Twilight Becomes A Dazzling: The Aftermathby Twilight LightningChaptersThe AftermathPreparationPlanning StagesPlanning Stages part 2Planning Stages part 3The AftermathThe Aftermath “Alright girls, operation save Twilight is a go.” Pinkie Pie had on military-esque clothing, her green helmet had leaves on it and camouflage face paint was smeared on her cheeks. “Uh, Pinkie, we aren’t apocalypse rebels. You can drop the camo.” Rainbow tossed her soccer ball and caught it with her hands, throwing it up again to balance it on her head. “I agree. Green really isn’t your color darling. Eugh.” “Rarity we all know you hate the color green but that’s not the point. We need to do something, otherwise we won’t be able to bring her back at all.” Sunset sat on Pinkie’s bed staring at the ceiling, remembering how her last attempt failed. “If we don’t get Twilight back, then the whole world will fall under their spell.” “Yeah, yeah, we know. But come on, they haven’t even left town yet. We’ve got plenty of time.” “No we don’t. They have the whole town, they’ll move on soon.” “How do you know?” Pinkie left and returned in her normal clothes instantly. “But the portal to her world is here, so she has to come back.” “But still, we don’t know how long that would take. We don’t know if they’ll go back to Equestria or not. For all we know they could be gone already!” “Please calm down Sunset.” “I-I’m sorry Fluttershy, it’s just…she’s in there somewhere, we just need to reach her. Somehow.” “Well ah’ll be a buckin’ bronco at a cattle round up, we ain’t gettin’ nowhere with this. We gotta think up somethin’ quick, otherwise Twi’ll be stuck like that forever.” “Um, girls.” “I’m trying Applejack, but I can’t think of anything! This must be how Twilight felt, confused and hopeless.” “Girls.” “Well shoot, ah didn’t mean it like that.” “Girls.” “Huh, oh sorry Fluttershy, what is it?” “Um, I just saw someone out there. They wanted us to follow them.” “Eh, probably just some guy trying to bring us out in the open. And when we do go out there, Bam! End of story.” “Actually Dash, ah think they’re all right.” “Wowsa, look at that beard!” “Huh, a beard?” Sunset looked out the window and saw a cloaked figure gesturing towards a building in the south. “Weird.” After walking outside the figure was gone, leaving Sunset and the others with puzzled looks. “Maybe we should follow him.” “Pinkie, dearie, I don’t think that would be the best idea.” “Well it’s better than nothing.” Pinkie crossed her arms in front of her chest. Sunset sighed. “Alright, I’ll go, if I don’t come back you know to stay away.” “What!? Are you kidding me? No way am I missing out on this. There could be danger, traps, who knows what. I’m totally going.” “Well she does say danger is her middle name.” “See, even Flutters has got my back.” “But…oh alright, whoever wants to come can. Just stay close ok.” “Uh, actually I’ll, um, stay here…for when you get back. I’ll keep Spike company.” “Not so fast Fluttershy, ah reckon Spike’ll wantin’ ta be comin’ to. Right?” Spike was nowhere in sight, instead sleeping at the foot of Pinkie’s bed. “See, it would be better if I stayed here.” “Alright, stay here where all the people in town can get you, alone, with no help, cause we’ll be out there, without you.” Fluttershy sunk back at Rainbow’s description. “On second thought I should probably go to. You know, just in case.” “That’s the spirit! To the mystery guy!” Pinkie pointed her finger upwards and put her leg up. The others shushed her. “Oh right, whoopsie.” After what seemed like hours to Rainbow Dash, they found an abandoned construction sight. “Um, girls, I don’t think this is very safe.” “Oh who cares, this is finally getting exciting.” “Yep, except excitin’ ain’t really the word ah’d be usin’ now.” “Let’s just go in and see if there’s anyone here. If not, we can leave. How does that sound?” Everyone nodded their heads and they went inside. After searching for a bit, they shrugged and turned around. “I guess no one was here. How are we supposed to beat the sirens and get Twilight back like this?” “Perhaps I…may be of some assistance.” A shadowy figure walked into the light, his starry robe flowing in a nonexistent breeze, the bells on his hat chiming softly. Sunset gasped at who she was looking at. “No way, is that…Starswirl the bearded?” He stroked his beard and walked closer. “It has indeed been ages since I was last heard of in Equestria, but now we are in a time of great danger. Please, allow me to ask who you are.” “I’m Rainbow Dash, best athlete at Canterlot high.” “Howdy, mah name’s Applejack, pleased to meet ya.” “Hello, my name in Rarity. A pleasure.” “Hi I’m Pinkie Pie.” “Oh, um, m-my name is…Fluttershy. I-it’s um, nice to meet you.” She hid behind Rarity. “My name is Sunset Shimmer. I’ve read so much about you, your work, and all. But to meet you in person…just…wow. Never thought I’d get to do that. Just one question though, how and why are you here?” “Ah yes, of course. After I banished the sirens to this world, I spent years preparing to go after them. A foolish notion, yet I felt compelled to keep track of them. Though admittedly, the chance to see a new world was too much, so with the blessings of Princess Celestia i found my way here. She put a spell on me so I would not age, and I gave her my final wishes. But as soon as I got here I could not find them. For years they eluded me, I searched the globe for them. I have gained much knowledge during my time here, but yet I still could not conceive where the sirens could be hiding. Finally though, I had heard about what happened here, so I rushed over as fast as I could. I spent seven hours on a plane, such a fascinating device. To be able to fly like a Pegasus, truly marvelous.” Everyone stared in awe, especially Sunset. “So might I ask, what exactly happened? I only know so much about the sirens and what happened. Would you kindly fill me in on the details?” PreparationPreparation “So I see. They’ve claimed another…and a bright mind at that. If what you say is true, little pup, then Twilight sounds a lot like me in my glory days.” “It’s Spike. And yeah, she practically idolized you. She’s read all your books like, a million times.” Spike chewed on a treat as they all sat down in Pinkie’s room. “Yes, from what you’ve told me she must have unbridled potential. For one to become Celestia’s personal student and ascend to an alicorn, with in one year no less. It is highly impressive. But considering what you said Mrs. Shimmer, I’m left to wonder how she fell into the hands of the sirens.” “Please, just call me Sunset. I don’t know though, she sounds like she still cares about the girls but…I’m just not sure what to think. She said to keep them safe, but why would she do that if she hates you?” Pinkie gasped. “Maybe she doesn’t hate us! What if she’s just playing and taking them down from the inside. Like a ninja.” “Um, Pinkie, ah don’t think that’s what she’s after. ‘An she certainly ain’t any ninja. She’s just confused…probably. They did somethin’, ah know it.” “Your friend is lost forever. I’m sorry to tell you, but no magic could cure this ages ago, nothing would work. What do you have that you think would return your friend to normal?” “We may not exactly have it, but we’ve got the magic of friendship with us. I mean, the six of us are friends, but Twilight kind of disowned us. But what we can do, is possibly get her Equestrian friends to snap her out of it. Or at the least talk to her.” “The Elements of Harmony had no effect, what makes you think that her friends have the capability to cure her?” “Well, maybe not on the outside, but on the inside. Maybe her Equestrian friends can break the curse.” “That sounds great and all, but you’re still missing one thing. She doesn’t like us, at all. Twilight is completely against us here. What makes you think she’ll let us go anywhere?” “Rainbow dash is right. I don’t think either of them would let us go to Equestria, or even leave town. It’s hopeless to go anywhere, maybe we should just stay here.” “Fluttershy! Since when did…wait, maybe we can get to Equestria. It won’t be easy, but since I’m technically from Equestria maybe she’ll at least let me leave. When I do, I’ll gather her friends, tell princess Celestia, catch them all up, and bring them all here. It sounds farfetched but it just might work.” Starswirl nodded. “I think you may have a point. But, what if the others keep you from leaving. From my understanding there should have been three originally, correct?” They all nodded. “Then you would have to go through three other sirens to get to Equestria, the odds are not stacked in your favor.” “Sunset, I think it’s a little too risky for you to go alone. You should let us help you in some way.” “Thanks Rarity, but I’ll bring Spike so there really shouldn’t be a problem. I’m just worried about getting there.” “Ah gotta agree with Rarity, y’all wouldn’t stand a chance alone out there. If you think it’s gonna be a cake walk then you’ve got another thing comin’ cause gettin’ you ‘an Spike there will be harder than hangin’ on to a wild bull.” “That sounds like fun!” “Not now Pinkie. I just…I…I don’t know what to say. How are we going to get around this?” “One cannot plan for every outcome, no matter how old or how wise you are. If something is bothering you then perhaps you should consult the aid of your friends. I know not how much Equestria has changed but I can infer that things are more lively than when I was there. Trust me when I say it was a darker time back then. What with Discord’s reign of chaos and the whole ordeal with the Crystal Empire and King Sombra along with the sealing of Tirek. All of this happened around a thousand years ago, and from what Spike said, dear Luna becoming Nightmare Moon and being trapped in the moon for a thousand years. Much has happened in my absence, I fear the worst for you Sunset Shimmer, but if you can make it back to Equestria you must do what you can.” “I know, and…what’s Tirek?” “A story for another time. Quickly, make hast, waste no time. You must go if you wish to make it, for I fear that danger will soon spread across this world. If this world falls then Equestria is sure to follow. Then who knows how many other worlds there are out there linked to the mirror you used.” “Wait, wait, slow down. We can do this, I’m sure of it. So long as we have hope everything will turn out just fine.” “Well ah sure hope you’re right about that Sunset, things’ll be gettin’ mighty bad here soon. Don’t know if this place’ll even hold up, with all them students wrapped Adagio’s finger like a lasso ‘round a pup tied to a post." “We can do this girls, if we work together we can do this. Oh and you too Starswirl. Heh.” “I am in no way offended. I simply wish the best of luck to everyone.” Once they checked their belongings, and double checked everything, they set out to Canterlot High. When they got there, students were guarding the statue. “Well this just got a heck of a lot easier. Ah thought that they’d have more than that.” “Maybe they didn’t think that far ahead.” “It doesn’t matter, that just makes our jobs easier. Here we go, be extra quiet. More than usual Fluttershy.” “Oh, um, alright. I’ll do my best.” “Pinkie?” “Okie dokie lokie.” “Rainbow Dash?” “Yeah, yeah I got it. Don’t look at me like that.” “Good. Now we just have to sneak over there so me and Spike can get through the portal. Are you ready Spike?” “As ready as I’ll ever be. Boy will I be glad to go back home.” An image of a manly Spike holding Rarity in his claws played through his head. “Ooo…k then. Let’s go.” Planning StagesPlanning Stages “Going somewhere?” Adagio’s voice had startled them from behind, each of them spinning around and preparing to defend themselves, mostly. “Honestly, I thought you had a much better plan than to just come here. Trying to use the Statue to get back to Equestria? Hah, a riot. Look at you, you have no Twilight, no princess to save the day, and more importantly…no magic. You six really are…” Her eye caught Starswirl’s hat and robe and her eyes burned with fury. But she kept herself under control. “You. You’re the reason we’re here in the first place.” “Had I known the disaster you’d cause here, to the denizens of this world, I would have tried another method. I’ll not sit idly by as you sow the seeds of discontent throughout here and Equestria. Go, now, hurry.” Starswirl motioned for them to run for it, he’d try to hold her for as long as he could. Adagio merely laughed. “How amusing. I’m not that easily tricked.” At the snap of her fingers the students horded around Starswirl, trapping him. Adagio flew over to the portal and floated in front of the girls and Spike. Rainbow didn’t stop moving, she charged forward and tackled Adagio to the ground. Sunset and Spike took the opportunity and jumped through the portal. “Betcha didn’t see that coming did you?” Adagio scowled and forced Rainbow off of her. She could here Starswirl talking to her. “You cannot predict every outcome, no matter how intellectual you are. Even the brightest of us can be fooled by the simplest of tactics, I am no exception.” “Quiet, I have plans for you, but this is a problem. You’re going to regret opposing us again.” Fluttershy hid behind Rarity while the others tried to form a barricade around them. “Oh, how cute. You just made it easier to capture you. Thanks, I very much appreciate it.” Sunset and Spike had reached the end of the portal and arrived in a group hug from the others. “Twilight, you’re finally back! We were getting worried that you’d be there forever.” “Uh, Pinkie, that ain’t Twilight.” “Now that you’re back we can finally throw that Congratulations on defeating the Dazzlings party.” “It ain’t Twi.” “And we’re going to have so much fun.” “Need…air…Pinkie.” Pinkie released her death grip and took a good look at the pony she’d been strangling. “Oh, hi Sunset. Where’s Twilight, we need to have a Congratulations on defeating the Dazzlings party.” “About Twilight…you see…” Sunset explained how she’d gone missing then reappeared with the Dazzlings and battled against them. She also explained how she felt about her last words to her. “So what you’re saying is…Twilight’s been hypnotized and is being controlled like a sock puppet to do the Sirens’ evil deeds…like a mindless zombie.” “Pinkie Pie, ah don’t think that’s even remotely close to what she’s sayin’, but ah don’t wanna believe what ah’m hearin’. Twi wouldn’t betray her friends like that.” “That’s what we’re all thinking, but it’s true. She…she isn’t the Twilight you knew when she left. She’s one of them now. We were hoping that you guys would maybe be able to snap her out of it, possibly even cure her or change her back. Do you think the elements would work that way?” “Well, you see, we don’t exactly have the Elements of Harmony with us anymore.” “What?” “Even if we did, we wouldn’t be able to use them without Twilight, so…we couldn’t use them to help. I really do wish we could but…” “Oh hum, so our little princess isn’t the same as before. It’s not like the end of the world or anything.” “Discord, please come out.” “Well if you insist Fluttershy.” In a flash Discord appeared in a Hawaiian shirt with sunglasses and a straw hat. He snapped his fingers and the items vanished. “D-D-D-D-D…” Sunset couldn’t believe her eyes. Here he was, the lord of chaos, spirit of disharmony, here in front of her. “Oh I’m not that famous am I? Anything for the adoring fans.” He picked her up and snapped a picture of the two of them. “Discord this is serious. Twilight’s become…she’s…” “Ah yes, Twilight. Well you see I kind of missed the big problem. She’s gone because…” “She went to another world to help her other friends stop the evil sirens but now she’s one of them and now I can’t throw her a congratulation party.” “Wait, did you say sirens? As in three sirens? Oh this is rich.” “You know ‘bout them?” “Do I know about them? Applejack you wound me. Of course I know them. Posers are what they are, trying to cause chaos in my chaos, very rude. But I seem to be missing something, another world?” Sunset finally snapped out of her disbelief. “Yes, another world that’s very similar to this one, except instead of ponies they’re humans.” “Why was I not invited? I thought we went over the whole-“ “That’s not the point Discord. Twilight’s over there as a siren while we’re here sitting on our flanks doing absolute nothing.” “Come now Rainbow, is that anyway to treat a friend? How bad could it be?” “There’s no magic there. Or at least there’s not supposed to be. I…I’m the one that stole her crown and brought magic to Canterlot High in the first place. The sirens are there because of me. If I hadn’t wanted all that power then Twilight wouldn’t have come and brought magic here.” She sighed. “And now she gone. This is all my fault.” “There, there, I’m sure it isn’t entirely your fault.” “D…did you just hold a grudge?” “What, no. I’m sorry if I offended you.” “Oh, no, it’s fine, really. I’m used to it.” “So am I still missing something or are you two done with the mushy gushy moment here?” “Uh, sure.” Spike jumped and called for everyone. “Guys, guys, I have a great idea! What if we bring Twilight here and Discord snaps here back to normal?” “Spike that sounds like an absolutely wonderful idea.” Rarity nuzzled his check as he started floating with hearts around his head. “Yes, yes, except for one intsy little detail…I don’t know if I can.” Planning Stages part 2“What…what do you mean? You’re Discord, you can do a bunch of stuff that don’t make sense. Why would this be any different?” “Well, you see, I have no idea what my magic will do to a siren. Not even I know what the outcome would be. And that’s saying something.” “He’s right. If Discord doesn’t know what Discord does then Discord can’t Discord a solution to help.” Sunset was a little lost with Pinkie’s words. Applejack explained. “What she’s tryin’ ta say is, If Discord don’t know what he can do then how can he help? Ah think.” “Sounds about right to me.” “But if you can’t help then…” Spikes eyes watered a bit. “Why don’t you just go grab the Elements or something and fix her that way? It certainly sounds like a much better plan than standing there with your eyes open. Of course I know I’m quite charming to look at.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, yeah a real mare catcher. But I like that idea. Let’s just go in and bust up their whole plan. It’ll be awesome!” “We can’t walk in there right away. At least not without a plan of our own. No Rainbow Dash, charging in there is not a plan.” Rainbow frowned at Sunset and crossed her hooves. “I have an idea. Let’s all go over there, bring her here, throw her a party, and then everything will turn back to normal and Twilight defeats the Dazzlings!” “Pinkie that’s just as bad an idea as Rainbow Dash’s. We need an actual plan, not just an idea of one. Applejack, Rarity, please tell me you have something.” “Sorry, ah got nothin’ that’ll solve this. Nothing Granny can do either. Shoot.” “I apologize as well. I simply can’t think of a way to turn Twilight back into a pony. If Discord doesn’t now then maybe we can ask Princess Celestia for help. She’ll have to know something, right.” “Well it’s worth a shot. How are we going to get to her though?” “Got it covered.” Spike pulled up a paper and a quill dabbed in ink. “So, what do you want me to write?” “But how is that supposed to-“ “Dear Princess Celestia, we need your help. Twi ain’t come back yet and she’s one of them now. You know, a siren. She’s doing somethin’ over there an ah don’t know what, but she ain’t herself from what Sunset’s tellin’ us. If ya know any way to help turn Twi back to normal we’d greatly appreciate it. Your faithful subjects Applejack and the rest.” “And…the…rest. Got it.” Spike blew it into smoke and it flew off. “What? Why did you burn it? What’s the point in writing if she’ll never read it?” “Sunset, dearie. That’s how Twilight and the rest of us keep in touch with the Princesses.” “…Oh. Sorry Spike.” “No problem.” Princess Celestia was sipping on her cup of tea, taking care of some official documents that had recently come up. When would it end? She was grateful that a letter from Spike had arrived to distract her from her work. But once she read it she didn’t know what to feel. She reread the letter over and over again, hoping that she misread something. To her dismay; however, her eyes weren’t lying to her. Luna, sensing something wrong, walked into Celestia’s quarters. “Sister, what ails you?” “It’s…it’s Twilight. She’s been…taken from us, in a sense. Apparently she went through the portal again, to help her other friends. But I’m unsure of what they mean by the sirens. If it’s the same group from a thousand years ago, then it’s all the worse.” “But if it is a different group of sirens it is ok?” “I don’t know what to think. The sirens were bad enough then, and now…I can only hope there’s a way we can help Twilight.” “Agreed, dear sister. We shall not let these monsters harm even the singlest of hairs on her mane, tail, or coat.” “That’s not what I’m afraid of, Luna. I fear that what Applejack means…about being one of them…how could there be another amulet there? There wasn’t supposed to be magic there.” “We will figure out a solution, dear sister. Worry not, for we hath not given up hope. Shall I send for a carriage to bring us to Ponyville?” “Please. I’ll alert the guards that we’ll be heading out, and the others that we will both be there shortly.” “Then I shall make most haste with my movements.” Luna swiftly trotted out the door. Celestia quickly wrote the Elements a note and sent it, calling the nearest guard inside. “Yes, your majesty?” “Luna and I are meeting with the Elements on urgent business, please hold down Canterlot. If you need anything or if my royal duties call just please wait until we return. This is very important.” The guard gave a quick salute. “Yes, your highness. As you wish.” “Then I’m off. Hopefully I can get there before anything worse happens.” “Look, all I’m saying is if we went in there with the party cannon then they’d think we were throwing them a victory party and then we’d all be friends.” “No…Pinkie. That’s not how it would work. Who knows what they’d do to you over there. Trust me, you won’t like it.” Celestia’s letter chose then to pop up, Spike belching it at Sunset’s face. “I’m not sure whether to be happy or disgusted. At least she replied quickly. Let’s see here…coming right away…bringing Luna…hope to clear things up…be there in a little bit, that sounds good. But who’s Luna? She’s the vice principal at Canterlot High, so is she a princess here or…?” “She’s Princess Celestia’s sister. They rescued her when they found the Elements of Harmony. Man, wish I could’ve been there to see it.” “Uh, ok then. Then that’s great, now we’ll have twice the help.” “Though Luna is still getting used to now.” “Yeah, you should’ve seen her the first time she came down here. It was hilarious.” “Rainbow Dash, don’t be rude.” “What?” “The door opened and the Princesses stepped in, making everyone calm down. “Sunset Shimmer.” “Princess Celestia?” “As much as I would like to catch up with you, I do believe that there is something more important at the moment. Applejack, you said something about Twilight.” “Uh, yeah, ‘bout that. You may want to take a seat Princess, it ain’t pretty.” Planning Stages part 3“Well ya see princess, from what Sunset told us Twi’s been turned into a siren. However the hay that works.” “I don’t understand how it happened. One minute she’s thinking of a way to defeat them the next Pinkie Pie’s telling us she’s with the Dazzlings. How could she have turned so quickly?” Princess Celestia bowed her head. “I am unsure as well, but I have one theory. One thousand years ago, when Starswirl had just banished them, he had mentioned how the sirens were brought into existence. He had discovered that an amulet was responsible for ponies becoming sirens. I’d hoped that he had destroyed them all but…if what you say is true then I have no choice but to believe that he missed one. Oh Twilight…” “Sorry ta interrupt Princess, but ain’t that just somethin’ to put around yer neck. Why not just take it off of her?” “It’s sadly not that simple, Applejack. The amulet changes them, makes them more than what they are. It gives them a lust or hunger for negative emotions. This is going off of what I’ve heard a thousand years ago, I don’t know if it’s true or reliable now but it’s what I have to offer.” “Well, they do absorb some kind of green mist. And that’s after everyone is arguing. I wouldn’t doubt that they feed off of negativity. But what does that have to do with Twilight?” “You’re right. We shouldn’t get distracted. The most important thing is this: the amulet fuses with the pony. There is no simple way, like removing it.” Applejack covered her eyes with hat and apologized. “It’s alright Applejack, I don’t blame you for anything. Nothing but banishment could stop the sirens in the past, what could be done now? The elements are gone, their bearers separated. There is nothing we can do to reverse the effects. We didn’t know then, and we still don’t know now.” “Dear sister, please do not mourn over that which you cannot change. If we knew more than we would gladly aid you. But our knowledge was hindered by the Nightmare Moon incident. Being trapped for one thousand years did nothing to help us. Even though we could see all of Equestria and more.” “I know Luna, but I wish there was some way to figure this out. There has to be something we’re missing. We would have to know the process to reverse it. Something which we have no knowledge of.” “Oh, I have an idea! Pick me, pick me!” “You don’t need our per-“ “Why don’t we go over there, find Twilight, bring her here, and throw her a super duper party. Then she’ll go defeat the Dazzlings and we can have a ‘Hurray You Beat The Sirens’ party.” “That…that’s actually the best plan we have so far. It’s not that bad either. If she sees her pony friends then maybe she’ll snap out of it. Hopefully.” “I agree.” Princess Celestia walked over and looked down to Sunset in a mentor fashion before turning to the rest. “What Pinkie Pie is saying sounds like the best way to get rid of the sirens; however, I fear that Twilight may be lost to us as a pony. Luna and I will try to find something, anything, that could help us get her back to normal. Sunset Shimmer, please bring her back to us.” Celestia did a formal bow, bending her front knees back and putting her head down, and put her horn on both sides of Sunset. “I’m…thank you Princess Celestia. I’ll do everything I can to get Twilight through the portal. You have my word.” “Thank you, Sunset. Now, the rest of you will not go through the portal, understood. Only Spike and Sunset Shimmer are allowed to pass through for this.” “We understand. Ah don’t like it, but whatever you say.” “Yeah, yeah whatever. Guess I’ll just read some Daring Do to pass the time.” “I’ll prepare the party!” “Pinkie dear, I don’t think that’s n-“ Too late, Pinkie was already firing off her party cannon. “Um, I-I think I’ll be fine.” “Well that was a waste of time.” Aria yawned. She thought that beating the Rainbooms would be more fun than that. Oh well, so much that. “Did that really happen though? You were tricked by Rainbow Dash?” “Hey, I expected something more than her simply charging into me.” “But she didn’t.” “I know that.” Adagio said through clenched teeth. They weren’t much of a challenge as they were, but she was satisfied in a way. “Did you honestly expect more from her?” “Do not start with me now. Just focus on taking care of what’s left. The one who banished us to this magic forsaken place.” “Yeah. What should we do with him? Not like he can do much for us. We’ve already tried feeding off of his negative energy, that didn’t work.” “Oh trust me Aria, there are better uses I can think of for him.” “It matters not what you do to me, you will be stopped.” “Hah, says the old man on his knees. You looked better back in Equestria.” Aria taunted him. If Adagio had plans then she had to get a few in now. “I suppose age has taken its toll on me, physically. But you look as though time has danced around you.” “Well I-wait…I know what you’re trying to do. You really think sucking up to me is going to get you out of this?” “You moron, he’s trying to distract us. He’s just buying time for Sunset to do who knows what. The best course of action is to finish the plan.” “Do you even know what we’re doing after all this? What’s the big plan here Adagio?” “He’s right there! I’m not going to talk about my plan right in front of him. Take him somewhere far away from here. I don’t need him mucking up anything.” Adagio sighed. “The gall of some people.” “No matter what you do, Celestia will no doubt have a plan by now. I’ve served my purpose to them.” “You think I’m worried about Celestia? Oh no, she’s far from my first concern. First and foremost, you need to be silenced. Aria.” Aria rolled her eyes and knocked him out. “I’m not your henchman.” “Just get rid of him.”
The AftermathThe Aftermath “Alright girls, operation save Twilight is a go.” Pinkie Pie had on military-esque clothing, her green helmet had leaves on it and camouflage face paint was smeared on her cheeks. “Uh, Pinkie, we aren’t apocalypse rebels. You can drop the camo.” Rainbow tossed her soccer ball and caught it with her hands, throwing it up again to balance it on her head. “I agree. Green really isn’t your color darling. Eugh.” “Rarity we all know you hate the color green but that’s not the point. We need to do something, otherwise we won’t be able to bring her back at all.” Sunset sat on Pinkie’s bed staring at the ceiling, remembering how her last attempt failed. “If we don’t get Twilight back, then the whole world will fall under their spell.” “Yeah, yeah, we know. But come on, they haven’t even left town yet. We’ve got plenty of time.” “No we don’t. They have the whole town, they’ll move on soon.” “How do you know?” Pinkie left and returned in her normal clothes instantly. “But the portal to her world is here, so she has to come back.” “But still, we don’t know how long that would take. We don’t know if they’ll go back to Equestria or not. For all we know they could be gone already!” “Please calm down Sunset.” “I-I’m sorry Fluttershy, it’s just…she’s in there somewhere, we just need to reach her. Somehow.” “Well ah’ll be a buckin’ bronco at a cattle round up, we ain’t gettin’ nowhere with this. We gotta think up somethin’ quick, otherwise Twi’ll be stuck like that forever.” “Um, girls.” “I’m trying Applejack, but I can’t think of anything! This must be how Twilight felt, confused and hopeless.” “Girls.” “Well shoot, ah didn’t mean it like that.” “Girls.” “Huh, oh sorry Fluttershy, what is it?” “Um, I just saw someone out there. They wanted us to follow them.” “Eh, probably just some guy trying to bring us out in the open. And when we do go out there, Bam! End of story.” “Actually Dash, ah think they’re all right.” “Wowsa, look at that beard!” “Huh, a beard?” Sunset looked out the window and saw a cloaked figure gesturing towards a building in the south. “Weird.” After walking outside the figure was gone, leaving Sunset and the others with puzzled looks. “Maybe we should follow him.” “Pinkie, dearie, I don’t think that would be the best idea.” “Well it’s better than nothing.” Pinkie crossed her arms in front of her chest. Sunset sighed. “Alright, I’ll go, if I don’t come back you know to stay away.” “What!? Are you kidding me? No way am I missing out on this. There could be danger, traps, who knows what. I’m totally going.” “Well she does say danger is her middle name.” “See, even Flutters has got my back.” “But…oh alright, whoever wants to come can. Just stay close ok.” “Uh, actually I’ll, um, stay here…for when you get back. I’ll keep Spike company.” “Not so fast Fluttershy, ah reckon Spike’ll wantin’ ta be comin’ to. Right?” Spike was nowhere in sight, instead sleeping at the foot of Pinkie’s bed. “See, it would be better if I stayed here.” “Alright, stay here where all the people in town can get you, alone, with no help, cause we’ll be out there, without you.” Fluttershy sunk back at Rainbow’s description. “On second thought I should probably go to. You know, just in case.” “That’s the spirit! To the mystery guy!” Pinkie pointed her finger upwards and put her leg up. The others shushed her. “Oh right, whoopsie.” After what seemed like hours to Rainbow Dash, they found an abandoned construction sight. “Um, girls, I don’t think this is very safe.” “Oh who cares, this is finally getting exciting.” “Yep, except excitin’ ain’t really the word ah’d be usin’ now.” “Let’s just go in and see if there’s anyone here. If not, we can leave. How does that sound?” Everyone nodded their heads and they went inside. After searching for a bit, they shrugged and turned around. “I guess no one was here. How are we supposed to beat the sirens and get Twilight back like this?” “Perhaps I…may be of some assistance.” A shadowy figure walked into the light, his starry robe flowing in a nonexistent breeze, the bells on his hat chiming softly. Sunset gasped at who she was looking at. “No way, is that…Starswirl the bearded?” He stroked his beard and walked closer. “It has indeed been ages since I was last heard of in Equestria, but now we are in a time of great danger. Please, allow me to ask who you are.” “I’m Rainbow Dash, best athlete at Canterlot high.” “Howdy, mah name’s Applejack, pleased to meet ya.” “Hello, my name in Rarity. A pleasure.” “Hi I’m Pinkie Pie.” “Oh, um, m-my name is…Fluttershy. I-it’s um, nice to meet you.” She hid behind Rarity. “My name is Sunset Shimmer. I’ve read so much about you, your work, and all. But to meet you in person…just…wow. Never thought I’d get to do that. Just one question though, how and why are you here?” “Ah yes, of course. After I banished the sirens to this world, I spent years preparing to go after them. A foolish notion, yet I felt compelled to keep track of them. Though admittedly, the chance to see a new world was too much, so with the blessings of Princess Celestia i found my way here. She put a spell on me so I would not age, and I gave her my final wishes. But as soon as I got here I could not find them. For years they eluded me, I searched the globe for them. I have gained much knowledge during my time here, but yet I still could not conceive where the sirens could be hiding. Finally though, I had heard about what happened here, so I rushed over as fast as I could. I spent seven hours on a plane, such a fascinating device. To be able to fly like a Pegasus, truly marvelous.” Everyone stared in awe, especially Sunset. “So might I ask, what exactly happened? I only know so much about the sirens and what happened. Would you kindly fill me in on the details?”
PreparationPreparation “So I see. They’ve claimed another…and a bright mind at that. If what you say is true, little pup, then Twilight sounds a lot like me in my glory days.” “It’s Spike. And yeah, she practically idolized you. She’s read all your books like, a million times.” Spike chewed on a treat as they all sat down in Pinkie’s room. “Yes, from what you’ve told me she must have unbridled potential. For one to become Celestia’s personal student and ascend to an alicorn, with in one year no less. It is highly impressive. But considering what you said Mrs. Shimmer, I’m left to wonder how she fell into the hands of the sirens.” “Please, just call me Sunset. I don’t know though, she sounds like she still cares about the girls but…I’m just not sure what to think. She said to keep them safe, but why would she do that if she hates you?” Pinkie gasped. “Maybe she doesn’t hate us! What if she’s just playing and taking them down from the inside. Like a ninja.” “Um, Pinkie, ah don’t think that’s what she’s after. ‘An she certainly ain’t any ninja. She’s just confused…probably. They did somethin’, ah know it.” “Your friend is lost forever. I’m sorry to tell you, but no magic could cure this ages ago, nothing would work. What do you have that you think would return your friend to normal?” “We may not exactly have it, but we’ve got the magic of friendship with us. I mean, the six of us are friends, but Twilight kind of disowned us. But what we can do, is possibly get her Equestrian friends to snap her out of it. Or at the least talk to her.” “The Elements of Harmony had no effect, what makes you think that her friends have the capability to cure her?” “Well, maybe not on the outside, but on the inside. Maybe her Equestrian friends can break the curse.” “That sounds great and all, but you’re still missing one thing. She doesn’t like us, at all. Twilight is completely against us here. What makes you think she’ll let us go anywhere?” “Rainbow dash is right. I don’t think either of them would let us go to Equestria, or even leave town. It’s hopeless to go anywhere, maybe we should just stay here.” “Fluttershy! Since when did…wait, maybe we can get to Equestria. It won’t be easy, but since I’m technically from Equestria maybe she’ll at least let me leave. When I do, I’ll gather her friends, tell princess Celestia, catch them all up, and bring them all here. It sounds farfetched but it just might work.” Starswirl nodded. “I think you may have a point. But, what if the others keep you from leaving. From my understanding there should have been three originally, correct?” They all nodded. “Then you would have to go through three other sirens to get to Equestria, the odds are not stacked in your favor.” “Sunset, I think it’s a little too risky for you to go alone. You should let us help you in some way.” “Thanks Rarity, but I’ll bring Spike so there really shouldn’t be a problem. I’m just worried about getting there.” “Ah gotta agree with Rarity, y’all wouldn’t stand a chance alone out there. If you think it’s gonna be a cake walk then you’ve got another thing comin’ cause gettin’ you ‘an Spike there will be harder than hangin’ on to a wild bull.” “That sounds like fun!” “Not now Pinkie. I just…I…I don’t know what to say. How are we going to get around this?” “One cannot plan for every outcome, no matter how old or how wise you are. If something is bothering you then perhaps you should consult the aid of your friends. I know not how much Equestria has changed but I can infer that things are more lively than when I was there. Trust me when I say it was a darker time back then. What with Discord’s reign of chaos and the whole ordeal with the Crystal Empire and King Sombra along with the sealing of Tirek. All of this happened around a thousand years ago, and from what Spike said, dear Luna becoming Nightmare Moon and being trapped in the moon for a thousand years. Much has happened in my absence, I fear the worst for you Sunset Shimmer, but if you can make it back to Equestria you must do what you can.” “I know, and…what’s Tirek?” “A story for another time. Quickly, make hast, waste no time. You must go if you wish to make it, for I fear that danger will soon spread across this world. If this world falls then Equestria is sure to follow. Then who knows how many other worlds there are out there linked to the mirror you used.” “Wait, wait, slow down. We can do this, I’m sure of it. So long as we have hope everything will turn out just fine.” “Well ah sure hope you’re right about that Sunset, things’ll be gettin’ mighty bad here soon. Don’t know if this place’ll even hold up, with all them students wrapped Adagio’s finger like a lasso ‘round a pup tied to a post." “We can do this girls, if we work together we can do this. Oh and you too Starswirl. Heh.” “I am in no way offended. I simply wish the best of luck to everyone.” Once they checked their belongings, and double checked everything, they set out to Canterlot High. When they got there, students were guarding the statue. “Well this just got a heck of a lot easier. Ah thought that they’d have more than that.” “Maybe they didn’t think that far ahead.” “It doesn’t matter, that just makes our jobs easier. Here we go, be extra quiet. More than usual Fluttershy.” “Oh, um, alright. I’ll do my best.” “Pinkie?” “Okie dokie lokie.” “Rainbow Dash?” “Yeah, yeah I got it. Don’t look at me like that.” “Good. Now we just have to sneak over there so me and Spike can get through the portal. Are you ready Spike?” “As ready as I’ll ever be. Boy will I be glad to go back home.” An image of a manly Spike holding Rarity in his claws played through his head. “Ooo…k then. Let’s go.”
Planning StagesPlanning Stages “Going somewhere?” Adagio’s voice had startled them from behind, each of them spinning around and preparing to defend themselves, mostly. “Honestly, I thought you had a much better plan than to just come here. Trying to use the Statue to get back to Equestria? Hah, a riot. Look at you, you have no Twilight, no princess to save the day, and more importantly…no magic. You six really are…” Her eye caught Starswirl’s hat and robe and her eyes burned with fury. But she kept herself under control. “You. You’re the reason we’re here in the first place.” “Had I known the disaster you’d cause here, to the denizens of this world, I would have tried another method. I’ll not sit idly by as you sow the seeds of discontent throughout here and Equestria. Go, now, hurry.” Starswirl motioned for them to run for it, he’d try to hold her for as long as he could. Adagio merely laughed. “How amusing. I’m not that easily tricked.” At the snap of her fingers the students horded around Starswirl, trapping him. Adagio flew over to the portal and floated in front of the girls and Spike. Rainbow didn’t stop moving, she charged forward and tackled Adagio to the ground. Sunset and Spike took the opportunity and jumped through the portal. “Betcha didn’t see that coming did you?” Adagio scowled and forced Rainbow off of her. She could here Starswirl talking to her. “You cannot predict every outcome, no matter how intellectual you are. Even the brightest of us can be fooled by the simplest of tactics, I am no exception.” “Quiet, I have plans for you, but this is a problem. You’re going to regret opposing us again.” Fluttershy hid behind Rarity while the others tried to form a barricade around them. “Oh, how cute. You just made it easier to capture you. Thanks, I very much appreciate it.” Sunset and Spike had reached the end of the portal and arrived in a group hug from the others. “Twilight, you’re finally back! We were getting worried that you’d be there forever.” “Uh, Pinkie, that ain’t Twilight.” “Now that you’re back we can finally throw that Congratulations on defeating the Dazzlings party.” “It ain’t Twi.” “And we’re going to have so much fun.” “Need…air…Pinkie.” Pinkie released her death grip and took a good look at the pony she’d been strangling. “Oh, hi Sunset. Where’s Twilight, we need to have a Congratulations on defeating the Dazzlings party.” “About Twilight…you see…” Sunset explained how she’d gone missing then reappeared with the Dazzlings and battled against them. She also explained how she felt about her last words to her. “So what you’re saying is…Twilight’s been hypnotized and is being controlled like a sock puppet to do the Sirens’ evil deeds…like a mindless zombie.” “Pinkie Pie, ah don’t think that’s even remotely close to what she’s sayin’, but ah don’t wanna believe what ah’m hearin’. Twi wouldn’t betray her friends like that.” “That’s what we’re all thinking, but it’s true. She…she isn’t the Twilight you knew when she left. She’s one of them now. We were hoping that you guys would maybe be able to snap her out of it, possibly even cure her or change her back. Do you think the elements would work that way?” “Well, you see, we don’t exactly have the Elements of Harmony with us anymore.” “What?” “Even if we did, we wouldn’t be able to use them without Twilight, so…we couldn’t use them to help. I really do wish we could but…” “Oh hum, so our little princess isn’t the same as before. It’s not like the end of the world or anything.” “Discord, please come out.” “Well if you insist Fluttershy.” In a flash Discord appeared in a Hawaiian shirt with sunglasses and a straw hat. He snapped his fingers and the items vanished. “D-D-D-D-D…” Sunset couldn’t believe her eyes. Here he was, the lord of chaos, spirit of disharmony, here in front of her. “Oh I’m not that famous am I? Anything for the adoring fans.” He picked her up and snapped a picture of the two of them. “Discord this is serious. Twilight’s become…she’s…” “Ah yes, Twilight. Well you see I kind of missed the big problem. She’s gone because…” “She went to another world to help her other friends stop the evil sirens but now she’s one of them and now I can’t throw her a congratulation party.” “Wait, did you say sirens? As in three sirens? Oh this is rich.” “You know ‘bout them?” “Do I know about them? Applejack you wound me. Of course I know them. Posers are what they are, trying to cause chaos in my chaos, very rude. But I seem to be missing something, another world?” Sunset finally snapped out of her disbelief. “Yes, another world that’s very similar to this one, except instead of ponies they’re humans.” “Why was I not invited? I thought we went over the whole-“ “That’s not the point Discord. Twilight’s over there as a siren while we’re here sitting on our flanks doing absolute nothing.” “Come now Rainbow, is that anyway to treat a friend? How bad could it be?” “There’s no magic there. Or at least there’s not supposed to be. I…I’m the one that stole her crown and brought magic to Canterlot High in the first place. The sirens are there because of me. If I hadn’t wanted all that power then Twilight wouldn’t have come and brought magic here.” She sighed. “And now she gone. This is all my fault.” “There, there, I’m sure it isn’t entirely your fault.” “D…did you just hold a grudge?” “What, no. I’m sorry if I offended you.” “Oh, no, it’s fine, really. I’m used to it.” “So am I still missing something or are you two done with the mushy gushy moment here?” “Uh, sure.” Spike jumped and called for everyone. “Guys, guys, I have a great idea! What if we bring Twilight here and Discord snaps here back to normal?” “Spike that sounds like an absolutely wonderful idea.” Rarity nuzzled his check as he started floating with hearts around his head. “Yes, yes, except for one intsy little detail…I don’t know if I can.”
Planning Stages part 2“What…what do you mean? You’re Discord, you can do a bunch of stuff that don’t make sense. Why would this be any different?” “Well, you see, I have no idea what my magic will do to a siren. Not even I know what the outcome would be. And that’s saying something.” “He’s right. If Discord doesn’t know what Discord does then Discord can’t Discord a solution to help.” Sunset was a little lost with Pinkie’s words. Applejack explained. “What she’s tryin’ ta say is, If Discord don’t know what he can do then how can he help? Ah think.” “Sounds about right to me.” “But if you can’t help then…” Spikes eyes watered a bit. “Why don’t you just go grab the Elements or something and fix her that way? It certainly sounds like a much better plan than standing there with your eyes open. Of course I know I’m quite charming to look at.” Rainbow rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, yeah a real mare catcher. But I like that idea. Let’s just go in and bust up their whole plan. It’ll be awesome!” “We can’t walk in there right away. At least not without a plan of our own. No Rainbow Dash, charging in there is not a plan.” Rainbow frowned at Sunset and crossed her hooves. “I have an idea. Let’s all go over there, bring her here, throw her a party, and then everything will turn back to normal and Twilight defeats the Dazzlings!” “Pinkie that’s just as bad an idea as Rainbow Dash’s. We need an actual plan, not just an idea of one. Applejack, Rarity, please tell me you have something.” “Sorry, ah got nothin’ that’ll solve this. Nothing Granny can do either. Shoot.” “I apologize as well. I simply can’t think of a way to turn Twilight back into a pony. If Discord doesn’t now then maybe we can ask Princess Celestia for help. She’ll have to know something, right.” “Well it’s worth a shot. How are we going to get to her though?” “Got it covered.” Spike pulled up a paper and a quill dabbed in ink. “So, what do you want me to write?” “But how is that supposed to-“ “Dear Princess Celestia, we need your help. Twi ain’t come back yet and she’s one of them now. You know, a siren. She’s doing somethin’ over there an ah don’t know what, but she ain’t herself from what Sunset’s tellin’ us. If ya know any way to help turn Twi back to normal we’d greatly appreciate it. Your faithful subjects Applejack and the rest.” “And…the…rest. Got it.” Spike blew it into smoke and it flew off. “What? Why did you burn it? What’s the point in writing if she’ll never read it?” “Sunset, dearie. That’s how Twilight and the rest of us keep in touch with the Princesses.” “…Oh. Sorry Spike.” “No problem.” Princess Celestia was sipping on her cup of tea, taking care of some official documents that had recently come up. When would it end? She was grateful that a letter from Spike had arrived to distract her from her work. But once she read it she didn’t know what to feel. She reread the letter over and over again, hoping that she misread something. To her dismay; however, her eyes weren’t lying to her. Luna, sensing something wrong, walked into Celestia’s quarters. “Sister, what ails you?” “It’s…it’s Twilight. She’s been…taken from us, in a sense. Apparently she went through the portal again, to help her other friends. But I’m unsure of what they mean by the sirens. If it’s the same group from a thousand years ago, then it’s all the worse.” “But if it is a different group of sirens it is ok?” “I don’t know what to think. The sirens were bad enough then, and now…I can only hope there’s a way we can help Twilight.” “Agreed, dear sister. We shall not let these monsters harm even the singlest of hairs on her mane, tail, or coat.” “That’s not what I’m afraid of, Luna. I fear that what Applejack means…about being one of them…how could there be another amulet there? There wasn’t supposed to be magic there.” “We will figure out a solution, dear sister. Worry not, for we hath not given up hope. Shall I send for a carriage to bring us to Ponyville?” “Please. I’ll alert the guards that we’ll be heading out, and the others that we will both be there shortly.” “Then I shall make most haste with my movements.” Luna swiftly trotted out the door. Celestia quickly wrote the Elements a note and sent it, calling the nearest guard inside. “Yes, your majesty?” “Luna and I are meeting with the Elements on urgent business, please hold down Canterlot. If you need anything or if my royal duties call just please wait until we return. This is very important.” The guard gave a quick salute. “Yes, your highness. As you wish.” “Then I’m off. Hopefully I can get there before anything worse happens.” “Look, all I’m saying is if we went in there with the party cannon then they’d think we were throwing them a victory party and then we’d all be friends.” “No…Pinkie. That’s not how it would work. Who knows what they’d do to you over there. Trust me, you won’t like it.” Celestia’s letter chose then to pop up, Spike belching it at Sunset’s face. “I’m not sure whether to be happy or disgusted. At least she replied quickly. Let’s see here…coming right away…bringing Luna…hope to clear things up…be there in a little bit, that sounds good. But who’s Luna? She’s the vice principal at Canterlot High, so is she a princess here or…?” “She’s Princess Celestia’s sister. They rescued her when they found the Elements of Harmony. Man, wish I could’ve been there to see it.” “Uh, ok then. Then that’s great, now we’ll have twice the help.” “Though Luna is still getting used to now.” “Yeah, you should’ve seen her the first time she came down here. It was hilarious.” “Rainbow Dash, don’t be rude.” “What?” “The door opened and the Princesses stepped in, making everyone calm down. “Sunset Shimmer.” “Princess Celestia?” “As much as I would like to catch up with you, I do believe that there is something more important at the moment. Applejack, you said something about Twilight.” “Uh, yeah, ‘bout that. You may want to take a seat Princess, it ain’t pretty.”
Planning Stages part 3“Well ya see princess, from what Sunset told us Twi’s been turned into a siren. However the hay that works.” “I don’t understand how it happened. One minute she’s thinking of a way to defeat them the next Pinkie Pie’s telling us she’s with the Dazzlings. How could she have turned so quickly?” Princess Celestia bowed her head. “I am unsure as well, but I have one theory. One thousand years ago, when Starswirl had just banished them, he had mentioned how the sirens were brought into existence. He had discovered that an amulet was responsible for ponies becoming sirens. I’d hoped that he had destroyed them all but…if what you say is true then I have no choice but to believe that he missed one. Oh Twilight…” “Sorry ta interrupt Princess, but ain’t that just somethin’ to put around yer neck. Why not just take it off of her?” “It’s sadly not that simple, Applejack. The amulet changes them, makes them more than what they are. It gives them a lust or hunger for negative emotions. This is going off of what I’ve heard a thousand years ago, I don’t know if it’s true or reliable now but it’s what I have to offer.” “Well, they do absorb some kind of green mist. And that’s after everyone is arguing. I wouldn’t doubt that they feed off of negativity. But what does that have to do with Twilight?” “You’re right. We shouldn’t get distracted. The most important thing is this: the amulet fuses with the pony. There is no simple way, like removing it.” Applejack covered her eyes with hat and apologized. “It’s alright Applejack, I don’t blame you for anything. Nothing but banishment could stop the sirens in the past, what could be done now? The elements are gone, their bearers separated. There is nothing we can do to reverse the effects. We didn’t know then, and we still don’t know now.” “Dear sister, please do not mourn over that which you cannot change. If we knew more than we would gladly aid you. But our knowledge was hindered by the Nightmare Moon incident. Being trapped for one thousand years did nothing to help us. Even though we could see all of Equestria and more.” “I know Luna, but I wish there was some way to figure this out. There has to be something we’re missing. We would have to know the process to reverse it. Something which we have no knowledge of.” “Oh, I have an idea! Pick me, pick me!” “You don’t need our per-“ “Why don’t we go over there, find Twilight, bring her here, and throw her a super duper party. Then she’ll go defeat the Dazzlings and we can have a ‘Hurray You Beat The Sirens’ party.” “That…that’s actually the best plan we have so far. It’s not that bad either. If she sees her pony friends then maybe she’ll snap out of it. Hopefully.” “I agree.” Princess Celestia walked over and looked down to Sunset in a mentor fashion before turning to the rest. “What Pinkie Pie is saying sounds like the best way to get rid of the sirens; however, I fear that Twilight may be lost to us as a pony. Luna and I will try to find something, anything, that could help us get her back to normal. Sunset Shimmer, please bring her back to us.” Celestia did a formal bow, bending her front knees back and putting her head down, and put her horn on both sides of Sunset. “I’m…thank you Princess Celestia. I’ll do everything I can to get Twilight through the portal. You have my word.” “Thank you, Sunset. Now, the rest of you will not go through the portal, understood. Only Spike and Sunset Shimmer are allowed to pass through for this.” “We understand. Ah don’t like it, but whatever you say.” “Yeah, yeah whatever. Guess I’ll just read some Daring Do to pass the time.” “I’ll prepare the party!” “Pinkie dear, I don’t think that’s n-“ Too late, Pinkie was already firing off her party cannon. “Um, I-I think I’ll be fine.” “Well that was a waste of time.” Aria yawned. She thought that beating the Rainbooms would be more fun than that. Oh well, so much that. “Did that really happen though? You were tricked by Rainbow Dash?” “Hey, I expected something more than her simply charging into me.” “But she didn’t.” “I know that.” Adagio said through clenched teeth. They weren’t much of a challenge as they were, but she was satisfied in a way. “Did you honestly expect more from her?” “Do not start with me now. Just focus on taking care of what’s left. The one who banished us to this magic forsaken place.” “Yeah. What should we do with him? Not like he can do much for us. We’ve already tried feeding off of his negative energy, that didn’t work.” “Oh trust me Aria, there are better uses I can think of for him.” “It matters not what you do to me, you will be stopped.” “Hah, says the old man on his knees. You looked better back in Equestria.” Aria taunted him. If Adagio had plans then she had to get a few in now. “I suppose age has taken its toll on me, physically. But you look as though time has danced around you.” “Well I-wait…I know what you’re trying to do. You really think sucking up to me is going to get you out of this?” “You moron, he’s trying to distract us. He’s just buying time for Sunset to do who knows what. The best course of action is to finish the plan.” “Do you even know what we’re doing after all this? What’s the big plan here Adagio?” “He’s right there! I’m not going to talk about my plan right in front of him. Take him somewhere far away from here. I don’t need him mucking up anything.” Adagio sighed. “The gall of some people.” “No matter what you do, Celestia will no doubt have a plan by now. I’ve served my purpose to them.” “You think I’m worried about Celestia? Oh no, she’s far from my first concern. First and foremost, you need to be silenced. Aria.” Aria rolled her eyes and knocked him out. “I’m not your henchman.” “Just get rid of him.”
