Troubles of Equestria: Book One: The Third Duel

[On the way to the Hospital with the Mane Six and others]

“Explain to me exactly what happened.” Luna asked Fluttershy and Rarity, as they passed by streetlights in a rush, riding inside of the rather large ambulance that was carrying their four friends. Celestia was quite sure that having 4 patients in a single ambulance was quite the hazard, but she shook it off, as they needed attention this very minute. As she stared outside of the window into the dusk of night, she knew now is when “it” truly started…

Rarity took a deep breath, and then explained the events, making her voice slow and crystal clear. As Rarity finished her explanation on the violent events that had just occurred, Celestia and Luna shared glances, a worried look on their faces.

“We’re sorry, young ones. We haven’t been totally honest… There’s something that we should’ve told you back in the main office… It’d be best to wait until the others are conscious.” Principal Celestia explained, examining the unconscious members of the Mane Six.

“Can’t this thing go any faster?” Luna asked, wanting to get her companions immediate attention. “Goodness, we’d have been better off transporting them ourselves. Why do we even hire you?” Luna asked, frustrated at their lack of progress.

The stallion driving looked tiredly back at her. “Sorry ma’am, traffic is horrible tonight, for some odd reason.” He spoke with a tired voice, careful not to show any signs of disrespect.

“Traffic? Is that the issue? Why didn’t you say so!” Luna exclaimed, as she made her way to the front of the ambulance. As she sat in the passenger seat, she stuck her hand out the window. A majestic aura of night blue and stars enveloped her hand. Soon, the ambulance was covered in the aura as ripples covered the night sky. Soon, the cars flooding the streets were suspended in the air slowly.

“And with the bidding of the moon, gravity shall be temporarily distorted. Now floor it, driver!” Luna said, smiling over at him. The stallion just grinned and saluted, as the ambulance took off at a speed that even startled Principal Luna.

[Somewhere farther, yet dangerously close]

Four shadowy figures – three feminine, and one very tall and masculine – sat in a room. “Where is she? Goodness, can’t even make it on time to a meeting she organized…” One of the shadowy figures spoke, yawning in a bored manner.

“Quiet, she’ll come. Besides, she’s our only chance to redeem ourselves. Be patient, this isn’t wasted time in the slightest.” The female in the middle spoke, a smirk being just barely visible on her lips.

At that very moment, the door to the room swung open, and light was cast inside. A cloaked figure walked inside. As she removed the hood of the cloak that familiar white hair with pale blue highlights was revealed.

“Trixie… Finally decided to show yourself, have you?” one of the feminine voices spoke, rising out of her seat.

“Apologies for my tardiness, I merely had some… Points I wanted to get across, is all.” Trixie spoke, removing her cloak completely and setting it on the backseat of a sofa. “So… Have you reached a decision yet, outcast?” Trixie asked.

“Humph. You’re one to talk. Look at yourself.” The feminine voice spoke, coming face to face with Trixie. The shade of the room still covered her face and hair, concealing her identity still. “In any case, why do you need our help, exactly? It’s not quite as if you’re not powerful enough to rid them of their lives anyhow.” The figure stated.

“Surely you’re aware that it’s just not the girls that must be dealt with. Trust me when I say that no matter how pathetic that lot is, they’re more special than what meets the eye. Simply put: I can’t do this alone.” Trixie spoke.

The figure chuckled. “The Great and Powerful Trixie needs help, hm? What exactly is in it for us if we do decide to help?” The figure asked.

“Well, if my memory serves me correctly, you and your sisters are quite inclined to accumulation of power… If this succeeds, we’ll have all the power we could ever wish for. Enough to conquer existence itself. We could spin the reels of time if we so wished. So you decide if that kind of power is worth it to you.” Trixie spoke, her grin widening as she spoke.

“Hehe… Sounds very appealing and tempting. We’ll help, under one condition: we get to enact our revenge on the very same girls that interfered with our plans.” The figure spoke.

“Excellent… Seems we are allies then.” Trixie said, as her amulet glowed a hue of red, showing, very briefly, the facial features of the three feminine figures:

The one standing and conversing with Trixie had raspberry-colored eyes and orange hair with brilliant yellow streaks and her skin was a pale yellowish color; her face had a smirk on it, and her features seemed rather sinister.

The one to her left had light-purple skin with mulberry-colored eyes and a moderate purple hair-color with aquamarine streaks; her face was bored, and she was more focused on her nails than anything else.

Finally, the one to her right had raspberry-colored eyes, just as the first. Her hair was a light arctic blue with almost midnight blue streaks with an arctic bluish white skin color; her face had a rather innocent grin on it, seemingly unaffected by the sinister atmosphere.

“But allow me to make one thing clear.” The feminine figure spoke up once again, as the hue died down, and the faces and figures were shrouded in shadow once again. “These are my sisters. Their lives matter to me; yours does not.” She spoke, her tone more sinister than ever.

Trixie looked her up and down and snorted. “Humph. I’d watch what you say to me. You know not of what I could have done to you; you girls were more wanted than I. You’ve been offered a great opportunity, and I expect you to treat it as such.” Trixie started, slipping back on her cloak.

“If you don’t, I’ll take it you wouldn’t want the privilege, and seeing as how you already know so much about my plans…” Trixie continued, putting her hand in the air.

“I’d just have to make sure that pretty little head of yours couldn’t let it slip out.” She spoke, balling her hand into a fist suddenly while imitating the sound of a crushing skull. “So please, don’t make me regret helping you girls out.” She finished. Just before she walked out the door, she turned once again, this time to the masculine figure.

“Tall, grey, and handsome. I called you here for just one piece of instruction.” Trixie spoke. The figure got up and bowed. As he bowed, he looked up, and all that was seen in the darkness was a short gray beard.

“I need you to keep in close contact with them. If you fail, this whole operation fails, are we clear?” Trixie asked.

“Crystal, my dear.” The figure said, standing up from his bow. “I shall get to work immediately then. I believe I have a date with one now.” He spoke, snapping his finger as he disappeared into nothingness, leaving behind only sparkles and a cloud of dust.

“So, girls, I take it I have your alliance then?” Trixie asked, putting her hand on the doorknob and twisting it.

“Obviously.” The girl spoke.

“Good, I’ll be off to recruit my other contact then.” Trixie stated.

“Don’t forget. You three play your part soon as well. Do not fail me, or the consequence will be critical. You are each responsible for playing a large part in the events soon to occur. If you fail, I fail, and I am not happy with failure.” Trixie spoke, slamming the door shut behind her as she left.

“Alright girls… Let’s make this happen.” The same feminine voice spoke, cracking her knuckles, as the other two agreed.

[Back with the Mane Six and the two Principals]

“Girls, you’ve gotta move faster, your purple friend needs attention pronto!” The paramedic shouted at Fluttershy. Fluttershy, Rarity, and the two principals were helping the paramedics roll their companions to a vacant emergency room, and they were all moving as fast as they could.

Finally, they reached an emergency room and barged in, rolling the stretchers in one by one. “Nurse Derpy, we need anesthesia, stat!” Doctor Whooves shouted, as he walked in to start treating the patients, noticing the hustle and bustle.

Rarity and Fluttershy decided to share the guests’ lounging couch in the room, and as they laid over each other, both of their eyelids grew heavy. They would soon fall asleep.

Celestia walked over to her prized pupil and gazed over her. She was riddled with bruises, cuts, and other injuries. The worst was the one on her forehead, which was still bleeding, even though scabs and crusted blood attempted to stop the process.

As Celestia stared down at her, her sister came and touched her shoulder. “Don’t worry, sister. They will be alright.” Luna said. “It could’ve been worse.” She finished, as she too, stared upon Twilight’s injured body.

“That’s just it, Luna. It could’ve been worse… What happens when we’re not around to help?” Celestia asked, biting her bottom lip. Luna put her back against the wall and examined everyone. “They will just have to be capable of taking care of themselves, I suppose.” Luna said, nonchalantly, hinting at something.

“But are they ready to trek the depths of Tar-“ Celestia started, but was interrupted by her phone ringing. “Uno momento.” Celestia said, fishing her phone out from her pocket. She walked a few steps away from Luna, while still overlooking the treatment of her companions, just to make sure everything was going as it should. Though, she was sure they’d be doing their jobs flawlessly, considering that two high-tier authorities were overlooking the process, and that their patients were the Elements of Harmony themselves.

“Hello?” Celestia asked, holding the phone to her ear.

“Celestia, oh my! Is it true what you said in your voicemail?” Discord asked. Static could be heard in the background, as if there was some interference.

“Yes Discord. Where in the name of the Sun were you when I called?” Celestia asked, thoroughly annoyed that he hadn’t shown up.

“Forgive me, dear. I just had some… Affairs to attend to, is all.” Discord said, taking a long pause to choose his words carefully. “Are the young’uns alright?” He asked, concern on his voice.

“We’re not sure. None have regained consciousness yet. It’s quite worrying.” Celestia said, overlooking the girls once more. Doctor Whooves was working fast. It seemed they didn’t have many doctors on hand at the moment.

“Oh my. I do hope Fluttershy is okay and that the others’ wounds aren’t too serious...” Discord said with concern on his voice.

At that point something clicked in Celestia’s mind, and she eyed Luna, raising her eyebrow. “Discord…?” Celestia started.

“Yes, Principal?” Discord answered.

“… How exactly did you know the girls were injured at all…?” Celestia asked, still staring at Luna.

… [Silence] …

“Well, of course it’s due to my innate ability to sense chaos. Those six reek of the stuff, so it wouldn’t surprise me.” Discord said, after nearly ten whole seconds of grueling silence.

Celestia walked over to the nearby window and sat on the sill, staring out into the darkness of the night. “I see.” is all she said, biting her tongue, and keeping her thoughts to herself.

“Well, I’ll be over shortly then. I’d like to check up on my friends.” Discord said.

“See you when you get here. Goodbye.” Celestia said before promptly pressing the red button on the device. Soon, she was lost in her thoughts. Something didn’t sit right with her.

Luna joined her sister on the windowsill. “I couldn’t help but overhear you were talking to Discord. Why did you look so puzzled earlier?” she asked.

“Luna, I… Oh what the heck, I’ll say it. Something about Discord just now didn’t sit quite right.” Celestia said.

“Oh, did I hear my name?” Discord spoke. His voice was in the thin of the air.

“Discord? Eavesdropping is not nice, you know.” Luna said, looking around. Soon, the seven-foot tall figure materialized in front of the two women.

“Nonsense, I just got here.” Discord replied, taking a humble bow. “On a different note however, it doesn’t seem the girls are faring too well. What exactly did happen?” Discord queried.

“It would seem Trixie is out for revenge because of our banishing her.” Celestia said.

Discord hummed and massaged his gray beard. He walked over to Applejack and examined the nasty and crusted wound that lay on her forehead. “Trixie did all of this?” Discord asked, as if he couldn’t believe it.

“To this innocent bunch? That seems quite implausible.” Discord said, turning back to the two principals. He wanted to wake Fluttershy to speak with her, but decided against it, seeing as how she was resting so peacefully with her friend.

“That’s just it… We’ve never encountered this kind of brutality. Something’s off. What’s more, the suspicions of the new Alicorn were true, according to the words of Rarity and Fluttershy.” Celestia spoke, as Luna nodded in agreement.

The uttering of her name seemed to stir Fluttershy, as she attempted to rise up and yawn, forgetting Rarity was interlaced with her. Immediately, both fell off the couch.

“Think you can give a warning next time Fluttershy?” Rarity asked in an annoyed grumble, rubbing her side.

“Oh my, I’m so sorry Rarity, I didn’t mean to.” Fluttershy apologized, quickly getting on her feet to help Rarity up. As Fluttershy was helping Rarity up, her eyes met with Discord’s, and she immediately flung her hands away from Rarity, and Rarity fell back on her bottom.

“O-oh! Discord! H-hi, I didn’t see you there!” Fluttershy squeaked in a surprised tone, fixing up her hair and trying to make her clothing proper, a tint of red on her cheeks due to her early-morning appearance.

“How rude!” Rarity grumbled again, before getting up herself and dusting her dress off and taking a seat, folding her arms.

“Oh, you’re awake my dear. No need to get flustered over your appearance, you’re beautiful no matter how you look.” Discord spoke smoothly, smiling enough for his canines to show. Fluttershy stared at the ground, her cheeks exceeding the shade of a red-hot tomato.

“T-thank you.” Was all Fluttershy could squeak out. Rarity simply rolled her eyes as the principals chuckled.

Celestia looked around and noticed that the doctors had done all they could for the moment.

Applejack was simply given a head-wrap with bandages; half of her face was covered with the white wrapping in a diagonal-manner. Rainbow Dash had her left wing wrapped in bandages and had some straps and band aids over other various parts of her body. She also had her right leg wrapped completely in bandages and hoisted up.  Pinkie Pie had simply gotten her abdominal area wrapped to help heal her back from the impact to the wall.

Celestia realized Twilight had received something worse than the others though. Just judging from her injuries, she knew that Trixie held a special grudge against her… But why? Did Twilight really have anything to do with all of this? She did irresponsibly take the Amulet and planned to use it for bad after all...

At some point through the whole hustle and bustle, they had covered Twilight’s body in bandages from head to toe; only a slant of space revealed her eyes and her lips, and barely some of her purple skin. She currently had an oxygen mask over face, and seemed to be in the worst condition. Even in unconsciousness, her face still wrenched in pain.

A groan was heard in the far off corner, and all was silent as one of the figures rose. The rainbow-haired girl was easy to recognize. All eyes fell on her. As soon as she regained consciousness, she immediately looked up at her leg and ripped it down from the hoist as it plopped down on the bed.

Her velvet-colored eyes met with the rest, and went back to the wall in front of her. She slowly shifted her legs off the bed and prepared to stand.

“Oh no no no! Let’s not do that, that’s not good for your leg!” Fluttershy spoke, rushing to Rainbow Dash. However, before Fluttershy could nurse her, Rainbow Dash stood up on both legs and hissed lightly. She walked over to Twilight, despite the injury of her leg.

Rainbow simply stared at her, then looked back to Fluttershy. “Did Trixie do this, too?” she asked. Her face was hard to read. It seemed… Neutral. Fluttershy simply nodded.

Rainbow clutched her fist hard. “I see.” Is all she said. Rainbow walked over to the nearby window and opened it wide. “I’m going up for some fresh air.” She stated, beginning to lift her first foot onto the sill.

“Are you okay hun?” Rarity asked.

Rainbow rested on the sill for a few seconds, her hair covering her face in a shadow. The wind blew through the silence.

“Fine.” She said after a few seconds of silence. Soon, she jumped and all that was heard was a whoosh and flapping of wings. Soon, a blue blur zoomed past the window, headed straight up.

“Delightful.” Discord stated, breaking the silence.

“What a tough girl. Walking on her injured leg and flying with an injured wing.” Luna commented. “Clearly though, she’s upset.”

“To be expected. If there’s one thing dear Dashie hates, it’s losing. And we all lost quite horribly. Six to one, no less.” Rarity stated, crossing her legs.

“I see. Someone will need to get her when the rest are conscious then.” Celestia spoke.

…

“I can’t believe she did that…”  a small voice was heard. All eyes went to the source: Pinkie Pie, who had just woken up, it seemed. She was hugging her knees to her chest and staring straight ahead of her.

“I can’t believe after all I tried… I tried to be friends…” Pinkie said, threatening to cry. The others eyed each other.

“Darling, please don’t feel that way. Clearly, Trixie is in a terribly different kind of mind-state.” She began, making a loop with her fingers. “It’s not your fault.” Rarity finished, rising out of her seat on the couch and walking over to Pinkie, resting her hand on her shoulder.

“I t-tried… I thought we could be friends…” Pinkie squeaked.

“Oohh, honey…” Rarity said lowly, holding her in her arms. Pinkie hissed immediately though, as Rarity had hugged her from behind, on her wounded back. “So sorry!” Rarity gasped, deciding quickly that simply sitting on the bed with her would suffice.

“I’m sorry to disappoint you Pinkie, but people like that weren’t meant to have friends.” Celestia spoke.

“She’s right. It’s okay Pinkie, you have great friends here anyway.” Fluttershy softly said.

“I’ll especially make her pay.” A voice said, dragging attention to her now.

Applejack stood, already on her feet and cracking her knuckles. “I’ve got two knuckles here that’d like to repay some favors.” She said, clearly agitated.

Discord teleported in front of Applejack and lowered both of her fists with two of his fingers. “Now, now, let’s not get too hasty.” He spoke, lightly pushing Applejack’s forehead, causing her to easily lose balance and fall back on her bed.

“First off, you’re not healed yet, that looks like a nasty head injury.” Discord began, holding one finger up. As he brought up the second, he spoke again. “And second, who’s to say Trixie won’t just thrash you guys around again?” Discord spoke, much to the annoyance of Applejack.

“Discord, that’s not nice!” Fluttershy scolded, as Discord backed away from AJ, grinning.

“Nice or not, he makes a fair point. Let’s not get hasty, okay Applejack?” Luna said, standing over her bed.

AJ sighed heavily. “Fine. But we’d better be getting her back, or I don’t think I’ll be able to rest properly at night.” She said.

“Well, you are the only ones I’d believe could combat her. So you’ll have the chance, without doubt.” Luna spoke. AJ nodded, clearly content with the details.

[About 15 minutes of talk and such later.]

The room had been quiet for quite some time. All were quietly awaiting Twilight’s arrival into the realm of consciousness, but it seemed like she wouldn’t be stirring anytime soon.

“So she got it pretty bad, huh?” Applejack asked, standing over Twilight’s bed next to the others. They nodded.

All of their hands rested on the edges of the bed, hoping that Twilight would awake. Soon, colored energies started to flow from their hands and into Twilight’s body.

An unnatural force started to circulate around Twilight, evident from the sheets around her starting to flap.

Soon, everything stopped suddenly, and all shared quizzical looks.

“She’s still unconscious.” Pinkie said, disappointed. Though, she had spoken too soon.

Twilight finally started to stir. She groaned and sat up, then looked around. Her eyes watered.

“Y-you guys are okay!” Twilight said, sniffing, rubbing her eyes and smiling widely.

“I was so worried!” she said, starting to stretch over to hug them.

*Crack*

Everybody cringed at the sound as Twilight gasped in sharply, falling back into the bed and squeezing her eyes tightly shut. “Probably best to just lay down for a bit then.” Twilight spoke jokingly with a half-cringe from the pain.

“Twilight, we’re so glad you’re okay!” Fluttershy beamed. “You had us so worried!”

“Twilight, we are so very happy that you’re not too horribly injured. You had us quite concerned.” Celestia spoke, breathing a sigh of relief.

“Thanks guys. I think I’ll be fine.” Twilight said, eyeing around the room. “Where’s Rainbow Dash?” she asked.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie took part in the confusion, looking around briefly and quickly realizing that Rainbow-Dash was indeed missing.

“If you would, Fluttershy?” Luna asked. Fluttershy nodded and went over to the window. Timidly, she slid her two legs out the window and extended her wings. Soon, she was gone out the window and started flapping slowly to the top, where Rainbow had gone.

[Another place farther, yet dangerously close]

A feminine figure could be seen waiting in a room, tapping her foot impatiently. Her face was not visible, as the view was shown with her back facing the camera. She looked down at her wristwatch and read the time, making an exasperated sigh. The figure had very light-lavender skin, and her hair, a moderate purple with pale light-blue streaks.

“Oh calm down, you’re not very busy anyway.” Trixie said, commenting on her impatient behavior. She had slipped into the room without alerting the girl.

“Trixie, whether or not you think I’m busy, I do not have time to be wasting with the likes of you. What could you possibly want?!” she spoke, clearly agitated.

“Humph. I see you’re impatient, so I’ll jump right into it. I need your help defeating The Elements of Harmony.” Trixie stated simply, leaning on the wall coolly.

The figure chuckled, and then hunched over laughing. “You?! Trixe? Defeat them? AHAHA! Don’t make burst a spleen laughing!” she said, finally recovering. “You were thwarted by mere tricks, don’t get ahead of yourself hun.” She stated.

“You’re one to speak,” Trixie started, as the camera slowly revolved, revealing the face of the figure. “Starlight Glimmer… Your plans failed horribly, twice at that.” Trixie stated, clearly annoyed by her behavior.

“Oh, but I got farther than you ever could, dear. I practically had Twilight on her knees. I only had to put up the charade because we would be stuck for eternity in time. That's not quite the way I imagined my plans.” Starlight stated smugly. “In fact, I should warn you to stay away from them, because they’re my prey. I will have my revenge, and if you get in my way, I am willing to quell all competition.” Starlight stated, getting ready to leave.

Trixie stood in front of the door. “You’re making the same exact mistake those three girls did. Join me, or rot with the rest.” Trixie stated coldly, as her amulet and her eyes glowed a crimson red.

“Oh? Is that a challenge? Do you really think you co-” Starlight started, but was quickly interrupted with an elbow to the chest, sending her flying back and crashing into the wall, making a crack in the wall.

Falling onto one knee, Starlight glared at Trixie. “So I see you’re serious about this… What a foolish mistake for a weakling like yourself.” Starlight stated, disappearing from her spot and lunging at Trixie with her fist.

Trixie countered, delivering a powerful knee to Starlight. As she fell back from the hit, Starlight disappeared into sparkles and dust.

“Oh?” is all Trixie could mutter, searching the room.

“Up here!” a voice from the roof said. As Trixie looked up, a figure was zooming down towards her. Trixie quickly jumped back to evade, as Starlight smashed into the ground, sending a shockwave through the room.

“To be expected from an Arcane Human. Hm, guess I’ll return the favor.” Trixie stated, as four more versions of herself split from her original self.

“What? But duplication is a high-level magic spell! The last I checked, you weren’t capable of that! Not even with the Amulet’s powers…” Starlight mused.

“Which one is the real me? Can you afford to find out…?” the Trixies asked in unison.

“Easy; only one of you are physical. The rest are just distractions. There’s no possible way you can make physical matter out of nothing. Not even you could be that powerful.” Starlight stated with a smirk on her face as she prepared herself.

3 of the Trixies dashed at Starlight. Using her magic, tossed a desk into one of the copies, and sent it flying back into the wall as it disappeared into nothingness.

“A fake!” Starlight yelled, as she pulled up a shield in front of one of the other Trixies, and prepared to physically block the other. However, the Trixie that she had blocked off with the magical barrier broke through it with ease, and kicked Starlight back.

“Aha, so you’re the real one then!” Starlight stated, quickly recovering and rushing at that Trixie. Suddenly, another one appeared in front of her.

“Guess again!” Trixie said mockingly, delivering a straight punch to Starlight, pushing her back into the wall again.

“Gah!” Starlight yelled, holding her nose as red liquid dripped from it.

“T-this makes no sense! She shouldn't be that powerful!” Starlight said frantically, staring at the four figures closing in on her.

Two dashed straight at Starlight at incredible speeds. As Starlight pulled up another magical barrier, they both changed directions and went for her sides, something she wasn’t expecting.

They both uppercut her into the air. The other two Trixies jumped up above the now airborne Starlight Glimmer and linked their fists together.

“Bye-bye!” both Trixies stated, chuckling. In an instant, both of them brought their linked hands down into Starlight Glimmer’s head, sending her smashing down into the ground, creating a hole in the hard-wood floor.

Starlight got up from the rubble with wounds and scratches all over. All four Trixies stood at her four separate ends, mocking her.

“How’s that for weak?”

“Who’s the weakling now?”

“Hah! How pathetic.”

“And to think I thought more of you.”

Starlight simply stood there, balling her fists. Soon, a light turquoise magic aura enveloped her fists.

As the four Trixie’s closed in, the mocks still going, Starlight yelled, “ENOUGH!” as a ball of energy was released from her, blowing back all the Trixies with great strength.

When the dust and debris cleared, the real Trixie could be seen standing at one end of the room.

“I’ve had enough! Your insolence ends here!” Starlight exclaimed, as she was covered in a light-turquoise aura and a forceful wind filled the room. She suddenly dashed at Trixie with incredible speeds, her fist cocked back for a devastating punch.

Trixie simply inched to the side, dodging Starlight’s attack, and sent a devastating punch to her gut, forcing Starlight to her knees. Trixie then picked up the gasping Starlight by the neck and slammed her into the wall.

Starlight struggled within Trixie’s grasp. “H-how could a weakling like you be this powerful?!” she said through gasps for breath as she tried to rip Trixie’s grasp from her neck.

Trixie simply smirked as she dropped Starlight and threw off her cloak, extending her Alicorn wings.

“Do you understand now? The power that I could grant you?” Trixie asked, her grin wide.

“All I ask in return is for your help and loyalty…” Trixie said.

Starlight rubbed her throat, tears on the edges of her eyes and a strand of saliva hanging from the corner of her lip due to being choked.

Starlight coughed before speaking, “I suppose I’ll just have to join you then, if it means I can attain the power I need… But promise me one thing.” Starlight requested, holding up one finger.

“Save a special seat for my revenge against those meddling idiots.” She spoke, standing once again.

“Certainly.” Trixie spoke, smirking as she helped up her new ally. Her amulet glowed a bright crimson red once again.

"If I can attain an Alicorn status while having the knowledge of the time spell, I can easily become the most powerful entity to exist! Hah, this'll be easy..." Starlight thought to herself.

"Oh, and if you think those little time tricks you tried with Twilight will work on me, think again; I'm not quite as unaware nor as unprepared as she is." Trixie spoke, her voice turning bitter.

“Come now, I actually have a job for you as we speak.” Trixie said, donning a sinister smile.

[At the rooftop of the hospital, with Fluttershy and Rainbow-Dash]

Fluttershy landed softly at the top and spotted Rainbow at the edge of the far-side, sitting on the ledge. She seemed to be shivering, but it wasn’t cold. It wasn’t even chilly. Fluttershy walked over and sat down next to her, staring into the night with her friend.

After a few minutes of silence, Rainbow Dash finally decided to break the silence. “I’ve… I’ve never been scared before, Fluttershy.” Rainbow Dash spoke.

Fluttershy simply looked at her quizzically.

“I’ve never, ever, ever, been scared before… But Trixie… Trixie instilled something different in me, Fluttershy.” Rainbow Dash said. As she spoke more and more, the shivering became more apparent, and that’s when it hit Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash was scared. Her, of all people?! It didn’t quite process with Fluttershy, Rainbow was the bravest, most foolhardy person she knew.

“The red glow in her eyes… The excitement in her voice as she fought… How out skilled I was… And her sheer power… I mean, she wiped the floor with us, and barely broke a sweat! What if next time, she really does think of kil-” Rainbow Dash rambled. She was interrupted, however, by Fluttershy pulling Rainbow into her chest in a hug.

“Hush now, quiet now, everything will be quite alright.” Fluttershy spoke quietly. She stroked her hair. “Be calm. Nothing like that will ever happen.” She continued, speaking softly and comfortingly. “Besides, you’re the most confident and bravest person I know. If anyone could stand up to Trixie, I’m sure you’re one of them.”

A deep red hue grew on Rainbow’s face as she breathed softly, listening to Fluttershy. Shaking her head, Rainbow-Dash quickly pushed away from Fluttershy and stood up, facing away from her.

“Y-you’re right.” Rainbow spoke lowly. Then, her head lowered. “However…” Rainbow started, still staring at the floor. Her fists balled up and shook. “I’ll make sure she pays… What she did Twilight and the rest? Unforgivable! I won’t let that happen again!” Rainbow said, her hands shaking.

Fluttershy noticed blood drip from Rainbow’s hands. She was balling them so hard that her nails drew blood.

Regaining her thoughts, Rainbow-Dash looked up again and reverted to normal behavior. “Let’s go back already.” She stated, walking to the edge on the side they came up. Turning to Fluttershy, she held both arms out and stood on the edge.

“H-hey, Fluttershy?” Rainbow spoke very lowly, a red tint starting to grow on her cheeks.

“Hm?” Fluttershy responded, getting up herself.

“T-thanks… For the whole comfort thing… I…” Rainbow-Dash squeaked the last part.

“… Really needed that…”

*Fwoosh!*

Rainbow-Dash took off downwards in an instant, too embarrassed to stay in Fluttershy’s presence. Fluttershy just smiled at the area where she stood. “You’re welcome, Dashie.” She spoke quietly, before spreading her wings and timidly taking after Rainbow.

[Back inside of the hospital room]

Rainbow-Dash swooped in athletically, doing a duck-and-roll through the open window. She saw the rest of them awoken, and standing over just one bed. The chatter seemed lively.

“Yo!” Rainbow-Dash exclaimed, waving casually and walking over. As the others moved to the side and turned to look at her, her eyes fell on Twilight.

“You’re okay!” Rainbow exclaimed, running up to the bed with her arms extended, preparing for a hug.

*CRACK, CRUNCH!*

A blood-curdling shriek could be heard emitting from Twilight’s mouth, as her body laid stiff in Rainbow’s arms. The others’ pupils dilated as they covered their eyes when the sound released.

Rainbow-Dash immediately let go and looked around in horror as she realized what she had done wrong. Several nurses and doctors flooded the room to see the problem.

Rainbow-Dash bowed repeatedly, saying “I’m so sorry” faster than anybody thought possible. She kept bowing, hitting her forehead on the ground repeatedly, clearly embarrassed by the event.

“Rainbow-Dash, stop! It’s okay, it didn’t hurt that bad.” Twilight lied, the tears still welling up in her eyes.

Rainbow looked up and wiped off a few beads of sweat with a cliché “phew”. A spot on her forehead had grown red from the short-span of abuse. The doctors and nurses quickly filtered back out, concluding that the problem wasn’t as serious as the scream.

“So if I may ask,” Fluttershy started, finally joining the group. “What exactly have you been withholding from us? I-if it’s okay with you to tell us…” Fluttershy asked Principal Celestia.

“Withhold? What does she mean?” Applejack asked, placing her hands on her hips and eyeing Celestia and Luna.

“Secrets?! Being kept from me?!? IMPOSSIBLE!” Pinkie screamed, regaining her excitement.

“Children, there is something that I purposely kept from you, simply because I didn’t think you were ready to know. Applejack, the oldest, 18 years of age; Rarity, also 17 years of age; Fluttershy, 16 years of age; Pinkie Pie, 16 years of age; Rainbow-Dash, 16 years of age; and finally, the youngest, Twilight, a mere 15 years old… Unfortunately, time will force you all to mature when I tell you this.” Principal Celestia began. The others, even Pinkie Pie, paid attention quietly, their faces focused on Celestia and Luna.

“There are things you are all yet to learn about this world, however, I’m afraid you will have to learn all-too-soon that this world isn’t all butterflies and happiness as it seems… It would seem that you Six have already acquired a delicate taste of that.” Celestia began, gesturing to their wounds.

“If you could even call that delicate.” Discord commented.

Celestia ignored Discord and continued. “However, there’s more to come. You Six, for whatever reason, play a large part in a series of events that are going to play out for these next few months, years even… And…” suddenly, Celestia froze up, as if she didn’t want to say the rest.

Principal Luna put her hand on her shoulder, and cleared her throat.

“You Six, over this period of time will face a multitude of challenges and obstacles, and it’s only fair that we let you know what it will entail, as per my visions.” Luna began, holding up three fingers.

“First thing you should know; you will have to choose and make many hard decisions… Lives will be lost, and you won’t be able to save them all, but you can choose who to save. It will be at your hands who lives, and who dies.” Luna said with no hesitation or pauses. Dramatic gasps filled the room.

“Second: those closest to you will be ruthlessly targeted, just as you have been.” Principal Luna stated bluntly. Her eyes focused on Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow-Dash. “Yes, even your little Crusaders… In fact, it wouldn’t surprise me if moves are already being made. Pinkie, not even your Cake friends are safe. They will not show remorse, even for the babies, Pound and Pumpkin Cake.” Luna stated bluntly. Applejack tightened her fists, Rarity gasped, covering her mouth, and Rainbow-Dash stood there, surprised. Pinkie Pie just looked on curiously.

“Third: One of you… Will die. There will be an ultimate sacrifice.” Luna finished, closing her eyes.

“Oh my…!” Fluttershy gasped quietly, dropping to her knees as tears threatened to fall.

Applejack simply tipped her hat over her eyes, her face showing no emotion.

Rarity stood there with her hands over her mouth.

Pinkie Pie stood there, obviously confused.

Rainbow-Dash stood with her mouth agape, the unbelievable news shocking her.

Discord simply yawned and floated around, observing.

Twilight simply laid in bed; her face was unreadable. It showed emotion, but an unknown one. Despite the pain she had to endure, Twilight slipped her legs off of the bed and stood. All eyes fell on her.

“Do you… expect me… to believe that?” Twilight asked flatly, looking Principal Luna straight in the eye. Before Luna could respond, Twilight continued.

“You truly expect me to believe that that’s what will undoubtedly happen? As if something can’t be done?” Twilight continued.

“Search your history, Luna; Our history… When Discord first arrived, was it not thought to be our total doom? But who ended that? You and Celestia did!” she said quietly, walking towards Luna.

“When Discord came again, he had you two beat, and it was thought to be the end for our way of life as we know it! Who broke that prediction?! We did!” Twilight said, her voice growing louder as she kept on her path to Luna.

“When Tirek arrived, and our annihilation, enslavement, and extinction were sure to come, who stopped him?! WE did!” Twilight yelled, now face-to-face with Luna, who listened intently.

"Everything that's been tossed at us, who handled it? All of us did! And we sure as heck won't be beat now!" Twilight stated, passion on her voice.

“You know, I’ve heard far too many times from many creatures that we’ve interacted with that humans are far too weak, too simple, to possibly change anything… But no, I believe we are the strongest beings to ever walk the plane of existence. Not because we’re strong, fast, agile, or smart… But because we have the ability to change our fate and destiny… We hold that power!” Twilight said, looking up to Luna with tears welling in her eyes.

“So do you really expect me to believe we can’t do anything about the lives at stake, especially our own and those close to us? Because if you do, then I’d have to-!” Twilight continued, but then she quickly recalled the authority she was speaking to and shrank.

“I-I’d have to… Respectfully disagree, Princess.” She finished, turning around and folding her arms.

The room fell silent, and all were surprised at Twilight’s little outbreak.

“I agree!” Fluttershy, of all people, boldly stated, stepping up first.

“I’ll be darned if I didn’t agree myself.” Applejack stated, stepping up with Fluttershy.

“Well, of course we’re not gonna let any of that happen, sillies!” Pinkie Pie stated in agreeance.

“As if I’d let anyone else get hurt.” Rainbow-Dash confidently stated, holding her fist to her chest.

“I do quite agree with Twilight. We won’t be letting anything of the sort happen.” Rarity bravely stated. She and Fluttershy eyed each other, nodding. Suddenly, both of their phones buzzed at the same time, and they both took it out to read the texts.

“I see you have made your foolish decisions. Then you may rot with the rest of them.” Is what the text read. Both assumed it was Trixie, and decided to just ignore it. It was quite obvious that they wouldn’t abandon their friends.

Principal Luna simply crossed her arms and stared at the Six. In a few seconds, a large grin appeared on her face. “Sparkle, I like you. I like you a lot.” She stated.

Celestia started to giggle, then started laughing out loud in a hysterical fit as all eyes fell on her, extremely confused. As she regained composure, she walked over to Twilight’s side and put her hand on her shoulder.

“If anybody had to lead the team that would quell this rising evil, I’m so very glad it’s you, Twilight, my faithful student. Your intellectual outtake on things never ceases to surprise me, my pupil.” Principal Celestia said.

“T-thanks P-P-Principal Celestia…” Twilight spoke, her voice sounded like it was struggling.

“Twilight?” Celestia asked. As she turned to look at her, Twilight was stiff in pain, having moved while she was still so heavily injured.

“I think I need an escort back to the bed, if that’s alright…” Twilight asked.

Celestia just chuckled and sighed, as a mystical gold aura enveloped Twilight and gently placed her back into the bed.

“Thanks.” Twilight said in gratitude to her help.

“In any case, you girls will need to be prepared for the events that will transpire, and we,” Celestia started, slinging her arm around her sister. “Have most certainly prepared for that. Say, Twilight, have you ever heard of that notorious demon, Aperture?” Principal Celestia asked her faithful student.

“Well of course I do. The Demon Aperture, a god amongst the Tenrem; he was forcibly pulled from his world by an evil human by the name of Lucas who wished to use Aperture’s power to aid him in his struggle to reshape the world in his own vision, his enemies being Organization X, who wouldn’t allow him to do this. Aperture would go out of control, and soon unleash havoc and destruction on a major scale across the planet. However, the legendary group of heroes, Organization X, would make a temporary alliance with Lucas, and the leader of Organization X, a charismatic young boy by the name of Ty, would absorb Aperture and would be responsible for being the Demon’s prison.” Twilight said in a quick succession. “Was that all right?” she asked, beaming at her teacher.

Principal Celestia nodded, astonished that Twilight had such extensive knowledge on a long-forgotten myth. “But what about Aperture? Isn’t the whole story about him and the world of Organization X all myths and legends of a time long ago?” Twilight asked.

“Actually, Aperture exists…” Celestia spoke.

“Really?! A fearful and powerful ancient being like that really exists?!” Twilight asked, horror written on her face. Celestia simply nodded.

“Yes, within the deepest depths of Tartarus, the being Aperture lives. In fact, Celestia and I are the ones who imprisoned him down there. His existence is known only by us, so know that it takes great trust to let you all know of this.” Principal Luna spoke.

“I see, and we’re eternally grateful for the trust or whatever, but what exactly does this have to with our preparation against Trixie?” Rainbow-Dash asked impatiently.

“Aperture is sealed within the Mirror of Destitute, trapping him in a lone black abyss, the Dimension of Destitute, until further notice. Luna and I thought about it very hard, and he seems to be the only one capable of training you in the short-span of time that you girls have.” Principal Celestia spoke.

“Through that mirror, he is capable of pulling entities from a multitude of existing dimensions. If we can get his help, he will be able to find your perfect mentors.” Celestia continued.

“Really? That seems a bit too convenient.” Twilight said.

“Granted, you will have to make your way through Tartarus and deal with an all-powerful and tricky demon, but not to worry, we will accompany you throughout your journey to Aperture.” Luna said.

“But for now, I believe it would be imperative that we all got some sleep.” Celestia said, gesturing to the clock, which read “1:53”.

“Holy moly! One fifty-three in the morning already?!” Pinkie exclaimed, as she hopped into her bed, pulling the covers over her. “Time to sleep, or else we won’t have any energy for tomorrow!” she yelled, snuggling in bed and making loud snore sounds.

“Pinkie has a fair point. It sounds like tomorrow will be a big day; we should all get some rest.” Applejack stated, removing her hat and placing it on the head of her bed-rest.

“Fair point. I guess we’re crashing then.” Rainbow-Dash stated, flopping onto her bed.

“Alright, then it’s settled! Let’s all get up bright and early to start our day tomorrow!” Twilight said, pulling the covers over herself as well.

“Great, we’re left to share the guest-lounging chair.” Rarity spoke, stretching out over the fluffy couch, and patting the small space left next to her for Fluttershy, as she reluctantly climbed in with Rarity.

The two Sisters of Day and Night both took seats on opposite sides of the windowsills, folding their arms and leaning back on the wall.

Soon, all inhabitants of the room would fall into slumber, save for the tall one who quietly made his way out of the room…

[A few hours later, within the Sparkle Residence]

Thumping and shifting could be heard in the halls of Twilight’s new mansion.

A figure rose from the sheets in the room. As the figure turned on the light, he was revealed.

It was Spike; he arose from his slumber and was shirtless. The young 9 year-old boy had very light lavender-ish-colored scaly skin, with his chest and abdomen being rough skin, colored a pale-ish green. As the young boy stepped out of the bed, it could be seen that he had claws and spikes ranging from just above his forehead to the end of his short but thick tail, getting smaller and smaller from each scale to the next.

The noises continued as he yawned and scratched his back. “Twilight, are you finally home? I hope you’re not too mad, but I slept in your bed.” He called out, walking towards the door groggily.

No response…

“You know, you could text me or something when you’re gonna have an impromptu sleepover or something!” he called out beyond the door.

Suddenly, the door slammed open, and a figure walked through. As the light shone on her, it was none other than Trixie.

“So sorry, Spike, but it seems that Twilight is too busy having a sleep-over in the Medical Center.” She said with a smirk on her face. Owlicious stared down from its secluded spot near the roof.

“So very sorry you had the unfortunate luck of being related to that runt in any way.” Trixie said, walking up to a terrified Spike, who prepared to defend himself.

[At Sweep Apple Acres’ Farmhouse]

Big Macintosh fell to the ground, bruised and beaten, as an orange-haired feminine figure stood above him triumphantly. Winona skittered away from the figure in fear.

Applebloom scooted back until she hit the wall. She glanced over at Granny Smith, who had fainted, and then at the unconscious Big Mac.

She then fearfully stared at the attacker who was now walking towards her as she screamed for help.

[Within Rarity’s Boutique/Home]

“Haha, you’re a lot more fun than my sister usually is!” Sweetie Belle laughed, playfully pushing the older figure next to her.

“And you’re certainly more fun than my stuck-up sisters!” the cerulean and light-blue haired figure laughed back.

“I think we’re gonna be great friends!” both said in unison, tossing up an enormous amount of glitter all over the place, much to the dismay of Opalescence.

[At Sugarcube Corner]

“But…” Mrs. Cake started, falling flat on the ground, now unconscious.

“Why…?” Mr. Cake finished, joining his lover.

The purple-haired figure casually walked over their unconscious bodies, yawning. She then began to ascend the stairs of the place, headed towards the origins of the annoying crying sound of babies as Gummy stood on the counter, watching.

[Within Rainbow-Dash’s Floating Home]

Scootaloo sat on the ground in front of the TV, playing games late into the night. Tank sat next to her, dozing off to sleep.

“Man, without Rainbow-Dash here to send me to bed, I can stay up as late as I want! This is pretty awesome, eh Tank?” Scootaloo excitedly stated, glancing over at the tortoise, who was basically already asleep.

Scootaloo shrugged. “Meh, didn’t expect a tortoise to keep up with me anyway.”

“Shouldn’t you be asleep, young one?” a figure said, walking into the room.

“R-Rainbow-Dash?!” Scootaloo exclaimed, jumping up from the games she was playing and bowing in apology.

“I’m sorry!” she said, looking up. She quickly realized that it wasn’t Rainbow-Dash.

“Wait, who’re you? And how the heck are you up here if you don’t have wings?” Scootaloo asked, getting in a defensive stance.

“My name is Starlight Glimmer, honey. Let’s not get so defensive now, you don’t want to complicate things.” She spoke in a soothing tone.

“I don’t care who you are, I don’t know you and you’re trespassing. Now leave, or face my wrath!” Scootaloo spoke, holding up two fists.

“Oh please. Come now, little one, if you come along quietly, there won’t be any trouble.” Starlight spoke softly.

“You asked for it!” Scootaloo yelled, running at Starlight. She was quickly stopped in her tracks by the familiar turquoise aura. Tank watched lazily, having been awoken from the commotion.

“You’re going to quickly learn your place, child.” Starlight spoke, as her soothing tone and behavior quickly went to sinister and cold.

[Finally, within Fluttershy’s humble abode]

A familiar rabbit detested heavily against the tall figure entering the home.

“What’s that you say? Make myself at home?” the gray-skinned figure said, picking up the rabbit by its feet.

“Don’t mind if I do!” he exclaimed happily, snapping his claws, making the arrangements of the room float around chaotically.

[Back with the Mane Six and the two Principals in the Hospital]

Twilight walked around the room, pacing and thinking hard, evident by the intense look on her face. The clock read “5:16”.

“Hm… Even taking in all those factors… No, that would mean… Hmmm…” Twilight mused out-loud, still pacing. Everyone else was sound asleep, even the two Principals.

Luna was noticeably bothered in her sleep, probably getting more visions of the potential future.

Suddenly, Twilight’s phone went off, loudly, shaking everyone out of their slumber.

“What is that racket?!” Rarity yelled out, pulling off her nightshade and looking around.

Fluttershy was also startled by the sound and looked for the source.

Pinkie woke up calmly. “What? Isn’t this how you guys usually wake up?” she asked casually, yawning.

“Sorry! That’s my phone!” Twilight yelled, rushing to her bed, searching through the sheets for the device.

“Goodness, Twi, find that thing already!” Rainbow-Dash exclaimed, covering her ears with her pillow.

“Got it!” Twilight said. She stared at the phone for a sec. It read “Unknown” on both the Caller I.D and the location.

“Well? Answer it already!” Applejack commanded.

Twilight tapped the green icon on the screen.

“Y’ello?” she asked.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t Twilight Sparkle.” An all-too-familiar voice spoke.

“Trixie?!” Twilight exclaimed, as all eyes on the room went to Twilight.

“Put it on speaker!” Celestia commanded, as Twilight obeyed immediately.

“Why yes, it is the Great and Powerful Trixie, at your service. Speaking of service, I’m taking good care of your little boy, Spike.” Trixie stated, as screams of detest and screams for help were heard in the background. Twilight's eyes widened, as she stared outside the window into the dawn.

“Remember when I said I’d be back?” Trixie asked with a smug tone.

“Well, rest assured, I’m not alone this time.”

*click*

Trixie hung up.

“Well that’s no good at all!” Applejack stated, getting out of her bed and putting on her signature hat, her face growing serious.

“Twilight!” Fluttershy exclaimed (or at least, if you can count Fluttershy’s exclamations as such).

“I know.” Twilight said simply, slipping on and buttoning up her shirt over her bandaged body.

“Principal Celestia, Principal Luna, I’m going.” Twilight said, a determined look on her face.

“Injured like that? Are you sure?” Celestia asked. Twilight simply nodded in response.

Rainbow stretched and yawned. “Looks like it’s go-time then!” she said, finishing her stretch.

The others also prepared to leave.

...

Suddenly, Applejack’s phone rang.

“Yep?” Applejack asked as she answered, putting the phone on speaker.

“Applejack, help!” Applebloom screamed over the phone.

“Applebloom?! What’s going on!” Applejack yelled back, stopping all processes.

Some shuffling was heard over the phone.

“If you wish to see your dear little sister or your grandmother and brother, I’d suggest coming home right away.” A voice spoke, before a click was heard, indicating a hang-up.

“This just got super-personal.” Applejack stated, lifting her sleeves.

Principals Luna and Celestia eyed each other urgently, as both lowered themselves from the sill.

“Alright then, looks like we’re splitting into teams.” Twilight said.

“Pinkie, Rainbow-Dash, you’re with m-” Twilight started, but was interrupted by Rainbow-Dash’s phone ringing next.

Everybody in the room eyed each other suspiciously.

“Hello…?” Rainbow-Dash inquired, putting the phone on speaker as well.

“Hello there. Just an old friend leaving off a good ‘ol message.” The voice spoke.

“LET ME GO!” Scootaloo screamed in the background. She sounded like she was in pain.

“I really do insist that you find your way home immediately if you want to secure this undisciplined runt’s life.” The voice spoke, before a click was heard.

“Oh, this just got 20% more personal!” Rainbow-Dash snarled balling her fists hard.

"Was that...?" Principal Luna mused out-loud.

“Anybody else got any phone-calls coming?” Twilight inquired, eyeing the three who hadn’t received any yet.

Rarity’s phone rang as well. “Sweetie Belle!” she gasped, quickly fishing out her phone and answering the call.

“Hey there! Your little sis and I are having a real swell playdate! Come join us soon!” the voice said playfully, with a giggle.

“Seriously Rarity, come play with us! We may have caused a bit of a mess, but I think you’ll have fun too!” Sweetie Belle said with excitement in her voice.

“Sweetie Belle, wait, who is that person?” Rarity asked. As she asked, a click was heard.

“I don’t like this one bit.” Rarity sighed.

“Me next, me next!” Pinkie yelled with enthusiasm, as her phone rang. She quickly answered the call.

“Lemme guess, lemme guess! You want to meet me at Sugarcube Corner for a super awesome get-together playdate?!” Pinkie enthusiastically screamed/asked over the phone.

“Sure, whatever.” The voice boringly replied, hanging up.

“Sweet!” Pinkie said, ducking her fist.

Finally, Fluttershy’s phone rang. She timidly answered the call.

“H-hello…?” Fluttershy greeted.

“Hello dear. I thought you might want to come home for a tea party I set up especially for us. I’d hurry over if I were you, Angel doesn’t seem too happy.” Discord said in a flat tone.

“Angel? Discord, if you hurt him I’ll-!” Fluttershy started, but stopped as soon as she heard the click.

“If he hurt him, I’ll make him pay!” Fluttershy quietly yelled.

Everybody was fumed and ready to go, but Twilight stopped them.

“Wait, don’t you guys see? We’re being lured separately… I don’t think we should split up.” Twilight stated.

“Whoever is on the other side waiting for us is probably experienced at what they do, and is more than ready to win. Trixie carefully planned this out. I think the best course of action would be to strategically plan something out. They want us to go alone.” Twilight stated.

“Understand this one thing Twi.” Applejack started, as she walked up to her and placed a hand on her shoulder, her hat still tipped over her eyes, casting a shadow over her face.

“Once you mess with family, there’s no space for rationality and the sorts.” AJ stated, walking right past Twilight and out of the door.

"Wait...!" Twilight called out hopelessly.

“Sorry Twi, but I’m with AJ on this one. Whoever that jerk is, they’re gonna pay for touching Scootaloo!” Rainbow-Dash angrily stated, whizzing past Twilight swiftly.

Twilight sighed in defeat as she stepped to the side; Rarity and Pinkie Pie quickly flooded out as well to go to their respective homes.

Twilight, after pondering for a little while, decided she'd go to.

“Twilight Sparkle, wait.” Principal Celestia said.

Twilight stopped and looked back at her with a “what?” face.

“I shall come with you. I think you will need the assistance considering your current condition.” Celestia spoke, referring to her injuries.

“Thank you, Princess. I appreciate it.” Twilight said, as she walked out, Celestia following closely.

“I suppose that means I’ll accompany you, Element of Kindness.” Luna spoke softly, lifting off of the windowsill. Fluttershy simply nodded in response as the two walked out.

[At Rainbow-Dash’s Home in the Clouds]

Rainbow-Dash rushed into her home, searching every room, but to no avail. All she found was Tank, who seemed to really want her attention.

“Sorry, not now boy, I’ve gotta find-” Rainbow-Dash began, but was interrupted by a familiar voice screaming her name.

Rainbow-Dash rushed outside, onto the exterior of her home.

“Scootaloo, where are you?!” Rainbow-Dash yelled.

“Back here!!!” she screamed.

Rainbow rushed around behind the house, and found her, both of them.

“You!” Rainbow-Dash exclaimed. “What are you doing here, and with Scootaloo?!” Rainbow-Dash angrily yelled, pointing at her.

“My oh my, of all the people they made me deal with, it had to be the ruffian.” Starlight Glimmer yawned, holding Scootaloo up by the back of her clothes. Scootaloo swung her hands and feet, to no avail.

“Hands off, creep!” Rainbow-Dash commanded, taking a few steps forward to Starlight, making Starlight take a few back to the edge. She held Scootaloo over the edge, and Scootaloo went dead-silent with fear, her pupils dilating in fear of the height. "I should've known your turn to good was too good to be true!" Rainbow-Dash yelled angrily, baring her teeth.

“If my intel serves me correctly, I understand that this runt can’t fly, correct? Would be a shame if I dropped her on accident.” Starlight spoke sinisterly, holding Scootaloo even farther out over the edge.

Rainbow-Dash leaned towards Starlight with a hateful glare, her teeth showing, and her fist balled. Scootaloo was being held over the edge, fear written all over her, while Starlight wore a calm smirk in her savvy businesswoman suit.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

[In Rarity’s Boutique/Home]

Rarity barged in frantically, worried for her younger sister’s safety, despite the warming message she received. To her surprise, she came in to a messy home, with her sister playing with a figure that seemed to be Rarity’s age.

“Oh, goodie, you came!” the purple-haired girl exclaimed, noticing Rarity’s presence.

“Now the real fun begins!” she said excitedly, clasping her hands together.

Something was very familiar about the girl, however.

“Wait, aren’t you… One of them?” Rarity asked, her mouth agape.

“Sonata Dusk of the Dazzlings, at your service!” she exclaimed, standing straight and saluting goofily.

“What are you doing here, dear? Aren’t you all powerless now without your amulets?” Rarity asked, curious to her motives.

“Oh, we don’t need those stinky things anymore. As for why I’m here… Well…” she started, getting up and pulling Sweetie Belle close to her.

“I’m here to forcibly take your little sister into our custody and hurt you real bad if you resist, kay?” Sonata spoke with an innocent voice, giving an even more innocent smile to top it off. Despite the innocence and playfulness in Sonata's voice, Rarity immediately caught the vibes Sonata was sending off, and stood in a defensive position. Sweetie Belle looked on both with an intrigued look, the events happening all-too-quick for her to process.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

[With Applejack at Sweet Apple Acres]

Applejack ran across the field frantically. She spotted the farmhouse, and it was on fire, which horrified her.

“Please be okay!” Applejack stated, now running even faster towards the farmhouse. However, she was stopped by Winona’s bark.

She turned, and there was Winona. She whimpered briefly, and ran away, leading Applejack to the orchard. Applejack quickly glanced between the farmhouse and the orchard where Winona was headed.

“I hope you’re leading me somewhere good, girl!” Applejack stated, taking trust in her dog, and running after her.

As she ran, she noticed that someone had set their beautiful orchard ablaze. Whoever did this was going to severely pay the price. While running, her injuries also came to mind, as she noticed a woozy feeling in her head and her view randomly became hazy; she noticed herself stumbling a few times while she ran.

Soon, two figures lying in the grass began to come into view. Winona reached them and licked at the two feverishly and desperately.

“Mac, Granny Smith!” Applejack yelled, sliding next to them and shaking them.

No response…

She felt for a pulse, and with a heavy sigh of relief, she concluded that both were alive after feeling that small pulse.

Sinister laughter could be heard on top of the nearest tree, one of the few that hadn’t been caught ablaze. Applejack looked up and saw her sitting on top of one of the tree-branches, facing her with her legs crossed.

Applebloom was slung over her shoulder, clearly unconscious and injured.

“You! Are YOU responsible for this?! I thought we got rid of you sirens!” Applejack exclaimed furiously, walking closer.

“Think again.” She said, switching her folded legs.

“Adagio Dazzle, still hitting hard!” she said with a smirk.

“You’re gonna pay for this you stinking varmit! And I mean you’re gonna pay real good!” Applejack yelled.

“Try me.” She said calmly, smiling down at Applejack.

The blazing orchard behind her set an eerie and sinister glow on Adagio, while Applejack held a fist towards Adagio, getting ready to engage.

Winona watched intently, guarding the two unconscious Apples.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

[At the Sugarcube Corner]

Pinkie Pie walked into the bakery and immediately noticed the wreckage. She walked through, musing over every bit of destruction.

“Must’ve been one heck of a party…” she muttered to herself. Though, the fearful look on her face hinted at a different tone of emotion.

She then came across the unconscious Mr. and Mrs. Cake, which she looked upon with a face of what seemed like horror.

“You came.” A voice said from behind the counter. Pinkie immediately recognized the voice.

“Aria Blaze, at your service or whatever.” She said, yawning. She had the two baby Cakes unconscious and laid out on the counter.

Pinkie stared at the four unconscious members of the room, studied the room itself, then gasped in horror as she looked at Aria Blaze and pointed at her. Aria simply smirked.

“You partied without me?!? That’s no fair!!!” Pinkie yelled, stomping the ground and obviously upset.

Aria facepalmed and said, “You may actually be more of an idiot than Sonata.”

Aria stood behind the counter with her hand over face, and the two sleeping babies were next to her on the counter. Pinkie stood just ahead of the two unconscious parents with an unimpressed frown and crossed arms.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

[Within Fluttershy’s humble abode]

“Oh my!” Fluttershy commented as she walked in along with Principal Luna, and immediately started floating about randomly, now being in Discord’s chaotic environment.

“Ah, I see you’ve decided to join us.” Discord said, sitting at the floating table. Angel floated just near him, trapped in a metal cage.

“Care for some tea?” Discord asked, with an uncomforting smirk.

Discord smirked behind a cup of tea, as Fluttershy stared at him curiously. Luna clearly looked unimpressed while Angel attempted to gnaw out of his metal prison. All were stood-up in different directions, due to the random alignment of gravity within the room.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

[Finally, at Twilight’s Mansion]

Twilight and Celestia walked inside cautiously, within the large main hall now.

“Welcome home, Twilight.” An all-too-familiar voice stated. Twilight and Celestia looked around for the source.

“Mmph!” was heard above them, and as they looked up, they noticed Spike hanging from the ceiling by a rope, his mouth gagged.

“Over here Sparkle.” A cloaked Trixie said, suddenly appearing in front of both Twilight and Celestia.

“Trixie, let us release Spike and go home peacefully, I don’t want this to end badly for anyone.” Twilight spoke, a serious look on her face.

“Take him if you can. However, I don’t think I can allow that…” Trixie stated.

Twilight prepared to jump for Spike, but quickly sensed dangerous intent, and as she brought her focus back down to Trixie, she noticed Trixie dashing at her. Trixie had her palm out, facing Twilight while she was running, and a red magic aura formed claws over Trixie’s fingers.

Twilight just barely dodged, evident by the pieces of bandage on her chest, along with clothing, be shredded right off.

Trixie turned around, and faced Twilight with a crazy and sadistic look in her eyes.

“I suppose we’re doing this the hard way then.” Twilight sighed heavily, dropping into a fighting stance.

Trixie stood, a crimson red glow emitting from beneath her cloak and a crazy grin on her face as Twilight held both fists up, facing Trixie with a determined look on her face. Celestia stood farther back, her arms crossed, simply observing the events. Spike hung over all of them, dangling and still making muffled “mmphs!” as he watched the intense situation.

-The camera froze here, the situation being outlined in detail…-

To be continued…