Starfallby AuroraScribeChaptersPrologueChapter 1: ReunionChapter 2: The Festival BeginsChapter 3: Friend or FoeChapter 4: When Stars CollideChapter 5: Storm FrontChapter 6: Nightmare UnveiledChapter 7: ElementalEpilogue: A Return to Once WasPrologue Spring has finally come and all around Equestria the last remnants of winter are now but a memory. In Canterlot, the royal garden is already green and full of life. Surrounding the palace, unique flowers known as starlight blossoms, a bulbous white flower that glows at night, have begun to bloom making the air smell like honey. Enticed by the sweet scent, Princess Luna walks gracefully to her balcony to enjoy the warm early morning sunlight. Fighting back a yawn, she lays down to look through the railing at the butterflies floating busily from flower to flower down below. She tries for a short time to count them all, but her eyes won't obey, the exhaustion of being awake through the night taking its toll. She laughs softly and whispers to herself, "Perhaps... we will count them tomorrow..." * * * * * * * * After a single knock, the large doors of Princess Luna's chambers swing open. Two royal guards, both gray unicorns dressed in gleaming gold armor, march through the doorway. Wasting no time, they take positions at each side of the door and stand at attention. "Luna?" Princess Celestia calls out as she steps inside. Taking a moment to nod to the guards, she begins looking around the massive room. The sounds of chirping guides her to the balcony where she finds her sister sound asleep with blue jays, robins, and a mix of other birds sitting on the railing watching over her. Smiling, she quietly returns to the guards and whispers, "Please inform the guests we'll need to meet later this evening." After a quick salute, the guards hastily exit the chambers, using their magic they close the large doors softly behind them. Celestia happily sighs. Intentional or not, her sister had given her a small reprieve from her royal duties. Walking softly, she moves slowly though the chambers once again to join her sister on the balcony. Since Luna's return, Celestia has gradually brought her sister into the politics of the kingdom, trying to not only reintroduce her to the duties brought on by being a princess of Equestria, but to also spend more time with one another. In her heart she fears neglect may have played a part in her sister's betrayal and it's something she's sworn to never let happen again. With that thought in mind, as Celestia walks through Luna's chambers she can't help but feel a pang of guilt. Even though they see each other on a daily basis, new artwork adorns almost every wall, much of which she has never seen. On one side, she’s painted an image of the moon glistening over a lake. On the adjacent wall a new image of ponies playing under star light and another of a friendly looking owl. Most striking, though, on the wall next to her bed is hundreds of painted cutie marks. "How long has this taken her? Are these all of ponies she's met?" Her thoughts creep into her voice as she takes a moment to inspect each. Right off she spots the diamond-like sparkles of her student, Twilight Sparkle, then the butterflies of Fluttershy, the lightning bolt of Rainbow Dash, the apples of Applejack, the balloons of Pinkie Pie, and the gems of Rarity, along with many others, even one that looks similar to... "We apologize, sister." Luna groggily says, interrupting Celestia's thoughts. "We fell asleep..." She pauses to brush the hair of her dark mane from her eyes as she yawns deeply. "It was a mistake to count the butterflies, we see that now. It will not happen again." Celestia smirks as her horn glows softly, the magic lifting her sister gently into the air and floating her over to the bed. "There's no need for an apology, the meeting was simply postponed. Go ahead and get some rest." "But... It was important, was it not?" Luna blinks heavily, a look of concern and sleepiness on her face. Celestia's magic gently pulls the covers around Luna. "Nothing that can't wait a little while longer." She whispers. Feeling better, Luna gives a warm smile then closes her eyes. Celestia watches her sister a long while as she passes back to sleep. "You've been lonely, haven't you?" Unaware of the tears starting to fill her eyes, she pauses to kiss her on the forehead then glances once again at the wall of cutie mark art. "But... At least it looks like you've been making friends-" Her voice fades to a whisper as she spots one cutie mark in particular. There, apart from the others, a bright blue star, very similar to Celestia's own cutie mark of the sun. Moving closer, she whispers, "Why... Would she paint this?" She gazes at it for a time, drifting into a daydream of a horrible war of years past. She blinks and the edges of the cutie mark begin to glow softly, the light growing stronger with each passing moment. Startled, Celestia backs away from the wall as the eerie light begins to fill the chambers. Behind her, she hears Luna hum a few notes of a very old hymn. Celestia shakes her head and turns to see Luna now sitting upright, glaring at her with golden eyes. "Did you think I had forgotten?" Luna says, but it's not her voice. "Did you think I'd never return?" Celestia steps back in disbelief and trips, spreading her wings as she tries to balance herself but still she tumbles, the sensation of falling seemingly endless... And then she lands. Celestia's eyes open and she gasps lightly, as if no air were in her lungs. Looking around, she finds herself at her sister's bedside, Luna tucked in and sleeping sweetly. "Was it all a dream?" She asks, keeping her voice low but half hoping Luna would actually tell her. The memory of her sister speaking with someone else's voice and of her unusual golden eyes makes her quickly reconsider, a cold chill running through her at the thought. She gets up and turns to look at the wall with the cutie marks. The blue star is there. ...Did you think I had forgotten? Did you think I'd never return?... The words linger, and suddenly she feels like she's falling once more. Steadying herself, her eyes move from the cutie mark of the blue star to those of friends, the spirits of the elements of harmony. * * * * * * * * Celestia paces in her own chambers, her mind racing. On her desk a feather pen flutters about on a piece of parchment magically writing a very important letter. Philomeena, the princess's phoenix pet, rests on a large perch watching her master intently. "I wish... I truly wish there was another way." Celestia looks at her pet as if she may give her another option. "But, there really isn't, is there?" She concludes solemnly. Trying not to sulk, she turns her attention to the parchment which magically rolls up then is wrapped closed with a bright pink and yellow ribbon adorned with the royal seal. Sighing deeply, she turns and walks slowly onto her balcony, placing a hoof on a cracked tile that she’s intentionally never had repaired, then looks skyward. The morning sunlight passes through her mane making it glow vivid shades of orange and red, the fiery appearance matching her mood. Her lips purse tightly, she knows this can't wait any longer. Philomeena lands on Celestia's shoulder, the newly written scroll clutched firmly in a claw. "Be swift." Celestia whispers, nodding lovingly to her pet. Philomeena rests her head against her master's neck then takes off in a fiery streak. She soars over the castle's courtyard, then beyond the majestic city of Canterlot, heading straight to a special library in a little town called Ponyville. "Twilight Sparkle, I've already asked too much of you and your friends... and now, I'm going to need your help more than ever.” Celestia sighs as she watches her pet vanish in the distance. “Please forgive me, my student." Chapter 1: ReunionTwo Weeks Later Rainbow Dash bouncily lands on a cloud then turns to look at Cloudsdale, the city of the pegasi floating majestically in the distance. With the sun having just risen, the rays of sunlight make the city glow brilliant shades of reds and yellows, almost as if the city were made of light. Indifferent to the stunning view, with a wry grin she turns to look in the direction of Ponyville. “I bet I’ll be the first one there!” She says with smug confidence as she begins to stretch. Confident she’s ready; she kneels down with her wings spread out then takes off, the burst of air turning the little cloud into white mist. For a short time, she streaks in and out of the cloud line with incredible speed, then with a quick loop begins heading towards the ground. Bringing her front legs forward, she pushes harder and harder, causing the swirling air around her to begin shimmering, almost as if she were attempting to pass through the wall of a bubble. In an instant, the roaring sounds of wind fade to a whisper as the slipstream envelopes her, then it happens.... An explosion of sound and vivid colors, a sonic rainboom resonates through the sky. She pulls up just above the ground then spins to fly backwards looking above to check out her handy work. The colorful waves of the rainboom are already vanishing in the distance and every cloud has been cleared, leaving the morning sky crystal blue. "Guess they'll know I'm here." She laughs then spreads her wings to slow a bit then level herself out. Crassshhhh! A blur of purple and blue tumble and then splat, right into a large mud puddle. Dash rubs her head then woozily gets up. "Uh, woops… I'm really sorry about that! I was, uh, kinda distracted..." "Well, it’s not the first time you’ve done it..." A voice Rainbow recognizes responds. She turns to see a mud-covered unicorn with a large book magically hovering above her, a purple glow stripping the mud from her face. "Not that a less painful - or less dirty - greeting wouldn't be appreciated..." Twilight Sparkle's voice drifts off. Rainbow can't believe her eyes and with a squeaky laugh tackle-hugs her friend right back into the mud. "What's the chance of us...uh, bumping into each other like this?!" Their laughter is cut short by another familiar voice. "I'd say pretty good, sugar cube...." Applejack begins, setting down a large picnic basket in front of her. "Considerin' we were all spose’d to meet here at the park. But, why are y'all pony-playin’ in the mud?" "Because that mud isn't mud. It's chooooocolate." Just overhead in a tree, Pinkie Pie's head pokes out from the branches sending leaves in every direction. "At least, I bet it is. I know I'd take a dip in a chocolate puddle, so who could blame them? Not me!" The pink pony jumps out of the tree and nods, giggling as she agrees wholeheartedly with herself. "Riiiight." Twilight laughs then rolls her eyes. "Wait… what were you doing up there? Actually, never mind, you know what… I don't even want to know." She waves her hoof, as if to dismiss the thought. Pinkie just shrugs and makes her tail twitch, as if that explains everything. Suddenly curious, she moves over to inspect the large puddle. "Well, even if it was chocolate I don't think it'd be any less messy... I'm really sorry Twilight. We're a disaster." Rainbow spreads her wings then hops out of the puddle. "I'd go and find us a raincloud… but there's probably none close by now." She looks up to check, just in case. Pinkie gasps loudly, everyone turning giving her a confused look. "Uh, you guys... This isn't chocolate. Not at all." She announces, finishing with a pout. She gently pokes the mud with a hoof, as if it may change at some point. Twilight and Dash look at one another then sigh. Applejack clears her throat. "Well, do you ponies wanna go get clean then come back t'meet? I’m sure the others will be here soon.” Twilight shakes a bit of mud off then steps out of the puddle, the large book still hovering above her. “Well, I think I have an idea….” She closes her eyes then in a flash of purple magic teleports a few feet from where she just was, the mud that had coated her stays suspended in the air for a brief moment then splashes to the ground. Twilight looks herself over, her hair and coat now perfectly clean. “Much better than rainblow-dry.” She giggles. Everyone stares till Dash, somewhat jealous, finds her voice. “I wish you could teach me how to do that.” Twilight smirks. “Well, I sorta can… I do have a new spell I’ve been wanting to try.” Dash gives an expression that almost says she regrets saying anything. “Just take this…” Twilight slides the Element of Magic from her head then places the gemmed tiara onto Dash’s mud-covered mane. “Wait, what are you doing with an element? I thought Celestia had all of them locked up in Canterlot?” “Oh, well the princesses let me bring them for the festival tomorrow. In fact, Celestia and Luna both requested we all wear them for the big celebration. I have them all back at the library; we can swing by and pick them up later,” she pauses to think for a moment. “But for this spell to work, I need you to wear mine for the time being.” “Uh… okay.” Dash looks around, seriously considering taking flight. “Now, I just learned this… it’s called spell channeling. It lets me cast magic through you, as if I were you.” Twilight closes her eyes and her horn begins to glow soft purple. “Uh, Twi…. I can just go find a lake to dive into or something, you don’t have-“ Dash nervously starts to say but is cut short. In a flash, she glows bright purple then teleports just like Twilight had moments before then reappears perfectly clean a short distance away as the mud splashes down where she previously was. “…to do this.” She finishes then looks around, confused. Everyone breaks into a fit of laughter as the rainbow-maned pony shakes her head, still in shock it worked. After a moment she slides the Element of Magic off then passes it back to Twilight. “That’s pretty amazing… but you need that to make it work?” Twilight looks down at the shiny tiara then gives a light sigh. “The spell isn’t supposed to require it… but so far it’s been the only way I can get a strong enough connection to make it work.” Applejack clears her throat. "So, Twilight? What is this festival spose’d to be for, anyhow?” "It's somepony's birthday!" Pinkie chimes in. "That's why she brought that book, it must be a gift!" She cartwheels then plucks the hovering book out of the air. Twilight flails, trying to grab the book back but has no luck. "No no, Pinkie it's not a birth-" She begins. Pinkie gasps yet again, this time everyone thinks it's because of the book. "You guys!" "What is it?" Twilight, Rainbow, and Applejack say in unison, all moving to huddle around her. Pinkie hops up. "That means we should have a party!" She happily bounces out of the group and spins to face Twilight. "But whose birthday did we forget?" She gives a serious look of concern. "Uh... I think she was about to say somethin' about that." Applejack nods to Twilight. "Well, I was just going to say it's not a birth-" She starts again. "But why wouldn't you wrap your gift?" Pinkie interrupts once more. "I mean, at least give it a bow. Whoever gets this isn't going to be surprised. Not even a little." Pinkie sits back and reads the cover, "Mastering Time and Space - Enchantments and Spells of the Upper Order." She states boldy. "And they'll know what it's about, no need to guess." She concludes with a tiny sigh. Twilight looks shocked. "Pinkie, it took me days to decipher that… it's written in ancient Equestrian. You can read it?" "Well, duuuuuh. Can't everypony?" Pinkie moves up close to Twilight. "Want me to wrap it? I'd be happy to." She concludes cheerfully. "It's nopony's birthday, Pinkie," Dash bumps her. "I think Twilight wanted to show us that book." Twilight smiles in relief, nodding. “Apparently it’s very special, it’s part of the reason Celestia sent me that letter a few weeks ago asking me to come visit her in Canterlot. It’s supposed to be full of powerful magic thought to have been lost to the ages… and she wanted me to have it.” She starts to say happily, but then her shoulders slump. “That is, if I could learn anything from it… It’s incredibly complex. So far I’ve only learned the one spell, and I had a lot of help.” “Well, don’t give up sugar cube. Princess Celestia wanted you to have it, so that means she has all the confidence in the world in you.” “So, Twilight… about this festival? We’re watching stars or something? In that letter you sent me, I wasn't really sure what to make of it.” “Falling stars, actually… And well, it used to be a big deal long ago; it’s even older than the Mare in the Moon tale. Apparently most of Equestria would gather to watch the falling stars on the first new moon of spring - which for us just happens to be tomorrow night - and it was called the Starfall Festival.” “So, yeah… we stay up late and look at stars?” “With games, food, and bonfires… it should be a lot of fun, I think. Plus, the princesses said this one was extremely important… but, come to think of it, they didn’t tell me why just yet. I think it has something to do with the Elements of Harmony.” “Well, I guess it doesn’t sound too bad…” "A night party!? It sounds great to me!” Pinkie bounces. “Well, I like the idea.” Applejack nods. “While we wait for the others, let’s get the picnic ready.” * * * * * * * * In the distance the sounds of yelling and cheering can be heard, voices Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike all instantly recognize. “Oh my, it sounds like everypony is at the park already.” Fluttershy says as she tilts her head to listen. “Spike, dear?" Rarity stops abruptly. "We did get Rainbow Dash's special dress, the new design, correct?" Spike juggles multiple white boxes stopping when he's certain he has the correct one on top. On the cover, dozens of tiny rubies, emeralds, sapphires, along with many other various gems intricately spell out, Rainbow Dash. "I think so… wanna check just to be sure?" Fluttershy gently lifts the cover and says in an excited whisper, "it's soooo pretty!" Rarity, now somewhat flustered at the compliment, can’t help but take a peek as well. "Ah, yes, that's the one." Satisfied, she takes a moment to seal the gift then turns and smiles at Fluttershy. "As I was saying before, I made a special dress for each of us. This is apparently a very special occasion and we should all look our very best!” * * * * * * * * Rainbow Dash takes off to fly a few feet in the air and instantly spots Fluttershy, Rarity and Spike coming up the path. "Hurry up, slowpokes! Or Pinkie's going to eat all the cake!" "Too late!" Pinkie shouts then giggles. In a single bite, she devours a huge slice of cherry-apple crumb cake then looks around wide-eyed, noticing her friends staring. "Dat... Dat relvy wavn't alluvit, wuzit?" She mumbles. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Twilight all laugh uncontrollably. "Shucks no, I brought enough to feed an army." Applejack says, still laughing. She points at the large picnic basket she had sat down earlier and notices Pinkie already lifting a flap, peeking inside. "Or one Pinkie Pie." Dash says as she lands, sending everyone into another fit of laughter. “By the way, look who I found.” She points a hoof then waves. Fluttershy and Rarity with Spike walking beside them wave then rush up to meet their friends. Spike sets down the packages then runs up and hugs Twilight. “Gosh I can’t believe I haven’t seen you for nearly two weeks! How was your trip to Canterlot?” “It was great, Spike!” Twilight grins. “How was it staying with Rarity while I was gone?” Spike begins to blush but before he can say anything Rarity speaks up. “He was wonderful! He helped quite a bit with these,” she points to the packages that Spike had just set down. “When I received your letter I just couldn’t help myself…” Excited, each of the girls pick up a box with their name on it and takes a look at the dress inside. Twilight’s eyes widen. “Rarity… I only sent you the message a week ago… you made all of these in that short of time?” Rarity looks around, feeling embarrassed. “I... I did. Does it show? Do you not like yours?” She reaches to take it away, suddenly ashamed that Twilight had even seen it. “This. Is. AWESOME.” Rainbow Dash takes off then spins while holding her dress, the material a beautiful mix of light and dark blues with diamonds for sparkles. “And it’s aerodynamic!” “Oh yes, I kept that in mind this time… All of the dresses are night-themed for this festival; it just seemed to make sense.” She turns and looks sadly at Twilight. “I’m so sorry you don’t like yours, maybe I can change something and it’ll be better?” “No, Rarity… I love it! I just can’t believe how much work you can do in such a short time. This dress is beautiful, thank you so much!” Rarity begins to feel feint and as she starts to wobble Spike runs behind her to prevent her from falling over. “Um, Twilight… What’s the reason for this festival?” Fluttershy asks while looking at her dress. Twilight looks over to the old spellbook sitting next to the picnic basket. “I have a lot to tell you guys…” Chapter 2: The Festival BeginsThe next night, Starfall Eve… “I dunno, Zecora… you really think that would work?” Spike says as he fidgets, trying not to blush. “What I have said should not surprise, for it is not just me that sees that sparkle in your eyes.” Zecora smiles then nods to Rarity in the distance. “I’ve wanted to give her another gift for the longest time and when I found this diamond, I just knew it was meant for her. But… you really think she’d come with me to the lake?” “It is the perfect night, little Spike… face your fear and you will see, whether or not that pony is your destiny.” She finishes with a smile then a wink. Spike takes a deep breath, trying to gain some courage. “You’re right! Thanks Zecora, you’re the best!” He gives the zebra a quick hug then turns and takes off running right into Twilight. “Oops, sorry, Twi… kinda in a hurry!” “Oh, hey, Spike… I was just looking for...” She begins then stops as he moves passed her, heading over to Rarity. “…Oh, nevermind.“ She sighs. “Well, there’s no getting through to him tonight… that’s for sure.” “That is most probably true, for that little dragon has given himself much to do.” Zecora nods then smiles. “Hello, Twilight.” “Hi Zecora… Um, don’t mind me. I’m just trying to find a place to hide.” She points a hoof in the distance where a blue pony is performing magic amidst a large round of applause. “Somehow, Trixie got an invitation…. And she’s putting on a show near the big bonfire over there. It’s, uh, probably best if I avoid that area completely.” “Hello Twilight and hello Zecora, are you two enjoying the festival?” Mayor Mare smiles happily but flinches and looks upwards as overhead Derpy and Rainbow Dash zip by, Dash shouting something about going the wrong way. “Um… up till now? It’s been really nice…. But, I have a feeling I should go help.” She turns then realizes Dash just flew in the direction she’s wanted to avoid. “Or, maybe I’ll just stay here and hope for the best.” In the distance a tent collapses followed by a muffled shout, “my bad!” Mayor Mare rubs a temple with her hoof. “Oh that Derpy, she manages to find trouble no matter where she goes.” Twilight gives a strained laugh. “She means well… I think.” Above, the soft flapping of wings makes Twilight turn just as Princess Celestia lands near her. Zecora and Mayor Mare both bow. “Your highness!” “Princess! Twilight bows quickly then gives Celestia a hug. “I hadn’t seen you; I was worried you and Luna wouldn’t make it.” “Hello, my student. And Mayor Mare, Zecora. You all look lovely.” Celestia gives a curtly bow in return. “I need to borrow Twilight for a moment.” “Oh by all means!” Mayor Mare says followed by a gentle nod from Zecora. Celestia and Twilight begin to walk, heading away from the crowds enjoying festival. “It’s odd… I almost feel as if I should be writing this in a letter to be sent to you.” Celestia looks at Twilight half smiling, her expression turning unusually solemn. “I’ve kept a secret from you, Twilight.” Sighing deeply, she turns to look at the crowd of ponies playing games, talking and looking up at the beautiful night sky. Twilight’s pulse quickens. “I don’t… I don’t know what you mean, Princess? What’s this all about?” Celestia blinks slowly then glances at her student. “Over a thousand years ago… On a beautiful night - much like tonight - I had discovered the truth about Nightmare Moon and what she had done. I believe you know a part of this story from the Mare in the Moon, tale…” She pauses, looking at Twilight’s reaction. “I... I do, but I haven’t read it since we defeated her, and Luna became, well… became herself, again.” Celestia pauses to think, something obviously troubling her. “Princess… is everything okay with Luna?” “Oh? Oh yes, of course… Luna is very much my sister again, thanks to you and your friends. The truth is, Twilight, there’s an important part of the Mare in the Moon tale that few know about. It’s part of another tale called the Starborn Soldier, I believe you read it for the first time when you visited the castle recently? “Um, yes… that was the horrible story of the guard who turned on Canterlot and then was imprisoned eternally for their crime.” Twilight tilts her head, thinking about the story. “It didn’t exactly have a happy ending.” Celestia shakes her head once. “The guard wasn’t imprisoned… not exactly anyways. She was, in fact, exiled.” She takes a breath, suddenly haunted by the event. “Exiled under her own magic and a sentence she chose for herself.” “Princess, I don’t understand… what does this have to do with Luna? And why tell me about this all of a sudden?” “Because tonight… this guard’s sentence comes to an end. Luna and I wish to bring her back.” Twilight looks at Celestia speechless, her jaw wide open. “I can see you disapprove…” “Um… well, no… well, actually, yes!” Twilight shakes her head trying to make sense of it. “You want to bring her back, at the festival?” Celestia sighs and for a moment fights back tears. “Her world was torn apart during her last Starfall Festival… and since then, the world has healed much. I think returning to a place with so much happiness… it’s exactly what she needs.” “But… Princess, is it safe?” “Her emotions controlled her, much like they did my sister… but I am hoping that, over time, her anger has faded.” “And you wanted us to have the Elements of Harmony on hand, just in case…” Celestia smiles. “Just… in case.” Twilight paces in a circle, then tugs at her mane. “I don’t know…” Celestia smiles at her student. “There's no need to worry. Go have fun, Twilight. It may not seem like it now, but in the end, you’ll know what to do.” Pinkie spots Twilight and Celestia and happily bounces over to them. “Hey, they’re about to sing a bunch of hymns and everypony wants to do it as a group! Do you guys wanna join in? Do ya, do ya?” Twilight looks at Celestia then to Pinkie and back once again. “I’m not sure… this might be a bad idea, Pinkie.” “What… singing? But I love to sing.” Pinkie’s shoulders slump. “They seem like they'd be such pretty songs, too.” “No no, not the music… The Starfall Festival. Everything.” Twilight waves a hoof at the crowd then shakes her head, half from confusion and half from feeling like she’s done something horribly wrong. “I think it never should’ve happened.” “Twilight.” Celestia begins then leans down and hugs her student gently. “Please don’t worry so much. Just go have some fun. Pinkie... Luna and I would be delighted to join in.” She smiles softly then spreads her wings and gently lifts herself into the air. “Just give me a moment to find her.” “Oh um, when I last saw her, I think she was playing games over in the park.” Pinkie points a hoof. Celestia nods then takes flight, sailing over the crowds then vanishing in the distance. “Have fun? Is she serious?” Twilight looks at the ground, kicking a small rock with a hoof. “After telling me about all this… just go have fun, everything will be fine… Hey, wait a sec!” She stands straight up; an idea bringing her to full attention. “What if that’s it… what if it’s not too late? Maybe we can get everypony to go home, pretend this never happened!” She looks at Pinkie, frantic. Pinkie scratches her head, puzzled. “So if we pretend the festival never happened, whatever is supposed to happen, won’t… because to us, nothing ever happened.” She blinks then looks up tapping a hoof to her chin. “I dunno, I’m kinda doubting this plan, Twilight.” Twilight lets out a long, deep, sigh. “Fiiiiiiine. We’ll just go with it.” “Ooookey dokey!” Pinkie, gives a huge smile. “Ooh, they’re back already! So I guess it’s tiiiiime!” She sings, her voice hitting a note that could almost break glass. Chapter 3: Friend or FoeCelestia nods to Twilight and whispers, “It’s time.” “Princess… I asked Miss Cheerilee to take all of the fillies home…” She taps the Element of Magic on her head. “Just in case.” Celestia grins then nods. “It’s getting late, anyhow… that’s probably for the best.” With a deep breath, she moves to stand beside Luna who has already made it a good distance from the crowd. They look at one another then look at the star-filled sky above, their horns glowing softly with yellow and purple magic. A final shooting star streaks across the heavens then one by one, all the stars vanish until only a single, incredibly bright star remains. It glows intensely, but after a short while, it too fades, leaving the night sky completely black. “He-hey, where did they all go?” Pinkie shouts, mirroring what everyone is thinking. Celestia and Luna exchange glances as murmurs run rampant through the crowd of ponies. Trixie sees Twilight turn, giving her a stern look. “The Great and Powerful Trixie had nothing to do with this.” She shrugs then waves a dismissive hoof. “Or… That.” A single dot of blue light forms seemingly out of thin air, small enough it could be but a speck of dust, it floats down and hovers near the crowd of ponies. In moments the soft blue light grows in intensity shifting to a yellowish-gold then to pure white, illuminating the entire area. At first everyone is curious, but Celestia cautiously motions everyone to step away and move behind her. The light gains strength, growing stronger and stronger until all but Celestia and Luna cover their eyes. It explodes into a light as intense as looking at the sun, then, just as quickly as it formed, it collapses upon itself. In place of the light, a beautiful white winged-unicorn wearing gold armor now floats magically in the air, her horn glowing softly with magic and her glimmering blue mane and tail drifting skyward, moving as if she were underwater. Questions run rampant through the crowd but Celestia motions once more for everyone to stay back. “Well… that’s not what I was expecting.” Twilight gives Celestia and Luna a surprised look. “Her… Eyes are closed? Is she asleep?” Applejack moves to get a better look. “She is… and has been for many, many years.” Celestia says. At the sound of Celestia’s voice, the unusual pony begins to float gradually to the ground; her bright blue mane coming to rest over her shoulder as she lands gently. With her eyes still closed, the glow of her golden magic fades and in unison, the stars return to the night sky. Celestia gives a hopeful smile to Luna then takes a step forward. “Welcome back…” The pony opens her yellow eyes as she bows her head and takes a deep breath. She listens to all the sounds around her – the crackle of the bonfire, the crickets in the field, and the whispers of confusion from those near her. She sniffs the air lightly - enticed by the aroma of festival food, the light smoke and the musky scent of the lake nearby. A light breeze makes her mane flow outward like a crystal blue wave, a few strands of hair tickling her face. She blinks once fighting back tears then stretches her wings and examines the soft soil beneath her. “I’m… home…” She whispers. Celestia takes one small step forward. “You never had to leave.” She says, her tone apologetic. For a long time, the white winged-unicorn continues to look down. Suddenly, she twists a hoof uprooting the grass underneath. Raising her head slightly, her golden eyes glisten as she spots Celestia standing at the front of the crowd before her. “You and I both know that isn’t true...” She takes a moment to look at her surroundings. “I do not recognize this place… has Canterlot changed so much in my absence?” Twilight peeks around the crowd and says over the mumbling, “This… This isn’t Canterlot. You’re in Ponyville.” She swallows deeply, summoning the courage to stand next to Celestia. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, what’s yours… if you don’t mind me asking?” Pinkie bounces through the crowd to stand on the other side of Celestia. “Ooh! Ooooh! Let me guess! Flashy Sparkles!? No, hmm… Glowy Burst!?” Pinkie takes a step back as golden eyes narrow then focus on her. “Um… Angry Mare?” “Well, are you just going to stand there and keep looking mean, or are you going to introduce yourself?” Rainbow Dash flies up over the crowd and lands next to Pinkie. The white pony's eyes widen then quickly look down. Barely audible, she whispers, “Star Flare.” Fluttershy moves over to stand next to Twilight, “Oh don’t mind Rainbow, she’s just very assertive. My name’s Fluttershy. It’s um, very nice to meet you!” The pink curl of her mane bounces as she tilts her head and gives a welcoming smile. Star Flare glances nervously at Rainbow Dash then quickly back to Fluttershy. “You may not feel that way soon.” Fluttershy lets out a small squeak and steps back as Applejack moves in front of her. “Listen now, you don’t know us and we don’t know you, but there ain’t no reason we can’t all get along. I don’t know what ya meant by that, but we’re in the middle of a festival and everypony is here to have fun, there’s no need for trouble.” “Then why bring me back, here… Or even bring me back at all if trouble was meant to be avoided?” Star Flare gives Applejack a confused look. “We made the choice, Star.” Luna gracefully nods then gives a sad smile. “Canterlot holds many painful memories, for us both. It was important for you to first see how things have changed… for the better.” Star Flare glances at Luna then bows her head slightly. “Princess Luna, it is good to see you, your majesty.” “Is it impossible to fix this?” Celestia finally says, her voice unusually weak. Star Flare turns her head away, almost as if she had been physically struck. “You’d really ask me that?” She says barely above a whisper, a mix of emotions on her face. “After what happened… After you abandoned us?” Her eyes glisten, tears of anger and sadness beginning to form. Taking a deep breath, she turns and glares at Celestia. “Did you think I’d forget what happened? Or maybe you hoped you’d never have to see me again?” She almost growls, her voice rising to a shout. “My goodness, what’s all the commotion? Why are ponies yelling?” Rarity, with Spike on her back, moves through the crowd and finds her friends. “Oh my, who’s this?” “Woah, woah, woah! What’s going on?” Spike says as he quickly jumps down then moves to stand next to Twilight. “Is everything okay, it sounded like somepony’s really upset?” Celestia turns to see Spike, a look of concern on her face. “A… a dragon? A baby dragon? Here?” Star Flare nearly stumbles backwards, her anger swapped for confusion. “Um… hi? Nice to meet you, I’m Spike! But why are you so upset, what’s the matter?” The little dragon looks at everyone then steps forward. Star Flare’s eyes narrow at the little green and purple dragon, then, barely turning her head, focuses on Celestia. “You allowed this, didn’t you?” “I was the one to hatch him and he’s been one of my best friends for as long as I can remember.” Twilight speaks up, not liking Star Flare’s tone. Rarity nods to Twilight, “He’s special… to… um, to all of us.” “He came into this world with the guidance of magic and has helped everypony more then you could ever know.” Celestia concludes. Pinkie Pie clears her throat. “Welllllllll… Except that one time, when he was all like, gimme your cakes! And I did, but not actually giving, you know? I was throwing them at him, not to him. Nopony believed me, and that was reallllly annoying. After that, and well, before that too, he ran around Ponyville taking everypony’s stuff at random. Oh, and he kept getting bigger and bigger and pretty much wrecked the whole town.” Tapping her chin, she looks up pondering the memory then giggles. Everyone turns to stare at Pinkie. “But… he got better! Because of Rarity…” She squeaks as she finishes meekly. Spike turns back to Star Flare, “I didn’t actually-” He stops abruptly seeing Star Flare tremble and close her eyes, doing her best to hold back the tears starting to form. “Oh gosh… I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean anything by it, I just-“ Star Flare lifts her head and her eyes and horn flare bright blue in unison, her magic instantly freezing Spike in place. At first his feet crystallize… then his legs… but before the spell can be finished a flash of gold magic cuts through the blue. Celestia’s horn glows with a brilliant radiance, so intense many ponies have to look away. “Your exile is over, Star Flare… on the condition you’ve returned to live in peace. I cannot allow you to bring harm upon others. You were my friend once… Please, please do not take this any further.” Luna shrinks back. Memories of the chaos she caused ages ago returning to her. Seeing her sister’s piercing eyes, her determination… it’s just like the night of Nightmare Moon’s banishment. Star Flare looks at Spike as she purses her lips, her spell now having turned the tiny dragin completely into crystal. “To live in peace?” Is that why you brought me back?” She looks across the crowd of ponies staring back intently. “You abandoned me, Celestia… what right do you have to tell me how I should live?” “That’s not what happened…” Celestia almost gasps, tears flowing heavily. “The dragons nearly destroyed Canterlot – you never returned with the elements as you promised!” She steps forward, digging her hooves into the earth. “To save the city, I used magic that I never should have; magic far beyond my ability.” She turns away from the crowd and sits, looking up at the stars shining brightly above. ”I lost… everything that day. Everything that mattered to me.” She puts her head down and sniffles, no longer able to fight back the tears. “The following day I find you’ve returned to the castle and you refuse to see me... Your guards, those that once followed me, barred entrance.” She clears her throat. “That didn’t last long.” “Star, I had a reason… it was very hard for me, too.” Star Flare turns, glancing over her shoulder. “Through all that had happened… so much destruction, so many lost… What were you doing? Sleeping.” Luna moves to stand between Star Flare and Celestia. “Star… there is so much, so very much you do not know.” “Don’t try to make excuses for her, Princess. Celestia can defend herself… Or maybe she can’t. Maybe that’s why she ran.” Celestia weakly looks at Luna then back to Star Flare. “Still you say nothing.” Celestia sits back; taking in a heavy breath then adjusts her wings. “So very long ago…” she pauses, the weight of the memories taking hold. “You assaulted Canterlot castle, injured multiple guards and did an incredible amount of damage in your fury… Yet you wouldn’t attack me.” She stops, meeting Star Flare’s eyes. “You chose exile for your crimes, sealing yourself within the void before I could give you any clear answer. Star, the truth is… I had left to set things right… I didn’t have a choice.” “Set things right? The city was burning… your people needed you more than ever!” Star Flare turns then nods at the crystal statue of Spike. And here we are… a dragon living amongst our kind. Your view and my own clearly differ on how to protect the ponies of Equestria.” Celestia looks at the ground, keeping eye contact with Star Flare becoming almost impossible. “So much time has passed. So much has changed… The world is very different now.” Luna puts a hoof to her mouth, feeling her lip tremble. “Star, please let us speak with you.” “Then I will do what I should have done long ago.” Star Flare steps back and stands defiantly, her golden armor reflecting the flames of the bonfire. “I challenge you, Celestia. I challenge your right to protect Equestria, to even be a part of it… you have brought pain, misery and are the cause of eternal suffering to those who once called you friend.” Her eyes lower; suddenly it’s painful to look upon the princess. “You do not deserve your crown.” The crowd of ponies gasp and look at one another as Luna’s eyes fill with tears and she tries to speak, but no words will form. Celestia blinks away tears. “Perhaps… you are right.” “No… No she isn’t right!” Unable to stay silent any longer, Twilight steps in front of Celestia, giving her a look of confusion. “This isn’t up for debate.” Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and a terrified Fluttershy move to stand next to Twilight, forming a half circle around Celestia. Murmurs run rampant through the crowd of ponies but quiet down as Celestia steps forward, moving past Twilight. “Remember what I said, little pony.” She whispers. “What, you said… Princess? What do you mean?” Twilight shakes her head, a sense of dread filling her. Luna can barely croak out a few words. “Sister… What is thou doing?” Celestia glances at Luna then turns to face Star Flare. “I accept.” Gasps and sounds of shock erupt from the crowd. Stunned, Luna, Twilight and her friends stare at Celestia helplessly. Pinkie shakes her head and stumbles backwards as Twilight falls into a sitting position, her legs suddenly lacking the strength to fully support her. Chapter 4: When Stars CollideEverypony steps back, giving Princess Celestia and Star Flare plenty of room as they form a massive half-circle around Star Flare and Celestia. “The stakes are… should you lose…” Star Flare tilts her head and narrows her eyes at Celestia, who is standing calmly, watching her every move. You stand there, looking at me like you’ve done no wrong, she thinks. “Should you lose… you will relinquish your crown to your sister. You will no longer be a princess of Equestria. Furthermore…” Star Flare pauses, her thoughts drowning out the shouts of anger from the crowd, considering her next words carefully. For a moment, she paces back and forth, then, as she purses her lips, she slides off her helmet and takes a deep breath. “You will be exiled… just as I was. Before that, however, you will stand in Canterlot one last time and explain to everypony why you were a coward when your subjects needed you most.” Rarity looks tearfully at Twilight then hugs Spike. “In any case, you shall free him this instant! You can fight all you want afterwards!” She pleads. “Yeah what she said!” Pinkie Pie shouts, nodding to Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash all huddled around Rarity and the statue of Spike. The crowd of ponies shout their approval, but Star Flare turns and clears her throat. “That depends entirely on Celestia...” Star Flare begins. “However, know this. Should she lose, it is my intent to rid Equestria of its enemies – your friend will be but the first of many.” Rarity’s eyes widen as she shakes her head in disbelief, but before she can say anything, Celestia speaks up. “And should I win… you must find a way to let go of this terrible anger that fills your heart. The noble pony I once knew – a hero of Equestria – must return. And while it will not be required that you accept, you must allow me to ask once again for your forgiveness… and friendship.” Star Flare closes her eyes then pulls her sparkling blue mane into a pony tail as she slides her golden helmet back on. “Should I lose, I would be a danger to Equestria… I must be sent into eternal exile.” “Perhaps in time... But not all hope for you is lost.” Celestia says quietly. Emotions swirl through Luna, most importantly one she hadn’t felt since just before Twilight and her friends used the elements of harmony to free her from Nightmare Moon -- Anger. It should be her fighting Star Flare, not her sister… why is she doing this? Celestia’s horn glows brightly, her magic making the entire area glow in its radiance. You do not deserve your crown… you never did. The words play over and over in Star Flare’s mind, making her more determined than ever. Her golden eyes narrow and she takes a deep breath, her own horn now glowing intensely blue. Time seems to slow as she turns and looks at the ponies watching on, pegasi and earth-ponies all with fear in their eyes — fear that before this is over, they may lose their beloved princess. In this moment, as her mind is in another place, she doesn’t see Celestia’s first attack. A bright yellow flash of magic sears a portion of her armor spinning her sideways, but she braces her legs then deflects Celestia's magic with her own. What was that? Cheering? They’re cheering for her? Star Flare deflects a spell, then another… and another, streaks of yellow light coursing by her like rays of the sun. Celestia steps back then jumps into the air, taking flight as her eyes and horn glow intensely, a beam of yellow energy streaks towards Star Flare. A barrier of light forms around Star Flare as she summons her magic shield, then her eyes and horn glow bright blue as she sends a beam of her own magic to collide with Celestia’s - but it’s too late. As the magic collides, the yellow almost instantly overtakes the blue and collides with Star Flare’s shield, sending mini bolts of lightning and sparks in every direction. Star Flare tries to focus her magic to counter, but it’s too much, Celestia’s magic is far too powerful. Star Flare lowers her head, focusing all of her magic into her shield causing Celestia’s magic to ripple away like the light of an aurora. Just when she doesn’t think she can block any more, the yellow beam of magic fades and Celestia lands. She’s taking pity on me? Panting, Star Flare takes flight, heading straight at Celestia. Her eyes flash blue, her shield appearing around Celestia, pinning her in place. She lands and quickly plants her front legs to spin and kick, but the earth around Celestia explodes upward, her magic creating a wall of stone and soil. As her hooves strike dirt, Star Flare whips her head, the motion causing her shield – and Celestia within it - to smash through the wall of earth, tossing the princess onto her side. A bright pulse of yellow magic radiates from Celestia causing Star Flare’s shield to fade away, dispelled by the princess’ magic. She slowly picks herself up, her colorful mane glowing lightly from the magic coursing through her body. .....She didn't abandon us, Star..... Skystrider's last words. But why now? Star Flare shakes her head as if to dislodge the memory, but stops abruptly... They’ve been a part of her for so long, and she can hear his voice with such clarity… she can't lose it. The sudden thought of giving them up feels almost as if she were giving him up, as well. Panting and uncertain what to do, she briefly closes her eyes and remembers the last time she had to fight this hard. * * * * * * * * Crimson's massive tail swung in a wide arc, cleaving through a pillar then striking Star Flare hard. As she cries out she barely manages to use her magic to shield herself as she explodes through a wall of the central Canterlot library then smashes into a bookcase, sending paper, stone and wood airborne. With her armor badly damaged, her magic shield fades as she tries to stand up, limping from a wound on her front leg. "I have... I have to give Celestia more time... Luna... she'll be back, and they'll use the elements..." She stumbles, kicking scattered books and stones as she catches herself but turns to see a giant claw reach through the damaged wall and begins tearing it apart, shattering bricks and stones and fully eviscerating a massive part of the ceiling. She wants to scream as Crimson peers through the gape in the building, but she won't submit to fear, even though her heart feels as if it may jump from her chest. She winces and steps back, watching the massive red and black dragon intently. "There you are... I'm not through playing with you, yet." Crimson's voice rumbles through the library, the final word echoing over and over. He takes a step forward, completely tearing through the remains of the building's entrance. Star Flare summons every bit of magic that she can, her horn fully illuminating the half-crumbled library. Crimson's eyes narrow as he laughs wickedly, the sound almost deafening. "Your magic doesn't work on me, haven't you figured that out by now?" He hisses then points to a gold crescent moon imbedded into the scales of his chest. "Who says I was going to use it on you?" Star Flare grits her teeth as her magic levitates a crumbled pillar outside, raising it high into the air. Unaware, Crimson snarls as he rears back, prepared to use his fiery dragon’s breath just as the pillar smashes across his snake-like snout. The powerful impact makes him collapse onto his side, his massive body crushing the remains of the entrance wall, sending dust and debris all over. As he howls in pain, Star Flare begins to run, hobbling on her hurt leg. They need more time; I have to find a way. "Just a little-" Her thoughts slip into her voice as she glances over her shoulder just as a massive claw comes down on top of her, pinning her to the stone floor. Her magic dances across the dragon's claw and scales in tiny blue electrical arcs and sparks, the magic being completely nullified. With a large chunk of scales missing from under his eye and his nose bloodied, Crimson laughs. “You think you’re so smart.” He presses down, the pressure causing Star Flare's magic shield to explode in a bright blue flash. "No more running... it’s over, little pony." He digs his claw into the floor as he shifts his weight forward to crush his prey, the sound of armor crunching against stone making him smile in satisfaction. Star Flare gasps for air as tears run down her cheeks. She wants to call for help... but she can't move, and she can't breathe. It's over... I failed you, princesses. “I'm sorry, Sky... I'm so tired, I can't...” She barely whispers, her eyelids fluttering as she begins to pass out. Crimson roars then presses down, intent on ending it, but suddenly he surges forward as the flooring gives way and the stones break apart beneath his claw, sending Star Flare tumbling into a small basement chamber below. * * * * * * * * Star Flare blinks and refocuses back on Celestia, determined to not give up until the very end. Her horn sparks with blue energy as she prepares another attack. “Stop! End this, Star Flare; your fight is not with my sister!” Luna’s horn glows brilliant purple and a pulse of magic resonates from her, the force pushing Celestia back and Star Flare onto her side. At that moment, the deflection spell Celestia had prepared is miscast, now just a harmless beam of light streaking into the night sky. Star Flare starts to pick herself up out of the dirt, her eyes wide. “Ce-Celestia?” .....She didn't abandon us..... Star Flare hears Skystrider's words once more as she watches the princess stumble backward; using her wings she barely steadies herself from the impact of the spell she was unable to counter. A bright blue swirl of magic pulses on her chest then fades as it’s absorbed into her body. She tries to gasp for air, but it’s no use. As a single feather from her wings floats to the ground, her body is turned to crystal. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight shrieks. Gasps and shouts of terror erupt through the crowd. “Why--why would you interrupt? I didn’t… no, this wasn’t supposed to happen!” Star Flare shakes her head then looks frantically between Luna and the crowd. The crowd of ponies turns to face Star Flare. Above, a low rumble of thunder sounds as a storm begins to form over Ponyville. “I just wanted to know why she did it…. she was supposed to end this!” Star Flare stumbles. Frightened, she turns and takes off, flapping her wings with all her might. “Oh no you don’t!” Rainbow Dash takes off in a streak of color. “Wait, Dash!” Applejack tries to grab her tail but only gets a mouthful of colorful hairs. “I’ll um… go after her.” Trembling, Fluttershy takes flight. Chapter 5: Storm FrontStar Flare flies with all her remaining strength, determined to get as far away from what had just happened as she can. Above, thunderstorm clouds form unnaturally fast, spreading out in all directions like a thick wave. “Hey, who do you think you are?!” Rainbow Dash shouts at Star Flare, now flying at her side. “You show up out of nowhere and create all kinds of trouble… Then you just fly away? Well I’m not letting you off that easy!” Star Flare looks at Rainbow Dash stunned. She had a huge head start, there’s no way she could’ve caught up. “Go—go back! Just leave me alone!” “Sure, right after you go back and fix everything.” Rainbow tries to grab Star’s armor but narrowly misses as she spins to avoid her. Lightning flashes above as both ponies begin to descend, each trying to gain speed. Star Flare shakes her head. How is she so fast? They both spread their wings wide slowing enough to barely stay above the tree line but Star Flare sees an opportunity and dives lower trying to gain cover below the branches. “Seriously, that’s it? You’re not losing me that easily." Dash shouts from above. "Do you know how many races I’ve run through this area? I know it like the back of my hoof.” Frustrated, Star Flare glances over her shoulder to see Rainbow Dash keeping up easily above, but she turns back to see a large tree branch too late. With a sickening crash she breaks through it, the force ripping her helmet off and causing her to tumble into the forest. On her way down, she collides with multiple other branches until finally crashing onto the forest floor. Winded, she wobbly manages to stand. “A few… sore spots… but luckily my armor took most of the damage.” She says to herself, trying to make it sound better than it really is. Then it clicks -- The armor. That’s why this pony is faster. Quickly she removes the buckles, removing the body plate. Rainbow Dash hovers above. “So… are we heading back, now?” She shouts. “Hmph.” Star Flare slides the last piece of the bulky armor off, the shiny gold neck guard landing on the ground with a heavy thud. “I know what you’re thinking, but, uh… that’s really not going to help.” Star Flare’s horn glows blue, the magic bending and twisting all of the branches above her, creating a clearing. She spreads her wings, and once confident they aren’t injured, she takes off and slowly rises above the tree line once again. * * * * * * * * Luna watches as Twilight Sparkle frantically uses spell after spell in an attempt to break Celestia and Spike free from their crystal prison. “Twilight… It is possible you will hurt them. Star Flare may be the only one who can remove that spell.” A final flash of purple magic then Twilight lowers her head; with a long sigh she rests a hoof gently against the crystal chest of Celestia. “I just don’t know what else to do.” Pinkie Pie and Applejack hug Rarity, who just sits staring at the statue of Spike, frozen in place almost as if she were a statue as well. Above, the storm clouds continue to thicken and a low rumble of thunder hangs in the air. “She was so upset with Princess Celestia... I don’t know what to make of it. Luna you seem to know a lot more about this... please, tell us everything you know.” Luna looks at Twilight then to her friends huddled around Rarity. “My sister believed that bringing Star back here would show her how peaceful the world has become, that the anger she held onto was no longer necessary.” With a heavy sigh she bows her head. “But that’s impossible, not until she knows the truth.” Applejack slides her hat back. “And what is that, exactly?” Luna blinks, then remembers a time long ago... * * * * * * * * Over a millennia ago, Celestia watched as fireballs sailed across the night sky splashing down upon the glistening white walls of the inner city. The flame moved across the stone like liquid, consuming everything and changing the pristine buildings into blackened husks. It was the eve of the Starfall Festival, a celebration of renewed life held every spring, and citizens from every part of Equestria had come to Canterlot to enjoy it. Instead of cheering at the wonderment of the falling stars, her subjects call out begging for help. Celestia’s eyes narrow, anger surging through her. Suddenly Skystrider lands a bit harder on Celestia’s balcony than he intends, cracking a large stone tile under his hooves. Coughing, he stands a moment trying to catch his breath. His normally white coat and colorful mane are completely covered in ash, giving him more of a dull grey appearance. Star Flare quickly removes her helmet and trots over to him, her golden armor polished to a mirror like finish. “How bad is it?” “Few are airborne; they look like they’re waiting for something.” He tries to clear his throat. “But their numbers are countless… possibly a hundred, maybe more. They’ve mostly gathered at the southern gate.” “That can’t be… that would give us one guard for every two of those beasts.” A royal guard looks at Skystrider, his brow wrinkled. Star Flare, ignoring the guard, grabs a small cloth from a table then moves over to Skystrider, wiping the ash from a small cut under his eye. “Trust me, as much as I wish it wasn't, it’s true.” “Still, they dare not enter the inner city, not with the magic protecting us here!” Another guard exclaims, almost as if the dragons should hear and obey. Needing a moment, Celestia barely turns her head then closes her eyes, taking her attention away from the horror unfolding outside. “They can burn Canterlot to the ground without ever taking a single step through the golden gates.” Everyone lowers their head. Somehow, hearing the princess sound so desolate makes the horrible situation seem that much worse. “The most important thing is we get everypony out of the city.” Skystrider speaks up, his voice still raspy. “How long until the evacuation is complete?” “We believe there’s still many hiding in buildings but the courtyard and roads are finally clear. I have nearly every able bodied Pegasus doing search and rescue.” Star Flare returns to the table and moves a small statue of a pegasus across a large map, showing a detailed top-down view of Canterlot. “The unicorn and earth pony squads are helping defend the injured in Canterlot Park…” She blinks heavily trying to fight back the tears starting to form. There were… so many there for the festival when the attack began.” Taking a breath, she composes herself as Skystrider moves to stand next to her. Giving him a sad smile, she uses her blue magic to slide a statue of a unicorn and earth pony to the center of the map. “The military is stretched so thin…” Skystrider says solemnly. He then notices multiple other statues, each representing a different part of the military, sitting on their side. “This… was well planned. It all happened so fast.” “With Star Flare’s magic shielding this area, the castle is likely the only safe haven within the city. That’s not going to last, though.” A royal guard moves over to the table, ready to discuss strategy. Celestia finally turns away from the window, unable to watch any longer. “And no word from my sister?” “Not since she left on her trip to the outer villages, but that was two days ago. I’ve sent scouts for her, but your highness… it’s quite troubling for Princess Luna to be absent at a time like this-“ The guard starts to say more, but Star Flare shakes her head and gives him a piercing expression that makes him avert his eyes, cutting him short. “Your highness, it isn’t safe here. We should have you escorted out of the city while the military begins the counter attack. With your permission, Star, allow me to take a squad and I’ll personally make sure she’s taken to a safe location.” Star Flare closes her eyes. She wants to say no. You can’t leave. I need you more than her… But she finds herself nodding slowly, agreeing with what he said. Some would almost consider Skystrider’s proposal cowardly, an opportune suggestion to get away from the battle, but she knows better. His bravery has been proven repeatedly over the years and there’s nopony she trusts more. If he feels the situation is that dire, that Celestia’s safety is truly in jeopardy even here within the castle, then there may be little hope for those that stay and fight. “Take three others; you are to stay with the princess at all times.” “No.” Celestia interjects, shaking her head weakly. “No… If I leave then the city will surely fall.” She blinks warily, her mind racing. “Once everypony is safe we will focus on the counter attack, and… when my sister returns, we will use the Elements of Harmony to bring an end to this fight once and for all.” Star Flare looks at everyone then with a light sigh, nods at Celestia. “Then we shall hope your sister is safe… and for her swift return.” Suddenly her eyes widen then she screams out and stumbles to her side, a stabbing pain searing through her mind. “My… shield, I can’t… hold it!” The hum of her magic shield fades, replaced by a roar that grows louder… and louder… “Get back!” Skystrider covers the princess as a massive fireball rips through the outer wall of Celestia’s chambers, the stone and wood exploding from the heat. As a large chunk of the ceiling begins to collapse, Star Flare stands and uses her magic to deflect much of the falling debris and fire. “Take the princess down to the lower section of the castle!” She shouts. “It should be safer there; we have to buy more time!” “But… Star, what happened?” Skystrider begins. “I didn’t just weaken; something tore my magic apart… something much more powerful than me. You have to go… please!” With her shining blue hair being whipped about in the wind, she turns and looks at Skystrider, her eyes glistening. “Keep her safe... the princesses are our only hope.” He watches as she puts her golden helmet back on then jumps out the gaping hole in the room, taking flight towards something down below. “Star… wait, no!” He starts to rush forward then turns to see Celestia missing and her guard knocked over. “Oh, this just keeps getting better and better… Where’s Celestia?” “She… “The guard begins then coughs loudly, his face and golden armor blackened from the smoke. “She said something about going to Luna’s chambers… But I was too weak to stop her.” He winces then grits his teeth as he tries to move his leg. It’s just the two of us left… You’ll have to catch up to her; I don’t think I can walk.” “Just stay here, I’ll be back as soon as I can. I have to find out what’s going on.” Skystrider turns to look at the massive hole in the chambers one last time then takes off, taking flight down the stairs. He circles and circles, going down multiple levels till finally reaching Princess Luna’s chambers. Finding the door open, he peeks inside to see Celestia staring at a wall with its paint stripped away. “Princess Celestia? It isn’t safe your highness, I need to escort you to an area that’s better fortified.” Celestia takes in a deep breath then lowers her head. Outside, the sounds of the nonstop barrage on the city come to a stop. “No… I... I have to leave.” “Wait… but you said the city will fall if you leave!? Wh-where are you going?” Princess Celestia’s eyes and horn flare golden, her magic fully illuminating her sister’s chambers. “I’m going to end this.” Turning, she forces the doors to the balcony open with her magic then takes flight. * * * * * * * * “But the dragons can be so nice when you get to know them.” Pinkie says, the story having depressed her. “Wait, she held a grudge against the princess because of that? There has to be more?” Twilight gives Luna a confused look. “It is believed at some point after my sister left, Star Flare desperately used magic from the spellbook given to you from Celestia. Against my wishes, one of my most powerful minions, a dragon known as Crimson, continued the attack upon the city and she used a spell from it to banish him. It worked… But at a cost. In the struggle, Skystrider was banished as well. However, it turned the tide… Crimson’s defeat scattered the dragons; without a leader they fled the city.” “But…. If that’s the case, why didn’t Celestia just tell Star Flare what happened?” Luna swallows hard. “Because….” Suddenly, the reality of what happened seems too horrible to put into words. “Celestia had just banished her sister… and returned to her beloved city nearly burned to the ground.” She begins to cry heavily then spreads her wings partially to steady herself. “I believe my sister wasn’t ready to admit it was I who had betrayed the kingdom. I am so, so sorry.” Sniffling heavily she sits down. “Star Flare doesn’t know that I was Nightmare Moon – the cause of all her grief. She exiled herself after she assaulted the castle looking for answers but never learned the truth.” “So, that’s why you intervened… you knew they shouldn’t be fighting in the first place.” Luna slowly nods once. “I believe my sister wanted to tell her, but Star was so angry… I think Celestia was afraid of what might happen had she learned the truth now.” Rarity sniffles then finally sits up to say something. “But why wait so long to bring her back? This could have been resolved ages ago.” Pinkie taps her chin. “Oh, that’s an easy one. Princess Celestia didn’t have the Elements of Harmony anymore and without Luna she probably didn’t have the power to bring the exile to an end.” Luna, somewhat surprised, nods causing everyone to turn and stare at Pinkie. “Wh-what?” She eyes everyone back. “Then maybe… for now… it’s better Star Flare doesn’t come back. We’ll find another way to free the princess and Spike. Maybe the Elements can fix this.” Twilight says. “It is possible… but I do not believe they can. Star Flare is the key to this….” Luna pauses, considering her next words carefully. “And she more than deserves the truth… I have to face her.” Disapproving murmurs run rampant through the crowd as Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack and Rarity each look at one another concerned. “Even if the Elements can’t free Celestia and Spike, they can still help you. So far I’ve only learned one spell from the book Celestia gave to me…” Twilight pauses to give a crooked smile, trying to hide her embarrassment. “But it might be enough if you have this.” She removes the element of magic from her head and passes it to Luna. Luna’s eyes widen. “Twilight, I cannot accept this!” “No, you have to take it… Equestria is coming apart from the loss of one princess, I don’t want to know what would happen if she managed to cast this spell on you, too.” Twilight nods at the crystal statue of Celestia. Luna takes a deep breath then sighs. After a moment she looks at the crowd still huddled nearby, all unsure of what to do. “You should all return to your homes… for now, there’s little more that can be done to help.” Turning, she looks in the direction that Star Flare had left. “This storm… it is going to get much worse.” Chapter 6: Nightmare UnveiledIcy cold rain begins to pour down from the clouds above, painfully spraying Star Flare and Rainbow Dash as they streak through the dark sky. The wind continues to get stronger and combined with the heavy sheets of rain they both struggle to stay in flight. I can catch her, Rainbow Dash chants the words over and over in her mind. "Just… a little more..." She reaches out a hoof, almost able to grab Star Flare's tail, but her target cuts suddenly, turning to dive. Finally, she thinks. They had been in a steady climb pushing hard into a headwind but now they'll be streaking almost straight down. Rainbow Dash watches as the white pony gets a little more distance then turns to dive as well. Taking in a deep breath, she thinks to herself, this is it. She had been trying over and over to do a sonic rainboom to overcome Star Flare, but with the crazy wind and rain it's been impossible… until now. She pushes her front hooves forward and flaps her wings with all her might. A white shimmer forms as the slipstream begins to envelope her body but suddenly the world seems to explode as a flash of lightning ripples down from above. Before the blinding light of the electricity is gone a second explosion follows as she achieves a sonic rainboom. She starts to grin, but immediately can tell something's not right.... she can't guide herself and she's starting to drift to one side. As the colorful waves of the rainboom streak away she looks to her side and her she gasps. The lightning struck her wing; parts of it blackened from burns and over half the feathers are gone. Seeing the damage only makes it worse as throbbing pain begins to shoot through her body. Suddenly the slipstream around her bursts; as the rush of air hits her she goes into a flat spin, completely out of control. "I....I've got you." Star Flare reaches out, barely managing to grab Rainbow's front hoof, making them spin in sync. "What are you doing?!" Rainbow Dash yanks away, the motion causing her to flip end over end. Painfully she spreads her wings as wide as she can, but the drag from her one good wing only makes her go into a wobbly spin once again. She looks down; the ground is getting very close. "You have to let me help!" Star Flare spirals to just above Rainbow Dash then grabs hold. She spreads her wings as far as they'll go but it's not enough, they're dropping too fast and she doesn't have the strength to get them into a glide. Frantically she looks around for options and spots a small lake almost directly below them. "We're going to crash!" She yells, pointing a hoof. Rainbow Dash nods, tucking her head low. Star Flare tucks in as well pulling Rainbow close, her horn glowing bright blue as she casts a powerful shield spell. Only seconds later they splash down hard into the lake, the force causing the water to erupt skyward. * * * * * * * * Waves crash upon the shore of a large lake as Fluttershy comes to a soft landing. "Rainbow Dash!" She calls out looking across the splashing inky water, her heart racing. Spotting a dark figure, she starts to run forward. "Dash? Oh my, are you okay?" Rainbow Dash treads slowly out of the water, Star Flare draped unconscious on her back. "Di-did you knock her out?" Fluttershy makes a punching motion. Still trying to catch her breath, Dash shakes her head once then gently rests Star Flare on the shore. "She... helped me, Fluttershy. But I think she hit her head on the lakebed." * * * * * * * * ......Star Flare....... Hearing her name she slowly opens her eyes. Next to her, Rainbow Dash is sitting, her good wing spread out shielding Star Flare's face from the rain. She's saying… something… to a yellow pegasus she barely recognizes as Fluttershy. .......Above the clouds..… I'll be waiting....... It isn't either of these ponies… someone was speaking to her within her mind. Star Flare coughs, trying to clear the lake water and grit from her mouth then slowly she begins to peel herself off the sandy shore. Her body feels numb and her muscles barely respond, every bit of movement causing her to tremble under the strain. As she begins to pick her head up she winces, the small motion makes tears form and she whimpers; her head feels like it's going to crack open. Trying to not let it overwhelm her she has to close her eyes, doing her best to will the throbbing pain away. It feels like it takes an eternity, but finally she's able to stand. "Hey… are you alright? You don't look so good." Rainbow Dash says as Fluttershy slips behind her, doing her best to hide. "I'm… fine…" Star Flare lies. Every part of her feels bruised or injured in some way and it's taking every bit of her focus to not curl into a ball and start crying. Luckily the rain is incredibly cold and it's dulling the pain. "Rainbow Dash… that is your name, correct? Can you fly?" Dash raises an eyebrow, like the idea hadn't crossed her mind then stretches her injured wing. Somewhat confident she can use it, "On a normal day, I'd say yeah… “ she then looks up at the storm that only seems to get worse with each passing moment, “But this? Maybe really, really slowly." "I can help her." Fluttershy says meekly, barely audible over the splashing of the rain. .......Above the clouds..... I'll be waiting....... That voice again… "Luna?" Star Flare whispers the name as she looks at the churning clouds above. The rain splashes down over her face, washing the sand from her snout and pushing her matted blue mane behind her ears. A loud rumble of thunder resonates across the sky in response. After a moment she stretches then takes off, hovering a few feet in the air. "I wasn't thinking, like, flying against the storm… we can stay low and fly through the trails back to Ponyville. It shouldn't be that windy with all the trees." Star Flare can’t help but smirk. "Still convinced I'm going to return with you?" "Oh come on, it's obvious you're hurt. Just let us help!" "I have to take care of something, first… then…" Her shoulders slump and she can't help but look away, ashamed. "I promise I will return." "That's not good enough! You have to-" Rainbow Dash begins but Fluttershy bumps her then shakes her head. "We'll, um, wait for you…" Fluttershy says, pausing to shiver. With a huff, Dash crosses her arms. "Fine. Just don't be too long." Star Flare gives a tiny nod then takes off skyward, flying as hard as she can against the shifting winds and rain. Her determination feels renewed… She doesn't know why, but it's as if whoever - or whatever - is calling to her will somehow set things right. She pushes into the cloudline and is battered by swirling winds, much stronger than those below. Pulses of yellow light erupt all around her -- lightning dancing through the clouds with deafening thunder instantly following. She screams out as another bolt nearly strikes her, instead colliding with the magic of her shield. Still the impact whips her sideways and she starts to fall. She looks up and can see the stars of the night sky; she's so close! She spirals then flaps her wings as hard as she can, and finally, she breaches the clouds. Above the storm the air is eerily calm. She looks below to see the multiple pulses of lightning going almost nonstop. “Many years ago, I lured another in a similar fashion…” Star Flare spins to see a dark mare that she's never met, her dark purple mane and tail flow around her like a mist and almost invisible against the night sky. "Wh-who are you?" Nightmare Moon looks down at the storm below. "This is what I had become… An avatar of my emotions.” The illusion glows bright purple then turns to mist, drifting away into the clouds below. Luna now hovers in its place. "Princess… Luna…?" "At a critical moment, I magically whispered to my sister… told her how the war would be over if she simply faced me. I convinced her to leave Canterlot… I gave her no other choice." Luna cringes, not sure what to expect. Star Flare had always had suspicions… There was always the lingering thought that Luna’s personality had changed, and she questioned her steadfast refusal to keep guards with her. But Princess Luna was one of her best friends when she was a child… she could never admit what was happening even with all the evidence. Finally hearing the truth – that the one who had caused so much damage and grief was her all along… is too much. She can barely keep herself in flight as she covers her face and begins sobbing. Luna sniffles and blinks heavily. “My sister’s heart was broken, much like your own. She could not tell you what had happened because she just lost someone she loves, too. Both of your worlds were torn apart that night… But instead of your friendship helping you through it, your anger divided you.” Taking a second to wipe tears from her eyes, she feels her lower lip tremble then looks at the clouds below. “But more than that, at the center of it all… it is I that is the one to blame.” Thunder ripples as another pulse of lightning flashes from below. “Star, while you fought to save the city, my sister was fighting me in an effort to save Equestria. I was jealous and obsessed with taking power from her... Because of that… in the end, my sister banished me.” Star Flare feels hollow; she’s been so angry, and so sad, for such a long time… And much of it has been misguided. She wants to attack Luna… and to hug her for telling the truth… but more than anything; she just wants this to be over. “Exile didn’t change things last time. You won’t fix anything by leaving again. Star… I cannot fix what has been done. I cannot even begin to do so. But in our absence my sister has tried to make Equestria a wonderful place." “I know what you want to ask… but I cannot remove the spell from Celestia.” Luna’s eyes widen, “Please, Star… I deserve to be sealed away... but save her.” Star Flare sniffles once. “The magic was never mine to use and it's something I'll never truly understand.... But there might be one way to release the spell. If this works, tell her….” She blinks as tears start to form again. “Tell her… I’m sorry.” She takes a deep breath as she begins summoning every bit of magical energy she can. From below, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash look up to the storm above, the electric blue light piercing the clouds like a new sun. From Canterlot, Shining Armor stops as a fellow guard points in the distance making him turn to see the brilliant light in the sky. In Cloudsdale, everyone pauses in their efforts to deflect the storm from the city. In Ponyville, one by one, ponies move out from the cover of their homes to watch the spectacle, curious as to what it might be. Twilight shakes her head, her eyes and horn already glowing purple. “Wha-what are you doing? Luna starts to fly backwards, the magic radiating from Star Flare forming a massive air current. “No… Star!” A flash of purple energy surrounds Luna as she’s teleported back to Ponyville. The magical energy continues to grow stronger and stronger, far too much for Star Flare to control. She thinks of the times she played hide and seek with Luna... of learning basic magic from Celestia... and of Skystrider, and how much she misses him... A sudden suction of air then an arc of blue energy explodes from her horn as it shatters. A massive shockwave of light ripples through the sky, bright enough that any watching have to look away. With the clouds spiraling away like the eye of a hurricane, Star Flare falls to Equestria in a trail of magical light – the last of her energy ebbing away. Luna covers her mouth as Twilight and her friends watch the streak of light in silence. Rainbow Dash’s eyes widen. “Fluttershy, I think that’s Star Flare… you have to help her!” Fluttershy gasps then hesitates a moment, willing up the courage. With a deep breath she takes off, the gape in the storm above having made the wind and rain calm down a bit, allowing her to fly quickly. Unconscious, Star Flare’s wings and hair drift back as she continues to fall. Fluttershy moves next to her, and seeing her eyes closed she bumps her shoulder then quickly moves away. “You have to wake up!” Seeing her not respond, she looks at the ground and suddenly is terrified she won’t be strong enough. Quickly she grabs underneath her forelegs and flaps her wings with all her might, but they aren’t slowing enough. Fluttershy squeaks, terrified they’re both going to crash into the forest, but suddenly, lifting her seems a lot easier. Opening an eye, she sees Dash holding her from the other side. “I’d never let my friends down… except like this.” She laughs. “Is she okay?” Fluttershy gives a sigh of relief, she doesn’t want to know what would’ve happened if Dash hadn’t been able to help. “I’m not sure… She won’t open her eyes.” As best they can, they gently carry Star Flare to the ground and land softly, bringing her to rest on a pile of leaves. “Oh Dash, I’m not sure what we should do? The storm just keeps getting worse and I don’t think we’d be able to carry her all the way back to Ponyville.” Star Flare winces then barely opens her eyes. “The storm…. It’s… getting worse?” She barely shakes her head. “No… it’s supposed to be over.” Chapter 7: Elemental“It… did not work.” Luna whispers, still looking to the distant sky. She barely shakes her head in disbelief as she turns to the crystal statues of Princess Celestia and Spike, both standing lifeless and cold as the dark rain pours over them. “Was it all for nothing?” The storm continues relentlessly, the heavy rain flooding the roads of Ponyville and turning the outskirts of town into a drenched field of mud. Nearly any sign that there had once been a festival have been washed away, the once brightly glowing bonfires now submerged pits of charcoal and even the tents setup for vendors have all buckled from the wind and rain, lying submerged in the muddy water. After seeing the strange falling star from earlier and with Luna’s return, many ponies have left the safety of their home to stand out in the storm once again. Hoping for good news, they stand together, their umbrellas barely able to block the constantly shifting rain and wind. Seeing them, Luna treads slowly across the muddy to stand near the crystal winged-unicorn that once was her sister. Seeing their expressions, the hopeful gleam in their eyes that she may have a way to make things right once more only makes the situation that much more unbearable. She begins to take the final stride then stops mid-step, sloshing the muddy water around her hoof. One more step and she’d have to announce there’s no way to save Princess Celestia and Spike. With that step, she’ll have to accept the responsibility that all of the lives of Equestria now rest on her shoulders. Her stomach turns at the thought and she feels the urge to flap her wings and soar away; surely at some point her sister will giggle and wake her from this terrible dream. Seeing Luna deep in thought, Twilight sloshes through the mud to stand beside her. “You did everything you could…” She begins. “I did not.” Luna blurts out as she looks at Twilight. Even with the rain, tears can be seen flowing heavily from her eyes. “I have only brought harm to this world… And hurt so very many of those close to me. I do not deserve friends like you or Star... or a sister as wonderful as Celestia.” She swallows hard, her eyes filled with grief. She can imagine this is the pain Celestia must have felt when Nightmare Moon was banished. “I only wish I could set things right, Twilight Sparkle. But… I do not know how.” Lightning flashes above and a strange shadow is cast over Twilight and Luna, but neither notice it nor the gentle sound of flapping wings. Twilight’s horn glows soft purple, her magic gently raising Luna’s chin. “You did do everything you could… you told Star Flare the truth and you confronted your past. Bad things have happened, there's no denying that, but you’re a good pony, Princess Luna, we all believe in you.” She shakes her head a moment then gives a soft smile. “Even though the spell Star Flare used didn’t break, don’t lose hope. There still has to be a way to save Princess Celestia and Spike!” Luna looks at Twilight then to her friends, then with a sigh, gently removes the element of magic from her head. She looks down to the golden tiara that shines even in the blackest of night and thinks for a long moment. There still has to be a way… She hears Twilight’s words in her mind then nods. “You are right, Twilight Sparkle. I will find a way to save them, no matter what it takes!” “That way of thinking could lead you to a dark place.” Star Flare lands gently behind Twilight and Luna, to the surprise of everyone. Shouts of anger and fear erupt; some ponies begin to panic while others rush to confront her. Star Flare looks across the crowd, at the range of emotions now closing in. She remembers a time, years ago, when she landed near a group of her friends and comrades cheering for her, respect and adoration in their eyes. She blinks and sees the anger and terror of those looking at her now; none of these ponies know her… To them, I’m no less of a monster than the dragon that took Skystrider is to me, she thinks. As a low rumble of thunder hangs in the sky she bows her head and closes her eyes, accepting her fate. Luna, still surprised at Star Flare’s return, isn’t sure what to say. “Wa-wait! Do not harm her!” “Waaaaiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit!” Pinkie Pie shouts, her voice piercing through the sound of the rain and roar of the crowd. The surge of ponies stop just as they encircle Star Flare then look around confused, unsure of what to do. “First, let’s find out why she’s here.” Twilight steps forward, glancing at Pinkie then to Star Flare. Lowering her head, she narrows her eyes and half-whispers, “you can’t actually be here to help, are you?” “I do not know if I can… but I would like to…” Star Flare begins, wincing as she opens one eye to peek. “But your magic… I am so sorry.” Luna says weakly. Star Flare’s shoulders dip as she sighs lightly, then she raises a muddy hoof to poke where her horn once was. “All things considered, it's probably for the best. But… it’s as I feared. The spell I used must be permanent. Even if I could still use magic, I wouldn’t have a way to change them back.” She lowers her head and closes her eyes, her soaked blue mane dipping into the muddy water. “I really made a complete mess of things, didn’t I?” Rarity cries out and hugs Spike, the reality that there may not be a way to save him sinking in. Hearing her tearful whimpers, everyone lowers their head. “No… it is I who is to blame for all the terrible things that have happened.” Luna announces as she shakes her head. “I can’t accept that, Princess Luna. I… may never be able to forgive what you did as Nightmare Moon, but I think I can understand how you felt. I was obsessed with making Celestia understand how much I was hurting, and I blinded myself to the pain I was causing others.” “Ahem. Pard'n me, but ya’ll can figure out who did what and who’s to blame later. Right now, we need to figure out a way to fix this.” Applejack says as she tilts her hat to block a sudden surge of rain. “Well, what if we have an idea?” Rainbow Dash shouts as she splashes hard into the muddy water then trots to stand near the group. Panting, she looks behind her to see Fluttershy land as well then turns and gives Star Flare a stern look. “You weren’t supposed to get that far ahead; you know I can barely fly!” She says, breathless. As Star Flare half cringes and starts to think up an apology, Applejack steps forward, a flash of concern crossing her face. “What in the…. Dash, you two’ve been working with her?” Dash thinks of Star Flare saving her as they crashed into the lake… then of catching Star Flare as she fell from the sky. “Sorta… and yeah, I know, I know… it’s crazy. But just hear us out.” Star Flare clears her throat. “I… I might not have the power to bring them back…” She begins then turns to Celestia. “But, she does.” She nods at the crystal statue. Everyone looks at one another, clearly confused. “Um… Question! How’s a statue going to make itself not be a statue?” Pinkie bounces onto Celestia’s back, looking for anything she might’ve missed. “Or is she faking?! OoOOoooh, she’s goooood!” Star Flare smirks at Pinkie then looks at Luna. “I can’t say for certain this will even work, but Celestia will need her sister more than ever…” She pauses to blink away tears, the first she’s cried from being happy in a long time. “It’s sure to take everything you’ve got.” Luna sniffles trying her best to not start sobbing. It’s only been hours since this craziness began but it feels like an eternity since there’s been a glimmer of hope. “What do you need me to do?” * * * * * * * * “We came as soon as we heard what happened.” Spitfire begins then looks up to the thunderstorm above. “But this plan of yours…. Dash, Cloudsdale is in real trouble, are you sure this is going to work?” Rainbow Dash nods confidently then looks to the churning clouds of the dark sky, spotting a tornado far off in the distance. “It has to work… because I don’t want to think of what will happen if it doesn’t.” “Are the pegasus of Ponyville up for this? This won’t be like normal skyclearing… and it’s going to be really dangerous.” Soarin slides his Wonderbolts mask off then slicks his wet mane back as he gives Dash a concerned look. “Of course they are! Ponyville would never let you down!” Dash smirks, her heart suddenly beating hard enough she could swear she could hear it. Spitfire looks over to the pegasus stretching their wings, trying to get ready. “Well, from my count, we only have around ten or so flyers strong enough for these winds… I’m not sure we’ll even make a dent in these clouds with that.” “I, uh, think you missed a few. You’re going to have some extra help.” Dash laughs then points a hoof to the dark horizon. In unison, Star Flare and Fluttershy cringe and quickly move to hide behind the statue of Celestia. “Oh?” Spitfire slides her goggles up, trying to get a better view, but with the torrential rain and almost no light it’s nearly impossible. “What… are you pointing at…?” Her voice drifts off as she spots massive forms as lightning flashes in the distance. “Are those… dragons?” Twilight giggles as she moves to stand beside Dash. “Recently I’ve been trying to learn more about them… and well, in the process Spike and I made some friends.” Moments later, a white and red dragon soars overhead, the rain whipping about from the rush of its powerful wings. Two others, one a dark purple and another blue with yellow stripes in its scales, land heavily just a short distance from the group of ponies, the ground quaking from their weight. Shortly after, the white and red dragon turns and glides down, landing gently in front of the other dragons then folding his massive wings behind his back. He shifts his slender body to look to his friends then to the group of ponies, most of which gaze at him in awe. “Hi Fang, I’m glad you and your friends could come!” Twilight says cheerfully. Fang smiles, only a single large tooth peeking out from his lips. Taking a deep breath, he rests his front claws into the mud then bends down, bowing to the little pony in front of him. “Anything for you, Miss Sparkle.” “Three dragons?” Spitfire turns to Dash, an eyebrow raised in disbelief. Soarin laughs. “Yeah, that should help a bit…” Dash blushes and scratches the back of her neck nervously. “Um, Star Flare thought we’d be okay without them… but she agreed any help we can get is important.” She turns and smirks at the white pony, barely visible through the statue of Celestia. “And so, I pulled in a few favors as well. Luna helped me get a message to an old friend… they should be here any-“ “Yo, Dash!” Gilda lands hard in the mud, half skidding to make the it splash on others. For a moment she eyes the dragons then shrugs. “I haven’t seen you in forever… but, uh, couldn’t you ask for help on a better day? This weather is pretty awful.” “Hiya Gilda, and yeah, it’s what we need help with. I’ll explain in a sec.” “So what’s up with them… and woah, what’s with the statues? A little high profile for this place.” Before anyone can reply she continues. “Eh, whatever… just let me know what you need us to do.” She turns and nods to multiple other griffons landing on rooftops in Ponyville, too nervous to get close to the dragons. “But you owe me now, big time.” Dash rolls her eyes. “Yeah I know… thanks for coming.” Spitfire slides her goggles back down and grins, nodding to Soarin. “Yeah, I think we can do this!” Star Flare swallows as she looks at Fluttershy, nervously considering if she really wants to leave the cover of her hiding spot. Taking a breath, she quickly moves out from behind the statue to stand next to Luna, whose been steadily practicing her magic away from the crowd. “Are you ready, princess?” The purple glow of Luna’s horn fades as she turns and looks at Star Flare. “It’s been a very long time since I’ve tried to do this…. but… I am as ready as I will ever be.” * * * * * * * * Highly suggested listening for the finale: * * * * * * * * Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pinkie Pie, each wearing their element, move to stand directly in front of the crystal statues of Celestia and Spike. Rarity bends down and kisses Spike on his crystal cheek then moves to stand next to her friends, giving them a hopeful smile. As the storm rages on, ponies watch from windows and doorways in Ponyville, with some even braving the powerful winds to see what Twilight and her friends are going to do. Luna nods to Star Flare as she lands in the mud and skids sideways from the powerful winds. “I’ve never flown in winds this bad… they’re amazing for doing this.” Star Flare shields her eyes from the rain with a hoof as she looks to the pegasi, griffons, and dragons in flight, circling together over Ponyville. Above them, the clouds churn angrily and pulse with lightning. “It looks like they’re all set; Princess, I don’t think we can wait any longer.” Luna looks up as a bolt of lightning strikes a tree nearby, splitting the trunk in two as the branches explode into flames. Everyone cries out in fear from the explosive thunder, but through the flames of the tree her eyes widen as she spots something much more terrifying. Just a short distance away, a massive tornado begins to touch down in the Everfree forest. Turning, she looks at Star Flare, suddenly stunned with fear. Having just seen the tornado as well, Star Flare turns and waves to the crowd. “Give the signal, do it now!” “Calm yourself, little admirer, Trixie will give the signal when Trixie is ready.” Seeing Star Flare point in the distance, she spots the whirwind of destruction heading their way and immediately her horn glows blue and sends a magical flare into the sky. The pegasi, griffons, and dragons spot the bright flash of blue light below them then begin to fly in a spiral formation, circling faster and faster as they move into the churning clouds. At first nothing happens, but slowly, the clouds begin to swirl apart, creating a tiny gateway to the starlit sky above. “They did it!” Pinkie shouts as the crowd cheers. “It’s up to you now, Princess Luna!” Star Flare bows deeply. Luna nods then looks around then closes her eyes, trying to clear her thoughts. She dampens out the cheering of ponies, the splashing of rain against her and in the muddy water, and the roar of the tornado getting closer with each passing moment. Suddenly, her horn ignites brilliant purple followed by her entire body. Around her, the muddy water is pushed away as she begins to be lifted into the air with her magic. She kicks off with her rear hooves and spreads her wings, taking flight, a streak of purple light heading straight up into the night sky. Twilight watches Luna in amazement a moment longer then turns and looks at her friends. “It’s our turn girls, everyone ready?” Pinkie Pie bounces happily as Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy smile and nod. Star Flare looks from Luna to Twilight and her friends, then watches in horror as the tree that had been struck by lightning just a short while ago is torn apart and sucked into the powerful winds of the tornado getting ever closer. There’s no time left… this has to work! Twilight closes her eyes, preparing to use her element, but she can’t shake the feeling she’s missing something. She takes a deep breath, then her eyes open, glowing brilliant white, the power of the Element of Magic coursing through her. Twilight and her friends begin to glow and float in the air from the magic of their elements, the rain deflected away as a shield of rainbow light forms around them. Luna’s magic begins to fade and she slowly opens her eyes. Above her, the eye in the storm clouds has shifted from a star filled night to the hues of blue and reds of a morning sky. With a shocked laugh she covers her mouth and shakes her head in disbelief. Star Flare runs next to Twilight and her friends. “Princess Luna did it! She raised the sun!” In unison, a powerful beam of rainbow light erupts from Twilight and her friends as the first rays of sunlight reach Celestia, piercing the dark storm clouds above. The magical energy refracts inside the crystal statues for a long time then fades... but nothing happens. Star Flare looks wide-eyed between Twilight and her friends, to Luna flying high above then back to the statues still standing lifeless. The roar of the tornado is so close it sounds as if it could be on top of them any moment. “No… it had to work!” She moves over to stand next to Celestia, her eyes full of tears. Twilight looks at the statue of the princess then to Star Flare. Closing her eyes her mind works hard to piece together a puzzle. …It’s called spell channeling; it lets me cast magic through you, as if I were you… …I used magic I never should have, it’s a part of me now... …She came across the spellbook recently given to you by my sister… …In the end, you’ll know what to do... Star Flare cries heavily as she places her head against Celestia’s crystal chest, starting to lose hope. Twilight smiles then looks to her friends around her who each nod back, somehow already knowing what to do. “I am so sorry for what I have done… Please Celestia, this is your only chance!” Star Flare’s golden eyes shift to bright white as Twilight channels the magic of the elements through her. A ripple of energy courses around where her horn once was, the power making her mane flow away and as she touches Celestia, the rainbow light refracts through the princess and into Spike, makin both statues glow intensely. A beam of yellow light erupts from Celestia’s crystal horn, the powerful magic shooting straight up to the heavens. As the magic pierces the dark clouds above, the entire cloud covered sky glows as if lit from within. Once the magic fades, the clouds shift from blacks to grays then to whites, and begin to quickly disperse. As the heavy rain comes to a stop a massive tree crashes down next to the outskirts of Ponyville, the large tornado swirling apart and vanishing as the sky begins to clear. Star Flare steps back to stand with Twilight and her friends, watching as rays of sunlight course through Spike and Celestia. As Star Flare’s magic is completely dispelled, Celestia falls forward landing on her front hooves and tucks in her wings. Spike shakes his head and finishes what he was saying earlier. “I didn’t actually mean any harm, it was an accident! Honest!” “My Spikey-wikey!” Rarity rushes forward and picks Spike up and spins, kissing him on his cheek. Twilight laughs as she looks at her friends; Pinkie bounces happily around Rarity and Spike, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash high-five, and Applejack takes off her hat to look at the rising sun. They did it… this nightmare is over. Star Flare steps forward, she has a million things she wants to say, but she can’t stop crying. She just holds her head down, her tears dripping into the quickly receding muddy water, her soaked blue mane sopped over her shoulders. Celestia looks at Twilight Sparkle and gives a knowing smile, as if to say, you did well, my student. She turns then hugs Star Flare, who slumps against the princess, both from exhaustion and overwhelming happiness. Luna lands gently beside her sister then puts a hoof to her mouth in disbelief. Celestia looks up and gazes at her sister, her eyes filled with tears. “Thank you…” She turns to Twilight and her friends then to the crowd of ponies already moving to surround them. “Thank you, all of you!” Pinkie shouts, “Do you know what this calls for?!" Everyone looks to one another, smiling. In unison all of her friends respond, "A party?" "No sillies, that's later!" Giggling, Pinkie bounces forward and pulls all of her friends together. "It calls for... The biggest group hug ever!” Laughter and cheering fills the air as above, Fang, Gilda, the Wonderbolts and all the others in flight that had helped glide gently on the spring breeze, watching as the clouds fade into a beautiful morning. Epilogue: A Return to Once WasStar Flare walks up to the top of the hill then takes shelter from the midday sun under an old tree, still trying to shake the notion of this being an incredibly odd place to meet. She stands for a long while, but with nopony showing up she eventually lays down to rest in the soft grass. Just when she's certain the others are pulling some kind of prank she hears someone coming up the hill from the other side. With the sun in her eyes she spots a pony with a rainbow mane. "Dash, why did you make me wait so long? Are the others… coming?" Her heart skips a beat. The sun is playing tricks, or maybe she hit her head on the lakebed harder than she thought… An agonizing mix of hope and reality swirl through her, the sensation making her feel flush and lightheaded. She could swear it was Skystrider coming up the hill… But that's impossible. She immediately spins around looking in the opposite direction. As sweet and wonderful as it would be, she refuses to indulge an illusion; her heart can't take it. "Star… Is that really you?" A voice she knows says. Star Flare trembles. It can't be. There's no way… But… What if? Tears start to flow and she sniffles loudly. "This is a very cruel trick to play." Next to her, the rainbow-mane pony sets down a starlight blossom he picked from the castle garden, the flower glowing feint blue under the shade of the tree. She closes her eyes and is suddenly fully aware of the world spinning and starts to fall over. But he catches her. "The others told me you've been through a lot…" She sniffles once more as she puts her forelegs around him, then, no longer able to bear it, looks at his face. It is Skystrider. "You're… here? You're really here with me?" Not giving him a chance to answer she pulls him close hugging him as tightly as she can. She banished him, using a spell she barely understood, magic she shouldn't have been able to use. "How… is this possible?" * * * * * * * * Applebloom sets down a pair of binoculars as she giggles and high-fives Sweetie-bell and Scootaloo. “It worked!” Scootaloo smirks, “I told you this would be the best way!” Sweetie Belle nods, “and the flower was a nice touch.” Princess Celestia and Luna both grin at the fillies then turn to Twilight. It’s probably best…” Celestia begins. “If we give them some time.” Luna finishes with a warm smile. Twilight nods. “Well, I guess over a thousand years have gone by since they last saw one another, so I’m sure they have a lot of catching up to do. But… what happened to the dragon that returned with Skystrider?” “Without my magic to protect Crimson, he was stopped before doing much damage… However, he fled capture and managed to escape the city. I do not believe we will see him again... ” “Still, there’s one thing I don’t understand… How was their banishment broken in the first place?” Celestia ponders for a moment. Though she doesn’t know it, Star Flare had cast a displace-time spell, not a banishment… when her horn was shattered the spell was broken and Skystrider returned, she thinks. “While I’m not certain, I’m sure this could give you some answers.” She nods towards the old spellbook sitting on Twilight’s desk, opened to the last page. At the bottom, she notices the signature of an old friend and smiles. Star Swirl. Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle all giggle then sigh as they look outside once again. Luna squeezes next to them to get a peek as well. In the distance, Star Flare and Skystrider look into each other’s eyes then kiss deeply. Celestia giggles, “For now, little pony… I think it’s safe to say it was the magic of love.”
Prologue Spring has finally come and all around Equestria the last remnants of winter are now but a memory. In Canterlot, the royal garden is already green and full of life. Surrounding the palace, unique flowers known as starlight blossoms, a bulbous white flower that glows at night, have begun to bloom making the air smell like honey. Enticed by the sweet scent, Princess Luna walks gracefully to her balcony to enjoy the warm early morning sunlight. Fighting back a yawn, she lays down to look through the railing at the butterflies floating busily from flower to flower down below. She tries for a short time to count them all, but her eyes won't obey, the exhaustion of being awake through the night taking its toll. She laughs softly and whispers to herself, "Perhaps... we will count them tomorrow..." * * * * * * * * After a single knock, the large doors of Princess Luna's chambers swing open. Two royal guards, both gray unicorns dressed in gleaming gold armor, march through the doorway. Wasting no time, they take positions at each side of the door and stand at attention. "Luna?" Princess Celestia calls out as she steps inside. Taking a moment to nod to the guards, she begins looking around the massive room. The sounds of chirping guides her to the balcony where she finds her sister sound asleep with blue jays, robins, and a mix of other birds sitting on the railing watching over her. Smiling, she quietly returns to the guards and whispers, "Please inform the guests we'll need to meet later this evening." After a quick salute, the guards hastily exit the chambers, using their magic they close the large doors softly behind them. Celestia happily sighs. Intentional or not, her sister had given her a small reprieve from her royal duties. Walking softly, she moves slowly though the chambers once again to join her sister on the balcony. Since Luna's return, Celestia has gradually brought her sister into the politics of the kingdom, trying to not only reintroduce her to the duties brought on by being a princess of Equestria, but to also spend more time with one another. In her heart she fears neglect may have played a part in her sister's betrayal and it's something she's sworn to never let happen again. With that thought in mind, as Celestia walks through Luna's chambers she can't help but feel a pang of guilt. Even though they see each other on a daily basis, new artwork adorns almost every wall, much of which she has never seen. On one side, she’s painted an image of the moon glistening over a lake. On the adjacent wall a new image of ponies playing under star light and another of a friendly looking owl. Most striking, though, on the wall next to her bed is hundreds of painted cutie marks. "How long has this taken her? Are these all of ponies she's met?" Her thoughts creep into her voice as she takes a moment to inspect each. Right off she spots the diamond-like sparkles of her student, Twilight Sparkle, then the butterflies of Fluttershy, the lightning bolt of Rainbow Dash, the apples of Applejack, the balloons of Pinkie Pie, and the gems of Rarity, along with many others, even one that looks similar to... "We apologize, sister." Luna groggily says, interrupting Celestia's thoughts. "We fell asleep..." She pauses to brush the hair of her dark mane from her eyes as she yawns deeply. "It was a mistake to count the butterflies, we see that now. It will not happen again." Celestia smirks as her horn glows softly, the magic lifting her sister gently into the air and floating her over to the bed. "There's no need for an apology, the meeting was simply postponed. Go ahead and get some rest." "But... It was important, was it not?" Luna blinks heavily, a look of concern and sleepiness on her face. Celestia's magic gently pulls the covers around Luna. "Nothing that can't wait a little while longer." She whispers. Feeling better, Luna gives a warm smile then closes her eyes. Celestia watches her sister a long while as she passes back to sleep. "You've been lonely, haven't you?" Unaware of the tears starting to fill her eyes, she pauses to kiss her on the forehead then glances once again at the wall of cutie mark art. "But... At least it looks like you've been making friends-" Her voice fades to a whisper as she spots one cutie mark in particular. There, apart from the others, a bright blue star, very similar to Celestia's own cutie mark of the sun. Moving closer, she whispers, "Why... Would she paint this?" She gazes at it for a time, drifting into a daydream of a horrible war of years past. She blinks and the edges of the cutie mark begin to glow softly, the light growing stronger with each passing moment. Startled, Celestia backs away from the wall as the eerie light begins to fill the chambers. Behind her, she hears Luna hum a few notes of a very old hymn. Celestia shakes her head and turns to see Luna now sitting upright, glaring at her with golden eyes. "Did you think I had forgotten?" Luna says, but it's not her voice. "Did you think I'd never return?" Celestia steps back in disbelief and trips, spreading her wings as she tries to balance herself but still she tumbles, the sensation of falling seemingly endless... And then she lands. Celestia's eyes open and she gasps lightly, as if no air were in her lungs. Looking around, she finds herself at her sister's bedside, Luna tucked in and sleeping sweetly. "Was it all a dream?" She asks, keeping her voice low but half hoping Luna would actually tell her. The memory of her sister speaking with someone else's voice and of her unusual golden eyes makes her quickly reconsider, a cold chill running through her at the thought. She gets up and turns to look at the wall with the cutie marks. The blue star is there. ...Did you think I had forgotten? Did you think I'd never return?... The words linger, and suddenly she feels like she's falling once more. Steadying herself, her eyes move from the cutie mark of the blue star to those of friends, the spirits of the elements of harmony. * * * * * * * * Celestia paces in her own chambers, her mind racing. On her desk a feather pen flutters about on a piece of parchment magically writing a very important letter. Philomeena, the princess's phoenix pet, rests on a large perch watching her master intently. "I wish... I truly wish there was another way." Celestia looks at her pet as if she may give her another option. "But, there really isn't, is there?" She concludes solemnly. Trying not to sulk, she turns her attention to the parchment which magically rolls up then is wrapped closed with a bright pink and yellow ribbon adorned with the royal seal. Sighing deeply, she turns and walks slowly onto her balcony, placing a hoof on a cracked tile that she’s intentionally never had repaired, then looks skyward. The morning sunlight passes through her mane making it glow vivid shades of orange and red, the fiery appearance matching her mood. Her lips purse tightly, she knows this can't wait any longer. Philomeena lands on Celestia's shoulder, the newly written scroll clutched firmly in a claw. "Be swift." Celestia whispers, nodding lovingly to her pet. Philomeena rests her head against her master's neck then takes off in a fiery streak. She soars over the castle's courtyard, then beyond the majestic city of Canterlot, heading straight to a special library in a little town called Ponyville. "Twilight Sparkle, I've already asked too much of you and your friends... and now, I'm going to need your help more than ever.” Celestia sighs as she watches her pet vanish in the distance. “Please forgive me, my student."
Chapter 1: ReunionTwo Weeks Later Rainbow Dash bouncily lands on a cloud then turns to look at Cloudsdale, the city of the pegasi floating majestically in the distance. With the sun having just risen, the rays of sunlight make the city glow brilliant shades of reds and yellows, almost as if the city were made of light. Indifferent to the stunning view, with a wry grin she turns to look in the direction of Ponyville. “I bet I’ll be the first one there!” She says with smug confidence as she begins to stretch. Confident she’s ready; she kneels down with her wings spread out then takes off, the burst of air turning the little cloud into white mist. For a short time, she streaks in and out of the cloud line with incredible speed, then with a quick loop begins heading towards the ground. Bringing her front legs forward, she pushes harder and harder, causing the swirling air around her to begin shimmering, almost as if she were attempting to pass through the wall of a bubble. In an instant, the roaring sounds of wind fade to a whisper as the slipstream envelopes her, then it happens.... An explosion of sound and vivid colors, a sonic rainboom resonates through the sky. She pulls up just above the ground then spins to fly backwards looking above to check out her handy work. The colorful waves of the rainboom are already vanishing in the distance and every cloud has been cleared, leaving the morning sky crystal blue. "Guess they'll know I'm here." She laughs then spreads her wings to slow a bit then level herself out. Crassshhhh! A blur of purple and blue tumble and then splat, right into a large mud puddle. Dash rubs her head then woozily gets up. "Uh, woops… I'm really sorry about that! I was, uh, kinda distracted..." "Well, it’s not the first time you’ve done it..." A voice Rainbow recognizes responds. She turns to see a mud-covered unicorn with a large book magically hovering above her, a purple glow stripping the mud from her face. "Not that a less painful - or less dirty - greeting wouldn't be appreciated..." Twilight Sparkle's voice drifts off. Rainbow can't believe her eyes and with a squeaky laugh tackle-hugs her friend right back into the mud. "What's the chance of us...uh, bumping into each other like this?!" Their laughter is cut short by another familiar voice. "I'd say pretty good, sugar cube...." Applejack begins, setting down a large picnic basket in front of her. "Considerin' we were all spose’d to meet here at the park. But, why are y'all pony-playin’ in the mud?" "Because that mud isn't mud. It's chooooocolate." Just overhead in a tree, Pinkie Pie's head pokes out from the branches sending leaves in every direction. "At least, I bet it is. I know I'd take a dip in a chocolate puddle, so who could blame them? Not me!" The pink pony jumps out of the tree and nods, giggling as she agrees wholeheartedly with herself. "Riiiight." Twilight laughs then rolls her eyes. "Wait… what were you doing up there? Actually, never mind, you know what… I don't even want to know." She waves her hoof, as if to dismiss the thought. Pinkie just shrugs and makes her tail twitch, as if that explains everything. Suddenly curious, she moves over to inspect the large puddle. "Well, even if it was chocolate I don't think it'd be any less messy... I'm really sorry Twilight. We're a disaster." Rainbow spreads her wings then hops out of the puddle. "I'd go and find us a raincloud… but there's probably none close by now." She looks up to check, just in case. Pinkie gasps loudly, everyone turning giving her a confused look. "Uh, you guys... This isn't chocolate. Not at all." She announces, finishing with a pout. She gently pokes the mud with a hoof, as if it may change at some point. Twilight and Dash look at one another then sigh. Applejack clears her throat. "Well, do you ponies wanna go get clean then come back t'meet? I’m sure the others will be here soon.” Twilight shakes a bit of mud off then steps out of the puddle, the large book still hovering above her. “Well, I think I have an idea….” She closes her eyes then in a flash of purple magic teleports a few feet from where she just was, the mud that had coated her stays suspended in the air for a brief moment then splashes to the ground. Twilight looks herself over, her hair and coat now perfectly clean. “Much better than rainblow-dry.” She giggles. Everyone stares till Dash, somewhat jealous, finds her voice. “I wish you could teach me how to do that.” Twilight smirks. “Well, I sorta can… I do have a new spell I’ve been wanting to try.” Dash gives an expression that almost says she regrets saying anything. “Just take this…” Twilight slides the Element of Magic from her head then places the gemmed tiara onto Dash’s mud-covered mane. “Wait, what are you doing with an element? I thought Celestia had all of them locked up in Canterlot?” “Oh, well the princesses let me bring them for the festival tomorrow. In fact, Celestia and Luna both requested we all wear them for the big celebration. I have them all back at the library; we can swing by and pick them up later,” she pauses to think for a moment. “But for this spell to work, I need you to wear mine for the time being.” “Uh… okay.” Dash looks around, seriously considering taking flight. “Now, I just learned this… it’s called spell channeling. It lets me cast magic through you, as if I were you.” Twilight closes her eyes and her horn begins to glow soft purple. “Uh, Twi…. I can just go find a lake to dive into or something, you don’t have-“ Dash nervously starts to say but is cut short. In a flash, she glows bright purple then teleports just like Twilight had moments before then reappears perfectly clean a short distance away as the mud splashes down where she previously was. “…to do this.” She finishes then looks around, confused. Everyone breaks into a fit of laughter as the rainbow-maned pony shakes her head, still in shock it worked. After a moment she slides the Element of Magic off then passes it back to Twilight. “That’s pretty amazing… but you need that to make it work?” Twilight looks down at the shiny tiara then gives a light sigh. “The spell isn’t supposed to require it… but so far it’s been the only way I can get a strong enough connection to make it work.” Applejack clears her throat. "So, Twilight? What is this festival spose’d to be for, anyhow?” "It's somepony's birthday!" Pinkie chimes in. "That's why she brought that book, it must be a gift!" She cartwheels then plucks the hovering book out of the air. Twilight flails, trying to grab the book back but has no luck. "No no, Pinkie it's not a birth-" She begins. Pinkie gasps yet again, this time everyone thinks it's because of the book. "You guys!" "What is it?" Twilight, Rainbow, and Applejack say in unison, all moving to huddle around her. Pinkie hops up. "That means we should have a party!" She happily bounces out of the group and spins to face Twilight. "But whose birthday did we forget?" She gives a serious look of concern. "Uh... I think she was about to say somethin' about that." Applejack nods to Twilight. "Well, I was just going to say it's not a birth-" She starts again. "But why wouldn't you wrap your gift?" Pinkie interrupts once more. "I mean, at least give it a bow. Whoever gets this isn't going to be surprised. Not even a little." Pinkie sits back and reads the cover, "Mastering Time and Space - Enchantments and Spells of the Upper Order." She states boldy. "And they'll know what it's about, no need to guess." She concludes with a tiny sigh. Twilight looks shocked. "Pinkie, it took me days to decipher that… it's written in ancient Equestrian. You can read it?" "Well, duuuuuh. Can't everypony?" Pinkie moves up close to Twilight. "Want me to wrap it? I'd be happy to." She concludes cheerfully. "It's nopony's birthday, Pinkie," Dash bumps her. "I think Twilight wanted to show us that book." Twilight smiles in relief, nodding. “Apparently it’s very special, it’s part of the reason Celestia sent me that letter a few weeks ago asking me to come visit her in Canterlot. It’s supposed to be full of powerful magic thought to have been lost to the ages… and she wanted me to have it.” She starts to say happily, but then her shoulders slump. “That is, if I could learn anything from it… It’s incredibly complex. So far I’ve only learned the one spell, and I had a lot of help.” “Well, don’t give up sugar cube. Princess Celestia wanted you to have it, so that means she has all the confidence in the world in you.” “So, Twilight… about this festival? We’re watching stars or something? In that letter you sent me, I wasn't really sure what to make of it.” “Falling stars, actually… And well, it used to be a big deal long ago; it’s even older than the Mare in the Moon tale. Apparently most of Equestria would gather to watch the falling stars on the first new moon of spring - which for us just happens to be tomorrow night - and it was called the Starfall Festival.” “So, yeah… we stay up late and look at stars?” “With games, food, and bonfires… it should be a lot of fun, I think. Plus, the princesses said this one was extremely important… but, come to think of it, they didn’t tell me why just yet. I think it has something to do with the Elements of Harmony.” “Well, I guess it doesn’t sound too bad…” "A night party!? It sounds great to me!” Pinkie bounces. “Well, I like the idea.” Applejack nods. “While we wait for the others, let’s get the picnic ready.” * * * * * * * * In the distance the sounds of yelling and cheering can be heard, voices Rarity, Fluttershy, and Spike all instantly recognize. “Oh my, it sounds like everypony is at the park already.” Fluttershy says as she tilts her head to listen. “Spike, dear?" Rarity stops abruptly. "We did get Rainbow Dash's special dress, the new design, correct?" Spike juggles multiple white boxes stopping when he's certain he has the correct one on top. On the cover, dozens of tiny rubies, emeralds, sapphires, along with many other various gems intricately spell out, Rainbow Dash. "I think so… wanna check just to be sure?" Fluttershy gently lifts the cover and says in an excited whisper, "it's soooo pretty!" Rarity, now somewhat flustered at the compliment, can’t help but take a peek as well. "Ah, yes, that's the one." Satisfied, she takes a moment to seal the gift then turns and smiles at Fluttershy. "As I was saying before, I made a special dress for each of us. This is apparently a very special occasion and we should all look our very best!” * * * * * * * * Rainbow Dash takes off to fly a few feet in the air and instantly spots Fluttershy, Rarity and Spike coming up the path. "Hurry up, slowpokes! Or Pinkie's going to eat all the cake!" "Too late!" Pinkie shouts then giggles. In a single bite, she devours a huge slice of cherry-apple crumb cake then looks around wide-eyed, noticing her friends staring. "Dat... Dat relvy wavn't alluvit, wuzit?" She mumbles. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Twilight all laugh uncontrollably. "Shucks no, I brought enough to feed an army." Applejack says, still laughing. She points at the large picnic basket she had sat down earlier and notices Pinkie already lifting a flap, peeking inside. "Or one Pinkie Pie." Dash says as she lands, sending everyone into another fit of laughter. “By the way, look who I found.” She points a hoof then waves. Fluttershy and Rarity with Spike walking beside them wave then rush up to meet their friends. Spike sets down the packages then runs up and hugs Twilight. “Gosh I can’t believe I haven’t seen you for nearly two weeks! How was your trip to Canterlot?” “It was great, Spike!” Twilight grins. “How was it staying with Rarity while I was gone?” Spike begins to blush but before he can say anything Rarity speaks up. “He was wonderful! He helped quite a bit with these,” she points to the packages that Spike had just set down. “When I received your letter I just couldn’t help myself…” Excited, each of the girls pick up a box with their name on it and takes a look at the dress inside. Twilight’s eyes widen. “Rarity… I only sent you the message a week ago… you made all of these in that short of time?” Rarity looks around, feeling embarrassed. “I... I did. Does it show? Do you not like yours?” She reaches to take it away, suddenly ashamed that Twilight had even seen it. “This. Is. AWESOME.” Rainbow Dash takes off then spins while holding her dress, the material a beautiful mix of light and dark blues with diamonds for sparkles. “And it’s aerodynamic!” “Oh yes, I kept that in mind this time… All of the dresses are night-themed for this festival; it just seemed to make sense.” She turns and looks sadly at Twilight. “I’m so sorry you don’t like yours, maybe I can change something and it’ll be better?” “No, Rarity… I love it! I just can’t believe how much work you can do in such a short time. This dress is beautiful, thank you so much!” Rarity begins to feel feint and as she starts to wobble Spike runs behind her to prevent her from falling over. “Um, Twilight… What’s the reason for this festival?” Fluttershy asks while looking at her dress. Twilight looks over to the old spellbook sitting next to the picnic basket. “I have a lot to tell you guys…”
Chapter 2: The Festival BeginsThe next night, Starfall Eve… “I dunno, Zecora… you really think that would work?” Spike says as he fidgets, trying not to blush. “What I have said should not surprise, for it is not just me that sees that sparkle in your eyes.” Zecora smiles then nods to Rarity in the distance. “I’ve wanted to give her another gift for the longest time and when I found this diamond, I just knew it was meant for her. But… you really think she’d come with me to the lake?” “It is the perfect night, little Spike… face your fear and you will see, whether or not that pony is your destiny.” She finishes with a smile then a wink. Spike takes a deep breath, trying to gain some courage. “You’re right! Thanks Zecora, you’re the best!” He gives the zebra a quick hug then turns and takes off running right into Twilight. “Oops, sorry, Twi… kinda in a hurry!” “Oh, hey, Spike… I was just looking for...” She begins then stops as he moves passed her, heading over to Rarity. “…Oh, nevermind.“ She sighs. “Well, there’s no getting through to him tonight… that’s for sure.” “That is most probably true, for that little dragon has given himself much to do.” Zecora nods then smiles. “Hello, Twilight.” “Hi Zecora… Um, don’t mind me. I’m just trying to find a place to hide.” She points a hoof in the distance where a blue pony is performing magic amidst a large round of applause. “Somehow, Trixie got an invitation…. And she’s putting on a show near the big bonfire over there. It’s, uh, probably best if I avoid that area completely.” “Hello Twilight and hello Zecora, are you two enjoying the festival?” Mayor Mare smiles happily but flinches and looks upwards as overhead Derpy and Rainbow Dash zip by, Dash shouting something about going the wrong way. “Um… up till now? It’s been really nice…. But, I have a feeling I should go help.” She turns then realizes Dash just flew in the direction she’s wanted to avoid. “Or, maybe I’ll just stay here and hope for the best.” In the distance a tent collapses followed by a muffled shout, “my bad!” Mayor Mare rubs a temple with her hoof. “Oh that Derpy, she manages to find trouble no matter where she goes.” Twilight gives a strained laugh. “She means well… I think.” Above, the soft flapping of wings makes Twilight turn just as Princess Celestia lands near her. Zecora and Mayor Mare both bow. “Your highness!” “Princess! Twilight bows quickly then gives Celestia a hug. “I hadn’t seen you; I was worried you and Luna wouldn’t make it.” “Hello, my student. And Mayor Mare, Zecora. You all look lovely.” Celestia gives a curtly bow in return. “I need to borrow Twilight for a moment.” “Oh by all means!” Mayor Mare says followed by a gentle nod from Zecora. Celestia and Twilight begin to walk, heading away from the crowds enjoying festival. “It’s odd… I almost feel as if I should be writing this in a letter to be sent to you.” Celestia looks at Twilight half smiling, her expression turning unusually solemn. “I’ve kept a secret from you, Twilight.” Sighing deeply, she turns to look at the crowd of ponies playing games, talking and looking up at the beautiful night sky. Twilight’s pulse quickens. “I don’t… I don’t know what you mean, Princess? What’s this all about?” Celestia blinks slowly then glances at her student. “Over a thousand years ago… On a beautiful night - much like tonight - I had discovered the truth about Nightmare Moon and what she had done. I believe you know a part of this story from the Mare in the Moon, tale…” She pauses, looking at Twilight’s reaction. “I... I do, but I haven’t read it since we defeated her, and Luna became, well… became herself, again.” Celestia pauses to think, something obviously troubling her. “Princess… is everything okay with Luna?” “Oh? Oh yes, of course… Luna is very much my sister again, thanks to you and your friends. The truth is, Twilight, there’s an important part of the Mare in the Moon tale that few know about. It’s part of another tale called the Starborn Soldier, I believe you read it for the first time when you visited the castle recently? “Um, yes… that was the horrible story of the guard who turned on Canterlot and then was imprisoned eternally for their crime.” Twilight tilts her head, thinking about the story. “It didn’t exactly have a happy ending.” Celestia shakes her head once. “The guard wasn’t imprisoned… not exactly anyways. She was, in fact, exiled.” She takes a breath, suddenly haunted by the event. “Exiled under her own magic and a sentence she chose for herself.” “Princess, I don’t understand… what does this have to do with Luna? And why tell me about this all of a sudden?” “Because tonight… this guard’s sentence comes to an end. Luna and I wish to bring her back.” Twilight looks at Celestia speechless, her jaw wide open. “I can see you disapprove…” “Um… well, no… well, actually, yes!” Twilight shakes her head trying to make sense of it. “You want to bring her back, at the festival?” Celestia sighs and for a moment fights back tears. “Her world was torn apart during her last Starfall Festival… and since then, the world has healed much. I think returning to a place with so much happiness… it’s exactly what she needs.” “But… Princess, is it safe?” “Her emotions controlled her, much like they did my sister… but I am hoping that, over time, her anger has faded.” “And you wanted us to have the Elements of Harmony on hand, just in case…” Celestia smiles. “Just… in case.” Twilight paces in a circle, then tugs at her mane. “I don’t know…” Celestia smiles at her student. “There's no need to worry. Go have fun, Twilight. It may not seem like it now, but in the end, you’ll know what to do.” Pinkie spots Twilight and Celestia and happily bounces over to them. “Hey, they’re about to sing a bunch of hymns and everypony wants to do it as a group! Do you guys wanna join in? Do ya, do ya?” Twilight looks at Celestia then to Pinkie and back once again. “I’m not sure… this might be a bad idea, Pinkie.” “What… singing? But I love to sing.” Pinkie’s shoulders slump. “They seem like they'd be such pretty songs, too.” “No no, not the music… The Starfall Festival. Everything.” Twilight waves a hoof at the crowd then shakes her head, half from confusion and half from feeling like she’s done something horribly wrong. “I think it never should’ve happened.” “Twilight.” Celestia begins then leans down and hugs her student gently. “Please don’t worry so much. Just go have some fun. Pinkie... Luna and I would be delighted to join in.” She smiles softly then spreads her wings and gently lifts herself into the air. “Just give me a moment to find her.” “Oh um, when I last saw her, I think she was playing games over in the park.” Pinkie points a hoof. Celestia nods then takes flight, sailing over the crowds then vanishing in the distance. “Have fun? Is she serious?” Twilight looks at the ground, kicking a small rock with a hoof. “After telling me about all this… just go have fun, everything will be fine… Hey, wait a sec!” She stands straight up; an idea bringing her to full attention. “What if that’s it… what if it’s not too late? Maybe we can get everypony to go home, pretend this never happened!” She looks at Pinkie, frantic. Pinkie scratches her head, puzzled. “So if we pretend the festival never happened, whatever is supposed to happen, won’t… because to us, nothing ever happened.” She blinks then looks up tapping a hoof to her chin. “I dunno, I’m kinda doubting this plan, Twilight.” Twilight lets out a long, deep, sigh. “Fiiiiiiine. We’ll just go with it.” “Ooookey dokey!” Pinkie, gives a huge smile. “Ooh, they’re back already! So I guess it’s tiiiiime!” She sings, her voice hitting a note that could almost break glass.
Chapter 3: Friend or FoeCelestia nods to Twilight and whispers, “It’s time.” “Princess… I asked Miss Cheerilee to take all of the fillies home…” She taps the Element of Magic on her head. “Just in case.” Celestia grins then nods. “It’s getting late, anyhow… that’s probably for the best.” With a deep breath, she moves to stand beside Luna who has already made it a good distance from the crowd. They look at one another then look at the star-filled sky above, their horns glowing softly with yellow and purple magic. A final shooting star streaks across the heavens then one by one, all the stars vanish until only a single, incredibly bright star remains. It glows intensely, but after a short while, it too fades, leaving the night sky completely black. “He-hey, where did they all go?” Pinkie shouts, mirroring what everyone is thinking. Celestia and Luna exchange glances as murmurs run rampant through the crowd of ponies. Trixie sees Twilight turn, giving her a stern look. “The Great and Powerful Trixie had nothing to do with this.” She shrugs then waves a dismissive hoof. “Or… That.” A single dot of blue light forms seemingly out of thin air, small enough it could be but a speck of dust, it floats down and hovers near the crowd of ponies. In moments the soft blue light grows in intensity shifting to a yellowish-gold then to pure white, illuminating the entire area. At first everyone is curious, but Celestia cautiously motions everyone to step away and move behind her. The light gains strength, growing stronger and stronger until all but Celestia and Luna cover their eyes. It explodes into a light as intense as looking at the sun, then, just as quickly as it formed, it collapses upon itself. In place of the light, a beautiful white winged-unicorn wearing gold armor now floats magically in the air, her horn glowing softly with magic and her glimmering blue mane and tail drifting skyward, moving as if she were underwater. Questions run rampant through the crowd but Celestia motions once more for everyone to stay back. “Well… that’s not what I was expecting.” Twilight gives Celestia and Luna a surprised look. “Her… Eyes are closed? Is she asleep?” Applejack moves to get a better look. “She is… and has been for many, many years.” Celestia says. At the sound of Celestia’s voice, the unusual pony begins to float gradually to the ground; her bright blue mane coming to rest over her shoulder as she lands gently. With her eyes still closed, the glow of her golden magic fades and in unison, the stars return to the night sky. Celestia gives a hopeful smile to Luna then takes a step forward. “Welcome back…” The pony opens her yellow eyes as she bows her head and takes a deep breath. She listens to all the sounds around her – the crackle of the bonfire, the crickets in the field, and the whispers of confusion from those near her. She sniffs the air lightly - enticed by the aroma of festival food, the light smoke and the musky scent of the lake nearby. A light breeze makes her mane flow outward like a crystal blue wave, a few strands of hair tickling her face. She blinks once fighting back tears then stretches her wings and examines the soft soil beneath her. “I’m… home…” She whispers. Celestia takes one small step forward. “You never had to leave.” She says, her tone apologetic. For a long time, the white winged-unicorn continues to look down. Suddenly, she twists a hoof uprooting the grass underneath. Raising her head slightly, her golden eyes glisten as she spots Celestia standing at the front of the crowd before her. “You and I both know that isn’t true...” She takes a moment to look at her surroundings. “I do not recognize this place… has Canterlot changed so much in my absence?” Twilight peeks around the crowd and says over the mumbling, “This… This isn’t Canterlot. You’re in Ponyville.” She swallows deeply, summoning the courage to stand next to Celestia. “My name is Twilight Sparkle, what’s yours… if you don’t mind me asking?” Pinkie bounces through the crowd to stand on the other side of Celestia. “Ooh! Ooooh! Let me guess! Flashy Sparkles!? No, hmm… Glowy Burst!?” Pinkie takes a step back as golden eyes narrow then focus on her. “Um… Angry Mare?” “Well, are you just going to stand there and keep looking mean, or are you going to introduce yourself?” Rainbow Dash flies up over the crowd and lands next to Pinkie. The white pony's eyes widen then quickly look down. Barely audible, she whispers, “Star Flare.” Fluttershy moves over to stand next to Twilight, “Oh don’t mind Rainbow, she’s just very assertive. My name’s Fluttershy. It’s um, very nice to meet you!” The pink curl of her mane bounces as she tilts her head and gives a welcoming smile. Star Flare glances nervously at Rainbow Dash then quickly back to Fluttershy. “You may not feel that way soon.” Fluttershy lets out a small squeak and steps back as Applejack moves in front of her. “Listen now, you don’t know us and we don’t know you, but there ain’t no reason we can’t all get along. I don’t know what ya meant by that, but we’re in the middle of a festival and everypony is here to have fun, there’s no need for trouble.” “Then why bring me back, here… Or even bring me back at all if trouble was meant to be avoided?” Star Flare gives Applejack a confused look. “We made the choice, Star.” Luna gracefully nods then gives a sad smile. “Canterlot holds many painful memories, for us both. It was important for you to first see how things have changed… for the better.” Star Flare glances at Luna then bows her head slightly. “Princess Luna, it is good to see you, your majesty.” “Is it impossible to fix this?” Celestia finally says, her voice unusually weak. Star Flare turns her head away, almost as if she had been physically struck. “You’d really ask me that?” She says barely above a whisper, a mix of emotions on her face. “After what happened… After you abandoned us?” Her eyes glisten, tears of anger and sadness beginning to form. Taking a deep breath, she turns and glares at Celestia. “Did you think I’d forget what happened? Or maybe you hoped you’d never have to see me again?” She almost growls, her voice rising to a shout. “My goodness, what’s all the commotion? Why are ponies yelling?” Rarity, with Spike on her back, moves through the crowd and finds her friends. “Oh my, who’s this?” “Woah, woah, woah! What’s going on?” Spike says as he quickly jumps down then moves to stand next to Twilight. “Is everything okay, it sounded like somepony’s really upset?” Celestia turns to see Spike, a look of concern on her face. “A… a dragon? A baby dragon? Here?” Star Flare nearly stumbles backwards, her anger swapped for confusion. “Um… hi? Nice to meet you, I’m Spike! But why are you so upset, what’s the matter?” The little dragon looks at everyone then steps forward. Star Flare’s eyes narrow at the little green and purple dragon, then, barely turning her head, focuses on Celestia. “You allowed this, didn’t you?” “I was the one to hatch him and he’s been one of my best friends for as long as I can remember.” Twilight speaks up, not liking Star Flare’s tone. Rarity nods to Twilight, “He’s special… to… um, to all of us.” “He came into this world with the guidance of magic and has helped everypony more then you could ever know.” Celestia concludes. Pinkie Pie clears her throat. “Welllllllll… Except that one time, when he was all like, gimme your cakes! And I did, but not actually giving, you know? I was throwing them at him, not to him. Nopony believed me, and that was reallllly annoying. After that, and well, before that too, he ran around Ponyville taking everypony’s stuff at random. Oh, and he kept getting bigger and bigger and pretty much wrecked the whole town.” Tapping her chin, she looks up pondering the memory then giggles. Everyone turns to stare at Pinkie. “But… he got better! Because of Rarity…” She squeaks as she finishes meekly. Spike turns back to Star Flare, “I didn’t actually-” He stops abruptly seeing Star Flare tremble and close her eyes, doing her best to hold back the tears starting to form. “Oh gosh… I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean anything by it, I just-“ Star Flare lifts her head and her eyes and horn flare bright blue in unison, her magic instantly freezing Spike in place. At first his feet crystallize… then his legs… but before the spell can be finished a flash of gold magic cuts through the blue. Celestia’s horn glows with a brilliant radiance, so intense many ponies have to look away. “Your exile is over, Star Flare… on the condition you’ve returned to live in peace. I cannot allow you to bring harm upon others. You were my friend once… Please, please do not take this any further.” Luna shrinks back. Memories of the chaos she caused ages ago returning to her. Seeing her sister’s piercing eyes, her determination… it’s just like the night of Nightmare Moon’s banishment. Star Flare looks at Spike as she purses her lips, her spell now having turned the tiny dragin completely into crystal. “To live in peace?” Is that why you brought me back?” She looks across the crowd of ponies staring back intently. “You abandoned me, Celestia… what right do you have to tell me how I should live?” “That’s not what happened…” Celestia almost gasps, tears flowing heavily. “The dragons nearly destroyed Canterlot – you never returned with the elements as you promised!” She steps forward, digging her hooves into the earth. “To save the city, I used magic that I never should have; magic far beyond my ability.” She turns away from the crowd and sits, looking up at the stars shining brightly above. ”I lost… everything that day. Everything that mattered to me.” She puts her head down and sniffles, no longer able to fight back the tears. “The following day I find you’ve returned to the castle and you refuse to see me... Your guards, those that once followed me, barred entrance.” She clears her throat. “That didn’t last long.” “Star, I had a reason… it was very hard for me, too.” Star Flare turns, glancing over her shoulder. “Through all that had happened… so much destruction, so many lost… What were you doing? Sleeping.” Luna moves to stand between Star Flare and Celestia. “Star… there is so much, so very much you do not know.” “Don’t try to make excuses for her, Princess. Celestia can defend herself… Or maybe she can’t. Maybe that’s why she ran.” Celestia weakly looks at Luna then back to Star Flare. “Still you say nothing.” Celestia sits back; taking in a heavy breath then adjusts her wings. “So very long ago…” she pauses, the weight of the memories taking hold. “You assaulted Canterlot castle, injured multiple guards and did an incredible amount of damage in your fury… Yet you wouldn’t attack me.” She stops, meeting Star Flare’s eyes. “You chose exile for your crimes, sealing yourself within the void before I could give you any clear answer. Star, the truth is… I had left to set things right… I didn’t have a choice.” “Set things right? The city was burning… your people needed you more than ever!” Star Flare turns then nods at the crystal statue of Spike. And here we are… a dragon living amongst our kind. Your view and my own clearly differ on how to protect the ponies of Equestria.” Celestia looks at the ground, keeping eye contact with Star Flare becoming almost impossible. “So much time has passed. So much has changed… The world is very different now.” Luna puts a hoof to her mouth, feeling her lip tremble. “Star, please let us speak with you.” “Then I will do what I should have done long ago.” Star Flare steps back and stands defiantly, her golden armor reflecting the flames of the bonfire. “I challenge you, Celestia. I challenge your right to protect Equestria, to even be a part of it… you have brought pain, misery and are the cause of eternal suffering to those who once called you friend.” Her eyes lower; suddenly it’s painful to look upon the princess. “You do not deserve your crown.” The crowd of ponies gasp and look at one another as Luna’s eyes fill with tears and she tries to speak, but no words will form. Celestia blinks away tears. “Perhaps… you are right.” “No… No she isn’t right!” Unable to stay silent any longer, Twilight steps in front of Celestia, giving her a look of confusion. “This isn’t up for debate.” Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and a terrified Fluttershy move to stand next to Twilight, forming a half circle around Celestia. Murmurs run rampant through the crowd of ponies but quiet down as Celestia steps forward, moving past Twilight. “Remember what I said, little pony.” She whispers. “What, you said… Princess? What do you mean?” Twilight shakes her head, a sense of dread filling her. Luna can barely croak out a few words. “Sister… What is thou doing?” Celestia glances at Luna then turns to face Star Flare. “I accept.” Gasps and sounds of shock erupt from the crowd. Stunned, Luna, Twilight and her friends stare at Celestia helplessly. Pinkie shakes her head and stumbles backwards as Twilight falls into a sitting position, her legs suddenly lacking the strength to fully support her.
Chapter 4: When Stars CollideEverypony steps back, giving Princess Celestia and Star Flare plenty of room as they form a massive half-circle around Star Flare and Celestia. “The stakes are… should you lose…” Star Flare tilts her head and narrows her eyes at Celestia, who is standing calmly, watching her every move. You stand there, looking at me like you’ve done no wrong, she thinks. “Should you lose… you will relinquish your crown to your sister. You will no longer be a princess of Equestria. Furthermore…” Star Flare pauses, her thoughts drowning out the shouts of anger from the crowd, considering her next words carefully. For a moment, she paces back and forth, then, as she purses her lips, she slides off her helmet and takes a deep breath. “You will be exiled… just as I was. Before that, however, you will stand in Canterlot one last time and explain to everypony why you were a coward when your subjects needed you most.” Rarity looks tearfully at Twilight then hugs Spike. “In any case, you shall free him this instant! You can fight all you want afterwards!” She pleads. “Yeah what she said!” Pinkie Pie shouts, nodding to Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash all huddled around Rarity and the statue of Spike. The crowd of ponies shout their approval, but Star Flare turns and clears her throat. “That depends entirely on Celestia...” Star Flare begins. “However, know this. Should she lose, it is my intent to rid Equestria of its enemies – your friend will be but the first of many.” Rarity’s eyes widen as she shakes her head in disbelief, but before she can say anything, Celestia speaks up. “And should I win… you must find a way to let go of this terrible anger that fills your heart. The noble pony I once knew – a hero of Equestria – must return. And while it will not be required that you accept, you must allow me to ask once again for your forgiveness… and friendship.” Star Flare closes her eyes then pulls her sparkling blue mane into a pony tail as she slides her golden helmet back on. “Should I lose, I would be a danger to Equestria… I must be sent into eternal exile.” “Perhaps in time... But not all hope for you is lost.” Celestia says quietly. Emotions swirl through Luna, most importantly one she hadn’t felt since just before Twilight and her friends used the elements of harmony to free her from Nightmare Moon -- Anger. It should be her fighting Star Flare, not her sister… why is she doing this? Celestia’s horn glows brightly, her magic making the entire area glow in its radiance. You do not deserve your crown… you never did. The words play over and over in Star Flare’s mind, making her more determined than ever. Her golden eyes narrow and she takes a deep breath, her own horn now glowing intensely blue. Time seems to slow as she turns and looks at the ponies watching on, pegasi and earth-ponies all with fear in their eyes — fear that before this is over, they may lose their beloved princess. In this moment, as her mind is in another place, she doesn’t see Celestia’s first attack. A bright yellow flash of magic sears a portion of her armor spinning her sideways, but she braces her legs then deflects Celestia's magic with her own. What was that? Cheering? They’re cheering for her? Star Flare deflects a spell, then another… and another, streaks of yellow light coursing by her like rays of the sun. Celestia steps back then jumps into the air, taking flight as her eyes and horn glow intensely, a beam of yellow energy streaks towards Star Flare. A barrier of light forms around Star Flare as she summons her magic shield, then her eyes and horn glow bright blue as she sends a beam of her own magic to collide with Celestia’s - but it’s too late. As the magic collides, the yellow almost instantly overtakes the blue and collides with Star Flare’s shield, sending mini bolts of lightning and sparks in every direction. Star Flare tries to focus her magic to counter, but it’s too much, Celestia’s magic is far too powerful. Star Flare lowers her head, focusing all of her magic into her shield causing Celestia’s magic to ripple away like the light of an aurora. Just when she doesn’t think she can block any more, the yellow beam of magic fades and Celestia lands. She’s taking pity on me? Panting, Star Flare takes flight, heading straight at Celestia. Her eyes flash blue, her shield appearing around Celestia, pinning her in place. She lands and quickly plants her front legs to spin and kick, but the earth around Celestia explodes upward, her magic creating a wall of stone and soil. As her hooves strike dirt, Star Flare whips her head, the motion causing her shield – and Celestia within it - to smash through the wall of earth, tossing the princess onto her side. A bright pulse of yellow magic radiates from Celestia causing Star Flare’s shield to fade away, dispelled by the princess’ magic. She slowly picks herself up, her colorful mane glowing lightly from the magic coursing through her body. .....She didn't abandon us, Star..... Skystrider's last words. But why now? Star Flare shakes her head as if to dislodge the memory, but stops abruptly... They’ve been a part of her for so long, and she can hear his voice with such clarity… she can't lose it. The sudden thought of giving them up feels almost as if she were giving him up, as well. Panting and uncertain what to do, she briefly closes her eyes and remembers the last time she had to fight this hard. * * * * * * * * Crimson's massive tail swung in a wide arc, cleaving through a pillar then striking Star Flare hard. As she cries out she barely manages to use her magic to shield herself as she explodes through a wall of the central Canterlot library then smashes into a bookcase, sending paper, stone and wood airborne. With her armor badly damaged, her magic shield fades as she tries to stand up, limping from a wound on her front leg. "I have... I have to give Celestia more time... Luna... she'll be back, and they'll use the elements..." She stumbles, kicking scattered books and stones as she catches herself but turns to see a giant claw reach through the damaged wall and begins tearing it apart, shattering bricks and stones and fully eviscerating a massive part of the ceiling. She wants to scream as Crimson peers through the gape in the building, but she won't submit to fear, even though her heart feels as if it may jump from her chest. She winces and steps back, watching the massive red and black dragon intently. "There you are... I'm not through playing with you, yet." Crimson's voice rumbles through the library, the final word echoing over and over. He takes a step forward, completely tearing through the remains of the building's entrance. Star Flare summons every bit of magic that she can, her horn fully illuminating the half-crumbled library. Crimson's eyes narrow as he laughs wickedly, the sound almost deafening. "Your magic doesn't work on me, haven't you figured that out by now?" He hisses then points to a gold crescent moon imbedded into the scales of his chest. "Who says I was going to use it on you?" Star Flare grits her teeth as her magic levitates a crumbled pillar outside, raising it high into the air. Unaware, Crimson snarls as he rears back, prepared to use his fiery dragon’s breath just as the pillar smashes across his snake-like snout. The powerful impact makes him collapse onto his side, his massive body crushing the remains of the entrance wall, sending dust and debris all over. As he howls in pain, Star Flare begins to run, hobbling on her hurt leg. They need more time; I have to find a way. "Just a little-" Her thoughts slip into her voice as she glances over her shoulder just as a massive claw comes down on top of her, pinning her to the stone floor. Her magic dances across the dragon's claw and scales in tiny blue electrical arcs and sparks, the magic being completely nullified. With a large chunk of scales missing from under his eye and his nose bloodied, Crimson laughs. “You think you’re so smart.” He presses down, the pressure causing Star Flare's magic shield to explode in a bright blue flash. "No more running... it’s over, little pony." He digs his claw into the floor as he shifts his weight forward to crush his prey, the sound of armor crunching against stone making him smile in satisfaction. Star Flare gasps for air as tears run down her cheeks. She wants to call for help... but she can't move, and she can't breathe. It's over... I failed you, princesses. “I'm sorry, Sky... I'm so tired, I can't...” She barely whispers, her eyelids fluttering as she begins to pass out. Crimson roars then presses down, intent on ending it, but suddenly he surges forward as the flooring gives way and the stones break apart beneath his claw, sending Star Flare tumbling into a small basement chamber below. * * * * * * * * Star Flare blinks and refocuses back on Celestia, determined to not give up until the very end. Her horn sparks with blue energy as she prepares another attack. “Stop! End this, Star Flare; your fight is not with my sister!” Luna’s horn glows brilliant purple and a pulse of magic resonates from her, the force pushing Celestia back and Star Flare onto her side. At that moment, the deflection spell Celestia had prepared is miscast, now just a harmless beam of light streaking into the night sky. Star Flare starts to pick herself up out of the dirt, her eyes wide. “Ce-Celestia?” .....She didn't abandon us..... Star Flare hears Skystrider's words once more as she watches the princess stumble backward; using her wings she barely steadies herself from the impact of the spell she was unable to counter. A bright blue swirl of magic pulses on her chest then fades as it’s absorbed into her body. She tries to gasp for air, but it’s no use. As a single feather from her wings floats to the ground, her body is turned to crystal. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight shrieks. Gasps and shouts of terror erupt through the crowd. “Why--why would you interrupt? I didn’t… no, this wasn’t supposed to happen!” Star Flare shakes her head then looks frantically between Luna and the crowd. The crowd of ponies turns to face Star Flare. Above, a low rumble of thunder sounds as a storm begins to form over Ponyville. “I just wanted to know why she did it…. she was supposed to end this!” Star Flare stumbles. Frightened, she turns and takes off, flapping her wings with all her might. “Oh no you don’t!” Rainbow Dash takes off in a streak of color. “Wait, Dash!” Applejack tries to grab her tail but only gets a mouthful of colorful hairs. “I’ll um… go after her.” Trembling, Fluttershy takes flight.
Chapter 5: Storm FrontStar Flare flies with all her remaining strength, determined to get as far away from what had just happened as she can. Above, thunderstorm clouds form unnaturally fast, spreading out in all directions like a thick wave. “Hey, who do you think you are?!” Rainbow Dash shouts at Star Flare, now flying at her side. “You show up out of nowhere and create all kinds of trouble… Then you just fly away? Well I’m not letting you off that easy!” Star Flare looks at Rainbow Dash stunned. She had a huge head start, there’s no way she could’ve caught up. “Go—go back! Just leave me alone!” “Sure, right after you go back and fix everything.” Rainbow tries to grab Star’s armor but narrowly misses as she spins to avoid her. Lightning flashes above as both ponies begin to descend, each trying to gain speed. Star Flare shakes her head. How is she so fast? They both spread their wings wide slowing enough to barely stay above the tree line but Star Flare sees an opportunity and dives lower trying to gain cover below the branches. “Seriously, that’s it? You’re not losing me that easily." Dash shouts from above. "Do you know how many races I’ve run through this area? I know it like the back of my hoof.” Frustrated, Star Flare glances over her shoulder to see Rainbow Dash keeping up easily above, but she turns back to see a large tree branch too late. With a sickening crash she breaks through it, the force ripping her helmet off and causing her to tumble into the forest. On her way down, she collides with multiple other branches until finally crashing onto the forest floor. Winded, she wobbly manages to stand. “A few… sore spots… but luckily my armor took most of the damage.” She says to herself, trying to make it sound better than it really is. Then it clicks -- The armor. That’s why this pony is faster. Quickly she removes the buckles, removing the body plate. Rainbow Dash hovers above. “So… are we heading back, now?” She shouts. “Hmph.” Star Flare slides the last piece of the bulky armor off, the shiny gold neck guard landing on the ground with a heavy thud. “I know what you’re thinking, but, uh… that’s really not going to help.” Star Flare’s horn glows blue, the magic bending and twisting all of the branches above her, creating a clearing. She spreads her wings, and once confident they aren’t injured, she takes off and slowly rises above the tree line once again. * * * * * * * * Luna watches as Twilight Sparkle frantically uses spell after spell in an attempt to break Celestia and Spike free from their crystal prison. “Twilight… It is possible you will hurt them. Star Flare may be the only one who can remove that spell.” A final flash of purple magic then Twilight lowers her head; with a long sigh she rests a hoof gently against the crystal chest of Celestia. “I just don’t know what else to do.” Pinkie Pie and Applejack hug Rarity, who just sits staring at the statue of Spike, frozen in place almost as if she were a statue as well. Above, the storm clouds continue to thicken and a low rumble of thunder hangs in the air. “She was so upset with Princess Celestia... I don’t know what to make of it. Luna you seem to know a lot more about this... please, tell us everything you know.” Luna looks at Twilight then to her friends huddled around Rarity. “My sister believed that bringing Star back here would show her how peaceful the world has become, that the anger she held onto was no longer necessary.” With a heavy sigh she bows her head. “But that’s impossible, not until she knows the truth.” Applejack slides her hat back. “And what is that, exactly?” Luna blinks, then remembers a time long ago... * * * * * * * * Over a millennia ago, Celestia watched as fireballs sailed across the night sky splashing down upon the glistening white walls of the inner city. The flame moved across the stone like liquid, consuming everything and changing the pristine buildings into blackened husks. It was the eve of the Starfall Festival, a celebration of renewed life held every spring, and citizens from every part of Equestria had come to Canterlot to enjoy it. Instead of cheering at the wonderment of the falling stars, her subjects call out begging for help. Celestia’s eyes narrow, anger surging through her. Suddenly Skystrider lands a bit harder on Celestia’s balcony than he intends, cracking a large stone tile under his hooves. Coughing, he stands a moment trying to catch his breath. His normally white coat and colorful mane are completely covered in ash, giving him more of a dull grey appearance. Star Flare quickly removes her helmet and trots over to him, her golden armor polished to a mirror like finish. “How bad is it?” “Few are airborne; they look like they’re waiting for something.” He tries to clear his throat. “But their numbers are countless… possibly a hundred, maybe more. They’ve mostly gathered at the southern gate.” “That can’t be… that would give us one guard for every two of those beasts.” A royal guard looks at Skystrider, his brow wrinkled. Star Flare, ignoring the guard, grabs a small cloth from a table then moves over to Skystrider, wiping the ash from a small cut under his eye. “Trust me, as much as I wish it wasn't, it’s true.” “Still, they dare not enter the inner city, not with the magic protecting us here!” Another guard exclaims, almost as if the dragons should hear and obey. Needing a moment, Celestia barely turns her head then closes her eyes, taking her attention away from the horror unfolding outside. “They can burn Canterlot to the ground without ever taking a single step through the golden gates.” Everyone lowers their head. Somehow, hearing the princess sound so desolate makes the horrible situation seem that much worse. “The most important thing is we get everypony out of the city.” Skystrider speaks up, his voice still raspy. “How long until the evacuation is complete?” “We believe there’s still many hiding in buildings but the courtyard and roads are finally clear. I have nearly every able bodied Pegasus doing search and rescue.” Star Flare returns to the table and moves a small statue of a pegasus across a large map, showing a detailed top-down view of Canterlot. “The unicorn and earth pony squads are helping defend the injured in Canterlot Park…” She blinks heavily trying to fight back the tears starting to form. There were… so many there for the festival when the attack began.” Taking a breath, she composes herself as Skystrider moves to stand next to her. Giving him a sad smile, she uses her blue magic to slide a statue of a unicorn and earth pony to the center of the map. “The military is stretched so thin…” Skystrider says solemnly. He then notices multiple other statues, each representing a different part of the military, sitting on their side. “This… was well planned. It all happened so fast.” “With Star Flare’s magic shielding this area, the castle is likely the only safe haven within the city. That’s not going to last, though.” A royal guard moves over to the table, ready to discuss strategy. Celestia finally turns away from the window, unable to watch any longer. “And no word from my sister?” “Not since she left on her trip to the outer villages, but that was two days ago. I’ve sent scouts for her, but your highness… it’s quite troubling for Princess Luna to be absent at a time like this-“ The guard starts to say more, but Star Flare shakes her head and gives him a piercing expression that makes him avert his eyes, cutting him short. “Your highness, it isn’t safe here. We should have you escorted out of the city while the military begins the counter attack. With your permission, Star, allow me to take a squad and I’ll personally make sure she’s taken to a safe location.” Star Flare closes her eyes. She wants to say no. You can’t leave. I need you more than her… But she finds herself nodding slowly, agreeing with what he said. Some would almost consider Skystrider’s proposal cowardly, an opportune suggestion to get away from the battle, but she knows better. His bravery has been proven repeatedly over the years and there’s nopony she trusts more. If he feels the situation is that dire, that Celestia’s safety is truly in jeopardy even here within the castle, then there may be little hope for those that stay and fight. “Take three others; you are to stay with the princess at all times.” “No.” Celestia interjects, shaking her head weakly. “No… If I leave then the city will surely fall.” She blinks warily, her mind racing. “Once everypony is safe we will focus on the counter attack, and… when my sister returns, we will use the Elements of Harmony to bring an end to this fight once and for all.” Star Flare looks at everyone then with a light sigh, nods at Celestia. “Then we shall hope your sister is safe… and for her swift return.” Suddenly her eyes widen then she screams out and stumbles to her side, a stabbing pain searing through her mind. “My… shield, I can’t… hold it!” The hum of her magic shield fades, replaced by a roar that grows louder… and louder… “Get back!” Skystrider covers the princess as a massive fireball rips through the outer wall of Celestia’s chambers, the stone and wood exploding from the heat. As a large chunk of the ceiling begins to collapse, Star Flare stands and uses her magic to deflect much of the falling debris and fire. “Take the princess down to the lower section of the castle!” She shouts. “It should be safer there; we have to buy more time!” “But… Star, what happened?” Skystrider begins. “I didn’t just weaken; something tore my magic apart… something much more powerful than me. You have to go… please!” With her shining blue hair being whipped about in the wind, she turns and looks at Skystrider, her eyes glistening. “Keep her safe... the princesses are our only hope.” He watches as she puts her golden helmet back on then jumps out the gaping hole in the room, taking flight towards something down below. “Star… wait, no!” He starts to rush forward then turns to see Celestia missing and her guard knocked over. “Oh, this just keeps getting better and better… Where’s Celestia?” “She… “The guard begins then coughs loudly, his face and golden armor blackened from the smoke. “She said something about going to Luna’s chambers… But I was too weak to stop her.” He winces then grits his teeth as he tries to move his leg. It’s just the two of us left… You’ll have to catch up to her; I don’t think I can walk.” “Just stay here, I’ll be back as soon as I can. I have to find out what’s going on.” Skystrider turns to look at the massive hole in the chambers one last time then takes off, taking flight down the stairs. He circles and circles, going down multiple levels till finally reaching Princess Luna’s chambers. Finding the door open, he peeks inside to see Celestia staring at a wall with its paint stripped away. “Princess Celestia? It isn’t safe your highness, I need to escort you to an area that’s better fortified.” Celestia takes in a deep breath then lowers her head. Outside, the sounds of the nonstop barrage on the city come to a stop. “No… I... I have to leave.” “Wait… but you said the city will fall if you leave!? Wh-where are you going?” Princess Celestia’s eyes and horn flare golden, her magic fully illuminating her sister’s chambers. “I’m going to end this.” Turning, she forces the doors to the balcony open with her magic then takes flight. * * * * * * * * “But the dragons can be so nice when you get to know them.” Pinkie says, the story having depressed her. “Wait, she held a grudge against the princess because of that? There has to be more?” Twilight gives Luna a confused look. “It is believed at some point after my sister left, Star Flare desperately used magic from the spellbook given to you from Celestia. Against my wishes, one of my most powerful minions, a dragon known as Crimson, continued the attack upon the city and she used a spell from it to banish him. It worked… But at a cost. In the struggle, Skystrider was banished as well. However, it turned the tide… Crimson’s defeat scattered the dragons; without a leader they fled the city.” “But…. If that’s the case, why didn’t Celestia just tell Star Flare what happened?” Luna swallows hard. “Because….” Suddenly, the reality of what happened seems too horrible to put into words. “Celestia had just banished her sister… and returned to her beloved city nearly burned to the ground.” She begins to cry heavily then spreads her wings partially to steady herself. “I believe my sister wasn’t ready to admit it was I who had betrayed the kingdom. I am so, so sorry.” Sniffling heavily she sits down. “Star Flare doesn’t know that I was Nightmare Moon – the cause of all her grief. She exiled herself after she assaulted the castle looking for answers but never learned the truth.” “So, that’s why you intervened… you knew they shouldn’t be fighting in the first place.” Luna slowly nods once. “I believe my sister wanted to tell her, but Star was so angry… I think Celestia was afraid of what might happen had she learned the truth now.” Rarity sniffles then finally sits up to say something. “But why wait so long to bring her back? This could have been resolved ages ago.” Pinkie taps her chin. “Oh, that’s an easy one. Princess Celestia didn’t have the Elements of Harmony anymore and without Luna she probably didn’t have the power to bring the exile to an end.” Luna, somewhat surprised, nods causing everyone to turn and stare at Pinkie. “Wh-what?” She eyes everyone back. “Then maybe… for now… it’s better Star Flare doesn’t come back. We’ll find another way to free the princess and Spike. Maybe the Elements can fix this.” Twilight says. “It is possible… but I do not believe they can. Star Flare is the key to this….” Luna pauses, considering her next words carefully. “And she more than deserves the truth… I have to face her.” Disapproving murmurs run rampant through the crowd as Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack and Rarity each look at one another concerned. “Even if the Elements can’t free Celestia and Spike, they can still help you. So far I’ve only learned one spell from the book Celestia gave to me…” Twilight pauses to give a crooked smile, trying to hide her embarrassment. “But it might be enough if you have this.” She removes the element of magic from her head and passes it to Luna. Luna’s eyes widen. “Twilight, I cannot accept this!” “No, you have to take it… Equestria is coming apart from the loss of one princess, I don’t want to know what would happen if she managed to cast this spell on you, too.” Twilight nods at the crystal statue of Celestia. Luna takes a deep breath then sighs. After a moment she looks at the crowd still huddled nearby, all unsure of what to do. “You should all return to your homes… for now, there’s little more that can be done to help.” Turning, she looks in the direction that Star Flare had left. “This storm… it is going to get much worse.”
Chapter 6: Nightmare UnveiledIcy cold rain begins to pour down from the clouds above, painfully spraying Star Flare and Rainbow Dash as they streak through the dark sky. The wind continues to get stronger and combined with the heavy sheets of rain they both struggle to stay in flight. I can catch her, Rainbow Dash chants the words over and over in her mind. "Just… a little more..." She reaches out a hoof, almost able to grab Star Flare's tail, but her target cuts suddenly, turning to dive. Finally, she thinks. They had been in a steady climb pushing hard into a headwind but now they'll be streaking almost straight down. Rainbow Dash watches as the white pony gets a little more distance then turns to dive as well. Taking in a deep breath, she thinks to herself, this is it. She had been trying over and over to do a sonic rainboom to overcome Star Flare, but with the crazy wind and rain it's been impossible… until now. She pushes her front hooves forward and flaps her wings with all her might. A white shimmer forms as the slipstream begins to envelope her body but suddenly the world seems to explode as a flash of lightning ripples down from above. Before the blinding light of the electricity is gone a second explosion follows as she achieves a sonic rainboom. She starts to grin, but immediately can tell something's not right.... she can't guide herself and she's starting to drift to one side. As the colorful waves of the rainboom streak away she looks to her side and her she gasps. The lightning struck her wing; parts of it blackened from burns and over half the feathers are gone. Seeing the damage only makes it worse as throbbing pain begins to shoot through her body. Suddenly the slipstream around her bursts; as the rush of air hits her she goes into a flat spin, completely out of control. "I....I've got you." Star Flare reaches out, barely managing to grab Rainbow's front hoof, making them spin in sync. "What are you doing?!" Rainbow Dash yanks away, the motion causing her to flip end over end. Painfully she spreads her wings as wide as she can, but the drag from her one good wing only makes her go into a wobbly spin once again. She looks down; the ground is getting very close. "You have to let me help!" Star Flare spirals to just above Rainbow Dash then grabs hold. She spreads her wings as far as they'll go but it's not enough, they're dropping too fast and she doesn't have the strength to get them into a glide. Frantically she looks around for options and spots a small lake almost directly below them. "We're going to crash!" She yells, pointing a hoof. Rainbow Dash nods, tucking her head low. Star Flare tucks in as well pulling Rainbow close, her horn glowing bright blue as she casts a powerful shield spell. Only seconds later they splash down hard into the lake, the force causing the water to erupt skyward. * * * * * * * * Waves crash upon the shore of a large lake as Fluttershy comes to a soft landing. "Rainbow Dash!" She calls out looking across the splashing inky water, her heart racing. Spotting a dark figure, she starts to run forward. "Dash? Oh my, are you okay?" Rainbow Dash treads slowly out of the water, Star Flare draped unconscious on her back. "Di-did you knock her out?" Fluttershy makes a punching motion. Still trying to catch her breath, Dash shakes her head once then gently rests Star Flare on the shore. "She... helped me, Fluttershy. But I think she hit her head on the lakebed." * * * * * * * * ......Star Flare....... Hearing her name she slowly opens her eyes. Next to her, Rainbow Dash is sitting, her good wing spread out shielding Star Flare's face from the rain. She's saying… something… to a yellow pegasus she barely recognizes as Fluttershy. .......Above the clouds..… I'll be waiting....... It isn't either of these ponies… someone was speaking to her within her mind. Star Flare coughs, trying to clear the lake water and grit from her mouth then slowly she begins to peel herself off the sandy shore. Her body feels numb and her muscles barely respond, every bit of movement causing her to tremble under the strain. As she begins to pick her head up she winces, the small motion makes tears form and she whimpers; her head feels like it's going to crack open. Trying to not let it overwhelm her she has to close her eyes, doing her best to will the throbbing pain away. It feels like it takes an eternity, but finally she's able to stand. "Hey… are you alright? You don't look so good." Rainbow Dash says as Fluttershy slips behind her, doing her best to hide. "I'm… fine…" Star Flare lies. Every part of her feels bruised or injured in some way and it's taking every bit of her focus to not curl into a ball and start crying. Luckily the rain is incredibly cold and it's dulling the pain. "Rainbow Dash… that is your name, correct? Can you fly?" Dash raises an eyebrow, like the idea hadn't crossed her mind then stretches her injured wing. Somewhat confident she can use it, "On a normal day, I'd say yeah… “ she then looks up at the storm that only seems to get worse with each passing moment, “But this? Maybe really, really slowly." "I can help her." Fluttershy says meekly, barely audible over the splashing of the rain. .......Above the clouds..... I'll be waiting....... That voice again… "Luna?" Star Flare whispers the name as she looks at the churning clouds above. The rain splashes down over her face, washing the sand from her snout and pushing her matted blue mane behind her ears. A loud rumble of thunder resonates across the sky in response. After a moment she stretches then takes off, hovering a few feet in the air. "I wasn't thinking, like, flying against the storm… we can stay low and fly through the trails back to Ponyville. It shouldn't be that windy with all the trees." Star Flare can’t help but smirk. "Still convinced I'm going to return with you?" "Oh come on, it's obvious you're hurt. Just let us help!" "I have to take care of something, first… then…" Her shoulders slump and she can't help but look away, ashamed. "I promise I will return." "That's not good enough! You have to-" Rainbow Dash begins but Fluttershy bumps her then shakes her head. "We'll, um, wait for you…" Fluttershy says, pausing to shiver. With a huff, Dash crosses her arms. "Fine. Just don't be too long." Star Flare gives a tiny nod then takes off skyward, flying as hard as she can against the shifting winds and rain. Her determination feels renewed… She doesn't know why, but it's as if whoever - or whatever - is calling to her will somehow set things right. She pushes into the cloudline and is battered by swirling winds, much stronger than those below. Pulses of yellow light erupt all around her -- lightning dancing through the clouds with deafening thunder instantly following. She screams out as another bolt nearly strikes her, instead colliding with the magic of her shield. Still the impact whips her sideways and she starts to fall. She looks up and can see the stars of the night sky; she's so close! She spirals then flaps her wings as hard as she can, and finally, she breaches the clouds. Above the storm the air is eerily calm. She looks below to see the multiple pulses of lightning going almost nonstop. “Many years ago, I lured another in a similar fashion…” Star Flare spins to see a dark mare that she's never met, her dark purple mane and tail flow around her like a mist and almost invisible against the night sky. "Wh-who are you?" Nightmare Moon looks down at the storm below. "This is what I had become… An avatar of my emotions.” The illusion glows bright purple then turns to mist, drifting away into the clouds below. Luna now hovers in its place. "Princess… Luna…?" "At a critical moment, I magically whispered to my sister… told her how the war would be over if she simply faced me. I convinced her to leave Canterlot… I gave her no other choice." Luna cringes, not sure what to expect. Star Flare had always had suspicions… There was always the lingering thought that Luna’s personality had changed, and she questioned her steadfast refusal to keep guards with her. But Princess Luna was one of her best friends when she was a child… she could never admit what was happening even with all the evidence. Finally hearing the truth – that the one who had caused so much damage and grief was her all along… is too much. She can barely keep herself in flight as she covers her face and begins sobbing. Luna sniffles and blinks heavily. “My sister’s heart was broken, much like your own. She could not tell you what had happened because she just lost someone she loves, too. Both of your worlds were torn apart that night… But instead of your friendship helping you through it, your anger divided you.” Taking a second to wipe tears from her eyes, she feels her lower lip tremble then looks at the clouds below. “But more than that, at the center of it all… it is I that is the one to blame.” Thunder ripples as another pulse of lightning flashes from below. “Star, while you fought to save the city, my sister was fighting me in an effort to save Equestria. I was jealous and obsessed with taking power from her... Because of that… in the end, my sister banished me.” Star Flare feels hollow; she’s been so angry, and so sad, for such a long time… And much of it has been misguided. She wants to attack Luna… and to hug her for telling the truth… but more than anything; she just wants this to be over. “Exile didn’t change things last time. You won’t fix anything by leaving again. Star… I cannot fix what has been done. I cannot even begin to do so. But in our absence my sister has tried to make Equestria a wonderful place." “I know what you want to ask… but I cannot remove the spell from Celestia.” Luna’s eyes widen, “Please, Star… I deserve to be sealed away... but save her.” Star Flare sniffles once. “The magic was never mine to use and it's something I'll never truly understand.... But there might be one way to release the spell. If this works, tell her….” She blinks as tears start to form again. “Tell her… I’m sorry.” She takes a deep breath as she begins summoning every bit of magical energy she can. From below, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash look up to the storm above, the electric blue light piercing the clouds like a new sun. From Canterlot, Shining Armor stops as a fellow guard points in the distance making him turn to see the brilliant light in the sky. In Cloudsdale, everyone pauses in their efforts to deflect the storm from the city. In Ponyville, one by one, ponies move out from the cover of their homes to watch the spectacle, curious as to what it might be. Twilight shakes her head, her eyes and horn already glowing purple. “Wha-what are you doing? Luna starts to fly backwards, the magic radiating from Star Flare forming a massive air current. “No… Star!” A flash of purple energy surrounds Luna as she’s teleported back to Ponyville. The magical energy continues to grow stronger and stronger, far too much for Star Flare to control. She thinks of the times she played hide and seek with Luna... of learning basic magic from Celestia... and of Skystrider, and how much she misses him... A sudden suction of air then an arc of blue energy explodes from her horn as it shatters. A massive shockwave of light ripples through the sky, bright enough that any watching have to look away. With the clouds spiraling away like the eye of a hurricane, Star Flare falls to Equestria in a trail of magical light – the last of her energy ebbing away. Luna covers her mouth as Twilight and her friends watch the streak of light in silence. Rainbow Dash’s eyes widen. “Fluttershy, I think that’s Star Flare… you have to help her!” Fluttershy gasps then hesitates a moment, willing up the courage. With a deep breath she takes off, the gape in the storm above having made the wind and rain calm down a bit, allowing her to fly quickly. Unconscious, Star Flare’s wings and hair drift back as she continues to fall. Fluttershy moves next to her, and seeing her eyes closed she bumps her shoulder then quickly moves away. “You have to wake up!” Seeing her not respond, she looks at the ground and suddenly is terrified she won’t be strong enough. Quickly she grabs underneath her forelegs and flaps her wings with all her might, but they aren’t slowing enough. Fluttershy squeaks, terrified they’re both going to crash into the forest, but suddenly, lifting her seems a lot easier. Opening an eye, she sees Dash holding her from the other side. “I’d never let my friends down… except like this.” She laughs. “Is she okay?” Fluttershy gives a sigh of relief, she doesn’t want to know what would’ve happened if Dash hadn’t been able to help. “I’m not sure… She won’t open her eyes.” As best they can, they gently carry Star Flare to the ground and land softly, bringing her to rest on a pile of leaves. “Oh Dash, I’m not sure what we should do? The storm just keeps getting worse and I don’t think we’d be able to carry her all the way back to Ponyville.” Star Flare winces then barely opens her eyes. “The storm…. It’s… getting worse?” She barely shakes her head. “No… it’s supposed to be over.”
Chapter 7: Elemental“It… did not work.” Luna whispers, still looking to the distant sky. She barely shakes her head in disbelief as she turns to the crystal statues of Princess Celestia and Spike, both standing lifeless and cold as the dark rain pours over them. “Was it all for nothing?” The storm continues relentlessly, the heavy rain flooding the roads of Ponyville and turning the outskirts of town into a drenched field of mud. Nearly any sign that there had once been a festival have been washed away, the once brightly glowing bonfires now submerged pits of charcoal and even the tents setup for vendors have all buckled from the wind and rain, lying submerged in the muddy water. After seeing the strange falling star from earlier and with Luna’s return, many ponies have left the safety of their home to stand out in the storm once again. Hoping for good news, they stand together, their umbrellas barely able to block the constantly shifting rain and wind. Seeing them, Luna treads slowly across the muddy to stand near the crystal winged-unicorn that once was her sister. Seeing their expressions, the hopeful gleam in their eyes that she may have a way to make things right once more only makes the situation that much more unbearable. She begins to take the final stride then stops mid-step, sloshing the muddy water around her hoof. One more step and she’d have to announce there’s no way to save Princess Celestia and Spike. With that step, she’ll have to accept the responsibility that all of the lives of Equestria now rest on her shoulders. Her stomach turns at the thought and she feels the urge to flap her wings and soar away; surely at some point her sister will giggle and wake her from this terrible dream. Seeing Luna deep in thought, Twilight sloshes through the mud to stand beside her. “You did everything you could…” She begins. “I did not.” Luna blurts out as she looks at Twilight. Even with the rain, tears can be seen flowing heavily from her eyes. “I have only brought harm to this world… And hurt so very many of those close to me. I do not deserve friends like you or Star... or a sister as wonderful as Celestia.” She swallows hard, her eyes filled with grief. She can imagine this is the pain Celestia must have felt when Nightmare Moon was banished. “I only wish I could set things right, Twilight Sparkle. But… I do not know how.” Lightning flashes above and a strange shadow is cast over Twilight and Luna, but neither notice it nor the gentle sound of flapping wings. Twilight’s horn glows soft purple, her magic gently raising Luna’s chin. “You did do everything you could… you told Star Flare the truth and you confronted your past. Bad things have happened, there's no denying that, but you’re a good pony, Princess Luna, we all believe in you.” She shakes her head a moment then gives a soft smile. “Even though the spell Star Flare used didn’t break, don’t lose hope. There still has to be a way to save Princess Celestia and Spike!” Luna looks at Twilight then to her friends, then with a sigh, gently removes the element of magic from her head. She looks down to the golden tiara that shines even in the blackest of night and thinks for a long moment. There still has to be a way… She hears Twilight’s words in her mind then nods. “You are right, Twilight Sparkle. I will find a way to save them, no matter what it takes!” “That way of thinking could lead you to a dark place.” Star Flare lands gently behind Twilight and Luna, to the surprise of everyone. Shouts of anger and fear erupt; some ponies begin to panic while others rush to confront her. Star Flare looks across the crowd, at the range of emotions now closing in. She remembers a time, years ago, when she landed near a group of her friends and comrades cheering for her, respect and adoration in their eyes. She blinks and sees the anger and terror of those looking at her now; none of these ponies know her… To them, I’m no less of a monster than the dragon that took Skystrider is to me, she thinks. As a low rumble of thunder hangs in the sky she bows her head and closes her eyes, accepting her fate. Luna, still surprised at Star Flare’s return, isn’t sure what to say. “Wa-wait! Do not harm her!” “Waaaaiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit!” Pinkie Pie shouts, her voice piercing through the sound of the rain and roar of the crowd. The surge of ponies stop just as they encircle Star Flare then look around confused, unsure of what to do. “First, let’s find out why she’s here.” Twilight steps forward, glancing at Pinkie then to Star Flare. Lowering her head, she narrows her eyes and half-whispers, “you can’t actually be here to help, are you?” “I do not know if I can… but I would like to…” Star Flare begins, wincing as she opens one eye to peek. “But your magic… I am so sorry.” Luna says weakly. Star Flare’s shoulders dip as she sighs lightly, then she raises a muddy hoof to poke where her horn once was. “All things considered, it's probably for the best. But… it’s as I feared. The spell I used must be permanent. Even if I could still use magic, I wouldn’t have a way to change them back.” She lowers her head and closes her eyes, her soaked blue mane dipping into the muddy water. “I really made a complete mess of things, didn’t I?” Rarity cries out and hugs Spike, the reality that there may not be a way to save him sinking in. Hearing her tearful whimpers, everyone lowers their head. “No… it is I who is to blame for all the terrible things that have happened.” Luna announces as she shakes her head. “I can’t accept that, Princess Luna. I… may never be able to forgive what you did as Nightmare Moon, but I think I can understand how you felt. I was obsessed with making Celestia understand how much I was hurting, and I blinded myself to the pain I was causing others.” “Ahem. Pard'n me, but ya’ll can figure out who did what and who’s to blame later. Right now, we need to figure out a way to fix this.” Applejack says as she tilts her hat to block a sudden surge of rain. “Well, what if we have an idea?” Rainbow Dash shouts as she splashes hard into the muddy water then trots to stand near the group. Panting, she looks behind her to see Fluttershy land as well then turns and gives Star Flare a stern look. “You weren’t supposed to get that far ahead; you know I can barely fly!” She says, breathless. As Star Flare half cringes and starts to think up an apology, Applejack steps forward, a flash of concern crossing her face. “What in the…. Dash, you two’ve been working with her?” Dash thinks of Star Flare saving her as they crashed into the lake… then of catching Star Flare as she fell from the sky. “Sorta… and yeah, I know, I know… it’s crazy. But just hear us out.” Star Flare clears her throat. “I… I might not have the power to bring them back…” She begins then turns to Celestia. “But, she does.” She nods at the crystal statue. Everyone looks at one another, clearly confused. “Um… Question! How’s a statue going to make itself not be a statue?” Pinkie bounces onto Celestia’s back, looking for anything she might’ve missed. “Or is she faking?! OoOOoooh, she’s goooood!” Star Flare smirks at Pinkie then looks at Luna. “I can’t say for certain this will even work, but Celestia will need her sister more than ever…” She pauses to blink away tears, the first she’s cried from being happy in a long time. “It’s sure to take everything you’ve got.” Luna sniffles trying her best to not start sobbing. It’s only been hours since this craziness began but it feels like an eternity since there’s been a glimmer of hope. “What do you need me to do?” * * * * * * * * “We came as soon as we heard what happened.” Spitfire begins then looks up to the thunderstorm above. “But this plan of yours…. Dash, Cloudsdale is in real trouble, are you sure this is going to work?” Rainbow Dash nods confidently then looks to the churning clouds of the dark sky, spotting a tornado far off in the distance. “It has to work… because I don’t want to think of what will happen if it doesn’t.” “Are the pegasus of Ponyville up for this? This won’t be like normal skyclearing… and it’s going to be really dangerous.” Soarin slides his Wonderbolts mask off then slicks his wet mane back as he gives Dash a concerned look. “Of course they are! Ponyville would never let you down!” Dash smirks, her heart suddenly beating hard enough she could swear she could hear it. Spitfire looks over to the pegasus stretching their wings, trying to get ready. “Well, from my count, we only have around ten or so flyers strong enough for these winds… I’m not sure we’ll even make a dent in these clouds with that.” “I, uh, think you missed a few. You’re going to have some extra help.” Dash laughs then points a hoof to the dark horizon. In unison, Star Flare and Fluttershy cringe and quickly move to hide behind the statue of Celestia. “Oh?” Spitfire slides her goggles up, trying to get a better view, but with the torrential rain and almost no light it’s nearly impossible. “What… are you pointing at…?” Her voice drifts off as she spots massive forms as lightning flashes in the distance. “Are those… dragons?” Twilight giggles as she moves to stand beside Dash. “Recently I’ve been trying to learn more about them… and well, in the process Spike and I made some friends.” Moments later, a white and red dragon soars overhead, the rain whipping about from the rush of its powerful wings. Two others, one a dark purple and another blue with yellow stripes in its scales, land heavily just a short distance from the group of ponies, the ground quaking from their weight. Shortly after, the white and red dragon turns and glides down, landing gently in front of the other dragons then folding his massive wings behind his back. He shifts his slender body to look to his friends then to the group of ponies, most of which gaze at him in awe. “Hi Fang, I’m glad you and your friends could come!” Twilight says cheerfully. Fang smiles, only a single large tooth peeking out from his lips. Taking a deep breath, he rests his front claws into the mud then bends down, bowing to the little pony in front of him. “Anything for you, Miss Sparkle.” “Three dragons?” Spitfire turns to Dash, an eyebrow raised in disbelief. Soarin laughs. “Yeah, that should help a bit…” Dash blushes and scratches the back of her neck nervously. “Um, Star Flare thought we’d be okay without them… but she agreed any help we can get is important.” She turns and smirks at the white pony, barely visible through the statue of Celestia. “And so, I pulled in a few favors as well. Luna helped me get a message to an old friend… they should be here any-“ “Yo, Dash!” Gilda lands hard in the mud, half skidding to make the it splash on others. For a moment she eyes the dragons then shrugs. “I haven’t seen you in forever… but, uh, couldn’t you ask for help on a better day? This weather is pretty awful.” “Hiya Gilda, and yeah, it’s what we need help with. I’ll explain in a sec.” “So what’s up with them… and woah, what’s with the statues? A little high profile for this place.” Before anyone can reply she continues. “Eh, whatever… just let me know what you need us to do.” She turns and nods to multiple other griffons landing on rooftops in Ponyville, too nervous to get close to the dragons. “But you owe me now, big time.” Dash rolls her eyes. “Yeah I know… thanks for coming.” Spitfire slides her goggles back down and grins, nodding to Soarin. “Yeah, I think we can do this!” Star Flare swallows as she looks at Fluttershy, nervously considering if she really wants to leave the cover of her hiding spot. Taking a breath, she quickly moves out from behind the statue to stand next to Luna, whose been steadily practicing her magic away from the crowd. “Are you ready, princess?” The purple glow of Luna’s horn fades as she turns and looks at Star Flare. “It’s been a very long time since I’ve tried to do this…. but… I am as ready as I will ever be.” * * * * * * * * Highly suggested listening for the finale: * * * * * * * * Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pinkie Pie, each wearing their element, move to stand directly in front of the crystal statues of Celestia and Spike. Rarity bends down and kisses Spike on his crystal cheek then moves to stand next to her friends, giving them a hopeful smile. As the storm rages on, ponies watch from windows and doorways in Ponyville, with some even braving the powerful winds to see what Twilight and her friends are going to do. Luna nods to Star Flare as she lands in the mud and skids sideways from the powerful winds. “I’ve never flown in winds this bad… they’re amazing for doing this.” Star Flare shields her eyes from the rain with a hoof as she looks to the pegasi, griffons, and dragons in flight, circling together over Ponyville. Above them, the clouds churn angrily and pulse with lightning. “It looks like they’re all set; Princess, I don’t think we can wait any longer.” Luna looks up as a bolt of lightning strikes a tree nearby, splitting the trunk in two as the branches explode into flames. Everyone cries out in fear from the explosive thunder, but through the flames of the tree her eyes widen as she spots something much more terrifying. Just a short distance away, a massive tornado begins to touch down in the Everfree forest. Turning, she looks at Star Flare, suddenly stunned with fear. Having just seen the tornado as well, Star Flare turns and waves to the crowd. “Give the signal, do it now!” “Calm yourself, little admirer, Trixie will give the signal when Trixie is ready.” Seeing Star Flare point in the distance, she spots the whirwind of destruction heading their way and immediately her horn glows blue and sends a magical flare into the sky. The pegasi, griffons, and dragons spot the bright flash of blue light below them then begin to fly in a spiral formation, circling faster and faster as they move into the churning clouds. At first nothing happens, but slowly, the clouds begin to swirl apart, creating a tiny gateway to the starlit sky above. “They did it!” Pinkie shouts as the crowd cheers. “It’s up to you now, Princess Luna!” Star Flare bows deeply. Luna nods then looks around then closes her eyes, trying to clear her thoughts. She dampens out the cheering of ponies, the splashing of rain against her and in the muddy water, and the roar of the tornado getting closer with each passing moment. Suddenly, her horn ignites brilliant purple followed by her entire body. Around her, the muddy water is pushed away as she begins to be lifted into the air with her magic. She kicks off with her rear hooves and spreads her wings, taking flight, a streak of purple light heading straight up into the night sky. Twilight watches Luna in amazement a moment longer then turns and looks at her friends. “It’s our turn girls, everyone ready?” Pinkie Pie bounces happily as Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy smile and nod. Star Flare looks from Luna to Twilight and her friends, then watches in horror as the tree that had been struck by lightning just a short while ago is torn apart and sucked into the powerful winds of the tornado getting ever closer. There’s no time left… this has to work! Twilight closes her eyes, preparing to use her element, but she can’t shake the feeling she’s missing something. She takes a deep breath, then her eyes open, glowing brilliant white, the power of the Element of Magic coursing through her. Twilight and her friends begin to glow and float in the air from the magic of their elements, the rain deflected away as a shield of rainbow light forms around them. Luna’s magic begins to fade and she slowly opens her eyes. Above her, the eye in the storm clouds has shifted from a star filled night to the hues of blue and reds of a morning sky. With a shocked laugh she covers her mouth and shakes her head in disbelief. Star Flare runs next to Twilight and her friends. “Princess Luna did it! She raised the sun!” In unison, a powerful beam of rainbow light erupts from Twilight and her friends as the first rays of sunlight reach Celestia, piercing the dark storm clouds above. The magical energy refracts inside the crystal statues for a long time then fades... but nothing happens. Star Flare looks wide-eyed between Twilight and her friends, to Luna flying high above then back to the statues still standing lifeless. The roar of the tornado is so close it sounds as if it could be on top of them any moment. “No… it had to work!” She moves over to stand next to Celestia, her eyes full of tears. Twilight looks at the statue of the princess then to Star Flare. Closing her eyes her mind works hard to piece together a puzzle. …It’s called spell channeling; it lets me cast magic through you, as if I were you… …I used magic I never should have, it’s a part of me now... …She came across the spellbook recently given to you by my sister… …In the end, you’ll know what to do... Star Flare cries heavily as she places her head against Celestia’s crystal chest, starting to lose hope. Twilight smiles then looks to her friends around her who each nod back, somehow already knowing what to do. “I am so sorry for what I have done… Please Celestia, this is your only chance!” Star Flare’s golden eyes shift to bright white as Twilight channels the magic of the elements through her. A ripple of energy courses around where her horn once was, the power making her mane flow away and as she touches Celestia, the rainbow light refracts through the princess and into Spike, makin both statues glow intensely. A beam of yellow light erupts from Celestia’s crystal horn, the powerful magic shooting straight up to the heavens. As the magic pierces the dark clouds above, the entire cloud covered sky glows as if lit from within. Once the magic fades, the clouds shift from blacks to grays then to whites, and begin to quickly disperse. As the heavy rain comes to a stop a massive tree crashes down next to the outskirts of Ponyville, the large tornado swirling apart and vanishing as the sky begins to clear. Star Flare steps back to stand with Twilight and her friends, watching as rays of sunlight course through Spike and Celestia. As Star Flare’s magic is completely dispelled, Celestia falls forward landing on her front hooves and tucks in her wings. Spike shakes his head and finishes what he was saying earlier. “I didn’t actually mean any harm, it was an accident! Honest!” “My Spikey-wikey!” Rarity rushes forward and picks Spike up and spins, kissing him on his cheek. Twilight laughs as she looks at her friends; Pinkie bounces happily around Rarity and Spike, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash high-five, and Applejack takes off her hat to look at the rising sun. They did it… this nightmare is over. Star Flare steps forward, she has a million things she wants to say, but she can’t stop crying. She just holds her head down, her tears dripping into the quickly receding muddy water, her soaked blue mane sopped over her shoulders. Celestia looks at Twilight Sparkle and gives a knowing smile, as if to say, you did well, my student. She turns then hugs Star Flare, who slumps against the princess, both from exhaustion and overwhelming happiness. Luna lands gently beside her sister then puts a hoof to her mouth in disbelief. Celestia looks up and gazes at her sister, her eyes filled with tears. “Thank you…” She turns to Twilight and her friends then to the crowd of ponies already moving to surround them. “Thank you, all of you!” Pinkie shouts, “Do you know what this calls for?!" Everyone looks to one another, smiling. In unison all of her friends respond, "A party?" "No sillies, that's later!" Giggling, Pinkie bounces forward and pulls all of her friends together. "It calls for... The biggest group hug ever!” Laughter and cheering fills the air as above, Fang, Gilda, the Wonderbolts and all the others in flight that had helped glide gently on the spring breeze, watching as the clouds fade into a beautiful morning.
Epilogue: A Return to Once WasStar Flare walks up to the top of the hill then takes shelter from the midday sun under an old tree, still trying to shake the notion of this being an incredibly odd place to meet. She stands for a long while, but with nopony showing up she eventually lays down to rest in the soft grass. Just when she's certain the others are pulling some kind of prank she hears someone coming up the hill from the other side. With the sun in her eyes she spots a pony with a rainbow mane. "Dash, why did you make me wait so long? Are the others… coming?" Her heart skips a beat. The sun is playing tricks, or maybe she hit her head on the lakebed harder than she thought… An agonizing mix of hope and reality swirl through her, the sensation making her feel flush and lightheaded. She could swear it was Skystrider coming up the hill… But that's impossible. She immediately spins around looking in the opposite direction. As sweet and wonderful as it would be, she refuses to indulge an illusion; her heart can't take it. "Star… Is that really you?" A voice she knows says. Star Flare trembles. It can't be. There's no way… But… What if? Tears start to flow and she sniffles loudly. "This is a very cruel trick to play." Next to her, the rainbow-mane pony sets down a starlight blossom he picked from the castle garden, the flower glowing feint blue under the shade of the tree. She closes her eyes and is suddenly fully aware of the world spinning and starts to fall over. But he catches her. "The others told me you've been through a lot…" She sniffles once more as she puts her forelegs around him, then, no longer able to bear it, looks at his face. It is Skystrider. "You're… here? You're really here with me?" Not giving him a chance to answer she pulls him close hugging him as tightly as she can. She banished him, using a spell she barely understood, magic she shouldn't have been able to use. "How… is this possible?" * * * * * * * * Applebloom sets down a pair of binoculars as she giggles and high-fives Sweetie-bell and Scootaloo. “It worked!” Scootaloo smirks, “I told you this would be the best way!” Sweetie Belle nods, “and the flower was a nice touch.” Princess Celestia and Luna both grin at the fillies then turn to Twilight. It’s probably best…” Celestia begins. “If we give them some time.” Luna finishes with a warm smile. Twilight nods. “Well, I guess over a thousand years have gone by since they last saw one another, so I’m sure they have a lot of catching up to do. But… what happened to the dragon that returned with Skystrider?” “Without my magic to protect Crimson, he was stopped before doing much damage… However, he fled capture and managed to escape the city. I do not believe we will see him again... ” “Still, there’s one thing I don’t understand… How was their banishment broken in the first place?” Celestia ponders for a moment. Though she doesn’t know it, Star Flare had cast a displace-time spell, not a banishment… when her horn was shattered the spell was broken and Skystrider returned, she thinks. “While I’m not certain, I’m sure this could give you some answers.” She nods towards the old spellbook sitting on Twilight’s desk, opened to the last page. At the bottom, she notices the signature of an old friend and smiles. Star Swirl. Applebloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle all giggle then sigh as they look outside once again. Luna squeezes next to them to get a peek as well. In the distance, Star Flare and Skystrider look into each other’s eyes then kiss deeply. Celestia giggles, “For now, little pony… I think it’s safe to say it was the magic of love.”
