Equestria's Last Hope: Prism Force (Under Revision)by SeraphimBronyChaptersChapter 1: The Forgotten ExperimentChapter 2: Flicker of LightningChapter 3: Summer Sun CelebrationChapter 1: The Forgotten ExperimentDusk travels to Ponyville by train, her mother still fresh in her mind. This move is necessary for her own benefit, she needs to move on. The train rounds the corner and comes to a halt in the station. Dusk is finally here; Ponyville. A house had been built for Dusk, and it would be built to replicate her house that burnt to the ground, killing her mother. But her first test will be to start a new life on her own, and Celestia would keep track of her progress. Dusk still has that cold demeanor in her eyes, anypony who tried to welcome her was met with an cold glare from her. Dusk has watched as her house burnt down back in Fillydelphia, the traumatic experience left her like she is now. She moves through town, avoiding everypony in sight. Dusk can see her house now, a two story building. The keys were given to her before she got on the train, her mood is not any better after the funeral. Dusk only had training in fire magic, but little in other elements. Unlocking the front door, she steps inside her new home. Her eyes are heavy from the long journey to the town and her room is upstairs. Putting her bags down, Dusk heads upstairs to get some sleep. Dusk falls onto the bed and sleep washes over her instantly. The next morning, Dusk wakes to the sound of a pony at her front door. Dusk is still a bit groggy, but manages to make her way down the stairs. "Who is it?" asked Dusk. "Its Candy Star!" said Candy Star, her voice held such energy and cheerfulness in it. Dusk opens the door, and raises a brow to Candy Star. Its not exactly like they are friends, but Candy Star acts like it. "Dusk, you need to make some friends here in town. Could you at least try?" asked Candy Star. "What's the point? i never want to see you here again." said Dusk. Dusk shuts the door in Candy Star's face, its such an annoyance to have this pony pestering her to do such things. But now Dusk needs to find a job here in town, and she knows the perfect one she can handle. Dusk heads for the town hall and gets a job as the town librarian for the Golden Oaks Library. She enjoys studying history and the other things in the world; this would be perfect. Plus it would maybe contain some books on basic spells she could learn. Dusk approaches the library and looks through the windows, its dark; but she is still able to see the shelves inside. Dusk opens the front door, its hinges creaking from old age. Dusk cast a light spell she learned from her mother, it comes in handy when it comes to dark places. The books lining the shelves contain basic spells, history and many other subjects. Dusk smiles at the discovery and the possibilities of what she could learn from them. Dust has accumulated on the books and every inch of the library, cleaning this place will take some effort. Dusk hits the lights and is blinded for a few seconds, her vision returns after a bit. This place has seen better days, and Dusk gets to work dusting off the whole library. Since Dusk doesn't know the levitation spell yet, she has to use the ladder. The ladder makes her job easier and gives access to the higher shelves, Dusk's attention is brought to a book on some legends, but those can wait until her chores are finished. It takes Dusk a few hours, but she manages to clean every inch of the library. Now she can focus on the books on spells, she had already mastered the fire spell, now she needed to work on the next element; water. She takes the book and goes outside to find a quiet place to practice, a clearing outside of town provides the perfect place to practice. Dusk wants to learn a new spell, the type of spell was a Teleportation spell, her mother had shown it to her as a filly. Now Dusk could try and learn it herself. She focuses her magical energy to cast it, Candy Star watches from a distance as Dusk vanishes and reappears a few feet from where she was before. Candy Star smiles as she leaves and goes back to into town. Dusk, having gained some ground, happy with her accomplishment; Dusk heads back to the library to return the book for the day. Entering Ponyville, Dusk looks around at the ponies having fun and doing their tasks and errands for the day. Dusk felt she couldn't make any friends. Dusk's time at school as a filly wasn't a pleasant experience. Her parents enrolled Dusk in the school, but the first day proved to be her worst. Two bullies had decided to target her and tease her, an act that annoyed Dusk. They would call her many names, and the biggest insult she received from them was her inability to even cast a single spell. This made Dusk lose it, in her blind anger; Dusk had cast dark magic. The spell had scared them half to death, her eyes had a cold look in them. The teacher had no choice but to call in her parents, who weren't too happy about what she had done. Dusk had received a grounding of a week in her room, but after some good behavior, she was let out early. Her parents had a talk with her about the magic she had subconsciously used. That magic was forbidden for a reason, and they made sure Dusk understood that. Dusk never intended for that to happen, but Aurora had to teach her daughter why she can never use dark magic again. There is a tale of a pony who wanted to help his kingdom prosper, but in his greed he turned to dark magic. It is forbidden to all, but he didn't care, all the king wanted was to create valuable crystals for his kingdom to sell, but as the king delved deeper into the magic, it corrupted him. With his new power, he called himself, King Sombra. The crystal ponies were enslaved and forced to work in the mines below the earth. But when Canterlot got word of this, princesses Celestia and Luna decided to remove him from power. Since then the Crystal empire has disappeared, never to be seen again. Dusk avoids using it when she can, she promised to never learn such a spell, but broke that promise. She needed a spell strong enough to defend herself, and dark magic was the only option she had until she could learn and master some other spells. In her first day, Dusk has learned to control the water spell a lot better. But still had long way to go before she would master it completely. Dusk returns to her house, and waiting for her is Candy Star, she had a smile on her face. "What are you doing here, Candy?" said Dusk in a cold demeanor. "Oh, i just stopped by to see how your doing." replied Candy Star. Dusk didn't answer right away, but Candy Star can see Dusk's sadness through her act; she did this to avoid going through that pain again. "Dusk, please don't be like that." said Candy Star. "I have the right!! and don't think for a second that you know me!!" shouted Dusk. Candy Star is taken aback by her cold nature and runs off to the candy store. Dusk has reached the limit of her tolerance for Candy Star and heads inside her house. Dusk knew this wasn't her real self. Dusk is tired and needed some sleep, it has been a stressful day so far; but she will feel better tomorrow morning. Closing her eyes, Dusk falls asleep instantly. Its at night that Dusk can't seem to sleep at all, anytime she attempted too; she has dreams of being alone. Her actions has cost her a possible friend in Candy Star, but she can't forget what happened three years ago. And to this day, still holds herself responsible for her mother's death. All she sees in her dreams are those moments when she left the house for help, when she could have saved Aurora. It ate at her soul every time she thought about it. Dusk wants to move on, but this road block in her life was preventing it from happening. Dusk has shut out everypony who has tried to help her, she has placed a social barrier around herself. Not even speaking to anypony, but something about Candy Star made her speak, but in such a cold manner to boot. Dusk tries to get what sleep she could, she eventually cried herself to sleep. With the morning sun, came daylight. Dusk turns in her sleep, unaware of the time. She didn't get much sleep last night, but managed to get out of bed, getting her shower. Dusk tries to forget about all of it, the warm water hitting her face. But this is only a small relief, as Dusk needs to get herself ready to go to work at the library. Dusk remembers what the mayor had said about the place, many tenants have lived there; but not a single one stayed for more than a week. But Dusk is more than happy to, if she did; she'd be able to study her magic at her own leisure. Dusk opens the front door to go outside, but Candy Star is nowhere to be seen. Did she upset her that much? Dusk shook it off, now wasn't the time to be think such things. Dusk approaches the library, and opens the front door. Once inside, Dusk puts her back to the wall in a corner. Now the thought of her actions takes its toll, tears are falling from her eyes as she realizes she can't stand being alone anymore. But what can she possibly say to Candy Star? After what she said, she didn't expect to be forgiven so easily. Dusk goes out to search for Candy Star, but she doesn't see her anywhere inside the candy shop. "Where did she go?" asked Dusk. Its then that Dusk hears the sound of sobbing from behind the building, there, sitting at a table is Candy Star; crying like a little filly. "Candy?" asked Dusk. Candy Star looks up at Dusk, but turns away. Dusk lowers her ears in disappointment of herself, she has done something terrble to a pony, her mother always said to respect those around her; but Dusk couldn't help it. It was a slip up that did this to Candy Star, she didn't deserve it. "Candy, look, i am sorry." apologized Dusk. Candy Star stood up and walked away from Dusk, Dusk tried to get her listen, but Candy Star shoved her away. "You've done enough, Dusk. Why do you act like that?" asked Candy Star, she is upset. "Candy, i didn't mean it, it just came out before i even realized what i had said." said Dusk. "That still doesn't justify your actions, Dusk. That hurt." answered Candy Star. Dusk doesn't deny it, she had hurt Candy Star's feelings yesterday. But she wasn't giving up so easily. She takes Candy Star by the hoof and leads her to the library, once inside, has her sit down on the couch with her. "If that's how you feel about it, then i don't deserve to be your friend." said Dusk. As Dusk turns to walk away, Candy Star stops her. "Y-You actually mean that?" asked Candy Star. "I do. I never meant to say those things, Candy. I'm just so overwhelmed." Dusk frowned and lowered her head. Candy Star can see Dusk is sincere in her apology, hugging her. Dusk's eyes shot open in surprise, not expecting it. Candy Star has forgiven everything Dusk has done to her. She can't help but smile for the first time in her life, Candy Star sees it and smiles back. "I'm glad to see your real self , Dusk. We're going to be the best of friends!" exclaimed Candy Star. "Candy, thank you." said Dusk. Candy Star seems to cheer up, but Candy Star has to get back to work with a smile. Dusk is eager to finish what she had started, her horn glows as she prepares the teleportation spell, but Dusk could only go a short distance yesterday. Casting the spell, she vanished and appeared in the the town square. Dusk felt drained and had to rest, making her way to her home, she almost stumbles but regains her balance. Dusk heads to her bed for the night, sleep washes over Dusk as she lays on her bed. Dusk finds herself in Ponyville, but something is not right. Looking around, Dusk has noticed the town has been deserted and in ruins by the look of it. The town hall in shambles, the square in disrepair. Dusk knew it is a dream, but why is she dreaming about this? The sky has turned red, the clouds nowhere to be seen; all that is left is devastation. This dream felt so familiar, but why? Dusk tries to remember, but draws a blank. Dusk could only remember her mother saying something about helping her, but everything beyond that is a blank. "So, you have returned to us." said a chilling voice behind Dusk. Dusk turns to see a bunch of Ponies standing there before her. These ponies also look familiar, but nothing comes to mind. "Who are you? What are you?" asked Dusk. The ponies seem to crack a grin quicker than her eyes could blink. "We are your creation, the very ponies you created this world for, place you could come to whenever you wanted." said the pony. Dusk still has no recollection of ever doing it, but the ponies sure seem to remember her. "You're lying. I would never create something like this." said Dusk. "You say that now, but before we became like this, you dreamed of a world free of war and oppression. Everypony you created has a will of his or her own, and they turned on you the moment they felt you were losing interest in this world. You would leave them to their devices and never come back." said the pony with a star on his flank. "What do you mean? became like what?" asked Dusk. "Like this!!" shouted the ponies in unison. Their appearance is of corpse, each cracked a grin faster than Dusk could blink. Dusk falls to the ground, terrified of their appearance. "W-W-What's going on? Your monsters!" said Dusk. This made the ponies growl in anger. They surround Dusk on all sides, leaving no room for escape, each set of eyes show a hint of malice. "Monsters you say? Well then, lets show you what us monsters can do!!" They attack Dusk, the pain felt so real, each was trying to kill her. Dusk wants to wake up, the thought of her mother floods her mind and as the scene melts away; The ponies piercing gaze makes her close her eyes tightly. Dusk screams as she wakes up, it is morning already. But that dream, it felt so real, was that world really her creaton or is Dusk just having a nightmare? Dusk didn't know what to think as she gets off her bed. The thought of those ponies, staring at Dusk like that with such malice in their eyes. It was terrifying; Dusk never wants to see it again. If it came back, what would she do? Tears are still fresh on Dusk's face as she makes her way downstairs to the couch in the living room A sudden knock on the front door startles Dusk, bringing her out of her thoughts. Dusk approaches the front door, still trembling a bit. Dusk finally manages to gain enough courage to open the front door, standing there is Candy Star. Candy Star looks at Dusk with concern. "Dusk? What's wrong? your crying." asked Candy Star. "Its nothing for you to worry about, just a bad dream is all." said Dusk. Dusk lied to Candy Star, something she would never normally do. Candy Star didn't want her friend to be upset, Candy Star has Dusk to sit down on the couch while Candy Star makes them some tea. It would be a welcome change to her day, though that could be easier said than done. Candy Star returns with the tea, putting it down on the table. Dusk is still trying to erase that horrible dream out of her mind, but no matter how much Dusk tries, it wasn't going away anytime soon. Dusk wipes the tears from her face as Candy Star sits down on the couch next to Dusk. "Dusk, i know you have been through a lot, but i need you to cheer up." said Candy Star with a smile. Dusk could not feel the same way, she knows Candy Star means well, but this time; it is not helping. Candy Star hands Dusk her cup of tea and they both drink in silence. Candy Star wants to change the subject to something that would lift Dusk's mood. Candy Star tries to make Dusk laugh, but it didn't work, that dream seemed to disturb Dusk so much, that Dusk didn't feel like doing anything at all; not even a smile escaped her. "I'm sorry, Candy, i'm just not feeling it today." said Dusk. Dusk gets up and paces around the room, Dusk has to plan the celebration. But in Dusk's current state, that would be impossible. Candy Star feels helpless, like there is nothing she could possibly do to cheer up Dusk. But then Candy Star gets an idea, if Dusk would tell her what's wrong; maybe she could help. "If i may, what has you so upset?" asked Candy Star. Dusk doesn't want to discuss it, she didn't want to remember anymore. Candy Star put a hoof on her shoulder, startling her. Candy Star is trying to help, but Dusk seems to be so far away. "Dusk, i need to know what happened." said Candy Star. Her concern apparent, Dusk can't hold back her tears any longer. "Its alright, Dusk. I'm here, let it all out." said Candy Star. Dusk lets her emotions go, each tear soaking her coat. It takes a few hours for Dusk to calm down and stop crying. Candy Star is happy to have a friend, but doesn't push it anymore. "Now that we got that problem out of the way, what do you say we go and see Princess Celestia and Luna; maybe they can tell you what your dreams mean." said Candy Star. Dusk nods and wipes the last of her tears away. "Yeah, that would be a good idea." said Dusk. Dusk and Candy Star head outside and close the front door behind them. When the front door is locked, Dusk and Candy Star make their way to Canterlot. Chapter 2: Flicker of LightningArriving in Canterlot, Dusk and Candy Star walk the streets as they chat along the way; Both laughing at each others stories. Canterlot Castle is now in sight, approaching the gates; Dusk and Candy Star are stopped. The guards make a thorough check of them both, letting them pass through. Dusk leads the way, while Candy Star follows close behind. Dusk has never seen the castle from the inside before. But now they have come to a second set of doors to the throne room, where Princess Celestia is busy tending to petitions from the nobles. The last petitioning pony has left and they get their audience with Princess Celestia. "Welcome, Dusk, Candy Star. Why have you come here?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk hesitates for a moment and finally tries to speak. "Well, um..." Dusk can't even form her words, but Candy Star helps her out. "We're here because of a nightmare that troubles my friend." said Candy Star. Princess Celestia is now curious to hear more about it. "So, Candy Star, tell me; what is this dream about?" asked Princess Celestia. "Its about Ponyville, but Dusk says it looked like the town had been deserted and nopony was around. The sky was red and the land was scorched beneath her hooves." Princess Celestia nodded in understanding. "Is that all? I'm sure you have more to say than that," A voice came from behind them; it is Princess Luna. "I have been listening to your story so far and i am deeply disturbed by it, I have seen what you have, Dusk, and i feel the same way you do." said Princess Luna. Dusk is not aware that Luna was even watching her dream at all, Dusk was just too terrified to notice her presence. "So that means you know happened next," replied Dusk. Princess Luna nodded. "Can you tell me what this all means, Princess Luna?" asked Dusk. Princess Luna lowers her eyes for a second; deep in thought. "If this is what i think it is, then we are all in danger. These ponies are your creation, but something about you has made them turn aggressive." replied Princess Luna. Princess Luna's expression turned serious as she approaches Princess Celestia. "Are you thinking what i'm thinking, sister?" asked Princess Luna. "Yes, we can't let this get out yet, if the time comes; we'll move everypony to safety." said Princess Celestia. Both princesses approach Dusk and Candy Star. "You two go home, we have to discuss this in private." said Princess Luna. Dusk and Candy Star bow their heads and leave the throne room. As the doors shut behind them, Dusk wonders if they would tell her anything more. "Hey! whats the big idea, Candy?" asked Dusk. "Come on, we have to go!" exclaimed Candy Star. She nudges Dusk and both leave for Ponyville. Back in Ponyville, Dusk hopes what she heard was wrong. If what the ponies said in the dream is true, then the ponies would escape from their world into theirs. Opening the front door to the library, Dusk steps inside. Candy Star stops at the door, Dusk stops and turns to look at Candy Star; she seems to be troubled. "Candy? What's wrong?" asked Dusk. Candy Star shook her head and is about to turn and leave. "Nothing, just tired."said Candy Star. Candy Star gives a fake smile and left for her house in the square. Dusk is worried for Candy Star, All of this must have been too much for Candy Star. Dusk knows that feeling all to well, that dream felt like a vision rather than a nightmare. But how would Dusk, a unicorn mare, cause such destruction on that scale? Dusk shakes her head to rid herself of the thought, it will have to wait until morning. Dusk has to sleep, if not; she wouldn't be able to plan the celebration. Dusk is having the same nightmare again, but this time, the ponies are nowhere in sight. But at the same time, Dusk can feel them watching her. Last time there was no place to explore, but now there's a path leading to Canterlot. Dusk makes her way along the dirt path, each step taken carefully. A sense of paranoia sets in as she comes to the the city gates, looking around, the city is in ruins, just like Ponyville. Buildings are falling apart, the shops empty. Canterlot Castle sits on the horizon, Dusk is hesitant to continue, but she must. Collecting her courage, Dusk makes her way toward the castle gates; where she is met with resistance. A barrier has been placed to keep anypony or anything out. But that means... "There are ponies still alive?" Dusk thought to herself. The only way she notices to get in, is teleportation. Dusk has not ever tried to go that far before, but there's always a first time for everything. Gathering her magic, she focuses on the balcony above. Dusk vanishes in a flash of light and reappears on the balcony. She made it, Dusk breathes a sigh of relief as she looks around Princess Celestia's room. Nopony here, the next place to check would be the throne room. Good thing Dusk knows the way around the castle, if only a little. Pushing the doors open with her magic, Dusk presses forward; the halls are quiet. But a commotion from down the hall catches her ears, running down the hall, Dusk arrives in the throne room. bursting through the doors, she sees the ponies. But where are the princesses? The ponies in the room look like the ponies who attacked her before, but they seem not to notice. "Welcome, Dusk, its been a long time." said a voice behind Dusk. She quickly turns to have Princess Luna right in her face. Dusk falls back in fright, eyes wide. Princess Luna grins widely. "P-Princess Luna?" asked Dusk. Princess Luna nodded to acknowledge herself. Dusk can't believe it, backing away slowly, she bumps into another pony behind her. Dusk looks up slowly, the white pony above her is Princess Celestia; she wears the same wide grin as her sister. Dusk is too terrified to scream, but the two princesses walk away. She didn't understand it, everypony in this dream attacked at the sight of her; but they didn't. Why? Dusk continues to watch as Princess Celestia walks back to the throne and takes a seat. Princess Luna sat beside her sister, they have the same trust as they do in the real world. But this doesn't explain their docile nature. "Dusk, you want to know why we don't kill you right now?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk nods and waits for their answer. "Its because we don't wish to, we know why you left us. But the ponies outside do not." answered Princess Celestia. "But we know it wasn't your fault, your mother erased your memory of this place to protect you." Dusk had no idea, her mother tampered with her memories? Dusk lowers her head, tears run down her face. She didn't want this to happen, Dusk only wanted to create this world. But the ponies here turned on her the moment they felt weakness in her. But what they said, it was a different story, what they believed was true. Dusk didn't leave because she was bored of that world, she was forced to forget. Everything she loved in it, gone, just like that. The princesses looked to see her crying, but these ponies felt no sympathy for her. "Dusk, this barrier will not hold them for long, you must leave now. This isn't your world any longer." said Princess Luna. She is right, Dusk had no place here. It is the opposite of what she created, nothing remains alive. "But i-" Princess Luna is upon her in an instant, causing Dusk to fall to her back. "You forgot how to, didn't you?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk nods and Princess Luna points a hoof to the mirror beside the throne. This is her way out, but the window is closing fast. Dusk runs for the mirror and jumps through. Dusk shot up in her bed, the morning sun shining through the bedroom window. She didn't know what to think anymore, that dream just now; did it really mean anything? Dusk got out of her bed and heads downstairs, the tears still fresh on her face as she sits down on the couch in the living room. Dusk is deep in thought about what happened in the dream, but a knock at the door startles her; bringing her out of her thoughts. Dusk stood up, still shaken by the experience, making her way to the door. Opening it, she finds Candy Star standing there with a smile. Candy Star takes notice of Dusk's sadness and fear, she sat Dusk down and goes into the kitchen to make some water for the them both, hoping it would help her friend calm down. Bringing the water to the table, Candy Star sat down beside her friend. "Dusk, did you have that dream again?" asked Candy Star. Dusk is quiet for a few minutes, but starts crying. That confirms Candy Star's suspicion, she didn't want to push Dusk any further than she needed to, but its important to get the details. "I'm sorry, this is happening, Dusk. But unless you tell me, i can't help you." said Candy Star. "I can't, i don't want to remember!!" shouted Dusk. Candy Star needs to get Dusk out of the house for a while, maybe it would help her. Taking Dusk's hoof she leads her outside, everypony watches as the two of them come out. But go back to their errands and activities. Everypony avoided Dusk, after the reception they got from her, it couldn't be helped. Dusk follows Candy Star, they come to the local park, a quiet area. They can talk here without distractions. "Dusk, those dreams aren't real, its in your head. You can make them go away." said Candy Star. "I've tried, but it doesn't work that way, Candy." said Dusk, her emotions have taken a huge blow. "These ponies in the dream want out, they want our world for their own. And i can't stop them, nopony can." Dusk makes that point clear and Candy Star refuses to take no for an answer. "Dusk, i know you're afraid. But you must fight back, its the only way." said Candy Star, Dusk knows she is not wrong. Dusk is just too afraid to do it, these things could end up trapping her there. "Wake up!!" Candy Star smacks Dusk on the back of the head. Dusk shot her eyes to Candy Star, but this was the only way to snap her friend out of it. "You're acting like a little filly, Dusk! This isn't like you at all!" exclaimed Candy Star. She begins sobbing, Candy Star holds her friend close to her, her friend's confidence has been shattered. All she can do is let Dusk cry it out. Dusk is feeling better now, but has to prepare for the celebration. Candy Star smiles, and helps Dusk to her hooves. "Candy Star, thanks. I needed that, but try not to hit me so hard next time." said Dusk. Candy Star laughs nervously and has to leave for work. Candy Star has finished her work for today, and decides to pay Dusk a visit. But as she turns to leave, she spots a green pegasus struggling to fly. Having no time to get Dusk, Candy runs in the direction of the pegasus. The distance isn't far, so Candy Star can get to her. Lightning Flicker flaps her one wing, but its useless. She starts dropping to the ground, Candy Star is running as fast as her hooves will allow. But Candy Star misjudges the distance, but luckily Lightning Flicker manages to grab hold of a cloud. But it only slows her descent a little bit, Candy Star can only watch as Lightning Flicker hits the ground. "Oh Celestia, please let her be alright!" said Candy Star. Candy Star stops just short of falling in the crater herself. "Hello? are you okay?" asked Candy Star, her concern grows when she doesn't get a response. Candy Star has to get this pony to Dusk, she gets underneath the pegasus to be able to get Lightning Flicker on her back. Candy Star has to walk, she doesn't want to cause her anymore pain. It takes a while to get to Dusk's house. Dusk is studying her magic when a loud banging comes from the front door. "Just a minute!" said Dusk. Opening the front door, standing there with a pegasus on her back is Candy Star. Dusk lets Candy Star inside and is confused as to why. "Dusk! She's hurt, you have to help her!" cried Candy Star. "Calm down, its just an injured wing. Lets get her to the guest room." Said Dusk, they make their way upstairs, but on the way up, Lightning Flicker stirs. Pain shoots up her wing and she tries to move. "Hey! you'll make your injury worse." Lightning Flicker calms down, and they lay her on the bed. Dusk examines the wing, the injury is severe, but fixable. Dusk had learned a healing spell, but it would only fix a small amount of the damaged wing. Dusk has Candy Star hold Lightning Flicker down on the bed while she applies the healing spell, but Lightning Flicker fights Candy Star; making it difficult for Dusk to treat it. "We're not going to hurt you, i just need to fix your wing." said Dusk. Lightning Flicker calms down enough for Dusk to finish the healing spell. Dusk is confused as to how this pegasus could fly like this, it makes no sense. "I'm just to going to make a splint for you, hold still." Dusk held her wing closed and Candy helped keep the splint in place while Dusk applied the bandage around it. Lightning Flicker looks at her wing, it didn't hurt as much anymore. Lightning Flicker mumbles something, but Dusk can't make it out. Dusk leans in closer to be able to hear her words. Its not what she is expecting. "I don't need your help." said Lightning Flicker. Dusk lets out a sigh and lets her rest for the night. Candy Star is tired and goes home for the night, Dusk makes sure to check on Lightning Flicker every hour or so. Lightning Flicker finally falls asleep, Dusk smiles and goes to bed herself. She needs the rest, hopefully the nightmare doesn't happen again. Dusk fears are realized when she finds herself in Ponyville yet again, this will make the third time she has encountered this dream. Something felt like it was leading her to Canterlot, Dusk can't hold back her curiosity any longer and follows the feeling of dread. Dusk has never felt like this before, her fear is intensified when she hears ponies laughing. She follows the sounds to the castle in Canterlot, the barrier is gone. But Dusk makes sure to keep vigilant as she approaches the castle, only stopping when she sees to ponies guarding the castle. Dusk can't use the balcony this time, the ponies will be expecting it this time. Dusk puts the image of the throne room into her mind and teleports to it instantly, she looks around and sees nopony present. But the throne has been moved, revealing a secret passage beneath the castle. Dusk uses her light spell to illuminate the dark passage way, there looks to have been a battle here. Blood lines the walls, as if somepony we injured and using the wall as support. Dusk comes to a wooden door, the door creaks as she opens it. she spots a guard lying on the ground, she runs to his side; hopeful to get some answers. He has a pulse, he's hanging on by a thread. "Hey! what happened here?" asked Dusk, she keeps him awake by shaking him. The guard look up at Dusk, but mumbles something inaudible. Dusk leans in closer to hear what the guard had said. "Princess...must...save..." the guard's eyes close as he passes away. Dusk is speechless, by the way he spoke, it sounds like the castle had been overtaken by those ponies outside. Dusk needs to hurry, if she can find them again, she can get the answers she needs. Dusk has to run through the next set of passages, but comes to a fork, which goes in two directions; left and right. Dusk must choose, one way may lead to the ponies who're after her and the other leads to the princesses. Dusk gets a headache from confusion, but chooses the right path. Dusk guessed correctly and reaches a large stone room, torches line the walls; its the only light besides hers. in the middle of the room lies another pony, but to Dusk's shock its Princess Luna herself. "Princess Luna!!" cried Dusk as she runs to her side, even though she was one of them; she is no different to her than the real one. Princess Luna turns her head to Dusk, the wounds are bleeding. She tries to speak, but Dusk can't hear her. "What?" asked Dusk, Princess Luna gestures for Dusk to come closer. "They are still here, looking for you." said Princess Luna, her voice is weak, but Dusk could hear her better. Dusk can't hep but feel sympathy for this pony, she knows its not really her, just a creation she had made herself. But something about her made Dusk shed tears, each fell to the ground; leaving a stain on the stone floor. Princess Luna is confused as to why Dusk is crying. "Why do you cry for us? we're no longer the ponies you created. why?" asked Princess Luna. "Because... i..." Dusk can't hold her emotions back, its too much. She couldn't stand seeing all this death, first her mother, now this. When will it all stop? Dusk gathers up her strength and continues her explanation. "Because i loved you! you helped me when i needed it most." said Dusk, her tears still running down her face. Princess Luna chuckles at the sentiment, its ironic that this mare who was attacked and tormented by these ponies is showing compassion towards them. Princess Luna soon passes away shortly after, a smile frozen on her face. "Luna? Luna!!" cried Dusk, its too late to save her; Luna is now gone. Another needless death, Dusk is sick of it all. In a blind rage, Dusk charges into the next room looking for the ponies who killed her friend. "Come out!! This is my dream, you hear me?!!" shouted Dusk, she has had enough. "Your dream? That's funny, you abandoned us!" a voice said from behind Dusk. A single pony stepped forward from the group, she looks different from the other ponies; Dusk's brows furrow in anger. Dark Mist gestures for her minions to attack Dusk, she braces her self and teleports out of the way. "Looks like somepony learned a few new tricks while they were away, but is running away all you can do?" said Dark Mist. The ponies crack a grin at her words, Dusk is scared; but doesn't let it get to her. The four minions attack again, but this time, Dusk cats a volley of fire at them. The ponies turn to black smoke, she got them. "Ha ha ha! is that all you have, Dusk?" asked Dark Mist. She's laughing, but why? Dusk watches in total shock as the four ponies seep up from the floor again to join their master. "What?! what are you?" asked Dusk, her magic had hit them point blank; but there they are, standing in front of her once again. "Must i repeat myself? alright, listen closely. Because i won't say this again." Dusk waited for her answer as her body was trembling. "I am Dark Mist, the darkness that lives in everypony's heart!" exclaimed Dark Mist. "No way... you were defeated one thousand years ago, that's impossible!" said Dusk. Equestria's biggest threat has reappeared after eleven hundred years. Dusk knew she had no chance against something this powerful, she had to leave. But the mirror is in the throne room, if she could make it; then she could escape. Yes, i was defeated, but not destroyed. They could only banish me to the realm of dreams, they didn't have the power to destroy me." explained Dark Mist. The four ponies are upon Dusk in a second, causing her to fall on her back. Dark Mist is back, there's only one option left for Dusk. She casts a light spell, turning it into a flash bang. Dark Mist and the others scream in pain as Dusk runs back toward the throne room. Curse you!! don't let her get away!!" ordered Dark Mist, the soldiers follow after her. Dusk has to teleport again, but only comes up short of the doorway. "Stop her!! she mustn't reach the mirror!!" Dark Mist's voice can be heard throughout the castle. Dusk enters the throne room, but the path to the mirror is blocked. Dusk needs to escape and the only is to fight through the ponies blocking the way. Furrowing her brows, Dusk charges forward the back row hangs back while the front takes the offensive. Dusk has it all planned out, but if she makes a single mistake, she's done for. Dark Mist watches from above as her soldiers charge towards their target. Dusk teleports and casts a fire blast from behind, dispatching them quickly. Now all that's left is the last row of soldiers. "What are you doing?! get her!!" ordered Dark Mist. The soldiers come at her, but change tactics, surrounding her on all sides. Dark Mist cracks a smile as they have her. Dusk teleports to the mirror and escapes. Dark Mist is furious, her soldiers let her escape. Dusk wakes up immediately, she's back home. But Dusk gasps as she had forgotten about Lightning Flicker. She runs to her room and finds her missing, Dusk's ears fall as she comes down the stairs, only to see Lightning Flicker eating with Candy Star at the dining room table. "Morning, Dusk! how was your nap?" asked Candy Star. Dusk finds pancakes on the table for her, smiling, she finds them cold, but doesn't complain. "Morning, Candy Star, Lightning." Candy Star smiles, but Lightning Flicker doesn't say a word. Finishing breakfast, Dusk takes Lightning Flicker outside for a chat. "Lightning, i know how you feel about this, but i can't have you acting like you did last night." Lightning Flicker doesn't respond. "I know what you are going through, i was the the same way." This gets Lightning Flickers attention. "You? like me? Ha! i doubt it." said Lightning Flicker. "I'm serious!" Lightning Flicker can't stop laughing and falls to her back. Dusk gets annoyed with her and starts to walk away from Lightning Flicker. "Okay, okay. i'll listen." Said Lightning Flicker. "My mother was a loving pony, she taught me everything i know, but my father taught me his secret strategies, hoping i'd be able to use them someday." said Dusk, sitting down in front of Lightning Flicker. "They did?" asked Lightning Flicker. "Yeah, they were the greatest." said Dusk as she smiles. "Mother kicked him out after he was caught coming home late, she said something about him cheating on her." Dusk's smile returned to a frown. "But mother took care of me all those years, even taught me how to cast magic spells when i was thirteen." Lightning didn't see how any of this had to do with her being like her. "Tell me why you acted like i am." Lightning Flicker wanted the best part of the story, so Dusk complied. "Well mother was training me in fire and water magic, after i completed my training in those elements, we had our dinner and went to bed. But i had forgotten to put out the fire and the embers caught the carpet on fire, i wasn't even aware that the fire had started and i was getting out of the shower. I saw the flames and screamed for my mother, she came running and put out what she could of the fire. But she cleared the way for me, but mother wasn't so fortunate." said Dusk, her ears fell. "What happened?" asked Lightning Flicker. "The flames got too high for her to pass through, so i offered to help, but she shook her head and told me to go get help. So i did just that, but by the time i got back with help, our house was completely swallowed up by the flames. The next morning, they found her." Dusk stopped, almost crying at the memory. "And?" Lightning Flicker urged her on. "She didn't make it out, she wasn't breathing and was considered dead on site. The city held a funeral for my mother, everypony came to say their respects. The princesses even came as well." said Dusk, she wiped her tears and continued. "They did? for real?!" Dusk glared at Lightning Flicker's lack of respect. "Sorry." Dusk nodded and continued her story once more. "I was crying, i wanted my mother to come back. I was just being selfish, because she was the only family i had left. That's when i had to give my speech in front of the whole town for my mother. I couldn't bring myself to do it. So Princess Luna offered to help me, she read it down the the very last words: Aurora, you were the greatest mother a daughter could ever have. I know i can't bring you back, you wouldn't have wanted that. But i love you so much,. You were there when i needed you most, always cheering me up with a smile. Now here we are, your gone, and i'm still here. But your with our friends and family now, and i hope you found peace." Said Dusk, her tears flowing out from her eyes. This memory was painful. Lightning Flicker was in tears as well, she had no idea that Dusk has suffered so much. She hugs Dusk, but Dusk is not expecting her sympathy. "Dusk, if it means anything, i'm sorry." said Lightning Flicker. Dusk nodded and walked back inside the house. Candy Star sits on the couch reading one of Dusk's books on equestrian history, Dusk smiles and sits down next to her. "So you like those, huh?" asked Dusk. Candy Star has her face buried in the book, enjoying herself. Dusk wanted to try out a new spell she had learned the other day. Candy Star's attention is brought to a book floating in front of her, she looks to Dusk, happy to see a new spell she learned. Dusk levitates it to her hooves, and smiles at Candy Star. "You learn fast, don't you?" asked Candy Star. "Yeah, mother always trained me to properly channel my magic. It helps when it came to advanced spells." Candy Star nodded in agreement. Candy Star watches as Lightning Flicker entered the room, and sat next to them. Dusk is surprised as well, they weren't expecting this so soon. "What are you two looking at? is there something on my face?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk shakes her head and snaps out of it, she gets up and started heading upstairs. Dusk can hear them chatting it up downstairs from her room, its like they are best friends now. But Dusk has to finish her theory on the new magical energy. But has to figure out a fitting name for it. Something that defines the idea, then the idea hits her, Dusk will call it, Prism force. If her theory proves correct, maybe then Celestia will allow her to conduct the experiment. But it is a long shot, it won't be so easy. But If Dusk's friends can vouch for her, maybe she could have a chance. Lightning Flicker is tired and goes upstairs and to her own room, Dusk watches the sunset, in the sky, it is a beautiful sight. The moon rises and she falls asleep, Candy Star heads home, she had to work tomorrow; she can't run the shop if nopony is there. Dusk is free of nightmares that night, as wakes up in the morning. But that doesn't mean they won't come back, she had finished her theory last night before bed, but the summer sun celebration is only a few days away. she had everything she and her friends would need, plus they would be able to relieve the stress in their lives. Lightning Flicker is still asleep in her bed, but Dusk lets her sleep. she needs to prepare for their departure to Canterlot, there they would meet with Princess Celestia and Luna. she heads out to get the supplies for their trip. Lightning Flicker wakes up, yawning; she gets out of bed. Getting her shower, Lightning Flicker thought about what Dusk had told her. Much like her, Dusk has lost her only family as well. But she wants to help her friend move on, but has no idea how yet. Lightning Flicker has lost her parents as well at a young age, finding herself all alone in the world; she couldn't help but cry. Lightning Flicker had a loving family, her mother and father always made sure she was happy. Many times her father showed her how to clear clouds in the most efficient ways, this made her happy to watch her father show off his techniques. Its five months since Lightning Flicker turned ten, her parents thought it would be nice to have her accompany them to work. She would get to see how they did their jobs, her mother worked at the rainbow factory, while her father was on weather duty. It came time for the factory to receive their monthly water supply, and her father was the lead pony for it. The rookies needed to be fast to form a tornado to carry the water. If they slip up, it would lose control. That day, would be the moment her whole world shattered she watched as the ponies formed the waterspout to carry the water to the factory. But something went terribly wrong, they lost control and the waterspout took Lightning Flicker and her parents inside. All went black for Lightning Flicker. She awoke four days later with no memory of that day. One of the hospital doctors came into the room to give her the news, Lightning Flicker had a bandage around her head and wings. But her parents were missing. "Where's my mom and dad?" asked Lightning Flicker. The doctor's ears fell n response as he approached her bedside. "I'm sorry, your parents... didn't make it." said the doctor. Lightning Flicker's eyes teared up at the news, her ears fell in sadness. "No!! you're lying!!" shouted Lightning Flicker. She couldn't accept it, her parents had to have survived. "We have something to show you, Lightning. You will not like what you see." said the doctor as he had Lightning Flicker follow him to the basement level. As they enter the room, there are two metal tables. Lightning Flicker approached the tables as the doctor uncovered the bodies lying on them. Lightning Flicker gasped with tears at her parents lying there, they were dead as the doctor had mentioned. "No, it can't be..." Lightning Flicker fell to the floor to her hooves, tears staining the marble floor. "I'm truly sorry, Lightning, But they are gone." said the doctor one last time. Lightning Flicker sobs on the floor, they are truly gone. What would she do? The doctor helped her to her hooves. "Why didn't you save them?!! why?!!" shouted Lightning Flicker in anger, her voice grew cold towards him. "They were gone before they got here, there wasn't anything we could do for them." explained the doctor, he felt sorry for her. After that, Lightning never spoke again, at least not in any polite ways. Now Lightning Flicker has friends, friends who will stay by her side; always. Dusk comes back inside, seeing Lightning Flicker's tears. Dropping her saddle bags, Dusk comes to her side. "Lightning, what's wrong?" asked Dusk. Lightning shook her head to try and forget, but those memories are implanted deep into her psyche; never to be forgotten. "Dusk, i've been holding something back, but i was afraid." Lightning admits her actions were selfish, but her intentions were pure. Dusk understands this, and smiles. "Don't worry, we'll make them proud of us. Just promise me one thing." said Dusk, Lightning tilted her head. "What?" asked Lightning Flicker. "Promise that you won't give up on your friends, even if things get bad for us." said Dusk. "You have my word." said Lightning Flicker. This is the last day until the Summer Sun Celebration, Dusk and her friends have been waiting for this day, the day they can relax instead of having to worry about tomorrow. Everypony in town and Equestrria will be there, and which means that each will make new friends along the way. But for now, they will sleep for the night, Then the fun begins tomorrow. Chapter 3: Summer Sun CelebrationAll is going well for the day, and come nightfall; Ponies everywhere will throw raucous parties tonight and stay up until dawn to watch Princess Celestia raise the sun. Its an event Dusk has wanted to participate in for years, but her parents were always too busy working to take her. But now she has the chance to see it with her own eyes. Dusk gets her and Lightning Flicker's lunch started, they decided on some daffodil sandwiches and some salad to go with it. Candy Star hasn't got off from work yet, but Dusk knows she always brings her own food to her house. Lightning Flicker has become best friends with them both and treasures their friendship like they do, you could say they were one big happy family. "Dusk, do you really think you can get the princesses to let you do it?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk didn't know what she meant, but tilts her head at the question. "Let me do what?" asked Dusk in return. "Candy Star says you want to experiment with the elements of harmony, create a new magic energy with them, is that true?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk sighs and blames herself for trusting Candy Star to keep her big mouth shut. But the secrets out and she must tell her. Dusk can't really say she's surprised this happened. "Yes, Lightning, i do plan to do just that. But i'm uncertain if they will even let me." answered Dusk, a frown upon her face as her ears fell. "Any idea how your theory will work?" asked Lightning Flicker, her curiosity to know more makes Dusk smile. "Another time Lightning, we need to focus on the celebration tonight." said Dusk, her theory is complete, but not enough proof to make her claims valid. That encounter with Dark Mist got her thinking, if she can get the answers; then she can present them to the princesses. But until then, she kept it to herself. A knock at her front door gets their attention, Dusk opens the front door and is greeted by Candy Star. "Hi, Dusk. How is Lightning doing with her wing?" asked Candy Star. She invites Candy Star inside to see for herself, Candy Star sees that the bandages and splint are off. "Oh that's great! happy to see you getting better, Lightning." Lightning Flicker smiles at the compliment. Candy Star joins them at the table, she has her own food as expected. Dusk just shakes her head, she would have let her join them if she wanted to. But Candy Star doesn't like to impose on ponies like that. Dusk needs to find the answer to what she needs to make her theory come to light, but that means she has to enter that nightmarish world again. She prepares herself as her eyes close and sleep washes over her once again. Dusk has again been drawn into their world, but escaping this time will require her to use her wits and magic. Her fear is suppressed by the thought of her friends, the one thing keeping her going. Now she is on a mission, and will not be deterred from it. Last time Dusk was here, she didn't get the chance to investigate; but now she has that opportunity to do so. Dusk has to be cautious, if she got spotted, she would be surrounded by a whole army. But there is one good thing about this place, she could find what she needed to prove her theory once and for all. Dusk makes her way through the town of Ponyville, the eyes of ponies watch her every move. She had nothing to be afraid of anymore, Dark Mist was the only threat now, these ponies were small compared to her. The road ahead will be full of dangers, but now that she has her confidence back, Dusk moves forward with purpose. The castle archives always have been a safe guarded secret from non-royalty, but since they are no longer around, that will be easy to access. Dusk has reached the edge of Ponyville, Canterlot is just up ahead. If she is caught, she can only imagine what Dark Mist will do. Canterlot looks to be empty, except for the few ponies here and there. Dusk moves around them quietly, any sudden noise and they would attack. She takes cover behind a stoned wall from a shop, the pony walks right past her. Now is her chance, Dusk sneaks past while its back is turned and sighs with relief as she has made it past the first pony. Up next was the hotel, two ponies patrolled the grounds, but Dusk has her wits to aid her, she picks a rock up in her magic and hurls it down the street. This gains only one of the pony's attention, the other stays put. "This is going to be harder than i thought," Dusk thought to herself. Dusk has no choice but to risk being spotted to take out the guard while the other is away, sneaking up from behind; Dusk casts a spell to sedate him. She hides him in one of the buildings, hopefully he doesn't wake up too soon. Now past the second set of guards, Dusk moves ahead. This time, Dusk finds she has to get past three guards, and then she will be clear. She watches their patterns, analyzing when she needs to move getting past one, then another. Dusk is almost spotted as she made her way to the wall behind them, sighing with relief when the ponies turned back around. Dusk has just dodged a bullet, now she has to move quickly. Dusk has arrived at the castle gates, but has a problem; the gate is blocked by a magic glyph. It will make getting to the castle difficult, but Dusk has prepared for this. She learned how to break a glyph like this, but it required focus and a good amount of Magic to pull off. Dark Mist watches from the castle as Dusk stands at the gate, she wants to see if this pony can break it. Dark Mist had to test her to see if she is a serious threat, but from what she saw last time; Dusk might prove dangerous. But in the meantime, Dark Mist will let Dusk keep going. But at the same time, keep the guards in line. They had disappointed her last time, letting Dusk escape. Dark Mist had dispatched the three of them as a lesson. "Disappoint me again and next time i won't be so forgiving." said Dark Mist. The soldiers and guards nodded in agreement, but at the same time fear her. Dark Mist always has to deal with these lowly soldiers, but she always made use of them. And they provide some entertainment when she got angry and needs to blow off some steam. But other than that, she enjoyed every moment of fear she got from them. Dark Mist keeps watch on Dusk, but is surprised to see she is gone along with the glyph. Cracking a grin, she sees she has underestimated this one. "Have fun, Dusk, we'll see each other real soon." said Dark Mist, going back to her room to rest. Dusk makes her way to the courtyard of the castle, but getting through will be a game of patience. The ponies guarding the area didn't move, its like they are frozen. She decides to investigate why they are not moving. Moving in closer reveals they are statues, but these didn't look normal. Their expression of fear is unusual for being statues, meaning one thing; Dark Mist turned these ponies into stone. Backing away, Dusk is torn as she sees them. Would this be her fate if she got captured? Dusk shakes her head to rid herself of the thought, now is not the time to lose her nerve. Dusk approaches the doors, nopony in sight. Opening the castle doors, she steps inside. As she passes through; the doors slam shut behind her. "No turning back now." said Dusk as she made her way further into the castle. This place is quiet and the statues inside were the same as the ones she had seen outside. Dark Mist watches from the shadows as Dusk enters the hallway to the library, curious to see were she is headed. Dusk approaches the door to the library, this is it, the answers she needed lie behind these doors. Dusk opens the doors, the dust in this place has not been tended to in what looks to be centuries. But she makes her way to the bookshelves, each containing spells, history, artifacts; searching further reveals the scrolls containing limitless knowledge. But Dusk isn't here for that, what she's after is none other than the secrets regarding the elements. They are taught that these elements hold the balance for the land and only ponies who have pure hearts can use them. Each element had a specific virtue that it requires to wield it, they are: Magic, Honesty, Generosity, Loyalty, Laughter and Kindness. once together, the ponies who had them could unleash a magic beyond the the princesses own. But that is all that is known, but Dusk had her own ideas of what else could result from it. Locating the scroll, Dusk opens it to find out more. What she finds is astonishing: Prism Force is the name for the specific energy contained in the Elements, and when the bearers use them, their natural or latent magic syncs up with the prism force. However, the recipient pony who uses it, overloads themselves with the magic by using every element and is able to utilize it for a short amount of time before the sheer amount of magical energy overloads their body. But the only benefit to this form, is that it amplifies anypony's abilities drastically, making a pegasus agility increase drastically. A Unicorn's magic is increased drastically. And finally, an earth pony's strength is increased drastically. This is what Dusk is after, taking the scroll. Dusk starts making her way out of the library. But is met by the castle guards, spears pointed at her neck. Having no choice, Dusk is forced to surrender. The guards escort her to the throne room, where Dark Mist awaits her arrival. Entering the throne room, Dusk is thrown to the floor at Dark Mist's hooves. She cracks a smile at her new prize, Dusk is in trouble if she can't figure a way out of this mess. "Excellent work, captain. I will see to it that you get your reward later." said Dark Mist, praising him. "As for you, Dusk. Hand over that scroll you stole from me." ordered Dark Mist. Dusk does as she is asked, she watches as Dark Mist reads it over. But her smile turns to a grin of excitement, Dark Mist has a choice to burn it or use it for her own dark desires. But that wouldn't be any fun. Dark Mist casts a fire spell on the scroll, burning it to ashes. "NO!! why would you do that?!" said Dusk, the guards hold her down when she tries to move towards their queen. "Because its a threat to me and my plans, you fool!!" shouted Dark Mist. Dusk can't believe it, she had it in her hooves, only to be taken away. She felt like giving up, her plan has backfired and Dark Mist has won. "I'll tell you what, Dusk. Since you've made it this far, i'll let you decide your own fate." said Dark Mist, her grin growing wider. "What?" asked Dusk in confusion. "You heard me, you will choose your fate. Its that simple, i can make it quick or painful; which do you choose?" asked Dark Mist. Dusk cries in defeat, her only hope to combat her is gone, she stood no chance. But Dark Mist looked to be sincere in her decision, Dusk couldn't escape this way. The guards have her pinned to the floor, stopping any hope of escape she may have had. "So, what will it be, Dusk?" asked Dark Mist again. "I... can't..." answered Dusk. Dark Mist grew impatient and strikes Dusk across the face in anger, Dusk yelps at the pain Dark Mist inflicts on her. This does not feel like a dream anymore, this world is becoming more real by the minute. "Answer me!!" Dark Mist strikes her again, this time even harder than before. Dusk is picked up by one of the guards and her head held up to face Dark Mist, disappointment on Dark Mist's face as she orders them to take her away to the dungeon. Down in the dungeon, Dusk is put in shackles and placed in a cell. She wishes she had never come, and cries as she lies there in her cold dank cell. Dark Mist's laugh echoes through the castle, as if she is enjoying her victory. However, that is victory will be short lived. "Dusk? can you hear me?" said Lightning Flicker. She and Candy Star have returned from their errand and found Dusk having a nightmare again, but no matter how much they shook her; she won't wake up. "Lightning?" said Dusk in her sleep. Candy Star is holding Dusk's hoof in hers, never leaving her side. "Yes, Dusk, it me. You have to wake up!" said Lightning Flicker. Dusk would if she could, but it seems she is stuck in this place and can't escape. Her only way out is in the throne room under heavy guard. Its hopeless to even attempt to escape now. "Don't give up, Dusk! friends stick together, don't you remember?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk is chained to a wall, so even if she did try to move it will be restricted. Dusk cries as her attempts to free herself fail, her spells have no effect on the shackles binding her. If only she had a spell powerful enough to break them... "That's it!" exclaimed Dusk. She has been holding back a forbidden magic, Dusk swore never to use ever again. But this time, she has no choice. Summoning her magical reserves, Dusk begins casting dark magic; here eyes turn green and a purple mist appears out of the corner of her eyes. "Dusk! what are you doing?! Stop!!" shouted Candy Star. But its too late, Dusk has already begun using it to free herself. "No more!! i can't stand it!!" shouted Dusk. Dusk's emotions are wildly out of control, the dark magic is starting to corrupt her. The guards upstairs hear the commotion and come running to see whats going on, only to be standing there frozen in fear. Dusk's eyes, they're now green with a purple mist coming out of them. "You will all pay for this!!" shouted Dusk. Her anger is fueling the magic, corrupting her thoughts. "Dusk!! Stop it now!!" shouted Lightning Flicker, whats happening in the dream is happening in the real world. Both Candy Star and Lightning Flicker can see the signs of dark magic being used. But they can only try and make Dusk stop, but so far, its not working. Dusk teleports the the throne room to confront Dark Mist. Dusk appears before Dark Mist still under the corruption, Dark Mist smiles at this sudden development. The look in Dusk's eyes are that of anger and pain, but she is still a novice in using it. "You... its all your fault!!" Dusk sends a blast of dark magic towards Dark mist, she is nearly hit by it. Dark Mist is laughing, she wants to test this new power. She summons the guards into the room and they surround Dusk on all sides. "Get her!!" ordered Dark Mist. The guards don't move, Dusk's eyes are full of hatred for Dark Mist. All of them flee as Dusk prepares another spell. "Useless ponies... if you want something done right, do it yourself." said Dark Mist. She doesn't get even two feet before Dusk casts it again, missing her once more. Dark Mist can't get close enough without getting hit. "You are quite something, Dusk. I never thought you of all ponies would resort to this." said Dark Mist, she is enjoying the moment of darkness in Dusk's heart. "Shut up, your life ends here!!" Dusk fires another round of spells at Dark Mist, she has difficulty avoiding them all. Dark Mist vanishes and reappears behind Dusk, before she can cast another, Dark Mist fires a counter spell. Dusk is sent back by the force of the blast. She can't contain her laughter at this pony's tenacity, and has to put an end to it. Dark Mist takes the offensive and casts dark magic at Dusk. Dusk is struggling to hold it back with her own. Dark Mist puts more effort into her attack pushing her back. "Dusk!! Please stop it!!" Dusk's eyes return to normal as Lightning Flicker shouts into her ears, waking her up. Dark Mist watches as Dusk starts to fade back into reality, but can't stop it even if she wanted to. "Next time we meet, Dusk, will be on the battlefield." said Dark Mist as she returns to her throne. Dusk shot up in her bed, her friends crying. Candy Star looks up and is overjoyed at seeing Dusk awake. Dusk smiles at her friends, happy to see them again. "Dusk?" asked Candy Star. "Yes? what is it, Candy?" answered Dusk. "Don't you ever scare us like that again!" said Candy Star as she pounded on Dusk's chest while crying. "Don't worry, Candy, it was a one-time thing. I won't use it again, i promise." said Dusk, Candy Star is happy to hear it. But Dusk remembers Dark Mist burning the evidence she needed to make her theory have any validity, now its just up to luck to play its part. The summer sun celebration has started, they can now celebrate the coming of the summer solstice. Dusk pulls out the stock she had put away for the occasion, each having their fun with each other. Candy Star has brought some games over from her house they can play, even though Candy Star is a year younger than Dusk, she still enjoys the good things in life. Lightning Flicker brought over some gala apples for them to eat, Dusk didn't care for them, but Candy Star loved anything with a mild and sweet taste to it. Both eat what they can and turn to Dusk. "Hey girls! over here!" said Dusk, both look in her direction. Lightning Flicker and Candy Star move quickly, tackling Dusk to the floor, Dusk giggles as they pounce on her. "Got you this time, Dusk!" said both in unison. Dusk slips out from under them, Candy Star has her leg as she tries to escape. "Not this time!" exclaimed Candy Star. Dusk is brought down to the floor once again. Both Lightning Flicker and Candy Star start using feathers to make her laugh, she hasn't had much to laugh about lately. "No, stop!" said Dusk as the two keep going regardless of her protest. "Only if you say it!" said Lightning Flicker. "Say what?" Dusk is laughing so hard it hurts to breathe. "You have to admit that i'm more fun than you." said Candy Star. They don't stop as Dusk is crying from laughing, she couldn't get up as they had her pinned to the floor. "Never!" said Dusk in defiance. "Have it your way! until you do we won't stop." said Lightning Flicker as they continue their assault with the feathers. "Okay, okay! you're more fun than me!" admitted Dusk, the assault stops. Dusk is trying catch her breath as she gets up off the floor, her friends helping her up to her hooves. Dusk had fun with them, even though they cheated at the game. The time has come for the sun to be raised, Dusk and her friends as well as the rest of the town came to watch the spectacle. Once everypony has gathered, the princesses Luna and Celestia approaches the stage. Princess Luna lowers the moon, in return Princess Celestia raises the sun into the sky, the crowd of ponies cheer as their new day begins. Dusk is smiling at the sight of them, both give off a sense of regality about them. A feeling Dusk never sensed before when her mother died, all she could feel was sadness. Princess Celestia and Luna were the ones who gave her comfort in her moment of grief. Something Dusk never got to thank them for, this will be the best time to do this. "Princess Celestia and Luna?" called Dusk from behind some ponies. The two of them looked for the pony calling them, Dusk has to force herself through the other ponies to get to them. "Oh hello, Dusk. How have you been adjusting to your new life here in Ponyville?" asked Princess Celestia. "Its great so far, thank you." answered Dusk, a smile crossed her face. "That's good to hear, so that means i won't have to worry anymore." said Princess Celestia. "You were watching me since i moved here?" asked Dusk, tilting her head to one side. Princess Celestia nodded and Princess Luna approaches Dusk. Her appearance is different, last time Dusk had seen her, Luna didn't have that starry mane or tail, just a plain light blue mane and tail. "Dusk? you're not planning on doing something this evening are you?" asked Princess Luna. "No, can't say i am. Why?" asked Dusk. "Because i want to talk to you about that dream you had last night." Dusk lowered her ears at the thought of it. "Come to the castle and i'll have the guards escort you to my quarters, my sister will join us as well." said Princess Luna. Dusk nodded and returned to her friends side, happy to be with them. Princess Celestia smiles at her new friends, she is in good hooves now. Both princesses took off for the castle, the sun making Princess Celestia's mane shimmer in the sunlight. Now that the festivities are over, Dusk wants to continue her training in her spells. The one spell that always evades her grasp is water, this time; Dusk would commit to it full time. With an idea of how Dark Mist is, this spell training in essential to her and her friends survival. With that in mind, Dusk moves the the clearing outside of town. Since Lightning Flicker is out of town for the day and Candy Star busy with work, Dusk can focus without distractions. Dusk begins by channeling her magical energy to her horn, the red aura surrounding it. Her thoughts must be clear for this spell to work, same goes for the rest of them. Dusk puts all her energy into the spell, forming a sphere of water at the tip; but that's only the first step, next she picks out a target. A conveniently placed boulder provides a perfect target for the spell, but Dusk has used it before, but never like this. The only target practice she had was her mother, she would miss and hit her by accident. But the laughs would come afterward, mostly her mother was the one laughing it up at her expense. But this time, Dusk felt she has more control of her magic and casts the water spell directly at the boulder in front of her. The pulse of water smashes the boulder to pieces, Dusk has mastered the first stage, but needs the next to make it effective. The next step is to make two more spheres, each separate from one another. This will increase the chances of hitting a target, but uses a little more magic to perform. Dusk readies the first sphere, making it fire at the next boulder in sight. But its force alone is not enough to break it, she then turns to the second sphere, and fires it alongside the first. The pressure from both shatter the boulder to pieces, just like the the first boulder. But Dusk isn't finished yet, she wants to push it to her limit; trying to see how many she can form. Dusk finds she can only form up to four at a time at her current level, and brings her own training to a close for now. In Cloudsdale, Lightning Flicker visits her parents resting place. The memories of those times with them are her most precious memories, if she could have seen it coming; maybe they would still be alive. But who is she trying to fool, she knows she couldn't have prevented it. The lesson she learns is that life is never fair, everything has a place in this world. Everything lives and dies in a continuous cycle, you can't prevent things before they happen; you can only help what happens after. Tears are the only thing Lightning Flicker can offer. "Mother...Father... i hope you're happy where you are, i know i am. I have the best true friends anypony can have, and i wouldn't trade a thing for it." said Lightning Flicker as a smile formed on her face. Lightning Flicker places the rose bouquet on their graves, if it ever comes her time; she will accept it. Because she will be able to see her family and friends who have long since passed on. "Thank you for everything. Goodbye." said Lightning Flicker. Lightning Flicker flies back towards Ponyville, finding the closure she desperately needed and to let her parents know what she has in her life. Lightning Flicker descends into Ponyville, finally back from her visit. Candy Star is waiting for her at Dusk's house, but Dusk isn't back yet. Approaching Candy Star, she smiles; Candy Star returns it as she stops in front of her. Candy Star can see Dusk in the square, but she has the book of spells with her. Lightning Flicker greets her with a wave, Dusk waves back. "Hey girls, what's going on?" asked Dusk. "You forgot already? you must be slipping." answered Candy Star. Lightning Flicker can't help but chuckle at this, Dusk just shrugs her shoulders. Dusk opens the front door and lets them inside, Candy Star takes a seat on the couch alongside Lightning Flicker. Dusk puts her book away on the shelf, but feels she has gained a lot of ground in her training. Dusk joins the two of them as they sit on the couch together, Candy Star nudges Lightning Flicker as if she wants her to say something. "Oh right, Dusk, we want to ask if you could possibly join us this afternoon at Candy Star's work. Because she has something to show you." said Lightning Flicker. "Alright, but you have to do something for me in return." replied Dusk. "Sure thing, what is it?" asked Lightning Flicker. "You have to help me with my next experiment, but its not for another day or so." said Dusk. Both Lightning Flicker and Candy Star laugh nervously at the request, but nod in agreement, Dusk stands and goes upstairs to rest. Its been a long day of training, but Dusk has an appointment tomorrow with the princesses and needs her sleep. Dusk has a vision of Canterlot, but this time; she's not there, just watching as its covered in darkness. A dark pony stands before it, she can't make out the features, but the green highlights give it away. "Dark Mist, but how? she's still in the dream realm. " said Dusk. Dark Mist turns to face her, cracking a wide grin. Dusk is filled with emotions as she watches the events unfold before her very eyes. "Tell me, Dusk. How does it feel to know what awaits you? All your friends at my hooves, yet you stand in defiance!" said Dark Mist. Dark Mist wasn't talking to her directly, just the dream version. Dusk can see herself standing before Dark Mist; eyes filled with sadness and pain. But something else catches Dusk's attention, her eyes; they appear to be... green and purple mist coming out of them. "All this for your own entertainment? Its wrong. But i will stop you, i don't know how yet; but i will." said Dusk as she prepares a fire spell. But before Dusk can cast it, her life is cut short in an instant. Eyes wide as she falls to the ground at her hooves, Dark Mist is smiling down at her. If this is how powerful she is, then Dusk has no chance. Only one thing is certain, she needs the elements power; But it only works if the six ponies have the six traits to wield them. Dusk wakes up in tears, Dark Mist has shown she will do anything to be free, even disposing her to do it. It won't be long before she attains her goals, and so would Dark Mist. "Dusk? are you alright?" asked Lightning Flicker. Lightning Flicker has entered her room to check on her, but finds her crying. Dusk tries to hide it, but she's not fooling her. "Dusk, what happened this time?" asked Lightning Flicker, she wants to help; but Dusk won't answer her question. "Dusk, Candy Star made breakfast for us, come on." Dusk nodded and follows her downstairs. Candy Star is sitting at the table eating hers, as waves to Dusk and Lightning. Both sit down to join her, Lightning takes her three pancakes and Dusk does the same. Dusk is lost in thought about her dream, but a tap from Lightning startles her out of it. Its been far too long since she has had a dream, and this one she didn't have words for. Candy Star sands up and approaches Dusk, she an maybe help if Dusk will talk about it with them. "Dusk, can you please tell us whats going with you? That one dream was scary, but this silence from you isn't normal." said candy Star. "i have to go, see you two later!" Dusk opens the front door and leaves, shutting it behind her. Now both are worried even more than before about Dusk, so they follow her to Canterlot; hoping for some answers. But along the way, Dusk keeps getting the felling she's being followed and looks back to see nothing. Shrugging her shoulders, she continues on her way to Canterlot, she has an appointment to keep and can't afford to slow down. In Canterlot, Princess Luna and Celestia prepare for their meeting with Dusk. The nobles can wait until tomorrow as they are rushed out by the guards, and now they can relax a bit. "Sister, can we really stop her now? its been one thousand years since then." asked Princess Luna. Princess Celestia isn't too sure herself, it was by chance that her sister caught her off guard. Princess Luna got right into her Sister's face, looking into her eyes. "Sister, what's wrong?" asked Princess Celestia. "Nothing, nothing at all." answered Princess Luna as she backed away. In truth, Luna wanted to make sure her sister was feeling alright. Last time she didn't eat for three days straight, even the cake was still untouched. This made Luna worry for her sister's well being, its unusual for her to avoid a question. "What bothers you, sister? i told you i'm fine now." replied Princess Celestia. Luna can't help but worry, if she were to be separated from her; who knows what will happen. But at the same time, worried for Dusk's safety as well as Equestria. Dusk arrives in the throne room to meet them, Princess Celestia and Luna greet her with a small smile. Dusk bows her head in respect. "Welcome, Dusk. We hope your ready." said Princess Luna. "Yes, i am." replied Dusk. All three go back to Luna's quarters and shut the door, the guards keep watch as they discuss what is to come. "Dusk, nothing we say leaves this room, do you understand?" asked Princess Celestia. "I understand." answered Dusk, her eyes focus on the two princesses. Princess Luna steps forward, and lowers herself to Dusk's level of sight, but looks into her eyes for anything out of place. Since Dark Mist can put anypony under her influence, Luna can't be sure she can be trusted. "Sister, its alright. She isn't under any spell." Celestia reassures Luna, making her back down. "Very well, we can tell you then." said Princess Luna. "What we want to discuss is the dream, where you and Dark Mist fought against one another in her castle." said Princess Celestia. "You were using dark magic, a forbidden spell. How did you even learn it?" asked Princess Luna. Dusk doesn't know herself, she was a filly at the time. Even when she used it against Dark Mist, she was doing it subconsciously as the spell took over. Leaving her unaware of what was happening. "I...have no idea..." said Dusk, these questions she is being asked were confusing. "Dark magic is not a spell to be taken lightly, Dusk. In your sleep you conjured it into existence, endangering yourself and those around you. Do you have any idea what could have happened had Lightning Flicker not shouted into your ears?" asked Luna. "Yes, i was just so upset with what she would do, that i completely lost myself. I'm sorry." apologized Dusk, her words sincere as she spoke to Luna and Celestia. "Since you now understand, i must place a restriction on your magic. It is for your safety and to others, it pains me to do this, Dusk, but i must." said Luna. Dusk knew what is coming, half of her magic will be suppressed, and not be able to be tapped into. Princess Luna approaches her and and places her horn on Dusk's own, a flow of magic goes into Dusk, finally locking it away. "It is done, but i promise it won't be permanent, just until we settle this matter with Dark Mist." said Princess Luna. "You may go, but are not engage her. You've seen what happened to you when you did in that dream." ordered Princess Luna. Princess Celestia sees the tears from Dusk, but wraps a wing around her to comfort her. The time has come to finally seek out this threat and banish it gain. "Go home, Dusk. But remember, do not ever speak of this to your friends." Said Princess Celestia as she shut the doors to Luna's room. Dusk heads home, back to Ponyville. But on the way her friends stand there before her, curious as to what happened. But Dusk walkss right past them without a word as promised. Dusk and her two friends arrive in Ponyville, its dark and they all need to get some sleep. She felt drained after having her magic sealed, Candy Star has noticed her drying tears, but knew it wouldn't be any use to try and her to talk to them. "Candy Star, go home. I'm sorry, but you can't stay with tonight." said Dusk. Candy Star's ears drop at her words, but she understands and heads home. Lightning Flicker follows Dusk to her home, shutting the door as they enter. Heading upstairs, Dusk makes her way to her room and close her bedroom door. Lightning Flicker does the same with hers, each got into their beds, falling asleep within seconds. Lightning thinks maybe tomorrow her friend will be in a better mood to talk, but there are no guarantees that she will.
Chapter 1: The Forgotten ExperimentDusk travels to Ponyville by train, her mother still fresh in her mind. This move is necessary for her own benefit, she needs to move on. The train rounds the corner and comes to a halt in the station. Dusk is finally here; Ponyville. A house had been built for Dusk, and it would be built to replicate her house that burnt to the ground, killing her mother. But her first test will be to start a new life on her own, and Celestia would keep track of her progress. Dusk still has that cold demeanor in her eyes, anypony who tried to welcome her was met with an cold glare from her. Dusk has watched as her house burnt down back in Fillydelphia, the traumatic experience left her like she is now. She moves through town, avoiding everypony in sight. Dusk can see her house now, a two story building. The keys were given to her before she got on the train, her mood is not any better after the funeral. Dusk only had training in fire magic, but little in other elements. Unlocking the front door, she steps inside her new home. Her eyes are heavy from the long journey to the town and her room is upstairs. Putting her bags down, Dusk heads upstairs to get some sleep. Dusk falls onto the bed and sleep washes over her instantly. The next morning, Dusk wakes to the sound of a pony at her front door. Dusk is still a bit groggy, but manages to make her way down the stairs. "Who is it?" asked Dusk. "Its Candy Star!" said Candy Star, her voice held such energy and cheerfulness in it. Dusk opens the door, and raises a brow to Candy Star. Its not exactly like they are friends, but Candy Star acts like it. "Dusk, you need to make some friends here in town. Could you at least try?" asked Candy Star. "What's the point? i never want to see you here again." said Dusk. Dusk shuts the door in Candy Star's face, its such an annoyance to have this pony pestering her to do such things. But now Dusk needs to find a job here in town, and she knows the perfect one she can handle. Dusk heads for the town hall and gets a job as the town librarian for the Golden Oaks Library. She enjoys studying history and the other things in the world; this would be perfect. Plus it would maybe contain some books on basic spells she could learn. Dusk approaches the library and looks through the windows, its dark; but she is still able to see the shelves inside. Dusk opens the front door, its hinges creaking from old age. Dusk cast a light spell she learned from her mother, it comes in handy when it comes to dark places. The books lining the shelves contain basic spells, history and many other subjects. Dusk smiles at the discovery and the possibilities of what she could learn from them. Dust has accumulated on the books and every inch of the library, cleaning this place will take some effort. Dusk hits the lights and is blinded for a few seconds, her vision returns after a bit. This place has seen better days, and Dusk gets to work dusting off the whole library. Since Dusk doesn't know the levitation spell yet, she has to use the ladder. The ladder makes her job easier and gives access to the higher shelves, Dusk's attention is brought to a book on some legends, but those can wait until her chores are finished. It takes Dusk a few hours, but she manages to clean every inch of the library. Now she can focus on the books on spells, she had already mastered the fire spell, now she needed to work on the next element; water. She takes the book and goes outside to find a quiet place to practice, a clearing outside of town provides the perfect place to practice. Dusk wants to learn a new spell, the type of spell was a Teleportation spell, her mother had shown it to her as a filly. Now Dusk could try and learn it herself. She focuses her magical energy to cast it, Candy Star watches from a distance as Dusk vanishes and reappears a few feet from where she was before. Candy Star smiles as she leaves and goes back to into town. Dusk, having gained some ground, happy with her accomplishment; Dusk heads back to the library to return the book for the day. Entering Ponyville, Dusk looks around at the ponies having fun and doing their tasks and errands for the day. Dusk felt she couldn't make any friends. Dusk's time at school as a filly wasn't a pleasant experience. Her parents enrolled Dusk in the school, but the first day proved to be her worst. Two bullies had decided to target her and tease her, an act that annoyed Dusk. They would call her many names, and the biggest insult she received from them was her inability to even cast a single spell. This made Dusk lose it, in her blind anger; Dusk had cast dark magic. The spell had scared them half to death, her eyes had a cold look in them. The teacher had no choice but to call in her parents, who weren't too happy about what she had done. Dusk had received a grounding of a week in her room, but after some good behavior, she was let out early. Her parents had a talk with her about the magic she had subconsciously used. That magic was forbidden for a reason, and they made sure Dusk understood that. Dusk never intended for that to happen, but Aurora had to teach her daughter why she can never use dark magic again. There is a tale of a pony who wanted to help his kingdom prosper, but in his greed he turned to dark magic. It is forbidden to all, but he didn't care, all the king wanted was to create valuable crystals for his kingdom to sell, but as the king delved deeper into the magic, it corrupted him. With his new power, he called himself, King Sombra. The crystal ponies were enslaved and forced to work in the mines below the earth. But when Canterlot got word of this, princesses Celestia and Luna decided to remove him from power. Since then the Crystal empire has disappeared, never to be seen again. Dusk avoids using it when she can, she promised to never learn such a spell, but broke that promise. She needed a spell strong enough to defend herself, and dark magic was the only option she had until she could learn and master some other spells. In her first day, Dusk has learned to control the water spell a lot better. But still had long way to go before she would master it completely. Dusk returns to her house, and waiting for her is Candy Star, she had a smile on her face. "What are you doing here, Candy?" said Dusk in a cold demeanor. "Oh, i just stopped by to see how your doing." replied Candy Star. Dusk didn't answer right away, but Candy Star can see Dusk's sadness through her act; she did this to avoid going through that pain again. "Dusk, please don't be like that." said Candy Star. "I have the right!! and don't think for a second that you know me!!" shouted Dusk. Candy Star is taken aback by her cold nature and runs off to the candy store. Dusk has reached the limit of her tolerance for Candy Star and heads inside her house. Dusk knew this wasn't her real self. Dusk is tired and needed some sleep, it has been a stressful day so far; but she will feel better tomorrow morning. Closing her eyes, Dusk falls asleep instantly. Its at night that Dusk can't seem to sleep at all, anytime she attempted too; she has dreams of being alone. Her actions has cost her a possible friend in Candy Star, but she can't forget what happened three years ago. And to this day, still holds herself responsible for her mother's death. All she sees in her dreams are those moments when she left the house for help, when she could have saved Aurora. It ate at her soul every time she thought about it. Dusk wants to move on, but this road block in her life was preventing it from happening. Dusk has shut out everypony who has tried to help her, she has placed a social barrier around herself. Not even speaking to anypony, but something about Candy Star made her speak, but in such a cold manner to boot. Dusk tries to get what sleep she could, she eventually cried herself to sleep. With the morning sun, came daylight. Dusk turns in her sleep, unaware of the time. She didn't get much sleep last night, but managed to get out of bed, getting her shower. Dusk tries to forget about all of it, the warm water hitting her face. But this is only a small relief, as Dusk needs to get herself ready to go to work at the library. Dusk remembers what the mayor had said about the place, many tenants have lived there; but not a single one stayed for more than a week. But Dusk is more than happy to, if she did; she'd be able to study her magic at her own leisure. Dusk opens the front door to go outside, but Candy Star is nowhere to be seen. Did she upset her that much? Dusk shook it off, now wasn't the time to be think such things. Dusk approaches the library, and opens the front door. Once inside, Dusk puts her back to the wall in a corner. Now the thought of her actions takes its toll, tears are falling from her eyes as she realizes she can't stand being alone anymore. But what can she possibly say to Candy Star? After what she said, she didn't expect to be forgiven so easily. Dusk goes out to search for Candy Star, but she doesn't see her anywhere inside the candy shop. "Where did she go?" asked Dusk. Its then that Dusk hears the sound of sobbing from behind the building, there, sitting at a table is Candy Star; crying like a little filly. "Candy?" asked Dusk. Candy Star looks up at Dusk, but turns away. Dusk lowers her ears in disappointment of herself, she has done something terrble to a pony, her mother always said to respect those around her; but Dusk couldn't help it. It was a slip up that did this to Candy Star, she didn't deserve it. "Candy, look, i am sorry." apologized Dusk. Candy Star stood up and walked away from Dusk, Dusk tried to get her listen, but Candy Star shoved her away. "You've done enough, Dusk. Why do you act like that?" asked Candy Star, she is upset. "Candy, i didn't mean it, it just came out before i even realized what i had said." said Dusk. "That still doesn't justify your actions, Dusk. That hurt." answered Candy Star. Dusk doesn't deny it, she had hurt Candy Star's feelings yesterday. But she wasn't giving up so easily. She takes Candy Star by the hoof and leads her to the library, once inside, has her sit down on the couch with her. "If that's how you feel about it, then i don't deserve to be your friend." said Dusk. As Dusk turns to walk away, Candy Star stops her. "Y-You actually mean that?" asked Candy Star. "I do. I never meant to say those things, Candy. I'm just so overwhelmed." Dusk frowned and lowered her head. Candy Star can see Dusk is sincere in her apology, hugging her. Dusk's eyes shot open in surprise, not expecting it. Candy Star has forgiven everything Dusk has done to her. She can't help but smile for the first time in her life, Candy Star sees it and smiles back. "I'm glad to see your real self , Dusk. We're going to be the best of friends!" exclaimed Candy Star. "Candy, thank you." said Dusk. Candy Star seems to cheer up, but Candy Star has to get back to work with a smile. Dusk is eager to finish what she had started, her horn glows as she prepares the teleportation spell, but Dusk could only go a short distance yesterday. Casting the spell, she vanished and appeared in the the town square. Dusk felt drained and had to rest, making her way to her home, she almost stumbles but regains her balance. Dusk heads to her bed for the night, sleep washes over Dusk as she lays on her bed. Dusk finds herself in Ponyville, but something is not right. Looking around, Dusk has noticed the town has been deserted and in ruins by the look of it. The town hall in shambles, the square in disrepair. Dusk knew it is a dream, but why is she dreaming about this? The sky has turned red, the clouds nowhere to be seen; all that is left is devastation. This dream felt so familiar, but why? Dusk tries to remember, but draws a blank. Dusk could only remember her mother saying something about helping her, but everything beyond that is a blank. "So, you have returned to us." said a chilling voice behind Dusk. Dusk turns to see a bunch of Ponies standing there before her. These ponies also look familiar, but nothing comes to mind. "Who are you? What are you?" asked Dusk. The ponies seem to crack a grin quicker than her eyes could blink. "We are your creation, the very ponies you created this world for, place you could come to whenever you wanted." said the pony. Dusk still has no recollection of ever doing it, but the ponies sure seem to remember her. "You're lying. I would never create something like this." said Dusk. "You say that now, but before we became like this, you dreamed of a world free of war and oppression. Everypony you created has a will of his or her own, and they turned on you the moment they felt you were losing interest in this world. You would leave them to their devices and never come back." said the pony with a star on his flank. "What do you mean? became like what?" asked Dusk. "Like this!!" shouted the ponies in unison. Their appearance is of corpse, each cracked a grin faster than Dusk could blink. Dusk falls to the ground, terrified of their appearance. "W-W-What's going on? Your monsters!" said Dusk. This made the ponies growl in anger. They surround Dusk on all sides, leaving no room for escape, each set of eyes show a hint of malice. "Monsters you say? Well then, lets show you what us monsters can do!!" They attack Dusk, the pain felt so real, each was trying to kill her. Dusk wants to wake up, the thought of her mother floods her mind and as the scene melts away; The ponies piercing gaze makes her close her eyes tightly. Dusk screams as she wakes up, it is morning already. But that dream, it felt so real, was that world really her creaton or is Dusk just having a nightmare? Dusk didn't know what to think as she gets off her bed. The thought of those ponies, staring at Dusk like that with such malice in their eyes. It was terrifying; Dusk never wants to see it again. If it came back, what would she do? Tears are still fresh on Dusk's face as she makes her way downstairs to the couch in the living room A sudden knock on the front door startles Dusk, bringing her out of her thoughts. Dusk approaches the front door, still trembling a bit. Dusk finally manages to gain enough courage to open the front door, standing there is Candy Star. Candy Star looks at Dusk with concern. "Dusk? What's wrong? your crying." asked Candy Star. "Its nothing for you to worry about, just a bad dream is all." said Dusk. Dusk lied to Candy Star, something she would never normally do. Candy Star didn't want her friend to be upset, Candy Star has Dusk to sit down on the couch while Candy Star makes them some tea. It would be a welcome change to her day, though that could be easier said than done. Candy Star returns with the tea, putting it down on the table. Dusk is still trying to erase that horrible dream out of her mind, but no matter how much Dusk tries, it wasn't going away anytime soon. Dusk wipes the tears from her face as Candy Star sits down on the couch next to Dusk. "Dusk, i know you have been through a lot, but i need you to cheer up." said Candy Star with a smile. Dusk could not feel the same way, she knows Candy Star means well, but this time; it is not helping. Candy Star hands Dusk her cup of tea and they both drink in silence. Candy Star wants to change the subject to something that would lift Dusk's mood. Candy Star tries to make Dusk laugh, but it didn't work, that dream seemed to disturb Dusk so much, that Dusk didn't feel like doing anything at all; not even a smile escaped her. "I'm sorry, Candy, i'm just not feeling it today." said Dusk. Dusk gets up and paces around the room, Dusk has to plan the celebration. But in Dusk's current state, that would be impossible. Candy Star feels helpless, like there is nothing she could possibly do to cheer up Dusk. But then Candy Star gets an idea, if Dusk would tell her what's wrong; maybe she could help. "If i may, what has you so upset?" asked Candy Star. Dusk doesn't want to discuss it, she didn't want to remember anymore. Candy Star put a hoof on her shoulder, startling her. Candy Star is trying to help, but Dusk seems to be so far away. "Dusk, i need to know what happened." said Candy Star. Her concern apparent, Dusk can't hold back her tears any longer. "Its alright, Dusk. I'm here, let it all out." said Candy Star. Dusk lets her emotions go, each tear soaking her coat. It takes a few hours for Dusk to calm down and stop crying. Candy Star is happy to have a friend, but doesn't push it anymore. "Now that we got that problem out of the way, what do you say we go and see Princess Celestia and Luna; maybe they can tell you what your dreams mean." said Candy Star. Dusk nods and wipes the last of her tears away. "Yeah, that would be a good idea." said Dusk. Dusk and Candy Star head outside and close the front door behind them. When the front door is locked, Dusk and Candy Star make their way to Canterlot.
Chapter 2: Flicker of LightningArriving in Canterlot, Dusk and Candy Star walk the streets as they chat along the way; Both laughing at each others stories. Canterlot Castle is now in sight, approaching the gates; Dusk and Candy Star are stopped. The guards make a thorough check of them both, letting them pass through. Dusk leads the way, while Candy Star follows close behind. Dusk has never seen the castle from the inside before. But now they have come to a second set of doors to the throne room, where Princess Celestia is busy tending to petitions from the nobles. The last petitioning pony has left and they get their audience with Princess Celestia. "Welcome, Dusk, Candy Star. Why have you come here?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk hesitates for a moment and finally tries to speak. "Well, um..." Dusk can't even form her words, but Candy Star helps her out. "We're here because of a nightmare that troubles my friend." said Candy Star. Princess Celestia is now curious to hear more about it. "So, Candy Star, tell me; what is this dream about?" asked Princess Celestia. "Its about Ponyville, but Dusk says it looked like the town had been deserted and nopony was around. The sky was red and the land was scorched beneath her hooves." Princess Celestia nodded in understanding. "Is that all? I'm sure you have more to say than that," A voice came from behind them; it is Princess Luna. "I have been listening to your story so far and i am deeply disturbed by it, I have seen what you have, Dusk, and i feel the same way you do." said Princess Luna. Dusk is not aware that Luna was even watching her dream at all, Dusk was just too terrified to notice her presence. "So that means you know happened next," replied Dusk. Princess Luna nodded. "Can you tell me what this all means, Princess Luna?" asked Dusk. Princess Luna lowers her eyes for a second; deep in thought. "If this is what i think it is, then we are all in danger. These ponies are your creation, but something about you has made them turn aggressive." replied Princess Luna. Princess Luna's expression turned serious as she approaches Princess Celestia. "Are you thinking what i'm thinking, sister?" asked Princess Luna. "Yes, we can't let this get out yet, if the time comes; we'll move everypony to safety." said Princess Celestia. Both princesses approach Dusk and Candy Star. "You two go home, we have to discuss this in private." said Princess Luna. Dusk and Candy Star bow their heads and leave the throne room. As the doors shut behind them, Dusk wonders if they would tell her anything more. "Hey! whats the big idea, Candy?" asked Dusk. "Come on, we have to go!" exclaimed Candy Star. She nudges Dusk and both leave for Ponyville. Back in Ponyville, Dusk hopes what she heard was wrong. If what the ponies said in the dream is true, then the ponies would escape from their world into theirs. Opening the front door to the library, Dusk steps inside. Candy Star stops at the door, Dusk stops and turns to look at Candy Star; she seems to be troubled. "Candy? What's wrong?" asked Dusk. Candy Star shook her head and is about to turn and leave. "Nothing, just tired."said Candy Star. Candy Star gives a fake smile and left for her house in the square. Dusk is worried for Candy Star, All of this must have been too much for Candy Star. Dusk knows that feeling all to well, that dream felt like a vision rather than a nightmare. But how would Dusk, a unicorn mare, cause such destruction on that scale? Dusk shakes her head to rid herself of the thought, it will have to wait until morning. Dusk has to sleep, if not; she wouldn't be able to plan the celebration. Dusk is having the same nightmare again, but this time, the ponies are nowhere in sight. But at the same time, Dusk can feel them watching her. Last time there was no place to explore, but now there's a path leading to Canterlot. Dusk makes her way along the dirt path, each step taken carefully. A sense of paranoia sets in as she comes to the the city gates, looking around, the city is in ruins, just like Ponyville. Buildings are falling apart, the shops empty. Canterlot Castle sits on the horizon, Dusk is hesitant to continue, but she must. Collecting her courage, Dusk makes her way toward the castle gates; where she is met with resistance. A barrier has been placed to keep anypony or anything out. But that means... "There are ponies still alive?" Dusk thought to herself. The only way she notices to get in, is teleportation. Dusk has not ever tried to go that far before, but there's always a first time for everything. Gathering her magic, she focuses on the balcony above. Dusk vanishes in a flash of light and reappears on the balcony. She made it, Dusk breathes a sigh of relief as she looks around Princess Celestia's room. Nopony here, the next place to check would be the throne room. Good thing Dusk knows the way around the castle, if only a little. Pushing the doors open with her magic, Dusk presses forward; the halls are quiet. But a commotion from down the hall catches her ears, running down the hall, Dusk arrives in the throne room. bursting through the doors, she sees the ponies. But where are the princesses? The ponies in the room look like the ponies who attacked her before, but they seem not to notice. "Welcome, Dusk, its been a long time." said a voice behind Dusk. She quickly turns to have Princess Luna right in her face. Dusk falls back in fright, eyes wide. Princess Luna grins widely. "P-Princess Luna?" asked Dusk. Princess Luna nodded to acknowledge herself. Dusk can't believe it, backing away slowly, she bumps into another pony behind her. Dusk looks up slowly, the white pony above her is Princess Celestia; she wears the same wide grin as her sister. Dusk is too terrified to scream, but the two princesses walk away. She didn't understand it, everypony in this dream attacked at the sight of her; but they didn't. Why? Dusk continues to watch as Princess Celestia walks back to the throne and takes a seat. Princess Luna sat beside her sister, they have the same trust as they do in the real world. But this doesn't explain their docile nature. "Dusk, you want to know why we don't kill you right now?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk nods and waits for their answer. "Its because we don't wish to, we know why you left us. But the ponies outside do not." answered Princess Celestia. "But we know it wasn't your fault, your mother erased your memory of this place to protect you." Dusk had no idea, her mother tampered with her memories? Dusk lowers her head, tears run down her face. She didn't want this to happen, Dusk only wanted to create this world. But the ponies here turned on her the moment they felt weakness in her. But what they said, it was a different story, what they believed was true. Dusk didn't leave because she was bored of that world, she was forced to forget. Everything she loved in it, gone, just like that. The princesses looked to see her crying, but these ponies felt no sympathy for her. "Dusk, this barrier will not hold them for long, you must leave now. This isn't your world any longer." said Princess Luna. She is right, Dusk had no place here. It is the opposite of what she created, nothing remains alive. "But i-" Princess Luna is upon her in an instant, causing Dusk to fall to her back. "You forgot how to, didn't you?" asked Princess Celestia. Dusk nods and Princess Luna points a hoof to the mirror beside the throne. This is her way out, but the window is closing fast. Dusk runs for the mirror and jumps through. Dusk shot up in her bed, the morning sun shining through the bedroom window. She didn't know what to think anymore, that dream just now; did it really mean anything? Dusk got out of her bed and heads downstairs, the tears still fresh on her face as she sits down on the couch in the living room. Dusk is deep in thought about what happened in the dream, but a knock at the door startles her; bringing her out of her thoughts. Dusk stood up, still shaken by the experience, making her way to the door. Opening it, she finds Candy Star standing there with a smile. Candy Star takes notice of Dusk's sadness and fear, she sat Dusk down and goes into the kitchen to make some water for the them both, hoping it would help her friend calm down. Bringing the water to the table, Candy Star sat down beside her friend. "Dusk, did you have that dream again?" asked Candy Star. Dusk is quiet for a few minutes, but starts crying. That confirms Candy Star's suspicion, she didn't want to push Dusk any further than she needed to, but its important to get the details. "I'm sorry, this is happening, Dusk. But unless you tell me, i can't help you." said Candy Star. "I can't, i don't want to remember!!" shouted Dusk. Candy Star needs to get Dusk out of the house for a while, maybe it would help her. Taking Dusk's hoof she leads her outside, everypony watches as the two of them come out. But go back to their errands and activities. Everypony avoided Dusk, after the reception they got from her, it couldn't be helped. Dusk follows Candy Star, they come to the local park, a quiet area. They can talk here without distractions. "Dusk, those dreams aren't real, its in your head. You can make them go away." said Candy Star. "I've tried, but it doesn't work that way, Candy." said Dusk, her emotions have taken a huge blow. "These ponies in the dream want out, they want our world for their own. And i can't stop them, nopony can." Dusk makes that point clear and Candy Star refuses to take no for an answer. "Dusk, i know you're afraid. But you must fight back, its the only way." said Candy Star, Dusk knows she is not wrong. Dusk is just too afraid to do it, these things could end up trapping her there. "Wake up!!" Candy Star smacks Dusk on the back of the head. Dusk shot her eyes to Candy Star, but this was the only way to snap her friend out of it. "You're acting like a little filly, Dusk! This isn't like you at all!" exclaimed Candy Star. She begins sobbing, Candy Star holds her friend close to her, her friend's confidence has been shattered. All she can do is let Dusk cry it out. Dusk is feeling better now, but has to prepare for the celebration. Candy Star smiles, and helps Dusk to her hooves. "Candy Star, thanks. I needed that, but try not to hit me so hard next time." said Dusk. Candy Star laughs nervously and has to leave for work. Candy Star has finished her work for today, and decides to pay Dusk a visit. But as she turns to leave, she spots a green pegasus struggling to fly. Having no time to get Dusk, Candy runs in the direction of the pegasus. The distance isn't far, so Candy Star can get to her. Lightning Flicker flaps her one wing, but its useless. She starts dropping to the ground, Candy Star is running as fast as her hooves will allow. But Candy Star misjudges the distance, but luckily Lightning Flicker manages to grab hold of a cloud. But it only slows her descent a little bit, Candy Star can only watch as Lightning Flicker hits the ground. "Oh Celestia, please let her be alright!" said Candy Star. Candy Star stops just short of falling in the crater herself. "Hello? are you okay?" asked Candy Star, her concern grows when she doesn't get a response. Candy Star has to get this pony to Dusk, she gets underneath the pegasus to be able to get Lightning Flicker on her back. Candy Star has to walk, she doesn't want to cause her anymore pain. It takes a while to get to Dusk's house. Dusk is studying her magic when a loud banging comes from the front door. "Just a minute!" said Dusk. Opening the front door, standing there with a pegasus on her back is Candy Star. Dusk lets Candy Star inside and is confused as to why. "Dusk! She's hurt, you have to help her!" cried Candy Star. "Calm down, its just an injured wing. Lets get her to the guest room." Said Dusk, they make their way upstairs, but on the way up, Lightning Flicker stirs. Pain shoots up her wing and she tries to move. "Hey! you'll make your injury worse." Lightning Flicker calms down, and they lay her on the bed. Dusk examines the wing, the injury is severe, but fixable. Dusk had learned a healing spell, but it would only fix a small amount of the damaged wing. Dusk has Candy Star hold Lightning Flicker down on the bed while she applies the healing spell, but Lightning Flicker fights Candy Star; making it difficult for Dusk to treat it. "We're not going to hurt you, i just need to fix your wing." said Dusk. Lightning Flicker calms down enough for Dusk to finish the healing spell. Dusk is confused as to how this pegasus could fly like this, it makes no sense. "I'm just to going to make a splint for you, hold still." Dusk held her wing closed and Candy helped keep the splint in place while Dusk applied the bandage around it. Lightning Flicker looks at her wing, it didn't hurt as much anymore. Lightning Flicker mumbles something, but Dusk can't make it out. Dusk leans in closer to be able to hear her words. Its not what she is expecting. "I don't need your help." said Lightning Flicker. Dusk lets out a sigh and lets her rest for the night. Candy Star is tired and goes home for the night, Dusk makes sure to check on Lightning Flicker every hour or so. Lightning Flicker finally falls asleep, Dusk smiles and goes to bed herself. She needs the rest, hopefully the nightmare doesn't happen again. Dusk fears are realized when she finds herself in Ponyville yet again, this will make the third time she has encountered this dream. Something felt like it was leading her to Canterlot, Dusk can't hold back her curiosity any longer and follows the feeling of dread. Dusk has never felt like this before, her fear is intensified when she hears ponies laughing. She follows the sounds to the castle in Canterlot, the barrier is gone. But Dusk makes sure to keep vigilant as she approaches the castle, only stopping when she sees to ponies guarding the castle. Dusk can't use the balcony this time, the ponies will be expecting it this time. Dusk puts the image of the throne room into her mind and teleports to it instantly, she looks around and sees nopony present. But the throne has been moved, revealing a secret passage beneath the castle. Dusk uses her light spell to illuminate the dark passage way, there looks to have been a battle here. Blood lines the walls, as if somepony we injured and using the wall as support. Dusk comes to a wooden door, the door creaks as she opens it. she spots a guard lying on the ground, she runs to his side; hopeful to get some answers. He has a pulse, he's hanging on by a thread. "Hey! what happened here?" asked Dusk, she keeps him awake by shaking him. The guard look up at Dusk, but mumbles something inaudible. Dusk leans in closer to hear what the guard had said. "Princess...must...save..." the guard's eyes close as he passes away. Dusk is speechless, by the way he spoke, it sounds like the castle had been overtaken by those ponies outside. Dusk needs to hurry, if she can find them again, she can get the answers she needs. Dusk has to run through the next set of passages, but comes to a fork, which goes in two directions; left and right. Dusk must choose, one way may lead to the ponies who're after her and the other leads to the princesses. Dusk gets a headache from confusion, but chooses the right path. Dusk guessed correctly and reaches a large stone room, torches line the walls; its the only light besides hers. in the middle of the room lies another pony, but to Dusk's shock its Princess Luna herself. "Princess Luna!!" cried Dusk as she runs to her side, even though she was one of them; she is no different to her than the real one. Princess Luna turns her head to Dusk, the wounds are bleeding. She tries to speak, but Dusk can't hear her. "What?" asked Dusk, Princess Luna gestures for Dusk to come closer. "They are still here, looking for you." said Princess Luna, her voice is weak, but Dusk could hear her better. Dusk can't hep but feel sympathy for this pony, she knows its not really her, just a creation she had made herself. But something about her made Dusk shed tears, each fell to the ground; leaving a stain on the stone floor. Princess Luna is confused as to why Dusk is crying. "Why do you cry for us? we're no longer the ponies you created. why?" asked Princess Luna. "Because... i..." Dusk can't hold her emotions back, its too much. She couldn't stand seeing all this death, first her mother, now this. When will it all stop? Dusk gathers up her strength and continues her explanation. "Because i loved you! you helped me when i needed it most." said Dusk, her tears still running down her face. Princess Luna chuckles at the sentiment, its ironic that this mare who was attacked and tormented by these ponies is showing compassion towards them. Princess Luna soon passes away shortly after, a smile frozen on her face. "Luna? Luna!!" cried Dusk, its too late to save her; Luna is now gone. Another needless death, Dusk is sick of it all. In a blind rage, Dusk charges into the next room looking for the ponies who killed her friend. "Come out!! This is my dream, you hear me?!!" shouted Dusk, she has had enough. "Your dream? That's funny, you abandoned us!" a voice said from behind Dusk. A single pony stepped forward from the group, she looks different from the other ponies; Dusk's brows furrow in anger. Dark Mist gestures for her minions to attack Dusk, she braces her self and teleports out of the way. "Looks like somepony learned a few new tricks while they were away, but is running away all you can do?" said Dark Mist. The ponies crack a grin at her words, Dusk is scared; but doesn't let it get to her. The four minions attack again, but this time, Dusk cats a volley of fire at them. The ponies turn to black smoke, she got them. "Ha ha ha! is that all you have, Dusk?" asked Dark Mist. She's laughing, but why? Dusk watches in total shock as the four ponies seep up from the floor again to join their master. "What?! what are you?" asked Dusk, her magic had hit them point blank; but there they are, standing in front of her once again. "Must i repeat myself? alright, listen closely. Because i won't say this again." Dusk waited for her answer as her body was trembling. "I am Dark Mist, the darkness that lives in everypony's heart!" exclaimed Dark Mist. "No way... you were defeated one thousand years ago, that's impossible!" said Dusk. Equestria's biggest threat has reappeared after eleven hundred years. Dusk knew she had no chance against something this powerful, she had to leave. But the mirror is in the throne room, if she could make it; then she could escape. Yes, i was defeated, but not destroyed. They could only banish me to the realm of dreams, they didn't have the power to destroy me." explained Dark Mist. The four ponies are upon Dusk in a second, causing her to fall on her back. Dark Mist is back, there's only one option left for Dusk. She casts a light spell, turning it into a flash bang. Dark Mist and the others scream in pain as Dusk runs back toward the throne room. Curse you!! don't let her get away!!" ordered Dark Mist, the soldiers follow after her. Dusk has to teleport again, but only comes up short of the doorway. "Stop her!! she mustn't reach the mirror!!" Dark Mist's voice can be heard throughout the castle. Dusk enters the throne room, but the path to the mirror is blocked. Dusk needs to escape and the only is to fight through the ponies blocking the way. Furrowing her brows, Dusk charges forward the back row hangs back while the front takes the offensive. Dusk has it all planned out, but if she makes a single mistake, she's done for. Dark Mist watches from above as her soldiers charge towards their target. Dusk teleports and casts a fire blast from behind, dispatching them quickly. Now all that's left is the last row of soldiers. "What are you doing?! get her!!" ordered Dark Mist. The soldiers come at her, but change tactics, surrounding her on all sides. Dark Mist cracks a smile as they have her. Dusk teleports to the mirror and escapes. Dark Mist is furious, her soldiers let her escape. Dusk wakes up immediately, she's back home. But Dusk gasps as she had forgotten about Lightning Flicker. She runs to her room and finds her missing, Dusk's ears fall as she comes down the stairs, only to see Lightning Flicker eating with Candy Star at the dining room table. "Morning, Dusk! how was your nap?" asked Candy Star. Dusk finds pancakes on the table for her, smiling, she finds them cold, but doesn't complain. "Morning, Candy Star, Lightning." Candy Star smiles, but Lightning Flicker doesn't say a word. Finishing breakfast, Dusk takes Lightning Flicker outside for a chat. "Lightning, i know how you feel about this, but i can't have you acting like you did last night." Lightning Flicker doesn't respond. "I know what you are going through, i was the the same way." This gets Lightning Flickers attention. "You? like me? Ha! i doubt it." said Lightning Flicker. "I'm serious!" Lightning Flicker can't stop laughing and falls to her back. Dusk gets annoyed with her and starts to walk away from Lightning Flicker. "Okay, okay. i'll listen." Said Lightning Flicker. "My mother was a loving pony, she taught me everything i know, but my father taught me his secret strategies, hoping i'd be able to use them someday." said Dusk, sitting down in front of Lightning Flicker. "They did?" asked Lightning Flicker. "Yeah, they were the greatest." said Dusk as she smiles. "Mother kicked him out after he was caught coming home late, she said something about him cheating on her." Dusk's smile returned to a frown. "But mother took care of me all those years, even taught me how to cast magic spells when i was thirteen." Lightning didn't see how any of this had to do with her being like her. "Tell me why you acted like i am." Lightning Flicker wanted the best part of the story, so Dusk complied. "Well mother was training me in fire and water magic, after i completed my training in those elements, we had our dinner and went to bed. But i had forgotten to put out the fire and the embers caught the carpet on fire, i wasn't even aware that the fire had started and i was getting out of the shower. I saw the flames and screamed for my mother, she came running and put out what she could of the fire. But she cleared the way for me, but mother wasn't so fortunate." said Dusk, her ears fell. "What happened?" asked Lightning Flicker. "The flames got too high for her to pass through, so i offered to help, but she shook her head and told me to go get help. So i did just that, but by the time i got back with help, our house was completely swallowed up by the flames. The next morning, they found her." Dusk stopped, almost crying at the memory. "And?" Lightning Flicker urged her on. "She didn't make it out, she wasn't breathing and was considered dead on site. The city held a funeral for my mother, everypony came to say their respects. The princesses even came as well." said Dusk, she wiped her tears and continued. "They did? for real?!" Dusk glared at Lightning Flicker's lack of respect. "Sorry." Dusk nodded and continued her story once more. "I was crying, i wanted my mother to come back. I was just being selfish, because she was the only family i had left. That's when i had to give my speech in front of the whole town for my mother. I couldn't bring myself to do it. So Princess Luna offered to help me, she read it down the the very last words: Aurora, you were the greatest mother a daughter could ever have. I know i can't bring you back, you wouldn't have wanted that. But i love you so much,. You were there when i needed you most, always cheering me up with a smile. Now here we are, your gone, and i'm still here. But your with our friends and family now, and i hope you found peace." Said Dusk, her tears flowing out from her eyes. This memory was painful. Lightning Flicker was in tears as well, she had no idea that Dusk has suffered so much. She hugs Dusk, but Dusk is not expecting her sympathy. "Dusk, if it means anything, i'm sorry." said Lightning Flicker. Dusk nodded and walked back inside the house. Candy Star sits on the couch reading one of Dusk's books on equestrian history, Dusk smiles and sits down next to her. "So you like those, huh?" asked Dusk. Candy Star has her face buried in the book, enjoying herself. Dusk wanted to try out a new spell she had learned the other day. Candy Star's attention is brought to a book floating in front of her, she looks to Dusk, happy to see a new spell she learned. Dusk levitates it to her hooves, and smiles at Candy Star. "You learn fast, don't you?" asked Candy Star. "Yeah, mother always trained me to properly channel my magic. It helps when it came to advanced spells." Candy Star nodded in agreement. Candy Star watches as Lightning Flicker entered the room, and sat next to them. Dusk is surprised as well, they weren't expecting this so soon. "What are you two looking at? is there something on my face?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk shakes her head and snaps out of it, she gets up and started heading upstairs. Dusk can hear them chatting it up downstairs from her room, its like they are best friends now. But Dusk has to finish her theory on the new magical energy. But has to figure out a fitting name for it. Something that defines the idea, then the idea hits her, Dusk will call it, Prism force. If her theory proves correct, maybe then Celestia will allow her to conduct the experiment. But it is a long shot, it won't be so easy. But If Dusk's friends can vouch for her, maybe she could have a chance. Lightning Flicker is tired and goes upstairs and to her own room, Dusk watches the sunset, in the sky, it is a beautiful sight. The moon rises and she falls asleep, Candy Star heads home, she had to work tomorrow; she can't run the shop if nopony is there. Dusk is free of nightmares that night, as wakes up in the morning. But that doesn't mean they won't come back, she had finished her theory last night before bed, but the summer sun celebration is only a few days away. she had everything she and her friends would need, plus they would be able to relieve the stress in their lives. Lightning Flicker is still asleep in her bed, but Dusk lets her sleep. she needs to prepare for their departure to Canterlot, there they would meet with Princess Celestia and Luna. she heads out to get the supplies for their trip. Lightning Flicker wakes up, yawning; she gets out of bed. Getting her shower, Lightning Flicker thought about what Dusk had told her. Much like her, Dusk has lost her only family as well. But she wants to help her friend move on, but has no idea how yet. Lightning Flicker has lost her parents as well at a young age, finding herself all alone in the world; she couldn't help but cry. Lightning Flicker had a loving family, her mother and father always made sure she was happy. Many times her father showed her how to clear clouds in the most efficient ways, this made her happy to watch her father show off his techniques. Its five months since Lightning Flicker turned ten, her parents thought it would be nice to have her accompany them to work. She would get to see how they did their jobs, her mother worked at the rainbow factory, while her father was on weather duty. It came time for the factory to receive their monthly water supply, and her father was the lead pony for it. The rookies needed to be fast to form a tornado to carry the water. If they slip up, it would lose control. That day, would be the moment her whole world shattered she watched as the ponies formed the waterspout to carry the water to the factory. But something went terribly wrong, they lost control and the waterspout took Lightning Flicker and her parents inside. All went black for Lightning Flicker. She awoke four days later with no memory of that day. One of the hospital doctors came into the room to give her the news, Lightning Flicker had a bandage around her head and wings. But her parents were missing. "Where's my mom and dad?" asked Lightning Flicker. The doctor's ears fell n response as he approached her bedside. "I'm sorry, your parents... didn't make it." said the doctor. Lightning Flicker's eyes teared up at the news, her ears fell in sadness. "No!! you're lying!!" shouted Lightning Flicker. She couldn't accept it, her parents had to have survived. "We have something to show you, Lightning. You will not like what you see." said the doctor as he had Lightning Flicker follow him to the basement level. As they enter the room, there are two metal tables. Lightning Flicker approached the tables as the doctor uncovered the bodies lying on them. Lightning Flicker gasped with tears at her parents lying there, they were dead as the doctor had mentioned. "No, it can't be..." Lightning Flicker fell to the floor to her hooves, tears staining the marble floor. "I'm truly sorry, Lightning, But they are gone." said the doctor one last time. Lightning Flicker sobs on the floor, they are truly gone. What would she do? The doctor helped her to her hooves. "Why didn't you save them?!! why?!!" shouted Lightning Flicker in anger, her voice grew cold towards him. "They were gone before they got here, there wasn't anything we could do for them." explained the doctor, he felt sorry for her. After that, Lightning never spoke again, at least not in any polite ways. Now Lightning Flicker has friends, friends who will stay by her side; always. Dusk comes back inside, seeing Lightning Flicker's tears. Dropping her saddle bags, Dusk comes to her side. "Lightning, what's wrong?" asked Dusk. Lightning shook her head to try and forget, but those memories are implanted deep into her psyche; never to be forgotten. "Dusk, i've been holding something back, but i was afraid." Lightning admits her actions were selfish, but her intentions were pure. Dusk understands this, and smiles. "Don't worry, we'll make them proud of us. Just promise me one thing." said Dusk, Lightning tilted her head. "What?" asked Lightning Flicker. "Promise that you won't give up on your friends, even if things get bad for us." said Dusk. "You have my word." said Lightning Flicker. This is the last day until the Summer Sun Celebration, Dusk and her friends have been waiting for this day, the day they can relax instead of having to worry about tomorrow. Everypony in town and Equestrria will be there, and which means that each will make new friends along the way. But for now, they will sleep for the night, Then the fun begins tomorrow.
Chapter 3: Summer Sun CelebrationAll is going well for the day, and come nightfall; Ponies everywhere will throw raucous parties tonight and stay up until dawn to watch Princess Celestia raise the sun. Its an event Dusk has wanted to participate in for years, but her parents were always too busy working to take her. But now she has the chance to see it with her own eyes. Dusk gets her and Lightning Flicker's lunch started, they decided on some daffodil sandwiches and some salad to go with it. Candy Star hasn't got off from work yet, but Dusk knows she always brings her own food to her house. Lightning Flicker has become best friends with them both and treasures their friendship like they do, you could say they were one big happy family. "Dusk, do you really think you can get the princesses to let you do it?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk didn't know what she meant, but tilts her head at the question. "Let me do what?" asked Dusk in return. "Candy Star says you want to experiment with the elements of harmony, create a new magic energy with them, is that true?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk sighs and blames herself for trusting Candy Star to keep her big mouth shut. But the secrets out and she must tell her. Dusk can't really say she's surprised this happened. "Yes, Lightning, i do plan to do just that. But i'm uncertain if they will even let me." answered Dusk, a frown upon her face as her ears fell. "Any idea how your theory will work?" asked Lightning Flicker, her curiosity to know more makes Dusk smile. "Another time Lightning, we need to focus on the celebration tonight." said Dusk, her theory is complete, but not enough proof to make her claims valid. That encounter with Dark Mist got her thinking, if she can get the answers; then she can present them to the princesses. But until then, she kept it to herself. A knock at her front door gets their attention, Dusk opens the front door and is greeted by Candy Star. "Hi, Dusk. How is Lightning doing with her wing?" asked Candy Star. She invites Candy Star inside to see for herself, Candy Star sees that the bandages and splint are off. "Oh that's great! happy to see you getting better, Lightning." Lightning Flicker smiles at the compliment. Candy Star joins them at the table, she has her own food as expected. Dusk just shakes her head, she would have let her join them if she wanted to. But Candy Star doesn't like to impose on ponies like that. Dusk needs to find the answer to what she needs to make her theory come to light, but that means she has to enter that nightmarish world again. She prepares herself as her eyes close and sleep washes over her once again. Dusk has again been drawn into their world, but escaping this time will require her to use her wits and magic. Her fear is suppressed by the thought of her friends, the one thing keeping her going. Now she is on a mission, and will not be deterred from it. Last time Dusk was here, she didn't get the chance to investigate; but now she has that opportunity to do so. Dusk has to be cautious, if she got spotted, she would be surrounded by a whole army. But there is one good thing about this place, she could find what she needed to prove her theory once and for all. Dusk makes her way through the town of Ponyville, the eyes of ponies watch her every move. She had nothing to be afraid of anymore, Dark Mist was the only threat now, these ponies were small compared to her. The road ahead will be full of dangers, but now that she has her confidence back, Dusk moves forward with purpose. The castle archives always have been a safe guarded secret from non-royalty, but since they are no longer around, that will be easy to access. Dusk has reached the edge of Ponyville, Canterlot is just up ahead. If she is caught, she can only imagine what Dark Mist will do. Canterlot looks to be empty, except for the few ponies here and there. Dusk moves around them quietly, any sudden noise and they would attack. She takes cover behind a stoned wall from a shop, the pony walks right past her. Now is her chance, Dusk sneaks past while its back is turned and sighs with relief as she has made it past the first pony. Up next was the hotel, two ponies patrolled the grounds, but Dusk has her wits to aid her, she picks a rock up in her magic and hurls it down the street. This gains only one of the pony's attention, the other stays put. "This is going to be harder than i thought," Dusk thought to herself. Dusk has no choice but to risk being spotted to take out the guard while the other is away, sneaking up from behind; Dusk casts a spell to sedate him. She hides him in one of the buildings, hopefully he doesn't wake up too soon. Now past the second set of guards, Dusk moves ahead. This time, Dusk finds she has to get past three guards, and then she will be clear. She watches their patterns, analyzing when she needs to move getting past one, then another. Dusk is almost spotted as she made her way to the wall behind them, sighing with relief when the ponies turned back around. Dusk has just dodged a bullet, now she has to move quickly. Dusk has arrived at the castle gates, but has a problem; the gate is blocked by a magic glyph. It will make getting to the castle difficult, but Dusk has prepared for this. She learned how to break a glyph like this, but it required focus and a good amount of Magic to pull off. Dark Mist watches from the castle as Dusk stands at the gate, she wants to see if this pony can break it. Dark Mist had to test her to see if she is a serious threat, but from what she saw last time; Dusk might prove dangerous. But in the meantime, Dark Mist will let Dusk keep going. But at the same time, keep the guards in line. They had disappointed her last time, letting Dusk escape. Dark Mist had dispatched the three of them as a lesson. "Disappoint me again and next time i won't be so forgiving." said Dark Mist. The soldiers and guards nodded in agreement, but at the same time fear her. Dark Mist always has to deal with these lowly soldiers, but she always made use of them. And they provide some entertainment when she got angry and needs to blow off some steam. But other than that, she enjoyed every moment of fear she got from them. Dark Mist keeps watch on Dusk, but is surprised to see she is gone along with the glyph. Cracking a grin, she sees she has underestimated this one. "Have fun, Dusk, we'll see each other real soon." said Dark Mist, going back to her room to rest. Dusk makes her way to the courtyard of the castle, but getting through will be a game of patience. The ponies guarding the area didn't move, its like they are frozen. She decides to investigate why they are not moving. Moving in closer reveals they are statues, but these didn't look normal. Their expression of fear is unusual for being statues, meaning one thing; Dark Mist turned these ponies into stone. Backing away, Dusk is torn as she sees them. Would this be her fate if she got captured? Dusk shakes her head to rid herself of the thought, now is not the time to lose her nerve. Dusk approaches the doors, nopony in sight. Opening the castle doors, she steps inside. As she passes through; the doors slam shut behind her. "No turning back now." said Dusk as she made her way further into the castle. This place is quiet and the statues inside were the same as the ones she had seen outside. Dark Mist watches from the shadows as Dusk enters the hallway to the library, curious to see were she is headed. Dusk approaches the door to the library, this is it, the answers she needed lie behind these doors. Dusk opens the doors, the dust in this place has not been tended to in what looks to be centuries. But she makes her way to the bookshelves, each containing spells, history, artifacts; searching further reveals the scrolls containing limitless knowledge. But Dusk isn't here for that, what she's after is none other than the secrets regarding the elements. They are taught that these elements hold the balance for the land and only ponies who have pure hearts can use them. Each element had a specific virtue that it requires to wield it, they are: Magic, Honesty, Generosity, Loyalty, Laughter and Kindness. once together, the ponies who had them could unleash a magic beyond the the princesses own. But that is all that is known, but Dusk had her own ideas of what else could result from it. Locating the scroll, Dusk opens it to find out more. What she finds is astonishing: Prism Force is the name for the specific energy contained in the Elements, and when the bearers use them, their natural or latent magic syncs up with the prism force. However, the recipient pony who uses it, overloads themselves with the magic by using every element and is able to utilize it for a short amount of time before the sheer amount of magical energy overloads their body. But the only benefit to this form, is that it amplifies anypony's abilities drastically, making a pegasus agility increase drastically. A Unicorn's magic is increased drastically. And finally, an earth pony's strength is increased drastically. This is what Dusk is after, taking the scroll. Dusk starts making her way out of the library. But is met by the castle guards, spears pointed at her neck. Having no choice, Dusk is forced to surrender. The guards escort her to the throne room, where Dark Mist awaits her arrival. Entering the throne room, Dusk is thrown to the floor at Dark Mist's hooves. She cracks a smile at her new prize, Dusk is in trouble if she can't figure a way out of this mess. "Excellent work, captain. I will see to it that you get your reward later." said Dark Mist, praising him. "As for you, Dusk. Hand over that scroll you stole from me." ordered Dark Mist. Dusk does as she is asked, she watches as Dark Mist reads it over. But her smile turns to a grin of excitement, Dark Mist has a choice to burn it or use it for her own dark desires. But that wouldn't be any fun. Dark Mist casts a fire spell on the scroll, burning it to ashes. "NO!! why would you do that?!" said Dusk, the guards hold her down when she tries to move towards their queen. "Because its a threat to me and my plans, you fool!!" shouted Dark Mist. Dusk can't believe it, she had it in her hooves, only to be taken away. She felt like giving up, her plan has backfired and Dark Mist has won. "I'll tell you what, Dusk. Since you've made it this far, i'll let you decide your own fate." said Dark Mist, her grin growing wider. "What?" asked Dusk in confusion. "You heard me, you will choose your fate. Its that simple, i can make it quick or painful; which do you choose?" asked Dark Mist. Dusk cries in defeat, her only hope to combat her is gone, she stood no chance. But Dark Mist looked to be sincere in her decision, Dusk couldn't escape this way. The guards have her pinned to the floor, stopping any hope of escape she may have had. "So, what will it be, Dusk?" asked Dark Mist again. "I... can't..." answered Dusk. Dark Mist grew impatient and strikes Dusk across the face in anger, Dusk yelps at the pain Dark Mist inflicts on her. This does not feel like a dream anymore, this world is becoming more real by the minute. "Answer me!!" Dark Mist strikes her again, this time even harder than before. Dusk is picked up by one of the guards and her head held up to face Dark Mist, disappointment on Dark Mist's face as she orders them to take her away to the dungeon. Down in the dungeon, Dusk is put in shackles and placed in a cell. She wishes she had never come, and cries as she lies there in her cold dank cell. Dark Mist's laugh echoes through the castle, as if she is enjoying her victory. However, that is victory will be short lived. "Dusk? can you hear me?" said Lightning Flicker. She and Candy Star have returned from their errand and found Dusk having a nightmare again, but no matter how much they shook her; she won't wake up. "Lightning?" said Dusk in her sleep. Candy Star is holding Dusk's hoof in hers, never leaving her side. "Yes, Dusk, it me. You have to wake up!" said Lightning Flicker. Dusk would if she could, but it seems she is stuck in this place and can't escape. Her only way out is in the throne room under heavy guard. Its hopeless to even attempt to escape now. "Don't give up, Dusk! friends stick together, don't you remember?" asked Lightning Flicker. Dusk is chained to a wall, so even if she did try to move it will be restricted. Dusk cries as her attempts to free herself fail, her spells have no effect on the shackles binding her. If only she had a spell powerful enough to break them... "That's it!" exclaimed Dusk. She has been holding back a forbidden magic, Dusk swore never to use ever again. But this time, she has no choice. Summoning her magical reserves, Dusk begins casting dark magic; here eyes turn green and a purple mist appears out of the corner of her eyes. "Dusk! what are you doing?! Stop!!" shouted Candy Star. But its too late, Dusk has already begun using it to free herself. "No more!! i can't stand it!!" shouted Dusk. Dusk's emotions are wildly out of control, the dark magic is starting to corrupt her. The guards upstairs hear the commotion and come running to see whats going on, only to be standing there frozen in fear. Dusk's eyes, they're now green with a purple mist coming out of them. "You will all pay for this!!" shouted Dusk. Her anger is fueling the magic, corrupting her thoughts. "Dusk!! Stop it now!!" shouted Lightning Flicker, whats happening in the dream is happening in the real world. Both Candy Star and Lightning Flicker can see the signs of dark magic being used. But they can only try and make Dusk stop, but so far, its not working. Dusk teleports the the throne room to confront Dark Mist. Dusk appears before Dark Mist still under the corruption, Dark Mist smiles at this sudden development. The look in Dusk's eyes are that of anger and pain, but she is still a novice in using it. "You... its all your fault!!" Dusk sends a blast of dark magic towards Dark mist, she is nearly hit by it. Dark Mist is laughing, she wants to test this new power. She summons the guards into the room and they surround Dusk on all sides. "Get her!!" ordered Dark Mist. The guards don't move, Dusk's eyes are full of hatred for Dark Mist. All of them flee as Dusk prepares another spell. "Useless ponies... if you want something done right, do it yourself." said Dark Mist. She doesn't get even two feet before Dusk casts it again, missing her once more. Dark Mist can't get close enough without getting hit. "You are quite something, Dusk. I never thought you of all ponies would resort to this." said Dark Mist, she is enjoying the moment of darkness in Dusk's heart. "Shut up, your life ends here!!" Dusk fires another round of spells at Dark Mist, she has difficulty avoiding them all. Dark Mist vanishes and reappears behind Dusk, before she can cast another, Dark Mist fires a counter spell. Dusk is sent back by the force of the blast. She can't contain her laughter at this pony's tenacity, and has to put an end to it. Dark Mist takes the offensive and casts dark magic at Dusk. Dusk is struggling to hold it back with her own. Dark Mist puts more effort into her attack pushing her back. "Dusk!! Please stop it!!" Dusk's eyes return to normal as Lightning Flicker shouts into her ears, waking her up. Dark Mist watches as Dusk starts to fade back into reality, but can't stop it even if she wanted to. "Next time we meet, Dusk, will be on the battlefield." said Dark Mist as she returns to her throne. Dusk shot up in her bed, her friends crying. Candy Star looks up and is overjoyed at seeing Dusk awake. Dusk smiles at her friends, happy to see them again. "Dusk?" asked Candy Star. "Yes? what is it, Candy?" answered Dusk. "Don't you ever scare us like that again!" said Candy Star as she pounded on Dusk's chest while crying. "Don't worry, Candy, it was a one-time thing. I won't use it again, i promise." said Dusk, Candy Star is happy to hear it. But Dusk remembers Dark Mist burning the evidence she needed to make her theory have any validity, now its just up to luck to play its part. The summer sun celebration has started, they can now celebrate the coming of the summer solstice. Dusk pulls out the stock she had put away for the occasion, each having their fun with each other. Candy Star has brought some games over from her house they can play, even though Candy Star is a year younger than Dusk, she still enjoys the good things in life. Lightning Flicker brought over some gala apples for them to eat, Dusk didn't care for them, but Candy Star loved anything with a mild and sweet taste to it. Both eat what they can and turn to Dusk. "Hey girls! over here!" said Dusk, both look in her direction. Lightning Flicker and Candy Star move quickly, tackling Dusk to the floor, Dusk giggles as they pounce on her. "Got you this time, Dusk!" said both in unison. Dusk slips out from under them, Candy Star has her leg as she tries to escape. "Not this time!" exclaimed Candy Star. Dusk is brought down to the floor once again. Both Lightning Flicker and Candy Star start using feathers to make her laugh, she hasn't had much to laugh about lately. "No, stop!" said Dusk as the two keep going regardless of her protest. "Only if you say it!" said Lightning Flicker. "Say what?" Dusk is laughing so hard it hurts to breathe. "You have to admit that i'm more fun than you." said Candy Star. They don't stop as Dusk is crying from laughing, she couldn't get up as they had her pinned to the floor. "Never!" said Dusk in defiance. "Have it your way! until you do we won't stop." said Lightning Flicker as they continue their assault with the feathers. "Okay, okay! you're more fun than me!" admitted Dusk, the assault stops. Dusk is trying catch her breath as she gets up off the floor, her friends helping her up to her hooves. Dusk had fun with them, even though they cheated at the game. The time has come for the sun to be raised, Dusk and her friends as well as the rest of the town came to watch the spectacle. Once everypony has gathered, the princesses Luna and Celestia approaches the stage. Princess Luna lowers the moon, in return Princess Celestia raises the sun into the sky, the crowd of ponies cheer as their new day begins. Dusk is smiling at the sight of them, both give off a sense of regality about them. A feeling Dusk never sensed before when her mother died, all she could feel was sadness. Princess Celestia and Luna were the ones who gave her comfort in her moment of grief. Something Dusk never got to thank them for, this will be the best time to do this. "Princess Celestia and Luna?" called Dusk from behind some ponies. The two of them looked for the pony calling them, Dusk has to force herself through the other ponies to get to them. "Oh hello, Dusk. How have you been adjusting to your new life here in Ponyville?" asked Princess Celestia. "Its great so far, thank you." answered Dusk, a smile crossed her face. "That's good to hear, so that means i won't have to worry anymore." said Princess Celestia. "You were watching me since i moved here?" asked Dusk, tilting her head to one side. Princess Celestia nodded and Princess Luna approaches Dusk. Her appearance is different, last time Dusk had seen her, Luna didn't have that starry mane or tail, just a plain light blue mane and tail. "Dusk? you're not planning on doing something this evening are you?" asked Princess Luna. "No, can't say i am. Why?" asked Dusk. "Because i want to talk to you about that dream you had last night." Dusk lowered her ears at the thought of it. "Come to the castle and i'll have the guards escort you to my quarters, my sister will join us as well." said Princess Luna. Dusk nodded and returned to her friends side, happy to be with them. Princess Celestia smiles at her new friends, she is in good hooves now. Both princesses took off for the castle, the sun making Princess Celestia's mane shimmer in the sunlight. Now that the festivities are over, Dusk wants to continue her training in her spells. The one spell that always evades her grasp is water, this time; Dusk would commit to it full time. With an idea of how Dark Mist is, this spell training in essential to her and her friends survival. With that in mind, Dusk moves the the clearing outside of town. Since Lightning Flicker is out of town for the day and Candy Star busy with work, Dusk can focus without distractions. Dusk begins by channeling her magical energy to her horn, the red aura surrounding it. Her thoughts must be clear for this spell to work, same goes for the rest of them. Dusk puts all her energy into the spell, forming a sphere of water at the tip; but that's only the first step, next she picks out a target. A conveniently placed boulder provides a perfect target for the spell, but Dusk has used it before, but never like this. The only target practice she had was her mother, she would miss and hit her by accident. But the laughs would come afterward, mostly her mother was the one laughing it up at her expense. But this time, Dusk felt she has more control of her magic and casts the water spell directly at the boulder in front of her. The pulse of water smashes the boulder to pieces, Dusk has mastered the first stage, but needs the next to make it effective. The next step is to make two more spheres, each separate from one another. This will increase the chances of hitting a target, but uses a little more magic to perform. Dusk readies the first sphere, making it fire at the next boulder in sight. But its force alone is not enough to break it, she then turns to the second sphere, and fires it alongside the first. The pressure from both shatter the boulder to pieces, just like the the first boulder. But Dusk isn't finished yet, she wants to push it to her limit; trying to see how many she can form. Dusk finds she can only form up to four at a time at her current level, and brings her own training to a close for now. In Cloudsdale, Lightning Flicker visits her parents resting place. The memories of those times with them are her most precious memories, if she could have seen it coming; maybe they would still be alive. But who is she trying to fool, she knows she couldn't have prevented it. The lesson she learns is that life is never fair, everything has a place in this world. Everything lives and dies in a continuous cycle, you can't prevent things before they happen; you can only help what happens after. Tears are the only thing Lightning Flicker can offer. "Mother...Father... i hope you're happy where you are, i know i am. I have the best true friends anypony can have, and i wouldn't trade a thing for it." said Lightning Flicker as a smile formed on her face. Lightning Flicker places the rose bouquet on their graves, if it ever comes her time; she will accept it. Because she will be able to see her family and friends who have long since passed on. "Thank you for everything. Goodbye." said Lightning Flicker. Lightning Flicker flies back towards Ponyville, finding the closure she desperately needed and to let her parents know what she has in her life. Lightning Flicker descends into Ponyville, finally back from her visit. Candy Star is waiting for her at Dusk's house, but Dusk isn't back yet. Approaching Candy Star, she smiles; Candy Star returns it as she stops in front of her. Candy Star can see Dusk in the square, but she has the book of spells with her. Lightning Flicker greets her with a wave, Dusk waves back. "Hey girls, what's going on?" asked Dusk. "You forgot already? you must be slipping." answered Candy Star. Lightning Flicker can't help but chuckle at this, Dusk just shrugs her shoulders. Dusk opens the front door and lets them inside, Candy Star takes a seat on the couch alongside Lightning Flicker. Dusk puts her book away on the shelf, but feels she has gained a lot of ground in her training. Dusk joins the two of them as they sit on the couch together, Candy Star nudges Lightning Flicker as if she wants her to say something. "Oh right, Dusk, we want to ask if you could possibly join us this afternoon at Candy Star's work. Because she has something to show you." said Lightning Flicker. "Alright, but you have to do something for me in return." replied Dusk. "Sure thing, what is it?" asked Lightning Flicker. "You have to help me with my next experiment, but its not for another day or so." said Dusk. Both Lightning Flicker and Candy Star laugh nervously at the request, but nod in agreement, Dusk stands and goes upstairs to rest. Its been a long day of training, but Dusk has an appointment tomorrow with the princesses and needs her sleep. Dusk has a vision of Canterlot, but this time; she's not there, just watching as its covered in darkness. A dark pony stands before it, she can't make out the features, but the green highlights give it away. "Dark Mist, but how? she's still in the dream realm. " said Dusk. Dark Mist turns to face her, cracking a wide grin. Dusk is filled with emotions as she watches the events unfold before her very eyes. "Tell me, Dusk. How does it feel to know what awaits you? All your friends at my hooves, yet you stand in defiance!" said Dark Mist. Dark Mist wasn't talking to her directly, just the dream version. Dusk can see herself standing before Dark Mist; eyes filled with sadness and pain. But something else catches Dusk's attention, her eyes; they appear to be... green and purple mist coming out of them. "All this for your own entertainment? Its wrong. But i will stop you, i don't know how yet; but i will." said Dusk as she prepares a fire spell. But before Dusk can cast it, her life is cut short in an instant. Eyes wide as she falls to the ground at her hooves, Dark Mist is smiling down at her. If this is how powerful she is, then Dusk has no chance. Only one thing is certain, she needs the elements power; But it only works if the six ponies have the six traits to wield them. Dusk wakes up in tears, Dark Mist has shown she will do anything to be free, even disposing her to do it. It won't be long before she attains her goals, and so would Dark Mist. "Dusk? are you alright?" asked Lightning Flicker. Lightning Flicker has entered her room to check on her, but finds her crying. Dusk tries to hide it, but she's not fooling her. "Dusk, what happened this time?" asked Lightning Flicker, she wants to help; but Dusk won't answer her question. "Dusk, Candy Star made breakfast for us, come on." Dusk nodded and follows her downstairs. Candy Star is sitting at the table eating hers, as waves to Dusk and Lightning. Both sit down to join her, Lightning takes her three pancakes and Dusk does the same. Dusk is lost in thought about her dream, but a tap from Lightning startles her out of it. Its been far too long since she has had a dream, and this one she didn't have words for. Candy Star sands up and approaches Dusk, she an maybe help if Dusk will talk about it with them. "Dusk, can you please tell us whats going with you? That one dream was scary, but this silence from you isn't normal." said candy Star. "i have to go, see you two later!" Dusk opens the front door and leaves, shutting it behind her. Now both are worried even more than before about Dusk, so they follow her to Canterlot; hoping for some answers. But along the way, Dusk keeps getting the felling she's being followed and looks back to see nothing. Shrugging her shoulders, she continues on her way to Canterlot, she has an appointment to keep and can't afford to slow down. In Canterlot, Princess Luna and Celestia prepare for their meeting with Dusk. The nobles can wait until tomorrow as they are rushed out by the guards, and now they can relax a bit. "Sister, can we really stop her now? its been one thousand years since then." asked Princess Luna. Princess Celestia isn't too sure herself, it was by chance that her sister caught her off guard. Princess Luna got right into her Sister's face, looking into her eyes. "Sister, what's wrong?" asked Princess Celestia. "Nothing, nothing at all." answered Princess Luna as she backed away. In truth, Luna wanted to make sure her sister was feeling alright. Last time she didn't eat for three days straight, even the cake was still untouched. This made Luna worry for her sister's well being, its unusual for her to avoid a question. "What bothers you, sister? i told you i'm fine now." replied Princess Celestia. Luna can't help but worry, if she were to be separated from her; who knows what will happen. But at the same time, worried for Dusk's safety as well as Equestria. Dusk arrives in the throne room to meet them, Princess Celestia and Luna greet her with a small smile. Dusk bows her head in respect. "Welcome, Dusk. We hope your ready." said Princess Luna. "Yes, i am." replied Dusk. All three go back to Luna's quarters and shut the door, the guards keep watch as they discuss what is to come. "Dusk, nothing we say leaves this room, do you understand?" asked Princess Celestia. "I understand." answered Dusk, her eyes focus on the two princesses. Princess Luna steps forward, and lowers herself to Dusk's level of sight, but looks into her eyes for anything out of place. Since Dark Mist can put anypony under her influence, Luna can't be sure she can be trusted. "Sister, its alright. She isn't under any spell." Celestia reassures Luna, making her back down. "Very well, we can tell you then." said Princess Luna. "What we want to discuss is the dream, where you and Dark Mist fought against one another in her castle." said Princess Celestia. "You were using dark magic, a forbidden spell. How did you even learn it?" asked Princess Luna. Dusk doesn't know herself, she was a filly at the time. Even when she used it against Dark Mist, she was doing it subconsciously as the spell took over. Leaving her unaware of what was happening. "I...have no idea..." said Dusk, these questions she is being asked were confusing. "Dark magic is not a spell to be taken lightly, Dusk. In your sleep you conjured it into existence, endangering yourself and those around you. Do you have any idea what could have happened had Lightning Flicker not shouted into your ears?" asked Luna. "Yes, i was just so upset with what she would do, that i completely lost myself. I'm sorry." apologized Dusk, her words sincere as she spoke to Luna and Celestia. "Since you now understand, i must place a restriction on your magic. It is for your safety and to others, it pains me to do this, Dusk, but i must." said Luna. Dusk knew what is coming, half of her magic will be suppressed, and not be able to be tapped into. Princess Luna approaches her and and places her horn on Dusk's own, a flow of magic goes into Dusk, finally locking it away. "It is done, but i promise it won't be permanent, just until we settle this matter with Dark Mist." said Princess Luna. "You may go, but are not engage her. You've seen what happened to you when you did in that dream." ordered Princess Luna. Princess Celestia sees the tears from Dusk, but wraps a wing around her to comfort her. The time has come to finally seek out this threat and banish it gain. "Go home, Dusk. But remember, do not ever speak of this to your friends." Said Princess Celestia as she shut the doors to Luna's room. Dusk heads home, back to Ponyville. But on the way her friends stand there before her, curious as to what happened. But Dusk walkss right past them without a word as promised. Dusk and her two friends arrive in Ponyville, its dark and they all need to get some sleep. She felt drained after having her magic sealed, Candy Star has noticed her drying tears, but knew it wouldn't be any use to try and her to talk to them. "Candy Star, go home. I'm sorry, but you can't stay with tonight." said Dusk. Candy Star's ears drop at her words, but she understands and heads home. Lightning Flicker follows Dusk to her home, shutting the door as they enter. Heading upstairs, Dusk makes her way to her room and close her bedroom door. Lightning Flicker does the same with hers, each got into their beds, falling asleep within seconds. Lightning thinks maybe tomorrow her friend will be in a better mood to talk, but there are no guarantees that she will.
