The Fillies of Canterlot Castle

by MrAlterad

Rating: everyone
Tags: Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Princess Luna, Trixie
Length: 47161

The young Twilight, Trixie, and Sunset are taught by Princess Luna in her castle. Exposing the fillies to everything that comes with being the Princess of Equestria.

Growing up is an adventure. Especially when it takes place under the tutelage of Princess Luna! Under her care, Twilight, Trixie, and Sunset are now friends. However, they're not quite PBFFs, yet. And since they've barely begun being Luna's Protégées, there's still a great deal left for them to learn.

Naturally, since they're still fillies, there will be some missteps, mistakes, and even the odd problem or two along the way. But, it's nothing they can't handle, as long as they have each other!

Direct sequel to Luna's Protégé
Set in the Trio-verse.

Published 2015-04-19 20:10:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-10-11 20:30:15 UTC

2. How to Bathe Your Dragon

As Sunset watched Twilight teleport after Trixie, she couldn't help but adopt a small smile. Despite how smart Twilight was, she still had a tendency to miss the obvious, a fact that briefly distracted Sunset from the encounter she was about to embark upon.

Maybe I should do her a favor and help her get used to teleporting around the castle. Sunset thought to herself as she approached the room next to their own. That's what friends do, right? She wondered, suddenly unsure of herself. I mean, that's why I'm going to help Trixie, because we're friends, she concluded in an attempt to reassure herself.

However, her line of thinking was short lived, as the walk to Spike's room was very brief, and Sunset now found herself standing before the door. The mare guarding the hall caught her eye, giving Sunset an inquisitive glance, prompting Sunset to shake her head. She intended to let herself in, and the guard knew Sunset well enough to catch on, and gave the filly a smile as she continued to guard the hall. Sunset took that smile for all it was worth, adopting a determined look as she entered.

After coming here everyday for a month, she had grown accustomed to how clean this room was when she arrived. Despite her efforts, however, it was never as clean when she left it. But not today! Today, this place will be spotless when I leave! She assured herself, not liking the idea that Cadance managed to keep Spike's room cleaner than Sunset could.

Though Spike's room had the same layout as the room Sunset and the others stayed in, it managed to look completely different from their own. A bedroom, a bathroom, and a main room with an attached balcony. That was what the two rooms had in common. The main room for Spike and Cadance was partitioned into several parts, most of it being for Spike to crawl and play around in, with toys not being used left in designated spots near the walls.

In the left corner was a make-shift kitchen area with cabinets and a table. A setup insisted by Cadance, not liking how long it took for food to reach their room. In this choice, Sunset was in agreement, as neither of them wanted to keep the dragon waiting when he was hungry. There was also a small couch, and a desk in the right corner with a small number of books on it, for Cadance, when Spike was taking a nap. As Sunset took in the clean room, her eyes fell to the foalsitter, and she resisted letting out a sigh as Cadance smiled at her.

“Hey Sunset.” Cadance let out heartily. She had a book in her hooves, and Spike was cradled next to her, soundly sleeping. Seeing Spike sleeping next to her like that made Sunset abandon any attempts at hiding her glare.

“Cadance,” Sunset started, giving the pegasus a cross look, “Since I'm here, you can leave now,” she curtly stated.

“Come now Sunset, please understand,” Cadance replied, her smile shifting as she closed the book, her eyes adopting a kind, yet determined look, “Luna tasked me with looking after Spike. I can't up and leave simply because you want me to.”

Sunset let out an annoyed sigh. She never understood why Luna left the task to the pegasus. Cadance was only a few years older than Sunset, not even old enough to call herself a mare, yet, Luna entrusted this pegasus to looking over a baby dragon. When Sunset had asked Luna why, she simply insisted that Sunset ask Cadance that question. And asking anything of Cadance was something Sunset had no intention of doing.

Spike must have been sleeping lightly, as their words stirred him. He rubbed his eyes as he looked to Sunset, then Cadance, and started waving his claws about as he let out a hearty series of noises.

Seeing Spike's actions filled Sunset with mixed feelings. Joy, and a touch of pride at see him trying to talk, and a touch of anger and something else that was directed towards Cadance, who, by occupation, had naturally spent more time with the baby dragon than Sunset.

“What's that Spike? It's time for din-din?” Cadance asked in a cooing voice, making Sunset groan internally. She didn't like the foal-speak Cadance did around Spike, but he seemed to enjoy it, and Sunset loathed the idea of copying her.

“If he's hungry, I can feed him.” Sunset let out as she picked up Spike with her magic, making the dragon adopt a confused look for a moment before waving his arms in the air with a smile.

“Be careful Sunset, his fangs, well, they're stronger now.” Cadance warned, making Sunset pause.

When she had extra time, she usually spent it with Spike; that wasn't the case this week, however, because of a certain change in her social life. Still, her time with the baby dragon had taught her some very important tidbits about dragons.

There was close to nothing known about them. Taking care of Spike has been an ... experience; and thinking on it, it occurred to Sunset that Cadance must have had a more trying time learning all there was about raising a dragon than Sunset. When his body developed, it seemed to happen overnight. One night, during the first week, his gummy teeth were barely noticeable, and the next morning he had a set of teeth that allowed him to eat food any foal his age wouldn't be able to chew. He was also strong for his size, stronger than a foal anyway, and Spike's claws were pointy, which could summon a surprised yelp from anypony caught by them unaware.

Hearing that his fangs were now stronger, Sunset appraised him, who was giving her a toothy grin. They don't look any stronger... Sunset thought to herself as she gathered what she needed to make Spike a daisy sandwich. Supposedly, a dragon could eat anything a pony could, and Spike had yet to prove otherwise. Finishing the simple meal in short order, she put it on a plate and sat Spike before the table, wondering what Cadance was referring to when-

Crunch.

Cadance winced as Sunset's eyes widened. Spike had cleanly bit into the sandwich, and the plate. He began to chew heartily, not bothered by the porcelain seasoning in the least.

“And there goes another plate fit for royalty.” Cadance let out with a sigh as she looked over the remaining dishes in her make-shift kitchen. “Thank Luna that he isn't bitey.”

“Bitey?” Sunset asked incredulously as she eyed Spike's fangs.

“We're lucky he doesn't bite or nibble on anything he can get his claws on.” Cadance explained as she cleaned up small pieces of fine dining that fell to the floor from Spike's sloppy eating.

If a dragon can eat a plate and be completely fine, then does that mean they eat more than just flowers and grass? Sunset wondered as Spike stopped eating, his face scrunching up before letting out a sneeze. The sneeze let out a very small jet of flame and a cloud of smoke that surprised both fillies. Sunset's ears then fell, as a small hope she harbored for the dragon was crushed. And here I was hoping we wouldn't have to deal with fire-breathing until he was older...

“Well, that was, something!” Cadance let out with a hint of forced enthusiasm as she started to clean the table of soot. “Um, Sunset,” she began as Sunset looked to her, “There wouldn't happen to be a fire extinguishing spell you could learn, would there?” Seeing where she was coming from, Sunset quickly nodded.

“I'll look into it tomorrow.” Sunset stated, then her brow furrowed as she realized that she had just thoughtlessly agreed to do something for the pegasus, “Not that I needed you to point that out!” Sunset quickly affirmed, getting a surprised look from Cadance. She appraised Sunset for a moment, seeing the flustered look on her face, then, Cadance nodded to herself as she gave the younger filly a kind smile.

“Sunset, Princess Luna told me that Spike may want a particular thing to eat when his fangs were strong enough. I'm going to go get my hooves on some. While I'm gone, could you watch over him? Maybe give him a bath?” She asked, surprising Sunset, who immediately gave Cadance an eager nod. “Excellent!” She then realized something as she looked to Sunset, “He likes to play in the water, so keep that in mind.” She explained as she gathered some saddlebags, before heading out of the room. “I'll be back as soon as I can-"

“Take your time!” Sunset insisted in a demeaning manner, being surprised by her own tone of voice, “I, I mean, make sure you get everything we'll need.” Sunset elaborated, not liking how she had just addressed Cadance. I really need to keep myself together around ponies I don't like! Sunset thought to herself as Cadance nodded.

“Alright, you can count on it!” she said with a smile as she flew off, leaving Sunset to close the door as she turned to see Spike, who was looking between Sunset and some of his toys. With Cadance gone, the room seemed to fall silent as Sunset was hit with the weight of what the pegasus had just done.

Wait. Cadance actually left me alone to look after Spike! Sunset thought with a grin as she helped Spike from the table, taking him over to his toys. Thinking on it, she couldn't recall a time when Cadance left her alone with Spike while he was awake, and now Sunset was wondering if Cadance left specifically to let Sunset have some time alone with him. Wait, she better not think I owe her one! Sunset thought to herself as she started playing with Spike, not seeing a reason to give him a bath just yet.

In short order, her conflicted thoughts concerning the pegasus were cast aside by the giggles and happiness Spike let out during their play. Sunset found herself completely engrossed in watching over, taking care of, and entertaining the little guy. She wasn't going to let things like her dislike for a competing caretaker, worries about what it means to be a friend, or curiosities like a visiting alicorn princess distract her from this moment.

And to her surprise, being swept away in her task, she found that it was starting to get late, meaning she was running out of time to give Spike a bath. Before she could get him ready, Cadance returned, to Sunset's surprise. Her saddlebags looking quite heavy as she quickly separated herself from them.

“Whew~” She let out, wiping some sweat from her brow before appraising Spike and Sunset, who was giving her a neutral look, more content than she was before. “Sunset, take a look this~!” Cadance said as she pulled out a small gemstone from her saddlebags, which caught both Spike's and Sunset's attention. Sunset then noticed that the saddlebags were filled with gems.

“How did you get those?” Sunset asked, a little in awe.

“Well,” Cadance began as she blushed, “Princess Luna didn't seem all that bothered about taking these from the vault for Spike...” she said as she glanced to the side.

Those must be worth a lot of bits! Sunset thought, under the impression that Cadance was thinking the same thing. Wait, there's a vault in the castle?

“A-Anyway,” Cadance began, “Princess Luna said that dragons eat gemstones, and from the looks of it, Spike wants to try one.” She pointed out, and Sunset had to agree with that observation, as Spike was crawling to the saddlebags with a hungry look in his eyes. Recalling something Cadance told her in the first week, Sunset picked up Spike in her magic, bringing him close as he looked to the gems with a sad look in his eyes.

“Sorry Spike, but it's getting a little late for a snack, so how about a bath instead~?” Sunset asked in what she hoped was a soothing tone, trying to distract him from the gems as Cadance nodded in agreement with Sunset's intentions, and put the gems where the baby dragon couldn't reach them, which was a fairly easy task for the pegasus. As Sunset brought Spike to the bathroom, she noticed Cadance following after her, which made Sunset stop in her tracks. “I can manage, Cadance, you don't need to help.” Sunset stated, making Cadance hesitate for a moment.

“Well, alright, just ask if you need any-”

“I won't need your help, we'll be fine. After all, you were the one that suggested I give him one while you were gone.” Sunset pointed out, “Besides, he's my dragon, so if I say he'll be fine, he'll be fine.” She affirmed as she gave Cadance a fierce look.

“Okay okay,” Cadance replied, putting her hooves up defensively, “I'll be right here, so ask if you need help.” She added, and Sunset was about to make a harsh quip, but bit her tongue, realizing that she was picking a fight again, and immediately saw the problem with picking a fight with Spike's foalsitter.

And it wasn't the fact that Cadance was bigger, or likely faster than Sunset that was the problem. Though she loathed to admit it, Sunset needed Cadance. And also, the notion of fighting somepony as nice as her just seemed wrong.

Sunset let out a sigh, Why couldn't Luna have just told me why she picked her? She wondered as she entered the bathroom, closing the door behind her as she got the water running. There's nothing special about Cadance! She's got no reason to be looking after the dragon of one of Luna's students!

Though, if Sunset was honest with herself, it probably didn't matter who was looking after Spike in her stead, she'd still have a problem with that pony. Unless it was Princess Luna, of course, but that is neither here nor there.

As Sunset placed Spike in the tub, she also left him several rubber toys as she glared at the door separating her from the pink pegasus. She wanted to let off some steam, and after considering it for several seconds, resolved herself to giving Spike her attention, which always seemed to free her of troublesome thoughts.

She then noticed that it was getting foggy in the bathroom, the air becoming uncomfortably warm as she noticed that she had only turned on the hot water for the tub. Her heart almost froze as she grabbed Spike, shutting the water off, then paused in confusion as she saw that he wasn't bothered in the least by the hot water.

Right, Sunset thought as she let out a sigh of relief, I guess being a dragon has its perks- Sunset was splashed in the face with hot water, causing her to let out an indignant yelp as she stepped away from the tub in surprise, sputtering as she wiped water from her face. The water wasn't hot enough to hurt, but she was now drenched, her mane losing its curl as she cleared the water from her eyes. She could feel her body start to sweat in response to the water as she looked to Spike, who was giving her a hearty giggle.

“You think that's funny, huh?” Sunset asked as she adopted a sly grin, scooping up some water with her magic and levitating it above the dragon, who eyed it in awe. Seeing that awe, Sunset abandoned the idea of splashing him, and instead concentrated on her magic to have the mass of water take up a shape vaguely resembling Spike. She then brought the water-doll to the edge of the tub so Spike could reach it. As Spike's claws passed through it, looking completely confused in the process, Sunset couldn't help but chuckle as he tried again and again to pick up the water-doll her magic was keeping together.

Moving closer to the tub, she eyed the soap, and with even more concentration, picked it up while keeping the water-doll together. It wasn't easy for Sunset, but she didn't shy from the challenge, and took pride in the fact that she could manage that much, while a small part of her affirmed that Trixie would make this look easy. With her concentration on her magic, she reached the edge of the tub as she brought the soap to Spike-

She then slipped on the water at the edge of the tub, falling flat on her stomach, only to immediately become soaked by the water-doll as the magic that kept it together dissipated. Now, instead of just her mane being drenched, Sunset was at a state where it wouldn't make a difference if she was in the tub or not. Sunset let out a slightly painful sigh as she carefully got on her hooves, and her ears perked up when she heard Cadance at the door.

“You okay in there?” Cadance asked as the knob for the door started to turn, and Sunset grasped it firmly in her magic to keep the door shut.

“Just fine, don't need help!” Sunset affirmed, sounding more distressed then she'd like to admit.

“Well, alright then.” Cadance replied, sounding unconvinced, but unable to open the door, “Just remember, there's no shame in asking for help.”

No shame in asking for help? Sunset thought, caught off guard by words she'd expect to hear from Luna. Briefly contemplating that statement, she looked to Spike- Once again her heart skipped a beat as she saw him munching on the bar of soap.

“S-Spike!” Sunset let out, quickly taking the soap from him, prompting him to give Sunset a dejected look, which made the filly feel guilty. Bringing the bar close, she noted, to her annoyance, that it was sort of shaped like the gems Cadance had brought in. Ooh! He ate half the bar! What if he gets sick! Okay Sunset, think. If he can eat royal dishware without a problem, then maybe he'll be fine with-

Hiccup.

Eh? Sunset thought as she looked back to Spike. In the air floating above him was a bubble. At least, Sunset was pretty sure it was a bubble, as she took a hesitant step back from it. The bubble's interior was swirling with a mixture of light and dark green colors, and as Spike let out another hiccup, another bubble was born, floating in the air above the tub with the other, also with a swirling green interior.

Wait. Don't tell me that's dragon's fire!? Sunset thought in alarm as another bubble joined the ranks. But, fire doesn't work that way! How is that even possible!? She exasperated as she desperately tried to figure out how to stop Spike's hiccups. As her mind raced, one of the bubbles reached the ceiling, letting out a small pop as the fire left an obvious scorch mark where it touched, as well as traces of soot.

Hiccup.

Seeing another bubble replace the one that popped, Sunset fished Spike from the tub, surprising the dragon as she brought him close, hoping the method she read worked for dragons as well as it did for foals. Sitting down, she cradled Spike in her hooves, facing him over her shoulder as she started to rub his back. As she did so, she kept a wary eye on the bubbles in the room, scooting away if they drifted closer.

Hiccup.

She didn't need to look to know there was now a bubble behind her, and she slowly shifted away from it. One by one, each bubble popped, and Spike's hiccups died down. The bathroom had some new scortch marks she intended to take care of later, as Sunset let out a sigh of relief, placing Spike back in the tub.

Glad that's over with- Hiccup.

A new bubble was in the air between Spike and Sunset, drifting closer to her, and out of reflex, she grabbed it with her magic, causing it to pop. Its fire poofed out in every direction, sending soot out towards Sunset, her mane and face getting covered as she took several steps back, shielding her eyes. She slipped again, and simply lay there on her back as she collected herself.

Looking in the mirror, she saw that she was a real mess. More so than when she had fought Trixie in the rain. She looked from herself in the mirror, then to the burn marks on the walls and ceiling, and felt her eyes start to itch as she reflected on how terrible such a simple affair had turned out.

Hiccup.

Sunset saw another bubble now floating over the tub. Spike was playing in the water without a care in the world, and though a small part of Sunset was able to take solace in that fact, the rest, including her pride, couldn't stand the sight of another bubble.

Hiccup.

“C-Cadance!” Sunset cried out, finding no shame in asking for help.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sunset sat still in the tub, her face lightly flushed as Cadance scrubbed her mane clean of all the soot that had gotten in it. Trying very hard it pretend it wasn't in fact happening, a small part of Sunset had to admit that it felt nice to have somepony else clean her mane for her, even if it was Cadance.

With her help, Spike's hiccups were taken care of, but not before the bathroom gained another half dozen scorch marks. Cadance herself was a soot covered mess as well, but insisted on helping Sunset clean up first, while Spike was sleeping contently in the main room.

Sunset appraised the burn marks on the wall, and resigned herself to the fact that the place wouldn't be cleaner than she arrived because of those. She then made a mental note to pick up an extinguishing spell as soon as she had the time, prompting Sunset to let out a small sigh as she glanced to the side, words Luna told her coming to mind as she took in a deep breath.

“Cadance, why are you Spike's foalsitter?” Cadance's scrubbing came to a halt as Sunset added, “Aren't you a bit, well, young, to be working in the castle?” There were several moments of silence following her question as Cadance continued cleaning her mane.

“Well, I don't really know.” Cadance admitted, prompting Sunset to give her an incredulous look. “Heh, sorry. One day, I saved the ponies I loved from some dark magic, and the next I'm living at the castle at Princess Luna's call.”

Saved the ponies she loved from dark magic? Sunset thought in surprise as Cadance continued.

“I don't know why Luna trusted this to me, so I can only guess.” She briefly fell silent as Sunset considered her words, “Sunset, why did the Princess take up three students?” Cadance asked, her question putting Sunset at a loss.

I … never thought about that! Sunset realized, noting that Luna taking up a student wasn't something that was known to have happened before. Why did she take up students?

“I don't know either.” Sunset admitted, glancing to Cadance over her shoulder. “You said you had a guess as to why she picked you?” She asked, and the pegasus nodded.

“I think she has something in mind for me, in the future. She wants me to be close, for whatever that reason is.”

Something in mind for her in the future? Does Luna have expectations like that from me and the others? Sunset wondered as Cadance ran warm water through her mane. As the suds were washed away, her cleaning just about finished, Sunset glanced to the ground again as her face flushed.

I- Sunset then shook her head lightly, No, Spike. He needs Cadance, and I need to rely on her. I shouldn't try to take her responsibilities from her. Even though I really want to. Sunset thought to herself, seeing what happened tonight as another piece to the growing pile of evidence towards that fact.

Sunset wanted to do everything on her own. She didn't want to owe anypony anything. But, Luna insists that I rely on others. Trixie could put the rock back together. Twilight knew what kind of rock it was. I, I can't be with Spike all the time. But Cadance ... can. She admitted to herself, glancing to the side as Cadance brought a towel over.

“Cadance,” Sunset began, getting an inquisitive look from the pegasus. “It's just, thanks. For the help.” Sunset spat out, getting a smile from the pegasus.

“Think nothing of it, that's what friends are for.” Cadance replied, making Sunset blink as she recalled that she intend to help Trixie with the history test.

Cadance sees me as a friend? Sunset wondered as Cadance continued.

“Spike's important to you, so you can trust me to look after him. He can be a hooffull, but it's nothing I can't manage.”

Sunset appraised the foalsitter. She didn't like Cadance looking after Spike. She didn't like the idea of Spike growing closer to Cadance over herself. She kind of knew it was wrong of her to be so hostile towards Cadance, but she couldn't help it. Still, she never expected the filly to call her a friend, despite how negative Sunset's been around her.

“And I want to thank you as well,” Cadance said, surprising Sunset even further, “I know you're not really doing it for me, but it makes it easier for me when you're here to watch over Spike. He seems more active when you're around, and it's better when it's lively here. So, I'm hoping that you'll bring the others here more often.” She said, and Sunset looked to her, seeing a warm smile on her face, “It was beautiful, seeing the three of you with Spike last week.”

Another thing Sunset didn't like about Cadance, was just how nice she was. Cadance's open kindness had a real knack for sapping the strength out of Sunset's poor moods.

“I think I'd like that too.” Sunset admitted, as Cadance helped her dry off.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Oh, hey Sunny!” Trixie let out as Sunset returned to her room, seeing Twilight and Trixie looking over the history notes. Sunset saw a fire in the blue filly's eyes, and wondered if Twilight had managed to convey the importance of Monday's test to Trixie.

“You were gone for a while,” Twilight let out, giving Sunset a curious look.

“Yea, gave Spike a bath, and things got ... complicated.” Sunset said as she concealed a small smile, feeling as if a small weight had been lifted off her shoulders. “So, what was the princess like?” Sunset asked, and Twilight and Trixie shared a look as they abandoned the notes, approaching Sunset.

“Well...” Twilight started, filling Sunset in on the secret of the Changeling Queen, and how Luna was expecting them to keep the secrets of the castle to themselves.

“Wow. Sounds like I missed out.” Sunset stated, finding the notion of Twilight slinking around like a deviant to be amusing. Hmm, should I try meeting this Chrysalis before she leaves? Sunset wondered as she looked to Trixie, “So, a spell that lets you look like other ponies? You think Luna will actually teach you that?” Sunset asked, and Trixie gave her a quick, resolute nod. “Well, no wonder you look so fired up." She then gave Trixie a smug smile, "I guess it's a good thing that you'll have me and Twilight helping you study, right?”

“Right!” Trixie affirmed, and Sunset gave her a firm nod. Sunset wouldn't admit it, but she found the idea of helping Trixie to be strange, considering that over a week ago, she saw the filly as the third wheel in their 'class'. Now, they were friends, and she was intending to make sure that Trixie passed that test.

As they gathered around their notes, Sunset found herself wondering if this is what Cadance meant about helping friends. Her brow then furrowed lightly as she wondered if Cadance saw her in the same light as she herself saw Trixie.

I, I should pay attention to the matter on hoof. Sunset affirmed as she banished such bothersome notions aside, following Twilight's lead as they dived into the large number of history notes.

Author's Note

And the lesson of the story is to not take your eyes off of a dragon when giving them a bath.
This is what happens when I try to write funny. It's not funny at all. This chapter is the worst and I apologize for everything.
Next chapter: Trixie, tests, magic, things!

4. A Glass of Water

“There is one thing every pony in Equestria possesses. Magic.”

“For earth ponies, it's the magic to govern the earth. To bring prosperity to the very lands they live on. The earth answers to their care, as they wield their power with pride.”

“A pegasi's magic governs the skies. Their wings rule the clouds, granting the earth the boon of water, and heralding the change of seasons.”

“And the bat ponies' magic grants them the dominion of the beasts. Their magic allowing them to talk with the critters and monsters of the land below ground, and the land of light, bearing their great senses in devotion to the wild.”

“And finally, the unicorns. Their magic has no focus, as their power commands the domain beyond the skies, the heavens, which comprises of the sun, moon, and stars.”

“Without a doubt, magic wielded by the unicorns grants them great versatility, but that power has to be earned. An earth pony, bat pony and pegasi needn't be trained to do what comes naturally to them. But if a unicorn wants to shape the clouds, talk to beasts or till the land like their pony cousins, then they have to invest extra effort into it.”

“And in order to earn that power, granted by versatility, it goes without saying that it requires the understanding of magic. Just as magic is different between the different kinds of ponies, it is also different between individual unicorns.”

“Some spells are easier when that spell is tied to one's natural talents, while for others, ease comes from the spell's affinity matching its caster. Though there is a method for every spell conceived, its execution relies solely on the abilities of the unicorn casting it...”

Twilight's narration ended as she looked up from her small book, a determined look on her face as she looked to the potted plant before her.

That's right. It's up to me, so let's get it right this time! She adamantly thought as she closed her old copy of 'Basic Magic'. Though she knew the book by heart, reading it to herself helped strengthen her resolve when working on a particularly difficult spell.

Her eyes still on the plant, she took several deep breaths before beginning to concentrate. Her horn started to glow in response to her will, gathering the power required to bring about the task before her: making the plant grow.

The balcony was faintly illuminated by her magic, no doubt drawing another curious glance from one of the night guards looking over the castle grounds. The glow brightened as the potted plant was encased in that magical light. To any onlooker who wasn't a unicorn, it would simply appear as though that glow was causing the plant to grow.

For Twilight, that was far from the case. Every new spell was a challenge to execute. A challenge she preferred to face alone. For when she started to learn telekinesis, Twilight came to learn that her magic was different.

Any other unicorn would see telekinesis as picking a item up with their horn. To Twilight, it was like trying to pick something up, while trying to balance on one hoof. Oh, and the thing she was trying to pick up was slippery. Very slippery.

And it was always different with every spell. Some spells were inexplicably easy, while others were not. Despite this, she still pushed forward, always eager to learn, because she loved to learn. And once she mastered the act, the spell was as good as hers.

She smiled as she took in the growing plant, glad to have completed another balancing act. However, that smile was short-lived, as her success momentarily distracted her concentration, causing the plant to instantly shrink to a barely sprouting bud. Twilight let out a frustrated huff before righting the problem, gradually returning the plant to its original state, then letting it grow a little further. But only just a little bit further.

Satisfied that she finally had the spell down, she abandoned her magic, letting out a sigh as the stress of making the spell work was eased upon. A balancing act required physical and mental fortitude. In Twilight's case, it was always the mental part that made her exhausted after learning a spell. Her magical reserves were only rarely taxed, a notion she's never picked up on, simply because she saw her magic as being more difficult to use than the average unicorns.

Looking to the sky, she saw that the moon was now halfway through its journey. I guess that'll have to do. She thought as she let out a wide yawn. Going inside, she placed the potted plant back in its original corner, before quietly slinking back into their bedroom. She then let out another yawn as she got into bed with her friends.

Helping Trixie study over the weekend had been an unplanned time sink for Twilight, and she had wanted to get the growth spell down before they were taught another. Guess it's Tuesday now. Wonder what spell we'll be learning today... She thought as her eyes closed, enjoying what was left of the night. A small, proud fire smoldering inside her chest for successfully adding another spell to her roster.

~~~~~~~~~~

Twilight let out a comfortable yawn as the warm morning breeze blew past her. The fillies were out in the field for today's lesson, and Luna had just arrived. As she did, Sir Tell Tale handed her the tests he graded yesterday, before wishing the fillies a farewell and departing into the castle. Luna briefly looked over the tests as she approached her students, wearing spectacles Twilight was certain the princess didn't actually need. As Luna came closer, Twilight took a moment to notice that several clouds were hovering in the field, undoubtedly for the lesson concerning pegasi weather physics.

Nodding to herself, Luna started handing back the tests, giving Twilight hers first. Twilight looked over it as Luna returned Sunset and Trixie's copies. Twilight then blinked, rubbing her eyes before appraising the results again. 90/100.

She quickly flipped through her answers, trying to find where the mistake was, troubled, since she couldn't recall the last time she hadn't gotten a perfect score on a knowledge test. What was it? Why are all of these 9/10? Did I do something wrong? Oh my gosh! What if Sunset and Trixie got bad marks too, because of me!? She thought as she almost haphazardly flipped through the pages. Her growing anxiety faltered as she reached the last page, and she blinked again as she saw a small note left behind on her final answer.

'Great work Twilight! Your accuracy was spot on! However, your answers were very textbook-like, as in they were dry and difficult to read for anypony not interested in history. Remember, Twilight, there's always room for improvement, so if you'd like help concerning this, you're free to come to me anytime.' ~Tell Tale

Twilight took that in for a moment, then let out the breath she had been holding in as she adopted a small smile. She had never been one to aim for a top score, it was simply a happenstance of her love of learning. Now that she was assured that her answers weren't technically wrong, she saw the imperfect score, and the note with it, as an opportunity for her to learn something new. With that in mind, she looked to Sunset and Trixie.

Trixie wasn't even looking over her test, but instead, seemed to be avoiding Sunset's gaze, and Twilight could easily understand why. Sunset's brow was furrowed as she glared at her test, and Twilight couldn't help but imagine the paper bursting into flames under that gaze. Considering the note Sir Tell Tale left Twilight, she could easily imagine why Sunset was radiating anger.

“Luna,” Sunset began as she levitated her exam towards the princess, “this test wasn't graded fairly!”

“And why do you think that, Sunset?” Luna asked as she approached the filly.

“I got every answer right! But Tell Tale didn't give top marks!”

“And he didn't specify why?” Luna asked knowingly, causing Sunset to hesitate before glancing to the side.

“He said that my answers were too short and left no room for the imagination. But, that shouldn't matter!”

“Looks like my bookkeeper thinks differently. You still got a 92/100.” Luna then adopted an amused look. “Maybe you should talk to Trixie and Twilight about this before taking your problem up with Sir Tell Tale.” She said, giving Twilight a knowing grin, making Twilight's eyes widen in understanding. Twilight then looked to Sunset, giving her a smile, which Sunset noticed, prompting a confused look from the flustered filly.

“You got higher than I did!” Twilight let out happily, certain that would help dissuade Sunset's mood.

“I- I did?” She asked, looking even more confused as Twilight presented her test results. “I did!” Sunset declared as she adopted a shamelessly prominent smile. She reveled in the sensation for a moment before letting out a happy sigh. She then blinked when she noticed that all eyes were on her, and blushed as she returned Twilight's test. “I thought he'd give you top marks, since you're his favorite.” She let out, glancing to the side, looking like she had just swallowed something bitter.

“I am?” Twilight asked, her ears falling as she recalled how some of the students in Luna's School for Gifted Unicorns teased her, calling her 'teacher's pet'.

“It isn't about favorites,” Luna interjected, “Sir Tell Tale gave an honest and equal assessment of your tests, and pointed out areas of improvement.” Luna then nodded to herself, “If you have any concerns about your score, you should bring it up with him.” She then adopted her typical smile, “Now, shall we move on to today's lesson?” She asked curiously, getting an eager nod from the fillies. And as Luna started, from the corner of Twilight's eye, Twilight noticed Trixie hastily stash her test out of sight with her 'notes'.

Twilight wanted to know if Tell Tale left Trixie a note as well, certain that Trixie had passed, since the filly's been playing with her new spell all morning. That was, Trixie was constantly conjuring miniature versions of things around her. Illusions no bigger than her hoof, with their appearance taking on varying amounts of accuracy. Luna had taught her the spell in her sleep, while Twilight was practicing her own magic very early in the morning. Because of that, Twilight didn't doubt Trixie's success, but was still curious to know Tell Tale's insight on her score.

However, Twilight's curiosity was short-lived as Luna motioned toward the clouds gathered in the field, getting her student's attention. Signaling the beginning of the lesson, the fillies quickly learned that today's class would prove to be something of an unexpected event.

~~~~~~~~~~

The lesson over, Black Hawk, captain of the Shadowbolts, landed. Of course, after he completed a double-spiral-loopty-turn-of-doom that dispersed what remained of the clouds. Twilight and Trixie let out a small cheer, while Sunset tried to look unimpressed.

“Thank you for that, Black Hawk.” Luna said as she addressed the pegasus, prompting a curt salute from the stallion.

“It was my pleasure, Your Highness.”

“Oh oh! Mr. Hawk, Trixie wants to show you a trick!”

“Show me what you got, little filly!” He replied heartily, and Trixie let out another small cheer. She then hopped in the air, instantly disappearing as she teleported closer to him, letting out a set of fireworks spreading out in a wing-like pattern, the colors matching the Shadowbolt's uniform.

“Ta-dah!” She let out, then adopted an eager look. “Oh! I've also got this!” She let out as her magic brought forth a small illusion of Black Hawk, standing on her outstretched hoof, saluting the real Black Hawk.

“Keep up the good work, soldier!” Black Hawk replied, not missing a beat as he saluted the illusion of himself. The entire exchange made Twilight's cheeks ache, and from the corner of her eye, she could see that Sunset was trying to hide a silly grin.

“Trixie wonders, um. Oh.” Trixie then adopted a contemplative look, “What's the word, where a big important pony signs a thing?” Trixie asked as she looked to Twilight.

“Oh! An autograph.” Twilight replied, adopting Trixie's idea as she looked to Black Hawk. “Mr. Hawk, would it be any trouble if I- we, can have your autograph?”

“I'll pass on that.” Sunset quickly replied as Trixie stood next to Twilight, eager for the Shadowbolt's signature.

“But of course!” Black Hawk replied as he took a pen in his mouth. “Is fiss for you, or fumpony elsph?” He asked, and it took Twilight a moment to put together his question.

“It's for my brother, Shining Armor. He's a really big fan!”

“Sh-Shining Armor's a fan?” Sunset asked, and Twilight nodded in reply. Sunset then coughed into her hoof before looking to Black Hawk. “I wouldn't mind an autograph too, please.”

“Autograffs for all~!” Trixie stated as the Shadowbolt started signing. "Oh!” Trixie let out as the stallion gave her his autograph. “Maybe Trixie should do autograffs too!” she let out excitedly, then fumbled through her things before signing a piece of paper, presenting it to Black Hawk. “You're the first!”

“I am greatly honored!” Black Hawk declared, standing tall as he said it. “I shall treasure it greatly!” His words seemed to be too much for the blue filly, as she couldn't seem to muster anything else to say. All she had in reply for the Shadowbolt was one of her best, biggest, and most honest of smiles. A smile so bright, even Sunset couldn't shy from it.

With the autographs and lesson finished, Black Hawk saluted to Luna. He then departed in a spectacular fashion, giving out a hearty farewell as Twilight appraised Sunset. The filly was eyeing the autograph in her possession with a strange look on her face, which made Twilight start to speculate.

Does Sunset like Shining Armor? Twilight wondered, I mean, she does seem to be friendlier around him. She then nodded to herself. I can't blame her. He is fun to be with. She considered with a smile as Luna spoke up.

“Now girls, let's move on to this week's spell, after which we'll be done for today.” Luna stated, instantly getting her students' attention. Though they each had different reasons, they all looked forward to learning a new spell. Trixie in hopes of adding it to her tricks of entertaining others. Sunset in the desire to have more abilities to rely on. And Twilight loved learning new spells for the same reason as everything else. She loved to learn. And learning a new spell was far more challenging then learning history or weather physics.

However, before Twilight saw Sunset's struggle to learn teleporting, that wasn't the case. It was frustrating for Twilight, having to work harder at getting a spell right compared to other fillies her age. Now, she saw it as a challenge worthy of her effort.

Okay. If she was being honest, there were times where it still frustrated her. But that pride she felt, when she finally got it right, made it worth it. It took seeing her friend's happiness, when she finally got the teleport spell down, for Twilight to appreciate the joys of succeeding after repeated failure.

And now a new spell was being presented before her, as Luna's horn glowed. In a bright flash, a small glass cup filled with water materialized before them. Trixie smiled as Twilight adopted a contemplative look. Trixie's horn then glowed, as she mirrored the feat. Her brow then furrowed as Trixie seemed to realize something.

“Luna, that's not an illusion!” Trixie pointed out, causing Sunset and Twilight to share a knowing look.

“We're going to learn a conjuring spell?” Twilight asked, certain she had guessed right, and she readopted a smile as Luna nodded.

“Conjuring magic is the process of making something from pure magic. Because of this, it's considered one of the harder schools to learn. But since each of you managed teleporting, I think the simplest form of it should prove manageable. Ah, but first, Twilight, would you mind explaining the two main subgroups for conjuring?”

“Huh? Oh, well, there's temporary conjuring, and permanent conjuring.” Twilight explained, “From what I've read, the second takes more magic than the first.”

“That's correct.” Luna replied as she tilted her summoned glass to the side, spilling the water on the grass. “The water I conjured is permanent. The glass, however...” And with that, her horn glowed slightly brighter, causing the glass to crack, before vanishing in a puff of magic. “As you can see, a temporary object, when damaged, returns to being magic. How long it persists is determined by the amount of magic put into it.” She then looked over her students. “Today's spell is two-fold: you'll bring forth real water, in a temporary glass.”

“Like-,” Trixie began, “~This!?” And her horn flashed brightly, summoning above her horn a cup filled with water. Then, to the filly's surprise, the water instantly fell through the cup, causing her to get drenched by the very water she created. “Eh! Huh?” She let out as she appraised her now wet hat and cape.

Twilight quickly moved to Trixie's side, helping her with her drenched clothes as Sunset let out an amused snicker. Luna, while hiding a smile, conjured a towel for Trixie, who quietly took it.

“That was a good first try, Trixie. The water you brought was quite real, but the cup was just an illusion.” Luna then looked to all of her students. “Water is one of the easiest things a pony can create. In order to conjure anything, you need to have a very good understanding of what it is you're trying to make out of magic. It also helps,” She added with a sly grin, “To cut corners, which is easy to do with water.” Her horn then glowed as an amount of water equal to a pony appeared to her side. “Making anything permanent with pure magic can be taxing. Water however, is readily abundant in the very air and earth around you, so when your magic tries to call it forth, it will be naturally drawn to the easier option of pulling the nearby water together.”

My magic will be drawn towards the easier option? Twilight thought skeptically, not trusting her magic to be so accommodating. The water next to Princess Luna then vanished in a poof, having been nothing more than water made of magic.

“Understand?” She asked, and Twilight gave a hesitant nod while Sunset and Trixie were still taking it in.

“So, in order to make a cup,” Twilight began, “you need to be familiar with it?” She asked as she pictured a simple glass cup in her mind, choosing to focus on that part first, before adding water to the mix.

As she did that, she realized that this spell wasn't just one spell, but more like two spells woven together, and her ears dropped slightly at the thought of trying to control something as complex as that. If Trixie was the grand master of multicasting, Twilight was likely the greatest dunce of multicasting. After all, trying two balancing acts at the same time was a daunting proposition. Twilight's brow then furrowed as she adopted a determined look.

I guess I'll just have to spend more time with this one then the other spells, that's all. Nodding to herself, she grabbed onto the mental image of a glass cup. Alright, glass, it's made of melted sediments and given shape through careful working of the material, so... She thought as she focused on her horn, trying to make something from nothing, her mind already bracing for something to knock her magic off balance.

With a small flash, she felt her magic do its thing, but she was hesitant to look at the results. Still, she opened her eyes, and to her surprise, there was now a solid glass cup floating before her. She was so surprised by this, that her magic sputtered out, making the glass fall. She managed to catch it before hitting the ground, letting out a relieved sigh.

“That was splendidly done, Twilight!” Luna let out with a proud grin, prompting Twilight to look to the Princess, pride swelling in her chest.

That- That was just like the teleporting spell! Why was that easier than making a plant grow? She wondered as she eyed the glass, then considered trying to fill it with water, but was distracted when Trixie surprised her with a hug.

“Good one Twily!” Trixie let out, causing Twilight's face to flush from the all the unexpected praise. Trixie then abandoned the hug, adopting a determined look as her own horn glowed. She frowned as she summoned another swath of water, with no cup to accompany it. “This one is tricky!” She admitted as she returned the abandoned towel to Luna, which promptly vanished as the princess looked to Sunset.

Twilight noticed that Sunset was looking to her with mixed feelings, like she wanted to praise her, but also wanted to be praised in her place. Shaking her head, Sunset concentrated for a moment, before summoning a glass of water herself. She smiled as she brought the glass close, then stopped as the glass cracked in her grasp. The cup disappeared, but the water stayed floating, Sunset's magic keeping it from getting her wet. Sunset adopted a determined look as she tried again, but her magic was cut short when somepony else caught her attention.

“Your Highness,” Sir Tell Tale stated, his unexpected arrival catching Twilight and Trixie off guard, pulling Twilight's eyes from Sunset, “There's a matter that needs your immediate attention.” He then adopted a very annoyed look as he added, “Baron Brown Muzzle seems to be inciting an 'incident'. Fancy Pants is humbly requesting your intervention.”

The fillies exchanged looks as Luna let out a very heavy sigh. Is it something bad? Twilight wondered as the princess looked to them.

“I'm sorry girls,” Luna began, “I think you have enough to manage the rest together, so I'll see you tomorrow.” She then adopted a rather determined look, “I'm afraid this is something I need to handle before it becomes something serious.” With that, she started to leave, before adopting a look of realization as she turned back to the fillies. “Girls, do keep this in mind. Permanent water is fine to drink, but avoid drinking temporary water, as it can make you sick. Okay?” She asked, getting a nod from her students. She then nodded to herself, and followed Tell Tale towards whatever problem tore her from the lesson.

“Do you think Luna's gonna be alright?” Twilight asked as she looked to Sunset.

“What, Brown Muzzle? I've heard of him, he's just an entitled jerk that nopony likes.” Sunset replied as she made a dismissive gesture with her hoof, “Luna's gonna be fine.” She assured as Trixie nodded.

“Then, can we learn this trick? Trixie really wants to learn this trick!” She let out heartily as she summoned another batch of water, with an illusion container. Trixie frowned as Sunset and Twilight shared a look, before nodding in agreement.

Twilight eyed her glass, her horn starting to glow as she tried to picture water filling it up. Her horn then flared, and Twilight blinked in confusion as nothing happened. Her confusion was short lived, as a torrent of water immediately fell upon her, soaking her to the bone. She stood there for a moment, before letting out a small sigh. Well, at least the glass is full now...

“You okay?” Sunset asked with concern as she moved to Twilight's side, a small glass of her own, full of water, floating beside her. Twilight parted her wet mane from her eyes as she nodded. “That's good. I'm guessing you didn't mean to make that much-” Sunset began, only to be interrupted by a large amount of water falling upon her.

As she sputtered and collected herself, both her and Twilight's attention shifted to Trixie, who was letting out a hearty cackle.

“That's what you get for laughing at Trixie~!” She then summoned a glob of water, “Water fight~~!!” She declared as she hurled it towards Sunset, who deftly caught it, giving Trixie an annoyed look. A look which was promptly washed away as another volley of water fell on her from above. “Gotcha! Again~!” Trixie let out as she started to run, as Sunset was now returning fire.

“C-Come on Trixie, Sunset,” Twilight began, “let's stop messing around and-” she was cut off when Sunset accidentally caught her in the face with a glob of water. Sunset paused, giving Twilight a very sheepish look as the filly once again moved her mane out of her eyes.

“Twily, let's play~!” Trixie let out as she moved closer to Twilight.

With magic? Twilight thought as she looked to her two friends. Trixie was giving her a very anxious look, while Sunset was reserved, as if waiting to see what Twilight's choice would be. Oohhh. Sure, why not? She thought to herself, her horn briefly flaring. And, to her surprise, Trixie and Sunset were almost immediately drenched by small funnels of water she had conjured. Sunset shook water out of her mane as she readopted an annoyed look.

“So, it's going to be like that!” She stated as her own horn flared, several globs of water appearing at her side as she adopted a smug grin. Seeing the notion of standing still to be unwise, Twilight quickly started to gallop as her horn flared as well.

And so, with a smile on their faces, The Great Water War of Canterlot Castle commenced.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Tch,” Sunset let out in annoyance, “Tell Tale just had to make us clean that mess up! That was a whole hour we could have spent doing something else!” she let out as they left the field behind them. Twilight appraised the sun as they entered the castle, seeing it being two-thirds through its journey through the sky.

“Well, that was kinda fun too.” Trixie said wistfully as she tried to wring out her cape and hat.

“Speak for yourself.” Sunset mumbled as Twilight appraised her friends.

“I don't know,” Twilight began, the task of fixing the soaked field having sobered her from her fun. “We're starting to make a track record for ruining the palace grounds with our magic. Maybe we can stick to just O&O?” Twilight offered hopefully, getting a small gasp from Trixie.

“Oh, oh! That reminds Trixie! Sunny! There's this place Trixie wants to explore.”

“Oh, right. You wanted to do that now?” Sunset asked, still a little miffed.

“You're not going to do something that'll get you two in trouble, are you?” Twilight asked with a hint of annoyance. Though she did have fun sneaking with Trixie last week, it had been entirely ruined by being caught. It reaffirmed her belief that she wasn't for spying on others, or snooping where she didn't belong.

“Twily~!” Trixie let out as she gave Twilight a hurt look, “Mr. Tale and Luna didn't say we can't go looking for secrets!”

“Couldn't.” Sunset corrected.

“Eh?”

“Couldn't go looking for secrets.”

“R-Right!” Trixie stammered out, “Trixie knew that!” She declared, making Sunset roll her eyes.

“So, you're fine with this?” Twilight asked Sunset skeptically.

“Well, I did agree.” She reluctantly admitted, “At your insistence, I might add.”

Oh. Right. Twilight thought as Sunset adopted a fiery look.

“That, and Trixie would go on her own anyway.” Sunset stated with a firm nod, “So it's better if one of us goes with her.”

“Trixie would like it if Twily came too...”

“I'm gonna pass.” Twilight quickly replied, a little disappointed with Sunset's compliance, but unable to counter her argument. Her ears then fell as she saw Trixie's ears fall at her reply.

“Well, Okay ... Oh! Can Trixie show you where it is?” She asked, a hopeful look in her eyes. Twilight looked to Sunset, before nodding to Trixie, which prompted a smile from the blue filly.

That should be fine. Right? Twilight thought as they started to follow Trixie down into the first basement level of the castle.

Twilight had to admit that this was her first time in the castle's sub-levels, and from the way Sunset was taking things in, Twilight was under the impression that it was the same for her as well. Not too far into the basement, Trixie stopped as she pointed to a portion of wall that looked no different from the rest.

“Open~!” Trixie began, making a sweeping motion to the wall as her horn weakly flickered to life, “Says me~!” And her magic pulled a hanging lantern, letting out a soft click, before the indicated portion of the wall slid open, making Sunset and Twilight step back in surprise.

“Whoa!” Twilight let out, not having expected the secret passageway to actually be, well, hidden. “How did you find this?” Twilight asked, her curiosity now in full force.

“Trixie saw Mr. Echo open it.” She explained with a proud nod.

“'Mr. Echo'?” Sunset asked as the door started to close, drawing their eyes as the stone wall returned to looking like the rest.

“Uh huh!” She replied, then a look of realization adorned her face as she added, “Um, Windy Echo. He's a bat pony guard, and he's really fast! Trixie saw him come here, he checks this place out every three days.” Trixie explained as she pointed to the wall. "He's so fast, it took Trixie a couple tries to see how he opened this up!"

“I see." Sunset replied as she looked to the wall, "And we're going to look now?” She asked skeptically, and Trixie immediately shook her head.

“Mr. Echo is here today. That, and Trixie is a little tired.” She admitted with a sheepish grin as she looked to her damp cape.

“We should head back then,” Twilight stated as she turned around, not being keen on staying in a part of the castle that she felt was 'off-limits'. As her friends followed behind her, Twilight started counting the hanging lamps, dedicating the door's location to memory.

Just in case...

~~~~~~~~~~

Trixie lay sprawled on the couch, out cold. Twilight couldn't blame her, as she was the most physically active during their water fight. If simply because Twilight and Sunset did more teleporting than dodging over Trixie.

Twilight herself was a little tired, but since Trixie was asleep and Sunset was looking after Spike, Twilight saw this as a good moment to practice their new spell without bothering her friends. Maybe I should talk to Sir Tell Tale too. She considered as she eyed her test, which was resting on the desk.

Considering how things went out on the field, she came to the notion that practicing the summoning spell over the bathtub would be better than the balcony. Now in the restroom, she began to call on her magic, finding it nearly effortless for her to bring forth a glass cup. A fact which brought a smile to her face. However, that smile that was short-lived, vanishing as she tried to fill it with water.

She let out a sigh as she considered grabbing a towel to dry herself off, then thought better of it, unsure of how many tries it would take to pull this off. Half an hour of attempts later, she could feel that she was making progress, but had to stop in consideration as she looked to the first cup she had summoned.

It was now filled, to the brim, with water. Sort of. Twilight put the glass cup full of ice to the side, feeling it was time to try and conjure the glass and water at the same time. After summoning a cup of water, she let out a sigh as the let go of her grasp, causing the cup shaped mass of water to lose its form and splash into the tub. I need a cup made out of glass, not water! She thought as she tried again, and almost let out a small cheer as she summoned a small foggy cup, filled with water.

The growing fire in her chest, born of success, was drenched as she realized that the cup was made of ice, instead of glass. Letting the ice-cup melt in the tub, Twilight let out another sigh as she began to wonder what time it was.

She considered grabbing her old book and having another go at the spell, then thought better of it. I think that's enough for today. She thought warily as she returned to the main room, noticing that Trixie wasn't there anymore. Did Trixie go to the secret hallway? Twilight then shook her head, No, it'll be dark soon, and she's scared of the dark. Twilight affirmed, guessing she was either in the bedroom or in Spike's room with the others.

Well, in that case... Twilight thought as she left her room, heading towards the library.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sir Tell Tale seemed to be finished loading up a cart full of books when Twilight entered. When he noticed her, he slid a sheet resting on the cart over the books, before welcoming Twilight. As the filly approached him, she eyed the cart with unabashed curiosity.

“These are books the three of you aren't ready to read just yet,” he began, before Twilight could even ask, “so I'm moving them out of the library in preparation.”

“Preparation?” Twilight asked, failing to hide her disappointment at the fact that books were being kept from her.

“That's right. Once I've gathered all the books of this nature, the three of you will be given free reign over the library. You won't need to check with me first to take books out.” Tell Tale explained, the news catching Twilight off guard. Despite a small number of books being removed, she found herself smiling at the notion as Tell Tale continued, “So I take it you wish to talk about your test?”

“Yeah.” Twilight admitted, “And something else. But first, you said that my answers were dry and difficult to read?” She asked, and he nodded in turn.

“Trixie wrote all of her answers like a story, which made them amusing to read, I must admit. Sunset's answers, however, were closer to yours. She was spot on concerning the details, but she went the extra mile on two questions by telling me how some of those ponies were fools or an inspiration to other ponies.”

“So, I should say more than just the facts?” Twilight asked, and Tell Tale nodded.

“You just have to add a little of yourself to the answers. When history is fun to read, or at least engaging, it's easier for ponies not interested in history to pick it up. That's something you should keep in mind should you pursue the path of teaching others. Follow?”

“I think so.” Twilight replied, picturing all the time spent helping Trixie take in everything they had studied for the exam.

“That's good to hear. I'll be looking forward to seeing how you apply it.” Tell Tale said with a smile. He then adopted a contemplative look, considering something for a moment. “What was the other matter you wanted to discuss?”

“Oh! That. Well, it's about the secrets of the castle. You don't want us snooping around, right?” She asked sheepishly.

“Princess Luna doesn't seem to mind, and it's her castle, after all.”

“Well, what about you?” Twilight asked, getting a considering look from Tell Tale, before giving her a smile.

“I'm happy that the notion bothers you, it shows that you're a good pony, Twilight. Don't let anypony tell you otherwise.” His words made her blush as he continued, “I personally don't like it. Things are secret for a reason. Still, as I said, this is Princess Luna's castle, so it's not really snooping, as she has given you permission. Whether you do or not, is completely up to you.”

“I see.” Twilight replied, a little glad that his outlook paralleled her own. Then, should I go with my friends, or stay out of it? Twilight considered. Tell Tale looked over her for a moment before nodding to himself.

“You know, Twilight, Trixie cares more for fun than rules. And Ms. Shimmer, she follows the rules as long as they're not in her way. So, it's a good thing they have a friend like you to help keep them out of trouble.” Tell Tale said wistfully as he gave Twilight a wink. She looked to him for a moment, her eyes widening in understanding, before giving him a resolute nod. “Now, Twilight, there's another matter I'd like to discuss with you. Her Highness said you managed to summon a glass cup with ease. I take it the spell hasn't given you any trouble?” He asked, and Twilight blinked before glancing to the side. When it concerned her magic, she didn't like troubling others for help. However, after what they had just discussed, she felt that Tell Tale would be more troubled if she didn't go to him for aid, so she shook her head in response to his question.

“So, it is giving you some difficulty. Perhaps the part where you summon water?”

“Yeah.” She replied, gathering herself a moment before looking to him, “The cup is easy, but it's hard for me to manage two spells at once.”

“I see. In that case, I'd recommend practicing summoning water alone. Try to call upon it in the shape of a small tetrahedron. Once you manage that, try casting the whole spell. You may be surprised by the results.”

“Alright, I'll try my best!” Twilight claimed, under the impression that Tell Tale had given her a harder task to accomplish over the original, but not discouraged in the least.

“Oh, I almost forgot.” He stated, wide-eyed as he pulled out a small wooden box. “She would never let me live it down had I forgotten. Twilight, this is for you and the others.” Tell Tale said as presented the box to her. “A gift, from Princess Crystal.”

“From Queen Chrysalis?” Twilight asked in wonder as she considered opening the box right there.

“That's right. She wanted to stay longer and meet Ms. Shimmer, but Crystal happens to be just as busy as Princess Luna.”

“Will we see her again?” Twilight asked, having enjoyed learning more of the changelings from Chrysalis over the weekend.

“Yes. She plans to have an extended visit during the Summer Sun Celebration.” He replied, bringing a smile to Twilight's face.

That's only a couple months away!

“Now, if you don't have any other questions, I have some work to finish up.” He said, and Twilight nodded in understanding, and turned to leave. She then paused as something came to mind.

“Um, is Luna okay?”

“Huh? Oh! She's fine. She took care of the problem before it got out a hoof.”

“That's good!”

“Yes, it certainly is.” Tell Tale said with a slightly relieved expression.

~~~~~~~~~~

Several minutes after Twilight left the library, Tell Tale finished collecting most of the needed books, and moved the collection to a closed off part of the library. He appraised the more important books as he moved, checking the condition of 'Poetry and Prose', 'Inspiration Manifestation', and 'Baking the Impossible'. His attention then shifted as he reached The Princess, bowing to her as she looked up from her paperwork.

“We may want to keep conjuring spells off the roster for a few years.” Tell Tale stated, prompting a small sigh from the Princess. Her eyes fell to an empty glass cup resting on the desk as she nodded. A cup that had been found by her bookkeeper when the field was being cleaned up.

“She didn't even notice that she created a permanent cup...” Luna said with a troubled look.

“You think it wise to keep the truth about her magic from her? She's gonna find out sooner or later.” Tale Tell stated as he took the last book he needed from the library, which was laying closed next to the pile of paperwork. 'Harmonic and Chaotic Affinities in Magic' read the title, another book the princess didn't want her students reading up on just yet. The very book pertaining to the peculiarities of Twilight's magic.

“It'll be better if she learns it on her own.” Luna affirmed.

“May I ask as to what makes you so certain?”

“Well, Sir Tell Tale, though Twilight is quite bright, she's still a filly. She's still growing, changing, understanding who she is. If she understood why her magic was so difficult right now, I believe she'd try to work towards it, rather than against it.” Luna's eyes then looked to Tell Tale's, “Her magic contradicts her base nature. As long as she doesn't know, her base nature will strengthen, and from that strength, she'll be able to master her magic, despite the difficulty.” She stated, a confidence carried in her words that any pony would acknowledge.

“I still disapprove, Your Highness.” He said as he broke their gaze, glancing to the side as he let out a tired sigh. “When she learns about the details concerning affinities, she'll figure out in short order that we were keeping it from her.”

“I know.” Luna said, a hint of pain in her voice. “I'll have to prepare a generous apology for her when that happens.” She promised, getting a small nod from Tell Tale. After several moments of silence, Tell Tale covered the books in the cart, and prepared to leave.

“Well, I'll make sure these books make it to a secure location.” He then eyed the window, seeing the glow of the coming sunset. “It's getting late, so I shall wish you a good night, Your Highness.”

“You too, Sir Tell Tale.” Luna replied as she looked back to the paperwork tied to the mess Baron Brown Muzzle had made. As Tell Tale made to leave, a thought dawned on him, and he let out a small sigh as he turned back to the Princess.

“Oh, by the way, Windy Echo reported earlier today that Trixie will likely be exploring the Hall of Murals soon.” He pointed out, making Luna blink as she looked to Tell Tale.

“The Hall of Murals...” She said, adopting a sad smile. “I see. Please keep me informed on how that turns out when she does.” Luna replied, a little curious if Trixie would drag both of her friends along. Giving the princess a nod, Tell Tale bowed to her and departed.

~~~~~~~~~~

Shortly after leaving Chrysalis's gift, still unopened, on the couch, Twilight was surprised to find Trixie doing what she herself had done before leaving for the library. Trixie was so focused on trying to conjure a glass cup, that she didn't notice when Twilight entered. Having failed again, Trixie let out an annoyed sigh as she took a sip from a glass cup filled with a large block of ice and cold water.

Wait, is that the same glass I made earlier-

“The Great and Powerful Trixie can do this!” She declared as her horn glowed, before letting out a few sparks and sputtering out, her magic exhausted. Trixie sat quietly for a moment, before adopting a dejected look.

“Trixie, you okay?” Twilight asked, under the impression that it was more than her drained magic that was upsetting Trixie. Her question caused Trixie to flinch in surprise, before turning around.

“Oh, hi Twily.” She replied, looking to Twilight for a moment before continuing, “Trixie doesn't know. She, well- P-Promise you won't tell Sunny.” She said as she gave Twilight a pleading look.

Tell Sunset what?

“Um, okay, I promise.” Twilight replied, getting a small smile from Trixie.

“Trixie … failed the exam.” She admitted, prompting Twilight to adopt a confused look. Seeing Trixie's somber expression slowly turned that confusion to understanding as Trixie continued. “Trixie talked to Mr. Tale, he said it was okay. but, well … Trixie doesn't know what Great and Powerful is now.” She said as she started to fiddle with the cup in her hooves. “Does Twily know?” She asked, a hopeful look in her eyes.

What it means to be Great and Powerful?

“Well, uh, what does Trixie think it means?” Twilight asked, taking a page from Luna's book, prompting Trixie to immediately frown at her.

“If Trixie knew, she'd not ask, silly.” She said, failing to mask her annoyance.

“R-right! Give me a moment to think about it.”

“'Kay.” Trixie replied, waiting patiently as Twilight's mind raced.

Okay. Being great, means that you do great things. So that's pretty easy. What about being powerful? Is it strong magic? Knowing a lot of things? Being great at casting spells? No, great is great, but being great isn't the same as being powerful! Twilight thought as she adopted a frustrated look. Let's see. Powerful means to have great power or strength. Wait, strength...? Twilight thought, an idea forming as she looked to Trixie.

“I think that being Great means that you can do great things.” Twilight began, “Being powerful means being strong. But being strong can be many things.” She said, seeing that she had Trixie's complete and undivided attention, as the blue filly nodded. “Like, having strong magic, or strong concentration. Maybe even being sturdy or unyielding is the same as being Powerful.”

“So, being Powerful can be a bunch of things?” Trixie asked, tilting her heard in thought.

“Right.”

“Then, Trixie can be Great and Powerful, just like Black Hawk, while still being bad at history?”

“Yes.” Twilight quickly, and resolutely replied, getting a smile from Trixie.

“Thanks Twily.” She stated, adopting a contemplative look. “Trixie needs to think about this. But, Trixie is also tired.” She stated, punctuating the fact with a yawn. “Is it bed time?” She asked, and Twilight considered her question for a moment.

Guess practicing the tetrahedron can wait till tomorrow. Twilight affirmed as she nodded to Trixie. As they went to their bedroom, something came to Twilight's attention.

“Trixie, are you and Sunset going down the secret passageway after class tomorrow?”

“Um, yeah?” Trixie replied, getting a small nod from Twilight, which only confused the blue filly.

Should I go with them? Twilight wondered as they snuggled into bed, If it's safe, then is there any trouble I'd need to keep them out of? She thought, her mind playing through the possibilities as sleep slowly snuck up on her, carrying her into its comforting embrace.

Author's Note

If you are a mother, who also happens to be reading this chapter the day it was posted, then Happy Mother's Day!
[insert here a picture of filly Sunset and baby Spike hugging]
Terribly sorry for the delay, wanted to hold off till Sunday to set down a schedule thing. I'm not really use to setting myself to a schedule, so this will probably only last a week or three. The idea is that I'll post a new chapter to the Trioverse on Sunday afternoons from here on. So we'll see how that turns out. :twilightblush:
There were parts of this chapter that were hard to write. There were also parts that were a lot of fun to write. Can you figure out which is which?
I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and I hoped I succeeded in this being a Twilight central chapter, just as the previous two were central to Sunset and Trixie.
Next chapter won't have a set perspective, flipping from PoV to PoV where it's needed.
Wanna thank you for reading my story, mostly because you're awesome.
Also wanna thank my best friend for his input on certain parts of this chapter.
Finally, here's a pic to leave you with:

Short mane / tied up mane is best mane.

5. Echoing Steps

Sunset was resting in the main room, a little put off that her friends were already in bed. Not quite willing to admit that she was tired herself, she looked through her things, her eyes pausing as they fell on two new items she got from today's class. The autographed note, and her exam results. Her brow immediately furrowed as she looked to the exam.

It should have been Luna who graded this! Sunset thought to herself, resisting the urge to crumble the test in her grasp. Tell Tale is a bookkeeper, not a teacher! A real teacher would have given me and Twilight perfect marks!

The fact she had scored higher than Twilight was now at the back of her mind, her dislike for the stallion pushing aside any mitigating factors. We don't even need him! She then hesitated a moment, Okay, maybe Trixie needs him, but Twilight and I can manage just fine without him! All Luna'd have to do is tell us what to study, and be there for spell instruction. Easy as that! Her line of thinking then wavered as she recalled her former position towards Cadance.

She needed Cadance, because Spike needed somepony to look after him while Sunset was busy learning. She may not need Tell Tale, but Sunset was certain that Twilight looked up to him. That, and Princess Luna counted on him.

Sunset kicked a wayward pillow in frustration. Even though she didn't need, or counted on the false teacher, she couldn't deny that she was stuck with him for however long she was going to be Luna's student, which was likely to be a good number of years.

Her face still glowering, she flipped to the last page of her test, rereading the note that put her off in the first place.

'Adding your two bits gave you full points on several questions, but, Ms. Shimmer, you also lost points for your cold words on problem three and seven. You're free to have your opinion on the past, but keep in mind that speaking ill of it as you did is improper etiquette. Especially for one of Luna's students. Be sure to keep this in mind in the future. -Tell Tale.'

Sunset let out an annoyed sigh as she put the test away. Tell Tale was right. That's what was truly aggravating her. Feeling like she's given more thought to this matter than the stallion deserved, she decided to bring her attention to the other article in her possession. The autograph.

As she eyed Black Hawk's signature, she recalled when he had given it to her, and found herself still a little at a loss to how it came about.

...Why did I even ask for this? She wondered as she tried to comprehend her actions. I mean, Twilight got an autograph for Shining, so it's not like me giving him an extra would mean anything. Yet, despite this observation, she found herself unwilling to dispose of the autograph. She still intended to give it to Shining Armor, and it frustrated her that she didn't understand why.

Taking the offending piece of paper with her, she planted her flank onto the couch with a small hop. She then let out an indignant yelp as she immediately fell right off of it. Looking to the couch, she saw a small wooden box, resting dead center, as if it owned the piece of furniture. She had thoughtlessly sat on it, and was now appraising the unfamiliar object.

“Tch.” She let out as she grabbed the box. Why does Trixie always leave her junk lying around! She thought, her brow furrowed, That little filly. Trixie this and Trixie that. Why doesn't she talk like a normal pony? Sunset wondered with a sigh as she opened the box, catching a small note as it fell out of the container.

Her annoyance shifted to curiosity as she pulled a strange object from the box. It was a wooden circle with lines of string wrapped though its center in a pattern. The pattern itself drew one's gaze towards the circle's center, and a number of smaller circles were hanging from the primary circle. It felt completely mundane, but had the appearance of something magical. Moving the strange artifact to the side, Sunset looked over the letter.

For Luna's little students.

To us changelings, there is no lunar princess to watch over our dreams. Where we reside is in the land of nightmares, and I do not care to welcome such darkness on my children. Just as I protect my children, I suppose I feel a little obligated to extend that protection to you three.

This gift here, is a dream catcher. Hang it over your bed, and you'll never have to fear nightmares again.

You may be wondering, "Why do I need this? I have Luna to look after me, after all." Well, just think of it as lightening the load. From what she's told me, the dream realm is a big place, and she can't be everywhere at once. So, my gift to you will surely be of use. Though, if you don't really care, go ahead and smash it. After all, what good is a useless gift?

That aside. It was amusing to meet you, Trixie. I wouldn't mind seeing just how Great and Powerful you intend to become.

Twilight, your unabashed curiosity was a complete bother. It was, however, refreshing to talk to another pony about my kind, and not seeing fear in their eyes.

And Sunset Shimmer. We didn't even meet, so I don't really have anything to say. Maybe next time, if either of us can be bothered to put the effort into it.

'QC'

It's a gift from the changeling queen? Why? Sunset wondered as her eyes fell back to the dream catcher. Did Luna tell her that Trixie has trouble sleeping alone? Unfortunately, all Sunset had was questions, and no readily apparent answers. ...Does this mean I need to give her a gift as well? Do I owe her? Sunset considered as she put the gift back in its box. As she did, she noticed her autographed paper again, and was hit with a moment of insight.

I got the autograph for Shining, because I wanted to give it to him. It's not like I'm expecting anything in return, right? She thought, certain of that much, So, Chrysalis must have done the same. Twilight said that the changeling is friends with Luna, so as her friend, she felt like helping her out by helping her students! Thinking this, she looked over the dream catcher again, in a new light.

Well, darn. Now I feel like I missed out by not meeting her. She thought in annoyance as she closed the box, the dream catcher back in her grasp. Putting her autograph away, she went to their bedroom and quietly switched out a painting of Canterlot hung over the bed for the dream catcher. She was a little caught off guard by the painting's weight, but smiled to herself as she made the switch. And, having nothing better to do as she let out a yawn, she hopped into bed, and called it a night.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sleep's embrace came to an unexpected end for Twilight, who was startled awake when somepony's horn poked the side of her head. Shifting slightly, she saw that the culprit was Sunset, who was sleeping soundly next to her.

Now thoroughly awake, Twilight's mind started to wander, and after several minutes, she came to the conclusion that she wasn't going to be able to fall back asleep just yet. With practiced ease that she found a little disheartening, Twilight quietly got out of bed without waking her friends. Trotting out of their room, she made for the restroom with the intention of practicing their latest spell. As her horn started to glow, a trickle of worry greeted the filly.

...Luna or Sir Tell Tale would be worried if they saw me being up this late. She thought as she placed an easily summoned glass cup on the tub's rim. But here I am, out of bed, again. I wish mom or dad could read me a story right now...

Twilight then let out a sigh, pulling herself towards her earlier thoughts to distract herself. Her brow then furrowed in consideration. Alright, it's okay for us to go snooping, because Luna didn't say we couldn't... She considered as she played with the cup in her hooves, Then, it's okay for me to go with them? She couldn't deny, she was a little curious as to what was hidden in the secret hall Trixie found.

There's no chance of getting in trouble, and it's safe. So, why not go with them? Twilight wondered, before briefly pausing to look at the small glob of water she had conjured in the air. Yeah, I should go with them. I mean, they want me to go with them, so there's no harm, right? She considered, then nodded to herself. I mean, it could even be fun! And there could even be something incredible down there! She affirmed, a small smile appearing on her face, which shifted to surprise when she saw the results of her spell.

Oh come on! That was supposed to be harder! Twilight thought in annoyance, a perfect tetrahedron spinning slowing in her grasp.

~~~~~~~~~~

Trixie had a bounce in her step as she followed Tell Tale back to her friends. Today's class was just finished, and since it had been a history lesson, Trixie now knew how to make a bit disappear without magic. The entire lesson concerning Hat Trick and his performances was still bouncing in her head as she pictured the disappearing bit trick. She couldn't copy the trick just yet, but she wasn't discouraged. Reaching the others, she gave Twilight and Sunset a big grin. Before she could join them, Sunset looked to Tell Tale, an inquisitive look in her eyes.

“Tell Tale,” Sunset began, “Why did Trixie have a different lesson from us?” She asked. And just like that, Trixie's smile faded.

No! Sunny's gonna find out! She realized as she took a hesitant step back, and from the corner of her eye she spotted Tell Tale looking to her. She looked to him with pleading eyes, Please don't tell Sunny! She thought to him, prompting a sigh as he shook his head, making Trixie's ears fall.

“You should have told her yourself, Trixie.” Tell Tale said as he looked to the others. “Trixie had a separate lesson because she failed her history exam.”

There was a brief pause as that fact settled on Sunset. She's gonna be mad, Trixie just knows it! Pleeaase don't be mad. Trixie thought as she avoided Sunset's eyes, She's gonna say no to going to the super secret tunnel now! Trixie assumed, briefly considering hiding behind Tell Tale as Sunset's eyes widened.

“You failed!?” Sunset asked as she glared at Trixie.

“T-Trixie is sorry! She didn't mean to. Please don't be mad!” Trixie quickly spat out, from behind Tell Tale, to the stallion's surprise.

“Sunset.” Twilight said in an almost exasperated tone, quickly moving in front of Sunset, which confused the angry filly for a moment.

“W-What?” Sunset asked, her glare hesitating as her attention was drawn away from Trixie.

“She tried her best.” Twilight said sternly, causing Sunset to pause in consideration.

“Right...” Sunset replied, “I know that.” She admitted as she glanced to the side, “I- well,” Sunset looked back to Trixie, who was wearing a very somber look, “I suppose she did,” Sunset stated. Trixie noticed Sunset let out a small sigh as she shook her head, trying to wash her hooves of her disappointment as she looked back to Tell Tale. “What was she learning instead?”

“About one of Luna's former assistants.”

“Really? I see, alright then.” Sunset said as she rubbed the back of her head, mumbling something under her breath as she started to leave the library. Trixie hesitated for a moment, then followed after her.

Twilight was about to follow as well, but was caught by Tell Tale, who wished to talk to her about something. What it was, Trixie wasn't certain, as her attention was on the filly she was pursuing. Now outside the library, Sunset paused and turned to Trixie as the doors closed.

“Trixie. Why didn't you tell me?” Sunset asked, prompting Trixie to pause and think on it for a moment before looking to Sunset.

“Because, Trixie knew you'd be mad.” She replied as she nodded her head, “You're scary when mad,” she then gave Sunset a side glance, “And you were.” Trixie's ears then fell as she started off, in the direction of their room.

“Wait. Where are you going?” Sunset asked, sounding a little conflicted.

“Um, to our room?” Trixie asked in a confused tone.

“Aren't we going to explore that secret hallway?” Sunset asked, making Trixie blink and stand silent for a moment.

“Huh? But, Trixie thought you were mad-”

“And I'm still mad.” Sunset quickly replied, “But I also said I'd go with you, and I'm not somepony that breaks her word.” Sunset then winced, realizing how condescending that sounded, “I just, yeah. I'm mad. But, you tried your hardest, right?” Trixie quickly nodded, “And Luna has you learning something else instead of history. So, I guess the whole thing's already behind us. I'm just upset that you didn't tell me sooner.” Sunset then hesitated a moment before pressing on, “And, that it's because you were scared of me.”

“Y-You did blow up the front garden when we fought.” Trixie pointed out.

“Only half of it!” Sunset quickly replied, before adopting an apologetic look. “But, yeah. So, how about that secret hallway?” Sunset asked, and Trixie didn't even need to consider it, nodding her head as she gave Sunset a thankful smile.

“Thanks Sunny!” Trixie replied as she looked to the direction of the secret passageway. Before she could get her hooves moving, however, Twilight left the library in a rush. She almost ran into Trixie and Sunset, to their surprise, and sliding to a stop, Twilight looked to Trixie.

“Trixie,” Twilight began, a little hesitantly, “Is it okay if I come too?” She asked, making Trixie pause for a moment.

What? Twily too?

“Really?” Trixie asked, not sure she heard her friend right.

“Really.”

“Like, really really!?” Trixie said, her confusion quickly shifting to excitement.

“Really really.” Twilight replied with a nod, getting a happy hug from Trixie.

“What made you change your mind?” Sunset asked after Trixie's hug ended.

“Well, I talked to Sir Tell Tale, and he said that I should make sure the two of you don't end up getting in trouble. I don't like snooping where we don't belong, but, you two do...”

“That doesn't matter, Twily's going with us!” Trixie said resolutely.

“And you're sure about this?” Sunset pressed, adopting a sly grin as she continued to the secret hall, “There could be monsters or traps, or even ghosts!”

“W-What?” Trixie asked, hesitating briefly as she began to follow Sunset, with Twilight at her side.

“Well, those are the kind of things you find in hidden passageways.” Sunset replied matter-of-factly.

“Sunset, stop that.” Twilight stated, “We both know that there's no such thing as ghosts. And besides, if any of that were true, Luna wouldn't let us snoop around.”

“I was just having a little fun." Sunset replied as she let out a sigh, "Though, I suppose you're right about the ghosts.”

“So, there's no monsters?” Trixie asked hesitantly.

“No, so there's no need to worry.” Twilight replied, making Trixie blush.

“Trixie wasn't worried! She was just, uh, curious!”

“Yeah, sure.” Sunset replied sarcastically while grinning, getting an annoyed look from Trixie.

“Any idea how long the hall is?” Twilight quickly asked, getting between Trixie and Sunset before something happened.

“Huh?” Trixie replied, “Oh. Trixie doesn't know, this is her first time going in.”

“First time?” Twilight asked worriedly, getting a nod from Trixie. “Then, what if we get lost?”

“If we do, somepony's bound to notice and send the guards to find us-” Sunset replied nonchalantly.

“We won't get lost~!” Trixie declared adamantly.

“-And if things look bad, I can teleport back to our room and get help.” Sunset added, getting a surprised look from Trixie.

“You can go that far?”

“Yep.” Sunset replied, though, there was some doubt on her face as she said it.

“How about we just go in, look around for a bit, and turn back.” Twilight asked, “You know, and not get lost or end up needing help.”

“We won't need help. We'll be just fine.” Trixie assured. “So let's have fun!” she added, pausing as they reached their destination. The three of them stared blankly at the wall for a moment, and Sunset, unsure as to why they were hesitating, pulled the hanging lantern.

“Let's go, it doesn't stay open for long.” Sunset said as she trotted through the open doorway. Trixie and Twilight shared a brief look, before following after her. Looking back the way they came, they saw the wall slide shut, a small lever next to it shifting upright and making a small click when it did. Sunset's eyes fell to the lever as she smiled. “See, we won't need to teleport out of here.” She affirmed as they all looked ahead.

The hall before them was lit by small hanging lamps that were dimmer than the ones in the hall they entered from. While it was dark, it wasn't dark enough to create an uncomfortable atmosphere. The hall seemed to curve slightly at a decline, making Sunset and Twilight assume that the hall led into a long downward spiral. The air had an old smell to it, like the smell of stone building that's been left empty for several weeks. It was also clean.

“Where are the cobwebs?” Sunset asked, sounding a little disappointed.

“Maybe Windy Echo cleans up the place?” Twilight offered as they started going down the hall.

“Well, Trixie likes this! It smells like a place nopony's been in for forever. But, it's not scary at all!” She declared with relief, then quickly added, “Not that Trixie was scared.” She stated, seeing Sunset give her a slightly unamused look, lifting a hoof to her face as she sighed.

“'Trixie Trixie Trixie. It's I,” Sunset corrected, “I wasn't that scared'.” She said, getting a confused look from Trixie.

“Trixie said that.”

“'I said that.'” Sunset replied, making Trixie adopt an annoyed expression, which brought a small smile to Sunset's face.

“That's what Trixie said!”

“Trixie, isn't it about time you talked like a filly your age?”

“Sunset-” Twilight began.

“Trixie talks just fine!” She confidently interjected, getting another small sigh from Sunset.

“If you say 'I'm sorry', then I'll let go of this whole you-failed-the-test-we-worked-so-hard-for-you-not-to-fail thing.”

“Really? Okay! Trixie is sorry~!”

“No, Trixie, you have to say 'I'm sorry.'” Sunset replied patiently as she adopted a slightly smug grin.

'I'm sorry?' Why does she want Trixie to say 'I'? Trixie wondered as she looked to Sunset.

“Okay?” Trixie replied, “I'm sorry?” She repeated, her words coming off awkwardly as her face adopted a confused look. “Trixie doesn't get it, but that's good, right?” Trixie asked, and at hearing Trixie refer to herself in third person again, Sunset let out a defeated sigh.

“Yeah, that's fine.”

“Trixie,” Twilight began with a reassuring smile, “don't mind Sunset, just talk the way you always do.” Twilight then looked to Sunset, “Why does it bother you?” She asked, “It doesn't bother me.”

“Well,” Sunset began, adopting a fiery look, “She's Luna's student, just like us. Shouldn't she be talking like a normal pony, instead of talking like a foal?”

“If Trixie wants to talk that way, then we should let her. Besides, Luna seems to like it.” Twilight pointed out, and Sunset was about to reply, but her frown melted when she saw Trixie smile from Twilight's words.

“Sunny wants to help Trixie be better.” Trixie declared, “That makes her happy. She doesn't always gets it, but she tries, because, you're Trixie's friend. Sunny is scary sometimes, but Trixie likes Sunny. Oh! Twily helps Trixie too. Twily knows so much that Trixie doesn't know, and sometimes it's boring, but Trixie likes Twily too!”

“W-Where's this coming from?” Sunset asked as she blushed lightly.

“Well, Trixie's known about this place for a while.” Trixie admitted as she motioned to the hall, “But, she didn't want to go in alone.” She then nodded to herself, “Twily and Sunny are here, so that's why Trixie is happy.” She stated matter-of-factly, assuming that was more than enough for her friends to understand.

“Well, uh, I'm happy that you're happy.” Twilight replied as the hall's end came into view, revealing a closed wooden door. “I don't know what's down here, and I don't think I'd ever figure it out, if it wasn't for the two of you.” She admitted as she eyed the stone floor.

“I'm sure Tell Tale would show you if asked.” Sunset stated as they reached the door.

“Really?”

“I'm certain of it.” Sunset replied as she looked to the others. She then looked to the door, and opened it.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Sir Tell Tale,” Windy Echo began as he saluted the bookkeeper, “Princess Luna's students have entered the Hall of Murals. Shall I follow them?”

“No, that won't be needed.” Tell Tale assured as he looked over his current workload, “Inform the princess if you haven't already.” A thought then came to the stallion as he added, “Let Cadance know as well, so she doesn't get worried if the fillies come back late.”

“Sir!” Windy Echo replied, with a salute, and quickly dashed off to carry out those orders. Left alone, Sir Tell Tale looked over his work, his thoughts partially distracted as he tried to pin down how the three would react to the hall. Nodding to himself, he grabbed a small pile of papers, and proceeded down towards a certain hallway.

~~~~~~~~~~

As the door opened, a small breeze blew past the fillies, and the old smell in the air thickened as they saw beyond the doorway another hall. Separating both halls was a large arch, with words written on a gold plaque adorning it. Taking a closer look, Sunset found herself reading the words out loud, her voice breaking the silence that fell over them.

“Though separated by time and space, you are always close. All I need to do, is look inside, and find you there, smiling. Regardless of the era, the many faces, the smiles, and the tears, you will always be close. And though I can no longer be by your side, I'm eternally happy that you were by mine, my dearest friends.”

Those words caused the three to pause, neither willing to step beyond the arch as the weight of those words fell over them. This place, was it made by Luna? Sunset wondered as she looked to her friends, who also seemed lost in thought. It had to be, it's her castle, after all. She affirmed as she looked forward. Luna didn't say they couldn't go here, yet, the words she spoke carried an intimate weight behind them. Sunset couldn't help but feel like she was an intruder, and she suspected that her friends felt the same.

And that is why she took a step forward. We're here, so we should move forward. She didn't doubt, that if she didn't move forward, neither would her friends. And though this place felt intimate, it didn't feel like they weren't welcome. As she passed the arch, she felt nothing really change as she entered the hall beyond, and letting out a small sigh, she looked to Trixie and Twilight.

Trixie hesitated a moment, before quickly passing the arch, and Twilight followed after her in short order. In unison, the three of them looked forward, seeing that both sides of the hall were adorned with well framed and cared for portraits. Twilight stepped forward, looking as if she was about to suggest leaving, when her eyes fell to the first portrait on the right side of the wall. Sunset noticed Twilight's eyes widened in awe, drawing Sunset's gaze to follow hers.

It was a portrait of a young mare with a white coat and green mane. She was smiling, and Sunset instantly recognized the figure as Clover the Clever. The portrait had a small plaque under it with words, and another plaque above it, with Clover's cutie-mark.

“S-She looks so young!” Twilight let out excitedly as she quickly approached the portrait.

“Trixie knows this pony! It's Clover~!”

“Don't be afraid,” Twilight began as she read the plaque, “of making the future your own. -Clover the Clever, Royal Mentor.”

“Mentor?” Sunset asked in surprise, affirming for herself that was what the plaque read. Looking to the next portrait, she saw it was somepony she didn't know. This portrait also had a smiling pony, its cutie-mark, a motto, and the pony's title. Slowly proceeding down the hall, with Trixie right behind her, Sunset saw more and more such portraits.

Bookkeeper. Aide. Military Adviser. Royal Jester. And many more titles were carried by ponies of different races and noteworthiness. As Sunset moved further down the hall, Twilight galloped back to their side, having been left behind in her infatuation with the first portrait.

“Do you think they're Luna's friends?” Twilight asked as she paused to take a closer look at a portrait of a griffon.

“I suppose, if the arch at the beginning wasn't a give-away.” Sunset replied, getting an embarrassed cough from Twilight.

“Right.”

“Luna has a lot of friends!” Trixie pointed out, “Oh! Trixie found Tally~!” she let out heartily, running ahead of the others for a little bit before pointing to a portrait. Moving to Trixie's side, Sunset appraised the portrait, before adopting a slightly disgusted look.

That's what Chrysalis looks like? That is not a pony! She affirmed, looking at a portrait of Chrysalis when she was younger. She had a slightly enchanting smile, and in place of her cutie-mark was a blank plaque. Out of curiosity, Sunset's eyes fell to the motto, and she blinked as she took in the words.

“A child doesn't carry the sins of their parents.” Twilight read out loud as she reached Sunset's side, adopting a slightly concerned look. “Is she referring to her mother?” Twilight asked to nopony in particular.

“Trixie doesn't get it, but it's great that Tally's here! Oh! And there's Hat Trick!” Trixie let out as she went over to another portrait down the hall.

Sunset turned from Chrysalis's picture before the motto started making her thoughts wander towards a particular stallion she didn't want to think about right now. Fortunately, she didn't have to go far, as her eyes fell to a picture of a dragon.

The dragon had a feminine smile, and very familiar looking scales and spikes. In place of the cutie-mark was a purple scale as big as Sunset herself, which gave the filly more reason to pause. Sunset stood there for a moment, taking the portrait in, before looking to the dragon's name.

Stella? Is she Spike's … mother? She wondered, feeling a little conflicted, recalling that dragons lived very long lives. Does Luna know? She then shook her head, Of course Luna knows. So why didn't she tell me? Sunset wondered as her friends caught up to her.

“Wow! Luna's friends with a dragon too!?” Twilight asked in awe, then noticed the similarities between Stella and another dragon she knew.

“Spike's mama?” Trixie asked as she looked between the portrait and Sunset.

“T-that doesn't matter, I was the one that hatched him, after all.” Sunset stated, not sounding completely convinced as she moved on. “Why is all this all a secret anyway?” Sunset asked in a clear attempt to change the subject, no longer looking to the portraits. “All Luna has to do is hide Chrysalis' picture. Then she could leave the other pictures hanging where everypony could see them.”

“Well, maybe she doesn't want the portraits to be damaged?” Twilight asked as she followed Sunset, looking to the walls as they went.

“Maybe Luna just wanted to make sure this looong hall had something special in it!” Trixie offered as they got closer to another archway that separated this hall from another.

“Sir Tell Tale's here too.” Twilight pointed out as they reached the arch, his portrait on the adjacent wall.

Sunset's curiosity overpowered her dislike for him, drawing her eyes to the portrait. He looked a little younger, just like all the portraits in the hall, and he was wearing a smile that Sunset felt didn't suit him. 'Nopony's perfect', she read, feeling as if the stallion cheated by having such a short motto.

“Why's he here too?” Sunset asked.

“Because he helps Luna~!” Trixie quickly replied.

He helps Luna... Sunset thought as she looked back the way they came, her eyes taking in the portraits they'd passed. They all did. Luna counted on each of them? She wondered as she looked back to Tell Tale's picture. As she did, a strange thought started to surface. A focus. A goal.

Luna is teaching us. We're her students, and she must be guiding us towards something great. She counted on everyone in here, and I want her to count on me, too! She declared to herself, her eyes adopting a fiery look. And if I want to do that, I need to be better than him! She concluded, adopting a small smile.

When she had applied to become Tell Tale's apprentice, and in the end becoming Luna's student, she applied with the intent of leaving her old life behind her. Now, she found herself grabbing at something close to what becoming the stallion's apprentice would result in. Becoming somepony that Princess Luna relied on.

“Wouldn't it be great,” Sunset began, as she continued on, through the arch, “If we had our own portraits here someday?”

“That would be amazing~!” Trixie let out.

“Is it possible?” Twilight asked.

“Yes, just you wait, I'll make it happen.” Sunset declared as her friends followed after her across the archway.

~~~~~~~~~~

I can see Sunset pulling that off. Twilight thought to herself as she followed after her friends. She then paused a moment, glancing back to the portrait of Tell Tale. Nopony's perfect... So I guess even Sir Tell Tale, maybe even Luna, have problems like I do? She considered, reflecting on how unpredictable her magic could be at times as she passed through the archway.

Twilight's eyes then widened as she entered the new hall, her thoughts scattering at what she saw. This hall was taller than the previous, and instead of portraits, there were stained glass murals on either sides of the wall. An enchanted light was placed behind the murals to illuminate them, and each mural was crafted with a level of detail not dissimilar to the mural of the white alicorn behind Luna's desk in the library.

The first mural that caught her eye was one of a silver tree. Its roots deeply entrenched into the earth, weaving through the rock and caverns beneath, while its trunk climbed up through the sky. Its branches were touching the celestial bodies, its very leaves becoming stars. Connecting the earth, sky, and heavens, the tree had five large branches, each with a colored crystal embedded within. Her eyes fell to the purple crystal for several moments before she continued on to take in other features.

Unlike the previous room, these displays didn't have a plaque to accompany it. Taking in the mural again, Twilight made a mental note to ask Luna about it later. I've never read about such a tree. Is it a real thing, or just a pretty picture? She wondered as she moved on, oblivious to what her friends were doing as her eyes fell to the next mural.

The founding of Equestria! She thought with a smile as she saw a mural of Clover, Smart Cookie, and Private Pansy huddled together under the Fire of Friendship. What a time that must have been. She thought to herself as she looked to the other side of the hall, seeing several more events, ones she wasn't familiar with.

Luna and the white alicorn summoning a rainbow from six crystals down upon a draconequus.

A dark crystalline heart suspended high over a battle between the two alicorns against a sinister looking unicorn.

The Moon, wreathed in purple fire. Luna sleeping under it, a dark shadow being cast by the Moon's light.

The Sun, radiating a harsh light, and the white alicorn standing tall, her mane on fire as a dark shadow was also cast under her.

Are these the secrets that Sir Tell Tale was referring too? Twilight wondered as she looked between the murals. I've just gotta ask Luna about all these! She thought, finding the prospect of learning more about what these events were referring to exciting.

As she slowly moved on, a number of paces behind her friends, she took in more of the hall, seeing events she could place, and others she couldn't. She stopped again as she spotted a mural devoted to an event she'd just recently learned about.

Luna was standing tall, a pair of heroic figures to her sides, as well as Chrysalis. They were standing on a lower field, being looked down upon by a figure that resembled Chrysalis, only with a more orange color to her features. The orange queen had a sinister look on her face, and an army of changelings behind her.

Amber, Chrysalis's mother... Twilight thought, recalling the words below Chrysalis's portrait. Luna wanted to keep the changelings a secret. What about the other murals? Are they secrets too, or have I just not learned those events yet? She wondered as she paused, looking back to the murals with the white alicorn. And who's she? There wasn't a portrait of her in the other hall, but she must be important to Luna. Thinking this, she added it to the growing list of questions she had for the Princess, hoping she'd get some answers when asked.

~~~~~~~~~~

Seeing the murals of Luna fighting some mean looking pony, or an orange Tally, put Trixie in a questioning mood herself. Only, she had just one question. Okay, maybe two, but the more pressing question was one she hadn't asked Sunset yet.

“Hey, Sunny,” Trixie began, “Do you know what it means to be Great and Powerful?” She asked, and Sunset paused for a moment in surprise, before continuing down the hall, adopting a contemplating look as she thought on it.

“Great and Powerful? Well, I guess it's about being strong. You can't let anyone push you around, you gotta be the pusher. You have to do your best at what you set yourself to doing.” She then nodded to herself, “Being Great and Powerful is about being better than others.” Sunset said with a level of confidence that left Trixie in awe.

Being better than others? Trixie thought, shaking her head slightly, Trixie doesn't want to be better, she just wants to show everypony her magic! So, if Trixie wants to be Great and Powerful, then, Trixie's magic needs to be better? Trixie's brow furrowed as she glanced to the murals around them, Sunny broke the rock, Twily knew the rock's name, and Trixie put it back together. Sunny and Twily couldn't fix the rock, because it was hard. Being Great and Powerful, means being able to do the hard things, right?

“So, if a pony can do really hard things that nopony else can, then they're Great and Powerful?” She asked Sunset, who quickly nodded.

“That's right.”

Then, if Trixie is gonna be Great and Powerful, she needs to learn more hard things! Luna said illusions are hard, but they aren't that hard for Trixie. Thinking this, Trixie's frown turned to a smile, That's it! Trixie knows how to be Great and Powerful now! Trixie has to try hard to do what other ponies can't. Show ponies all kinds of tricks, make them smile and be happy!

“Thanks Sunny! Trixie gets it now!”

“Uh, sure.” Sunset hesitantly replied, “Glad I could help.”

Oh! Wait, Twily is super smart, and Sunny's magic is really strong. So, they're both Great and Powerful too. She then nodded to herself, Having two friends that are Great and Powerful is great! Twily and Sunny are both different kinds of Powerful, and they're Trixie's friends! She affirmed to herself as she looked back the way they came, seeing Twilight looking to the mural with Tally and Luna standing against a bunch of changelings.

Remembering her second pressing question, she turned around, to Sunset's surprise, and joined Twilight. “Hey, Twily, you know this story?” Trixie asked as she pointed to the mural, and Twilight nodded.

“A little.”

“Oh! Can you tell Trixie the story?” She asked as Sunset joined them, looking between the two fillies and the glass mural.

“Um, I can try. Let's see, a long time ago...”

~~~~~~~~~~

What Twilight saw in the hall was floating in her head as she followed the others out of passageway, particularly the half of the hall with the murals. Her thoughts were then abandoned when she realized that Sir Tell Tale was waiting for the three of them on the other side of the secret door.

“Sir Tell Tale-” Twilight quickly let out as her heart threatened to jump out of her chest.

“It's alright Twilight, I just wanted to know what you three thought of the Hall of Murals, nothing more.” He quickly assured with a small smile, which got a small sigh from Twilight.

So, we're not in trouble-

“Trixie saw a lot of ponies and colorful windows. Those were Luna's friends, right?”

“That's right, old friends.” Tell Tale replied. He then looked to Sunset, who was looking at him with a fierce look in her eyes. He kept her gaze for several moments, before she looked away.

Is Sunset still bothered about the portrait of the dragon? Twilight wondered as Sunset spoke up.

“Tell Tale, how'd you become Luna's bookkeeper?”

Huh? Where'd that come from? Twilight wondered as she looked to Tell Tale curiously.

“Oh, that?” He asked, blushing lightly as he coughed into a hoof, “Let's just say that I called a noble out for being a liar while the Princess was nearby, and leave it at that.” His short answer made Sunset's brow furrow.

“I'm not a little filly, Tell Tale. Tell me what happened.” Sunset insisted.

“Very well then, Ms. Shimmer.” Tell Tale replied, his brow slightly furrowed, “If you want to hear the whole story, then you'll need to earn it.” He then made a dismissive gesture, “And that'll have to wait till later. It's late, the three of you should return to your room.

“It's late!?” Twilight repeated in surprise.

“How late?” Sunset asked, another concern separating her from her former inquiry.

“Late enough for you to have missed putting Spike to bed, I'm afraid.”

“It's that late!?” Twilight asked, her ears falling as she looked to the side. “We lost track of time down there.”

“Indeed, which means you must have enjoyed it. So was it worth looking into?” Tell Tale asked, and the fillies paused a moment, looking between each other.

“I think so?” Twilight replied, “But, now I have a lot of questions I wanna ask Luna.”

“I can assure you,” Tell Tale began, “Luna will give you answers, in time.”

“Really?” Twilight asked, and the stallion nodded, getting a smile from the filly.

“Oh! For Trixie, it was fun!” Trixie threw in, “She didn't think she'd see some old pictures and windows, but it was still fun!”

“It was alright, I guess.” Sunset added as she glanced to the side, looking a little upset that she had missed putting Spike to bed. Tell Tale appraised the fillies, before nodding to himself.

“In that case, I'm glad to hear it. Now, off with you. You still have class tomorrow, after all.” He pointed out, and with that, the three fillies left him alone as they headed to their room.

“So, Twily,” Trixie began, “Was it fun?”

“Huh? Oh! There were a lot of very interesting things in there, I just can't stop thinking about them! I'm hoping I won't have to wait too long for Luna to tell me all about what we saw!”

“Sooo, that's a yes?” Trixie asked with a really big grin.

“Yeah! It was fun!” Twilight affirmed with a smile of her own. Princess Luna trusted us enough to see something that was very important to her. So I guess I was worrying a little too much about this. She thought to herself, letting her mind wander as she started to picture what other amazing things were hidden in the castle.

~~~~~~~~~~

“Twilight, Trixie, I'm gonna spend the night with Spike.” Sunset stated as they reached their room.

“You are? Can we come too?” Trixie asked, prompting Sunset to shake her head.

“Not tonight. I just, well, no.” She stated as she started to look flustered. “I don't want to share him tonight.” She admitted as she avoided their gaze. “You two have a good night.” She stated as she went into Spike's room.

I was the pony that hatched him, he's my responsibility, and I didn't tuck him to bed tonight! Sunset thought as she moved to his crib, giving Cadance a small greeting as she absentmindedly pulled the couch closer.

Looking into the crib, she saw him sleeping snugly, and adopted a small smile that washed away the doubts seeing a particular portrait had stirred up. I'm here for him, not some old picture in a hidden hall. So, I really have nothing to worry about. She thought with a smile on her face as she curled onto the couch, wishing her baby dragon sweet dreams, as she fell asleep.

Author's Note

Sorry for the delay on this chapter, and thank you for your patience!
The next chapter will be taking place several months later, and will be taking place mostly outside of the castle, in Canterlot proper.
But before that chapter can come out, I've got to work on another addition to the Trio-verse! So, there's that to look forward too. It's been on my head a lot lately, and I'm pretty excited to get started on it.
Anyways, I hope this chapter was a fitting stopping point between now and the next chapter, which is probably a month away.
I hope you enjoyed it, and thanks as always for reading!

6. The Best Day of the Week!

Luna slowly opened her eyes, letting out a pleasant sigh as she stretched, before slowly crawling out of bed. Keeping the bed covers wrapped around her, she dragged her hooves to the window, and gathered her magic. After a minute of concentrating, and effort that almost made her sweat, the moon had set, and the dawn was summoned. Nodding happily to herself, she slinkered back towards her large bed, unceremoniously falling into it as she curled up into ball.

She lay there for several moments, contently thankful that today was her day off, the only day in the week where she got some proper rest. The only day of the week where she didn't have to worry about tackling all of Equestria's problems. And in the warm comforts of her bed, it wasn't long before she fall back to sleep. A dreamless sleep, free of worry...

~~~~~~~~~~

Sir Tell Tale paused as he reached the castle's garden. It was that day again. The day of the week where everypony needed to be on high alert. Well, everypony but Princess Luna. She looked after and led Equestria for six days and seven nights of the week. It was the least they could do to ensure she was undisturbed on her days off.

Tell Tale then glanced to the flowers, a small frown on his face. His nose itched slightly, before he felt a small tingle run down his spine. He knew that feeling all too well. Something was going to happen today. He just knew it.

Then again, he always had that feeling on Luna's days off. Unfortunately, he was more often right than wrong.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sunset rubbed her eyes as she looked out the window, seeing the sun low in the sky, a thoughtful look on her face. She let out a tired yawn, having had trouble sleeping in an unfamiliar home, Trixie's home. Looking to the two sleeping fillies in the room with her, she adopted a small smile, before looking to the castle with a determined look on her face.

It's Luna's day off, so she isn't gonna be busy! It'll be my best chance to talk to her alone about that dragon I saw in that secret passageway! She thought as she started to gather her magic, It shouldn't be a problem, since I'm just asking a personal question. And after briefly glancing to her sleeping friends, Sunset was gone in a flash of emerald light.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sir Tell Tale stood before Black Hawk, and Sour Night, an earth pony mare who was Captain of the Guard. The three of them were assembled at the castle's front door, a small dispatch of soldiers standing to the side, waiting for their captain's command.

“After having to deal with the incident in Baltimare,” Tell Tale began, “for the last three days, by herself, I feel we owe Princess Luna some extra attentiveness for her efforts. She simply asks for one day a week to herself, and we're going to make sure she gets it.” He said with a determined nod, “We all know what we need to do, so let's stay on top of it.” He finished as he hit the ground in emphasis.

“That's it? Over already!?” Black Hawk let out in mock disappointment, his grin as big as ever, “You know, I never get enough of our little morning talks!” He added as Tell Tale looked to him, seeing an honest smile, eyes alight with concern, a hint of teasing seriousness to his voice, and above all a desire for loud fun. “Seriously, Tale, you don't need to be so uptight about it! Why not enjoy it?” The stallion let out, prompting a sigh from Tell Tale.

“Easy for you ta say, flyboy.” Sour interjected, before letting out a disgruntled sigh. “It's been hard ta stay ontop a things now that we have three fillies who are free ta roam as they please!” She said it in a bitter tone, but Tell Tale could see in her eyes that she was more concerned for the fillies safety over any inconvenience they were to her job. “Tale, you pay this bird-brain no mind.”

“I never do.” Tell Tale replied as he hid a smile, earning a harrumph from the pegasus. Tale then gave his companions a determined look, “Stay vigilant, everypony.”

“You don't have ta tell me that, sir!” Sour replied, before turning to her soldiers, addressing them as Black Hawk shook his head.

“'Stay vigilant', he says, I'm always vigilant!” Black Hawk let out heartily, before soaring into the sky, the rest of the Shadowbolts departing from their cloud perch to join his side.

Does Princess Luna intend to stay in the castle? He thought as he reflected on the events that took place last week. The fillies should be returning sometime tonight, so we shouldn't have to worry about them. So that just leaves the nobility- He thought as he looked to the castle gates, his eyes narrowing as he spotted a flash of emerald light.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sunset let out a sigh as she rubbed her horn. Looking out the window of their room into the garden below, her brow furrowed as she saw Tell Tale trotting over to where she had been just a moment before.

She'd once tried talking to Luna on this day of the week before, and he had stood as a wall that she couldn't get past. She had no intention of letting him get in her way again. As she watched him, the stallion adopt a contemplative look, before turning back and entering the castle.

Oh great! Did he see me!? She briefly wondered, before considering teleporting to the observation tower, which was the closest place she knew to Luna's room. As she gathered her magic, she winced in pain, her horn letting out sparks, prompting her to stop. She rubbed her horn, a pained look on her face. I guess I should have expected that. I did teleport all they way from Trixie's after all. She thought with a grin.

Indeed, she was quite proud at the distance she accomplished, as Trixie's home was further from the castle than Twilight's. I almost made it to our room in a single hop! I bet the only pony that could teleport farther is Luna! She thought before walking away from the window. Since my magic's spent, I'll just walk the rest of the way. She thought with a nod as she quickly left her room, surprising the mare guarding it. Since Tell Tale's downstairs, I can reach Luna before he can get in the way! And with a determined smile, she headed off to Luna's chambers.

~~~~~~~~~~

Luna let out a pleasant groan as she stretched her legs. She then tossed the blankets off as she got on her hooves, stretching out her wings with a smile before letting out a sigh. That was the best! She thought to herself, having enjoyed a commoner's luxury, sleeping in. She then headed to the restroom, eyeing her wing feathers as she did. What to do... what to do... She wondered as she straightened her mane.

After taking care of herself, she eyed her crown and started fiddling with it in her magic as she returned to her bedchamber. Should I give my staff a hard time? Or maybe take a trip to the beach? She considered as she opened a nearby window, feeling the cool spring breeze. Might be a little early for that, and I'd be spending more time traveling than relaxing... I wonder how well it'd go over if I asked for a beach to be made at the mountain's base. She considered as she rubbed her chin with a devious smile.

Her ears then flickered as she caught the sound of two ponies, arguing quite verbally, from outside her chambers. She adopted an annoyed look, before it shifted to intrigue. Wait, that's Tell Tale and Sunset, isn't it? Quietly fluttering to the door, she smiled as her suspicions were confirmed. Oooooh~~ It would be so much fun to make those two hang out with each other for the entire day! Her eyes then widened as another idea struck her, prompting her to open the doors.

“-dealing with those parasprites. So she's to be left-” Tell Tale paused when he and Sunset noticed that the door was open, and he immediately bowed before the princess, getting a small chuckle from Luna.

“Tell Tale, you don't need to do that today.” Luna said as she motioned the bookkeeper to stop bowing. She then glanced to Sunset, “Sunset, did you leave Trixie and Twilight to themselves?” She asked curiously, getting a nod from Sunset. “Well, that just won't do!” She declared, feigning shock as she looked to her bookkeeper, “Tell Tale, I'll be going out today,” She then glanced to Sunset, “I'd like it if you accompanied me."

“You're going out? To Canterlot?” Sunset asked, clearly confused.

“That would be going out, yes.” Luna said with a sly smile, getting a quick nod from the filly.

“Yeah, I'll go with you." She stated, then her eyes widened as she recalled her reason for coming here. "Um, Luna, there's something I wanted to talk about-”

“If it's about a lesson, it'll have to wait till tomorrow,” Luna stated as she motioned Sunset within. The filly hesitated for a moment, before entering Luna's room, and as she did, Luna gave Tell Tale a small nod, which he quickly returned, before closing the doors.

“In the hall we explored the other day-”

“The Hall of Murals?” Luna asked, getting a surprised looked from Sunset.

“R-Right, there was a portrait of a purple and green dragon there. Stella. Is she Spike's ... mother?” She asked as she rubbed her hoof on the floor, then looked to Luna, a concerned look in her eyes. Luna took a considering pose, before she started rummaging through her wardrobe, glancing to Sunset over her shoulder.

“Pretty sure I saw you hatch his egg with my own eyes. Though, to answer your question, Stella did lay his egg, so she's his mother by blood.” She said as she pulled out clothes more suited for a commoner. She then turned around, giving Sunset a concerned look, “Does that bother you?”

“A little...”

“Weelll, would you like to talk to her about it sometime?”

“I can do that?” Sunset asked in surprise.

“She's hard to reach right now, but it's possible to talk to her. I know a spell that lets us stay in contact over long distances.” Luna then gave Sunset a warm smile, “She's quite happy with what she's heard about you.”

“Really?” Sunset replied, not sure how to take that.

“That's right.” Luna replied as she pulled out a small amount of bits from a small treasure chest. “Don't worry too much about it right now, Sunset. Stella won't be taking Spike from you, I can promise that. You were the one that hatched him, and you took the initiative to look after him. That means a lot to Stella, understand?” She asked, and Sunset considered it for a moment before adopting a determined look.

“I think so. But, I'd like to talk to her sometime.”

“I'll arrange a meeting when it's most convenient for her. She'd also like to meet you, but the dragon lands are a ways away.” Luna explained, “But don't worry, it'll happen.”

“Thanks, Luna.” Sunset replied with a small smile.

“You're quite welcome.” Luna replied, before giving Sunset an appraising look.

“Didn't fancy your odds against 'mama' dragon before coming here?”

“Well, I read that they could grow as big as the castle, so I was, uh, slightly worried about my 'odds'.” She replied with a sheepish grin.

“Heh, I don't need a friend of mine fighting a student of mine. I don't think Canterlot would survive the fallout!” Luna replied in exaggerated tones. She then levitated all of the things she'd gathered, and slid into her clothes, covering her wings and cutiemark.

“Luna?” Sunset asked as the princess tied her mane into a ponytail.

“Yes?”

“You covered your wings?”

“A small price to pay to mingle outside the castle without drawing too much attention.” She said as she cast a small spell, deglamouring her mane and tail. “Now then, let's go pick up Trixie and Twilight, then the fun can begin!” Luna let out excitedly, getting a skeptical look from Sunset.

Now, where did I put those- Luna thought, letting out a happy gasp as she found her prize, sliding on the spectacles she wore during a certain interview. “Well? How do I look?” Luna asked as she spun on her hooves in front of Sunset, leaving the filly speechless for a moment at Luna's playfulness. The princess's look and demeanor were so different that for a moment, Sunset wasn't sure if the unicorn in front of her was actually Luna.

“Y-You look great! Just like when we became your students!” Sunset replied.

“Excellent! Now, shall we?” Luna replied as she offered Sunset her hoof.

“...Can I bring Spike?”

A baby dragon in Canterlot? Luna thought, hesitating for a moment at the complications that could arise from that. However, Sunset noticed her pause.

“Actually, nevermind. He'll … be fine with Cadance. I shouldn't take him out and about till he's older.” Sunset finished, nodding to herself, before offering her hoof to Luna.

She's almost a different pony when it concerns Spike. Luna thought to herself as she took Sunset's hoof. Luna's horn then glowed, and in a flash, they were both outside the castle grounds, at the front gate. Luna gave a wink to the surprised guards, before she started moving down the road. Sunset was barely a step behind her, still trying to process everything that was happening, as this was the first time she's been with Luna as anypony other than a mentor, or Princess.

“Luna, are you always like this on-”

“Sunset, I'm always like this!” Luna quickly replied, “It's just that I have to hold it in during the rest of the week.” She then nodded to herself, “You probably don't remember this, but I visited your dreams... about three years ago as I am now, I think.” Luna replied as she adopted a contemplative look.

“Extra cheery and playful?” Sunset asked, and Luna could practically imagine the filly comparing her to Trixie at that moment.

“Yes. Exactly.” Luna affirmed as they continued their brisk stroll to Trixie's home.

~~~~~~~~~~

It's barely noon, and the Shadowbolts already have their hooves full! Tell Tale thought in annoyance as he paced back and forth in the library. A dragon just had to move into that old mountain, today! Of all days it could have chosen! He thought as he glared at nothing in particular. No matter! Princess Luna intends to enjoy herself with the fillies, and nothing's going to get in their way! He affirmed to himself as he left the library. I'll have Windy Echo tail them, make sure the Princess doesn't have to worry about what's going on-

“Tale! We have an incident in the city!” Sour Night exclaimed as she galloped down the hall with a small entourage of soldiers, making Tell Tale roll his eyes.

“Of course we have an incident in the city!” He let out as he looked to the mare, “What is it this time? A spell gone terribly wrong? An infestation? Did somepony manage to drag the parasprites from Baltimare here!?”

“Hey now, don'tcha be givin' me that tone! I'm the one that's gotta deal with it!” Sour rebutted with a glare. Tell Tale appraised her for a moment before he took in a deep breath, nodding to her.

“Sorry, just, handle it as discretely as possible. And be sure to leave an extra pair of guards to aid Ms. Care's watch over Cadance and Spike.”

“You don't have ta tell me twice!” She replied as she galloped past him, out to the castle's gates.

Always on the Princess's day off, without fail! Tell Tale thought as he let out a long sigh. And the day's barely half done...

~~~~~~~~~~

Twilight had an impressed look on her face as Trixie placed the last glass on top of her pile, completing the three layer high triangle of glassware. Trixie was smiling as she considered the pile for a moment, before taking a deep breath. Her horn briefly glowed as she blew on the glasses, making them fragment and scatter in the breeze as the magic that conjured them vanished. Trixie's brow then furrowed in concentration as she tried to gather the scattering magic, attempting to swirl it into a new shape. Before the shape could solidify, the magic dispersed, getting a disappointed sigh from the blue filly.

“It's hard to change it...” Trixie declared as she looked to Twilight, a little surprised by Twilight's smile.

“That was amazing Trixie! Even if you couldn't bring it all together, it was still amazing!” Twilight proclaimed, getting a grin from her friend, “I don't think I'd ever be able to conjure six glasses like that!”

“Sure you can, you just gotta do it!” Trixie said with an amazing amount of certainty. “Just like Trixie did! Buuuuut, Trixie couldn't have done it without Twily's help. Thanks!” She then took up a considering look, “Trixie didn't know that glass was made of sand!” she let out heartily as Twilight nodded.

“It's true, but it's not just any kind of sand, you need-” Twilight began as she adopted a slightly scholarly pose.

“Hey Twily, you think Sunny'll be coming back?” Trixie interrupted, making Twilight blink before she let out a small sigh.

“Probably not. I knew she wanted to go to the castle today, but I didn't think she'd leave so early. I'm guessing she'd wanna stay with Spike once she reached the castle.”

“Awww~, Trixie wanted to have Sunny meet Trixie's other friends.” She let out in disappointment.

“Other friends?” Twilight asked in surprise. Right, Trixie had friends before coming to the castle, unlike Sunset, or me... Twilight thought, a little regretfully.

“Yeah! Flimmy and Flammy live right down the road! Oh, but they don't like it when you call them that, but Trixie calls them that anyway~!” She let out with a smile as Twilight nodded.

“I kinda know of those two. Sure, I'd like to meet them!” Twilight replied, Being friends with colts could be fun too! She thought as Trixie nodded in excitement. The blue filly then put on her hat and cape, and as she left her room, Twilight quickly followed after her. She then paused as she saw Trixie giving her mother a big hug.

“Later mama! Gonna play with friends then go to the castle~!”

“Already?” The mare replied, sounding a little hurt as she adopted a pouting look. “Oh sweetie, all right!” She let out as she returned the hug, “You have fun now. I'll see you Friday.” She then let go, giving Trixie a silly smile, “Who's my little filly?”

“Trixie is! The Great and Powerful Trixie!” She replied, getting another hug from her mother before letting go, she then looked to Twilight, catching the filly off guard.

“You take care too Twilight, and thanks for always looking after Trixie.”

“N-No problem Mrs. Lulamoon!” Twilight replied, before following Trixie out the door. As they reached the street, Trixie headed off to the left, while something to the right caught Twilight's attention.

“Trixie!” Twilight let out as she stared in confusion, seeing Sunset coming down the road with a tall dark blue unicorn at her side. Wait, is that Luna!?

“Well met, Twilight.” The Princess said with a small wave.

“Luna!?” Trixie let out is surprise, getting a scowl from Sunset in return.

“Not so loud! She's in disguise!”

“You don't gotta shout about it,” Trixie replied with a frown as she joined the rest of them. Sunset's face reddened in a mix of anger and embarrassment, making her glare at the ground as if it was at fault.

“Princess, why are you here?” Twilight asked.

“To pick you two up,” Luna stated, “I thought it'd be fun if the three of you showed me around Canterlot!”

“But, don't you know this city like the back of your hoof?” Sunset asked, prompting Trixie to appraise her hoof in confusion.

“Not entirely. Canterlot is always changing, it's never the same today as it was yesterday. And, besides that, I want to know what you girls like about Canterlot.”

“Is this another lesson?” Twilight asked, making Luna let out a small giggle.

“Not this time, not today. This is just some good old fashion fun!” She let out, “So, mind showing me your favorite parts of town?”

“Trixie'd like to! Canterlot Commons! It's the best~! There's ponies all over the place and music and food and it's sooo busy there!” She fired off, almost bouncing on the spot as Luna nodded. The princess then looked to Twilight, whose eyes widened for a moment.

“W-Well, I really like the library, even if the castle's has more books in it.” Twilight then hesitated, “Well, more non-fiction books, that is.” She added, and Luna nodded again as she turned to Sunset, who hesitated a moment as she considered something.

“I guess I like the park.” Sunset stated, not sounding completely sure. An idea then came to the filly, and she nodded to herself before looking to the others. “Yeah, there's this one place I like, but, we can't go there till the end of the day.”

“Why not?” Trixie asked.

“Because.” Sunset replied as she glanced to the side.

“Well,” Luna began, “if Sunset says we can't go till later, than I guess our little trip through Canterlot will simply come to a close there. The library isn't too far from the commons, so how about we go there first!” She declared, indicating Twilight to lead the way, which the filly did after a moment's pause.

We get to show Luna around Canterlot!? Twilight thought in surprise as she looked over her shoulder, We are showing the Princess of Equestria around Canterlot!! I never imagined something like this happening! She considered with a smile.

As her student, she'd gotten used to Luna's presence and a part of her life in the castle. Now that Luna wasn't acting like a princess, the oddity of it reminded Twilight that she was one of the lucky few that got to spend time with her on a regular basis.

I wonder what her favorite stories are? She thought as she slowed so she could walk more to Luna's side, confident they'd make it to the library without incident.

~~~~~~~~~~

The castle smelled of smoke.

Tell Tale was at Spike's room, his mouth hanging open at the scorched mess that was everything inside. Cadance was covered in soot while the baby dragon played with some toys without a care in the world. The pegasus gave Tell Tale a sheepish grin as he looked over her. Despite being only a few years older than Luna's students, she carried an air of maturity and devotion about her that the stallion found admirable.

“He uh, started breathing fire again.” She explained with a small laugh as she got on her hooves, “It was, difficult, to coax him out of it.”

“Yes, I can see that. Perhaps it would be best if you looked after him outside for a few hours.” Tell Tale suggested as he gestured to the scorched room in exasperation, “The cleaning staff will need the room if we're to get it straightened up before The Princess returns.

“I think he'd like it outside.” She replied with a hint of excitement. Her ears then fell as she looked to the stallion. “Sorry for the mess...”

“There's no need to apologize, Cadance. In fact, I want to thank you for all the hard work you've done. The Princess doesn't want Ms. Shimmer too distracted from her studies, and your aid in that regard is quite appreciated.” Tell Tale said, getting a surprised look from the filly, prompting her to adopt a proud smile.

“Thanks!”

“Think nothing of it.” Tell Tale then nodded to himself, “The staff will get you when the room's ready again.”

“Gotcha!” Cadance replied as she scrounged up some of Spike's toys, before putting him on her back. The dragon let out a happy cry as she glided out of their room, outside towards the training field. Tell Tale had to resist chuckling as the extra guards left to look over them dashed out the door to catch up to the young pegasus.

Well, at least this problem's already taken care of. Tell Tale thought as he eyed the charred room, For the most part...

~~~~~~~~~~

The Grand Equestrian Library, or the Canterlot Library to those that live on the mountain, is considered the largest library in all of Equestria. While the library wasn't anywhere near the same size of the castle, it did sport the same kind of architecture, and indeed, had a larger collection of books. This being for the fact that Luna's collection had very few works of fiction. Maybe it was because of that fact that Luna picked up on the smell of books when they entered. It was slightly different from her own library, and the scent brought a small smile to her face.

“How long we gonna stay?” Trixie asked, looking a little disinterested.

“How about we stay till dinner, and head to the commons to eat?” Luna suggested, making Trixie's brow furrow. “I often forget how small my collection is compared to this place,” Luna added as she looked to Trixie, “I can only imagine how many books about a certain magician there are in here.” She added, getting a brief look of confusion from the blue filly, before her eyes lit up. “Find what you want to read, and we'll meet up at that table in the corner, sound good?” Luna then asked of all of them.

“Sure!” Trixie let out, getting an annoyed look from Sunset, as well as several other ponies in the library.

“Trixie, it's a library, so try not to be so loud.” Sunset offered as she showed some patience.

“Huh, oh. 'Kay~.” Trixie replied before she started to look around, splitting off from their group. While Trixie wandered towards a nearby librarian, Sunset went off, a destination clearly in mind, leaving Twilight and Luna alone. Luna stood there a moment, expecting Twilight to head off on her own as well, then gave the filly a curious look when she continued to stay at her side.

“Something wrong, Twilight?”

“What? No, I just wanted to know what it was you liked to read, Lu-” She almost finished, but cut herself off to avoid breaking Luna's cover.

What I like to read? I think she may be a bit young to appreciate a number of the novels I read. Ah, I know!

“I'm quite fond of romance novels,” Luna began, “but I also get a real kick out of mysteries. I especially love to piece together the mystery before the reveal!” Luna stated as she started towards the section of stories she had in mind, nodding Twilight to follow. “I think you might enjoy that.”

“Mystery? I thought you'd like fantasy novels, or science fiction.” Twilight replied, looking a little down that she had guessed wrong.

“The latter has its moments. Fantasy however... Let's just say that I've seen a little too much of that in the Realm of Dreams.” Luna stated as they reached the wall of books she'd been eyeing. “Here we are! A great place to start for the genre~” Luna affirmed as she pointed to a shelf devoted to the Betsy Drew series.

“Whoa!” Twilight let out as she eyed the large number of books telling of mysteries Betsy took on. She then adopted a sheepish look as she realized she'd practically shouted her amazement. “All of these were written by one pony? There's over a hundred of them!” She let out in a loud whisper.

“That they are.” Luna replied with a smile as she grabbed her favorite, as well as the first two books in the series, presenting them to Twilight. “Interested?” She asked, and Twilight nodded eagerly, taking the books.

With their prizes in hoof, they returned to the lobby, and in short order, the four of them reunited. Trixie had a book called 'Magic Tricks for All Kinds of Ponies!', while Sunset had one called 'Useful Spells When Dealing With Dragons, vol. 1.'. Seeing their choices made the princess shake her head in amusement.

While the fillies were reading, Luna pretended to do the same, her eyes looking over her students, and the ponies around them. She occasionally saw somepony look to her, a look on their faces practically screaming that they were wondering if that was the Princess of Equestria sitting the middle of the lobby. It always ended with them convincing themselves that couldn't be the case. Hiding in out in the open is always the best. Luna thought as she fiddled with her glasses. Though reading in the library wasn't as involved or exciting as their walk had been, Luna loved quiet moments like this, and she was content to simply observe as the time ticked away.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tell Tale once read that long ago, before the founding of Equestria, duels were held between unicorns, placing everything they possessed on the line in a bout of skill. The stallion couldn't help but wish that was still prevalent, as Brown Muzzle wished for an audience with Princess Luna, on today of all days.

No. He wants an audience with her. Today. To flaunt his status! That foul stallion! Tell Tale thought as he considered a number of ways of approaching the problem. He mentally scratched off the dueling option in annoyance as he glanced down to the city resting in the castle's shadow. I could tell him that the Princess is out... He thought before letting out a sigh. Which he will no doubt make me regret by running my ears off by how important he is. Well, let's get this hassle over with. With that, Tell Tale left to suffer in Luna's place.

~~~~~~~~~~

Luna's horn died down as she adopted a small smile. So, Windy Echo's keeping an eye out for us? I'll need to thank him before we leave. She thought to herself before pushing her dinner plate to the side.

She, as well as Twilight and Sunset, were sitting at a small table outside a diner at Canterlot Commons; a section of Canterlot where five roads intersected, bringing many of Canterlot's citizens, from nobles to the common pony, together. Restaurants, stores, and many popular venues were here, crowded and busy. Though today was Luna's day of rest, Canterlot itself didn't know anything about taking a day off.

There were several ponies displaying their practices here, each of them gaining the attention of several passersby, from mimes to musicians. And even a certain filly magician, who was putting on a show of her own not several paces from Luna's table. With the energy and joy Trixie was giving off, it was no wonder that Canterlot Commons was her favorite part of the city.

“Now for this next trick, The Great and Powerful Trixie will need her Smart and Helpful friend!” Trixie let out as she pointed to Twilight, who looked up from her Betsy Drew book, before she shrank into her seat when she saw the crowd's attention fall to her. “Come on Twily, Trixie needs you for this one.” Trixie added as she gave her friend a reassuring look. Twilight sat there for a moment, before she was given a small push by Luna's magic. Twilight looked to the princess' smile, causing a small fire to lite in Twilight's eyes. Looking to Trixie, Twilight gave her a small nod as she moved to her side.

“Thank you Twily- erm,” Trixie thought for a brief moment before correcting herself, “Twilight!” Now for this next act, I'm going to make my assistant disappear!” Trixie declared as she took off her cape, moving it around Twilight to block the filly from the onlookers' eyes. Trixie then gave Twilight a subtle wink, “Now! Three, two, one! Behold~!” She let out as a puff of smoke appeared around both of them, and when the smoke cleared, it revealed one filly standing there, Twilight.

Trixie vanished? Luna thought as her eyes widened, But, I didn't hear her teleport-

“Uhh, oopsie!” Trixie's voice let out bashfully from where she once stood, to the onlooker's surprise. “Looks like Trixie made the wrong pony disappear! Uhh, Twilight, mind bringing Trixie back? Just do what Trixie did!” Trixie let out as Luna's eyes started to explore her surroundings.

“Um, okay!” Twilight let out, hesitating again as she lifted up Trixie's cape, covering herself from the crowd. “Three, two, one! Behold...?” Twilight said, with far less enthusiasm that Trixie had. Twilight then blinked as nothing happened.

“Say it like Trixie, silly!” Trixie said, prompting Luna to smile as she realized where Trixie was.

That clever filly! She's hiding behind me! She made everpony's eyes fall to Twilight, and she ran out of there when she summoned the smoke! The rest is simple sound manipulation. Luna thought as she made a subtle glance over her shoulder, seeing a blue filly, her horn glowing in preparation.

“R-Right! Sorry!” Twilight replied as her face turned red, getting a few chuckles from the crowd as Twilight repeated the line. “Behold~!” She shouted out, in a very Trixie fashion, causing a puff of smoke and a small yelp from the filly. The smoke quickly dispersed, in its place were several fireworks as Trixie stood there, hugging Twilight.

“Thanks Twily! Trixie didn't think she'd ever come back!” Trixie then let go of Twilight, before bowing to her audience, “Trixie's friend, Twilight!” She let out as she motioned to Twilight, getting an applause from their audience. “Thank you thank you! That's all for today everypony, but Trixie promises she'll be back later~!” And with that, the crowd started to disperse, a small number of the attendants giving Trixie a bit or two for the performance, which Trixie shared with Twilight.

Heh, Luna thought, Since everypony's eyes were on where Trixie was going to reappear, she couldn't risk running in, so she teleported instead, muffling the pop at the same time. If she had a stage and some clever pyrotechnics, she could pull all that off without magic. She considered before her ears perked, and her focus shifted to listening to some of the gossip the audience was saying as the remaining ponies left.

They were commenting on the possibility of Trixie being one of the students the Princess had recently taken up. Luna smiled to herself as the two of them returned to the table, seeing traces of fatigue in Trixie's eyes, suspecting she spent the rest her magic on that last performance.

“Sorry for not disappearing.” Twilight said as she sat down.

“It's okay Twily, you did just fine! Trixie had it covered!” Trixie said as she nodded to herself, then looked to Luna and Sunset. “You two like it?”

“Of course!” Luna honestly replied.

“Watching other ponies performing isn't really something I like.” Sunset stated, before glancing to the side, “But, you had fun, so it was alright.” She added, getting a beaming smile from Trixie. The little magician then turned to Twilight.

“Hey Twily, wanna help Trixie with future shows?”

“You want help?”

“It's easier to trick the audience when there are two ponies.” She stated confidently, to Twilight's surprise, making Luna hold back a small chuckle.

“That, and it's more fun with a friend,” Luna interjected, “Right?”

“Right~!” Trixie replied, getting a nod from Luna.

“Now girls, there's somepony I need to talk to for a moment. Afterwards, shall we go to your favorite place, Sunset?”

“Uh, sure.” Sunset replied, and Luna got on her hooves, heading into the diner they had eaten outside of.

She spotted the pony she was looking for, who was trying hard to avoid notice. The second her eyes met his, he slumped in his seat before fluttering out of it. Windy Echo then landed in front of the princess, and almost saluted her, but fought the habit down to aid Luna's cover.

“Anything you need to tell me?” Luna asked curiously.

“Nothing at all, everything is under control. Though, I did work to keep certain individuals from spotting you.”

“Thank you for that Windy.” Luna sincerely replied, turning to leave, but she paused for a moment, “And do thank the others for me, I know days like these are never easy for you all. Don't be afraid to ask for help if things get out of hoof.”

“Trust me, Your High- Erm, Trust me, if we need to, we will.” Windy Echo replied with a subtle salute, before flying out the door. Luna then left the diner, reuniting with the fillies.

“Was that Mr. Echo?” Trixie asked as Sunset got up.

“Indeed it was.”

“That was Windy Echo?” Sunset asked, before shrugging her shoulders, “That aside, my favorite place is in the park,” she stated, having grown accustomed to Luna's openness as she indicated towards the park's direction. “We'll wanna be there before sundown.” She then paused, adopting a small smile, “Which should be pretty easy.” She added as she gave Luna a small smile.

“I'd rather not put off sundown, but, I guess it can't be helped if we lose track of time.” Luna replied with a sly smile. Not that I don't have a perfectly wired internal clock. She thought as she let Sunset lead the way.

As they followed Sunset to the park, it quickly became less noisy and crowded around them, to the point where Twilight was comfortable to speak Luna's name without drawing attention.

“Luna, do you always do stuff like this on your day off?” Twilight asked.

“Not entirely. It's been several months since I've wandered through the city like this. I more often spend my time visiting close towns, or reading.” Or pulling pranks on certain ponies. Luna thought as she briefly adopted a dark smile.

“I always thought you did it to catch up on sleep.” Sunset replied as she let out a small yawn.

“Not entirely, I do sleep in, yes, but it's not like I'd sleep through the whole day. That'd just be terrible!”

“How do you do it Luna?” Trixie asked, “Isn't it hard, helping everypony's dreams too?”

“I'm asleep too when I do that, so my body gets some proper rest. It can be mentally draining though, that's why I look forward to the little moments. Yes, today's my day off, but there are small pauses through the rest of the week where I can relax.” Luna then nodded to herself, “I've been doing this for so long that I've learned to make due with those moments.”

“But, isn't it still hard?” Twilight asked.

“At times it can be, but I still manage all the same. I give my best for Equestria, and its not just me. Since I'm off today, that means others need to work harder in my absence. We all work hard to keep Equestria running, and safe.”

“So what about the others?” Sunset asked curiously.

“Well, they get two days off.” Luna replied with a sly grin, getting a small laugh from Sunset.

“You sure?” Trixie asked, “Mr. Tale always seems to be at the castle.”

“He likes to works on his days off. He's just that kind of pony.” Luna replied with a small smile. “He doesn't like to just sit around and do nothing, right?” She stated as she gave Sunset a knowing grin.

“It looks like we're just about there.” Sunset replied in an attempt to ignore the implications behind Luna's words. Sunset pointed ahead of them, revealing their destination at the end of the road. As it was getting late in the day, the park was less crowded than it normally was. Stone paths lined with flowers, and many clearings dotted the place, as well as trees that managed to keep most of the park shaded.

“It's empty.” Trixie pointed out as they arrived, sounding a little disappointed.

“Right now it is, but in a couple months it'll be packed for the Summer Sun Celebration!” Twilight let out excitedly, her eyes looking to a platform near the edge of the park, free of tree cover. A platform left in the park specifically for big events such as that.

“You like the Summer Sun Celebration?” Luna asked, her curiosity piqued by Twilight's open enthusiasm on the subject.

“Yep! It's my favorite, along with Hearth's Warming.” She then blushed as she looked to Luna, “Last year, I saw you raise the sun, and it was amazing. I don't really know why, but I felt something about it that made my chest warm. I really felt,” She paused as she looked for the best word, “Driven. Even though my magic's been hard to use, I really wanted to be good with it, and seeing you raise the sun inspired me.” Twilight explained, surprising Luna with how earnest she was in her words. Twilight then blinked as she realized something. “Though, I mean, uh, I guess it's not your favorite holiday, since you get less sleep during that half of the year.”

“That's okay Twilight.” Luna quickly assured, “So, I inspired you? That makes me happy to hear!” She let out, turning Twilight's doubt into a smile, “Personally, I love the Summer Sun Celebration, but my favorite is Nightmare Night.”

“Oh! Nightmare Night!? That's Trixie's favorite too!”

“I'm sure it is.” Sunset said sarcastically.

“What, it is!” Trixie replied.

“I bet you're saying that to make Luna happy.”

“Well, Trixie bets you went to the castle this morning for the same thing!” Trixie stated accusingly.

“That's not it! I wanted to talk to Luna about … something I saw in that hall we explored last week.” Sunset replied with an irritated look.

“The hall? Oh! That reminds me!” Twilight let out loudly, breaking Sunset and Trixie from their argument, “Luna, that mare on the wall behind your desk in the library, the white alicorn; who is she?” She asked, prompting Luna to briefly glance at the sun, which was starting to sink below the tree line.

“I'll let you know in a little bit, the day's almost over, and I don't think Sunset's shown us her favorite place yet.” Luna said, prompting Twilight and Trixie to look to Sunset.

“R-Right, it's just this way.” Sunset stated, leading them towards the edge of the park, which was lined by a tall wall of shrubs.

“Sunny, there's nothing but bushes here.” Trixie pointed out.

“Over here.” Sunset bid as she pointed to a part of the bush wall that looked no different from the rest. Her horn then glowed, pushing aside several branches to reveal what lay on the other side.

“Wow!” Trixie let out as she passed through, followed by Twilight and, at Luna's insistence, Sunset. The path still held open, it was a bit small for Luna, but she managed to get through the gap, revealing a view not too different from the one she'd shown the fillies on their first day at the castle. It was a small pocket of the park, smaller than a small home, a patch of unmanaged grass that ended with a metal fence, followed by a ledge to a long drop into the valley below.

“Sunset, this is amazing!” Twilight added as Luna took in the familiar view. Equestria spread out before them, the sun coming low in the sky.

“I've never really liked much of Canterlot, besides the park. I really like this spot, it's sort of like my secret base. I used to study here after class, or practice my spells.” Sunset said with a fond smile, “I haven't been here since I moved to the castle.” She added as she ran her hooves through the grass with a content look on her face. “I didn't realize how much I missed it...”

“Well, it's a really beautiful place, and, it's about to get better.” Luna stated as she sat down, “I can see why you wanted to wait till now to show us.” She added as her horn started to glow. The day's over, but I think I'll draw this out a little, for them. And with some effort, the sun started to slowly descend into the horizon, taking on its brilliant hues of orange and reds as it did, bringing a glow to Sunset's eyes as she watched.

And though it was a bit bright for Trixie and Twilight, they enjoyed the sunset all the same, and seeing their three smiles while lowering the sun struck Luna, making her chest ache slightly as she spoke out with her heart. Can you see us, Tia? Did you see all the fun we had today? Were you jealous? I really hope not. But don't worry, I'm certain these three will save you one day. I know it, so just wait a little longer, dear sister. Then, we can all watch the sunset, together. She concluded with a smile, bidding the sun goodnight as she started raising the moon. The four of them sat quietly for a few moments as the moon rose, and the afterglow of the sun's light started to fade into twilight.

“Alright girls, it's time for us to head back.” Luna said as she finished bringing the moon out. Getting on her hooves, she let out a sigh as she started to remove her disguise, exposing her wings to the air as she let them stretch out.

“Already?” Sunset asked, a little disappointed, before letting out a long yawn, which Trixie mirrored.

“That's right. The day's over, it's back to work for me, and it's time for bed for the three of you. Come on, I'll tell you a little story on the way back.”

“A story?” Twilight asked, a little glow in her eyes.

“That's right, it's about a pony very important to me. She's the white alicorn, and her name is Celestia." Luna began as they left the hidden spot behind them the three of them walking close to the Princess. "And she's the reason I chose this day of the week to take off.”

“You could choose?” Twilight asked.

“Well, I am a princess after all.” Luna said with a grin, “Now, let me tell you about my dear sister, and why today is called Sunday...”

~~~~~~~~~~

Having gotten word of her return by a certain bat-pony, Tell Tale, Sour Night and Black Hawk were standing at the ready in front of the castle's doors.

Luna took them in as she arrived, Sunset and Trixie asleep on her back, both fatigued from having spent their magic in the day and walking through Canterlot. Twilight was still standing, but she wasn't too far from falling asleep herself. She was so tired, that she failed to notice the state of her current company.

Tell Tale's mane was frazzled, and he had a look that suggested that he had lost several years of his life this day. Sour Night's hair and tail were standing on end, her armor scorched in parts. And Black Hawk, sporting a triumphant grin, smelled of ash, and had some smoke still whifting off of him.

“If I were a guessing Princess, I'd say that you all had to tackle nobles, twittermites, and a dragon. Correct?” Luna asked, getting a nod from each of them.

“Nothing we couldn't handle, Your Highness.” Tell Tale replied with a bow.

“Yes, Princess, twittermites, and that's all that needs to be said.” Sour stated, looking like she had more colorful things to say, but she kept it to herself.

“Sooner or later the dragons are gonna learn that we don't want any of them sleeping in the lonely mountain!” Black Hawk replied as he bowed as well.

“You do know that just because I'm off, doesn't mean I wouldn't help save Equestria from its blights, right?” Luna asked, prompting Tell Tale to quickly shake his head.

“If we can't manage a single day of the week without Her Highness, then that doesn't speak well of our nation. As you often say, we're all children of Equestria, and everypony needs a break every so often. After all, you're the only one of us that works both days and nights.”

“Well, thank you as always, now go get some rest,” Luna then adopted a sly smile, “And that's an order.”

“Yes, Your Highness.” They responded in unison, being mindful of Luna's sleeping charges. They then dispersed, though, Tell Tale paused, looking to the fillies, then Luna with a 'need help' look in his eyes. Luna shook her head, and he got the message, leaving with a subtle bow.

“Come on Twilight, we're almost there.” Luna said, helping the filly along, as she returned her students to their room. It smells extra clean around here, I wonder why... She thought as she put her students to bed, wishing them a quiet good night, before returning to her own room.

I really should have done something like that weeks ago! She thought to herself, before plopping into her bed, the rest of her affects left to the side. Maybe I should surprised them with a trip to the beach while we're all asleep! She thought as she closed her eyes, a small smile on her face.

Author's Note

So, does that mean the second day of the week is Moonday?
I had the 'Luna's day off' idea floating in my head for almost a month, and felt it would make a better end to the first arc than chapter five.
So, next chapter is most certainly the start of the next arc, taking place around the SSC.
Hope you enjoyed this one as much as the previous, and thanks again for reading!
Also putting a quick thank you to my friend OCisbestpony because I can do that.
Now then, back to work on Shadow's Flare! :twilightblush:

13. Nightmare Night - Fearless Filly

Disclaimer: This chapter may be scary. It may have something involving a spooky castle, ancient ghosts, screaming fillies, and tomato sauce. It may need to be read in a well lit room. Seriously though. This chapter has the [Dark] tag. You have been warned.

Twilight and Trixie were waiting outside of Twilight's home, waiting for Sunset. The sun had been lowered early today, the moon set low in the sky, appearing larger in the sky than normal. It was Nightmare Night, and ponies of varying ages were wandering through Canterlot, dressed for the occasion.

Twilight fiddled with her costume as they waited, shifting her set of dark blue wings. Her coat and mane were dyed a matching color, and she had a black splotch with a crescent moon covering her cutiemark. The wings strapped to her back were a little uncomfortable, and she had to keep straightening them, or they'd fall off. Despite this, she was happy with how her costume turned out. Trixie sure enjoyed it when she first saw it.

“I wonder what Sunny's gonna be?” Trixie asked curiously, her top-hat tilting over her eyes, making her lift it back up, again. To go with the hat, she had a black cape, with a red underside. She also had a black wand, with a white band wrapped near its tip. Finally, she had a balloon, bigger than she was, of a manticore, which she kept close. She was dressed as Hat Trick, her floating companion being his stage companion, Leo the Tame.

“Don't know. She didn't seem all that happy when we left the castle yesterday.” Twilight pointed out, “I really hope she's coming with us.” She added, and almost as if on cue, there was a flash of emerald, revealing the mentioned filly, wearing a tight red and yellow suit. The suit had a pair of yellow lightning bolts covering her cutiemark. Sunset's mane was brushed back, as if she had run really, really fast, and she blushed slightly when she noticed her friends eyeing her costume.

“Ooo. What's Sunny dressed as~?” Trixie asked energetically as she circled her friend, making Sunset glance to the side, muttering something under her breath before turning her back to them.

“Tch. Dressing up like this,” Sunset began, “it's embarrassing. Why do we even celebrate this stupid holiday.” She muttered, getting a confused look from Trixie.

“For candy and fun?” she replied as she tilted her head.

“Luna told me,” Twilight began, “that we celebrate to honor the classical writer Poor Poe.” Twilight then smiled, he voice carrying more enthusiasm as she added, “His short stories like The Tell-Tale Beat and Mask of the Crimson Scythe caused nightmares that needed to be scared away. Only on Nightmare Night are these nightmares allowed to run free, so we all dress up in costumes to blend in with them, and gather candy to stave off their hunger.” She explained, getting an almost glazed look from Trixie, picking out only one tidbit of all that info.

“Wait. Mr. Tale has a story named after him?” She asked curiously, “Trixie likes Luna's version more. She told Trixie we do it because dress-up is fun, and candy is great too.” She added, making Sunset shake her head.

“Twilight, Nightmare Night predates Poor Poe,” Sunset said as she gave Twilight a cross look.

“Oh. Right.” Twilight replied with a sheepish grin. “Guess I overlooked that,” she added, getting a sigh from her friend.

“This holiday is just dumb.” Sunset began as she eyed her costume, “Can't believe I even decided to wear anything-” She added, pausing when a certain colt left Twilight's home.

His mane and tail were dyed silver, mixing well with his white coat. He was wearing a light blue and dark blue jumpsuit. The dark and light colors were separated by a white lightning bolt, and he paused when he saw the others.

“Shouldn't you three be out getting candy by now?” He asked with a small smile, getting a nod from Trixie.

“Yeah~! Let's get candy!” She replied energetically. Shining Armor then noticed Sunset's costume, and she herself was giving him a small glare as she took in his. A glare that was also working to hide her blush.

“You dressed as Flashsilver?” She asked in a disgusted tone, getting a little laugh from him.

“What about you? The Quick? I thought you hated him.”

“Yes, but that doesn't change the fact that his suit matches my mane.” She retorted, “And I can actually go places very quickly,” She added as her horn flashed, before she teleported next to him, “Unlike you.”

“Can we go now?” The Hat Trick filly asked in a bored tone, “Trixie's bag is still empty.”

“Go on. Have fun!” Shining said as he passed them, “I have some friends waiting on me anyway.” He then looked to them over his shoulder, “By the way, Trixie, your costume looks great, and yours looks good great on you too, Sunset.”

“You gonna visit the castle with your friends?” Twilight asked, getting a nod from him.

“Wouldn't miss the main event!” He added, before leaving, getting a sigh from Sunset, before she adopted a small smile. He complimented her stupid costume, so a small part of her considered it worth the discomfort the outfit caused.

“Let's go~!” Trixie let out, about to run off into the street, before Twilight stopped her with her magic. “Wwhhhat?”

“Our first stop,” Twilight began with a slightly sly smile, “Is here~!” she let out, before turning on her hooves, and knocked on the door to her home. After a moment's wait, the door opened, revealing Twilight's parents, both dressed as matching vampires in black robes. “Nightmare Night, what a fright, give us something sweet to bite!” Twilight let out cheerily, getting a small laugh from her parents.

“Come now you three, let's get your bags started.” Mrs. Velvet replied, levitating treats out for each of them. Trixie eagerly brought her bag forth, while Sunset considered hers for a moment, before doing the same. After placing treats into each of their sacks, Twilight Velvet tilted her head, “And what do we say?”

“Thank you Mrs. Velvet.”

“Thanks Twilight's mom~!”

“Thanks mom.”

They each replied, getting a happy nod from the mare.

“Make sure not to eat all your candy at once,” she began, specifically looking at Trixie as she did, “And make sure the three of you have fun!”

“We will~!” Trixie quickly replied, before running down to the street, “Come on slowpokes!” She added, having Sunset teleport next to her, who adopted a smug grin, before Twilight flashed to their sides as well, and together, they set out. And they were far from alone in their endeavor.

All of Canterlot was in the festive spirit, and the entire city was decorated to match. Street lamps were surrounded by hay, gourds and pumpkins. Gates and fences had spiders, bats and black cats adorning them. Fillies and Colts were going from home to home collecting treats. Mares and Stallions celebrated with friends, at home or out in Canterlot's shopping district. The entire city was buzzing with activity.

The three fillies went from home to home during this most festive of nights. Their collection of candy growing with each stop. Some homes had only a modest collection of decor. Other homes were entire displays of wonder and fear, as if trying to compete for the scariest home in Canterlot. One house they happened upon, one of a wealthy noble, had a hedge maze of spooks and dead-ends in front of their mansion.

Sunset found the entire labyrinth to be tiresome and boring. Her only spark of interest gained when they came upon a room of metal walls in the center of the maze. There were figures of ponies cowering in fear, and in the center was a table, a swinging pendulem hanging over it. While Sunset found it interesting, Twilight and Trixie on the other hoof, let out a sigh of relief when they finally reached the mansion. Only to find that there was no candy, or answer, waiting for them at the door.

“Oh look, it was a waste of time.” Sunset stated, getting an annoyed look from Trixie, while Twilight let out a sigh.

“How come Sunny didn't scream? Not even once!” Trixie asked as she eyed the orange filly suspiciously.

“What's to be scared of?” Sunset asked as she eyed Trixie, “Only little fillies get spooked by silly props in a maze.”

“We are little fillies.” Twilight pointed out, making Sunset roll her eyes.

“Whatever, let's move on. Once we're at the castle, I can take this dumb thing off and call it a night.” She added as she eyed her costume, getting mixed looks from her friends.

“Sunset, why don't you like Nightmare Night?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah, Trixie wants to know too.”

“It's just not fun.” Sunset admitted, “I mean, the two of you are having fun, which is nice. But, wearing costumes, getting candy, that's not fun for me. It's just a waste of time.”

“What about scary stuff?”

“What scary stuff?” Sunset replied, “It's all props and 'spooky' noises. It's not scary.” She stated matter-of-factly.

“Says you. Trixie doesn't like the scary stuff.” Her eyes then widened before she added, “Not that The Brave and Powerful Trixie is scared. She does like the candy though.” She added as she lifted the bag hanging from her neck, popping in a sweet tart with a smile.

“I like both parts," Twilight said with a nod, "getting a little scared makes my heart beat fast. It's weird, but for some reason, it's fun.” She admitted, before looking to Sunset, “Do you want to head to the castle? Maybe one of Luna's attractions will have something that'll scare you.”

“...Yeah, okay. I want to see that.” Sunset admitted with a nod, “Let's go.”

“Hey, Sunny...” Trixie began.

“Yes?”

“If you don't like candy, can Trixie have your share?”

“We'll see.” Sunset replied, getting a short cheer from Trixie, which died as they heard a particularly eerie wail coming from further up the road.

Twilight and Trixie both paused, the street ahead of them being poorly lit, easily concealing whatever caused the noise. Sunset eyed them for a moment, before rolling her eyes, proceeding forward without missing a step. The others caught up to her quickly, giving nervous looks around as they embarked upon the dark road.

Halfway across, the lone street lamp at its center flickered out. Sunset felt her friends move closer to her, making her roll her eyes again as she waited for the inevitable jump scare. Oh look, there it is.

The eerie wail came from right before them, revealing a glowing green maw, with a matching pair of eyes. The ghost's body was made of dark shreds of cloth, and it's glow intensified with its cry, making Trixie and Twilight scream as they hugged Sunset.

The orange filly stood there, unfazed, unamused, waiting for the charade to drop. The ghost eyed her for a moment, immobile, before the lantern flickered back on, banishing the vague details the costume relied on in complete darkness.

“Tch. You're no fun, Sunset.” A familiar voice stated as the large prop stopped glowing.

“No fun at all.” A similar voice added as a pair of colts stepped out of the 'ghost', getting surprised looks from Trixie and Twilight.

“Flimmy, Flammy!” Trixie let out, jumping towards the two colts, catching them offguard as she landed on them. She then started to pull at their cheeks as she gave them an unamused look. “Not. Funny!”

“Ow! T-Trixie, stop!”

“Candy!” she demanded.

“Okay okay okay!” They both replied in unison, getting a victorious smile from their assaulter as they both gave her a few pieces from their collection.

“All is forgiven~.” She said in a kind tone, nodding her head before looking to Twilight, who was eyeing the large ghost curiously. Lifting the cloth, she saw a wire mesh beneath, the entire frame resting on a small red wagon.

“Like what you see?” Flim asked with a proud smile, “Designed it myself.”

“I came up with the idea.” Flam added, “And it's worked on thirty nine out of forty ponies.” He then adopted a slightly disappointed look as he eyed Sunset, who returned the gesture.

“Come on girls, I wanna see the castle.” Sunset added, making Twilight and Trixie share a look. Twilight then moved to Sunset's side.

“That was a good scare, you two,” Twilight said with a small smile as she looked to the colts, getting a brief blush from them, “just be careful messing with the light, or somepony might get hurt.”

“Only for you, Sparkle.” Flim replied.

“Lula, wanna trade candy later?” Flam asked Trixie, getting an eager nod from her, before joining her friends. The two colts waved goodbye, a gesture mirrored by Trixie and Twilight as they left.

“You shouldn't encourage those troublemakers.” Sunset said in a spiteful tone, making Trixie immediately glare at her.

“W-What do you think Cadance's costume is?” Twilight quickly put in, placing herself between her friends before Trixie said something antagonizing. It worked, making both of them adopt a considering look.

“I... don't know.” Sunset admitted, “She did say she was gonna match with Spike, so I really want to see what she chose.”

“Oooo, Trixie wants to know what Luna and Tell Tale are~!” She let out energetically, before she started running off a list a possibilities that the other two started to humor, as the three of them continued through Canterlot.

Though a big city, they were still able to encounter a few of their other friends. Candy, as well as short stories of what each had seen through the city were swapped, before they parted ways. Their bags growing heavier with each home they passed, Trixie found herself eyeing Sunset's bag more and more in anticipation. All the while, Sunset carried a bored expression, one that bothered Twilight, making the purple filly really hope that her friend found something amusing from the castle.

After an hour of traversing the town, the three of them were at the castle's front gates.

The castle looked nothing like it had yesterday. The garden was obstructed by a tall hedge maze, and what they could see from the castle beyond gave them reason to hesitate, even Sunset. White stone was somehow replaced with black. All the windows glowed with an eerie purple, or green light. There was a light fog around the castle, and the skies above were covered by clouds, blocking out the moon. The castle was old, but now it had an appropriate look to go with it, almost as if it were some castle you'd find abandoned in the heart of a dark forest.

Oh, and there were ghosts floating around the higher towers. There was also something big, possibly eight-legged, skittering along the eastern wing's walls. Needless to say, Trixie had an very apprehensive look on her face.

“Well, that sure is ... something.” Twilight said sheepishly, while Sunset adopted a grin.

"There's so much magic..." Trixie said as she looked at the castle, wide-eyed.

“Okay, I'm liking the looks of this.” She said as she approached the guards at the entrance, both dressed as Shadowbolts.

“Ah, welcome back girls.” One of them greeted, “You're welcome to the side entrance if you wish to bypass the maze.”

“Bypass?” Twilight asked.

“That's right. Invited guests, castle staff, and residents are free to skip the maze.”

“Trixie is fine with this!” She quickly said, walking up to the guard, whose horn glowed, raising a hidden latch. The floor before the front gate shifted to the side, revealing a staircase leading down into a hidden tunnel. “Coming?” Trixie asked as she eyed the others, getting a nod from Sunset.

“I've had enough of hedge mazes for one night.” She admitted, proceeding down the underground path, being quickly followed by her friends.

“Maybe next year,” Twilight said in a disappointed tone, eyeing the maze as it vanished from view. The three of them made their way through the tunnel, all of them adding another secret passageway of the castle to their growing list. The tunnel itself was sparse in decorations, besides torches that burned an eerie green flame. Reaching the end, a guard also dressed as a Shadowbolt opened the stone wall that stood before them, which opened up into one of the main halls of the castle.

“Just a little warning,” the guard began with a playful grin, “avoid the areas with red carpet. That's part of the Crimson Scythe attraction.”

“Wait, from Poor Poe's story?” Twilight asked excitedly, getting a small nod from the guard, before closing the secret passageway's door, leaving the three of them alone in the hall.

There were cobwebs covering everything, and the air smelled dusty, as if nopony had trespassed through here in centuries. Sunset eyed the windows, feeling as if something was off, though she couldn't nail down what.

“Does anypony else think that Luna went a little overboard with the decorations?” She asked as she started down the hall, going the opposite direction of their room, to Trixie's silent dismay.

“I kind of like it-” Twilight began, pausing in unison with the other two when they heard something hit the ground with a sickening thud. Turning to the noise, they saw Tell Tale's head. Resting on the ground.

“I couldn't agree more.” He said, making Twilight and Trixie take a surprised step back, Trixie letting out a small squeak as they stood behind Sunset, who was giving Tell Tale an amused look.

“It's about time you lost your head,” she said smugly.

“Nothing lost about it.” His head replied, the rest of his body coming around the corner, headless. “Are you fillies enjoying yourselves?” He asked as his body casually scooped up his head. When Trixie saw the rest of his body, she let out a small sigh of relief, before approaching him with a frown.

“That wasn't nice!” She let out as she pointed at his body, “Using magic to do all that.”

“I am a part of Princess Luna's Crimson Scythe event.” He explained as he casually tossed his head in the air.

“So, it's magic?” Twilight asked, getting a nod from Trixie.

“He's hiding his real head with some sort of magical cloth.” She explained, getting a smile from Tell Tale.

“Now now Trixie, remember what I said about revealing another pony's tricks?” He said, her eyes widening, before her ears fell.

“Sorry, Trixie didn't mean to. She forgot, and she won't do it again.” She promised, getting an assuring smile from the stallion, before he pointed in the direction they'd been heading.

“You shouldn't go that way.” He said, before adopting a more somber look, “That path leads to another world. One made to scare ponies who live dangerous lives. Such as the Shadowbolts.” He said, before unearthly scream was heard, coming from said direction. It wasn't haunted or forced, it was the honest cry of a terrified pony, making Trixie and Twilight share a look as Tell Tale's head nodded. “If you return to your rooms, you'll find a string of spooks more suited to your age.” He added, giving Sunset a small smile, which made her adopt a fierce frown. She turned her back to them, proceeding down the hall, while Trixie and Twilight hesitated.

“You two can go back, but I'm going this way.” She said stalwartly, making Twilight place a hoof on her chest for a moment, before following after. Trixie hesitated too, unable to call on the courage needed to face what ever terrors lay that way. However, before she could let her friends down, Tell Tale placed an assuring hoof on her shoulder.

“I can keep you company if you'd like. In fact, I think there's something you can do that'll be right up your alley, if you're interested.” He said, making Trixie appraise him for a moment, before giving him a small nod. He gave her a small smile, before looking back to the others. “Twilight, you should join us. I assure you, what lies that way is beyond terrifying.” He added, making Twilight hesitate again, before shaking her head.

“I'll be with Sunset, so I'll be fine.” She replied, putting on a forced smile before moving to Sunset's side, who was a little surprised by Twilight's words.

“Heh. Very well, you were warned. Be sure to tread carefully you two, and don't trust what you see. Few have made it out of Luna's funhouse and lived to tell about it.” He said, his tone making Trixie and Twilight seriously wonder if that were true. “Oh, and Twilight,” he said, getting her attention as he gave her a golden smile, “Your costume is perfect. I'm sure her highness will love it when she sees it.” He added, before waving them off.

“Later Sunny. Later Twily~.” Trixie let out, getting a wave from Twilight, before the two pairs split up. “Hey Mr. Tale, did you know there's a book named after you?” They heard Trixie ask as Sunset and Twilight turned around a corner, losing sight to their friend and teacher.

“...Twilight,” Sunset began, “Whatever we see, just keep telling yourself that it's a trick. There's no way we'll be hurt by whatever spooks Luna's made for her guests.”

“O-Okay.” Twilight replied as she adopted a determined look.

“He said 'Crimson Scythe' event.” Sunset pointed out as she glanced to Twilight, “I'm guessing you've read that one?”

“Yep!”

“How's the story go?”

“Umm, let's see. Long ago, a Baron decided to host a big party, a masquerade party, as big as the Gala! But, only noble ponies were invited. This party happened during a bad storm, and many outside ponies wanted in, for shelter, but, the noble didn't let them. So, the nobles all had fun, while the ponies outside suffered.” Twilight's brow then furrowed as she looked to Sunset, “One of the attendees was dressed as a common pony, drenched from the rain. He wore a red mask, and the nobles were wary of him, but didn't throw him out. Something about the pony was unsettling. That pony was the Crimson Scythe.” She then hesitated before adding, “Before the night came to an end, all the ponies lost their heads, dying the carpets red.”

“A-And you read such a story?” Sunset asked in surprise, getting a happy nod from Twilight.

“I love Poor Poes' stories!”

“And the Crimson Sycthe. Who was it? Was he one of the ponies kept outside?”

“That's the best part of the story. Nopony knows. He disappeared with the storm. Was he a pony, or a ghost?” She asked, before nodding to herself. “Since that day, nopony has ever held a gala level party without the princess' permission.”

“You ... make it sound like it was a real event.”

“Well, isn't that how you're supposed to tell scary stories?” Twilight ask as she gave Sunset a confused look. Before Sunset could reply, they both then paused, feeling the ground squish beneath their hooves. Looking down, they saw the carpets were now red, wet, and warm. A notion that sent a chill down their spines. Sunset raised a hoof, seeing it dyed red.

“S-She really does go overboard.” Sunset said, getting an agreeing nod from Twilight as they stood closer together.

“Shouldn't we have seen another pony by now?” Twilight asked.

“They're probably in the ballroom.” Sunset pointed out, progressing through the hall, now at a slower pace as her eyes scanned their surroundings.

Along with the red carpet, the hall was lined with empty suits of armor on either side, each suit carrying a pike. The windows were broken, with little light dripping in from the outside. And, the torches were more dispersed, creating plenty of dark corners for only Luna knows to hide in.

Suffice to say, Twilight's hooves were shaking with each step, her mind repeating Sunset's assurance over and over as she tried to keep herself from flinching at each little unexpected noise. She looked to her friend, seeing a pony unfazed by their environment, making Twilight take strength from her fearless friend.

Sunset however, was unnerved. The first signs of fear were starting to chew at her stalwart stance concerning this holiday's dull nature. Proceeding further, they both paused when they noticed something truly out of place. Something was missing from the hall.

The double doors to the Ballroom were nowhere to be seen. Where they should have been, was the entrance to a perpendicular hall. Sunset frowned as she looked from the hall, to one of the windows, looking out into the hedge maze.

“Wait, when did we get on the second floor?” Sunset asked. When they entered the castle though the secret passage, they descended. “Wait, shouldn't we have ended up in the basement?” She added, making Twilight's eyes widen in realization. After entering the tunnel, there was no instance of them ascending. They should still have been below the garden. Which meant only one thing.

“We're lost!?” Twilight let out, eyeing the T junction they were at, her fear climbing she looked to Sunset.

“C-Calm down Twilight, we can just teleport down to the ballroom.” Sunset replied, her horn glowing in preparation to do just that as she visualized the grand room in her mind. However, her horn sputtered as she tried to make the leap, making her frown as she eyed the decor around them. The castle no longer looked like they remembered, so the destinations in their mind's eye no longer existed. At least, not tonight.

“Sir Tell Tale said we were entering another world.” Twilight said weakly, her ears perking up when they heard a noise coming from the hallway that should have been the ballroom.

Twilight took a step back as they both saw a tall figure. It wore a red mask that covered its entire face, even its eyes. A mask of one screaming in anger. It wore a dark red cape, its ends tattered and flailing in some unseen breeze. Hovering next to it, as if being carried by an unseen hoof, was a scythe easily as big as the specter was. The weapon lazily glided through the air, passing through one of the many suits of armor, cutting it down like it were made of butter. The Crimson Scythe took a step forward. Twilight took another step back, making Sunset place an assuring hoof on her shoulder.

“Twilight, it's okay. It's just Luna in a costume.” She added, standing in front of Twilight as 'Luna' approached them. A flash of lightning made Twilight jump, the rumble of thunder that followed signaling the patter of rain, making Sunset glance out the window to the storm. The storm that the ponies outside would seek shelter from.

“Sunset!” Twilight shouted, making her look back to 'Luna', seeing the scythe flying down the hall towards them. Sunset frowned as her horn glowed, swatting at the flying object. Her eyes then widened when it succeeded, almost with great ease. The scythe was knocked off course, burying itself in the wall. After a tense moment, almost with a will of its own, the scythe detached itself from the wall, before turning towards Sunset.

“H-Hey, Luna, that's not funny, using a real scythe.” Sunset pointed out. Still, the Crimson Scythe approached. The scythe began to spin, before hurling itself at Sunset. She frowned, now slightly annoyed, standing put as the weapon barreled towards her. A small voice in her head told her to duck, to knock it aside. She ignored that voice. It was all just one big scare set up by Luna, after all.

As the scythe almost reached her, Twilight pushed her to the side, making the scythe plant itself into the wall behind them, letting out a hallow ring of metal that sounded more like a moan of unearthly pain. Despite the noise, Sunset couldn't help but be acutely aware that now it wasn't just her hooves that was dyed red from the carpet.

“Twilight! Why'd you do that?” She asked in annoyance as she got on her hooves, before she paused. Her eyes spotted something on the ground that made her heart skip a beat. Her candy bag lay there, its side sliced open. Next to it, a lock of her hair rested, making her run a wet hoof through her mane, finding a chunk missing. She then slowly looked to 'Luna', wide eyed, as Twilight started to tug her friend.

“Sunset! We need to run. Now!” Twilight shouted, making Sunset eye her, as if in a daze, before her confusion was traded out for action. She eyed the scythe, which was trying to wriggle out of the wall. Her horn glowed, and the scythe snapped in two. She then threw the fragments out the window, before looking at the Crimson Scythe, who was now standing several paces away from them. Sunset glared at it as she grabbed the red mask.

“Luna! That was dangerous! Just what are you thinking!?” She asked, surprising Twilight with her anger as Sunset pulled the mask off. She then took a step back, a flash of lightning illuminating the fact that there was nothing behind the mask, nothing but air.

“Sunset, Twilight, get away from it!” A terribly familiar voice cried out, making Sunset's blood run cold as she looked up the hall, seeing Luna flying towards them as fast as she could. The fillies looked to the princess, her words playing through their heads in a moment of confusion. A moment that ended when the reformed scythe smashed through the window, swinging towards Luna at a breakneck pace. “RUN!!” She repeated, an authority in her voice that snapped them from their confusion, making them both run as Luna pulled several pikes from the suits of armor, using them to beat the scythe into the wall, sending cracks of the wall in the process.

The two passed her, who placed herself between them and the specter, who was busy casually putting its mask back on. “Continue down the hall, there's a room on the left, hide in there. It can't follow you there!” She divvied out, making Sunset pause, turning around to help the princess. “Sunset, go!”

“I want to help!”

“And what about Twilight!” She asked, making Sunset look back, only to realize Twilight was nowhere to be seen. “Go look after her!”

“But-”

“I don't have the time for this Sunset!” Luna replied, her horn glowing as the scythe came hurtling towards her, making Sunset's eyes widened as everything disappeared in a flash of light. The princess had teleported her away, placing her in a small enclosed room somewhere in the castle, all alone.

Sunset blinked as she spun around, seeing that the room itself had only one exit, the room itself seeming to be some sort of resting area for staff members. There were very little decorations, being lit by a single, normal torch. The room was a welcome retreat to what had just transpired, making Sunset place a hoof over her heart as she wondered what became of Twilight and her teacher.

“L-Luna?” Sunset asked the air, any semblance of fearlessness now gone as what just transpired played through her head. “Okay, okay. Calm down Sunset. It's all just part of the show.” She assured, her heart beating fast as she tried to push away any silly notions that some ghost from an old story was actually haunting the castle.

Drip.

Her ears perked at the sound. It came from behind her.

Drip.

That one was closer. Turning around slowly, her ears fell when she saw the ghost from the story sharing the room with her. Its scythe was stained red.

Drip.

It raised the weapon, making Sunset take a step back, her blood pumping as it took a step forward. “S-Stay away!” she shouted, her horn starting to glow as it took another step towards her, the scythe now swinging in the air in anticipation. “Stay. Away!” She screamed, closing her eyes as her horn shined bright, sending out a shockwave of force that blew away everything.

Tables were pushed. Chairs were crushed against the wall. The torch sputtered and fell from its holding. The walls cracked. The door blew open. The Crimson Scythe stood there, unaffected, as it brought its scythe to bear.

In her desperation, her horn let out another pulse, before it sputtered out.

Tables and chairs were flattened like pancakes. The walls blew out. And a certain gemstone nestled in the ceiling shattered. The Crimson Scythe disappeared, making Sunset eye were it stood, swaying on her hooves for a moment, feeling lightheaded, before she looked around fearfully. With the walls blown out, she could see into part of a now exposed secret passageway, as well as the hallway outside.

The hall looked fragmented. Part of it appeared like the hall normally did. White stone, intact windows, and a normal carpet. There was a dividing line further down the hall in both directions where the hall retained its Nightmare Night decor. An illusion's border.

Sunset blinked as she took this in, bringing a hoof to her mane. It was completely intact, no missing chuck to be found. Pulling her hoof back, she noticed a smell coming from the red liquid. It smelled of tomatoes. She smelled of tomatoes. Sunset slumped on her haunch, eyeing the broken room, her horn aching from the effort involved, as she let out a little laugh.

“S-See, just part of the attraction.” She said, letting out another chuckle, one of relief, as she eyed the destruction she caused. “Luna's gonna ground me when she sees this.” She said, finding the damage even more amusing when she considered Tell Tale's warning. Deciding to stay close to the room she ruined, she simply waited, and before long, she was found by the princess.

She didn't look much like Luna, but she was the right size for it. The Princess was wearing a old dark cloak, its edges tattered. She had make-up on that made it look like she was terribly wrinkled, and her mane was gray and white. The entire costume was unconvincing, as Luna was standing tall instead of hunched over. She eyed the damage, before looking to her student, who was giving her a sheepish smile.

“Well, I have to admit,” Luna began with a small smile, “It's been a while since somepony's defeated my illusion.” She said, before casually pushing aside some rubble with her hoof, “Good thing this isn't a common outcome.” She then looked to Sunset, an eyebrow raised. “I think you dropped this.” She said, presenting the bag of candy.

“Um, sorry about the room.” Sunset replied apologetically as she took her candy-bag back.

“It's just a room. What's important is that nopony was hurt from it.” Luna replied as she let out a sigh. Her horn then glowed as she started to part the rubble, pulling out a cracked gemstone with a small spell circle made in its interior. “These aren't easy to replace,” she mumbled as Sunset looked to her.

“Luna, what would have happened, had the Crimson Scythe gotten me?”

“Oh? You would have been teleported into the hedge maze outside.” She explained, before adopting sly smile, “A part of the maze that just happens to look like a graveyard.”

“And what about Twilight? Is she out of the attraction?”

“Not quite. Black Hawk is with her, in a safe room.” She then gave Sunset a curious look, “So, did you enjoy it? I didn't take you for one that would willingly partake of this sort of event.”

“I wanted to see if it'd scare me.” She replied, before glancing to the side almost, a little disappointed in herself. “And it did.”

“Well, it wasn't made for fillies in mind.” Luna replied in a chiding tone, “It was made for or heroes to enjoy a little harmless fear. Oh, and it is also for the nobles that like to hound me all year long.” She added with a small grin. “Did you drag Twilight into this?”

“Not quite. She wanted to go with me.”

“Well, I think you still owe her an apology for letting her tag along. Let's go, she's worried sick for you.” She added, helping Sunset to her hooves.

They both paused when a primal roar came from down the hall, making them both look, seeing a manticore filling up the corridor. “...That's not supposed to be there.” Luna admitted as her brow furrowed, making Sunset look to her in concern. The monster started to charge towards them, a hungry look in its eyes, making Luna stand in front of Sunset. Her horn glowed, a lance of light flying forth, cutting through the manticore like paper, making a popping sound as the illusion dispersed, leaving a now ruined manticore balloon in its place.

“T-Trixie's balloon!” said filly's voice cried out, leaving her hiding spot behind as she ran to the balloons tattered remains. Luna shook her head, a smile on her face as she approached the blue filly.

“Trixie... are you using the illusion my gems are making for your own amusement?” Luna asked as she raised an eyebrow, making Trixie freeze, before giving Luna an innocent smile. “I see, so that makes two that 'bested' it. What possessed you to do that?”

“Well, Flimmy and Flammy were having fun scaring ponies, so Trixie wanted to try.” She admitted as she looked to Sunset, “Mr. Tale said it was okay," she quickly added, getting another sigh from Luna. "Oh! There was this one stallion that Trixie's balloon chased down a hall. It was funny.” She added, getting a breif laugh from Luna.

“Come on you two, I think you've both had enough 'fun' for tonight.” She said as she started down the hall, her students following after her.

“Luna,” Sunset began, “why didn't you tell us it was an illusion earlier, when you 'saved' us?”

“I saved you earlier?” She asked, before shaking her head, “That wasn't me, Sunset, but another illusion.” She stated, getting a confused look from Sunset.

“Your attraction included a copy of you? Why?”

“To add a layer of realism. Had I known you and Twilight were in the attractions area of affect, I would have come sooner. I did not learn of this until Twilight made it to the safe room. By then, you had already destroyed the basement's break room.”

“Luna ... has anypony told you that you've gone overboard with this whole thing?” She added, giving Luna an almost chiding look.

“B-But, its so much fun scaring nobles,” Luna replied as she blushed.

As they conversed, Luna guided them without issue thought the illusion, leading them up a hidden set of stairs that brought them to the actual first level of the castle. Not that they could tell by looking, as Luna had to inform them. Before they reached the room Twilight was in, The Crimson Scythe appeared down the corridor. It started to approach them, but paused before getting too close, giving Luna a salute, before disappearing.

As they reached the room, the three of them could hear some indignant cry coming from somewhere in the castle, making Luna's ears perk.

“What was that?” Trixie asked as she quickly glanced from side to side, making Luna adopt a small smile as she pushed open the double doors. Inside the room, Twilight was drinking hot chocolate with Black Hawk, and the filly let out a small gasp as she saw her friends.

“Sunset!” She let out, teleporting into her friend, giving her a tight hug, making Sunset blush slightly.

“Hey Twilight. Sorry for dragging you into my mess.”

“I chose to come with you.” Twilight quickly replied, “So, it's okay.” She said, making Sunset frown at her, about to insist that it wasn't 'okay'. Her reply was cut off when the scream was repeated, making the three fillies look down the hall to its source.

A dark brown stallion, wearing wealthy looking clothes, now smeared red, was galloping towards them. He was chubby, and breathing heavily as he ran from the red specter that was several steps behind him.

“H-Highness! Save me from this ghost! There's so much we need to discuss. Like increasing taxes on the middle class-” He let out, before the scythe caught him, making him disappear with a silly little pop.

“Who was that?” Sunset asked, seeing a very wide grin on Luna's face, which was mirrored by Black Hawk.

“Why, I do believe that was Brown Muzzle.” She said, “What a shame. He was so close too.” She added, before letting out a small, almost sinister laugh. She then looked to Black Hawk, who prompt saluted her. “If you'll give me a moment, my students, there's something I need to discuss with the captain.” She said, getting a nod from the fillies as they moved aside.

Trixie went to one of the room's corners, and started filing through her candy, humming a little tune as she did. Sunset eyed Luna for a moment, before joining Trixie's side, along with Twilight.

It didn't take long for Luna to finish her matter with the captain of the Shadowbolts, who promptly left to carry out her orders. She then turned to her students, noticing that they seemed to be talking about something in hushed voices.

“What are you three whispering about, I wonder.” Luna asked, making them flinch as they gave her sheepish looks.

“I have a more pressing question!” A stallion's voice cried out from the doorway, making Luna flinch in turn as she looked, seeing Brown Muzzle standing there. “Princess Luna, what is the meaning of this!?” He asked, presenting a rolled up list labeled 'Excuses For Skipping Out of the G.G.G. '. Luna's ears fell as he took a step forward, making her take a step back. “I can't believe this! Just wait till the rest of the nobility hears of this! All this time, our highness has been intentionally avoiding our grandest of galas! Well, Princess Luna. What do you have to say for yourself?”

“B-Brown Muzzle, it's not nice to make accusations like that. I've never seen that list before in my life.”

“But Luna,” Trixie interjected, “that's the same list you keep in your desk.” She added, getting a horrified look from the princess as she eyed Trixie.

“You were saying, your highness!”

“I mean, that is-” Luna began, before she blinked. She then frowned as she swiped a hoof through Brown Muzzle, passing through him as if he wasn't there, making her turn to her students with a raised eyebrow, noticing that Trixie's horn was glowing.

“Gotcha!” She let out with a giggle, her smile mirrored by her friends. Luna looked over them for a moment, before joining in Trixie's laughter.

“Yes, yes you did, very good.” Luna let out, giving her students a proud look, before shaking her head. “Now, I think it's time the three of you called it a night, agreed?”

“Okay.” They said in unison.

"Oh, and great costumes," Luna added, giving Twilight a flattered smile. "I assume you all had fun?" She asked, getting a nod from each of them, before it was time to leave, and return to their room.

After returning, Sunset stepped out to check on Spike. To her complete dismay, Cadance and the baby dragon were both wearing costumes that made them greatly resemble herself. Their costumes were still stuck in her mind's eye when she returned to her room, where Twilight and Trixie were waiting.

“So, not only was Sunset scared, but so was Luna~!” Trixie let out energetically, her candy resting in a big pile on the floor in front of her.

“Yeah, that happened.” Sunset replied, almost distantly. “Good thing it was just an illusion.”

“About that,” Twilight began, surprising Sunset with another hug, “Thanks for earlier.”

“E-Earlier?” Sunset asked as she blushed.

“I would have teleported away from the Crimson Scythe if you weren't there.”

“Sunny's very brave~.” Trixie chimed, before eyeing Sunset's candy bag hungrily, “And honest~” She added, taking the bag and emptying the candy onto her pile. “It's good that Sunny's Sunny, seeing Flimmy and Flammy's face when she gave them that bored look was fun too!”

“Look,” Twilight added, “what we're trying to say, is it's nice that you can keep it together when things are scary. I... I'm gonna try to do that too, be braver, that is.”

“I-It's really nothing.” Sunset added, her blush deepening as she looked to Trixie, “And you better share that with Twilight.”

“~'Kay.”

“And Twilight, thanks for coming with me,” Sunset said as she pulled herself away from her friend, “when I went into the red carpet area. It wouldn't have been the same had I gone alone.” Indeed, Sunset felt as if she wouldn't have kept it together as well as she had, hadn't Twilight been there. Her friend's fear gave her reason to stay strong. And her strength helped Twilight stay strong too.

“Uhh, you're welcome?” Twilight asked sheepishly, getting a nod from Sunset, making her smile.

“Come on Twily, let's swap out our favorites!” Trixie let out, going over their haul with her friends, as Nightmare Night came to a close.

Author's Note

For you, dear reader, was this chapter a Trick, or a Treat?

For me, this was fun to write! I'm looking forward to next years. Maybe I should do Steven King next time?

I read a few of Edgar Allan Poes stories when I was in middle school. I only read them once, but they really stuck with me, and each of them were referenced in this chapter. Can you name all three of them?

Oh. About the chapter's placement. The Summer Sun celebration is coming next, so this chapter is out of order. I wanted it out before the holiday season was over, and there's a high chance that a ~~Christmas~~ Hearth's Warming chapter will come out before the Summer Sun chapters are finished. The chapters will be chronologically straightened up when the summer comes to an end.

The summer sun chapters will be about the trio making new friends during their first summer break. So sorry for the wait since the last update, and I hope you enjoyed this Holiday special. :twilightsmile:

I'm gonna try and shoot for updating this story every other Sunday starting today. So here's fingers crossed that I can hold myself to that.

Nightmare Night's true origins for the Trioverse will be revealed next time. I kind of want to do at least three NN chapters over this story's course. But, we'll see what happens.

1. A Canterlot Visitor

In a particular room of the castle, one that had no hidden doors to secret hallways, were Luna's students. With their weekend just beginning, they were now free of class activities for the next few days. The comfortably cool air outside their room was ripe with the smell of flowers, the songs of birds ringing through the air, evidence of another beautiful spring afternoon. So, naturally, all three of them were preoccupied with homework, or to be more specific, studying. Not that Twilight minded.

The three of them were looking over material for a history exam on Monday, the first real exam they'd be taking as Luna's protégées. Twilight herself was grading a practice test that she had Trixie take, and she was finding her supply of red ink start to run out, to her exasperation. Completing her task, Twilight noticed that Trixie was playing with the spell they were taught this week, a spell that caused plants to grow.

I really need to get that down before Tuesday. Twilight thought to herself with a nod as she got Trixie's attention. As she approached Twilight, Trixie's ears fell, as she didn't even need to look at her results to guess how she fared.

She tried so hard, and yet... Twilight thought as she adopted a worried look. Even with my help, passing that test is gonna be rough.

“Trixie is sorry, Twily, but it's hard.” She admitted as she looked over the results of the practice test Twilight had given her. “It's like, Trixie knows it when we study, but at test time, it's all gone.”

“Well,” Twilight began, trying to push away her doubts as she put on a reassuring smile, “The exam isn't till Monday, so we still have some time-” Twilight paused, her eyes widening as she looked to her friend. “Trixie, what if I went with you to your home? To help study, that is.” She asked, and Trixie put a great deal of thought into it before shaking her head.

“Trixie thinks we'd play more than study.” She pointed out, and Twilight looked like she wanted to argue, but was interrupted by Sunset.

“She's got a point, Twilight. You haven't been to her place before, right?” Sunset asked, and Twilight nodded, getting a sigh from Sunset as she adopted an annoyed expression, “So your first weekend there will probably end with Trixie's parents doting all over you, and Trixie being too excited to study.”

Well, that would be distracting, for both of us... Twilight thought as she looked to Trixie, who seemed to be considering something before nodding to herself.

“This is a big deal!” Trixie stated, adopting a determined look, “So, Trixie will stay at the castle instead.” Sunset and Twilight shared a look at her statement. If she followed through with that, it would be her first weekend skipping home since becoming one of Luna's. Something then dawned on Trixie. “That is, if Twily stays too,” she added, giving a Twilight a sheepish grin. Twilight didn't even pause to consider it.

“Well, it can't be helped.” Twilight replied, giving Trixie a reassuring look, “I'll stay.” A look of realization then welcomed Twilight as she looked to her two friends, “Wait, that means this'll be the first time we've all stayed at the castle over the weekend.” Twilight pointed out, prompting Sunset to roll her eyes as she shook her head.

“Like that's anything special.” Sunset replied.

“Well, maybe it is?” Twilight wondered as she glanced over her notes again. She then mentally winced when she recalled that the castle was now truly Sunset's new home, as she refused to visit the home she grew up in.

“Should we have some fun?” Trixie asked wide-eyed, getting a very quick response from Sunset, prompting a sigh of relief from Twilight, who was worried she had upset her.

“The difference between this,” Sunset began, “and the both of you going to Trixie's, is that I'm here to keep you on track.” She finished with a determined, and slightly sly smile.

“Ahhh~~!” Trixie wailed, “You're no fun!”

“You do want to pass the history test, right?” Sunset asked, giving Trixie a hard look.

“R-Right!” She replied hesitantly.

“Then the fun can wait till-” The blaring sound of trumpets cut Sunset off, immediately drawing their attention to the room's balcony, which overlooked the front of the castle.

“That sounds sort of like what they play when Luna returns to the castle.” Twilight said.

“But it's different,” Sunset pointed out, “does that mean-”

“Somepony new!?” Trixie asked, failing to notice the slightly annoyed look Sunset was giving her. Without waiting for a reply, Trixie ran to the balcony to their room, opening it up and heading out to look over the castle's front garden below. Twilight quickly followed her, just as curious as Trixie, while Sunset took her time, dragging an slightly bothered aura with her. As Twilight looked down into the garden, her mouth fell open as her eyes took in their guest.

It's a princess! Twilight thought in surprise, finding the notion strangely novel, considering they've spent almost everyday for over a month in the care and tutelage of Princess Luna.

The princess in question was taller than Luna, which Twilight also found surprising. She had a white coat, and almost grayish blue mane and tail. Her mane was quite long and straight, with a strand of it running over her face. She was wearing a small, four pointed golden crown with little bulbs on the crowns tips. And she carried an air of authority about her as she approached the castle's entrance with two bat-pony guards at her side.

“So, have you heard of any other princesses besides Luna?” Sunset asked after looking over the visitor.

“Well, there's that mural in the library, but besides that, not really.” Twilight admitted as her mind raced through the new possibilities this guess presented. Sunset nodded to herself, turning to leave the balcony.

“If Luna didn't feel like telling us about her," Sunset began, "then she mustn't be that import-”

“Oh! Trixie has an idea!" she let out energetically, "We should say hi~!” she declared, failing to notice Sunset pat the ground lightly with a forehoof in frustration, muttering something about being interrupted three times too many beneath her breath.

“Trixie,” Sunset started, trying to keep her cool, “We should let Tell Tale and the guards-”

Trixie was in her own world, ignoring Sunset's words as she excitedly turned around, and started galloping out of the room, running past the notes she was suppose to be looking over.

“Come on Sunny, Twily! Let's say hi!” She yelled over her shoulder as she left, a big smile on her face.

“Trixie!?” Twilight cried out, moving to chase after her. She made it three paces before she felt tingly all over, her body wrapped in an emerald aura, her hooves no longer touching the ground. Twilight looked to Sunset, her confusion becoming concern as she noticed the small scowl on Sunset's face. Sunset stood there for several moments before letting out a very heavy, and almost exaggerated sigh, putting Twilight down as she approached her.

“Twilight, can you stop Trixie from making a foal of herself?” Sunset asked, “I, I think I've had enough of her for today.”

“But, I'll never catch up to her now!” Twilight declared, masking her own annoyance at Sunset's behavior. I was going after her in the first place! Twilight wanted to say, but kept it to herself. Sunset looked at her, giving her a surprised look, before shaking her head.

“Twilight. You can teleport, remember?”

“Oh.” Right. Twilight thought as she felt an odd urge to face-hoof. She had the easiest time with teleporting of the three of them, she just wasn't used to choosing that over, well, walking. Twilight was about to use her magic, but hesitated as she looked to Sunset. “So you're not going to meet the Princess?” Twilight asked, and Sunset quickly shook her head.

“No. Not with Trixie, anyway.” Sunset admitted, glancing to the side, “I know we're friends now, but, I'm just not used to the whole thing. I just need to cool down, or I'll end up picking another fight. I don't want to ever repeat what happened last week.” Sunset declared, getting a concerned smile from Twilight.

“Sunset, if you don't want to fight her, then you won't.” Twilight pointed out, getting a small, uncertain nod from Sunset.

“Well, I'm going to check on Spike, mind telling me all about it later?” Sunset asked, and Twilight nodded. With a small smile, Sunset started towards the exit, then adopted a slightly bothered look, “Though, I guess I'm trading Trixie in for her, instead.”

“Her?” Twilight asked, “You mean Spike's foalsitter?” Twilight asked, a little confused by Sunset's tone. Sunset nodded as she left, and Twilight found herself wondering what problem her friend had with the foalsitter. I mean, she seems nice to me, Twilight affirmed to herself. The sound of Sunset clearing her throat then caught her attention, reminding Twilight of somepony she had to stop.

“R-Right!” She let out as she gathered her magic, picturing the bottom of the long stairwell Trixie would have to go down to reach the first floor. In a flash, Twilight was there, and she quickly looked around to find her enthusiastic friend.

She was surprised to spot Trixie talking to Sir Tell Tale a little down the hall. Luna's bookkeeper and Trixie both looked to Twilight in unison. Trixie looked a little winded, while Tell Tale looked amused with whatever it was the two just discussed.

“So you wish to see our guest too, Twilight?” He asked with a knowing look, getting a small nod from Twilight as he proceeded down the hall. “Then by all means, let's greet her.” Trixie and Twilight exchanged an excited look, and moved to the bookkeeper's side. “And Ms. Shimmer?” He asked, prompting Twilight to shake her head as her ears fell. “I see.” He said in a neutral tone, which made Twilight look to him. He noticed her look, and simply shook his head. “If she wants nothing to do with foreigners, that's her choice.” He simply stated, but Twilight was under the impression that Tell Tale was disappointed.

“Is Luna gonna greet Princess-” Trixie began, then paused as she adopted a confused look, “Princess, uh, what's her name?”

“Princess Crystal,” Sir Tell Tale explained, then adopted a slight smile, “She rules over the Badlands.”

“Oh!” Trixie replied, sounding as if that was enough for her, while Twilight adopted a contemplating look.

The Badlands? But nopony lives there. Its too hot and dangerous! Twilight thought, now wondering if the books she read on the Badlands were right. However, Twilight didn't get much time to dwell on this information, as she found that they were now standing before the visiting alicorn, to Twilight's surprise. I- I need to pay more attention to my surroundings! She thought, not for the first time, or the last time.

The Princess was standing before Sir Tell Tale, her two guards at her side as she gave Tell Tale a conflicted look. Like she just saw a book that was put back in the wrong part of the library, and didn't have the time to put it where it belonged. Sir Tell Tale himself had abandoned his smile, looking conflicted as well, giving Twilight the impression that the two knew each other.

Well, he is Luna's bookkeeper, so that makes sense-

“Tell Tale.” Crystal stated curtly.

“Crystal.” He replied in kind, the brief exchange radiating with a level of familiarity that surprised Twilight.

They didn't use titles? Twilight considered as Trixie moved to Tell Tale's side, poking him to get his attention. She looked to him with eager eyes, and he nodded as he stepped aside, getting a smile from Trixie. Tell Tale made a hoof-gesture to Crystal's guards, who gave a subtle nod as Trixie's attempted to clear her throat to get the Princess's attention.

Trixie's horn glowed, and with a poof of smoke, she set off a series of colorful fireworks as she stood on her back hooves before Crystal. Trixie's cape blew in a conjured gust as she gave Crystal a hearty greeting, who was completely caught off guard with the presentation.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie welcomes you to our castle, Princess!” Trixie let out with a beaming smile, the conjured wind blowing her hat off. Twilight mentally groaned as Crystal's cheeks flushed lightly, her demeanor shifting from surprise to something more warm and inviting.

“Well, that's certainly a welcome!” Crystal declared, clearly amused, “You must be one of Luna's new students. Well met, Trixie, I am Princess Crystal,” She then adopted a sly smile as she placed a hoof on her chest, “And I assure you, that I am even greater, and more powerful!” Trixie looked at her wide eyed, then adopted a sly smile herself.

“That's okay! Having two Great and Powerful ponies in the same place is simply...” Trixie paused for a moment, unable to find a fitting word.

“Amazing?” Crystal finished, getting a quick nod from Trixie.

“Right~!” She affirmed. Trixie's smile then started to fade as she appraised Crystal, seeming to notice something that took up Trixie's focus. Twilight then felt her fur briefly stand on end as Crystal looked to her. Remembering that she was standing before royalty, Twilight immediately bowed to the Princess, who let an exaggerated sigh.

“I can't have Luna's students bowing to me, that would just be rude.” She stated with a annoyed look, confusing Twilight as Crystal helped Twilight back up. Sir Tell Tale then bowed lightly to Crystal, who blushed lightly as she glared at him.

“Welcome back to Canterlot, Crystal.” He said, masking a small smile as he stood tall.

“You didn't need to bow either-” Crystal began, her eyes then narrowed, “You did that on purpose, didn't you?”

“I'll admit, I did find your reaction amusing.” Tell Tale admitted, getting an annoyed sigh from Crystal. “As she has said, this is Trixie, Trixie Lulamoon,” Tell Tale explained as he indicated the blue filly, who gave her brightest grin, getting a small blush from the alicorn in turn, “She's quite nimble with magic. And this is Twilight Sparkle, who has quite the thirst for knowledge.” Tell Tale finished as he indicated Twilight, getting a small nod from Crystal.

“It's nice to meet the two of you.” Crystal began, seeming to want to say more, but keeping it to herself as she looked to Sir Tell Tale, “I see you're in good health,” Crystal said in a slightly exaggerated tone, “so I guess congratulations are in order.”

“You're too kind, Your Highness.” Tell Tale replied, in a manner that made Crystal and Twilight unsure if he was mocking the princess or not. Tell Tale then adopted a slightly concerned look as he looked to her. “How are things in the family? Anything we can help with?” He asked, prompting Crystal to glance to the side briefly before shaking her head.

“The family is ... fine. But, there are important matters I need to talk to Luna about.” Crystal stated, prompting Tell Tale to briefly adopt a worried look as he nodded.

Wait. Twilight thought as she looked between Tell Tale and Crystal, Are they friends? I mean, shouldn't they be using each other's titles? She wondered as she moved up to the stallion.

“Um, Sir Tell Tale,” Twilight began, getting an unexpected look from him and Crystal, “Are you two friends?” She asked, causing the two to blink in unison as they processed her question.

“Us? Friends?” Crystal asked, sounding almost offended as she looked away, a little confused.

“Well, Crystal and Luna are friends, but...” Tell Tale explained, adopting an uncertain look. It took a moment for Crystal and Tell Tale to regain their composure as an awkward silence fell over the group. Twilight briefly wondered if she had asked a bad question, but her doubts were dissuaded when Tell Tale cleared his throat. “Well," he began, looking to Princess Crystal, "if you have something important to discuss with Luna, then I'll need to get a number of things.” He then looked to the fillies, Twilight was eyeing him curiously, while Trixie was still appraising Crystal. “Trixie, Twilight, could you leave Crystal and Princess Luna alone for the rest of the day?”

“'Kay~!” Trixie quickly replied, getting a surprised look from Twilight. Twilight briefly wondered how long Crystal would be staying, before also nodding her head. With that, Tell Tale gave Crystal a nod, and she returned it, as he headed off. Trixie and Twilight did so as well, Crystal giving them a fond wave as they returned to the stairwell. Trixie then stopped, getting a confused look from Twilight as Trixie was considering something. The blue filly then nodded to herself, giving Twilight a smile.

“Twily, Trixie feels something about the Princess. She's got some magic that's hiding something!” Trixie explained, making Twilight tilt her head in confusion.

“Magic? So she's covered in a spell?” Twilight asked skeptically.

“Uh-huh. It's like,” Trixie's brow furrowed as she tried to figure out how to describe it, “It's like all over her, and it makes her look different.” She then hesitated, “At least, Trixie thinks so.”

“Wanna ask her about it?” Twilight asked, and Trixie quickly shook her head as she adopted a mischievous smile.

“Trixie's gonna follow her and see if she ends the spell!”

“W-What!? Why!?” Twilight asked in shock.

“Shhh! Twily, not so loud!” Trixie replied as she placed a hoof to Twilight's mouth. “Trixie wants to 'cause it's fun!” Trixie declared, and started to move around the corner, then she looked to her hooves in alarm. Her horn glowed briefly, her hooves glowing in tandem as her spell was cast. She then tapped a hoof on the ground, and there was no noise from it. She then looked to Twilight with a smile, “Wanna go with Trixie?” She asked innocently as she peaked around the corner, seeing Crystal continuing down the hall, Tell Tale no longer in sight. Twilight looked to Trixie, seriously considering her question.

Sneaking around, that's bad! We'll get in trouble! Twilight worried, looking to Trixie, who was radiating confidence. But, she's so sure of herself right now. She's completely different from when she got the test results. Twilight considered, not liking the idea of stopping Trixie and spoiling her good mood. Well, if I'm with her, I can help, right? Twilight reluctantly concluded, giving Trixie a nod, who gave her a very happy grin, and to Twilight's surprise, a small hug.

“Thanks Twily. This is fun! So trust Trixie!” Trixie affirmed as she eyed Twilight's hooves, her horn glowing. Twilight felt her hooves tingle briefly as Trixie enchanted them, and feeling Trixie's spell being effortlessly applied made Twilight blush, a small part of her admiring how easily Trixie made it look. “Okay,” Trixie began, “Follow Trixie! Trixie is really good at this, so we'll be fine! 'Kay?” She asked as she tilted her head, and Twilight nodded, putting faith in her friend. They then quietly snuck around the corner, quickly darting to another hiding spot as they got closer to Crystal, who was continuing down the hall.

They did this several times, Twilight's attention becoming more focused as her heart raced each time, fearing they would be caught. But, Trixie was true to her word, and before long, Twilight found a smile on her face, unaware that she was having fun. The strength of the pounding in her chest spooked away the worry always close to her thoughts, and she found herself excited to see what lay at the end of this unexpected activity.

As they proceeded through the castle towards the library, Twilight noticed when they snuck past castle guards that Trixie would either distract, or ignore certain ponies. One stallion gave them a small nod as they snuck by, finding their entire operation amusing. Twilight for one felt as if her heart was going to jump out of her chest when their eyes met, and was thoroughly confused when he let them pass without saying a thing.

The only part of Twilight that could force its way past the booming in her chest, was her curiosity. As Crystal was getting close to the library, Twilight took the opportunity to ask Trixie a question when they reached another hiding spot.

“Trixie, do you do this a lot?” Twilight asked, surprised by the finesse Trixie showed, seeing that though the filly couldn't manage a mock history test that well, was still quite skilled. Trixie looked at Twilight, a little confused.

“What, play?” She asked, tilting her head.

“This is playing?” Twilight asked in surprise.

“Yea~! We're hiding, and the Princess is it!” Trixie explained with a smile, and Twilight was suddenly unsure if Trixie's motives were still the same as when they started. Trixie was clearly enjoying herself, and Twilight was under the impression that Trixie forgot why they were following the princess.

“Oh! She found Luna~!” Trixie chimed out, prompting Twilight to peek around the corner. Princess Crystal was standing before the library, in front of Princess Luna, and Luna was giving her a warm smile. With a small motion, Crystal dismissed her two guards, and in short order they flew away, past the fillies, leaving the two alicorns alone. Once again, as the guards passed, Twilight felt her heart freeze as she feared they were spotted, but they passed without incident, and her heartbeat returned to normal as she took in a deep breath. Though, she could have sworn that they had spotted her and Trixie.

This is so weird! Twilight thought as she appraised herself. Her hooves were shaking, but she didn't find the entire experience to be unpleasant. In fact, she realized that she was still smiling.

Smiling, because they hadn't been found. Wait. I'm enjoying this? Being the filly she is, this was her first time playing 'hide and seek', and she found herself looking to Trixie, who was eyeing the princess's with a determined look. This is completely different from O&O, but, it's kind of fun! Twilight thought with a smile as she peaked around the corner as well.

“Chrys,” Luna began, her lack of formalities even more pronounced then Sir Tell Tale, “it's been what, half a year now?” She asked in a soothing tone, getting a conflicted smile from the white alicorn.

“Hmph, not long enough if you ask me.” Crystal replied, blushing lightly as Luna briefly hugged her, looking away as if the entire exchange hadn't happened, “Your kingdom didn't burn down while I slept, so that's good, I suppose.” She stated as she glanced to the side.

“I've missed you too.” Luna replied with a hearty smile.

So she is Luna's friend! Twilight affirmed to herself, suddenly feeling guilty for eavesdropping. Despite her guilt, however, she found she couldn't pry her eyes from them.

“I do hope this is just a social visit.” Luna added, which made Crystal eye the ground as she shook her head.

“Of course it isn't,” she began, a little annoyed by that fact, “It's about the Feeder's Well-” She added, then seemed to recall something, as she immediately cut herself off as she shook her head. “But we can talk about that when Tell Tale returns.” She affirmed, and Luna nodded, a concerned look briefly showing on her face. “So, I met two of your students, Trixie and Twilight. I thought there were three of them?” She then gave Luna an aside glance, “You didn't already misplace one, did you?” She asked, and Luna simply shook her head. She then appraised Crystal, letting out a small sigh.

“The guards are gone, you can be as you are, if you'd like.” Luna offered, making Twilight and Trixie share an intrigued look.

“Well, I'm not to fond of this look anyway. Honestly, how can you stand these feathers!?” Crystal exclaimed as she gave her wings a flap, “They itch all the time!” she bemoaned, then, her body started to glow and shift.

Her fur disappeared, replaced with hard black chitin. Her horn changed shape, shifting into something more sinister and curved. Her golden crown turned black, and her wings were traded out from feathers to insect-like webs. Twilight took the transformation in as she stared wide-eyed at something she thought was simply legend. A changeling.

A changeling!? Aren't those supposed to be monsters!? Twilight wondered as she took a step back, while Trixie stood her ground.

“Okay,” Trixie began, her ears falling in disappointment, “Trixie thinks she can't do that,” she admitted. She then adopted a confused smile as she appraised Crystal, then looked to Twilight. “I've never seen a pony like her before!”

“That's because she's a changeling, Trixie.” Twilight explained in an alarmed whisper, “A changeling can change to look like anypony. And from the old legends I've read, they feed off of the love of ponies.” She added skeptically. Her fur then stood on end as she heard a familiar stallion clear his throat from behind them.

Twilight's heart skipped a beat, and her ears fell as she turned around, seeing Sir Tell Tale giving them a very disapproving look. Sir Tell Tale! We're in so much trouble... Twilight thought, all traces of her earlier excitement completely gone.

Sir Tell Tale tapped the ground with his forehoof a couple times, then pointed to the princesses, the message quite clear as Twilight and Trixie abandoned their hiding place, exposing themselves to the others. Luna and Crystal were looking to the fillies, their attention drawn by Tell Tale's tapping, and Crystal looked completely flustered as she gathered her magic, but Luna stopped her, shaking her head as she gave her friend a reassuring look. Trixie and Twilight followed Tell Tale up to Luna, and there was a moment's pause before Luna spoke up.

“Well, I guess the secret's out.” Luna affirmed in a slightly amused tone, getting an annoyed look from Crystal.

“You make it sound so trivial!” Crystal stated as she let out a sigh, then looked to the fillies. “Hello again, Trixie, Twilight. As you can see, I'm not a pony.” She looked to Luna, who nodded, prompting Crystal to continue, "My true name and title is Queen Chrysalis, and I'm the mother of the changelings."

Mother of the changelings? A queen? Twilight thought as she looked to Chrysalis.

“So, the legends of the changelings were true?” Twilight asked sheepishly, looking to her teachers. “You know, about them feeding on love...”

“That's right Twilight, the legends are true.” Luna replied, then gave Twilight a reassuring smile, “But long ago, we found a way to coexist.” Twilight considered that for a moment before looking to Chrysalis.

“Luna, Chrysalis, I'm sorry we eavesdropped.” Twilight began, her ears still down as she cast her eyes to the floor. “Trixie wanted to play, and I decided to join her.” She explained, unintentionally leaving out the actual reason why Trixie wanted to follow Chrysalis.

“I was wondering why my guards seemed amused when they parted.” Chrysalis stated, prompting Tell Tale to adopt a considering look.

“Trixie,” Sir Tell Tale began, getting a worried look from the blue filly, “Why did you want to follow Chrys?” Twilight and Trixie blinked, his question reminding Twilight of how insightful Tell Tale was.

“Uhh, well, Trixie felt some odd magic on Tally.”

“Tally?” Twilight and Chrysalis asked in the same time, prompting Trixie to point at the queen.

She got that from Crystal? Twilight assumed as Luna and Chrysalis shared a slightly surprised look.

“You could feel that I wasn't a pony?” Chrysalis asked, getting a quick nod from Trixie.

“Then, I suppose the fillies learning this secret was inevitable.” Sir Tell Tale added. Twilight and Trixie shared a look, and Twilight recalled Luna mentioning that there was coexistence between ponies and changelings.

“Um, why are the changelings a secret?” Twilight asked, prompting Chrysalis to adopt a slightly pained look.

“That's complicated.” The changeling queen replied, glancing to the side, “Not all of my children are fond of our current coexistence, so we keep to ourselves to make sure no one tries anything that would upset me.”

“And I don't want my subjects to be fearful of the changelings,” Luna explained, “that could lead to poor decisions in the future. Ponies and Changelings are both children of Equestria, and we believe we can live in harmony.” Luna then nodded, and Twilight saw a fire in her eyes that was almost infectious. “We've been building towards that future for some time now.” Luna firmly stated, looking lost in thought as Chrysalis nodded.

“Trixie,” Sir Tell Tale began, getting her attention, “if you tell anypony about Crystal's secret, I will know.” He said sternly, making Trixie look to him wide-eyed.

“Hey! Don't you use that tone with her!” Chrysalis replied, getting a nod of agreement from Luna, prompting Sir Tell Tale to adopt a surprised look.

“My apologies, Trixie, Princess Luna, Crystal.” He replied as he looked to the others, he then cleared his throat, adopting the tone and posture he took when he was teaching. “Still, this is important. Trixie, Twilight, in this castle are many secrets. Living here, you are bound to unearth a number of them, just as you've stumbled across Crystal's secret. I don't doubt you'll find others, by purpose or by accident. As Luna's students, it's your responsibility to keep the secrets of Canterlot within the confines of these walls.” Sir Tell Tale explained as Chrysalis mumbled something along the lines of Sir Tell Tale being an idiot for telling the fillies there were other secrets in the castle. The fillies shared a curious look before turning back to the stallion.

“Why?” Trixie asked curiously. Her one word question confused Twilight, not sure what Trixie was truly asking of Tell Tale.

“Why must it be kept?” Tell Tale stated, and Twilight suspect he said it for her benefit, “Because secrets can be terrible things.” He confidently replied, then looked to Trixie, “Trixie, what do you think would happen if you told somepony about Crystal?” Trixie looked between Tell Tale and Chrysalis for a moment before shrugging.

“Trixie doesn't know.”

“Twilight?” Tell Tale asked.

“Um, ponies would wonder why it was a secret?” It was one of the first things she wondered when she learned it, after all.

“And her subjects would lose some trust in their princess.” Chrysalis stated with a slightly disappointed expression, “Then, some ponies might get paranoid, wondering if somepony they know is a changeling or not.”

“...So, it's a secret, 'cause if ponies knew, they'd be unhappy?” Trixie asked, getting a nod from Luna.

“When the time is ready,” Luna began, “I'll tell everypony the truth. But, that time is still years away.”

“And the other secrets?” Twilight asked.

“Well, not many of them are as big as this one,” Tell Tale stated, “but secrets are secrets. We're trusting you to keep them to yourselves, and I'm hoping that you won't disappoint that trust.” He stated, getting a firm nod from Twilight as Trixie considered something.

“What about Sunny?” Trixie asked.

“I think she already understands this,” Luna began, then looked to Twilight, “Though if you'd like, you can share what you've just learned with her.” Twilight briefly considered that before giving a quick nod, looking forward to that encounter.

“Now, it's about time you two head off, for real this time.” Tell Tale stated, getting a disappointed look from the fillies, “Now now, Crystal came here for an important reason, and we shouldn't put it off any longer.”

“Okay,” Twilight and Trixie replied in unison, both sounding dejected. Trixie then recalled something as she turned to Luna.

“Hey, Luna.”

“Yes Trixie?”

“Can Trixie learn a spell like the one Tally uses?” Trixie asked, and Luna considered it briefly before nodding.

“There is a spell unicorns can cast that can mimic it, yes.”

“Really!? Can Luna show Trixie?” Trixie asked enthusiastically, getting a smile from Luna.

“Tell you what Trixie, show me your best effort on Monday's test, and I'll do just that.” Luna offered, and Trixie faltered for a moment, before adopting a fiery look in her eyes.

“Okay!” With that, she looked to Chrysalis, “Later Tally! Hope we can talk later~!” And without waiting for a reply, Trixie turned around and bolted off to the stairwell. She tripped halfway through her gallop, before getting on her hooves, rubbing her face, and continuing on, making Twilight shake her head with a smile.

“It was nice meeting you Queen Chrysalis. Can- Can we talk about changelings later?” Twilight asked hesitantly.

“I suppose I could, when I have time.” Chrysalis replied, looking as if the entire notion was a bother. Twilight faltered for a moment, then noticed that Sir Tell Tale was giving her a reassuring nod.

Adopting a smile, Twilight waved to the three of them before gathering her magic, teleporting back to her room, arriving well before Trixie did. Looking back over her notes, she reorganized them, knowing Trixie would want to pore through them immediately. As she did so, she found herself wondering what secrets were hidden within this castle, and couldn't help but picture something along the lines of hidden treasure. Treasure such as hidden books of power, or long lost crystals of legend.

The notion of tracking these secrets down made Twilight feel conflicted, but she still held a smile. Luna and Sir Tell Tale were trusting them to keep those secrets, and Twilight couldn't help but notice, that her teachers didn't forbid them from looking for them. I wonder ... if Sunset would like to play hide-and-seek sometime. Twilight thought to herself, as she waited for a determined Trixie to arrive...

Author's Note

Sorry for the delay, it took me a lot of time to figure out how to start this story. I then had to revise this chapter several times. I hope you enjoyed it!
Next chapter will be Sunset's PoV.
Thanks again for reading!

3. The Great and Powerful History Exam

Trixie blinked sleepily as she stirred from a particularly strange dream. Though it was already starting to fade, she was pretty sure it had something to do with Edison Spark and Tesla Coil arguing over whose inventions were Greater and more Powerful. As she rubbed her eyes, she started to wonder if maybe she had spent a little too much time studying last night.

Dreaming of a test is weird. Trixie thought to herself as she saw that Sunset wasn't in bed, but Twilight was, still sleeping soundly. Quietly getting out, she got her cape and hat, and returned to the main room. Not seeing Sunset there either, Trixie decided to head out on the balcony to look out over the recently repaired front garden. It was morning, the sun having been raised less than an hour ago, and the late-spring fog was already being moved out of Canterlot by the weather pegasi.

As Trixie's eyes fell to the castle's front gate, she let out a small sigh. No carriage would be coming by this morning. Not for her, or Twilight, which made the youngest of Luna's students begin to wonder if her parents would be fine without her for the weekend. In an attempt to distract herself from those thoughts, her eyes wandered to an adjacent balcony a small teleport away, the balcony that belonged to Cadance and Spike's room.

Did Sunny go see Spikey? Trixie briefly wondered before dragging herself back inside, towards their notes. Her ears then fell as she started to take in a troubling amount of unfamiliar passages and topics for the test. Ohh~! She mentally bemoaned as her brow furrowed, Trixie knows she's read this!

Truly, Trixie was having a rough time keeping what she studied down, but she didn't let that discourage her, at least, not when her friends were around. Still, she went over the notes again, her eyes glazing over from time to time as the words flew past her.

“Oh.” Trixie heard from behind her, snapping her from her daze and almost making her jump in surprise. She had been so focused on, as Twilight put it, 'hitting the books', that she failed to realize how quiet, and alone the morning was. Turning around, she saw Twilight wearing a surprised look on her face, before giving Trixie a smile. “You really want to learn that spell.” Twilight stated, getting a smile from Trixie in turn.

“Yep!” Trixie affirmed. “Trixie can add it to her show!” That, and she saw learning it as a step towards becoming Greater and more Powerful. With those things on her mind, Trixie simply couldn't wait for Monday. Though it was hard to take in the notes, there were some things that stuck, such as the two figures she had dreamed about, and that fact reassured Trixie that she would be well prepared towards earning that spell from Luna.

~~~~~~~~~~

Saturday and Sunday.

Those two days felt like the longest two days in Trixie's young life.

Sunset had been true to her word, and stayed with Trixie, keeping her on task. And it wasn't fun. It was boring! And worst of all, Trixie wasn't confident she'd learned that much more for their efforts. However, something unexpected did come of it. During the Sunday afternoon, Sunset and Trixie were left alone, as Twilight had left to talk to Chrysalis about changelings.

“Say hi to Tally for Trixie~!” Trixie let out as the doors closed. She then turned back to Sunset, who had a conflicted look on her face. As Trixie got back to the tedious notes, Sunset cleared her throat, getting Trixie's attention.

“Trixie, look, I know all of this is hard for you,” Sunset stated as she avoided Trixie's gaze, “And that you're probably bored out of your head right now. So, I was talking to Twilight about it, and she talked me into making a choice.” Trixie cocked her head, unsure where she was going with this, but terribly intrigued. “Since I kept you to this, even though it wasn't fun, I,” Sunset's face flushed as she seemed to have difficulty getting the words out, “I'll make it up to you.” She stated, her face turning a deeper shade of red as Trixie's eyes widened.

“Really?” Trixie asked, suddenly skeptical, and all she got in return was a very subtle nod. “'Kay~” Trixie replied with a hearty smile, giving Sunset a hug, which only made the filly even more flustered as she tried to free herself from Trixie. It didn't take Sunset too much effort, as she was physically stronger than Trixie. Freeing herself, she let out a small sigh as she avoided Trixie's stare. Sunny is trying her bestest too, huh? Oh! Trixie knows what to do! Trixie thought as she gave Sunset her best smile, “Sunny, Trixie'd like to explore this place she found in the castle, but, she don't wanna go alone.” She stated, and Sunset frowned at her for a moment.

“Doesn't. Trixie doesn't want to go alone.” Sunset corrected, raising an eyebrow to her friend.

“R-Right, gotcha!” Trixie replied as she gave Sunset a determined nod, “Trixie doesn't want to go alone.”

“Alright,” Sunset began as she let out another sigh, “in that case, once we're past this test, I guess I'll go with you.”

“Great! Oh, but it'll be just you and Trixie!” she stated with a confident nod, “Trixie's already gotten caught while sneaking with Twily, so it's your turn!” She affirmed, getting a conflicted look from Sunset as she rolled her eyes.

“Oh, so that's how it is.” Sunset replied, looking like she wanted to say something mean, but whatever it was, she kept it to herself as they went over the notes, again.

~~~~~~~~~~

Trixie was in a good mood as they reached the library the following morning. She had done pretty well on the practice test Twilight gave her last night, and though she didn't score spectacularly, it was still a lot better than the practice results from Friday. And it wasn't just that. She had no doubts that she tried her best when it came to studying over the weekend, and she was certain she would give her best for the test.

“Ooh~ Trixie can't wait to learn that spell when we're done!” she let out confidently as they gathered at a table in the library. It's as good as Trixie's!

“Trixie,” Twilight began, adopting an apologetic look, “Luna left with Chrysalis yesterday. She won't be back till tonight.” She pointed out, then added, “I mean, like, really late.” She emphasized, putting Trixie under the impression that Twilight wasn't going to let them stay up late just to wait for Luna.

“Oh.” Trixie let out, a little disappointed. Wait, that means Mr. Tale-

“Good morning girls,” Sir Tell Tale greeted as he entered the library, a collection of books and papers levitating to his side, “I'm certain you'd like to get right to business, so let's not dillydally.” He added as he approached the table, the fillies sitting tall as they looked to him. “Due to the length and difficulty of this test, it will be the only activity for class today. So, take your time with it, because it isn't going to be easy.” He explained, and the fillies shared a look, not liking the confidence Tell Tale carried in stating that.

“Tell Tale,” Sunset began, “how is it going to be hard?” Trixie wasn't sure if Sunset was asking for her benefit, or Sunset's, as Tell Tale considered her question a moment.

“I didn't say it was going to be hard, just that it wasn't going to be easy.” Tell Tale stated, getting a confused look from the fillies. “There will be ten questions concerning the topics covered last month. Your score will rely on how well you demonstrate what you've learned from those topics. Presentation matters, as each question will require a short essay.” Sir Tell Tale then nodded to himself as he appraised the fillies, “This test was designed to be a challenge, so don't be surprised if nopony gets a complete score.”

“So our answers will be graded on accuracy?” Twilight asked.

“And elaboration. The exam's purpose is to show that you've learned the material, and how well you've learned it.”

“Won't that make it too hard for Trixie?” Sunset asked outright, looking a little annoyed at nopony in particular.

“A test is a test. Being hard or easy always varies from pony to pony.” He replied, and Sunset looked like she was about to interject, but Tell Tale raised his hoof, “That's more than enough, Ms. Shimmer. Your concern for Trixie is noted, but the test isn't changing, and that's that.” Sunsets brow furrowed as she glared at the stallion, who turned to Trixie as he passed out the test packets. “Trixie, you'll be fine. So just do your best, okay?”

“'K-'Kay!” Trixie quickly replied, grabbing onto the solace he offered. The Great and Powerful Trixie has this! She thought resolutely as she started on the test she had spent three days preparing for.

~~~~~~~~~~

Trixie didn't want to write another short essay for the rest of her life. The test was over, and she had no idea if she'd passed or not. The only thing she knew for certain was that, of the ten questions, she was only confident of half of them. Because of that, she failed to notice that Twilight turned her test in almost immediately after she did, having quietly waited on her. Tell Tale briefly looked over Trixie's test before nodding to himself.

“Thank you girls,” Sir Tell Tale began as he took their answers and made to leave, “you're mostly free for the rest of the day. You'll have your results tomorrow morning.”

Tomorrow!? Trixie thought to herself in disbelief.

“Show a little patience, Trixie.” Sir Tell Tale added, only adding weight to the small belief Trixie held that he could read minds.

“Tell Tale,” Sunset began, giving the stallion a cross look. “Can we talk?” She then eyed Twilight and Trixie, “Alone?”

“Well, if that's what Ms. Shimmer wants, I don't see why not.” He replied, then looked to Twilight and Trixie, “Trixie, I'd like to talk to you later, somepony will call you when I'm ready. Besides that, you two should enjoy what's left of the day. Tomorrow we'll be moving on to weather physics and the pegasi's role in it, so keep that in mind.” He said, getting a nod from Twilight and Trixie, who then left the library behind them. As the doors closed, Trixie stopped, looking to the library.

“Trixie?” Twilight inquired. Trixie gave the door a long, contemplative look, before turning to Twilight.

“Just wanna know what Mr. Tale wants to talk to Trixie about.” She explained, then gave Twilight a smile, “Wanna wait for Sunny?” She asked, and Twilight nodded. After waiting several minutes, Sunset left the library, looking a little surprised that they had been waiting for her.

“You didn't have to wait, you know.” Sunset stated.

“We know~!” Trixie replied enthusiastically, “Whatcha talk about?” She asked, and Sunset hesitated before letting out an annoyed sigh.

“That test wasn't fair. I wanted him to know that, but,” She hesitated again before looking to Trixie and Twilight, “he didn't make the test. Luna did.”

“So?” Trixie asked, a little confused as to why that bothered Sunset.

“I just, I thought Tell Tale made that test to...” She then shook her head, “It's nothing. Forget about it.” She stated, and Trixie wanted to press her, but knew better than to push Sunset when she was in a poor mood. With that, the three of them returned to their room, and during the walk, Twilight and Sunset started discussing the answers given for the exam. As they talked, Trixie started to feel a little confused, as she couldn't recall if her answers lined up with theirs.

“So,” Sunset began, giving Trixie a side glance, “any guess on how you did?” She asked, and Trixie nodded confidently, certain of her success.

“Trixie passed!”

“That's good,” Sunset stated, letting out a small sigh, “To be honest, helping you study started to feel like a waste of-” Sunset was cut off by Twilight poking her, hard. “W-What was that for!?” Sunset asked in annoyance, frowning to Twilight. Her eyes then widened at the subtle glare Twilight was giving her. “I-I mean,” she paused a second, looking for words, her line of thought completely derailed, “Great! It's great that you passed!” Sunset affirmed with a nod, seeing Trixie smile in response.

That means Trixie gets to learn the look-like-other-ponies spell! She thought enthusiastically as they reached their room.

~~~~~~~~~~

There was a knock at the door, and Trixie was the first to respond, having waited eagerly to see what Tell Tale wanted to talk about. Opening the door revealed the mare that always guarded the hall during the day. She gave Trixie a small smile as she bowed slightly to her.

“Trixie,” the guard began, “Tale is ready for you, and is waiting in the library.”

“'Kay~!” Trixie replied as she left her room, giving her friends a brief smile as the door closed. Trixie then hesitated when she recalled that it was almost sunset, and that evening wasn't too far off.

“Would you like me to go with you?” The guard asked, and Trixie shook her head.

“Trixie will be fine, but thank you, Mrs. Care.” With that, Trixie headed off to the library, at a brisk pace so to be there before it became dark. Not that she was afraid of the dark; after all, only scaredy-ponies were afraid of the dark. And the Great and Powerful Trixie was not a scaredy-pony.

Arriving in time with the coming of night, to Trixie's relief, she let herself into the library, seeing Tell Tale reading a book with a picture of flowers on the cover while surrounded by notes and a small number of other books. When he saw Trixie enter, he levitated the books and notes to the side, leaving a single stack of paper before him.

“Come take a seat, Trixie. There's a lesson Princess Luna wanted me to impart on you.” Sir Tell Tale stated, causing Trixie to blink in surprise.

“Impart?”

“To inform or give you information.” Sir Tell Tale explained.

“Is it the spell!?” Trixie asked excitedly. However, her enthusiasm lost its spring when the stallion shook his head. He then motioned towards the opposite side of the table, and Trixie took a seat as she looked to him, a little confused.

“Trixie, how do you think you did on the test?”

“Trixie passed it!” She answered without hesitation.

“What makes you so certain?”

“Trixie tried her bestest. Mama and Papa and Twily said that if you try your best, you're sure to win!” She resolutely proclaimed, and was immediately confused as Tell Tale seemed to adopt a somber expression.

“That isn't always true. Still, as I said, you have nothing to worry about. Your lesson in question concerns your results.” He explained, then he slipped the small stack of paper in front of him over for Trixie to see. It was her copy of the test, and emblazoned at the top in bright red ink were the numbers: 46/100

“Huh?” Trixie let out, completely confused by what was in front of her.

“Looks like you have just as much trouble with history as I do.”

“Huh?” Trixie repeated, looking to Tell Tale. “What is this?” She asked, and Tell Tale appraised her for a moment before letting out a sigh.

“Trixie, you failed the test.” He stated, then used his magic to flip through the answers, revealing that Trixie had mixed up names or dates or accomplishments with almost every question.

As Trixie looked through the test, her eyes brushed past the one anomaly in it, her eyes not really taking in the results as it slowly dawned on her. The Great and Powerful Trixie failed, after giving her all.

“But, Trixie tried her bestest.” She stated, feeling surprising little, besides disbelief.

“I can tell, that's why you don't have to worry.”

“W-Why?” Trixie asked as her eyes started to sting, emotions besides confusion starting to bubble up as she looked to him.

“Because Princess Luna asked you to try your hardest, and that's what you did.” The surge of rising emotions paused as she looked to Tell Tale wide-eyed. “So, she'll be teaching you the basics of illusion magic not long after she returns.”

And just like that, the growing bubble of sadness and disappointment was popped by a surge of excitement and happiness, leaving nothing but a small void of confusion in the young filly. She sat there for several moments, processing her swirling emotions before gathering the presence of mind to speak.

“S-so, Trixie tried h-her hardest, and failed. But, she still gets to learn the spell?”

“That's right little one,” Tell Tale replied in an unusually warm tone, “so there's no need to cry. Understand?”

“O-Okay.” She replied as she sniffled lightly. “Mr. Tale, um, is Trixie still Great and Powerful if, well...” She didn't want to finish the question, hoping her mind-reading teacher will fill in the rest.

“That's for you to decide, Trixie.” He stated as she looked over her test.

“Is Trixie … a dunderhead?”

“No, Trixie, you're not." He firmly stated, "You may not be as book-smart as Twilight or Sunset, but you make up for it by being clever. Besides, you can learn just as well as they can when you're genuinely interested.” He pointed out as he flipped over to one of the questions on the exam Trixie had overlooked, and she noticed that the score for it was 10/10. It was the question pertaining to Edison Spark and Tesla Coil. And as Trixie took it in, surprise on her face, Tell Tale spoke up. “Trixie, for ponies like you and myself, history can be very boring.” He stated as she looked to him.

“History is boring...” She stated, agreeing with him whole-heartedly, But, “Mr. Tale, you're Luna's bookkeeper. Don't you, well, need to know history?” She asked, and he chuckled lightly at that.

“I'm her bookkeeper, not her historian.” He then shook his head in wonder, “I'm quite certain Twilight knows more about Equestrian history then I do.” He then looked back to Trixie, “Besides, a bookkeeper is better fit to aid the Princess over a historian.” He then motioned to the entire library, “I don't need to know all of Equestria's history, that's what this place is for.” He explained with a small smile, and Trixie took in the library as he said it, finally understanding a little of why Twilight loved books. “As her bookkeeper, I must know where all the answers she needs for the matter at hoof are, which is far more manageable than memorizing every word in this library.” He stated, and Trixie's brow furrowed as she considered his words.

“Mr. Tale, if history is boring, why does Trixie have to learn it?”

“Because, history is important. Well, most of it," he said with a wink. "Some bits are more important than others for each pony. Take this question you aced for example.” He began as he brought Trixie's attention back to her test. “These two inventors caught your attention, and you remembered them more so then the other subjects. Why?” He asked, and Trixie didn't even need to consider it to know why.

“They both made cool things. And they played with lightning!” She stated with certainty.

“That's more than can be said about the others on the test.” He stated, and Trixie nodded, before her brow furrowed again.

“So, Trixie needs to learn the boring things? But, it's hard...” She stated as her ears fell, and Tell Tale nodded in agreement.

“It looks like this subject simply isn't for you, Trixie. As I've said, you don't need to worry, I have something in mind for you." He said with a nod as he considered something. "Still, while this test isn't important to you, it's very important to Sunset and Twilight.” He stated, and hearing her friends names made Trixie realize that she failed after getting their help, causing her to look away from Tell Tale. “Something wrong?” Tell Tale asked as he noticed her mood fall.

“They helped Trixie study for the test, and she failed.”

“Then make it up to them.” He quickly replied, getting a skeptical look from Trixie. “They're your friends, so they'll understand. Especially if you make it up to them.”

“'Kay.” She replied as she let out a sigh. How is Trixie gonna do that? She wondered as she looked to the stallion, “So, history is a big deal?”

“That's right. Equestria is built on history. Take this castle. It's ancient, and has housed many different ponies, a number of them being written in a few of the very books in this library.” He stated, Trixie following his gaze to the books, an air of wonder falling over her as she found herself picturing the castle in a new light. “One of those ponies is one I'm sure you'd be quite interesting in learning about.” He stated confidently.

“Who?” Trixie asked, her glum mood completely dispelled by intrigue. Tell Tale walked over to a nearby shelf, spotting a book, and levitated if over. Trixie saw the cover, 'Hat Trick the Magnificent', and she immediately felt an urge to ask about it.

“Hat Trick,” Tell Tale began, giving the filly what she wanted before she could ask, “was a pony of great renown a couple centuries ago. He was able to dazzle and befuddle his audience with his amazing magic tricks. His creativity and cleverness earned him a place in this castle, titled as Princess Luna's court jester.” He then brought the book close as he gave Trixie a sly smile, “You know what made him so magnificent?” He asked, and Trixie shook her head, eager for the answer. He opened the book, revealing a small embedded painting on the inside of the cover, showing Hat Trick bowing before Princess Luna, flowers springing out of his hat as Luna smiled. And it took a moment, but Trixie spotted what gave him his title, making her eyes widen in amazement.

“He's an earth pony! But, how?”

“I do believe that was something outside of his control.” Tell Tale replied, causing Trixie to blink at him for a moment, before giving him a silly smile.

“Trixie means how'd he do magic, without magic, Mr. Tale.”

“Right,” Tell Tale replied as he shook his head, smiling. “That, Trixie, is what you'll be spending your future history lessons trying to figure out. Sound good?”

“Y-Yes!” She let out heartily.

“Glad to hear.” Tell Tale replied as he gave her the book, which she eagerly accepted. Tell Tale then adopted a considering look before nodding to himself. “However, I'll help get you started.” He then had Trixie wait as he fumbled through his notes and other affects, trying to find something. After searching for a minute, he let out a small, annoyed huff as he looked to Trixie. “Trixie, do you happen to have a bit on you?” He asked, and Trixie gave a small nod as she pulled one out from a small pocket in her cape.

“Thank you, I'll give it back to you in a moment,” He stated, taking the bit in his hooves as he sat down. He then brought them together very quickly, before separating them again, holding his hooves up while looking to Trixie, “Now, which hoof has the bit?” He asked, and Trixie wasn't certain which, and went with her gut, choosing his left, which he revealed to be empty.

“So, it's in your other hoof?” Trixie asked, not sure what he was trying to show her. He then revealed that the bit wasn't on the right either, which made her eyes widen. “But, where'd it go?” She was certain he didn't use any magic when he moved the bit. Yet, he seemed to somehow make it disappear!

“The bit? Didn't I give it back to you?” He asked as he lightly scratched his mane, appraising the filly. “Ah, there it is!” He stated with a smile as he reached past her ear, bringing his hoof back in front of Trixie to reveal the bit, making her eyes glow with wonder as she looked to him

“How'd you do that?” She asked, then adopted a look of realization, “Was that Hat Trick's magic?”

“That's right. It's one of his most basic tricks at that.”

“How does Trixie do it?” She asked, and for a moment, it looked like Tell Tale was going to tell her on the spot, then realized something important.

“That'll have to wait till your next history lesson, as it's getting late.” He explained, and Trixie's ears fell a little at that, but gave him a nod, now having a better picture of what was in store for her. “Consider showing you that trick my apology for what I said back on Friday. It's a part of my job to make sure Canterlot's secrets stay a secret, and I'm not quite used to sharing secrets with fillies.” Trixie looked at him for a moment, before recalling what he said to her about knowing if she let a secret out.

“Trixie won't tell anypony the secrets. She promises!”

“Of course.” Tell Tale said with a smile as he returned the bit, “You can return to the others now. I'll see you in the morning.”

“Okay! Good night-” Trixie began, then realized she'd be walking back to her room, alone. After dark. She briefly wondered if her room was close enough to teleport to, then shook her head as she looked to Tell Tale. “It's dark now, can you show Trixie the way back?” She asked, hoping he wouldn't make a fuss, or call her a scaredy-pony.

“Well, can't have a student get lost on their way to their room now, can we?” He said as he concealed an amused smile. In short order, he put a number of things away, and led Trixie out of the library, guiding her to her room. As they walked back, Trixie's mind started to wander back to the fact that she, the Great and Powerful Trixie, had failed the test.

Sunny and Twily... She thought to herself, her ears falling again as she pictured the two of them learning of her score. Maybe Trixie can wait till later to tell them. She decided as she nodded to herself, hoping Tell Tale was right about her friends being understanding. Trixie did try her bestest... She affirmed to herself as she returned to her room.

~~~~~~~~~~

“-And that is what it means to be Great and Powerful.” Edison Spark explained as he tapped a chalkboard with nothing but inane scribbles on it. Trixie nodded to herself, sitting at a desk, as she began copying the scribbles with practiced ease. Certain of progress, she looked over her notes, which were written on a piece of paper with 46/100 emblazoned on the top.

“No no no!” Tesla Coil interjected, “You've got it all wrong! Being Great and Powerful is all about telling everypony that you've done Great and Powerful things!”

“Pah! That's the easy way!” Edison said dismissively, “Being Great and Powerful requires effort! You think I made the magic lantern on the first try!?” He exclaimed as Trixie looked up from her scribbled notes.

“So, which one?” She asked, hoping to get a solid answer.

“It's about being brilliant!” Relative Stein interjected, causing Tesla and Edison to roll their eyes in tandem.

“Easy for you to say, Professor Extraordinary,” Tesla responded, “While you were busy unraveling the secrets of the universe, we were busy making practical things! We don't need any of your relativity nonsense right now!”

“Hmph!” Stein replied as he raised his nose towards Tesla, “I've seen that lightning rod of yours, and there's nothing practical about it! It's just a glorified parasprite zapper!”

Trixie's head was starting to hurt as she added 'being brilliant' to the list of ways one could be Great and Powerful. Oh... Which is it? Trixie wondered as she felt somepony looking over her shoulder.

“Well, I haven't seen the three of you in a long time.” Princess Luna stated with an amused smile as the three smart ponies looked, then bowed to her.

“Your Highness,” Stein began, “I'm glad you've arrived, this dream was starting to get out of hoof!”

“Dream!?” Tesla and Edison responded in unison, before fading away, along with Stein, who was giving the princess a small smile.

“A dream...” Trixie let out as she looked to Luna, then looked back to the scribbled notes she'd written.

“Have something on your mind, Trixie?” Luna asked as she sat next to her. Trixie considered it for a moment before simply giving Luna the piece of paper.

“Trixie made a promise to mama and papa. She'd be Great and Powerful. But, now Trixie is…”

"Lost?" Luna finished, getting a small nod from the filly. “You don't know what it means to be Great and Powerful?”

“Right.”

“Well, as our historical figures showed, it looks like you have some ideas already in mind.” Luna stated, getting a considering look from Trixie.

“Then, which is it?”

“That's for you to decide on your own. You're still young, so you have plenty of time to find the answer. I recommend taking your time with it, find an answer that fits what you think being Great and Powerful means.” Luna said, and Trixie took it in before letting out a small nod.

“'Kay.”

“Now, speaking of keeping a promise, I do believe you've earned a particular spell from a certain princess.” Luna said as she adopted a warm smile, and Trixie looked at her blankly for a moment before gaining a big grin.

“Trixie can learn it in a dream?”

“Well, waking you up in the middle of the night would be irresponsible of me, and I'm certain you wanted to learn the spell as soon as you could...” She said, and Trixie wasn't going to complain about learning in her dreams. A thought then came to mind as she gave Luna a considering look.

“Did Mr. Tale tell you that Trixie tried her bestest?”

“He didn't need to, I had faith that you would.” Luna assured, getting a big grin from Trixie, “Now, before you can even try to make yourself look like another pony, we should start with the basics."

“Basics?”

“That's right, the basics for casting illusions.”

Illusions... Will this make Trixie Great and Powerful? Trixie wondered as Luna took her through the process of wielding such magic. Hat Trick, he had magic, and he was an earth pony, so he must be Great and Powerful! Oh! And he was, what was it ... Magnificent? Maybe Trixie can be like him! With that on her mind, she adopted a determined look, hoping to find her answers, by looking to the past.

Author's Note

Huh. I seem to be drawn towards ending the chapter in a similar place from where it started.
Trixie can't be cute and adorable forever.(But that's not gonna stop me from trying.) Fortunately, fillies don't grow up over night!
Next chapter is going to be a proper Twilight chapter. At least, that's what I'm shooting for.
After chapter four will be the first 'exploring the castle' arc of the FCC, so that's a thing coming soon.
As always, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and thanks for reading! Here's an awesome pic to leave you with:

Also want to thank my friend OCisbestpony for the input, it always helps!