Return Of The Showmare

Chapters

Chapter 2: Not You Again
Chapter 3: A New School and A New Home
Chapter 4: Fresh and Familiar Faces
Chapter 5: Child’s Play
Chapter 6: Pride and Generosity
Chapter 7: Magical Meeting
Chapter 8: Growing Hatred and Sharing Kindness
Chapter 10: For Those You Truly Care
Chapter 11: Dissonance
Chapter 12: Intertwined
Chapter 13: The Great and Powerful Do-over
Chapter 14: Showtime
Chapter 15: The Magic We Share
Chapter 16: Future of the Showmare
Chapter 1: Down on Her Luck
Chapter 9: Stuck Between an Apple and a Hard Place

Chapter 2: Not You Again

Chapter 2
Not You Again

10 years ago…

Celestia’s morning sun resonated throughout Canterlot as it started to rise. Ponies everywhere started to wake up from their slumber to greet the new day. In one moderately sized house, a blue unicorn filly still laid peacefully in her bed. The light radiated her room, highlighting her nightstand. On it was a picture of her and her mother, a trophy she won at her school’s talent show, and an alarm clock set at 6:59 A.M.

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

7:00 A.M.

The filly jumped out of her bed in surprise, turning the alarm off beside her. “Yes, Finally!” the filly said excitedly. “It’s my first day at Celestia’s Magic school!” The filly bounded to the bathroom where she quickly prepared herself for the day. Afterwards, she ran straight towards the kitchen where she saw her mother was busy preparing breakfast. “Good morning mother,” the filly said, “Trixie is all ready for school.”

Trixie’s mother turned to see her beloved daughter, smiling from ear. “Well if it isn’t my little magician,” she said in a soothing voice that complimented her silvery braided mane and white fur. Her cutie mark was a silver-colored star with sparks around it. “Your breakfast is on the table dear. I made your favorite.”

Trixie squealed when she saw her favorite breakfast, scrambled eggs with pepper, and apple juice. She got up to the table where she began to hastily chow down on her food. “Wow,” her mother said, “by the looks of it, you want to be the first filly at school today.”

Trixie looked up with food still in her mouth to see her mother grinning smugly. “Well I wanna show all the teachers how great my magic is. I’ve been practicing really hard ever since I got my cutie mark.”

“Yes, yes, you wouldn't stop pestering me to make sure your spells are all perfect. Spent a whole two hours working on Levitation spells.”

“But I just wanna impress all the teachers and students by showing them how powerful my magic is. I can’t be a great magician like you if I don’t practice.”

“That is true my little apprentice, and your magic will impress them all. But you can’t put too much pressure on yourself. Remember, a good magician needs to know when to take it easy.”

“Okay mom. I’ll remember.”

“Good, now let me eat my breakfast first before we leave.”

The two happily ate their meals, enjoying eachothers company. Trixie always loved these moments with her mother. She never had any siblings to talk to, as for her father, he died back when she was just a foal. But her mother was all she needed. When the two finished their meals, Trixie got her saddlebags filled with books, and her mom grabbed her purse, all ready to go out. “Ready to go honey?”

Trixie nodded but widened her eyes in surprise. “Wait, we’re not late are we?”

“Well we might’ve spend a bit too much time eating to notice the time.”

“Oh no! That means we need to hurry now!”

“It’s going to be alright honey,” her mother soothed, “I can just teleport us over there. Just hop on my back, and we’ll be there in no time.”

Trixie got up on her mother’s back and hung on. “Will you really be able to teleport us over there in time?”

The mother simply laughed at her daughter’s concerns. “Please my dear, I, the amazing Silver Wand, can easily get us there in no time. No daughter of mine will be late on her first day at Celestia’s academy. Now, are you prepared for school.

“All set mom!”

“Excellent. Then let us be on our way!” Silver Wand said as her horn flashed, teleporting Trixie and herself out of the house.

Trixie groggily woke up from her slumber, groaning at the sunlight in her eyes. Despite the sun’s annoying wake up call, it was the the greatest naps she had in a long time. The bed was far more comfortable than the caravan’s wooden floor, and the sheets were way better than her old and worn out blankets.

“Wait a second,” Trixie said as she brung her head up and looked around her environment, “Where am I”. The room Trixie was in was far from familiar. The walls looked like they were made out of crystals, and the floor was cold and rock solid. The room had a large dresser and a nightstand beside her bed, yet the whole room still had an empty feeling to her. She also noticed that her legs and head were wrapped around with bandages.

“Is this supposed to be the Crystal Empire?” she mused, wondering how she got up here in the first place. She then heard a knock at the door that got her attention. If this was she Crystal Empire it was probably some guard checking on her, or maybe it was her majesty, Princess Cadence. Trixie hoped it’s the latter, “You may come in.”

The door slowly opened revealing a pony that made Trixie’s eyes widen like dinner plates, and made her blood start to heat up. The last pony she wanted to see at this point…

“Twilight Sparkle?”

“Good morning Trixie,” Twilight said with a warm smile, “I’m so glad that you’re awake. I was so worried about you.”

Trixie huffed in disgust on Twilight’s overly cheery attitude. “And what are you doing here Sparkle?”

Twilight was taken aback by the sudden sass, “Well...I…”

“Actually, Trixie doesn't care. Trixie just wants to know where she is, and why she’s here. And while you’re at it where’s my caravan?”

Twilight stood there too stunned by Trixie’s mood to reply. Last time she saw her she was sincerely apologizing for using the Alicorn Amulet to rule over Ponyville with an iron hoof. Trixie however acted like the first she came to Ponyville, only a lot more rude and arrogant.

“Are you going to say anything Sparkle,” Trixie snapped.

“It’s just that, you surprised me,” Twilight finally said.

“Surprised you?” Trixie asked.

“Well, yeah. You weren't like this when you apologized to me last time.”

Trixie’s ears fell when she realized what she was talking about, then gave out the most smug smile she could muster. “Ha, The Great and Powerful Trixie is aware about the way she acted last time. Keyword: acted.”

“Huh?”

Trixie carefully got out of the bed and raised her hoof theatrically. “After you took that amulet off of me, Trixie overheard you and your friends talking about Princess Celestia and the Saddle Arabians coming to Ponyville. And she knew that if given the chance, you would’ve turned me in for taking over Ponyville.”

“What?” Twilight snapped. “I wouldn't have…”

“But Trixie knew that you can be a rather gullible pony. So when the coast was clear, she aided you in your, cute little performance, then pretended to be sorry for her actions, so I could get away without any hassle from you or the Princess. To be honest, I’m quite surprised it worked so easily.”

Twilight sat there dumbfounded, and a little hurt at the revelation. “You...pretended to be all sorry about wearing the amulet.”

“Oh yes. As a showmare, you need to be a superb performer, and that means having great acting skills to give your shows some pizazz. All it took was some fake crying and puppy-dog eyes, and Trixie was in the clear.”

Twilight’s ears solemnly fell down as another thought came to her mind. “So, does that mean you don’t regret putting on that amulet. And you really wanted to take over Ponyville?”

Trixie noticed Twilight’s grim looked, then sighed. “Please Twilight, Trixie may not like you or Ponyville, but she does have her standards. Trixie only meant to get her revenge on you, not take over Ponyville.”

“Oh,” Twilight said breathing a sigh of relief, “I see.”

“To be honest with you,” Trixie said in a depressed tone, “I am sorry about putting on that amulet and the whole ruling thing. When I had that damn thing on, I felt so much power flowing through me. Too much power. It made me want to do horrible things to you and your friends. I don’t even want to think about the cruel things I did, or could’ve done if you hadn’t taken that thing off of me.”

Twilight noticed Trixie’s sad look, then smiled. “It’s alright Trixie, I forgi…”

“Wait a minute, what am I talking about,” Trixie snapped, “You still haven't told Trixie why she’s here!”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Well first off, you’re in my home. And secondly, I found you outside around the Everfree Forest. Last night while I was doing some reading, I heard a loud crash outside. When I went outside to check out what happened, I saw your caravan all smashed up, and you lying on one of the pieces.”

Trixie blushed embarrassingly when she heard that Twilight found her like that. “Well don’t get the wrong idea Sparkle. Trixie just had a minor accident. That’s all.”

“Well anyways, I managed to teleport you and your caravan here. I also treated your wounds and put you in one of the guest rooms to rest up.”

Trixie felt awkward when she heard this. She never thought that Twilight would do something so nice to her, especially after what she had done to her. “Well...Trixie...appreciates what you had done for her. Really.”

“Good,” Twilight said smiling, “now, how about we…”

“Hold up,” Trixie interrupted, “Where’s my caravan.”

Twilight rubbed the back of her head. “Well, It’s outside. But maybe I should…”

“OUTSIDE!?”

Twilight nervously stepped back, “Uh, yeah?”

“MY CARAVAN?”

Trixie ran out as fast as she could. She somehow manage to navigate her way outside the castle where she turned to see what had become of her caravan. Twilight teleported behind her to see Trixie stare sadly at the last remnants of her vehicle.

Trixie walked slowly towards the caravan with tear-filled eyes. “My caravan,” Trixie weeped, “Just like the last one.” Trixie rummaged through the debris as she found some objects that were still intact. One of those objects was a medium-sized bag that she hugged dearly. “At least you’re safe…”

Twilight tried to comfort the sad mare, until she turned around pointing her hoof at her accusingly. “Why was Trixie’s caravan outside?”

“I’m sorry Trixie,” Twilight apologized, “I didn’t know you had such sentimental stuff in there.”

“Idiot,” Trixie angrily said. “You should’ve brought the whole thing into your stupid Treehouse. You’re lucky nothing in this bag is ruined, otherwise I would’ve…” Trixie silenced herself when something humongous caught her eye. She saw what looked like a giant crystalline tree right in front of her. “Isn’t this supposed to be a library?”

Twilight shook her head. “Yeah about that, this is my new castle.”

Trixie did a double take when she heard this. “YOU HAVE A CASTLE NOW!” she yelled, “SINCE WHEN DID YOU GET ONE?!”

“I’m guessing you already knew about me becoming a Princess huh?”

“Well of course Trixie does, it’s been all over the news back then. But what about all this.”

“Well, do you know about the Tirek incident and how I stopped him?”

“You fought Tirek?!”

Twilight sighed. ”It’s a long story. For now, how about we eat some breakfast first? I know you’re probably starving right now.”

“Please Sparkle, Trixie appreciates what you’ve been doing for her, but she needs no more charity from you. And I don’t want any of your...” Trixie felt her stomach start to rumble violently, which made her blush. “Alright fine, I guess I could go for something small.”

Twilight smiled when she heard this, then went inside the castle. “Then come inside, I’ll cook you up something I know you’ll enjoy.”

“Hmph, I’ll be the judge of that Sparkle.”

Chapter 3: A New School and A New Home

Chapter 3
A New School and A New Home

Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. A prestige school in Canterlot for unicorn fillies that show much potential for the future. Only a small number of fillies has attended this school, and only a smaller amount came close to graduating. But despite the hardships it brings, those who leave with a diploma in their hooves are destined for greatness.

Outside the school, many nervous fillies were conversing or playing with each other. A meager attempt at calming their nerves for the first day of school. Unbeknownst to them, a small silver flash emanated near a bush. As the light died down, Silver Wand and Trixie walked away from the bush and out in the open.

“Here we are Trixie,” Silver Wand said, “ready to wow the other students with your amazing magic?”

Silver turned to see her daughter, trembling near the bush. She covered one side of her face with her cerulean mane as she spoke, “Y...yeah mom. Of course I’m ready.”

Silver sighed as she went up to her daughter and caressed her mane out of her face. Her smile was one only mother could give to her daughter. “Trixie, remember what I told you before your first performance at that talent show?”

“When a magician is on stage, fear is the one thing they never show.” She recited completely. “But, I’m not going on stage.”

“No, you’re not.” Silver chuckled. “But that doesn't mean that you can show fear anywhere else. As a magician you must show confidence to those around you, including your classmates. The amazing Silver Wand wants you to go in there and,amaze the students and make a friend or two while you’re at it.”

Hearing this, Trixie took in a deep breath then exhaled sharply, regaining her composure. Her mouth then grew into a very wide grin. “You’re right mother. Trixie will not let stomach butterflies ruin her chances of wowing the crowd.”

“That’s the spirit my little apprentice.”

“I will be the one to go in there and show them who’s boss!”

“Great!” Silver out of excitement hugged her daughter tightly. A single tear fell down her cheek. After the death of her husband, Silver’s only daughter was all she had left. And she wanted nothing more than her daughter to follow in her hoofsteps, and become the greatest magician she can be. She broke the hug wiping another tear from her eye. “Alright now, you best go in there before you’re late dear. I’ll get you when school is over.”

“Alright mom. See you later!”

With that, Trixie excitedly ran towards the school, ready to start the new day. Silver smiled proudly at her daughter, hoping that she’ll finally become the mare she wants to be.

“Good to see you again Silver Wand.”

Silver looked behind her to see none other than Princess Celestia standing before her. She smiled as she greeted her with a smile. “And a hello to you to your highness. But shouldn't you be in the school, and not out here in the open?”

“Don’t worry, I made a secret barrier around us.” Celestia said jabbing a hoof at the solid barrier. “No one will be able to see nor hear us. With that said, I just wanted to congratulate the two of you. I can tell you’re just as proud of her as am I.”

Silver sighed, “Proud is an understatement Celestia. I’ve never been happier in my life. And I have you to thank for that. Still can’t believe you were there for her talent show.”

“Well you’ve entertained me with your magic shows since you were her age. It was only fair that I went and supported your daughter’s first show.”

Silver smiled at the mention of Trixie’s first show. Her old school had a talent show that she wanted to be a part of. She practiced many magical spells with her mother for days. And when she was all set for her act, she was just so nervous. But after a little coaxing from Silver, she finally went up there to put up a show. And what a show it was, all that time spent practicing spells like levitation, invisibility, and other illusions. And for the grand finale; a firework show that Silver recommended herself.

When her routine was over all Trixie saw were ponies and fillies with there mouths agape, then a roar of applause and cheers. Silver hugged her daughter out of sheer joy, and Trixie gladly returned the offer. When the talent show ended Trixie walked away with two prizes; a trophy with her name on it, and her cutie mark. Celestia came up to them telling them that she watched the entire thing in secret, and was amazed by the power Trixie possessed. She then decided to let Trixie attend her School for Gifted Unicorns for the performance.

“You know Celestia, I never had the chance to properly thank you for letting my little apprentice attend your school.”

Celestia shook her head. “There’s no need for any of that Silver. I just wanted to help your daughter improve on her magic. She looks like she’ll turn into a fantastic magician. Just like her mother.”

“Please Celestia, we both know that’ll happen. Of course she made not get it the first time, but not every first spell is a success.

“Quite. Although going back on your previous offer, I wouldn't mind if you were to join me later on for some tea.”

Silver smirked. “You sure you don’t want me to show you that special ring trick again?”

“You can drink tea and do that trick if you want to.”

“I think I can settle with that.”

The two mares spent the next hour eating Twilight’s rather scrumptious breakfast of blueberry pancakes. Twilight also spent that time explaining to Trixie all that transpired that resulted on her new castle. Even the part where Tirek destroyed the Library, which still made Twilight tear up at the mention of it.

Trixie listened intently on the Alicorn’s tale. Despite how she felt towards her, she couldn't help but feel sorry for the library. It felt weird to her, pitying Twilight Sparkle, she shouldn’t have cared about it at all. But losing her home just like that…

“Then after we returned all the magic Tirek stole back to all the ponies he stole from, the Tree of Harmony pretty much gave us this whole entire castle. It took a while, but I managed to get used to living in such a gigantic place. Especially with the decorations my friends gave me.”

“Decorations?” Trixie asked.

“Yeah,” Twilight said. “There’s this huge chandelier they made for me. It has these ornaments on in it to represent the memories we made, and the chandelier itself is made from the roots of the Golden Oaks Library. They also gave me all kinds of items, like the new kitchen supplies from Rarity.”

Trixie noded as she bit into another pancake, “Wow Sparkle, that was such a sweet, and cheesy thing to say.”

“It may be cheesy, but I still love them for doing something like this.” Twilight’s head fell down. “Especially after my home got destroyed…”

Trixie sighed, “Um, well if it makes you feel any better, I’m sorry about your castle. I mean Trixie didn’t care about that rusty old library, but it still was your home and all. And I guess by the wreckage out there you can tell that Trixie is familiar with losing home.”

Twilight lit up as she heard this. “Thanks Trixie. You know, you can be really nice when you're not boasting all the the time.”

“Well The Great and Powerful Trixie does have a great and powerful heart if that’s what you’re talking about.”

“That wasn’t exactly what I had in mind but that works too.”

The two laughed at the reply. Trixie took a moment to look at Twilight. She hate to admit it, but she found Twilight kinda cute. She never noticed how Twilight looked when she wasn’t nervous or angry at her. She had that look on her that made Trixie…

Trixie shook her head at the thought. She got up from her chair and started heading towards the door, “Anyways, Trixie should be going now. Thank you for the breakfast, the pancakes were...adequate, but Trixie would like to get out of this town.”

Twilight shook her head. “Wait, you can’t leave now. Your caravan is still broken.”

“Whatever Sparkle, I’m more than capable of fixing it. It’ll take me a while yes, but by the end of the day, I’ll be able to leave this town for good.”

Twilight rolled her eyes, “I bet you don’t even know where you’ll go when you leave.”

Trixie stopped in her tracks. She actually had no where else to go. She was thinking of going back to Appleloosa. She went there a long time ago, before she first visited Ponyville. But due to recent events, Appleloosa probably wouldn't be such a good idea. And in reality, she really couldn't fix her caravan in less than a day.

“Look Trixie, how about you stay here with me?”

Trixie did a double take, “Wh-what?”

“You and I both know that you shouldn't just fix your caravan and leave. And judging by your condition I found you in, you’re not exactly in peak condition to go out and leave.”

Trixie glared at Twilight menacingly, “Mind getting to the point Sparkle?”

“Right, sorry. Anyways, you should stay here for a while. You can have that whole room you slept in to yourself, you can even stay here until you’re ready to go back out there.” Twilight’s eyes widened, “Ooh we can be like roommates!”

“Ugh. Thanks but no thanks Sparkle,” Trixie said. “I don’t want your pity, nor do I need it. I’m not going to spend another day in this one-horse town, and I’m especially not going to waste my time with you.”

“Please Trixie, what do you even got to lose by staying here?”

“Well sorry, I happen to like my dignity. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a caravan to fix.”

As Trixie started to leave, Twilight tried to think of something that can keep Trixie from leaving. She had to think of something that even a mare as boastful as her would want. Something that Trixie couldn't resist. Then it came to her, “What if I were to teach you some spells you could use in your shows.”

Trixie stopped right in front of her door, “What did you say?”

Twilight smiled, “When you first left Ponyville awhile back, I started reading this.” Twilight pulled out a rather large and dusty tome with her magic, showing it to Trixie. “It’s ‘Harry Hoofdini’s Book of Tricks and Illusions’”

Trixie’s eyes widened in surprise, “How did you get this Sparkle? Trixie’s been looking for this since she was a filly. It’s even in first print?!

“This was in the Royal Canterlot Library,I borrowed it for when I had to entertain the delegates from Saddle Arabia. I haven’t read much of it ever since, but if you stay here with me, I’ll be more than happy to help you with some of the spells in here.”

Trixie bit her lip as she turned her head away from Twilight. “Does it have his famous multiple lockpick trick in there?”

“Page 42, the one and only.”

Trixie gave an exasperated sigh. “Fine Sparkle. If it gets you to shut up, I’ll stay here with you. But only if you keep you end of the deal and assist me with those spells. Not that Trixie needs those spells anymore, she just thinks that they could be very useful to her.”

“I promise.”

“Whatever. I guess I might as well go and get my stuff from my caravan and…”

BOOM!

Trixie screamed from the top of her lungs as an explosion of confetti launched right in front of her. Trixie placed her hoof on her chest as she tried to process what had just happened. “What...was...that?”

Twilight blushed, “One of Pinkie’s surprise party cannon decorations for my castle. Here, let me help you with that.”

Trixie sighed, instantly regretting her decision to stay here.

Spike slept peacefully as the morning sunlight started to warm up his own room. When he first learned that he now had his own room, he was rather ecstatic about the idea. Twilight was at first hesitant, since this was the first in a long time where she hadn't slept in the same room as him, but she loved how Spike was starting to grow up. Although he still liked to sleep with Twilight from time to time.

He yawned as he continued on with his mid-morning nap, hoping to continue it towards the afternoon.

BOOM!

Spike immediately jumped out of his bed like a loaded spring. He stood straight up as his ears started ringing from the large explosion. “Wh-what the heck was that?” He exclaimed to himself as he ran towards the door. If the explosion was what he thought it was, Twilight must’ve found another one of Pinkie’s surprise party cannons. Again.

“What...was...that?

Spike suddenly heard a faint yet familiar voice. One he hadn’t heard since he was in the human world with Twilight. Curious, he went downstairs towards the kitchen to find the source. When he got there he was saw a bunch of confetti scattered throughout the kitchen. Another mess he’ll no doubt have to clean. He also saw Twilight along with a blue unicorn mare that made him both confused and angry at the same time.

“Trixie?”

The two stopped getting the confetti off of each other as they turned to see the dragon starring wide eyed at them. They quickly got the rest of it off them as Twilight went up to him. “Morning Spike. Sorry we woke you up like that, as you can see we found one of Pinkie’s decorations.”

“What is she doing here?” Spike asked as he pointed at Trixie, who had just finished getting the last bits of streamers off her.

“Well if you must know, Trixie is going to stay with us for awhile. Until she can get back on her hooves that is.”

Spike did a double take. “Are you kidding me. We’re gonna have that show-off stay here with us. You can’t be serious Twi.”

Trixie took an offense to that, “And what exactly is wrong with the idea of The Great and Powerful Trixie, staying here with you two?”

“Well we can start with the fact the you’re a disrespectful show-off and fraud who brought an Ursa Minor to Ponyville, and also tried to take over Ponyville with an evil magical amulet.”

Trixie glared daggers at the dragon, “How dare you disrespect Trixie like that you little brat. You better watch that tongue of yours if you know what’s good for you.”

Spike stepped forwards facing her, “Or what, The Great and Powerful Trixie will turn me into a basketball again? Or banish Twilight to the Everfree Forest for a second time?

“Please, why would Trixie waste her talents on a lizard like you.”

“What did you just call me?”

Twilight used her magic to silence and separate the two bickering (and annoying) enemies. “Excuse us for a sec.” She said as she grabbed Spike then headed to the next room. She plopped him on the ground giving him a stern look. “That was very rude of you Spike! How could you say something like that to her?”

Spike crossed his arms, “How can you let somepony like Trixie stay here with us Twi. Don’t you remember what she did?”

“Yes I do Spike, but that doesn't allow you to say such harsh words to her like that. You need to apologize.”

“Alright fine, but why is she staying here anyways?”

Twilight sighed, “Long story short; Trixie’s caravan got all busted, she was hurt, and she needed a place to stay. Like it or not, she’s staying here.”

“But…”

“I know what she did before wasn’t exactly nice, but we can’t just kick her out of here.” Twilight knelt down, “I know this sounds weird, but I think underneath all that boasting and ego, lies a mare who just wants to show everypony that she’s an amazing magician. Just give her a chance, please Spike?”

Spike gave her an incredulous look as she looked at her with pleading eyes. Back when he first met, he hated her guts, All that boasting and talking just grinded his gears. Nevertheless, he nodded agreeing with Twilight. “Alright Twi, I’ll give her a chance. Besides, if we can make friends with a god of chaos, and a former raging she-demon, I’m sure Trixie won’t be too much of a problem. I think.”

“Thanks Spike. Now, don’t you have an apology to make?”

“Alright, I’m already on it.”

The two made their way back into the kitchen where they saw Trixie, her head lowered to the ground. Spike went up to the mare. “Um...Trixie?”

The blue mare looked at him with a surprised look before composing herself. “What is it dragon? Came up with more insults for Trixie?”

Spike groaned. “No Trixie. I just wanna apologize for saying all that stuff about you. I didn't really meant all that bad stuff about you.”

Trixie stared at Spike in confusion. She looked at Twilight who just gave her a warm smile. “Uh...Trixie...accepts your apology dragon.”

“Thanks.The name’s Spike by the way.”

“Okay Spike. I should apologize too for saying all that. It was rather uncalled for.”

“Did...you just, apologize.”

“Of course, mother always told be to be humble to your fans. Especially since I’m rooming with them”

“Oh alright. Thank you.”

Twilight smiled as the two made peace with each other. An idea came to her mind as she thought of how both her and Trixie can spend the day. “Spike, I want you to take Trixie and show her around castle. I have some plans to make.”

Spike shrugged. “Alright Twi. Come on Trixie, I’ll give you the grand tour.”

“Well if I’m going to stay here I might as well learn about where I’m going to stay. Lead the way.”

As the two walked out of the room, Twilight started to levitate some paper, a quill, and an inkwell towards her, then started writing down her plan. ‘I just hope the girls aren't as adamant about her.’ She thought to herself.

Author's Note

Fun Fact: Lauren Faust on Twitter stated that Trixie attended Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. :trixieshiftright:

Chapter 4: Fresh and Familiar Faces

Chapter 4
Fresh and Familiar Faces

RING!! RING!!

The school bell rung loudly as students started to file into their morning classes. Trixie looked into her saddlebag where she saw some of the supplies she was told to buy before the first day of school. “Okay everything’s in here, now I just gotta get to my classroom. Room 106 I think it is?”

She walked down the hall where she immediately found what she was looking for. Her morning classroom where many fillies were already at their desks conversing with the other students. She trotted towards her desk where she quietly sat and waited for the class to start.

“As a magician you must show confidence to those around you, including your classmates. The amazing Silver Wand wants you to go in there and,amaze the students and make a friend or two while you’re at it.”

Trixie thought about her mother's words. Showing confidence was something Trixie was rather good at doing. But she never made friends with other fillies, even back at her old school. The closest she ever gotten was this one magenta colored mare. Cheerilee, wasn’t it?

The bell cut off her thoughts as students started to silence themselves, as did Trixie. Seconds later, a middle-aged stallion walked into the classroom. He wore a silver-colored vest and had a blue coat, a white slick back mane, and a golden laurel wreath as cutie mark. He cleared his throat in a lofty manner as he smiled. “Good morning children, my name is Professor Top Marks,” he spoke in a well-respected voice as he wrote his name on the board.

“Good Morning professor!” the class said in unison.

“Please, you may call me Mr. Marks if you want, I’m fine either way.” He walked in front of his desk as he scanned his classroom. “With that said I welcome each and everyone of you to Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns. You are all here because you have shown great potential in your magical abilities, and we would like to help you draw out and expand your abilities. So that one day, you’ll become amazing scientist, magicians, or anything else you want to become when you're older.”

Many students ‘oohed’ at the small speech their teacher gave out. Trixie herself was simply mesmerized at it. She knew that her magic still was nowhere near as good as her mother’s or other unicorns she saw in the past, but this could be her chance to finally show them her how powerful her magic can become. She squealed quietly and giddily at the thought, provoking some confused stares from her classmates. She really didn’t care though.

“Now,” Top Marks started. “before we get down to business, why don’t we all introduce ourselves to each other so we can get well acquainted. Starting from the front row you can come on up and you can simply tell us your name.Then we can work our way from their.”

Marks pointed his hoof to one student on the first row and he nervously walked up to the front of the classroom where he paused and looked at his classmates. “He...hello, my na...name is Gold Dust.” Then he nodded and went back to his desk.

One by one more students came up to the front and introduced themselves.

“Amethyst Star”

“Sea Swirl”

“Comet Catcher”

After five more were called Trixie saw the she was next to introduce herself. As she went up to there, another thought came to her mind. ‘How should I introduce myself to them? How would mother introduce herself to the audience?’ She remembered how Silver Wand would give out a powerful yet graceful introduction on her shows, and thought something like that would be a good thing. ‘Although I’ll need to be subtle about this.

She stood at the front where she closed her eyes, breathed in and out slowly, then grinned coyly at the others. “Fillies and gentlecolts, I am the daughter of the the amazing magician, Silver Wand. And while I may not be as great as her, my magic is still rivaled by few. I have many names, but you may all call me: Trixie Lulamoon!” A flourish of miniature sparks flown from her horn as she raised her arms in a dramatic pose.

All the students, and Marks just stared at Trixie with slacked jaws. Then one student giggled at the sight of the little performance, which spiraled into a flourish of laughter and applause from the others. Trixie looked at the others with a mix of confusion and worry, just wondering if her introduction was too much. Or maybe it was too little, and it needed more fireworks. She wouldn't have time to ponder when the teacher put his hoof on her shoulder. “Alright Miss Trixie, how about you go back to your seat. Without disrupting the class more.”

She hung her head as she slowly walked back to her desk among the now calming down students. ‘Way to make a good first impression’ she thought to herself as she lowered her face onto the desk.

“And done,” Twilight said as she finished writing on her papers. It had been a good thirty minutes since she sent spike to take their guest on the tour of the castle, and she was ready to enact her plans. “Now all that’s left is to meet up with the girls. Owlowiscious can you come down here please?”

Within a minute, Twilight’s pet owl flew towards his master and landed in front of her. “Hoo.”

“I need you to take each of these scrolls to my friends as quickly as you can, okay?”

“Hoo,” he said while giving a salute with his wing and flew off. Twilight sighed as the first stage of her planed started to fall in place.

“And that’s pretty much it Trixie,” Spike said as he walked down the hall leading to the kitchen where Twilight resided. “I know it’s big and all, but I’m sure you’ll get used to it.”

Trixie groaned. “For our sake I hope your right. This place is far too huge for two residents. We literally walked past six bedrooms.”

“Oh, don’t even get me started on that. I keep telling her that we should hire some guards or servants. The other princesses have their own royal guards, why not us?”

“Because we don’t need servants or guards Spike.” Twilight answered. “Besides it’ll just feel weird to have a bunch of stallions in armor to roam around all day and night, just because I’m royalty.”

“Yeah it would. But it would also make cleaning this giant place a lot easier. And what if you were attacked by some...I don’t know...an assassin.”

Twilight arched an eyebrow. “An assassin, here in Ponyville?”

“Hey, it can happen, especially with all the crazy stuff that’s happened in the past three weeks.”

“Please Spike, that has to be the most ridic…”

“I hate to admit it, But Trixie agrees with the dragon.” Trixie interrupted. “I mean, if I was Princess, this place would be crawling with guards, maids, and butlers all willing to serve me and only with such loyalty. All wanting to wish me a fantastic day every time I walk out the door, and would go as far as to get on their knees and beg to catch even a glimpse of my shows.”

“Yeah what she said,” Spike chirped. “Minus the whole ‘you’ part.”

Trixie sighed ignoring the comment. “To have loving fans like those for once…”

Twilight cleared her throat loudly to get the other’s attention. “Now that you’re all done with the tour, I thought it would be nice if we all went out for a bit. You know, to get some fresh air.”

Trixie looked at Twilight in suspicion. “If you’re planning something Sparkle, you might as well spit it out.”

“Well, I did want you to meet some of my friends. I mean I know it’s a little early but…”

Trixie used her magic to silence her. “No absolutely not Sparkle! You may be willing to look past the whole Alicorn Amulet thing, but there’s no way in tartarus the ponies out their will. Especially your friends, they all hate me. So thanks but no thanks.”

“Mmh mmh mmph,” Twilight stifled through her closed mouth.

“Sorry,” Trixie said as she let go of Twilight’s muzzle.

“Don’t worry Trixie, it’s going to be alright.”

“Ha, of course you would say something like that.” Trixie slumped, “The whole incident as many would call it, is the reason why you found Trixie like this. Ever since then hardly anypony bothers to come to my shows. And every time I pass by other ponies they’ll always ridicule me calling me tyrant, or fraud. I can’t show my face anywhere without attracting glares, and you expect me to just waltz on out there in the open?”

Twilight sighed, then gave her a determined look. “You’re right Trixie, I don’t expect this to run smoothly at all. But sitting in my castle all day isn’t going to help you. Besides, are you telling me that the Great and Powerful Trixie isn’t up for a challenge?”

Her ears flared up as she heard this. She noticed that Twilight was giving her that look from earlier, the same one that just made her feel weird at the sight of it. Also did she just call her out? “Whatever Sparkle, let’s just get this over with.”

Just then, Owlowiscious flew right through the window and landed on the table next to Twilight. “Hoo.”

“Good job Owlowiscious. Now how about we head out you guys? Uhh…Trixie?”

Trixie focused her attention on the strange bird in front of her. “You have an owl as a pet?

Twilight smiled. “His name’s Owlowiscious.”

“Well Owl, you may refer to me as the Great and Powerful Trixie.” She said as she extended her hoof out.

“Hoo”

“Trixie.”

“Hoo.”

“Me owl, I’m talking about me.”

“Hoo.”

Trixie scowled at the bird. “You’re mocking me aren’t you?”

Before she could expect the reply she was waiting for, Spike tapped her leg to get her attention and shook his head. “Yeah, you’re better off quitting while you’re ahead.”

Trixie sighed in annoyance. “Fine.”

The three walked through Ponyville in the mid-afternoon. Most ponies were already settled in their houses, so the streets were mostly empty except for the few ponies that still lingered. Twilight smiled as some ponies greeted, and how great the afternoon air felt to her. It dwindled however when she noticed Trixie lowering her head as she walked beside her. She looked around to see that while some ponies simply smiled and waved at their princess, some looked at her with confusion and even a hint of anger and resentment. “How are you feeling Trixie?” She said in a nervous tone.

“I feel like a hundred pairs of eyes filled with hatred are just staring me down. Can Trixie go home now?”

“Relax Trixie, of course there’s going to be some ponies who remember what happened in the past. But at least they’re not running you out of town with pitchforks and torches.”

“Doesn’t mean that they’re not on the verge of doing that. Might as well give them a cart of rotten tomatoes while you’re at it.”

Twilight sighed as she heard this from her. She then noticed Spike giving her a look of worry. “You really think having her see our friends is going to make her feel any better?” He whispered. “If this is how the residents of Ponyville act towards her, I don't think I want to see how they’ll treat her.”

“Trust me Spike, I have a plan to help her. I just need their cooperation to make this work is all.”

“Whatever you say, but I still don’t think this is one of your best ideas Twi.”

“Trixie can hear you two you know.” She said as they tried to ignore her which made groan in annoyance.

“Hey Princess Twilight!”

The three stop to see two small unicorn colts running towards them. One was orange with green hair and a snail cutie mark, and the other was green with orange hair and scissors for a cutie mark. He held a small book with his magic. “Snips and Snails?” Twilight said. “What are you two doing here?”

“We just wanted to give ya the book we borrowed from ya earlier,” Snips said handing her the tome. “Now we can finally pass one of Ms. Cheerilee's math quizzes. Right Snails?”

Snails nodded. “Yeah, now we know that seven times seven equals sixty-four. Or was it ninety-four?”

Snips face hoofed. “It’s forty-nine you dolt. But anyways we just wanted to thank ya for giving us the book. And I was wondering if…” He silenced himself when he noticed that Snails was lifelessly staring widely at something. “Hey...you alright there buddy.”

“Ahh!” He yelled as he ran in the opposite direction as quickly as he can. Leaving Snips behind.

“Hey, what’s your problem? What got you all worked...up?” He finally noticed what he was looking at, somepony that made his spine tingle. “Tri...Trixie?”

Trixie looked at him with an annoyed glare. “Hello Snips. I guess you want to join your companion do you?”

“Uhh yeah...I’m sorry Ms. Great and Powerful Trixie. It’s been...great seeing you and your...uh... greatness, but I just...got a thing...to go to BYE!”

As Snips quickly ran to follow Snails, Twilight shook her head in disapproval then faced the blue unicorn. “I’m so sorry about that Trixie. I’m sure they didn’t mean that in such a bad way.”

“Whatever.” Trixie kept walking down the road leaving Twilight and Spike behind. The two looked at each other with a frown then followed her behind.

“So, does anypony know why we’re all here?” Rainbow Dash asked the others who were just as confused as her.

Rarity shook her head. “Twilight did told us all to meet her here, but she did not specify why.”

“Maybe she has a surprise for us!” Pinkie Pie said excitedly. “I love surprises.”

“Or maybe something bad happen and we need to help her.” Fluttershy said in worry.

“Well whatever it is, it best be important.” Applejack said tilting her hat. “I got some apples to check on before tha harvest.”

“Isn’t that Twilight and Spike over there?” Rarity asked pointing at her in the distance. “And who is that with her?”

The five looked to see that it was indeed their alicorn and dragon friend coming towards them. But what surprised them was the sight of a familiar looking blue unicorn mare trailing beside them. “Girls,” Rarity said. “is’t that Trixie?”

“Yep, the same varmit from back then.” Applejack answered with a low growl.

As the three came closer, Trixie started to slow down as she saw the faces of Twilight’s friends. She didn’t really recognize their names but she did recognize them from past experiences. She could easily see the glares that the cyan athlete, the orange farmer, and the alabaster designer. Yet, she saw a worried look coming from the yellow shy pegasus and the annoying pink one.

“Hey girls,” Twilight said. I’m glad you all could make it here.”

None of them responded as they looked at Trixie, who just stood there, lowering her head in an attempt to ignore their gazes.

“Uh guys?” Twilight asked.

“What’s she doing here?” Rainbow asked in a cold voice.

Twilight looked at Trixie who tried her best to keep her head down. “Look girls, I can already tell where this is going a mile away. But can you please just give her a chance?”

“Give her a chance!?” Applejack yelled. “That dirty little sneak took over Ponyville with that Alicorn Amulet, thingamajig, and done ran you outta town.”

“And we might as well add in all the things she did back when she first came to here.” Rainbow added.

“And do you remember what she did to my mane!?” Rarity shouted angrily. “Do you know how long it took me to get it back to normal? Three days, Twilight. Must’ve burned through so many hair supplies to get all that dreadful green and twigs out of my hair.”

“This isn’t helping Sparkle…”

Twilight looked at her friends with anger. “Listen girls, we all know that she did all those terrible things. But you can’t just look at the past and judge Trixie off of that.”

“You know, I was me and Pinkie Pie wasn’t there when Trixie did her magic show. And I don’t think you were that mean when you came back.” Fluttershy said.

“Yep. I was too busy with Twist’s birthday party to go to that magic show. Even though I wanted to.”

“Thanks you two. Nice to see that somepony are willing to give Trixie a chance.”

“Alright fine,” Rainbow said. “but what is Trixie doing here anyways? And what does this have to do with us?

“Well I’m glad you asked.” Twilight then made five scrolls appear with her magic and gave each one to her friends. “I won’t go too much into it, but starting tomorrow I need you all to take some time off your hooves to help become friends with Trixie.”

“WHAT!” Her friends and Trixie yelled in unison.

“Yeah, that was the seemed to be a rather accurate reaction.” Spike said.

“What do you mean we gotta make friends with her.” Rainbow said.

“Look I just want you guys to hang out with her. She can help you with any tasks or anything else you want to do with her. And I’d rather not hear any complaints from any you Rainbow.”

“Well I must say Twilight, this is quite the outlandish request you’re giving us.” Rarity said. “But I can tell this is something rather dire to you.”

“Really Rarity, you're not a even a bit suspicious about this?”

Trixie tapped Twilight on the shoulder to get her attention. “Sparkle, what is the meaning of this? Making friends, with them of all ponies? Is this some form of cruel and unusual punishment?”

“No it isn’t Trixie, I just want to help you Trixie.”

“Your...helping me?”

“Yes, now, if that’s all for today, we’re going to head in for the night.”

With that, Twilight, Trixie and Spike, walked back to the castle, leaving the others confused. “Well, that just happened.” Rainbow said.

“Oh boy,” Pinkie squealed. “It says here that I’m getting Trixie tomorrow. She can help me with the birthday party tomorrow, and we can have a new friend!”

“I wouldn't mind having Trixie as a friend.” Fluttershy whispered.

“Well I must say girls, this does seem like a rather interesting turn of events.” Rarity said.

“Interesting ain’t the first word I’ll use to describe it.” Applejack angrily said under her breath.

"Well be it as it may, Twilight wants us to help Trixie and I personally think we should at least try to give her the benefit of the doubt."

"Maybe she just wants some friends."

"That's right Fluttershy. Which means that we should get ready for her arrival soon.

With that, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie walked away from the meeting place leaving Rainbow and Applejack behind. "I have a bad feeling about this RD, this just don't feel right."

"I hear ya. Gotta say, I ain't looking forward to any of this."

Trixie finished up unpacking her stuff from her caravan and into her room. It been awhile since her encounter with Twilight’s friends, and she was still confused about it all. Making friends with them just seemed weird, and she had no idea what this had to do with her. ‘She’s planning something I swear.’ She thought to herself as she placed an old book on the shelf.

“You alright?”

She looked behind her to see Twilight entering the room with a friendly smile. “Yes Sparkle...I’m doing better.”

“Good. I never got a chance to tell you how sorry I am about how you were treated back there.”

“It’s alright Sparkle, I’m used to it.”

“No it’s not alright. You don’t deserve to be made fun of like that. It isn’t fair to be judge like that just because of what you did back then.”

Trixie growled as she turned towards Twilight. “Why are you doing this Sparkle? Why are you treating me like this?

Twilight looked at her in a confused look. “What do you mean Trixie, I’m just being nice.”

“That’s the point Sparkle. Helping me from my broken caravan is one thing, but letting me stay here with you, and help your friends with these frivolous tasks is definitely another thing. So why are you being so nice to me? What’s your damage? Is this some sort of revenge plan to get me back for what I did back then? You better start telling me or else.”

“I’m sorry Trixie, but that’s just what friends are for.”

Trixie eyes widened in surprise when she heard this, then turned her head as her cheeks blushed more than she wanted it to. “We’re not friends Sparkle. We never were, and we never will be.”

“Do you want to?”

Trixie looked back at the purple alicorn, surprised at the sudden question. She shook her head, “Forget it Sparkle, I’m going to bed.” As she said this, she placed a large bag on the corner of the room gently.

“Hey, what’s that,” Twilight asked pointing a hoof a the rather dusty bag.

“N...nothing Sparkle! Absolutely nothing! And you better not even attempt to find out what it is if you know what’s good for you. Let’s just say that it’s something close to me and leave it at that.”

“Oh...alright Trixie, I promise I won’t see what it is.”

“Good. Anyways, I’m going to bed now, apparently I got something important to do in the morning.”

“Yeah you’re right. Night Trixie, see you in the morning.”

“Night Sparkle.” As Twilight left the room, Trixie sighed as she got into the bed. Tomorrow was going to be awkward day for her. She just hoped that whatever she had planned for her, it will be worth it in the end.

Chapter 5: Child’s Play

Chapter 5
Child’s Play

The first half of class was over and the time for recess had begun. Many fillies and colts ran outside as they were ready to make the most of this ten minute break. From slides, to swings, to the oddly named monkey bars, they all enjoyed their much needed free time. The only exception, was Trixie, who sulked sadly next to the building away from the others. “That was a terrible way to introduce myself to them.” She said to herself. “Made me look like a complete idiot back there.”

She lowered her head as she tried to forget about that moment in class. The audience weren't applauding and giving her praise, they were laughing at her, making herself look like a complete fool in front of everypony. Something her mother would never let happen.

“Um...excuse me?”

Just then Trixie looked up to see three fillies looking at her nervously She instantly recognized them as three of her classmates; Minuette, Lemon Hearts, and Twinkleshine. One tapped her hooves and the others looked around anxiously, as if they were anticipating something. “Yes, can I help you?”

Minuette was the first to speak. “Yeah, we were just wondering if you really were the daughter of the Amazing Silver Wand.”

Trixie looked at her classmates in confusion. “Yes I am. But why do you want to know?”

Lemon Hearts spoke next. “Well, we were always big fans of her ever since she performed at the Summer Sun Celebration last year, and we never knew that she had a daughter.”

“And I gotta say, that was such a cool way to introduce yourself.” Said Twinkleshine.

“Really?” Trixie asked as her ears perked up. “You didn’t think it was stupid or bad?”

“Are you kidding me? That was so awesome! Only someone as great as the Amazing Silver Wand can pull off something like that.”

“Wow, thanks guys, that’s good to hear.”

“No problem.” Minuette said. “And if you don’t mind that is, do you think you could show us a some sort of magic trick for us please?”

Trixie did a double take as she looked at the three fillies in surprise. “Trick? You want to see me do a magic trick?”

“Of course!” Lemon Hearts answered. “We just wanna see one of your no doubt amazing magic tricks. If that’s okay with you that is.”

Trixie looked at the ground as she thought about what to do. The attention, it felt odd to her that these fillies were willing to spend their recess not playing with the others, but wanting to see her magic. At the same time though, it felt so good.

“In that case,” Trixie said as she got up from her seat. “Prepare to be amazed, as Trixie dazzles you with magic only a unicorn like me can perform with relative ease!”

The three fillies gasped in wonder as they looked at the young magician in awe. Knowing that she had their attention, Trixie used her magic to grab an apple from a near by apple tree, and paper towel from the classroom. She placed the paper towel over the apple and focused her horn on it. The items flashed in a puff of smoke, and only the paper towel remained.

“Wow!” The three fillies exclaimed together.

“Wait for it.” Trixie said holding up her hoof. She focused her horn on the paper towel and in another puff of smoke, the apple reappeared. But then, she lifted the covering, and showed them the apple, only this time, it was cut into four pieces. “Anypony wants one?”

The three stomped their hooves and cheered as they each grabbed their own piece and ate them. “That was totally amazing Trixie.” Minuette said as she finished her slice. “How did you do that?”

“Sorry, but a magician must never reveal her secrets. That’s mother’s number one rule to being a magician.”

“Yeah she’s right.” Twinkleshine said next. “There’s no point to telling somepony how to do a trick after showing it. Where’s the fun in revealing secrets?”

“Exactly.” Trixie said as she ate her slice and bowed to her small audience.

“So Trixie,” Lemon Hearts started. “you wanna play ball with us until recess is over?”

“Yeah!” Minuette said. “We can be friends if you want.”

Trixie looked at the three smiling fillies, then smiled back at them. “I think I would like that.”

As Trixie walked happily with her new friends, two mares invisible to every other pony, watched in the distance as they drank their tea. “Trixie’s magic seem to be improving quite well. I’ve never seen filles her age perform magic like that in ages.” Celestia said as she poured more tea in her cup.

Silver Wand laughed softly. “The old ‘Sliced Apple’ trick, never fails to impress the crowds. Took her three weeks, five rolls of paper towels, and twenty apples to get that right without cutting up the towel. Good to see that she can still pull it off without my help.”

“I must say Silver, your daughter’s magic reminds me of yours all those years ago. I could probably take her under my wing and have her as a personal student. Who knows, she may one day become better than you.”

“Ha, as much as I would love for that to happen, it’ll be decades until she can come even close to my skills. Though I wouldn't mind if you could give her a little push right now you know.”

“Now Silver,” Celestia said as she sipped more of her tea. “You know I can’t just make her my personal student. She has to earn it by excelling her magic prowess.”

“Yeah, yeah Tia, I know. But all I’m saying is that if you’re looking for the perfect candidate to take under your wing, there she is right there.”

The two shared a laugh as she said this. “I’ll keep that in mind.” Celestia said. As they settled down, the alicorn heard a hard and raspy cough coming from Silver. After a few seconds, she stopped and cleared her throat, starting to sound like she’s trying to start a lawnmower. “Are you hurt Silver?” She asked in concern.

“It’s okay Tia.” Silver responded with her usual soft voice. “Just a little bug is all. Guess I need some more tea.”

“Well I still have more chamomile and green tea left for us to drink. Perhaps they can help you with your sore throat.”

“Thanks, I’ll take you up on that offer.”

“Trixie...Trixie wake up.”

“Mmh... yes...Princess Trixie Lulamoon does...have a nice ring…”

“Trixie it’s time to wake up.”

“You’re right... I am...better than Twilight…”

“TRIXIE!”

“AAAHH!”

The showmare leaped out of the bed, nearly touching the ceiling as she did. She fell down hard back onto bed and glared daggers at her rude alarm clock. “How dare you wake me up from such a pleasant dream Sparkle. Do you have any idea how wonderful it was?”

“Well I can tell that it had something to do with you becoming Princess Trixie. So knowing you it was probably fantastic.”

“Of course it was. Princess Celestia was just about to turn me into an Alicorn, and crown me Equestria’s newest princess. And then you had to ruin it all. I was this close Princess Killjoy.” She exclaimed as she held both hooves, mere centimeters away from each other.

Twilight couldn't help but giggle at Trixie’s misfortune. “Well I’m sorry I ruined your fantasy, but I hope this can make up for it.” She then brought in a bowl of oat cereal and orange juice and bring it towards Trixie. “I made you some breakfast in bed.”

Trixie took her breakfast with her magic and took a bite out of her cereal. “Well, I guess this will suffice. For now.”

“You’re welcome. And when you’re done I want you to go over to sugarcube corner to help Pinkie Pie. She’s throwing a birthday party for a foal and she can really use the help.”

Trixie almost spat out her cereal as if she just heard Twilight say something way too vulgar for her to say. “Forgive me Sparkle, but you want me to do what!?”

Twilight pulled out a scroll and handed it to Trixie. “This is the first meetup on your schedule. Today you have Pinkie Pie, then tomorrow you have Fluttershy, then Applejack, then Rarity, and you finally have Rainbow Dash. You’ll meet one of them each day and when you’re done, you can come back here at the end of the day.”

Trixie looked at the scroll in confusion, then looked back at Twilight with an angry glare. “You want the Great and Powerful Trixie to waste her precious time with your aggravating friends? And why am I starting with the pink one?”

Twilight stepped closer to the irate mare. “Pinkie needs help with the party, and I thought were the perfect candidate help her get everything ready for it and perform there. You can even get paid after you’re done.”

“So what? All of this is just some elaborate scheme for me to make friends, to relax in a town that will always ridicule me with the ponies that would just love to buck me in the face?”

“No Trixie, this is so you can build up a positive reception in PonyvIlle. I theorised that if you are seen around being nice to others, helping them out and such, you might be able to build up a reputation where you the whole Alicorn Amulet incident is just a faded memory. That way, ponies will be able to go to your shows and see you for the showmare you really are.”

Trixie at stared Twilight, completely lost for words. She looked back at the scroll deep in thought, then gave a soft huff. “Will you teach Trixie the spells in Hoofdini’s Book when she comes back?”
Twilight smiled as she knew her plan might end up working. “I promise, I will teach you a spell or two when you’re all done.”

“Very well then, I’ll assist this Pinkie Pie on her party. Just as long as you hold up your end of the deal.” Trixie finished the last few bits of her cereal, then began to get ready to walk out. In a few minutes, she was brushed and ready to go all missing nothing else at all.

“You’re not going to forget this are you?”

She turned to see that Twilight was carrying her signature cape and hat she wore on all of her shows. She immediately used her magic to bring it towards her. “O...of course I was going to wear this. I was just about to-” She stopped when she looked at her attire which looked cleaner and shinier when she last looked at it. “Did you clean this Sparkle?”

“Yeah,” Twilight responded. “it was all dirty when I found you. So I took it and cleaned it while you were asleep. Took a lot a detergent to get those stains out.”

Trixie took a moment to look at the attire she’s been wearing for a long time. For some odd reason, her eyes started to get all watery, but she quickly regained her composure then put on her hat and cape. “Well anyways, I’ll be taking my leave now, remember your end of the deal.”

With that, Trixie ran out the room in a huff, completely disregarding the empty bowl and cup, and the slightly annoyed alicorn behind her. “Your welcome!” Twilight yelled as she looked back at the mess Trixie left and sighed.

It was still early morning when Trixie left the castle. While almost everypony was still in their houses, some were too busy setting up shops or heading to there other jobs to notice the blue unicorn. It was one of those rare instances where she didn’t want the want the attention as she ran towards Sugarcube Corner. She did remember Twilight rambling about some gingerbread looking building and she guessed that’s what she was looking for. After a minute of searching (and the occasional glares from onlookers), she finally stood in front of the bakery where she was about to knock on the door when…

“GOOD MORNING TRIXIE!”

The door flung open nearly decking her in the schnoz before she jumped out the way. She then saw the bouncing earth pony herself. “Oh hi Trixie how’s it going?”

Trixie dusted herself and looked at Trixie with a solid look. “Annoyed, but I guess it could be worse.”

Pinkie chuckled. “Well turn that frown upside down, because we’re going to throw a super duper party for a happy little colt! Isn’t that exciting!?”

“I guess it is, after all I have performed in a couple birthday parties back then. But I never helped prepare a birthday party before.”

“Well dontcha worry Trixie, party planning is my special talent. And I can help you help me get everything all set. Just follow me and we can get started.”

As she bounded down the hall, Trixie rubbed her temples as she felt a migraine coming on. ‘If this pink one’s annoying chatter’s my punishment, then kudos to you Sparkle.’ she thought as she followed her. She looked around to see how bright and colorful everything looked, which felt like a breath of fresh air compared to the purple colored castle.

“Hey Trixie,” Pinkie called as she got out utensils in the kitchen. “did you ever meet my sister Maud when you were working at my family’s rock farm?”

The question caught Trixie off guard as she was reminded of the days she had to work at that Faust-forsaken job. “Trixie did meet that Maud you speak of. Although she was rather weird when she’s around me.”

...

2 Years ago…

Trixie chipped away at her current rock formation with a pickaxe. She started sweating bullets as she continued hacking away at the same formation for the upteenth time, and it was starting to piss her off. Never had she felt so degraded in her life, but after everything that transpired in the past week, she had to take this job.

“Worst week ever!” She mumbled to herself. “I swear, when I get out of this place, I’ll make that Twilight pay for what she’d done to me. I just need to make a few more bits and I’ll be able to-” She stopped when she felt the presence of somepony behind her. She turned and jumped when she saw Maud and her usual blank expression. “Do not sneak up on the Great and Powerful Trixie like that! What do you want anyways?”

“You look sad.” Maud said in her ever so familiar monotone voice.

Trixie scoffed. “Trixie is not sad, but she is annoyed by your presence. I have no time to deal with your pointless prattle about rocks, stones or whatever. Now get out of her sight and let Trixie get back to her-” Trixie stopped mid-sentence when saw Maud holding what looked like a necklace made of colorful ricks. “What is that?”

“It’s a rock candy necklace. Me and my sister likes to make these and give them to each other as tradition. And I made this for you to cheer you up.”

She placed the necklace on Trixie’s neck as she stood there in stunned silence. It took several minutes for her to snap back to reality as she noticed the necklace around her neck. “Well...um...whatever just please let me get back to work.”

“You’re welcome.” Maud said as she walked back to the house. When she was gone, Trixie looked at her new necklace and took a bite out of a piece. She noticed how surprisingly good it actually tasted and smiled. ‘I guess it won’t be so bad here.’

…

Trixie shook her head as the flashback faded from her mind. “Anyways, shouldn't we be preparing for a party or something?”

Pinkie jumped right in front of Trixie almost scaring the unicorn. “Yeperooni! We we have some cupcakes to make, and you can help me bake them.”

“Baking cupcakes?” Trixie questioned nervously. “Trixie never baked cupcakes before, I don’t know how to make them.”

“Don’t worry Trixie, I can teach you easily!”

“Please, the Great and Powerful Trixie has no need learn how to bake cupcakes. You can take care of that while…” Trixie stopped as she heard upbeat music randomly playing. “Where is that music coming from? You’re not going to sing are you?

All you have to do is take a cup of flour!
Add it to the mix!
Now just take a little something sweet, not sour!
A bit of salt, just a pinch!
Baking these treats is such a cinch!
Add a teaspoon of vanilla!
Add a little more, and you count to four,
And you never get your fill of...
Cupcakes! So sweet and tasty!
Cupcakes! Don't be too hasty!
Cupcakes! Cupcakes, cupcakes, CUPCAKES!

Pinkie finished in a flourish as Trixie groaned in annoyance.

After an hour of getting everything all set, the party was ready to go and many young fillies filed in the dozens. As the party was under way Pinkie and Trixie both brought in a huge cake for the birthday boy, who was a dark blue young unicorn colt with a lime green mane and tail. He also didn’t had a cutie mark.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOONLIGHT!” Pinkie Pie shouted as she and Trixie plopped the cake on the table. Moonlight smiled as he looked at the giant pastry in sheer awe. “Now blow out the candles and make a wish!”
Moonlight immediately closed his eyes and blew out his seven candles. He jumped up jor joy as he took a slice of cake and joined his friends who were enjoying their slices as well. Meanwhile, Trixie was busy wiping the frosting and cake batter off her fur and mane. She was still feeling annoyed by Pinkie’s rather wild baking practices. “Well, at least this is all over, now Trixie can leave this crazy place with her dignity and clothes still intact.”

“You did a really great job Trixie!”

At the corner of her eye, she noticed Pinkie with cake batter still in her mane and giving her a warm smile. “I did?”

“Of course you did silly filly! I know you didn’t like getting all messy but I really appreciate everything you did. This is one of my greatest parties yet, and I’ve never seen Moonlight so happy before.” Pinkie then proceeded to give Trixie the biggest bear hug she could muster. “Thank you so so much!”

“P...Pinkie...can’t...breath.”

“Oops, sorry.” She said as she released her iron grip.”

“That’s okay, and you are welcome, it’s actually kinda feels nice to be here now.” Trixie said with a surprisingly genuine smile.

“Um, excuse me ma’am.”

Trixie looked down as she saw the birthday boy pulling at her cape. “Moonlight isn’t it? Do you require something?”

Moonlight released his grip and looked down nervously. “Are you actually the Great and Powerful Trixie Ma’am?” He said in a polite tone.

Trixie looked at the colt in confusion. “Yes..that is me. Is there something wrong?”

Moonlight suddenly gave out an audible “Yes.” As he hopped in place out of sheer joy. “I always wanted to meet you Miss Trixie, ever since me mum took me to Canterlot and I saw your shows!”

Trixie stood there surprised at the colts sudden admiration. But then decided that it might be a good time to make somepony happy, and to milk the praise. “Well lucky for you my young fan, the Nice and Generous Trixie has took time out of her ever so busy schedule, to lend a helping hoof towards preparing your birthday party.”

“Wow, that’s so cool, thank you so much Miss. Oh does that mean you’re here to perform at my party?”

Trixie was caught off guard by the question as she nervously rubbed the back of her head. “Um...well...I…”

“Of course she can perform for your party!” Pinkie yelled as she jumped out of seemingly nowhere, something Trixie would never get used to.

“We’re going to give you the greatest magic show you’ve ever seen!”

This excited outburst caught the attention of the other fillies, as they cheered at the idea of an amazing magic show. They all rushed at the two older mares their eyes filled with curiosity and wonder. While Pinkie was looking at them at excitement, Trixie looked at them with confusion and a hint of fear.

“Um...Pinkie,” Trixie whispered. “I’m afraid I can’t perform in front of these fillies.”

Pinkie heard the sad tone in Trixie’s voice as she turned towards her. “What,” she yelled silently. “but why not?”

“I just can’t, the Great and Powerful Trixie refuse to perform today, and I’m afraid I can’t explain why.”

“Oh, that’s okay.” Pinkie then lighted up as she ran straight upstairs in a pink blur and returned a second later suit and top hat. “In that case, I’ll take over for you, I can be great at magic tricks too.” The fillies around them cheered more as Pinkie flourished her hooves around theatrically, doing a rather spot-on imitation of the showmare.

Trixie only scoffed. “Sorry to burst your bubble, but my feats of magic cannot be performed by ponies like you. It took me years of practice and experience, something you’ll never...compare...to.” She slowed down as she noticed that the kids around her were surrounding, Pinkie as she was doing card and ring tricks, and what looked like an optical illusion where she was levitating a napkin.

“And for my next trick…” Pinkie then took her hat, flipped it upside down, and dipped her hoof deep in it. Seconds later, she lifted her hoof as she was holding a plushie of Trixie along with her hat and cape. “Here ya go Moonlight, just for you.”

Moonlight eagerly took the plushie and hugged it tightly. “Thank you so much Miss Pinkie.” As the other children cheered and begged for more (which Pinkie was more than happy to oblige), he noticed out of the corner of her eye, Trixie hastily leaving the bakery with her head lowered.

Author's Note

Added in a little Maud and Trixie moment for the fans and shippers. You know who you are. :raritywink:

Chapter 6: Pride and Generosity

Chapter 6:
Pride and Generosity

“That’s it for today class,” Mr. Marks said. “remember to get those forms signed by the end of the week. See you tomorrow.”

As the final bell for the day rung, many kids rushed outsides to meet their parents. Trixie said goodbye to her three new friends as she trotted into the opposite direction. She then felt weightless as she was being grabbed by the silver colored aura of her mother, into her loving embrace. “Why hello again my little apprentice. You had a good day at school?”

Trixie fell back onto the ground. “I had an amazing day today mother, everypony was so nice, and they told me all the cool stuff I’m going to learn later. They’re going to teach me about potions, how unicorn magic works, the healthy foods that make magic stronger, and spells unicorns used back in the day. Oh, I’m so excited that I could just burst!” The blue filly excitedly jumped around her mother as if her hooves were springs.

Silver just shook her head as she waited for a good minute for Trixie to settle down. ‘Becoming more like me each day.’ She thought. “Come on Trixie, let’s head home so we can have some dinner shall we?”

“Are we going to teleport back home?”

“Nah, I’d rather we walk over there and enjoy this afternoon. Wouldn't you?”

“Oh, of course mother.”

The two unicorns left the school ground and headed home. They went through a park as they witness the summer leaves swaying in the breeze. Autumn was coming and they were going to enjoy their last moments within the trees. “So Trixie,” Silver started breaking the silence. “Do you have any homework for the first day?”

“Well I do need you to sign a forum for tomorrow, that’s all.”

Silver scoffed. “Is that all, a simple feat even a diamond dog can pull off. Why, you don’t even have to lift a hoof. But of course, you’ll have to work hard for all the fun stuff now do you.”

Trixie smiled. “No need to worry mother, for I am more than ready to do whatever it takes to become as great as you. Nothing will stand in my way.” She suddenly stopped with an audible “eep” as Silver jumped right in front of her and stared straight in her eyes with a glare.

“Don’t get too excited my apprentice,” she said in a low and menacing voice. “mastering the art of magic is not easy. The amazing Silver Wand learned the hard way that my current level of magic is near impossible for any mere Unicorn, especially the cocky ones who think they are more than ready for it. It requires years of practice and experience, and a lot of patience. It’s a profession not for the faint of heart. Still think you’re ready for the big leagues?”

Trixie then glared back at Silver with determination. “More than ready mother.”

The two stared at eachother for a few more seconds, until Silver broke the tension by playfully sticking her tongue out, which prompted both to laugh uncontrollably. They stayed like that for a while until Silver picked her and placed her on her back. “Of course you’re ready my daughter. Your road to success will be a long one, but Beatrix Lulamoon would never give up so easily now would she?”

“Nope. I will become the magician everypony would want to see. Just like you right?”

“Well, maybe not just like me, but you’ll be about ninety percent as good as me one day.” Silver said as she rubbed her daughter’s mane. She then took another glance at her and smiled warmly as she kept on walking. “You know, I already told you this before, but your father would be proud of you.”

Trixie’s eyes widened as she looked back at her Silver, then sighed. “Mother, do you remember what father was like?”

Silver Wand looked back at Trixie with a frown. “Odd, out of all the times I mentioned him, you never asked me that. Why now?”

“Well, I guess being with you for so long, and being in Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns, made me wish he was here right now.” Trixie’s eyes started to water. “I know he’ll never see me again, but It’s okay...I’ll always have you right mother?”

Silver snickered as she looked up in the air. “Bright Lights.”

“What was that?” Trixie asked.

“Your father's name was Bright Lights. He was a Unicorn like us, and he was an amazing performer.”

“Was he a magician like you mother.”

“No, he was an actor in plays sweetheart. Him and his crew would travel all around Equestria and perform shows. And let me tell you, his acting was simply magical. When he got up there he would play his characters marvelously, and I thought he was the best actor ever.”

“Wow mother,” Trixie said listening. “he sounded so cool.”

“He was also an egotistical jerk.”

Trixie ears lowered. “Oh, so he wasn’t cool?”

“Oh don’t misinterpret,” Siler exclaimed. “he was a kind, humorous, and compassionate gentlestallion with an amazing talent. But let's just say his ego knew no bounds, always talking about how great and handsome he was. When I first met him, he instantly fell in love with me and he would always try his hardest to get me to feel the same. He’d come to all the shows he could possibly attend, send me flowers and love letters, and would even say all sorts of corny pickup lines like, Your beauty shines more brightly than Celestia’s sun on her best day.” She said in a suave and masculine voice.”

Trixie chuckled loudly as he imagined her father carrying a bouquet of roses as he said that. “He sounded like a real dork.”

“Yes he was, but do you wanna know what he did that got me to finally go out with him?”

“What did he do?”

“One night while I was in Manehattan for a show, a group of thugs jumped me and nearly knocked me out. I was so scared that I wasn’t able to use my magic.”

“Oh no!” Trixie said as she hugged her mother tightly. “You weren't hurt were you?”

“I would’ve if your father didn’t show up. He took out those thugs in mere seconds, talking about how a stallion should never hit a lady. I actually asked him how he learned to do all that when he saved me, and he told me when he had to learn how to fight with magic for fighting scenes. But then I saw that he was injured during the fight, so I took him to my place to heal him up. And when I asked him why he did all that for me, he said Because that’s just what you do when you love somepony. You protect and help them, because they are the most important pony in your life.”

Trixie’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really?”

“Yep, it was on that moment that I learned that he wasn’t just some pretty boy looking for his newest marefriend, he was somepony who loved me for who I was. Then when the time was right, he proposed to me, and I think you know the rest honey.”

Trixie started to tear up. “Wow, he sounded great mother.”

“Yes...he was. But don’t cry my apprentice, while he may be gone, he will always be with us, in here.” She said pointing her hoof at Trixie’s heart.

Trixie wiped a tear from her eye. “Has he been with us the entire time?”

“Of course he still comes to watch all of my shows. I can still see him cheering in the front as I perform. But that’s enough moping around, let’s just go home already so we can have some dinner. I’m thinking pasta tonight.”

“That sounds great.” The two finally got to the house, but before she could open the door. Trixie wrapped her hooves around Silver’s neck. “I love you mother.”

Silver couldn't help but shed a few more tears. “I love you too Trixie, I always will.”

Trixie didn’t knew where she was going, and she didn’t care. She just wanted to get out of that bakery with what was left of her dignity. “Can’t believe she just upstaged me like that, and in front of a bunch of children too.” She thought more about that moment and whether or not Pinkie really meant to humiliate her or not, but at that point she just wanted to get out of there.

As she walked Trixie noticed that her cape and hat still had cake batter and frosting on it. She wasn’t surprised or angry though, the party was rather messy, and ever since she started to wear her outfit, it had a history of attracting mud and food stains on it. There were also a few rips and tears. It was time for a replacement. “Not that it matters to me anymore.” She said to herself in a somber tone. “I won’t be needing these anytime soon.”

Before she continued towards the castle, she stopped when she felt raindrops fall on her face. She looked up to see that pegasi were starting to place rainclouds throughout Ponyville, and rain was beginning to fall. “Hey!” Trixie called out to a whether pony above her. “What is with this rain.”

“Sorry lady,” He called back. “the schedule called for light showers. It’ll only be here for a couple of hours. Just go find some place for cover or something.”

As he flew away to get another cloud, Trixie looked around to see that civilians were starting to get out of the rain and she was just standing there like a dumbass. Before she could react however, she felt the rain on top of her stop, she then turned to see the fashion pony from yesterday. “Wh-what are you doing out here?”

Rarity wore a raincoat and used her magic to levitate the umbrella above her. “Forgive me darling,” She said with a smile. “but I couldn't help but notice that you were out here getting absolutely soaked. How did Pinkie Pie’s party go?”

Trixie turned to face away from her. “It...went fine. But I should be leaving now, I’m going back to the castle to…”

“DEAR HEAVENS.” Rarity gasped as she looked at Trixie in sheer horror. “What has become of your ensemble? It’s covered in cake batter.”

Trixie looked at her dirty outfit, and back at the fashionista who now had a concerned look on her face. She stumbled to find the words to say, until Rarity placed a hoof on her mouth to silence her. “At ta ta, I don’t need another word. Let’s just get out of this rain and head on over to my boutique. Follow me please.” Rarity then headed towards the other direction while Trixie, with no better option than standing out in the open, followed her. A minute later she saw a tall, lavish purple building. They both wiped their hooves on her welcome mat and entered the building where Rarity put away her umbrella and raincoat.

Trixie looked around the inside of the boutique. It seemed to be both a place a business and a place to live, as she saw a kitchen in the back. “So, Rarity was it, this is your home?”

“Yes,” She said as she raised her hoof. “this is the Carousel Boutique, where everything is chic, unique and magnifique!”

‘Well not the best title I would give it.’ Trixie thought. “So anyways, why did you bring me here? I’m not supposed to be meeting you until after my day with Applejack.”

“Well I can’t just leave you out in the rain darling. And as much as Twilight loves to go by her schedule, I refuse to wait another day while this crime against fashion goes unnoticed. Surely you have something else other than this filthy cape and hat.”

“Hey,” Trixie exclaimed as she held her cape close to her. “the Great and Powerful Trixie’s outfit has been a part of her since she was a child. And she doesn't need advice on fashion from you.”

Rarity sighed. “It’s not about fashion advice dear, it’s about getting you something new to wear for your shows. May I see them for a second?”

Trixie hesitantly took off her cloak and hat and stared at them for a few minutes. These were always special to her, and she never thought about changing them before. Wearing a different ensemble just felt alien to her. She then decided to hand Rarity her outfit, who immediately took it to her desk and took out some red glasses, She started to stare at it deeply, turning it around to look at every last inch of it, while Trixie just looked at her just wondering what she was doing.

“Aah...I see.” She took her glasses off and turned towards the showmare. “I must say Trixie, I wasn’t expecting such a divine couture. I mean, the stitching is spot on, the colors compliments your fur perfectly, and the fabric has such a unique texture. Even with all these tears and stains it’s such a great ensemble. Although, I have noticed that you’ve used the ‘Stain-Remover’ spell a hefty amount of times.”

Trixie glanced at Rarity in surprise. “You know the ‘Stain-remover’ spell too?”

Rarity giggled. “I’ve used this spell dozens of times when my little sister Sweetie Belle accidentally spills something on my clothes. And after years of using it, I can easily tell if it’s been used or not just by sensing it with my magic. But if you don’t mind me asking, why haven’t you worn something other than this?”

Trixie blushed as she tried to think of an answer for her. “Well, I never wanted to replace my outfit. It’s been the very symbol of Trixie ever since I started my magic shows. It’s so close to me that I couldn't imagine wearing something else.”

Rarity placed the cape and hat on her working table and looked at Trixie with a small smile. “I completely understand darling, many of the outfits I’ve created had sentimental value to me. Even the first dress I made is still in my closet, and I could never bring it to myself to sell it no matter how hard I try. And you don’t need to explain why it’s so sentimental, because I can tell that whoever made it, put love in every stitch.”

Trixie started to smile as memories of her time with her cape and hat started coming back to her. The first birthday party she performed in, the first time a fan asked for her autograph. They were all special moments she enjoyed with the very symbol of the showmare. Sighing, she looked at rarity and nodded. “Okay, when can we start on my new outfit?”

Rarity beamed in excitement as the ideas started to flood her mind. “First things first, I must get your measurements before I can begin. Could you please just stand over there while I fetch my tape measure please?” She pointed at a stand surrounded by mirrors, and Trixie obediently stood on there. The fashionista rushed back in seconds levitating her glasses, a sketchpad, pencils, and her tape measure with her. She immediately went to work, measuring the length of her arms and sides and writing them down along with some designs she could use.

She was stopped however when Trixie turned to look at her with a frown. “How much will this cost me? Trixie knows that she won’t be able to afford any dresses anytime soon.

“There’s no need to worry about that darling, you won’t need to spend a single bit for this one. It’s on the house as they would say.”

“What?!” Trixie shouted. “You’re designing Trixie’s outfit for free? Even after I ruined your mane with that green beehive?” Once she said this, she noticed that Rarity took off her glasses and gave her a rather cold glare. What was she thinking, blurting out something like that to somepony who was actually being nice to her? “Uh...wait a minute, Trixie didn't mean it like that. She’s so…”

Rarity waved her hoof around to silence the blue mare. “It’s okay Trixie, all is forgiven.”

“Really, you forgive Trixie? But I ruined mane. Yesterday you were so irate about it, so why are you being nice so me?”

“Because a lady shouldn't hold grudges my dear. While I was angry when I was reminded of your past visits here in Ponyville, that doesn't mean that you’re the same showboating magician from back then. Or, at least you’re trying not to be.”

Trixie sighed. “I’m just not used to somepony being nice to me is all. For the past few months it’s been nothing but angry ponies wanting justice for the Ursa Minor and Alicorn Amulet incidents, and one of those weren't even entirely my fault. Seeing you and Sparkle act so nice to me just feels like something I don’t deserve.”

“Well I suggest you get used to that feeling darling. It’s what you feel when you have friends, and I personally wouldn’t mind if I became yours Trixie.” Rarity gracefully extended her hoof with a welcoming gesture. And Trixie hesitantly shook it.

“The Great and Powerful Trixie accepts your offer Rarity, and I never did apologize for turning your mane all green and ugly.”

“Well that moment did give me the opportunity to experiment with different hair products. And I’ll be honest, it was rather hilarious in hindsight.”

As Rarity started to laugh at the memory, Trixie started laughing with her as she felt the pressure of being with the fashionista come off her. For the first time since she came into the Carousel Boutique, she finally felt at peace.

“RARITY, I’M HOME!”

Sweetie Belle burst through the door into the boutique as she left school. Behind her, Applebloom and Scootaloo were walking behind her covering their ears from Sweetie’s outburst. “Geez, do you do that everytime you open the door?” Scootaloo said uncovering her ears.

“Oops, sorry Scoots.” She responded. “ I’m just so excited that we’re all going to go to the Ponyville dam later for school the field trip. This trip could totally help us get our cutie marks.”

“Eeyup,” Chirped Applebloom. “I bet there’s all sorts stuff we could do to get our cutie marks. All we need is just Rarity’s permission to go, and we’ll be good to go. Um...you do have her permission right Sweetie Belle?”

“Don’t worry girls, Rarity should be fine with us going there. I think.”

“Wait, what do you mean you think?”

Before Sweetie could answer, the three hered Rarity and unfamiliar voice laughing in the other room. “And then after I superheated his drink, he spent the next two minutes drinking beer to cool himself down, and then he slipped and broke the table in half!” The female voice said, getting a laugh from Rarity. The three curious filles followed the voice to see what it was.

“Anyways, that’s how Trixie got banned from that bar.” She said as she drunk more of her tea. Rarity finished taking Trixie’s measurements, and the two decided to have some tea and snacks while Trixie told stories from past experiences. Meanwhile, three fillies stood near the door as their jaws almost hit the ground.

“Hey, ain’t that Trixie our sisters talked about?” Applebloom asked quietly.

“Yep, but what she’s doing here? Last time she was here she took over Ponyville with that amulet thingy.” Scootaloo answered.

Rarity noticed them and gave them a welcoming wave. “Oh hi girls, how was school today?”

The three fillies immediately darted towards Rarity’s side of the table. They all looked at Trixie with a questioning glare, in which Rarity notice immediately. “Now whatever is the matter girls? You all seem stressed.”

“What’s she doing here Rarity?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I thought that was the bad magician who took over Ponyville and banished Twilight.”

“Yeah, she’s not here to cause trouble again right?”

Rarity grimaced as her sister called Trixie ‘the bad magician’. Before she could notice Trixie eyes lowering, she cleared her throat to compose herself. “Now girls, there is no need to call Trixie a bad pony. In fact she will be staying here in Ponyville for a while so I suggest you apologize to her.”

Trixie rubbed the back of her head. “Yeah, The Great and Powerful Trixie is very sorry about her actions back then. I didn’t mean to take it that far.”

Applebloom looked at Trixie with an remorseful look “Oh, well I’m mighty sorry about judging you like that. Applejack always told me ta never judge a an apple by it’s color.”

“Scootaloo rolled her eyes, unconvinced by at the showmare’s apology. “Yeah well, anyways wasn’t there something you wanted to ask Sweetie Belle?”

“Oh um Rarity, can you let me go on the school field trip to the Ponyville dam?”

“A field trip to the Ponyville dam?” Asked Rarity.

“Yeah, Scootaloo and Applebloom got their permission from Rainbow Dash and Applejack, and I need yours if I want to go. This could help us get our cutie marks.”

“Well as much as I would like for you to go to this field trip, I'm afraid you're still grounded for the week and cannot attend.”

“Oh come on Rarity, It's not my fault the oven just burst into flames like that.”

Trixie gave them a confused look. “Wait, she set your oven on fire?”

“Long story Trixie, anyways I’m sorry but that’s what happens when you use things without my permission. But if you really want to go, I can take you later next week.”

“Oh, alright Rarity.”

Applebloom and Scootaloo patted Sweetie on the back. “Come on Sweetie, It’ll be alright. It won’t be the end of the world if you don’t go ya know.” Applebloom said calmly.

“Yeah, you’re right. Come on girls, let’s go back to the clubhouse.” Sweetie said as she sauntered sadly out the door. The others following her. Trixie couldn’t help but look at the fillies with an apologetic frown. ‘They seemed so ambitious about getting their cutie marks. Kinda reminds me of myself.’

“Well I would assume you would want to leave too my dear.” Rarity said grabbing Trixie’s attention. “I suppose you would want to go head on over to Twilight’s since you’ve been here for so long.”

“Yes you are right. She promised to teach me some magic tricks in this special book she has. And for her sake she better not have forgotten about it.”

“Oh don’t worry Trixie, if there’s one thing I know about Twilight, is that she’ll never break a promise to a friend.”

Trixie grimaced when she heard that last part, but quickly shook it off. “Well anyways, I’ll be heading off for now. And thanks again for the dress.”

“I have a feeling you’ll love the results Trixie, I’ll see you for our next meeting.”

“Goodbye Rarity.”

Author's Note

Kinda ironic that I uploaded this chapter on the day the first Rarity episode of season 5 premieres. (Good episode by the way). Also I hope you're enjoying this story so far. Tell me what you think about it.

Chapter 7: Magical Meeting

“Now, who can tell me the name of the blue flowers with large leaves that just loves to play pranks?”

The students in Top Marks class pondered, as they tried their best to remember what they have learned. Except for one who confidently held her hoof up high. “Your answer Trixie?”

“Poison Joke.” She answered with bravado.

“Very good.” Marks said as he wrote the name on the board. “The same flowers grown in the Everfree Forest, said to have sprouted during the reign of Discord.” Just then, the final bell for the day rang throughout the school prompting everypony that it was time to leave. “Remember to study for the test tomorrow.”

As students filed out of the classroom, Trixie was busy looking over her notes she wrote for the test. “The bell rung Trixie, what are you doing here?”

She looked up to see that Marks was next to the door holding a clipboard. “Well, mother told me this morning that she’ll be running late picking me up. So I thought I would study for the test while I wait.”

“Nice use of your time, one can’t be too careful my father would always say.” Top Marks complimented. “And I must say, you’ve been doing quite well as of lately. I’m sure Miss Silver Wand has mentioned how your grades are among the highest in my class when she came here on Open House.”

Trixie grinned widely. “Well Trixie, isn’t one to boast, but what can I say, my magic is near limitless compared to the others.”

“Well I wouldn't say that but...”

“I mean, I have amazing grades, everypony here loves my magic tricks, and with my powers I can perform my school tasks with relative ease. Perhaps one day it’ll surpass even the highest level of unicorns in all of Equestria.”

Marks raised an unapprovingly eyebrow at Trixie’s arrogance, but shook it off. “Well you're quite on your way there, but that’s beside the point. If you don’t mind Trixie could you study somewhere outside my classroom?”

“Oh, I’m sorry Mr. Marks.”

“Don’t worry about it, it’s just that I’ve been called today to assess this Unicorn filly for her Entrance Exam.”

Trixie looked at her teacher in confusion. “An Entrance Exam, what’s that.”

“Oh that’s right, you never took yours since Princess Celestia herself enrolled you here correct?” Trixie nodded. “Well it’s just a simple test most Unicorn fillies need to pass before they can take classes here. Me and two more Professors just need to see her magical abilities and see if she’s ready to come here is all.”

“Wow, that must sound hard.”

“Well it’s certainly not the easiest test in the world, but it’s definitely not that hard either. Who knows, perhaps if she passes then you’ll have an apprentice of your own and you can teach her magic as well.”

The thought of having her own pupil who would want to inspire to be like her warmed her heart, and made her ego skyrocket. “I would be more than happy to teach her powerful magic passed down by my own mother.”

“I bet you would. But I should get going, just be sure to close the door when you leave.”

“I will, see you tomorrow Mr. Marks.” She said as Top Marks waved good-bye on his way out. Trixie gathered up all her stuff, taking a bit longer than she expected and left the classroom, making sure the door was closed. As she walked through the halls she the idea of having her own student in the arts of magic still lingered. She could teach her everything she learned from her mother and then some. Why she can have somepony who idolizes her and would yearn on becoming a powerful magician like her. Of course she would never be as powerful as her own teacher, but second place isn’t so bad right?

“Well Miss Sparkle?”

Trixie suddenly heard the voice of one of the school’s professors Arpeggio called out in annoyance. In the corner of her eye she saw her, Mr. Marks and another professor, Crystal Clear, sitting high in the student's seats in one of the advance classrooms. Wondering what was going on, she peaked inside to see that they were all holding clipboards and watching a small purple filly with a violet mane with a pink streak. She also saw two more adult unicorns which she assumed were her parents

“We don’t have all day.”

The filly chuckled nervously as she tried to use her magic on a dragon egg with futile results. “This must be the Entrance Exam.” Trixie whispered to herself. “By the looks of it she must be trying to hatch that dragon egg, and she’s not doing a great job at it.”

She saw the filly moving and jumping around, making wild gestures as she tried to activate her magic. But after several seconds she gave up falling to the ground defeated. She sadly looked at the professors who started to write down on their boards. “I’m sorry I wasted your time.”

Trixie started to feel sorry for the filly in front of her. Her dreams were about to get shattered right in front of her, and she was going to leave empty hoofed. But Trixie wasn’t going to let this happen. “Maybe if I tried to…”

BOOM!!

A humongous explosion made her jump. Her fur standing straight up. She peaked back and inside and saw a sight that made her gasp. She once heard of a Magic Overload, when a unicorn absorbs more magic than they can hold, that they float uncontrollably releasing random spouts of powerful magic everywhere. And Trixie was witnessing it right in front of her eyes.

The filly floated in the air as sparks of magic flew everywhere. It made the professors weightless, it turned her parents into cacti, and not only did it hatch the baby dragon, but it made it grew expansively, breaking the roof of the building. But most of all, it utterly frightened the blue magician.

She never saw so much raw magic coming from one unicorn. It made her look intimidating and almighty as she floated in a chaotic purple aura, her eyes glowing white. It made Trixie feel small in the presence of such power. All she could do is stare in and awe, until Princess Celestia herself suddenly came in and calmly settled her down, turning everything she did back to normal.

Trixie composed herself as everything calmed down. But before anything else could happen, she grabbed her bag and ran straight towards the front entrance. She didn’t care what was going to happen next, she just wanted to get away from that...that thing. As she went through the front door, she immediately saw her mother waiting for her at the steps. She noticed that she was coughing hard almost falling over, but she paid no mind to it.

“There you are, what took you so long?” Silver asked. She then noticed that Trixie was shaking fearfully as she clung to her leg. “My apprentice, are you alright?

“Mmh-mmh,” she mumbled.

“What happened?”

“Nothing! I just...saw something.”

“Well aren't you going to tell me what you saw?”

Trixie simply nodded. “It’s nothing to worry about mother, honest.”

Silver Wand knew that something was off, but decided to wave as just a little scare. “Well in that case, how about we head on home so you can study for that test?”

“Yes, I would like that.”

As the two started to walk back home, Trixie started to think back to the purple filly back there. Whoever she was she was far too powerful to go to the school, nothing about her was normal. She didn’t knew what Celestia was going to do to her next, but just as long as it meant not seeing her again she didn’t care.

Next week...

“Class I have a special announcement to make.” Top Marks said getting everypony’s attention. “We have a new student who will be attending our class starting today.”

‘New student?’ Trixie thought to herself. “Who is it Mr. Marks?

“Well she recently passed her Entrance Exam last week, and was hoof-chosen by the Princess herself to be her personal student.”

“Entrance Exam, personal student of the Princess?” She silently whispered. As she put the pieces together a feeling of dread ran down her spine. “No, it can’t be.”

“...which is why I want you all to treat her like a regular student, nothing more. With all that said, I would like to introduce…”

“No it can’t be her, why here?”

“Twilight Sparkle.”

As the sun started its descent, Trixie trotted toward the castle, with a hint of eagerness in her step. She was finally about to learn the advanced magic tricks of Hoofdini, and after years of searching and wishing for it every Hearth's Warming it, she was finally going to learn his world-famous tricks and hopefully use them for her own shows.

As she climbed the castle steps another thought popped into her mind. ‘I’m finally going to learn the secrets of Hoofdini’s spells, and Sparkle of all ponies was going to teach me them.’ She then shook her head and grinned. ‘What am I thinking, Sparkle is just assisting me with these spells nothing more. But the sooner I get this session done, the sooner I can stop listening to her annoying voice.’

She took a few deep breaths as she entered the castle. While she didn’t care much for it, she started to grow accustomed to it. Despite being owned by her long-time enemy, she wouldn't mind staying for a week or two. Although she did wish the colors was a lot brighter.
“Is that you coming in Trixie?” Twilight said in the in the distance. “I’m in the throne room, just come here and we can get started.”

Trixie hesitantly followed the voice to the throne room. When she opened the doors she was surprised at what she saw. Many items for tricks and spellcasting laid about, and the huge map the stood in the middle was covered with a red tapestry. Even the six thrones that had each of her friend’s cutie marks on them were gone to make extra room. She finally noticed Twilight was looking through the book not noticing her entrance. “Ahem.”

Twilight immediately looked up to see Trixie at the door. “Oh, good afternoon Trixie, how was the party with Pinkie Pie?”

Trixie grimaced. “The party was...adequate at best. But nevertheless it was it was rather nice even though Trixie was forced to leave early.”

Twilight furrowed her brow. “Why did you leave early?”

“That’s none of your business Sparkle!” She snapped making Twilight flinch. “So if we’re done with formalities we can start whenever you’re ready.”

Twilight sighed as she levitated some books towards her. “I’ve took the time while you were gone to gather some more spell books from the Royal Canterlot library and the proper materials we’ll need to perform some of these spells. I couldn't get everything, but this should be enough for today.”

Trixie to say the least, was surprised at how diligent Sparkle was. “Spell books from the Royal Canterlot Library,” She said to herself. She knew that she was one to exceed expectations set before her and then some, but there was something about her kindness that made her want to smile.

But there was no time to waste with feelings. “Appreciated Sparkle, so if there are no further delays I would like to get started immediately.”

“But what about…”

“Ugh...what is it now!”

“Well you don’t have your cape and hat with you.” Twilight said pointing at Trixie’s uncovered head. “You didn’t left it at the party did you?”

Trixie scoffed. “Of course I didn’t, Trixie would never forget them.” She then turned her head away from her rival. “But if you must know, I did run into Rarity today, and she offered to borrow my outfit as reference for a new one.”

“Well that’s Rarity for you, although that does go against my schedule. You shouldn’t be meeting up with Rarity until after Applejack, hope this doesn't mean I have to remake it, all that time figuring out what combination of my friends would be most suitable for you took a lot of deductive reasoning and logic.”

“Pfft, you shouldn't care about something so small like schedules Sparkle. Worrywarts like you should only concern themselves with just the big things that actually matters.”

“You’re right,” Twilight said embarrassed at her worrying. “Which reminds me, Spike are you almost done in there?!”

“All taken care of.” Spike called out in the other room. He then came though the kitchen door carrying a large plate of food and drinks and settled it in the middle of the room. “Got everything you asked for Twilight. Lemonade, salad for two and a bowl of apples fresh from Sweet Apple Acres.”

“Thanks Spike, you have the rest of the night for yourself.”

Spike pumped his fist in the air. “Finally, now I can catch up on the newest issues of the Power Ponies!”

“Power Ponies?” Trixie questioned.

“Yep, my favorite comic book starring seven superheroes that defend the city from the forces of evil. Ever read one?”

Trixie turned her head away. “I’ve never had an interest in comic books dragon. Always thought comic books were rather nerdy.”

“Heh, to each their own. Goodnight girls, I have some unfinished business to take care of.”

“Goodnight Spike,” Twilight called out as he closed the door leaving the two unicorns alone. “Now, I suggest we start with something simple, like this ‘Object Transparency’ spell.” Twilight pulled out a small book out of the pile. “It’s an easy spell to cast involving…”

“Really Twilight,” Trixie interrupted, “transparency spells? Do you take me for a child Sparkle?”

“Well I just thought maybe you would want try something easy first. You know, to get your bearings first.”

Trixie simply laughed at the response. “The Great and Powerful Trixie is far beyond that of transparency spells, a foal could master them. Trixie demands we start learning Hoofdini’s spells.”

“But Hoofdini’s spells take a lot of magic and concentration to even attempt. We need to just start with the basics before that.”

“Do not treat me as if I’m not great and powerful enough to know these spells!” Trixie suddenly used her magic to float Hoofdini’s Spell book towards her. She flipped through the pages until she found what she was looking for. “Here it is, ‘The Quadruple Rings’, involves four metal rings, the user must attach them all at once, then release them moments after. We’ll start with this Sparkle.”

“But…”

“No buts! You promised to teach Trixie his spells, and she will not be denied of this opportunity because you think she’s not ready!”

Twilight sighed defeatedly knowing that no words could change the magician’s mind. She floated the four rings at Trixie who grinned at the sight. “Just don’t strain yourself.”

Trixie ignored her as she read over the instructions in the book. After a minute of reading, she levitated the rings towards her and closed her eyes. Concentrating, she slowly lined up all four rings and moved them around. She did what the book told and imagined all four rings becoming one, until she heard a clang sound that signaled the spell working. “Behold Sparkle, the rings are now...connected.” She opened her eyes to see that all four rings were not connected at all. “Impossible, why didn’t it work?”

“Like I said, these spells are too complicated try right now.” Twilight explained. “I’ll teach you the spells in due time, but right now we need to practice with the basics.”

“No, just give Trixie another chance, she’ll get it this time.” Trixie immediately tried again, concentrating as she repeated the process, after a few seconds she opened her eyes to see that only one ring was attached. Letting out a frustrated grunt, she attempted the spell again. And again, and again, and again, until she finally gave up. She sighed as she levitated the four, unconnected rings to the ground. “This is absurd, my magic can do all sorts of feats. I can levitate more objects than the average unicorn, I can make numerous objects appear out of thin air. Why can’t I get this to work?”

Twilight could only look at the blue mare lowering her head in defeat. She tried to say something to cheer her up until she lifted up her head and flipped her hair. “Alright Sparkle, I hate to admit it but you’re right. Let’s start with the basic spells and we’ll work our way up from there.”

Twilight smiled “Alright Trixie, and I promise we will practice Hoofdini’s spells. But right now, let’s try out the transparency spell and see where it goes from there.”

Trixie begrudgingly looked at Twilight giving her that sincere look that she saw more times than she ever wanted to. “Fine.”

“Sorry ya an’t come to the field trip Sweetie Belle.” Applebloom said to her saddened friend. The Crusaders were all gathered in their clubhouse.

“Don’t worry about it girls, there’s always next time right?”

“Maybe so,” Scootaloo protested, “but the Cutie Mark Crusaders don’t leave each other behind. “There gotta be a way to get you in.”

“Sorry Scoots, but Rarity said she ain’t goin’, and ah don’t think we can change her mind.” Applebloom said. “The slip said that she needs a signature from a parent or guardian.

Then suddenly, a Sweetie Belle jumped in the air as a sly grin grew wide. “I got it! We’ll just ask Fluttershy to help.”

The two looked at each other in confusion. “How’s Fluttershy going to help?”

“Well it does say that guardians can sign it. And Fluttershy usually looks after us when our sisters are too busy. Kinda like a guardian right?”

The other’s looked at each other again, still in confusion. “I guess that makes since.” Scootaloo said. “But do you really think she’s going to sign it.”

“Of course she will, Fluttershy will totally help us. She’s the kindest pony in all of Ponyville. We just got to make sure Rarity don’t know about it and we’ll be fine.”

“Ah don’t know girls,” Applebloom said frowning. “Sweetie’s grounded, and tricking somepony into taking her to a field trip ain’t exactly the right thing to do.”

“Don’t worry Applebloom. Besides, what could possibly go wrong?”

Chapter 8: Growing Hatred and Sharing Kindness

“Hey Twilight, could you please help me with this spell? I just can’t get this darn thing working.”

“Um...okay. Just let me finish this problem first.”

“Thank you so much Twilight, you’ll be a great help to me.”

It has only been a week since Twilight Sparkle started attending the School for Gifted Unicorns, and already she gained the attention of the teachers. Not only was she Celestia’s most recent personal student, but she excelled in every assignment and test given to her. She even gained the admiration of her classmates.

Except for one.

Trixie Lulamoon loathed that unicorn, she couldn't stand the sight of students running up to her, and asking her for help on work or to watch her perform a spell flawlessly. That all used to be for her. She loved impressing her classmates and helping them with their problems. But that all changed when she came along.

Trixie never felt this feeling before, jealousy towards another, in fact she didn’t want to feel this towards her. To her she was a freak, no normal Unicorn could possess that kind of power at such a young age. Even Princess Celestia herself was so impressed at her that she took her as a personal student, a role that Trixie felt should’ve been hers. But that all paled in comparison, when she saw that Minuette had asked Twilight to help her with a hard spell, and not her.

“Hey Minuette,” Trixie called out getting her friend’s attention. “I heard you were having trouble with the Duplication Spell we’re learning. Mabey you and I could have another study session to figure it out?”

“I’d love to,” she replied rubbing the back of her head. “But I already asked the new filly, Twilight if she could help me out. But we can do it next time alright?”

“Sure that’s fine.” Trixie said waving at her friend. She thought more about that phrase as she walked away. What if there wasn’t going to be a next time? What if she would rather hang out with Twilight and not her? What if Lemon Hearts and Twinkleshine does the same? The thought of her friends leaving her for somepony more powerful than her sent a big chill down her spine. “No,” she whispered to herself. “I won’t let you take away my spotlight.”

Suddenly, the class bell rung prompting everypony to head for their seats. Mr. Marks came in soon after, carrying a clipboard in his magic. “Settle down class,” he said in a loud yet calm voice. “Before we get started, we should go over Friday’s homework. I take it that everypony practiced and can perform the Transparency Spell with relative ease?”

Trixie nearly forgot about the Transparency Spell her and Silver practiced over the weekend.
Or tried to since her mother didn’t do much, feeling more tired as day go by. She then got an idea that made her grin mischievously. Each student had to give a demonstration of the Spell given to them for homework, and they’re graded on how well they can perform it. If she can put in a little ‘pizazz’ in her demonstration, she could remind her students who’s still top Unicorn.

She giggled quietly knowing exactly what to do. One by one each student were tasked with making a small cardboard box invisible with the spell. Some did it perfectly, while others struggled. After Minuette’s turn, Trixie went up next walking towards the box. “Alright Trixie,” Mr. Marks said. “Show us what you can do.”

“Oh I will.” She said under her breath. She lowered her head, closed her eyes as her horn glowed preparing the spell. But just as she was about to cast it, she stood on her hind legs in a great pose while small fireworks shot out of her horn. She then fired the spell towards the cardboard box. When she was done she heard nothing but silence coming from the room. ‘Must’ve been too amazing for them to comprehend.’ She turned towards the others preparing to bow, until a loud yell shook her off balance.

“Where am I, what happened to me!?”

Trixie looked up to see that one of the students, Lyra Heartstrings, was completely invisible, and the box was left untouched. The students started to laugh and clap hysterically at the panicking mare’s misfortune. Trixie’s cheeks blushed crimson red, realizing her plan was a complete bust.

“Ahem.”

She hesitantly looked up to see a very disgruntled Mr. Marks looking down at her. She gave out a shy grin as he shook his head. Marks’ horn glowed as he pointed it towards Lyra turning her visible. “While you did performed the spell perfectly, next time you should focus less on theatrics and more on your aim.”

Trixie lowered her head as she returned to her desk, the laughter dying down. She softly slammed her head against her desk. ‘Should’ve gone without the pyrotechnics.’ Before she could sulk anymore she heard claps coming from her classmates. She looked up to see that they were applauding at Twilight, who not only made the box invisible, but managed to turn herself invisible.

When her spell died down she nervously turned towards her classmates. “Sorry about that. I did a little too much studying last night.”

“No need for apologies Ms. Sparkle. That was an amazing job. Worthy of an A.”

As Twilight gave out a small smile, Trixie could only stare at the filly as she growled in sheer anger. “This isn’t over, Sparkle!”

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....

Trixie brushed her hair profusely doing her best to fix up her bed mane. Today she was to meet with one of Sparkle’s friends Fluttershy. While she didn’t knew much about her, Twilight had told her that she was few things about her, like how she was the Element of Kindness, and loved to take care of animals.

As she finished up brushing, she looked the mirror to have a last look at her appearance. She had a feeling that it was all going to be ruined by wild animals and their antics. But if she was going to face humiliation, she might as well do it with dignity nowadays. She then heard a knock at the door.

“Are you all done in there?”

Trixie nearly cringed out of instinct as she heard her voice. “The Great and Powerful Trixie will be ready when she’s ready.” She stopped for a moment, waiting for a response.

“That’s okay, just take your time.”

Trixie raised an eyebrow, but decided to keep going. After a few more minutes, she exited the bathroom to see Twilight reading a spellbook. ‘No doubt she’s looking for a new easy spell to practice.’ She coughed to get her attention. “Alright Sparkle, I’m ready to meet this, Fluttershy. What does she have planned for me anyways?”

“I’m not sure, but knowing her she would like for you to help her take care of the animals with her.” Twilight said with a smile.

“Sounds easy enough. When I’m done, I’ll come back here and we work on those spells.”

“Sounds great. I’ll find the perfect set we can work on when you come back.”

Trixie pointed her nose in the air. “I expect something more worth my time than a Transparency Spell.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll find something you’ll like.” Twilight said looking back into her book. Before she could look for tonight’s spell, she quickly looked back up to catch the magician before she could leave. “Before you go Trixie, I just wanted to say that you were great last night.”

Trixie did a double take when she heard her, but quickly grinned and gestured to herself. “Well was there ever any doubt? I’ve been the master of spells ever since I was a foal. And while she has suffered through some minor setbacks, she’ll show those ungrateful ponies who’s the most powerful Unicorn in Equestria is.”

Twilight nodded at Trixie’s ambitions, just as she started to get a stern look. “There is something I want to bring up though.” Trixie tilted her head. “It’s nothing serious or anything, but it seemed that you were, for lack of a better word, depressed when you couldn’t perform the Ring Trick. Is there something I need to know?”

“Well…I…uh…it was nothing Sparkle. You were right and I was wrong, I should’ve started with the basics. There’s nothing else to it.”

“But you looked so sad when you couldn’t perform it. Not to mention how you reacted when I told you that we were just doing basic spells.”

Trixie felt as if a vein was about to burst. “Why are you bugging in something so trivial? The Great and Powerful Trixie does not have any problems, and she definitely does not need you worrying about her.”

“I’m bugging you because we’re friends and I want to help…”

“SHUT UP YOU INSIGNIFIGANT FREAK!”

Twilight backed away as Trixie breathed heavily from her outburst. Never has she been called that, nor has she heard Trixie say something so irate. “Trixie…”

“I’ll see you when I get back. Good day Sparkle.”

As she slammed the door heading towards Fluttershy’s, Twilight couldn’t help but sigh. “I wish I could say the same to you.”

…

“There you go you two, lunch just for you.”

Fluttershy hummed happily as she fed two ferrets their meals. It was lunch time in her cottage, and the animals were all enjoying their food. “That seems to be enough for you. Trixie, are you finished in…”

CRASH!!

“Stop squirming you annoying little rat!”

Fluttershy cringed as she heard the sounds of glass breaking in her kitchen. Trixie must be having trouble with Angel Bunny. “Trixie, do you need my…”
“Ha, now your cornered rodent. Eat your salad immediately!”

“You shouldn’t provoke him like...”

“Hey! Get back here, I won’t be humiliated by a long-eared rat.”

“Um…maybe you should…”

“Wait a minute, don’t touch that you’ll get that all over my…AUGH!”

“Oh Trixie…”

After a minute of loud noises and screams of annoyance, Angel realized that not only was he actually hungry, but he was getting bored. So he decided to give in and accept his food. Finally able to catch a break, Trixie came out the kitchen, her mane soaking wet with water as she sat down on Fluttershy’s couch. “Stupid little fur ball.”

Trixie noticed that the yellow Pegasus has brought in a tea set. She placed it on a table, and poured it in two cups giving one to Trixie. “Here you go, I poured you some green tea.”

“Thank you.” Trixie too the cup in her magic and gradually drank the entire cup. The taste of her favorite drink managed to calm her nerves. Somewhat. “This is a nice gesture, I don’t know how you can deal with creatures. Especially THAT one!”

On cue Angel Bunny faced the magician, blowing a raspberry. Fluttershy flashed him her trademark ‘Stare’ making Angel smile sheepishly and scurry away with his salad. “I take it you’re not an animal pony are you.”

“Trixie never had much experience with animals, besides the very few times I’ve pulled rabbits out of my hat. I did once had a pet goldfish before.”

“Oh that’s wonderful, goldfish make such great pets.”

“He was. For a good two weeks until I had to flush Mr. Bubbles down the toilet.”

“Oh...that’s sad. But when it comes to animals and especially ponies, you just need to show them a little kindness.”

Trixie raised an eyebrow. “Sounds like something a parent would say to a five child. I doubt being nice will get you everything you need.”

Fluttershy giggled to herself. “It can’t get you everything, but showing just a little can go a long way. Like how Twilight has been letting you stay at the castle.”

Trixie turned her head. “It was a nice gesture, unfortunately it’ll take more than that for me to ever get along with her.”

“You’re still mad at what she did are you?”

“Of course Trixie’s mad at her!” Trixie shouted startling the Pegasus. She took a deep breath before continuing. “I apologize for the outburst, but I just can’t ever forgive that pony for what she did to me.”

“Fluttershy looked at her guest with concern, but turned it back into a smile. “I don’t know anything about you’re history with Twilight, but one thing I know is that you shouldn’t dwell on the past like this. Maybe if you were to work out your differences with each other, you two would become great friends.”

“And why should I bother to become friends with her?”

“Well, have you ever thought about what it would be like you two were friends before?”

Trixie tried to say some sort of rebuttal, but failed. ‘Being friends with Sparkle,’ she thought to herself. It was something she thought about ever since she saw the unicorn during her entrance exam. To teach a younger unicorn everything she knew, to stand with somepony who could help her become known throughout Equestria as an amazing magician. Of course now those thoughts will never happen now, didn’t stop it from being interesting.

A knock was heard distracting Trixie from her thoughts. “I’ll get it.” Fluttershy said as she flew towards the door. She then thought about one more thing she should take in account for. Being nice to Twilight Sparkle. While it pained her to think about it, she realized it’s pointless to still be angry at her. There could be benefits to becoming her friend, like her sessions which could finally give her the comeback she needs. But if she wants to start being friends with her she should start by apologizing for her outburst this morning.

“Thanks again for your signature Fluttershy!”

Trixie heard what sounded like the high-pitched voice of Sweetie Belle. She turned to see that her along with the orange Pegasus and yellow Earth Pony from yesterday, getting some sort of paper signed.

“Your welcome guys.” Fluttershy kindly said. “Sorry Rarity was too busy this week to get it signed.”

“It’s alright Fluttershy, she should still be able to go tomorrow.” Scootaloo said. “Which also means that the three of us are totally going on this trip. Ain’t that great?”

“I can’t wait for tomorrow.” Sweetie excitedly stated. “How about you Applebloom?”

“Uhh…yeah girls. Definitely ready for tomorrow and not having second thoughts at all.”

Fluttershy completely unaware of Applebloom’s last comment, simply smiled warmly. “Well it’s good to know you are all ready to go to the Ponyville Dam, is there anything else you three need?”

“Sorry, but we all gotta go. Bye Fluttershy.”

With that, the CMC took their leave. Fluttershy went back into the room where Trixie was. She saw Trixie deep in thought, her eyes closed as she sat there in her couch. “Is something wrong Trixie?”

Thinking that those fillies plans won’t happen she decided not to bring up Sweetie Belle’s punishment. “No Fluttershy, it’s nothing. But I do want to thank you for what you said earlier. I’ll try to take it into consideration when I see her tonight.”

“That sounds wonderful! I just hope that you’ll finally be able to get along with her.”

“I wouldn’t get your hopes up, but I guess it’s a good thought to have for now. But until then could I have some more tea please?”

“Of course you can.”

…

“Hey Twilight?”

Twilight turned her head to see Trixie standing near the door, rubbing her hoof against her leg. “Hey Trixie, I got everything ready for our next session. I’m ready whenever you are.”

“Before we start Sparkle I just want to apologize for my outburst this morning. She doesn’t even remember what got her so upset this morning. Nevertheless, it was rude and uncalled for. Could you forgive Trixie?”

Twilight stood their surprised to say the least. This nice side of Trixie she hasn’t seen since the day she found her in the Everfree forest. But it was a side she was really happy to see again. “It forgive you Trixie. But right now we got training to do. I remembered what you said about finding a harder spell to practice, so how does a spell that lets you control the properties of fire sound like?”

Trixie gave out a wide grin. “Sounds perfect.”

Chapter 10: For Those You Truly Care

Evenings in Canterlot were always a relaxing and serene time for everypony walking through the streets. With the sun on the horizon to make room for the moon, it made for a beautiful setting for simply taking it easy and thinking about plans for tonight or tomorrow. It was especially great for a magician with clouded thoughts.

Silver Wand was on her porch enjoying a small cup of green tea, or at least tried to enjoy despite recent events. She was called to the school for Trixie’s actions during lunchtime that actually got her suspended from school for the rest of the week. Like any parent would be, she was angry, especially when she learned that this was caused by her using a spell she was strictly forbidden to use. Needless to say Silver had no choice but to discipline her child with a stern talk, and a punishment that was yet to be determined. But when she sent her to her room, Trixie wasn’t crying about her mother’s words or making some sort of desperate argument, but she was just walked slowly to her room. She never had a problem disciplining her child, but it pained her to see Trixie look so empty. And at this time of her life, it broke her heart.

One month ago she was diagnosed with a terminal disease, and would soon die. She felt devastated, knowing that she was going to leave her daughter forever, never seeing the future successful magician at her prime. She couldn’t help but shed a few tears that night, but despite it all she knew that the show must go on. She had to whatever it took to make her happy, to make sure she was ready for the real world. And not even death was going to bring her down.

So she did everything she could do, teaching her everything she knew, practicing all the spells she needed, and overall spending all her remaining time with her. And despite her constant tiredness and other setback, they were the best moments of her life. Thinking about what she’d done made her cry tears of utter bliss. “My little apprentice, you have no idea how much you mean to me.”

Chugging the rest of her tea, she immediately made a dash to Trixie’s room. Walking slowly when she got close enough, she opened the door carefully. “Trixie honey, can I please come in?” A quiet groan was the only response she got. “I’m coming in okay?” Not waiting for an answer, Silver opened the door to see a large lump beneath the covers.

She sighed as she sat on the bed next to Trixie. “Do you wanna talk about what happened today?”

Another small groan.

“Trixie, I’m not angry about what happened, all is forgiven. I just want to know why you did is all I need to know. So please tell me what happened.”

“It was her fault,” Trixie quietly mumbled.

“What was that?”

“I SAID IT WAS HER FAULT!” Trixie suddenly yelled surprising the silver coated mare. “She took everything from me. My friends, my fans, and my fame. I just wanted to show everypony how great I am, that I could’ve been the Princess’s student.”

“What are you…?” Silver sighed as she realized what she was talking about. She then got reminded of a conversation she had with Celestia weeks ago.

“So you’re really not going to have her as your personal student?”

“I’m sorry Silver, but I made my decision. Twilight needs help to learn how to control her magic, and while you may not see it, but Trixie is beyond needing my help. I assure you, she’ll be fine.”

“Heh, so that’s it huh. First you tell me that nothing, not even your magic can cure this illness, and now you’re not even going to take my own daughter under your wings when I’m gone? Some friend you are.”

“I’m so sorry. You’ve been an amazing friend unlike any I’ve had in my long lifetime, and I would never do this to spite you. But…I…I…”

“Hey, don’t worry about it, I know you can’t just take in a student just because of some dying magician’s last wish. And don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine. Just make sure Trixie stays safe and out of trouble. Can you at least do that for me Tia?”

“Anything for a friend Silver.”

“Oh, and tell Twilight Sparkle I said ‘good luck’.

“Now Trixie,” Silver started. “I understand that you want to become better than Twilight Sparkle, but going against my word and endangering students, all for one pony is unacceptable. Ever thought about being friends?”

“She’s a freak mother,” Trixie said getting out of the covers. “I’ll never be friends with her.”

“That’s not a nice thing to say.”

“I DON’T CARE MOTHER! I hate her, I hate everything about her! She took Minuette, Lemonhearts, Twinkleshine, and all my friends and adoring fans away from me.”

“Trixie I…”

“Everypony loves her so much, that they all forgot about me, I’m supposed to be the most powerful pony in Equestria, and I’m supposed to be Princess Celestia’s personal student, not her me! I need to show everypony that I’m the greatest Unicorn of all of Equestria just like you mother, and that means becoming better than that insignificant freak Twi…”

“ENOGH TRIXIE LULAMOON!” Silver Wand bellowed in a deep voice, knocking back the ranting filly. Trixie cowered at the state of her mother, never seeing her so angry before, her mane flowing and her eyes glowing brightly as she stared at her. After a moment Silver calmed down as she closed her eyes and sighed. Trixie started to look down as guilt from what she said started to sink in.

“Desperate ponies willing to hurt to achieve their dreams, aren’t ready for them. “

Trixie looked up to see her mother lying next to her with a solemn look. “What?”

“You want to become the greatest magician in all of Equestria so badly, that you’re willing to do whatever it takes, even if it means hurting others or yourself. Is this true?”

Trixie nodded hesitantly.

“And that’s why you need to take it slow my apprentice. Your dreams will come, but you need to have patience. You don’t have to compete with some unicorn, or compare yourself to me, because you are you, and you will become Equestria’s greatest magician someday.”

Trixie started to smile at her mother, feeling her words take away all doubt she had before. “Thank you mother, I really needed that.”

Silver smiled as she nuzzled her daughter with her warm cheek. “You remind me of myself when I was young. Ambitious, proud, wanting to prove to ponies that I could be great too.”

“You were?”

“That’s right my apprentice.” Silver smiled as she took a trip down memory lane. “Growing up, I was inspired by the magic of Celestia and other powerful unicorns that I decided to become like them. My magic at the time however, was weaker than other Unicorns at my age, couldn’t even perform something as simple as levitation without struggling.

“I still remember some of the horrible stuff the other ponies would say about me and my dreams. They would tell me how I would never reach my goals, that my magic was far too weak to become like the others. They even told me that I was just wasting my time, that my ambitions would always be simple ambitions. You want to know what I did?”

Trixie silently nodded, her eyes filled with curiosity.

“I simply just kept going. I used what they said to me as motivation to push myself forward. I didn’t need to beat ponies at magic, or use dangerous spells just to prove that I can. I just stuck to my guns and slowly my magic got better and better Soon enough, I could perform advanced spells without even thinking about it, and when I finally performed my first ever show to those who doubted me, not only did I get a standing ovation, but I got my cutie mark!”

Trixie’s eyes widened as everything her mother said sunk in. “Just like how I got my mark.” She couldn’t help but smile as a tear threatened to run down her cheek. “That sounds so amazing!”

“And the best part was how if I never had just ignored them, if I hadn’t remember what my real dream was, then I would’ve never become the great magician I am today. I would’ve never met your wonderful father, and I would not be tickling such a beautiful daughter right now.”

Silver then proceeded to use her magic to zap Trixie with a tickling spell, which made her glow with silver aura and laugh uncontrollably. “Please…uncle!” After a full minute, Trixie was able to rest from her fit of laughter as she hugged her mother tightly. “I feel so much better mother, thank you.”

“Now do you understand Trixie? Just always remember that your dream isn’t to become better than Ms. Sparkle, but to become the greatest magician YOU can be.”

“I…I will mother.” Trixie said quietly. “I don’t know how long it’ll take, but I won’t give up. I’ll make Equestria know the name Trixie Lulamoon, all for you!”

“Well that is a very humble statement, but I doubt you’ll make it far without this.” Silver then used her magic to make a wrapped up present appear out of thin air and gave it to Trixie. “I was going to give it to you for your graduation, but you can go ahead and open it now if you want.”

With a toothy grin, Trixie ripped into the wrapping almost viciously. When she finally opened the lid, she couldn’t believe her eyes, a purple magician’s hat covered with silver and gold colored stars, along with a matching cape. “What…are these?”

“I made them myself, it’s your own outfit for when you make your proper debut on the big stage! You like it?”

“I LOVE IT!” Trixie yelled out in excitement. She grabbed the outfit and made a dash towards the mirror. “This looks so cool, and I love the purple and it even looks like your outfit.”

“Indeed it does. Of course no magician is complete without a proper stage name, and lucky for you I already thought of the perfect one.” As she got up from the bed she made her way to Trixie as she levitate the cape onto Trixie and the hat right above her head. “From here on out I dub thee ‘The Great and Powerful Trixie!’ May you forever be known, not only as the daughter of The Amazing Silver Wand, but as the ultimate magician in Equestria!”

With a flourish of her hooves, she slowly placed the hat on Trixie, which flopped over her head, being too big for her. “Um…well…you’ll grow into it.”

Still wearing her outfit Trixie leaped up to her mother gave her a hug that nearly knocked Silver over. “Thank you, thank you, thank you mother! I can’t wait to wear it to my first show!”

“I know you’ll make me proud my apprentice. But for now, I bet you’re really hungry now. How about I whip us up something delicious for us?”

“Sounds great.” As the two made it for the kitchen, another thought came to the blue filly’s mind. “Mother?”

“Yes Trixie?”

“Am I grounded?”

Silver couldn’t help but give a slight giggle at her daughter’s question. “Well I think you’ve learned your lesson so no. But I better see all your homework done before you go back.”

“Yes mother. Can I ask you something else?”

“What is it?”

“After dinner, can I sleep with you, just for tonight?”

“Of course you can my apprentice, since you have no school, it wouldn’t hurt to take an early rest.”

“Thank you mother. I…um…are you crying.”

“I’m sorry Trixie, I’m just so happy to have a daughter like you.”

“So as we learned in class, the Ponyville Dam is used to store the majority of the water supply in the town.”

Cheerilee and her class were at the Ponyville Dam for their field trip. It wasn’t normal for the school to take these, but she thought more trips would be a great influence for her students. And a good excuse to get out of the classroom every so often.

The whole class attended the trip, except Diamond Tiara who said she had ‘more important matters’ to attend to. And among the students who were glad to be here, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were rather ecstatic to be here. Especially when Applebloom and Sweetie Belle heard that Scootaloo had a great idea to earn Cutie Marks.

“Now class,” Cheerilee said to get her students attention. “if you’ll all follow me, we’ll see how all this water is generating power for our homes.” She led the whole class to the inside of the building, but unbeknownst to them three fillies stayed behind.

“So Scoots, what ya said about a good way to earn our marks.” Applebloom stated. “I mean lookin’ at it, it don’t seem like we got a lot of options here.”

“Applebloom’s right,” Sweetie Belle said next. “I mean if the Dam is nice and all, but I can’t help but think this is a really bad idea.”

Scootaloo smiled smugly. “And that’s where you’re both wrong girls, because I got a great idea. Check it out.” She led them to one side of the dam, where they got a sight of all the water being stored. “This is the perfect spot to get our cutie marks in bungee jumping!”

The other two looked at each other in confusion, then looked back at Scootaloo who was smiling wide. “Seriously?” Applebloom said with a raised eyebrow.

“What are you talking about, this is perfect for us, all we need is some long rope, and we’ll be on our way to cutie mark city. Which reminds me, did ya managed to get rope this morning Bloom.”

Applebloom got out of her saddlebag, a long rope she managed to get from her home. Showing it to Scootaloo, she started to frown even more. “I don’t know much ‘bout bungee jumpin’, but I’m pretty sure we’ll need somethin’ longer.”

“We’ll worry about the details later. Right now we should see how we’re gonna pull this off. Come on girls, let’s go check out the view.”

“I don’t know,” Sweetie asked. “we shouldn’t be too close to the end.”

“Relax girls, we got this.”

“Come on girls, we must hurry!”

Rarity followed by Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack, ran as fast as she could to the Ponyville Dam. Normally she would detest the idea of physical activity right after a spa treatment, but deep inside her she knew something bad was going to happen to her sister.

“Come on Rares!” Rainbow yelled to get her attention. “So the Squirt and her friends did something bad, no big deal. I went against my parents all the time, and they’d usually just ground me for a week.”

Applejack snorted. “I’m thinkin’ Applebloom’s getting’ more than just a slap on the wrist when I see her again.”

“Oh, please don’t be too mad at her, surely she’s really sorry about this.” Fluttershy interjected.

“I do apologies about this darlings, but I just can’t shake this terrible feeling away. Besides I explicitly told Sweetie that under no circumstances could she not attend this trip. And I’ll see it that we get her back so she could accept her punishment for disobeying me.”

“Well I just think you’re making too much outta this Rares. I mean what could really happen to them anyways?”

“Girls wait up!”

The four looked to see Twilight flying as fast as she could to catch up with her friends. “Twilight too?” Rainbow spouted.

“And Pinkie makes six!” Pinkie Pie said as she jumped out of seemingly nowhere.

“Pinkie and I saw you all running and we thought something was up. Where are you all heading towards?”

Rainbow groaned. “This is getting ridiculous. What we should be doing is finding out where Trixie went off.”

“Wait, what happened to Trixie?” Twilight asked with concern.

“She don’ left when Rarity came in saying the CMC went off to the dam against ma word. Said somethin’ about ‘fixing a mistake she made’ or some malarkey like that.”

“Did something happen, where is she now?”

“We’ll explain later darling, right now we must…”

“AAAHHHH!”

A trio of high-pitched screams emanated throughout Ponyville, freezing the six ponies in their tracks. “SWEETIE BELLE!” Rarity yelled out in fear. ”Quick girls we have to find them immediately!”

“Don’t worry Rarity I got this.” Twilight’s horn glowed brightly as she began to teleport everypony to the dam.

“Finally, about time I made it here.” The blue magician stood on the outskirts of the Ponyville dam. It took her a while since not only did she had to get directions to this place, but her teleportation was not up to point up nowadays, and it took a few tries to get it right. “Okay then now all I got to do is find out where those three and get them out if here.” She looked around for the three fillies to see where they could be, but to no avail. She sighed as she thought about what the other’s would think if they found out that she could’ve prevent all of this. They would’ve blamed her if something bad happened to them.

“AAAHHHH!”

She then heard the loudest scream she had ever heard in her life. She instinctively galloped to the direction to the scream to see what happened, afraid to see what she would see. But when she finally saw what was going on, she couldn’t believe her eyes. Sweetie Belle hanging of the edge as Scootaloo and Applebloom desperately tried to get her out. “HELP US! GET ME OUT OF HERE!”

“I TOLD YA’LL THIS WAS A BAD IDEA!”

“JUST GET HER OUT BLOOM!”

Trixie looked at the sight in horror, seeing that the three fillies were dangling right over the water reservoir, and could get seriously injured if they fell. Or worse. “I will not let this happen!” Trixie started to gallop to their direction, if her past experiences taught her anything, it was that when a magician is on stage, fear is the one thing they never show.

Suddenly, a bright flash from the other side of the dam almost blinded Trixie. She looked to see that it was Twilight and her friends who used teleportation to reach here instantly. “No,” Trixie growled. “what are they doing here?”

“Sweetie Belle! Your big sister is here, where are you?” Rarity called out.

“RARITY, HELP US!”

Trixie could see the others looking at the direction the voice came from. Rarity nearly fainted.
“Don’t worry darling! Your big sister is coming!”

“I’ll handle this girls!” Rainbow exclaimed as she darted after the fillies.

“I’m sorry Rainbow Dash, but I can’t let you do this.” Thinking fast, Trixie used her magic to blast Rainbow with a spell, bounding her wings with chains and locks. She silently thanked Twilight for letting her get some more study time. “And now for these three.”

“WHOA!” Rainbow yelled as she plummeted to the ground.

Twilight immediately used her magic to gently levitate the blue Pegasus towards her. “Are you alright Rainbow?”

“I’m fine, but what the heck was that? Where did all this junk come from?” She asked as she struggled to get out of her small prison.

“Hey guys, lookie over there!” Pinkie said pointing upward. “What’s Trixie doing up there?”

The six looked to see Trixie running towards the dam as fast as she could. “Trixie!”

The magician could hear the six mares calling out to her, telling her to come down, that it’s dangerous. But she ignored them as she started to reach her destination, now at the top of the dam. She could see that the three fillies were just barely hanging on, but were moments away from slipping off into the water. Taking a deep breath, she dashed right towards them as her horn glowed brighter than before. Right before the fillies were about to take a dive, they all vanished along with Trixie in an instant.

Trixie huffed heavily as she laid flatly on the floor. She just managed to teleport herself and the three fillies inside the dam, but at the cost of her stamina. She haven’t been proficient at her teleportation as of late, and was glad that she was able to get it right this time.

“Hey look guys,” a high-pitched voice called out. “we’re safe! We’re all safe!”

“Ah can’t believe it, Trixie don and saved us.”

“That’s good to know Bloom, but can you get off me now?”

“Oh, sorry Scoots.” She said as she got off her Pegasus friend. “You alright?”

“I doesn’t matter, I should’ve known that wouldn’t work.”

“Hey!” Sweetie Belle said in response. “What do you mean you should’ve known? I told you both this was a bad idea.”

“Don’t bring me in ta this!” Applebloom exclaimed. “In fact, you don agreed ta lookin’ over the fence too y’know.”

“Well at least I didn’t say we should bungee jump like this dodo.”

“Who you calling dodo?”

“YOU LITTLE BRATS!”

The three fillies suddenly turned to see a very furious Trixie staring dead in their eyes with blinding rage. “Of all the foolish, asinine, idiotic feats of stupidity I’ve seen fillies done, WHY WOULD YOU DO ANY OF THIS!” She stated to menacingly approach the three as they started to huddle together in fear. “You should all be ashamed of yourselves. First you go against your sister, then you take advantage of Fluttershy tricking her into signing some paper, then you nearly get yourselves killed! What do you all have to say for yourself?”

The crusaders started to get tears in their eyes as the weight of what they had done fell on them. “We’re so sorry Miss Trixie.” They said in unison.

Trixie rubbed her temples and took a deep breath as she calmed down. “Why were you doing all of this for anyways? A dare made by some bully? Lost a bit over the fence?”

Sweetie Belle was first to talk. “We were just looking for a way to get our cutie marks. So I got the paper signed so I could go to the dam.”

“And I thought it would be cool to get our cutie marks in bungee jumping.” Scootaloo spouted out next.

“So you did all of this just so you can earn your cutie marks? So you can know what sort of destiny you have?”

“Uh…yeah.” Applebloom said, still shaken.

Trixie took a moment to get her thoughts together. These fillies just risked their lives so they could find out what their purpose in life is. She couldn’t help but think about how idiotic that sounded. However, at the same time it reminded her about a certain blue filly from long ago and how she acted. “Desperate ponies willing to hurt to achieve their dreams, aren’t ready for them.“

“What was that?” Scootaloo asked hearing the monotone voice from the magician.

“Look, if getting a cutie mark means that you have to risk your lives or the lives of others, then you shouldn’t bother to get them at all. You just need to wait for them, not force them upon yourselves.” Trixie spoke in a caring voice that made the fillies listen intently. “What The Great and Powerful Trixie is trying to say is that you can’t take some easy road to attain what you want, you need to be patient and not give up. It may not come today but it will come eventually. Got it?”

The three looked at each other with concerned eyes, as they all thought about what she had said. They were silent until Sweetie Belle started to walk up to Trixie. “You’re right Miss Trixie. We can’t just keep doing this without even thinking about it. We just gotta keep doing what we just got to take it slow, right girls?”

“That’s right girls!” Applebloom spouted. “The Cutie Mark Crusaders are gonna get our cutie marks one day. But to get them we’re gonna stop with all these extreme measures and stuff.”

“Yeah, I guess we should do all that.” Scootaloo said nervously. “Sorry we caused so much trouble.”

“Just as long as you know what you need to do, I’ll pardon this endeavor.” Trixie said with a smile, until she looked down on them with another furious glare. “But if Trixie hears another act of trickery from you, she will not be so forgiving! Understand?”

Three nodded quickly in response. “Yes ma’am. Won’t happen again ma’am.”

Trixie started to smile as her words reached the three children. Just then she heard the sound of a large door opening along with the stomping of serval hooves. “There ya girls are.” Applejack said as she quickly approached the four. “Ya’ll got a lot of explainin’ to do.”

“And you Sweetie Belle,” Rarity yelled with anger in her eyes. “I won’t even begin to tell you how much trouble you’re in right now. Expect the harshest punishment I could possibly give when we get home!”

“That goes the same for you squirt.” Rainbow nodded with her hooves crossed. “Not gonna lie kid, but I’m very disappointed in you guys.”

The Crusaders looked down in shame as they walked toward their respective sisters. “We’re sorry.”

Trixie nudged the three fillies with her magic. She gave them an encouraging smile, and they each gave one back. “Do not be too harsh on them, these children will learn from this.” She then noticed that Twilight was suddenly next to her with a big smile. “So you’re here too Sparkle?”

Twilight nodded. “Are you okay? The girls and I saw everything.”

Trixie huffed. “Well then you’ve must’ve gotten a front row seat to Trixie’s heroic feat, as she easily saved three fillies from certain death with one swift motion. Something you wouldn’t had done without much trouble.”

“Well I will agree that you did an amazing job. Your magic been improving since you first came to Ponyville.”

Trixie felt a little flustered. “Uh...well …of course, Trixie is a fast learner.”

“Speaking of fast,” Trixie turned to see a very irritated Rainbow Dash. “What the heck was up with the chains? I was just about to do some awesome hero work until you bounded my wings.”

Twilight looked at Trixie with concern. “She’s right. “Rarity mentioned how you came here saying that you wanted to fix a mistake you made. What did you do Trixie?”

Trixie looked around to see the concerned faces of the six ponies nervously, before lowering her head. “It was Trixie’s fault that these fillies got in this mess. She overheard that they planned on using Fluttershy to get Sweetie Belle’s slip signed. She thought about stopping them but Trixie due to her overconfidence she thought that their plan would fail, but she was wrong.

“So when I heard that they actually did went to the dam, I knew I had to do something, and by herself. I didn’t want any of you to fix a mistake I made or get angry at me, because you’ve all been nice enough to not run me out of town. I wanted to make up for what’ve done when I last came here, and by saving these fillies without any help, she thought that it would be a good first step.”

Trixie felt embarrassed about confessing all this to these ponies, especially to her sworn enemy. So much so that a tear threatened to fall down her check. She then felt a warm hoof fall on her shoulder, then looked up to see Applejack with a comforting beam. “Well seein’ how great ya been doing lately, I can honestly say that you’re good in ma book Sugarcube.”

“Your endeavors towards being a better pony have been well met darling.” Rarity spoke out.

“I agree, you been a very nice pony.” Fluttershy Said next.

“Yeperooni, Trixie, You are so awesome, you should’ve seen all the cool stuff you did up there.” Pinkie chirped excitedly.

Rainbow rubbed her hooves together as she came up to Trixie. “Gotta admit, that was really cool what you did. Oh, and sorry about getting all mad at you back at the farm. Now I see that you’re actually a pretty awesome mare.”

Trixie started to smile at the compliments she didn’t expect getting today. “Well Trixie,” Twilight said. “by the looks of it, things are gonna be just fine for you.”

Looking at the ponies around her, Trixie smiled more as she felt a warm feeling resonate inside her. “For once, I full-heartedly agree with you.”

Chapter 11: Dissonance

Author's Note

4/17/16
Wow, with season 5 here now this story is super outdated now...
Meh, not like that stops me from finishing what I already started.

Chapter 11: Dissonance

Over a year has passed since Trixie and her mother had their meaningful conversation that changed how she acted. Slowly but surely, she started to focus more on her studies and talents as a student and magician respectively, bringing her grades right back up. This however did led her to distance herself from other students, especially Twilight Sparkle. Of course she did occasionally talked to her small group of friends. She also gain an adoration towards her hat and cape, promising her mother that she’ll wear it for her first real performance after she graduates.

To be blunt, Trixie felt glad that her concerns with how others felt about her were disappearing. She felt that she can get through her last year at Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns without another hitch…

When school got out, Trixie sat on the front steps as other students left to find their parents. Looking through her notes, she ignored the laughter and loud chatter of ponies as she tried to figure out a rather difficult variation of teleportation that prevents the loud ‘pop’ noise whenever used. She sighed rubbing her head, the recent homework she’s been receiving has been getting harder by the day, she noticed that while other students has been struggling, her and Twilight has been performing them with flying colors.

Trixie did a low hum as she threw the thought away and went back to her studies. Her mother said she be picked up a little later than usual, and that she needed to talk to her when she see her. Trixie didn’t quite know what she meant by that, but it did worry her.

Her mother had been rather out of it for a while. She stopped putting on shows all together, canceling future appearances much to the disappointment of her fans and clients. She also wasn’t able to help with homework or even play with her as often as before. Trixie tried to ask her what was wrong, but the only answer she got was: ‘I’m just getting old my apprentice.’ It started to worry her more and more each day.

“Excuse me young lady.”

Trixie looked up from her book to see a middle-aged unicorn stallion with a golden colored mane and coat. By the looks of what he was wearing, Trixie could see that he was a doctor of some sort. “Are you Trixie Lulamoon?” He asked.

Trixie looked at the stranger with hesitation. “Yes, that is me.”

“Well it’s good to meet you Ms. Lulamoon, I am Doctor Remedy of the Canterlot Hospital.” He said with a calm smile. “Your mother, Silver Wand has instructed me to pick you up and take you to see her.”

Trixie suddenly felt a pit in her stomach as she heard this. The hospital was never a place she liked to visit, always hating how uncomfortable it made her feel even though she knew how important it was to go. But to suddenly hear that her mother is there was what worried her most. “Why? What is mother doing there?”

“I’ll explain when we get there, but right now we must…”

“NO!” Trixie shouted. “Tell me what’s happening with my mother now!”

Remedy sighed as he rubbed the back of his head. “Alright, let’s make this quick. Oh that reminds me, she wanted me to give you this.” The doctor suddenly reached into his side pocket and fished out a packet of peanut butter crackers. “Miss Silver Wand told me that these are your favorite snacks, calms your nerves she said.”

Trixie gave out the most audible gulp she could muster.

BEEP…BEEP…BEEP…

Silver Wand always hated the hospital, it was always a depressing setting to her and the annoying beeps of the heart monitor didn’t help either. She sighed as she tried her best to ignore it, opening another envelope she read the card inside:

You are an inspiration to us all. It is a shame to see somepony as great as you leave us, but rest assured your accomplishments will live on forever. You have my humblest gratitude.

Sincerely,

Fancypants

“Been awhile since I’ve heard from you, shame I never got the chance to tell you how dumb your moustache looked.” Silver said silently. She placed it with the other hundreds of cards she’s gotten throughout the day, from fans, friends, acquaintances and co-workers. She was just about to open the last one, a golden colored envelope, when she suddenly heard a panicked sounding knock at the door, making her sigh once more. “Come in.”

The door slammed opened to reveal a sobbing young mare trying to rub the tears out of her eyes. Her mane was ragged and she look as if she ran the entire way. “M…m...other?”

Silver Wand could see the despair in her daughter’s eyes, the utter feeling of sadness resonating from her. Her daughter got a full look at the way she looked, the color of her mane and coat faded, and she looked as if she hasn’t slept in days. It shattered her heart into a million pieces. “My little apprentice…” Silver parted her hooves apart to as a silent cue for a hug. Trixie trotted as she got on top to close the gap between them, her sobbing starting to get hysterical. “It’s going to be alright.”

“Why didn’t you tell me mother?” Trixie tried to calm down as she kept crying. “Why didn’t you tell me that you were so sick?”

“I’m so sorry my apprentice. I guess I just didn’t want you to be so sad, knowing that I was going to die soon, before I would be able to see you at your full potential.”

“You’re not gonna die mother!” Trixie cried as she held on tighter. “You’ll be fine, maybe it’s just a mistake. Maybe they’re making a cure right now, you just need to…”

“Trixie…please.” Silver pleaded. “This is no mistake, and there are no known cure for this, not even the Princess herself can fix this. There is no need for all this denial.”

“What’s going to happen to me without you? I need you mother, you can’t just leave me like this.”

“You have nothing to worry about. Some friends of mine owed me a favor. They’ll be able to take care of you when I’m gone.”

“But you can’t die mother! Who’s gonna be there for my graduation, for my first real show? Who will teach me any new spells, or tell me stories about her performances? I need you mother, I can’t do any of this without you.”

Trixie stated to cry more as the thought what will happen to her when her mother is gone dawned on her. But just then she heard a soft chuckle that slowly grew into hysterical laughter.

“Apparently you’ve forgotten who you are.”

Trixie looked up to see her mother, who looked as if she wasn’t sick at all. She was smiling. “What?”

Silver lifted up her daughter slowly and stared right in her eyes. “You are Beatrix Lulamoon, The Great and Powerful Trixie Lulamoon! You are an amazing magician, a charismatic performer, and an amazing pony. You can do anything you put your mind to because you are the most determined pony I’ve ever met.”

Trixie rubbed her eyes with both hooves. “Really mother?”

“Of course my dear daughter. You can’t depend on me forever, and I’m not saying that now just because I’m going to…you know. And you won’t need to because you still got your magic by your side. All my teachings will always be with you, and if you remember everything I have taught you then…well…I know you’ll be alright.”

“Mother…”

Silver Wand rubbed her hoof lovingly through her daughter’s mane. “My show may have unfortunately stopped prematurely, but your show has just begun. And it needs to continue for the sake of me, your father, and your future fans. Promise me that, and I can rest peacefully knowing that you will one day surpass me and become the greatest magician Equestria has ever known!”

Trixie sadly smiled as more tears fell albeit at a slower rate. “I promise mother. I promise that I’ll become the greatest magician you want me to become.” Trixie hugged Silver once more, for the last time. “I love you mother!”

Silver returned the favor. “I love you too Trixie. My little apprentice, my little daughter.” For the first time since she got to the hospital she started to cry almost uncontrollably. If there was anything she believed in it was that no matter what, the show must always go on. And while her death may have closed the curtains for her, it won’t be stopping Trixie anytime soon. “Now if you don’t mind, could…I have a moment…by myself please?”

Reluctantly, Trixie nodded and broke the embrace. She quietly left the room leaving her mother by herself. Silver Wand sighed as she finally got a chance to opened the golden envelope and read it. After she read it she placed it next to her with the rest of the letters she’s gotten. She smiled contently. “I know you’ll become…the most amazing magician in Equestria. No matter what…happens, no matter how many setbacks you come across, you will rise above them all and will…surpass me by miles. I know you will make me very proud…my little apprentice.”

Silver Wand closed her eyes blissfully. “Hey…Bright Lights, you ready…for that romantic dinner date you…promised?”

The only thing that can be heard in the vicinity of the room, was the single constant beep of a heart monitor’s flat line, and the loud sad wails of despair.

It had been over a week since the fiasco at the Ponyville Dam, and Trixie started to gain the respect and appreciation she desired for months. Both coming from five ponies she once couldn’t care less for, and an Alicorn she once hated with a passion. But after a while she started to think of them as friends, ponies she could actually rely on.

News slowly spread about the magician in the small town, and while some were still adamant about her previous visits, others welcomed her with opened arms. Snips and Snails once being huge fans of her, are now back to showing her the adoration they’ve shown before, much to her appreciation and annoyance. The Crusaders were very grateful of the lesson she taught them, promised to make up for what they’ve done, as soon as they’re not grounded. Even Cheerilee who met with her after the fact, was happy to see her ever since she last saw her at her old school.

For the first time ever since she left Ponyville on her second visit, Trixie felt as if she belonged. She felt happy to be here.

“Trixie darling, is everything alright?”

Trixie and Rarity were both enjoying a serene afternoon walk as they left the Ponyville Spa after a long day of relaxation. “Oh, sorry Rarity. I was just lost in thought, nothing important.”

“Well I sure hope it wasn’t anything important. Clearing our minds and relaxing was the entire point of our full day spa treatment.”

Trixie smiled brightly. “That was an amazing time Rarity, I never knew Ponyville had a spa, let alone one as luxurious and relaxing as that one.”

“Well just because Aloe and Lotus aren’t as grand as the masseuses in Canterlot, does not mean that they’re any slouch when it comes to presentation and performance. And next time I’ll show you the wonders of their sauna.”

“Ooh, sounds tempting.” Trixie said smilingly brightly. The two Unicorns finally reached their destination of Carousel Boutique. As they entered, Trixie gained another thought. “So Rarity, you said you had something to show me right?”

“Why yes, I have something I’ve been dying to show you. But first, I have a rather important question to ask you.”

Trixie raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”

Rarity sat down at a nearby table and prompted Trixie to do the same. “It’s been a while since you started staying at Twilight’s Castle, and I was just wondering if your opinions has changed about my friend.”

“My opinions?”

“I’m asking if you’ve started to consider Twilight a friend after all this time. Surly after all these magic lessons you’ve started to warm up to her.”

Trixie groaned at the statement she was not prepared to respond to. Realizing immediately what this was, she decided to answer truthfully. “It is true that I’ve started to “warm up” to Sparkle, but I refuse to label her as anything more than an acquaintance at best.”

Rarity sighed defeatedly. “Oh for goodness sakes Trixie, Twilight has showed you nothing but kindness ever since you came here. Whatever form of malice you have against her, you can’t just hold it in forever.”

“Well I can!” Trixie almost shouted. “I’m sorry Rarity, but I will never forgive her for what she did to me all those years ago!”

Rarity looked at her guest with a concerned look. Just by listening to the tone of her voice, she could easily sense the hate coming from her. “If you don’t mind me asking darling, what exactly did she do to you that was so detrimental?

Trixie winced. “I don’t really want to say. It’s a bit personal to me.”

“Well then, if you can’t talk to me about it why not talk to Twilight about it?”

“What…?”

Rarity smiled as she approached the magician. “Tell me, instead of bottling all these emotions up, ever thought about telling her how you feel about her?”

“Why should I?” Trixie asked rolling her eyes. “She’ll just play innocent and tell me that she didn’t do anything. That I’m just acting like some childish fool trying to put the blame on others.”

“That’s an interesting thing to say. But is that coming from the old Trixie, or the new Trixie?”

“It’s coming from…from…” Trixie couldn’t finish the sentence, not because she didn’t what to say, but because she didn’t want to.

“In that case, this would be a perfect opportunity to do so. Tonight I want you to finally talk to Twilight about why you dislike her. Hopefully you two can finally bury the hatchet when this is over.

“I don’t know…even as a filly I’ve never been good at expressing feelings to others in this kind of manner.”

“In that case maybe you need some motivation.”

Before Trixie could respond, Rarity levitated a mannequin covered by a large sheet. She lifted the cover to give Trixie a good look at the sight before her that made her jaw drop in awe. Before her was a new outfit Rarity made for her, it was like her old outfit, but it was silver with a turquoise outline, with brighter colored stars on it. She could even see that it was covered with bright sequins, and the gem clasp was even different.

“You like it?” Rarity asked getting the blue unicorns attention. “I’ll admit, it was rather difficult to create. I wanted to make something different yet still retaining the original design. Something flashy so your audience will always have their eyes on you, yet simple enough that’ll you can perform well without distractions. In the end I was able to whip this up, using the finest fabrics I could find. So Trixie, what do you think?”

Trixie stared more deeply at her new outfit. She touched her cape feeling how soft and nice it felt. “It’s flawless Rarity! I never even thought my outfit could be improved on.” A tear started to trickle down her cheek. “Thank you so much Rarity.”

“You are very much welcome my friend.” Rarity said smiling at her own work. She then immediately covered it back up with the sheet. “Unfortunately, I’m afraid I can’t let you have it wear it until after you talk with Twilight.”

Trixie groaned as she felt cheated, but nodded hesitantly. “If it means I’ll be wearing that to my great comeback debut, then I’ll take upon your offer.”

“That’s marvelous to hear from you. Now how about some tea before you go?”

“Green tea please.”

“Hey Twilight, you in here?”

Spike made his way through the hallways trying to make sure Twilight was ready for tonight’s session. Lately he’s been warming up to Trixie, talking to her more often and even learning about her work. He’s even got to see some of her tricks which he thought were amazing. In return he convinced her to read one of his Power Ponies comics. To his surprise Trixie took a liking to them.

After a few more minutes of searching, he was able to find Twilight in the room Trixie has been staying in. “Twilight?”

Twilight turned to see Spike at the door. “Oh hello Spike. What are you doing here?”

“Well I wanted to tell you that everything is ready for tonight, but I should be asking you the same question. And what’s with the book?”

Twilight chuckled as she glanced back at the book she was holding. “Well I just thought I would do some cleaning around Trixie’s room while she was gone. While I was cleaning I found this amazing book on her dresser, The History of Magicians.”

Curious, Spike looked at the book, seeing many powerful magicians and spell casters that been around as early as the beginning reign of the Two Princesses. “Cool, I never knew all these Unicorns existed! There’s even some Earth Ponies and Pegasi too. Looks like Trixie is a bigger fan of magic than we thought.”

“It looks like it. Although this one in particular caught my eye.” Twilight flipped through the pages until she stopped at one that was bookmarked. It featured a Unicorn mare with a silver coat and mane. “Her name is Silver Wand, I remembered Celestia mentioning her awhile back. She said that she was one the greatest magicians at the time, even being best friends with her. She even told me that her daughter attended her School!”

“Wow, she would’ve been awesome to see. Too bad it says here that she and her husband, an actor named Bright Lights died years ago due to an incurable sickness and prop accident respectively.” Spike suddenly stiffened as a bad thought came to him. “Twilight, you think Trixie is related to that Silver Wand pony?”

“What makes you say that?”

“I’m not sure, but Trixie did told me a while ago that she attended the school. And I just got this strange hunch that she might be Trixie’s mom. And a sinking feeling that we should not be here right now.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “I don’t know about that Spike, seems a little farfetched. Many Unicorn mares attended the school, anyone of them could be her daughter.”

“That’s right, but isn’t it a bit weird that Silver happens to be a magician too?”

Twilight nearly did a double take as she heard this. After looking back at the book once more, a chilling revelation came to her mind. She quickly closed the book preparing to set it down. “Spike, we should be going now. I don’t want know want would happen if…”

“SPARKLE!!!”

“WOAH!” The sudden noise made Twilight jump as she lost control of her magic, sending the book flying in the opposite direction. Before she could react, she heard a loud thud and turned to see a small sack fall onto the floor. “Oh no!” Twilight quickly rushed to check if something happened to the bag’s contents, but an old memory came to her mind.

“Hey, what’s that,” Twilight asked pointing a hoof at the rather dusty bag.

“Oh...alright Trixie, I promise I won’t see what it is.”

Twilight flinched as she was reminded of the warning given to her. She knew that whatever was in there it must be important to Trixie, and something broke inside it. Wanting to fix whatever was inside; she grabbed the bag with her magic. “Spike, we need to get this fixed before Trixie comes and sees it.”

“Why? It’s just an ordinary…”

“No it’s not Spike! We can’t let Trixie see that we broke whatever was…her…bag.”

Twilight stood stiffly as she saw Trixie standing right in front of her at the doorway. “Trixie!” Twilight said stumbling backwards. “This isn’t what it looks like. I was just cleaning and I accidently bumped the book into your bag, and you know that I would never look into the bag without your permission. You believe me right?” Twilight stared back at the wide-eyed Unicorn, trying her best not to falter.

“No…” Trixie said silently as she levitated the bag towards her. She placed it in front of her and opened it to see the contents inside that utterly shocked the Unicorn and Dragon. Trinkets, jewelry, and books were taken out by the distressed mare until she finally pulled out a rectangular shaped object wrapped in a soft sheet. She quickly unwrapped it to reveal a broken picture frame. “This can’t be…”

“Trixie I’m so sorry. I really didn’t mean for any of this to happen.” Twilight slowly waked towards the now crying mare. “Please, you got to believe me.”

“Don’t you dare come any closer Sparkle!” Trixie said between seethed teeth. “There is nothing you can do to fix this. Just stay away and leave me be.”

Twilight took a step closer. “Please let me help you. We’re…

“SHUT UP YOU FREAK!” Trixie suddenly shouted, scaring the two in front of her. Her eyes were filled with a mix of anger and sadness “How dare you come into Trixie’s room and ruin what she loves. You’ve always done this since the very beginning. Why do you always have to take things away from me, why are you always so better than me, WHY CAN’T YOU JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I never tried to take anything away from you. But whatever I did back then, I’m sorry.”

“Sorry?” Trixie yelled glaring daggers at Twilight. “If you were truly sorry then Trixie wouldn’t be in this state. I would never have to spend another time with you or this pathetic town, and more importantly, SHE would’ve still been alive!”

“Trixie I…”

As Trixie got angrier, her horned started to glow more violently. “Just stuff it Sparkle! You and your friends can just burn in Tartarus for all I care. I hate you Sparkle and I always will!”

The room was suddenly filled with a blinding light that blinded Twilight and Spike for a moment. When the room cleared, Trixie was nowhere to be seen. “Oh no,” Twilight said panicking. She must’ve teleported somewhere out of the castle! I need to go after her, there’s no telling where she went.”

“Twilight, you might want to take a look at this. Twilight stopped her own thoughts as she saw Spike picking up the broken picture frame. Twilight nearly fainted as she saw who was in it. A photo of Trixie, and Silver Wand; her mother.

“Oh no…what have I done?”

Trixie slowly opened her eyes as she rubbed her aching head. The fit of pure magic blurred her vision and made her horn sore. She looked around seeing nothing but brown and dark green, but when she took a second to clear her mind, she realized that she was in the middle of the Everfree Forrest. Not that she cared, just as long as she was away from her.

She slowly trudged her way towards some random direction trying to recollect her thoughts. She could tell that she teleported out of Twilight’s Castle, her sheer anger fueling a powerful teleportation. She tried her best to repress what just happened but couldn’t shake them away. “The nerve of her, going through Trixie’s items and breaking my picture of mother. I should’ve known she was never Trixie’s friend, she’s my enemy, a force made to always hinder me and keep me from my goals.”

During her rant, she noticed that the sun was setting, making her surroundings darker by the second. She was also starting to tire herself out, the teleportation taking up a lot of her energy but enough that she might be able to make it back to Ponyville. “Perhaps Rarity could let me stay for the night and avoid Sparkle for the rest of the night.”

But just as she was about to head there, a violet flash of light resonated behind her. She turned and scowled at the last pony she wanted to see right now. “I don’t know how you found me so quickly, but you shouldn’t have followed me Sparkle.”

Twilight sighed as she took a step forward. “I know what I did was wrong and I can’t blame you if you don’t want to see me again. But you need to come back to the castle so I can…”

“ENOUGH OF THIS!” Trixie yelled as she stomped forward. “The Great and Powerful Trixie do not need your friendship, and I especially don’t need you. You already ruined my life and my career, so just stay away from me!”

Twilight took another step forward as she tried to take another step forward. “I’m not going to leave you like this. Even if you are angry at me, I can’t just leave you in the Everfree Forest, it’s not safe.”

Trixie growled menacingly as her horn glowed brightly. “Trixie has grown weary of hearing you paint yourself as some innocent little student who would never ruin a pony’s life. If you refuse to leave me alone, I’LL MAKE YOU LEAVE!”

Before Twilight could react, Trixie launched a beam of magic directly at her hooves scaring her. Twilight casted a shield spell as Trixie blasted her with more beams that were probably meant to harm and not just scare. “What are you doing?”

“What does it look like Sparkle? I’ll be rid of you no matter what needs to be done!”

Another volley of magic was blasted at the Alicorn that caused her to stumble back due to the sheer force. “Stop this Trixie, you need to calm down!”

“I’ll be calm when you get out of here!” Before she could fire one final large blast of energy, a loud roar that startled both ponies. It was then followed by loud crushing sounds and a ravenous growl. “What...was that?”

Suddenly the owner of the roar made his appearance by crashing through the trees and into the opening; an Ursa Minor.

The ticked off creature roared again making both ponies jump out of the way out of pure fear. It looked at the two angrily, but it shifted its focus on the blue magician obviously agitated at her spouts of magic.

Trixie saw the Ursa was ready to attack and immediately panicked. Memories of the Ursa Minor that attacked Ponyville and crushed her old caravan flooded her mind, keeping her from moving. The Ursa got closer and closer until it raised its paw ready to strike. Trixie instinctively closed her eyes as she prepared for the worst.

…

But it never came. Trixie opened one eye and saw that the Ursa’s paw was being suspended in the air by Twilight’s magic. She struggled to keep the monster from taking a large swipe at the magician. “Trixie…get out of here…I’ll take care of this!”

Trixie was about to say something back until she noticed that the other paw of the Ursa was still free. The Ursa also noticed this, then swiftly used it to forcibly knock Twilight from her position causing her to crash violently into a nearby bush. Trixie looked in horror as Twilight was flung like a ragdoll, then she took off on a running dash the moment she saw the Ursa Minor starting to charge at her.

Trixie galloped as fast as her hooves could carry her, jumping over logs and ducking under tree branches. Her pursuer was steadily gaining on her crushing everything in its way to get her but the many days and nights of pulling a whole caravan did pay off as Trixie was able to keep up her own pace. But even after all she did to outrun the creature she soon ran into the base of a Cliffside, a dead end.

Trixie desperately used her magic in hopes of teleporting to safety, but she couldn’t concentrate enough to cast the spell. “There has to be a way out of here, there needs to be a way out!” Trixie’s panicked thoughts were soon interrupted by the thunderous roar of the Ursa. Trixie turned to see the large creature right behind her as it slowly stomped menacingly towards her.

Looking around Trixie saw that she was finally cornered. She got onto the ground as she closed her eyes and wept. ‘This is it then,’ she thought to herself. ‘Done in by the same creature that helped in ruining my career. No, not the Ursa or anypony else.’ Trixie lowered her head even further preparing for her fate as a revelation finally came to her. ‘Everything that led up to this, everything I have done since I first left Ponyville. It’s always been my fault. I’ve failed you mother.’

The tears started to cloud her vision, but she was somehow able to see a faint purple glow that surrounded the monster before her. She heard the Ursa give out a confused growl ceased its slow movements, before it started to levitate off the ground. Still on the ground, Trixie wiped her eyes when she saw that the Ursa Minor was then flung across the forest, yelping in fear as it soared in the sky until it landed with an earthshaking thud.

Trixie looked up to see a battered Twilight breathing heavily as she glanced back into the forest. “Next time I won’t be so lenient!” She yelled in a deep threatening voice.

Trixie felt mixed feelings about what just happened. A mixture of sadness, utter joy, relief, and confusion was all she could feel at the moment. Thoughts about what Twilight just did flooded her mind. “Twilight saved my life.” She said to herself. “After all I’ve done, she came back and saved my life.” Her thoughts were interrupted as she saw Twilight staggering to the ground from exhaustion. She quickly galloped up to her side. “Sparkle!”

“I’m fine Trixie,” She responded with a grunt as she slowly got up. “But I’m more concerned about you. You must be banged up from all that running and…ow!” Twilight placed a hoof on her chest as she almost fell to the ground. She lifted her hoof back up to see small traces of red liquid on it.

Along with some cuts and bruises, a large gash on her side was slowly dripping blood. Trixie nearly gagged as she saw the condition the Alicorn was in. “You’re b…b…bleeding Sparkle!”

“Don’t worry about me.” Twilight said as she clung closely to her side. She winced a little, but did her best to brush off the pain. “Let’s just get ourselves home and patch ourselves up when we get there.”

“But you need to…”

Twilight hushed Trixie with a hoof, and a reassuring smile. “It’s going to be alright.”

Trixie nodded slowly as the Alicorn used her magic to teleport themselves out of the forest.

Chapter 12: Intertwined

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Chapter 13: The Great and Powerful Do-over

With the morning sun shining in her eyes, Trixie woke up with a long yawn. Trying to move around she noticed a warm presence right next to her. She crooked her head to see Twilight Sparkle sleeping soundly right beside her. It certainly surprised her seeing her once hated enemy this close to her, but rather than feel annoyed or disgusted she felt happy being in the mare’s presence. It reminded her of last night and the utter kindness she had given her in her darkest moment.

Smiling, she slowly got up as to not disturb the Alicorn and yawned once more. As she stretched her legs she decided to head off towards the kitchen with the intent of making some breakfast. When she got there she looked in the refrigerator and found a carton of eggs. With an idea in her head she then searched for a bowl and a whisk from the cabinet, and then she levitated the eggs, milk, and butter onto the counter. Trixie hummed a catchy tune as she cracked some eggs in the bowl and stirred it along with the milk. Meanwhile she set the stove to the appropriate temperature a placed the pan on it with a small block of butter. Minutes later the scrambled eggs she was making was just about done when a small groan caught her attention. “Good Morning to you Twilight.”

Twilight stifled a yawn as she looked over at Trixie and grinned. “And a good morning to you too Trixie,” She said wiping the crust from her eyes. As she got closer her nose twitched as she sniffed the air and licked her lips in anticipation. “Are you making eggs?”

“Why of course. I present to you my great and powerful scrambled eggs, and it would be an honor if you would have a taste.” Trixie levitated two plates of eggs along with a pair of forks and place them on opposite sides of the table. She pulled out two chairs for the both of them and sat at her own.

Twilight happily sat at her chair and thanked Trixie for the sudden hospitality. With a flick of her horn she grabbed her fork and took a small piece of the eggs and ate a whole mouthful. Her eyes and ears perked up as the taste assaulted her buds giving her a rush of deliciousness. “Wow! These taste so amazing. I never knew you were this good at cooking.”

Trixie giggled. “Why of course, when you’re a traveling magician one must always know their way around the kitchen. Mother taught me all the trades she knew, so if you want I could cook us a meal that shall blow you away.”

“Really now,” Twilight asked in a sly remark. “Well I personally would love to see that later.”

“In that case, brace yourself for a delicacy fit for royalty. A dinner only the Great and Powerful Trixie can prepare for the Princess of Friendship!” The two laughed heavily at Trixie’s own theatrics. When the two calmed down they continued to enjoy their breakfast in peace. After she finished her meals, Trixie spoke out. “So you really like them right?”

“Of course I do. I never had eggs this delicious before.”

Trixie sighed happily. “That’s a relief to hear. After all my thank you present shouldn’t be anything less but grand.”

“Thank you present?” Twilight asked as she swallowed her last piece of eggs. “Thank you for what?”

“For what happened last night. I really did appreciate everything you said last night. This is simply my way of saying thanks.”

“Oh…well you’re welcome. But really I was just doing what any friend would do in that situation.”

Trixie sighed. “Of course but it’s just…I don’t know.”

Noticing the hesitation in her voice, Twilight got out her chair and went up to her guest. “Trixie is there anything else you want to tell me? Because no matter what it is, I’m all ears.”

Trixie got out of her chair as she walked towards a nearby wall. On it she could see many pictures of the violet mare either with her friends and the Princess. “This may be weird, but I find it hard to believe that I can’t for the life of me seem to hate you anymore.”

Confused Twilight took a few steps towards Trixie. “Excuse me?”

“I’m sorry if that came off as insensitive, but after last night I kept reminding myself that you ruined my life. I tried to keep in that feeling of detest towards you, but I just can’t. It’s just hard to think that after all these years of wanting to do nothing more than to defeat you at my game, that I don’t want to no more.”

Twilight frowned. “Did you really felt that way ever since I started attending the School with you?”

Trixie sighed as she stared at the pictures. “I’ve always felt like I was in your shadow, I wanted to become Equestria’s most powerful Unicorn and have my name placed in the history books. I was born from a father who was once a successful actor tragically taken away at the peak of his prime. And a mother who defined what it meant to be a showmare. They were both the greatest inspirations in my life, so you can tell I made high expectations for myself. I convinced myself that nopony was going to be better than me. But you showed up with your magic that clearly surpassed mine and gave me the reality check I never wanted; that there was somepony better than me. I now know that you never intended to do that at all but just the idea of a Unicorn being better than me just frustrated me to no end.

“It led to this ever growing anger towards you that just grew every time I saw that…annoying innocent smile of yours. And when mother died…that anger grew into hatred. But the more I think about it; maybe I was angrier at the world than at you.”

Twilight listened intently on Trixie’s speech. ‘Hard to believe she felt this way for all these years.’

Trixie faced Twilight. “I was angry that you were chosen to become Celestia’s student. I was angry when you showed me up all those times before. I was especially angry that everything just seemed to be given to a pony that had everything she wanted, while I was losing everything in front of my eyes. That makes sense right?”

Twilight took a moment to come up with a response. “I think I do. You believed that things were going to go your way, but destiny had other plans for you, for the both of us. But what do you mean I got everything I ever wanted?”

“Well I don’t mean to be rude…but you always seemed to have the typical “chosen one” status. I mean, your parents are both renowned authors and astrologists, your brother is captain of the royal guard and married to the Princess of Love who was also your foal-sitter, and you were the student of Celestia herself. It’s like you were raised to have this role.”

Twilight blushed at the thought. “Well…I…I would never say that! Besides it took me hard work and the support from my friends to get where I was today!”

“And look where it got you. Now you have five amazing friends, an ever-so loyal dragon assistant, and the Element of Magic. If that’s not enough you went on to become the newest Princess of Equestria with her own castle! With me, I trained my entire life to become the most powerful magician in all of Equestria. And during that time my parents died, I developed hatred for a mare that’s two years younger than me, used a magical amulet that corrupted me into a cruel tyrant, and now my career is in shambles and I’m taking refuge in your home.”

Twilight caught something in her throat as the bluntness of Trixie’s words left her speechless. “Well…um…when you put it that way…I’m not sure what else to say but…I’m sorry?”

Trixie laughed as she found Twilight’s confused state humorous. “No need to apologize anymore. Because for the first time since mother passed, my mind feels so refreshed. All those thoughts from before about you and your friends are just gone. And I honestly never felt better, all thanks to you Twilight.”

Twilight smiled with a slight blush. “You’re welcome Trixie, but I think you’re giving me a little too much credit.”

“Don’t be so modest Twilight. I’m done being that rude and boastful magician from before. The Great and Powerful Trixie wants to make the comeback she needs. Besides, I’m fine admitting that you’re the better magic wielder and maybe I’ll never be more powerful than you.”

“Well…I wouldn’t say that since…”

“Please stop,” Trixie said lifting her hoof silencing the Alicorn. “I’m fine being second best now. You’re obviously the superior mare, and sometimes you just need to accept that others will always be better than you. But admitting that is my first step in becoming better, to become the greatest magician by my own standards. It’ll be hard but I’ll use my own powers to achieve whatever goals I may choose.”

Twilight almost said something in response, but decided to give her a proud smile. “I’m glad you feel that way now. And I mean what I said; I’m going to do whatever it takes to get you back on your hooves. Of course, this means that we’ll have a lot of practice and studying ahead of us.”

“The Great and Powerful Trixie wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The two smiled at each other in agreement until a loud bang was heard throughout the kitchen and a small baby Dragon scurried his way towards them. “I smelled scrambled eggs upstairs,” Spike announced with his mouth watering. “please tell me there’s more!”

The surprised mares couldn’t help but laugh as Trixie got up to make more.

1 Month Later…

“Alright Trixie, one more time.”

Trixie looked upon Twilight, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash who were all smiling in support. She took a deep breath as her horned glowed brightly. Four rings that were connected together levitated in front of her as she focused her magic onto it. The rings abruptly spun around in a chaotic yet steady manner, as small sparks of magic flew in every direction. Then after a full ten seconds all four rings separated completely. The magician huffed as she lifted her head proudly. “TA-DA!”

“That was amazing Trixie!” Twilight exclaimed clapping her hooves. “Even better than the last four attempts.”

“I agree darling.” Rarity said next. “That was quite the spectacle.”

Rainbow Dash shrugged. “Yeah, not gonna lie, you were pretty awesome.”

“Thank you all so much.” She said with a bow. “But I think we should stop here, all this work is tiring me out.”

“And that’s what I’m here for ladies.” Spike called out as he came into the room with a cart of snacks. “Made some daisy sandwiches for you guys right here.”

“Thank you very much Spikey-Wikey,” Rarity said as she took one of sandwiches. “these look quite delicious.”

“Yes Spike they are quite amazing.” Trixie said next as she took a bite out of her meal. “And I must say that you’re getting better at cooking each day.”

Spike chuckled as he grabbed a sandwich of his own. During the last month, Trixie has been taking her magic lessons from Twilight learning many new spells she had yet to master on her own while also teaching her roommates’ trades of her own like cooking. She also started to form a better bond between the two, especially Twilight as she shared stories of her past adventures with her friends while Trixie shared stories of her mother and her time out on the road.

“So Trix,” Rainbow Dash started as she finished her food. “how’s the whole magic training thing going for ya?”

“They’ve been doing quite well Rainbow. Honestly I can’t thank Twilight enough for teaching me spells I never thought I learned. The possibilities of I could using these during my performances are endless.”

Twilight smiled. “I’m glad to hear about that Trixie. Because me and the others have been talking, and we all think that’s it’s about time you start your comeback tour and put on your first performance.”

“My first performance?” Trixie asked with a hint of nervousness. “Uh…you sure you don’t think I need um… a few more weeks or so under your tutelage?

“Darling we all know that performing again after all this time in hiatus. But you can’t stay here and away from the stage forever.”

“I know Rarity, but it’s been so long since I’ve even stepped foot on a stage in front of a crowd. I don’t know if I could go back.”

“Oh c’mon Trixie!” Rainbow groaned in annoyance. “Since when did you get so nervous about performing on stage?”

Twilight nodded. “Rainbow Dash is right. With all the lessons you’ve been learning you shouldn’t anything to worry about.”

“You’re right…and I want nothing more but to make my come back. But do you honestly think that I can do this?”

Spike laughed in a cheerful manner. “You kidding, of course we know you can do it. And you got nothing to worry about because the others and I are gonna get everything ready for your performance.”

Trixie stared at the others in confusion until Twilight spoke up. “I’ve already started planning your show. Rarity can provide the costume and make-up, Rainbow, Spike and Fluttershy can spread the word, Pinkie can provide the decorations and stage set-up, and Applejack can serve the food. As for me, I’ll make sure that every little detail is organized and setup properly.”

“You’d all do that for me?”

Rarity smiled. “Of course darling. We’ll make sure that your performance in Ponyville is you’re best one yet.”

“Ponyville?!” Trixie exclaimed in a jumpy state. “Doesn’t that sound a little too extreme? I mean I’m not sure if you’re aware of this, but Ponyville is still against me and what I’ve done before. If they come to my show they’ll no doubt come with they’re rotten tomatoes ready.”

Trixie hung her head in despair as the thought of what could happen started to make her sweat. But she suddenly started to calm down as Twilight’s hoof was wrapped around her neck. “I know you’re afraid of performing again especially in Ponyville. But it’s time to stop worrying and start performing once more. We know you can do it, you know you can do it, and your friends are here to support you all the way.”

Trixie couldn’t help but look upon the faces of the ponies and dragon before her. They all had the expression that said ‘we’re going to help you.’ It made her forget the previous doubts she had and replace them with determination and hope. With a deep breath and with much bravado she exclaimed: “Where do we begin?

Twilight felt like she had her work cut out for her. It took a long time for her to get the Mayor’s approval for the show, and an even longer time setting everything up. But with a reasonable time set up they all had a week and a half to prepare.

Applejack and Big Macintosh immediately went to building the stage as posters were plastered all over Ponyville. Even Snips, Snails and the Crusaders helped by spreading the word to their fellow students. Things were definitely on the right track. Except for one missing component.

“Trixie…do you have a moment.”

The blue magician was in the middle of going over her routine when the Alicorn stepped into her room. “Oh Twilight, you’re just in time. I wanted to ask you if you think I should come in with a huge explosion of fireworks, or with a flurry of lightning. Although now that I think of it, fireworks with lightning have proved to be a remarkable combination before.”

“Well about your show…I wanted to talk to you about something. Mainly a certain guest I wanted to invite.”

“Oh…is somepony you want to invite. Well my show is open to ponies of all types, and if you want to do a personal invite they can come in for free.”

“Well that’s the thing…how would you feel if I invite Princess Celestia to the show?”

Trixie paused for a moment as she processed the question asked of her. But to the surprise of the Alicorn, she started to laugh hysterically. “Ha ha ha oh Twilight, I never took you as a comedian! To say that we should invite the Princess herself to my show, that’s so hilarious!” Trixie continued to chuckle as she wiped a small tear from her eye. Looking back at Twilight she noticed the stoic look on her face and shuddered. “Wait…no you can’t be serious!”

“Think about it Trixie, this is the perfect opportunity for you and the Princess to see each other after all this time.”

“And the perfect opportunity for the Princess to send me to the dungeon after using a forbidden amulet to rule over Ponyville. No doubt she heard about it and been searching for me ever since.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Do you really think that would happen?”

“Of course she will!” Trixie yelled raising her voice. “She’ll realize who I am and lock me up for my crimes, why else would royalty like her come and see some has-been’s show. Or is this all so Little Miss Perfect can impress her teacher with her accomplishments?”

“What?! You know I would never do that to you!”

Trixie sighed as she shook her head. “I know Twilight, and I’m sorry for accusing you of that. I’m just…worried that nopony likes me anymore. You may not think it, but this show will either make or break my career. And if the hostile denizens Ponyville are coming, I don’t think the Princess is going to make it better.”

“You’re over exaggerating.”

“Am I really?”

“…Okay maybe a little. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have faith for yourself.”

Trixie groaned. “You were never the one to take things at face value were you? Always the courageous and optimistic heroine that never gives up while I’m the lonely little magician that could right?”

“Well one of us has to be, because you know darn well that I would never give on you. I’ll be right here to support you no matter what. And if Ponyville or the Princess or everypony in Equestria is against you, then I’ll just have to be the only one with you.”

Trixie stood there with her mouth agape not able to process everything Twilight just said. Despite her impressions from before, she never thought she would ever say something so endearing or heartfelt. A few months ago she would’ve never thought this in a million years, but she felt blessed to have met Twilight all those years ago. With a smile she happily hugged the Alicorn who gave one in return. “Thank you Twilight. Like it or not, it seems like you always know what’s best for me. I just hope my magic is good enough.”

“Trust me Trixie, knowing Celestia she would be ecstatic to see you again.”

After a long and tiring day of meetings with boring delegates and listening to pointless complaints, Princess Celestia relaxed the night away in her bedchambers. She definitely enjoyed these moments where she can clear her thoughts, especially ever since her sister came back to take over the night. While the past month has been rather uneventful, dull even, she came to appreciate the nights where she can take it easy without worrying about the fate of her kingdom. Suddenly a knock on the door interrupted her peace, and with a huff she got up from her haunches. “Come in!”

The door opened slowly and in came Princess Luna, her duties for the night placed on hold. “Greetings Sister, are you feeling well?”

Celestia smiled at the sight of her sister. “I’ve been quite fine tonight. I’m just glad that Equestria hasn’t been on the edge of destruction since Twilight received her castle.”

“Yes it has. Although it has been quite dull ever since. Besides minor rumors and the petty obstructions here and there, chaos has been quite rare. I would like for some action now and then though.”

“Well we wouldn’t be doing a good job if bad guys like Tirek or any other powerful villain came waltzing into our Kingdom on a weekly basis.”

“At least the weekends would’ve been more exciting.”

The two sisters laughed at Luna’s humor, until suddenly a green glow flashed behind them catching their attention. Turning her head, Celestia immediately knew that it was a scroll from her former student. “A scroll from Twilight?

“It has been a while since we’ve received one, what does it say?”

Celestia unwrapped the scroll which contained a colorful poster which featured a blue silhouette of a Unicorn and extravagant fireworks and sparks flying around. The bottom of the poster had a date and time along with the title: The Return of the Great and Powerful Trixie!

“T-Trixie?!” Celestia exclaimed her eyes widening, surprised to see the name once more after so many years. Curiosity getting the best of her, she immediately read the scroll.

Dear Princess Celestia,

You and a guest are hereby invited to the magical spectacle that is the Performance of the Great and Powerful Trixie Lulamoon! Inside are two tickets and a poster that explains everything you need to know. We’ll be looking forward to your arrival.

Sincerely,

Twilight Sparkle
P.S. If you’re wondering, Trixie has been living in my castle for the past few months and during this time she’s been greatly improving on her magic. And while I don’t want to say any more than that; you should know that seeing you in the audience will make her very happy!

A small trail of tears fell down Celestia’s eyes as the memories of her old friend came to her. “Silver Wand…” Celestia silently said with sorrow. “It looks like your daughters all grown up now…”

Luna looked at her sister with a mix of confusion and concern. “Sister…I’m not familiar with this Trixie as you are. Is she somepony you used to know?”

“You’ll know in a moment but please tell me right now, do we have anything important to do this weekend?”

“Well…we do have a scheduled meeting with some company managers about the economy of Canterlot.”

“Then whatever it is I want it moved to another time. Tell them that something personal came up…”

Chapter 14: Showtime

“Trixie! Trixie are you awake?”

The day of Trixie’s performance has finally come and Twilight never felt more excited. All of Trixie’s hard work and efforts will finally be paid off. After all her training she can finally return to the big stage and redeem herself with her dazzling feats of magic!

If only she could actually find her…

“Where could she be?” With only half the day left until the show, Twilight was looking everywhere for her in hopes to make sure she was absolutely ready. But while she expected her to be in the kitchen for an early breakfast, or in the throne room practicing, she was nowhere to be found. After half an hour searching, she finally decided to look into Trixie’s room where she found a rather particular sight. “Spike?”

Spike sat nonchalantly on Trixie’s bed dipping his hand into a bowl of sapphires. “Oh hey Twilight you looking for her?”

Twilight raised an eyebrow. “Where is she?”

“Under the bed.”

With an annoyed groan, Twilight’s horn sparked as a she lifted the bed into the air. There she found the magician hiding her face with her hat as small packages of peanut butter crackers laid about in an unorganized manner. “Now’s not a good time to play hide and seek.”

Trixie sighed as she grabbed her crackers and got from under the bed. She glanced at the dragon with a scowl. “Traitorous drake!” She said as Spike shrugged as the bed slowly came back down onto the floor. She then looked back at Twilight who had condescending look of her own. “Uh…I can explain?”

“I don’t think that’s necessary, because you should be getting ready for your performance today.”

“Oh...that’s today?” Trixie nervously said as sweat dropped from her forehead. “I…I wasn’t aware. Um…you sure it’s not next week…or next month?”

Twilight stepped up to the magician as she draped a wing around her. “You’re still scared aren’t you?”

“Of…course not, wh-what makes you think that?”

Spike got off the bed as he ate the rest of his sapphires. “Because you told us that eating peanut butter crackers always calmed you down when you were nervous. And looking at all the crackers you have…I don’t need to finish that sentence.”

Trixie looked at the small pile peanut butter crackers and sighed. “It’s odd Twilight…the day of my return performance and yet it feels like my first time all those years ago.”

“Well it has been what, months since your last performance right?”

“Correct Spike. And while I know I’m prepared far too well for this, I just don’t think I’m ready yet.”

Twilight lifted the magician’s chin up towards her and smiled. “You’ve been more than ready for the past week. You’re worrying too much about what might happen rather than focusing on what you need to do. And you know this more than anypony else.”

Trixie truly knew that she was well prepared for her own performance, but recently a question has been nagging her ever since Twilight arranged for the show. “Do you think I’ll be as good as Mother?”

The blue magician started to doubt her own abilities as magician. The thoughts of if her own magic can match that of her late mother haunted her for the past week. Suddenly she felt a wing around her that tightly wrapped around her bringing her much closer to the Alicorn which made her smile. “Yes, yes, I get it at this point Twilight.”

“Well whether or not you do get it, I still want you to know that we all should have everything under control.”

Spike nodded. “And all you have to do is sit back and relax while we make sure everything is all taken care of. You won’t even have to lift a hoof…until the show that is.”

Trixie glanced back at Twilight who nodded in agreement. A warm sense of determination filled the magician with hope for her career. As she stared at the smiling mare before her, she started get the same feeling she had many times before. That positive, reassuring feeling she got every time she was with her. She doesn’t know what it is or why she gets it, but she loves it either way. “Then I guess I don’t have a choice then, The Great and Powerful Trixie shall prepare herself for rehearsal…and she would like for you to…assist her in this endeavor.”

Twilight grinned. “I will be ready in ten minutes. Which reminds me, I have a little present I made just for you and I think you’ll really like it.”

“A present for me?” Trixie asked almost too excitedly.

“Just for you. Except you’re not getting it until right before the show starts.”
“What!” The blue mare exclaimed with a frown. “But that’s not…”

“I’m sorry,” Twilight said with a sly grin. “but don’t you have a rehearsal to go to, or would you rather wait here while I find some more crackers for you?”

Trixie never thought she would hear that tone from the Princess of Friendship. A while Spike couldn’t resist a good chuckle, she responded with a pout of scorn as she crossed her hooves. “You’re the worst Sparkle.”

“And you’re the best. Now come on Spike, we got preparations to make.”

As the two left in a hurry leaving Trixie alone. She sighed as she went towards her closet and opened it. Inside she kept her old tattered outfit and her new and improved one from Rarity, still in the same condition as she first saw it. Tonight was going to be the first time she would put it on and through Twilight’s words of encouragement, she felt like she was finally ready.

“Well, it’s now or never…time to make you proud mother.”

“Wow, look at the turnout!”

Ponyville square was filled with residents as they gathered around a large stage in front of Town Hall. Ponies sat around, talked amongst themselves as they enjoyed their snacks and anticipated the show. Five ponies in particular took front row seats in what was labeled as the V.I.P. section ready to support the magician.

“Everypony in Ponyville must be here,” Rainbow exclaimed to the others. “Finally seeing Trix back in action, this is gonna be so cool!”

Rarity nodded. “Indeed Rainbow Dash and I’m absolutely certain that all that hard work will finally pay off. Personally I can’t wait to see just how fabulous she looks in my outfit.”

“This is going to be so AMAZING!” Pinkie Pie jumped from behind with a large, over-sized bag of popcorn. She took a hoof-full and stuffed it in her mouth. “C’mon Trixie, bring on the dazzle!”

As Pinkie grabbed more popcorn several bits spilled all over the pony’s heads, much to Rarity’s annoyance. Applejack chuckled as she shook the corn out her hat. “Well not sure ‘bout yer corn here, but one thing is certain that things are all looking mighty fine tonight. I love seeing our hard work getting paid off!”

“Oh…so you’re all responsible for this grand stage?”

Applejack looked behind to find the source of the noble voice. To see that it belonged to none other than Princess Celestia, who was accompanied with Princess Luna. “Well howdy there Princess, didn’t expect ya’ll to be here.”

Celestia chuckled at the notion. “Well normally we don’t do these types of events in Ponyville, but who are we to turn down an invite from Twilight?”

“Twilight invited you two here?” Fluttershy asked curiously.

“Why yes Ms. Shy.” Luna replied. “It was quiet the surprise I must say, but a pleasant one nonetheless. And if my sister’s enthusiasm is any obvious clue, I could easily say that I was practically dragged here against my will.”

“Well I simply couldn’t help myself Luna. You just have to see this!”

Rarity chuckled. “What’s this now? I never thought that you and Trixie shared some sort of relationship.”

“Now hold up a sec Rares. I doubt the Princess knows Trixie like that, especially on a personal level.”

“Actually Applejack, its quiet the interesting story.” Celestia replied. “You see I knew her mother Silver Wand, she was my best friend in the past. It’s been years since I’ve seen her daughter, and I was never able to find her since she left Canterlot. Now after all this time I finally got a chance to see her once more. But that’s enough dwelling on the past, when does this performance start?”

“She should be ready in twenty minutes.” Rainbow said. “Sounds like you can’t wait long enough Princess.”

Celestia nodded silently as a small thought came to her mind. ‘If only you were here now Silver, you could see just how much your daughter has grown.’

A knock reverberated outside the door. “Hey Trixie you’re on in ten. Are you almost done in there?”

Trixie nervously looked back at the door of her dressing room. “Uh…almost done Spike.” She yelled back.

“Alright then, I’m taking my seat now.”

With that said, she heard small steps walk away. Grunting she looked back to her mirror to finish applying her makeup. She was attired in her new cape and hat as she put on a light blue shade of lipstick. As she put on the finishing touches she looked into her vanity mirror and gave a small smile. “Just like old times as they say.”

She suddenly heard another knock at her door much to Trixie’s annoyance. She turned towards the door. “The Great and Powerful Trixie will be ready when she is ready!”

“So does that mean you’re not ready for your present?” A soft voice asked behind the door.

Seeing immediately who it was, Trixie used her magic to open the door to see Twilight grinning behind the door. “Oh…Twilight! Um…Trixie always has time for you.”

Twilight laughed as she entered the room holding a small package with her magic. “The crowd out there is packed; I think everypony in Ponyville must be here.”

“Everypony huh, and I take it Princess Celestia is here too?” Trixie asked as Twilight respond with a nod. “Well…that is promising.”

Twilight could easily hear the small sense of distraught in her voice. Yet she smiled nonetheless. “You’re ready for this. You practiced your act and know them by heart Not only that but you look amazing, Rarity sure had her work cut out for her. As long as you just stay calm, you’ll be just fine.”

Trixie gave a slight smirk. “If Trixie had a bit for every time you said that, I could do all my shows for free. But in all seriousness, I promise not to let the Princess or anypony get me down. And speaking of promises, where’s my present?”

“Don’t worry I would never break a promise, especially to you Trixie. With that said this is yours.” Twilight levitated the package to Trixie who took it with her magic. “I’ll admit, I wanted to give you this much earlier, but I thought it would be better if I did it right before the show started.”

Now even more curious, Trixie swiftly opened her present. What she saw was almost too good to be true. “Mother’s picture!”

In her hooves she held the same picture that was once ruined, inside a new and improved frame. The frame was made of shiny crystals that complemented the colors of Trixie and her Mother. “You made me a new frame?”

“I felt so bad about breaking your old one, so with Spike’s help we were able to take some parts of the castle and mold it all into a frame. It took a while, but it was nothing a little hard work couldn’t pull off.”

Trixie smiled grew wider as she looked at the picture deeply, as the crystals of the frame radiated beautifully in her eyes. “Twilight I…thank you. I couldn’t have asked for a better present from you.”

“Well you don’t have to ask at all!”

“It’s not? What could you possibly…” Trixie’s jaw dropped when she looked back at Twilight and saw her second present. “It…can’t be.”

Twilight smiled as she floated her gift towards her companion. “But it is!”

Trixie was stunned silent. She could hardly move, but she managed to put out her hooves to catch her old cape and hat. She could only stare at it as she realized that it was the exact same attire she her mother gave her long ago, complete with the familiar stitching her mother painstakingly worked on. The magician tried her best to fight this overwhelming feeling and bear hug Twilight on the spot; she just brushed her mane after all. “H-how d-did you do this?”

Twilight sighed as she explained a tinge of sadness in her voice. “When my library was…demolished, I wanted to fix everything in there. So many books…so many memories…all of it were so damaged, most beyond repair.” Twilight’s mood perked up. “But there were a lot that was still salvageable one was my coronation dress. There’s an old spell that Celestia taught me that can ‘repair’ old or broken items, usually used to preserve old items or anything burned in fires. It’s a very hard spell that’s only known by a few Unicorn scientists that involves the user manipulating one’s memories and magic to reconstruct the molecules in the air and the material of the object in question to…”

“Twilight?” Trixie asked interrupting her. “Don’t mind getting to the point? We don’t have much time.”

Twilight grinned embarrassingly. “Right, anyways with the help of your picture I was able to memorize what your outfit looked like and repair it just as new. I’ll admit that it was much harder than my books or dress, but with enough effort I was able to do it flawlessly. I just hope it’s exactly as you remembered it.”

Trixie felt as if an explosion of emotions went off in her own heart as she stared right at her original attire. Once torn, filled with holes and covered with small patches mud that has been constantly cleaned with a spell, now as good as it once was the night her mother first showed it to her. Twilight just repaired one of the last gifts her mother gave her before she passed.

The magician never felt this happy in a long time. Because of this Alicorn’s generosity and kindness she felt so many positive emotions all at once; happiness, joy, excitement, hope and…love? She felt love towards this mare? Did she love Twilight? Trixie blushed at the thought, but quickly deposed the thoughts for now. There were bigger priorities to attend to, and she’ll cross that road when she gets to it. For now, she could only hug the Alicorn tightly and she gave one back. “Thank you Twilight, you have no idea how much this means to me.”

Twilight only smiled as she squeezed tighter on the other until she let go. “Well enough of that, you got a show to run, and I got a seat to find. Good luck!”

The magician flashed a confident grin. “The Great and Powerful Trixie never needs luck when she is on the stage!” Her voice softens. “But thank you anyways.” She saw the Alicorn beamed once more as she left Trixie alone. The mare looked at the clock to see that the show was in five minutes. With a calming sigh she looked in the mirror to see that her appearance was still perfect, mane needing only a little more brushing. Before she can do that, she glanced at the picture of her younger self and once oversized hat cuddling right next to her mother, a sorrowful yet pleasant smile adorning her muzzle.

“Well what do you think mother…amazing as always?”

Silent anticipation filled the air as the show was mere seconds from beginning. Twilight managed to catch her seat beside Celestia, and judging by the look on her face she could tell that she could not wait any longer. She grinned happily as she looked at the center stage. ‘C’mon Trixie, we worked so hard to get this far. Show them who you really are.’

Suddenly spotlights flashed onto the stage as smoke filled the area. The curtains parted as the silhouette of a unicorn made for a nice effect. Smoke continued to pour through and a faint aura of magic shined drawing the entire audience towards it. “Fillies and Gentlecolts!” A booming feminine voice called out. “Your patience has been well appreciated, but wait no longer for SHE has returned! Prepare yourselves for the amazing and magical feats of THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE!!”

The smoke cleared the way as sparks of fireworks flew in the air and small bolts of lightning rained from above. Ponies cheered ecstatically when Trixie stepped out in the open, gracefully extending her hooves to welcome the audience. ‘Knew the crowd would lightning and fireworks.’ Out of the corner of her eyes she could see Celestia sitting in her seat, a small impressed smile on her face. ‘Here goes nothing’.

“Denizens of Ponyville behold as The Great and Powerful Trixie humbly presents you with grand feats of magic known throughout Equestria. So without any further delays, I hope you enjoy the show!” With a wave of her hoof she levitated two small marbles. She motioned everypony to watch carefully as she closed her eyes and clacked them together emitting a small spark each time. One harder bash and the small spark turned into volts of blue electricity, making the crowd gasp in amazement. The spectacle before them grew as Trixie slowly separated the marbles apart the volts getting bigger and more violent. When she opened her eyes she finally banged the marbles together making a huge flash of magical electricity sending small sparks filled the air above the audience.

After a split second of silence, the crowd roared with cheers and hoof stomps. Trixie almost didn’t recognize this sound, such a long time since she heard the applause of the crowd after an amazing act well done. She silently thanked Hoofdini for his “Electric Web” trick. Looking among the still cheering crowd she faintly spotted Twilight along with both Princesses who seemed to be stomping the loudest. Celestia herself seemed to be nodding in approval. Trixie grinned arrogantly as she stepped towards the crowd. “As we say in the performing industry, it’s Showtime!”

Success, an emotion that Trixie loved feeling whenever she’s onstage. And she couldn’t help but soak in the cheers from her audience. The past hour and half have been filled with nothing but one magical spectacle after another. From simple card tricks, to confounding sleights of hoof, to illusions that would fool even the smartest of ponies. She’d done everything she and Twilight had practiced perfectly, the weeks of magical training finally paying off.

The magician was glad to see the many ponies being entertained. Her previous shows were always the same before, ‘anything you can do Trixie can do better’. Those shows brought nothing but humiliation to all who attended, a gimmick that ultimately served to boost her own ego. But a new Trixie called for a new show, one that focused only on bringing joy to all who were to attend. But all things must come to an end, and Trixie was ready for the grand finale.

“Denizens of Ponyville, I thank you for this opportunity you’ve all been an amazing audience!” Trixie shouted. “But now is the time for the final moment, the last trick of my sleeve, the show’s grand finale you’ve all been waiting for!” While many gave a sad sigh knowing that the show would soon end, it quickly turned into a flurry of cheers. Trixie grinned. “But for my last feat to work I will need the assistance of an audience member. Anypony willing to volunteer for this endeavor?

Twilight Sparkle, who was so far enjoying the show, tilted her head in confusion. ‘A special guest?’ She pondered. ‘But this act didn’t require anypony but the magician itself. What is she planning here?’ Her thoughts were drowned by the loud shouts of fillies and colts shouting out “ME, ME!” as they try to get the magician to call on one of them. Trixie pretended to scan the ecstatic crowd her volunteer already decided before the show even started.

“I’m afraid this particular trick requires somepony special.” She grinned as she chose her target. “How about you your majesty?”

Twilight did a double take. “W-what? Me?”

“Don’t be shy your Excellency, I have summoned you so please, come on up!”

Twilight nearly stumbled on her words trying to come up with some excuse. But a gentle yet playful push from Celestia forced her to get onstage. Among the cheering crowd she could’ve sworn Celestia chuckled at Twilight’s expense. She finally got on the stage where Trixie smiled contently. “Trixie, what are you…”

“Princess Twilight Sparkle!” She said cutting the Alicorn off. “A thousand thanks for attending my humble performance. I take it you’ve been enjoying it so far?”

“Uh…of course I have, you are an amazing magician. But shouldn’t…”

“I thank you for your kind words your majesty. But for my last trick, I require your cooperation if you would be so kind.”

Twilight nodded as Trixie gestured her hooves and brought out a small peculiar box from behind the curtains. Confused, Twilight whispered; “This isn’t part of the show, what are you planning?”

She couldn’t tell if Trixie heard her or not, but Trixie responded with a sly wink. “Trust me Twilight, a great magician is also a great improviser.” A response that made her give a sly grin of her own.

“Now Princess,” Trixie started. “would you kindly stand right here on this X for me?” A small red X was neatly painted on the right side of the stage, a detail Twilight was certainly never aware of.

Twilight obeyed as she stood still and faced the anticipated crowd. She could see nearly all of Ponyville, almost the entire population who came to see her shows. She could see her friends who were all cheering and hollering, to which one onstage she couldn’t tell. And behind them she could see Celestia, the Princess of the Sun and ruler of Equestria, jumping up and down like a giddy schoolfilly, much to Luna’s and Twilight’s embarrassment.

“Now!” Trixie exclaimed getting the Princesses attention. “I’m sure being a Princess of Friendship is nice and all but it must be exhausting to juggle all those responsibilities isn’t it?”

Twilight immediately responded. “Why yes Trixie, all those friendships reports can be murder on my back. I don’t even have time to get to the recent ones of them.”

“Well your majesty, what you need is an assistant. An extra pair of hooves to make your life much simpler.”

Twilight faintly heard Spike give out a small huff. “An assistant would be nice to have, but who could possibly help me with my responsibilities.”

Trixie grinned as she opened the box and levitated six different colored rocks out of it and in the air around herself. “Well I happen to have the perfect gift for you.” The rocks floated in a circle that left Twilight and the crowd in a trance. “Now, I would like for you to stay perfectly still, you are about to receive the perfect helper you could ever ask for.”

Twilight remained still, but she couldn’t look away as Trixie’s horn sparked and glowed in a chaotic yet calm manner as it soon produced a bright flash of pink light. The crowd turned silent when Trixie finished the spell, her horn still glowing ever so slightly.

Trixie gestured. “Princess Twilight, meet your new assistant!”

Twilight looked to her left to see a sight she never imagined she would ever see. “It’s…me!?

Twilight saw what seemed to be…another Twilight Sparkle. A full-fledged copy of herself complete with wings and all. It was as if she just took a dip into the Mirror Pool. ‘Did she just cloned me?’ She thought as a faint memory of how she tricked an Alicorn Amulet powered Trixie that she cloned Rainbow Dash with some Cloning Spell. ‘But, I don’t have any spells on that?”

Trixie laughed seeing the bewilderment on Twilight’s face. “Your eyes do not deceive you Twilight. For what better assistant for the Princess of Friendship, but the Princess of Friendship herself?”

The clone smiled and waved in an almost hypnotized state. Twilight waved back, too confused to think straight about the situation. ‘Well whatever it is your planning, I think I like it already.”

“Now don’t be shy Princess, why don’t you come and shake your assistant’s hoof.”

With slight hesitation, Twilight trotted up to her clone who extended her own hoof out in greeting. She touched her hoof which felt surprisingly soft, almost like she was actually shaking her own hoof. With a smile she looked at the clone. “It’s nice to meet you miss…huh?”

Twilight stopped as she starred at the clone’s face and saw a faint crack the made her jump back in surprise. “What the…” She couldn’t finish her sentence as the crack rapidly grew larger and larger, scaring the audience in the process. And after a second, the clone broke into many tiny pieces crumbling into the ground. All but Trixie gasped in horror as the clone was reduced to shards of itself. “Tr-Trixie!?”

Trixie looked at the remains of the clone and gave a nonchalant shrug. “Apologies Princess seems like your assistance just “cracked” under pressure.” The audience stifled a giggle at the magician’s tiny bit of comedy. “Trixie is terribly sorry about you assistant’s demise.”

Twilight smiled awkwardly. “Uh…that’s okay?”

Trixie grinned. “But fear not, for this tragedy will be very short lived. Behold!” Before the Alicorn can respond, the bright Pink light from her horn shined once more and the shattered remains of the Twilight clone floated in the air. It whirled in the air as the pieces started to take the shape of a pony. Slowly the pieces were rebuilt and the Twilight clone came back to life, but instead of being an Alicorn, it was instead a Unicorn.

Twilight gave an amused look as the clone looked exactly like herself before she ascended to princess hood. “It’s exactly like looking into a…mirror.” She silently mused as her smile grew even larger.

Trixie laughed. “I’ve been thinking of a nickname for your new little assistant Princess. Something in the lines of: ‘Twitwo.’”

The audience laughed once more as did Twilight, who also couldn’t help but facehoof at the name. ‘Twitwo, What kind of name is that?’

“But now that I think about it Princess, one helper just isn’t enough for somepony as important as you.” Trixie stated theatrically. “So why have one helper, when you can have two?”

From behind the curtains, another Twilight clone came onto the stage, her sudden presence making the whole audience gasp. She looked just like Twitwo, but her mane and tail were curled in a fashion similar to Rarity. “I present to you Twithree!”

The audience clapped as the second Twilight clone strutted on the stage. But none clapped louder than the fashionista herself, who was more than impressed at the sight before her. “Dear heavens, Twilight looks simply fabulous with my mane!”

Applejack turned to her. “Ya do know that ain’t really Twilight right.”

“No talking, I must savor this moment.”

The five friends laughed among themselves causing the fashionista to give a small huff as she admired the clone’s mane shining in the spotlight. Behind them Luna sat there dumbfounded at the sight before her. “What in the world of Equestria is this form of Trickery?” She asked loudly, confusion plastered on her face. “I thought the Mirror Clone spell was forbidden for recreational use? Uh…right sister.”

Celestia only responded by tapping Luna’s horn. “Relax my sister, besides you’re going to miss my favorite part.”

Meanwhile Twilight stood there amused by her new clone, and its interesting choice of fashion. She never considered styling her mane especially in a similar way to her friends; she just thought her own mane style always suited her. But she had to admit that Rarity’s mane cut didn’t look half bad on her.

“I take it that you really like your other new assistant right Princess?” Trixie said getting the Princess’s attention. “Not only is Twithree just as reliable and loyal compared to Twitwo, but it can help you decide on what dress you should where for any special occasion.

Twilight amusingly shook her head as Trixie started to sound like she was selling these clones. “Wow, I cannot believe my own eyes!” She exclaimed in an exaggerated manner. “Two clones to help me with my royal duties? This is the best thing ever!”

Trixie nodded as she faced the audience. “Yes I suppose two clones is nice. But as many would say, why have two assistants, when you can have SIX!” With one stomp of her hoof, out came four more Twilight clones that filled the entire stage with their presence. Each was drastically different than the first two. One was an Earth Pony with a purple Stetson; the other was also an Earth Pony with a curly mane. The next two were Pegasi one had a messy mane and flew around in circles while the other had a larger mane that hid her eyes from the crowd.

Twilight was utterly stunned at what she was looking at. Six clones of herself of all three Pony kinds conjured by Trixie’s magic were out and about for the whole entire crowd to see. One zipped around doing tricks and flips in the air, while another bounced around making everypony around it smile in its presence. She looked at the magician who stood proudly as her horn glowed brightly and the clones interacted with the spectators.

Twilight couldn’t hide the huge grin on her face, knowing that her work was more than done.

After a minute of the clone’s small antics, Trixie whistled loudly making each clone come to her attention like a well-trained pets. She turned towards Twilight as the clones lined up for the last portion of the act. “So Princess Twilight, I take it that you absolutely love your new assistants. Now that they’re here, bothersome duties and restless nights are now a thing of the past.”

Twilight laughed as she took a breath trying to come up with a line to say. Improvising was never her best suite more comfortable having cue cards. She quickly thought of something as she smiled sincerely. “I’ve couldn’t have asked for a better offer from somepony as Great and Powerful as you! But six Twilights just seem to be a bit too much don’t you think so?”

Trixie raised an eyebrow as she dramatically lowered her head. “Oh dear me Princess, I never thought of it like that, I dearly apologize for this inconvenience.”

“Oh don’t be sad Trixie, after all your Twilight clones look amazing. Why you must be the greatest magician I’ve ever seen!”

Trixie smirked widely as she whipped her cape around turning towards the crowd. “Well Princess, Trixie thanks you for your kindness, and Trixie appreciates your honesty. Perhaps clones may not be for a Princess like you. After all…” Trixie suddenly got to her haunches as her horn glowed brilliantly and all six clones floated gently in the air. With a smile on their faces, each clone waved goodbye as they turned into spheres of pink light swirling around the magician. She raised her hoof high as the six orbs flew into the air igniting into an illuminous show as ribbons of light danced around in the night sky. And as the light show started, Trixie shouted to the Princess; “You are one of a kind!”

The roar of the crowd was the loudest it has been all night. The stomping of hooves, the shouts of ponies could’ve made anypony deaf within earshot as they cheered at the ongoing light show. Trixie bowed her head to the crowd thanking them for the show, but as she looked up she could see Twilight hesitantly bowed doing her best to copy the more experienced magician.

Trixie shook her head as she hugged the Alicorn and said into her ear. “And a special thanks to my volunteer, Princess Twilight.”

Twilight responded with a soft “You’re welcome,” as she hugged her back. Looking up she could see the magic aura flowing through the air and starting to fade out of existence. She could hear the excited conversations among ponies the subject all about the show they just witnessed. It amazed her how strong Trixie’s magic became, then realized that if this was how her magic was now, just imagine what her future performances would be like. ‘Her mother would be so proud.’ She thought to herself.

“Twilight,” Trixie said suddenly getting the mare’s attention. “you wouldn’t mind letting me finish up by myself. I have a few words to say.”

Twilight instantly got the point as she got off the stage. “It’s all you.”

Trixie silently thanked her as she looked at the crowd who had all calmed when the light show finally ended. “Attention Ponyville!” She shouted. The whole crowd looked back at Trixie with bated breaths. She could see the smiles of all the stallions, mares, and the little colts and fillies that selflessly attended her show.

She smiled contently. “I hoped you all enjoyed the performance and my final act as much as I did.” The crowd applauded partially to show their gratitude. “Yes well, I just have a few words to say to you all.”

The crowd grew quite as small whispers were shared among them. Trixie sighed her face falling. “Long ago I first came to this town not to entertain, but to show you just how powerful I was. I humiliated anypony who stood in my way, I lied about feats I could never do. And in the end it led to…the Ursa Minor incident that could’ve destroyed all of Ponyville if it wasn’t stopped. I was nothing more than a fraud and a monster. Then it a fit of anger I found the Alicorn Amulet and used its corrupt power to conquer your fair town and rule it with an iron hoof. Until a brave Unicorn and her friends stopped me and saved their home.”

Small concerned murmurs were about as the crowd remembered the abuse set by the Unicorn in the past. Trixie sworn she saw glares filled with malice in them, she couldn’t blame them but she continued with her speech. “After that I thought that was it for me. Couldn’t put on any shows, was shunned by all who knew of my past misdeeds…I thought my career and my life was over. But then a kind and most wonderful friend helped me at my time of need and healed my past wounds. With her help, she didn’t just taught me the acts you’ve seen tonight, but how to be humble, how to forgive those you wronged you. And she taught me that being second best is never to be ashamed of.

“This show was never meant to make a profit, or boost my ego, or whatever third thing. This show was my way of apologizing for all the terrible acts I’ve committed, to give you the joy and happiness my shows were supposed to bring to everyone who attends. You may say that I’m still the same evil mare from before, but now that from now on my only concern is to never let my past stop me from showing you all the greatest show of your lives!” The mare lowered her head and whispered low enough so none can hear. “That is…if you’ll give me that chance

As if on cue, Trixie heard the small clops of hooves from Snips and Snails. The sounds grew into a small collection of an applause. Soon the choir of cheers turned into a symphony of ponies hollering and whooping from excitement. Ponies showing their non-stop praises of the magician as they chanted her name. Trixie certainly didn’t thought it was possible for the ponies of Ponyville to like her for her past. But it seemed as if everypony were on her side and were willing to see her for what she really was.

With tear filled eyes Trixie raised her hoof and smiled as she said; “Thank you everypony, you’ve been a great audience!”

“That last trick was amazing!” Twilight said as she walked right next to Trixie. “I can’t believe how strong your magic has become. You have to show me how you did that trick, the possibilities of magic like that is endless!”

Trixie rolled her eyes. “Come on Twilight, don’t you know anything about magicians. We never revel our secrets! Seriously that’s like a magician’s number one rule.”

Twilight groaned in annoyance as the two were about to leave backstage. “Oh please Trixie? I just need to know how you pulled it off. I may not know what you did, but it was definitely some advanced magic even I couldn’t do. So…pretty please?”

After the performance was over, all who attended dispersed and went back to their normal lives. Twilight Sparkle however went back stage to congratulate her on as job well done, praising her on how perfect the show was. And to Trixie’s dismay, ask her a very annoying question. “Must I Twilight, well how about you convince me first. What was it you say you prepared for after the show?”

“Well I didn’t really plan anything per say, but Pinkie told me that she had what she called a “Great and Powerful Trixie After party” just for you. All of our friends are there right now, she even made this delicious looking cake based of that last trick. It has you with all of those Twilight clones onstage!”

Trixie arched an eyebrow. “Strange, how did Pinkie bake and decorate a cake in such a small amount of time?”

“Uh…I can’t really explain that, but I bet you have something that YOU can explain.”

Trixie groaned wearily as Twilight gave her best innocent smile. “Look, I won’t tell you how I did my last trick, but I can tell you what I did. It’s called the ‘Projecting Substitute Illusion’. It’s…”

“Powered by the wielder’s mind and any small object.” A third voice called out interrupting the magician. “The wielder focuses on an image in their mind, then projects that image over the object giving the illusion of the image actually being there.”

The Alicorn and magician turned to see the source of the heavenly voice was none other than Princess Celestia. “An old friend said that it’s a very difficult spell to pull off, as it requires much focus and attention. But the risk is definitely worth the reward.”

“Princess…” Trixie said in wonderment. She had never seen the Princess this close in over a decade. Her mane glowed brightly in the moonlight, and her smile gave her the nostalgic memory of the day she was given her acceptance letter from Celestia herself. “It really is you…”

Celestia only nodded. “Trixie Lulamoon. It’s been so long since I’ve seen you. And you still have your mother’s eyes.”

Trixie shook her head as she tried to hide her tears. “Oh…yeah I mean…The Great and Powerful Trixie’s eyes are quite glorious your majesty. But enough about me, did you enjoy my performance?”

Twilight noticed the feigned confident voice Trixie conveyed. She could tell that she was afraid of the Princess. “Hey Celestia!” Twilight said in a louder voice than necessary. “Uh…I’m glad you told me earlier about how much you enjoyed the show.”

“Why yes Twilight, it’s was the most amazing time I’ve had in years.” Celestia’s smiled faltered, as she took on a serious tone. “But I have more important matters to discuss, with Trixie.”

Trixie’s confident bravado fell as she looked up at the much taller Alicorn. “I take it that you’re more familiar with the Alicorn Amulet and Ursa Minor incidents than anypony else.

Celestia nodded. “I knew a long time ago from Twilight that a young Unicorn mare somehow came across a dangerous power I thought I had was destroyed long ago. A power that I’m forever grateful that it’s now in safe hooves. But what Twilight never told me was that you were the one behind those incidents. Is this true?”

“Princess don’t…” Twilight tried to plead with Celestia to not do anything rash. But she was stopped when a hoof was placed on her leg.

Trixie smiled at her with a genuine smile as she went up to the Princess and bowed in respect, her eyes filling with water. “Everything I announced was true your majesty. It was my actions that caused an Ursa Minor to rampage through Ponyville, and it was me who found the Alicorn Amulet and took over the town, exiling your student in the process. To this day I regret everything I’ve done in the past, I was a braggart and a monster causing nothing but trouble. But if it’s any conciliation, I will accept any punishment you deem necessary for my crimes.”

Trixie didn’t knew what punishment she would be given. While it has been a long time since then, she knew that time could not erase the crime she committed. But what she didn’t expect was a hoof to be placed on her chin she slowly looked up into Celestia’s eyes.

“Raise your head my little pony. Punishment will not be necessary, I’m just glad to see Silver Wand’s daughter is safe and sound after all these years.” She looked up to Twilight and gave her a nod. “Twilight…if you would?”

“Oh…that’s right!” Twilight said as she prepared to teleport. “I’ll see you at the party.”

The moment she saw Twilight left the scene, Celestia went to give Trixie a hug before she swiped her hoof away. “What is the matter?”

“Twelve years.” She finally said. “Twelve years since mother died. I’ve wasted so many years on some petty payback towards Twilight Sparkle, wanting to best her in every way in some sad attempt to avenge my mother.” She stared angrily into her eyes. “And you were never there.”

Celestia tried to talk but Trixie interrupted.

“I know of your relationship with my mother, you two were so close but you never took her only daughter under your wing. And when she died, where were you when I was forced to live in an orphanage? Where were you when my career was down the drain and I was forced into a life of poverty?” Trixie started to cry as frustration took a hold of her emotions. “Where were you when I needed you most?”

“Are…are you saying that you hate me? That all of your misfortunes were my fault?”

Trixie sighed as she started to wipe her eyes. “I…I don’t hate you your majesty. And I do not blame you for my action, far from it. But why was I never your personal student?

Celestia lowered herself as she went up to the smaller mare and gave her a small nuzzle. Trixie accepted at as she felt her face warm up. “Trixie, you know as well as I do that Twilight needed my teachings more than you did. Back then, you were an expert at magic and Twilight needed to learn to control all of it. Besides, I made a promise that I to not interfere, to never intervene so that you can forge your own path. I doubt your mother wouldn’t really approve of you taking the easy way out.”

“I know Princess, and in hindsight I think you made the right decision.” Trixie looked up into her eyes and gave her a large smile. She started to hug her tighter never wanting to let her go. “Twilight is an amazing pony she’s kind, generous, and she saved Equestria so many times. She’s a great princess and an even greater friend.

“I hated what became of me after I left Canterlot, but I should be thankful. That experience taught me to become a better and stronger mare. I would never be where I am now if it weren’t for everything that happened, and I wouldn’t change it for the world!”

Celestia returned the smile as she embraced the magician. “Trixie Lulamoon, you’ve grown to become a beautiful and mature young mare. I’m so proud of you.” Celestia then remembered the main reason why she wanted to see Trixie one more time. “Which reminds me, I have something for you.”

Trixie arched an eyebrow as she let go of the Princess. “What is it?”

Celestia smiled a she used her magic to retrieve the item. After two seconds a small talisman appeared right in front of Trixie who instantly took in in her hooves. Trixie took a minute to expect the talisman closer. A Silver sun similar to Celestia’s cutie mark, and in the middle was the cutie mark of Silver Wand.

“How long have you had this?” Trixie asked hesitantly. “I’ve never seen this in my entire life.”

“Silver gave it to me. I’m not sure what it is, but she told me before her passing to give it to you when I think the time is right.” Celestia remembered the day she was tasked to protect this talisman and one day deliver it to Silver’s daughter. She even remembered the letter she sent her that ensured that the letter was safe, and she would not break the promise she made to her. “She told me that you need to activate it by focusing your magic on it and listening carefully. If you want I could try to…”

“No thanks Princess. I want to do this.” Trixie took a step back as she focused her magic on the small talisman. Her whole body tensed up as she listened to a voice she thought she would never hear again.

“Hello my little apprentice are you surprised to hear from me once more?” Silver Wand chuckled, her voice rough but still full of energy. “Well you know me, full of surprises and always one for being flashy. But if you’re listening to this…that means my show is over, forever I’m afraid. But on the bright side it also means that your show has just begun. Your magic has improved far greater than I ever expected, and your last performance must’ve been a huge success. Of course was there ever any doubt? After all, you’re The Great and Powerful Trixie Lulamoon!”

Silver Wand sighed as her voice grew softer. “I have to go now I’m afraid, it’s almost time for me to move on and join your father. But don’t cry, because even though we’ll never see each other again, we’ll always be watching and cheering you on in every performance. And remember this one last lesson. Somedays you may feel inferior, that there are others who are better than you, perhaps there are days where you want to give it all up and end your career. Celestia knows I’ve felt that before. But always remember that you can never be replaced, there is nopony that is better than you. Because nopony can ever be the master magician that you are now!"

“Goodbye my little apprentice. May you always stay great and powerful forever.”

When the message ended, Trixie felt a rush of sadness and joy overtake all other emotions. She didn’t notice the many tears that soaked her cheeks, all she could do is tightly hold the talisman in her hooves. “Mother…it’s like you knew from the very beginning what would happen…”

“Trixie….” Celestia finally sighed as she lowered her head in honor of her old friend. She suddenly felt a warm body latch onto her.

“Thank you…Celestia.” Trixie said hugging her tightly.

Celestia returned the embrace with vigor. The two held each other for a long time as they took time to let Silver’s words sink in. The two let go and before she could speak, Celestia looked to see she was holding the talisman once more. “You don’t want this?”

Trixie smiled as she gave a bow. “You take it, as thanks for keeping mother’s promise.” With a wave of her hooves she turned straight towards Ponyville and prepared to make her leave. “Well, time to exit stage left!”

Celestia saw Trixie produce a puff of smoke as she made a beeline towards the town, nearly tripping in the process. Celestia gave a happy smile as she teleported the small pendent back to its safe hiding place. She gave a content sigh as she nodded. "Sweet, sweet closure.”

“Tia!” The regal voice of Luna called out behind her. She landed next to her and looked in the distance the Magician went and nuzzled her big sister. “I don’t say this as often as I should, but you are a wonderful sister.”

“Thank you Luna. Now come, it’s time to head back.” The two flew into the night sky and made their way back to the castle. As she slowly flapped her wings, a small phrase invaded her mind. A phrase that she will follow for the rest of her life, and hopes everypony will too.

‘Always stay Great and Powerful.’

Chapter 15: The Magic We Share

“I propose a toast,” Rarity announced holding up a glass of punch. “a toast to the greatest magician in all of Equestria!”

Sugarcube Corner was filled with the cheers of many guests towards the mare of the hour. As she downed her glass of punch she happily stated to the others. “Well, I’m far from being Equestria’s greatest magician. I wouldn’t even call myself the best.”

Rainbow hovered right next to the magician. “You gotta be kidding me. With all that magical stuff you been doing, saying you’re not the best magician is like saying I’m not the best and most awesome flyer and future Wonderbolt. And I think we all know at least one of those ain’t true.”

Trixie rolled her eyes at the Pegasus. “And I thought my ego was huge.”

“I’m afraid I gotta agree with Dash here.” Applejack said as she tipped her hat. “Now I don’t know much about any of that fancy magical mumbo jumbo, but I do know a lot about hard work, and all I saw was all your work payin’ off.”

“Well you two I appreciate your compliments towards me. But I…OOF!”

Trixie was cut off as a pink blur scooped her up into a crushing hug. “Omigosh Trixie! Didja see the cake I made for you? It has you with all of our Twilight’s on it!”

Trixie tried to respond but the party pony had more to say. “Ooh, can you do that again? I Sooo want to see Twifive again, that one really knew how to party. Or maybe you can make clones out of me!”

Pinkie Pie continued her tirade as Trixie attempted to let go. “I mean I know there was that time with the mirror pool and all of those Pinkie Pies were running around causing trouble which ended in me having to stare at paint for hours. But it would be super fun to see a Pinkie Two or maybe a Pinkie Forty two!”

“Woah there Pinkie, how bout we slow down here for a sec. Our performer here must be plumb tuckered out.”

“Plus I think the first time we had Pinkie clones running around Ponyville should be the last.”

“Aww shucks.” Pinkie said as she finally let go of the blue mare with a sheepish grin.

Trixie was about to tell Pinkie that a spell to that extreme wasn’t necessarily impossible. Until Fluttershy stepped in and inadvertently interrupted her. “Still that was a really great trick you did. Everypony loved you.”

Trixie couldn’t help but blush, the constant praises from left to right was a reward she thought she deserved. But as quickly as the feeling came to her, she shook her head and completely waved it off. “I appreciate your kindness Fluttershy, all of you guys in fact. But to be honest, I was just doing what any other magician does onstage.” Trixie lowered her head as she took off her hat. “I’m no different than any other magician throughout history.”

“I beg to differ.” Twilight Sparkle said as she came up to her friends with Spike in tow. “While there have been thousands of very magical and powerful Unicorns, I doubt any of them is like you. You said it yourself; you are one of a kind.”

The other five gave their nods agreement. But one baby dragon had something to say. “Yeah well, just as long as their no clones to replace me. Number 1 assistant is my job.”

The seven laughed at Spike’s little joke, a joke he didn’t seem to get himself. The rest of the party was filled with games, food and small talks among the ponies. Trixie soon found herself alone sipping her drink as she looked among her friends. From Applejack challenging Rainbow to apple bobbing, from Fluttershy’s conversation with Twilight, and Pinkie as she stuffs her face with cake. She simply enjoyed the time she been having with all of her new friends. But there was one friend in particular she focused on the most.

Twilight Sparkle. It amazed her how much things can change. She was once her most hated enemy, the pony she thought ruined her life and wanted nothing more than to defeat her and prove her magical prowess. But now she was her best friend, her mentor, her savior in the darkest of times. Months ago, she wouldn’t even be caught dead in the same room with her, much less talk to her. But nowadays she looks up to the Princess, she admired the pony and everything she had done for her so far.

But recently she started to get this strange feeling, this feeling she couldn’t understand but knew that it was more than joy or admiration. She never experienced it with any other pony, and of all ponies she could’ve ever met why was it Twilight that made her feel this?

“I just don’t understand it.” Trixie said shaking her head frustratingly.

“Is everything alright darling?”

Trixie looked to her left to see Rarity by her side. She wore a calm and gentle smile that presented an inviting aura around her. An aura that made Trixie tell her story without hesitation.

“No Rarity.” She answered. “I’ll tell you what’s the matter, but would you mind keeping it a secret for now?”

Rarity placed a hoof on the magician’s shoulder and gave her a reassuring smile. “Tell me whatever troubles you, and I promise to you’re your secret safe.”

Trixie sighed. “Have you ever gotten…feelings towards another pony?”

Rarity looked at the magician with confusion. “I beg your pardon?”

“Feeling towards another. Like these emotions that you only get when you are around a certain somepony. And these feelings just happen to be aimed towards a friend that you once thought was an enemy.”

Rarity had to take a moment to understand what the magician was thinking. But the moment the lightbulb went off in her head, a small but devious smirk came across her face. “Oh my…” She started to give a rather wicked chuckle.

A chuckle that certainly caught Trixie off guard. “Wh…what is so funny!?”

The fashionista calmed herself down. “My apologies darling. But while I don’t have the exact same feelings you’ve experienced so far, I know exactly what it is.” She dipped her head forward to get closer to her friend. She whispered. “You have fallen in love my dear.”

“What!” Trixie nearly shouted off the top of her lungs, but luckily for her sake none heard her. She quickly composed herself as she whispered towards Rarity. “What in the world did you just say?”

“Well isn’t it obvious darling? It appears that an old rival turned best friend has caught your eye. Unfortunately, it seems that you can’t accept these personal feelings of yours. Oh this is starting to sound just like my romance novels!”

Trixie blushed furiously as she started to stutter. “H…how dare you accuse me of this nonsense! Th…there is n…no way I am in love with Twilight Sparkle!”

“…I never mentioned Twilight dear. At all.”

Realizing the mistake she just made, Trixie slapped herself as her face became a rich shade of crimson. “Ughh I just don’t get it Rarity! It’s true, I think I’ve fallen in love with that mare. But I can’t for the life of me understand.” Desperate, she grabbed Rarity’s shoulders and brought her towards her. “Please help me, I want to understand this all!”

“Alright, alright calm down girl.”

“Sorry.” After taking a few deep breaths, the magician calmed down ready to talk to the seamstress. “But really, I need your help.”

“Well giving love advice is not my specialty, but maybe we can start by asking a few questions. Tell me, how long have you had these feelings?”

“If I were to guess, I would say they’ve been around since last month. Ever since then I’ve started to look at her in this different perspective.”

“Interesting. And tell me, what do you honestly see in our friend? What do you like about Twilight?”

Trixie gave a wide smile. “Well what isn’t there to like about Twilight? She’s smart, kind, friendly, a wiz at magic, and she’s overall the greatest friend anypony could ask for.” She sighed as another reason came to her head. “She’s also such a beautiful mare.”

Rarity gave a slight grin. ”Is she now?”

Trixie started to chuckle haughtily. “Well you should see her face every time I accomplished a very complicated trick. Not only does she have this adorable smile, but she makes this cute squeaking sound with her voice that’s just absolutely priceless! But you didn’t hear it from me.”

The two unicorns couldn’t help but laugh at the visual images Trixie shared. They then spent the next minute praising the Alicorn. They talked about her powerful magic, her accomplishments with the others that helped save Equestria, and the many instances she made them laugh with her antics.

But as the conversation came to a halt, it was Rarity who was ready to turn serious. “Now Trixie, tell me why you falling in love with Twilight is so problematic. After all it seems that you like her very much.”

Trixie sighed as she took off her hat and stared deeply into its stitching. “I’ve done so many terrible things to her, and yet she’s been helping me get back on my hooves and become the magician you see right now. But what I don’t get is why she was helping me in the first place. Why does this mare insist on helping and not expect anything in return? And why do these feelings make me want to stop being friends with her and become her marefriend?”

Trixie started to slump on the table as her head started to ache. “She means a lot to me, but why do I love her? My head hurts, I have a knot in my stomach, and I need answers right now.”

Suddenly, a hoof grasped the hooves of Trixie’s. She looked up and saw a small and gentle smile adorned her friends face. Her voice was soft as she spoke slowly. “Listen carefully darling. You two are amazing in your own rights, and personally I think you would both make a great couple. However if there are answers you are looking for, I’m afraid I can’t provide that. But what I can provide is the answer on what you should do next.”

“Whatever it is I will do it, just please tell me.”

Rarity giggled as she leaned in closer. “Talk to her.”

Before Trixie could give her reply, Rarity continued. “What you need to do is talk to that mare about how you’ve been feeling and what you both mean to each other. She needs to know these feelings from you, and you need to know why she’s willing to do everything in her power to help you. And before you ask trust me, you’d be surprised how effective talking is.”

Trixie looked behind her to see the Alicorn indulging in her third slice of cake. She was reminded of all the moments the two shared between them, and knew in her heart that that she needed to share these feelings with her and maybe then can she finally get the closure she needed. But the more she thought about it, many negative thoughts came to her mind. What if Twilight didn’t felt the same feelings for her? She was her teacher and friend, not her marefriend. Worst case scenario it could destroy the bond between them, which scared her more than any Ursa Minor ever could.

As the bad thoughts kept leering in, she suddenly heard the small clatter of hooves and cheers of young voices. Looking behind her she saw Pinkie Pie and the others with a small group fillies as they all stared at her in wonder at the magician before them.

Trixie looked at the group before her in wonderment. Among them she recognized the Crusaders along with Snips and Snails, but there were also fillies and colts she never met, but were all attendees at her show. She also noticed all her friends who were all smiling at her with a feeling of anticipation.

Hesitantly, Trixie raised her hoof towards the children. “Can I help you all?”

“Oh my gosh, It really is her! The Great and Powerful Trixie!”

“Wow, she looks even cooler up close.”

“See, I told you guys we knew her.”

“Hey, can we please see that card trick again?”

Trixie was barraged with compliments and requests from kids. So much so that it started to overwhelm her.

That is until Applejack stepped in. “Now settle down kids, no need to cause a ruckus here. Come on let’s get ya’ll situated so Trixie can get ready. So how ‘bout some cake?”

The children all cheered as they followed Applejack towards the food. Meanwhile Trixie just stood there utterly confused at the situation. “What is all this?” She asked.

Pinkie jumped in with an even wider grin. “Well after the show there were so many parents who were like, ‘my child really liked that Trixie girl’. And then Miss Cheerilee told me that her students would love to see Trixie perform again! So I brought them all here!”

Trixie couldn’t properly process the situation before her. Twilight stepped in. “With their parents’ permission of course, I allowed these kids to come over for a bit and come see you. That is if you’re alright with that.”

Trixie was still surprised by the small crowd before her. But it was a pleasant one nonetheless, and she was more than happy to entertain children who came to see her. With a flick of her mane she grinned. “The Great and Powerful Trixie will humbly provide for these foals. I’ll make sure these children will leave with the widest smiles, all will be satisfied by my superior skills.”

“Uhh…excuse me Ms. Trixie?”

Trixie faintly heard a meek and quiet voice that Trixie faintly recognized. “Moonlight?” Lowering her head, she saw the colt from his own Birthday party from long ago. She remembered the day the birthday boy was ecstatic to see her, but her own insecurities to perform led her to leave the party prematurely without even saying goodbye. “What are you doing here?”

Moonlight rubbed his hooves on the floor nervously. “I-I wanted to see you again since…um…because the last time I saw you um…” The colt blushed as he stumbled upon what he wanted to say. “You…left my party when I asked you to do a trick.”

He looked back at the magician with pleading eyes, not noticing the concerned look she was giving back. “I’m really sorry if I offended you. I just really wanted you to do a cool magic trick because I really like them and you’re such a great magician and…please don’t be mad at me.”

Trixie’s mind was racing as she remembered the way she acted back then. The way she declined the offer of a simple trick, the way she stormed off when Pinkie Pie was showing her magic tricks. She was reminded about the way she acted back then; selfish, rude, and afraid to show her own magic. And she hid it all behind a mask of confidence and self-adoration.

But that was the old Trixie, the new Trixie was better than that. And it was time to prove it this young fan.

With a calming sigh, she laughed dramatically surprising the small colt. She floated her hat towards her torso and bowed. “Dearest Moonlight, apologies won’t be necessary on my behalf.”

“Wait…what?” The colt confusingly asked.

“It should be I who should apologize for my…rather premature exit at your party. But I’ll be sure to make it up to you. Besides, I’m so happy to see you once more!”

Moonlight nearly tripped backwards as the last sentence ranged deeply in his ears. “Y…you…you're happy to see me?”

Trixie giggled. “Simply elated!” Suddenly Trixie heard a very audible squeal as Moonlight was bouncing around her, completely ignoring the bewildered stares from the others.

“Omigosh, omigosh, omigosh! The blue coated Unicorn exclaimed. “This is so cool! The greatest and most powerful magician ever is happy to see ME! Oh geez, this has to be a dream, this can’t be real. Oh Luna if this is a dream please don’t wake me up because this is SO AWESOME!!” As he continued his excitement fueled rush, he noticed that he was floating a good two feet above the ground, and his idol was giving him a sly grin. He blushed furiously back at her. “Uhh…too much?”

Trixie shook her head as she brings the colt back to the ground. “When it comes to enthusiasm like that, nothing is too much for me. And it brings me an unbelievable amount of joy to see that enthusiasm come from a young fan from you.”

“When I grow up I wanna be an amazing magician just like you. I wanna learn all sorts of magic tricks and show all of my friends. I wanna travel all over Equestria and become the best magician ever!”

“R-really?”

Moonlight eagerly nodded. Then he used his magic to float over a small magician’s hat towards him. The hat was small enough to fit his smaller head and the design was fairly simple, being a dark shade of blue and covered in white stars. “I even got my mum to make this cool hat. And when I learn all the cool tricks, then I’m gonna wear this! Do you like it?”

Trixie could feel her heart warm up like a furnace. Moonlight is her first fan in…who knows how long. The first fan who looks up to her and even wants to be like her when he grows up. He even got his mother to make him his own hat. It reminded her about how she was when she was little and eager to learn all about magic. It excited to meet a fan like this, but another thought came to her.

“Tell me Moonlight, is your mother here?”

“Ooh let me get her!” Moonlight immediately left to fetch his mother. After a minute he returned pulling a full grown mare who had a similar color scheme to her son. She wore small glasses and her mane was tied up in a bun. “Here she is mum, it really is her!”

“Settle down now Moonlight let’s not be hasty.” Her son let go of her hoof and she used her free hoof to rub her son’s mane. She spoke with a heavenly voice as she extended her other hoof. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Trixie, I’m his mother, Starry Night.”

“Starry Night,” Trixie said as she shook the mother’s hoof. “the pleasure is all mine. And might I say that you might have a future performer right there.”

“Oh I bet I do. This little one would spend hours upon hours reading up all sorts of magic tricks. If I didn’t know any better I would say he spends more time on them and not his school work.”

Moonlight started to blush a little. His mother went on. “Anyways, he’s pretty good at some of the simple tricks, and he loves to show them to my husband and me, and even his friends. And I have you to thank for that.”

Trixie smiled warmly at the statement. “Do I really have that much of an impact?”

“Oh yes, ever since we saw your show in Canterlot he’s been so engrossed in magic, more than I thought possible. And when he’s not reading all those stuffy books he’s showing off his magic to the other students. He told me that the others all love his tricks and even told me that he made some new friends!”

Starry Night wiped her eyes. “I’ve never seen my little boy so confident in so long. I couldn’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done.”

That word she used: confidence…an emotion she was starting to feel. Just now she learned that her shows have inspired a small colt to follow her hoofsteps and become a magician of his own power. And just hearing these kind words from both mother and child gave her more confidence than she ever had before.

“Starry Night and Moonlight.” She announced. “I thank you both for this little chat, honestly it means so much to hear from fans who love my work.” Both mother and son smiled at the magician as she kept going. “And Starry Night, If the life of a magician is what you’re son truly desire, then I implore you to give him the support he needs. I’ve know the hard way that the life of a magician can be a tough one.”

Reminiscing about all of her past mistakes, Trixie immediately changed her mood as she playfully rubbed the small colt’s head. Moonlight couldn’t help but laugh, excited to see that his idol was actually giving him this much attention. “But with a family to support him all the way through the good times and the bad, then there’s no doubt in my mind that he’ll become just as great and powerful as me.”

The words of the magician sparked a special connection neither sides never thought they had. It was more than a simple chat between a fan and a celebrity, it was a one-to-one between two ponies who actually meant a lot to without even knowing each other.

With small tears streaming down he cheeks, Starry gave her a war smile. “Thank you Trixie. And don’t worry, my husband and I are in full support towards our son’s dream. We’ll make sure he gets to his goal.”

“Yeah and I won’t stop until I get as good as you.” Moonlight bounced up and down, his previous nervousness completely forgotten. “I’ll get so good at magic that you’ll love them all and maybe you can come to my shows!”

Trixie laughed happily as she placed her hat on her head. “I would love to see your performance my dear. But for now, how about I give the performance of my own?”

Moonlight nodded eagerly exclaiming his enthusiasm.

Moments later the many kids and guests came towards Trixie, their faces plastered with the expression of utter joy. Their endless amounts of anticipation fueling their excitement as Trixie stood boldly in front of them.

“Now gather around children, for it is finally time for the encore you’ve all been waiting for. We may not have much time, but I will show all of my power that will make these small moments the best in your life!”

The children all cheered loudly as Trixie prepared for her show. A realization came to the magician as she readied herself to entertain her audience. She realized how far she has come ever since she changed her ways. Now she had a small but humble fan base, now she has a crowd that truly adores her. And best of all, she has friends whom she can rely on when she needs them.

She felt like she could do anything, she can accomplish anything if she puts her mind to it. When this show is over…she’ll be ready to talk to Twilight.

“I don’t know about you Trixie, but I’m about ready to call it a night.”

“Yes…I suppose it is that time. I can see Spike is way ahead of us.”

The two mares were busy taking Spike to his room as the midnight hour was coming to. After the party, everypony headed to their homes, wanting to get a good night’s rest. Trixie’s performance was loved by all in the room, especially Moonlight who was cheering the loudest the entire time. As thanks for all of his support, she even signed his hat: Always stay Great and Powerful-Trixie

Who knew his bear hugs could rival that of Pinkie Pie’s.

“It was certainly an experience that I will cherish always. I especially wish Moonlight luck on his journey to become the greatest magician.”

Twilight chuckled as the two turned towards Spike’s room. “He certainly was passionate about his dream of becoming a magician. Kind of reminds me of a certain friend, don’t you think so?”

“And what pray tell do you mean by that Sparkle?”

“I’m just saying that one day he’ll be headlining in Canterlot. Maybe one day he’ll be teaching the old magician some new tricks.”

“And I’m just saying that he shouldn’t get so cocky. He may be quite the prodigy, but I will always have more experience than he ever will. After all there’s nothing wrong with being second best.”

The two mares laughed at their own small banter between them. They had a tendency to tease each other, mostly due to Trixie’s rather conceited attitude. Their laughter almost stirred the small dragon, so they shushed themselves quietly and tucked Spike into bed.

After they left the room, the two migrated to Twilight’s bedroom where the Alicorn planned to get a good night’s rest. The blue mare noticed that she was finally alone with her, and there were no distractions in sight. She saw this as her chance to finally get the answers she wanted from Twilight and get the closure she needed.

“So Trixie, there’s something I was wondering for a while now.” Twilight said.

Trixie groaned inwardly. “Whatever is it?”

“Well it seems like you accomplished a lot now. Ponyville forgives you, you reconciled with your past, and you’ve improved immensely as a magician. Not that I mind you being here, but what do you plan on doing now?”

Trixie stopped immediately in her tracks right when she heard that. She knew that sooner or later she would have to leave the castle, but a part of her didn’t want to leave. At least not yet. “I guess I have overstayed my welcome, when do you want me to leave?”

“Well I certainly don’t want you to think I want you to leave immediately. But at the same time you can’t just live here forever.”

Trixie sighed. “You’re right Twilight. Ponyville is a great place to live in, and I only wish I had a castle like yours. But this is not my home, and I can’t present my shows here forever. I want all of Equestria to see my enactments; they need to see the new performer I’ve become!

“This is why I plan on traveling all over Equestria, a whole year visiting every major city on the map for my comeback tour. A tour that will show that I have changed and that I am now the great and powerful magician I was always meant to be. It will certainly take some time and it definitely won’t be an easy journey. But if it’s a chance to redeem myself for all I’ve done, I see no reason to complain.”

Twilight gave her friend a satisfied smile. She knows that Trixie has come a long way since her days of boasting about her powers or using dangerous artifacts. She was proud of not only on how far she had come, but herself for making it all happen. “Well I wish you good luck on your journey.”

“Well we’ve both proven that I do not need luck when it comes to my magical prowess. Then again there are many things I’ll need before I can leave properly. Food, water, a map of Equestria, oh and some books or anything else to keep me entertained. What I’ll also need is my…”

As she thought of all of the essentials she’ll need, Trixie realized that she was forgetting something very important. The most important object she’ll need, and it was now gone. “I’ll…need my wagon to travel again. And it’s was destroyed many months ago.” Trixie felt a pang of sadness as she remembered her wagon, demolished beyond repair on her arrival to Ponyville. Without it, traveling would be near impossible.

Trixie tried to think of a way to acquire another wagon, building one herself would be exhausting and tedious, buying one might be too expensive. But the thoughts of how much one would cost were dashed away when Twilight laid a hoof on her shoulder and gave her a big smile. ‘You can’t be serious.’ She thought knowing exactly what will happen next. ‘Gee I wonder what will happen next.’

“It’s a little funny you mentioned your caravan.” Twilight admitted with a sly grin. “I had a little chat with Applejack during your performance with the kids, and as thanks for helping her with the recent harvest she agreed to help build a new mobile caravan for you to travel in. Of course, we’ll need your input on the design and how it should be built since it’s obviously your caravan. So give it a week and we should have it all…”

“ALRIGHT THAT’S IT TWILIGHT!” Trixie shouted low enough as to not wake up the dragon. “I don’t get it, every generous offer you have given me and now this? A NEW CARAVAN, REALLY? This is just ridiculous!”

Twilight nearly fell over at the magician’s sudden outburst. Before she could retort, she could faintly see small tears streaming down her eyes as she started to sob. “Trixie…is there something wrong?”

Trixie’s voice sputtered as she tried to respond. “No Twilight, and that’s the exact problem! Please tell me, why are you doing this?”

“You mean offering a new caravan to travel in to you? What’s wrong with doing something nice to help my best friend?”

“There isn’t anything wrong with that…it’s just…I…” Trixie sat down on her haunches as she started to cry. Her insides felt like they were tied up in knots, her feelings of heartache and regret practically destroying her from the inside out. No matter how hard she tried she couldn’t fight back the tears she was still shedding. “I just don’t know.”

Trixie felt cold, her hooves trembled, and her heart was beating like a jackhammer. The confidence she showed earlier shattered into a million pieces, unable to do anything but fall over as she broke down into a feverish mess. All these emotions and all these memories came all at once and wrecked her mind like a violent whirlwind.

But just as soon as the storm started, Trixie felt it gradually coming to a halt. The stone cold feeling was immediately replaced with a warm, feathery embrace. It was an embrace she felt many other times before, but this one felt so much better. In an instant all of her fears and all of her doubts were washed away as she held on to this embrace, never wanting to let go.

Many minuets passed as Trixie just clung onto the embrace. As soon as it started however, she was forced to let go a small whimper leaving her as she did. She then felt a soft hoof touch her face, wiping the tears that was still streaming down her face and fixing her disheveled mane. She felt herself smile as she finally opened her eyes and saw Twilight, retracting her rather wet hoof.

Twilight smiled as she spoke the next words softly. “Feeling better?”

Trixie didn’t respond immediately as she just sat there and stared at the mare before her. She just stared at her and saw the radiance in her eyes, her beautiful mane, her pillowy cheeks, and that wonderful smile. It was a sight she could stare at for hours.

Finally with much hesitation and thought she finally decided on what to say next. “Twilight…I really need to talk to you, and you must be one-hundred percent honest with me.”

Twilight could understand the seriousness in her voice. In the few months she had been with Trixie, she never imagined the theatrical and over-dramatic mare acting like this. Following the breakdown she had earlier, she knew that this was more than important. “Whatever it is, I want you to tell me everything.”

Trixie sighed as she stared deeply into Twilight’s eyes. “Why have you been so kind to me?”

The question definitely caught the Alicorn off guard. It was such a simple question and was easy to answer. But she immediately knew that it had far more meaning than she thought. “What do you want to know?”

Trixie took a moment to collect her thoughts. “Ever since you’ve brought me here you’ve shown me nothing but compassion and sympathy, despite my animosity towards you. You’ve introduced me to your amazing friends and helped me improve my magic. Not to mention you helped me consoled with my past and made me a better mare. For the first time since the passing of my mother I finally feel refreshed, free from my past and it’s all thanks to you.”

Trixie sighed. “But that’s what I don’t get. I hated you Twilight, I wanted nothing to do with you or your friends. No matter what I said or did, you never gave up on me. You stayed patient and kept showing me hospitality, no doubt lesser ponies would’ve kicked me out during the first week. So why are you being the exception? Why have you been so nice to me?”

It was at this point that Twilight started to get nervous as she stumble on her words, “Well…isn’t it obvious, I’m your friend. And as the Princess of Friendship, I must do everything in my power to help a friend in need.”

Trixie furrowed her brows unimpressively. “I doubt that is the full truth. Sure if Rarity or Fluttershy, or anypony else in your circle of friends was in the same position, I know you would’ve treat them with the same generosity, but I know that I am the one exception.”

Twilight was starting to sweat. “Uh…well…what do you mean?”

“Come on Twilight, it’s not enough that you allowed me to stay here for well over a month and taught me magic for my shows. But you’ve let me put on a show in Ponyville, turned me into a much nicer pony, and now you’re having Applejack build me a brand new stage free of charge. You even saved my life from that rampaging Ursa, even though you took a major beating, you put priority towards me.”

Trixie walked towards the Alicorn who was sweating bullets, her smile doing a terrible job hiding her anxiety. “While I appreciate everything you have done, I know you’re giving me some sort of free pass. Trixie demands answers, and you shall be the one to give them to me!”

“Please Trixie, there’s no need to get all huffy.” Twilight said trying to calm the magician down. “Look, I just really…really like you Trixie. I want to help you get back on your hooves because you’re my friend. There’s seriously not anything more than…”

“Complete horse apples your majesty!” Trixie desperately yelled. “Don’t you dare hide any facts from me! Even if it takes my whole life, I won’t leave until you explain why I’m in love with you!”

“Wait, what was that?”

“You heard what I said Sparkle. I don’t know what sort of spell you put on me, but I can’t help but become enamored by you. I’m madly in love with you Twilight, but for Celestia sakes I just don’t know why!”

Silence immediately filled the air between the two mares. Trixie’s speech prevented either from wanting to continue as they stared into each other’s eyes. After a whole ten seconds, one finally made her reaction. “Trixie…is all that…true?”

Trixie sighed solemnly. “All of it is true. I think I’m in love with you Twilight. You’re kind, you’re beautiful, and you must be the smartest pony I’ve ever met. I love your personality, your magic is one of the best I’ve seen, and I just love talking to you each and every day. As weird as it is for me to say this, I’m glad to have met you all those years ago, because I wouldn’t have become the magician I’m proud to be. More importantly, I wouldn’t have gotten the honor to be your friend Twilight Sparkle.”

Twilight just stood there utterly speechless. Never had any pony in her life confessed their love towards her. Trixie didn’t see it, but she was starting to get the biggest grin she ever had.

Yet a question still lingered in her mind. “So why do you think being in love with me is bad?”

Trixie grimaced. “What isn’t the problem? I love you, and I want to spend so much time with you in the future. But there’s no doubt you just see me as friend. Maybe you’re not even attracted to me, maybe there’s another pony who’s more worthy of your love. Whichever is the case, I don’t want these feelings to ruin the friendship we already have. I’m…scared that you might dislike me for wanting you.”

Trixie rubbed her eyes trying to hide the tears forming. “So…if you don’t share these feelings, then I’ll humbly accept it. I’ll cease these feelings as much as I can, and we can just forget it all ever happened. I won’t mind at all really.”

Trixie gave a fake smile as she kept rubbing her eyes. As much as she would accept Twilight’s rejection of her love, she knew that she would never be the same again. But just as she was about to look up, a rush of force enveloped her, knocking her to the ground.

She looked to see Twilight was clasping her tightly in her hooves. Confused she spoke. “So…you do love me?”

Twilight looked into the magician’s eyes with tear filled eyes and a relied smile. “Trixie…I…I do love you. I love you so much!”

Trixie immediately felt relief as she processed the words in her mind. “So you really did do all this because you love me?”

Twilight sighed. “Not exactly. At first I did it because I wanted to be nice, you were a pony in trouble, and I wanted to help you. But as the times went by and we started to talk more, I started to see you for who you really were. You’re an amazing and talented mare, and I’ve always had a bit of an admiration for you.”

That one word she used definitely caught Trixie off guard. “Wait…you admired me?”

Twilight blushed. “We never really talked during school, but I thought it was amazing that you were a magician. You came to Ponyville, you appeared in as this flashy performer with powerful magic who thought was superior to everypony. While I never liked braggarts, I was so inspired by everything you did. So much that I was afraid of upstaging you.”

Now Trixie was starting to not believe the words she was hearing. “I don’t understand. You were Celestia’s star pupil. She taught you magic that made mine look like child’s play. How was I an inspiration to you?”

“Because Celestia never taught me how to perform in public. I always kept my magic to myself, I was afraid if I showed it off it could hurt somepony. If that were me I’d freeze up instantly. But after I saw you up there, it taught me that magic is always a part of me, and there’s definitely no shame in using it whether for entertainment, or helping others.” Twilight gave a small look of regret as she frowned. “I just wish I learned that lesson sooner, I could’ve helped you sooner.”

Trixie felt her hooves clasp around Twilight’s as she gave her a heartfelt smile. “I never knew you thought of me that way.” A previous thought of doubt came to her. “I don’t still don’t know what you see in me. You’re THE Princess of Friendship; you saved the world multiple times and remain as this beacon of hope for everypony. I’m just some wandering magician who used revenge to cope with tragedy. Despite how I felt I always thought you deserved better than me, one who can give you everything a princess truly deserves.”

“NO.” Twilight responded as she shook her head. “I may be royalty, but we both now that’s not true. I was never one for wanting more; I don’t care if you were rich or poor. To me you’re perfect just the way you are, and I want to spend the rest of my life with the one mare who is more than just a best friend.”

The magician started to cry once more, but this time they were tears of joy. “T…Twilight…”

“I was so relieved when you came back after the Alicorn Amulet incident, and you had no idea how terrible I felt when I broke that picture. You’re a pony I care for just as much as my family or my friends. You make me smile when I’m feeling down, you’re a great pony to talk to, and just being by your side makes me determined for whatever life wants to throw at me next.

“I could go on forever about how much I love being with you, but no other words can explain how much you mean to me. I’m proud to say that with all my heart, I love you Lulamoon!”

In that instant, all of her future fears and worries vanished as she just sat there and embrace her lover. She realized immediately that it doesn’t matter who she was or is now. What matters is the future she’ll be ready to face, and the mare who believes in her. Sighing, she let go of Twilight and looked straight into her eyes. “Thank you Twilight, thank you for everything. I just wish I didn’t have to go on my year long journey so I could just be with you.”

“Me too, but since you don’t have to leave now…” Twilight then lowered her eyelids in a rather sultry way. “maybe you and I could spend some quality time together.”

Trixie immediately turned red as she back away from Twilight. “I…uh…what?”

“Oh shoot!” Twilight exclaimed. Her horn glowed as a large pink book came towards her. She flipped through it rapidly. “I thought lowering the eyelids and saying a euphemism for love was the next step!”

“Next step of what?”

“The next step it says in this book.” She showed the cover to Trixie which read: ‘Wooing your Lover 101: A Guide to Attracting Your Marefriend’. “I must’ve missed something if you’re not immediately turned on, wait a sec let me try to fix this.”

‘She read a book so she can learn how to confess her love to me.’ Trixie thought through the confusion. ‘Equestria’s Princess of Friendship; the biggest nerd I’ve ever met.’ Shaking her head, she decided to finally throw caution in the wind as she grabbed Twilight by the shoulders. “Get over here you sexy bookworm!”

Without warning Trixie brought Twilight’s face towards her as she kissed her right on the lips. The deep kiss stunned the Princess in the electrifying moment of intimacy, but she quickly melted into it as she wrapped her arms around the mare. They fell over lost in their own bliss, never wanting the moment to end.

Trixie’s last remaining thoughts about the future were vanquished as her first ever kiss gave her an instant feeling of relief. She now felt hope as she caressed her lover’s mane, enjoying the sweet taste of strawberries.

Twilight was enjoying her first kiss as well. Locked into the embrace she loved every single second of this passionate moment. Her former rival, her best friend, Trixie was her one and only love, and she was hers.

Unfortunately, the moment had to come to an end as they separated. They both stared lovingly into each other’s eyes still stuck together like glue. After a moment of silence, Twilight spoke with a satisfied sigh. “That…felt…wonderful.”

Trixie gave a pleased giggle. “That it did Sparkle…that it did. In fact...Trixie proposes that we do again.”

Twilight rolled her eyes and yawned. “As much as I would love to do this for hours, we really need to go to bed now.”

Trixie gave a disappointed groan, but it turned to a sneaky grin. “Fine, but Trixie will go to sleep on one condition for you.”

“A condition?”

“If you are to be Trixie’s Great and Powerful marefriend, then you must prove that you’re a Great and Powerful pony. Which is why I demand a lovely dinner at night. Something…regal and worth the bits that we shall pay equally together. I will only accept a restaurant of the highest degree, and while we eat, we shall talk about our preferences so we can know each other more. And furthermore I…mmf…”

Trixie was cut off as a small peck on her nose from Twilight silenced her. She chuckled happily as she nuzzled her. “Trust me, we’ll have the best dinner date you deserve.”

Trixie smiled contently as she levitated a blanket over them and got closer to her. She kissed her on the nose as she stated matter-of-factly. “Any date with my dearest love will truly be a magical one.”

Author's Note

This is like the first love scene I ever written and I'm not sure if it's too cheesy or too terrible. I'll let you decide.
Anyways after so long the moment you've all been waiting for finally happened, and I would love opinions.

Stay tuned for the finale!

Chapter 16: Future of the Showmare

On the outskirts of Ponyville, a bright and shiny new caravan stood proudly on the hill as the sun started to rise. The wagon was large, having many colorful shades of blue, pink and purple, and judging by the way it looked it was built to last for years to come.

Inside the caravan was the one resident of the home. Trixie took a glance around the inside of her new place. She just wanted to stop and admire the new furniture and trinkets that she never had before. Gone were the days of sleeping on the floor with a worn out blanket, or seeing herself in a cracked mirror on a run-down nightstand. Now everything was all brand new and ready to travel thousands of miles with her.

After a minute of admiring her new stuff, she went towards her nightstand and looked at her new picture frames. Along with the old ones from before, she now had pictures of her best friends, her grand performance in Ponyville, and her dearly beloved.

She sighed heavenly. It has been a week and a half since they confessed their love for each other, and they had a wonderful time spending time together. They eventually told their friends and, especially Rarity, they were excited to see them happy together as a couple, even if they expressed their happiness with a snide remarks and teasing.

The two also spent the last few days slowly building up their new relationship as marefriends. The first date was a huge success, and the five more casual ones after that were even better. They even had some more…intimate nights than before…

A knock at the door interrupted Trixie’s lewd thoughts. She went to open the door and was bombarded by a barrage of confetti and streamers. She heard a shrill screech of party horns that was followed by a chorus of ponies yelling, “SURPRISE!”

She took a moment to compose herself and saw her friends and her marefriend standing right outside her wagon. Each carried a different set of objects with them and a large smile on them. Trixie was glad to see her friends one last time before she had to leave but was curious on why they were here.

“I certainly hope you weren’t planning on leaving us without saying goodbye.” Twilight said first. “That would just be plain rude.”

Trixie gave a small giggle. “Wouldn’t dream of it. I was just admiring the beautiful craftsmanship of my new wagon. Thank you again for the offer Applejack.”

“No problem Sugarcube, anything for a friend like ya. Just be sure to your careful with that there lever, it still gets a little stuck from time to time. Nothing a little elbow grease can fix though.”

“Will do, but enough about the wagon since I’m sure you would want to say your goodbyes to me. To give yourself closure as say your goodbyes and see me leave this town for a whole year. This could be quite the treacherous journey I’m going on and this could be the last time you witness this lovely face of mine, you might even want to even beg for me not to leave. So if you have any last words for me I suggest you share with me your woeful cries of despair.”

Trixie stood there proudly as she waited for what she expected to be cries and pleads of her stay. But what she heard instead was the laughter of six ponies and a dragon. Trixie shrugged. “Well at least I tried.”

Twilight shook her head and went up to her marefriend giving her a big hug, which Trixie accepted without any complaints. “Well even if we’re not showing it, we are all happy and sad to see you moving on to bigger things. We are all going to miss you.”

“Yeah some of us way more than others. Isn’t that right Twi?”

Twilight turned around and blushed as she saw her giggling friend. “Wh-what is THAT supposed to mean Rainbow Dash?”

Rainbow and Applejack started to giggle harder at the…implications Rainbow was implying. Rarity huffed as she went up to the couple. “Ladies, behave yourselves. This is a very touching moment for these two. We should take this more seriously.”

“Why thank you Rarity, at least somepony is acting her age.”

“Besides darling, how in Equestria will these two go on without her new favorite pillow to sleep on? Or should I say sleep with?”

“RARITY!” The couple yelled in unison at the chortling Unicorn.

“Do you two know what she means by that?” Pinkie asked the remaining Dragon and Pegasus. Fluttershy and Spike only responded with a blush.

Rarity tried to stop as she coughed in her hoof. “Oh calm now you two we only jest.”

“Yeah jokes aside, we’re all wishing ya luck. I know you’re gonna blow that audience away.”

“And to make sure ya don’t forget us all, each of us got a little somethin’ for you to take on the road.”

On cue, each of the friends came up to Trixie and offered her their gifts. A basket of freshly picked apples from Applejack. A Wonderbolts poster from Rainbow Dash. Two baker’s dozen of cupcakes from Pinkie Pie. An extra outfit for performing from Rarity. Packages of green tea powder from Fluttershy. And due to her new interest, the first ten issues of Power Ponies from Spike.

“I’ll start you off with the first arc.” Spike said as he gave Trixie his gift. “Trust me, you’re gonna love them.”

“Thank very much Spike, and a big thank you to the rest of my best of friends.” Trixie said happily towards her friends. “I truly couldn’t ask for better friends. I promise to return a champion, as the greatest magician in Equestria!”

“Oh Trixie…” Twilight whispered as she suddenly went right up to her marefriend and gave her the biggest hug she could muster. “You’re already the greatest magician in the world to me!”

“Twi...you're...choking me...”

Applejack started to chuckle rather loudly. “Hoo boy, give these two lovebirds some room here folks.”

Spike groaned inwardly. “Come on Twilight, I’ve dealt with enough of this at the castle for the past week. We get it you love each other.”

Twilight blushed furiously. “Alright fine I’ll stop. Besides you should be heading out anyways.”

Trixie sighed. Her marefriend had a tendency to be a bit clingy, even more than she was. But despite any differences she has towards her she still adores her Twilight. She shook her head and smiled. “How about we walk and talk Twilight? I have a small thing to discuss.”

Twilight’s ears perked up as she turned towards Trixie with a wide smile. “Really!?”

“Ooh…sounds like you two wants some alone time!”

Twilight’s cheeks angrily flared red as she faced her giggling friends, utterly annoyed at Pinkie’s comment. She knew Pinkie and Rainbow can be rather childish, but she expected more from the others. At least Spike had the decency to look away. “Do you guys mind?”

Rarity laughed as she turned back to Ponyville. “Come on ladies, let’s give them some privacy. Best of luck on your journey Trixie!”

The rest of them said their goodbyes as they made their exit, making a few more lewd jokes between them along the way. Twilight groaned loudly when they were out of sight, the effects of her friend’s comments finally washing over her. “You know, I’m starting to wish we never told them about us.”

Trixie grinned. “Strange, that sounds like something I would say. Besides, we both know that at the end of the day they mean the best for us.”

“I know they’re just joking and are really happy we’re together, but they could at least tone it down a bit. Seriously at this point they’re just…” The alicorn was cut off by the lips of her lover, giving her that feeling of warmth that never gets old to her. As they parted she smiled when the negative emotions from earlier was replaced with a sense of ecstasy. “Thank you, I needed that.”

Trixie went to the front of the wagon and put on the harness. Facing her destination miles down the path, she whistled for her partner. “Care to follow Twilight?”

The Alicorn followed behind her eagerly. The two started to walk down the beaten path as they talked about Trixie’s plan to start her tour. She’ll start at Appleloosa and work her way around towards the other major cities in Equestria. “And if everything goes according to plan assuming there are no setbacks, I’ll hit all my destinations within the year.”

“Wow, that’s quite the field trip you’re going on.” Twilight said impressed at the Unicorn.

“Well traveling long distances is nothing new to me, especially since I’ve grown used to lugging my wagon around years ago. But…”

Twilight noticed the sudden melancholic tone in Trixie’s voice. She looked to see her head drooping towards the ground, kicking a small pebble out the way. “Trixie…was there something else you wanted to tell me?”

Trixie sighed sadly. “I’m just going miss being with you my love. I always left Cities without much care, I come in, I perform and then I leave moving on to the next town and the next. Never have I left a town wishing I could just stay with a pony that matters to me. Especially with a pony I love more than anything.”

Twilight wanted to intervene and tell her that everything would be alright like she usually would before. But for the first time in a long time, she was stopped by Trixie’s voice.

“It’s alright Twilight, this is something I need to do by myself. I’ll perform to the best of my ability, never putting anypony down with my powers. I’ll be the magician ponies will look up to, the magician that will continue the legacy left by her mother, and I’ll do it alone. That is…if it’s alright with you.”

Twilight smiled, relieved at the words of the Unicorn. “Sounds good to me love. But even if you’re doing this by yourself, I expect a letter from you every month no matter what happens. Even if all you write is ‘Hey Twilight just writing to say I love you, k’ bye!’ I still want to see it.”

Trixie sighed happily. “Don’t worry your majesty; I won’t forget to write at all.”

“You better not, unless you want your next performance to be interrupted by an angry Princess of Friendship.”

“Of course, Celestia forbid that happens and all of Equestria knows how much of a jealous and obsessive you are.”

Twilight locked her eyes on Trixie angrily. “I’m not obsessive; I’m just very concerned for the safety and well-being of the mare I’m in love with. It’s totally different and justifiable.”

“Making threats of annoyance for a letter isn’t being obsessive? Sounds like our royal nerd is quite the desperate mare.”

Twilight made a face that defined frustration. “I love you Trixie, but you can be the worst.”

“And you can be the best Twilight.”

The teasing ended with them chuckling, the serious worries from before completely forgotten. Minutes later they reached they’re stop, the Ponyville city limits. One hundred and eighty-seven miles away was Appleloosa, the first step of Trixie’s tour. She would stay there for a while then make her way to Dodge Junction, stay then move to Baltimare and so on.

Trixie took a deep breath then turned to her lover who looked upon the horizon with great optimism. She looked ready to see the magician being sent off to greater adventures. She could tell how much she believed in her, no matter what happened in the past or will happen in the future.

She laughed. “Before I go Twilight, I just want to thank you once more for everything. Nothing I could do or say can compare to the kindness you given me. I just wish there really was some way I could make up for all of it.”

Twilight gave her a tight hug as she kissed her on the cheek. “All I want is to see you succeed above anything else. You mean more to me than anything else in the world, and I’ll be damned if I see you go down that dark path once more. I love you my beautiful magician”

“And as long as I have ponies like you who believe in me that’ll never happen again. I love you too my sexy bookworm.”

They shared one last kiss together, a kiss that lasted longer than necessary. Not that they were complaining. With much reluctance, they said their last goodbyes as Twilight launched herself in the air flying back towards Ponyville. Trixie watched her soar in the distance once more before turning her attention to the path. With a confident sigh she took her first step towards her destination.

1 year later…

Trixie listened to the creaking of wheels as she went down a familiar path she went down over a year ago. She remembered that this was the same path where Twilight found her injured from the fall of her wrecked caravan. The afternoon sun did make it easier to see, so she can just focus on the road back to the castle.

‘This place is still the same.’ She thought to herself.

Her travels led her all over the farthest sides of Equestria, touching the hearts of thousands of ponies both young and old. She met ponies who loved her performances, she met ponies who were always huge fans of her, and made new fans. She learned so much from on her journey, made a friend or two from the strangers she came across, and even helped those who needed her wandering advice that would make Twilight proud.

She encountered many roadblocks that got in her way, but she managed to pass by them all, determined to get to the next performance on time. Using all she learned from her lessons along with her own personal flair, every single show was a complete success from Appleloosa to Las Pegasus huge praises were said by many who attended. Her last performance on her tour in Canterlot was said to be her best one yet. Being held in the grand theater of the capital, attended by hundreds who now saw her as a powerful spell caster and amazing entertainer.

Even the Princess was floored by her last show…

“Never have I seen spells like those performed so perfectly by somepony so young in ages. Not even Silver could pull that off so flawlessly.”

“Well what can I say Princess, I am the Great and Powerful Trixie after all! But…do you really think I was that amazing?”

“Of course I do. You have grown up into a beautiful and talented young mare, your mother would be proud of what you’ve become. As am I.”

“Thank you very much Princess, I’m quite proud what I am now too.”

“Speaking of being proud, I’m quite pleased that you somehow enraptured the heart of my personal student. Quite the accomplishment if I do say so myself.”

“Wait…WHAT!?!"

Trixie remembered the chill she got when Celestia mentioned her love for Twilight. She felt relieved that she was just teasing her and in actuality, was ecstatic that Twilight finally found a special somepony. A little too ecstatic she realized. Nevertheless she was glad that she gave the two her blessings towards a loving future together.

Suddenly she felt a random feeling that halted her own thoughts. She took off her harness and stopped to feel the magic in the air. It was a powerful magical aura that she faintly recalled belonged to one of the most powerful ponies in the world. Once upon a time this aura would’ve made her groan in disgust and anger, but now it served as a beacon of happiness and love towards the owner.

The Princess rushed at the magician at lightning speeds, tackling her to the ground as she constantly kissed and caressed her face. This made Trixie laugh uncontrollably as she returned the favor, enjoying the long-awaited warmth of her lover’s embrace.

After much time and reluctance the two separated and got up from the ground. Twilight then gave her a much larger hug making Trixie giggle in response. “Wow Twilight, you must’ve been a total wreck without me. How in Equestria did you survive?”

“I’m sorry, but I just missed you so much, I’ve been waiting to see you after so long.”

“Me too Twilight. Truth be told I could hardly stand not being by your side, I almost wanted to come back early. Despite how I felt however I stayed on my journey, and it was worth it to come back to my wonderful marefriend. I have so much to tell you.”

“Well that’s great, things been quite busy since you’ve been gone. I can’t wait for you to meet my new student; Starlight Glimmer.”

“Starlight Glimmer?” Trixie asked curiously.

“It’s a long story, but after some rather crazy events I now have my own personal student to teach the magic of friendship.”

“Well for her sake I certainly hope she knows that you belong to me.”

“Oh relax Trixie she’s just a student and nothing else. Besides you really should meet her, her magic is just a powerful as the both of us and I think you’ll like her.”

“I suppose I should, but I’m rather tired from my adventure and would rather spend my time with my beautiful little bookworm.”

Twilight giggled at the mention of alone time. “Glad that you mentioned that. I asked a favor from our friends that they don’t disturb us for the rest of the day. I also convinced Spike and Starlight to spend the night at the Crystal Empire. Now we have the whole castle to ourselves.”

As Twilight was explaining, Trixie was giving her a rather love-struck stare as she thought of her plans she already made for tonight. “Well that’s great to know Twilight, so now we can just talk and cuddle as long as we like. Honestly after a whole year of traveling I can’t wait to just relax and…”

Trixie was just caught off guard as her face was caressed by Twilight’s tail. Her nose assaulted by the soft and gentle feeling and the scent of lilacs, making her redder than a strawberry. “Uh…Twi…I um…”

Twilight laughed a little at Trixie’s speechless state. “We have a whole year’s worth of time to catch up on. So we should really get to them.”

Trixie soon got her bearings and smiled back at her. “That is a wonderful idea, we should get right to that.” Trixie placed her caravan’s harness back and set her sights at the castle. Before she moved however she used her magic to levitate the Alicorn straight towards her and gave her one more massive hug. “I’m glad to finally be by your side once again. I love you Twilight Sparkle.”

“And I love you too Trixie Lulamoon.”

The two mares headed straight to the castle, smiling all the way ready to enjoy a magical night alone. After a year separated, the two lovers are ready to have Great and Powerful future together.

Author's Note

The End

And at long last after a year and a half of writing, my longest story yet has finally come to an end. I thank everyone who stuck around this long and for reading the entire story. Despite how the actual relationship between Trixie and Twilight is in the show, this is still one of my favorite ships and I am very proud of this story and how it turned out. Hopefully next time I write a story as long as this it won't take as long. I might return to this someday, but until then tell me what you liked about this one and whatever else you want to know.

With all that said thank you for reading, don't forget to tell me what you think and I'll see you next time.
:twilightsmile: :trixieshiftleft:

Chapter 1: Down on Her Luck

Chapter 1
Down on Her Luck

“Well this is just great, another show ruined!”

On an outward and beaten path leading to Canterlot, a blue Unicorn mare trudged her way through as she tiredly dragged her caravan to her next destination. Whatever that may be.

“Trixie shouldn’t be so surprised, those Canterlot snobs are always expecting more and more, and they won’t settle for anything less,” Trixie said angrily as she struggled to keep her caravan from toppling. “And they had the audacity, the nerve, to boo Trixie off the stage. They even threw tomatoes at me while I was leaving, who does that anymore?”

As Trixie went on with her ranting, she stumbled a bit as the caravan was now creaking a bit due to the road’s bumpy terrain. It was an extra one she built after the Ursa Minor crushed the old one back at Ponyville. Almost all of her stuff was destroyed too, but she was able to salvage her most important belongings with a spell she learned a long time ago. The spell was able to repair objects that weren't broken beyond simple repair.

Trixie sighed as she kept going, “This must be the tenth show in a row where Trixie has been booed off her own stage. Ever since that whole Alicorn Amulet debacle, it’s been nothing but bad show after bad show. Nopony wants to see a magic show starring a former tyrant of Ponyville.”

Trixie shuddered at her memories in Ponyville. If only she hadn’t visited that one-horse town, none of this would be happening to her right now. She would’ve never met those two idiots Snips and Snails, her caravan would’ve never gotten crushed by that Ursa Minor, and her career as a showmare would’ve never been destroyed.

Trixie grinded her teeth in anger as she thought more about those memories. “And I would have never had the displeasure of seeing that infuriating unicorn Twilight Sparkle again! It’s her fault that this is all happening to Trixie. She ruined my career with that Ursa Minor, she made me turn to dark magic, and she made me a hated laughing stock throughout all of Equestria!”

She growled, “Just the thought of her make me furious. Well it doesn't matter, I just hope I never have to see her ever again.” She stomped her hoof hard with that last word. Seconds later, she heard a loud crack of thunder that totally did not scare her. She then heard something else that made her groan in annoyance; raindrops.

“Of course…” Trixie grimaced. Not wanting to get rained out she quickly gathered herself, then ran as fast and carefully as she could, hoping to find any sort of civilization.

…

Minutes passed as it was starting to rain much harder, and Trixie was starting to lose her patience. She was tired, hungry, and her caravan was doing no better. “Please,” Trixie begged, “Please give me a sign that I’m getting somewhere.”

As if her prayers was being answered, she noticed a few lights shining in the distance. Trixie smiled gleefully, then made a beeline to the area not caring where she was heading. But when she got closer however, she started to realize how familiar the area looked to her. She then stopped dead in her tracks when she saw something that made her eyes widened in disbelief.

It was a literal sign with the words, “Welcome to Ponyville” on it.

“That’s not what Trixie meant!” Trixie huffed in disgust, “I’m never going back to that Faust forsaken town. Even if it is raining like this.”

As she said this, she then felt the ground beneath her start to shake. In a panic, she jumped on her caravan hoping that she would be safer.

CRUNCH!!

Which was not a good idea in the slightest…

“This is bad.” The caravan due to overuse, cracked under Trixie’s weight. It then began to sink further into the muddy and unstable ground. Trixie quickly used her magic to levitate the caravan off the ground, suspending it and herself in the air as the ground started to give way. Trixie desperately struggled to keep the caravan floating, straining over it’s weight. She took a peek to see where she was to find that the ground beneath her had sunk into a ditch. She grunted as she carefully moved towards the stable ground behind her. Inch by inch she got closer, but not only was the spell hard to maintain and was tiring her out, but the trip here and the rain starting to take it’s toll on her.

“Can’t...hold...on,” Trixie said as the energy on her horn faded away. With a gasp she fell on her haunches, deprived of energy.

CRACK!!

Trixie’s eyes widened as she felt the caravan moving. She looked to see that her efforts of moving the caravan had barely any effect, and that she was rolling into the muddy ditch below. Trixie screamed as she closed her eyes and hung onto the violently moving caravan. With her magic too weak to do anything, she steeled herself for the oncoming impact.

CRASH!!

Time seemed to stop when Trixie’s caravan collided with the muddy yet hard ground. Her only mode of transportation, shattered into pieces and many of its contents, either ruined or barely scratched. And the showmare, agonizing pain filling her whole body, her vision could hardly make out anything, and her breath was pacing quickly as she laid there on the ground.

“Why...me,” Trixie asked between breaths, “why is this...happening...to me?” She saw that the caravan was more or less shattered in half, and the roof was still hanging on one of them. She slowly crawled to the half for shelter, lucky that the fall only gave her some minor bruises and scratches, nothing too serious.

She decided to go no further and grabbed a surprisingly dry blanket with her magic, draping it on top of her. She groggily glanced outside to see that the rain was slowly subsiding, but it was still too dark to go out. Hoping that tomorrow would actually be a good day, she closed her eyes and fell into a deep sleep.

She didn’t even had the time to noticed the purple figure flying above her.

Author's Note

I hope you'll enjoy this new story I'm still writing.

Please don't forget to comment and rate.

Goodbye everypony!

Chapter 9: Stuck Between an Apple and a Hard Place

Over two months have passed since Twilight Sparkle attended Celestia’s School for Gifted Unicorns and showed everypony her magic. Two months since she became Celestia’s personal student. And to a certain Unicorn, two months since she started to take everything away from her.

Trixie was furious at that unicorn for what she did, whether she meant to or not. Now that she was here, none of her classmates or teachers would pay attention to her anymore. No, they just want to see Twilight’s next feat of magic, over and over again.

But the worst part was how she took away her three best friends. At first she thought they were just harmlessly spending time with her, but after a while that was all they would do. They would work and play together, and even have study sessions with her, and not even invite Trixie at all. As if they’ve forgotten all about her, and found a new best friend.

She desperately tried to win what was once hers back. She’d work twice as hard at her work at spells, she would show students her newest trick at recess, but every single time her actions would fall on deaf ears. She got more frustrated at the purple Unicorn with each passing day, to the point that all she could think about is outdoing her, no matter what the cost is.

One day during lunch, Trixie sat by herself as her friends sat with Twilight, she thought about any idea she could muster to get them back. It had to be something that would gain the attention of everypony in the room, something that Twilight could never top in years, it would have to be one of her biggest tricks she’d ever pulled off.

Then the idea finally came to her. “The Full Transfiguration Spell.”

It was a very difficult spell that can change any object into something completely different. From what she read from history books, it was made back when the two Princesses started their rule, as an emergency if Equestria were to go through a famine. With enough concentration and power, a unicorn can turn a single rock into, an edible and nutritious apple.

Trixie grinned mischievously, knowing that if she could pull this off, the students would come flocking towards her from every angle praising her name. But then another thought came to her mind, her mother. She specifically told her to never attempt that spell under any circumstances. Not only was the only ponies that could perform it were the Princesses and Starswirl the Bearded, but it could be dangerous if not performed right.

As much as she wanted to upstage that Unicorn, she didn’t want to anger her mother, especially at this time. Lately Silver Wand has been ill for a while, becoming more exhausted and coughing more profusely. She hasn’t even been able to help Trixie with her spells as of late. She hadn’t told her what she has, but whatever it was it has prevented her from even doing any performances.

Trixie took a deep breath, she knew she will regret going against her mother’s words, but this was more important to her. She needed to get her friends back, she needed to beat Twilight Sparkle, and she was willing to do whatever it takes.

She looked around to see a large rock on the ground. Taking a moment to clear her thoughts, she stood on the table. “Attention Students!”

Everypony in the vicinity turned to see her standing proudly. Some looked in awe knowing that they would most likely get another grand feat of magic. Majority looked in confusion, wondering what sort of trick the weird magician has up her sleeve.

Trixie continued. “Hang on to your seats and lunches. For I, the Great and Powerful Trixie, shall present to you a spell unlike any other. An all-powerful spell, regarded as only a myth, said to be known to the Princesses, and the mighty Starswirl. The amazing, the mesmerizing, “Full Transfiguration Spell!”

Trixie shot out a small display of her fireworks, eliciting a wave of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ coming from the students around her. Well, most of them. Trixie saw the crowd she now has. She then looked towards where her friends and Twilight were sitting at, seeing that Minuette and the others were clapping their hooves, but Twilight only sat there with a raised eyebrow.

“Prepare to be amazed Sparkle.” Trixie said under her breath. Taking a deep breath she used her magic to levitate the rock off the ground in into the air. Closing her eyes she lifted it closer towards her, imagining the rock turning into an apple. The pink aura from her horn glowed and shimmered around the rock nearly blinding some onlookers.

After several minutes of pouring more and more of her energy inside the rock, it finally started to change. First the shape morphed to become more round. Then it started to turn red, its previous features fading with each passing second. Trixie smiled as she sensed the spell working, feeling as if she was going to accomplish a feat no other unicorn could do, and Twilight was going to see it all.

She opened her left eye to see Twilight staring at her, eyes wide as dinner plates. Trixie’s grin grew bigger, finally feeling victorious over her own rival. “Now do you see it Sparkle? Do you finally see who truly is the top Unicorn in this school? It’s none other than Trixie Lula…”

WIRRR!

Suddenly, Trixie heard a weird sound coming from the rock/apple. It started to shake violently as the sounds got louder and louder, and sparks flying all over the area. Trixie looked around nervously seeing students taking cover and running to other rooms. She desperately tried her best to hold on to her magic, feeling it slowly slip away. But try as she might she couldn’t hold on anymore, and with one final breath her magic faded. She last heard the screams of children as she saw a blindingly pink flash

CRASH!

The rock changed back as it crashed down right in front of Trixie on the table. Trixie breathed rapidly as she tried to recover from the spell, looking around to see her crowd trembling behind tables and chairs. She nervously backed away trying to make herself unnoticeable as possible.

“What did you do!?”

Trixie turned around sharply to see Mr. Marks followed by the lunch ladies. To say that they were all furious was the understatement of the century. “M…Mr. Marks I can explain.”

“Oh, so you can explain how you nearly destroyed the cafeteria and endangered students using an ancient spell far too dangerous for you to know?”

“Uh…yes?” She replied sheepishly.

“Well that’s wonderful. You can tell us that explanation in the principal’s office!”

“But Mr. Marks I…”

“No buts young ma’am! Now go!”

Trixie slumped realizing that she already lost this argument. She walked slowly towards the office looking around to see the damage she caused, all the students she scared away. It pained her knowing that she not only ruined a cafeteria, but scared away her own crowd.

“Well it doesn’t surprise me that it didn’t work. That spell is over a thousand years old.”

Trixie stopped as she spotted Twilight talking to Minuette and the others. “Wow, explains a lot if you think about it.”

“No Unicorn could perform spells like that in this day and age. The amount of magic it takes to perform something as powerful as that is far too much for anypony, especially at our age. Hate to say it, but she wouldn’t had been able to perform it in the first place.”

Trixie felt a few tears streak down her cheeks. One word could describe how she felt for the rest of that day.

“Pathetic…”

“I must say Fluttershy, I feel as if she is starting to make a breakthrough.”

Fluttershy was with Rarity were together for their weekly spa day. They were enjoying the sauna as the steam were doing wonders for their pores. She told her about her day with Trixie, and how she was starting to change from the boastful and rude magician to a nicer and well-mannered pony. “Oh we had a wonderful day yesterday. We even talked about our favorite tea, finally somepony who like green tea as much as I do.”

“Well I for one am starting to like the “new Trixie”, and I simply can’t wait to show her the new outfit once I’m done.” Rarity poured more water into the rocks, making more steam appear and prompting Fluttershy to flinch slightly. “Yes I can safely say that she is definitely going in the right direction. Although…”

“Although what Rarity?”

“I have a bad feeling about today, what with her spending the day with Applejack. Don’t get me wrong about her, but she can be the most stubborn mare in all of Ponyville. And it’ll take more than happy gestures to change her mind.”

“Oh don’t worry about her, I’m sure everything will be just fine.”

“You’re right Fluttershy, these things always seem to work out in the end. That’s just how things works for us nowadays.”

“By the way, I’m glad you’re recovering from that sickness. You should’ve told me that you were under something, I would’ve brought you something from my garden.”

Rarity raised an eyebrow at the comment. “Sickness? Whatever do you mean by that?”

“The sickness that prevented you from signing Sweetie Belle’s permission slip.”

“Wait…what?”

Applejack looked around the fields to see the many apple bearing trees ready to be harvested. While it wasn’t necessarily Applebucking Season yet, there were still plenty of apples to get down. Normally she would be excited to get a job like this done, to put in some good old fashioned hard work for her family. But this time was different, today she would have to work with Trixie.

When she saw that Twilight was going to get Trixie to spend time with her, she wanted absolutely no part of her. She still hadn’t forgave her for when she took over Ponyville with the Alicorn Amulet, despite Twilight’s claims that she has changed or anything.

“Hey AJ.”

Applejack’s ears pricked up as she heard the familiar voice of a certain blue Pegasus. She saw Rainbow Dash whizzing around until she landed right in front of her. “Well howdy there Rainbow. What brings you ‘round these parts?”

“What do you think I’m here for? Trixie’s gonna be here for the day, and we’ll be the ones who’ll expose her little revenge scheme.”

“Say what now?”

“I’ve seen stories like these before. She’ll gain our trust and become “friends” with Twilight. And when all our guards are down, she’ll start her evil plan to kill Twilight with some sort of magical doohickey and take over Ponyville again.”

“Now what in tarnation are ya going on about? Trixie may be a no good varmint, but I don’t think she has some evil revenge plan or whatever you’re goin’ on about.”

“Well say whatever you want. She’ll be here any second now, so I’m going to spy on her to make sure she doesn’t do anything evil. So you better not give me away alright?”

Before Applejack could tell her how much of an idiot she’s being, she flew straight up into the air hiding behind a large stray cloud. The orange Earth Pony shook her head grumbling a few curses to herself. She then finally spotted the Unicorn heading onwards towards the farm. She tilted her hat heading to that direction.

Trixie walked straight towards Sweet Apple Acres, enjoying the serene and beautiful surroundings. Growing up in Canterlot she never got a chance to see places more rural and natural. But now she was able to take in as much as she could, just stopping to smell the natural air.

As she took in the air, she was completely unaware of the large red wall standing right in front of her. She stopped as she looked up to see a huge Earth Pony with a red coat and orange-brown mane. He had a green apple with a slice off, and a look that could make any filly quiver in fear. Trixie was at a loss for words as she felt his judging eyes pierce her own.

“Lay off her Big Mac.”

The large stallion turned to see Applejack with a stoic look. “She’s with me, just make sure the crops are doin’ fine.”

He sighed. “Eeyup.”

He left leaving the other mares staring at each other. An awkward silence hung between them until Trixie decide to end it. “Hello Applejack, it’s nice to be acquainted with you.”

“Howdy there Trixie, we got a lot to get done today, so we better not waste time. And just to let ya’ll know I don’t hate ya one bit, but that don’t mean I trust ya either. So nothing funny alright?”

Trixie grimaced at the comment. But decided to lift her head in response. “The Great and Powerful Trixie understands your concerns, and I promise not to start anything. Just tell me what we’re doing today.”

The two walked along the path towards the fields, passing Big Macintosh who was tending to the pasture, and Granny Smith who was sleeping soundly in her rocking chair. After a minute the two finally reached the apple fields taking a good long look at their surroundings. “These here apples need to get down by the end of the day, so we got a lot of bucking to do today.”

“Applebucking?”

“Like this.” Applejack demonstrated by giving a swift and hard kick to the nearest tree, making every apple fall into the baskets. Trixie couldn’t help but admire the farmer’s feat of strength. “And that’s what you and I will be doin’, ya got it?”

“As impressive as that was Applejack, I could easily bring them all down with my magic. There’s no need for simple brute force.”

“Hate to break it to ya, but we ain’t using some fancy magic on this farm. So you might as well start showing me what you can do.”

Trixie eyed another tree incredulously. She trotted up to it getting a good look at where she was aiming for. She turned around looking straight at the tree with a determined look. She raised her right hind leg and gave out a hard buck.

THUNK!

Her leg bounced off the tree like it was made of rubber. She landed on the ground hard, knocking the wind out of her and prompting a slight giggle from the farmer. “Wow, that was quite the knockback there.”

Trixie angrily got up dusting herself off. With a huff she struck the tree a second time, only to get the same results as before. Frustrated, she let out a third blow as hard as she could, then a fourth, and fifth that was her hardest yet. Which resulted in only one apple falling on her head. “This is stupid, why can’t The Great and Powerful Trixie, just use her magic instead of this barbaric ritual.”

“Now hold on there Trixie, I better not here you talking smack about our family tradition like that. Either you buck these trees, or take that evil magic away from my farm.”

Trixie couldn’t help but glare daggers at the farmer. “What did you say about my magic?”

Applejack advanced forward facing the magician. “I’m just suggestin’ that you can take your lazy behind and your magic home. I don’t know what Twilight sees in ya, but what I still see is a slippery- tongued snake who probably wants to get back at ma friends.”

“Trixie has no need to get back at annoying insects, but now that you mention it she curious to see if that rope trick still works, dirty apple farmer.”

“Ya say that again and I’ll knock you into the next Applebucking Season.”

The two stared at each other intently, each one ready to strike at any moment. That is until Trixie suddenly step back and bucked the tree once more with all the strenghth she could muster. With one blow she knocked down a majority of the apples to the ground.

Applejack looked at the magician in surprise. “Wow, Trixie, never thought ya had in in ya.”

Brushing her hair aside she nodded. “Listen, I don’t want to be here, and you don’t want me here. It’ll be easier for the both of us we have some sort of cease fire okay?”

“Can’t argue with that. Now let’s get to back to buckin’.”

Trixie nodded once more prompting the two to get back to work. Up above them, they couldn’t hear a sigh of a very annoyed Pegasus. “Darn it, just when things were about to get good.”

After a whole hour, a portion of the field was cleared by the farmer and the magician. They both worked tiredly as they bucked the many apples in the baskets, Trixie doing surprisingly well for her lesser hardened body. “Well I gotta admit, that was pretty good work ya did back there Trixie.”

Trixie didn’t respond immediately, resulting in Applejack giving her a concerned look. “Trixie is sorry about what she said earlier.” She said lowering her head at the orange mare.

“Don’t worry about it,” Applejack said with a small smile. “we all get angry sometimes, just gotta know when to control it is all y’know. I should probly apologize too, it ain’t right to judge a pony when ya hardly know her.”

Trixie nodded, actually starting to smile for the first time she came here.

“Alright that’s it!”

Surprised, the two looked up to see a blue streak coming down hard to the ground right in front of Trixie. Stepping back, Trixie saw that it was the rainbow maned Pegasus who was looking rather ticked off. “I’m sick of waiting, you better tell us what you got planned for Twilight or else!”

“Rainbow Dash!?” Applejack exclaimed. “Ya still here trying to see if she has some sort of plan?”

Trixie glared at both ponies, starting to feel betrayed “I can’t believe this, you both really think I’m trying to take over Ponyville?”

“Well I…”

“That’s right Trixie, so unless you want a beatdown Rainbow Dash style, you better spill it.”

The blue mare stepped back a couple steps as she looked back at her offender with a look of sheer anger. She was about to say one more rebuttal until…

“GIRLS!”

The three turned to see Rarity and Fluttershy running to their direction. While Fluttershy had a look of worry on her face, Rarity had one of absolute terror. “Oh thank Celestia I found you two here. We have a dreadful emergency in our hooves.”

“What is it Rares?”

“It’s Sweetie Belle and her friends, she tricked Fluttershy into signing her permission slip to the Ponyville Dam, and we must go after her so that she doesn’t attend that field trip.”

“I’m so, so sorry Rarity!” Fluttershy said holding her hooves together.

“For the umpteenth time I forgive you. But now we need to act quickly.”

“Ah can’t believe ma sis would do somethin’ so dirty like that.”

“Neither can I, Scoots would’ve at least said something about it. Well it looks like we better…”

Before she could get another word in Rainbow saw Trixie suddenly sprint away from the others, going faster than she ever thought she could go. “Hey where you going!? I’m not done with you!”

“Those three actually went and did it, damn it.”

“Trixie!” Rarity called out. “What are you doing?”

“I’m going to fix a mistake I made before something happens!” Trixie yelled back before she suddenly disappeared in a pink flash.