Memoriesby Sun AuraChaptersBeginningsEverfreeVisionsAt the GalaReturning ChaosThe TruthNightmare NightPlays are FictionCanterlot ShenanigansChangeThe Lost EmpireCrystal MagicProlouge: DreamsBeginningsAnother Chance “Of course humans exist!” I said to the mint green unicorn. “There are many creatures that are hybrids, basically that means they have parts from multiple existing creatures. The Chimera, for example, is a hybrid of lion, snake, and goat.” I levitated a book down as the unicorn’s smile grew with her intrigue. “There are many hybrids with humans involved, but only some are confirmed to exist, like the Minotaurs. Logically, somepony would not create a creature just to combine it with another. I do not have a book on humans, but this book does have information on all known hybrids in it” I had barely checked the book out for her before she ran home with it. I cannot wait until the new librarian gets here. Last week, Ponyville said goodbye to its librarian of many years, a Pegasus named Sky Script. As I spent the most time in the library, I was asked to fill in until we could get a permanent replacement. You would not believe how rude ponies could get when you visit them about overdue fines. I sighed as I levitated down another book. ‘The history of Equestria’ was its title. I flipped to the first chapter; the story of Hearth’s warming Eve. The story was vague, and left out many details. It said nothing about how Celestia had become the ruler instead of the leaders of the Unicorn, Pegasus, and Earth pony tribes, or anything about Celestia’s life. I heard a loud noise outside, but I paid no attention to it, as I continued the reading. Yet part of me noticed. I felt it in my heart first, but it quickly made its way through to my hooves and the tips of my wings. A warm tingle went through my body, synchronizing with my heartbeat. It was something I had been able to do for years, but I never really understood it before. I still do not really understand it. “Somepony should revise these books,” I murmured, shaking off the tingle. “This only tells the history of the Reign of Celestia.” I levitated the book back onto the shelf as I blew a piece of my red-orange mane out of my face. I should get it cut soon. I heard the door open, and turned to help another pony find a book. The one who, quite literally, bounced in was Pinkie Pie, carrying in a lot of party supplies. “Hay there, Feria!” She said, tossing a purple streamer around my neck. “Guess what? There is a new pony in town. I saw her and I was like ‘GASP!” then I ran off to get my welcome wagon, but she disappeared by the time I got back! Then I realized she must be the new librarian, because Sky Script just retired and we need somepony else, and I checked with the mayor and she said that the new librarian is arriving today straight from Canterlot and will be staying in the upper level apartment and that is who I saw today and-!” “Pinkie, I got it,” I said as nice as I could. Pinkie is a great friend, but she can ramble a bit too much and never get to her point. “If you are planning on having a welcoming party in the library, at least give me some time to prepare. I might not be a real librarian, but I would like to keep the books safe.” I flew up to the rafters. Sky Script had left many tarps up here for just these kinds of situations. I came back down and Pinkie was already setting up. “You know, I just thought of something! You used to live in Canterlot! Maybe you know her!” Pinkie exclaimed. I could see she was debating on when I would let her bring in the party canon. “Maybe,” I replied, tying a tarp to the bookshelf. “What did she look like?” “She was a Unicorn! And really pretty. I mean, she wasn’t like Rarity; she was simple and such, but still pretty! Her coat was lavender colored and her mane was dark indigo!” I heard a crash from behind me. “It’s alright! I got it! As I was saying, her mane also had a pink stripe in it, and a lighter purple stripe! I didn’t see her Cutie Mark too well, but I think it was pink. OH! And she had a super adorable purple and green baby dragon with her! Does she sound familiar at all?” “Twilight Sparkle?” I said confused. Pinkie started talking about how great of a name that is, but I was just trying to think this through. Why would Celestia send her private student to be the librarian? There is something I could not shake. I knew Celestia very well; she was my sister, after all. There was something else in her plan. Twilight probably did not know what it was either. “And of course the Summer Sun Celebration is tomorrow, so the party will probably run into that party and we all just head over to Town Hall later tonight. And this is going to be the best Summer Sun Celebration yet, because it is the one thousandth one!” Pinkie Pie was still going. She had been planning the Summer Sun Celebration party for a while now, it is the one day of the year ponies are supposed to stay through the whole night, and she enjoyed it all. Everypony knows the Summer Sun Celebration, but the location of the main celebration changes every year. This year, Ponyville is hosting, and we will watch as Princess Celestia raises the sun as she lowers the- “Wait! Did you say this was the one thousandth one? The Celebration is the anniversary of the day that began the Reign of Celestia, the day Celestia began to rule on her own.” I spun around and tried to find a book. Of course the book was under ‘E’. “What are you doing?” Pinkie asked practically singing. I ignored her and kept searching through the book. The Mare in the Moon, a story most call simple pony tale used to scare children. I read it aloud “On the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about Nighttime Eternal!” I had nearly forgotten this. She told me it was coming, but not this soon. I had noticed her becoming scared, jumping at shadows. If I had known… More ponies began to show up, wanting to help us set up. Pinkie given them tasks and gone back to decorating, but she kept glancing over at me a little worried. I wanted to reassure her, but I did not know what to say. No matter the outcome, tonight will be the last time Celestia raises the moon. But will tomorrow’s sun ever come? * * * “She’s coming! She’s coming!” Pinkie squeaked, dragging me through a group of ponies and toward the window. I still do not know how Pinkie could fit this many ponies in a library. She had been right, the pony I recognized as Twilight Sparkle was coming up to the library, and Spike was riding on her back talking to Fluttershy who was following behind. Pinkie switched off the lights and told us all to be quiet. I watched as Twilight awkwardly tried to say goodbye to Fluttershy. She came in and had a whispered conversation with Spike. We were not close enough to hear the whole thing, but I caught a few words; ‘Nightmare Moon’, ‘running out of time’, and ‘make friends’. “Now, where’s the light? Twilight asked as Pinkie Pie hit the switch. Everypony yelled out ‘surprise’ as Twilight stood there in shock. I had to giggle at that. Twilight is one of those ponies that make great expressions, especially when surprised. “Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?” Pinkie asked, bouncing in front of Twilight. “Yes, very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet!” She replied. “Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, hello? bo-ring! I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all *GASP*, remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville!” We walked through the crowd and reached the buffet table, where Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy were waiting. Twilight groaned and poured herself a drink. “And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me very sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went *gasp*! I should throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville and have it run into the other party tonight! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!” “Are you all right, sugarcube?” Applejack asked Twilight, as she was looking a little odd. Twilight let out a high pitched scream, her magic reacting to her surprise and creating some minor fire-breathing. She ran off as Spike looked to see what she drank. “Hot sauce?” he asked, as Pinkie poured some on a cupcake. “What? It’s good!” she said with a mouth full of cupcake. I rolled my eyes and followed Twilight to the librarian’s apartments upstairs. It was a small area, with a bedroom and kitchen, a small space for entertaining. As I entered, I saw her looking at the books Sky Script left behind from his personal collection. “Elements of Harmony… Elements…. Why is there nothing here?” she said exasperated. “That is because you are not looking in the right place,” I answered, startling her for the second time tonight. She turned a little too quickly, stumbling as she tried to recognize me. Her eyes showed nothing but confusion at first, but soon widened in recognition. “Feria?” she asked. “I haven’t seen you in years! Why are you here?” “I could ask you the same thing,” I said walking over. “I moved here a few years ago. It is very different from Canterlot and the castle, ponies seem to care a bit more here. Of course, adjusting had been hard. There are not many ponies that would move here on purpose, much less somepony from somewhere as ‘fancy’ as Canterlot. The ponies here only knew me as ‘princess’, and treated me as such.” I shuffled my wings nervously. I had not spoken to Twilight Sparkle in years, and even back then we had not been very close. “So, why did you come to Ponyville?” “Princess Celestia sent me to oversee the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration” Twilight replied, turning back to the books. “She also said to ‘make friends’ but that doesn’t matter right now! Equestria might be in danger and I ‘m the only one who seems to realize it!” “I assume you have told Princess Celestia?” Another thing I never will get completely used to is using the Princess’ full title. She is always just ‘Celestia’ to me, just another pony like all of those in town. She was my sister, and I could call her things like ‘Tia’ and ‘Big sis’, but the others’ reactions to it were odd enough for me to try to stop. “Of course I did! She sent me here saying “it’s just an old pony’s tale!” even though Nightmare Moon could be returning!” I tried to hide my surprise. Celestia knew all about Nightmare Moon’s return and what she could do. She had been more and more nervous and all year. I had not known what had been bothering her, but I had been worried. I even offered to move back to Canterlot to comfort her, but Tia told me to stay here. “Do you know something about this?” Twilight asked to my silence. “Well, if you are right she probably wanted you to be away from Canterlot, as Nightmare Moon would strike there first?” I replied. That is what I had been telling myself since Pinkie told me Twilight was in town. It was the only explanation I could think of at the time. “Then I should go back and help her!” Twilight began hurriedly packing random things into her still unpacked saddlebags. “Well, Celestia will be here in Ponyville tonight, so going home would not help at all.” I said, realizing that myself. I had thought Tia was sending Twilight Sparkle away for protection. Why would she lie to her personal student, and then send her into the danger? Tia always had a plan, but I could not figure this one out. Twilight started to calm down a little and looked as confused as I was. I was about to discuss this with her as Spike walked in, obviously having more fun than Twilight was with the party. “Hey Twilight!” he exclaimed, breaking the silence, “Pinkie Pie’s starting ‘pin the tail on the pony’! Want to play?” “No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?” “It’s the eve of the Summer Sun celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they’ll miss the princess raise the sun.” Spike finally noticed I was there. “You look familiar, have we met?” “I have not seen you in a few years,” I giggled. “You were still fairly young when I left. I am Feria” “Oh! I’m sorry I did not recognize you,” he said, fully remembering who I am. “It is alright,” I said, trying to be friendlier. “You know, I never cared for ‘pin the tail on the pony’. It just sounds to painful.” “Okay, well, I’m going back to play. You sure you don’t want to come, Twilight?” “NO!” “You really need to lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party!” He said walking out the door. “You really need to lighten up, twilight. It’s a party”, Twilight mocked. “You two are really more like siblings, are you not?” I laughed, heading out after him. “You know, Tia always thought of you as a sister, not just as a student.” * * * I made my way through the crowd as ponies began walking to Town Hall. Pinkie’s party plan had been to get us all over there in smallish groups, and she was rounding up the last few. I knew Fluttershy would be there setting up the music. Rarity would be adding last minute touches on her decorating; she could be working on something for weeks and still try to improve on the design. I reached Town Hall about twenty minutes before dawn. As I entered the building Mayor Mare trotted up to me. She had been trying to stay calm, but was obviously in that crazy mode where she really wanted to please her guest, but could snap at the wrong word. It was even more intense considering that the ‘guest’ was our Princess. “Hello there, Feria,” she said. “I was just checking on Princess Celestia, and she said you should go see her when you showed up. She is in the room upstairs, third on the right.” “I will go see her then,” I replied. On my way up I nodded hello to a few ponies, said a few compliments on their manes and accessories. The hall I entered was empty, but I felt a presence. The warm tingling feeling was starting up again, yet the closer I got to the room, the more strange it felt. It was not as steady and synchronized like usual. I got worse as I walked on. “It is time for you to have a taste of what you gave me for the past thousand years! You shall now and forever be trapped in the sun, painfully alone, left to contemplate your crimes against me!” I saw a bright light coming from behind the door Celestia should be in. I ran up and tried to open it, but the magic pressure kept it closed. I shouted out to her, but I could not hear my own voice. My hooves pounded on the door as the warm tingling feeling turned into a searing pain. I finally was able to open the door, but the one who stood before me was not Celestia. Who I saw before me was a different mare, as tall as Celestia. Her mane was a magical misty swirl of night, she had a black coat like mine, and her body was protected by blue-gray armor. I could not say anything, I could not think. Her eyes were staring through me. All I could do is stare back into those angry turquoise dragon-like eyes. A sound from down the hall distracted her for a moment, and I began running away. I galloped down the hall, afraid she was chasing me. I had to tell somepony! I had to get help. I made it back down and got lost in the crowd. I stopped next to Twilight Sparkle and tried to catch my breath as Mayor Mare came out to introduce Celestia and start the Summer Sun Celebration. I had thought I would be prepared for this, but how could I have been? “Fillies and Gentlecolts, as Mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the One Thousandth Summer Sun Celebration!” Mayor Mare announced as ponies cheered. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the amazing pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of peace and Harmony to all, protector of Equestria… Princess Celestia!” The curtain opened, but Celestia did not appear. Ponies whispered to each other, I saw Rarity walk backstage too look for her. I knew she would find nothing. “This can’t be good.” Twilight muttered next to me. “Remain calm, everypony,” Mayor Mare reassured us. “There must be a reasonable explaination for this!” “Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games!” Pinkie shouted. “Is she hiding?” “She’s gone!” Rarity exclaimed as she walked back onstage. There were more gasps and whispers, Pinkie Pie momentarily praised Celestia’s ‘hiding skills’. But a cloud of purple mist appeared where Celestia should be. I watched as the cloud turned into that mare I had seen upstairs, full armor, black coat, and a magical mist-like mane with a matching tail. She still had those eyes, turquoise and dragon-like, able to see straight through you. “Oh, my sweet, beloved subjects,” she mused. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious, sun-loving faces.” “What did you do to our princess?!” Rainbow Dash yelled. She attempted to charge at the mare, but was held back by Applejack. “Why,” the mare chuckled, “am I not royal enough for you? Have you forgotten who I am?” “Ooh, ooh! More guessing games!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Uh, Hokey Smokes! Or maybe… Queen Meanie? No, Black Snooty! Black Snooty!” she was cut off by somepony. The mare magicked around us. “Does my crown no longer count now that I have been betrayed, and imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall my legend? Did you not see the signs?” “I saw!” Twilight shouted. “And I know who you are. You are the Mare in the Moon… Nightmare Moon!” Ponies gasped all around. Shouts were heard before quieting down as Nightmare Moon began to speak again. “Well well well, somepony who remembers me.” She said to us, a hint of appreciation in her voice. “I also know who you are,” I shouted, as the searing pain pulsed again. “You are the Bringer of Night, and you were one of the rulers. You were, and still are-” I cringed as the pain went through me again, it was getting worse. “You can return to our world! You will always be able to come back to us!” Our eyes met again, and I stared right back into her soul. She looked shocked and seemed to recognize me. “Feria…” she whispered. Her form flickered, turning dark blue instead of black and her voice softer. In her eyes, I saw anger and hatred, but I also saw somepony who was lonely and afraid and full of remorse. It was over in less than a second, but I saw it. The pain going through me weakened, and I was not afraid of her anymore. “It is too late for that!” she shouted. “If you know who I am, then you also know why I am here!” There was a silence as the moment built, none of us wanting to say it. While my fear was dissipating, the crowd was growing with terror and panic. They were deciding when would be the best time to run for their lives. “Remember this day, my little ponies, for it was your last!” Nightmare Moon yelled as thunder struck. “From this moment on, the nighttime will last FOREVER!” She threw back her head in laughter, and I ran. I kept running, but I did not know where I was going. I galloped through the town, and I did not stop. I did not stop until I had reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, a dark place where the laws of our world did not apply. I do not know why my hooves carried me here, but I felt it is where I could go. Celestia once told me her old castle was in what is now the heart of the forest. I could go there and think of a plan. Without Celestia, I did not know who could possibly defeat somepony as powerful as Nightmare Moon. Looking into the dark canopy of trees, I listened. Panicked voices were everywhere in town, and monsters were hiding in the bushes of the forest. But I felt this was where I needed to go. The feeling was balancing out, sometimes a warm tingling pulse, others a searing pain. I gathered my courage for a moment and stepped into the darkness that was the Everfree Forest. EverfreeI walked through the Everfree forest, watching and waiting for something to jump out and attack. Celestia once told me about this place. She said in the heart of the forest, was her old castle, the place she lived before Canterlot. She left the memories of the place behind, and moved her castle to Canterlot. Without somepony caring for it, the castle grew wild, and was left to ruin. Some things were left there, not being moved to Canterlot quick enough before the forest enveloped it. There were artifacts and books that nopony had seen in almost a thousand years. I smiled remembering how Tia would call them ‘Lost Things’. I tried to follow the path that had once been here, but it was now overgrown and destroyed. At intervals, the feeling would go through me again, it switched between warm tingle, and electrifying pain. I tried to use the feeling to see which way I should go. Unfortunately, walking toward the castle made both feelings more intense. I stopped and looked around. The feeling changed. The pain was stable, but the tingle was very intense. Something was telling me to turn around. I listened for monsters ahead of me, but I heard nothing there. Then it happened. There were screams from behind me. Somepony was in trouble! I did not care about anything else, all I knew was I had to help. I ran toward the screaming, I saw ponies falling! Two were caught by pegasai, one was safe on the edge, but holding on to one who was about to fall. She would not be able to hang on much longer. The pegasai would have to set down the others before catching her. There was not enough time for her to be saved. I watched in terror as she fell. I spread my wings and felt another pulse of tingling energy go through my body. I flew up as fast as I could, not knowing if I would make it. I could not breathe, I could not think. I felt something solid. I had caught her. The screams stopped, and the tension left, I could breathe again. She was safe. “Feria?” asked the pony I had caught. I looked down to see Twilight Sparkle in my hooves. She was looking up at me as if to ask how I had managed to save her. “Sorry, I bet you probably want me to put you on the ground now, right?” I said, smiling in relief. Both the pain and the tingle had subsided by the time I set her down. Applejack jumped down the cliff with the skill of a mountain goat, and Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were waiting at the bottom of the cliff, having already carried down Rarity and Pinkie Pie. “Now didn’t ah’ say you would be safe?” Applejack said to Twilight. “What are you six doing here?” I asked. “After Nightmare Moon appeared,” Twilight started. “I went back to the library to find a book about the Elements of Harmony. I had been looking for it all day, because the Elements are the only things that can defeat her.” “We followed her, seein’ as she might know something” Applejack continued. “And of course the book said the Elements were here, so we came in,” Rarity finished. “Although why something as important as them would be in a place as dreadful as this, I don’t know.” I saw Rainbow Dash roll her eyes at Rarity’s comment. “Anyway,” Twilight said, “We need to keep going to the Palace of the Royal Pony Sisters. The Elements should be there.” I contemplated this for a moment. I knew more about legends and such than most ponies, but not as much as Celestia, considering she lived through them. I knew the Elements were Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, and Loyalty, along with an unknown Element. I never knew how the most powerful things in Equestria could only delay the problems in their legends. “I will come with you,” I decided. “Please, don’t endanger yourself,” Twilight said. “Without Princess Celestia, you might be the only one who can defeat Nightmare Moon if our plan doesn’t work.” “Then all the more reason I come along. Nightmare Moon would know about the Elements, and about the ruined castle. I had been heading there anyway, thinking I could find and use one of the Lost Things to fend off Nightmare Moon. I did not know the Elements were there, but we need all the help we can get.” I led the way through the trees and back to the path, not letting any of them object again. We wandered for a while, keeping each other company as we pressed on. I felt the warm tingle again, without the pain for a while, but it soon came back. I heard a roar and looked through the trees as a creature jumped out at us. It was huge, about three ponies tall, and it had the head of a lion but a scorpion tail and a pair of leathery wings. I roared at us again as the pain went through my body again. “A manticore!” Twilight yelled. “We’ve got to get past it!” The manticore leaped at us and swiped his paw at Rarity. “Take that you ruffian!” she yelled, bucking him in the face. He roared at her again, ruining her hair as she ran off. I tried to use my magic to maybe levitate him long enough for us to escape, but the pain going through me would not let me concentrate long enough. The manticore ran after Rarity, but was soon jumped by Applejack. “YEE-HAW! Git along, little doggie!” she yelled, trying to hold on as the manticore thrashed around, but she was soon thrown into the air, near Rainbow Dash. “Your turn, partner.” She said as she passed her. Rainbow Dash flew to the manticore and tried to make a tornado around the creature, only to get smacked back to us by its tail. Twilight made the signal for a full on charge at the monster before us, and we all began to run toward him. “WAIT!” Fluttershy yelled, jumping between us and the creature. We stopped and watched her walk up to it. I watched as the manticore was about to crush her. “It’s okay, “Fluttershy said calmly. The manticore lowered its paw and we saw a thorn stuck in it. “Oh, you poor, poor little kitty.” “Little?” Rainbow Dash questioned. “Now this might hurt for just a second” Fluttershy continued as she pulled out the thorn. The manticore roared, but soon began purring and licking Flutershy as a thank you. “Aw, you’re just a little ol’ baby kitty, aren’t you? Yes you are!” The manticore put her down and walked away from us, leaving Fluttershy’s mane sticking straight up from the saliva. “How did you know about the thorn in its paw?” Twilight Sparkle asked. “I didn’t” she replied. “Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.” I contemplated this as we all walked on. We all had assumed the manticore was there just to kill us, but it is alive, like we are. Just because it is different does not mean we should not treat it as a like we treat other ponies. “My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck!” Rarity complained. The trees answered by getting thicker, their leaves blocking out the moonlight. I felt a sharp pain shoot through me again. “Well, I didn’t mean that literally.” The ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn’t even know it!” Twilight exclaimed. We all started bumping into each other, and everything. The ground became sticky, and I felt a slight change in the air pressure. “Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin’,” Applejack said as Fluttershy screamed “It’s just mud.” But she soon saw what Fluttershy had screamed at, the trees grew faces, they were growling at us, you would have thought they would eat us any second. But Pinkie Pie was just laughing and making faces at the tree. “Pinkie, what are you doing?” Twilight asked, slightly panicked. “Oh, girls, don’t you see?” Pinkie asked. Then she began to sing. “When I was a little filly and sun going down” “Tell me she’s not…” Twilight complained. “The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown” “She is.” Rarity answered. “I’d hide under my pillow From what I thought I saw But Granny Pie said that wasn’t the way To deal with fears at all” “Then what is?” Rainbow Dash shouted, her voice cracking slightly in mild annoyance. “She said ‘Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall Learn to face your fears You’ll see that they can’t hurt you Just laugh to make them disappear’ Ha! Ha! Ha!” At her laugh, the tree became less scary. It was just a normal looking tree, no faces or growls. Pinkie smiled at us, inviting us to try it. I walked up to one, and chuckled a little. It worked, and everything going back to normal. I do not know if a spell made the trees physically change, or we saw it in our minds, but this could work. We all started to join in the laughter, and soon we couldn’t stop. Pinkie kept singing the whole way through. We all fell into a pile of silly laughing ponies. Pinkie was practically a squeaky toy, Rarity was trying to keep from breaking down into loud nearly breathless laughs like Applejack already had. I was actually snorting with laughter. I could not tell if the warm tingle I felt was from my friends, or if it was what I usually felt. I think it might be both, but it overpowered the painful feeling. I felt the pain coming back, but not as powerful. I do not know how, but we got up from the pile of giggles and kept going. Instead of awkward small talk, we really began to know each other past what we first saw. We shared things most did not know about ourselves, and learned about each other along the way; Rainbow Dash said a lot of her fascination with the Wonderbolts came from a conversation with one when she was little, Rarity asked me to come by her shop sometime and model a few dresses, as she rarely gets to work with somepony who has a black coat. The warm tingle kept the pain at bay, for me. It was still there, but not as intense. I was glad I had met these ponies on my way to the castle. I do not think I would have made it without them. “We should be coming up on a river soon; we can cross on the bridge.” I said as we turned a corner on the path, then saw and heard the river. They looked over to me with obvious confusion. “How did you know?” Twilight asked me. “I- I am not sure?” It was strange. I just saw it in my mind, like I would see a memory. I could not remember something I could not have seen, right? “Where’s the bridge?” Rainbow Dash asked me. I just stared at the river. In my mind, I saw a calm river. I saw a beautiful white bridge, carved and decorated to look like clouds. All I saw here was a thrashing river. “How are we going to cross this? Pinkie asked as we heard somepony crying upstream. We looked through the bushes to see a sea serpent sobbing into the river, thrashing around in a tantrum. We would not be able to cross while he was there, I do not think even a bridge could help us across. Twilight Sparkle must have come to the same conclusion, as she tentatively approached the sea serpent. “Excuse me, sir?” Twilight asked. “Why are you crying?” “Well, I don’t know.” The serpent wailed with flamboyant hand motions. “I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whooshed past me and tore half of my beautiful mustache clean off! Now I look simply horrid!” “Oh, give me a break.” Rainbow muttered. “That’s what all the fuss is about?” Applejack complained. “Why, of course it is.” Rarity exclaimed, shocked at their reaction. “How can somepony be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely, radiant scales.” “I know.” The serpent said, beginning to calm down. “And your expertly trimmed mane.” She complimented again, walking up to him. “Oh, I know, I know.” “Your astonishing manicure.” “It’s so true!” the serpent gasped. “All ruined without your extravagant mustache!” Rarity exclaimed. “It’s true, I’m hideous!” he yelled as he began thrashing again. I thought it was going to work, so why did Rarity stop the compliments? She knows we have to get across, right? “I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!” Rarity proclaimed. “Rarity, what are you-?” Twilight yelled. We watched as she grabbed one of the serpent’s scales, and sliced off her own tail! The sea serpent screamed and fainted dramatically. Rarity levitated what used to be her tail towards him, and magically attached it as the other half his mustache. “My mustache! How wonderful!” the serpent exclaimed as Rarity gave another compliment to him. “Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail…” Twilight said, looking at the small tuft that was left. “Oh. It’s fine, dear” she replied. “Short tails are in this season. Besides, it’ll grow back.” “So would the mustache.” Rainbow pointed out. “But it was a generous gift, one that meant more than reassurance,” Rarity replied. “Allow me,” the serpent said, letting us use him as a bridge. We were across, and the others were starting to head off, but I lingered a moment. Twilight looked back at me for a moment, but I nodded for her to go ahead without me. As they steadily walked along, I headed back to the sea serpent. “Excuse me, mr… uh…” I said. “Oh, forgive me,” he apologized, “we were never properly introduced each other. My name is Steven Magnet.” He offered me his hand. “Thank you,” I said, accepting his handshake. “I am Feria.” “As in the Princess?!” he asked as I nodded in confirmation. “Oh dear, I feel terrible! How I acted was no way to be in front of anypony, much less in front of royalty!” “It is okay, Mr. Magnet. Anypony would have reacted like that in a similar situation.” “You may call me Steven, if you wish. If there is anything I can do for you, my princess, please ask.” “Actually, could you tell me something? I believe there was once a bridge across this river. Do you know where it is?” “Why, that bridge hasn’t been here for nearly fifty years. It had been a hazard for a long time before that, if anypony came by they were not allowed to try to use it, but it eventually broke down. The remaining pieces of it are in that clearing up ahead.” I thought on this for a moment. How could I remember the bridge in a place I have never been? A bridge that had been destroyed long ago, before I was born, and out of commission for even longer? What could this mean? Was I going crazy? I thanked him and began to walk off. “If I may ask, princess,” Steven asked, “has something happened? It’s not often we get ponies in the forest, much less a group as large as yours. And the sun hasn’t come up, but night should have been over hours ago.” I paused for a second, trying to know what to tell him. “Mr. Magnet, do you know who Nightmare Moon is?” I asked, looking over my shoulder. The surprise in his eyes told me yes. “Do not be frightened, I do not believe she is as evil as ponies think she is. If all goes right tonight, everything will return to how it should be.” “I hope so, my princess. I hope the day returns soon.” “It will come back. But do you not think that the night is a very beautiful thing?” “But, Princess-!” “Please, do not call me ‘Princess’. I am just Feria, I am me.” I smiled at him and walked on. I entered the clearing with the bridge pieces. It was easy to see this is the same bridge I saw in that memory. It was dark gray now, overgrown with plants and quite eroded, but still somehow beautiful. I soon caught up with my friends, but I kept quiet. This was confusing me. I saw these memories that could not be mine. As I thought on this, the painful feeling came back. It grew stronger as we came closer to the castle, but was manageable. The trees parted, and we got our first look at the castle. The castle had once been a marvel greater than the one in Canterlot. Now it was ruined. It looked like the bridge. Bright white stones, now dull gray. The wooden doors had rotted away, and the stone archways were covered in vines. I could still sense the magical wards protecting this place. I could see what it used to be in my mind, like I saw the bridge. “There it is!” Twilight yelled. “The ruins that hold the Elements of Harmony! We made it!” She took off running, as we followed after her. “Twilight, wait for us!” Applejack called to her. “We’re almost there!” She yelled again, coming to a quick stop as she nearly fell of the edge. The rope bridge that should be there had been cut, even thought my mind saw a bridge more marvelous than the one on the river. “What’s with you and falling off cliffs today?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight, pulling her back. “Now what?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow flapped her wings in response. “Oh yeah!” I watched as she flew over the gap and tied one rope. I felt the pain shoot through me again, stronger than before. It lingered instead of being just a quick shock. I looked across the gap, and saw three ponies talking to Rainbow Dash. They were distracting her; I could tell somepony was using magic against her. “Rainbow, what’s taking so long?” Twilight called to her. She saw them too. “Oh no. Rainbow Dash! Don’t listen to them!” One of those other ponies looked at us, her eyes glowed, and the fog rolled in. It blocked our view and muffled our voices. We shouted to her, but she could not hear us. “I will fly over there! She needs help!” I yelled, spreading my wings. I had barely flapped them when another pain went through me. This was the strongest one yet. I cried out and crumpled to the ground. Each painful shock happened so fast, I do not even know if they were separate ones, or one long one. I could tell my friends were around me, asking if I was okay. I wanted to answer, but it hurt to move. I could not even talk. Only a few minutes passed, but it felt like forever. I noticed it soon stopped, and was replaced with the warm tingle. I was glad. I began to be able to move again, I could hear my friends’ voices again. I did not realize until now, but I had stopped thinking of them as “some ponies”. They were my friends. “See? I’d never leave my friends hanging” Rainbow Dash said as she came back through the fog, clearing it on the way. She noticed me lying on the ground breathing heavily. “Oh my Celestia what happened to you?” “I am sorry,” I said, getting up. “That- that happens sometimes. It has never been that bad before.” “What do you mean ‘that happens sometimes’? What was that?” Twilight asked. “It looked like it hurt a lot.” Pinkie Pie said, concerned and not bouncing like usual. “I- I do not completely know what it is. Usually, I will feel this warm tingle all over my body, but it occasionally becomes a sharp pain. When that happened, it is usually at the strength of a static shock you would get from sliding on carpet.” “That wasn’t like any static shock I’ve ever seen…” Fluttershy said. “I know, that is what was weird about it. I have never felt the pain as intense in reality. I felt it in a dream once, but it was more… dream-like. Although, the good, tingling feeling has never been this intense either. I am not completely sure what causes it, but I think it is connected to my special talent.” I tested my wings. The pain was still going through me, but not as terrible as before. “We need to keep going. We should get to the castle soon.” “Wait a second there, sugarcube.” Applejack said. “You shouldn’t be movin’ after that.” “I am fine enough for this. Yes, the one feeling hurt me, but the other makes me feel better. But if we stay here worrying about me, we will never return things to their rightful place!” I nodded my head toward the eastern side of the ruined castle. “The elements should be in that building there, it was designed as a safe haven, somewhere for ponies to hide in case of an attack.” They looked at me in confusion. I had not answered their questions, but I had raised a few more. How could I explain to them that I had no idea why I knew these things? Would they still trust me? Would they stay close? I still did not know exactly what caused those feelings, but I had connected that being with these six ponies made the good feeling more intense. Their concern when I was in pain was what helped me fight through it. We reached the building where the Elements should be. It was a rounded tower, with one big empty room inside. To its left, was what looked like a garden. I saw a statue or two in there, but did not pay much attention to what it was as we entered. There were tall pedestals in the middle of the room, five stone orbs rested on them, leaving some pedestals empty. “The Elements of Harmony, we’ve found them!” Twilight said as Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and I flew up to get them for her. “Careful!” she warned when I nearly dropped one. “One, two, three, four,” Pinkie counted. “There’s only five! “Where’s the sixth?” Rainbow asked, the panic in her voice rising. “The book said ‘when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth element to be revealed’!” Twilight recited. “What the hay is that supposed to mean?” Applejack asked. “I have an idea. Stand back. I don’t know what will happen.” “Come on now, y’all. She needs to concentrate,” Applejack said, herding us out of the room into the garden area outside. We looked around the garden for a bit, but I kept glancing over at the large statue in the middle of the place. I wandered to the statue, drawn in by wonder. I could remember many things about this place, but I did not remember this. It was fairly well preserved, as if somepony had specifically visited here often, and cleared away the growth. The statue itself was life-sized and greatly detailed. There were seven ponies in a group, laughing and playing with each other. Like nearly everything else here, I remembered the ponies from a dream, and from memories that did not belong to me, but I did recognize two from the memories I should have. One was on the back left. This pony looked like Celestia. Well, the Celestia I had known, smiling and loving, but this one was freer. It was like she had not spent hundreds of years, watching ponies grow old and die while she stayed exactly the same, like she did not have any regrets for things that had happened. The other pony I recognized, because it was me. This one was taller, older, but she was exactly like me in every way. The way her head tilted as she laughed, the fwippy-thing that happens with her mane, even the cutie mark carved into her stone flank was exactly like mine, a flaming heart which reminds me of the ‘Fire of Friendship’ from the Hearth’s Warming Eve plays. I noticed the inscription on the statue; ‘Dedicated to the Royal Pony Sisters, may those gone rest in peace, and let those still living feel no burden upon their soul.’ There were five stone plaques in the ground in front of the statue. I read them aloud “Tornata, Azura, Mira, Laruta, Feria.” My heartbeat quickened. I felt the tingle coming back, but I felt an equal amount of pain. I knew Celestia had other sisters. She had told me that I reminded her of one of them, she even gave me the same name. But this was too much for me. Seeing her, even as a statue was surreal. I looked down at the stone plaques again. This was not a garden anymore, it was a graveyard. I saw a flash out of the corner of my eye. Something had happened to Twilight. I broke away from the statue, but it would not leave my mind. The six of us ran back into the Elements’ chamber, but Twilight was gone. The Elements were missing too, and I could see small tendrils of purple mist left at the center of the room. “Look!” Rarity shouted, as a light flashed outside the window. I looked out and saw more lights in a building across a courtyard. “They are in the throne room!” I shouted, running through the room to a hallway. They followed behind as I led them through the twisting corridors. It was like I had walked these halls often, but I had never set hoof here before, had I? I knew exactly where to go. I knew the halls were fairly maze like, a design from Laruta. The halls were decorated by Azura, and weather controlled by Tornata. The castle was bigger, for royals, staff, civilians and animals had been allowed to mingle as friends. That idea came from Mira and the pervious Feria, but as time went on, and the Alicorns discovered their immortality, they were treated differently, and they isolated themselves, and let the castle become empty. There were things, faces, moments I should not remember, but were still in my mind. As we were getting closer to the throne room, we shouted out to Twilight, hoping she could hear us. We told her not to worry, told her we would be there soon. We entered and saw Twilight Sparkle talking to Nightmare Moon, the smashed Elements at Nightmare’s hooves. I felt fear in my heart. Not a magical feeling, like that which I usually get. No, this wan normal fear, but it consumed me, I felt cold. I was more scared here than when I saw Nightmare Moon the first time. “You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony with a simple attack like that?” Twilight asked Nightmare Moon, as we came up behind her. “Well, you’re wrong, because the spirits of the Elements of Harmony are right ” “What?” Nightmare Moon yelled, voicing our confusion. As she did, the Element shards began to glow. They floated up around us, encircling us with their magic. We watched in awe as it happened. Twilight continued speaking, the magic adding power to her words. “Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, is the spirit of… Honesty! Fluttershy, who tamed an angry manticore with her compassion, is the spirit of… Kindness! Pinkie Pie, who banished our fears by giggling in the face of danger, is the spirit of… Laughter! Rarity, who calmed a woeful serpent with a meaningful gift, is the spirit of… Generosity! And Rainbow Dash, who would not abandon her friends for her own heart’s desire, is the spirit of…Loyalty! “Our souls got us through every challenge you threw at us. At first, I first thought the ‘spark’ didn’t work, but it did! It was a different kind of spark.” Twilight looked back at us. “I felt it in that very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all, are my friends!” she turned back to face Nightmare Moon. “You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by that… that spark, which resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth Element: the Element of Magic!” As she finished her speech, a shard from each Element fused together, and brought the sixth Element. Twilight glanced over at me. The warm tingle was so intense, so why was I still scared? She realized I had been left out of this. She looked like she wanted to apologize, but I just smiled at her, and she shifted her focus back to Nightmare Moon. “You think that can stop me?” Nightmare Moon yelled. “You only have the same powers Celestia used to put me on the moon. Not even that! Their strength was nearly gone one thousand years ago! New bearers awakened their powers, but they are still weaker than they once were!” “But…. How could they not be….” Twilight looked shocked and broken. She had given up hope; if these Elements would not work, what would? “Even if you use those against me,” Nightmare Moon continued, “I will only go back to the moon. I will not be there as long this time. The banishment would only be a hundred years at most. By then you will be gone, the Elements power will fade once again! That is, if you are able to defeat me!” She threw back her head in laughter. “I will not kill you, no, I do not care for bloodshed. But you will suffer a fate similar to that I suffered the past thousand years, just like what I did to your precious princess!” “You wouldn’t have been banished if you hadn’t betrayed Celestia!” Twilight yelled out to her. Nightmare Moon glared at her with an emotion I had not seen her use before. “I didn’t betray her! SHE ABANDONED ME! THE PONIES ABANDONED ME! ALL SHE CARED ABOUT WAS HERSELF! CELESTIA LEFT US ALL BEHIND AND WENT ON LIVING WITH NO REGRETS!” Nightmare Moon yelled at us. In those words, I saw that flicker which showed her true feelings. There was anger and hatred, but loneliness and regret were more prominent. I felt the pain come back, her words physically hurt me. ‘Us’ she had said, ‘Celestia left us’. I looked behind Nightmare Moon. What used to be seven thrones were barely standing there. Each one decorated, and individual. Again, I saw something in my mind like a memory. The thrones restored, and a pony sitting on each one. The same ponies I saw as statues, the ones I saw in my dreams and memories. Each was in full regal garments. Each had their crown, and matching golden necklaces. It all clicked together in my mind. Who these ponies truly were, what my feelings mean, both the hurt and the tingle. I knew what Nightmare Moon meant when she said ‘Celestia left us’. I knew why the Elements faded, and why they were not at full power. I remembered who Nightmare Moon truly was. “There were seven of you.” I said to her. “WHAT?” She asked, still angry at Twilight’s comment. Her ethereal mane swirled wildly with her emotions. “Seven Alicorns started at the beginning,” I said, the same magic that had worked on Twilight worked on me now, it was a bit trance-like, words spilling out of my mouth. “Each one had a power, something nopony else could control. Each would bear an Element of Harmony. But if even one of them died, the Elements would lose their power, until new bearers called out to them.” “Seven Elements,” I laughed. “Did you hear that? The Known Elements are Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, and Loyalty. The sixth Element is Magic, or the ‘spark’ that ignites a feeling in us, a feeling of Friendship and Love. But that is what it is; a spark. It can die out as quickly as it lit, if not cared for. But that spark can turn into a raging inferno able to change your world. “I finally know what it was I had been feeling all these years. A great friendship, or love, and I could get a warm comforting tingle. It was a simple flame that could keep me going, no matter what. But when I felt a friend in pain, when I felt somepony sad or alone, angry at those they cared for, that simple flame burned my soul”. “Tonight, I felt both of those at their most intense.” I looked back at the others. “You six ponies are my friends, the best ones anypony can ask for. Your feelings toward me became my strength, and the feeling from that is something I am glad about.” I looked straight at Nightmare Moon, I looked her in the eyes. “While the loving flame burned high, I also felt its burn. That came from your pain.” “Your fear, your loneliness, your hatred and regret, I felt them in the physical world.” “WHY?” Nightmare Moon screamed at me. “Why would you feel anything for me? You do not know me! And even so, one pony’s care does not mean anything!” “A single pony can mean everything.” I said to her. “The ‘spark’ becomes a towering inferno. That connection turns into Friendship. And Friendship is Magic. Some friendships have a powerful, unbreakable bond. We think of ‘love’ as ‘that special somepony’, but we love our friends, we love our family, and, of course, we love our special somepony. I care for you because I know some of who you truly are!” “That is the Lost Element, Seventh Element of Harmony; the Element of Love, the thing that keeps us going, that thing that can also tear us apart.” As I finished my speech, I watched as the powers of the Elements grew. Shards flew up from the spot I was standing, they resonated with the other Elements, synchronizing together. I felt its power, so familiar, like something from long ago. I looked over at my friends. “By your lead, Twilight Sparkle” I said. “You figured this out, this is your call.” She nodded to me, and we focused. The Elements’ magic grew more and more powerful. The shards came together, and became golden necklaces. Our hearts resonated, and the warm tingle spread through my body, more intense than ever, but it was kind. It was something only those you love could make you feel. A rainbow colored blast of magical energy came from us, and blasted Nightmare Moon. She screamed, but I do not think the scream was because of physical pain. I think it was the memories. I saw them too. Memories from all of us. I saw a small rainbow-maned Pegasus filly talking to a blue Pegasus stallion. I saw a young white unicorn seeing the fabulous outfits on ponies in a traveling play. There was a pink pony, surprising others with a party. I saw a blonde filly, running home to her family. Another was of a lavender Unicorn, watching the sunrise. I watched a yellow Pegasus saving a baby bunny from a fox. But there was a pony I did not recognize until the end of her reel of memories. A blue Alicorn was playing and laughing with six others. They were happy together. There were other creatures around them, some nearly pony-like, some were animals, one even reminded me of a statue in the Canterlot Castle’s garden. Then, they were gone, two ponies were left. I saw one pony getting love and praise from those around her, and the other got nothing, she was ignored. Even the other Alicorn turned a blind eye to the suffering. The ignored one fell, and became a terror. Soon, it was over. The feeling was still there, still intense, but more under control. I looked towards my friends. They were still glowing with the Elements’ magic. I saw Twilight closest to me. She was now wearing a tiara, with a large pink gem shaped like her cutie mark. Around my own neck, was a deep red heart shaped gem in a simple gold necklace. I saw the sun rise outside the window, the night was finally over. “Ugh, my head” Rainbow Dash complained. “Are y’all okay?” Applejack asked. “Oh, thank Celestia!” Rarity exclaimed looking at her tail which had grown back to its full length. Powerful magic may have some side effects. “Why Rarity,” Fluttershy said, “It’s so exquisite.” “I know! I’ll never part with it again!” she replied, still being thankful for her tail. “No,” Fluttershy corrected. “Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark.” A purple gem in the shape of a diamond was embedded in gold around her neck. “What? Ooh.” She admired. “So does yours!” Fluttershy gasped, looking at her own neck to see a pink butterfly surrounded in gold. “Look at mine! Look at mine!” Pinkie Pie bounced up, a blue balloon gem around her neck. “Aw yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed, taking in the awesome of her red lightning bolt gem. “Gee, Twilight,” Applejack said, sporting a orange apple-shaped gem on her necklace, “I thought you were just spoutin’ a bunch of hooey. Same with what you said, Feria,” she nodded to me. “I guess we really do represent the Elements of Harmony.” “Indeed you do.” said a voice. Princess Celestia teleported into the room, now free from wherever she had been kept this night. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight gasped, running forward to hug her teacher. “Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student,” Celestia said, returning the hug. “I knew you could do it. “But… you told me it was just an old pony tale?” Twilight said to her. “I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more, nothing less.” Celestia replied smiling. “I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon’s return and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not use it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now, if only another will as well.” Celestia looked past us, to the one nopony else had noticed yet. On the ground, surrounded by lingering trails of magic and broken armor, was a dark blue Alicorn. She was bigger than the average pony, but still smaller than Celestia. When she opened her eyes, they were normal, but a lovely shade of turquoise. “It has been a very long time since I have seen you like this. Over one thousand years,” Celestia said, walking up to the Alicorn. “It is time to put our past behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister. Will you accept my friendship?” “Sister?” the others asked, as the blue Alicorn cowered in fear and shame. I could see that she did not know what to do. A part of her was still angry, but she wanted to forgive. But would anypony forgive what she had done? How could anypony forgive her? I walked forward, standing between the two sisters. I smiled at the blue Alicorn. “You asked why I would care for somepony I do not know. I do know who you are, who you truly are. I do not know much, only what Tia told me, but it was all good things. She told me you were her sister, which alone tells me much.” “You are the one who brings the night sky its beauty. You walk through dreams, and protect us from the nightmares, never wishing to become one yourself. You are Princess Luna, the Mare in the Moon, and Goddess of the Night, youngest of the seven Alicorn Princesses, and former bearer of one of the Elements of Harmony. And you are my sister too.” “Celestia and I were the last of us, how can you..?” She whispered to me. “How were you and your sisters created? “ I said. “Tia told me how you not only raised the moon, but created the whole night sky. I have seen many of her beautiful nights, but she is much better at making her day than she is at creating your night. I want to see what you can truly do. I wish to see your magnificent night.” “You think she abandoned you and your sisters,” I whispered to her. “I have seen her cry at night, longingly looking at the moon. When you came back to your old castle, did you not notice the one part that was well taken care of, was the statue of dedication to the seven sisters, the grave markers.” That sentence struck a chord in her heart, I felt it, like usual. She began to cry. “I’m sorry!” Luna cried out. “I’m so sorry!” Celestia came forward and hugged her. “I missed you so much!” “I am sorry, too.” Celestia replied. “You know what this calls for?” Pinkie Pie yelled. “A PARTY! We’re going to need balloons! And streamers, lots of streamers! Ohh! And Mrs. Cake can finally make her “Princess Cupcakes” with a moon design! She’ll be so excited!” Pinkie bounced off, planning Luna’s “Welcome back from the moon party”. The rest of my friends followed her out, thinking “that is just like Pinkie Pie”, and Celestia and Luna were left bewildered, standing behind with me. “She reminds me of Azura.” Luna remarked. “Well, they are both the Element of Laughter.” Celestia chuckled. “Twilight was a lot like you were as a filly.” Luna smiled at that. She genuinely smiled at her. “Speaking of Azura, you should see some of our nieces and nephews. It has been a thousand years, after all. Young Cadence looks just like Azura. I don’t think you’ll like Blueblood much, though.” “Tia,” I laughed, “Nopony likes Blueblood!” They laughed and followed me out of the castle. I saw another memory, the same thing was happening, but the castle was at its best. I looked back at it for a moment. The morning sun shone through the windows of the throne room, it almost looked like it once did, when it was in its full glory. I wish I could see it like that in reality. I turned and saw Twilight Sparkle waiting for me. She wanted to talk. “Feria?” she asked. “How, uh… what was it like to move to ponyville?” The question surprised me. I had to think for a minute to find the answer. “It was a bit odd.” I replied. “It was more difficult for me, because of who I am, but it is a great experience. There are many fantastic ponies here, as you have already seen. Sometimes strange things can happen, especially since we live next to the Everfree Forest, but a lot of ponies love to stay anyway. Most will help you with anything if you ask. And as I hear, we need a new librarian” I laughed as her eyes widened while she realized what I had said. “I think would like that, but I am Celestia’s student, I have to be in Canterlot…” She said. “If you ask, I think she could be fairly generous.” I smiled as we walked off to join the others. Pinkie’s party would be one of the best, if only for the guest of honor. I still do not completely know what was with the memories I saw, but I had some ideas. I wanted to go back to the castle and look for clues. I decided against it, for today at least. Today, I will enjoy the party. Today, I will truly meet Luna as herself, not as Celestia’s stories, not as Nightmare Moon. I get to become her friend. I never want to see her suffer again. I never want to see any of my friends suffer like that. My own issues could wait, as my friends would always be more important to me. VisionsCastles It might have been nine o’clock anywhere else in Equestria, but here in the Everfree forest any time of night feels like midnight. Trees darkened the path to the ruined castle, and I did not have my friends to guide me tonight. I did not want to explain to them what all was going on. Not until I could figure it out for myself. I searched my surroundings, trying to find some visual clue to where I was. I crossed the river a while back, so I should be fairly close. I had been fortunate to not encounter any monsters before, but my luck had run out. A rustle in the bushes gave way to a monster. A small but dangerous monster, a cockatrice, appeared. I averted my eyes and ran. I ran in the direction I believed to be toward the castle. Branches hit my face, but I did not care. It was better to keep going than to try and fight it. I hit something solid. Wait, make that someponies. I looked down to see who I had run into; three familiar fillies, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. “What are you three doing here?” I asked, forgetting why I was running. “Cutie Mark Crusaders chicken rescuers!” They exclaimed in response. “We were stayin’ at Fluttershy’s place when one of her chickens got loose.” Applebloom explained. “We had to get it back!” “Why are you here?” Scootaloo asked. “I was- I was heading to the castle through here, but that is not important now. It is too dangerous in here for you three! Monsters are-!” a rustle in the bushes reminded me of why I was running. “Oh no! Girls, this way, hurry!” I exclaimed, herding them away. “What about the chicken?” Sweetie Belle asked, hurrying along. “Trust me,” I said, “we would be better off not looking for it. A cockatrice looks a bit like a chicken, to both confuse others and lower their guard.” The trees cleared as we saw the castle. It was still beautiful, even in its ruined state. Stones that were once ivory white were now dark gray and covered with vines. You could see the wonder on their faces on their faces as we crossed the rope bridge. “What is this place?” Scootaloo asked me. “It is the Palace of the Royal Pony Sisters. But for now, we can use it to hide from the monster.” “But-,” Sweetie Belle tried to protest. “I will explain more when we go inside,” I said. “Once we are safe.” They followed along, trying to take in everything at once. Fortunately, most of the magical protections have faded over time, and the rest were broken when the Elements of Harmony were found. Getting in would be fine, but keeping most monsters out should be more difficult. They might avoid it out of habit, or they might figure out they can now enter and use it as their own. I began to check for signs of disturbance, but I could not do it. My memories acted up again, worse than the last time. It was like looking through a broken stained-glass window, two different images clashing together, colors mixing, shapes obscured. We were back in the throne room. I saw both the abandoned thrones, and the regally decorated ones. I felt the same cold fear in my chest like the last time I had been here. It became heavier and heavier. Last time, the power of the Elements of Harmony kept it at bay. Now, I do not think it would stop. I could not breathe, I could not think. Scootaloo asked me something, I think it was “what is this place?” Sweetie Belle looked at me with concern. She seemed to be asking “What’s wrong?” I tried to answer them, but my mouth could barely form words. My vision was clearing, but I was not seeing the room I should. The decorations I saw were intensifying. I noticed that it was more decorated than usual, like a party was about to be celebrated. With that thought, everything broke. * * * There was nothing for a minute, but soon the room returned. Yet there was life in it, other ponies were decorating. There were a two Alicorns, like me, Unicorns, Pegasai, and Earth ponies, as well. There were a few types I did not recognize, some were a bit insect-like, some seemed like living crystals. There was even a creature I had never seen, or more accurately, one that was a conglomeration of other creatures, who was hindering the progress. My focus shifted to the Alicorn in the middle, a beautiful mare. I almost thought it was Cadence, with the light rose-tinted coat, her mane blonde, pink, and purple, but the tips were black. There was a spark in her bright blue eyes as the mare looked around. It was a spark I had seen in only one other pony, a pony who is the Grand Master of Parties. “Starswirl!” she yelled to a gray unicorn by the thrones. “Put the blue balloons by Luna, the red ones go by Mira! Amber!” she turned to a pony with a gem-like orange coat. “Take Rini and get a few more streamers. Go through the kitchens, turn west, and it will be third on the right.” I watched as the one she called Amber nodded to one of the insect-like ponies and they ran off. Looking up, I saw that medley of a creature above, undoing the ropes on a banner reading “Happy Birthday Luna”. “DISSI!!” the mare yelled in half-hearted annoyance, or maybe exasperation, as the banner fell onto her. “Can you stop for one night and be helpful?” but the creature just cackled with glee. I was surprised as I began to talk. “Azura, if you can manage to get him to do that, I would eat every single one of the most sugar filled cakes you can create!” We all laughed at it, a joke I did not truly understand. I realized how warm I felt, I felt at home, like I did when with Pinkie and Twilight and the others. The medley creature came down and wrapped comfortably around me in a hug, still giggling at his mischief. I did not notice before, but my body felt bigger than usual, not nearly at Celestia’s height, but bigger than most ponies. The pink mare nearly matched my height. These ponies, they seemed so familiar, like I knew them, but I could not place them. It was like meeting an old friend you had not seen since fillyhood, you knew them, but you could not place a specific name or event to them. A more familiar looking Alicorn floated down from the ceiling. Her coat, an almost white pink, complimented her multicolored ethereal mane in ways I could not describe. I could not believe who I saw. “Feria, you eat all of her cakes anyway!” the mare I reconized laughed. “Dissi listens to you. Can you get him to stop his shenanigans!” she giggled. Her violet eyes met mine, and I wanted to say something, but my mouth would not let me. It was as if everything was a play in motion, you could not stop it now. I giggled again. “I think Luna will like tomorrow’s party.” “I know!” Azura bounced, not noticing my obvious change of subject. “She said she didn’t want a party, but who wouldn’t want a party on their birthday? I mean, duh? Birthdays are something to celebrate! And tomorrow is the day we show them the super special surprise project of-” “Azura!” I cut her off. “Do not give them too much about that until the morning! Dissi,” I said, looking at that creature, “if you attempt to find it out again, you will spend the next month in a frilly pink skirt!” It seems like a threat I made all the time, but I never used it in reality. I should file that away for future use. He just smirked at me, snapping his claw and making the skirt I had envisioned appear around his waist as if he did not have a care in the world. We all stood there together, laughing. These ponies are familiar, yet I never met them. They knew me. I wanted this to last forever, but that cold fear came back to me. It all began to fade again. Then everything shattered, like breaking glass. * * * I woke up on the floor, three concerned fillies around me. I remembered where I was, the throne room of a now ruined castle. We were hiding from a monster. My breath was stabilizing, but still a bit shallow. I tried standing back up, a bit shakily, but able. I nearly fell again, but I remembered these fillies are here. As much as I would like to hide away somewhere, I need to be strong, if only for them. “I am sorry.” I said to them, my voice hurting a bit. “Was I out long?” “No, only a few minutes,” Sweetie Belle replied. “What in tarnation was that?” Applebloom asked. “I am not completely sure, myself,” I replied. “I noticed that some places have a strange effect on me. Best way I can explain it, is that it lets me see somepony else’s memory.” “That’s so cool!” Scootaloo exclaimed. The other two gave her a glare and she corrected herself. “I mean, if you didn’t pass out all the time. Is that your special talent?” “I do not have much experience with it,” I said thoughtfully. “The only time it happened had been during Nightmare Moon’s return. It had been a slight déjà vu, overlapping images, or just simply knowing where thing should be. Maybe it is the place? Anyway, that is not my special talent. My talent is, how did I put it? Sensing the magical energy between ponies.” “What is that supposed to mean?” Scootaloo asked, confusion easily sown on her face. “In the most basic terms, each living thing has a magical energy, called a soul. I am very connected to souls, somehow, and can sense them in such a way that I can use it. It works best when it is two or more souls that are connected, and sharing their energy. I guess that energy usually occurs most commonly between friends, so the famous ‘Fire of Friendship’ makes an appropriate cutie mark shape.” I glanced back at my own flank, beautiful pinks standing out against the black of my coat. “Must be nice,” Applebloom said, glancing toward her own flank. “havin’ a Cutie Mark an’ all.” “Meh,” I replied. “It depends on the Cutie Mark. Some are useful in real life, but sometimes it does not help you get by in life. Do you think a talent for juggling helps in reality? Maybe the pony whose talent is music wants to make candies and confections, but her life is set. Sometimes, a cutie mark will appear without a complete understanding of the pony’s talent. I did not fully understand what I could do until Nightmare Moon came back.” I walked them toward the end of the room, avoiding their inquisitive looks. “Those two ponies who tease you, what were their names?” “You mean Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?” Sweetie Bell replied, even just saying the names bothered her. “Yes, them. Can you tell me what their special talents are?” I waited, knowing they would not answer. “Well, ask next time they come around making fun,” I said, silently laughing at their expressions of realization. We reached the thrones at the end of the room. They were the same ones I had seen in the memory, but worn out, like the rest of the castle, yet you could still see the decorations. Each was crafted for a specific pony, for their specific likes and dislikes. I smiled at them, but I was a little sad. There were five ponies I would never meet, five members gone from my family long ago. “Who’re these thrones for” Applebloom asked, walking toward the one second from the left. I saw Sweetie Belle had moved to the one right of the middle, and Scootaloo was inspecting the far right. I giggled, noticing their placement. I headed over to Scootaloo to begin. “Each of these was made for the first Alicorns, the Royal Pony Sisters, hence, the castle’s name. Each was born with magic greater than even the most skilled of Unicorns. It probably would have taken a group the size of ponyville to do what just one of them could. They had also been the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, previous to our current group.” I gestured to the throne Scootaloo stood in front of. It was shaped like clouds and lightning. “Reminds you of Rainbow Dash, does it not?” I asked, knowing of the filly’s idolization of my friend. “This throne belonged to Tornata. She was the one who controlled the weather before the Pegasai.” “Pegasai have always controlled the weather!” the filly protested. “We are talking of a time about two thousand years ago.” I replied calmly. “It probably happened even before the Hearth’s Warming story.” I stopped to think about why these ponies were not mentioned in history lessons before returning my words to the throne. “Tornata was brave, a bit competitive and overconfident, but she always made time for her friends.” “That sounds a lot like Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said, fluttering her small wings. “Well they were both the Element of Loyalty.” I said, moving to the next throne. This one was colorful. Rocks, gems, and crystals were arranged in ways that were somehow both random and in patterns. “Azura was the one who sat in this throne. She was bright and bubbly, one of those ponies who did everything in her own way, even if others could not understand it. She made everypony smile, created great parties, and was very well deserving of the Element of Laughter. I believe she was particularly good at focusing magic through gems and crystals to magnify their power.” “Who sat is this one?” Applebloom called, not yet moved from the other throne. I trotted over and studied it for a minute. I thought, at first, that it was like most things in the castle, overgrown. But as I really looked, I could see it was made out of mostly wood, delicately carved with trees and flowers and vines. “This was Flora’s throne,” I said, smiling. “She was always a bit stubborn, and did not care much for the more formal parts of being in charge. She had a way with plants and cooking. Some complained that she was a bit blunt with her opinions, but the Element of Honesty usually is.” I moved down the line to the far left throne. It was stone, but painted. Carved creatures decorated the backrest. It had bunnies, dogs, even a dragon. “This was Mira’s throne. She had been calm and sweet pony. She was able to diffuse almost any argument, and even get most animals to cooperate with her. The Element of Kindness was always one to welcome.” “How do you know all this stuff?” Scootaloo asked, attempting to seem not interested. “I learned a few things from Tia- Er, ‘Princess Celestia’. Some things came from those memories, I think.” “You still haven’t told us who these thrones belonged to!” Sweetie belle yelled out, a bit impatiently. I trotted over and took a momentary glance at the three in the middle. They were the most simple, but in my mind they were also the most beautiful. “I think you should be able to figure out the two on the sides,” I said as they gathered around me. One was golden, decorated as the sun, and the other was silver, created to be like the moon. “Princesses Celestia and Luna?”Applebloom guessed. I nodded as I walked to the one in the middle. It was beautiful. It seemed to be only stone, but upon closer inspection I could see gold, silver and bronze embedded into it. Wings extended from the top, and in between them was a stone flame. I felt like it was calling to me. These three in the middle radiated warmth and magic, but this one was so familiar. I wanted to go up and sit on it, see the room from her point of view. “This one,” I began, “This is the one Celestia named me after. She said that the previous Feria and I were very alike. I saw her once, in a statue elsewhere in the castle. We look very alike too. Of course, she was also the Element of Love.” “Ya know,” Applebloom began, “ ‘Ah always thought Princess Cadence was the Princess of Love or somethin’ like that.” “She technically is, but she only works with romantic love. The Element is a bit more about all types of love, really.” I wandered toward the wall behind the thrones; a painted door was almost completely hidden by growth. I cleared away some of it, could not see a way to open the door, so I left it for now. “So if each princess was an Element, which were Princesses Celestia and Luna?” Scootaloo asked. “Generosity and Magic are left, right?” Sweetie Belle questioned. “Luna was Magic and Tia was Generosity.” I answered “Almost everypony forgot it, but Luna had always been better at magic than Tia was, although, as she was locked in the moon for one thousand years, that bit of forgetfulness is forgivable. Actually,” I stopped walking, “Luna’s return might be quite helpful. There are probably spells she remembers that had been lost.” As I said that, I realized I had stopped in front of an odd section of the wall. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a door. It had no handle or any sort, so I assumed it would only open with a specific spell. Realizing the time, I decided now was not a time to try out multiple spells. “I think we should be going now.” I said to the three fillies, who immediately protested. “Be calm, it is very late, and you three should not be here in the first place.” I herded them back toward the main entrance, but the looks on their faces made me feel so sad. I guess I can understand their curiosity. I remember pestering Tia about her sisters when I first learned of them. If it was not for the sadness it caused her, I probably would not have relented so easily. “Maybe, another day, you can come back.” I said, watching their faces light up. “Not too soon, I would like to investigate here, make sure no dangers lurk around these corners, but I was planning on showing a few ponies this place, and I think you three deserve to be with that group.” They went on for a while after we left, enjoying the idea of exploring this area, thinking if they can get Cutie Marks for it. I was not lying about what I said, I really do think they deserve to know this, but tonight is too soon for them. I decided to take them home and come back another night. “Girls?GIRLS!” I heard a familiar voice yelling after a few minutes of walking. “Fluttershy?” I called up toward the voice. The yellow Pegasus landed in front of us panicking. “Girls! Thank goodness! We have to leave now! There’s a cockatrice on the loose!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Oh yeah,” Applebloom said. “That’s why we were out here! That chicken!” “Applebloom, listen to Fluttershy and leave now.” I said. “I told you how dangerous and deceptive that creature is.” “Feria?”Fluttershy asked. “Why are you out here?” “It is a long story.” I replied. “She found us out here and showed us this beautiful castle hidden that way!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. “She said we might come back again sometime!” I sighed as Fluttershy gave me as much of an annoyed look as she could. It said ‘you brought them somewhere like that? Why not take them home?’ “I ran into the cockatrice, tried to get away, and tripped over these three” I explained, gesturing to the fillies. “The castle was the closest form of safety.” Her expression relaxed, realizing that was more responsible than it sounded. “I will explain later, but right now, you need to take them home.” “Aren’t you coming?” they all asked in unison. “Not yet, I still need to do what I came here for. But I will be okay. Fluttershy, you can handle any monster that is in this forest, so I trust you to lead them safely. Do not worry, I will be fine.” With that, I walked off, heading back to the castle. I felt bad for leaving them, but I needed to be at that castle. I could not explain why, but I had to be there. I was lucky again, not running into monsters, but I felt scared now. I was alone, and my memory issues were escalating. What would I do if that memory blackout hits me while I am being attacked by a monster? I told them I would be fine, but I am not completely sure anymore. * * * I walked back through the throne room, ignoring everything and heading straight for the door at the back. Looking closer, I saw now-faded pictures painted into the wood. They might have once told a story. They showed the seven Alicorn sisters, ponies from all races I knew, and a few I did not. I felt the magical wards still protecting it. I ran my hoof along the door’s’ edge, hoping to find out how to open it. As I reached the bottom, I heard a click. The physical lock was undone, but the magic was still there. I closed my eyes and tried to remember the feeling of the memory blackout. I felt something similar, but kinder. I guess because I invited it in instead of trying to push it away. My horn sparked, letting out a spell I did not recognize. The door opened, and the air once sealed away rushed out. I stared down into the darkness, scared yet invited. Spiral stairs led downward. I lit the tip of my horn and walked on in. The air was not as cold as I expected. In the fear was also mystery. I did not know what I would find here. I did not have to go down far, but in this loneliness it felt further. When I reached the bottom, I felt a similar feeling. I believe it was old resonations of magical energy. Without thinking, I connected to it and cast a spell. Everything was soon bright, but soft and not painful, as if ponies had lit lanterns at intervals throughout the room. As I took in what all was here, I realized that is almost what had happened. The spell I cast had been absorbed and magnified into crystals and gems around the room, giving the room a soft glow. It almost seemed like the colorful patterns were changing my coat, making it look like another crystal. The room itself was large, almost the size of the throne room, and had doors on each wall. On the side opposite me was a passageway, probably leading to more rooms like this. This place was dusty, but untouched. The magical wards once protecting these rooms were either worn out, or not set again as the things they protected are now in Canterlot. But one room looked like it had been used. The dust leading to it was not as thick as the others. It would be a good place to start. I entered, not knowing what to expect, but I never thought I would find what I did. A large blue crystal rose out of the floor. This one was not lit like the others, yet it was pulsing with magic. Nothing else was in this room except for a few empty bookshelves. I do not think I would have noticed if there were things on them. I approached the crystal, entranced by its beauty. I almost thought it was getting brighter. Its magical pulse spiked, and I found myself looking into bright blue eyes. I stifled a scream as I jumped backwards, nearly tripping over my own hooves. It looked like a thought projection, but it was coming from the crystal? Coming back to rational thought, I realized this was the mare from my memory blackout. Azura, I believe. Her pink coat and multicolored mane, I realized, remind me of Cadence, they even have a similar Cutie Mark. She looked a bit crystalized, as if she was just another part of the giant crystal. She began to speak. “Is this working?” she asked, her voice clear and bubbly. “Well, obviously it is working as somepony is watching this. Silly me! Anyway, this is my newest attempt at keeping a record of my life for others. No secrets will be put here unless they are to be announced the next day and will be completely irrelevant, so Dissi if you are the one listening, this won’t be much fun. First, I would like to explain how this is working. I have been able to figure out how to absorb and magnify magic using crystals. It is a bit more difficult than it looks, as you have to cast, for example, a light spell specifically crafted to be used with the crystal. Right now I am using a thought projection spell on this crystal. Hopefully this will keep a record of what I say. This is not even my best use of this spell yet, and I have even bigger plans! Her form flickered for a few moments. I had to pause myself for a second to comprehend what this pony was saying. Magic with crystals and gems? I had read theories on it, but never had it ever been implemented in a way like this! Yet she had this years ago! “Two days from now is my sister Luna’s birthday. Feria and I have planned on our best project yet! It involves a really big crystal and Feria’s type of magic, or more specifically, her element! I cannot say too much now, but it is something great!” Her form flickered again. I assume this means the date changed. Before I could wonder what this surprise could be, she began to speak. “Today is Luna’s birthday,” she said her voice no longer vibrant. “I wish today never happened. We had set up for a party, we planned to laugh and dance and eat, just celebrate today, before we would reveal our project. That was the plan, yet, things happen. Feria is dead. It happened sometime in the night .We found her in the throne room, in front of her throne. I cannot get the image out of my mind. A pool of blood surrounding her, blending with her mane, her neck open like that” She shook her head, trying to focus. “We already have known about death, we figured we all would die sometime, but none of us thought of this. Honestly, I thought we would be prepared. Each of us seven Alicorns held a power, called the Elements of Harmony. After we understood ‘death’ I decided to figure out how to ensure that the Elements would not disappear over time. I fused the Elements’ power into seven necklaces for us each to wear, but it was not enough. Feria’s Element, the Element of Love is shattered. Its power is gone. I have not even mentioned how the others are. Luna locked herself in her room after the discovery, Tornata is yelling about how unfair this day was, but she is too busy comforting Laruta to do much about it. And Dissi, oh poor Dissi. He and Feria were extremely close. Even I did not know how deep their relationship was. His reaction to her death scares me. When I last saw, he was in a fit of rage and mindlessly changing random inanimate objects into other things. In between those stages he is yelling, and probably crying, although he tries not to let us see. I think he might be descending into madness. There has been one subject I have been avoiding. I-I cannot-” she had been holding in tears this whole time, probably since before she started the crystal’s magic, and she let it all out. “Feria did not just die, she was killed! We never could have imagined another pony could do something like this. We will find out who did this!” With that, she flickered again and left me with the image of her tears. Murdered? I had known most of the first Alicorns were dead, but, murdered? I sat down, my breathing heavy and my heart quickening. I felt so cold. Why would Tia not tell me about this? I had to know. Before I could build up the courage to leave, the crystal glowed again. The same mare appeared, but she had aged. She looked much older than previously, about the same age as my friends’ parents. “I have not done this for a long time. Nearly four hundred years since the previous entry. I wish that were not true. My sisters, well most of us, discovered our immortality. When Feria was killed, I would always console myself with the fact that I would eventually die and join her, or at least not feel the pain anymore. We do not yet know what happens after death. I hope it is something wonderful, like a nonstop party where you never get tired or sick! I guess some ponies would prefer a quiet library, though. Luna thinks it is like the dream realm she walks at night. Years after Feria’s death, we noticed our friends growing older while we remained the same. I thought we would never die. I found comfort in the fact that we would always be together, but even that did not last. We could give up our immortality, if we truly wanted to. At first, we were scared. Things had changed so much in the shockwaves of Feria’s death. Friends abandoned us, or became enemies. They are still able to be used, but not like they once were. We thought if any more of us died, the world would fall further. Like cowards, we hid in our castle attempting to not be connected to our world. We grew restless and lonely, soon returning to those we knew. We lost Tornata first. ‘Lost’ is not the right word. She fell in love with a Pegasus named Hurricane. They wanted to spend their lives together, but she was immortal. The idea of living without him was too much for her, and she gave up her immortality. Flora followed soon after by falling for an Earth Pony Puddinghead, and Mira had a Unicorn called Jade Myst. Nothing has gotten worse than it has. Maybe because the rest of us left on our own terms. After losing the seventh Element of Harmony, we have tried many times to bring its power back. I know we cannot have Feria back, but we felt the world would be lost without her power. It never worked. After Tornata gave up her immortality, I persuaded my sisters to protect the remaining powers. I was able to put them into a crystal that will hopefully regulate the magic as long as they remain in the crystal. The Elements can be found and used again, if we need concentrated magic. I hope we will not need that. I am running out of time here, so I should begin to wrap this up now. If you have seen my previous entries, you can tell I’ve aged. My Stone Symphony, my love, is the reason for that. I gave up immortality. Before that Unicorn, I never knew why I would give it up. I had seen many friends come and go, but he is special. I feel free. I will be able to see my friends again, Starswirl and Amber. My Feria. So far, no other ponies have been immortal. Not even my sisters’ children, although only two were Alicorns like us. My own daughter, Sapphire is one too, but she is too young for me to know if she will live forever. I do not expect her to. She began to cry again, but not sobbing like last time. “This will probably be my last entry. I would like to apologize to all those I left behind, and all those I will never get to meet. I wish that if there is a place after life, you will be my friends there. I apologize to Feria. I never was able to find out who killed you, and they are most likely dead by now. Maybe I will learn if I see you again? Most of all, Celestia and Luna, I love you both. I am sorry for leaving you alone. You have each other now, but I hope that whether you are together or apart, be happy. Smile and laugh! But do not completely hide what you feel before it is too late to go back. Goodbye, my friends. Goodbye, my sisters. Goodbye, my family.” The crystal dimmed, and her form dissolved away. I found myself crying. Luna’s birthday. Was that not the party they were setting up for in my memory blackout? Nothing seemed wrong in that. How did this happen? What happened to those she left behind? I needed to know. I ran. I ran away from that room, out of the castle, and into the EverfreeForest. I was scared. I was confused. I kept on crying. I do not know when, but I began to fly to Canterlot. Celestia would give me the answers I needed, even if they would not be answers I wanted. I arrived just after sunrise, meaning Celestia and Luna could be anywhere in the castle. I looked down as the Lunar and Solar Guards changed shifts, silver and gold armors mixed together. Some ponies only had half their armor on, and the illusion spells that made them look identical were not activated yet, or were deactivating in the case of the Lunar Guard. I looked for somepony who might know where my sisters were. I stumbled as I landed, hitting the ground much harder than I meant to. In front of me were the Guard Captains exchanging reports of what had happened during the night. The Lunar Captain took notice to me first. “Princess Feria!” She exclaimed, standing up in an immediate salute. The Solar Captain followed her lead. I knew these two fairly well, but they insisted on formalities. Looking between the Pegasus mare and the Unicorn stallion, I tried to recompose myself. My heartbeat was still going quite fast. “Please,” I stammered, “You do not have to be like that.” I smiled at them reassuringly. “Hello Gale Strike, hello Shining Armor. I… do either of you know where my sisters are?” “I believe they decided to have an early morning tea in the astronomy tower,” Gale answered. “Are you alright, Princess?” Shining asked me, noticing the tear stains left in my coat. “I am fine.” I said, knowing full well that I am not. “I just really need to see my sisters now.” I went to leave, but turned back for a moment. “By the way, Shining, you really do not have to call me ‘Princess’. Especially because, the way I hear it, you are joining the family soon!” As he slightly blushed at my last comment, I trotted away. I could hear Gale congratulating him on my way out. Nodding to some ponies around the castle, I made my way up to the tower. I kept up the façade of all being normal for a while, but I could not hold it long. By the time I got up to the astronomy tower, I was trembling at Fluttershy levels. I knocked on the door before walking in. It was a peaceful sight, seeing the Sun and Moon Princesses together again. Celestia was the same as usual, white coat and multi-colored mane. Odd, it was only pink in the memory. Luna was looking quite different than when I last saw her. She had grown taller, and her coat and mane had become a darker shade of blue. She did not have the ethereal mane Celestia was known for, but given a bit more time I think it might turn. “Feria!”Celestia exclaimed, I wondered if it was from surprise at seeing me, or surprise at seeing me like this. Luna quietly turned away. She was still slightly awkward around me. Considering I looked like someone she knew to be dead, it does not come as a surprise. “I- I am sorry to interrupt” I said shakily, almost breaking down right there. “I- I just…!” “Come with me,” Celestia said, walking me into the next room. She looked over her shoulder “I will be back in a minute, Luna” She closed the door and I broke down in tears. She pulled me close and let me cry it out. “I-I went back to your old castle in Everfree” I told her when they finally stopped. She looked at me in confusion, trying to find the words to say. I saw her question in her eyes before she spoke. It was one question that I was unsure of. “I do not know why I went there,” I replied. “It felt, almost as if it called to me. When I first got there, I… I blacked out. I saw a dream. Actually, I think a memory? One that… well… It was not mine! It could not have been mine! I left for a bit, but I came back to the castle, and I found the door behind the thrones. There was a large crystal and-” “You activated the crystal, didn’t you?” Celestia asked me. I felt her body tense up in slight fear. “It played Azura’s messages for you, just as it did for me. Tell me more about the memory.” I swallowed, trying to take in how calm she was being compared to me. “I saw it as if I were there, like I was looking through my own eyes. You were there, so was that pony, Azura. She was talking about… about a party for Luna. She said something about a secret project to be revealed the next day. There were other ponies too; some were races I did not recognize. And a creature that was, how do I say it? He was a combination of other animals. We were all talking and laughing together. What is happening?” “I am not sure what to think,” Celestia said contemplating my story. “If what you saw was, indeed, a memory, I believe it might have been from the previous Feria. It was the night… The night she died.” “The night she was killed,” I interrupted. “You can say it, I know. That mare in the crystal already told me. Why… You only ever said that she died. You never told me how.” She looked at me surprised. “I’m sorry for that. I should have, but I kept putting it off when you asked. I felt you were too young at the time, but then you left to live on your own, and it never came up. But you are right. She was killed. As you know from the crystal message, we never discovered who had done it. Why did you not ask me instead of going to the castle?” “I remembered that look you would get whenever I asked you about your past. It was so sad and full of regret. I did not want to see you like that.” She smiled at me, shaking her head. “You would rather go blindly into trouble than see me mildly upset,” She replied. “I would like to look into memory magic later. I wonder how you were able to see that after all of these years. Many ponies have walked through that castle, but none have reported anything. Although, maybe the reactivation to her Element is causing old magic to pop up.” I nodded in agreement, but I had other theories in mind. My ponies are not connected by sharing an Element of Harmony. If that were true, Twilight Sparkle would have more of a connection to Luna. I think my soul is connected more than the Element. Everything got darker. The sun just rose, did it not? Why is it so dark? I tried to focus on Celestia, but even she was being faded out. Does it not bother her that the light is disappearing? She does not notice. How can she not notice? Then I felt it. That cold fear had come back. Why now? I was nowhere near the Everfree Castle. The feeling got heavier as my vision blurred. “It-it is coming back!” I exclaimed hoping to take myself back to reality. “Tia, help me!” With that, she disappeared completely, leaving me with an image of her terrified face reaching out to me. * * * Everything was dark. I was crying again. I was back in a memory. I hated this darkness! It was more terrifying than anything I had encountered. I light up my horn in an attempt to give myself comfort, or did the pony whose memory I was in light their horn? Either way, there was nothing to see. I was outside, but it was neither day nor night. There was no moon in the sky, just darkness. Looking down, I could tell I was just a filly now, around the same age as the Cutie Mark Crusaders. To my right was a bit of water, but I could not tell if it was a river or a lake. Perhaps it was just a puddle. I could tell time was going faster. I do not know how I knew, as there were no days to count by, but I knew each day was about a minute to me. Every few minutes, a new filly would appear. First was a Pegasus, then a Unicorn who lit his horn with mine in an attempt to give us light. Third was an Earth Pony. The next two were races from the other memory, a pony like a bug and a pony like a gem. On the next week a Zebra appeared with us. One day, just before what I assumed was morning, a bright light appeared before us. It was unlike anything we had ever seen, so kind and warm. When it subsided, there was another filly, an Alicorn with a white coat, a pink mane, and familiar violet eyes. Then the unexpected happened. The filly ignited her magic, attempting to join in with the Unicorn and I. Instead of making a light, she made the day. The sun rose into the sky, which became a lovely light blue. We could finally see the world we were in. Green grass was below our hooves, and a lake shimmered by us. It was dark again, the pattern repeating as it had before. The sun always rose in the morning, but was replaced by that first darkness. First a Pegasus appeared, then a Unicorn, an Earth Pony, the bug pony, the gem pony and a Zebra, then the bright light. The next light revealed a blue coated Alicorn. She looked at us, and something I had only seen Pegasai do; she flew up and grabbed a cloud out of nothing, making it rain down on us and refill the lake. She laughed at our soaked figures, but we knew it meant no harm. The following weeks were the same. Pegasus, Unicorn, Earth pony, Bug pony, Gem pony, Zebra, light. Thrice did the light come, each bringing an Alicorn. The next was a pink one with multicolored hair. Then a brown one who made trees and plants grow around us, becoming a forest with us and the lake in the large clearing. Finally a plum colored mare that brought into existence many animals, from the small bunnies to large dragons. The pattern changed after the plum Alicorn. After the Zebra, no bright light appeared to give forth a new Alicorn. The sun still rose, but gave way to darkness. The weeks repeated as usual, Pegasus, Unicorn, Earth pony, Bug pony, Gem pony, Zebra. We were a bit confused, wondering if fillies would keep appearing. The pattern stopped. The bright light came again, creating another Alicorn. Yet this was a different Alicorn. She was like the bug ponies, but the wings and horn stood out too much to call her anything else. The other bug ponies seemed to flock to her almost immediately. The Bright light reappeared the next week. None of us knew what to make of this creature. It was a much younger version of the medley of a creature from the memory at Everfree. We avoided him at first, but I walked up to him, actually, the pony whose memory this is walked up to him and held out a hoof in friendship. He accepted it. We waited another week, hoping for something. We loved when the sun came up, because it banished the complete darkness. The day was hot, and we could not look at the sky properly, but we relished in every minute of it. We wondered if the sun would overpower the darkness one day, yet we hoped it did not, as it would be difficult to sleep with its brightness. When the sun began to set, the bright light appeared once more. A dark blue Alicorn filly came from it. She was not a different type of Alicorn, like the Bug Alicorn, but a normal one like the previous. She watched the setting sun, and lit her horn. We expected the darkness to come back again. This filly banished the darkness for good. Yes, it became darker, but it was also filled with soft light. The moon and stars came out to keep us safe. As much as we loved the day, we cheered for the night that this filly created. For the first time since this memory began, the fillies could dream. Another week passed, but when its end came, no new fillies came with it. I counted up the days, and realized a year had passed. It was minutes to me, but they had lived like this for a year. They spent a year in either horrid darkness or complete daylight. Some spent time together in complete darkness, no sun to find comfort in, just each other. * * * I awoke in a bed in my old room at Canterlot Castle; everything in there was as I left it. Celestia was standing by me, asking me something as she realized I was awake. My mind was still very disoriented, but I understood what she said. She brought me here when I blacked out, and waited to see if I was alright. “How long was I out? Did I do anything strange?” I asked. My throat hurt, as if I had been yelling for hours, and from the pain in my shoulder I could assume I thrashed around a bit. Celestia sighed, trying to think of what to say. “You yelled a lot in your unconscious state. To others, it was just a list of names. To those who knew those ponies, it is a whole different meaning. I caught on after you said the second name. You were yelling out the names of ponies, some names still common around the world, but most were ones that very few of us still remember. It was the names of those of us who were first created” “Created how?! You are not making sense Tia!” I said as loud as I dared. “You mentioned that you were ‘created’ instead of ‘born’ before this, but what does that mean? Please, tell me, Tia!” “First, tell me of your dream. While it is fresh in your mind.” She replied. There was an emotion in her voice I could not place. Was it fear? Maybe it was a glimmer of hope. It told me that I could not argue this with her. I sighed in defeat. “There was a darkness. Horrid and terrifying,” I began. I told her all that I saw, and every single feeling that went through me.She let me speak without interruption, and gave support in the form of a kind embrace. I leaned into her for comfort. As much as I was afraid of what was going on with my mind, she had lived through the things I saw. As real as it felt for me, it was truly real for her. After a while, I wondered who was comforting who. “What you saw was truth.” Celestia said, pulling away after hearing my story. “I do not know how you are doing it, but that was the creation of us. The creation of the first ponies in Equestria is something very few remember. I assumed as much, from the names you yelled. Morning Aura. That was the first name you yelled. She was the first Pegasus.” She walked toward the window, giving me a moment to wonder. “You were most likely watching through the eyes of the previous Feria. Why that memory was triggered here, a place the previous Feria had never been, is my question.” “Can you… Can you please stop referring to her as ‘the previous Feria’?” I asked her. Not waiting for a response I continued. “You told me about her heart resonating with others, and her ability to remind ponies of forgotten love. I-I think there was more to it than you realized at the time. I mean, a lot of information has been uncovered about the world since then, and I think that it was- Well I was reading some research and- It was-” I sighed. “I have the same abilities. It took me a long time to understand it, but that is all I can come up with. But, I think her talent was not really ‘love’ as much as it is the Magic of Souls. She could see, feel and manipulate the magical energy created by living things, and so can I. “ “You always say how I look and act just like she did,” I continued. “My abilities, my personality and appearance, my memories, the only thing that makes us different is when we were alive. I… I just cannot think of us as just two ponies that are just coincidently similar. I feel like she and I somehow are the same pony.” I had never seen her look so shocked. Then again, what is there to say about that? It was ridiculous to think of it as true, but it is the only solution I could come up with. I could not predict what her response to this would be. Would she be angry? Or would she believe me out of hope for bringing back the dead?Celestia walked toward the balcony, weighing her options. “I can’t rule that out,” she finally said. “It seems illogical, but Alicorns never followed the rules very well.” She sighed, turning and walking back to me. “I wish I could give you an answer. For all the research being done, most of what we have on souls have been lost, forgotten, or are still theories that never got a chance to be tested out. Whether a soul can be reborn or not remains to be seen. I will try looking into it more, when I can. Maybe I can get a few of the Gifted Unicorns on a research team?” She began pacing, thinking of which ponies she should put on the team. I could not believe this. She was making this a priority. She was hoofpicking ponies to help me. I appreciated the effort, but does she not have other things to do? Even though she is my sister, she is still Princess. She began talking to me again before I could ask her. “As for the memories,” She said, “I know of a pony who might be able to help you, but it will take some convincing. I suggest you go back to Ponyville for the time being.” I tried to protest to that, but she cut me off. “Feria, I know you want to explore and figure this out, but please, stay in Ponyville, and stay out of danger. Even if you could remember everything from… back then, things in that castle have changed. It was reconstructed many times, places added on or changed, multiple traps had been set up in the few hundred years leading up to moving to Canterlot. A completely new throne room was created for Luna and I, just to name a change. Besides, the Everfree Forest is a dangerous place. Magics were left there that make it act unnaturally. I know you can handle yourself well, but what would you do if you blacked out in Everfree, surrounded by monsters?” I stayed quiet for a minute. She was right; as soon as I calmed down I would have walked right back into the Everfree Forest without much thought to it. I thought I was lucky before, but to not have had that already happen in the forest was almost a miracle, considering the place. “Alright,” I agreed. “I will stay in Ponyville for now, as long as you answer two questions. First, why are you making this a priority to you? I know you are my sister, and you love me, but there have to be more important things. You did that when I was younger too, always putting me first no matter the problem. I am not saying I do not appreciate it, but why?” The question surprised her a bit, but she quickly found the answer. “There were many factors to the creation of Nightmare Moon, one being my ignorance. In the months leading up to it, I had noticed her unhappiness, but I felt that . Really, the limelight got to me, as it would to most ponies. I want to make sure Nightmare Moon, or anything similar, ever happens again.” The sad look on her made me feel guilty for asking. Why did I not think of that? I guess I have only known her as the Celestia of now, the one who does pay attention, so I never thought somepony so generous could be so selfish. Well, if my theories are right, I did know Celestia before Nightmare Moon, but none of them are in an accessible part of my mind. “Next question,” I sighed. “If what I see is from Equestria’s beginning, why is none of it in the history books?”Celestia’s expression darkened at the idea, reminding me just how much of history she has seen. “Ponies do not like remembering the darker parts of the past. They rewrite history to put to rest their regrets. The world we know is two thousand years old, the stories get rewritten, and those who remember the truth die. Or, they give up on trying to correct it. Even a princess and not fully control the people when they want something.” We made our way down to the main courtyard. I wanted to ask more questions, but I think I’ve learned enough for today. She insisted that a guard escorted me back. I told her she was worrying too much, but I went along with it anyway. At least she let me pick which guard to take. I chose a Pegasus guard, as I felt like flying back. He seemed awkward around me, like most ponies are when alone with a pony they do not know, and even more so when that pony is a princess. I picked him because his aura seemed fun, somewhere between Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. I needed some lighthearted conversation. “So,” I began mid flight. “What is your name?” it seemed to startle him. Why would somepony so high up need to know the name of a single simple guard? It was a question ponies asked themselves whenever I tried to be friendly. “Iridescent Blade,” he replied after the original shock wore off. “Nice name.” I commented. “I know the uniforms make you all look the similar, so what do you really look like?” “I don’t think that’s relevant to the mission, Princess,” He said. “It is alright,” I giggled. “You do not have to be all protocol and rules around me. Please refer to me as just ‘Feria’, and be free to speak your mind. Truthfully, I would welcome conversation.” “If you insist.” He said in defeat. He unhooked a piece of the armor, breaking the spell on it. I watched as his white coat became mahogany brown, his mane and tail changed from blue to white, and his eyes were a beautiful amber color. Something was off though. “Your mane seems to be changing colors!” I exclaimed. I spiraled around him to get a better look. “Over here it looks blue, but from over here it is orange! Now it is pink!” He grumbled and readjusted his armor, activating the spell. This time, I sighed in defeat. Ponyville was underneath us now, and I would say goodbye anyway. Before we could begin our decent, a blur of colors zoomed up, almost knocking Iridescent off course. “Where have you been!” the colors I now recognize as Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Fluttershy’s had us looking all over for you!” “What are you thinking?” Iridescent exclaimed once he regained his composure. “You nearly gave me a freaking heart attack!” They began to argue, and I could not help but laugh at them. It was just so normal compared to everything else. No spastic memories or lost magics, no secrets or hidden truths, just two ponies having an argument over recklessness. “Thank you for the escort, Iridescent,” I said breaking up the fight. “We are back in Ponyville after all. Please tell Celestia that I am safe.” I knew he would report back to her anyway, but it felt right to say it. “I will, Feria.” He replied with a smile. It surprised me, but I quickly smiled back at him. I slowly spiraled down with Rainbow Dash as I watched Iridescent fly back the way we came. By the time we landed at the Golden Oaks Library, he was just a dot in the distance. “Oh my goodness! You’re okay!” Fluttershy exclaimed when I entered the building. She ran up to hug me. Everypony had gathered here already, each calming from their own ways of worriny. “What happened?” Twilight asked. “Fluttershy said you ran off in the Everfree Forest, but we couldn’t find you/” I sighed. “I am sorry. I was… working through quite a few things. I was at the old castle for a while. I meant to come home earlier, but I…. I found some things there I did not expect.” “Oh dear, you didn’t get attacked, did you?” Rarity asked. “No it was…” I stopped for a minute. How could I explain this to them? I cannot lie to my friends, but I do not think I am ready for them to know the full truth. “I have been having… visions of the past. I cannot fully explain it, but I need to figure them out.” I began pacing around the room. “After my investigation at the Everfree Castle, I had headed up to Canterlot. Tia was helpful and I spent most of today there with her. She is trying to help.” I can leave out the part about actually having the visions, right? I could not read their reactions. I guess they were just trying to accept it all. I probably seemed crazy to them. Tia believed me because she was there during the memories I saw. She knew more about the magics of the world than these young ponies. I would not have minded if they did not believe me. It might even keep them safe. “Hey! Cheer up!” Pinkie Pie squeaked. “Investigating this sounds fun! I can’t wait to get started! Oh! What do I bring? I know where I can get a magnifying glass! And we’ll need food for when we go out to places without restaurants! What kind of cupcakes go well with mystery? I was thinking chocolate strawberry ones with mint filling and a little fondant puzzle pieces on top! ” “Y-you want to help?” I asked, quite shocked. “Of course we would!” Applejack replied. “Y’all need help with this.” I smiled at the rest said their pieces of agreement. I truly could not believe it. That warm tingle started up again. They did not just believe me, they believe in me. Each eventually wandered home, thinking of how they can help. As I walked back to my own home, I took a moment to enjoy the sun’s warmth. I had seen the first sunrise. I had seen the hope each new dawn brings to a pony. I knew that this is something I would not have to do alone. At the GalaI walked upwards on the spiraling staircase, shutting out the sounds of a party below. I did not usually attend the Grand Galloping Gala, but Celestia insisted I come this year. She had found a ‘memory expert’. I do not know who this pony was or how they could help, but I would take the chance to know what I can about my memories. I stumbled on the hem of my dress. Rarity had originally wanted to design it for me, but I had turned her down at first thinking that I would not be going to the Gala. But when Tia sent me a letter about the memory expert, I relented and let her do her work. The dress was a very dark, nearly black, blue green, with lighter blue green swirls. I could see why Rarity wanted to work with me in particular, as the nearly black fabric showed off the true black that was my coat, a coat that everypony else would have to use dyes to get. The contrast of the blue and green made the red-orange of my mane pop even more than usual. I will be thankful to Rarity that she made my dress a bit simpler than the others. I would have tumbled down in a dress like Fluttershy’s, but this only hinders me on stairs. I wondered why Tia told me to meet the memory expert up in the royal chambers wing. Probably for isolation, I do not think I would want random partygoers showing up mid-spell. Ponies tend to wander after a few drinks, but they cannot get up to the royal chambers. “Third door on the left,” I reminded myself of Tia’s directions as I reached the top of the stairs. My old bedroom was across from this one, but I had never opened it. It had always been locked when I tried to go in, but I always figured it was an empty bedroom, up for grabs next time a royal was born. I was very wrong. I took in the sight as I opened the door. The carpet was one of the darkest blues I had seen. The bed was larger than a usual one, and covered in pillows and blankets of every shade of blue that seemed to make a nest of sorts. Shelves covered most walls, each filled with books that had obviously been read many times, but were quite cared for. Personal effects like a vanity and a chest for clothes were set in the middle of a room big enough to hold the first floor of the Carousel Boutique. Looking up took my breath away. There were no candles in the room to light it, but the room was bright all the same. The ceiling was a painted mural of the night sky, and each star was a tiny gem, infused with a light spell. The ceiling was no match for the true night sky, as even magic paint cannot blend the way the sky does, but it was still beautiful. Hearing a noise, I turned my head to the only wall not covered with books. The final wall was a balcony looking out over the land. A telescope and a table set were already set up out there, yet they were not what held my attention. The only thing as beautiful as the night sky itself, was its ruler, Princess Luna back to her full power. Her coat had darkened since I last saw her; she grew taller than other ponies, yet still a bit shorter than Celestia. But the most impressive thing was her mane. I had last seen it at a simple light blue. Now, it flowed outward in a nightly hue. I wondered if it would flow with magical power like Celestia’s does. “Hello,” I said, getting over the shock. “I am guessing that you are Celestia’s ‘memory expert’?” “I would not call myself that,” she replied, “but I have other skills that may help.” While Celestia’s voice was strong and bold, Luna’s seemed soft and delicate, yet commanding. Celestia’s voice would make you listen, but Luna’s makes you stop on your own. Although, her voice seemed retracted tonight, as if she did not want to talk at all. I could not get a proper feel from her magic, she felt indifferent. “If you do not want to do this tonight you do not have to,” I said, trying to shake off the awkwardness, but Luna only sighed, turning back to the table on the balcony. “I apologize if I seem distant,” She finally said. “This whole idea, the idea of you being the same Feria, it seems too much to hope for. I will admit you are very much like Feria, in both appearance and persona. It does throw me off a bit, thinking like that, and the idea of your memories... I am trying not to get my hopes up.” She was more straightforward than I thought she would be. I followed her out into the night air. The Gala’s sounds were nearly gone, but stayed as a continuous hum at the edge of the background. Neither of us wanted to begin, so we sat in silence for minutes, listening. “What are you going to do?” I asked, creating the inevitable break in the silence. “I mean, for the memories. How does this work?” “If we are correct,” Luna answered, “those memories should be locked somewhere inside your mind. We only need to get in there.” She turned to face me, and the air pressure changed, creating her spell. “What are you doing?” I asked, my heart beating faster. “Calm yourself,” she spoke “close your eyes, and take deep breaths. Listen to the sound of my voice, listen to the sounds from all around you, but listen to the sound of my voice. Let your body be at ease, relax even more now. Become steadier, easier, until the feeling just takes you over.” I wanted to continue asking her, but there was power in her words. My body stopped moving, my breath was a constant flow, and my eyes were closed. I felt something shift in the world. All of my senses were at their highest, including my magic. Opening my eyes I saw an unfamiliar throne room. All of its décor were either yellow or blue, and much more like a throne room should be. I knew that if the room was filled with ponies, the ponies on those two thrones would be removed from it all. The thrones at the back fit the pattern, being high backed and not personalized at all, other than the color. This must be the newer throne room in Everfree, the one made for only Celestia and Luna. “You teleported us to Everfree?” I asked. Unfortunately, Luna was not there with me.”No, it…. This is not the castle.” I said. I could sense something different here. There were no shifting auras of the forest around the castle, or any of the world. It felt like this room was the only thing that existed. It was an odd feeling, to feel so alone. “You entered here before I did,” Luna stated appearing, quite literally, out of nowhere. Somehow, her presence in this place made the world more real. I felt the magic around me again, but it was a created energy. Nearly everything here was the exact same magic imitating another one. All of the magic here was all part of Luna. “Where are we, exactly?” I asked. “It… it is not the castle like I thought.” “Welcome, to the dream world.” She replied, as if it was a normal thing. Ponies cannot freely enter the dream world. One would have to be asleep, and even then they would not know they were there. Although this seemed impossible, Alicorns never followed the rules when it came to magic. “How did we get here?” I asked in an attempt to take it all in. “If my spell had worked,” Luna began, “you would have fallen asleep, allowing me to enter your dream and fully immerse you in the world, allowing us to fully interact like we are now. I had planned to be in your dream.” “If it had worked?” I felt scared. Whatever she had tried had not worked properly. Failed spells can end up disastrous. I had grown up near the School for Gifted Unicorns. Not a week went by without Celestia having to fix a failed spell from a young ambitious unicorn. Effects had ranged from minor transformations to obliterating a wall to half the class teleported to Appleloosa. “You entered the dream world on your own. In all of my life, I have known only two ponies to have been able to enter the dream world on their own. One is myself, of course. As Princess of the night, I have reign over dreams, allowing myself to flow between them at wish.”’ I calmed myself at the idea that the spell did not fail, but she stopped it. It is a good thing. Yet entering the dream world still seems quite unbelievable. Yet here we are. I had entered. I do not know how. The more I thought on this, the more it scared me. I had entered her realm, a place only she should be able to go. The kind of power that had to be used for that is something I do not have, right? I honestly did not know anymore. “Who was the second pony?” I asked. I was almost too scared to say it, and Luna was afraid to answer. At first, she awkwardly fidgeted, trying to figure out the best was to say what was already hanging in the air between us. Then she finally did something she had only done once since her return. She met my eyes, holding my gaze. Those eyes had seen so much, been through so much, and told many stories. I returned the gaze, maybe for her comfort, maybe for my own. “Feria is the other pony,” Luna finally said. The weight dropped on us. The idea of the previous Feria and I being the same pony felt as more of a reality than it had been back when I climbed the staircase. I took notice that she had realized this too, as she picked the word “is” and not “was”. “If you are her,” Luna shakily continued, “it would make sense that you entered the dream world on your own. Back when… Back in the beginning, when anypony had nightmares, Feria and I would enter their dreams and help them out there. Ponies tend to not be able to sleep when others are waiting for them to sleep, so Starswirl and I worked on a hypnotic sleep spell to use when we needed to enter dreams. I would use it on the dreamer, and we would enter the Dream World together. If you are her, the memory of slipping into the dream world is stuck in your procedural memory, entering on your own when you heard the spell.” “If I do not remember that past, how can I use a memory like that?” I asked, even more confused. “There are different types of memory. Procedural memory is the actions you are used to doing, such as walking, or entering the dream world when that spell is used. There is general knowledge, like language or facts. Celestia tells me that your procedural memory was fine when you were ‘created’, and so was most of your general knowledge. The things that you had either forgotten, or facts and such that did not exist back in your previous life, were taught to you over time.” “So I am like a pony with amnesia,” I stated. I smiled at the way she was talking. She rambled on about things she found interesting. She was happy, almost excited, really. I could not put my hoof on it, but she reminded me of somepony from this lifetime. “Yes,” Luna continued. “Like most amnesia victims, the problem is episodic memory, which involves conversations, ponies you know, even books you have read, although it is usually accompanied by some kind of trauma.” “Death seems like plenty of trauma,” I whispered. She seemed shocked at first, then her expression softened. I had seen the expression before. The expression was of one who wanted to break down, but kept it together for others. I had seen it in Azura’s eyes during the crystal message telling of Feria’s… my… death. I had seen it every time I asked Celestia about her past. “I am sorry,” Luna said. “Standing here, talking with you about random things, it just felt like it did back then back, before Feria died.” She sighed in defeat. “I really was trying to not become too hopeful in the idea that she… that you came back to me. I do not know what to do if I had the dream crushed. I want this crazy idea to be true.” “Maybe we should not jump straight into this,” I suggested. “Perhaps we could get used to walking through this place.” She thought for a moment on this, thinking of where to go. “As you wish,” she replied. “I believe there are a few Ponyville citizens that are asleep, we could pop in on what they are dreaming about.” She walked with purpose to the end of the room, throwing open the doors with a push of magic. I followed and marveled in the strangeness of the next room, in part because I had seen forest through the windows on that wall only moments ago. The hallway seemed, at first, like any other castle hall. There were many windows and open doorways, fairly decorated walls and floors, the usual. But every doorway and window was a portal to a different place. On my left was a dragon cave, while a snowy mountain was on my right. “It took years to figure out how this place works,” Luna began. She was using that same tone as before, happy rambling, relishing in what she knows without being pretentious that she knows more than I do. I still could not figure out what it reminded me of. “It had no sense of organization, dreams were just scattered anywhere throughout here. When I first started on the organizational system for the dream world, the only ‘organized structure’ was our castle in Everfree. Of course, as more ponies were born I expanded the world into a much bigger place, and it became a castle of my own. Some parts look like Everfree, some look like Canterlot, some are pieces of my own design.” Still talking, she leapt through a window. I lingered for a moment, wanting to follow, but also wishing to explore on my own. I felt a flick of magic at the edge of my senses; it was the equivalent of movement in your peripheral vision. Something about it was familiar, but terrifying. More terrifying than Nightmare Moon. I shrugged it off, figuring that somepony somewhere was having a nightmare, and it was affecting the dream realm a bit. Yet I did not linger longer, and jumped a little too excitedly through the portal after Luna. There was bright light for only a moment before the dream fully took form. I was now in Cloudsdale, more specifically at the finale of the Best Young Flyers competition. Just like the Everfree castle, it felt real in the physical sense. The clouds beneath my hooves were soft, the wind blew my hair around my shoulders, I could even feel warmth coming off of the ponies next to me. Yet it was all just magic. This was not Luna’s magic, now it was the magic of the dreaming pony. “And there we have it everypony!” shouted the competition’s announcer. “She won by a landslide, making her the most super awesomest Pegasus since the legendary Rainbow Dash of the Wonderbolts! Give a cheer for Scootaloo!” I watched as an orange Pegasus mare sped into the arena. Everypony was cheering, but the loudest screams of pride were coming from the ponies around me, and one rainbow-maned Wonderbolt at the judges’ table. I felt a shuffle of wings to my left, and sense the only magic in this place not created my Scootaloo. Luna had made her way to my side. Judging by the missing seat next to Princess Celestia, she was put there when she entered the dream, “Why was I over here and not with you when I entered?” I asked over the still roaring crowd. “When we enter a pony’s dream, we blend with whoever we are most like in the dream. We were already here to the dreamer, but if we enter we overtake our doppelgangers. If our doppelgangers were not here we would most likely be random background ponies. Really, this is only done so that the dreamer does not completely freak out if two of me shows up. Speaking of dreamers, I know this is the dream of that orange Pegasus out there, I think her name is Scootaloo, do you know her?” “I do not know her very well,” I replied. “But I have met and talked to her a few times. I know she idolized my friend Rainbow Dash. You probably remember her better as the Element of Loyalty. That’s her over with the Wonderbolts. I think this dream is just Scootaloo dreaming about a perfect future. She believes that Rainbow Dash’s dream of joining the Wonderbolts will come true, and hopes to be just like her as she grows. Although Scootaloo is currently just a filly without a cutiemark who can barely get her hooves off the ground, most of us think she will do something great.” “The young ones are usually the most hopeful,” Luna mused. “Maybe one of these days you will meet her, and the rest of my friends, face to face,” I said. “For now I can at least show you what they look like in the dream world. You have already seen Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash, but there are more of my friends here. Look to my right, do these five ponies look familiar to you?” “The other Elements of Harmony,” Luna replied, almost surprised at their appearance. “The lavender Unicorn is Twilight Sparkle, the Element of Magic,” I began. “I assume Tia has told you a lot about her favorite student. The yellow Pegasus is Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness. She can be quite shy, but once she gets comfortable around you she is a really great mare. The white Unicorn is Rarity, the Element of Generosity. She can be a bit overdramatic, but her eye for detail is not to be overlooked. She is the one who designed my Gala dress.” “I was a bit disappointed it did not manifest when you entered the dream world,” Luna interrupted. “It did compliment you quite well.” “Oh, um, thank you,” I said. I was actually blushing at that compliment. “Well, to continue, the Pink pony is Pinkie Pie, the Element of Laughter. She is very hyper and strange, and the best at parties and making others smile. Never underestimate her. She may be only an Earth pony, but she seems to be able to mess with reality. The orange Earth Pony at the end of the row is Applejack, the Element of Honesty. Her family is huge, yet really close. There is probably at least one Apple in every town in Equestria, and they keep track of most of each other.” “She looks like Amber,” Luna stated. “Sorry, I know you do not remember her, but I do.” “Actually, I think I do remember her. Kind of. During one of the memory-blackout things there was a pony that Azura referred to as ‘Amber’. Her coat looked like a gem, did it not?” “You do not know of the Crystal Ponies?” she asked. “Of course you would not. They disappeared fifteen hundred years ago.” “Is that what they are called? ‘Crystal Ponies’? I have been calling them ‘gem ponies’ since I saw the memories. What were the ones that were insect-like?” “If the rest of what I planned to happen turns out successful, you will remember it for yourself. If I may ask, why are you and your friends in the VIP box of Scootaloo’s stadium? You said you were not very close to Scootaloo, and I assume with the age difference, the other bearers are not in her inner circle either.” “It is because of those two mares,” I said gesturing to the two in front of us. One was a white unicorn with a pink and purple mane; the other was a yellow earth pony with a red mane and a pink bow in her hair. “They are Scootaloo’s best friends. The three of them even formed a club together called the ‘Cutie Mark Crusaders’, and they go around town getting into all sorts of fun and trouble in attempts to earn their own cutie marks. The unicorn is Sweetie Belle, who is Rarity’s little sister, and the Earth Pony is Applejack’s little sister Applebloom.” “The VIP section is not for true ‘VIPs’,” I continued, “but Scootaloo’s closest friends and the friend’s ‘plus one. She knows that her friends would pick their respective sister as their ‘plus one’, Rainbow Dash would be here for the Wonderbolts, Fluttershy could get in easily as she is a Pegasus, and I would have gotten in from my status as princess. That left two of the group out of the stadium, but they would end up getting invited by one of us already here. Yet even in her wildest dreams, quite literally I might add, she could not imagine us even sitting apart from each other.” “You must have a really close relationship with your friends for that to happen,” Luna replied. We sat there in silence for a while, just watching the show. All of the other contestants and the Wonderbolts joined in with her, each doing complicated yet beautiful maneuvers. But you could always see Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash in the mix. We came here to the dream world to learn about the past, yet this gives hope for the future. We might have stayed there all night if that flick of magic had not returned. I felt it coming. Cold fear grabbed onto me. I had felt it in Everfree, I had felt it when facing Nightmare Moon. I did not completely understand my terror. True, the magic felt malevolent, as if it could do much worse than kill you. This magic was particularly affecting me. I knew Luna could feel it coming too from the way she tensed up, but the fear did not take hold of her like it did to me. “RUN!” she yelled, shoving me off the cloud. I plummeted, still frozen with fear. The malevolent magic was altering the dream, turning it into a nightmare. Scootaloo’s wings stopped working, the clouds darkened and began thundering; the crowd that once cheered for their hero was now laughing in mockery and scorn. Luna was circling, trying to bring me back, but I could not focus on her. I saw it. I saw the magic that threatened us. I do not know what I expected it to look like. Maybe a monstrous creature, or something of the like would have been acceptable, but all it was just a visible mass of magic. It was monochrome gray, swirling around and blocking the sky, threatening to kill us. Or maybe it would do worse. The magic reached out past the ponies laughing faces and scathing remarks. It reached for those who were real. It reached for Luna and Scootaloo. Luna attempted to dodge, but she could not keep up forever. Scootaloo was not as lucky. The dream’s magic was still working on her wings, stopping them from saving her. We might be in the dream world, but this magic was real. Could it hurt a dreamer? Luna and I were not dreamers, what would happen to us? If we die in the dream world, do we die in real life? A smoky tendril of the magic knocked Luna off course, throwing her into the same freefall Scootaloo and I were in. The magic was waiting for us below; we would fall into it soon. It is odd what one notices when fear takes over. It all seemed to slow down. The wind whipped my mane around giving it an illusion of flames. I could feel a slight tingle in my wings. I watched at the magic reached out and grabbed us. It grabbed them. “STAY AWAY FROM THEM!” I screamed, taking back control of my body. My voice seemed to have a magic of its own, physically blowing back anything in its path. My wings unfurled, and I turned to face the magic. “YOU DO NOT DARE TOUCH THEM!” I felt my own energy build. It was similar to what I felt when using the Elements of Harmony, but only at about one seventh of the amount of power. I focused it at the magic attacking us, and it let Luna and Scootaloo go. “DO! NOT! HARM! ANYPONY! EVER! AGAIN!” I screamed at the magic, releasing a burst of my own with every word. I was practically hysterical, but it was working. The magic was backing up from us, the nightmare was calming itself. Everything faded out, and I was suddenly back in the hallway looking at a blank spot on the wall. Luna was standing nearby, breathing heavily. I realized I was doing the same, my magic fading and the fear fading faster without the malevolent force to empower it. “What was that thing?” I asked her as soon as I was able to speak. “Why did we come back here? Where did it go?” “We came back because the dreamer woke up,” Luna stated, still shaking. “It is a failsafe of the dream world; if the dreamer wakes up with a dreamwalker inside, the dreamwalker is shoved out of the dream. As for the thing that attacked us,” she swallowed, shuffling guiltily, “it is the last parts of Nightmare Moon. When I returned from my imprisonment on the moon, one of my first acts after banishing Celestia to the sun was entering the dream world to use my magic to attack this place. I had thought that when I was blasted by the Elements that the magic would disappear too, but I was obviously wrong. Now I have no control over what it does.” “That magic was not you,” I stated firmly, truning to face her. “I have felt your magic, Luna. It is beautiful and comforting. Even when you were Nightmare Moon, through all of the rage and jealousy, I felt your fear; you held fear of what you were doing and what you had become. That magic in the dream was there with you, but it was not part of you. How was it you became Nightmare Moon?” She stumbled at the question, as if it hit her. “You know the story,” she replied, not meeting my eyes again. “That is the why, not the how,” I said. “I know the ‘created’ alicorns change size with magic. Tia told me the first time I asked about her mane’s ability to be pure magic. Where did you get the extra magic?’ “I-I pulled in all of my power, all of the power of the night. It is a final ‘hail Mary’ of sorts for the Immortals, us who were created.” “But Celestia should have been able to match you by doing the same.” Pieces were falling into place, but items were missing. “Were there any other magics you used? As the Bearer of Magic you would have been at the head of investigating into new magics, was there anything you were working on at the time?” “There was one,” Luna replied. She looked shocked, horrified even. “I had spent years looking into a magic. The Unicorn who discovered it used it to take over a kingdom. Celestia and I tried to defeat him, but both he and the kingdom disappeared. It was my duty to study his magic, and find a way to combat it in case the magic was used again. If there was nothing to use against it, I was to attempt to create something that would work. It was before Nightmare Moon by a few hundred years.” “Around the time your feelings of hate and jealousy began,” I said. “This is mostly speculation, but I think that magic had a sentience, and it had a power over you. It enhanced your negative feelings. Tia would tell me stories of the happy memories she had of you, and I could not believe that you and Nightmare Moon were the same pony. The ‘eternal night’ bothered me. You were intelligent, so you would have known the effects of not having both night and day; even in a blinded rage you would not put them through that.” Luna collapsed. The whole thing was too much for her. “A corruption,” she whispered. “The thought never occurred to me. I still do not understand something.” She looked up at me, seeming a bit broken. “How did you know the magic was not from the dream?” “I think only I can see it,” I replied thoughtfully. “The ideas of souls and auras have been explained to a point, but it has to do with magic too. Because magic and the soul are tied, you can tell who used a spell if you look for it. It is a magical hoof print, and no two are exactly the same. This dream world you created, it has your magical hoof prints all over it. Scootaloo’s dream was full of her magical hoof prints. That magic was something that did not belong in either place. It was dreamwalking, like we were, but it did not get shoved out when we did.” “No,” Luna corrected. “It retreated before the dreamer awoke. It is not gone, but it will not bother us for a while. You blasted it with a powerful magic. I do not know how you did it, but I think you accessed your Element. How, I do not know. Even when Celestia used the Elements against me, she had to have the others with her.” “Well, some ponies say anything is possible in dreams,” I suggested tentatively. “Although, we should probably hurry with what we came here to do, in case it comes back.” “Yes, we should,” she agreed. Luna tried to put on a brave face, but I could see it wavering. She wanted to help, and she wanted to jump in and investigate on what this was. But she was scared. If I was right, the magic corrupted her could have destroyed those she cared about, or worse all of Equestria. “We can stop for tonight, if you want,” I said, laying my wing on her shoulder. “No, we must-” “Do not push yourself!” I exclaimed. “You do not have to put your sanity on the line for this! Stop if you have to! You are being just like-!” I stopped, thinking about what I was about to say. “Just like whom?” she asked. “Just like Twilight Sparkle,” I continued, letting her name roll off of my tongue. “That is who I was thinking of earlier. When you were enthusiastically describing the dream world and how you organized it, I kept thinking I had seen that before, but I could not place it until now. You both work past your mental limits when it comes to that you do not know, and lately Twilight has been doing it for her friends just as much.” “I know you would want me to stop, as you think I have suffered enough,” Luna began, “but others have suffered for what I have done. There are those who will only know me as Nightmare Moon, those who I was never able to apologize to before my banishment, and those I can help now. I can help you, and helping you might help others. Please, let me do this.” Her eyes begged, almost crying. “Okay,” I relented. “What are we supposed to do?” “Dreams are linked to memories. Every place and pony your subconscious created in a dream is somewhere in your memory. We should be able to access them through the dream world.” “Where?” I asked. She did not answer. Her eyes closed, and I heard a growing hum of magic. She walked toward the door we had come from before, and I followed, thinking it best not to disrupt her. The humming became louder, soon becoming a vibration throughout the room. I felt it in my heart. Finishing the spell, she opened the doors. The throne room that had been there was replaced with a golden light. It felt kind and warm, welcoming even. Luna smiled at me, giving me the assurance that the spell was complete. We walked into it, and into darkness. When my vision cleared, we were in an elegant ballroom. Figures danced in a graceful waltz, keeping in time with music I could not hear. I watched them circle around with their partner, never breaking. Looking out over the crowd, I recognized the ponies as the ones from my memory. They were the first ponies of Equestria. “We are inside your mind now,” Luna said, appearing behind me. “We entered your memories, but a spot was chosen at random. Because it is a memory and not a dream, we cannot be active players. It will be like watching a play. I have done this with a few amnesia victims, and it will be like remembering the song stuck in your head.” “This is not a memory,” I stated. “I may not remember everypony here, but I know these are too perfect, especially for that conglomeration of a creature at the center. I saw him in the memory I had at Everfree, and he seemed way to… disruptive to be in this for this long.” Luna fully looked around this time. She had only taken in the minor details of the place, and not its full glory. “You are partially right,’ she said. “This is a memory of a dream.” “That sounds like a song lyric,” I giggled, trying to lighten the mood. “We will come back to this,” Luna said without giving an explanation. She activated her magic again, and everything blinked out of existence. Not everything, really. I could feel a buzzing sensation under my hooves, like we were on a moving platform. The sensation stopped as Luna’s horn dimmed, and we were in darkness. I knew this was the same darkness I had been scared of before, but I could not feel it. It was not real, just part of the memory. Has it begun?” I asked. She did not have to answer, as I saw a smaller me light up her horn. It was sad to see her. Anypony would be sad at seeing a lonely filly, helpless in the darkness, nopony there for her. “I am glad dream world places cannot give off auras other than that of the one it belongs to. I remember this time. That darkness I had once called the sky is made of that magic we encountered earlier. It is much more powerful there. By the way, will this be experienced in real time, or sped up? How long have we been gone anyway?” “Really?” Luna answered. “That sky is the power we faced earlier? I know I do not remember it, but I think I would have heard more about it. As for the time, it has been maybe an hour in reality. The memories should go at a very fast speed, but can be slowed down if we wish.” The memory went as I expected when the next filly showed up. “I think I am remembering their names, but can you tell me if I am right? I want to make sure I am remembering and not learning,” I asked and she nodded. “This is Morning Aura, I think.” With every appearing foal, I named each one correctly. Evening Soul the Unicorn, Apple Luck the Earth Pony, Rini who was one of the insect-like ponies, Amber the Crystal Pony, , and a Zebra named Zed appeared after that. “Next should be Celestia,” I said as the bright light appeared, leaving behind a pink haired filly. “That light!” Luna exclaimed as the filly Celestia brought the first dawn, resulting in cheers from the other foals. “What is that?” “I am not sure, but it appeared for all of the Alicorns, and two others. I assume they are all immortals. The one that appeared while we talked was Arctic Rhyme, and this is Starswirl? ‘Starswirl the bearded’ one of the most celebrated Unicorns to ever live and who created many spells?” “Yes. He grows the beard out eventually,” Luna giggled. I named each one as they came. Platinum, Ambrosia, Diamond, Zyanthi were the next set. Tornata arrived in the next bright light, bringing weather with her. The third set consisted of Thunder, Prophetic Shadow, Bronze Gear, Misa, Onyx, and Zoneru. “Azura,” I said as the next light hit. “I cannot truly say I remembered her from here, as I saw the crystal message. But I am remembering her.” Following Azura were the ponies Spira, Bubble Splash, Dusty, Kyto, Jade, and Zira. The bright light came again, bringing Flora. The usual set repeated, bringing Lucky Love, Star Mirage, Blade Blitz, Kirin, Opal, and Zetho. Another light brought Mira and her set of, Zephros, Monochrome Storm, Little Burst, Fury, Topaz, and Zoric. No bright light this time, and the set repeated with Virtuous Eyes, Carnival Surprise, Frosted Cake, Xerlis, Quartz, and Zantate. “Chrysalis,” I announced when the next light dispersed. “She… she was revered to the… changelings! That is what they were called! She was important to them.” “Yes she was,” Luna confirmed. “After you left us, they began to think of her as a queen. There was no power usurping, but the changelings felt they did not belong, so they tended to go by their own orders.” I thought on this as we waited for the next one. “D-Discord,” I said, stumbling over the name. This one was different. I do not know why, but just his name made my heart feel heavy. Was he important to be before? More important than the others? When the light dimmed, I could see the medley of a creature that I now know we had named a Draconequus. Why we named what he is if he is the only one, I do not know. “Can you please slow it down to real time when the next one comes?” I asked Luna. “Yes, but why?” “Watch.” And watch we did. The light came as the sun was setting, the dark blue filly appearing just as I knew she would. Luna and I watched as the filly raised the moon and created the night sky. The other foals flocked to her, and cheered louder than they had when Celestia first raised the sun. They knew this filly would not let the darkness get them. “I figured you did not remember your first few minutes of life,” I told Luna. “You may speed it up now, if you wish. I remember their names, and their basic personas. More will come with the rest of the memory.” She did not have to say a word, I could feel her gratitude. She remembered her first acts, and now knew what it meant to these ponies. The rest of us lived in that darkness, but Luna never got to experience it as we had. There was no protector, only one to keep it at bay for the short time she could. I realized that while others had Celestia’s day, or other ponies to stand by them, I had spent my first few days alone with it. No protection or support. The very idea was terrifying. After that, Luna sped up the memories for us. They went by so quickly, but I remembered all of it. We gave ourselves names, became friends, earned cutie marks, and grew up together. It was strange, as our memories had been like what Luna described; all of us had procedural memory and general knowledge of creatures and plants that existed, but no true ‘memories’ until we blinked into existence. As we grew, we realized we needed our own home. With all of the Unicorns and Alicorns working together, it only took a few weeks to construct the castle. Eventually, the others decided us who arrived in the bright lights would be the leaders. None of us really wanted to, but even we had to agree that we were the best choice. Well, most of us. Discord was not fit for leadership, and Chrysalis reasoned that she was too much like ‘just another changeling’ for her to rule, even with all of us protesting. We met different animals. Some were able to understand and speak like we did, and they had already developed their own societies. Each group only had a few members, maybe a little more than our group of Unicorns, and every one had different colors. Mira was an ambassador to them, talking with their leaders and inviting them to join our group. Some, like Griffons and Dragons, agreed under the condition that they have equal say in our ruling, meaning that the Alicorns cannot rule over them. It was odd seeing a full group of little dragons. I guess we were all still kids then, were we not? Did we know how big these dragons would get? Our society was strange compared to today’s. We seemed more like a group of foals at daycare than a small kingdom. Our money system consisted of trading, mostly of gems, but we did not really stick to it; we shared everything, and took care of each other, and the animals. “It is weird to see this from another perspective,” Luna interrupted. “Yeah,” I agreed, “It gets stranger when I think about it. I mean, my memories are returning faster than I can watch, so I see things that are maybe a few months ahead. And I keep seeing different ponies that look like ones I know, or I at least physical connections to them. It is amazing really. Appleluck looks a lot like Applejack, but she is colored like Applebloom. To think the Apple family literally goes all the way back to the beginning! And that Unicorn, Virtuous Eyes, his eyes are the same shape and color of Rainbow Dash. Frosted Cake’s mane color is exactly like Lyra! Are these the only dragons? Because their leader is the only purple one so he should be related to Spike, right?” “You always did go on and on when you found something interesting,” Luna giggled. It surprised me into silence. She really is believing me about this is she not? Before I could think about it much I began giggling myself. “Sorry about that,” I replied. “I just, well, I started getting interested in genetics during one of the Castle Guards’ bring your family to work day a few years back. Clashing Lance brought along his wife and daughter. Both Lance and his wife were Pegasai, but the filly was a Unicorn. When I asked him about it, he told me that while both he and his wife were Pegasai, they both had a Unicorn and a Pegasus as a parent. It is amazing to see where all these traits come from, you know?” “I understand the feeling,” Luna said. I waited to see if she would elaborate, but when she did not we fell back into our silence. I was able to see every moment, even the ones some would see as insignificant, but it all happened at fractions of seconds. While nothing as slowed down and fully analyzed, id did not have to be. As soon at the scene went by, I could remember every detail of it as if it had happened only a day ago. Some moments I asked to see in real-time, I remembered they were important to me. I saw the creation of the Elements of Harmony. We discovered the Element’s power on our own, each giving the abilities to spread the Magic of Friendship to others. But it was Azura’s I watched as I grew up, I watched myself learn. I even watched myself dream. It was strange to see myself not only growing, but growing bigger than I currently was. I was at nearly Celestia’s height. Well, not ‘me’, but the ‘me’ in the memories. All of Immortals were bigger than even the largest earth pony. My mane was like Luna’s, long and flowing, yet not magical. Something seemed familiar about the next scene. Not because the memory was returning, but because I already have this memory. “Slow this down!” I exclaimed. Luna was startled by my sudden outburst, but quickly did as I asked. It was the memory I had seen at the Everfree castle. Azura setting up for a party, with her, Celestia, Discord, and myself just talking and having a good laugh. “This is it, is it not?” Luna asked. “I knew the end of the reel was coming soon, but to see it is just… can it really be?” “This is the night I die,” I confirmed. It was strange to say aloud. “You never did find out who killed me, did you? You will tonight.” “Two thousand years, I have gone without knowing what had happened to you, never knowing if it was one of our friends, or somepony else.” I nodded in agreement. I watched myself walk away from the decorations, watched myself go to bed, watched myself slip into the last dream I would ever have. “This dream is the one we entered when we started the memory.” Luna said. I watched as the place came to life again. A gold and silver ballroom, with dancing figures. I now know that they were all of the first group, those of us who were created. We circled in a simple dance, keeping in time to music we could not hear. “I walked your dreams this night, and I saw what you saw.” Luna was standing still. She would not elaborate on it, so I continued watching. I saw myself blink out of existence. Nopony noticed other than Luna and I. Other ponies faded out slowly, soon leaving only the Immortals. They danced longer than the others, but soon began to fade. First was Tornata, then Laruta, then Mira, and finally Azura. I expected the others to do the same, but they blinked out, just like I did. First Chrysalis, and then Discord. After a while Luna blinked out too. I waited for Celestia to disappear, but her dance only slowed. She looked so sad, so alone. We watched her dance alone for a long time, almost as long as the time before she was alone. “It should not be going on this long.” Luna said. Her timing was perfect, because something strange happened. Without a true explanation, I had blinked back into existence. We waited again, and Luna reappeared, too. Then the dream was over. I watched myself awake in my bed, gasping for air. “What did you mean when you said that it was going to long?” I asked Luna. “The dream only lasted to the time when Celestia was alone. You and I coming back were not part of it. Something manipulated it. There is something else, too. Do you see the way you look like you had woken up from a nightmare? I remember the feelings that accompanied that dream, even though we cannot feel them now. It was the presence, the one that attacked us in Scootaloo’s dream, the one that belonged to the sky, and the one that corrupted me. “What does that mean?” I asked as we followed my memory out to the hall. We wandered with me into the throne room, all perfectly decorated for Luna’s birthday parts. Azura’s decorating skills could give Pinkie a run for her money, but I think Pinkie could still easily win. I watched as something walked towards me, the ‘Memory Me’. It was not a real pony, but it took a pony’s shape. It was the gray magic from before. I watched a blade appear as it was pressed into the Memory Me’s throat. I shifted my wing out over Luna’s shoulders. I needed reassurance that she was there, I wanted to tell her she was not losing me again. “Checkmate” the magic said, bringing the blade across the Memory Me’s throat. The wound opened, blood pouring out. I could not breathe anymore. I was scared. Terrified. Have you ever watched yourself die? The Memory Me’s body glowed, and the wound began to heal. The gray magic swirled with rage. It kept drawing the blade across the Memory Me’s neck over and over again, each one healing itself. I, she, tried to move away, but she could not do much more than writhe in pain. “Your attachment to the Elements keeps you here.” The magic mused. “I cannot kill you yet. But I can trap you until I can. It will not last long, darling, just enough to break your connection.” The magic overtook the Memory Me. I watched the magic snuff out the light in her, my, eyes. Everything became black. “It’s not over,” Luna whispered. Was it an observation or a warning? As I looked around I realized that even though everything was black, you could see where everything is. I could tell which way were the doors, and where each throne was. I could see every balloon, even if I no longer know their color. The gray magic was still there, but much larger. Really, it had even more of a defined pony-like shape than when it killed me. Another presence was in the room. It was a large fire, just as big and powerful as the gray swirl. It looked like fire. Flames licked the ceiling, but nothing was burned. Outside the walls were many presences, some as big as these here. Eight more were this size. “This is the realm of souls,” I said. I felt Luna jump next to me. She probably forgot we were only observers, forgot that I was next to her. “The Realm of Souls?” she asked quietly. “It is like your dream realm, yet not a place I can control. I can see the magic in everyone and everything. I have done it many times before, and I will apologize for using it to cheat as games of Hide and Seek.” She raised an eyebrow at my last comment. “Sorry, trying to diffuse the tension.” “Why did we not see it in your memory before?” She asked. “I think the memories only show what I had done and where I was. It said it would trap me, and I think it has. I am here. I was here, in the realm of souls. He said something about my connection to the Elements, that if he broke the connection he could kill me.” The memories ended, and we were returned to Luna’s bedroom. The sounds of the gala returned, although a much lower decibel than before. The night must be at least half over by now. I slipped my sight into the Realm of Souls, trying to get a feel for what is happening by pony’s locations. For some reason, my friends were out of the castle and in town, at a donut shop I think. “After that night, the Elements never worked the same,” Luna said, bringing me back to our world. “We never got them to full power, even with you there. It caused a rift between the rest of us. We thought we were the only ones in the world. For a while, we became suspicious of one another. It did not last that long, we knew in our hearts that none of us could do something like that. What I do not know is how you came back.” “Well, maybe-,” I began. I had turned to look at her when I spoke, but this was off. We were still sitting at the table on her balcony, but my view was different. Before, I had to look up to see Luna’s face, but I was currently staring straight ahead. Actually, I was looking slightly down at her. “You are taller,” Luna stated. She levitated a mirror onto the balcony, and I gasped at what I saw. I saw a pony with a coat as black as charcoal. Bright red and orange hair cascaded from the pony’s head, curling and flipping to imitate flames. A long, dark blue-green dress had grown to fit the pony’s body, still flowing off and sweeping the floor. I looked like I had in my memory, in my previous life. “What happened? How did I-?” I could not find the words to even ask. “The Immortals grow with their magic power,” Luna explained. “Celestia told me that when you came into this world again, you looked about the age of a filly without a Cutie Mark. She said you stayed that size until you got your Cutie Mark, and continued growing until you were average pony size. You were gaining magic power as you aged, and I wondered why it had stopped. You should have been this size almost a year ago.” “Er… yeah. I… Do you have any ideas on getting me back to the normal size? I mean, this looks, oh sweet Sunbutt this looks amazing, but it draws attention.” “Sunbutt?” She asked, giggling. “One of the nicknames I use for Tia. Try it out later. But can you fix this?” She thought on it a moment before answering. “There is a magic suppression spell. You will only be able to use the amount of power it takes to make you that size, but I think that is what it was at before.” She levitated an old book off a high shelf and began flipping through pages. “Here it is. This one lets you reverse the spell at any time, no matter what magic level you are suppressed to. Even if you went back to a filly’s magic you could come back easily.” I looked over the spellbook. It was fairly simple of a spell, even if I have no idea why one would have made this. I concentrated on its idea, letting my magic flow through my body; it was a tingling feeling like when a limb falls asleep. I glanced in the mirror when the feeling subsided, glad to see my usual form back. “To answer your question,” I said to Luna, setting the book on the table,” I think I know why I came back. My soul is connected to the Elements of Harmony, so only with their existence can I be immortal. Why others were given a choice to cast off their immortality instead, I do not know. Of course, even if the Elements existence dies down again, there is always a chance for it to come back.” She held my gaze again, I could see so much in her eyes, so many memories. I slipped my vision into the realm of souls, and I could see all of her. Her soul was a giant night sky, spinning and swirling, forming constellations and comets. I could see each emotion. She wanted to break down and cry. She wanted to cry out of happiness, out of loss and loneliness, out of the fear and hope for our future. Slipping my vision out of the realm of souls, I moved forward and wrapped her in a hug. I wanted her to know it was okay, that she could have the outburst of emotion she needed. I wanted to assure her that everything will turn out fine. Celestia had come to check on us, and sensed what had happened, joining us in our embrace. I wanted to assure her of everything, as I could tell she wanted to break down too. We let it all out, no heavy sobbing or wailing, just three sisters who had found one another, and who were determined to not let go. Returning ChaosSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.The TruthSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Nightmare NightSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Plays are FictionSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Canterlot ShenanigansSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.ChangeSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.The Lost EmpireSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Crystal MagicSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Prolouge: DreamsI walked down the halls of a castle, wondering why this seemed so familiar. I felt taller, like I was hovering, but my hooves were firmly on the ground. I saw the night sky out the windows, more beautiful than I ever remembered it being. There was not just darkness, but blues and purples in the sky. I heard the stars twinkle in the silence. I made my way to the throne room. I saw the moonlight glint off of the thrones at the back of the room. Everything was decorated, as if there would be a party tomorrow. Balloons were tied on vases and tables, streamers had been strategically placed along the walls and archways. I wondered what the celebration was for. Suddenly, the room became cold. I felt a sharp pain go through my body, like it occasionally did. Yet is was more intense than usual. I watched a pony walk toward me. Why were they here? Nopony should have been awake at this hour. I wanted to scream, but I could not. Pain and fear blocked my voice. I knew what would happen now, I knew that when the ponies walked in for this party tomorrow, they would only find me. I felt something cold and hard press into my throat. I bolted upward in my bed, gasping for breath. I could still feel the pain. I felt the fear. I could feel something against my throat. I looked around. I was back in my bed, I was safe. But I could not shake the feeling that dream was not just a dream. It felt too real. I lit the lamp in my room, and checked to see if somepony was here with me. Nothing. I relaxed a little bit, but not enough as I should. I took in the familiarity of my room. Red walls, dark green carpet, a set of bookshelves covering one wall. Red was probably a bad paint choice for nights like this. I took my blankets and walked into the kitchen. At first, I checked the fridge, but my curiosity got the best of me. I magicked open a drawer and brought out a large knife. I pressed it into my own throat, careful not to cut anything. It felt just like in the dream. I gasped and dropped the knife. The clatter of metal on tiles startled me back to reality. Nothing could hurt me here. My dreams, or nightmares, are not real. Whoever that pony was, they would not visit me in this realm. I kept telling myself it was just that. A dream. But part of me wondered about it. Dream Catcher had once told me that our dreams can only use places we have been and faces we have seen. That was not anywhere I had been. Right? I am alive, so I had not been killed. Had I?
BeginningsAnother Chance “Of course humans exist!” I said to the mint green unicorn. “There are many creatures that are hybrids, basically that means they have parts from multiple existing creatures. The Chimera, for example, is a hybrid of lion, snake, and goat.” I levitated a book down as the unicorn’s smile grew with her intrigue. “There are many hybrids with humans involved, but only some are confirmed to exist, like the Minotaurs. Logically, somepony would not create a creature just to combine it with another. I do not have a book on humans, but this book does have information on all known hybrids in it” I had barely checked the book out for her before she ran home with it. I cannot wait until the new librarian gets here. Last week, Ponyville said goodbye to its librarian of many years, a Pegasus named Sky Script. As I spent the most time in the library, I was asked to fill in until we could get a permanent replacement. You would not believe how rude ponies could get when you visit them about overdue fines. I sighed as I levitated down another book. ‘The history of Equestria’ was its title. I flipped to the first chapter; the story of Hearth’s warming Eve. The story was vague, and left out many details. It said nothing about how Celestia had become the ruler instead of the leaders of the Unicorn, Pegasus, and Earth pony tribes, or anything about Celestia’s life. I heard a loud noise outside, but I paid no attention to it, as I continued the reading. Yet part of me noticed. I felt it in my heart first, but it quickly made its way through to my hooves and the tips of my wings. A warm tingle went through my body, synchronizing with my heartbeat. It was something I had been able to do for years, but I never really understood it before. I still do not really understand it. “Somepony should revise these books,” I murmured, shaking off the tingle. “This only tells the history of the Reign of Celestia.” I levitated the book back onto the shelf as I blew a piece of my red-orange mane out of my face. I should get it cut soon. I heard the door open, and turned to help another pony find a book. The one who, quite literally, bounced in was Pinkie Pie, carrying in a lot of party supplies. “Hay there, Feria!” She said, tossing a purple streamer around my neck. “Guess what? There is a new pony in town. I saw her and I was like ‘GASP!” then I ran off to get my welcome wagon, but she disappeared by the time I got back! Then I realized she must be the new librarian, because Sky Script just retired and we need somepony else, and I checked with the mayor and she said that the new librarian is arriving today straight from Canterlot and will be staying in the upper level apartment and that is who I saw today and-!” “Pinkie, I got it,” I said as nice as I could. Pinkie is a great friend, but she can ramble a bit too much and never get to her point. “If you are planning on having a welcoming party in the library, at least give me some time to prepare. I might not be a real librarian, but I would like to keep the books safe.” I flew up to the rafters. Sky Script had left many tarps up here for just these kinds of situations. I came back down and Pinkie was already setting up. “You know, I just thought of something! You used to live in Canterlot! Maybe you know her!” Pinkie exclaimed. I could see she was debating on when I would let her bring in the party canon. “Maybe,” I replied, tying a tarp to the bookshelf. “What did she look like?” “She was a Unicorn! And really pretty. I mean, she wasn’t like Rarity; she was simple and such, but still pretty! Her coat was lavender colored and her mane was dark indigo!” I heard a crash from behind me. “It’s alright! I got it! As I was saying, her mane also had a pink stripe in it, and a lighter purple stripe! I didn’t see her Cutie Mark too well, but I think it was pink. OH! And she had a super adorable purple and green baby dragon with her! Does she sound familiar at all?” “Twilight Sparkle?” I said confused. Pinkie started talking about how great of a name that is, but I was just trying to think this through. Why would Celestia send her private student to be the librarian? There is something I could not shake. I knew Celestia very well; she was my sister, after all. There was something else in her plan. Twilight probably did not know what it was either. “And of course the Summer Sun Celebration is tomorrow, so the party will probably run into that party and we all just head over to Town Hall later tonight. And this is going to be the best Summer Sun Celebration yet, because it is the one thousandth one!” Pinkie Pie was still going. She had been planning the Summer Sun Celebration party for a while now, it is the one day of the year ponies are supposed to stay through the whole night, and she enjoyed it all. Everypony knows the Summer Sun Celebration, but the location of the main celebration changes every year. This year, Ponyville is hosting, and we will watch as Princess Celestia raises the sun as she lowers the- “Wait! Did you say this was the one thousandth one? The Celebration is the anniversary of the day that began the Reign of Celestia, the day Celestia began to rule on her own.” I spun around and tried to find a book. Of course the book was under ‘E’. “What are you doing?” Pinkie asked practically singing. I ignored her and kept searching through the book. The Mare in the Moon, a story most call simple pony tale used to scare children. I read it aloud “On the longest day of the thousandth year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about Nighttime Eternal!” I had nearly forgotten this. She told me it was coming, but not this soon. I had noticed her becoming scared, jumping at shadows. If I had known… More ponies began to show up, wanting to help us set up. Pinkie given them tasks and gone back to decorating, but she kept glancing over at me a little worried. I wanted to reassure her, but I did not know what to say. No matter the outcome, tonight will be the last time Celestia raises the moon. But will tomorrow’s sun ever come? * * * “She’s coming! She’s coming!” Pinkie squeaked, dragging me through a group of ponies and toward the window. I still do not know how Pinkie could fit this many ponies in a library. She had been right, the pony I recognized as Twilight Sparkle was coming up to the library, and Spike was riding on her back talking to Fluttershy who was following behind. Pinkie switched off the lights and told us all to be quiet. I watched as Twilight awkwardly tried to say goodbye to Fluttershy. She came in and had a whispered conversation with Spike. We were not close enough to hear the whole thing, but I caught a few words; ‘Nightmare Moon’, ‘running out of time’, and ‘make friends’. “Now, where’s the light? Twilight asked as Pinkie Pie hit the switch. Everypony yelled out ‘surprise’ as Twilight stood there in shock. I had to giggle at that. Twilight is one of those ponies that make great expressions, especially when surprised. “Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were ya? Were ya? Huh huh huh?” Pinkie asked, bouncing in front of Twilight. “Yes, very surprised. Libraries are supposed to be quiet!” She replied. “Well, that's silly! What kind of welcome party would this be if it were quiet? I mean, hello? bo-ring! I saw you when you first got here, remember? You were all "hello" and I was all *GASP*, remember? Y'see I've never saw you before and if I've never saw you before that means you're new, 'cause I know everypony, and I mean everypony in Ponyville!” We walked through the crowd and reached the buffet table, where Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Fluttershy were waiting. Twilight groaned and poured herself a drink. “And if you're new, that meant you haven't met anyone yet, and if you haven't met anyone yet, you must not have any friends, and if you don't have any friends then you must be lonely, and that made me very sad, then I had an idea, and that's why I went *gasp*! I should throw a great big ginormous super-duper spectacular welcome party and invite everyone in Ponyville and have it run into the other party tonight! See? And now you have lots and lots of friends!” “Are you all right, sugarcube?” Applejack asked Twilight, as she was looking a little odd. Twilight let out a high pitched scream, her magic reacting to her surprise and creating some minor fire-breathing. She ran off as Spike looked to see what she drank. “Hot sauce?” he asked, as Pinkie poured some on a cupcake. “What? It’s good!” she said with a mouth full of cupcake. I rolled my eyes and followed Twilight to the librarian’s apartments upstairs. It was a small area, with a bedroom and kitchen, a small space for entertaining. As I entered, I saw her looking at the books Sky Script left behind from his personal collection. “Elements of Harmony… Elements…. Why is there nothing here?” she said exasperated. “That is because you are not looking in the right place,” I answered, startling her for the second time tonight. She turned a little too quickly, stumbling as she tried to recognize me. Her eyes showed nothing but confusion at first, but soon widened in recognition. “Feria?” she asked. “I haven’t seen you in years! Why are you here?” “I could ask you the same thing,” I said walking over. “I moved here a few years ago. It is very different from Canterlot and the castle, ponies seem to care a bit more here. Of course, adjusting had been hard. There are not many ponies that would move here on purpose, much less somepony from somewhere as ‘fancy’ as Canterlot. The ponies here only knew me as ‘princess’, and treated me as such.” I shuffled my wings nervously. I had not spoken to Twilight Sparkle in years, and even back then we had not been very close. “So, why did you come to Ponyville?” “Princess Celestia sent me to oversee the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration” Twilight replied, turning back to the books. “She also said to ‘make friends’ but that doesn’t matter right now! Equestria might be in danger and I ‘m the only one who seems to realize it!” “I assume you have told Princess Celestia?” Another thing I never will get completely used to is using the Princess’ full title. She is always just ‘Celestia’ to me, just another pony like all of those in town. She was my sister, and I could call her things like ‘Tia’ and ‘Big sis’, but the others’ reactions to it were odd enough for me to try to stop. “Of course I did! She sent me here saying “it’s just an old pony’s tale!” even though Nightmare Moon could be returning!” I tried to hide my surprise. Celestia knew all about Nightmare Moon’s return and what she could do. She had been more and more nervous and all year. I had not known what had been bothering her, but I had been worried. I even offered to move back to Canterlot to comfort her, but Tia told me to stay here. “Do you know something about this?” Twilight asked to my silence. “Well, if you are right she probably wanted you to be away from Canterlot, as Nightmare Moon would strike there first?” I replied. That is what I had been telling myself since Pinkie told me Twilight was in town. It was the only explanation I could think of at the time. “Then I should go back and help her!” Twilight began hurriedly packing random things into her still unpacked saddlebags. “Well, Celestia will be here in Ponyville tonight, so going home would not help at all.” I said, realizing that myself. I had thought Tia was sending Twilight Sparkle away for protection. Why would she lie to her personal student, and then send her into the danger? Tia always had a plan, but I could not figure this one out. Twilight started to calm down a little and looked as confused as I was. I was about to discuss this with her as Spike walked in, obviously having more fun than Twilight was with the party. “Hey Twilight!” he exclaimed, breaking the silence, “Pinkie Pie’s starting ‘pin the tail on the pony’! Want to play?” “No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you know what time it is?” “It’s the eve of the Summer Sun celebration. Everypony has to stay up, or they’ll miss the princess raise the sun.” Spike finally noticed I was there. “You look familiar, have we met?” “I have not seen you in a few years,” I giggled. “You were still fairly young when I left. I am Feria” “Oh! I’m sorry I did not recognize you,” he said, fully remembering who I am. “It is alright,” I said, trying to be friendlier. “You know, I never cared for ‘pin the tail on the pony’. It just sounds to painful.” “Okay, well, I’m going back to play. You sure you don’t want to come, Twilight?” “NO!” “You really need to lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party!” He said walking out the door. “You really need to lighten up, twilight. It’s a party”, Twilight mocked. “You two are really more like siblings, are you not?” I laughed, heading out after him. “You know, Tia always thought of you as a sister, not just as a student.” * * * I made my way through the crowd as ponies began walking to Town Hall. Pinkie’s party plan had been to get us all over there in smallish groups, and she was rounding up the last few. I knew Fluttershy would be there setting up the music. Rarity would be adding last minute touches on her decorating; she could be working on something for weeks and still try to improve on the design. I reached Town Hall about twenty minutes before dawn. As I entered the building Mayor Mare trotted up to me. She had been trying to stay calm, but was obviously in that crazy mode where she really wanted to please her guest, but could snap at the wrong word. It was even more intense considering that the ‘guest’ was our Princess. “Hello there, Feria,” she said. “I was just checking on Princess Celestia, and she said you should go see her when you showed up. She is in the room upstairs, third on the right.” “I will go see her then,” I replied. On my way up I nodded hello to a few ponies, said a few compliments on their manes and accessories. The hall I entered was empty, but I felt a presence. The warm tingling feeling was starting up again, yet the closer I got to the room, the more strange it felt. It was not as steady and synchronized like usual. I got worse as I walked on. “It is time for you to have a taste of what you gave me for the past thousand years! You shall now and forever be trapped in the sun, painfully alone, left to contemplate your crimes against me!” I saw a bright light coming from behind the door Celestia should be in. I ran up and tried to open it, but the magic pressure kept it closed. I shouted out to her, but I could not hear my own voice. My hooves pounded on the door as the warm tingling feeling turned into a searing pain. I finally was able to open the door, but the one who stood before me was not Celestia. Who I saw before me was a different mare, as tall as Celestia. Her mane was a magical misty swirl of night, she had a black coat like mine, and her body was protected by blue-gray armor. I could not say anything, I could not think. Her eyes were staring through me. All I could do is stare back into those angry turquoise dragon-like eyes. A sound from down the hall distracted her for a moment, and I began running away. I galloped down the hall, afraid she was chasing me. I had to tell somepony! I had to get help. I made it back down and got lost in the crowd. I stopped next to Twilight Sparkle and tried to catch my breath as Mayor Mare came out to introduce Celestia and start the Summer Sun Celebration. I had thought I would be prepared for this, but how could I have been? “Fillies and Gentlecolts, as Mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the One Thousandth Summer Sun Celebration!” Mayor Mare announced as ponies cheered. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate this, the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the amazing pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of peace and Harmony to all, protector of Equestria… Princess Celestia!” The curtain opened, but Celestia did not appear. Ponies whispered to each other, I saw Rarity walk backstage too look for her. I knew she would find nothing. “This can’t be good.” Twilight muttered next to me. “Remain calm, everypony,” Mayor Mare reassured us. “There must be a reasonable explaination for this!” “Ooh, ooh, I love guessing games!” Pinkie shouted. “Is she hiding?” “She’s gone!” Rarity exclaimed as she walked back onstage. There were more gasps and whispers, Pinkie Pie momentarily praised Celestia’s ‘hiding skills’. But a cloud of purple mist appeared where Celestia should be. I watched as the cloud turned into that mare I had seen upstairs, full armor, black coat, and a magical mist-like mane with a matching tail. She still had those eyes, turquoise and dragon-like, able to see straight through you. “Oh, my sweet, beloved subjects,” she mused. “It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious, sun-loving faces.” “What did you do to our princess?!” Rainbow Dash yelled. She attempted to charge at the mare, but was held back by Applejack. “Why,” the mare chuckled, “am I not royal enough for you? Have you forgotten who I am?” “Ooh, ooh! More guessing games!” Pinkie exclaimed. “Uh, Hokey Smokes! Or maybe… Queen Meanie? No, Black Snooty! Black Snooty!” she was cut off by somepony. The mare magicked around us. “Does my crown no longer count now that I have been betrayed, and imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall my legend? Did you not see the signs?” “I saw!” Twilight shouted. “And I know who you are. You are the Mare in the Moon… Nightmare Moon!” Ponies gasped all around. Shouts were heard before quieting down as Nightmare Moon began to speak again. “Well well well, somepony who remembers me.” She said to us, a hint of appreciation in her voice. “I also know who you are,” I shouted, as the searing pain pulsed again. “You are the Bringer of Night, and you were one of the rulers. You were, and still are-” I cringed as the pain went through me again, it was getting worse. “You can return to our world! You will always be able to come back to us!” Our eyes met again, and I stared right back into her soul. She looked shocked and seemed to recognize me. “Feria…” she whispered. Her form flickered, turning dark blue instead of black and her voice softer. In her eyes, I saw anger and hatred, but I also saw somepony who was lonely and afraid and full of remorse. It was over in less than a second, but I saw it. The pain going through me weakened, and I was not afraid of her anymore. “It is too late for that!” she shouted. “If you know who I am, then you also know why I am here!” There was a silence as the moment built, none of us wanting to say it. While my fear was dissipating, the crowd was growing with terror and panic. They were deciding when would be the best time to run for their lives. “Remember this day, my little ponies, for it was your last!” Nightmare Moon yelled as thunder struck. “From this moment on, the nighttime will last FOREVER!” She threw back her head in laughter, and I ran. I kept running, but I did not know where I was going. I galloped through the town, and I did not stop. I did not stop until I had reached the edge of the Everfree Forest, a dark place where the laws of our world did not apply. I do not know why my hooves carried me here, but I felt it is where I could go. Celestia once told me her old castle was in what is now the heart of the forest. I could go there and think of a plan. Without Celestia, I did not know who could possibly defeat somepony as powerful as Nightmare Moon. Looking into the dark canopy of trees, I listened. Panicked voices were everywhere in town, and monsters were hiding in the bushes of the forest. But I felt this was where I needed to go. The feeling was balancing out, sometimes a warm tingling pulse, others a searing pain. I gathered my courage for a moment and stepped into the darkness that was the Everfree Forest.
EverfreeI walked through the Everfree forest, watching and waiting for something to jump out and attack. Celestia once told me about this place. She said in the heart of the forest, was her old castle, the place she lived before Canterlot. She left the memories of the place behind, and moved her castle to Canterlot. Without somepony caring for it, the castle grew wild, and was left to ruin. Some things were left there, not being moved to Canterlot quick enough before the forest enveloped it. There were artifacts and books that nopony had seen in almost a thousand years. I smiled remembering how Tia would call them ‘Lost Things’. I tried to follow the path that had once been here, but it was now overgrown and destroyed. At intervals, the feeling would go through me again, it switched between warm tingle, and electrifying pain. I tried to use the feeling to see which way I should go. Unfortunately, walking toward the castle made both feelings more intense. I stopped and looked around. The feeling changed. The pain was stable, but the tingle was very intense. Something was telling me to turn around. I listened for monsters ahead of me, but I heard nothing there. Then it happened. There were screams from behind me. Somepony was in trouble! I did not care about anything else, all I knew was I had to help. I ran toward the screaming, I saw ponies falling! Two were caught by pegasai, one was safe on the edge, but holding on to one who was about to fall. She would not be able to hang on much longer. The pegasai would have to set down the others before catching her. There was not enough time for her to be saved. I watched in terror as she fell. I spread my wings and felt another pulse of tingling energy go through my body. I flew up as fast as I could, not knowing if I would make it. I could not breathe, I could not think. I felt something solid. I had caught her. The screams stopped, and the tension left, I could breathe again. She was safe. “Feria?” asked the pony I had caught. I looked down to see Twilight Sparkle in my hooves. She was looking up at me as if to ask how I had managed to save her. “Sorry, I bet you probably want me to put you on the ground now, right?” I said, smiling in relief. Both the pain and the tingle had subsided by the time I set her down. Applejack jumped down the cliff with the skill of a mountain goat, and Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were waiting at the bottom of the cliff, having already carried down Rarity and Pinkie Pie. “Now didn’t ah’ say you would be safe?” Applejack said to Twilight. “What are you six doing here?” I asked. “After Nightmare Moon appeared,” Twilight started. “I went back to the library to find a book about the Elements of Harmony. I had been looking for it all day, because the Elements are the only things that can defeat her.” “We followed her, seein’ as she might know something” Applejack continued. “And of course the book said the Elements were here, so we came in,” Rarity finished. “Although why something as important as them would be in a place as dreadful as this, I don’t know.” I saw Rainbow Dash roll her eyes at Rarity’s comment. “Anyway,” Twilight said, “We need to keep going to the Palace of the Royal Pony Sisters. The Elements should be there.” I contemplated this for a moment. I knew more about legends and such than most ponies, but not as much as Celestia, considering she lived through them. I knew the Elements were Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, and Loyalty, along with an unknown Element. I never knew how the most powerful things in Equestria could only delay the problems in their legends. “I will come with you,” I decided. “Please, don’t endanger yourself,” Twilight said. “Without Princess Celestia, you might be the only one who can defeat Nightmare Moon if our plan doesn’t work.” “Then all the more reason I come along. Nightmare Moon would know about the Elements, and about the ruined castle. I had been heading there anyway, thinking I could find and use one of the Lost Things to fend off Nightmare Moon. I did not know the Elements were there, but we need all the help we can get.” I led the way through the trees and back to the path, not letting any of them object again. We wandered for a while, keeping each other company as we pressed on. I felt the warm tingle again, without the pain for a while, but it soon came back. I heard a roar and looked through the trees as a creature jumped out at us. It was huge, about three ponies tall, and it had the head of a lion but a scorpion tail and a pair of leathery wings. I roared at us again as the pain went through my body again. “A manticore!” Twilight yelled. “We’ve got to get past it!” The manticore leaped at us and swiped his paw at Rarity. “Take that you ruffian!” she yelled, bucking him in the face. He roared at her again, ruining her hair as she ran off. I tried to use my magic to maybe levitate him long enough for us to escape, but the pain going through me would not let me concentrate long enough. The manticore ran after Rarity, but was soon jumped by Applejack. “YEE-HAW! Git along, little doggie!” she yelled, trying to hold on as the manticore thrashed around, but she was soon thrown into the air, near Rainbow Dash. “Your turn, partner.” She said as she passed her. Rainbow Dash flew to the manticore and tried to make a tornado around the creature, only to get smacked back to us by its tail. Twilight made the signal for a full on charge at the monster before us, and we all began to run toward him. “WAIT!” Fluttershy yelled, jumping between us and the creature. We stopped and watched her walk up to it. I watched as the manticore was about to crush her. “It’s okay, “Fluttershy said calmly. The manticore lowered its paw and we saw a thorn stuck in it. “Oh, you poor, poor little kitty.” “Little?” Rainbow Dash questioned. “Now this might hurt for just a second” Fluttershy continued as she pulled out the thorn. The manticore roared, but soon began purring and licking Flutershy as a thank you. “Aw, you’re just a little ol’ baby kitty, aren’t you? Yes you are!” The manticore put her down and walked away from us, leaving Fluttershy’s mane sticking straight up from the saliva. “How did you know about the thorn in its paw?” Twilight Sparkle asked. “I didn’t” she replied. “Sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.” I contemplated this as we all walked on. We all had assumed the manticore was there just to kill us, but it is alive, like we are. Just because it is different does not mean we should not treat it as a like we treat other ponies. “My eyes need a rest from all this icky muck!” Rarity complained. The trees answered by getting thicker, their leaves blocking out the moonlight. I felt a sharp pain shoot through me again. “Well, I didn’t mean that literally.” The ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn’t even know it!” Twilight exclaimed. We all started bumping into each other, and everything. The ground became sticky, and I felt a slight change in the air pressure. “Oh wait, I think I stepped in somethin’,” Applejack said as Fluttershy screamed “It’s just mud.” But she soon saw what Fluttershy had screamed at, the trees grew faces, they were growling at us, you would have thought they would eat us any second. But Pinkie Pie was just laughing and making faces at the tree. “Pinkie, what are you doing?” Twilight asked, slightly panicked. “Oh, girls, don’t you see?” Pinkie asked. Then she began to sing. “When I was a little filly and sun going down” “Tell me she’s not…” Twilight complained. “The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me frown” “She is.” Rarity answered. “I’d hide under my pillow From what I thought I saw But Granny Pie said that wasn’t the way To deal with fears at all” “Then what is?” Rainbow Dash shouted, her voice cracking slightly in mild annoyance. “She said ‘Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall Learn to face your fears You’ll see that they can’t hurt you Just laugh to make them disappear’ Ha! Ha! Ha!” At her laugh, the tree became less scary. It was just a normal looking tree, no faces or growls. Pinkie smiled at us, inviting us to try it. I walked up to one, and chuckled a little. It worked, and everything going back to normal. I do not know if a spell made the trees physically change, or we saw it in our minds, but this could work. We all started to join in the laughter, and soon we couldn’t stop. Pinkie kept singing the whole way through. We all fell into a pile of silly laughing ponies. Pinkie was practically a squeaky toy, Rarity was trying to keep from breaking down into loud nearly breathless laughs like Applejack already had. I was actually snorting with laughter. I could not tell if the warm tingle I felt was from my friends, or if it was what I usually felt. I think it might be both, but it overpowered the painful feeling. I felt the pain coming back, but not as powerful. I do not know how, but we got up from the pile of giggles and kept going. Instead of awkward small talk, we really began to know each other past what we first saw. We shared things most did not know about ourselves, and learned about each other along the way; Rainbow Dash said a lot of her fascination with the Wonderbolts came from a conversation with one when she was little, Rarity asked me to come by her shop sometime and model a few dresses, as she rarely gets to work with somepony who has a black coat. The warm tingle kept the pain at bay, for me. It was still there, but not as intense. I was glad I had met these ponies on my way to the castle. I do not think I would have made it without them. “We should be coming up on a river soon; we can cross on the bridge.” I said as we turned a corner on the path, then saw and heard the river. They looked over to me with obvious confusion. “How did you know?” Twilight asked me. “I- I am not sure?” It was strange. I just saw it in my mind, like I would see a memory. I could not remember something I could not have seen, right? “Where’s the bridge?” Rainbow Dash asked me. I just stared at the river. In my mind, I saw a calm river. I saw a beautiful white bridge, carved and decorated to look like clouds. All I saw here was a thrashing river. “How are we going to cross this? Pinkie asked as we heard somepony crying upstream. We looked through the bushes to see a sea serpent sobbing into the river, thrashing around in a tantrum. We would not be able to cross while he was there, I do not think even a bridge could help us across. Twilight Sparkle must have come to the same conclusion, as she tentatively approached the sea serpent. “Excuse me, sir?” Twilight asked. “Why are you crying?” “Well, I don’t know.” The serpent wailed with flamboyant hand motions. “I was just sitting here, minding my own business, when this tacky little cloud of purple smoke just whooshed past me and tore half of my beautiful mustache clean off! Now I look simply horrid!” “Oh, give me a break.” Rainbow muttered. “That’s what all the fuss is about?” Applejack complained. “Why, of course it is.” Rarity exclaimed, shocked at their reaction. “How can somepony be so insensitive? Oh, just look at him. Such lovely, radiant scales.” “I know.” The serpent said, beginning to calm down. “And your expertly trimmed mane.” She complimented again, walking up to him. “Oh, I know, I know.” “Your astonishing manicure.” “It’s so true!” the serpent gasped. “All ruined without your extravagant mustache!” Rarity exclaimed. “It’s true, I’m hideous!” he yelled as he began thrashing again. I thought it was going to work, so why did Rarity stop the compliments? She knows we have to get across, right? “I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!” Rarity proclaimed. “Rarity, what are you-?” Twilight yelled. We watched as she grabbed one of the serpent’s scales, and sliced off her own tail! The sea serpent screamed and fainted dramatically. Rarity levitated what used to be her tail towards him, and magically attached it as the other half his mustache. “My mustache! How wonderful!” the serpent exclaimed as Rarity gave another compliment to him. “Oh, Rarity, your beautiful tail…” Twilight said, looking at the small tuft that was left. “Oh. It’s fine, dear” she replied. “Short tails are in this season. Besides, it’ll grow back.” “So would the mustache.” Rainbow pointed out. “But it was a generous gift, one that meant more than reassurance,” Rarity replied. “Allow me,” the serpent said, letting us use him as a bridge. We were across, and the others were starting to head off, but I lingered a moment. Twilight looked back at me for a moment, but I nodded for her to go ahead without me. As they steadily walked along, I headed back to the sea serpent. “Excuse me, mr… uh…” I said. “Oh, forgive me,” he apologized, “we were never properly introduced each other. My name is Steven Magnet.” He offered me his hand. “Thank you,” I said, accepting his handshake. “I am Feria.” “As in the Princess?!” he asked as I nodded in confirmation. “Oh dear, I feel terrible! How I acted was no way to be in front of anypony, much less in front of royalty!” “It is okay, Mr. Magnet. Anypony would have reacted like that in a similar situation.” “You may call me Steven, if you wish. If there is anything I can do for you, my princess, please ask.” “Actually, could you tell me something? I believe there was once a bridge across this river. Do you know where it is?” “Why, that bridge hasn’t been here for nearly fifty years. It had been a hazard for a long time before that, if anypony came by they were not allowed to try to use it, but it eventually broke down. The remaining pieces of it are in that clearing up ahead.” I thought on this for a moment. How could I remember the bridge in a place I have never been? A bridge that had been destroyed long ago, before I was born, and out of commission for even longer? What could this mean? Was I going crazy? I thanked him and began to walk off. “If I may ask, princess,” Steven asked, “has something happened? It’s not often we get ponies in the forest, much less a group as large as yours. And the sun hasn’t come up, but night should have been over hours ago.” I paused for a second, trying to know what to tell him. “Mr. Magnet, do you know who Nightmare Moon is?” I asked, looking over my shoulder. The surprise in his eyes told me yes. “Do not be frightened, I do not believe she is as evil as ponies think she is. If all goes right tonight, everything will return to how it should be.” “I hope so, my princess. I hope the day returns soon.” “It will come back. But do you not think that the night is a very beautiful thing?” “But, Princess-!” “Please, do not call me ‘Princess’. I am just Feria, I am me.” I smiled at him and walked on. I entered the clearing with the bridge pieces. It was easy to see this is the same bridge I saw in that memory. It was dark gray now, overgrown with plants and quite eroded, but still somehow beautiful. I soon caught up with my friends, but I kept quiet. This was confusing me. I saw these memories that could not be mine. As I thought on this, the painful feeling came back. It grew stronger as we came closer to the castle, but was manageable. The trees parted, and we got our first look at the castle. The castle had once been a marvel greater than the one in Canterlot. Now it was ruined. It looked like the bridge. Bright white stones, now dull gray. The wooden doors had rotted away, and the stone archways were covered in vines. I could still sense the magical wards protecting this place. I could see what it used to be in my mind, like I saw the bridge. “There it is!” Twilight yelled. “The ruins that hold the Elements of Harmony! We made it!” She took off running, as we followed after her. “Twilight, wait for us!” Applejack called to her. “We’re almost there!” She yelled again, coming to a quick stop as she nearly fell of the edge. The rope bridge that should be there had been cut, even thought my mind saw a bridge more marvelous than the one on the river. “What’s with you and falling off cliffs today?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight, pulling her back. “Now what?” Pinkie asked. Rainbow flapped her wings in response. “Oh yeah!” I watched as she flew over the gap and tied one rope. I felt the pain shoot through me again, stronger than before. It lingered instead of being just a quick shock. I looked across the gap, and saw three ponies talking to Rainbow Dash. They were distracting her; I could tell somepony was using magic against her. “Rainbow, what’s taking so long?” Twilight called to her. She saw them too. “Oh no. Rainbow Dash! Don’t listen to them!” One of those other ponies looked at us, her eyes glowed, and the fog rolled in. It blocked our view and muffled our voices. We shouted to her, but she could not hear us. “I will fly over there! She needs help!” I yelled, spreading my wings. I had barely flapped them when another pain went through me. This was the strongest one yet. I cried out and crumpled to the ground. Each painful shock happened so fast, I do not even know if they were separate ones, or one long one. I could tell my friends were around me, asking if I was okay. I wanted to answer, but it hurt to move. I could not even talk. Only a few minutes passed, but it felt like forever. I noticed it soon stopped, and was replaced with the warm tingle. I was glad. I began to be able to move again, I could hear my friends’ voices again. I did not realize until now, but I had stopped thinking of them as “some ponies”. They were my friends. “See? I’d never leave my friends hanging” Rainbow Dash said as she came back through the fog, clearing it on the way. She noticed me lying on the ground breathing heavily. “Oh my Celestia what happened to you?” “I am sorry,” I said, getting up. “That- that happens sometimes. It has never been that bad before.” “What do you mean ‘that happens sometimes’? What was that?” Twilight asked. “It looked like it hurt a lot.” Pinkie Pie said, concerned and not bouncing like usual. “I- I do not completely know what it is. Usually, I will feel this warm tingle all over my body, but it occasionally becomes a sharp pain. When that happened, it is usually at the strength of a static shock you would get from sliding on carpet.” “That wasn’t like any static shock I’ve ever seen…” Fluttershy said. “I know, that is what was weird about it. I have never felt the pain as intense in reality. I felt it in a dream once, but it was more… dream-like. Although, the good, tingling feeling has never been this intense either. I am not completely sure what causes it, but I think it is connected to my special talent.” I tested my wings. The pain was still going through me, but not as terrible as before. “We need to keep going. We should get to the castle soon.” “Wait a second there, sugarcube.” Applejack said. “You shouldn’t be movin’ after that.” “I am fine enough for this. Yes, the one feeling hurt me, but the other makes me feel better. But if we stay here worrying about me, we will never return things to their rightful place!” I nodded my head toward the eastern side of the ruined castle. “The elements should be in that building there, it was designed as a safe haven, somewhere for ponies to hide in case of an attack.” They looked at me in confusion. I had not answered their questions, but I had raised a few more. How could I explain to them that I had no idea why I knew these things? Would they still trust me? Would they stay close? I still did not know exactly what caused those feelings, but I had connected that being with these six ponies made the good feeling more intense. Their concern when I was in pain was what helped me fight through it. We reached the building where the Elements should be. It was a rounded tower, with one big empty room inside. To its left, was what looked like a garden. I saw a statue or two in there, but did not pay much attention to what it was as we entered. There were tall pedestals in the middle of the room, five stone orbs rested on them, leaving some pedestals empty. “The Elements of Harmony, we’ve found them!” Twilight said as Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and I flew up to get them for her. “Careful!” she warned when I nearly dropped one. “One, two, three, four,” Pinkie counted. “There’s only five! “Where’s the sixth?” Rainbow asked, the panic in her voice rising. “The book said ‘when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth element to be revealed’!” Twilight recited. “What the hay is that supposed to mean?” Applejack asked. “I have an idea. Stand back. I don’t know what will happen.” “Come on now, y’all. She needs to concentrate,” Applejack said, herding us out of the room into the garden area outside. We looked around the garden for a bit, but I kept glancing over at the large statue in the middle of the place. I wandered to the statue, drawn in by wonder. I could remember many things about this place, but I did not remember this. It was fairly well preserved, as if somepony had specifically visited here often, and cleared away the growth. The statue itself was life-sized and greatly detailed. There were seven ponies in a group, laughing and playing with each other. Like nearly everything else here, I remembered the ponies from a dream, and from memories that did not belong to me, but I did recognize two from the memories I should have. One was on the back left. This pony looked like Celestia. Well, the Celestia I had known, smiling and loving, but this one was freer. It was like she had not spent hundreds of years, watching ponies grow old and die while she stayed exactly the same, like she did not have any regrets for things that had happened. The other pony I recognized, because it was me. This one was taller, older, but she was exactly like me in every way. The way her head tilted as she laughed, the fwippy-thing that happens with her mane, even the cutie mark carved into her stone flank was exactly like mine, a flaming heart which reminds me of the ‘Fire of Friendship’ from the Hearth’s Warming Eve plays. I noticed the inscription on the statue; ‘Dedicated to the Royal Pony Sisters, may those gone rest in peace, and let those still living feel no burden upon their soul.’ There were five stone plaques in the ground in front of the statue. I read them aloud “Tornata, Azura, Mira, Laruta, Feria.” My heartbeat quickened. I felt the tingle coming back, but I felt an equal amount of pain. I knew Celestia had other sisters. She had told me that I reminded her of one of them, she even gave me the same name. But this was too much for me. Seeing her, even as a statue was surreal. I looked down at the stone plaques again. This was not a garden anymore, it was a graveyard. I saw a flash out of the corner of my eye. Something had happened to Twilight. I broke away from the statue, but it would not leave my mind. The six of us ran back into the Elements’ chamber, but Twilight was gone. The Elements were missing too, and I could see small tendrils of purple mist left at the center of the room. “Look!” Rarity shouted, as a light flashed outside the window. I looked out and saw more lights in a building across a courtyard. “They are in the throne room!” I shouted, running through the room to a hallway. They followed behind as I led them through the twisting corridors. It was like I had walked these halls often, but I had never set hoof here before, had I? I knew exactly where to go. I knew the halls were fairly maze like, a design from Laruta. The halls were decorated by Azura, and weather controlled by Tornata. The castle was bigger, for royals, staff, civilians and animals had been allowed to mingle as friends. That idea came from Mira and the pervious Feria, but as time went on, and the Alicorns discovered their immortality, they were treated differently, and they isolated themselves, and let the castle become empty. There were things, faces, moments I should not remember, but were still in my mind. As we were getting closer to the throne room, we shouted out to Twilight, hoping she could hear us. We told her not to worry, told her we would be there soon. We entered and saw Twilight Sparkle talking to Nightmare Moon, the smashed Elements at Nightmare’s hooves. I felt fear in my heart. Not a magical feeling, like that which I usually get. No, this wan normal fear, but it consumed me, I felt cold. I was more scared here than when I saw Nightmare Moon the first time. “You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony with a simple attack like that?” Twilight asked Nightmare Moon, as we came up behind her. “Well, you’re wrong, because the spirits of the Elements of Harmony are right ” “What?” Nightmare Moon yelled, voicing our confusion. As she did, the Element shards began to glow. They floated up around us, encircling us with their magic. We watched in awe as it happened. Twilight continued speaking, the magic adding power to her words. “Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, is the spirit of… Honesty! Fluttershy, who tamed an angry manticore with her compassion, is the spirit of… Kindness! Pinkie Pie, who banished our fears by giggling in the face of danger, is the spirit of… Laughter! Rarity, who calmed a woeful serpent with a meaningful gift, is the spirit of… Generosity! And Rainbow Dash, who would not abandon her friends for her own heart’s desire, is the spirit of…Loyalty! “Our souls got us through every challenge you threw at us. At first, I first thought the ‘spark’ didn’t work, but it did! It was a different kind of spark.” Twilight looked back at us. “I felt it in that very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me when I realized that you all, are my friends!” she turned back to face Nightmare Moon. “You see, Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by that… that spark, which resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth Element: the Element of Magic!” As she finished her speech, a shard from each Element fused together, and brought the sixth Element. Twilight glanced over at me. The warm tingle was so intense, so why was I still scared? She realized I had been left out of this. She looked like she wanted to apologize, but I just smiled at her, and she shifted her focus back to Nightmare Moon. “You think that can stop me?” Nightmare Moon yelled. “You only have the same powers Celestia used to put me on the moon. Not even that! Their strength was nearly gone one thousand years ago! New bearers awakened their powers, but they are still weaker than they once were!” “But…. How could they not be….” Twilight looked shocked and broken. She had given up hope; if these Elements would not work, what would? “Even if you use those against me,” Nightmare Moon continued, “I will only go back to the moon. I will not be there as long this time. The banishment would only be a hundred years at most. By then you will be gone, the Elements power will fade once again! That is, if you are able to defeat me!” She threw back her head in laughter. “I will not kill you, no, I do not care for bloodshed. But you will suffer a fate similar to that I suffered the past thousand years, just like what I did to your precious princess!” “You wouldn’t have been banished if you hadn’t betrayed Celestia!” Twilight yelled out to her. Nightmare Moon glared at her with an emotion I had not seen her use before. “I didn’t betray her! SHE ABANDONED ME! THE PONIES ABANDONED ME! ALL SHE CARED ABOUT WAS HERSELF! CELESTIA LEFT US ALL BEHIND AND WENT ON LIVING WITH NO REGRETS!” Nightmare Moon yelled at us. In those words, I saw that flicker which showed her true feelings. There was anger and hatred, but loneliness and regret were more prominent. I felt the pain come back, her words physically hurt me. ‘Us’ she had said, ‘Celestia left us’. I looked behind Nightmare Moon. What used to be seven thrones were barely standing there. Each one decorated, and individual. Again, I saw something in my mind like a memory. The thrones restored, and a pony sitting on each one. The same ponies I saw as statues, the ones I saw in my dreams and memories. Each was in full regal garments. Each had their crown, and matching golden necklaces. It all clicked together in my mind. Who these ponies truly were, what my feelings mean, both the hurt and the tingle. I knew what Nightmare Moon meant when she said ‘Celestia left us’. I knew why the Elements faded, and why they were not at full power. I remembered who Nightmare Moon truly was. “There were seven of you.” I said to her. “WHAT?” She asked, still angry at Twilight’s comment. Her ethereal mane swirled wildly with her emotions. “Seven Alicorns started at the beginning,” I said, the same magic that had worked on Twilight worked on me now, it was a bit trance-like, words spilling out of my mouth. “Each one had a power, something nopony else could control. Each would bear an Element of Harmony. But if even one of them died, the Elements would lose their power, until new bearers called out to them.” “Seven Elements,” I laughed. “Did you hear that? The Known Elements are Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, and Loyalty. The sixth Element is Magic, or the ‘spark’ that ignites a feeling in us, a feeling of Friendship and Love. But that is what it is; a spark. It can die out as quickly as it lit, if not cared for. But that spark can turn into a raging inferno able to change your world. “I finally know what it was I had been feeling all these years. A great friendship, or love, and I could get a warm comforting tingle. It was a simple flame that could keep me going, no matter what. But when I felt a friend in pain, when I felt somepony sad or alone, angry at those they cared for, that simple flame burned my soul”. “Tonight, I felt both of those at their most intense.” I looked back at the others. “You six ponies are my friends, the best ones anypony can ask for. Your feelings toward me became my strength, and the feeling from that is something I am glad about.” I looked straight at Nightmare Moon, I looked her in the eyes. “While the loving flame burned high, I also felt its burn. That came from your pain.” “Your fear, your loneliness, your hatred and regret, I felt them in the physical world.” “WHY?” Nightmare Moon screamed at me. “Why would you feel anything for me? You do not know me! And even so, one pony’s care does not mean anything!” “A single pony can mean everything.” I said to her. “The ‘spark’ becomes a towering inferno. That connection turns into Friendship. And Friendship is Magic. Some friendships have a powerful, unbreakable bond. We think of ‘love’ as ‘that special somepony’, but we love our friends, we love our family, and, of course, we love our special somepony. I care for you because I know some of who you truly are!” “That is the Lost Element, Seventh Element of Harmony; the Element of Love, the thing that keeps us going, that thing that can also tear us apart.” As I finished my speech, I watched as the powers of the Elements grew. Shards flew up from the spot I was standing, they resonated with the other Elements, synchronizing together. I felt its power, so familiar, like something from long ago. I looked over at my friends. “By your lead, Twilight Sparkle” I said. “You figured this out, this is your call.” She nodded to me, and we focused. The Elements’ magic grew more and more powerful. The shards came together, and became golden necklaces. Our hearts resonated, and the warm tingle spread through my body, more intense than ever, but it was kind. It was something only those you love could make you feel. A rainbow colored blast of magical energy came from us, and blasted Nightmare Moon. She screamed, but I do not think the scream was because of physical pain. I think it was the memories. I saw them too. Memories from all of us. I saw a small rainbow-maned Pegasus filly talking to a blue Pegasus stallion. I saw a young white unicorn seeing the fabulous outfits on ponies in a traveling play. There was a pink pony, surprising others with a party. I saw a blonde filly, running home to her family. Another was of a lavender Unicorn, watching the sunrise. I watched a yellow Pegasus saving a baby bunny from a fox. But there was a pony I did not recognize until the end of her reel of memories. A blue Alicorn was playing and laughing with six others. They were happy together. There were other creatures around them, some nearly pony-like, some were animals, one even reminded me of a statue in the Canterlot Castle’s garden. Then, they were gone, two ponies were left. I saw one pony getting love and praise from those around her, and the other got nothing, she was ignored. Even the other Alicorn turned a blind eye to the suffering. The ignored one fell, and became a terror. Soon, it was over. The feeling was still there, still intense, but more under control. I looked towards my friends. They were still glowing with the Elements’ magic. I saw Twilight closest to me. She was now wearing a tiara, with a large pink gem shaped like her cutie mark. Around my own neck, was a deep red heart shaped gem in a simple gold necklace. I saw the sun rise outside the window, the night was finally over. “Ugh, my head” Rainbow Dash complained. “Are y’all okay?” Applejack asked. “Oh, thank Celestia!” Rarity exclaimed looking at her tail which had grown back to its full length. Powerful magic may have some side effects. “Why Rarity,” Fluttershy said, “It’s so exquisite.” “I know! I’ll never part with it again!” she replied, still being thankful for her tail. “No,” Fluttershy corrected. “Your necklace. It looks just like your cutie mark.” A purple gem in the shape of a diamond was embedded in gold around her neck. “What? Ooh.” She admired. “So does yours!” Fluttershy gasped, looking at her own neck to see a pink butterfly surrounded in gold. “Look at mine! Look at mine!” Pinkie Pie bounced up, a blue balloon gem around her neck. “Aw yeah!” Rainbow exclaimed, taking in the awesome of her red lightning bolt gem. “Gee, Twilight,” Applejack said, sporting a orange apple-shaped gem on her necklace, “I thought you were just spoutin’ a bunch of hooey. Same with what you said, Feria,” she nodded to me. “I guess we really do represent the Elements of Harmony.” “Indeed you do.” said a voice. Princess Celestia teleported into the room, now free from wherever she had been kept this night. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight gasped, running forward to hug her teacher. “Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student,” Celestia said, returning the hug. “I knew you could do it. “But… you told me it was just an old pony tale?” Twilight said to her. “I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more, nothing less.” Celestia replied smiling. “I saw the signs of Nightmare Moon’s return and I knew it was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not use it until you let true friendship into your heart. Now, if only another will as well.” Celestia looked past us, to the one nopony else had noticed yet. On the ground, surrounded by lingering trails of magic and broken armor, was a dark blue Alicorn. She was bigger than the average pony, but still smaller than Celestia. When she opened her eyes, they were normal, but a lovely shade of turquoise. “It has been a very long time since I have seen you like this. Over one thousand years,” Celestia said, walking up to the Alicorn. “It is time to put our past behind us. We were meant to rule together, little sister. Will you accept my friendship?” “Sister?” the others asked, as the blue Alicorn cowered in fear and shame. I could see that she did not know what to do. A part of her was still angry, but she wanted to forgive. But would anypony forgive what she had done? How could anypony forgive her? I walked forward, standing between the two sisters. I smiled at the blue Alicorn. “You asked why I would care for somepony I do not know. I do know who you are, who you truly are. I do not know much, only what Tia told me, but it was all good things. She told me you were her sister, which alone tells me much.” “You are the one who brings the night sky its beauty. You walk through dreams, and protect us from the nightmares, never wishing to become one yourself. You are Princess Luna, the Mare in the Moon, and Goddess of the Night, youngest of the seven Alicorn Princesses, and former bearer of one of the Elements of Harmony. And you are my sister too.” “Celestia and I were the last of us, how can you..?” She whispered to me. “How were you and your sisters created? “ I said. “Tia told me how you not only raised the moon, but created the whole night sky. I have seen many of her beautiful nights, but she is much better at making her day than she is at creating your night. I want to see what you can truly do. I wish to see your magnificent night.” “You think she abandoned you and your sisters,” I whispered to her. “I have seen her cry at night, longingly looking at the moon. When you came back to your old castle, did you not notice the one part that was well taken care of, was the statue of dedication to the seven sisters, the grave markers.” That sentence struck a chord in her heart, I felt it, like usual. She began to cry. “I’m sorry!” Luna cried out. “I’m so sorry!” Celestia came forward and hugged her. “I missed you so much!” “I am sorry, too.” Celestia replied. “You know what this calls for?” Pinkie Pie yelled. “A PARTY! We’re going to need balloons! And streamers, lots of streamers! Ohh! And Mrs. Cake can finally make her “Princess Cupcakes” with a moon design! She’ll be so excited!” Pinkie bounced off, planning Luna’s “Welcome back from the moon party”. The rest of my friends followed her out, thinking “that is just like Pinkie Pie”, and Celestia and Luna were left bewildered, standing behind with me. “She reminds me of Azura.” Luna remarked. “Well, they are both the Element of Laughter.” Celestia chuckled. “Twilight was a lot like you were as a filly.” Luna smiled at that. She genuinely smiled at her. “Speaking of Azura, you should see some of our nieces and nephews. It has been a thousand years, after all. Young Cadence looks just like Azura. I don’t think you’ll like Blueblood much, though.” “Tia,” I laughed, “Nopony likes Blueblood!” They laughed and followed me out of the castle. I saw another memory, the same thing was happening, but the castle was at its best. I looked back at it for a moment. The morning sun shone through the windows of the throne room, it almost looked like it once did, when it was in its full glory. I wish I could see it like that in reality. I turned and saw Twilight Sparkle waiting for me. She wanted to talk. “Feria?” she asked. “How, uh… what was it like to move to ponyville?” The question surprised me. I had to think for a minute to find the answer. “It was a bit odd.” I replied. “It was more difficult for me, because of who I am, but it is a great experience. There are many fantastic ponies here, as you have already seen. Sometimes strange things can happen, especially since we live next to the Everfree Forest, but a lot of ponies love to stay anyway. Most will help you with anything if you ask. And as I hear, we need a new librarian” I laughed as her eyes widened while she realized what I had said. “I think would like that, but I am Celestia’s student, I have to be in Canterlot…” She said. “If you ask, I think she could be fairly generous.” I smiled as we walked off to join the others. Pinkie’s party would be one of the best, if only for the guest of honor. I still do not completely know what was with the memories I saw, but I had some ideas. I wanted to go back to the castle and look for clues. I decided against it, for today at least. Today, I will enjoy the party. Today, I will truly meet Luna as herself, not as Celestia’s stories, not as Nightmare Moon. I get to become her friend. I never want to see her suffer again. I never want to see any of my friends suffer like that. My own issues could wait, as my friends would always be more important to me.
VisionsCastles It might have been nine o’clock anywhere else in Equestria, but here in the Everfree forest any time of night feels like midnight. Trees darkened the path to the ruined castle, and I did not have my friends to guide me tonight. I did not want to explain to them what all was going on. Not until I could figure it out for myself. I searched my surroundings, trying to find some visual clue to where I was. I crossed the river a while back, so I should be fairly close. I had been fortunate to not encounter any monsters before, but my luck had run out. A rustle in the bushes gave way to a monster. A small but dangerous monster, a cockatrice, appeared. I averted my eyes and ran. I ran in the direction I believed to be toward the castle. Branches hit my face, but I did not care. It was better to keep going than to try and fight it. I hit something solid. Wait, make that someponies. I looked down to see who I had run into; three familiar fillies, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. “What are you three doing here?” I asked, forgetting why I was running. “Cutie Mark Crusaders chicken rescuers!” They exclaimed in response. “We were stayin’ at Fluttershy’s place when one of her chickens got loose.” Applebloom explained. “We had to get it back!” “Why are you here?” Scootaloo asked. “I was- I was heading to the castle through here, but that is not important now. It is too dangerous in here for you three! Monsters are-!” a rustle in the bushes reminded me of why I was running. “Oh no! Girls, this way, hurry!” I exclaimed, herding them away. “What about the chicken?” Sweetie Belle asked, hurrying along. “Trust me,” I said, “we would be better off not looking for it. A cockatrice looks a bit like a chicken, to both confuse others and lower their guard.” The trees cleared as we saw the castle. It was still beautiful, even in its ruined state. Stones that were once ivory white were now dark gray and covered with vines. You could see the wonder on their faces on their faces as we crossed the rope bridge. “What is this place?” Scootaloo asked me. “It is the Palace of the Royal Pony Sisters. But for now, we can use it to hide from the monster.” “But-,” Sweetie Belle tried to protest. “I will explain more when we go inside,” I said. “Once we are safe.” They followed along, trying to take in everything at once. Fortunately, most of the magical protections have faded over time, and the rest were broken when the Elements of Harmony were found. Getting in would be fine, but keeping most monsters out should be more difficult. They might avoid it out of habit, or they might figure out they can now enter and use it as their own. I began to check for signs of disturbance, but I could not do it. My memories acted up again, worse than the last time. It was like looking through a broken stained-glass window, two different images clashing together, colors mixing, shapes obscured. We were back in the throne room. I saw both the abandoned thrones, and the regally decorated ones. I felt the same cold fear in my chest like the last time I had been here. It became heavier and heavier. Last time, the power of the Elements of Harmony kept it at bay. Now, I do not think it would stop. I could not breathe, I could not think. Scootaloo asked me something, I think it was “what is this place?” Sweetie Belle looked at me with concern. She seemed to be asking “What’s wrong?” I tried to answer them, but my mouth could barely form words. My vision was clearing, but I was not seeing the room I should. The decorations I saw were intensifying. I noticed that it was more decorated than usual, like a party was about to be celebrated. With that thought, everything broke. * * * There was nothing for a minute, but soon the room returned. Yet there was life in it, other ponies were decorating. There were a two Alicorns, like me, Unicorns, Pegasai, and Earth ponies, as well. There were a few types I did not recognize, some were a bit insect-like, some seemed like living crystals. There was even a creature I had never seen, or more accurately, one that was a conglomeration of other creatures, who was hindering the progress. My focus shifted to the Alicorn in the middle, a beautiful mare. I almost thought it was Cadence, with the light rose-tinted coat, her mane blonde, pink, and purple, but the tips were black. There was a spark in her bright blue eyes as the mare looked around. It was a spark I had seen in only one other pony, a pony who is the Grand Master of Parties. “Starswirl!” she yelled to a gray unicorn by the thrones. “Put the blue balloons by Luna, the red ones go by Mira! Amber!” she turned to a pony with a gem-like orange coat. “Take Rini and get a few more streamers. Go through the kitchens, turn west, and it will be third on the right.” I watched as the one she called Amber nodded to one of the insect-like ponies and they ran off. Looking up, I saw that medley of a creature above, undoing the ropes on a banner reading “Happy Birthday Luna”. “DISSI!!” the mare yelled in half-hearted annoyance, or maybe exasperation, as the banner fell onto her. “Can you stop for one night and be helpful?” but the creature just cackled with glee. I was surprised as I began to talk. “Azura, if you can manage to get him to do that, I would eat every single one of the most sugar filled cakes you can create!” We all laughed at it, a joke I did not truly understand. I realized how warm I felt, I felt at home, like I did when with Pinkie and Twilight and the others. The medley creature came down and wrapped comfortably around me in a hug, still giggling at his mischief. I did not notice before, but my body felt bigger than usual, not nearly at Celestia’s height, but bigger than most ponies. The pink mare nearly matched my height. These ponies, they seemed so familiar, like I knew them, but I could not place them. It was like meeting an old friend you had not seen since fillyhood, you knew them, but you could not place a specific name or event to them. A more familiar looking Alicorn floated down from the ceiling. Her coat, an almost white pink, complimented her multicolored ethereal mane in ways I could not describe. I could not believe who I saw. “Feria, you eat all of her cakes anyway!” the mare I reconized laughed. “Dissi listens to you. Can you get him to stop his shenanigans!” she giggled. Her violet eyes met mine, and I wanted to say something, but my mouth would not let me. It was as if everything was a play in motion, you could not stop it now. I giggled again. “I think Luna will like tomorrow’s party.” “I know!” Azura bounced, not noticing my obvious change of subject. “She said she didn’t want a party, but who wouldn’t want a party on their birthday? I mean, duh? Birthdays are something to celebrate! And tomorrow is the day we show them the super special surprise project of-” “Azura!” I cut her off. “Do not give them too much about that until the morning! Dissi,” I said, looking at that creature, “if you attempt to find it out again, you will spend the next month in a frilly pink skirt!” It seems like a threat I made all the time, but I never used it in reality. I should file that away for future use. He just smirked at me, snapping his claw and making the skirt I had envisioned appear around his waist as if he did not have a care in the world. We all stood there together, laughing. These ponies are familiar, yet I never met them. They knew me. I wanted this to last forever, but that cold fear came back to me. It all began to fade again. Then everything shattered, like breaking glass. * * * I woke up on the floor, three concerned fillies around me. I remembered where I was, the throne room of a now ruined castle. We were hiding from a monster. My breath was stabilizing, but still a bit shallow. I tried standing back up, a bit shakily, but able. I nearly fell again, but I remembered these fillies are here. As much as I would like to hide away somewhere, I need to be strong, if only for them. “I am sorry.” I said to them, my voice hurting a bit. “Was I out long?” “No, only a few minutes,” Sweetie Belle replied. “What in tarnation was that?” Applebloom asked. “I am not completely sure, myself,” I replied. “I noticed that some places have a strange effect on me. Best way I can explain it, is that it lets me see somepony else’s memory.” “That’s so cool!” Scootaloo exclaimed. The other two gave her a glare and she corrected herself. “I mean, if you didn’t pass out all the time. Is that your special talent?” “I do not have much experience with it,” I said thoughtfully. “The only time it happened had been during Nightmare Moon’s return. It had been a slight déjà vu, overlapping images, or just simply knowing where thing should be. Maybe it is the place? Anyway, that is not my special talent. My talent is, how did I put it? Sensing the magical energy between ponies.” “What is that supposed to mean?” Scootaloo asked, confusion easily sown on her face. “In the most basic terms, each living thing has a magical energy, called a soul. I am very connected to souls, somehow, and can sense them in such a way that I can use it. It works best when it is two or more souls that are connected, and sharing their energy. I guess that energy usually occurs most commonly between friends, so the famous ‘Fire of Friendship’ makes an appropriate cutie mark shape.” I glanced back at my own flank, beautiful pinks standing out against the black of my coat. “Must be nice,” Applebloom said, glancing toward her own flank. “havin’ a Cutie Mark an’ all.” “Meh,” I replied. “It depends on the Cutie Mark. Some are useful in real life, but sometimes it does not help you get by in life. Do you think a talent for juggling helps in reality? Maybe the pony whose talent is music wants to make candies and confections, but her life is set. Sometimes, a cutie mark will appear without a complete understanding of the pony’s talent. I did not fully understand what I could do until Nightmare Moon came back.” I walked them toward the end of the room, avoiding their inquisitive looks. “Those two ponies who tease you, what were their names?” “You mean Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon?” Sweetie Bell replied, even just saying the names bothered her. “Yes, them. Can you tell me what their special talents are?” I waited, knowing they would not answer. “Well, ask next time they come around making fun,” I said, silently laughing at their expressions of realization. We reached the thrones at the end of the room. They were the same ones I had seen in the memory, but worn out, like the rest of the castle, yet you could still see the decorations. Each was crafted for a specific pony, for their specific likes and dislikes. I smiled at them, but I was a little sad. There were five ponies I would never meet, five members gone from my family long ago. “Who’re these thrones for” Applebloom asked, walking toward the one second from the left. I saw Sweetie Belle had moved to the one right of the middle, and Scootaloo was inspecting the far right. I giggled, noticing their placement. I headed over to Scootaloo to begin. “Each of these was made for the first Alicorns, the Royal Pony Sisters, hence, the castle’s name. Each was born with magic greater than even the most skilled of Unicorns. It probably would have taken a group the size of ponyville to do what just one of them could. They had also been the bearers of the Elements of Harmony, previous to our current group.” I gestured to the throne Scootaloo stood in front of. It was shaped like clouds and lightning. “Reminds you of Rainbow Dash, does it not?” I asked, knowing of the filly’s idolization of my friend. “This throne belonged to Tornata. She was the one who controlled the weather before the Pegasai.” “Pegasai have always controlled the weather!” the filly protested. “We are talking of a time about two thousand years ago.” I replied calmly. “It probably happened even before the Hearth’s Warming story.” I stopped to think about why these ponies were not mentioned in history lessons before returning my words to the throne. “Tornata was brave, a bit competitive and overconfident, but she always made time for her friends.” “That sounds a lot like Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo said, fluttering her small wings. “Well they were both the Element of Loyalty.” I said, moving to the next throne. This one was colorful. Rocks, gems, and crystals were arranged in ways that were somehow both random and in patterns. “Azura was the one who sat in this throne. She was bright and bubbly, one of those ponies who did everything in her own way, even if others could not understand it. She made everypony smile, created great parties, and was very well deserving of the Element of Laughter. I believe she was particularly good at focusing magic through gems and crystals to magnify their power.” “Who sat is this one?” Applebloom called, not yet moved from the other throne. I trotted over and studied it for a minute. I thought, at first, that it was like most things in the castle, overgrown. But as I really looked, I could see it was made out of mostly wood, delicately carved with trees and flowers and vines. “This was Flora’s throne,” I said, smiling. “She was always a bit stubborn, and did not care much for the more formal parts of being in charge. She had a way with plants and cooking. Some complained that she was a bit blunt with her opinions, but the Element of Honesty usually is.” I moved down the line to the far left throne. It was stone, but painted. Carved creatures decorated the backrest. It had bunnies, dogs, even a dragon. “This was Mira’s throne. She had been calm and sweet pony. She was able to diffuse almost any argument, and even get most animals to cooperate with her. The Element of Kindness was always one to welcome.” “How do you know all this stuff?” Scootaloo asked, attempting to seem not interested. “I learned a few things from Tia- Er, ‘Princess Celestia’. Some things came from those memories, I think.” “You still haven’t told us who these thrones belonged to!” Sweetie belle yelled out, a bit impatiently. I trotted over and took a momentary glance at the three in the middle. They were the most simple, but in my mind they were also the most beautiful. “I think you should be able to figure out the two on the sides,” I said as they gathered around me. One was golden, decorated as the sun, and the other was silver, created to be like the moon. “Princesses Celestia and Luna?”Applebloom guessed. I nodded as I walked to the one in the middle. It was beautiful. It seemed to be only stone, but upon closer inspection I could see gold, silver and bronze embedded into it. Wings extended from the top, and in between them was a stone flame. I felt like it was calling to me. These three in the middle radiated warmth and magic, but this one was so familiar. I wanted to go up and sit on it, see the room from her point of view. “This one,” I began, “This is the one Celestia named me after. She said that the previous Feria and I were very alike. I saw her once, in a statue elsewhere in the castle. We look very alike too. Of course, she was also the Element of Love.” “Ya know,” Applebloom began, “ ‘Ah always thought Princess Cadence was the Princess of Love or somethin’ like that.” “She technically is, but she only works with romantic love. The Element is a bit more about all types of love, really.” I wandered toward the wall behind the thrones; a painted door was almost completely hidden by growth. I cleared away some of it, could not see a way to open the door, so I left it for now. “So if each princess was an Element, which were Princesses Celestia and Luna?” Scootaloo asked. “Generosity and Magic are left, right?” Sweetie Belle questioned. “Luna was Magic and Tia was Generosity.” I answered “Almost everypony forgot it, but Luna had always been better at magic than Tia was, although, as she was locked in the moon for one thousand years, that bit of forgetfulness is forgivable. Actually,” I stopped walking, “Luna’s return might be quite helpful. There are probably spells she remembers that had been lost.” As I said that, I realized I had stopped in front of an odd section of the wall. Upon closer inspection, I realized it was a door. It had no handle or any sort, so I assumed it would only open with a specific spell. Realizing the time, I decided now was not a time to try out multiple spells. “I think we should be going now.” I said to the three fillies, who immediately protested. “Be calm, it is very late, and you three should not be here in the first place.” I herded them back toward the main entrance, but the looks on their faces made me feel so sad. I guess I can understand their curiosity. I remember pestering Tia about her sisters when I first learned of them. If it was not for the sadness it caused her, I probably would not have relented so easily. “Maybe, another day, you can come back.” I said, watching their faces light up. “Not too soon, I would like to investigate here, make sure no dangers lurk around these corners, but I was planning on showing a few ponies this place, and I think you three deserve to be with that group.” They went on for a while after we left, enjoying the idea of exploring this area, thinking if they can get Cutie Marks for it. I was not lying about what I said, I really do think they deserve to know this, but tonight is too soon for them. I decided to take them home and come back another night. “Girls?GIRLS!” I heard a familiar voice yelling after a few minutes of walking. “Fluttershy?” I called up toward the voice. The yellow Pegasus landed in front of us panicking. “Girls! Thank goodness! We have to leave now! There’s a cockatrice on the loose!” Fluttershy exclaimed. “Oh yeah,” Applebloom said. “That’s why we were out here! That chicken!” “Applebloom, listen to Fluttershy and leave now.” I said. “I told you how dangerous and deceptive that creature is.” “Feria?”Fluttershy asked. “Why are you out here?” “It is a long story.” I replied. “She found us out here and showed us this beautiful castle hidden that way!” Sweetie Belle exclaimed. “She said we might come back again sometime!” I sighed as Fluttershy gave me as much of an annoyed look as she could. It said ‘you brought them somewhere like that? Why not take them home?’ “I ran into the cockatrice, tried to get away, and tripped over these three” I explained, gesturing to the fillies. “The castle was the closest form of safety.” Her expression relaxed, realizing that was more responsible than it sounded. “I will explain later, but right now, you need to take them home.” “Aren’t you coming?” they all asked in unison. “Not yet, I still need to do what I came here for. But I will be okay. Fluttershy, you can handle any monster that is in this forest, so I trust you to lead them safely. Do not worry, I will be fine.” With that, I walked off, heading back to the castle. I felt bad for leaving them, but I needed to be at that castle. I could not explain why, but I had to be there. I was lucky again, not running into monsters, but I felt scared now. I was alone, and my memory issues were escalating. What would I do if that memory blackout hits me while I am being attacked by a monster? I told them I would be fine, but I am not completely sure anymore. * * * I walked back through the throne room, ignoring everything and heading straight for the door at the back. Looking closer, I saw now-faded pictures painted into the wood. They might have once told a story. They showed the seven Alicorn sisters, ponies from all races I knew, and a few I did not. I felt the magical wards still protecting it. I ran my hoof along the door’s’ edge, hoping to find out how to open it. As I reached the bottom, I heard a click. The physical lock was undone, but the magic was still there. I closed my eyes and tried to remember the feeling of the memory blackout. I felt something similar, but kinder. I guess because I invited it in instead of trying to push it away. My horn sparked, letting out a spell I did not recognize. The door opened, and the air once sealed away rushed out. I stared down into the darkness, scared yet invited. Spiral stairs led downward. I lit the tip of my horn and walked on in. The air was not as cold as I expected. In the fear was also mystery. I did not know what I would find here. I did not have to go down far, but in this loneliness it felt further. When I reached the bottom, I felt a similar feeling. I believe it was old resonations of magical energy. Without thinking, I connected to it and cast a spell. Everything was soon bright, but soft and not painful, as if ponies had lit lanterns at intervals throughout the room. As I took in what all was here, I realized that is almost what had happened. The spell I cast had been absorbed and magnified into crystals and gems around the room, giving the room a soft glow. It almost seemed like the colorful patterns were changing my coat, making it look like another crystal. The room itself was large, almost the size of the throne room, and had doors on each wall. On the side opposite me was a passageway, probably leading to more rooms like this. This place was dusty, but untouched. The magical wards once protecting these rooms were either worn out, or not set again as the things they protected are now in Canterlot. But one room looked like it had been used. The dust leading to it was not as thick as the others. It would be a good place to start. I entered, not knowing what to expect, but I never thought I would find what I did. A large blue crystal rose out of the floor. This one was not lit like the others, yet it was pulsing with magic. Nothing else was in this room except for a few empty bookshelves. I do not think I would have noticed if there were things on them. I approached the crystal, entranced by its beauty. I almost thought it was getting brighter. Its magical pulse spiked, and I found myself looking into bright blue eyes. I stifled a scream as I jumped backwards, nearly tripping over my own hooves. It looked like a thought projection, but it was coming from the crystal? Coming back to rational thought, I realized this was the mare from my memory blackout. Azura, I believe. Her pink coat and multicolored mane, I realized, remind me of Cadence, they even have a similar Cutie Mark. She looked a bit crystalized, as if she was just another part of the giant crystal. She began to speak. “Is this working?” she asked, her voice clear and bubbly. “Well, obviously it is working as somepony is watching this. Silly me! Anyway, this is my newest attempt at keeping a record of my life for others. No secrets will be put here unless they are to be announced the next day and will be completely irrelevant, so Dissi if you are the one listening, this won’t be much fun. First, I would like to explain how this is working. I have been able to figure out how to absorb and magnify magic using crystals. It is a bit more difficult than it looks, as you have to cast, for example, a light spell specifically crafted to be used with the crystal. Right now I am using a thought projection spell on this crystal. Hopefully this will keep a record of what I say. This is not even my best use of this spell yet, and I have even bigger plans! Her form flickered for a few moments. I had to pause myself for a second to comprehend what this pony was saying. Magic with crystals and gems? I had read theories on it, but never had it ever been implemented in a way like this! Yet she had this years ago! “Two days from now is my sister Luna’s birthday. Feria and I have planned on our best project yet! It involves a really big crystal and Feria’s type of magic, or more specifically, her element! I cannot say too much now, but it is something great!” Her form flickered again. I assume this means the date changed. Before I could wonder what this surprise could be, she began to speak. “Today is Luna’s birthday,” she said her voice no longer vibrant. “I wish today never happened. We had set up for a party, we planned to laugh and dance and eat, just celebrate today, before we would reveal our project. That was the plan, yet, things happen. Feria is dead. It happened sometime in the night .We found her in the throne room, in front of her throne. I cannot get the image out of my mind. A pool of blood surrounding her, blending with her mane, her neck open like that” She shook her head, trying to focus. “We already have known about death, we figured we all would die sometime, but none of us thought of this. Honestly, I thought we would be prepared. Each of us seven Alicorns held a power, called the Elements of Harmony. After we understood ‘death’ I decided to figure out how to ensure that the Elements would not disappear over time. I fused the Elements’ power into seven necklaces for us each to wear, but it was not enough. Feria’s Element, the Element of Love is shattered. Its power is gone. I have not even mentioned how the others are. Luna locked herself in her room after the discovery, Tornata is yelling about how unfair this day was, but she is too busy comforting Laruta to do much about it. And Dissi, oh poor Dissi. He and Feria were extremely close. Even I did not know how deep their relationship was. His reaction to her death scares me. When I last saw, he was in a fit of rage and mindlessly changing random inanimate objects into other things. In between those stages he is yelling, and probably crying, although he tries not to let us see. I think he might be descending into madness. There has been one subject I have been avoiding. I-I cannot-” she had been holding in tears this whole time, probably since before she started the crystal’s magic, and she let it all out. “Feria did not just die, she was killed! We never could have imagined another pony could do something like this. We will find out who did this!” With that, she flickered again and left me with the image of her tears. Murdered? I had known most of the first Alicorns were dead, but, murdered? I sat down, my breathing heavy and my heart quickening. I felt so cold. Why would Tia not tell me about this? I had to know. Before I could build up the courage to leave, the crystal glowed again. The same mare appeared, but she had aged. She looked much older than previously, about the same age as my friends’ parents. “I have not done this for a long time. Nearly four hundred years since the previous entry. I wish that were not true. My sisters, well most of us, discovered our immortality. When Feria was killed, I would always console myself with the fact that I would eventually die and join her, or at least not feel the pain anymore. We do not yet know what happens after death. I hope it is something wonderful, like a nonstop party where you never get tired or sick! I guess some ponies would prefer a quiet library, though. Luna thinks it is like the dream realm she walks at night. Years after Feria’s death, we noticed our friends growing older while we remained the same. I thought we would never die. I found comfort in the fact that we would always be together, but even that did not last. We could give up our immortality, if we truly wanted to. At first, we were scared. Things had changed so much in the shockwaves of Feria’s death. Friends abandoned us, or became enemies. They are still able to be used, but not like they once were. We thought if any more of us died, the world would fall further. Like cowards, we hid in our castle attempting to not be connected to our world. We grew restless and lonely, soon returning to those we knew. We lost Tornata first. ‘Lost’ is not the right word. She fell in love with a Pegasus named Hurricane. They wanted to spend their lives together, but she was immortal. The idea of living without him was too much for her, and she gave up her immortality. Flora followed soon after by falling for an Earth Pony Puddinghead, and Mira had a Unicorn called Jade Myst. Nothing has gotten worse than it has. Maybe because the rest of us left on our own terms. After losing the seventh Element of Harmony, we have tried many times to bring its power back. I know we cannot have Feria back, but we felt the world would be lost without her power. It never worked. After Tornata gave up her immortality, I persuaded my sisters to protect the remaining powers. I was able to put them into a crystal that will hopefully regulate the magic as long as they remain in the crystal. The Elements can be found and used again, if we need concentrated magic. I hope we will not need that. I am running out of time here, so I should begin to wrap this up now. If you have seen my previous entries, you can tell I’ve aged. My Stone Symphony, my love, is the reason for that. I gave up immortality. Before that Unicorn, I never knew why I would give it up. I had seen many friends come and go, but he is special. I feel free. I will be able to see my friends again, Starswirl and Amber. My Feria. So far, no other ponies have been immortal. Not even my sisters’ children, although only two were Alicorns like us. My own daughter, Sapphire is one too, but she is too young for me to know if she will live forever. I do not expect her to. She began to cry again, but not sobbing like last time. “This will probably be my last entry. I would like to apologize to all those I left behind, and all those I will never get to meet. I wish that if there is a place after life, you will be my friends there. I apologize to Feria. I never was able to find out who killed you, and they are most likely dead by now. Maybe I will learn if I see you again? Most of all, Celestia and Luna, I love you both. I am sorry for leaving you alone. You have each other now, but I hope that whether you are together or apart, be happy. Smile and laugh! But do not completely hide what you feel before it is too late to go back. Goodbye, my friends. Goodbye, my sisters. Goodbye, my family.” The crystal dimmed, and her form dissolved away. I found myself crying. Luna’s birthday. Was that not the party they were setting up for in my memory blackout? Nothing seemed wrong in that. How did this happen? What happened to those she left behind? I needed to know. I ran. I ran away from that room, out of the castle, and into the EverfreeForest. I was scared. I was confused. I kept on crying. I do not know when, but I began to fly to Canterlot. Celestia would give me the answers I needed, even if they would not be answers I wanted. I arrived just after sunrise, meaning Celestia and Luna could be anywhere in the castle. I looked down as the Lunar and Solar Guards changed shifts, silver and gold armors mixed together. Some ponies only had half their armor on, and the illusion spells that made them look identical were not activated yet, or were deactivating in the case of the Lunar Guard. I looked for somepony who might know where my sisters were. I stumbled as I landed, hitting the ground much harder than I meant to. In front of me were the Guard Captains exchanging reports of what had happened during the night. The Lunar Captain took notice to me first. “Princess Feria!” She exclaimed, standing up in an immediate salute. The Solar Captain followed her lead. I knew these two fairly well, but they insisted on formalities. Looking between the Pegasus mare and the Unicorn stallion, I tried to recompose myself. My heartbeat was still going quite fast. “Please,” I stammered, “You do not have to be like that.” I smiled at them reassuringly. “Hello Gale Strike, hello Shining Armor. I… do either of you know where my sisters are?” “I believe they decided to have an early morning tea in the astronomy tower,” Gale answered. “Are you alright, Princess?” Shining asked me, noticing the tear stains left in my coat. “I am fine.” I said, knowing full well that I am not. “I just really need to see my sisters now.” I went to leave, but turned back for a moment. “By the way, Shining, you really do not have to call me ‘Princess’. Especially because, the way I hear it, you are joining the family soon!” As he slightly blushed at my last comment, I trotted away. I could hear Gale congratulating him on my way out. Nodding to some ponies around the castle, I made my way up to the tower. I kept up the façade of all being normal for a while, but I could not hold it long. By the time I got up to the astronomy tower, I was trembling at Fluttershy levels. I knocked on the door before walking in. It was a peaceful sight, seeing the Sun and Moon Princesses together again. Celestia was the same as usual, white coat and multi-colored mane. Odd, it was only pink in the memory. Luna was looking quite different than when I last saw her. She had grown taller, and her coat and mane had become a darker shade of blue. She did not have the ethereal mane Celestia was known for, but given a bit more time I think it might turn. “Feria!”Celestia exclaimed, I wondered if it was from surprise at seeing me, or surprise at seeing me like this. Luna quietly turned away. She was still slightly awkward around me. Considering I looked like someone she knew to be dead, it does not come as a surprise. “I- I am sorry to interrupt” I said shakily, almost breaking down right there. “I- I just…!” “Come with me,” Celestia said, walking me into the next room. She looked over her shoulder “I will be back in a minute, Luna” She closed the door and I broke down in tears. She pulled me close and let me cry it out. “I-I went back to your old castle in Everfree” I told her when they finally stopped. She looked at me in confusion, trying to find the words to say. I saw her question in her eyes before she spoke. It was one question that I was unsure of. “I do not know why I went there,” I replied. “It felt, almost as if it called to me. When I first got there, I… I blacked out. I saw a dream. Actually, I think a memory? One that… well… It was not mine! It could not have been mine! I left for a bit, but I came back to the castle, and I found the door behind the thrones. There was a large crystal and-” “You activated the crystal, didn’t you?” Celestia asked me. I felt her body tense up in slight fear. “It played Azura’s messages for you, just as it did for me. Tell me more about the memory.” I swallowed, trying to take in how calm she was being compared to me. “I saw it as if I were there, like I was looking through my own eyes. You were there, so was that pony, Azura. She was talking about… about a party for Luna. She said something about a secret project to be revealed the next day. There were other ponies too; some were races I did not recognize. And a creature that was, how do I say it? He was a combination of other animals. We were all talking and laughing together. What is happening?” “I am not sure what to think,” Celestia said contemplating my story. “If what you saw was, indeed, a memory, I believe it might have been from the previous Feria. It was the night… The night she died.” “The night she was killed,” I interrupted. “You can say it, I know. That mare in the crystal already told me. Why… You only ever said that she died. You never told me how.” She looked at me surprised. “I’m sorry for that. I should have, but I kept putting it off when you asked. I felt you were too young at the time, but then you left to live on your own, and it never came up. But you are right. She was killed. As you know from the crystal message, we never discovered who had done it. Why did you not ask me instead of going to the castle?” “I remembered that look you would get whenever I asked you about your past. It was so sad and full of regret. I did not want to see you like that.” She smiled at me, shaking her head. “You would rather go blindly into trouble than see me mildly upset,” She replied. “I would like to look into memory magic later. I wonder how you were able to see that after all of these years. Many ponies have walked through that castle, but none have reported anything. Although, maybe the reactivation to her Element is causing old magic to pop up.” I nodded in agreement, but I had other theories in mind. My ponies are not connected by sharing an Element of Harmony. If that were true, Twilight Sparkle would have more of a connection to Luna. I think my soul is connected more than the Element. Everything got darker. The sun just rose, did it not? Why is it so dark? I tried to focus on Celestia, but even she was being faded out. Does it not bother her that the light is disappearing? She does not notice. How can she not notice? Then I felt it. That cold fear had come back. Why now? I was nowhere near the Everfree Castle. The feeling got heavier as my vision blurred. “It-it is coming back!” I exclaimed hoping to take myself back to reality. “Tia, help me!” With that, she disappeared completely, leaving me with an image of her terrified face reaching out to me. * * * Everything was dark. I was crying again. I was back in a memory. I hated this darkness! It was more terrifying than anything I had encountered. I light up my horn in an attempt to give myself comfort, or did the pony whose memory I was in light their horn? Either way, there was nothing to see. I was outside, but it was neither day nor night. There was no moon in the sky, just darkness. Looking down, I could tell I was just a filly now, around the same age as the Cutie Mark Crusaders. To my right was a bit of water, but I could not tell if it was a river or a lake. Perhaps it was just a puddle. I could tell time was going faster. I do not know how I knew, as there were no days to count by, but I knew each day was about a minute to me. Every few minutes, a new filly would appear. First was a Pegasus, then a Unicorn who lit his horn with mine in an attempt to give us light. Third was an Earth Pony. The next two were races from the other memory, a pony like a bug and a pony like a gem. On the next week a Zebra appeared with us. One day, just before what I assumed was morning, a bright light appeared before us. It was unlike anything we had ever seen, so kind and warm. When it subsided, there was another filly, an Alicorn with a white coat, a pink mane, and familiar violet eyes. Then the unexpected happened. The filly ignited her magic, attempting to join in with the Unicorn and I. Instead of making a light, she made the day. The sun rose into the sky, which became a lovely light blue. We could finally see the world we were in. Green grass was below our hooves, and a lake shimmered by us. It was dark again, the pattern repeating as it had before. The sun always rose in the morning, but was replaced by that first darkness. First a Pegasus appeared, then a Unicorn, an Earth Pony, the bug pony, the gem pony and a Zebra, then the bright light. The next light revealed a blue coated Alicorn. She looked at us, and something I had only seen Pegasai do; she flew up and grabbed a cloud out of nothing, making it rain down on us and refill the lake. She laughed at our soaked figures, but we knew it meant no harm. The following weeks were the same. Pegasus, Unicorn, Earth pony, Bug pony, Gem pony, Zebra, light. Thrice did the light come, each bringing an Alicorn. The next was a pink one with multicolored hair. Then a brown one who made trees and plants grow around us, becoming a forest with us and the lake in the large clearing. Finally a plum colored mare that brought into existence many animals, from the small bunnies to large dragons. The pattern changed after the plum Alicorn. After the Zebra, no bright light appeared to give forth a new Alicorn. The sun still rose, but gave way to darkness. The weeks repeated as usual, Pegasus, Unicorn, Earth pony, Bug pony, Gem pony, Zebra. We were a bit confused, wondering if fillies would keep appearing. The pattern stopped. The bright light came again, creating another Alicorn. Yet this was a different Alicorn. She was like the bug ponies, but the wings and horn stood out too much to call her anything else. The other bug ponies seemed to flock to her almost immediately. The Bright light reappeared the next week. None of us knew what to make of this creature. It was a much younger version of the medley of a creature from the memory at Everfree. We avoided him at first, but I walked up to him, actually, the pony whose memory this is walked up to him and held out a hoof in friendship. He accepted it. We waited another week, hoping for something. We loved when the sun came up, because it banished the complete darkness. The day was hot, and we could not look at the sky properly, but we relished in every minute of it. We wondered if the sun would overpower the darkness one day, yet we hoped it did not, as it would be difficult to sleep with its brightness. When the sun began to set, the bright light appeared once more. A dark blue Alicorn filly came from it. She was not a different type of Alicorn, like the Bug Alicorn, but a normal one like the previous. She watched the setting sun, and lit her horn. We expected the darkness to come back again. This filly banished the darkness for good. Yes, it became darker, but it was also filled with soft light. The moon and stars came out to keep us safe. As much as we loved the day, we cheered for the night that this filly created. For the first time since this memory began, the fillies could dream. Another week passed, but when its end came, no new fillies came with it. I counted up the days, and realized a year had passed. It was minutes to me, but they had lived like this for a year. They spent a year in either horrid darkness or complete daylight. Some spent time together in complete darkness, no sun to find comfort in, just each other. * * * I awoke in a bed in my old room at Canterlot Castle; everything in there was as I left it. Celestia was standing by me, asking me something as she realized I was awake. My mind was still very disoriented, but I understood what she said. She brought me here when I blacked out, and waited to see if I was alright. “How long was I out? Did I do anything strange?” I asked. My throat hurt, as if I had been yelling for hours, and from the pain in my shoulder I could assume I thrashed around a bit. Celestia sighed, trying to think of what to say. “You yelled a lot in your unconscious state. To others, it was just a list of names. To those who knew those ponies, it is a whole different meaning. I caught on after you said the second name. You were yelling out the names of ponies, some names still common around the world, but most were ones that very few of us still remember. It was the names of those of us who were first created” “Created how?! You are not making sense Tia!” I said as loud as I dared. “You mentioned that you were ‘created’ instead of ‘born’ before this, but what does that mean? Please, tell me, Tia!” “First, tell me of your dream. While it is fresh in your mind.” She replied. There was an emotion in her voice I could not place. Was it fear? Maybe it was a glimmer of hope. It told me that I could not argue this with her. I sighed in defeat. “There was a darkness. Horrid and terrifying,” I began. I told her all that I saw, and every single feeling that went through me.She let me speak without interruption, and gave support in the form of a kind embrace. I leaned into her for comfort. As much as I was afraid of what was going on with my mind, she had lived through the things I saw. As real as it felt for me, it was truly real for her. After a while, I wondered who was comforting who. “What you saw was truth.” Celestia said, pulling away after hearing my story. “I do not know how you are doing it, but that was the creation of us. The creation of the first ponies in Equestria is something very few remember. I assumed as much, from the names you yelled. Morning Aura. That was the first name you yelled. She was the first Pegasus.” She walked toward the window, giving me a moment to wonder. “You were most likely watching through the eyes of the previous Feria. Why that memory was triggered here, a place the previous Feria had never been, is my question.” “Can you… Can you please stop referring to her as ‘the previous Feria’?” I asked her. Not waiting for a response I continued. “You told me about her heart resonating with others, and her ability to remind ponies of forgotten love. I-I think there was more to it than you realized at the time. I mean, a lot of information has been uncovered about the world since then, and I think that it was- Well I was reading some research and- It was-” I sighed. “I have the same abilities. It took me a long time to understand it, but that is all I can come up with. But, I think her talent was not really ‘love’ as much as it is the Magic of Souls. She could see, feel and manipulate the magical energy created by living things, and so can I. “ “You always say how I look and act just like she did,” I continued. “My abilities, my personality and appearance, my memories, the only thing that makes us different is when we were alive. I… I just cannot think of us as just two ponies that are just coincidently similar. I feel like she and I somehow are the same pony.” I had never seen her look so shocked. Then again, what is there to say about that? It was ridiculous to think of it as true, but it is the only solution I could come up with. I could not predict what her response to this would be. Would she be angry? Or would she believe me out of hope for bringing back the dead?Celestia walked toward the balcony, weighing her options. “I can’t rule that out,” she finally said. “It seems illogical, but Alicorns never followed the rules very well.” She sighed, turning and walking back to me. “I wish I could give you an answer. For all the research being done, most of what we have on souls have been lost, forgotten, or are still theories that never got a chance to be tested out. Whether a soul can be reborn or not remains to be seen. I will try looking into it more, when I can. Maybe I can get a few of the Gifted Unicorns on a research team?” She began pacing, thinking of which ponies she should put on the team. I could not believe this. She was making this a priority. She was hoofpicking ponies to help me. I appreciated the effort, but does she not have other things to do? Even though she is my sister, she is still Princess. She began talking to me again before I could ask her. “As for the memories,” She said, “I know of a pony who might be able to help you, but it will take some convincing. I suggest you go back to Ponyville for the time being.” I tried to protest to that, but she cut me off. “Feria, I know you want to explore and figure this out, but please, stay in Ponyville, and stay out of danger. Even if you could remember everything from… back then, things in that castle have changed. It was reconstructed many times, places added on or changed, multiple traps had been set up in the few hundred years leading up to moving to Canterlot. A completely new throne room was created for Luna and I, just to name a change. Besides, the Everfree Forest is a dangerous place. Magics were left there that make it act unnaturally. I know you can handle yourself well, but what would you do if you blacked out in Everfree, surrounded by monsters?” I stayed quiet for a minute. She was right; as soon as I calmed down I would have walked right back into the Everfree Forest without much thought to it. I thought I was lucky before, but to not have had that already happen in the forest was almost a miracle, considering the place. “Alright,” I agreed. “I will stay in Ponyville for now, as long as you answer two questions. First, why are you making this a priority to you? I know you are my sister, and you love me, but there have to be more important things. You did that when I was younger too, always putting me first no matter the problem. I am not saying I do not appreciate it, but why?” The question surprised her a bit, but she quickly found the answer. “There were many factors to the creation of Nightmare Moon, one being my ignorance. In the months leading up to it, I had noticed her unhappiness, but I felt that . Really, the limelight got to me, as it would to most ponies. I want to make sure Nightmare Moon, or anything similar, ever happens again.” The sad look on her made me feel guilty for asking. Why did I not think of that? I guess I have only known her as the Celestia of now, the one who does pay attention, so I never thought somepony so generous could be so selfish. Well, if my theories are right, I did know Celestia before Nightmare Moon, but none of them are in an accessible part of my mind. “Next question,” I sighed. “If what I see is from Equestria’s beginning, why is none of it in the history books?”Celestia’s expression darkened at the idea, reminding me just how much of history she has seen. “Ponies do not like remembering the darker parts of the past. They rewrite history to put to rest their regrets. The world we know is two thousand years old, the stories get rewritten, and those who remember the truth die. Or, they give up on trying to correct it. Even a princess and not fully control the people when they want something.” We made our way down to the main courtyard. I wanted to ask more questions, but I think I’ve learned enough for today. She insisted that a guard escorted me back. I told her she was worrying too much, but I went along with it anyway. At least she let me pick which guard to take. I chose a Pegasus guard, as I felt like flying back. He seemed awkward around me, like most ponies are when alone with a pony they do not know, and even more so when that pony is a princess. I picked him because his aura seemed fun, somewhere between Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. I needed some lighthearted conversation. “So,” I began mid flight. “What is your name?” it seemed to startle him. Why would somepony so high up need to know the name of a single simple guard? It was a question ponies asked themselves whenever I tried to be friendly. “Iridescent Blade,” he replied after the original shock wore off. “Nice name.” I commented. “I know the uniforms make you all look the similar, so what do you really look like?” “I don’t think that’s relevant to the mission, Princess,” He said. “It is alright,” I giggled. “You do not have to be all protocol and rules around me. Please refer to me as just ‘Feria’, and be free to speak your mind. Truthfully, I would welcome conversation.” “If you insist.” He said in defeat. He unhooked a piece of the armor, breaking the spell on it. I watched as his white coat became mahogany brown, his mane and tail changed from blue to white, and his eyes were a beautiful amber color. Something was off though. “Your mane seems to be changing colors!” I exclaimed. I spiraled around him to get a better look. “Over here it looks blue, but from over here it is orange! Now it is pink!” He grumbled and readjusted his armor, activating the spell. This time, I sighed in defeat. Ponyville was underneath us now, and I would say goodbye anyway. Before we could begin our decent, a blur of colors zoomed up, almost knocking Iridescent off course. “Where have you been!” the colors I now recognize as Rainbow Dash exclaimed. “Fluttershy’s had us looking all over for you!” “What are you thinking?” Iridescent exclaimed once he regained his composure. “You nearly gave me a freaking heart attack!” They began to argue, and I could not help but laugh at them. It was just so normal compared to everything else. No spastic memories or lost magics, no secrets or hidden truths, just two ponies having an argument over recklessness. “Thank you for the escort, Iridescent,” I said breaking up the fight. “We are back in Ponyville after all. Please tell Celestia that I am safe.” I knew he would report back to her anyway, but it felt right to say it. “I will, Feria.” He replied with a smile. It surprised me, but I quickly smiled back at him. I slowly spiraled down with Rainbow Dash as I watched Iridescent fly back the way we came. By the time we landed at the Golden Oaks Library, he was just a dot in the distance. “Oh my goodness! You’re okay!” Fluttershy exclaimed when I entered the building. She ran up to hug me. Everypony had gathered here already, each calming from their own ways of worriny. “What happened?” Twilight asked. “Fluttershy said you ran off in the Everfree Forest, but we couldn’t find you/” I sighed. “I am sorry. I was… working through quite a few things. I was at the old castle for a while. I meant to come home earlier, but I…. I found some things there I did not expect.” “Oh dear, you didn’t get attacked, did you?” Rarity asked. “No it was…” I stopped for a minute. How could I explain this to them? I cannot lie to my friends, but I do not think I am ready for them to know the full truth. “I have been having… visions of the past. I cannot fully explain it, but I need to figure them out.” I began pacing around the room. “After my investigation at the Everfree Castle, I had headed up to Canterlot. Tia was helpful and I spent most of today there with her. She is trying to help.” I can leave out the part about actually having the visions, right? I could not read their reactions. I guess they were just trying to accept it all. I probably seemed crazy to them. Tia believed me because she was there during the memories I saw. She knew more about the magics of the world than these young ponies. I would not have minded if they did not believe me. It might even keep them safe. “Hey! Cheer up!” Pinkie Pie squeaked. “Investigating this sounds fun! I can’t wait to get started! Oh! What do I bring? I know where I can get a magnifying glass! And we’ll need food for when we go out to places without restaurants! What kind of cupcakes go well with mystery? I was thinking chocolate strawberry ones with mint filling and a little fondant puzzle pieces on top! ” “Y-you want to help?” I asked, quite shocked. “Of course we would!” Applejack replied. “Y’all need help with this.” I smiled at the rest said their pieces of agreement. I truly could not believe it. That warm tingle started up again. They did not just believe me, they believe in me. Each eventually wandered home, thinking of how they can help. As I walked back to my own home, I took a moment to enjoy the sun’s warmth. I had seen the first sunrise. I had seen the hope each new dawn brings to a pony. I knew that this is something I would not have to do alone.
At the GalaI walked upwards on the spiraling staircase, shutting out the sounds of a party below. I did not usually attend the Grand Galloping Gala, but Celestia insisted I come this year. She had found a ‘memory expert’. I do not know who this pony was or how they could help, but I would take the chance to know what I can about my memories. I stumbled on the hem of my dress. Rarity had originally wanted to design it for me, but I had turned her down at first thinking that I would not be going to the Gala. But when Tia sent me a letter about the memory expert, I relented and let her do her work. The dress was a very dark, nearly black, blue green, with lighter blue green swirls. I could see why Rarity wanted to work with me in particular, as the nearly black fabric showed off the true black that was my coat, a coat that everypony else would have to use dyes to get. The contrast of the blue and green made the red-orange of my mane pop even more than usual. I will be thankful to Rarity that she made my dress a bit simpler than the others. I would have tumbled down in a dress like Fluttershy’s, but this only hinders me on stairs. I wondered why Tia told me to meet the memory expert up in the royal chambers wing. Probably for isolation, I do not think I would want random partygoers showing up mid-spell. Ponies tend to wander after a few drinks, but they cannot get up to the royal chambers. “Third door on the left,” I reminded myself of Tia’s directions as I reached the top of the stairs. My old bedroom was across from this one, but I had never opened it. It had always been locked when I tried to go in, but I always figured it was an empty bedroom, up for grabs next time a royal was born. I was very wrong. I took in the sight as I opened the door. The carpet was one of the darkest blues I had seen. The bed was larger than a usual one, and covered in pillows and blankets of every shade of blue that seemed to make a nest of sorts. Shelves covered most walls, each filled with books that had obviously been read many times, but were quite cared for. Personal effects like a vanity and a chest for clothes were set in the middle of a room big enough to hold the first floor of the Carousel Boutique. Looking up took my breath away. There were no candles in the room to light it, but the room was bright all the same. The ceiling was a painted mural of the night sky, and each star was a tiny gem, infused with a light spell. The ceiling was no match for the true night sky, as even magic paint cannot blend the way the sky does, but it was still beautiful. Hearing a noise, I turned my head to the only wall not covered with books. The final wall was a balcony looking out over the land. A telescope and a table set were already set up out there, yet they were not what held my attention. The only thing as beautiful as the night sky itself, was its ruler, Princess Luna back to her full power. Her coat had darkened since I last saw her; she grew taller than other ponies, yet still a bit shorter than Celestia. But the most impressive thing was her mane. I had last seen it at a simple light blue. Now, it flowed outward in a nightly hue. I wondered if it would flow with magical power like Celestia’s does. “Hello,” I said, getting over the shock. “I am guessing that you are Celestia’s ‘memory expert’?” “I would not call myself that,” she replied, “but I have other skills that may help.” While Celestia’s voice was strong and bold, Luna’s seemed soft and delicate, yet commanding. Celestia’s voice would make you listen, but Luna’s makes you stop on your own. Although, her voice seemed retracted tonight, as if she did not want to talk at all. I could not get a proper feel from her magic, she felt indifferent. “If you do not want to do this tonight you do not have to,” I said, trying to shake off the awkwardness, but Luna only sighed, turning back to the table on the balcony. “I apologize if I seem distant,” She finally said. “This whole idea, the idea of you being the same Feria, it seems too much to hope for. I will admit you are very much like Feria, in both appearance and persona. It does throw me off a bit, thinking like that, and the idea of your memories... I am trying not to get my hopes up.” She was more straightforward than I thought she would be. I followed her out into the night air. The Gala’s sounds were nearly gone, but stayed as a continuous hum at the edge of the background. Neither of us wanted to begin, so we sat in silence for minutes, listening. “What are you going to do?” I asked, creating the inevitable break in the silence. “I mean, for the memories. How does this work?” “If we are correct,” Luna answered, “those memories should be locked somewhere inside your mind. We only need to get in there.” She turned to face me, and the air pressure changed, creating her spell. “What are you doing?” I asked, my heart beating faster. “Calm yourself,” she spoke “close your eyes, and take deep breaths. Listen to the sound of my voice, listen to the sounds from all around you, but listen to the sound of my voice. Let your body be at ease, relax even more now. Become steadier, easier, until the feeling just takes you over.” I wanted to continue asking her, but there was power in her words. My body stopped moving, my breath was a constant flow, and my eyes were closed. I felt something shift in the world. All of my senses were at their highest, including my magic. Opening my eyes I saw an unfamiliar throne room. All of its décor were either yellow or blue, and much more like a throne room should be. I knew that if the room was filled with ponies, the ponies on those two thrones would be removed from it all. The thrones at the back fit the pattern, being high backed and not personalized at all, other than the color. This must be the newer throne room in Everfree, the one made for only Celestia and Luna. “You teleported us to Everfree?” I asked. Unfortunately, Luna was not there with me.”No, it…. This is not the castle.” I said. I could sense something different here. There were no shifting auras of the forest around the castle, or any of the world. It felt like this room was the only thing that existed. It was an odd feeling, to feel so alone. “You entered here before I did,” Luna stated appearing, quite literally, out of nowhere. Somehow, her presence in this place made the world more real. I felt the magic around me again, but it was a created energy. Nearly everything here was the exact same magic imitating another one. All of the magic here was all part of Luna. “Where are we, exactly?” I asked. “It… it is not the castle like I thought.” “Welcome, to the dream world.” She replied, as if it was a normal thing. Ponies cannot freely enter the dream world. One would have to be asleep, and even then they would not know they were there. Although this seemed impossible, Alicorns never followed the rules when it came to magic. “How did we get here?” I asked in an attempt to take it all in. “If my spell had worked,” Luna began, “you would have fallen asleep, allowing me to enter your dream and fully immerse you in the world, allowing us to fully interact like we are now. I had planned to be in your dream.” “If it had worked?” I felt scared. Whatever she had tried had not worked properly. Failed spells can end up disastrous. I had grown up near the School for Gifted Unicorns. Not a week went by without Celestia having to fix a failed spell from a young ambitious unicorn. Effects had ranged from minor transformations to obliterating a wall to half the class teleported to Appleloosa. “You entered the dream world on your own. In all of my life, I have known only two ponies to have been able to enter the dream world on their own. One is myself, of course. As Princess of the night, I have reign over dreams, allowing myself to flow between them at wish.”’ I calmed myself at the idea that the spell did not fail, but she stopped it. It is a good thing. Yet entering the dream world still seems quite unbelievable. Yet here we are. I had entered. I do not know how. The more I thought on this, the more it scared me. I had entered her realm, a place only she should be able to go. The kind of power that had to be used for that is something I do not have, right? I honestly did not know anymore. “Who was the second pony?” I asked. I was almost too scared to say it, and Luna was afraid to answer. At first, she awkwardly fidgeted, trying to figure out the best was to say what was already hanging in the air between us. Then she finally did something she had only done once since her return. She met my eyes, holding my gaze. Those eyes had seen so much, been through so much, and told many stories. I returned the gaze, maybe for her comfort, maybe for my own. “Feria is the other pony,” Luna finally said. The weight dropped on us. The idea of the previous Feria and I being the same pony felt as more of a reality than it had been back when I climbed the staircase. I took notice that she had realized this too, as she picked the word “is” and not “was”. “If you are her,” Luna shakily continued, “it would make sense that you entered the dream world on your own. Back when… Back in the beginning, when anypony had nightmares, Feria and I would enter their dreams and help them out there. Ponies tend to not be able to sleep when others are waiting for them to sleep, so Starswirl and I worked on a hypnotic sleep spell to use when we needed to enter dreams. I would use it on the dreamer, and we would enter the Dream World together. If you are her, the memory of slipping into the dream world is stuck in your procedural memory, entering on your own when you heard the spell.” “If I do not remember that past, how can I use a memory like that?” I asked, even more confused. “There are different types of memory. Procedural memory is the actions you are used to doing, such as walking, or entering the dream world when that spell is used. There is general knowledge, like language or facts. Celestia tells me that your procedural memory was fine when you were ‘created’, and so was most of your general knowledge. The things that you had either forgotten, or facts and such that did not exist back in your previous life, were taught to you over time.” “So I am like a pony with amnesia,” I stated. I smiled at the way she was talking. She rambled on about things she found interesting. She was happy, almost excited, really. I could not put my hoof on it, but she reminded me of somepony from this lifetime. “Yes,” Luna continued. “Like most amnesia victims, the problem is episodic memory, which involves conversations, ponies you know, even books you have read, although it is usually accompanied by some kind of trauma.” “Death seems like plenty of trauma,” I whispered. She seemed shocked at first, then her expression softened. I had seen the expression before. The expression was of one who wanted to break down, but kept it together for others. I had seen it in Azura’s eyes during the crystal message telling of Feria’s… my… death. I had seen it every time I asked Celestia about her past. “I am sorry,” Luna said. “Standing here, talking with you about random things, it just felt like it did back then back, before Feria died.” She sighed in defeat. “I really was trying to not become too hopeful in the idea that she… that you came back to me. I do not know what to do if I had the dream crushed. I want this crazy idea to be true.” “Maybe we should not jump straight into this,” I suggested. “Perhaps we could get used to walking through this place.” She thought for a moment on this, thinking of where to go. “As you wish,” she replied. “I believe there are a few Ponyville citizens that are asleep, we could pop in on what they are dreaming about.” She walked with purpose to the end of the room, throwing open the doors with a push of magic. I followed and marveled in the strangeness of the next room, in part because I had seen forest through the windows on that wall only moments ago. The hallway seemed, at first, like any other castle hall. There were many windows and open doorways, fairly decorated walls and floors, the usual. But every doorway and window was a portal to a different place. On my left was a dragon cave, while a snowy mountain was on my right. “It took years to figure out how this place works,” Luna began. She was using that same tone as before, happy rambling, relishing in what she knows without being pretentious that she knows more than I do. I still could not figure out what it reminded me of. “It had no sense of organization, dreams were just scattered anywhere throughout here. When I first started on the organizational system for the dream world, the only ‘organized structure’ was our castle in Everfree. Of course, as more ponies were born I expanded the world into a much bigger place, and it became a castle of my own. Some parts look like Everfree, some look like Canterlot, some are pieces of my own design.” Still talking, she leapt through a window. I lingered for a moment, wanting to follow, but also wishing to explore on my own. I felt a flick of magic at the edge of my senses; it was the equivalent of movement in your peripheral vision. Something about it was familiar, but terrifying. More terrifying than Nightmare Moon. I shrugged it off, figuring that somepony somewhere was having a nightmare, and it was affecting the dream realm a bit. Yet I did not linger longer, and jumped a little too excitedly through the portal after Luna. There was bright light for only a moment before the dream fully took form. I was now in Cloudsdale, more specifically at the finale of the Best Young Flyers competition. Just like the Everfree castle, it felt real in the physical sense. The clouds beneath my hooves were soft, the wind blew my hair around my shoulders, I could even feel warmth coming off of the ponies next to me. Yet it was all just magic. This was not Luna’s magic, now it was the magic of the dreaming pony. “And there we have it everypony!” shouted the competition’s announcer. “She won by a landslide, making her the most super awesomest Pegasus since the legendary Rainbow Dash of the Wonderbolts! Give a cheer for Scootaloo!” I watched as an orange Pegasus mare sped into the arena. Everypony was cheering, but the loudest screams of pride were coming from the ponies around me, and one rainbow-maned Wonderbolt at the judges’ table. I felt a shuffle of wings to my left, and sense the only magic in this place not created my Scootaloo. Luna had made her way to my side. Judging by the missing seat next to Princess Celestia, she was put there when she entered the dream, “Why was I over here and not with you when I entered?” I asked over the still roaring crowd. “When we enter a pony’s dream, we blend with whoever we are most like in the dream. We were already here to the dreamer, but if we enter we overtake our doppelgangers. If our doppelgangers were not here we would most likely be random background ponies. Really, this is only done so that the dreamer does not completely freak out if two of me shows up. Speaking of dreamers, I know this is the dream of that orange Pegasus out there, I think her name is Scootaloo, do you know her?” “I do not know her very well,” I replied. “But I have met and talked to her a few times. I know she idolized my friend Rainbow Dash. You probably remember her better as the Element of Loyalty. That’s her over with the Wonderbolts. I think this dream is just Scootaloo dreaming about a perfect future. She believes that Rainbow Dash’s dream of joining the Wonderbolts will come true, and hopes to be just like her as she grows. Although Scootaloo is currently just a filly without a cutiemark who can barely get her hooves off the ground, most of us think she will do something great.” “The young ones are usually the most hopeful,” Luna mused. “Maybe one of these days you will meet her, and the rest of my friends, face to face,” I said. “For now I can at least show you what they look like in the dream world. You have already seen Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash, but there are more of my friends here. Look to my right, do these five ponies look familiar to you?” “The other Elements of Harmony,” Luna replied, almost surprised at their appearance. “The lavender Unicorn is Twilight Sparkle, the Element of Magic,” I began. “I assume Tia has told you a lot about her favorite student. The yellow Pegasus is Fluttershy, the Element of Kindness. She can be quite shy, but once she gets comfortable around you she is a really great mare. The white Unicorn is Rarity, the Element of Generosity. She can be a bit overdramatic, but her eye for detail is not to be overlooked. She is the one who designed my Gala dress.” “I was a bit disappointed it did not manifest when you entered the dream world,” Luna interrupted. “It did compliment you quite well.” “Oh, um, thank you,” I said. I was actually blushing at that compliment. “Well, to continue, the Pink pony is Pinkie Pie, the Element of Laughter. She is very hyper and strange, and the best at parties and making others smile. Never underestimate her. She may be only an Earth pony, but she seems to be able to mess with reality. The orange Earth Pony at the end of the row is Applejack, the Element of Honesty. Her family is huge, yet really close. There is probably at least one Apple in every town in Equestria, and they keep track of most of each other.” “She looks like Amber,” Luna stated. “Sorry, I know you do not remember her, but I do.” “Actually, I think I do remember her. Kind of. During one of the memory-blackout things there was a pony that Azura referred to as ‘Amber’. Her coat looked like a gem, did it not?” “You do not know of the Crystal Ponies?” she asked. “Of course you would not. They disappeared fifteen hundred years ago.” “Is that what they are called? ‘Crystal Ponies’? I have been calling them ‘gem ponies’ since I saw the memories. What were the ones that were insect-like?” “If the rest of what I planned to happen turns out successful, you will remember it for yourself. If I may ask, why are you and your friends in the VIP box of Scootaloo’s stadium? You said you were not very close to Scootaloo, and I assume with the age difference, the other bearers are not in her inner circle either.” “It is because of those two mares,” I said gesturing to the two in front of us. One was a white unicorn with a pink and purple mane; the other was a yellow earth pony with a red mane and a pink bow in her hair. “They are Scootaloo’s best friends. The three of them even formed a club together called the ‘Cutie Mark Crusaders’, and they go around town getting into all sorts of fun and trouble in attempts to earn their own cutie marks. The unicorn is Sweetie Belle, who is Rarity’s little sister, and the Earth Pony is Applejack’s little sister Applebloom.” “The VIP section is not for true ‘VIPs’,” I continued, “but Scootaloo’s closest friends and the friend’s ‘plus one. She knows that her friends would pick their respective sister as their ‘plus one’, Rainbow Dash would be here for the Wonderbolts, Fluttershy could get in easily as she is a Pegasus, and I would have gotten in from my status as princess. That left two of the group out of the stadium, but they would end up getting invited by one of us already here. Yet even in her wildest dreams, quite literally I might add, she could not imagine us even sitting apart from each other.” “You must have a really close relationship with your friends for that to happen,” Luna replied. We sat there in silence for a while, just watching the show. All of the other contestants and the Wonderbolts joined in with her, each doing complicated yet beautiful maneuvers. But you could always see Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash in the mix. We came here to the dream world to learn about the past, yet this gives hope for the future. We might have stayed there all night if that flick of magic had not returned. I felt it coming. Cold fear grabbed onto me. I had felt it in Everfree, I had felt it when facing Nightmare Moon. I did not completely understand my terror. True, the magic felt malevolent, as if it could do much worse than kill you. This magic was particularly affecting me. I knew Luna could feel it coming too from the way she tensed up, but the fear did not take hold of her like it did to me. “RUN!” she yelled, shoving me off the cloud. I plummeted, still frozen with fear. The malevolent magic was altering the dream, turning it into a nightmare. Scootaloo’s wings stopped working, the clouds darkened and began thundering; the crowd that once cheered for their hero was now laughing in mockery and scorn. Luna was circling, trying to bring me back, but I could not focus on her. I saw it. I saw the magic that threatened us. I do not know what I expected it to look like. Maybe a monstrous creature, or something of the like would have been acceptable, but all it was just a visible mass of magic. It was monochrome gray, swirling around and blocking the sky, threatening to kill us. Or maybe it would do worse. The magic reached out past the ponies laughing faces and scathing remarks. It reached for those who were real. It reached for Luna and Scootaloo. Luna attempted to dodge, but she could not keep up forever. Scootaloo was not as lucky. The dream’s magic was still working on her wings, stopping them from saving her. We might be in the dream world, but this magic was real. Could it hurt a dreamer? Luna and I were not dreamers, what would happen to us? If we die in the dream world, do we die in real life? A smoky tendril of the magic knocked Luna off course, throwing her into the same freefall Scootaloo and I were in. The magic was waiting for us below; we would fall into it soon. It is odd what one notices when fear takes over. It all seemed to slow down. The wind whipped my mane around giving it an illusion of flames. I could feel a slight tingle in my wings. I watched at the magic reached out and grabbed us. It grabbed them. “STAY AWAY FROM THEM!” I screamed, taking back control of my body. My voice seemed to have a magic of its own, physically blowing back anything in its path. My wings unfurled, and I turned to face the magic. “YOU DO NOT DARE TOUCH THEM!” I felt my own energy build. It was similar to what I felt when using the Elements of Harmony, but only at about one seventh of the amount of power. I focused it at the magic attacking us, and it let Luna and Scootaloo go. “DO! NOT! HARM! ANYPONY! EVER! AGAIN!” I screamed at the magic, releasing a burst of my own with every word. I was practically hysterical, but it was working. The magic was backing up from us, the nightmare was calming itself. Everything faded out, and I was suddenly back in the hallway looking at a blank spot on the wall. Luna was standing nearby, breathing heavily. I realized I was doing the same, my magic fading and the fear fading faster without the malevolent force to empower it. “What was that thing?” I asked her as soon as I was able to speak. “Why did we come back here? Where did it go?” “We came back because the dreamer woke up,” Luna stated, still shaking. “It is a failsafe of the dream world; if the dreamer wakes up with a dreamwalker inside, the dreamwalker is shoved out of the dream. As for the thing that attacked us,” she swallowed, shuffling guiltily, “it is the last parts of Nightmare Moon. When I returned from my imprisonment on the moon, one of my first acts after banishing Celestia to the sun was entering the dream world to use my magic to attack this place. I had thought that when I was blasted by the Elements that the magic would disappear too, but I was obviously wrong. Now I have no control over what it does.” “That magic was not you,” I stated firmly, truning to face her. “I have felt your magic, Luna. It is beautiful and comforting. Even when you were Nightmare Moon, through all of the rage and jealousy, I felt your fear; you held fear of what you were doing and what you had become. That magic in the dream was there with you, but it was not part of you. How was it you became Nightmare Moon?” She stumbled at the question, as if it hit her. “You know the story,” she replied, not meeting my eyes again. “That is the why, not the how,” I said. “I know the ‘created’ alicorns change size with magic. Tia told me the first time I asked about her mane’s ability to be pure magic. Where did you get the extra magic?’ “I-I pulled in all of my power, all of the power of the night. It is a final ‘hail Mary’ of sorts for the Immortals, us who were created.” “But Celestia should have been able to match you by doing the same.” Pieces were falling into place, but items were missing. “Were there any other magics you used? As the Bearer of Magic you would have been at the head of investigating into new magics, was there anything you were working on at the time?” “There was one,” Luna replied. She looked shocked, horrified even. “I had spent years looking into a magic. The Unicorn who discovered it used it to take over a kingdom. Celestia and I tried to defeat him, but both he and the kingdom disappeared. It was my duty to study his magic, and find a way to combat it in case the magic was used again. If there was nothing to use against it, I was to attempt to create something that would work. It was before Nightmare Moon by a few hundred years.” “Around the time your feelings of hate and jealousy began,” I said. “This is mostly speculation, but I think that magic had a sentience, and it had a power over you. It enhanced your negative feelings. Tia would tell me stories of the happy memories she had of you, and I could not believe that you and Nightmare Moon were the same pony. The ‘eternal night’ bothered me. You were intelligent, so you would have known the effects of not having both night and day; even in a blinded rage you would not put them through that.” Luna collapsed. The whole thing was too much for her. “A corruption,” she whispered. “The thought never occurred to me. I still do not understand something.” She looked up at me, seeming a bit broken. “How did you know the magic was not from the dream?” “I think only I can see it,” I replied thoughtfully. “The ideas of souls and auras have been explained to a point, but it has to do with magic too. Because magic and the soul are tied, you can tell who used a spell if you look for it. It is a magical hoof print, and no two are exactly the same. This dream world you created, it has your magical hoof prints all over it. Scootaloo’s dream was full of her magical hoof prints. That magic was something that did not belong in either place. It was dreamwalking, like we were, but it did not get shoved out when we did.” “No,” Luna corrected. “It retreated before the dreamer awoke. It is not gone, but it will not bother us for a while. You blasted it with a powerful magic. I do not know how you did it, but I think you accessed your Element. How, I do not know. Even when Celestia used the Elements against me, she had to have the others with her.” “Well, some ponies say anything is possible in dreams,” I suggested tentatively. “Although, we should probably hurry with what we came here to do, in case it comes back.” “Yes, we should,” she agreed. Luna tried to put on a brave face, but I could see it wavering. She wanted to help, and she wanted to jump in and investigate on what this was. But she was scared. If I was right, the magic corrupted her could have destroyed those she cared about, or worse all of Equestria. “We can stop for tonight, if you want,” I said, laying my wing on her shoulder. “No, we must-” “Do not push yourself!” I exclaimed. “You do not have to put your sanity on the line for this! Stop if you have to! You are being just like-!” I stopped, thinking about what I was about to say. “Just like whom?” she asked. “Just like Twilight Sparkle,” I continued, letting her name roll off of my tongue. “That is who I was thinking of earlier. When you were enthusiastically describing the dream world and how you organized it, I kept thinking I had seen that before, but I could not place it until now. You both work past your mental limits when it comes to that you do not know, and lately Twilight has been doing it for her friends just as much.” “I know you would want me to stop, as you think I have suffered enough,” Luna began, “but others have suffered for what I have done. There are those who will only know me as Nightmare Moon, those who I was never able to apologize to before my banishment, and those I can help now. I can help you, and helping you might help others. Please, let me do this.” Her eyes begged, almost crying. “Okay,” I relented. “What are we supposed to do?” “Dreams are linked to memories. Every place and pony your subconscious created in a dream is somewhere in your memory. We should be able to access them through the dream world.” “Where?” I asked. She did not answer. Her eyes closed, and I heard a growing hum of magic. She walked toward the door we had come from before, and I followed, thinking it best not to disrupt her. The humming became louder, soon becoming a vibration throughout the room. I felt it in my heart. Finishing the spell, she opened the doors. The throne room that had been there was replaced with a golden light. It felt kind and warm, welcoming even. Luna smiled at me, giving me the assurance that the spell was complete. We walked into it, and into darkness. When my vision cleared, we were in an elegant ballroom. Figures danced in a graceful waltz, keeping in time with music I could not hear. I watched them circle around with their partner, never breaking. Looking out over the crowd, I recognized the ponies as the ones from my memory. They were the first ponies of Equestria. “We are inside your mind now,” Luna said, appearing behind me. “We entered your memories, but a spot was chosen at random. Because it is a memory and not a dream, we cannot be active players. It will be like watching a play. I have done this with a few amnesia victims, and it will be like remembering the song stuck in your head.” “This is not a memory,” I stated. “I may not remember everypony here, but I know these are too perfect, especially for that conglomeration of a creature at the center. I saw him in the memory I had at Everfree, and he seemed way to… disruptive to be in this for this long.” Luna fully looked around this time. She had only taken in the minor details of the place, and not its full glory. “You are partially right,’ she said. “This is a memory of a dream.” “That sounds like a song lyric,” I giggled, trying to lighten the mood. “We will come back to this,” Luna said without giving an explanation. She activated her magic again, and everything blinked out of existence. Not everything, really. I could feel a buzzing sensation under my hooves, like we were on a moving platform. The sensation stopped as Luna’s horn dimmed, and we were in darkness. I knew this was the same darkness I had been scared of before, but I could not feel it. It was not real, just part of the memory. Has it begun?” I asked. She did not have to answer, as I saw a smaller me light up her horn. It was sad to see her. Anypony would be sad at seeing a lonely filly, helpless in the darkness, nopony there for her. “I am glad dream world places cannot give off auras other than that of the one it belongs to. I remember this time. That darkness I had once called the sky is made of that magic we encountered earlier. It is much more powerful there. By the way, will this be experienced in real time, or sped up? How long have we been gone anyway?” “Really?” Luna answered. “That sky is the power we faced earlier? I know I do not remember it, but I think I would have heard more about it. As for the time, it has been maybe an hour in reality. The memories should go at a very fast speed, but can be slowed down if we wish.” The memory went as I expected when the next filly showed up. “I think I am remembering their names, but can you tell me if I am right? I want to make sure I am remembering and not learning,” I asked and she nodded. “This is Morning Aura, I think.” With every appearing foal, I named each one correctly. Evening Soul the Unicorn, Apple Luck the Earth Pony, Rini who was one of the insect-like ponies, Amber the Crystal Pony, , and a Zebra named Zed appeared after that. “Next should be Celestia,” I said as the bright light appeared, leaving behind a pink haired filly. “That light!” Luna exclaimed as the filly Celestia brought the first dawn, resulting in cheers from the other foals. “What is that?” “I am not sure, but it appeared for all of the Alicorns, and two others. I assume they are all immortals. The one that appeared while we talked was Arctic Rhyme, and this is Starswirl? ‘Starswirl the bearded’ one of the most celebrated Unicorns to ever live and who created many spells?” “Yes. He grows the beard out eventually,” Luna giggled. I named each one as they came. Platinum, Ambrosia, Diamond, Zyanthi were the next set. Tornata arrived in the next bright light, bringing weather with her. The third set consisted of Thunder, Prophetic Shadow, Bronze Gear, Misa, Onyx, and Zoneru. “Azura,” I said as the next light hit. “I cannot truly say I remembered her from here, as I saw the crystal message. But I am remembering her.” Following Azura were the ponies Spira, Bubble Splash, Dusty, Kyto, Jade, and Zira. The bright light came again, bringing Flora. The usual set repeated, bringing Lucky Love, Star Mirage, Blade Blitz, Kirin, Opal, and Zetho. Another light brought Mira and her set of, Zephros, Monochrome Storm, Little Burst, Fury, Topaz, and Zoric. No bright light this time, and the set repeated with Virtuous Eyes, Carnival Surprise, Frosted Cake, Xerlis, Quartz, and Zantate. “Chrysalis,” I announced when the next light dispersed. “She… she was revered to the… changelings! That is what they were called! She was important to them.” “Yes she was,” Luna confirmed. “After you left us, they began to think of her as a queen. There was no power usurping, but the changelings felt they did not belong, so they tended to go by their own orders.” I thought on this as we waited for the next one. “D-Discord,” I said, stumbling over the name. This one was different. I do not know why, but just his name made my heart feel heavy. Was he important to be before? More important than the others? When the light dimmed, I could see the medley of a creature that I now know we had named a Draconequus. Why we named what he is if he is the only one, I do not know. “Can you please slow it down to real time when the next one comes?” I asked Luna. “Yes, but why?” “Watch.” And watch we did. The light came as the sun was setting, the dark blue filly appearing just as I knew she would. Luna and I watched as the filly raised the moon and created the night sky. The other foals flocked to her, and cheered louder than they had when Celestia first raised the sun. They knew this filly would not let the darkness get them. “I figured you did not remember your first few minutes of life,” I told Luna. “You may speed it up now, if you wish. I remember their names, and their basic personas. More will come with the rest of the memory.” She did not have to say a word, I could feel her gratitude. She remembered her first acts, and now knew what it meant to these ponies. The rest of us lived in that darkness, but Luna never got to experience it as we had. There was no protector, only one to keep it at bay for the short time she could. I realized that while others had Celestia’s day, or other ponies to stand by them, I had spent my first few days alone with it. No protection or support. The very idea was terrifying. After that, Luna sped up the memories for us. They went by so quickly, but I remembered all of it. We gave ourselves names, became friends, earned cutie marks, and grew up together. It was strange, as our memories had been like what Luna described; all of us had procedural memory and general knowledge of creatures and plants that existed, but no true ‘memories’ until we blinked into existence. As we grew, we realized we needed our own home. With all of the Unicorns and Alicorns working together, it only took a few weeks to construct the castle. Eventually, the others decided us who arrived in the bright lights would be the leaders. None of us really wanted to, but even we had to agree that we were the best choice. Well, most of us. Discord was not fit for leadership, and Chrysalis reasoned that she was too much like ‘just another changeling’ for her to rule, even with all of us protesting. We met different animals. Some were able to understand and speak like we did, and they had already developed their own societies. Each group only had a few members, maybe a little more than our group of Unicorns, and every one had different colors. Mira was an ambassador to them, talking with their leaders and inviting them to join our group. Some, like Griffons and Dragons, agreed under the condition that they have equal say in our ruling, meaning that the Alicorns cannot rule over them. It was odd seeing a full group of little dragons. I guess we were all still kids then, were we not? Did we know how big these dragons would get? Our society was strange compared to today’s. We seemed more like a group of foals at daycare than a small kingdom. Our money system consisted of trading, mostly of gems, but we did not really stick to it; we shared everything, and took care of each other, and the animals. “It is weird to see this from another perspective,” Luna interrupted. “Yeah,” I agreed, “It gets stranger when I think about it. I mean, my memories are returning faster than I can watch, so I see things that are maybe a few months ahead. And I keep seeing different ponies that look like ones I know, or I at least physical connections to them. It is amazing really. Appleluck looks a lot like Applejack, but she is colored like Applebloom. To think the Apple family literally goes all the way back to the beginning! And that Unicorn, Virtuous Eyes, his eyes are the same shape and color of Rainbow Dash. Frosted Cake’s mane color is exactly like Lyra! Are these the only dragons? Because their leader is the only purple one so he should be related to Spike, right?” “You always did go on and on when you found something interesting,” Luna giggled. It surprised me into silence. She really is believing me about this is she not? Before I could think about it much I began giggling myself. “Sorry about that,” I replied. “I just, well, I started getting interested in genetics during one of the Castle Guards’ bring your family to work day a few years back. Clashing Lance brought along his wife and daughter. Both Lance and his wife were Pegasai, but the filly was a Unicorn. When I asked him about it, he told me that while both he and his wife were Pegasai, they both had a Unicorn and a Pegasus as a parent. It is amazing to see where all these traits come from, you know?” “I understand the feeling,” Luna said. I waited to see if she would elaborate, but when she did not we fell back into our silence. I was able to see every moment, even the ones some would see as insignificant, but it all happened at fractions of seconds. While nothing as slowed down and fully analyzed, id did not have to be. As soon at the scene went by, I could remember every detail of it as if it had happened only a day ago. Some moments I asked to see in real-time, I remembered they were important to me. I saw the creation of the Elements of Harmony. We discovered the Element’s power on our own, each giving the abilities to spread the Magic of Friendship to others. But it was Azura’s I watched as I grew up, I watched myself learn. I even watched myself dream. It was strange to see myself not only growing, but growing bigger than I currently was. I was at nearly Celestia’s height. Well, not ‘me’, but the ‘me’ in the memories. All of Immortals were bigger than even the largest earth pony. My mane was like Luna’s, long and flowing, yet not magical. Something seemed familiar about the next scene. Not because the memory was returning, but because I already have this memory. “Slow this down!” I exclaimed. Luna was startled by my sudden outburst, but quickly did as I asked. It was the memory I had seen at the Everfree castle. Azura setting up for a party, with her, Celestia, Discord, and myself just talking and having a good laugh. “This is it, is it not?” Luna asked. “I knew the end of the reel was coming soon, but to see it is just… can it really be?” “This is the night I die,” I confirmed. It was strange to say aloud. “You never did find out who killed me, did you? You will tonight.” “Two thousand years, I have gone without knowing what had happened to you, never knowing if it was one of our friends, or somepony else.” I nodded in agreement. I watched myself walk away from the decorations, watched myself go to bed, watched myself slip into the last dream I would ever have. “This dream is the one we entered when we started the memory.” Luna said. I watched as the place came to life again. A gold and silver ballroom, with dancing figures. I now know that they were all of the first group, those of us who were created. We circled in a simple dance, keeping in time to music we could not hear. “I walked your dreams this night, and I saw what you saw.” Luna was standing still. She would not elaborate on it, so I continued watching. I saw myself blink out of existence. Nopony noticed other than Luna and I. Other ponies faded out slowly, soon leaving only the Immortals. They danced longer than the others, but soon began to fade. First was Tornata, then Laruta, then Mira, and finally Azura. I expected the others to do the same, but they blinked out, just like I did. First Chrysalis, and then Discord. After a while Luna blinked out too. I waited for Celestia to disappear, but her dance only slowed. She looked so sad, so alone. We watched her dance alone for a long time, almost as long as the time before she was alone. “It should not be going on this long.” Luna said. Her timing was perfect, because something strange happened. Without a true explanation, I had blinked back into existence. We waited again, and Luna reappeared, too. Then the dream was over. I watched myself awake in my bed, gasping for air. “What did you mean when you said that it was going to long?” I asked Luna. “The dream only lasted to the time when Celestia was alone. You and I coming back were not part of it. Something manipulated it. There is something else, too. Do you see the way you look like you had woken up from a nightmare? I remember the feelings that accompanied that dream, even though we cannot feel them now. It was the presence, the one that attacked us in Scootaloo’s dream, the one that belonged to the sky, and the one that corrupted me. “What does that mean?” I asked as we followed my memory out to the hall. We wandered with me into the throne room, all perfectly decorated for Luna’s birthday parts. Azura’s decorating skills could give Pinkie a run for her money, but I think Pinkie could still easily win. I watched as something walked towards me, the ‘Memory Me’. It was not a real pony, but it took a pony’s shape. It was the gray magic from before. I watched a blade appear as it was pressed into the Memory Me’s throat. I shifted my wing out over Luna’s shoulders. I needed reassurance that she was there, I wanted to tell her she was not losing me again. “Checkmate” the magic said, bringing the blade across the Memory Me’s throat. The wound opened, blood pouring out. I could not breathe anymore. I was scared. Terrified. Have you ever watched yourself die? The Memory Me’s body glowed, and the wound began to heal. The gray magic swirled with rage. It kept drawing the blade across the Memory Me’s neck over and over again, each one healing itself. I, she, tried to move away, but she could not do much more than writhe in pain. “Your attachment to the Elements keeps you here.” The magic mused. “I cannot kill you yet. But I can trap you until I can. It will not last long, darling, just enough to break your connection.” The magic overtook the Memory Me. I watched the magic snuff out the light in her, my, eyes. Everything became black. “It’s not over,” Luna whispered. Was it an observation or a warning? As I looked around I realized that even though everything was black, you could see where everything is. I could tell which way were the doors, and where each throne was. I could see every balloon, even if I no longer know their color. The gray magic was still there, but much larger. Really, it had even more of a defined pony-like shape than when it killed me. Another presence was in the room. It was a large fire, just as big and powerful as the gray swirl. It looked like fire. Flames licked the ceiling, but nothing was burned. Outside the walls were many presences, some as big as these here. Eight more were this size. “This is the realm of souls,” I said. I felt Luna jump next to me. She probably forgot we were only observers, forgot that I was next to her. “The Realm of Souls?” she asked quietly. “It is like your dream realm, yet not a place I can control. I can see the magic in everyone and everything. I have done it many times before, and I will apologize for using it to cheat as games of Hide and Seek.” She raised an eyebrow at my last comment. “Sorry, trying to diffuse the tension.” “Why did we not see it in your memory before?” She asked. “I think the memories only show what I had done and where I was. It said it would trap me, and I think it has. I am here. I was here, in the realm of souls. He said something about my connection to the Elements, that if he broke the connection he could kill me.” The memories ended, and we were returned to Luna’s bedroom. The sounds of the gala returned, although a much lower decibel than before. The night must be at least half over by now. I slipped my sight into the Realm of Souls, trying to get a feel for what is happening by pony’s locations. For some reason, my friends were out of the castle and in town, at a donut shop I think. “After that night, the Elements never worked the same,” Luna said, bringing me back to our world. “We never got them to full power, even with you there. It caused a rift between the rest of us. We thought we were the only ones in the world. For a while, we became suspicious of one another. It did not last that long, we knew in our hearts that none of us could do something like that. What I do not know is how you came back.” “Well, maybe-,” I began. I had turned to look at her when I spoke, but this was off. We were still sitting at the table on her balcony, but my view was different. Before, I had to look up to see Luna’s face, but I was currently staring straight ahead. Actually, I was looking slightly down at her. “You are taller,” Luna stated. She levitated a mirror onto the balcony, and I gasped at what I saw. I saw a pony with a coat as black as charcoal. Bright red and orange hair cascaded from the pony’s head, curling and flipping to imitate flames. A long, dark blue-green dress had grown to fit the pony’s body, still flowing off and sweeping the floor. I looked like I had in my memory, in my previous life. “What happened? How did I-?” I could not find the words to even ask. “The Immortals grow with their magic power,” Luna explained. “Celestia told me that when you came into this world again, you looked about the age of a filly without a Cutie Mark. She said you stayed that size until you got your Cutie Mark, and continued growing until you were average pony size. You were gaining magic power as you aged, and I wondered why it had stopped. You should have been this size almost a year ago.” “Er… yeah. I… Do you have any ideas on getting me back to the normal size? I mean, this looks, oh sweet Sunbutt this looks amazing, but it draws attention.” “Sunbutt?” She asked, giggling. “One of the nicknames I use for Tia. Try it out later. But can you fix this?” She thought on it a moment before answering. “There is a magic suppression spell. You will only be able to use the amount of power it takes to make you that size, but I think that is what it was at before.” She levitated an old book off a high shelf and began flipping through pages. “Here it is. This one lets you reverse the spell at any time, no matter what magic level you are suppressed to. Even if you went back to a filly’s magic you could come back easily.” I looked over the spellbook. It was fairly simple of a spell, even if I have no idea why one would have made this. I concentrated on its idea, letting my magic flow through my body; it was a tingling feeling like when a limb falls asleep. I glanced in the mirror when the feeling subsided, glad to see my usual form back. “To answer your question,” I said to Luna, setting the book on the table,” I think I know why I came back. My soul is connected to the Elements of Harmony, so only with their existence can I be immortal. Why others were given a choice to cast off their immortality instead, I do not know. Of course, even if the Elements existence dies down again, there is always a chance for it to come back.” She held my gaze again, I could see so much in her eyes, so many memories. I slipped my vision into the realm of souls, and I could see all of her. Her soul was a giant night sky, spinning and swirling, forming constellations and comets. I could see each emotion. She wanted to break down and cry. She wanted to cry out of happiness, out of loss and loneliness, out of the fear and hope for our future. Slipping my vision out of the realm of souls, I moved forward and wrapped her in a hug. I wanted her to know it was okay, that she could have the outburst of emotion she needed. I wanted to assure her that everything will turn out fine. Celestia had come to check on us, and sensed what had happened, joining us in our embrace. I wanted to assure her of everything, as I could tell she wanted to break down too. We let it all out, no heavy sobbing or wailing, just three sisters who had found one another, and who were determined to not let go.
Canterlot ShenanigansSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Prolouge: DreamsI walked down the halls of a castle, wondering why this seemed so familiar. I felt taller, like I was hovering, but my hooves were firmly on the ground. I saw the night sky out the windows, more beautiful than I ever remembered it being. There was not just darkness, but blues and purples in the sky. I heard the stars twinkle in the silence. I made my way to the throne room. I saw the moonlight glint off of the thrones at the back of the room. Everything was decorated, as if there would be a party tomorrow. Balloons were tied on vases and tables, streamers had been strategically placed along the walls and archways. I wondered what the celebration was for. Suddenly, the room became cold. I felt a sharp pain go through my body, like it occasionally did. Yet is was more intense than usual. I watched a pony walk toward me. Why were they here? Nopony should have been awake at this hour. I wanted to scream, but I could not. Pain and fear blocked my voice. I knew what would happen now, I knew that when the ponies walked in for this party tomorrow, they would only find me. I felt something cold and hard press into my throat. I bolted upward in my bed, gasping for breath. I could still feel the pain. I felt the fear. I could feel something against my throat. I looked around. I was back in my bed, I was safe. But I could not shake the feeling that dream was not just a dream. It felt too real. I lit the lamp in my room, and checked to see if somepony was here with me. Nothing. I relaxed a little bit, but not enough as I should. I took in the familiarity of my room. Red walls, dark green carpet, a set of bookshelves covering one wall. Red was probably a bad paint choice for nights like this. I took my blankets and walked into the kitchen. At first, I checked the fridge, but my curiosity got the best of me. I magicked open a drawer and brought out a large knife. I pressed it into my own throat, careful not to cut anything. It felt just like in the dream. I gasped and dropped the knife. The clatter of metal on tiles startled me back to reality. Nothing could hurt me here. My dreams, or nightmares, are not real. Whoever that pony was, they would not visit me in this realm. I kept telling myself it was just that. A dream. But part of me wondered about it. Dream Catcher had once told me that our dreams can only use places we have been and faces we have seen. That was not anywhere I had been. Right? I am alive, so I had not been killed. Had I?
