Wake Upby StarRibbonChaptersSleeping AngelsPrincess of SleepSoft Hearted SlumberLuna's Discovery Sleeping AngelsShe wasn't here, she didn't head here. Did she? No-she was certain. Diamond was definitely certain that she hadn't gone to the school house. It was too late for that; she distinctively knew that she left for the day. Yet... Why was she here? She frowned at herself. Letting her emotions get the better of her! Such a disgrace to the Rich family. She squirmed in her seat she knew all too well. She didn’t exactly remember sitting. Then again-she didn’t remember anything. She fidgeted, trying to move her left back leg. It clanked as metal shackles danced, clinging to her without release. A metallic ball to her side gave her weight she didn't notice before. She couldn’t be awake-she didn't have shackles before. If there was anything that made this seemingly unreal, it was definitely the shackles.She shook her head before eyeing it. It was off. Being in the schoolhouse was off-but being in the school house with these type shackles (or any shackles, for that matter!) was very off. Miss.Cheerilee made them read books as an extra assignment. Diamond remembered not being thrilled with the idea of reading a book for an assignment, but she went along with it anyway. She remembered a novel that was set during the Lunar revolt-the pony, Star Luster, was forced into shackles. The shackles weren’t described this way, she was sure. Shackles weren't supposed to look like this, cartoons told her that much. Cerulean shackles were definitely not common-it didn't aid when she learned how wet they were. Slippery like water-but they clung to her deeply without restraint. They seemed custom made, but to create custom made shackles? No sane pony would do so, not to her knowledge at least, despite her knowledge that mares and stallions did often use shackles. For what-she didn’t quite know, but still it was known. She observed, pondering the possibility of removing them. "What-no key hole?" Diamond questioned. Surprisingly, she couldn't hear her own voice, despite lacking sounds in the room. She sighed softly at the revolution. Yes, no key hole! What shackle had no key hole? “Its not reality, stupid!” She couldn’t believe she had to remind herself that! Any moment now she would be awoken by Luna herself to remind her. That would surely dampen her when she woke-making the PRINCESS busy with her affairs of this nature? That was an even bigger disgrace than before! The Rich daughter, no doubt, rejected the notion entirely. No way would she look foalish in front of a princess. Still... “Ick! Still wet!” It was when she touched it, she grew worried. It was slippery, like it was predicted, yet...it wouldn't leave. The wetness seemingly coming from no where. At the same time, the shackles wouldn’t budge. She peered around. Nothing would remove it here, not if that wasn’t working, she rationalized. She sighed, finding nothing particularly interesting to do. So, she did what she normally did during lectures:she laid her head down and closed her eyes. “Inception,” She thought briefly. You couldn’t possibly sleep while sleeping. That was too weird. She coughed out before hearing some foreign ringing that played in her ears. Her ears flicked, trying to find the source before her cornflower blue eyes scanned the room. “Luna?” She called out, yet her voice seemed soft. She tried calling out again, but the same reaction transpired. Her voice seemed simply lost, even to her. It didn’t matter, however. Luna wasn’t anywhere. There wasn’t even faint traces of her presence. Her breath got caught inside her chest, tightening it ever so slightly. She scrunched her nose. “Giggle at the ghosties…” Diamond calmly thought, urging her chest to bob the correct way. The knots were still there. “Gaffaw at the grossly...crack up at the creepy…” The ringing grew louder, intensifying as she tried to unknot her chest. “Child,” The voice called to her in the darkness. It was that of maybe a mare or filly, the voice simply straining and sort of raspy in nature. Maybe she was thirsty? Diamond never heard a pony that thirsty before. Not thirsty, thats for sure. There were grunts mixed into the ringing before they stopped. “You are just a foal.” “Who are you?!” She cried out, jumping out her seat before stumbling about. The weight that was ignored as she sat seemingly came back ten fold to remind her of her position. The voice did not answer. “Who are you?” Diamond asked again, making sure she called out at max volume that her body could offer. Nothing responded. “You made so many errors...so many atrocities for such a small foal as yourself..” The voice responded despondently. “Can you see me, dear filly?” Diamond peered around once more before walking to the source’s location. The darkness interfered with this, though, since her eyes couldn’t make out the form that started to grow in the room, materializing out of no where. “Your..standing there…!”Diamond responded, confidence illuminating from her tiny form. Or, at least, as much confidence she could muster at the time. She sighed to herself. Daddy said to make confident appearances to give the allusion. She forgot what the allusion was for, but she was certain this was probably the time to use it. The voice failed to respond again. “You certainly can not see me,” It responded. Her tone never changing as she stepped forward. “You see but a figure, that much is certain.” Diamond glared at the figure’s shadowy residue it left behind. Sure-the figure in full was not to be seen, however, the form was different. It was suffocating darkness. “Why ask, if you know the answer?” It flickered away, the form becoming absent once more. Diamond’s ears fell, her chest knotting worse than before. Where was Luna? Tears welled up in those cornflower blue eyes before her hooves desperately forced them to halt as she plopped down. It failed miserably. The tears flowed relentlessly as her heart pounded harder within her chest as the darkness seemed to fade quickly, faster than her eyes would ever be able to adjust to. Then, like that, it abruptly ended. Her front right leg falling to the ground, breaking the shield it gave for her eyes. She gave a soft whimper as she wiped her tears away before opening her eyes for the first time after this event. Her eyes had to adjust to the change in lighting, and when they had, they couldn’t see once more. She was still in the schoolhouse, all alone with another shackle. This time, it was red with a strong rusty aroma that almost made her gag. It was not this, however, that made her cry once more. As she laid in front of the blackboard, there was writing that was etched into the surface. It was deeply cut, like claw marks were the ones responsible. The words leaving for questions that she had lacked answers to. “Nasty words leave for bad marks. Angry words leave for a speech that is regretted. Actions propel dark messages. Find. Repay. Atone.” Filthy Rich woke up that morning, never expecting what he had received. He trotted down the corridors of his mansion, his heart pounding faster than ever before. His blue eyes scanned everywhere they could in the measly time that they had on an object. The servants begged him to withdraw, such actions unbecoming of a rich stallion such as himself. He didn't stop. They wouldn't be able to convince him. Not ever since he saw her. He begged the princess herself to come with aid. Still-her response was still troubling. He sounded a bit obsessive, but he would stop. No. He will never let his sleeping angel alone again. Princess of Sleep"Filthy, for the last time..." Twilight felt a sigh escape her mouth from exasperation. She grew tense, her body shifting as she concentrated on her magical book. Her magic wavering as Filthy Rich continued forward, "pestering" her. Twilight mentally altered that. He wasn't pestering her per say-he had every right to show such emotion. After all-if Shining Armour...She shook her head. No, she wouldn't dare think that way. "I've been searching all day for some cure, I even messaged Princess Luna." "Call me Rich, please," Filthy Rich corrected before simply shaking his head at the notion before he bows in respect. She tapped his shoulder, vaguely reminding him that such formalities weren't needed with her."What had she said? Anything new that I should be aware of?" Twilight looked towards him, a frown following soon after as her eyes tilted, gleaming at the sad sight. "I'm sorry, Rich," She shakes her head. "But I have yet to hear any responses from the princess as of yet. The only response thus far was simply that she knew of the problem." At the statement, Filthy grew agitated. "What in blazes do you mean, she knows?" He quickly caught himself before saying anything too mean spirited. Twilight was a princess after all. Twilight sighed again before trotting to the nearest shelf. While it was not exactly a library anymore, there were still books that were stored within the castle walls, similar to the old library that resided. "She knows that ponies are falling asleep, never waking again but not quite dead," Twilight corrected. Her voice had a subtle edge. "Luna can't enter those dreams, that much is certain. She can't seem to pinpoint why though. I'll tell you if I find something new. " "You..." Rich looked down, ready to question yet was reluctant to. Twilight simply nodded and placed a comforting hoof across his shoulder with silent understanding. "Don't worry, I've got this covered. Go to Diamond Tiara. I bet she'd want you there when she wakes up from her nap." Rich nodded with a shaky smile before trotting off with great unease marking his steps. All Twilight could do is look towards him, a wave of pity illuminating from her form. "Twilight?" She turned to the source of the voice calling her. It was her number one assistant of course, Spike. She grinned at his presence. He was safe-if anything, that was something to be proud of surely. Just days prior, ponies started falling asleep, never waking up. She sighed again, relieved. He wasn't affected, thankfully. "You okay? You seem a bit out of it." "Don't mind me, Spike," She answered with the smile appearing still. "Just..a bit on edge. Who isn't anymore?" Spike cocked an eyebrow at this, skeptical. That grin became sheepish in nature as he observed her. "You can't keep this up Twilight!" Spike urged as he maneuvered her away from the door. "Your working yourself up. At this rate, you won't solve anything because you'll be too tired!" "That's just it, I need to figure out this solution fast or else that might just happen!" Twilight trotted towards the shelves once more. Her eyes scanning over the spells. There were spells ranging from the simple to the top class. "Ah, there." "'Dream Casting: Mastering the Art of Dreams?'" Spike quoted the cover instantly. "You sure about this?" "For the last time, I'm positive!" Twilight said defiantly as she sat on the ground. She frowned at the results as she started skimming the pages. The words were harder to interpret in comparison to other magic books she read previously. It was in Old Equestrian. Dream casting wasn't very popular, she assumed. Maybe it gone out of date for sometime? She'd have to ask- "Twilight?" A cautious, prim voice called out to her from the front door. The prim voice belonged to such a pony: a prim unicorn pony with white fur like untouched snow and a mane of purple. Spike straightened his scales at the sight of this mare, the mare he found beyond beautiful. Beautiful was simply too small of a word to describe that feeling he had. He sighed dreamily as he watched her enter. "Is Twilight here?" Spike walked over, nodding. "Course she is, I'll lead you over to her right away Rarity!" He said with great obedience. "With Diamond Tiara's father showing here every so often, panicking, Twilight's been anything but relaxed." Rarity nodded with silent understanding. "Surely that could be seen," Rarity agreed. "That poor stallion has to be riled up, I can't see why not. If Sweetie Belle ever..." She sniffled at even the prospect of Sweetie Belle falling victim to such slumber. Spike frowned silently at her dismay. "I bet you Sweetie Belle will be fine. I just hope the best is all. I know Diamond Tiara....wasn't so great..."Spike looked down as he walked down. He knew first hoof that Diamond Tiara was bad news. He'd seen some of what she had done, especially to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. He'd seen more than enough to land her in trouble, some being against pony laws and some being lawful but downright against...pony kind, in a way. Still, he lacked power to truly do something about her actions. Thinking back, he pieced together each offense and action. Actions that could be deemed creepy even. Sometimes, he'd wonder why she'd follow alongside Scootaloo. She'd grin wildly as Scootaloo rode her scooter past the townsponies. "But..she didn't..deserve this..." Rarity smiled down at him. "I understand perfectly well, deary. Its unbecoming of a pony to wish ill on another." Spike paused as he neared the corner to his friend's quarters. Rarity noted this absent minded pause, taking it in. "Spikey, you okay? You seem a tad gone for a moment there." Spike shook his head. "I was just...wondering..." Why was Diamond following Scootaloo in the first place? Knowing Diamond's previous records, he doubted it was anything good. Besides that, where WAS Scootaloo anyway? He lacked any knowledge of her whereabouts anymore. "Don't worry about it Rarity. Its nothing, really." Rarity eyed him suspiciously, her eyes narrowing. She didn't buy that act for a second. "Don't give me that, something's on your mind. It'll hurt your scales if you don't speak your mind. It ages you, you know." Spike sighed dreamily once more at her worry, before straightening out. "I'll tell you later, I promise," Spike sighed in relief as Rarity dropped the subject seemingly. She took that answer, for now at least. He didn't enjoy the pit in his stomach that grew deeper at the thoughts. What exactly did Diamond Tiara do to Scootaloo? Where was she now? He bit back, refraining from asking further. Rarity simply eyed him knowingly. She knew he'd tell eventually, so she let him slide. They neared the room with ease, silence entering between them and growing bigger each passing moment. "Twilight, darling, are you still reading?" Rarity asked, her voice aching with concern. "You've been cooped up so long. Surely you have to see the light eventually." Twilight merely shushed her friend with annoyance tracing its features as she turned the page. Her eyes narrowing as she concentrated further. Too many loud ponies in her way. She was sure if she translated it, she'd get it fast then Ponyville would return to its normal state. "I think its best if you let her be." He suggested his crush with a shrug. She looked perplexed at his reaction. "I've known her all my life. When she's like this, nothing will change her path." "You sure about that Spikey-Wikey?" "I guess Filthy got her good," Spike observed as he watched the studious alicorn. He simply caved in when she started reading. No use trying to snap her out of something so big, especially when she's in one of those moods. Still, he might as well whip up a meal for her. She'll be up with that book for a while, he rationalized. Surely she'd need something. He pattered his way to the kitchen with Rarity not far behind with similar ideas. He was waiting for a response from her, hoping she'd give one anyway. Knowing Twilight, she'd answer despite it not directed towards her. "From the looks of it, anyway." "To place burden on ones-self makes everypony flustered, Spike," Rarity rationalized. "Twilight must be feeling quite a bit of pressure...I can not, without a mind, blame her of course." "Of course he had," She answered bitterly, a sigh forming from frustration. Why couldn't anything be easy anymore? There wasn't a spell that-wait. "Spike..."She turned to face where he was prior, only to see him gone. She panicked a little as her heart raced. "Spike?!" She called out. "Rarity?!" There was no response from either one of them. Where could that baby dragon and pony possibly be? Pots cluttered around, her ears perking at the sounds of metal instantly. She trotted off in the direction with a fast pace. "T-Twilight..." He whined out, his voice lowering. His draconian eyes still, watching something Twilight couldn't pinpoint. She tilted her head, trying to see what he was staring so intensely at. "Do you see that?" "D-Dear, surely you see that!" Rarity stuttered out, eyes fixated on the same object as the dragon. Twilight could see that she was about to faint. "There is nothing there, Spike," She tried approaching him. He was startled, so why startle the young dragon further? She turns her head towards the location again, never leaving. She frowns a bit before her eyes widening. "Ah, you certainly see me now, Princess." The figure lowered its head as if showing some respect until it bore its eyes into her. A shiver ran down her spine as she watched the form move closer to the dragon. Sensing this, Twilight stepped in front to guard him. Rarity's magic flickered wildly as she prepared herself. "You are not hurting Spike! You hear me?!" Twilight called out. "Who or what are you?!" The figure simply tilted its head. Was it perplexed? "Well?" "Forgive me, but alas, we can not state who we are," The figure's raspy voice didn't falter. "If you can not see my entire essence, then I can not state my being." Twilight stomped her hoof at that revolting concept. "Are you behind all this?!" Rarity questioned out to the black figure. It didn't answer as readily this time around. It pawed at the ground. "In a way, you can say such words, Preppy." It sounded deponent. "But alas, this was the work of many, not one." Twilight and Rarity backed off at the statement, curiosity filling Twilight's being entirely. She wanted to learn more-eager to. Maybe she found the- "WAIT!" Twilight cried out, but was too late. The figure was gone before she realized it. Its blackened form escaping without another word on the matter. Twilight levitated objects here and there, looking for something to trace back the figure to, but came up with nothing in the end. Spike blinked, snapping out from his stupor in time to calmly tap Twilight, handing over something that might sooth. Rarity, on the other hoof, quickly prepared a snack along side the tasty beverage. After such an ordeal, why not? "I made some tea..." Spike states weakly, his eyes falling to the floor. "Tea always calms you down.." She gave a weak smile as she levitated the delicate cup to her mouth. Chamomile with peppermint tea leaves were the sweetest type of tea there was. It was perfect. A look of content laced her features. "Here, you might want this too," Rarity insisted. "Crumpets go delightfully well with tea, if I say so myself. Always helps my dilemmas." Twilight levitated the crumpet and munched it. Rarity surely was a great cook. She munched on it a bit, smiling. "Thanks, that truly does wonders," Twilight looked his way again. "Why were you two here?" Spike looked towards her with a small grin of his own to match. Rarity, however, answered with as much pride as he had. "You were reading and well...." She paused, figuring her wording. "You don't eat when your reading, and, seeing you engrossed...I figured you'd need the meals more than ever. What, with Diamond Tiara falling under that dream..er.. thing." "Wait...what?" Twilight stopped drinking momentarily, her heart stopping. "Uh..I said when you read you get engrossed-" Crack! Suddenly, the cup fell to the ground as Twilight stared straight ahead. Her magic loosened at the prospect. "How could I forget so easily?!" She reprimanded herself, frantic. "I must have forgot after that figure appeared!" She felt her chest tighten. Where had that figure gone? Had it-She had to check instantly. She felt herself race towards the shelves once more, her heart pounding as sweat dripped from her forehead. She was so close, she can't lose all her data just like that! She slid her way down before landing right in front of the book. "Twilight?! Twilight?!" Spike called out, racing over. He was huffing out from being forced to run such distance. He bent his head and paused, taking air in like it was the most precious thing in the world and he had so little of it. When he peered up, he saw her sitting on her hunches, immobile. "What's wrong?!" Rarity cried out, racing towards her. She brushed off her coat, frowning. Certainly, she scuffed her fur while running, and that wouldn't do in the least! Ugh. Bad day turned worse. Still, her friend was worth more than a scuff mark or so. She marched forward, keeping her head high as she took a glance at her fallen friend. Her eyes wandered to the item in question before she cocked her eyebrow. "I....I..." Twilight stuttered softly. Spike could almost see tears dripping from her eyes right down her cheeks. "I almost had it Spike..." "Tw..Twilight?" He cautiously tilted his head as he softly walked over, his claws landing on her. He peered up to see her expression. It was horrifying, at least in his eyes. He never seen Twilight so devastated. "Are..you ok..?" "I was..so close.." Twilight stuttered again. Spike frowned again, wiping away her tears. "Its that book, isn't it?" Rarity questioned, gesturing towards the item she knew was probably the culprit. Why did such trivial things break her so easily? It couldn't possibly be so bad! She gasped in realization. Spike, however, never took the hint. "Your not making any sense, "Spike shook his head. "What's wro-" Twilight spun him around. His stomach churned a bit, but he regained his bearings. However, his stomach plummeted above fifty stories below. He suddenly didn't feel good as he stared at the book. It wasn't the book itself that originally had him riling. No, of course it wasn't. It was something different. Something odd that he never expected would happen. The book edited itself, new words forming instead of what was there earlier, given the type of text was shown. It didn't need to have a different text type for him to realize it wasn't there prior. It was what had been written instead. Written in strange font was clear cut words that shook him to the core. "During our time of unrest, we resort to ignorance and magic. Magic only lasts as long as the wielder has knowledge. Ignorance lasts simply as long as the individual lacks perception. With neither at your disposal..." The words simply cut itself off. Soft Hearted Slumber"I-I'm sure you'll figure something, Twi," Spike tried to reassure, his eyes never leaving the book once. "You always have an answer in the end." Twilight hadn't responded, her mouth agape, staring at the book hopelessly. Rarity, however nodded, deciding to detach her view from the book. "Spike's right, dear, I'm sure we'll come up with something that could change this course." Twilight sighed deeply, frowning as she glares. She slumps over, her wings falling helplessly to the sides. "This could have been it, this really could have been what ended everything." Twilight muttered softly, more to herself than to anypony else. Rarity and Spike exchanged meaningful glances with eachother in silent agreement. "That can't simply be the only spellbook dedicated to dreams," Rarity urged. "Maybe we can find another one. It can't be..uh..too difficult." Twilight, however, turned slowly towards her, bursting forward with energy that was gone just before. "I can't just FIND another book on dream catching!" Twilight yelled at her, glaring before Rarity slinked back. Her form becoming small as she could as the distraught alicorn pelted her from anger. "It was hard enough to even find THAT one! How can I find one at this time of day? Or any day fr that matter?" Spike nervously walked to her, a claw pulling her down. "Twilight, isn't there a library in Canterlot?" Spike suggested, eyeing Rarity with worry. "I'm sure you could find it there-and now that you're a princess, I'm sure Celestia would even let you in the Forbidden Archives!" Twilight stared ahead, thoughts flying at high speeds. If a small town library had such a rare find, wouldn't a massive library such as that have such a find too? She paused as she went over the logistics of the possibility. The chances that it could follow her there are..she didn't know. She didn't even know what it possibly was. Was it worth heading over for a book that rare? She scrunched her nose. Ponyville could be forced into sleep by the time it was found there, and by that time it could be too late! "Is the risk worth it?" She mumbled as Rarity sighed in relief, picking herself up from the previous encounter. "Twilight..?" Rarity asked gently as she moved towards her friend. Twilight shook her head. "If we head to Canterlot now..." Spike tried again. Twilight shook her head as she glanced his way. "Its too big of a chance, Spike, "She reasons before turning back. With magic to her disposal, she pulls out a scroll, levitating it to view. "By the time we get there, who knows what could be of Ponyville? All for a book we might not find there in the first place. Its too big of a risk for us to take." "What are you trying now, if I may ask?" Twilight handed the scroll to Spike along with an ink and quill. Spike groaned. He knew the task before even getting the answer. "I may not be a student anymore, but my only option is to send a letter. Hopefully, Luna might know the spell or something close to it. Though..." She begun to doubt it. It was crafted after Luna's revolt- the ponies lacked protection within the night. Four unicorns acted as guards throughout the years, acting like a replacement for the dream wielding alicorn. "..it was made after her revolt.." "How so?" Twilight, using magic, projected the images with quality that only magic could offer. On the grid, four unicorns, two mares, two stallions, were at the center. "After Luna's revolt, ponies were lost. They were vulnerable in the night, lacking protection. As a result, the ponies began to become distressed. Plants wouldn't grow properly, the skies couldn't be cleared, magic couldn't fully be performed..." Twilight trailed off, demonstrating. "When plants die of disease or don't grow the correct manners, they can be susceptible to diseases of all kinds. The one that got to the ponies before all else happened to be the Cutie Pox. These years were considered the worst years by far and lasts about 20 years into the Celestia era." "The Cutie Pox destroyed towns, cities even. It created mass hysteria that ended up with ponies doing some...unsavory...things to others," Twilight shivered. She remembered hearing a story about the town in the Everfree-the cursed town that was forced to forever be in a party over a mistake they committed. An unholy mistake, but a mistake nevertheless. All after a little filly gained her cutie mark. She briefly glanced at her own, thankful. "This was when four unicorns stepped up, crafting spells that would help protect the ponies from further harm. These ponies created the dream spells. That's why Luna has such poor grasp on them. She only knows the spells she mastered and made. It didn't help that entering dreams was a surprisingly difficult concept to grasp, only those that have the talent dealing with it-and by extension, magic, would be able to even cast the spells. Take into consideration that unicorns were losing their magic abilities, the fact that unicorns make only a third of the population, and that it was even rarer for a pony to have such a talent in the first place." "Why write to them then?" Rarity asked, giving a sheepish grin. "I didn't mean to sound rude but-" "Its a perfectly valid reason," Twilight nodded. "I...I might get more information from her. Its worth a shot, isn't it?" Spike mumbled softly, finally done with the letter at hoof. He smiled and checked it over once before placing a seal with Twilight's mark on it. He took a big breath of air, his chest puffing out, and shot his dragon fire at the target. "Its been sent, " Spike confirmed with a smile. However, the smile disappeared with a belch replacing it with a scroll simply popping out. He gave out a cry of pain before collapsing in a huff from the letter being sent. Rarity gave him a worrying glance before peering over Twilight's shoulder, eager to see the message that was just given. "Well, go on! Read it!" Rarity urged. "Did she-" Twilight concentrated for a moment, glaring at the page. "Shush, I'm trying to!" Twilight shushed. Dear Princess Twilight, We have received your note regarding the concerns of the citizens of Ponyville. We used everything at our disposal. However, nothing looks promising at this point in time. Our dream spells have little effect on the ponies. In fact, it states no ponies are sleeping! Its rubbish! Through this, we gained many useful and key information that we shall state eye to eye. Its a matter of high importance, we can not simply write in quill and ink for this. This phenomenon became the concern for princesses, and as such, we shall meet you in the palace at three. We shall see you soon. Sincerely, Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night and Equestria. Twilight glanced at the page, looking towards it as if she hadn't read that right. Surely, she hasn't read it right. Just how great was the impact? Was there other places suffering from the same ill fate? Her stomach drops again a few stories, unsettled just by the notion. "Do..you think...there are other ponies like this?" Rarity asked the inevitable. Twilight simply glanced her way, her face forming into one of sorrow. "I...I don't know Rarity.." She admitted, placing the scroll down where she originally got it. "I don't know anymore..I just thought it was here..." Spike worriedly shot her look before hugging his mentor. He knew she would act like this and he knew the remedy for something like it. "We both know you'll figure out the answer," Spike said, reassuring the purple alicorn. She sniffled a bit before frowning. "I..I don't have the answer this tim-" Spike instantly shot up at that, frowning at her. He'd heard this before, but this time, it wouldn't last as long. Rarity shot in a glance filled with worry at the action. He waved her off, nodding and knowing. "Remember when Discord turned everypony against you?" Spike asked, lifting up her chin. She tilted her head, her eyes staring into his, perplexed. "You came home, ready to pack your belongings and leave to a new place. Do you know what happened next?" "Celestia gave me letters..." "She gave you a reminder, Twilight, like we are trying to do. In the end, you found the answer. Remember when you thought the same way at the Crystal Empire? Canterlot Royal Wedding? The time when you swapped around everyone's cutie marks?" Twilight paused, frowning. "Yes but-" "You solved everyone of those problems," Spike's voice grew determined. "You ALWAYS came up with an answer for those situations, and they aren't nearly as horrible as this one. If you could beat Chrysalis, Discord, Sombra, and even out perform Star Swirl, you can't possibly suggest you can't beat this!" Twilight started smiling again, getting up as her spirit recharged. "You're right, Spike, I can't give up! We have to find the answer!" Twilight's voice grew confident as she spoke. "Thank you for reminding me." "Its nothing really," Spike blushed. "I'm going to help you. You're my friend." "What you did really means a lot, Spikey," Rarity smiled, proud of the baby dragon. His blush intensified at the compliment. "A-Aw shucks!" He couldn't form even a sentence after that. Twilight chuckled at the interaction between the two before trotting off to the conference room where 7 chairs were situated around a desk. She pondered for a second, wondering if she can add an additional 3 more. After all, her friends were bound to come with. "While you two do that," Twilight chuckled again, smiling. "I'm going to set the conference room up for the arrival, then send out letters to the other elements. They must show up to this meeting as well." Spike just nodded, hearts flying as he just stared at the white mare. "Do you need any help?" Rarity asked. "I could lend a hoof, you know." Twilight turned her way, nodding. "Maybe it'd take less time if you sent the letters out." Twilight offered, handing scrolls out. Rarity exchanged her own smile as blue magic engulfed the letters easily. "Certainly, I can do that-" Rarity felt a harsh breeze blow against her styled purple mane, tangling it. She cried out a little at the prospect of her mane being damaged in some way, shape, or form, before narrowing her eyes at the source of the breeze. The breeze came from a prismatic mane that flung by her at high velocity. The owner had a cyan coat, her eyes of violet hues. "You certainly know how to make an entrance, Dash." Her words said through clenched teeth. "Sorry Rares," Rainbow frowned, saying apologetically before she turned towards Twilight. Twilight normally saw a cocky grin on there or perhaps a more laid back tone instead. However, replacing both those faces was one of pure terror and panic. "We're in BIG trouble, you guys! You gotta come quick!" "Calm down, Rainbow, what is it?" Twilight asked, worrying for her friend. "I never seen you like this before. I can't go if its anything small. I have to prepare for the princesses arriving to discuss-" Rainbow, however, barely calmed down. She stopped her flight as she sat down on her hunches, sighing out. "This ain't nothing 'small', Twi. Its bigger than big, its HUGE!" Rainbow tossed her arms up. "I decided to check out the school house-not because I was looking for Scootaloo or anything, I'm totally not worried. However, nopony was there. Turns out that Cheerilee...." Rainbow shook her head, tears forming at the base of her eyes before she quickly brushed them off. While Applejack and Rarity barely paid heed to the disappearance, there was no dispute that Rainbow took it harder than most of the others. Twilight briefly considered a search party, but, judging by the harsh tones Applejack and Rarity gave to the notion, she decided against it. She had little knowledge of the events, ponies refused to tell her such. Spike gave her a worried glance. Twilight knew the look-Spike must feel it too. "Why worry about a petty thief?" Rarity huffed at the notion before she instantly regretted her words. Rainbow's glares were nothing but filled with pure rage. "You barely even KNOW her," Rainbow's face contorted with the rage, nudging the unicorn mare. "There has GOT to be a reason behind that your REFUSING to see." Rarity bit back, knowing the result of the confrontation already. Twilight, however, refused to let that occur. She already witnessed physical altercations between Applejack and Rainbow Dash from it, there was no reason she had to get Rarity involved. "Back to the topic at hand," She coughed uncomfortably. "Cheerilee fell victim, correct?" Rainbow just nodded. "But that's not my main concern..." She glanced down. "Big Mac's been helpin' her. I'm sure she'll be okay. Right after that, I went to Fluttershy's cottage to get a kit for Big Mac. She fell hard before she...fell victim." She cleared her throat. "I went over to get the kit...but.." Rainbow's breaths became shallow as if she refuses to believe herself. "I got..distracted..." Twilight's eyes widen. It dawned on her suddenly why Rainbow Dash came in, panicking at the last minute. Rarity backed off, eyes filling to the brim before she fainted. Spike thankfully caught her before she fell. "You can't possibly mean.." "Fluttershy fell under the spell too." Her words had a sudden finality to them that hadn't changed a bit or faltered. Suddenly, the room became soft and quiet. Twilight could only wish the silence could be filled with something, anything other than this. If only she knew how. Author's Note Hi there, Star here! I had a sudden random headcannon that I added here. Basically, my headcannon is that Celestia, despite everything, couldn't stay up at night. She's only a single pony, after all. She MUST sleep at some point. Anyway, Luna was the only one that was able to go through dreams at the time-but when she vanished, the protection vanished too. (Being that she also was up at night) So this just naturally fell because things weren't protected. Stress came and when stress comes, it leaves you weaker and more prone to disease. Then the Cutie Pox came, shit hit the fan and the solution followed after. Please note:I do not own the Story of the Blanks. Sorry. Luna's Discovery Luna's Discovery Luna wasn't a monster pony like lots of ponies tried to claim, in fact, she's anything but a monster. She had a heart that saw through things that nopony had come even close to see. This was fact; ponies often mistook her blunt nature as coldness, but she was not cold. Just unnerved. She only wished that ponies could see through such acts and see what she truly meant, but alas, that was but a fantasy. However, this was not a fantasy. Twilight wrote to her, directly to her-not Celestia. Perhaps she would have been happy if it wasn't for the circumstances. Circumstances she didn't understand at all. She sighed as she handed her guard the note that she received in the end. Another case, this time to a bearer of Harmony. "What could possibly plague our fellow ponies?" Luna sighed as she wondered, looking up at the pale sky. Her thoughts briefly wandered to her sister. Celestia would certainly need to hear of such story. She cursed at the luck. "Such a trial we must embark upon! Why must we deal with such tasks?" She unfolded her wings to stretch as unease grew inside her very body. Sensing such, the batpony guard turned to face her. Concern was evident. "Princess? Are you alright?" He asked slowly, worried about her genuinely. She smiled and gave a soft sigh. "We-no, I am fine, "She answered softly, smiling a little at the thought of her subjects being so caring. She merely extended her wings to ready herself for flight. "I have to inform thy sister. Clearly, its her concern as well. We can not ignore that." With a nod, she left, flying to the main section of the castle quickly, entering through the main window, thankfully it was open. "Luna, why are you out here?" Celestia questioned, concerned. She got off her hunches in alarm as Luna hadn't answered. She approached with nervousness that was barely seen in the Princess of the Night. However, it ended as she bowed her head softly, not to worship Celestia of course, but as a sign of something grim. "I'm afraid to inform you, dear sister," Luna said with such softness that tugged Celestia's heart. Something told her the grim outcome already. "An Element bearer has fallen victim- Kindness. Twilight confirmed the case herself. She simply fell asleep doing a task." Celestia sighed as she brought her sister closer. "That meeting has to be sooner, "Celestia softly spoke. "At this rate.." "I am the slayer of nightmares, keeper of dreams!" Luna spoke highly, glaring at her sister with regained confidence. "We can clearly stop this outbreak from spreading. We just need leads. Looking grim is far from what is told. We can not let this bog our minds, we must continue the battle. "She stood up, trotting towards the door. "Get ready, sister," Luna frowned. "I shall examine the evidence myself then head there. Something isn't adding. I am afraid I don't know what such thing is behind this tragedy, but I can not simply sit back. " Celestia shook her head. "Luna, rashness-" "We never fail, we rule the dream world! Sister, we can not stand idly by as this nightmare continues to spread. We shall hide under a guise, don't worry for us. We shall be safe." She took off without a word from her sister edge wise. She sighed as she flew, formulating a plan along the way. Coming up with one, she shifted forms, turning into a pure pegasus as she approached the small dirt town named Ponyville. It was pretty, at least seen from above. Most ponies wouldn't see how different it looked-being small allowed this, but with as many ponies put under, it was noticed by the Princess herself. She landed down, almost invisible to the ponies below her. "A new perspective," Luna glanced around. "shall take place. Perhaps there is something of use by looking at the town through outsider eyes." She closed her eyes to simply take everything in. Well, she would have loved it, but something nagged her. Something big told her that its nothing to celebrate. There was something new about the air; something that smelled simply off. Other ponies wouldn't recognize it, but she knew it was covered by something. It was almost familiar to her, but she was certain that she wouldn't be there. She couldn't be here. Still, she followed the odd sense. "Greetings, dear Luna." Luna's wings flared as she saw her. Saw somepony that she didn't think she'd see again. This was that of a figure, creme in nature. Her body was only a bit smaller than that of her own when she was a full alicorn. However, she was laying down, trying to get comfortable in the ally. Her legs were underneath her, but Luna knew they were covered in thick green vines that only mimicked the roses and thorns in her flowing mane. These thorns connected to a beautiful black rose that matched her mane that showed a variety of reds. Her green eyes stared at her, concern shining through. "A-Ambrosia.." Luna's eyes grew wide simply noticing her. Her little sister sitting right before her. She still had the caring nature she provided, even with the stress of being dead. "I-I shouldn't...even...be able..." Ambrosia nodded with a small smile. "Ah, yes, that," Ambrosia agreed softly. "I'm sad to say, such circumstances aren't what I imagined..when I saw you again..."She lowered her head, looking to her back. Luna slowly made her way to her, getting closer. "Sister, what is it.." "You could only see me because of magic," Ambrosia clarified. "and if in the presence of the dead." The smell was the first to hit her. It made her recoil. ambrosia noted this, with a brief image of disgust crossing her face before changing into a softer tone. "I created these ponies from scratch...I only wanted them to be loved, "Ambrosia sighed out. "I...I can't believe my child..." Luna gulped before pointing. "What..pony died...if I dare ask?" Ambrosia's disgust wasn't masked this time. "I grant ponies access to my works. I crafted this world after I died. The death, the famine..."Ambrosia muttered, looking rather cross. "I let them play...I let them roam under my watchful gaze...and yet...my lovely child..." She nuzzled the little pony on her back, cradling her like a mother would. The orange fur poked past Ambrosia's wings as said pony's head laid nuzzled into to pony. Violet tufts of fur radiated. It must be a mane. Luna recognized the pony. She helped this pony out once, helping her from a nightmare. "Can..Can that truly be?" Ambrosia softly nodded. "Scootaloo, her name is Scootaloo..."
Sleeping AngelsShe wasn't here, she didn't head here. Did she? No-she was certain. Diamond was definitely certain that she hadn't gone to the school house. It was too late for that; she distinctively knew that she left for the day. Yet... Why was she here? She frowned at herself. Letting her emotions get the better of her! Such a disgrace to the Rich family. She squirmed in her seat she knew all too well. She didn’t exactly remember sitting. Then again-she didn’t remember anything. She fidgeted, trying to move her left back leg. It clanked as metal shackles danced, clinging to her without release. A metallic ball to her side gave her weight she didn't notice before. She couldn’t be awake-she didn't have shackles before. If there was anything that made this seemingly unreal, it was definitely the shackles.She shook her head before eyeing it. It was off. Being in the schoolhouse was off-but being in the school house with these type shackles (or any shackles, for that matter!) was very off. Miss.Cheerilee made them read books as an extra assignment. Diamond remembered not being thrilled with the idea of reading a book for an assignment, but she went along with it anyway. She remembered a novel that was set during the Lunar revolt-the pony, Star Luster, was forced into shackles. The shackles weren’t described this way, she was sure. Shackles weren't supposed to look like this, cartoons told her that much. Cerulean shackles were definitely not common-it didn't aid when she learned how wet they were. Slippery like water-but they clung to her deeply without restraint. They seemed custom made, but to create custom made shackles? No sane pony would do so, not to her knowledge at least, despite her knowledge that mares and stallions did often use shackles. For what-she didn’t quite know, but still it was known. She observed, pondering the possibility of removing them. "What-no key hole?" Diamond questioned. Surprisingly, she couldn't hear her own voice, despite lacking sounds in the room. She sighed softly at the revolution. Yes, no key hole! What shackle had no key hole? “Its not reality, stupid!” She couldn’t believe she had to remind herself that! Any moment now she would be awoken by Luna herself to remind her. That would surely dampen her when she woke-making the PRINCESS busy with her affairs of this nature? That was an even bigger disgrace than before! The Rich daughter, no doubt, rejected the notion entirely. No way would she look foalish in front of a princess. Still... “Ick! Still wet!” It was when she touched it, she grew worried. It was slippery, like it was predicted, yet...it wouldn't leave. The wetness seemingly coming from no where. At the same time, the shackles wouldn’t budge. She peered around. Nothing would remove it here, not if that wasn’t working, she rationalized. She sighed, finding nothing particularly interesting to do. So, she did what she normally did during lectures:she laid her head down and closed her eyes. “Inception,” She thought briefly. You couldn’t possibly sleep while sleeping. That was too weird. She coughed out before hearing some foreign ringing that played in her ears. Her ears flicked, trying to find the source before her cornflower blue eyes scanned the room. “Luna?” She called out, yet her voice seemed soft. She tried calling out again, but the same reaction transpired. Her voice seemed simply lost, even to her. It didn’t matter, however. Luna wasn’t anywhere. There wasn’t even faint traces of her presence. Her breath got caught inside her chest, tightening it ever so slightly. She scrunched her nose. “Giggle at the ghosties…” Diamond calmly thought, urging her chest to bob the correct way. The knots were still there. “Gaffaw at the grossly...crack up at the creepy…” The ringing grew louder, intensifying as she tried to unknot her chest. “Child,” The voice called to her in the darkness. It was that of maybe a mare or filly, the voice simply straining and sort of raspy in nature. Maybe she was thirsty? Diamond never heard a pony that thirsty before. Not thirsty, thats for sure. There were grunts mixed into the ringing before they stopped. “You are just a foal.” “Who are you?!” She cried out, jumping out her seat before stumbling about. The weight that was ignored as she sat seemingly came back ten fold to remind her of her position. The voice did not answer. “Who are you?” Diamond asked again, making sure she called out at max volume that her body could offer. Nothing responded. “You made so many errors...so many atrocities for such a small foal as yourself..” The voice responded despondently. “Can you see me, dear filly?” Diamond peered around once more before walking to the source’s location. The darkness interfered with this, though, since her eyes couldn’t make out the form that started to grow in the room, materializing out of no where. “Your..standing there…!”Diamond responded, confidence illuminating from her tiny form. Or, at least, as much confidence she could muster at the time. She sighed to herself. Daddy said to make confident appearances to give the allusion. She forgot what the allusion was for, but she was certain this was probably the time to use it. The voice failed to respond again. “You certainly can not see me,” It responded. Her tone never changing as she stepped forward. “You see but a figure, that much is certain.” Diamond glared at the figure’s shadowy residue it left behind. Sure-the figure in full was not to be seen, however, the form was different. It was suffocating darkness. “Why ask, if you know the answer?” It flickered away, the form becoming absent once more. Diamond’s ears fell, her chest knotting worse than before. Where was Luna? Tears welled up in those cornflower blue eyes before her hooves desperately forced them to halt as she plopped down. It failed miserably. The tears flowed relentlessly as her heart pounded harder within her chest as the darkness seemed to fade quickly, faster than her eyes would ever be able to adjust to. Then, like that, it abruptly ended. Her front right leg falling to the ground, breaking the shield it gave for her eyes. She gave a soft whimper as she wiped her tears away before opening her eyes for the first time after this event. Her eyes had to adjust to the change in lighting, and when they had, they couldn’t see once more. She was still in the schoolhouse, all alone with another shackle. This time, it was red with a strong rusty aroma that almost made her gag. It was not this, however, that made her cry once more. As she laid in front of the blackboard, there was writing that was etched into the surface. It was deeply cut, like claw marks were the ones responsible. The words leaving for questions that she had lacked answers to. “Nasty words leave for bad marks. Angry words leave for a speech that is regretted. Actions propel dark messages. Find. Repay. Atone.” Filthy Rich woke up that morning, never expecting what he had received. He trotted down the corridors of his mansion, his heart pounding faster than ever before. His blue eyes scanned everywhere they could in the measly time that they had on an object. The servants begged him to withdraw, such actions unbecoming of a rich stallion such as himself. He didn't stop. They wouldn't be able to convince him. Not ever since he saw her. He begged the princess herself to come with aid. Still-her response was still troubling. He sounded a bit obsessive, but he would stop. No. He will never let his sleeping angel alone again.
Princess of Sleep"Filthy, for the last time..." Twilight felt a sigh escape her mouth from exasperation. She grew tense, her body shifting as she concentrated on her magical book. Her magic wavering as Filthy Rich continued forward, "pestering" her. Twilight mentally altered that. He wasn't pestering her per say-he had every right to show such emotion. After all-if Shining Armour...She shook her head. No, she wouldn't dare think that way. "I've been searching all day for some cure, I even messaged Princess Luna." "Call me Rich, please," Filthy Rich corrected before simply shaking his head at the notion before he bows in respect. She tapped his shoulder, vaguely reminding him that such formalities weren't needed with her."What had she said? Anything new that I should be aware of?" Twilight looked towards him, a frown following soon after as her eyes tilted, gleaming at the sad sight. "I'm sorry, Rich," She shakes her head. "But I have yet to hear any responses from the princess as of yet. The only response thus far was simply that she knew of the problem." At the statement, Filthy grew agitated. "What in blazes do you mean, she knows?" He quickly caught himself before saying anything too mean spirited. Twilight was a princess after all. Twilight sighed again before trotting to the nearest shelf. While it was not exactly a library anymore, there were still books that were stored within the castle walls, similar to the old library that resided. "She knows that ponies are falling asleep, never waking again but not quite dead," Twilight corrected. Her voice had a subtle edge. "Luna can't enter those dreams, that much is certain. She can't seem to pinpoint why though. I'll tell you if I find something new. " "You..." Rich looked down, ready to question yet was reluctant to. Twilight simply nodded and placed a comforting hoof across his shoulder with silent understanding. "Don't worry, I've got this covered. Go to Diamond Tiara. I bet she'd want you there when she wakes up from her nap." Rich nodded with a shaky smile before trotting off with great unease marking his steps. All Twilight could do is look towards him, a wave of pity illuminating from her form. "Twilight?" She turned to the source of the voice calling her. It was her number one assistant of course, Spike. She grinned at his presence. He was safe-if anything, that was something to be proud of surely. Just days prior, ponies started falling asleep, never waking up. She sighed again, relieved. He wasn't affected, thankfully. "You okay? You seem a bit out of it." "Don't mind me, Spike," She answered with the smile appearing still. "Just..a bit on edge. Who isn't anymore?" Spike cocked an eyebrow at this, skeptical. That grin became sheepish in nature as he observed her. "You can't keep this up Twilight!" Spike urged as he maneuvered her away from the door. "Your working yourself up. At this rate, you won't solve anything because you'll be too tired!" "That's just it, I need to figure out this solution fast or else that might just happen!" Twilight trotted towards the shelves once more. Her eyes scanning over the spells. There were spells ranging from the simple to the top class. "Ah, there." "'Dream Casting: Mastering the Art of Dreams?'" Spike quoted the cover instantly. "You sure about this?" "For the last time, I'm positive!" Twilight said defiantly as she sat on the ground. She frowned at the results as she started skimming the pages. The words were harder to interpret in comparison to other magic books she read previously. It was in Old Equestrian. Dream casting wasn't very popular, she assumed. Maybe it gone out of date for sometime? She'd have to ask- "Twilight?" A cautious, prim voice called out to her from the front door. The prim voice belonged to such a pony: a prim unicorn pony with white fur like untouched snow and a mane of purple. Spike straightened his scales at the sight of this mare, the mare he found beyond beautiful. Beautiful was simply too small of a word to describe that feeling he had. He sighed dreamily as he watched her enter. "Is Twilight here?" Spike walked over, nodding. "Course she is, I'll lead you over to her right away Rarity!" He said with great obedience. "With Diamond Tiara's father showing here every so often, panicking, Twilight's been anything but relaxed." Rarity nodded with silent understanding. "Surely that could be seen," Rarity agreed. "That poor stallion has to be riled up, I can't see why not. If Sweetie Belle ever..." She sniffled at even the prospect of Sweetie Belle falling victim to such slumber. Spike frowned silently at her dismay. "I bet you Sweetie Belle will be fine. I just hope the best is all. I know Diamond Tiara....wasn't so great..."Spike looked down as he walked down. He knew first hoof that Diamond Tiara was bad news. He'd seen some of what she had done, especially to the Cutie Mark Crusaders. He'd seen more than enough to land her in trouble, some being against pony laws and some being lawful but downright against...pony kind, in a way. Still, he lacked power to truly do something about her actions. Thinking back, he pieced together each offense and action. Actions that could be deemed creepy even. Sometimes, he'd wonder why she'd follow alongside Scootaloo. She'd grin wildly as Scootaloo rode her scooter past the townsponies. "But..she didn't..deserve this..." Rarity smiled down at him. "I understand perfectly well, deary. Its unbecoming of a pony to wish ill on another." Spike paused as he neared the corner to his friend's quarters. Rarity noted this absent minded pause, taking it in. "Spikey, you okay? You seem a tad gone for a moment there." Spike shook his head. "I was just...wondering..." Why was Diamond following Scootaloo in the first place? Knowing Diamond's previous records, he doubted it was anything good. Besides that, where WAS Scootaloo anyway? He lacked any knowledge of her whereabouts anymore. "Don't worry about it Rarity. Its nothing, really." Rarity eyed him suspiciously, her eyes narrowing. She didn't buy that act for a second. "Don't give me that, something's on your mind. It'll hurt your scales if you don't speak your mind. It ages you, you know." Spike sighed dreamily once more at her worry, before straightening out. "I'll tell you later, I promise," Spike sighed in relief as Rarity dropped the subject seemingly. She took that answer, for now at least. He didn't enjoy the pit in his stomach that grew deeper at the thoughts. What exactly did Diamond Tiara do to Scootaloo? Where was she now? He bit back, refraining from asking further. Rarity simply eyed him knowingly. She knew he'd tell eventually, so she let him slide. They neared the room with ease, silence entering between them and growing bigger each passing moment. "Twilight, darling, are you still reading?" Rarity asked, her voice aching with concern. "You've been cooped up so long. Surely you have to see the light eventually." Twilight merely shushed her friend with annoyance tracing its features as she turned the page. Her eyes narrowing as she concentrated further. Too many loud ponies in her way. She was sure if she translated it, she'd get it fast then Ponyville would return to its normal state. "I think its best if you let her be." He suggested his crush with a shrug. She looked perplexed at his reaction. "I've known her all my life. When she's like this, nothing will change her path." "You sure about that Spikey-Wikey?" "I guess Filthy got her good," Spike observed as he watched the studious alicorn. He simply caved in when she started reading. No use trying to snap her out of something so big, especially when she's in one of those moods. Still, he might as well whip up a meal for her. She'll be up with that book for a while, he rationalized. Surely she'd need something. He pattered his way to the kitchen with Rarity not far behind with similar ideas. He was waiting for a response from her, hoping she'd give one anyway. Knowing Twilight, she'd answer despite it not directed towards her. "From the looks of it, anyway." "To place burden on ones-self makes everypony flustered, Spike," Rarity rationalized. "Twilight must be feeling quite a bit of pressure...I can not, without a mind, blame her of course." "Of course he had," She answered bitterly, a sigh forming from frustration. Why couldn't anything be easy anymore? There wasn't a spell that-wait. "Spike..."She turned to face where he was prior, only to see him gone. She panicked a little as her heart raced. "Spike?!" She called out. "Rarity?!" There was no response from either one of them. Where could that baby dragon and pony possibly be? Pots cluttered around, her ears perking at the sounds of metal instantly. She trotted off in the direction with a fast pace. "T-Twilight..." He whined out, his voice lowering. His draconian eyes still, watching something Twilight couldn't pinpoint. She tilted her head, trying to see what he was staring so intensely at. "Do you see that?" "D-Dear, surely you see that!" Rarity stuttered out, eyes fixated on the same object as the dragon. Twilight could see that she was about to faint. "There is nothing there, Spike," She tried approaching him. He was startled, so why startle the young dragon further? She turns her head towards the location again, never leaving. She frowns a bit before her eyes widening. "Ah, you certainly see me now, Princess." The figure lowered its head as if showing some respect until it bore its eyes into her. A shiver ran down her spine as she watched the form move closer to the dragon. Sensing this, Twilight stepped in front to guard him. Rarity's magic flickered wildly as she prepared herself. "You are not hurting Spike! You hear me?!" Twilight called out. "Who or what are you?!" The figure simply tilted its head. Was it perplexed? "Well?" "Forgive me, but alas, we can not state who we are," The figure's raspy voice didn't falter. "If you can not see my entire essence, then I can not state my being." Twilight stomped her hoof at that revolting concept. "Are you behind all this?!" Rarity questioned out to the black figure. It didn't answer as readily this time around. It pawed at the ground. "In a way, you can say such words, Preppy." It sounded deponent. "But alas, this was the work of many, not one." Twilight and Rarity backed off at the statement, curiosity filling Twilight's being entirely. She wanted to learn more-eager to. Maybe she found the- "WAIT!" Twilight cried out, but was too late. The figure was gone before she realized it. Its blackened form escaping without another word on the matter. Twilight levitated objects here and there, looking for something to trace back the figure to, but came up with nothing in the end. Spike blinked, snapping out from his stupor in time to calmly tap Twilight, handing over something that might sooth. Rarity, on the other hoof, quickly prepared a snack along side the tasty beverage. After such an ordeal, why not? "I made some tea..." Spike states weakly, his eyes falling to the floor. "Tea always calms you down.." She gave a weak smile as she levitated the delicate cup to her mouth. Chamomile with peppermint tea leaves were the sweetest type of tea there was. It was perfect. A look of content laced her features. "Here, you might want this too," Rarity insisted. "Crumpets go delightfully well with tea, if I say so myself. Always helps my dilemmas." Twilight levitated the crumpet and munched it. Rarity surely was a great cook. She munched on it a bit, smiling. "Thanks, that truly does wonders," Twilight looked his way again. "Why were you two here?" Spike looked towards her with a small grin of his own to match. Rarity, however, answered with as much pride as he had. "You were reading and well...." She paused, figuring her wording. "You don't eat when your reading, and, seeing you engrossed...I figured you'd need the meals more than ever. What, with Diamond Tiara falling under that dream..er.. thing." "Wait...what?" Twilight stopped drinking momentarily, her heart stopping. "Uh..I said when you read you get engrossed-" Crack! Suddenly, the cup fell to the ground as Twilight stared straight ahead. Her magic loosened at the prospect. "How could I forget so easily?!" She reprimanded herself, frantic. "I must have forgot after that figure appeared!" She felt her chest tighten. Where had that figure gone? Had it-She had to check instantly. She felt herself race towards the shelves once more, her heart pounding as sweat dripped from her forehead. She was so close, she can't lose all her data just like that! She slid her way down before landing right in front of the book. "Twilight?! Twilight?!" Spike called out, racing over. He was huffing out from being forced to run such distance. He bent his head and paused, taking air in like it was the most precious thing in the world and he had so little of it. When he peered up, he saw her sitting on her hunches, immobile. "What's wrong?!" Rarity cried out, racing towards her. She brushed off her coat, frowning. Certainly, she scuffed her fur while running, and that wouldn't do in the least! Ugh. Bad day turned worse. Still, her friend was worth more than a scuff mark or so. She marched forward, keeping her head high as she took a glance at her fallen friend. Her eyes wandered to the item in question before she cocked her eyebrow. "I....I..." Twilight stuttered softly. Spike could almost see tears dripping from her eyes right down her cheeks. "I almost had it Spike..." "Tw..Twilight?" He cautiously tilted his head as he softly walked over, his claws landing on her. He peered up to see her expression. It was horrifying, at least in his eyes. He never seen Twilight so devastated. "Are..you ok..?" "I was..so close.." Twilight stuttered again. Spike frowned again, wiping away her tears. "Its that book, isn't it?" Rarity questioned, gesturing towards the item she knew was probably the culprit. Why did such trivial things break her so easily? It couldn't possibly be so bad! She gasped in realization. Spike, however, never took the hint. "Your not making any sense, "Spike shook his head. "What's wro-" Twilight spun him around. His stomach churned a bit, but he regained his bearings. However, his stomach plummeted above fifty stories below. He suddenly didn't feel good as he stared at the book. It wasn't the book itself that originally had him riling. No, of course it wasn't. It was something different. Something odd that he never expected would happen. The book edited itself, new words forming instead of what was there earlier, given the type of text was shown. It didn't need to have a different text type for him to realize it wasn't there prior. It was what had been written instead. Written in strange font was clear cut words that shook him to the core. "During our time of unrest, we resort to ignorance and magic. Magic only lasts as long as the wielder has knowledge. Ignorance lasts simply as long as the individual lacks perception. With neither at your disposal..." The words simply cut itself off.
Soft Hearted Slumber"I-I'm sure you'll figure something, Twi," Spike tried to reassure, his eyes never leaving the book once. "You always have an answer in the end." Twilight hadn't responded, her mouth agape, staring at the book hopelessly. Rarity, however nodded, deciding to detach her view from the book. "Spike's right, dear, I'm sure we'll come up with something that could change this course." Twilight sighed deeply, frowning as she glares. She slumps over, her wings falling helplessly to the sides. "This could have been it, this really could have been what ended everything." Twilight muttered softly, more to herself than to anypony else. Rarity and Spike exchanged meaningful glances with eachother in silent agreement. "That can't simply be the only spellbook dedicated to dreams," Rarity urged. "Maybe we can find another one. It can't be..uh..too difficult." Twilight, however, turned slowly towards her, bursting forward with energy that was gone just before. "I can't just FIND another book on dream catching!" Twilight yelled at her, glaring before Rarity slinked back. Her form becoming small as she could as the distraught alicorn pelted her from anger. "It was hard enough to even find THAT one! How can I find one at this time of day? Or any day fr that matter?" Spike nervously walked to her, a claw pulling her down. "Twilight, isn't there a library in Canterlot?" Spike suggested, eyeing Rarity with worry. "I'm sure you could find it there-and now that you're a princess, I'm sure Celestia would even let you in the Forbidden Archives!" Twilight stared ahead, thoughts flying at high speeds. If a small town library had such a rare find, wouldn't a massive library such as that have such a find too? She paused as she went over the logistics of the possibility. The chances that it could follow her there are..she didn't know. She didn't even know what it possibly was. Was it worth heading over for a book that rare? She scrunched her nose. Ponyville could be forced into sleep by the time it was found there, and by that time it could be too late! "Is the risk worth it?" She mumbled as Rarity sighed in relief, picking herself up from the previous encounter. "Twilight..?" Rarity asked gently as she moved towards her friend. Twilight shook her head. "If we head to Canterlot now..." Spike tried again. Twilight shook her head as she glanced his way. "Its too big of a chance, Spike, "She reasons before turning back. With magic to her disposal, she pulls out a scroll, levitating it to view. "By the time we get there, who knows what could be of Ponyville? All for a book we might not find there in the first place. Its too big of a risk for us to take." "What are you trying now, if I may ask?" Twilight handed the scroll to Spike along with an ink and quill. Spike groaned. He knew the task before even getting the answer. "I may not be a student anymore, but my only option is to send a letter. Hopefully, Luna might know the spell or something close to it. Though..." She begun to doubt it. It was crafted after Luna's revolt- the ponies lacked protection within the night. Four unicorns acted as guards throughout the years, acting like a replacement for the dream wielding alicorn. "..it was made after her revolt.." "How so?" Twilight, using magic, projected the images with quality that only magic could offer. On the grid, four unicorns, two mares, two stallions, were at the center. "After Luna's revolt, ponies were lost. They were vulnerable in the night, lacking protection. As a result, the ponies began to become distressed. Plants wouldn't grow properly, the skies couldn't be cleared, magic couldn't fully be performed..." Twilight trailed off, demonstrating. "When plants die of disease or don't grow the correct manners, they can be susceptible to diseases of all kinds. The one that got to the ponies before all else happened to be the Cutie Pox. These years were considered the worst years by far and lasts about 20 years into the Celestia era." "The Cutie Pox destroyed towns, cities even. It created mass hysteria that ended up with ponies doing some...unsavory...things to others," Twilight shivered. She remembered hearing a story about the town in the Everfree-the cursed town that was forced to forever be in a party over a mistake they committed. An unholy mistake, but a mistake nevertheless. All after a little filly gained her cutie mark. She briefly glanced at her own, thankful. "This was when four unicorns stepped up, crafting spells that would help protect the ponies from further harm. These ponies created the dream spells. That's why Luna has such poor grasp on them. She only knows the spells she mastered and made. It didn't help that entering dreams was a surprisingly difficult concept to grasp, only those that have the talent dealing with it-and by extension, magic, would be able to even cast the spells. Take into consideration that unicorns were losing their magic abilities, the fact that unicorns make only a third of the population, and that it was even rarer for a pony to have such a talent in the first place." "Why write to them then?" Rarity asked, giving a sheepish grin. "I didn't mean to sound rude but-" "Its a perfectly valid reason," Twilight nodded. "I...I might get more information from her. Its worth a shot, isn't it?" Spike mumbled softly, finally done with the letter at hoof. He smiled and checked it over once before placing a seal with Twilight's mark on it. He took a big breath of air, his chest puffing out, and shot his dragon fire at the target. "Its been sent, " Spike confirmed with a smile. However, the smile disappeared with a belch replacing it with a scroll simply popping out. He gave out a cry of pain before collapsing in a huff from the letter being sent. Rarity gave him a worrying glance before peering over Twilight's shoulder, eager to see the message that was just given. "Well, go on! Read it!" Rarity urged. "Did she-" Twilight concentrated for a moment, glaring at the page. "Shush, I'm trying to!" Twilight shushed. Dear Princess Twilight, We have received your note regarding the concerns of the citizens of Ponyville. We used everything at our disposal. However, nothing looks promising at this point in time. Our dream spells have little effect on the ponies. In fact, it states no ponies are sleeping! Its rubbish! Through this, we gained many useful and key information that we shall state eye to eye. Its a matter of high importance, we can not simply write in quill and ink for this. This phenomenon became the concern for princesses, and as such, we shall meet you in the palace at three. We shall see you soon. Sincerely, Princess Luna, Ruler of the Night and Equestria. Twilight glanced at the page, looking towards it as if she hadn't read that right. Surely, she hasn't read it right. Just how great was the impact? Was there other places suffering from the same ill fate? Her stomach drops again a few stories, unsettled just by the notion. "Do..you think...there are other ponies like this?" Rarity asked the inevitable. Twilight simply glanced her way, her face forming into one of sorrow. "I...I don't know Rarity.." She admitted, placing the scroll down where she originally got it. "I don't know anymore..I just thought it was here..." Spike worriedly shot her look before hugging his mentor. He knew she would act like this and he knew the remedy for something like it. "We both know you'll figure out the answer," Spike said, reassuring the purple alicorn. She sniffled a bit before frowning. "I..I don't have the answer this tim-" Spike instantly shot up at that, frowning at her. He'd heard this before, but this time, it wouldn't last as long. Rarity shot in a glance filled with worry at the action. He waved her off, nodding and knowing. "Remember when Discord turned everypony against you?" Spike asked, lifting up her chin. She tilted her head, her eyes staring into his, perplexed. "You came home, ready to pack your belongings and leave to a new place. Do you know what happened next?" "Celestia gave me letters..." "She gave you a reminder, Twilight, like we are trying to do. In the end, you found the answer. Remember when you thought the same way at the Crystal Empire? Canterlot Royal Wedding? The time when you swapped around everyone's cutie marks?" Twilight paused, frowning. "Yes but-" "You solved everyone of those problems," Spike's voice grew determined. "You ALWAYS came up with an answer for those situations, and they aren't nearly as horrible as this one. If you could beat Chrysalis, Discord, Sombra, and even out perform Star Swirl, you can't possibly suggest you can't beat this!" Twilight started smiling again, getting up as her spirit recharged. "You're right, Spike, I can't give up! We have to find the answer!" Twilight's voice grew confident as she spoke. "Thank you for reminding me." "Its nothing really," Spike blushed. "I'm going to help you. You're my friend." "What you did really means a lot, Spikey," Rarity smiled, proud of the baby dragon. His blush intensified at the compliment. "A-Aw shucks!" He couldn't form even a sentence after that. Twilight chuckled at the interaction between the two before trotting off to the conference room where 7 chairs were situated around a desk. She pondered for a second, wondering if she can add an additional 3 more. After all, her friends were bound to come with. "While you two do that," Twilight chuckled again, smiling. "I'm going to set the conference room up for the arrival, then send out letters to the other elements. They must show up to this meeting as well." Spike just nodded, hearts flying as he just stared at the white mare. "Do you need any help?" Rarity asked. "I could lend a hoof, you know." Twilight turned her way, nodding. "Maybe it'd take less time if you sent the letters out." Twilight offered, handing scrolls out. Rarity exchanged her own smile as blue magic engulfed the letters easily. "Certainly, I can do that-" Rarity felt a harsh breeze blow against her styled purple mane, tangling it. She cried out a little at the prospect of her mane being damaged in some way, shape, or form, before narrowing her eyes at the source of the breeze. The breeze came from a prismatic mane that flung by her at high velocity. The owner had a cyan coat, her eyes of violet hues. "You certainly know how to make an entrance, Dash." Her words said through clenched teeth. "Sorry Rares," Rainbow frowned, saying apologetically before she turned towards Twilight. Twilight normally saw a cocky grin on there or perhaps a more laid back tone instead. However, replacing both those faces was one of pure terror and panic. "We're in BIG trouble, you guys! You gotta come quick!" "Calm down, Rainbow, what is it?" Twilight asked, worrying for her friend. "I never seen you like this before. I can't go if its anything small. I have to prepare for the princesses arriving to discuss-" Rainbow, however, barely calmed down. She stopped her flight as she sat down on her hunches, sighing out. "This ain't nothing 'small', Twi. Its bigger than big, its HUGE!" Rainbow tossed her arms up. "I decided to check out the school house-not because I was looking for Scootaloo or anything, I'm totally not worried. However, nopony was there. Turns out that Cheerilee...." Rainbow shook her head, tears forming at the base of her eyes before she quickly brushed them off. While Applejack and Rarity barely paid heed to the disappearance, there was no dispute that Rainbow took it harder than most of the others. Twilight briefly considered a search party, but, judging by the harsh tones Applejack and Rarity gave to the notion, she decided against it. She had little knowledge of the events, ponies refused to tell her such. Spike gave her a worried glance. Twilight knew the look-Spike must feel it too. "Why worry about a petty thief?" Rarity huffed at the notion before she instantly regretted her words. Rainbow's glares were nothing but filled with pure rage. "You barely even KNOW her," Rainbow's face contorted with the rage, nudging the unicorn mare. "There has GOT to be a reason behind that your REFUSING to see." Rarity bit back, knowing the result of the confrontation already. Twilight, however, refused to let that occur. She already witnessed physical altercations between Applejack and Rainbow Dash from it, there was no reason she had to get Rarity involved. "Back to the topic at hand," She coughed uncomfortably. "Cheerilee fell victim, correct?" Rainbow just nodded. "But that's not my main concern..." She glanced down. "Big Mac's been helpin' her. I'm sure she'll be okay. Right after that, I went to Fluttershy's cottage to get a kit for Big Mac. She fell hard before she...fell victim." She cleared her throat. "I went over to get the kit...but.." Rainbow's breaths became shallow as if she refuses to believe herself. "I got..distracted..." Twilight's eyes widen. It dawned on her suddenly why Rainbow Dash came in, panicking at the last minute. Rarity backed off, eyes filling to the brim before she fainted. Spike thankfully caught her before she fell. "You can't possibly mean.." "Fluttershy fell under the spell too." Her words had a sudden finality to them that hadn't changed a bit or faltered. Suddenly, the room became soft and quiet. Twilight could only wish the silence could be filled with something, anything other than this. If only she knew how. Author's Note Hi there, Star here! I had a sudden random headcannon that I added here. Basically, my headcannon is that Celestia, despite everything, couldn't stay up at night. She's only a single pony, after all. She MUST sleep at some point. Anyway, Luna was the only one that was able to go through dreams at the time-but when she vanished, the protection vanished too. (Being that she also was up at night) So this just naturally fell because things weren't protected. Stress came and when stress comes, it leaves you weaker and more prone to disease. Then the Cutie Pox came, shit hit the fan and the solution followed after. Please note:I do not own the Story of the Blanks. Sorry.
Luna's Discovery Luna's Discovery Luna wasn't a monster pony like lots of ponies tried to claim, in fact, she's anything but a monster. She had a heart that saw through things that nopony had come even close to see. This was fact; ponies often mistook her blunt nature as coldness, but she was not cold. Just unnerved. She only wished that ponies could see through such acts and see what she truly meant, but alas, that was but a fantasy. However, this was not a fantasy. Twilight wrote to her, directly to her-not Celestia. Perhaps she would have been happy if it wasn't for the circumstances. Circumstances she didn't understand at all. She sighed as she handed her guard the note that she received in the end. Another case, this time to a bearer of Harmony. "What could possibly plague our fellow ponies?" Luna sighed as she wondered, looking up at the pale sky. Her thoughts briefly wandered to her sister. Celestia would certainly need to hear of such story. She cursed at the luck. "Such a trial we must embark upon! Why must we deal with such tasks?" She unfolded her wings to stretch as unease grew inside her very body. Sensing such, the batpony guard turned to face her. Concern was evident. "Princess? Are you alright?" He asked slowly, worried about her genuinely. She smiled and gave a soft sigh. "We-no, I am fine, "She answered softly, smiling a little at the thought of her subjects being so caring. She merely extended her wings to ready herself for flight. "I have to inform thy sister. Clearly, its her concern as well. We can not ignore that." With a nod, she left, flying to the main section of the castle quickly, entering through the main window, thankfully it was open. "Luna, why are you out here?" Celestia questioned, concerned. She got off her hunches in alarm as Luna hadn't answered. She approached with nervousness that was barely seen in the Princess of the Night. However, it ended as she bowed her head softly, not to worship Celestia of course, but as a sign of something grim. "I'm afraid to inform you, dear sister," Luna said with such softness that tugged Celestia's heart. Something told her the grim outcome already. "An Element bearer has fallen victim- Kindness. Twilight confirmed the case herself. She simply fell asleep doing a task." Celestia sighed as she brought her sister closer. "That meeting has to be sooner, "Celestia softly spoke. "At this rate.." "I am the slayer of nightmares, keeper of dreams!" Luna spoke highly, glaring at her sister with regained confidence. "We can clearly stop this outbreak from spreading. We just need leads. Looking grim is far from what is told. We can not let this bog our minds, we must continue the battle. "She stood up, trotting towards the door. "Get ready, sister," Luna frowned. "I shall examine the evidence myself then head there. Something isn't adding. I am afraid I don't know what such thing is behind this tragedy, but I can not simply sit back. " Celestia shook her head. "Luna, rashness-" "We never fail, we rule the dream world! Sister, we can not stand idly by as this nightmare continues to spread. We shall hide under a guise, don't worry for us. We shall be safe." She took off without a word from her sister edge wise. She sighed as she flew, formulating a plan along the way. Coming up with one, she shifted forms, turning into a pure pegasus as she approached the small dirt town named Ponyville. It was pretty, at least seen from above. Most ponies wouldn't see how different it looked-being small allowed this, but with as many ponies put under, it was noticed by the Princess herself. She landed down, almost invisible to the ponies below her. "A new perspective," Luna glanced around. "shall take place. Perhaps there is something of use by looking at the town through outsider eyes." She closed her eyes to simply take everything in. Well, she would have loved it, but something nagged her. Something big told her that its nothing to celebrate. There was something new about the air; something that smelled simply off. Other ponies wouldn't recognize it, but she knew it was covered by something. It was almost familiar to her, but she was certain that she wouldn't be there. She couldn't be here. Still, she followed the odd sense. "Greetings, dear Luna." Luna's wings flared as she saw her. Saw somepony that she didn't think she'd see again. This was that of a figure, creme in nature. Her body was only a bit smaller than that of her own when she was a full alicorn. However, she was laying down, trying to get comfortable in the ally. Her legs were underneath her, but Luna knew they were covered in thick green vines that only mimicked the roses and thorns in her flowing mane. These thorns connected to a beautiful black rose that matched her mane that showed a variety of reds. Her green eyes stared at her, concern shining through. "A-Ambrosia.." Luna's eyes grew wide simply noticing her. Her little sister sitting right before her. She still had the caring nature she provided, even with the stress of being dead. "I-I shouldn't...even...be able..." Ambrosia nodded with a small smile. "Ah, yes, that," Ambrosia agreed softly. "I'm sad to say, such circumstances aren't what I imagined..when I saw you again..."She lowered her head, looking to her back. Luna slowly made her way to her, getting closer. "Sister, what is it.." "You could only see me because of magic," Ambrosia clarified. "and if in the presence of the dead." The smell was the first to hit her. It made her recoil. ambrosia noted this, with a brief image of disgust crossing her face before changing into a softer tone. "I created these ponies from scratch...I only wanted them to be loved, "Ambrosia sighed out. "I...I can't believe my child..." Luna gulped before pointing. "What..pony died...if I dare ask?" Ambrosia's disgust wasn't masked this time. "I grant ponies access to my works. I crafted this world after I died. The death, the famine..."Ambrosia muttered, looking rather cross. "I let them play...I let them roam under my watchful gaze...and yet...my lovely child..." She nuzzled the little pony on her back, cradling her like a mother would. The orange fur poked past Ambrosia's wings as said pony's head laid nuzzled into to pony. Violet tufts of fur radiated. It must be a mane. Luna recognized the pony. She helped this pony out once, helping her from a nightmare. "Can..Can that truly be?" Ambrosia softly nodded. "Scootaloo, her name is Scootaloo..."
