Chaos Unendingby akarakxmChaptersPrologueAn Early Wrap UpAwakeningPrologueTHREE YEARS AGO, THE ANCIENT CASTLE OF THE ROYAL PONY SISTERS Sweat dripped from Twilight Sparkle's brow as she concentrated on Nightmare Moon. She saw the five orbs that held the Elements of Harmony surrounding the black mare's hooves. The mare was laughing at her. Laughing. Twilight felt rage building up as lightning crashed around Nightmare Moon. She lowered her single horned head low to the ground and began to paw, preparing for a charge. "You're kidding," Nightmare Moon scoffed, "You're kidding, right?" Twilight lowered her head even further and let the magic flow through her body to the point of her horn. And then she charged. 'You're insane, Twilight!' she whispered as she neared Nightmare Moon, 'This will never work!' She let all of her magic focus to the tip of her horn as Nightmare Moon released a battle cry, preparing for the impact and fall of the smaller pony. But the impact didn't come. Nightmare opened her eyes and saw that Twilight had teleported herself onto the small pedestal holding the five orbs. Twilight moaned in exhaustion as she pulled herself back to her feet, forcing herself to bring her magic back to the surface. "Just one spark," Twilight whispered, the orbs beginning to glow, "Come on, come on!" Nightmare Moon scowled as a whirlwind of dark magic surrounded her, carrying her toward the pedestal. Twilight's eyes jolted open as a swirl of dark magic buffeted against her. Feeling a sudden surge of energy, Twilight was sent flying backward. She hit the ground hard, knocking the wind out of her. She sat up panting as Nightmare Moon stood triumphantly over the five Elements of Harmony. Suddenly, bright magical energy began to course through the orbs, pulsing into Nightmare Moon herself. "No!" the black mare cried, "It can't be!" Twilight felt a smug grin crossing her face. Nightmare Moon felt herself shrinking away from the pure magic around her. Then the electric white energy stopped. "Where's the sixth element?" Twilight gasped, feeling truly helpless. Nightmare Moon cackled maniacally as she reared up onto her hind legs, smashing her front hooves down upon the five elements, leaving nothing but shards and fragments of rock. Twilight Sparkle suddenly felt as helpless as she did the day she went in to take her entrance exam to Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. The Elements of Harmony had been completely destroyed. "You little FOAL!" the evil mare sneered, "Thinking you could defeat me! Now you will never see your princess OR your sun!" Dark energy began to swirl around the entire room, making Twilight Sparkle feel more and more insignificant. She was helpless against the wicked mare's powers. "The night will last FOREVER!" Nightmare cackled wickedly as the dark energy encompassed the two ponies. Twilight looked on in fear as the black mare gathered more power to her. Suddenly a noise broke through the horrible oppressive blackness. At first it was just a jumble of noises but as the sound got closer, Twilight recognized it as the voices of her new found friends. As she felt them coming closer, a spark awoke deep within her heart. Her eyes flashed and she felt a small smile creep across her face. "You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony," Twilight whispered to Nightmare Moon, "Just like that?" Nightmare Moon felt puzzled. Surely she had destroyed them outright! Hadn't she? "Well, you're wrong!" Twilight cried out, her friends coming to her side, "Because the Spirits of the Elements of Harmony are RIGHT HERE!" Nightmare Moon cried out in fear and amazement as the shards of the Elements of Harmony began to glow with every color of the rainbow. Her eyes grew wide as they began to fly over to the five ponies now surrounding Twilight Sparkle. "Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt," Twilight cried out, "Represents the spirit of Honesty!" Applejack started as a ring of orange glowing shards began to rotate around her. "Fluttershy, who tamed the Manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of Kindness!" Fluttershy shied away from a ring of pink shards spiraling around her. "Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by laughing in the face of danger, represents the spirit of Laughter!" Pinkie danced giddily as a batch of blue shards encircled her. "Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of Generosity!" Rarity blushed as she was surrounded by shards of indigo. "And Rainbow Dash! Who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire, represents the spirit of Loyalty!" Rainbow Dash watched calmly as she became the center of the red shards' circle of gravity. "The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us!" Twilight bellowed triumphantly. "You still don't have the sixth element!" Nightmare Moon smirked, "The spark didn't work!" Twilight raised her head with pride. "But it did!" she spoke calmly and firmly, "A different kind of spark!" Twilight turned to her five friends and smiled. "I felt it the very moment i realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you," she teared up as she spoke, "The spark ignited in me when I realized that you all are my friends!" A glow of white light erupted from above the ponies' heads. There above them, meshed into the stone ceiling, was the sixth Element. Nightmare Moon shielded her eyes from the blinding light. "You see Nightmare Moon, when those elements are ignited by the...the Spark that resides in the heart of us all," Twilight smiled, "It creates the sixth element. The element of MAGIC!" The six ponies felt themselves being raised into the air as the rotating rocks began to swirl faster than ever, transforming into glimmering gold necklaces with a gleaming gem, each pony with a gem reflecting their own Cutie Mark. For Fluttershy, a pink butterfly. Rainbow Dash's face beamed with the reflection off her red lightning bolt. Pinkie Pie adorned a blue balloon. Applejack received a bright orange apple. Rarity's neck was decorated with a deep indigo diamond. Twilight clenched her eyes shut as a golden crown placed itself on her head, encrusted with a bright violet star. A rainbow of colors erupted from the six Spirits of Harmony, targeting Nightmare Moon. Nightmare Moon screamed in genuine terror as the whirlwind of colors wrapped around her. The entity of Nightmare Moon watched as the limp body of Princess Luna was pulled off of her like an old cloak. Nightmare felt so vulnerable as the rainbow of colors stripped away the body that had been under her control for a millennium. She tried desperately to pull away from the horribly bright light, to escape back into the body that meant freedom for her. "How?" she cried out in anger, "How could this happen to me?" She struggled as the spectrum of light carried her out the window, through the night sky and back to the moon. She felt a wave of terror as she neared the surface of that rock that meant damnation to anypony unlucky enough to call it home. As the rainbow and herself made connection to the surface of the moon, she felt a sharp pain at the back of her mind, like a small sting. She cried out in anguish and rage, but the sound fell silent in the vacuum of space. Then she realized. Luna was gone, it was just Nightmare Moon. "I am alone," she felt a single tear well up in the corner of her eye, "I am completely alone." Again she felt a twing at the back of her mind. DOWNTOWN PONYVILLE, TWO YEAR AGO Discord sat smugly on his throne, balancing his glass of chocolate rain on one finger. "Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing." He laughed to himself. He pressed the glass to his lips and began to sip when the sight of six ponies galloping toward his throne broke his focus. 'Oh how positively dull.’ He thought to himself "Not as wonderful as friendship!" Twilight Sparkle cried out. "Oh dear, this again?" Discord sneered, sipping the glass away from the chocolate and tossing the chocolate away. He let out a small laugh as the glass shaped chocolate exploded nearby. "That's right!" Applejack bellowed, "You couldn't break apart our friendship for long!" Discord sneered, raising a single finger on his furred paw, causing Applejack to slowly float toward him. "Oh Applejack," he scoffed, "Don't lie to me! I'm the one who made you a liar!" Discord's face twisted into a maniacal grimace as he unleashed another bout of energy, dragging Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy before him as well. Twilight, feeling anger fill her heart, began to charge her magical energy. "Will you ever learn?" Discord whispered to his five captives. Discord's eyes grew wide as a magical bubble formed around the ponies before his eyes. Twilight had teleported herself to protect her friends from the monster on the throne. Slowly, Twilight levitated the pink sphere back down to the ground, leaving a circle of grass where moments before was another section of Discords warped reality. Discord brought his finger to his mouth in a mocking gesture. "I'll tell you what we've learned, Discord," Twilight murmured, "We've learned that friendship isn't always easy, but there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!" Discord rose from his throne and made an expression as though he was about to be sick. "Oh gag! Fine," Discord sneered, "Go ahead and try to use your elements. Friend me! Just make it quick, I'm missing some excellent chaos here!" Discord slouched back into his throne and stretched, lazily scratching his scaly stomach. Twilight Sparkle and her friends prepared themselves for the attack, each one raising her head high. "Alright ladies," Twilight called to her friends, "Let's show him what friendship can do!" Five glows emitted from the group. "Wait wait wait!" came Pinkie Pie from under a chocolate rain cloud. Pinkie Pie sat drinking her fill of the chocolate before sighing with relief. She sprang back to her friends and emitted a low growl as she prepared to attack Discord. The Elements of Harmony began to glow with every color of the rainbow before coming to a bright white. Discord yawned in boredom, until he noticed waves of energy shooting past his head. "What's this?" he whispered, "No! No!" As Discord cried out in fear, a rainbow erupted from the six ponies, sending itself into an arc before raining down upon Discord himself. Discord struggled as his body was slowly turned into stone. He writhed in horror as he felt his legs harden. His gut wrenched as it slowly solidified. He opened his mouth and screamed in vain as his entirety was turned to stone. Discord screamed in pain as he felt his spirit being torn away from his stone imprisonment. His body felt as though it was on fire. His limbs were numb with pain. He felt tears streaming down his face as he passed from the realm of the living to the domain of the damned. Fire licked at his flesh, causing his skin to boil. He cried out for help, but the demons around him simply laughed. Discord felt a sudden surge of fear. This wasn't what had happened before. Yes, it was true he had been imprisoned by Princesses Luna and Celestia, but he was trapped body and soul in that accursed statue. This was something different. He was no longer Discord, God of Chaos. He was now Discord, the wandering spirit. And he was trapped in Tartarus. An Early Wrap UpPrincess Celestia stood before an audience of nearly two thousand earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns. On her left stood her sister, Princess Luna, and on her right stood the Mayor of Ponyville. Celestia glanced down at the crowd before her that was made up of not only the entirety of the citizens of Ponyville, but nearly all of Cloudsdale and Canterlot as well. There were ponies that had even journeyed all the way from Appleloosa and Manehattan. Among the ponies stood a few other more prominent figures such as Zecora of the Everfree Forest and Chief Thunderhooves of the Buffalo Tribe. Never had Princess Celestia seen so many ponies and friends in one place for the same cause. She couldn’t help but smile. She turned to her sister who nodded slightly. It was time to share the news. “Citizens of Equestria, the news I have to share with you is indeed news that demands celebration,” she felt a grin spreading across her face as her subjects had looks of confusion and puzzlement on their faces, “Will the pegasi known as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy step forward please?” There was a streak of rainbow light as Rainbow Dash rocketed toward the stage. Fluttershy followed behind her, though much slower than her cyan furred friend. Fluttershy alighted beside Rainbow Dash as the eager pegasus placed her front hooves on the podium. “Alright, everypony,” Rainbow Dash yelled excitedly, “Seeing as I am the fastest and the best flyer in Equestria, I took it upon myself to take a look at the weather forecast for the upcoming Winter Wrap Up.” Applejack rolled her eyes at Dash’s cocky self praise, but even she had to smile about the news to come. “Since we here in Ponyville are the ones that do the Winter Wrap Up every year, we’ve decided that this year we’re going to mix it up a bit this time around,” Dash grinned, “This year is going to be the soonest coming of spring in almost a hundred years!” A murmur of approval rose from the crowd as Fluttershy flapped over to the podium. Fluttershy cleared her throat daintily and raised a hoof for silence. The audience quieted themselves out of respect for the soft spoken cream coated pegasus. “While I very much agree that this is a very good thing,” the blushing pony spoke, “It will be hard work to make the land livable again.” The ponies in the audience began to nod their heads in understanding as Rainbow Dash took the stand once again. She ran a hoof through her hair, flashing streaks of every color at the crowd. Scootaloo, sitting on the front row, squealed with delight as Rainbow winked at her. “Now, as my esteemed associate, Fluttershy has said,” Rainbow Dash announced to the audience, “It will be hard day of work making sure that our towns are springified. In order to maintain order throughout the Wrap Up, I would like to call my good friend, Twilight Sparkle to organize the whole thing.” Twilight Sparkle, followed closely by Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack began to weave through the crowd to center stage. Applejack let out a big yawn as she cantered behind Pinkie. Rarity slipped beside her and tapped her on the haunch. “Applejack, my dear,” she whispered through a forced toothy grin “It is quite rude to act bored before we make a presentation.” “Ah’m sorry, Rare,” Applejack apologized, stifling another yawn, “Ah jus’ ain’t been sleepin right at night.” “Well, you can sleep all you want tonight,” Rarity scolded, “After we speak to the crowd.” “Whatever you say, sugarcube,” Applejack yawned again, stumbling slightly, “Le’s get this over with.” Twilight Sparkle glanced back at her orange colored friend. It was unlike Applejack to have restless nights and even more out of character for her to let it affect her mood. Sitting on Twilight’s back was her baby dragon assistant Spike. Spike was sucking on a emerald, drooling all over his hands. He noticed Twilight’s concerned glance at Applejack and put a hand on her side. “She’ll be okay, Twilight,” he whispered to her, through a mouth full of green gem stone, “She’s just stressed about the early Wrap Up. After this thing’s over, she’ll be back to Applejack.” “I’m sure she will, Spike.” Twilight responded as she started up the stairs to the stage. Twilight and her friends fell into line next to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Twilight raised a thick stack of index cards, making it very apparent that a long speech was about to follow. There was a groan from the denizens of Ponyville, much to the chagrin of the Twilight. She cleared her throat with a polite ahem, raising the first of the cards to eye level. “Friends and neighbors,” she began, daring anyone to stop her, “As this is the earliest Winter Wrap Up in over a century, that will mean that there will be a longer growing season--” Twilight was cut off by a wave of cheers at this glorious news. She waited impatiently, tapping her hoof slightly. Rainbow Dash raised her hooves in the air, demanding silence. The noise slowly simmered down to a hush. “Thank you Rainbow Dash,” Twilight sighed, “As I was saying, we will have a longer growing season, which will require more seeds to be planted, which in turn will require more ponies sowing the seeds. While I understand that there is already a large number of you that are ploughers and seeders, we will need approximately twice the usual amount.” This time, Twilight’s speech was received with moans and gripes. Many ponies began to turn and meander away, including many of the Ponyville residents. Twilight looked to her friends in dismay. “Hold on jus’ one pony-pickin’ minute there!” Applejack cried, stepping up to the podium, “What the hay is wrong with everypony? Didn’t you hear what Twilight jus’ said?” The ponies that had walked off turned back, listening intently. “Ah’ll be the first to admit,” Applejack continued, “Ah ain’t too crazy excited to work extra hard on this here Wrap Up, but Ah’ll be darned if’n Ah let Ponyville down. With Celestia as my witness--” Princess Luna shot Applejack a withering glance. “Beggin’ yer pardon, Princess,” Applejack stammered, “With the Royal Pony Sisters as my witnesses, Ah’ll work until Ah cain’t work no more! And Ah’ll tell you why!” Applejack paused for a moment, waiting as the entire crowd fixed their gaze on her. She smiled a little at the thought that she was speaking in front of nearly all of Equestria. “Ah’ll keep workin’ ‘cause Ah know that at the end of it all, there’ll be food aplenty for my family and friends once Applebuck Season rolls around.” There was a murmur of approval rising from the crowd. “And Ah know everypony’s favorite time of year will have cider flowin’ like fresh spring water. Why, if’n Rainbow’s predictions are correct, which they always are, we can be buckin’ apples off’a them trees by the end of the month. Howdya like them apples?” There was an uproar of approval at the mention of the famous Apple Family Cider. Pinkie Pie held a napkin under her own and Rainbow Dash’s mouths to prevent their drool from dripping onto the stage. Applejack sauntered over to Princess Celestia and Luna. “All yers, yer Majesties,” Applejack chuckled, bowing low to the ground, “Ah jus’ got ‘em warmed up for you.” Princesses Celestia and Luna both laughed as they walked slowly to the stand. Celestia rapped a hoof on the wood stage, calling for silence. “Thank you ever so much, Applejack,” Princess Celestia’s honey sweet voice wrapped through the entire crowd, “Now, does everypony understand what is expected and needed of them this Winter Wrap Up?” There were a few shouts of yes and several nods. Princess Celestia nodded in approval. Out in the center of the crowd, a slender black and white striped hoof was raised over the heads of the citizens of Equestria. “Dearest Princesses of white and of blue,” came the sing song voice of Zecora the Zebra, “Allow me to offer my service to you. While I may not be strong and am unable to fly, perhaps there is another way for Zecora to help you get by.” “Dear sister,” Luna spoke for the first time, “I would be honored to have you by my side as I direct the clearing of the snow atop the Everfree Forest and the surrounding flatlands.” “If that is what my you wish of my striped flank,” Zecora sang out, “I will gladly accept that given rank.” Ponies from across Equestria joined in laughter at the mention of the zebra’s flank. The zebra blushed slightly as she realized what she had said. “I used a word with less than few rhymes,” she giggled, “It seems the joke's on me this time.” Applejack laughed beside her friends as the ponies of Equestria went their separate ways to rest up for the early Winter Wrap Up the next morning. As the last of the ponies and buffalo dispersed, Applejack led her friends down the stairs off the stage. The six ponies and baby dragon turned to give their goodbyes to the Princesses. “We hope you all rest easy,” Princess Celestia murmured to the young friends, “For tomorrow we will have much work to do.” Applejack sauntered at the rear of the pack, feeling her exhaustion slowly beginning to take over her body. The orange pony tried to shake off the sleep that was creeping over her mind. ‘C’mon Applejack,’ she whispered to herself, ‘You ain’t too tired to make it back to Sweet Apple Acres. It’s just a little further along.’ As she took another step, she stumbled, scraping her shins on the cold muddy road. She drug herself back to her hooves, ignoring the pain in her legs. Her friends hadn’t noticed her fall. That was fine by her. The less her friends knew about her problem the better. She pulled an apple out of her saddlebag, munching on it. She knew the energy it would give her wouldn’t last long, but right now she needed any energy she could get. She stumbled a few more steps forward, watching her friends getting farther and farther away from her. As she lifted her hind leg, she felt it go stiff. “No!” she cried out desperately, “Not again! Please, just a little further, legs...” She felt a tear run down her cheek as her body began to lock up and twitch. The pain of the fit caused her to choke. She fell to her knees, crying out as she started to cough and choke. She reached out, trying to call to her friends as she slowly sank into the snow and mud around her. Her entire body began to convulse as she lay her head into the wet ground. ‘What is wrong with me?’ Applejack thought to herself, ‘Why is this happening to me?’ The orange pony lay still in the snow as her five pony friends noticed she was missing. She felt consciousness slipping away as she felt six hooves lifting her from the ground. She closed her eyes and let herself be carried away. Applejack shook her head as she sat up. She looked at her surroundings. She had once again left Ponyville. She was in some sort of forest. It wasn’t the Everfree, she was sure of that. She was also sure that she wasn’t alone. She looked around before calling out in the air. “Alright, ya’ll,” she called, “Ah know you’re out there, so don’t try to hide! Come out where Ah can see ya’ll properly.” Applejack rubbed her eyes as a bright pink pegasus pony pushed her way through the bushes. “Well, geez, AJ,” the pony laughed, “I should hope you knew I was here. But next time, try to come find me! That is the point of Hide and Seek.” Applejack stared at the pink pony with a puzzled look on her face. “Oh come on, Applejack,” the pegasus laughed, flying an arc over Applejack’s head, “Don’t tell me you fell asleep on me again.” The pony sat in front of Applejack and brushed her sky blue mane out of her eyes. Applejack stared at her for a moment before she gasped with surprise. “Well, Ah’ll be,” she exclaimed, “You look jus’ like Rainbow Dash! Giv’n you’re coat’s a mite different color, but other’n that, its a spittin’ image!” “Rainbow Dash?” the pink pony laughed, rolling onto her side, “Who the hay is Rainbow Dash?” Applejack was taken aback. She found herself wondering the same thing. It was true she recognized the name but she suddenly couldn’t match a face to the name. She exhaled loudly and put her head on her hooves. “To be perfectly honest,” she muttered, “Ah couldn’t tell you anyhow.” The two ponies yawned as the sun began to set. The pink pegasus stood up and stretched her wings. Applejack felt her back crack slightly as she rose. “Ah needed that,” she chuckled, “Ah needed that bad.” “Well, I guess I’ll see you in the morning, AJ,” the pink pegasus yawned as she took to the air, “Goodnight!” “Goodnight, Firefly!” Applejack responded. Applejack suddenly stopped. “How in tarnation did Ah know that pony’s name?” she wondered aloud, “Ah’ve never even met her.” AwakeningApplejack suddenly jerked awake. She was laying in her bed at home in Sweet Apple Acres. She was alone in her dark bedroom. She checked her clock: 8:37 AM. “Shoot,” Applejack moaned, “Ah overslept!” The orange mare slid out of her bed, ignoring the pain in her knees. She pulled on her galoshes and put on her favorite hat. “Ah gotta hurry,” she mumbled to herself, “R’else Ah’m gonna miss all the work!” As Applejack began to descend the stairs, she heard several hushed voices in the kitchen. She picked up Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Apple Bloom and Big Mac. She paused just out of sight of the four ponies at the table. “She’s been asleep for almost two weeks, Twilight,” Apple Bloom was crying quietly, “Me and Big Macintosh are really worried about her.” “Eeyup...” “I understand, Apple Bloom,” Twilight responded, “But there’s not much I can do for her. The doctors say she may be slipping into a coma, and all we can do is wait.” There came a groan from Rainbow Dash. “I am so tired of all this waiting!” She hollered, “I bet she’s not even sick! She probably just wanted to skip out on the Wrap Up!” Applejack was furious. She stepped out of the doorway. “Now hold on a pony pickin’ minute!” She rasped, “This is Applejack you’re talkin’ about here! Ah’ve not missed a single Wrap Up since Ah was Apple Bloom’s size!” Four sets of eyes locked onto Applejack. Tears were forming in Apple Bloom’s eyes. Big Mac’s jaw was hanging in shock. Twilight and Rainbow Dash had looks of excited surprise. “Ah may’ve missed the Wrap Up,” Applejack concluded, “But Ah’ll make it up to y’all.” Applejack was tackled by her friends and siblings. All of them were crying excitedly. “Applejack, we were so worried about you!” Rainbow Dash laughed through her tears. “I’m so happy you’re safe, AJ,” Twilight whispered, “We’ll all rest easier now.” Big Mac held a hoof out to help Applejack up. She pulled herself to her feet, a bit shaky. “Now, Ah appreciate ya’ll’s sympathy,” she laughed, “But could Ah get some grub?” The five ponies burst into laughter as the food was prepared. “You see, Applejack,” Twilight began softly, “You didn’t miss out on the Wrap Up, because, well.....” Rainbow Dash pulled aside the curtain, revealing a blizzard the likes of which Applejack had never seen, “Winter got worse after that day. Somehow, the Windigo have returned to Equestria, and winter has never been worse.” “Whaddya’ll mean?” Applejack stammered, “Ya’ll mean to tell me that we’ve had two more weeks of winter?” “Eeyup,” Big Mac blurted, “And as Ah recall, Granny Smith mentioned a winter like this once, when our family first settled this valley.” The small group around the table turned as the door swung open. A cold gust of air blew through Applejack’s mane as Rarity, Fluttershy and the ever excitable Pinkie Pie cantered into the room. “Applejack, darling!” Rarity gasped, pulling Applejack into a tight hug, “We were all so worried about you!” “Oh my, yes!” Fluttershy added, wrapping her hooves around Applejack as well “I’m so excited I could just...squee!” Pinkie Pie skipped the word and straight to the waterworks and hugs. “Ah ‘preciate that, ya’ll,” Applejack squeaked, having the air crushed out of her body, “But to be honest, Ah ain’t gonna be fine if’n ya’ll strangle me to death.” Her friends loosened their grip and took a seat around the table. “So, what Ah’d like to know is when we’re suppose’ta get wrapping up winter?” Applejack asked, a hungry look in her eye. Twilight looked towards the window. “Well, with the return of the Windigo, travelling around outside is dangerous,” she began, “And Princess Celestia has requested that all citizens remain indoors until something can be done about them.” “How long’ll that take?” Applejack burst out, “Ah’ve got apples to grow! After Granny Smith died, the farm is under my care.” “It doesn’t look to be anytime soon, my dear,” Rarity whispered, placing her hoof on Applejack’s, “The farming must wait.” Applejack put her head in her hooves, letting her favorite hat fall from her mane. If she couldn’t get farming, her farm may not be able to afford to stay in business. She quietly let a few tears roll down her cheeks, before making up her mind. “Twilight, Ah need to talk to Spike,” Applejack stated, “Ah think its time Ah got in touch with her highness.” Present Day, In the Ancient Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters There was not much to be seen after the defeat of Nightmare Moon. The castle ruins were as crumbly as ever and there was undergrowth creeping across the floor, just like always. The wild animals of the Everfree Forest had turned it into just another large cave. Timberwolves and Cockatrices now roamed around, among other creatures of the night. However, on this cold winter night, something was indeed about to happen. Something that would perhaps change the events of history forever. An azure pony, whose coat was once brilliant and radiant, now slumped through the cold palace. She wore over her back and flank a faded violet cape, now tattered and frayed around the edges. On her head she had a hat of the same design. She shivered as she lopped along in the windy stone corridors. She had once been great. She had once been powerful. Now she was nothing. Now she was nobody. Now she was just Trixie. After she had been embarrassed by that damned Twilight Sparkle and her friends, she had had no choice but to hide. News of her cowardice would surely spread through Equestria like wildfire. So had she spent nearly two years wandering through Equestria before her path came to the Everfree Forest. She didn’t know what it was that had led her here but she knew someone or something was calling to her. Trixie suddenly found herself in a room that was untouched by the elements. It was beautifully carpeted and had a lavish bed in one corner. As she entered the room, she felt a warmth envelop her body. She felt welcomed by some unseen force. “Trixie may stay here tonight,” she whispered to herself, “Trixie feels safe here.” “As should a mare of your awesome power.” Trixie turned but saw nobody in the room with her. “I-I must be tired,” Trixie thought, “I am only scaring myself.” “The Great and Powerful Trixie? Afraid?” the unknown voice came again, closer this time, “That is a laughable thought.” Trixie turned again, feeling a fear not unlike the time she had been face to face with an Ursa Minor. “Who’s there?” she stammered, “The G-great and Powerful Trixie demands you show yourself!” “I’m over here, my dear.” Trixie turned to face a mirror that hadn’t been there before. She found herself face to face with a creature she didn’t recognize. He had a pony’s body, but it was much bigger. And instead of a head, more body, with two arms and finally a head on top of that. He wasn’t a pony, that was for sure. “Who are you?” Trixie demanded, “WHAT are you?” The shadowy figure moved into the light, revealing a very handsome face. His face wasn’t that of a pony, there was no fur on it, and had a very small nose. On his head he had two horns over his short ears. “My name is Tirek, I am a Centaur.” he smiled, “I, like you, have been made a fool of by a group of ponies. They trapped me in this mirror so long ago. I was once the ruler of a land similar to your Equestria, before those accursed ponies banished me here.” “You poor creature!” Trixie found herself saying, entrances by his charm, “What can Trixie do to help you, Tirek?” The image in the mirror began to swirl, showing the faces of many of the inhabitants of Equestria that had been fought by Twilight Sparkle and her friends. There was the band of Diamond Dogs that Rarity had selfishly tricked out of their jewels. There was Gilda, the Griffin that had been run out of Ponyville, much as Trixie herself had. And there was she, the very mare Trixie worshipped and desired to follow. Nightmare Moon. “Do you see what those six have done to our kind?” Tirek asked. “What do you require of Trixie?” “I need you to free them. Free Nightmare Moon. Free Discord. Help the Changelings return to Equestria.” “What does Trixie get out of this?” “In return, I will give you powers the likes of which you can’t even imagine.” As a small scroll peeled off the mirror, Trixie nodded. “Trixie accepts.” As Applejack and her friends prepared to set out on the arduous journey to the Ponyville Library, Applejack found herself thinking of that pink pegasus from her dream. She was so familiar and yet so mysterious. Something about her smug attitude was reminiscent of someone near and dear to her heart. She shook her head and decided to worry about the task at hand. She had a plan to get rid of the Windigos. It was risky but the gains outweighed the risk. The only way to get to the Princesses, however was through Spike. And she knew that it was gonna cost her something. Luckily for her, she knew Spike’s weak spot. “Rarity, can Ah ask you a big ol’ favor?” Applejack asked, putting a hoof out to stop her white coated friend, “Its concernin’ the task at hand.” “Why, Applejack,” Rarity chortled, “You know anything you need, I would be more than happy to oblige.” “Many thanks, Rarity,” Applejack bowed her head, before dashing out the door into the snow. “Eh...Applejack?” Rarity called after the orange mare, “What did you need me to do?”
PrologueTHREE YEARS AGO, THE ANCIENT CASTLE OF THE ROYAL PONY SISTERS Sweat dripped from Twilight Sparkle's brow as she concentrated on Nightmare Moon. She saw the five orbs that held the Elements of Harmony surrounding the black mare's hooves. The mare was laughing at her. Laughing. Twilight felt rage building up as lightning crashed around Nightmare Moon. She lowered her single horned head low to the ground and began to paw, preparing for a charge. "You're kidding," Nightmare Moon scoffed, "You're kidding, right?" Twilight lowered her head even further and let the magic flow through her body to the point of her horn. And then she charged. 'You're insane, Twilight!' she whispered as she neared Nightmare Moon, 'This will never work!' She let all of her magic focus to the tip of her horn as Nightmare Moon released a battle cry, preparing for the impact and fall of the smaller pony. But the impact didn't come. Nightmare opened her eyes and saw that Twilight had teleported herself onto the small pedestal holding the five orbs. Twilight moaned in exhaustion as she pulled herself back to her feet, forcing herself to bring her magic back to the surface. "Just one spark," Twilight whispered, the orbs beginning to glow, "Come on, come on!" Nightmare Moon scowled as a whirlwind of dark magic surrounded her, carrying her toward the pedestal. Twilight's eyes jolted open as a swirl of dark magic buffeted against her. Feeling a sudden surge of energy, Twilight was sent flying backward. She hit the ground hard, knocking the wind out of her. She sat up panting as Nightmare Moon stood triumphantly over the five Elements of Harmony. Suddenly, bright magical energy began to course through the orbs, pulsing into Nightmare Moon herself. "No!" the black mare cried, "It can't be!" Twilight felt a smug grin crossing her face. Nightmare Moon felt herself shrinking away from the pure magic around her. Then the electric white energy stopped. "Where's the sixth element?" Twilight gasped, feeling truly helpless. Nightmare Moon cackled maniacally as she reared up onto her hind legs, smashing her front hooves down upon the five elements, leaving nothing but shards and fragments of rock. Twilight Sparkle suddenly felt as helpless as she did the day she went in to take her entrance exam to Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. The Elements of Harmony had been completely destroyed. "You little FOAL!" the evil mare sneered, "Thinking you could defeat me! Now you will never see your princess OR your sun!" Dark energy began to swirl around the entire room, making Twilight Sparkle feel more and more insignificant. She was helpless against the wicked mare's powers. "The night will last FOREVER!" Nightmare cackled wickedly as the dark energy encompassed the two ponies. Twilight looked on in fear as the black mare gathered more power to her. Suddenly a noise broke through the horrible oppressive blackness. At first it was just a jumble of noises but as the sound got closer, Twilight recognized it as the voices of her new found friends. As she felt them coming closer, a spark awoke deep within her heart. Her eyes flashed and she felt a small smile creep across her face. "You think you can destroy the Elements of Harmony," Twilight whispered to Nightmare Moon, "Just like that?" Nightmare Moon felt puzzled. Surely she had destroyed them outright! Hadn't she? "Well, you're wrong!" Twilight cried out, her friends coming to her side, "Because the Spirits of the Elements of Harmony are RIGHT HERE!" Nightmare Moon cried out in fear and amazement as the shards of the Elements of Harmony began to glow with every color of the rainbow. Her eyes grew wide as they began to fly over to the five ponies now surrounding Twilight Sparkle. "Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt," Twilight cried out, "Represents the spirit of Honesty!" Applejack started as a ring of orange glowing shards began to rotate around her. "Fluttershy, who tamed the Manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of Kindness!" Fluttershy shied away from a ring of pink shards spiraling around her. "Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by laughing in the face of danger, represents the spirit of Laughter!" Pinkie danced giddily as a batch of blue shards encircled her. "Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of Generosity!" Rarity blushed as she was surrounded by shards of indigo. "And Rainbow Dash! Who could not abandon her friends for her own heart's desire, represents the spirit of Loyalty!" Rainbow Dash watched calmly as she became the center of the red shards' circle of gravity. "The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge you threw at us!" Twilight bellowed triumphantly. "You still don't have the sixth element!" Nightmare Moon smirked, "The spark didn't work!" Twilight raised her head with pride. "But it did!" she spoke calmly and firmly, "A different kind of spark!" Twilight turned to her five friends and smiled. "I felt it the very moment i realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you," she teared up as she spoke, "The spark ignited in me when I realized that you all are my friends!" A glow of white light erupted from above the ponies' heads. There above them, meshed into the stone ceiling, was the sixth Element. Nightmare Moon shielded her eyes from the blinding light. "You see Nightmare Moon, when those elements are ignited by the...the Spark that resides in the heart of us all," Twilight smiled, "It creates the sixth element. The element of MAGIC!" The six ponies felt themselves being raised into the air as the rotating rocks began to swirl faster than ever, transforming into glimmering gold necklaces with a gleaming gem, each pony with a gem reflecting their own Cutie Mark. For Fluttershy, a pink butterfly. Rainbow Dash's face beamed with the reflection off her red lightning bolt. Pinkie Pie adorned a blue balloon. Applejack received a bright orange apple. Rarity's neck was decorated with a deep indigo diamond. Twilight clenched her eyes shut as a golden crown placed itself on her head, encrusted with a bright violet star. A rainbow of colors erupted from the six Spirits of Harmony, targeting Nightmare Moon. Nightmare Moon screamed in genuine terror as the whirlwind of colors wrapped around her. The entity of Nightmare Moon watched as the limp body of Princess Luna was pulled off of her like an old cloak. Nightmare felt so vulnerable as the rainbow of colors stripped away the body that had been under her control for a millennium. She tried desperately to pull away from the horribly bright light, to escape back into the body that meant freedom for her. "How?" she cried out in anger, "How could this happen to me?" She struggled as the spectrum of light carried her out the window, through the night sky and back to the moon. She felt a wave of terror as she neared the surface of that rock that meant damnation to anypony unlucky enough to call it home. As the rainbow and herself made connection to the surface of the moon, she felt a sharp pain at the back of her mind, like a small sting. She cried out in anguish and rage, but the sound fell silent in the vacuum of space. Then she realized. Luna was gone, it was just Nightmare Moon. "I am alone," she felt a single tear well up in the corner of her eye, "I am completely alone." Again she felt a twing at the back of her mind. DOWNTOWN PONYVILLE, TWO YEAR AGO Discord sat smugly on his throne, balancing his glass of chocolate rain on one finger. "Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing." He laughed to himself. He pressed the glass to his lips and began to sip when the sight of six ponies galloping toward his throne broke his focus. 'Oh how positively dull.’ He thought to himself "Not as wonderful as friendship!" Twilight Sparkle cried out. "Oh dear, this again?" Discord sneered, sipping the glass away from the chocolate and tossing the chocolate away. He let out a small laugh as the glass shaped chocolate exploded nearby. "That's right!" Applejack bellowed, "You couldn't break apart our friendship for long!" Discord sneered, raising a single finger on his furred paw, causing Applejack to slowly float toward him. "Oh Applejack," he scoffed, "Don't lie to me! I'm the one who made you a liar!" Discord's face twisted into a maniacal grimace as he unleashed another bout of energy, dragging Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy before him as well. Twilight, feeling anger fill her heart, began to charge her magical energy. "Will you ever learn?" Discord whispered to his five captives. Discord's eyes grew wide as a magical bubble formed around the ponies before his eyes. Twilight had teleported herself to protect her friends from the monster on the throne. Slowly, Twilight levitated the pink sphere back down to the ground, leaving a circle of grass where moments before was another section of Discords warped reality. Discord brought his finger to his mouth in a mocking gesture. "I'll tell you what we've learned, Discord," Twilight murmured, "We've learned that friendship isn't always easy, but there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!" Discord rose from his throne and made an expression as though he was about to be sick. "Oh gag! Fine," Discord sneered, "Go ahead and try to use your elements. Friend me! Just make it quick, I'm missing some excellent chaos here!" Discord slouched back into his throne and stretched, lazily scratching his scaly stomach. Twilight Sparkle and her friends prepared themselves for the attack, each one raising her head high. "Alright ladies," Twilight called to her friends, "Let's show him what friendship can do!" Five glows emitted from the group. "Wait wait wait!" came Pinkie Pie from under a chocolate rain cloud. Pinkie Pie sat drinking her fill of the chocolate before sighing with relief. She sprang back to her friends and emitted a low growl as she prepared to attack Discord. The Elements of Harmony began to glow with every color of the rainbow before coming to a bright white. Discord yawned in boredom, until he noticed waves of energy shooting past his head. "What's this?" he whispered, "No! No!" As Discord cried out in fear, a rainbow erupted from the six ponies, sending itself into an arc before raining down upon Discord himself. Discord struggled as his body was slowly turned into stone. He writhed in horror as he felt his legs harden. His gut wrenched as it slowly solidified. He opened his mouth and screamed in vain as his entirety was turned to stone. Discord screamed in pain as he felt his spirit being torn away from his stone imprisonment. His body felt as though it was on fire. His limbs were numb with pain. He felt tears streaming down his face as he passed from the realm of the living to the domain of the damned. Fire licked at his flesh, causing his skin to boil. He cried out for help, but the demons around him simply laughed. Discord felt a sudden surge of fear. This wasn't what had happened before. Yes, it was true he had been imprisoned by Princesses Luna and Celestia, but he was trapped body and soul in that accursed statue. This was something different. He was no longer Discord, God of Chaos. He was now Discord, the wandering spirit. And he was trapped in Tartarus.
An Early Wrap UpPrincess Celestia stood before an audience of nearly two thousand earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns. On her left stood her sister, Princess Luna, and on her right stood the Mayor of Ponyville. Celestia glanced down at the crowd before her that was made up of not only the entirety of the citizens of Ponyville, but nearly all of Cloudsdale and Canterlot as well. There were ponies that had even journeyed all the way from Appleloosa and Manehattan. Among the ponies stood a few other more prominent figures such as Zecora of the Everfree Forest and Chief Thunderhooves of the Buffalo Tribe. Never had Princess Celestia seen so many ponies and friends in one place for the same cause. She couldn’t help but smile. She turned to her sister who nodded slightly. It was time to share the news. “Citizens of Equestria, the news I have to share with you is indeed news that demands celebration,” she felt a grin spreading across her face as her subjects had looks of confusion and puzzlement on their faces, “Will the pegasi known as Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy step forward please?” There was a streak of rainbow light as Rainbow Dash rocketed toward the stage. Fluttershy followed behind her, though much slower than her cyan furred friend. Fluttershy alighted beside Rainbow Dash as the eager pegasus placed her front hooves on the podium. “Alright, everypony,” Rainbow Dash yelled excitedly, “Seeing as I am the fastest and the best flyer in Equestria, I took it upon myself to take a look at the weather forecast for the upcoming Winter Wrap Up.” Applejack rolled her eyes at Dash’s cocky self praise, but even she had to smile about the news to come. “Since we here in Ponyville are the ones that do the Winter Wrap Up every year, we’ve decided that this year we’re going to mix it up a bit this time around,” Dash grinned, “This year is going to be the soonest coming of spring in almost a hundred years!” A murmur of approval rose from the crowd as Fluttershy flapped over to the podium. Fluttershy cleared her throat daintily and raised a hoof for silence. The audience quieted themselves out of respect for the soft spoken cream coated pegasus. “While I very much agree that this is a very good thing,” the blushing pony spoke, “It will be hard work to make the land livable again.” The ponies in the audience began to nod their heads in understanding as Rainbow Dash took the stand once again. She ran a hoof through her hair, flashing streaks of every color at the crowd. Scootaloo, sitting on the front row, squealed with delight as Rainbow winked at her. “Now, as my esteemed associate, Fluttershy has said,” Rainbow Dash announced to the audience, “It will be hard day of work making sure that our towns are springified. In order to maintain order throughout the Wrap Up, I would like to call my good friend, Twilight Sparkle to organize the whole thing.” Twilight Sparkle, followed closely by Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack began to weave through the crowd to center stage. Applejack let out a big yawn as she cantered behind Pinkie. Rarity slipped beside her and tapped her on the haunch. “Applejack, my dear,” she whispered through a forced toothy grin “It is quite rude to act bored before we make a presentation.” “Ah’m sorry, Rare,” Applejack apologized, stifling another yawn, “Ah jus’ ain’t been sleepin right at night.” “Well, you can sleep all you want tonight,” Rarity scolded, “After we speak to the crowd.” “Whatever you say, sugarcube,” Applejack yawned again, stumbling slightly, “Le’s get this over with.” Twilight Sparkle glanced back at her orange colored friend. It was unlike Applejack to have restless nights and even more out of character for her to let it affect her mood. Sitting on Twilight’s back was her baby dragon assistant Spike. Spike was sucking on a emerald, drooling all over his hands. He noticed Twilight’s concerned glance at Applejack and put a hand on her side. “She’ll be okay, Twilight,” he whispered to her, through a mouth full of green gem stone, “She’s just stressed about the early Wrap Up. After this thing’s over, she’ll be back to Applejack.” “I’m sure she will, Spike.” Twilight responded as she started up the stairs to the stage. Twilight and her friends fell into line next to Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Twilight raised a thick stack of index cards, making it very apparent that a long speech was about to follow. There was a groan from the denizens of Ponyville, much to the chagrin of the Twilight. She cleared her throat with a polite ahem, raising the first of the cards to eye level. “Friends and neighbors,” she began, daring anyone to stop her, “As this is the earliest Winter Wrap Up in over a century, that will mean that there will be a longer growing season--” Twilight was cut off by a wave of cheers at this glorious news. She waited impatiently, tapping her hoof slightly. Rainbow Dash raised her hooves in the air, demanding silence. The noise slowly simmered down to a hush. “Thank you Rainbow Dash,” Twilight sighed, “As I was saying, we will have a longer growing season, which will require more seeds to be planted, which in turn will require more ponies sowing the seeds. While I understand that there is already a large number of you that are ploughers and seeders, we will need approximately twice the usual amount.” This time, Twilight’s speech was received with moans and gripes. Many ponies began to turn and meander away, including many of the Ponyville residents. Twilight looked to her friends in dismay. “Hold on jus’ one pony-pickin’ minute there!” Applejack cried, stepping up to the podium, “What the hay is wrong with everypony? Didn’t you hear what Twilight jus’ said?” The ponies that had walked off turned back, listening intently. “Ah’ll be the first to admit,” Applejack continued, “Ah ain’t too crazy excited to work extra hard on this here Wrap Up, but Ah’ll be darned if’n Ah let Ponyville down. With Celestia as my witness--” Princess Luna shot Applejack a withering glance. “Beggin’ yer pardon, Princess,” Applejack stammered, “With the Royal Pony Sisters as my witnesses, Ah’ll work until Ah cain’t work no more! And Ah’ll tell you why!” Applejack paused for a moment, waiting as the entire crowd fixed their gaze on her. She smiled a little at the thought that she was speaking in front of nearly all of Equestria. “Ah’ll keep workin’ ‘cause Ah know that at the end of it all, there’ll be food aplenty for my family and friends once Applebuck Season rolls around.” There was a murmur of approval rising from the crowd. “And Ah know everypony’s favorite time of year will have cider flowin’ like fresh spring water. Why, if’n Rainbow’s predictions are correct, which they always are, we can be buckin’ apples off’a them trees by the end of the month. Howdya like them apples?” There was an uproar of approval at the mention of the famous Apple Family Cider. Pinkie Pie held a napkin under her own and Rainbow Dash’s mouths to prevent their drool from dripping onto the stage. Applejack sauntered over to Princess Celestia and Luna. “All yers, yer Majesties,” Applejack chuckled, bowing low to the ground, “Ah jus’ got ‘em warmed up for you.” Princesses Celestia and Luna both laughed as they walked slowly to the stand. Celestia rapped a hoof on the wood stage, calling for silence. “Thank you ever so much, Applejack,” Princess Celestia’s honey sweet voice wrapped through the entire crowd, “Now, does everypony understand what is expected and needed of them this Winter Wrap Up?” There were a few shouts of yes and several nods. Princess Celestia nodded in approval. Out in the center of the crowd, a slender black and white striped hoof was raised over the heads of the citizens of Equestria. “Dearest Princesses of white and of blue,” came the sing song voice of Zecora the Zebra, “Allow me to offer my service to you. While I may not be strong and am unable to fly, perhaps there is another way for Zecora to help you get by.” “Dear sister,” Luna spoke for the first time, “I would be honored to have you by my side as I direct the clearing of the snow atop the Everfree Forest and the surrounding flatlands.” “If that is what my you wish of my striped flank,” Zecora sang out, “I will gladly accept that given rank.” Ponies from across Equestria joined in laughter at the mention of the zebra’s flank. The zebra blushed slightly as she realized what she had said. “I used a word with less than few rhymes,” she giggled, “It seems the joke's on me this time.” Applejack laughed beside her friends as the ponies of Equestria went their separate ways to rest up for the early Winter Wrap Up the next morning. As the last of the ponies and buffalo dispersed, Applejack led her friends down the stairs off the stage. The six ponies and baby dragon turned to give their goodbyes to the Princesses. “We hope you all rest easy,” Princess Celestia murmured to the young friends, “For tomorrow we will have much work to do.” Applejack sauntered at the rear of the pack, feeling her exhaustion slowly beginning to take over her body. The orange pony tried to shake off the sleep that was creeping over her mind. ‘C’mon Applejack,’ she whispered to herself, ‘You ain’t too tired to make it back to Sweet Apple Acres. It’s just a little further along.’ As she took another step, she stumbled, scraping her shins on the cold muddy road. She drug herself back to her hooves, ignoring the pain in her legs. Her friends hadn’t noticed her fall. That was fine by her. The less her friends knew about her problem the better. She pulled an apple out of her saddlebag, munching on it. She knew the energy it would give her wouldn’t last long, but right now she needed any energy she could get. She stumbled a few more steps forward, watching her friends getting farther and farther away from her. As she lifted her hind leg, she felt it go stiff. “No!” she cried out desperately, “Not again! Please, just a little further, legs...” She felt a tear run down her cheek as her body began to lock up and twitch. The pain of the fit caused her to choke. She fell to her knees, crying out as she started to cough and choke. She reached out, trying to call to her friends as she slowly sank into the snow and mud around her. Her entire body began to convulse as she lay her head into the wet ground. ‘What is wrong with me?’ Applejack thought to herself, ‘Why is this happening to me?’ The orange pony lay still in the snow as her five pony friends noticed she was missing. She felt consciousness slipping away as she felt six hooves lifting her from the ground. She closed her eyes and let herself be carried away. Applejack shook her head as she sat up. She looked at her surroundings. She had once again left Ponyville. She was in some sort of forest. It wasn’t the Everfree, she was sure of that. She was also sure that she wasn’t alone. She looked around before calling out in the air. “Alright, ya’ll,” she called, “Ah know you’re out there, so don’t try to hide! Come out where Ah can see ya’ll properly.” Applejack rubbed her eyes as a bright pink pegasus pony pushed her way through the bushes. “Well, geez, AJ,” the pony laughed, “I should hope you knew I was here. But next time, try to come find me! That is the point of Hide and Seek.” Applejack stared at the pink pony with a puzzled look on her face. “Oh come on, Applejack,” the pegasus laughed, flying an arc over Applejack’s head, “Don’t tell me you fell asleep on me again.” The pony sat in front of Applejack and brushed her sky blue mane out of her eyes. Applejack stared at her for a moment before she gasped with surprise. “Well, Ah’ll be,” she exclaimed, “You look jus’ like Rainbow Dash! Giv’n you’re coat’s a mite different color, but other’n that, its a spittin’ image!” “Rainbow Dash?” the pink pony laughed, rolling onto her side, “Who the hay is Rainbow Dash?” Applejack was taken aback. She found herself wondering the same thing. It was true she recognized the name but she suddenly couldn’t match a face to the name. She exhaled loudly and put her head on her hooves. “To be perfectly honest,” she muttered, “Ah couldn’t tell you anyhow.” The two ponies yawned as the sun began to set. The pink pegasus stood up and stretched her wings. Applejack felt her back crack slightly as she rose. “Ah needed that,” she chuckled, “Ah needed that bad.” “Well, I guess I’ll see you in the morning, AJ,” the pink pegasus yawned as she took to the air, “Goodnight!” “Goodnight, Firefly!” Applejack responded. Applejack suddenly stopped. “How in tarnation did Ah know that pony’s name?” she wondered aloud, “Ah’ve never even met her.”
AwakeningApplejack suddenly jerked awake. She was laying in her bed at home in Sweet Apple Acres. She was alone in her dark bedroom. She checked her clock: 8:37 AM. “Shoot,” Applejack moaned, “Ah overslept!” The orange mare slid out of her bed, ignoring the pain in her knees. She pulled on her galoshes and put on her favorite hat. “Ah gotta hurry,” she mumbled to herself, “R’else Ah’m gonna miss all the work!” As Applejack began to descend the stairs, she heard several hushed voices in the kitchen. She picked up Rainbow Dash, Twilight, Apple Bloom and Big Mac. She paused just out of sight of the four ponies at the table. “She’s been asleep for almost two weeks, Twilight,” Apple Bloom was crying quietly, “Me and Big Macintosh are really worried about her.” “Eeyup...” “I understand, Apple Bloom,” Twilight responded, “But there’s not much I can do for her. The doctors say she may be slipping into a coma, and all we can do is wait.” There came a groan from Rainbow Dash. “I am so tired of all this waiting!” She hollered, “I bet she’s not even sick! She probably just wanted to skip out on the Wrap Up!” Applejack was furious. She stepped out of the doorway. “Now hold on a pony pickin’ minute!” She rasped, “This is Applejack you’re talkin’ about here! Ah’ve not missed a single Wrap Up since Ah was Apple Bloom’s size!” Four sets of eyes locked onto Applejack. Tears were forming in Apple Bloom’s eyes. Big Mac’s jaw was hanging in shock. Twilight and Rainbow Dash had looks of excited surprise. “Ah may’ve missed the Wrap Up,” Applejack concluded, “But Ah’ll make it up to y’all.” Applejack was tackled by her friends and siblings. All of them were crying excitedly. “Applejack, we were so worried about you!” Rainbow Dash laughed through her tears. “I’m so happy you’re safe, AJ,” Twilight whispered, “We’ll all rest easier now.” Big Mac held a hoof out to help Applejack up. She pulled herself to her feet, a bit shaky. “Now, Ah appreciate ya’ll’s sympathy,” she laughed, “But could Ah get some grub?” The five ponies burst into laughter as the food was prepared. “You see, Applejack,” Twilight began softly, “You didn’t miss out on the Wrap Up, because, well.....” Rainbow Dash pulled aside the curtain, revealing a blizzard the likes of which Applejack had never seen, “Winter got worse after that day. Somehow, the Windigo have returned to Equestria, and winter has never been worse.” “Whaddya’ll mean?” Applejack stammered, “Ya’ll mean to tell me that we’ve had two more weeks of winter?” “Eeyup,” Big Mac blurted, “And as Ah recall, Granny Smith mentioned a winter like this once, when our family first settled this valley.” The small group around the table turned as the door swung open. A cold gust of air blew through Applejack’s mane as Rarity, Fluttershy and the ever excitable Pinkie Pie cantered into the room. “Applejack, darling!” Rarity gasped, pulling Applejack into a tight hug, “We were all so worried about you!” “Oh my, yes!” Fluttershy added, wrapping her hooves around Applejack as well “I’m so excited I could just...squee!” Pinkie Pie skipped the word and straight to the waterworks and hugs. “Ah ‘preciate that, ya’ll,” Applejack squeaked, having the air crushed out of her body, “But to be honest, Ah ain’t gonna be fine if’n ya’ll strangle me to death.” Her friends loosened their grip and took a seat around the table. “So, what Ah’d like to know is when we’re suppose’ta get wrapping up winter?” Applejack asked, a hungry look in her eye. Twilight looked towards the window. “Well, with the return of the Windigo, travelling around outside is dangerous,” she began, “And Princess Celestia has requested that all citizens remain indoors until something can be done about them.” “How long’ll that take?” Applejack burst out, “Ah’ve got apples to grow! After Granny Smith died, the farm is under my care.” “It doesn’t look to be anytime soon, my dear,” Rarity whispered, placing her hoof on Applejack’s, “The farming must wait.” Applejack put her head in her hooves, letting her favorite hat fall from her mane. If she couldn’t get farming, her farm may not be able to afford to stay in business. She quietly let a few tears roll down her cheeks, before making up her mind. “Twilight, Ah need to talk to Spike,” Applejack stated, “Ah think its time Ah got in touch with her highness.” Present Day, In the Ancient Castle of the Royal Pony Sisters There was not much to be seen after the defeat of Nightmare Moon. The castle ruins were as crumbly as ever and there was undergrowth creeping across the floor, just like always. The wild animals of the Everfree Forest had turned it into just another large cave. Timberwolves and Cockatrices now roamed around, among other creatures of the night. However, on this cold winter night, something was indeed about to happen. Something that would perhaps change the events of history forever. An azure pony, whose coat was once brilliant and radiant, now slumped through the cold palace. She wore over her back and flank a faded violet cape, now tattered and frayed around the edges. On her head she had a hat of the same design. She shivered as she lopped along in the windy stone corridors. She had once been great. She had once been powerful. Now she was nothing. Now she was nobody. Now she was just Trixie. After she had been embarrassed by that damned Twilight Sparkle and her friends, she had had no choice but to hide. News of her cowardice would surely spread through Equestria like wildfire. So had she spent nearly two years wandering through Equestria before her path came to the Everfree Forest. She didn’t know what it was that had led her here but she knew someone or something was calling to her. Trixie suddenly found herself in a room that was untouched by the elements. It was beautifully carpeted and had a lavish bed in one corner. As she entered the room, she felt a warmth envelop her body. She felt welcomed by some unseen force. “Trixie may stay here tonight,” she whispered to herself, “Trixie feels safe here.” “As should a mare of your awesome power.” Trixie turned but saw nobody in the room with her. “I-I must be tired,” Trixie thought, “I am only scaring myself.” “The Great and Powerful Trixie? Afraid?” the unknown voice came again, closer this time, “That is a laughable thought.” Trixie turned again, feeling a fear not unlike the time she had been face to face with an Ursa Minor. “Who’s there?” she stammered, “The G-great and Powerful Trixie demands you show yourself!” “I’m over here, my dear.” Trixie turned to face a mirror that hadn’t been there before. She found herself face to face with a creature she didn’t recognize. He had a pony’s body, but it was much bigger. And instead of a head, more body, with two arms and finally a head on top of that. He wasn’t a pony, that was for sure. “Who are you?” Trixie demanded, “WHAT are you?” The shadowy figure moved into the light, revealing a very handsome face. His face wasn’t that of a pony, there was no fur on it, and had a very small nose. On his head he had two horns over his short ears. “My name is Tirek, I am a Centaur.” he smiled, “I, like you, have been made a fool of by a group of ponies. They trapped me in this mirror so long ago. I was once the ruler of a land similar to your Equestria, before those accursed ponies banished me here.” “You poor creature!” Trixie found herself saying, entrances by his charm, “What can Trixie do to help you, Tirek?” The image in the mirror began to swirl, showing the faces of many of the inhabitants of Equestria that had been fought by Twilight Sparkle and her friends. There was the band of Diamond Dogs that Rarity had selfishly tricked out of their jewels. There was Gilda, the Griffin that had been run out of Ponyville, much as Trixie herself had. And there was she, the very mare Trixie worshipped and desired to follow. Nightmare Moon. “Do you see what those six have done to our kind?” Tirek asked. “What do you require of Trixie?” “I need you to free them. Free Nightmare Moon. Free Discord. Help the Changelings return to Equestria.” “What does Trixie get out of this?” “In return, I will give you powers the likes of which you can’t even imagine.” As a small scroll peeled off the mirror, Trixie nodded. “Trixie accepts.” As Applejack and her friends prepared to set out on the arduous journey to the Ponyville Library, Applejack found herself thinking of that pink pegasus from her dream. She was so familiar and yet so mysterious. Something about her smug attitude was reminiscent of someone near and dear to her heart. She shook her head and decided to worry about the task at hand. She had a plan to get rid of the Windigos. It was risky but the gains outweighed the risk. The only way to get to the Princesses, however was through Spike. And she knew that it was gonna cost her something. Luckily for her, she knew Spike’s weak spot. “Rarity, can Ah ask you a big ol’ favor?” Applejack asked, putting a hoof out to stop her white coated friend, “Its concernin’ the task at hand.” “Why, Applejack,” Rarity chortled, “You know anything you need, I would be more than happy to oblige.” “Many thanks, Rarity,” Applejack bowed her head, before dashing out the door into the snow. “Eh...Applejack?” Rarity called after the orange mare, “What did you need me to do?”
