried desperately to shake it off. “Rarity.” said a voice like ice. Rarity turned and was shocked by what she saw.

Her father and mother stood there, flanked by Sweetie Belle and they were all giving her frosty glares that seemed to burn right through her. “You are a disgrace Rarity. You have sullied this family’s name with your horrid attempts at fashion.” said Rarity’s mother, disgust obvious in her voice. Rarity’s eyes started to water, her emotions bubbling up inside her. “B-but, mother…” stuttered Rarity, trying to force the words that would not come. “Do not speak to her. You no longer have the right, pheasant.” spat her father, shocking Rarity with his words. Then her father helped her mother into the carriage waiting behind them. Soon the only one left was Sweetie Belle, who was eyeing her sister with disdain. “S-Sweetie, mom and dad didn’t mean that right? They’re just joking… right?” begged Rarity, the tears coming freely now. Sweetie just turned her head and hopped into the carriage, turning to speak before the door closed behind her. “I’m sorry, but I don’t speak with filth.” said Sweetie, swinging the door shut behind her.

The carriage started rolling down the road, picking up speed almost unnaturally as it sped along the road. Rarity started chasing after it, her hooves pounding painfully against the stone as she tried to catch up with the speeding carriage. But it seemed to just keep getting further and further away, no matter how quickly she ran. The fact that tears were blurring her vision didn’t help, which is why she didn’t see the pothole before her hoof caught in it, causing her to fall into the mud once more. She watched as the carriage drove off, taking her family with it and leaving her alone. But that wasn’t what caught her attention. She had turned her head back to her boutique once more when she noticed a faint orange glow coming from its direction. So she had the opportunity to watch the culmination of all her dreams and efforts go down in flames. “No. NOOOO.” cried Rarity, tears streaming down her face. She was so distraught that she didn’t realize that a pure white glow was surrounding her body.

Applejack could hear the wind whistling around her, but everything else was pitch-black, the smoke stinging the back of her throat as she walked. She could see a glow in the distance and started walking towards it. When she saw what it was she started galloping. The orchard was burning.

Apple Bloom and Big Macintosh were running about, frantically trying to put out the fires that raged on despite their efforts. Whenever they put out one tree, the fire would simply restart on another one. Applejack tried to help, but the flames would not bend to her will, and she doubted they would bend to anyone else’s, maybe not even a magical one. So she watched as their farm turned to ash and black snow began to rain down on top of them. She walked back towards what was left of the barn, the timber now charred and broken. Big Macintosh sat tending to a serious burn that Apple Bloom had received while trying to put out the fires. Granny Smith just eyed Applejack angrily, her usually kind eyes hard. “Where were ya young lady?” demanded Granny Smith. “Ah was just trying to help out Twi. Ya know she can’t take on princess Celestia all by herself.” answered Applejack and she was quickly rewarded with an angry glare from Big Mac, who had just finished tying the bandage around Apple Blooms leg.

“And what about yer family, ya too busy playing with yer friends to help them.” said Granny Smith, pointing a hoof at the remains of the apple farm. Applejack tried to respond, but was cut off by Granny Smith once again. “THAT’S OUR LIVELIHOOD OUT THERE. THAT ASH AND CHARCOAL IS ALL THAT’S LEFT OF ALL WE HAD.” yelled Granny Smith. Applejack just dropped her eyes, too ashamed to meet her Granny’s gaze as tears streaked down her cheek. “I-I’m sorry, Granny.” mumbled Applejack. “Sorry doesn't regrow trees, young lassie. Sorry doesn't rebuild barns. We put our everything we had into this farm and when it needed you most, you weren't here to protect It.” said Granny Smith. “T-that’s alright. We can just rebuild like at the Apple Family reunion. Once an Apple, always an Apple right?” said Applejack. The three other ponies just looked at her like she was crazy. “AN APPLE, ya have lost any right to be called an Apple. Ya abandoned yer farm, yer family, and yer land, all so ya could go play with yer friends. Ya don’t deserve to be called an Apple.” said Apple Bloom, looking up at Applejack with hateful eyes. “EEYUP” agreed Big Mac, his eyes no less angry. Applejack could no longer hold the tears any longer and fell to the ground sobbing and not one of her family tried to comfort her, their cruel grins spreading as their bodies contorted into shadows that sank into the ash. Applejack’s face was buried in her hooves, so she didn’t see the white snow that began to fall.

Fluttershy was lost in the forest, whose limbs tried to reach out and grab her. The dark was everywhere and every sound made Fluttershy jump as she called out for the other girls. She stopped when she saw an injured rabbit laying on the trail and knelt down to look at it. “Well hello there mister bunny. Are you hurt?” she asked in a soothing voice. She stopped when she heard the sound of limbs breaking behind her and turned to see a hydra staring hungrily down at her, its draconic eyes attempting to freeze her in place. But she had already rocketed past it, the bunny clutched tight in her forelegs as she ran. The hydra wasted no time in storming after her, its snapping jaws reaching for her with each pass. Fluttershy was frantically looking for a place to hide when she saw the entrance to a cave up ahead. She ran faster than she ever had before and dived into the cave, the rocks cutting her as she slid along the stone floor. The hydra stopped before the entrance and tried to fit one of its heads in, but the entrance was too large, so it waited.

“Please go away. Please go away. Please go away.” thought Fluttershy, holding the bunny close. She didn’t see its evil grin, or how it’s fur was turning black. “Poor Fluttershy, so afraid of your own shadow.” taunted the shadow. Fluttershy dropped it and backed further into the cave, the jaws of the hydra still awaiting her at the other end should she try to flee. “Who are you?” she whimpered, covering her eyes with her hooves. “Oh, who am I? Well, your nightmare I suppose. Of all the ponies who entered my domain. Of all the fears I have come across. Yours is by far the most pathetic.” laughed the shadow as it moved along the walls. “I-it’s not p-pathetic.” she whimpered. “Oh really, so being eaten by a monster of the Everfree is the worst thing imaginable. THAT is your worst fear. I have seen ponies that fear of being left alone, ponies that fear dying alone without ever knowing love. And yet you say that yours is a terrible fear.” growled the voice. “You are PATHETIC.” snarled the voice.

“And yet she has the strength to face you, Nightmare.” said a softer, more gentle voice from behind Fluttershy. A tall regal navy blue alicorn stood protectively over Fluttershy, her wings spread in a threatening manner. The shadow backed away, fear in its eyes. But then it started to smile; a toothy, predatory smile that scared Fluttershy. She crawled towards Winter, not even bothering to stand. “Ah, a new alicorn; how is it that knowledge of your existence eluded me all those years ago?” asked Nightmare Moon as she appeared from the shadows. “I do not know what you are talking about, for I do not know you aside from the tales my friends have told me. However, I do understand your abilities, vile as they may be. And, with the correct spell, they are easily counteracted.” said Winter before lighting her horn. A powerful white light enveloped her and Fluttershy before they disappeared from the cave, a furious Nightmare Moon shouting into the shadows.

Twilight cowered beneath the accusing glares of the shadows as they danced about her, continuing their horrid chant. She was shaking violently from the fear that had filled her, and would not have noticed the hoof on her shoulder had the gentle voice not called out to her. “How strange it is to find a princess so easily cowed by lesser beasts.” said a bemused blue alicorn as she lifted Twilight to her feet with her magic. Twilight was too stunned by the sudden appearance of the alicorn to say anything, and instead watched as she turned towards the shadows that were now cowering against the wall, afraid of this powerful being. “This domain may be yours, but a heart strong and true can pierce your illusions. You hold no sway over me, as I know of your trickery. Now be gone filthy abominations, before I reduce you to dust.” said Winter icily, eyeing each of the shadows. They all promptly disintegrated and disappeared, not wanting to risk the alicorn’s wrath. Twilight was just looking between Winter and the shadows, a dumbfounded look on her face. “How?” she stuttered. Winter just looked amused at this as a spell began to form on her horn. “I would love to explain later, but I am afraid that we have more important matters to attend to. Such as gathering the others.” she said, igniting the spell and causing them to disappear.

Rarity was shivering in the now heavy downpour that had started shortly after her boutique had finished burning. The pony that had thrown her out had stayed to mock her, speaking of how she was a failure at everything she attempted. She didn’t listen though, as his words would not deepen the already black pit in her stomach. Her family had ridiculed her, her boutique was destroyed, and her career was all but nonexistent. How could she possibly feel any worse? She then heard hoof steps coming up behind her and let out a sigh. “Please just go away. I highly doubt anything you say could make me feel any worse than I already do.” said Rarity. She jumped when she heard light laughter. She turned and found herself looking up into the joyous face of a navy blue alicorn. “I have heard that you are quite the dramatic. But that was a little over the top, don’t you think?” giggled the alicorn as she turned to face the creature. “Be gone apparition. You are no longer wanted here. Go and tell your master what danger she has brought on herself.” she said as the creature faded back into the darkness. “But… how are you…” started Rarity, only to be cut off by the bright flash of Winter’s spell.

Applejack sat staring at the ground. The ash swirled around her hooves, leaving gray patterns in her fur. She sighed once more and looked up at the sky, which was now as gray as the ash had been. So she was a bit surprised when she saw a river of blue come towards her from across the orchard. She looked towards the source and her jaw almost dropped as she watched an alicorn come waltzing up to her, leaving a trail of fresh plant life in her wake. Applejack stood and tried to trot over to the alicorn, but was stopped as tendrils of ash wound themselves around her hooves. She tried to pull free, but they only wound themselves tighter. “It would appear that your fear is more reluctant to release you.” said the alicorn as she broke the tendrils with her magic. Applejack was just about to say something when Winter cast her spell and teleported her to meet the others.

They all found themselves in a dark throne room lit by only a few torches. “Princess Luna.” cried Twilight as she ran to the fallen alicorn’s side. “Twilight Sparkle, you must run before she catches you.” whispered Luna, too weak to move. “It is too late for that already.” said Nightmare Moon as she materialized from the ash and shadows. “You have come to the place of your defeat, Elements. And for that you will pay dearly.” growled Nightmare Moon as she cast a lethal spell. But it was stopped by a light green shield. Nightmare Moon narrowed her eyes at Winter, who glared right back. “No, you must run. She will kill you.” cried Luna in desperation, trying to get to her hooves. “She will not lay a scratch on me, for I rob her of the strength needed to defeat me.” said Winter, her form flickering in the dark. “Winter, what’s happening to you?” asked Twilight, shocked by Winter’s slow disintegration. “This was but a spell to rescue you, so I cannot remain to finish this.” she said before turning to Luna. “However, I can give you the key to her defeat. To defeat your darkness, you must rob her of the one thing she wants most from you, dear Luna. The one thing she feeds on to survive.” said Winter before vanishing altogether.

Nightmare Moon’s spell continued onward, only to be stopped by a combined shield of Twilight and Rarity’s magic. “What did she mean, Luna? What is it that you keep giving her?” asked Twilight, grunting from the strain of upholding the barrier. “What I keep giving her… that she needs to survive. What did I need as Nightmare Moon?” wondered Luna before truth rang in her head. “Fear.” she whispered, already walking towards the dark specter, which backed away, unsure of what was happening. “It was my fear. My fear kept you alive even after you were gone.” said Luna as a crack of light appeared on Nightmare Moon’s body. “I… don’t know what you’re talking about.” said Nightmare Moon, her back hitting her dark throne as more cracks spider-webbed across her body. “Yes, that’s it. When all else was healed by the Elements, it was my fear of what would happen that sustained you. My fear of not being accepted, of being rejected even for what you had done.” said Luna, her voice filling with the courage needed to best this beast. Light was pouring out of Nightmare Moon’s body now and was illuminating the darkened room.

Luna got right into Nightmare Moon’s face, causing her to flinch away. “And without my fear to feed you, you are nothing but a ghost of my past.” said Luna, a triumphant smile on her face. Nightmare Moon smiled back at her before taking a few steps back. “Well done, my dear Luna. It would seem that you have trumped your final restraint. I wish you luck in the battle to come, for you will need it.” whispered Nightmare Moon before her body exploded, engulfing the five ponies in its glow.

Celestia looked up as she noticed the bright flashes of light coming from the stained glass windows. But she did not cry out in panic, and instead wore a victorious smile. “It is time we end this sister. I gave you a chance to turn your back on this dark path, but you have chosen to stay upon it. Now it is time for you to pay the consequences.” said Luna in the royal Canterlot voice as she was flanked by Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy, who had also appeared in the room upon Nightmare Moon’s defeat. But Celestia did not back down, nor did she appear worried in the slightest. “I am afraid that you are mistaken dear sister. For it is you who will wish for my mercy soon enough.” said Celestia, taking a step forward from the conference table, her mind already connected with the hive. “And why would that be, sister?” asked Luna, already taking a defensive pose.

But she did not have time to attack, because at that moment, the windows shattered inward as a cloud of changelings poured in from the outside. Twilight had only seconds to cast her teleportation spell before they were overwhelmed. But they were still able to hear Celestia’s last words and those words sent a chill down their backs.

“For tomorrow the war shall begin and all who oppose me shall be crushed. And nopony will be spared.” said Celestia as she watched her foes disappear.