Twilight Sparkle: ORIGINS

by Starlight Crusadir

Rating: everyone
Tags: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Other, Nightmare Moon, Adventure, Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Sad, Princess Luna
Length: 11755

What if everything you believed about Twilight Sparkle was actually a lie?

What if everything you believed about Twilight Sparkle was actually a lie?

A new revelation to the Equestrian saga... and its ancient prophecies.

Second edition:
Edited by Alicorn Priest

Published 2015-06-22 14:20:02 UTC
Last updated 2015-08-03 17:43:45 UTC

Chapter One:

Twilight Sparkle: Origins

By Joy M. Thayer

Edited by Alicorn Priest

All characters and places mentioned and their derivatives (with the exception of “Cantilias”, “(the) Enmity”, “Stallionius”, “King Stallionius”, ”Grim Misty”, and “June Majestic”) are property of Hasbro Inc.

Twilight Sparkle… Most would say that she was just a lucky filly who found herself in the right place at the right time.

The best school…

The most perfect parents…

The greatest B.B.B.F.F. that any filly could hope for…

However, little did she know that everything in her life was predestined. Pre-ordained and planned within the span of centuries ago. How this could even be is a tale of great adventure, sorrow, and triumph. A story that goes far beyond what you think you know… and what you think is true.

…That story I will now tell.

“Were you followed?” Starswirl asked as the door opened.

“No… we were very careful.” The sisters said.

“No one can be too careful with the Enmity lurking,” Starswirl said with a sharp tone. His most prized students, Lunasis and Celestias, had returned from a day’s scavenging. They were covered with filth from all of the ravaged area surrounding them.

“Please… quickly clean yourselves up! It is almost dinner time, and I do not want any waste. We can’t afford it!” Starswirl said.

The duo nodded and briskly trotted to the makeshift facilities. Living in the hovel seemed to be much harder since the new addition.

“This recipe has lived up to my expectations!” he said as he took a big spoonful of the boiling pot. Starswirl usually did the cooking, while the sisters spent much of their time looking for anything that would keep them surviving. “I’ll have to remember this one.” The broth was much better than his usual concoctions. He was always experimenting with new ideas for things to eat. Sadly, Lunasis and Celestias were the perpetual victims of his tinkering.

“How was she? Did she give you any fuss?” Lunasis said.

“Good as gold.” Starswirl returned.

Lunasis reappeared clean from the dimly lit surroundings, and reached down into the improvised play-pen sitting in the corner. Her hooves rematerialized, clutching tightly a small, frail foal.

“I missed you so much! I did… yes I did…” Lunasis said playfully as she lifted the bundle high in the air. The babe cooed and gurgled with delight as she swung it in her arms. “I could just eat you all up… yes I could,” Lunasis said as she lovingly embraced her child tightly. Suddenly, her beaming smile began to dissolve into a great sigh of sadness as she caught a glimpse of her husband.

“How much more time?” Lunasis said

“Soon…” Starswirl answered calmly.

“But… I can’t! It will kill me! You know it will.” Lunasis demanded.

“The child will be safe. This is the only way to guarantee her safety…” Starswirl pleaded

“NO!” she stomped.

“But the Enmity will surely come for her… to use her as an Acolyte for evil! She cannot resist!” he returned.

“Something sure smells good!” Celestias said as she appeared from the cleaning facilities. She trotted over to the hearth and took a deep breath. “Basil… and oregano… right?”

“… and some garlic,” Starswirl said as he turned from Lunasis, trying to change the subject. He slowly opened a ramshackle cabinet near the hearth. Then he handed some crude, earthen bowls to Lunasis. “Here… set the table for our meal.” Lunasis could only nod as she set her child back into the pen and grabbed the bowls. She was still visibly upset from their quarrel.

“I can’t wait! We worked so hard today… I’m starving!” Celestias said with a child-like banter. She was usually upbeat, regardless of any hardships or goings-on around them. Lunasis, however, was most commonly the opposite.

“We had some good finds today… many rare plants and herbs for your work,” Lunasis said, trying to look beyond what had happened.

“Oh… good. good. Any plock-weed?” Starswirl asked, not looking up from the liquid bounty of his bowl.

“Yes. And even some black starshade.” Lunasis calmly said.

“Wonderful! This will help immensely! Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Lunasis nodded.

“Soon my barrier spell will be completed, and nothing the Enmity can throw at us will stop us!” Starswirl said with enthusiasm.

“… But what about Twilight?” Lunasis asked, throwing a wet blanket over Starswirl’s musings.

“We have been over this already. She cannot stay because she is defenseless against their dark power. Barrier spell or no barrier spell, she does not have the ability to resist them! They would possess her with darkness and take her from us!” Starswirl said with authority.

“But… I will fight them! Even to my death!” Lunasis screamed with the outcry of a passionate mother as she hit the table.

“What then? If she falls into their hands, all of Equestria is lost! As she grows, she will become powerful—more powerful than all of us! They would use her to destroy us and everyone that would stand against them! We cannot take such a chance!” Starswirl pleaded.

“But… this is my baby! Where would you send her? How long would we wait?” Lunasis said almost heartbroken.

“She’s my child, too… This pains me just as much,” Starswirl said with eyes welling up with tears—“We still have some time. For now, eat. All of us need our strength.”

They sat in solemn quiet, as the babe squeaked and flailed in gleeful simplicity.

“This is really good,” Celestias said, trying to break the icy atmosphere lingering in the air. “I hope there’s enough for another bowl…” she continued with a bubbly candor.

“I hope so…” Starswirl said with a sigh.

Equestria was not always like this. It had been a happy place filled with peace and harmony. Starswirl and his prized apprentices were known throughout the world. His great inventions and magical discoveries had changed the course of history. So much so that he was exalted by the people as their king. Starswirl the Triumphant—first king of the Equestrian North. As with any king, the population created for him a throne and a city exalted upon high called Cantilias. It was a time of great celebration and festivity, with music and dancing throughout the streets.

Even with glorious new surroundings, Starswirl never thought much about it all. That made him all the more honorable among the Equestrian citizens. Their repeated thronging of praise and adoration was usually dismissed with honor and humility. Regardless, his mind was purely focused upon creating a new world filled with fantastic marvels… that and Lunasis.

Lunasis and her sister, Celestias, princesses of the southern lands, had heard of his great fame from the other side of Equestria. Starswirl was seen by them as a great fountain of wizardry and logic to draw from. And because of a demonstration of their own abilities, they were accepted by Starswirl as new apprentices for the Northern Kingdom. However, the sight of Lunasis could do nothing but distract him. Almost instantly, they were enamored with each other. Her apprenticeship soon led to a blessed union in marriage. Their bond created the enjoining of both the Southern and Northern kingdoms as one unified Equestria. It was celebrated throughout all Equestria with intensity and pomp that no one had ever seen before.

These were joyous times…

This was before the Gathering.

This was before the Enmity.

In the days of such plenty, there was one apprentice named Grim Misty who was far too reckless. Starswirl was impressed by the great ability he demonstrated. He believed that it could help so many for good. However in his blind ambition to become like Starswirl, Grim was seduced by dark magic. Starswirl had warned him many times to stay away from the ancient scrolls of the Griffonoth. But… he did not listen. Starswirl’s repeated pleadings fell upon deaf ears, as this arrogant one left Cantilias to be entranced with the dark arts’ blackened charms. Soon… Starswirl’s fears came to fruition. The depths of eternal darkness overcame him and he was forever changed by its evil power. It gave him super strength and a vast power to match the forces of King Starswirl’s mighty army.

But there was a high price…

The cost to be paid was themselves and every nuance of what they once were. His heart was charged with the deadly nightshade of pure malice. His mind was transformed into a force of abomination, where only thoughts of bitterness could live. His body mutated into a form, never before seen. They became exactly what they were: Enmity—pure hatred and scorn, with one undeniable thought… to destroy.

Upon its birth, it first began to gather all of the evil forces that were driven out of Equestria long ago. With terrible power, it made all pledge their allegiance to it, or be consumed. And when its dark forces were amassed, it started its wake of terror and devastation across the entire world. No one, not even Starswirl, could stop them. Those who survived went into hiding, creating a vast underground network far from the vengeful eye of Enmity. However, King Starswirl was ever fearful.

In the days before this apprentice’s departure, who at that point was already well influenced by dark magic; he greatly inquired about the state of Lunasis, who was now with child.

“Lunasis is coming along nicely, isn’t she?” Grim said with a snarl.

“Yes…” Starswirl cautiously said.

“It must be wonderful having a child… A new life to mold. A new impressionable mind to teach… A new soul to take, to shape and guide…” Grim said. He seemed to burn a hole through Lunasis’ belly with his eyes.

These horrible words were etched into Starswirl’s mind with a deep engraving. He could only hope to escape such words of evil every time that he looked at his precious child. To even have a particle of a notion that such hatred would come and take their child was almost too much for him to bear. More than anything, this was what led them to leave the palace throne of Cantilias and go into hiding.

“Did you feed her already?” Lunasis said in a calmed tone.

“Yes… right before you came in.” Starswirl said.

“Good. Thank you. This soup is really wonderful… you did a fine job.” Lunasis said with a glimmer.

“I learned from the best…” Starswirl replied with a boyish smile.

“Yes… you did!” Lunasis said with a laugh.

“Thank you,” Celestias said, trying to butt in on their conversation.

The three laughed together in a moment of release. It was so good to see smiles and youthful silliness again. Just then, their joyful pause was interrupted by a familiar ear-piercing sound.

“It’s your turn to change her…” Starswirl said to Lunasis.

“I don’t mind…” she said, getting up from the table.

Twilight sat crying, looking for someone to rescue her from her discomfort.

“Well… maybe I do,” Lunasis said with a cough, holding her nose. “You’ve been busy, little girly… Woof!”

Celestias and Starswirl could only laugh out loud as Lunasis took her into an adjacent room. They laughed even harder as the other room was filled with Lunasis coughing and gagging.

“I ought to shave that THING off your face when you fall asleep for laughing…” Lunasis said as she quickly returned from her hard labor with child in tow.

“Hey! I like my beard! It makes me look more regal,” Starswirl said, stroking his whiskers.

“I think it makes you look old. Ha! Ha!” Celestias replied with a laugh.

“Queen Lunasis, can I have royal permission to beat your sister?” Starswirl said glaring at Celestias.

“Permission granted,” Lunasis said with an outstretched arm and a giggle.

“Oh, it is ON!” Celestias barked, as she stood from the rickety table.

The two began to play wrestle and try to tickle the other like happy children. They tussled back and forth like brother and sister, and Lunasis and Twilight laughed.

“They are silly aren’t they… silly, silly, silly!” Lunasis said to her daughter playfully.

Twilight giggled and waved her arms furiously in the air, as she was nestled with her mother.

After a few minutes of roughhousing, Lunasis loudly cleared her throat.

“Ok, ok, that’s enough. Twilight has to go to sleepy town,” she said as she set her child on her back in the improvised playpen. She then covered her with a tattered blanket. “Good night, little Twilight. Love you.”—Lunasis gave her a kiss—“Have the bestest dreams ever.”

The two ruffians quickly got up from the ground and dusted themselves off. Then, they systematically began to clear the table and wash the dishes. Lunasis dried them and put them all away. This was their usual nightly routine, which they had been doing for some time now. None of them particularly liked the hovel, but they always made do with it.

Soon, it was “sleepy town” for everyone. Celestias took her place on the ragged couch next to Twilight’s playpen. In an adjacent room, Starswirl and Lunasis snuggled close together in their dilapidated bed. They had to, or else they would probably fall to the floor during the night.

“Do you remember when I had Twilight?” Lunasis whispered to her husband with a giggle.

“How could I forget?! I honestly thought that your dad was going to punch me in the hospital because I didn’t get you ice fast enough! I still think he was more nervous than I was. And that… that green and orange THING that Celestias was wearing. I don’t think I’ll ever forget that!” Starswirl said playfully.

“Oh stop!” —Lunasis laughed—“I mean, do you remember when she arrived all bundled up snuggly, and she had that soft cry that was so cute.”

“Of course, I remember. I have never been prouder.” Starswirl said.

“I think about those times a lot…” Lunasis said with a hint of sorrow.

“So do I...” Starswirl said with a deep sigh.

“Goodnight Star…”

“Goodnight Lunasis…”

Soon, the entire hovel was silent as everyone took their rest.

Chapter Two:

The next morning, Celestias was awoken like usual; by the light piercing through the small cracks in the walls.

“You slept all night… big girl.” She whispered to herself looking down in the makeshift playpen. Twilight was still asleep, twitching slightly as she was having a dream. Celestias looked towards the small bedroom and could see that the couple was still asleep as well. She thought hard about what childish prank that she could play on them. However, the tranquil scene had the best of her, as she again closed her eyes.

Suddenly… everyone shot awake because of a massive booming sound outside.

“STARSWIRL! COME OUT AND FACE ME!”

Starswirl fell out of the bed and hit the floor hard.

“The enmity! It’s here! Quickly, grab Twilight and go through the escape, into the caves!

I… I will meet you there after the charges are set. Now GO!” Starswirl ordered in a panic.

“No…” Lunasis firmly said.

“I’ll have time to gather up what we need…” Starswirl continued without paying any attention.

“NO!” Queen Lunasis bellowed as she snatched up her daughter from the playpen.

“But… my barrier spell. Our lives…”

“No… Starswirl! No more running! We make our stand here!”–Lunasis demanded with a look of anger. She all of a sudden, handed over Twilight to her husband. “Here… take Twilight and DO IT. You’re right! THIS is the only way to keep her safe from that lunatic!!!”

“I have no control over how long… how far into the future it will send her.” Starswirl said with a somber look

“I would wait forever…” Lunasis said as tears began to form in her eyes.

“I know… and so would I.” Starswirl said with a great sigh.

The parents were both filled with sorrow and tears as they beheld their precious foal for the last time.

“I love you Twilight Sparkle. Daddy will miss you.”

“I love you Twilight… I will hold you again real soon my love… love you.”

Their tears dropped in procession as if they were raindrops falling from a great cloud burst.

“Shut… shut all the inner doors and do not enter while I do this.” Starswirl said as he slowly walked away.

“Bye… my precious angel.” Lunasis said with a howling scream of pain, as she closed the doors behind them.

He quickly sat Twilight down upon a small table and began his enchantment. The room was filled with hues of crimson and orange as Starswirl deeply concentrated. His horn radiated with lightning-like electricity that pulsed with great intensity. With such power, the babe started to levitate in the air, towards the center of the room. She cooed with delight as she started to spin faster and faster. The hues of color began to grow in magnitude and deepen in complexity. Suddenly, a great eye-piercing light appeared in the midst and slowly enveloped the child.

“I LOVE YOU!” Starswirl cried out as the light fully engulfed her.

With a great blast of illumination, the portal closed and Twilight Sparkle disappeared. Abruptly, all of the colors in the room vanished as well. Within moments, everything was as before except for Starswirl’s broken heart.

“It is finished… now, no one can harm her. And… and we will all reunite one day.” Starswirl spoke with great sadness as he opened the door. Celestias and Lunasis were huddled into the corner, crying and trying to console one another. However, their tears of sadness morphed into tears of rage, as once again they could hear the sadistic call of what awaited them just outside.

“STARSWIRL!!! COME AND FACE ME, COWARD!!!” the Enmity again bellowed.

In a rage, Starswirl quickly unbolted the heavy entrance door and kicked it open, hard enough that one of the hinges broke from the force.

“TODAY… THE KING RUNS NO MORE!!!” He screamed with authority.

Suddenly, a twinge of great fear overtook Starswirl as he could fully see the forces gathered outside. There were thousands of armed combatants, all under the Enmity’s dark control. Each one was poised to strike with a mere wave of its hand.

“This is your final warning Starswirl… I grow tired of your exodus. Bow in obeisance and pledge your throne and crown eternally to me, and I will let you live!” the Enmity echoed.

“NEVER!!!”—Starswirl bellowed with rage, stomping the ground.

“THEN… YOU SHALL DIE!!!”

Suddenly, the great Alicorns of the Southern Kingdom appeared over the horizon.

“ENMITY! WE END THIS NOW!!!” King Stallionius screamed with a battle cry of the ages.

The Enmity and it legions quickly turned to engage the onslaught of armored Alicorn Warriors.

“How?!” Starswirl cried out in astonishment.

“You’re not the ONLY one who can use magic! I CALLED DADDY! Don’t just stand there… ATTACK!!!” Celestias squalled in rage and she flew into the battle.

Lunasis emitted a howl of fire as she rushed past Celestias.

“FOR TWILIGHT!!!” she cried.

The Enmity and its forces fought with sheer brutality, being enhanced by its dark power. King Stallionius and his brave warriors relentlessly attacked with swords drawn. They were continually beaten back, not able to advance. Starswirl engaged the Enmity itself with a massive flurry of storm-like charges. Lunasis and Celestias did the same with intensity.

Parry after parry, they flew and discharged their magical artillery at the Enmity and its legions. Sadly, they did not fall or even flinch into their direction. In spite of great power, they dismissed the trio without harm, and were still preoccupied with King Stallionius and his men.

“NOTHING’S WORKING!!!” Lunasis screamed in the midst of the battle to her husband.

“COMBINE!!!” he shouted with military precision.

The three quickly departed from the heat of the warfare and huddled together.

“Do it… just like I taught you!” Starswirl demanded.

The three touched their horns together, and began to shimmer with great illumination. Above their heads, an enormous ball of energy began to grow larger and larger.

“I can’t… I can’t hold it” Celestias said in fear

“YES YOU CAN! JUST A FEW MORE SECONDS!” Starswirl shouted.

“NOW!!!” He screamed, as they all three released their magical grip.

The ball of pure energy flew with breakneck speed through the air.

It radiated its electricity with intense velocity and created a massive shockwave of sound.

Suddenly, it breached its defenses, and hit the Enmity hard into its back. It knocked it, in so much that it flipped end over end; slamming hard to the ground below.

“ATTACK!!!” The three howled in unison. They rushed as fast as they could, and reengaged the dark forces of the enmity. Now unprotected, one by one they fell at the hand of King Stallionius and his valiant warriors. After a short time, what once seemed like a blistering display of military might was utterly decimated at the hands of Equestria.

“COWARDS!!!” King Stallionius shouted as many of those left, began to run in fright. The forces of evil were rocked to their foundation by the wake of such passion and valor. Stallonius laughed with delight as several of his men pursued those fleeing. This was a victorious campaign for all of Equestria.

“Where were you during all of this?” Stallonius said to his son-in-law with a smile, as he emerged.

“Hey! We blasted the stuffing out of that fool!” Starswirl said with a flustered look.

“My daughters blasted that ‘fool’ as you say… you merely assisted.” Stallonius said with a bellowing of deep laughter. Starswirl could only shake his head with a smile. “This is a great day for all of Equestria.” King Stallionius said, as he surveyed the entire battle field.

“Daddy!” Lunasis shouted with joy as she came near.

Without warning, a sword flew at Starswirl with great speed.

“WATCH… OU…” King Stallionius shouted as he pushed Starswirl to the ground. Suddenly, he slumped forward as the sword stuck into his chest.

“DADDY!!!” Lunasis screamed with all her might.

Just then, the Enmity re-emerged and magically retrieved the sword from his chest.

“YOU SHOULD HAVE LISTENED, STARSWIRL!!!” The Enmity shouted.

Starswirl and Lunasis quickly retreated in fear. The wicked one menacingly followed, with the sword hovering in the air.

“I HAVE SOMETHING FOR YOU, STARSWIRL… AND YOUR WIFE!!!” it said with great sadism and calculation, seemingly enjoying the situation.

Seeing the commotion from a distance, Celestias dashed to her Father’s side.

“Daddy… Daddy… NO!” she said with great tears.

“I love you and Lunasis so much… You knew this day would eventually come…” King Stallionius said with a gurgle of blood.

“NO Daddy… I can’t…” Celestias said with frailty.

“No Celestias… no time for tears.” King Stallionius said, wiping her cheek.

With a labored breath he tensed his entire body for one last call.

“FOR EQUESTRIA!!!” he shouted, and then passed away.

Celestias grabbed him tightly and softly cried. Within seconds, her tears became vehement fire. She was filled with great anger as she looked down at her father’s fallen sword. She then turned and could see in the distance the Enmity moving ever closer to the trapped couple. She all of a sudden, gently pushed aside her father and grabbed his sword with a swipe of intensity.

With the Enmity’s back exposed and its forces of evil diminished, Celestias could see her opportunity. She wielded with mighty rage, her father’s fallen sword. Quickly, she dashed into the air with everything in her being. She flew with mind-numbing speed by a charge of enormous inner power. And with a primal scream and a heave of brute strength, she thrust her father’s sword with all of her might deeply into its back. She did it, with so much fury; that it went completely through its blackened form and penetrated the other side.

Suddenly, a massive concussive force knocked Celestias hard to the ground.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!”—the Enmity screamed with the ear-piercing wail of a mythological siren. Its entire body convulsed violently as a flurry of charges shot from its frame like lighting. Without warning, the sky filled with a spirit of blistering flame that blocked the entire Equestrian sun. All the land of Equestria trembled with the shudder of a massive earthquake. The Great buildings crumbled with ease, in the wake of such chaotic power. The entire heavens were suddenly scrambled as mind-numbing energy was released all at once. Without warning, Enmity was fully engulfed with hellfire and destroyed once and for all.

And with its destruction, all of Equestria’s frail balance went with it. The whole of Equestria was left barren and ravaged. Such dark power left the entire kingdom devastated, with no balance of harmony. Its tender precision was rocked hard to the point that neither sun nor moon would rise. All the land was left in a dangerous state of flux, that if ignored would cause total annihilation.

Chapter Three:

Among those small groups that had survived, word quickly spread about Princess Celestias’ heroism and King Stallionius’ death. Those people converged out of hiding, upon the plains where this great battle had taken place. There, they buried all that were lost. Later, they erected a great monument upon King Stallionius’ grave that still stands to this very day. However, for the royal trio; there was no time for mourning.

Starswirl almost immediately went to work trying to restore Equestria’s precious balance. With tireless research, he filtered through the written works of the Great Alicorns of the past. Soon, he learned that with the right elemental forces in place, Equestria could heal itself and regain its harmony.

As it is written among the articles of Flyter the Brave:

“… Harmonious equity shalt be regained when the elmnets are combined forthwith. The elmnets consist of a Ruby of ruddy fire, a Garnet like the falling sun, an Amatist of purpled or greenish hue, an Aquamarine of deepest blue, and a Topaz of pale coral. These shalt wax strong and wilt make thy parity throughout.”

Upon this news, Lunasis and Celestias searched diligently over the entire land of Equestria, for the right elements meeting Starswirl’s direction. They found several good examples, but most were not of the quality they needed. As they hunted, Starswirl studied and experimented without sleep or even stopping. Many of his advisors pleaded with him to rest, but he would only refuse. Finally, after many days of quest, Lunasis and Celestias found everything that he commanded and reassembled together.

In spite of King Starswirl’s powerful magical skill, Celestias was still filled with doubt:

“Starswirl… the spell is not ready.” Celestias said with great concern.

“It has to be… or all that we fought for will be lost. There must be a balance of harmony in Equestria, or Equestria will destroy itself! If… we don’t starve to death first!” Starswirl said with frustration.

“But… more time. The scrolls spoke of a hidden, Sixth element...” Celestias questioned.

“Mere Prophesies!!! No! The more days we wait, the more it collapses into chaos! We can wait no more! Are the elemental stones in place?!” Starswirl yelled in frustration and sleeplessness.

“Yes… they have been gathered. These are the finest examples that we could find.” Lunasis said with an equal concern for her husband.

“Good… quickly stand in the circle of the stones. You will both feel the power of the elements as they make their transference. But, I assure you, no harm shall come to either of you.” Starswirl demanded.

“Why do you need us!?”—Celestias said, with a hint of fear.

Because of his tireless work without rest, Starswirl was immediately filled with anger and great agitation at such an outburst. Then, after a few seconds he found his composure and spoke calmly.

“I’m sorry… none of this is your fault. To answer your question, it is because you must be conduits that the harmony stones can flow into. In turn, you will take a daily part in restoring Equestria’s balance. Only those of a true and noble heart can be filled with such power. Any negative energy whatsoever will be rejected and cast off by the elements. If you feel in your hearts that you are not able… we will search for another. However, I know of no one more virtuous and good and giving, than the two of you.” Starswirl spoke dejectedly, drooping his head towards the ground.

After a few moments of pause, the sisters nodded.

“We’re ready.” They spoke in unison as they entered the circle of stones.

“Ok… shut your eyes. You will begin to feel a great sensation all over your body. Then, you will feel an emptying, as if you are leaving behind everything in this world. Do not be afraid or let anything cause your hearts to turn.” Starswirl said.

“We begin now…”

Starswirl began to deeply concentrate as he continually repeated his spell in his mind. After a few moments, one of the harmony stones glimmered and shone with a bright ruby red hue. Suddenly, it fired a beam of light into the next element causing it to shine its pinkish tone. The two beams, arrowed their light into the blue-aqua colored element, causing it to dazzle its prismatic shade. After a second, the three transmuted their glare into the stone of purple, causing it to build into enormity. Then in a display of wonderment, the prism of awe-inducing light converged into the Orange element making it explode into the air with color, taking the sisters with it.

Celestias and Lunasis swirled and tossed in the vortex of pure lucent radiance. Its velocity increased as the seconds passed, causing them to scream out with a howl of terror. Without warning, the light force burst with the intensity of the greatest of arc lamps. Starswirl immediately turned his head and was temporarily blinded by the aurora of sheer luminosity. After a few moments, the sisters rapidly began their descent and were set upright in momentum, as the light was reabsorbed by the harmony stones.

Their eyes were blinded by the intense wave of white magic that overwhelmed their entire being. Suddenly, their cutie marks of old were changed into ones of grand legend. Celestias’ had changed from one of royalty to a blazing depiction of the Equestrian sun. It glimmered and pulsed with light, as if it were alive. Lunasis’ changed as well from the marks of regality, into a grand presentation of the Equestrian moon. The opalescent glow that shone from it, seemingly danced upon whatever it came in contact with.

All of a sudden, their eyesight returned and their minds and hearts were filled with a new destiny. Without even thinking, Celestias flew with new speed towards the Sun. Lunasis did the same towards the moon. In sync with the other, the two sister’s raised the sun and lowered the moon with the utmost in precision. They did so with new, strange magic that even King Starswirl had no knowledge of. After it was done, they returned to the castle to an awestruck king beholding them.

“That… that was amazing!”—Starswirl said in great wonderment—“… and… and you… you look amazing!”

Along with enormous new magical ability, they had also grown in stature and muscularity.

“I mean… look at you! You look like you could take on an entire army!”

The sisters looked at themselves and each other in wide-eyed bewilderment.

“WOW! Forgive me Lunasis… you have always looked beautiful. But now… WOW! TOTAL KNOCKOUT!” Starswirl said almost tripping over himself.

“Hey! What about me?!” Celestias quipped with a sharp tone.

“Um… you look HOT!” Starswirl stated without forethought.

“HOT?!” Queen Lunasis said with a perturbed look.

“Um… I’m digging a hole here… aren’t I?!” Starswirl said in embarrassment.

The two sisters laughed furiously at his dumbfounded pandering. As they laughed in joyous release, Lunasis noticed something special.

“LOOK!” she said pointing at the ground. All around them, tender plants began to shoot forth out of the ground. The crops in the fields started to grow. The grass began to rise to meet the new day. The trees began to turn from their point of withering away, and started to turn towards the sun. What was once a sign of imminent decay; was now one of restoration and new hope.

“The elements are working! Since the sun and the moon are now in their proper place, harmony and order are slowly being restored!” Starswirl said, almost leaping into the air in excitement. As they stood by in glee, other ponies began to appear from their ravaged dwellings in equal astonishment and high spirits. Many of them began to shed tear of joy, knowing they had lived to see a new time of peace in Equestria.

In the days that followed, there was great feeling of celebration throughout the land of Equestria. The people began to rebuild with fervor of gladness. Soon… much of Equestria as well as Cantilias was restored to its former glory. Also, the restoration extended to the hovel they had used for hiding. King Starswirl had the hovel’s restoration commissioned without telling anyone about Twilight’s disappearance. He said it should be restored “for a place of remembrance and memorial” and “guarded around the clock.” But, it was actually done in secret for Twilight’s sake. The reason that no one was told why, was in case there was ever another uprising of the Enmity’s dark power.

Everyone wanted to celebrate this time with music and dance and illumination, but before any celebratory mirth could commence; the whole of Equestria knew that something primarily had to be done. For the first time, the trio felt they had the liberty to grieve and pay their respects to the fallen. Many people had laid wreaths and other decorations upon all of the graves in the former field of battle. King Stallionius’ monument was adorned in costly array and overlaid in pure gold. All three wept as they huddled together and looked upon such skilled mastery for the first time.

“He saved my life… I owe him everything. I only hope to ever become the kind of king that he was. For Equestria…” Starswirl said with tears in his eyes, as he saluted.

“I miss you Daddy so much…” Lunasis said. This was all she could speak in the midst of her great sorrow. Starswirl cradled her close as she cried.

“Daddy, you didn’t die in vain. I wish you could see all that has happened. Almost all has been restored and the people are happy again. That was always the one thing you wanted most… everyone to be happy and live in peace. It’s happened. Oh! If only you could see it. You would love every single moment of it… I love you and miss you so much.” Celestias said wiping away her tears.

Lunasis suddenly turned around and peered towards the mountainous terrain. She stared hard at the hovel in the far distance.

“She will come back soon…” Celestias said consoling her sister.

Just then, Starswirl’s entire appearance changed.

“If I hadn’t been so willing… none of this would have ever happened. It’s all my fault. All of it. Everything from Twilight to these brave men’s graves… it’s all my fault!” Starswirl said weeping profusely and falling to the ground. He broke down heaving in the dust, as great sorrow overtook his heart.

“No Star… no. no. None of us can predict the future. You couldn’t have known what would have happened. You were only doing what you have always done… seeking the good. No… you are a good man… A good man.” Lunasis pleaded through her own tears, trying to bring some comfort. Starswirl continued to wail in the dust, tossing to and fro in pain.

“HE DIED BECAUSE OF ME!” Starswirl moaned without consolation. His tears became many craters of dust upon the ground. He was overwhelmed with sadness to the point of sheer lunacy.

After a few minutes, Queen Lunasis’ tears morphed into a look of disgust.

“Enough, Star…”

Starswirl’s demeanor did not change at her words, as he continued to bewail and cry. Suddenly with a commanding heave, Lunasis reached down and righted Starswirl upon his feet. She then slapped him hard across the face.

“ENOUGH, D**N IT! ENOUGH!!!” she shouted with authority.

Starswirl was startled by her stark presentation, and quickly stopped crying.

“YOU ARE A KING… A KING OF EQUESTRIA! IF YOU CARE AT ALL ABOUT THE BRAVE SOULS THAT GAVE THEIR LIVES HERE… THEN ACT LIKE IT!!!” She said, face to face with her husband. She suddenly pushed him aside and started walking.

“DADDY DIDN’T DIE, SO SOME CHUMP CAN SIT ON HIS THRONE…” Lunasis loudly barked as she walked away. She did so with fierceness in her stride. Celestias’ eyes greatly widened as she briskly walked to keep up with her sister. Starswirl could only stand motionless thinking hard about what was said… and watching them trot out of sight.

In the weeks that followed, Starswirl became the king that Lunasis demanded, and the people greatly desired. He personally overseen the rest of the restoration work, and created new industries at the same time. Massive harvests yielded their bounty under his rule, and no poor or starving existed. His hand was quick to reward the righteous, and his hand of judgment fell swift upon all who committed evil. He ruled for the good of all, and Lunasis was so proud of him.

After all of the restoration throughout Equestria was completed, he mandated there would finally be a grand celebration of victory for all people. Everyone was abuzz with activity in preparation. In front of Starswirl’s castle, the master builders crafted a grand podium that would be the focal point of the festivities. The anticipation swelled even more, after it was known that King Starswirl would make a royal decree during the jubilation. People throughout Equestria were filled with wonder and speculation, trying to discern whatever it could be.

Soon… it was the eve of the victorious commemoration, celebrating Equestria’s triumph over evil. All the people in Equestria were assembled in Cantilias for this grand event. They surrounded the podium and were as far as the eye could see from its frame. Suddenly, with much pomp King Starswirl appeared from an inner chamber onto the grand podium. He proceeded slowly in full regalia with a jeweled crown upon his head. Behind him were Lunasis and Celestias who were dressed in the finest gowns that could be found in Equestria. They both grandly wore the encrusted tiaras of royalty. Following them was select members of the Equestrian guard, carrying on a golden bier; the remains of King Stallionius’ sword. It was the same exact sword that Celestias had wielded and destroyed the Enmity.

When they were in their positions, the crowd hushed awaiting whatever would happen next. After a few moments of silence, King Starswirl slowly walked over to the bier. Starswirl then took the worn remains of King Stallionius’ sword and lifted it high in the air.

He then turned and faced the sisters.

“Please bow before your king…” he said with a calm demeanor.

They quickly complied, prostrating themselves before him.

Starswirl then spoke in a loud voice, to be heard by all:

“With the sword of the King… the same sword that led Equestria to its victory over those who would destroy us all, I royally decree and do this now…”

“From this moment on I make this Royal acclamation that you shall never again be known by your former names. For that time of dark history has passed us all. Now… you shall walk in the glory of a new Equestria!”

King Starswirl suddenly touched the tip of the charred sword on the top of Celestias’ head.

“Arise! Princess Celestia- immortal ruler of the Equestrian Day!”

He then touched it to Lunasis’ head.

“Arise! Queen Luna—immortal empress of the Equestrian Night!”

With a turn, he then readdressed the massive crowd.

“This is my royal decree to all citizens of Equestria—these shall rule over the Elements of Harmony, and upon the throne of King Stallionius their father, and over the whole of Equestria, and over the powers of the everlasting sky… To keep their balance of peace and order with all vigilance, from henceforth to forever!”

The people suddenly erupted in a thunderous display of cheering and rejoicing throughout Cantilias. Fireworks and cannon blasts polluted the air with great flash and noise. In the sheer commotion of all the excitement, Luna and Celestia looked at each other. They equally were astonished at such a decree as this. They were greatly puzzled, because it seemed as if King Starswirl was abdicating his own throne.

In the midst of such newness and mirth, Starswirl greatly played to the crowd. He was seen constantly waving and smiling. In spite of such quandary from his decree, Celestia and Luna did the same. Everyone continued to cheer and dance about with joy. After several minutes from his address, King Starswirl lowered his arms and stopped waving to the crowd. The people’s smiles all at once left them as something was visibly wrong. Starswirl was suddenly filled with malaise, almost to the point of collapse. The people loudly gasped as he slumped upon the podium, dropping the sword to the floor.

“Star… STAR!” Queen Luna screamed as she rushed to her husband’s side.

Seeing the commotion, Celestia grabbed him keeping him from falling.

“You were right Celestia… you were right—the spell was not ready.” Starswirl said gasping.

“I don’t understand… it worked! We’ve restored harmony throughout Equestria!” Celestia said righting him.

“Yes, you both have… and will continue to… in your reign… in my passing.” He said with great labored breathing.

“What do you mean!?” Luna said with great stress in her voice.

“I cannot hold it off much longer… I feel my strength failing me.”

“We can… can…” Celestia stammered, trying to find words to say.

“No! There is nothing that can be done… I am slowly being drawn away to another world… The Elements of Harmony are dividing my power… and taking it from me… Both of you shall become more powerful than ever.” King Starswirl said with much difficulty.

“YOU CANNOT LEAVE ME! I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT YOU!” Luna cried out with passion.

“Soon… there will be nothing left of my power, and I will be cast out of Equestria. Where to… I know not.” Starswirl said as he suddenly collapsed to the ground, with his crown falling from his head.

Luna swooped down and tightly grabbed ahold of him.

“Forever, keep your hearts from evil.” He said with frailty

“NO! I LOVE YOU, I CAN’T LOSE YOU TOO!!!” Luna frantically screamed as great drops fell from her eyes.

“Don’t cry Lunasis… Twilight will be home soon.” Starswirl said, looking deeply into Luna’s eyes as he faded away.

Suddenly, he dissipated into vapor and his magical force was quickly absorbed by all of the harmony stones. Without warning, in rapid-fire succession each element fired a great beam of light and converged together into two massive beams. The two beams appeared from the secret place where the elements were kept, and surrounded Luna and Celestia with paralysis. Their enormous energy quickly lifted the sisters high into the air. They engulfed them in rays of dynamic light, and caused them to be filled with all the magical powers of the ancient Alicorns of the past.

“Equestria is yours… guard her well.” A voice loudly bellowed, as if it came from the annals of time. This eternal force of light radiated throughout both of them. It continued to do so, even after the elements had stopped their transfer and placed the sisters gently back on the floor of the podium.

“NO!!! NO NO NO NO!!!” Luna screamed with the pangs of great sadness, as she tried to run. Celestia grabbed her and held her down as they both intensely cried. “STAR!!! NO!!!” Luna howled as she struggled to try to break away from Celestia’s grip. They wept profusely knowing that Starswirl was gone, and would never return.

“SHE SAID IT WASN’T READY!!!

SHE SAID IT!!!

WHY DIDN’T YOU LISTEN, STAR!!!

WHY!!! WHY!!!” Luna yelled at the sky, with tears continually rolling from her eyes.

The two could only sit on the ground huddled together, crying in each other’s arms. No amount of new magic or power, kingdom or castle, could take the place in either of their hearts for their loss. The people were greatly moved and their rejoicing immediately changed into wails of sadness. What was to be a new age, suddenly became that of mourning. It was then said among the people (and still to this day) that King Starswirl was the last casualty of the great Equestrian war.

Chapter Four:

In the months that preceded, Queen Luna could say nothing. Each night, she could only find the inner strength to raise the Equestrian moon and then quickly sink back into a place of solitude upon her throne. Her only deviance from this pattern was the daily report upon the arrival of Twilight. A guardsman was stationed at the old hovel, with the singular commission to stay and watch for a baby foal. Sadly, she sank deeper and deeper with each passing day, as there was still no child reported to be found.

One morning after Celestia’s rise of the Equestrian sun, Queen Luna broke her silence:

Luna stood upon the balcony adjacent to the throne room. She was looking down at all of the faithful subjects, tending to their wares. On a daily basis, many would rise to greet Celestia with cheers and waves as she returned to the castle. Princess Celestia bubbled with glee as she saw her sister standing there to greet her.

“Luna! You’re up! It has been so long since I have seen you… well… UP!” Celestia said with excitement.

“I grow tired of their adoration for you.” Luna sharply stated as she turned to walk back inside the throne room. Just as before, Luna reclaimed her seat upon her throne. She continued to glare towards the balcony, with a disgusted look.

“What are you talking about sister!? They adore the peace and harmony WE created for everyone!” Celestia said with concern.

“No… you are wrong! Look out there at how all the people love you! Only you! There is no love for me… there is only sorrow. The sorrow of my loss! The sorrow of my anguish! The sorrow of the night!” Queen Luna screamed with a hateful tone.

“Luna… you’re scaring me.” Princess Celestia said, with a look of genuine fear for her sister.

Suddenly, Queen Luna’s heart was blackened with misery and she was overtaken by darkness. Her enormous grief for her loved ones, became hatred and jealousy bound in the depths of her heart. She hated her sister and her kingdom, because of the great sadness that she bore inside. Rapidly, she arose from her throne and was transfigured by her affliction in the sight of Celestia.

“Don’t be scared fair Celestia! I will shroud the world in eternal night and then all shall know the depths of my pain and nightmare!!! I AM SORROW!!! I AM NIGHTMARE MOON!!!”

She dashed with fury into the sky and reclaimed the darkened night to fall upon all of Equestria. Everypony was filled with fear and bewilderment as they could see this strange, darkened figure in the sky holding the Equestrian moon in place. All of the land was black, much darker than it had ever been before.

Celestia rushed from the palace to confront her sister.

“LOWER THE MOON! NOW!” Celestia demanded with anger.

“NEVER!!!”

As Princess Celestia pleaded with her sister, the moon’s draw was enhanced by the powers of Nightmare Moon. It began to strongly affect all of the many shores of Equestria. As the hours passed without truce from Luna’s wicked obsession, the great tides began to flood throughout the land. Their waters began to wreak havoc upon all of the cities, destroying buildings and toppling everything in its path.

“YOU ARE GOING TO KILL EVERYONE!!!” Celestia screamed.

“YES! I KNOW! ISN’T IT WONDERFUL SISTER!?” Nightmare Moon said with sadistic glee.

“YOU LEAVE ME NO CHOICE!” Celestia yelled with passion.

Celestia flew with all of her might to the castle. She quickly gathered each one of the elements of Harmony from their secret place, and wielded them before her like a mighty sword. Then she dashed back to her sister, much faster than she had ever flown before.

“LOWER THE MOON! THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE!” Celestia screamed.

“NO! THEY MUST ALL TASTE OF MY EMPTINESS!” Nightmare Moon said with arrogance.

“I WILL USE THE ELEMENTS OF HARMONY TO TRANSFER YOUR POWERS FROM YOU.

THEIR POWER WILL RAISE THE MOON IN YOUR ABSENCE!

YOU WILL BECOME IMPRISONED BY THEM… BY YOUR OWN HATRED!” Celestia cried as great sadness began to overtake her.

“HA! HA! IMPOSSIBLE!

I AM NIGHTMARE MOON!

NOTHING CAN STOP ME!” Nightmare Moon scoffed with laughter.

“I’m sorry, Luna…” Celestia said as tears dropped from her eyes.

Suddenly, Princess Celestia used her great magic to surround Nightmare Moon with the Elements. One by one, they emitted their light force and used their power to entrap her into a web of massive electricity. Slowly, they pulled Luna towards the moon.

“NEVER!!! I AM… NIGHT… AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!”

The harmony stones’ force overwhelmed Nightmare Moon’s dark magic and confined her to the surface of the moon. Her own sorrow that had transformed her… had also made a prison for her. Celestia cried out with great intensity, knowing there would be no escape or reprieve for over One Thousand years. Her absolution from the lunar chains she formed for herself could only happen, when the right alignment of celestial bodies returned in the heavens.

“WHY… LUNA… WHY?!” She howled loudly, in so much that the citizens below heard her and began to weep themselves. The harmony stones quickly began to lower the moon in Luna’s stead and the light returned. As it lowered, the floods subsided and once again there was calm in Equestria. However, this was far from a day of any form of gladness. This was a dark day of mourning throughout the land.

Celestia slowly returned to the palace with the Elements. She then slammed each one into their secret place and sealed it shut… to be forgotten. In rage, she tore off the great curtains adorning the walls on by one. She suddenly draped them over Luna’s throne. Then in silence… she covered her own.

“LUNA!!!!” She suddenly screamed with howling pain. She blasted each massive window with her magic, smashing them into pieces. “LUNA!!! Luna… why?!” She sobbed till her throat was sore, covering her head and lying on the floor.

From this moment, for Seventeen years no one sat upon an Equestrian throne.

Celestia retreated into the solitude of the castle. The emptiness she felt inside was immense. She was rarely seen by anyone, except for her daily rise of the Equestrian sun. However, everyone knew of her pain and anguish. They had empathy for her heartbreak and loss. They understood her great sacrifice for Equestria. Because of this, the citizens grew to care for Celestia as if she was their own daughter. They truly cared for her well-being and wanted to see her once again flourish, sitting on her rightful throne.

The people knew that Cantilias was only a source of pain and heartache for Celestia. Because of their great love for their Princess, they sought her commission to build a new city for her reign. After many months of pleading, she relented only upon one condition—this new city would be built on top of their former place of hiding. This was done secretly by her, in the hope that if and when Twilight returned, she would be there to receive her.

The great engineers and thinkers of Equestria converged upon the rocky terrain and worked diligently to create a city worthy of Celestia. To do so, however was to be a great challenge. They worked tirelessly raising beams of metal and moving tons of hardened rock. Their love for her and their country was so strong, that many would not rest or even eat at all. Some collapsed in the harsh environment, giving everything they could; only to be taken to makeshift infirmaries. Still others, in their blind devotion for the Princess; had to be eventually forced from their workstations by Equestrian Guardsmen, because they refused to leave.

After Two and a Half years of hard labor by thousands, The Princess finally came to christen this glorious place built in her honor. The people shouted and cheered as her processional flew over them and into the shining palace. All of the people were assembled and bowed towards her as she took her place on the grand balcony, overlooking them all. Celestia’s eyes widened as she deeply realized what a great responsibility to her people that was set before her. After a few deep breaths, she spoke.

“It is my royal decree that from this time forward, this great city shall be known as Canterlot. That Mares and Gentlecolts, Earth ponies and Pegasi, Unicorn and Alicorn shall forever walk its roads in peace and harmony! Long live Canterlot!!!”

“LONG LIVE CANTERLOT!!!” All the people shouted with great gladness. There were suddenly fireworks and cannon blasts. There was an endless stream of confetti and glitter that filled the air. Cheering and music! Laughter and joy! It was the most amazing sight that had ever been before in the land of Equestria.

(The day became to be celebrated annually with a grand ball gala, later known more generically as the “Grand Galloping Gala.”)

This was a wonderful day of celebration that shook Princess Celestia to her core. To endure so much, only to be loved by so many, seemed to be without just cause. Her eyes welled up with tears as she wished that her sister and father could be there by her side. The great wars were over that claimed so many thousands, and now there was only peace throughout all of Equestria. Yet, even in such mirth and happiness there was a part of Celestia that could not rest.

“Twilight…” Celestia whispered as she looked towards the sky. Even when she wielded the Harmony stones, she could understand Luna’s great pain. However, looking again upon the joyful people she knew that she had to rule for the good of all Equestria. What was done… was done. Nothing could change what had happened. She could only go forward with fresh hope and strict devotion to her faithful. With this thought held close, she found the inner strength to smile with a beaming glow at her people. This made everyone be filled with happiness and rejoice all the more, knowing that Canterlot had come to meet her approval.

Suddenly, they brought forth her throne from the chamber and sat it before her. Without hesitation, she took her place upon the throne of Equestria.

“LONG LIVE EQUESTRIA!” She shouted as she raised her arms high into the air. The sound that followed was to the point of almost deafness. The people rejoiced to the point of madness! After a few moments, the palace guard lifted the throne and began to carry it back into the chamber with Celestia regally sitting upon it. Each one of the armor-clad guardsmen lining the way drew their swords and relinquished them downward, kneeling in obeisance to their Princess. As the door shut behind them, the noise outside vibrated the massive stained glass windows throughout the Throne chamber. It continued for hours! Celestia wanted to return to the great balcony to once again greet the people, however she knew it would only cause pandemonium… as well as several broken windows.

When all of the celebration had finally come to a close, with the land filled with the night sky; she could only find herself wandering to the place. She could only look patiently in the darkened quiet. “The place” was once the inner room where Starswirl used his great magic to catch away Twilight Sparkle to a time of safety. That room along with the rest of the old hovel became the marbled inner court of Canterlot palace, by order of Princess Celestia. That is why out of all of the fine places throughout Equestria to build a city, Canterlot was built into the side of an unforgiving, craggy mountain.

The court, with its grandeur; was also partly made into a tranquil garden of serenity. And in the approximate location of the former room where Twilight disappeared, there was a large basin covered with jewels. The excuse made by Celestia for the strange vessel, was for it to be a place for Equestrian songbirds to roost. However, it was actually put there in hopes of catching Twilight in the air without harm. Even while there was massive construction, Aunt Celestia would come to this place. She would do it every morning at the same time that the spell was originally cast; hoping one day for Twilight’s reappearance.

“I will never stop waiting… I will never stop seeking, Luna.” She softly spoke as she stared at the encrusted basin. “I promise that I will find her… and you will be reunited! I PROMISE!” she pleaded with passion staring at the Equestrian moon, as tears dropped from her eyes.

“Even if… it takes centuries.”

Chapter Five:

And centuries it did… and they did pass before her watchful eye.

Throughout the years, under the peaceful rule of Princess Celestia; Canterlot along with all of Equestria grew and grew. New cities were formed and old ones would crumble. Styles would change like the budding of the leaves. Technological and magical advances would arise, and many of the old ways were forgotten. The old speech and ways of living had radically morphed into newness. Even Cantilias was slowly consumed, by what is now known as the Everfree Forest. It was to Celestia, like all of the former pain being washed away in the seas of time. She was a witness to history being born, and daily changing before her eyes.

Still… her promise had never left her.

Almost a Millennia later, Princess Celestia entered the garden in the morning. She did so as always, every single day since that grand day of Canterlot’s dedication. She entered and waited patiently in the new day’s calm with no real expectation. Even though she faithfully kept her promise, like Luna; she had great doubt to overtake her heart many years ago. The thought of Luna’s child reappearing from nothingness had become to her like great old mare’s tales, tossed about without care. Her heart once again sank as she turned to leave, marking another day without hope.

However on this fateful day, as she turned the garden’s tranquility was filled with the sound of a rumble. She quickly jumped to attention and turned back towards the jeweled column. Suddenly, there was a flash of intense light above the place where the basin stood. Celestia’s heart pounded with cautious anticipation as her mind raced with all the thoughts of her past. She quickly trotted towards the basin.

Could this be the day?

Could there be an end?—She stammered in the hollow of her mind. As she drew near, she hesitated. “I… I… I can’t look.” She said out loud, as fear gripped hard upon her heart. If there was nothing in the basin, it would be the greatest hurt that she could ever endure. Much more than her father’s death, Starswirl’s dissolution, or Luna’s captivity… if that small place did not hold the object of her affection, it would be devastating. It would be worse than if all of the Archers of Equestria had thrust her heart through with many arrows. Her eyes dropped full with many tears as she thought about the possibility of nothingness.

“I can’t move…” she cried as her legs were seemingly affixed to the ground with great force. She could only stand motionless and close her eyes in fright. Suddenly, there came a sound as if it were from heaven that pierced her brain and touched her very soul.

“gerlbee… gardee… sugeg… ribblble…”

Her eyes shot open with awesome bewilderment. She was so startled that as if by angelic hands, Princess Celestia could feel herself being lifted into the air. She slowly breached the horizon of the bowl shaped basin and looked inside. Celestia screamed with excitement, as she realized what she saw.

SHE WAS THERE!

TWILIGHT WAS THERE!

“TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!!” Celestia yelled with wonder. The child turned their head in surprise and started laughing at such an outburst. Princess Celestia quickly reached out and grabbed the foal. She could do nothing but twirl with delight in the air, with Luna’s child clutched tight within her arms. Twilight cooed with glee, as she went faster and faster. Nothing about her had changed! She was exactly as she was over a thousand years ago! Everything… from the way she looked to what she was wearing, it was all the same. Celestia held her tightly as she once again descended to the garden’s floor.

Deeply realizing what had just happened, she cried out with the pangs of a Mother’s love; as she lifted her face to face. “I never stopped looking for you! I never stopped waiting!”—she wept sore with tears of joy. She lifted her head towards the sky and screamed—“Luna, I kept my promise!!! Luna, I found her!!!”

Then, a terrible thought pierced her brain, which caused her joy to convert into fear. Suddenly, the beaming smile dissipated from her face, as she clutched Twilight even tighter than before. Her mind was overwhelmed with the thoughts of her sister’s insane conversion to Nightmare Moon and the soon coming convergence of the heavens.

“I forgot! It’s seemed like forever and not much longer and she will be free… what’s a decade or two, compared to all the years I’ve waited?! Would she come for Twilight? To hurt her? To make her like herself?” This spoken thought resonated throughout her entire being.

“NO!!! I watched for this long and I won’t let her go!” she bellowed with authority, stomping the ground. She thought hard about what should be done, as she took Twilight inside the castle.

As she stood with her cradled in her arms in the throne chamber, logic began to have its way. “If I kept her here, there would be no escape… no time to hide her away.” She said as she stared deeply into Twilight’s eyes. She suddenly thought it best, to watch her from a distance. Put her in a safe environment away from the castle, but keep her close enough to monitor. Just then, her deep musing was interrupted by a familiar sound.

“How cute! A baby! Where did it come from?!” Celestia’s most trusted servant, June Majestic; stated with bewilderment.

“I… I found her in our inner garden.” The Princess said with a hint of nervousness in her voice.

“Shall I check the hospital or alert the Canterlot orphanage?” June asked.

“No… no it’s quite alright. I’ll take care of everything.” Celestia said, trying to rush her out of the room.

“Yes, Princess.” June said with a head nod.

“I will make preparations in the morning. In the meantime, please fetch me some milk—she’s hungry.” Celestia said as she could only gaze at the young one.

“Yes M’ lady.” June said with another nod.

“One more thing… close this chamber and tell the guards I wish to be alone. Tell no one of what you have seen, or what you are doing. I certainly do not need to risk any controversy or bad press to fall upon my rule… agreed?!” Celestia said with stern warning.

“Yes Princess… agreed. I will tell nothing of the young one.” June said.

“Good.” Celestia remarked without removing her eyes from Twilight.

As June was walking away, she paused and spoke—“Forgive me… but, I must say the young foal looks a lot like all the glass pictures of your sister. She’s far too pretty to find on a doorstep… don’t you think?!”

“Then… you know?!”—Celestia relented, with a slight stammer.

“Yes ma’am… I wouldn’t be your most trusted servant, if I didn’t know all the old stories about you and Luna.”—June said with a wink—“I’ve known for a long time what that old jeweled thing in the garden was for, and why it was so important to you. Songbirds… Ha! I’ve never seen a single one ever touch that old thing! It’s because you put some Celestia magic on it… didn’t ya?” June said.

Celestia could only grin, knowing that she knew everything.

“Don’t worry… I would never tell anyone a single word, not even my own flesh and blood. Upon my life—Twilight Sparkle will be safe.” June continued.

“Thank you.”—Celestia said, with a regal smile.

“You are more than welcome, Princess… For Equestria and Luna.” June said with a salute.

“Yes… for Equestria and my sister.” She said, with a shimmer of tears.

The next day, she was secretly placed with a foster family, bound-hard to the throne of Equestria. Nightlight was a cousin of King Stallionius that lived in Canterlot, which was not well known among the royals. His call to fame was his valor in battle for the Equestrian guard. His wife Twilight Velvet, was also of royal descent but somewhat rejected by them. She was most known throughout Equestria for her great published stories of adventure and love of learning. Celestia knew that she would be safe and protected with them. As well as, because of their lineage to her father Stallionius, she would fit in as she grew without arising suspicion from anyone… not even herself.

In the tender years that followed, the child grew and waxed strong with great magical power. She had already revealed to her foster parents her fledgling ability. And they in turn, informed Princess Celestia of her budding talents. So, with the help of June Majestic, she was privately set up by her foster parents prodding, to put her to the test. This was to make excuse for her apprenticeship with Aunt Celestia as her teacher and guide. And it would be done, with Twilight being none the wiser as to whom she actually was.

Celestia waited outside of the testing room of her semi-fake “School for Gifted Unicorns” with glee. “Starswirl—you were my teacher, and now… I teach your daughter. I’ll do great… because I learned from the best.” She whispered to herself smiling, as she waited for the news. Just then, the opalescent glow of a Sonic Rainboom flashed across the sky. She could then hear the noise of crashing and breaking inside of the classroom. “That’s my girl…” Celestia laughed as she rushed inside, seizing upon her opportunity to reclaim Luna’s child under her wing.

Day by day, Celestia focused almost all of her attention upon small Twilight. She had to greatly restrain herself, so many times as a teacher. This was because she only wanted to take her in her arms and hold her tightly. She wanted to tell her, she was her Aunt that loved her with all of her heart. The one that waited for her return for over a century… who cried rivers, for eons of time, just to see a glimmer of hope… But Celestia knew that she could not. She knew that to reveal who Twilight was before the time was ready, could be devastating to her destiny.

In this, she knew that she needed the right kind of help:

“Look at her playing… not a care in the world. How it always should have been.” Princess Celestia stated with a smile, as she watched Twilight playing with her adopted brother Shining Armor.

“It is so good to see you happy again, Aunt Celestia.” Princess Cadence said beaming, with a bubbly candor.

“Yes, I am happy again. Very happy. And I do not want anything to ruin this, Cadence. Everything must be revealed slowly and patiently. Too much… too soon would break her heart. It would also make her reject her destiny.” Celestia said with a somber tone.

“I certainly understand…” Cadence returned.

“Now… we have been over this a hundred times. You must NEVER tell anything about who she is, who her parents are, or what her purpose is… right!?” Celestia said with warning.

“Yes… Aunt Celestia.” Cadence said shaking her head up and down.

“Good Cadence… my sisters of the North have taught you well. To Twilight, I am only her Princess, teacher, and mentor and you are her foal sitter. There can be nothing more than that…” Celestia said with a sigh.

“I will be the best foal sitter you will ever see…” Cadence proudly said.

“I know you will… you must keep your own abilities hidden at all times. Use them only for protection. You must keep her safe… and unaware.” Celestia said as she turned towards Cadence.

“She will never know anything more than books, ladybugs and building blocks… and sandwiches.” Cadence said with a smile.

“Good… her magic ability with come naturally in due time. As she grows, she will reveal herself to be an Alicorn of tremendous power—like was her father. When the time is right, Nightmare Moon will return. Twilight will confront her with her power and the elements, just as I did. I will do my best to speak sense to her, and force her to listen. And, I believe that Twilight will be able to reform her mother, bringing her forth from the darkness, and free her from her spiritual prison.” Princess Celestia said with her eyes re-affixed upon Twilight’s playing.

“She is very special.” Cadence said.

“Yes Cadence, she is. Her destiny is to reclaim the throne of her father, and restore order and harmony to all of Equestria. She will become the Sixth element—the one prophesied by the great Alicorns of old.

As it is written:

“… and upon the sixth… Whomsoever shalt findeth it and weildeth it, their reign wilt be an everlasting one that no evil shalt befall. They shalt only bring peace and goodness and kinship that wilt never be broken.” Celestia retold with passion.

“That is a great burden for one mere filly…” Cadence stated with concern.

“Along with we, the Princesses of Equestria… there will be other friends to help her in this journey.”—Celestia turns with a wink—“I’m sure of it.”