The Weak Become Strongby AuRons ClutchChaptersThe JournalUnknown acceptanceIt's always a dream isn't it?Experiments, spitting and a planOdiumThe JournalArcana’s Journal Entry 1 Tuesday, March the 12th, 24 A.T.F It’s been a week now since they started chasing me and they have started gaining on me. I’ve decided on setting up a teleportation portal but I need it to get me far away from this place and that will take time, time I don’t have. If anyone reads this I blame Tyreal he never did listen to us, he never realised how mortals could be affected by it, he completely forgot about what it did to Leah. Anyway I have to keep moving, I’m hoping I can find a local witch doctor that can help me calibrate the co-ordinates to Westmarch or somewhere in that region. Entry 2 Thursday, March the 14th, 24 A.T.F I will keep this short. I found the witch doctor, but so did they. She told me to run, that she would hold them off. That didn’t happen. Why am I scared? I can kill them with a quick flick of the wrist yet I can’t stop running. The only explanation is Diablo they seem to radiate his Terror. I won’t be sleeping tonight. Entry 3 Saturday, March the 16th, 24 A.T.F I was close to getting caught on my last journal entry but after a day of only running with short brakes I escaped them. Fortune did favour me yesterday though as I came across a caravan led by a friend I haven’t seen for a year or so now. My father’s apprentice was going home after an assignment and I’m now accompanying him. Hopefully I should be able to get away now that I have a more constant means of travel but I’ve still got a feeling of dread. I’ve talked to Mehtan about the nature of my appearance and he is quite concerned about it. I really wish I wouldn’t have to write out their name but these… Horadrim were a bad idea from the start. Tyreal needed to realise that the first of their order that Tyreal created weren’t going to reflect upon the next he selected. Tyreal needs to get off his throne and show us why he is the aspect of wisdom because all he’s done for us after Diablo was trapped is lead us to worse situations. He lost my respect when I saw him frightened in the face of terror. Entry 4 Wednesday, March 20th, 24 A.T.F (The page has been smudged due to tears only one piece of text is readable) I can’t believe it; one of my best friends is dead. Entry 5 Sunday, March 24th, 24 A.T.F Three weeks I’ve been chased from Ureh to Caldeum but finally I can seek sanctuary. Although this place brings back less favourable memories I know I can be protected here. Not much had happened since my last entry that I didn’t know until now was splotched with my tears; the only thing I was worried about was running. But finally I’m at Caldeum, The Jewel of the East. It lives up to its name I haven’t seen such I beautiful city. I never would of guess the potential here from when I was here last; all I saw was Belials deceit and corruption. I’ve got a meeting with the Emperor in an hour, even though he is a child he doesn’t act like it. For now I must prepare. Entry 6 Tuesday, March 26th, 24 A.T.F I’m no longer in Caldeum, after my meeting with the Emperor I had been ‘kindly’ asked to leave. I had told him why I was requesting his assistance but he wouldn’t have any part in it. I understood perfectly, he just wanted to protect his people. Still I’m back to the first position. However the Emperor did have some information for me, apparently the Horadrim was originally part of the Duriel Cult. I have a feeling they want to use my artifact to resurrect him instead of Diablo or one of the other evils. I remember one of the stories my father told me. It was during one of his adventures when he and his fellows had to go chase after the Dark Wanderer later know as Diablo. Duriel was the worst of the lesser evils; he was the cause of the most deaths to the party of combatants. If Duriel was given the amount of power the Diablo had when he became the Prime Evil I doubt there would be anything else other than pain. Duriel is known as the Prince of Pain but I have heard that he has been recently been called the Maggot King, dumb title if you ask me. People probably think that calling him that is a way to joke about him; I mean who would think maggots are than powerful, hah that is anything but true. If this cult does exist and they are using the Horadrim to track me then I must make haste to Kurast if I value my life. Tyreal if you are alive after this I will personally see that you don’t come back to Sanctuary. Entry 7 Thursday, March 28th, 24 A.T.F I’m a fool. I thought I would find salvation at Kurast. All I’ve done is lead them into a worse situation. The Horadrim have already arrived and from where I am I can see most of the area is in flame. I remember from the stories father told me that this place was once a great and vibrant jungle. The place was able to recover after Mephisto’s attack, but now I can say that the whole jungle must have been set ablaze. It seems that that the Horadrim have left but I can’t be certain. However I have a duty and I will go to the capital city of Kurast to see if I can provide assistance. Virgil laid down the journal. He had been tracking his daughter with one of her old companions who had asked for his assistance. Apparently Arcana was discovered stealing an important artifact. He didn’t know how his daughter could have been seen but then again she was no assassin. Virgil and Arcana’s friend Sashandra or Sasha had been traveling from Ureh to Caldeum where they gained an audience with the Emperor. What he told him shocked Virgil; Sasha had made a plan with Arcarna to steal the Black Soulstone from Tyreal and it protectors, the Horadrim. At first Virgil was furious but when he heard the reason behind it he calmed down. The reason was valid, everyone knew how easily the Soulstone corrupt the weak. With all the prime evils sealed within it he doubted the Horadrim would last a month. The Emperor showed them that Arcarna travelled to Kurast and so they followed. Virgil had been to Kurast on his way to destroy Mephisto with 3 other allies. The jungle looked bad then but now it was all but annihilated. There was nothing left in the area just a huge expanse of ash filled land with the odd broken down ruin scattered around. They had found the journal of his daughter in one of the more preserved temples that was obviously the last stand for Kurast. Nothing made sense there were a few bodies found inside but none of them resembled Arcana's. He looked back at the book and casted various spells on it looking for enchantments that could reveal hidden messages. He found one when he remembered the first spell that Arcana developed. It was a curse weirdly, but she had made it so that only she and her father could exploit it. Slowly words began to form in a purple ink. Entry 8 Thursday, April 4th, 24 A.T.F I know only you can read this dad so I will direct this to you only. Helping Kurast was a bad idea, they set up a trap but I did manage to find some of the last survivors we managed to hold them off for the week but now they have gotten in I’m watching it now actually. Fighting as well as writing has been fun; I’m probably going to be the only wizard to do it. My portal is nearly done I just need another minute or to find my destination. You know how my teleportation spells work so I’ll need you to recreate it, just use the remnants of the spell to begin making it. Can’t be too hard right? I think I may have to skip the co-ordinates on the portal there just isn’t enough time. I love you. “Sasha we have work to do” was the only words he spoke until he was lost to concentration. Unknown acceptanceToday had been too normal. Twilight guessed she deserved that though. Her recent break up with Flash Sentry was the reason for that; there were too many problems in the relationship. As a guard and a diplomat Flash was gone more often than not, he talked to much, was too formal and the way he commented on her studying it was just aggravating. Twilight was glad that she had dumped him though, now she didn’t have to worry about dates and could concentrate on her favourite thing in the world, books. “SPIKE!” No answer. “SPIKE!” She called again, what’s taking him so long? Then Twilight noticed the time, 11 pm “Oh right”. Walking over to a book shelf Twilight pulled down a rather small book ’Discovering a New Species by Spilled Ink’. Must have come with the latest order, always excited by a new book Twilight pulled over chair and opened the first page. Well she would have opened the book had there not been an earthquake at the time. Jumping under a table Twilight pondered what could have caused it. Earthquakes were common place in Ponyville but they were never on a fault line, they were usually caused by unnaturally mostly by ridiculous means. “Twilight, you ok? Spike shouted from upstairs, he sounded nervous. “Yeah I’m fine; I wonder what caused this happen this time,” Twilight called back. “I don’t know, but I can see that it came from Applejack’s farm, it’s bad,” Twilight teleported by his side immediately and what she saw dumbfounded her. In the distance was a massive crater that covered at least an acre of the farm land. “Spike I need you to message Princess Celestia asking if she has any knowledge on this event then send it to me,” Twilight ordered. “You can count on me,” Spike said but Twilight was already gone. Around three kilometres squared, fifteen metres deep, caused by magic overload, slight magic residue enough to harm any non-unicorn, no noticeable heat output, too much dust to make out anypony or object that could have caused the event- oh hi Applejack, wait a minute, Applejack? “APPLEJACK STAY AWAY FROM THE CRATER,” Twilight warned. “Ok Twi I’m moving, didn’t need to burst my eardrums though,” Applejack replied. “Sorry, it’s just whatever caused this must have been powerful and I’m not sure it’s done yet.” “Well can’t you get rid of this here dust and see what’s inside?” “Hmm I guess I could but I’m still not sure if we want to know what is in there,” Twilight answered while preparing a dissipation spell. However a scroll quickly materialised beside her. Cancelling the spell Twilight took hold of the message. Dear Twilight I have seen what you have described. I know you are already there but I need you to have caution, whatever caused this was done by a being. I could feel its power when it came to this place. I suspect it was a teleportation spell that failed so anything could be inside. I want a report on your findings when you have finished. Yours Sincerely Princess Celestia “She really needs to skip the formalities,” Twilight prepared the spell again and stood ready to cast. Applejack sat to the side and watched Twilight released the spell. Anything observing their vision was gone instantly and they could see what was in the middle of the crater. It was some sort of creature but from where they were standing it was hard to make out what exactly it was. “Applejack I need you to stay here while I see what’s down there.” “No I’m coming with you; I need to see what has destroyed nearly an acre of my land!” Applejack objected. “Ugh I knew you were going to say that, listen I know this is your property but this thing, whatever it is could easily be dangerous enough to do it again,” Twilight replied. “But,” Applejack sighed “I guess you’re right.” “Don’t worry AJ I’ll be fine.” When Twilight got to the creature of interest she noticed it was sleeping although not very well, it was clear that it was having a really bad nightmare. Twilight however had more important problems to deal with and thus her analysis began. Unknown species but does resemble diamond dogs in stature so it can be guess that it’s bipedal. Possibly intelligent due to it wearing clothes but could also be a pet or messenger. It does have a bag though I would rather not open it. Maybe female but that could be debatable, teeth indicate that it is an omnivore, no fur but does have a mane of sorts on the head. No conduit seen for magic potential. Applejack was starting to get bored, it had been around thirty minutes since Twilight began ‘examining’ the thing in question and for her as much as this event was interesting it was also getting dull. Fortunately for her Twilight motioned her to come over, as she got closer to creature she saw it twitching and moving erratically on the ground. “Twilight is it meant to be like that? It doesn’t look very pleasant.” She asked. “It’s been doing that ever since I first got here, I’m guessing it’s just a bad dream and it has been mumbling a lot but none of it makes any sense,” Twilight moved in closer trying to discern the words but got nothing. “I need you to help me take it to the library and before you say that I could use magic I can’t, it seems to repel any magic used against her.” “But why do you want it at your home I though you said it could be dangerous?” “I don’t think it is, I mean look at it” – Twilight pointed a hoof at the body – “I can’t see anything it could use for magic and from the body structure, it looks like it could barely buck a tree.” “I guess so Twi, but I’ll need to be quick I need to reassure the family.” Applejack moved in to pick it up and put it on her back. The creature seemed to relax at the action. “Huh it’s actually quite light,” Applejack commented. Twilight grabbed the bag and the two ponies trotted into town. “So Twilight did you see anything weird about this here thing?” Applejack asked. “Well apart from obvious there’s only one questionable thing wrong with it and that’s not even from that,” Applejack shot her a glance asking to explain. “It’s this bag, there seems to be so many different magic enchantments and the like coming from it, I can’t wait to see what’s inside!” “Twilight, I can’t believe you of all people would go through another’s belongings!” Applejack exclaimed. “Oh, um yeah I guess I forgot about that,” Twilight looked ahead down the road. ”Oh look we’re nearly there, I hope Spike is ok.” “I’m sure he is Twi you’ve got to remember that he has grown up a bit since ya first got here, he is what twelve now?” “He’ll be thirteen in a few months actually,” Twilight answered. “Well we’re here, I think I can carry it the rest of the way in so I’ll see you later and thanks for the help,” she and Applejack started transferring the thing to the others back. “No problem Twilight I just hope that thing doesn’t cause any more trouble, bye.” “Bye,” Twilight opened the door of the library noticing the familiar smell of books and saw Spike reading a Daring Do Novel. Spike had taken a liking to the series when Rainbow Dash talked to him about it a couple of months ago. “Hi Twilight how was the farm?” Spike said barely taking his eyes off the book. “It wasn’t too bad considering but I need a mattress from upstairs and then I need you to get a book on breaking magical barriers.” “Umm sure thing Twi but why do we need a mattress?” Spike took moved his eyes from his book “uh what is that?” “This is what caused the crater at Sweet Apple Acres, mattress now! I can’t hold this thing forever.” I really need to exercise more. “Yeah mattress got it,” Spike rushed upstairs and started bringing down one of the spare bed mattress (don’t ask how he did it that quickly). Twilight laid down the creature while Spike walked over to the magic section of the library. “So that thing caused that problem at the farm, but it doesn’t look like it could do something like that.” “Well it does seem to be the reason for it,” Spike set down a book ‘Magical protection spells and reversing them by Spilled Ink’. Weird same author as before, “thanks Spike now you can go to bed I’ll need to stay here to watch over -.” “Ugh my head, where am I!” … “Wait Twi, you didn’t say that did you?” Author's Note This is my first try at this so i want a few things: 1. Criticize my work (it's the only way i'll get better) Erm... yeah that's about it. It's always a dream isn't it?“Ugh my head, where am I!” The first thing Arcana took note of was he air, it smelt bookish. I’ve probably transported myself into a library, great. She was lying on a mattress, face down. At least whoever has been graced by my presence has been hospitable. “Wait Twi, you didn’t say that did you?” Twi? Who would call themselves Twi? The voice seemed male and young, maybe a student or child. “No that wasn’t me, it was that,” Female adult probably this person called Twi. Guess I’d better make myself known. Getting up Arcana opened her amber eyes to reveal a lavender unicorn and a purple dragon. Wait a minute, WHAT. “AHHHHH!” Arcana jumped straight up and looked down on the two individuals. “What are you!? Forget I asked that you’re probably some sort of illusion or being made from the owner of this place I’ve seen weirder things.” “I’m pretty sure we’re real and I am the owner of this library,” the unicorn said. “Ok if this isn’t an illusion then tell me where I am and give me some knowledge of this place,” Arcana demanded. The unicorn looked at the dragon and shrugged it shoulders then began to speak again. “Well you’re in the Golden Oak Library located in Ponyville. The place was founded around two hundred years ago by the Apple family after Princess Celestia gave them the land to settle on. After that the town continued to grow until it is what stands today. About three years ago when I came here it started housing the Elements of Harmony which made it a prominent figure in the land of Equestria,” when the unicorn finished she looked up to Arcana expecting some sort of awe or respect. Arcana was unfazed by the speech. “Well looks like this is either a huge joke or I’m dreaming,” she pinched herself. “Then I’m not dreaming, hmm tell me how did I get here?” “Umm ok, there was a huge earthquake and I found you in a crater by Sweet Apple Acres.” “Damn it sound like your genuine and I can’t sense much magic so for now I’ll assume you’re real,” why did it have to be me that ended up here, why couldn’t it have been Sasha that would have been funnier. “I guess I should be a better guest and introduce myself, my name is Arcana Rasha but everyone calls me Arc.” “Well nice to meet you then, I’m Twilight Sparkle and this is my assistant Spike,” oh god even the names are terrible, but then again I’m one to talk.”Do you mind telling us how you got here I haven’t seen any of your species before?” Twilight questioned. “Also how can you sense magic? Can you do magic? How do you do it? Why is your bag outputting so many different magical signals? Why is it that Applejack found you so light? Is there a reason for you being a bipedal?” Arcana tried to interrupt but Twilight was still sending out the torrent of questions, things from gender to if she knew about transformation spells. The questions were completely random and Arcana were pretty sure she heard two questions being said at the same time. There was only one solution so she levitated the pony and used a devocalization spell (I called it the ‘SHUT UP 9000’) which quickly quieted down Twilight. “Now when I release you I will answer the first question and then you will answer my question, ok?” A nod from Twilight confirmed her and she was set back down. “When I was being pursued by some rather powerful people I had to make a teleportation spell-“ Arcana sighed “-I had to cut short the preparation of the spell and it then transported me here, that would be the best explanation though there may have been an outside force but I doubt it.” “So you are from another world?” “I would suspect so, right now you owe me two questions. One, where is my bag? And two, who is the ruler of this country?” Arcana asked. “Your bag is on the table just behind you and I guess I am one of the rulers here but I would suggest that Princess Celestia would be a better candidate for that question, why though?” “Um I need my bag because it has my stuff in it, duh.” “No I meant why do you need to know who are ruler is?” “Twilight for someone in a library you aren’t the brightest, you owe me two questions again, but I need to know who your ruler is so that I can meet her. As soon as possible.” “I guess so, I have to write to report to her about my findings tomorrow so I can ask for an audience but first I’ll need to know why you want an audience with her.” “It’s a problem that I might have that I need some help with. If it goes unchecked it’ll bring-” Arcana stopped for a second “- it will just be bad.” Twilight looked unconvinced “I’m sure it can’t be that bad.” “Let’s just say that what I have with me could end this world, very quickly,” Arcana took on a pained expression. “I’ve seen too many times our world being assaulted by it,” she turned around and grabbed the bag. “How many times exactly?” “Once,” Arcana sighed again. “That was plenty to convince me that I didn’t want it to happen again.” Arcana’s mind was lost in painful memories. “You were having a nightmare of it when you got here didn’t you?” Twilight asked, concerned about her guest. “Yes, I don’t want to talk about it,” shaking her head as if to remove herself from the thoughts, she looked to Twilight. “So how are you a ruler here, I mean I get that you own this library but ruler is stretching it a bit.” Twilight chuckled lightly at the words, ”well no Princess Celestia sent me an unfinished spell and asked me to complete it, after a few problems and me fixing the spell it used the Elements of Harmony and turned me into an alicorn,” seeing the confused look on Arcana, she continued to elaborate. “An alicorn is a unicorn that has a pegasi wings and some even take traits from the earth ponies as well like their strength.” Great there are more than just unicorns I have to worry about. “I think it would be best for you to rest I’ve kept you long enough I just need you to point me to the history and magic sections of the library.” Twilight noticeably agreed as a yawn just over took her. “Yeah I suppose I am a bit tired, I’ll see you in the mourning then? Oh and the history section is in the other room and magic is to your left,” Twilight then proceeded to head upstairs. “Goodnight.” “Night,” with Twilight gone Arcana opened up her bag to check that she had all her gear. I’m so glad I figured out how to increase the space inside an object otherwise I would never fit all my stuff. First she took out her spare pair of clothing; I guess I’ll have to this now apparently long distance removes any unprotected enchantments. Arcana changed her clothes, I’m glad I took the time to dye this purple yellow didn’t agree with me (also here is a link to what she actually looks like ). Skipping the head piece she delved deeper into the bag pulling out all assortments of items from reagents to artifacts she still had to figure out how to use. Finally she pulled out a huge jet black gem that glowed an infernal red. The Black Soulstone was held in Arcana’s hands and she could hear the evil whispering that came from inside. Arcana didn’t need to be told twice to put the Soulstone back, putting the various items back into the bag she headed to the other part of the library to catch up on the world history. She always hated history class, books are better. Experiments, spitting and a plan“Twilight you need to wake up.” “Go away mom, five more minutes,” Twilights brain was always hotwired to wake up at seven o’clock every morning, but today was a Sunday meaning she got to sleep in. Spike trying to wake her up on a day like today was equal to murder. “Twilight I know todays Sunday but that Arcana person downstairs is waiting for you,” huh who? Oh wait. The great weight of realisation struck Twilight forcing her out of the bed. “Twilight when you’re ready there are pancakes in the kitchen and Arc will see you in the basement. Why the basement, ugh I’ll find out soon enough. Twilight looked at the clock, sure enough she slept in to 10 o’clock. The mirror didn’t offer any good news either, her mane was a mess. It took a few minutes before she looked presentable and headed to breakfast. Let’s just say that while pancakes are good, Spike’s pancakes were on a completely different food category. They didn’t last long with Twilight present. Now that Twilight had been groomed and fed she could get to business. “Spike I need to send a letter to the Princess can you find a quill and ink,” Twilight called out. “Come downstairs Twilight Arc wants to see you before you send it,” Spike yelled back. Twilight made her way to the basement where she did most of her scientific experiments and where her personal books were kept. What she saw seated in one of the corners stumped her. Spike was playing chess with Arcana however she had at least ten books floating around her. “Are you reading all of those?” Twilight asked. “Ah yes actually and I’ve also beating your friend here 35 to nil –" “And she still manages to keep a casual conversation going, it really is kinda cool,” Spike interjected. “Uh huh, was it you that left that stack of books up stairs?” Twilight just dismissed the fact that what she was seeing was impossible. ‘Oh uh yeah that would be me, I forgot how you had shelved them when I had finished the two subjects of text,” Arcana scratched the back of her neck. “Sorry.” “But how. What. Did you? How did you read that? That’s over two hundred books!” Twilight exclaimed. “Well I lose again,” Spike sighed. “Twilight did you want to write that letter now?” “Um yeah sure, now’s good,” Twilight let it go, there’s no point in arguing with an otherworldly person “Can you leave room for me to make a word in to,” Arcana asked. Dear Princess Celestia I have found the cause of the crater at Sweet Apple Acres in the form of this (“What’s the name of your species Arc?” “Human.”) human named Arcana Rasha. She is a bipedal creature with a body structure similar to Diamond Dogs but with much more minimal fur. She is requesting an audience with you as soon as possible. She seems magically adept but I don’t know how yet, I saw her reading about ten books this morning and she said she had read around 200 books through the night so we won’t need to teach her anything about history or this world’s magic. When we get your message back we will teleport over to avoid any confrontation with the public. The next words will be written by Arcana. What Twilight sees and what I actually write will be different and anyone apart from her will be able to see the true words. Now that that’s said I can begin to apologise for coming here, I have not come from a peaceful world as your history would seem and I’ve brought an item with me I rather wish had stayed at home. I will not be accepting you not being able to have a talk with me; I would suggest that a dinner would be the best course of action. There will only be me, you, Twilight and a few other people of importance, do not bring along Spike. I will not have anyone related to public issues attending either. This audience is important as it endangers your country. P.S Expect a long night. Yours sincerely Arcana Rasha Twilight Sparkle “Now Spike you can send it,” Twilight handed Spike the scroll who sent it through the window with a breath of fire. “Hmm, let me guess a teleportation fire? On second thought, you don’t need to answer that,” Arcana said. “Now can I interest you in a game of chess?” “Uh no thanks I can see that you would beat me already, besides I’ve nearly reached a break through with my new potion,” Twilight eyed the chemistry table that had all manner of ingredients laid around it. “Oh that, I saw that. You’re trying to make an antidote potion for any natural poison aren’t you?” Arcana asked. “Uh how did you know that?” “I looked at it duh, I recognised the ingredients and you’re at the stage that everyone on my world was stuck on,” Arcana walked over to the table and started levitating various liquids and poured them into a beaker. Through the process she cast different spells into the beaker and as a result the beaker had a grey mixture of a normal looking fluid. Then the result began to slowly evaporate away until there was no sign that the experiment was even done. “That there is what you’re confused about isn’t it.” “Wait, how in Tartarus did you know how to do that?” Twilight nearly shouted. “Wow you do ask a lot of pointless questions, but just for the sake of it I’ll tell you. That potion is one of the most useful things created for an adventurer to use. It took about ten years of research by people all over the world before someone found out how to stop the evaporation effect,” Arcana chuckled lightly before explaining. “The missed ingredient was found by a village doctor, I think her name was Margra, anyway when she tried to mixing the potion her grandson spat into it for a joke. Turns out that small joke saved countless people across every nation, even me a couple of times.” After the small story Arcana looked over to Twilight and started bursting into laughter. Twilight held a notebook and quill in magic and her jaw had nearly literally hit the floor in disbelief. “Uhh, uhh, what. How did. Why?” Twilight managed to say. “I wouldn’t ask, we never did figure out why it worked so we all just gave up. Oh and you didn’t hear this from me, you just did a lot of experimenting.” “Ok I think I can do that, so when during the process do you err, spit in it?” Twilight asked getting ready to write down the notes. “It’s just after casting the third spell that you do it, make sure you don’t do it before or after else it blows up in your face,” Arcana recalled an old memory. “I remember during a chemistry practical there were alot of synchronised explosions from the same mistake.” Spike who was laughing immediately changed reaction and looked like he was going to vomit. “Um Twilight is he ok?” Arcana commented. “Yeah he’s fine it’s just how we get mail from the Princess.” “Hmm I don’t think that’s a very pleasant way to do that, hmm maybe I –“but Arcana was cut off when Spike let loose a green fire. The fire then materialised into a letter, Twilight grabbed said letter with her magic and unfurled it. Twilight then began to read. Dear Twilight I will accept Arcana’s proposal and we will have a talk over dinner tonight. Me and Luna will be attending and I want you to bring the Elements of Harmony with you as well as the ponies they belong to. I need Spike to go the Crystal Empire during and bring Cadance along with Shining Armor and bring them to Canterlot so they can meet this human as well, they will likely be back by tomorrow. You will need to transport yourselves to Twilight’s old residence at the castle. The dinner will be held at 6 p.m. and I will ask Luna to bring you to the location from your room. I ask that if Arcana are able to perform magic then if she can be invisible till we meet to avoid any notice from guards or any other of the public visiting the castle. Until tonight. Yours Sincerely Princess Celestia “Seriously? She doubts I can use magic, thats kinda funny considering I’m probably the most powerful person on this world.” Arcana said after Twilight had read the letter. “Yeah well I doubt that, Celestia and Luna are the two extremely powerful Princesses,” Twilight replied. “Ok then tell me their most powerful moments then,” Arcana shot back. “Hmm let’s see, they both bring day and night, Celestia had to banish Luna to, wait a minute, you read the whole history section of the libary didn’t you. You should know this,” Twilight asked confused. “Ah yes I did and I wasn’t impressed, especially when some relics you and your friends found that don’t even predate the two Alicorns are more powerful.” Arcana stated matter of factually. “Ugh, not going to argue, not going to argue, not going to argue, LUNCH!” Twilight tried to stop herself and for once succeeded. “Oh good lunch I’m starving, I’ll go make some waffles,” with lunch on his mind Spike raced up stairs. “Does he even realise he’s got to go to the Crystal Empire?” A few minutes later and the trio were sitting at a table with lunch in front of them. Another minute later and the trio were sitting at a table with nothing in front of them. “Well I haven’t had anything that good since my last visit Kingsport,” Arcana complimented. “I do have to say that Spike does make good food, often better than chefs twice his age. But now we need a plan of action,” Twilight brought up the subject that her and Spike were dreading, her friends. “Spike I need you to go out and find each of our friends and bring them here, but we will each introduce them to Arcana one at a time. Think you can do that Spike?” “Sure thing Twi, who we bringing first?” Spike asked. “I want Applejack to come first seeing as though she has already seen you once.” “When was that?” Arcana become concerned. “Oh she helped me bring you here she won’t tell anyone though, next I want Fluttershy to come because if she’s here then the rest of them won’t be as quick to act,” everyone nodded. “After that we’ll bring Rarity, then Rainbow and lastly Pinkie.” Arcana didn’t know why she shuddered at the last name. OdiumApplejack was the first pony to be coming to meet the newcomer. From Twilights knowledge, she’s a hard worker, runs a farm with her family, very trustworthy and wields the Element of Honesty. In conclusion she was the same as a well know country woman, and Arcana messed up her farm, this wasn’t going to go well. ‘Knock knock knock,’ Twilight recognised the tone as Spike’s and went to fetch the door. “Ah Applejack it’s good to see you, come in,” Twilight greeted. “Thank ya kindly Twilight, you wanted to see me about that thing we found at my farm?” Applejack questioned. “Yes she’s here to meet you. Also we’re need at Canterlot tonight for a dinner to discuss her.” Applejack thought for a moment. “Yeah I can come, there isn’t anything to be done cause we finished harvesting a couple of weeks ago.” Applejack paused again. “Are you sure you want to keep an eye on this person? You don’t deserve any more strife after what happened with Flash.” Twilight sighed and motioned Applejack to follow her, “I’m not too sorry about what occurred between us, we knew it was coming and this unexpected person is more than enough to keep my mind off such things,” Twilight stopped by the door. “She’s behind here.” Twilight had left to find Spike and make some drinks for the visitors and now had to mentally prepare herself for what was behind the door. Before letting nervousness getting the better of her Applejack opened the door. There was no surprise, no dangerous magic, the only out of the ordinary thing in the room was the woman Applejack found at her farm except she was now awake and looking out a window for no apparent reason. Even when she spoke it sounded normal but still very familiar. “Applejack I assume?” She said, continuing to look out into the distance. “Uh yes I’m Applejack it’s nice to uh meet you,” this new arrival didn’t seem too bad. “Likewise, my name is Arcana Rasha or just Arc for short,” She moved and sat down on one of the chairs while motioning for Applejack to do so as well. “I have to apologise for my rather destructive entry into your farm, I’ll make up for it when I am more able.” “Well that would be nice we never turn down a hoof willing to help on the farm.” “That’s good then, so what is it you have on your farm?” Applejack didn’t expect this, first she apologised for the damage on her farm and now she actually asked what it housed. Sure ponies knew about the recognised land but no one talked about it. “Um well, uh.” “Really that’s it? I’ve seen the great orchards from Westmarch that has stocks that are world renowned and you can’t even say a word about yours.” “I just didn’t think you would care, the acres never really come up in conversation,” as Applejack finished the sentence Twilight came in with the drinks. “Hope I’m not interrupting,” Twilight set down the various drinks, a light cider for Applejack and grape juice for Arcana and herself. “Oh no, we were just going to start talking about Sweet Apple Acres. From what I gathered it is the reason why Ponyville exists now.” Arcana said over her glass. “Uh yes it is the reason, Twilight how does she know this?” Applejack asked. “Well she read the history section of the library last night, all of it,” Twilight sighed after she answered. “You’re kidding right, I can barely read a book in a day and Twilight had to take a whole weekend to look through twelve of them,” Applejack sat perplexed looking at Arcana. Twilight wasn’t however and voiced her complaint, “I for your information finished them on the first day and if it wasn’t for that whole incident with the timber wolves would have been done sooner.” Twilight huffed and continued. “Also my fastest read has been twenty-five books in a day.” “Okay, thanks for that Twilight, now can you get Fluttershy to come over while me and Applejack talk farming.” Fluttershy was at her home near the edge of the Everfree, no one knew why she decided to stay there. She knew though, being away from the rest of Ponyville allowed her a more peaceful environment that she could use to house all the animals that she kept watch over. Fluttershy had always longed for the life she used to lead, for five years now she had been in Ponyville taking care of the local wildlife that she never lost interest in but had now left a hole in her. Fluttershy moved to look at a picture that had been taken when she had met the Princesses personal protégé, the still forms of herself and her other five closest friends lay on it. All but one had no clue about her true past and even then that clue led nowhere. All of her friends had talked about their past at one point or another, most weren’t exactly great but they all had a happy ending that was caused by Rainbow Dash’s sonic rainboom. She had asked Rainbow to come up with a cover story to convince the others instead of telling them the truth. Lying was easier. Her friends would disagree but this secret belonged to her. Fluttershy could faintly hear someone coming to her door and readied herself. A sharp knock confirmed another presence and Fluttershy trotted to the entrance to open it. An easily recognisable purple dragon stood outside. “Hello Spike how can I help you?” “Erm Twilight sent me, she needs you and the other elements to meet a new visitor, and she has to go to Canterlot to meet the Princesses over dinner tonight to discuss the person.” Spike had been told what to say to Fluttershy about the situation and relayed it with ease. “Ah ok I don’t have anything planned for later and dinner sounds nice, I’ll go get my things,” Fluttershy raced back inside to grab her bag and joined Spike so they could head off. The day looked rather nice but Fluttershy knew that the pegasus weather team had a scheduled rain and could see them preparing the clouds for the downpour. “Spike didn’t you say a person? Isn’t what we’re meeting a pony?” “Actually no she’s not, her name is Arcana and she is a human apparently she isn’t from around here, um Fluttershy you ok? She’s not dangerous,” but Fluttershy was already lost standing there with a look of horror. As instantly as when she froze she started running, muttering something that Spike couldn’t understand. With no other choice Spike followed. Applejack had just finished explaining how manage to grow nearly all the food Ponyville eats to Arcana when they heard another pony at the front door. “Ah that must be Spike and Fluttershy I’ll be right back,” Twilight said and left the room. The other occupants listen in to the conversation held at the door. “Ah Fluttershy it’s good to see you, Where’s Spike?” “He’s coming, where is she?” the voice guessed to be Fluttershy was straight to the point and hardly calm. “I thought you girls said that she was supposed to be different than that,” Arcana asked Applejack. “She is never usually like this.” “She’s in the dining room, Shy are you ok?” “Move” The door burst open and a yellow pegasus with a pink mane stepped in, her face had an expression of hate and pain but only Arcana noticed that it hid fear. The pony scanned the room and saw Arcana. In a second the pony was gone. Something tackled Arcana to the floor behind her. “Are they here!?” No hate, no pain. Just fear. Author's Note So can anyone guess who Fluttershy really is? I'll give you some clues: 1. She is from the Diablo games 2. Not seen in Diablo 3. Was seen in Diablo 2 4. Mentioned in Diablo 3 5. The title is also a clue anyone who guesses right will um... get self satisfaction in the next chapter (yes that will work)
The JournalArcana’s Journal Entry 1 Tuesday, March the 12th, 24 A.T.F It’s been a week now since they started chasing me and they have started gaining on me. I’ve decided on setting up a teleportation portal but I need it to get me far away from this place and that will take time, time I don’t have. If anyone reads this I blame Tyreal he never did listen to us, he never realised how mortals could be affected by it, he completely forgot about what it did to Leah. Anyway I have to keep moving, I’m hoping I can find a local witch doctor that can help me calibrate the co-ordinates to Westmarch or somewhere in that region. Entry 2 Thursday, March the 14th, 24 A.T.F I will keep this short. I found the witch doctor, but so did they. She told me to run, that she would hold them off. That didn’t happen. Why am I scared? I can kill them with a quick flick of the wrist yet I can’t stop running. The only explanation is Diablo they seem to radiate his Terror. I won’t be sleeping tonight. Entry 3 Saturday, March the 16th, 24 A.T.F I was close to getting caught on my last journal entry but after a day of only running with short brakes I escaped them. Fortune did favour me yesterday though as I came across a caravan led by a friend I haven’t seen for a year or so now. My father’s apprentice was going home after an assignment and I’m now accompanying him. Hopefully I should be able to get away now that I have a more constant means of travel but I’ve still got a feeling of dread. I’ve talked to Mehtan about the nature of my appearance and he is quite concerned about it. I really wish I wouldn’t have to write out their name but these… Horadrim were a bad idea from the start. Tyreal needed to realise that the first of their order that Tyreal created weren’t going to reflect upon the next he selected. Tyreal needs to get off his throne and show us why he is the aspect of wisdom because all he’s done for us after Diablo was trapped is lead us to worse situations. He lost my respect when I saw him frightened in the face of terror. Entry 4 Wednesday, March 20th, 24 A.T.F (The page has been smudged due to tears only one piece of text is readable) I can’t believe it; one of my best friends is dead. Entry 5 Sunday, March 24th, 24 A.T.F Three weeks I’ve been chased from Ureh to Caldeum but finally I can seek sanctuary. Although this place brings back less favourable memories I know I can be protected here. Not much had happened since my last entry that I didn’t know until now was splotched with my tears; the only thing I was worried about was running. But finally I’m at Caldeum, The Jewel of the East. It lives up to its name I haven’t seen such I beautiful city. I never would of guess the potential here from when I was here last; all I saw was Belials deceit and corruption. I’ve got a meeting with the Emperor in an hour, even though he is a child he doesn’t act like it. For now I must prepare. Entry 6 Tuesday, March 26th, 24 A.T.F I’m no longer in Caldeum, after my meeting with the Emperor I had been ‘kindly’ asked to leave. I had told him why I was requesting his assistance but he wouldn’t have any part in it. I understood perfectly, he just wanted to protect his people. Still I’m back to the first position. However the Emperor did have some information for me, apparently the Horadrim was originally part of the Duriel Cult. I have a feeling they want to use my artifact to resurrect him instead of Diablo or one of the other evils. I remember one of the stories my father told me. It was during one of his adventures when he and his fellows had to go chase after the Dark Wanderer later know as Diablo. Duriel was the worst of the lesser evils; he was the cause of the most deaths to the party of combatants. If Duriel was given the amount of power the Diablo had when he became the Prime Evil I doubt there would be anything else other than pain. Duriel is known as the Prince of Pain but I have heard that he has been recently been called the Maggot King, dumb title if you ask me. People probably think that calling him that is a way to joke about him; I mean who would think maggots are than powerful, hah that is anything but true. If this cult does exist and they are using the Horadrim to track me then I must make haste to Kurast if I value my life. Tyreal if you are alive after this I will personally see that you don’t come back to Sanctuary. Entry 7 Thursday, March 28th, 24 A.T.F I’m a fool. I thought I would find salvation at Kurast. All I’ve done is lead them into a worse situation. The Horadrim have already arrived and from where I am I can see most of the area is in flame. I remember from the stories father told me that this place was once a great and vibrant jungle. The place was able to recover after Mephisto’s attack, but now I can say that the whole jungle must have been set ablaze. It seems that that the Horadrim have left but I can’t be certain. However I have a duty and I will go to the capital city of Kurast to see if I can provide assistance. Virgil laid down the journal. He had been tracking his daughter with one of her old companions who had asked for his assistance. Apparently Arcana was discovered stealing an important artifact. He didn’t know how his daughter could have been seen but then again she was no assassin. Virgil and Arcana’s friend Sashandra or Sasha had been traveling from Ureh to Caldeum where they gained an audience with the Emperor. What he told him shocked Virgil; Sasha had made a plan with Arcarna to steal the Black Soulstone from Tyreal and it protectors, the Horadrim. At first Virgil was furious but when he heard the reason behind it he calmed down. The reason was valid, everyone knew how easily the Soulstone corrupt the weak. With all the prime evils sealed within it he doubted the Horadrim would last a month. The Emperor showed them that Arcarna travelled to Kurast and so they followed. Virgil had been to Kurast on his way to destroy Mephisto with 3 other allies. The jungle looked bad then but now it was all but annihilated. There was nothing left in the area just a huge expanse of ash filled land with the odd broken down ruin scattered around. They had found the journal of his daughter in one of the more preserved temples that was obviously the last stand for Kurast. Nothing made sense there were a few bodies found inside but none of them resembled Arcana's. He looked back at the book and casted various spells on it looking for enchantments that could reveal hidden messages. He found one when he remembered the first spell that Arcana developed. It was a curse weirdly, but she had made it so that only she and her father could exploit it. Slowly words began to form in a purple ink. Entry 8 Thursday, April 4th, 24 A.T.F I know only you can read this dad so I will direct this to you only. Helping Kurast was a bad idea, they set up a trap but I did manage to find some of the last survivors we managed to hold them off for the week but now they have gotten in I’m watching it now actually. Fighting as well as writing has been fun; I’m probably going to be the only wizard to do it. My portal is nearly done I just need another minute or to find my destination. You know how my teleportation spells work so I’ll need you to recreate it, just use the remnants of the spell to begin making it. Can’t be too hard right? I think I may have to skip the co-ordinates on the portal there just isn’t enough time. I love you. “Sasha we have work to do” was the only words he spoke until he was lost to concentration.
Unknown acceptanceToday had been too normal. Twilight guessed she deserved that though. Her recent break up with Flash Sentry was the reason for that; there were too many problems in the relationship. As a guard and a diplomat Flash was gone more often than not, he talked to much, was too formal and the way he commented on her studying it was just aggravating. Twilight was glad that she had dumped him though, now she didn’t have to worry about dates and could concentrate on her favourite thing in the world, books. “SPIKE!” No answer. “SPIKE!” She called again, what’s taking him so long? Then Twilight noticed the time, 11 pm “Oh right”. Walking over to a book shelf Twilight pulled down a rather small book ’Discovering a New Species by Spilled Ink’. Must have come with the latest order, always excited by a new book Twilight pulled over chair and opened the first page. Well she would have opened the book had there not been an earthquake at the time. Jumping under a table Twilight pondered what could have caused it. Earthquakes were common place in Ponyville but they were never on a fault line, they were usually caused by unnaturally mostly by ridiculous means. “Twilight, you ok? Spike shouted from upstairs, he sounded nervous. “Yeah I’m fine; I wonder what caused this happen this time,” Twilight called back. “I don’t know, but I can see that it came from Applejack’s farm, it’s bad,” Twilight teleported by his side immediately and what she saw dumbfounded her. In the distance was a massive crater that covered at least an acre of the farm land. “Spike I need you to message Princess Celestia asking if she has any knowledge on this event then send it to me,” Twilight ordered. “You can count on me,” Spike said but Twilight was already gone. Around three kilometres squared, fifteen metres deep, caused by magic overload, slight magic residue enough to harm any non-unicorn, no noticeable heat output, too much dust to make out anypony or object that could have caused the event- oh hi Applejack, wait a minute, Applejack? “APPLEJACK STAY AWAY FROM THE CRATER,” Twilight warned. “Ok Twi I’m moving, didn’t need to burst my eardrums though,” Applejack replied. “Sorry, it’s just whatever caused this must have been powerful and I’m not sure it’s done yet.” “Well can’t you get rid of this here dust and see what’s inside?” “Hmm I guess I could but I’m still not sure if we want to know what is in there,” Twilight answered while preparing a dissipation spell. However a scroll quickly materialised beside her. Cancelling the spell Twilight took hold of the message. Dear Twilight I have seen what you have described. I know you are already there but I need you to have caution, whatever caused this was done by a being. I could feel its power when it came to this place. I suspect it was a teleportation spell that failed so anything could be inside. I want a report on your findings when you have finished. Yours Sincerely Princess Celestia “She really needs to skip the formalities,” Twilight prepared the spell again and stood ready to cast. Applejack sat to the side and watched Twilight released the spell. Anything observing their vision was gone instantly and they could see what was in the middle of the crater. It was some sort of creature but from where they were standing it was hard to make out what exactly it was. “Applejack I need you to stay here while I see what’s down there.” “No I’m coming with you; I need to see what has destroyed nearly an acre of my land!” Applejack objected. “Ugh I knew you were going to say that, listen I know this is your property but this thing, whatever it is could easily be dangerous enough to do it again,” Twilight replied. “But,” Applejack sighed “I guess you’re right.” “Don’t worry AJ I’ll be fine.” When Twilight got to the creature of interest she noticed it was sleeping although not very well, it was clear that it was having a really bad nightmare. Twilight however had more important problems to deal with and thus her analysis began. Unknown species but does resemble diamond dogs in stature so it can be guess that it’s bipedal. Possibly intelligent due to it wearing clothes but could also be a pet or messenger. It does have a bag though I would rather not open it. Maybe female but that could be debatable, teeth indicate that it is an omnivore, no fur but does have a mane of sorts on the head. No conduit seen for magic potential. Applejack was starting to get bored, it had been around thirty minutes since Twilight began ‘examining’ the thing in question and for her as much as this event was interesting it was also getting dull. Fortunately for her Twilight motioned her to come over, as she got closer to creature she saw it twitching and moving erratically on the ground. “Twilight is it meant to be like that? It doesn’t look very pleasant.” She asked. “It’s been doing that ever since I first got here, I’m guessing it’s just a bad dream and it has been mumbling a lot but none of it makes any sense,” Twilight moved in closer trying to discern the words but got nothing. “I need you to help me take it to the library and before you say that I could use magic I can’t, it seems to repel any magic used against her.” “But why do you want it at your home I though you said it could be dangerous?” “I don’t think it is, I mean look at it” – Twilight pointed a hoof at the body – “I can’t see anything it could use for magic and from the body structure, it looks like it could barely buck a tree.” “I guess so Twi, but I’ll need to be quick I need to reassure the family.” Applejack moved in to pick it up and put it on her back. The creature seemed to relax at the action. “Huh it’s actually quite light,” Applejack commented. Twilight grabbed the bag and the two ponies trotted into town. “So Twilight did you see anything weird about this here thing?” Applejack asked. “Well apart from obvious there’s only one questionable thing wrong with it and that’s not even from that,” Applejack shot her a glance asking to explain. “It’s this bag, there seems to be so many different magic enchantments and the like coming from it, I can’t wait to see what’s inside!” “Twilight, I can’t believe you of all people would go through another’s belongings!” Applejack exclaimed. “Oh, um yeah I guess I forgot about that,” Twilight looked ahead down the road. ”Oh look we’re nearly there, I hope Spike is ok.” “I’m sure he is Twi you’ve got to remember that he has grown up a bit since ya first got here, he is what twelve now?” “He’ll be thirteen in a few months actually,” Twilight answered. “Well we’re here, I think I can carry it the rest of the way in so I’ll see you later and thanks for the help,” she and Applejack started transferring the thing to the others back. “No problem Twilight I just hope that thing doesn’t cause any more trouble, bye.” “Bye,” Twilight opened the door of the library noticing the familiar smell of books and saw Spike reading a Daring Do Novel. Spike had taken a liking to the series when Rainbow Dash talked to him about it a couple of months ago. “Hi Twilight how was the farm?” Spike said barely taking his eyes off the book. “It wasn’t too bad considering but I need a mattress from upstairs and then I need you to get a book on breaking magical barriers.” “Umm sure thing Twi but why do we need a mattress?” Spike took moved his eyes from his book “uh what is that?” “This is what caused the crater at Sweet Apple Acres, mattress now! I can’t hold this thing forever.” I really need to exercise more. “Yeah mattress got it,” Spike rushed upstairs and started bringing down one of the spare bed mattress (don’t ask how he did it that quickly). Twilight laid down the creature while Spike walked over to the magic section of the library. “So that thing caused that problem at the farm, but it doesn’t look like it could do something like that.” “Well it does seem to be the reason for it,” Spike set down a book ‘Magical protection spells and reversing them by Spilled Ink’. Weird same author as before, “thanks Spike now you can go to bed I’ll need to stay here to watch over -.” “Ugh my head, where am I!” … “Wait Twi, you didn’t say that did you?” Author's Note This is my first try at this so i want a few things: 1. Criticize my work (it's the only way i'll get better) Erm... yeah that's about it.
It's always a dream isn't it?“Ugh my head, where am I!” The first thing Arcana took note of was he air, it smelt bookish. I’ve probably transported myself into a library, great. She was lying on a mattress, face down. At least whoever has been graced by my presence has been hospitable. “Wait Twi, you didn’t say that did you?” Twi? Who would call themselves Twi? The voice seemed male and young, maybe a student or child. “No that wasn’t me, it was that,” Female adult probably this person called Twi. Guess I’d better make myself known. Getting up Arcana opened her amber eyes to reveal a lavender unicorn and a purple dragon. Wait a minute, WHAT. “AHHHHH!” Arcana jumped straight up and looked down on the two individuals. “What are you!? Forget I asked that you’re probably some sort of illusion or being made from the owner of this place I’ve seen weirder things.” “I’m pretty sure we’re real and I am the owner of this library,” the unicorn said. “Ok if this isn’t an illusion then tell me where I am and give me some knowledge of this place,” Arcana demanded. The unicorn looked at the dragon and shrugged it shoulders then began to speak again. “Well you’re in the Golden Oak Library located in Ponyville. The place was founded around two hundred years ago by the Apple family after Princess Celestia gave them the land to settle on. After that the town continued to grow until it is what stands today. About three years ago when I came here it started housing the Elements of Harmony which made it a prominent figure in the land of Equestria,” when the unicorn finished she looked up to Arcana expecting some sort of awe or respect. Arcana was unfazed by the speech. “Well looks like this is either a huge joke or I’m dreaming,” she pinched herself. “Then I’m not dreaming, hmm tell me how did I get here?” “Umm ok, there was a huge earthquake and I found you in a crater by Sweet Apple Acres.” “Damn it sound like your genuine and I can’t sense much magic so for now I’ll assume you’re real,” why did it have to be me that ended up here, why couldn’t it have been Sasha that would have been funnier. “I guess I should be a better guest and introduce myself, my name is Arcana Rasha but everyone calls me Arc.” “Well nice to meet you then, I’m Twilight Sparkle and this is my assistant Spike,” oh god even the names are terrible, but then again I’m one to talk.”Do you mind telling us how you got here I haven’t seen any of your species before?” Twilight questioned. “Also how can you sense magic? Can you do magic? How do you do it? Why is your bag outputting so many different magical signals? Why is it that Applejack found you so light? Is there a reason for you being a bipedal?” Arcana tried to interrupt but Twilight was still sending out the torrent of questions, things from gender to if she knew about transformation spells. The questions were completely random and Arcana were pretty sure she heard two questions being said at the same time. There was only one solution so she levitated the pony and used a devocalization spell (I called it the ‘SHUT UP 9000’) which quickly quieted down Twilight. “Now when I release you I will answer the first question and then you will answer my question, ok?” A nod from Twilight confirmed her and she was set back down. “When I was being pursued by some rather powerful people I had to make a teleportation spell-“ Arcana sighed “-I had to cut short the preparation of the spell and it then transported me here, that would be the best explanation though there may have been an outside force but I doubt it.” “So you are from another world?” “I would suspect so, right now you owe me two questions. One, where is my bag? And two, who is the ruler of this country?” Arcana asked. “Your bag is on the table just behind you and I guess I am one of the rulers here but I would suggest that Princess Celestia would be a better candidate for that question, why though?” “Um I need my bag because it has my stuff in it, duh.” “No I meant why do you need to know who are ruler is?” “Twilight for someone in a library you aren’t the brightest, you owe me two questions again, but I need to know who your ruler is so that I can meet her. As soon as possible.” “I guess so, I have to write to report to her about my findings tomorrow so I can ask for an audience but first I’ll need to know why you want an audience with her.” “It’s a problem that I might have that I need some help with. If it goes unchecked it’ll bring-” Arcana stopped for a second “- it will just be bad.” Twilight looked unconvinced “I’m sure it can’t be that bad.” “Let’s just say that what I have with me could end this world, very quickly,” Arcana took on a pained expression. “I’ve seen too many times our world being assaulted by it,” she turned around and grabbed the bag. “How many times exactly?” “Once,” Arcana sighed again. “That was plenty to convince me that I didn’t want it to happen again.” Arcana’s mind was lost in painful memories. “You were having a nightmare of it when you got here didn’t you?” Twilight asked, concerned about her guest. “Yes, I don’t want to talk about it,” shaking her head as if to remove herself from the thoughts, she looked to Twilight. “So how are you a ruler here, I mean I get that you own this library but ruler is stretching it a bit.” Twilight chuckled lightly at the words, ”well no Princess Celestia sent me an unfinished spell and asked me to complete it, after a few problems and me fixing the spell it used the Elements of Harmony and turned me into an alicorn,” seeing the confused look on Arcana, she continued to elaborate. “An alicorn is a unicorn that has a pegasi wings and some even take traits from the earth ponies as well like their strength.” Great there are more than just unicorns I have to worry about. “I think it would be best for you to rest I’ve kept you long enough I just need you to point me to the history and magic sections of the library.” Twilight noticeably agreed as a yawn just over took her. “Yeah I suppose I am a bit tired, I’ll see you in the mourning then? Oh and the history section is in the other room and magic is to your left,” Twilight then proceeded to head upstairs. “Goodnight.” “Night,” with Twilight gone Arcana opened up her bag to check that she had all her gear. I’m so glad I figured out how to increase the space inside an object otherwise I would never fit all my stuff. First she took out her spare pair of clothing; I guess I’ll have to this now apparently long distance removes any unprotected enchantments. Arcana changed her clothes, I’m glad I took the time to dye this purple yellow didn’t agree with me (also here is a link to what she actually looks like ). Skipping the head piece she delved deeper into the bag pulling out all assortments of items from reagents to artifacts she still had to figure out how to use. Finally she pulled out a huge jet black gem that glowed an infernal red. The Black Soulstone was held in Arcana’s hands and she could hear the evil whispering that came from inside. Arcana didn’t need to be told twice to put the Soulstone back, putting the various items back into the bag she headed to the other part of the library to catch up on the world history. She always hated history class, books are better.
Experiments, spitting and a plan“Twilight you need to wake up.” “Go away mom, five more minutes,” Twilights brain was always hotwired to wake up at seven o’clock every morning, but today was a Sunday meaning she got to sleep in. Spike trying to wake her up on a day like today was equal to murder. “Twilight I know todays Sunday but that Arcana person downstairs is waiting for you,” huh who? Oh wait. The great weight of realisation struck Twilight forcing her out of the bed. “Twilight when you’re ready there are pancakes in the kitchen and Arc will see you in the basement. Why the basement, ugh I’ll find out soon enough. Twilight looked at the clock, sure enough she slept in to 10 o’clock. The mirror didn’t offer any good news either, her mane was a mess. It took a few minutes before she looked presentable and headed to breakfast. Let’s just say that while pancakes are good, Spike’s pancakes were on a completely different food category. They didn’t last long with Twilight present. Now that Twilight had been groomed and fed she could get to business. “Spike I need to send a letter to the Princess can you find a quill and ink,” Twilight called out. “Come downstairs Twilight Arc wants to see you before you send it,” Spike yelled back. Twilight made her way to the basement where she did most of her scientific experiments and where her personal books were kept. What she saw seated in one of the corners stumped her. Spike was playing chess with Arcana however she had at least ten books floating around her. “Are you reading all of those?” Twilight asked. “Ah yes actually and I’ve also beating your friend here 35 to nil –" “And she still manages to keep a casual conversation going, it really is kinda cool,” Spike interjected. “Uh huh, was it you that left that stack of books up stairs?” Twilight just dismissed the fact that what she was seeing was impossible. ‘Oh uh yeah that would be me, I forgot how you had shelved them when I had finished the two subjects of text,” Arcana scratched the back of her neck. “Sorry.” “But how. What. Did you? How did you read that? That’s over two hundred books!” Twilight exclaimed. “Well I lose again,” Spike sighed. “Twilight did you want to write that letter now?” “Um yeah sure, now’s good,” Twilight let it go, there’s no point in arguing with an otherworldly person “Can you leave room for me to make a word in to,” Arcana asked. Dear Princess Celestia I have found the cause of the crater at Sweet Apple Acres in the form of this (“What’s the name of your species Arc?” “Human.”) human named Arcana Rasha. She is a bipedal creature with a body structure similar to Diamond Dogs but with much more minimal fur. She is requesting an audience with you as soon as possible. She seems magically adept but I don’t know how yet, I saw her reading about ten books this morning and she said she had read around 200 books through the night so we won’t need to teach her anything about history or this world’s magic. When we get your message back we will teleport over to avoid any confrontation with the public. The next words will be written by Arcana. What Twilight sees and what I actually write will be different and anyone apart from her will be able to see the true words. Now that that’s said I can begin to apologise for coming here, I have not come from a peaceful world as your history would seem and I’ve brought an item with me I rather wish had stayed at home. I will not be accepting you not being able to have a talk with me; I would suggest that a dinner would be the best course of action. There will only be me, you, Twilight and a few other people of importance, do not bring along Spike. I will not have anyone related to public issues attending either. This audience is important as it endangers your country. P.S Expect a long night. Yours sincerely Arcana Rasha Twilight Sparkle “Now Spike you can send it,” Twilight handed Spike the scroll who sent it through the window with a breath of fire. “Hmm, let me guess a teleportation fire? On second thought, you don’t need to answer that,” Arcana said. “Now can I interest you in a game of chess?” “Uh no thanks I can see that you would beat me already, besides I’ve nearly reached a break through with my new potion,” Twilight eyed the chemistry table that had all manner of ingredients laid around it. “Oh that, I saw that. You’re trying to make an antidote potion for any natural poison aren’t you?” Arcana asked. “Uh how did you know that?” “I looked at it duh, I recognised the ingredients and you’re at the stage that everyone on my world was stuck on,” Arcana walked over to the table and started levitating various liquids and poured them into a beaker. Through the process she cast different spells into the beaker and as a result the beaker had a grey mixture of a normal looking fluid. Then the result began to slowly evaporate away until there was no sign that the experiment was even done. “That there is what you’re confused about isn’t it.” “Wait, how in Tartarus did you know how to do that?” Twilight nearly shouted. “Wow you do ask a lot of pointless questions, but just for the sake of it I’ll tell you. That potion is one of the most useful things created for an adventurer to use. It took about ten years of research by people all over the world before someone found out how to stop the evaporation effect,” Arcana chuckled lightly before explaining. “The missed ingredient was found by a village doctor, I think her name was Margra, anyway when she tried to mixing the potion her grandson spat into it for a joke. Turns out that small joke saved countless people across every nation, even me a couple of times.” After the small story Arcana looked over to Twilight and started bursting into laughter. Twilight held a notebook and quill in magic and her jaw had nearly literally hit the floor in disbelief. “Uhh, uhh, what. How did. Why?” Twilight managed to say. “I wouldn’t ask, we never did figure out why it worked so we all just gave up. Oh and you didn’t hear this from me, you just did a lot of experimenting.” “Ok I think I can do that, so when during the process do you err, spit in it?” Twilight asked getting ready to write down the notes. “It’s just after casting the third spell that you do it, make sure you don’t do it before or after else it blows up in your face,” Arcana recalled an old memory. “I remember during a chemistry practical there were alot of synchronised explosions from the same mistake.” Spike who was laughing immediately changed reaction and looked like he was going to vomit. “Um Twilight is he ok?” Arcana commented. “Yeah he’s fine it’s just how we get mail from the Princess.” “Hmm I don’t think that’s a very pleasant way to do that, hmm maybe I –“but Arcana was cut off when Spike let loose a green fire. The fire then materialised into a letter, Twilight grabbed said letter with her magic and unfurled it. Twilight then began to read. Dear Twilight I will accept Arcana’s proposal and we will have a talk over dinner tonight. Me and Luna will be attending and I want you to bring the Elements of Harmony with you as well as the ponies they belong to. I need Spike to go the Crystal Empire during and bring Cadance along with Shining Armor and bring them to Canterlot so they can meet this human as well, they will likely be back by tomorrow. You will need to transport yourselves to Twilight’s old residence at the castle. The dinner will be held at 6 p.m. and I will ask Luna to bring you to the location from your room. I ask that if Arcana are able to perform magic then if she can be invisible till we meet to avoid any notice from guards or any other of the public visiting the castle. Until tonight. Yours Sincerely Princess Celestia “Seriously? She doubts I can use magic, thats kinda funny considering I’m probably the most powerful person on this world.” Arcana said after Twilight had read the letter. “Yeah well I doubt that, Celestia and Luna are the two extremely powerful Princesses,” Twilight replied. “Ok then tell me their most powerful moments then,” Arcana shot back. “Hmm let’s see, they both bring day and night, Celestia had to banish Luna to, wait a minute, you read the whole history section of the libary didn’t you. You should know this,” Twilight asked confused. “Ah yes I did and I wasn’t impressed, especially when some relics you and your friends found that don’t even predate the two Alicorns are more powerful.” Arcana stated matter of factually. “Ugh, not going to argue, not going to argue, not going to argue, LUNCH!” Twilight tried to stop herself and for once succeeded. “Oh good lunch I’m starving, I’ll go make some waffles,” with lunch on his mind Spike raced up stairs. “Does he even realise he’s got to go to the Crystal Empire?” A few minutes later and the trio were sitting at a table with lunch in front of them. Another minute later and the trio were sitting at a table with nothing in front of them. “Well I haven’t had anything that good since my last visit Kingsport,” Arcana complimented. “I do have to say that Spike does make good food, often better than chefs twice his age. But now we need a plan of action,” Twilight brought up the subject that her and Spike were dreading, her friends. “Spike I need you to go out and find each of our friends and bring them here, but we will each introduce them to Arcana one at a time. Think you can do that Spike?” “Sure thing Twi, who we bringing first?” Spike asked. “I want Applejack to come first seeing as though she has already seen you once.” “When was that?” Arcana become concerned. “Oh she helped me bring you here she won’t tell anyone though, next I want Fluttershy to come because if she’s here then the rest of them won’t be as quick to act,” everyone nodded. “After that we’ll bring Rarity, then Rainbow and lastly Pinkie.” Arcana didn’t know why she shuddered at the last name.
OdiumApplejack was the first pony to be coming to meet the newcomer. From Twilights knowledge, she’s a hard worker, runs a farm with her family, very trustworthy and wields the Element of Honesty. In conclusion she was the same as a well know country woman, and Arcana messed up her farm, this wasn’t going to go well. ‘Knock knock knock,’ Twilight recognised the tone as Spike’s and went to fetch the door. “Ah Applejack it’s good to see you, come in,” Twilight greeted. “Thank ya kindly Twilight, you wanted to see me about that thing we found at my farm?” Applejack questioned. “Yes she’s here to meet you. Also we’re need at Canterlot tonight for a dinner to discuss her.” Applejack thought for a moment. “Yeah I can come, there isn’t anything to be done cause we finished harvesting a couple of weeks ago.” Applejack paused again. “Are you sure you want to keep an eye on this person? You don’t deserve any more strife after what happened with Flash.” Twilight sighed and motioned Applejack to follow her, “I’m not too sorry about what occurred between us, we knew it was coming and this unexpected person is more than enough to keep my mind off such things,” Twilight stopped by the door. “She’s behind here.” Twilight had left to find Spike and make some drinks for the visitors and now had to mentally prepare herself for what was behind the door. Before letting nervousness getting the better of her Applejack opened the door. There was no surprise, no dangerous magic, the only out of the ordinary thing in the room was the woman Applejack found at her farm except she was now awake and looking out a window for no apparent reason. Even when she spoke it sounded normal but still very familiar. “Applejack I assume?” She said, continuing to look out into the distance. “Uh yes I’m Applejack it’s nice to uh meet you,” this new arrival didn’t seem too bad. “Likewise, my name is Arcana Rasha or just Arc for short,” She moved and sat down on one of the chairs while motioning for Applejack to do so as well. “I have to apologise for my rather destructive entry into your farm, I’ll make up for it when I am more able.” “Well that would be nice we never turn down a hoof willing to help on the farm.” “That’s good then, so what is it you have on your farm?” Applejack didn’t expect this, first she apologised for the damage on her farm and now she actually asked what it housed. Sure ponies knew about the recognised land but no one talked about it. “Um well, uh.” “Really that’s it? I’ve seen the great orchards from Westmarch that has stocks that are world renowned and you can’t even say a word about yours.” “I just didn’t think you would care, the acres never really come up in conversation,” as Applejack finished the sentence Twilight came in with the drinks. “Hope I’m not interrupting,” Twilight set down the various drinks, a light cider for Applejack and grape juice for Arcana and herself. “Oh no, we were just going to start talking about Sweet Apple Acres. From what I gathered it is the reason why Ponyville exists now.” Arcana said over her glass. “Uh yes it is the reason, Twilight how does she know this?” Applejack asked. “Well she read the history section of the library last night, all of it,” Twilight sighed after she answered. “You’re kidding right, I can barely read a book in a day and Twilight had to take a whole weekend to look through twelve of them,” Applejack sat perplexed looking at Arcana. Twilight wasn’t however and voiced her complaint, “I for your information finished them on the first day and if it wasn’t for that whole incident with the timber wolves would have been done sooner.” Twilight huffed and continued. “Also my fastest read has been twenty-five books in a day.” “Okay, thanks for that Twilight, now can you get Fluttershy to come over while me and Applejack talk farming.” Fluttershy was at her home near the edge of the Everfree, no one knew why she decided to stay there. She knew though, being away from the rest of Ponyville allowed her a more peaceful environment that she could use to house all the animals that she kept watch over. Fluttershy had always longed for the life she used to lead, for five years now she had been in Ponyville taking care of the local wildlife that she never lost interest in but had now left a hole in her. Fluttershy moved to look at a picture that had been taken when she had met the Princesses personal protégé, the still forms of herself and her other five closest friends lay on it. All but one had no clue about her true past and even then that clue led nowhere. All of her friends had talked about their past at one point or another, most weren’t exactly great but they all had a happy ending that was caused by Rainbow Dash’s sonic rainboom. She had asked Rainbow to come up with a cover story to convince the others instead of telling them the truth. Lying was easier. Her friends would disagree but this secret belonged to her. Fluttershy could faintly hear someone coming to her door and readied herself. A sharp knock confirmed another presence and Fluttershy trotted to the entrance to open it. An easily recognisable purple dragon stood outside. “Hello Spike how can I help you?” “Erm Twilight sent me, she needs you and the other elements to meet a new visitor, and she has to go to Canterlot to meet the Princesses over dinner tonight to discuss the person.” Spike had been told what to say to Fluttershy about the situation and relayed it with ease. “Ah ok I don’t have anything planned for later and dinner sounds nice, I’ll go get my things,” Fluttershy raced back inside to grab her bag and joined Spike so they could head off. The day looked rather nice but Fluttershy knew that the pegasus weather team had a scheduled rain and could see them preparing the clouds for the downpour. “Spike didn’t you say a person? Isn’t what we’re meeting a pony?” “Actually no she’s not, her name is Arcana and she is a human apparently she isn’t from around here, um Fluttershy you ok? She’s not dangerous,” but Fluttershy was already lost standing there with a look of horror. As instantly as when she froze she started running, muttering something that Spike couldn’t understand. With no other choice Spike followed. Applejack had just finished explaining how manage to grow nearly all the food Ponyville eats to Arcana when they heard another pony at the front door. “Ah that must be Spike and Fluttershy I’ll be right back,” Twilight said and left the room. The other occupants listen in to the conversation held at the door. “Ah Fluttershy it’s good to see you, Where’s Spike?” “He’s coming, where is she?” the voice guessed to be Fluttershy was straight to the point and hardly calm. “I thought you girls said that she was supposed to be different than that,” Arcana asked Applejack. “She is never usually like this.” “She’s in the dining room, Shy are you ok?” “Move” The door burst open and a yellow pegasus with a pink mane stepped in, her face had an expression of hate and pain but only Arcana noticed that it hid fear. The pony scanned the room and saw Arcana. In a second the pony was gone. Something tackled Arcana to the floor behind her. “Are they here!?” No hate, no pain. Just fear. Author's Note So can anyone guess who Fluttershy really is? I'll give you some clues: 1. She is from the Diablo games 2. Not seen in Diablo 3. Was seen in Diablo 2 4. Mentioned in Diablo 3 5. The title is also a clue anyone who guesses right will um... get self satisfaction in the next chapter (yes that will work)
