Alpha Elysiumby ZeroCoreChaptersWelcome SpiresFriendsClouds and PlantsWelcome Welcome Hello there, and welcome to my little shop. You seem to be new in Canterlot, I can see it in your eyes, mostly the little details. Admittedly, I'm fairly new here myself; I just moved into this city recently after traveling across Equestria and other places most... well, that's a story for another day. You seem weary, if I may say so. Oh, not to imply that you aren't well kept in your appearance, I merely meant you seem a bit... burnt out on the inside. Maybe it's something small, or maybe it's something, well, not so small. Either way, it seems like there's a trouble stirring somewhere in your mind. I don't claim to have all the answers, or even a specific bit of help, and I apologize for that. I do, however, know of something that might take the sharp edge off of it for a while. Don't worry, it's not a drug, or a complicated lecture, no, far from it. It is a place to visit, perhaps here, perhaps later. It gets a slight bit confusing. This place isn't here, nor there, nor anywhere you've been thus far. It's not part of Equestria, per say, but you might not a few similarities. It is a parallel plane of existence, somewhere far off yet not more than the width of a shadow away. It is, in all seriousness, a world that is in peace, constantly, and for once that does not mean the peace of the grave, if you'll pardon a bit of ghoulish humor. Heh, no. Please, if you'll allow me to escort you there, you might just like what you see. I'm sure that realm's natives might like you as well. You see, they... well, you'd really have to see the place to find out. I can see you're a bit nervous, or is it skeptical? I couldn't really tell the difference between the two if one or the other managed to spring off the drawing table of the mind and hit me on the flank. Don't worry, I won't make you go if you don't wish to. You are free to go any time you wish. If you do find yourself overwhelmed, just think that you wish to return, and it will be done, although personally I do think that returning before your visit is complete might not be in your best interests. Ah, take no heed of it if you wish; t'was merely a suggestion. Think nothing more of it if that's what you want. Given that you're still here, I take it that you wish to travel to this land I speak of. Hold still a moment. The spell to travel there is quite bright and... I'm terribly sorry if that was a bit much for you. It must have taken you a few minutes at least to get the spots out of your eyes. Well, now that your senses are restored, perhaps you should take a look around. Trust me, it's quite the sight to behold. Perhaps you've noticed the Aura Arcana in the sky above, that shimmering, glowing aurora in the sky? Maybe the sphere-tipped, needle-like structures grabbed your attention, the ones with those large rings in the middle? They rather look like giant sewing needles with golden baubles at their points, don't they? And what do you think of the wide-open fields, or the bubble plants constantly filling the air with floating bubbles of water? Maybe the ponies frolicking about in the fields caught your eye? Those are the inhabitants I spoke of. And what is this place of wonders, you ask? This, my friend, is Alpha Elysium, the realm of eternal balance and functional stasis. Perhaps it's time for me to show you around. I'll just grab one of these bubbles here and... Whoa! Ha ha! Oh, dear me, do forgive my lack of grace. I appear to have been—haha—stuck inside one! Do try it though, it's great fun. Just tap on a water bubble drifting through the breeze. It'll grow bigger, pull you inside, and just like that you'll be drifting through the air! Don't worry about getting wet or breathing either; you'll be fine! Just trust in the magic of the realm, and it will trust in you in return! That's it, you're a natural! Already inside a bubble before I could even finish, haha! Oh my, it looks like the wind is picking up! This is brilliant! Heheh! Hang on! We're drifting over the fields now! Can you see them? The ponies in the fields below are all looking up at us. Well now, don't be rude; they're waving at you, so wave back, don't be shy. That's it, well done! I see a bit of confusion on your face. Yes, your eyes are not deceiving you; there are all sorts of ponies down there. Some Earth, some Pegasus, Unicorns too, and even Alicorn ponies all mingling with one another in friendship and blissful jubilee. No need to worry about drab, droll things like politics barricading off individuals from one another. There's no such thing as any of that nonsense here. Ah! Perfect!. It looks as though we're drifting towards the—ah! … Oof! Ah, that's what happens when—oh! Hold on, I've got you! There! Safe and sound. Not as as if you needed me to catch you though, the magic of the land would have kept you safe, either that or one of the inhabitants would have. Bubbles, unfortunately, can pop here even still, well, unless one happened to get so attached to said bubble that they wanted it around forever. It has happened, but it isn't very likely what with all that there is to do. Anyway, let's continue on. I see you've noticed the giant flora around this area; towering tree-like flowers and whatnot growing around this part of the landscape, as well as the thick, red nectar they spill out. Well, there's a funny story about that you see... *buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz* Hm? Oh! Hello! Don't be alarmed! I know what you're thinking; Changelings and all that. Relax, relax! I promise this is no threat to you. You're not about to be captured, I promise. You see, the Changelings here are of no threat to anyone. They mostly use their shapeshifting abilities here to entertain others; ever try to play charades with a Changeling? Trust me, they're better at it than I. They don't generally impersonate anyone here; they just farm and harvest these giant flowers for the love nectar they secrete. Instead of stealing love from ponies, these Changelings just drink the nectar. It works just as well as stolen love, and it does wonders for the appetite. Ah, it looks like our Changeling acquaintance is willing to be generous. Don't be shy, take that cup of nectar from her. That's it. What do you think? Tastes rather fizzy doesn't it? Kind of reminds me of seltzer water and fruit juice... strawberry perhaps? Oh, she's waving goodbye! Farewell, Ms. Changeling! I suppose we'd better be off too; there's so much here to explore after all! SpiresHmm, I see you've been looking at those spires a lot since we got here. How about we go over to one? Follow me! I know a short route through this foliage. Don't mind the bubbles, they're just drifting about in the breeze around here. I hope you remember how to use them! We'll need them once we get to the nearest travel spire. Oh? That's right! I forgot to mention. I'll fill you in as we go along. Those spires are there as a means of traveling around from one place to another. You just hop in a bubble, float up to the ring in the spire's center, and then think of where you want to go. Nudge your bubble into the spire's loop and then, WOOSH! You sail off from one spire to another until you get to your destination! *pant... pant...* Whew! We must have been walking for at least half an hour now. Well, at least the vegetation is a more normal size here. Are you thirsty, by any chance? Well then, allow me! *taps a plant* Ta-da! I hope you don't mind the glittery effect; remember, this is a realm of pure magic, so it tends to be a bit flashy. But anyway, just go ahead and gently tap on the nearest plant leaf you see that looks like this. Remember, the plants with the big, broad leaves will help you when you need them. That's it, just go ahead and tap them whilst thinking of what you need to have, and, yes! That's how it's done! Ah, a bottle of spring water. Not a bad decision either. Remember, the plants don't produce necessarily what you want, but more so what you need, as long as it helps you and doesn't hurt you. No nasty tricks here! Heh, that reminds me of a time when I brought a young pegasus mare here. She wanted to know what it was like to be in contact with nature like the ponies of this realm but she was too afraid to tap the plants. She thought that they'd take her wings away and make her into an Earth pony! Heheh, not in an eternity! I managed to stifle a laugh, but I gently managed to talk her into it. She tapped the plant, and instead of winding up as another breed, wound up with a hoof bracelet that let her feel the land in the same way an Earth type would. Hoo-hoo, was she thrilled at that, and the look of relief as she flapped her wings around... Ah, but no-no, the plants here only give, never take. That reminds me; you had an odd look on your face when you came in here and saw all the different ponies of this place all together. Is it really such an odd thought to think that ponies of all sorts, Earth, Pegasus, Unicorn, and Alicorn, could exist as equals? Hm... What a shame that is... Ah, well, anyway, we can talk about that later, if you wish. For now, let's go on to those spires you looked so curious about earlier—wait, what are you doing? Tapping the plant again, I see? What are you wishing fo—wait! Don't tell me! I want to find out! I'll put a hoof over my eyes. Now, now don't tell me... Hmm.... what could it be that you wish for... hm.... Could it be... a map? A camera! No, no, hmm... You feel like you need to.... *poof!* Oooh, I just can't resist *removes hoof from over eyes* An amulet? Well, the plants gave it to you, so it must be something at least a part of you thinks that you need, so... Wait, weren't you a Unicorn a minute ago? Where did those wings on your back come from?! Ah, AH! I see! A shifter amulet! Ha-ha! Very nice! I see that story might have inspired you a bit, although I'm wondering why you would prefer shape shifting over—ah, well, it's not like you can't change back! I suppose you'll want to give your new wings a test, won't you? Well then... *poof!* Allow me to join you! *flaps wings* What? You thought you were the only one with a curiosity to see how other ponies live? Ha! Goodness no! Anyway, off to the spires we go! Just flap those wings and try to keep your balance. Yes, that's it, you're off the ground now... steady... and... Well well, just look at you! You're flying as if you'd been born in Cloudsdale! Wonderful! Try to follow me now. That's it! Let's go! The spire isn't more than a few miles away. I know it seems far, but trust me, it isn't. Just keep your balance and your hooves tucked in. Yes, that's it. Front hooves tucked in, back hooves stretched out behind you. *woosh!* Whoa! Careful now, thermal columns exist here too! Ah, I suppose you're not familiar with those. Thermal columns, or thermals, are what happens when the sun warms a large area of air. When it heats up, it rises like steam off of a stove. If they get big enough, you can use them to stay up without even flapping that much. It's called gliding, or soaring. Let's try gliding for a bit. It'll save some stress on your wings. Just hold your wings outstretched and wait until you start rising. *woosh!* Yes, that's it! Hold on, I'll join you! Yes! Wahoo! That's perfect! Oh, I see you're circling round in the thermal column too? Brilliant! That's just how it's done! I'm lucky to have chosen a clever pony to accompany me to this place this time. Anywho! Follow me, we're nearly there! Just hold your wings outstretched for a bit more. Let's see if we can glide all the way there. Ah, that's the feeling I was looking for. It's nice to just relax and glide every now and then. Oh? You think I've never done this before? Goodness no, I've had this amulet for years now! Don't think you're the only one to have that idea! Heh! We're almost to the spire now. Hold on tight! We're going through the ring right about... now! *zoom!* Whoaoaoa! Haha! Quite the rush, isn't it! Hold on, now, we're almost to where I thought us to! We should be there any—WHOA! *thud* Oof! Ugh, are you alright? You seem okay, that's good. I forgot to mention, if you're not ready for landing, occasionally you'll just get tossed out! Don't worry though, it's perfectly harmless; this land's magic won't let you take any damage from the impact. Oh, speaking of magic, I see you've got your horn back, that's good. I was going to show you a few spells before we head... back... *chuckles* I see you've still got your wings too. I guess the fall must have addled your head a bit. Oh, wait, wait! Don't change just yet! You're an Alicorn now! I think this might be useful! Hmm... yes... There we are! I see a few of the land's natives over that way. Perhaps this would be a good opportunity for you to learn that just because one may be a regal-looking pony doesn't mean that they need to be excluded or put up on a pedestal and worshiped, even if they do happen to be eternally young even without this land's magic. *waves to distant ponies* Just a moment, I'll go and get them if you wish. Trust me when I say this, they're very friendly and wouldn't hurt a fly. I think you could have a good time with them. I'll go get them now. Feel free to catch a breath in the mean time. FriendsWhere did you come from? Is that a shifter amulet? Wow! So... were you always, like, an alicorn, or did you just turn into one? Calm down, everypony, please! Our guest is new here and the constant questions just won't do. Sorry to interject; you looked spaced out for a moment there. I'm sorry about that; they tend to get a bit excited when meeting someone new. Allow me to introduce you to a few of the land's natives. *points a hoof to the left-most pony* This spritely Pegasus is Golden Shimmer. *points to the center-most pony* The ever-curious Alicorn is Meadow Dawn. *points to the right-most pony* And the inquisitive, reserved Earth pony is Madeline. All of them are glad to meet you. So you weren't always an Alicorn, but you are one now? It's the shifter amulet! Those things are neat! Did you fly here? Did ya', did ya'? You took the spire here, right? Easy, easy, everpony. Remember what I said. *the other ponies nod, taking a step back* Sorry, sorry about that. Yeah, we didn't mean to get too worked up. *Madeline nods* Perhaps I should do the introductions on your part; you still seem a bit rattled by the, erm, hasty greetings. Our guest here is from Canterlot, the city on the other side of the dimensional pond that I've told you about before. They're curious about the world in which you live, so I'm showing them around. Alpha Elysium is a big place after all, and I figured that a quick introduction was in order. Ah, we see! *you focus on Meadow Dawn, the Alicorn nearly as tall as Princess Luna, before you look back to the others* What's wrong, never seen an Alicorn before? Well, that's the thing, Meadow Dawn, the Alicorns that live in the world our guest comes from aren't exactly easy to meet on a daily basis. They're treated as being better than others, and unfortunately don't get to spend much time with their friends. That's horrible! I'm starting to feel better about you not letting us go there if that's true. Yes, well, their world still has a long way to go until it becomes on-par with yours. Trust me though, eventually it will get there. Then can we go and visit? Of course, of course, but not a day until then! *The others sigh a bit* You see, they're about as curious of Canterlot as anyone else from Canterlot would be about Alpha Elysium. I understand their curiosity, but, well, between you and me, it wouldn't be in their health's best interest to travel to Equestria just yet. Remember, the magic of this land keeps them alive and eternally young, as it does for everyone here—you won't age either, as long as you stay here—but leaving, well, for you it wouldn't be anything instantly bad; you'd just live out a normal lifetime, err, provided you didn't stay in your current Alicorn form, but them, well... It might have severely detrimental effects on their health. Don't worry; I make sure that no one who was born here will ever leave until the day Equestria's magic grows to meet Alpha Elysium's, and since I control the only way in and out of this world, well, that's easy! Hey, are you two done whispering to each other yet? Hm? Oh, sorry about that, Golden Shimmer. I didn't mean to be rude. It's okay! I was just wondering. *You notice Golden Shimmer already hovering in mid air, the Pegasus' wings beating quickly to keep her aloft* Perhaps we should move along, there's still more to do in this paradise, after all! *the mage taps his own shifter amulet, turning into an Alicorn as he does* Now I suppose it's time to show you exactly what I meant before. Alicorns here are treated as any other pony would be; as a potential friend, of course! Perhaps we should get going; there are more ponies to meet, after all. Don't worry, I won't shove you into a crowd, I just want you to see, well, well, eh, just let me show you! *the mage takes to the air, you follow suit* We'll catch up with you later! Yeah, thanks for stopping by! See you around! *you wave back to the ponies you'd just met* Follow me, we'll take a gander at a few more Alicorns around here and how they interact. Remember, everyone is equal in Alpha Elysium; they're as unique as their cutie marks, but still a pony in everyone's eyes! *The two of you fly off over a hill, spotting many different groups of ponies frolicking and having the time of their lives in the grassy meadows below. Among them, to your continued amazement, are alicorns by the dozen, the winged, horned ponies jumping about and having fun with their friends, their regal status almost ignored, their presence merely treated as if they were anypony else. The mage eventually signals you to land on a nearby rock overlooking the meadows, the ponies below still going on about their business.* You see what I mean? The ponies here know no differences. Everyone has the potential to be a friend here. Social status doesn't exist; this land had such stratification purged from it millenniums ago. Now only peace and prosperity remains, and, and... *the mage wipes a tear from his eye* Ah, every time I come here, it warms my heart, and to think, one day Equestria will be just like this; peaceful, prosperous, lively, friendly, with not even a scant trace of death, or rot, or pain in sight. Oh, you're wondering how I know this? Well, let me let you in on something, but be careful; don't tell anyone back home about this: Equestria's magic is slowly getting more and more powerful. Eventually it will rise to meet Alpha Elysium's in terms of raw energy, and just like that, POOF! One day, Equestria will become just like this; a paradise without problem or strife. Imagine Equestria like a chicken still in its egg; it's still growing, developing, and waiting to hatch, but once it does, this will be the result; total harmony without a trace of pain at all. Ah, but listen to me prattle on. I should really get back to showing you around! There are still more ponies and places to see, after all! Clouds and PlantsTime, perhaps, for a bit of relaxation. All this excitement can certainly be quite the thrill, but every now and again it feels good to just watch the clouds go by. I'm glad you've decided to stick with that alicorn form of yours; I think a trip to a cloud is in order. Follow me! *woosh!* Alright there we are, back in the air again. I think there seems to be a nice cumulus over that way a bit, ooh and it's a high-up one too! Don't be nervous, I get what you're thinking; the air gets thinner the higher up you go, right? Well, in Equestria that's true, but here, well, just watch! *the mage soars ahead* See what I mean? The air hasn't thinned. Alpha Elysium's atmosphere is distributed into a giant mesh by its magic; the air is layered out and held at a comfortable density no matter how high up you go. It makes life for all those who fly quite easier as there's no need to constantly check weather conditions for safe flying. Ah, here we are, a nice, soft cumulus cloud. These big, puffy clouds make the ideal beds for pegasi and alicorns, like us, alike. Feel free to stretch out a bit, relax as you will! *you both lay down on the cloud* Hear that? It's the gentle rushing of the wind currents around you. The spires tend to make a whistling noise as the air rushes around the spheres at their tips, and the wind itself echoes slightly as it wafts through the sky. Oh, well, listen to me go on and on, please, feel free to ignore my prattling. Just relax, take it all in. … … … … … … … If I may... Try taking a look over the edge of the cloud. Don't worry, it won't be scary; you're nice and safe up here. *you and the mage take a look* Ah, what a view! From up here you can see half of Alpha Elysium! Look, down there are the fields that we were at before. There's the giant forest over that way, and there are a few farms here and there off to the side. They grow the giving plants that I showed you before, although I suppose the terms “grow” and “farm” are misnomers here. Remember, nothing dies in Alpha Elysium, not even the plants. I suppose the best way to describe it is that the ponies who live in those areas tend to the plants as best they can; they give back to the plants that give so much. Perhaps the best way to describe those places are gardens rather than farms, and the ponies that live there as caretakers rather than actual farmers. Perhaps that should be our next stop through Alpha Elysium. It might be nice to show you how the land and ponies support one another. Perhaps we'll go there after a bit more rest; after all, we only sat down a mere few minutes ago. Tell you what; when you're good and ready to fly, just let me know and we'll be off towards one of the crop fields. … … … … … … … … *you nod at the mage* Ah, well that was a good rest, wasn't it? Well well then, let's be off! *the mage takes to the air. You follow suit* Just watch out for any down drafts, they can be a bit unexpect-whoa! Hoo hoo! There's one! Give me a minute to return to altitude. … Ah, there we go. You see, thermals are those rising columns of air that you use to stay up when gliding. They have an inverse, however, called sink. Those downdrafts are what's termed “sink”, and just as a thermal will push you up, sink will pull you back down. Don't fret though; with a bit of practice and patience, thermal navigating is quite manageable. *you feel yourself fall slightly as you enter a pillar of sink* Whoa, easy there! Okay, now fly to the side of the sink column. That's it. Now flap a bit, yes, just like that, and... voila! Perfect! You're right back up at altitude. You know, if I didn't know better I'd swear you'd been an alicorn your whole life. Got to like those shifter amulets! Anyway, we're nearly there at the garden now. Let's head in for a landing! *the two of you approach and land gently, your alicorn wings letting you gracefully land along with the mage. Looking around, you see all sorts of ponies of all different breeds watering, caring for, and in some cases even talking to, the giving plants that provide so much for the land's inhabitants.* Let's watch them work for a while. As you can see, they treat the plants as if they were other ponies, caring for them as best they can until-- *the mage is interrupted as a plant suddenly dives into the ground and vanishes* Ooh, yes, I should have mentioned that. These plants are quite special indeed. You see, when they've been pampered and cared for enough, they dive back underground and sprout up again somewhere else in the world. In some cases, multiple plants move back and forth whenever they're needed somewhere in order to keep everypony happy and sound. And don't worry about the plants; they never really tire or wear out, they just like to relax too every now and again, hence gardens like this. Maybe you should give it a go. Try walking up to that plant over there. It's looking a little lonely right now, and maybe you could help cheer it up. *you walk over to a sort of droopy-looking plant. It takes notice of your shifter amulet and perks up slightly, going from looking slightly wilted to fully healthy.* It seems this one's taken a liking to your amulet. Don't worry if they look wilted, by the way, they're all perfectly healthy! Sometimes they just get a bit tired every now and then, but it's more like minor cases of boredom rather than actual stress or tiredness. Let's hang around a little while longer; maybe these plants could teach you a few things about Alpha Elysium.
Welcome Welcome Hello there, and welcome to my little shop. You seem to be new in Canterlot, I can see it in your eyes, mostly the little details. Admittedly, I'm fairly new here myself; I just moved into this city recently after traveling across Equestria and other places most... well, that's a story for another day. You seem weary, if I may say so. Oh, not to imply that you aren't well kept in your appearance, I merely meant you seem a bit... burnt out on the inside. Maybe it's something small, or maybe it's something, well, not so small. Either way, it seems like there's a trouble stirring somewhere in your mind. I don't claim to have all the answers, or even a specific bit of help, and I apologize for that. I do, however, know of something that might take the sharp edge off of it for a while. Don't worry, it's not a drug, or a complicated lecture, no, far from it. It is a place to visit, perhaps here, perhaps later. It gets a slight bit confusing. This place isn't here, nor there, nor anywhere you've been thus far. It's not part of Equestria, per say, but you might not a few similarities. It is a parallel plane of existence, somewhere far off yet not more than the width of a shadow away. It is, in all seriousness, a world that is in peace, constantly, and for once that does not mean the peace of the grave, if you'll pardon a bit of ghoulish humor. Heh, no. Please, if you'll allow me to escort you there, you might just like what you see. I'm sure that realm's natives might like you as well. You see, they... well, you'd really have to see the place to find out. I can see you're a bit nervous, or is it skeptical? I couldn't really tell the difference between the two if one or the other managed to spring off the drawing table of the mind and hit me on the flank. Don't worry, I won't make you go if you don't wish to. You are free to go any time you wish. If you do find yourself overwhelmed, just think that you wish to return, and it will be done, although personally I do think that returning before your visit is complete might not be in your best interests. Ah, take no heed of it if you wish; t'was merely a suggestion. Think nothing more of it if that's what you want. Given that you're still here, I take it that you wish to travel to this land I speak of. Hold still a moment. The spell to travel there is quite bright and... I'm terribly sorry if that was a bit much for you. It must have taken you a few minutes at least to get the spots out of your eyes. Well, now that your senses are restored, perhaps you should take a look around. Trust me, it's quite the sight to behold. Perhaps you've noticed the Aura Arcana in the sky above, that shimmering, glowing aurora in the sky? Maybe the sphere-tipped, needle-like structures grabbed your attention, the ones with those large rings in the middle? They rather look like giant sewing needles with golden baubles at their points, don't they? And what do you think of the wide-open fields, or the bubble plants constantly filling the air with floating bubbles of water? Maybe the ponies frolicking about in the fields caught your eye? Those are the inhabitants I spoke of. And what is this place of wonders, you ask? This, my friend, is Alpha Elysium, the realm of eternal balance and functional stasis. Perhaps it's time for me to show you around. I'll just grab one of these bubbles here and... Whoa! Ha ha! Oh, dear me, do forgive my lack of grace. I appear to have been—haha—stuck inside one! Do try it though, it's great fun. Just tap on a water bubble drifting through the breeze. It'll grow bigger, pull you inside, and just like that you'll be drifting through the air! Don't worry about getting wet or breathing either; you'll be fine! Just trust in the magic of the realm, and it will trust in you in return! That's it, you're a natural! Already inside a bubble before I could even finish, haha! Oh my, it looks like the wind is picking up! This is brilliant! Heheh! Hang on! We're drifting over the fields now! Can you see them? The ponies in the fields below are all looking up at us. Well now, don't be rude; they're waving at you, so wave back, don't be shy. That's it, well done! I see a bit of confusion on your face. Yes, your eyes are not deceiving you; there are all sorts of ponies down there. Some Earth, some Pegasus, Unicorns too, and even Alicorn ponies all mingling with one another in friendship and blissful jubilee. No need to worry about drab, droll things like politics barricading off individuals from one another. There's no such thing as any of that nonsense here. Ah! Perfect!. It looks as though we're drifting towards the—ah! … Oof! Ah, that's what happens when—oh! Hold on, I've got you! There! Safe and sound. Not as as if you needed me to catch you though, the magic of the land would have kept you safe, either that or one of the inhabitants would have. Bubbles, unfortunately, can pop here even still, well, unless one happened to get so attached to said bubble that they wanted it around forever. It has happened, but it isn't very likely what with all that there is to do. Anyway, let's continue on. I see you've noticed the giant flora around this area; towering tree-like flowers and whatnot growing around this part of the landscape, as well as the thick, red nectar they spill out. Well, there's a funny story about that you see... *buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz* Hm? Oh! Hello! Don't be alarmed! I know what you're thinking; Changelings and all that. Relax, relax! I promise this is no threat to you. You're not about to be captured, I promise. You see, the Changelings here are of no threat to anyone. They mostly use their shapeshifting abilities here to entertain others; ever try to play charades with a Changeling? Trust me, they're better at it than I. They don't generally impersonate anyone here; they just farm and harvest these giant flowers for the love nectar they secrete. Instead of stealing love from ponies, these Changelings just drink the nectar. It works just as well as stolen love, and it does wonders for the appetite. Ah, it looks like our Changeling acquaintance is willing to be generous. Don't be shy, take that cup of nectar from her. That's it. What do you think? Tastes rather fizzy doesn't it? Kind of reminds me of seltzer water and fruit juice... strawberry perhaps? Oh, she's waving goodbye! Farewell, Ms. Changeling! I suppose we'd better be off too; there's so much here to explore after all!
SpiresHmm, I see you've been looking at those spires a lot since we got here. How about we go over to one? Follow me! I know a short route through this foliage. Don't mind the bubbles, they're just drifting about in the breeze around here. I hope you remember how to use them! We'll need them once we get to the nearest travel spire. Oh? That's right! I forgot to mention. I'll fill you in as we go along. Those spires are there as a means of traveling around from one place to another. You just hop in a bubble, float up to the ring in the spire's center, and then think of where you want to go. Nudge your bubble into the spire's loop and then, WOOSH! You sail off from one spire to another until you get to your destination! *pant... pant...* Whew! We must have been walking for at least half an hour now. Well, at least the vegetation is a more normal size here. Are you thirsty, by any chance? Well then, allow me! *taps a plant* Ta-da! I hope you don't mind the glittery effect; remember, this is a realm of pure magic, so it tends to be a bit flashy. But anyway, just go ahead and gently tap on the nearest plant leaf you see that looks like this. Remember, the plants with the big, broad leaves will help you when you need them. That's it, just go ahead and tap them whilst thinking of what you need to have, and, yes! That's how it's done! Ah, a bottle of spring water. Not a bad decision either. Remember, the plants don't produce necessarily what you want, but more so what you need, as long as it helps you and doesn't hurt you. No nasty tricks here! Heh, that reminds me of a time when I brought a young pegasus mare here. She wanted to know what it was like to be in contact with nature like the ponies of this realm but she was too afraid to tap the plants. She thought that they'd take her wings away and make her into an Earth pony! Heheh, not in an eternity! I managed to stifle a laugh, but I gently managed to talk her into it. She tapped the plant, and instead of winding up as another breed, wound up with a hoof bracelet that let her feel the land in the same way an Earth type would. Hoo-hoo, was she thrilled at that, and the look of relief as she flapped her wings around... Ah, but no-no, the plants here only give, never take. That reminds me; you had an odd look on your face when you came in here and saw all the different ponies of this place all together. Is it really such an odd thought to think that ponies of all sorts, Earth, Pegasus, Unicorn, and Alicorn, could exist as equals? Hm... What a shame that is... Ah, well, anyway, we can talk about that later, if you wish. For now, let's go on to those spires you looked so curious about earlier—wait, what are you doing? Tapping the plant again, I see? What are you wishing fo—wait! Don't tell me! I want to find out! I'll put a hoof over my eyes. Now, now don't tell me... Hmm.... what could it be that you wish for... hm.... Could it be... a map? A camera! No, no, hmm... You feel like you need to.... *poof!* Oooh, I just can't resist *removes hoof from over eyes* An amulet? Well, the plants gave it to you, so it must be something at least a part of you thinks that you need, so... Wait, weren't you a Unicorn a minute ago? Where did those wings on your back come from?! Ah, AH! I see! A shifter amulet! Ha-ha! Very nice! I see that story might have inspired you a bit, although I'm wondering why you would prefer shape shifting over—ah, well, it's not like you can't change back! I suppose you'll want to give your new wings a test, won't you? Well then... *poof!* Allow me to join you! *flaps wings* What? You thought you were the only one with a curiosity to see how other ponies live? Ha! Goodness no! Anyway, off to the spires we go! Just flap those wings and try to keep your balance. Yes, that's it, you're off the ground now... steady... and... Well well, just look at you! You're flying as if you'd been born in Cloudsdale! Wonderful! Try to follow me now. That's it! Let's go! The spire isn't more than a few miles away. I know it seems far, but trust me, it isn't. Just keep your balance and your hooves tucked in. Yes, that's it. Front hooves tucked in, back hooves stretched out behind you. *woosh!* Whoa! Careful now, thermal columns exist here too! Ah, I suppose you're not familiar with those. Thermal columns, or thermals, are what happens when the sun warms a large area of air. When it heats up, it rises like steam off of a stove. If they get big enough, you can use them to stay up without even flapping that much. It's called gliding, or soaring. Let's try gliding for a bit. It'll save some stress on your wings. Just hold your wings outstretched and wait until you start rising. *woosh!* Yes, that's it! Hold on, I'll join you! Yes! Wahoo! That's perfect! Oh, I see you're circling round in the thermal column too? Brilliant! That's just how it's done! I'm lucky to have chosen a clever pony to accompany me to this place this time. Anywho! Follow me, we're nearly there! Just hold your wings outstretched for a bit more. Let's see if we can glide all the way there. Ah, that's the feeling I was looking for. It's nice to just relax and glide every now and then. Oh? You think I've never done this before? Goodness no, I've had this amulet for years now! Don't think you're the only one to have that idea! Heh! We're almost to the spire now. Hold on tight! We're going through the ring right about... now! *zoom!* Whoaoaoa! Haha! Quite the rush, isn't it! Hold on, now, we're almost to where I thought us to! We should be there any—WHOA! *thud* Oof! Ugh, are you alright? You seem okay, that's good. I forgot to mention, if you're not ready for landing, occasionally you'll just get tossed out! Don't worry though, it's perfectly harmless; this land's magic won't let you take any damage from the impact. Oh, speaking of magic, I see you've got your horn back, that's good. I was going to show you a few spells before we head... back... *chuckles* I see you've still got your wings too. I guess the fall must have addled your head a bit. Oh, wait, wait! Don't change just yet! You're an Alicorn now! I think this might be useful! Hmm... yes... There we are! I see a few of the land's natives over that way. Perhaps this would be a good opportunity for you to learn that just because one may be a regal-looking pony doesn't mean that they need to be excluded or put up on a pedestal and worshiped, even if they do happen to be eternally young even without this land's magic. *waves to distant ponies* Just a moment, I'll go and get them if you wish. Trust me when I say this, they're very friendly and wouldn't hurt a fly. I think you could have a good time with them. I'll go get them now. Feel free to catch a breath in the mean time.
FriendsWhere did you come from? Is that a shifter amulet? Wow! So... were you always, like, an alicorn, or did you just turn into one? Calm down, everypony, please! Our guest is new here and the constant questions just won't do. Sorry to interject; you looked spaced out for a moment there. I'm sorry about that; they tend to get a bit excited when meeting someone new. Allow me to introduce you to a few of the land's natives. *points a hoof to the left-most pony* This spritely Pegasus is Golden Shimmer. *points to the center-most pony* The ever-curious Alicorn is Meadow Dawn. *points to the right-most pony* And the inquisitive, reserved Earth pony is Madeline. All of them are glad to meet you. So you weren't always an Alicorn, but you are one now? It's the shifter amulet! Those things are neat! Did you fly here? Did ya', did ya'? You took the spire here, right? Easy, easy, everpony. Remember what I said. *the other ponies nod, taking a step back* Sorry, sorry about that. Yeah, we didn't mean to get too worked up. *Madeline nods* Perhaps I should do the introductions on your part; you still seem a bit rattled by the, erm, hasty greetings. Our guest here is from Canterlot, the city on the other side of the dimensional pond that I've told you about before. They're curious about the world in which you live, so I'm showing them around. Alpha Elysium is a big place after all, and I figured that a quick introduction was in order. Ah, we see! *you focus on Meadow Dawn, the Alicorn nearly as tall as Princess Luna, before you look back to the others* What's wrong, never seen an Alicorn before? Well, that's the thing, Meadow Dawn, the Alicorns that live in the world our guest comes from aren't exactly easy to meet on a daily basis. They're treated as being better than others, and unfortunately don't get to spend much time with their friends. That's horrible! I'm starting to feel better about you not letting us go there if that's true. Yes, well, their world still has a long way to go until it becomes on-par with yours. Trust me though, eventually it will get there. Then can we go and visit? Of course, of course, but not a day until then! *The others sigh a bit* You see, they're about as curious of Canterlot as anyone else from Canterlot would be about Alpha Elysium. I understand their curiosity, but, well, between you and me, it wouldn't be in their health's best interest to travel to Equestria just yet. Remember, the magic of this land keeps them alive and eternally young, as it does for everyone here—you won't age either, as long as you stay here—but leaving, well, for you it wouldn't be anything instantly bad; you'd just live out a normal lifetime, err, provided you didn't stay in your current Alicorn form, but them, well... It might have severely detrimental effects on their health. Don't worry; I make sure that no one who was born here will ever leave until the day Equestria's magic grows to meet Alpha Elysium's, and since I control the only way in and out of this world, well, that's easy! Hey, are you two done whispering to each other yet? Hm? Oh, sorry about that, Golden Shimmer. I didn't mean to be rude. It's okay! I was just wondering. *You notice Golden Shimmer already hovering in mid air, the Pegasus' wings beating quickly to keep her aloft* Perhaps we should move along, there's still more to do in this paradise, after all! *the mage taps his own shifter amulet, turning into an Alicorn as he does* Now I suppose it's time to show you exactly what I meant before. Alicorns here are treated as any other pony would be; as a potential friend, of course! Perhaps we should get going; there are more ponies to meet, after all. Don't worry, I won't shove you into a crowd, I just want you to see, well, well, eh, just let me show you! *the mage takes to the air, you follow suit* We'll catch up with you later! Yeah, thanks for stopping by! See you around! *you wave back to the ponies you'd just met* Follow me, we'll take a gander at a few more Alicorns around here and how they interact. Remember, everyone is equal in Alpha Elysium; they're as unique as their cutie marks, but still a pony in everyone's eyes! *The two of you fly off over a hill, spotting many different groups of ponies frolicking and having the time of their lives in the grassy meadows below. Among them, to your continued amazement, are alicorns by the dozen, the winged, horned ponies jumping about and having fun with their friends, their regal status almost ignored, their presence merely treated as if they were anypony else. The mage eventually signals you to land on a nearby rock overlooking the meadows, the ponies below still going on about their business.* You see what I mean? The ponies here know no differences. Everyone has the potential to be a friend here. Social status doesn't exist; this land had such stratification purged from it millenniums ago. Now only peace and prosperity remains, and, and... *the mage wipes a tear from his eye* Ah, every time I come here, it warms my heart, and to think, one day Equestria will be just like this; peaceful, prosperous, lively, friendly, with not even a scant trace of death, or rot, or pain in sight. Oh, you're wondering how I know this? Well, let me let you in on something, but be careful; don't tell anyone back home about this: Equestria's magic is slowly getting more and more powerful. Eventually it will rise to meet Alpha Elysium's in terms of raw energy, and just like that, POOF! One day, Equestria will become just like this; a paradise without problem or strife. Imagine Equestria like a chicken still in its egg; it's still growing, developing, and waiting to hatch, but once it does, this will be the result; total harmony without a trace of pain at all. Ah, but listen to me prattle on. I should really get back to showing you around! There are still more ponies and places to see, after all!
Clouds and PlantsTime, perhaps, for a bit of relaxation. All this excitement can certainly be quite the thrill, but every now and again it feels good to just watch the clouds go by. I'm glad you've decided to stick with that alicorn form of yours; I think a trip to a cloud is in order. Follow me! *woosh!* Alright there we are, back in the air again. I think there seems to be a nice cumulus over that way a bit, ooh and it's a high-up one too! Don't be nervous, I get what you're thinking; the air gets thinner the higher up you go, right? Well, in Equestria that's true, but here, well, just watch! *the mage soars ahead* See what I mean? The air hasn't thinned. Alpha Elysium's atmosphere is distributed into a giant mesh by its magic; the air is layered out and held at a comfortable density no matter how high up you go. It makes life for all those who fly quite easier as there's no need to constantly check weather conditions for safe flying. Ah, here we are, a nice, soft cumulus cloud. These big, puffy clouds make the ideal beds for pegasi and alicorns, like us, alike. Feel free to stretch out a bit, relax as you will! *you both lay down on the cloud* Hear that? It's the gentle rushing of the wind currents around you. The spires tend to make a whistling noise as the air rushes around the spheres at their tips, and the wind itself echoes slightly as it wafts through the sky. Oh, well, listen to me go on and on, please, feel free to ignore my prattling. Just relax, take it all in. … … … … … … … If I may... Try taking a look over the edge of the cloud. Don't worry, it won't be scary; you're nice and safe up here. *you and the mage take a look* Ah, what a view! From up here you can see half of Alpha Elysium! Look, down there are the fields that we were at before. There's the giant forest over that way, and there are a few farms here and there off to the side. They grow the giving plants that I showed you before, although I suppose the terms “grow” and “farm” are misnomers here. Remember, nothing dies in Alpha Elysium, not even the plants. I suppose the best way to describe it is that the ponies who live in those areas tend to the plants as best they can; they give back to the plants that give so much. Perhaps the best way to describe those places are gardens rather than farms, and the ponies that live there as caretakers rather than actual farmers. Perhaps that should be our next stop through Alpha Elysium. It might be nice to show you how the land and ponies support one another. Perhaps we'll go there after a bit more rest; after all, we only sat down a mere few minutes ago. Tell you what; when you're good and ready to fly, just let me know and we'll be off towards one of the crop fields. … … … … … … … … *you nod at the mage* Ah, well that was a good rest, wasn't it? Well well then, let's be off! *the mage takes to the air. You follow suit* Just watch out for any down drafts, they can be a bit unexpect-whoa! Hoo hoo! There's one! Give me a minute to return to altitude. … Ah, there we go. You see, thermals are those rising columns of air that you use to stay up when gliding. They have an inverse, however, called sink. Those downdrafts are what's termed “sink”, and just as a thermal will push you up, sink will pull you back down. Don't fret though; with a bit of practice and patience, thermal navigating is quite manageable. *you feel yourself fall slightly as you enter a pillar of sink* Whoa, easy there! Okay, now fly to the side of the sink column. That's it. Now flap a bit, yes, just like that, and... voila! Perfect! You're right back up at altitude. You know, if I didn't know better I'd swear you'd been an alicorn your whole life. Got to like those shifter amulets! Anyway, we're nearly there at the garden now. Let's head in for a landing! *the two of you approach and land gently, your alicorn wings letting you gracefully land along with the mage. Looking around, you see all sorts of ponies of all different breeds watering, caring for, and in some cases even talking to, the giving plants that provide so much for the land's inhabitants.* Let's watch them work for a while. As you can see, they treat the plants as if they were other ponies, caring for them as best they can until-- *the mage is interrupted as a plant suddenly dives into the ground and vanishes* Ooh, yes, I should have mentioned that. These plants are quite special indeed. You see, when they've been pampered and cared for enough, they dive back underground and sprout up again somewhere else in the world. In some cases, multiple plants move back and forth whenever they're needed somewhere in order to keep everypony happy and sound. And don't worry about the plants; they never really tire or wear out, they just like to relax too every now and again, hence gardens like this. Maybe you should give it a go. Try walking up to that plant over there. It's looking a little lonely right now, and maybe you could help cheer it up. *you walk over to a sort of droopy-looking plant. It takes notice of your shifter amulet and perks up slightly, going from looking slightly wilted to fully healthy.* It seems this one's taken a liking to your amulet. Don't worry if they look wilted, by the way, they're all perfectly healthy! Sometimes they just get a bit tired every now and then, but it's more like minor cases of boredom rather than actual stress or tiredness. Let's hang around a little while longer; maybe these plants could teach you a few things about Alpha Elysium.
