Death & Rebirth

[Canterlot Castle, The Next Morning]

The six all sat lined up in a large room. They all felt terrible, having witnessed the death of their good friend, but none was more rattled than Twilight Sparkle herself. She sat in the center of the line, her body trembling, her fur and mane sticking out, and her dreary looking eyes just staring down.

Applejack took notice of her.

"Twi-"

Just then, a door opened, and in walked the radiant Princess Celestia, with her glorious sister Luna close behind. Celestia stood before the six, glancing at her puple student, Twilight. The elder alicorn exhaled sharply, then cleared her throat to speak.

"Good morning, my little ponies," began Celestia, her tone calm. "Let me begin by saying again how deeply sorry and regretful I am for your loss: Alexander Cosmos was a good stallion, his nobility and kindness was unmatched."

Fresh tears formed in Twilight's eyes. She didn't try to hide, nor wipe them away. She just let them fall.

Celestia also took notice of her sister, who who shedding tears as well. Tears that she did her best to repress.

The sun deity exhaled, feeling horrible. But she had her duties, and a promise to honor.

"Before Alex died," she continued, "He asked to have some letters written. His final testament to those he cared the most for. He's written others, but he wanted yours to be read first. And, as ruler of Equestria, it is my duty to honor his wish."

Celestia's long horn charged with energy, as she levitated a sealed scroll over to herself. She magically unrolled the paper so she could read it, "This is addressed Applejack."

Applejack stood up straight, paying full attention,Celestia read the letter out-loud.

"Dear Applejack,

"I will never forget the wonderful time I spent with you, and your family on your farm in Apple Acres. With every visit, I am reminded of what a REAL family is. True, yours is a bit broken, with only your grandmother caring for you, your sister and your brother. But, regardless, it is still a good and strong family.

"I know you will take my death hard, given how you already feel about your parents, who I learned from Granny Smith died when you were very young. But, I ask you not to add me to the weight you carry. When I die, I'll tell your parents what a wonderful daughter they have.

"Tell Apple Bloom I am sorry. I know she won't take my death well. She is going to need you NOW, more than ever. And, even though he won't show it, I know 'Big Mac' is also hurting, so don't be afraid to comfort him as well. He needs you, too.

"Treasure your grandmother. I have a feeling I'll be seeing her soon.

-Alex."

Applejack breathed hard as tears streamed down her face. Celestia then opened a second letter.

"Dear Rarity,

"While you are in no way greedy, as your 'element' implies, there are times where you can be arrogant and stuck-up. I only ask that try to do something about this. You are a very nice mare, and I would rather you not become like others in your social class. Please, do not think too much of how ponies think of you. You are an angel, and if others don't like you like that, then THEY have the problem.

"Use your talents to help those less fortunate than yourself. Those who are poor, orphaned and homeless. You do that, and you truly will be the Element of Generosity.

"Also, I feel you should know that Spike is in love with you, and wants nothing more than to be your 'special somedragon.' While he would live for you to accept him, it is really your choice. But, if you do reject him, be easy on the little guy, he's sensitive.

"And remember, you don't need a prince to be happy. True beauty is found within. You are ALREADY a Princess on the inside.

"Tell your sister, Sweetie Bell, that I am sorry. We were good friends, and I know she will be hurting.

-Alex."

Rarity wiped her tears away, sniffing.

"So beautiful.." Celestia whispered the unicorn.

The princess opened another letter.

"Dear Rainbow Dash,

"I know that you aren't the type to show emotions, but being emotional doesn't make you WEAK. It makes you 'pony.' While I don't want anyone to be sad, it's okay for you to cry at my funeral. It helps for me to know that I will be missed.

"I want you to keep following your dreams. Become a Wonderbolt. I know you'll became just as good as Spitfire is. You were meant for great things. Just do me a favor, and don't let yourself become too overconfident. Don't be afraid to admit your flaws and limits, and let others help you.

"And, I know you have a crush on Soarin. I think he likes you, too. Please don't let your pride keep you from happiness.

"One more thing. Scootaloo thinks the world of you, she's not just another fan. I think she really looks at you as a big sister. PLEASE, please be there for her. I know you aren't really her sister, but she needs SOMEPONY once I am gone. She's all alone in that orphanage, she'll feel even more alone now.

"So this for me, Dashie. Show Scoots that her loyalty to you isn't wasted.

"I'll say, 'hi' to your father for you. I know he's proud.

-Alex."

Rainbow Dash just stood still, tears threating to break. Finally, she couldn't take it anymore, and broke down. Even a tough mare like her had her limits.

Celestia opened the next letter.

"Dear Fluttershy,

"I know you will be the most emotional of all, so listen well. It's okay to be sad, but don't despare over my death. I truely believe in an afterlife, a world beyond our own.

"I know I will be in a better place, one even more beautiful than the paradise you've strived for your animal friends. Be strong for me,  and don't let others push you around so much. 'Kindness' isn't only about being nice to ponies. It is also about standing by those you care for and those who NEED help, and protecting them from those that would do them harm.

"Be a protector, Fluttershy.

"I'll say 'hello' to all of the animals that you've had to say goodbye to.

-Alex."

Fluttershy cried. She really was taken this the hardest. She'd NEVER taken death very well.

The amount of letter left was definitely running low, and the sun princess retrieved the next one.

"Dear Pinkie Pie,

"As you are the Element of Laughter, I fear my death will have a negative toll on your joyful outlook on life. I want you to keep smiling, and keep trying to make everypony else happy.

"I know most call you annoying and stupid, but what you do, what you always have done, serves a purpose. Since the day I was born, I've lived in misery and grief. You healed my wounds with your boundless joy and happiness. You've... you've made my life wonderful, and I want you to do the same for others like myself. Others who are in pain.

"Remember, Pinkie, NEVER stop smiling. Ever.

-Alex"

Pinkie stared blankly, an unreadable expression on her face. Then, her frown slowly creeped into a smile.

"I will. I promise," whispered the pink party mare.

Celestia exhaled as she reached the final letter.

"Dear Twilight Sparkle,

"As you are the most important to me, I saved this letter for last.

"First of all, I love you more than anything, and it's tearing me up to know that my death will hurt you in ways I cannot imagine. I am thankful to have known you. The day we met was the happiest moment of my life, and I will remember it fondly.

"My father always told me I was worthless; that nopony would EVER love me.

"YOU, my darling, are proof that we was wrong. You loved me enough to risk your own life for mine, and, I will never forget it.

"My greatest fear is how you will get by without me. How you will raise our son. But, I am certain that your friends, family and Celestia will take care of you, and ensure that he is protected and well taken care of.

"Someday, we'll be together again. But, for now, keep on living, and take care of foal.

-Loving you ALWAYS, Alex."

Twilight tensed up, her emotions building again. She gasped, then cried some more. Her five friends then gathered around her. Applejack patted her gently.

"There, there, Sugarcube," she said quietly, "It's okay."

Twilight cried into Applejack, wetting her fur. Celestia then approached Twilight, looking at her.

"I am deeply sorry, my student," her voice elegant and kind, "I see now that the love you both shared was truly unbreakable."

Twilight couldn't speak, she could only cried harder. Celestia frowned, feeling her own heart ache, "Twilight. we shall hold the funeral tomorrow. I promise, we shall honor him in the best way possible. I know you are hurting, but I hope you will attend."

Twilight sniffled, calming herself down, "I will. I-it's the least I can-" she paused a moment, finding it hard to tame her tears "-d-do for him."

Twilight looked at her teacher and princess, "May I be excused?"

"Of course," the princess offered a small smile. It was tiny, but it meant the world.

Twilight exhaled as she rose up. With her head hanging low, she walked away, followed closely by her friends. Once they were gone, Princess Luna broke down in tears.

"Sister!!" Luna sat down, bringing her head as low as she could, and cried hot crystal tears that formed a puddle near her hooves. Clearly, she had been repressing, but could no longer contain her emotions.

As the Moon Princess wept, Celestia ran to her, "Luna!"

"I failed... again!!" cried Luna.

"Oh, Luna, NO," Celestia placed her hoof around her younger sister. Luna then cried into her chest, staining it with tears. Good thing those washed out easy.

"F-forgive me, I-I know this isn't how a Princess should behave," she managed, "B-but I CAN'T HELP IT!! I loved that colt... like a SON."

"You have nothing to be ashamed of," Celestia comforted her, "Princess or not, you are still a pony with feelings and emotions. And, for just this moment: We aren't mere princesses."

Luna sniffed hard, "Why couldn't I save him? Why couldn't we save him?"

Celestia shook her head sadly.

"I don't know. I suppose there are things even we, with all our power, just cannot do."

Luna resumed crying into Celestia's fur. The older sister embraced the younger, tears streaming down her eyes. The Sun Princess then looked up.

"Oh Mother, hear my prayer. Guide Alexander Cosmos into your warm embrace."

[Ponyville, The Next Day]

The day of Alex Cosmos's funeral was predictably bleak. The skies were overcast, shrouded by dark grey clouds that blocked the sun. It rained down as if the very heavens themselves were weeping.

Today was not a happy day.

A majority of Ponyville were all gathered where the funeral service was being held.

Twilight sat at the front row with her friends. She maintained a bleak, gloomy expression on her face. Her cheeks maintaining dark tear stains from her constant crying. Her eyes felt sore.

Celestia's words gave her no peace. She felt like somepony had torn out her heart, impaled it and set it ablaze.

She soon zoned out, taking a look at the other mourners. Apart from herself and her friends, Twilight saw quite a few familiar faces. There was Derpy with her daughter, Dinky, and, her good friend, Carrot Top. Twilight remembered that Alex was a friend to Derpy, one of the few who looked pass her clumsiness and didn't think she was stupid.

Derpy was clearly hurting, as tears were present in her crossed eyes.

Twilight also saw Octavia and Vinyl Scratch, two "on again, off again" friends who also bore sad expressions. The purple unicorn had no idea how they knew Alex or why they were even among the mourners, but they were clearly on good terms, as they too had tears in their eyes.

Lyra Hearstrings, sitting upright as usual, and her friend Bon-Bon could also be seen. The 'Cutie Mark Crusaders,' who true to Alex fears, looked just as brokenhearted as Twilight did, were also there. He really was one of them.

Out of the corner of her eye, she could see the Cake Family. Mr. and Mrs. Cake, with their babies, Pumpkin and Pound. They too grieved for their lost foalsitter.

Zecora was also among them, her face hidden in her cloak that concealed her tears, and whispering a silent prayer in a language known only to her.

Twilight could hear her say, "Anaishi ndani yenu, anaishi ndani yangu, yeye kuona zaidi.

Ndani ya maji, ndani ya ukweli, katika tafakari yako, anaishi ndani yenu."

She looked harder, and for the first time noticed that her own family was here. Her parents, Night Light and Twilight 'Galaxy' Velvet were present, as was her brother, Shining Armor, and his wife, Twilight's old foalsitter, Princess Cadance.

It amazed Twilight that Shining and Cadance were here. As sovereigns of the restored Crystal Empire, they lived very far away. It almost touched her heart how they came all this way..

Twilight then noticed one other, one she never expected to see.

A mare with golden yellow fur, and a mane that was red-and-yellow, like a burning flame. It was Sunset Shimmer, Twilight's chief rival, and with her was Twilight's other rival, Trixie Lulamoon.

She knew both mares hated her, more so ever since she became an Alicorn, but, she couldn't understand why they would be here. Twilight decided to push these thoughts out of her mind as Celestia's speech came to a close, staring at Alex's Casket.

True to Pony Tradition, the coffin was colored lime green, like his fur, but the place were a cutie mark symbol would be was blank, sadly. Twilight felt more pain shoot into her heart, as she knew her love was inside that box, and she would never see him again.

It tore the mare apart knowing that she was burying him. Part of her hoped he would just "wake up," and everything would go back to normal, or that this whole thing was nothing more than a horrible dream.

But, this was REAL. Alex was dead, and would be laid to rest, and Twilight would NEVER see him alive again.

"And, now, we shall all give our partings words," Princess Celestia stated, "Twilight Sparkle, come forward."

Twilight sighed sharply as she stood up. She trotted slowly up to the podium and Celestia. The pinkish-white alicorn moved close to her.

"Speak from your heart," whispered Celestia.

Twilight nodded, then stepped up to the podium.

"Ponies," began Twilight, her tone low, "I am sure many of you have your reasons for being here. That you all m-miss Alex, and grieve his terrible death."

Twilight's eyes welled up in tears, "Nu, none mourns him more than me. I... I loved him. I loved him more than I've loved anything.

"He was born into grief, suffering and misery, and all I wanted, ever since I met him, was to protect him. To k-keep him safe. I tried. Faust knows that I tried so hard. But I couldn't save him from his illness and had no choice but to watch him die.

"One of my only comforts is that he is in a place where there is no suffering, no pain, and that one day I'll see him again. We'll be together in that wonderful place, forever."

Twilight wiped a tear out of her eye.

"My... my only other hope is our son, as you must know by now, I am pregnant. Alex is the father, and the foal will be born by Hearth's Warming Eve. Before he died, I promised I would take care of our son, and that is exactly what I am going to do. I am going to raise me son, protect him and keep him safe from harm. I am going to be the best mother I can possibly be. And, someday, I will tell my son about his father, tell him what a wonderful stallion he was."

Twilight exhaled sharply, her emotions getting stronger, "Lastly, I-I would like to announce that following these events, I would like to open a donation for the Research of the Lymphosarcoma Disease. Nopony should suffer as I have suffered, and if we had a cure for lymphosarcoma, we might've saved Alex. So, please, donate a couple bits to 'The Alexander Cosmos Foundation' you will be rewarded for your kindness if you do.

"Thank you.."

Twilight stepped off the stage, doing her best not to cry.

Despite Twilight's best attempt to listen at everypony's speeches, she just couldn't help but block it out and try and remember better times. Back when Alex was alive and she was happy. The moment she first saw him, and the warm feeling she felt the day she first realized her feelings for Alex and decided to be with him.

The rage she felt when she learned of Alex's abuse at his father's hooves, and how powerful her magic was when she went to save him from the evil unicorn.

She remembered the first time Alex said, "I love you," and how good he was to her. especially in comparison to other stallions. And, most of all, she remembered that night they made their son. How gentle and caring Alex was with her, and how good Twilight felt just to be near him. How safe and secure she felt when Alex was there the following morning, both snuggled up together as if they were one, not two.

But, as happy as these memories made her feel, they also made her sad. For she would never again feel such happiness, not until her time finally came.

Part of Twilight just wanted to die right now, and join Alex in death. But she had a foal to think about, and Alex wouldn't want her to give up. So, she pushed some dark thoughts out of her mind and contented in the thought that one day, she would be with him again.

At last, the speeches were over. The time came to carry Alex's casket to it's final resting place had arrived. Twilight was the first up.

While most objected to her being a carrier, due to her "condition," Twilight had already made clear that she was taking part in it. Appljack was right beside her, behind both was Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. All six were taking part in this grim task, their final deed for their dear friend.

[Later, at Sweet Apple Acres]

Everypony gathered at the newly christened Apple Blossom Grove. True to Applejack's description of the place, Apple Blossom trees circled grassy area like a wall. It was in the center area that the service was being held, where Alex would be put to rest. The Six carried Alex's casket to a lone, freshly dug grave.

Twilight caught a glimpse of the tombstone. A grim reminder that Alex's death was indeed real.

ALEXANDER COSMOS-SPARKLE

Born June 1st, 1996 - Died November 22nd, 2013

Friend, Son, Father, Beloved Soulmate

"His memory will live long as the Mountain's Stone"

Twilight's lips quivered when she saw her name beside his own, as if they were married.

The friends at last placed the coffin down beside the deep grave. They could see three ropes over the hole. The hole he would be soon lowered into.

Celestia walked up with her guards.

"Proceed with the burial-"

"WAIT!!" exclaimed Twilight, "Wait, PLEASE, g-give me more time!"

Celestia nodded understandingly. Everypony watched as Twilight approached the casket.

Twilight raked her hoof across the surface of the casket. It was a wonderful wood, Celestia and Luna had really wanted this to be perfect. The texture felt nice. Was it dyed mahogany? Then, at last, she creaked open the lip, looking upon Alex one last time. She choked up at his still form. Even in death, he was a vision of perfection in her eyes.

Twilight hung her head over him, tears dropping on his face.

"Goodbye, my love, we will be together again one day."

Twilight then leaned down, and, gave Alex one last kiss. His lips were cold, but they still felt warm.

The mare took one last look at him. It would be the last time she ever would see his face, so she stared long and hard. At long last, she sighed, and closed the lid tight. She cried softly to herself, the reality of the situation flooding back again.

"Come on, Sugarcube, let's go. You don't wanna see what comes next."

Applejack and the others led Twilight away, none of them dare to look back as Celestia's guards lowered Alex's casket into the grave.

Once they were far enough awaym Twilight gazed at her surroundings.

"This place," she said in awe, "It's beautiful."

"Ain't it like Ah told ya?" asked Applejack, with pride. "Alex has tha place all to himself, now, and we can all come and see 'im whenever we want!"

Twilight observed the Apple Blossom Grove again, "Yes, it's like one big shrine. A temple."

"TWILY!!"

Twilight looked, and saw her family approaching as fast as they could.

"Twilight, dear." began Twilight's mother.

Twilight immediatly ran up, and, snugged up to her mother. The pain in her heart made her feel like a filly, again.

"Oh, dear," said Twilight Velvet, as she stroked her daughter's mane

"Oh, Mama," Twilight Sparkle sobbed, "I miss him so much!"

"Shhh, I know, but," her mother said, "We're here for you. We'll always be here for you."

Night Light stood silently. He wanted to saw something to comfort his daughter, but couldn't think of anything. He finally looked to his son, who nodded. Shining approached his sister, and she looked at him.

"Twily, I owe you an apology," began Shining Armor, "I know I was never that nice to Alex when he was alive, but you must understand, it was only because you are my baby sister and I was worried about you. But, I see now that you and him really did love one another, and I feel like a fool for treating him so poorly before. So, can you ever forgive me?"

Twilight paused for a moment, then exhaled, "Alex never held a grudge. He understood why you acted the way you did, and you are my brother. So, yes, I do forgive you."

Cadance walked up to her sister-in-law, "Oh Twilight, I wish I knew what to say to make this all better."

Twilight hung her head low, her eyes closed, "So do I. I fear things will never be the same, again."

Cadance placed both hooves on Twilight's shoulders.

"But, things will get better. Remember your foal! He is Alex's son, and once he is born, things will start going great. You'll see."

Twilight sighed, "I hope so, but I'm starting to doubt that anything can heal my broken heart."

"TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!!"

Twilight and, the others looked to see Sunset Shimmer and Trixie approach at a magnificent speed.

"Sunset."

"I almost didn't come to this thing," Sunset said, "You know how much I despise your very presence."

Twilight groaned. "Not now, Sunset, NOT. NOW."

"YOU ARE A THIEF!! Nothing but a dirty thief!!!"

Rainbow Dash growled angrily.

"You take that BACK!!" snapped the light blue pegasus.

"It's the TRUTH," growled Sunset, stomping her hoof. "She's stolen everything from me that I hold dear. I was once Celestia's 'faithful student,' until Twilight came along, and took my place as her new favorite."

"You know that isn't true, Sunset," snapped Twilight, "Princess Celestia banned you from Canterlot long before I came along. You were the one dabbling in black magic, which you had to know was forbidden!"

"You stole the fame that was rightfully mine! Everypony loves you, but, apart from Trixie, they all HATE ME!!" Sunset exclaimed dramatically.

"Well, you do act like a jerk to everyone," said Twilight, sternly. "You and Trixie both don't care a bit about friendship, you only care about yourselves, and don't even blink an eye if you hurt somepony's feelings."

"And WORSE," she screamed, "You stole the affections of Alex! I loved him, but he chose you, instead of me!!"

Twilight scowled, then marched right over to Sunset, "That is a lie, and you know it!! You didn't even acknowledge his existence until we became a couple. The only reason you wanted him was because he was mine, and you just wanted to hurt me by getting him to fall in love with you."

Sunset scoffed, turning away.

"Well, there is one thing you haven't stolen from me. Something that I have obtained, that you can NEVER have."

Sunset grinned a twisted, evil smile. "I, Sunset Shimmer, have avenged the death of Alexander Cosmos!!"

Twilight eyed Sunset, "What are you talking about?!"

Trixie snickered wickedly as Sunset smirked.

"Haven't you wondered what happened to Alex's father? The b*stard unicorn who tortured Alex, and infected him with cancer in the first place!?"

"Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had him imprisoned for life, but he was found dead in his cell quite some time ago," Twilight scowled.

Sunset Shimmer smiled evily, "Yes, I know. I killed him."

"WHAT!?"

Everypony stared in shock as Sunset cackled like a witch.

"Yes, I did it," she exclaimed, "I KILLED ALEX'S FATHER!! And you know what? He DESERVED it!! I would GLADLY do it again if I could!"

Princess Cadance scowled at the unicorn, "Ms. Shimmer, you DO realise that taking the life of another is forbidden. Even Auntie Celestia and my mother won't execute criminals anymore because of it."

"I DON'T CARE!!!" shouted Sunset, her eyes burning, "Lionel Cosmos was a MONSTER, who didn't deserve to live! He DESERVED to die for what he did!! I REGRET NOTHING!!"

"SUNSET, You could get into trouble for this!"

Sunset Shimmer giggled insanely. "No, I won't! No jury would convict me for slaying an evil sociopath. NO JURY WILL CONVICT ME!!!, HA!! HA!! HA!! HAAAAAAA!!!!!"

Sunset then got in Twilight's face. "So, think of THAT, Sparkle. I avenged Alex's death, while YOU did nothing!!"

Trixie then charged her horn as Sunset laughed at Twilight, teleporting herself and Sunset away in a flash of light.

Twilight stared blankly, then sighed. Rarity trotted up to her.

"Twilight, darling," she said, "Don't let what Sunset Shimmer get to you."

"Yeah, what she did was wrong, even if it did feel right," added Applejack.

"Yeah, I-I guess," Twilight felt the tears as she cried again. "I just... I just wish Alex was still alive."

Twilight's family and friends gathered near her.

"Twilight dear," her mother said "I know this is a hard time for you, but try to take comfort that Alex is now in a better place. That body we buried isn't him, but an empty husk. The Alex you knew has a new body, and he feels no more pain."

"I know, Mother," she sighed, "But, I can't help it. I miss him."

Twilight Velvet had a warm look on her face. "I understand, sweetheart. I know that I would feel lost if anything ever happened to your father. But you made Alex's life wonderful. You loved him, and he loved you, and he's left you a child to care for."

Twilight looked at her mother smiling weakly.

"Now, come," said Velvet, nearing her daughter, "Let us leave this place, we have much to talk about."

With that, Twilight walked off with the others. She took one last look at Alex's grave, then finally turned her head away. A crystal tear fell down her face. It was clear that Twilight Sparkle would always love Alex Cosmos.

[Meanwhile, in an unknown place]

A green furred, ginger maned pony stood in an empty, white area, completely confused at his surroundings.

"H-Hello?" called the pony, "Is... Is anypony there!?"

The pony saw a figure in the distance, but couldn't make out who it was. He carefully approached, trotting slowly towards the figure shrouded by light. Once he did, he stood still. The figure reached out to him, and he reached out his hoof to it.

The pony felt a "hand" grip him as it pulled him closer, the bright light dimmed. He stared into yellow and red eyes.

"Welcome to the Afterlife, Alexander Cosmos," Discord stated with a grin. "You're DEAD."

Alex stared blankly at the Spirit of Chaos. He then pulled away suddenly, eyeing Discord.

"What is going one, Discord!?" he demanded.

"I already told you. You're dead, This is the afterlife," he grinned, "And I'm GOD."

Alexander chuckled, "You're NOT God!"

Discord smirked mischievously. "Blasphemy, your lucky I don't 'cast you out,' or smite you, or something, The point is, your life ended not too long ago. In fact, I just got back from your funeral. Lovely service, by the way."

Alex took a moment to process this. "Wait... I-I do remember dying. T-Twilight was there, and so were the others."

"Yes, they were pretty broken up about it," said Discord, nonchalantly.

Alex then glared at the draconequus.

"Okay," se said, sorting out the facts, "So, I am dead, but I refuse to believe that the Afterlife is run by you! The universe is not so badly designed!"

"You wound me, Alex. All this time I thought your were the timid, soft one."

Alex said nothing. Discord sighed, "Oh well I guess death IS the ultimate therapy.

"OKAY, confession time. No, I am not god, but you can't really blame me for trying. However, this is the Afterlife. I just thought I'd bid you farewell before you go."

"How nice of you," said Alex, unconvinced,

He looked around, "So, is this Heaven? Because if it is, I sure hope there's more than just a white room."

"Oh no, you aren't in Heaven," said Discord. "Sadly, the gateway to the Afterlife never opened for you, so you never really 'crossed over' per-say."

Discord snapped his claws. With a "POOF," he and Alex were teleported... to a gloomy looking office.

"Welcome to the 'Ghost World!'" Discord smiled, "Before you can begin your new Afterlife, you have to go through 'processing' first."

"What!?"

"Toodles!"

With that, Discord snapped again and disappeared, Alex looked around, and saw various ponies and other creatures sitting around. Just then, a door opened, and out walked a grim looking mare that looked like a secretary.

"Okay, is there an 'ALEXANDER COSMOS' in the room!?" said the mare loudly.

Alex walked up. "Uh... I'm Alex, Miss-"

"Malory Laria, Deputy Mayor of Ectotropolis."

Alex raised an eyebrow, "Malaria?"

Malory eyed Alex, "Yes, Yes, I am quite aware of how funny my name is. Just wait til you meet Mayor Rigor Mortis. Now, GET IN MY OFFICE, New Arrival, You've got hundreds of other Stiffs behind you."

Alex gulped, then followed Malory's orders.