For Whom the Bell Tolls

by Rathbane

Rating: everyone
Tags: Equestria Girls, Slice of Life, Sonata Dusk, Sunset Shimmer, Twilight Sparkle, Main 6
Length: 13909

Twlight goes to the human world for a weekend of fun in the mountains. Thanks to Sonata's hypnotic help her trip will be a lot more interesting then she thought.

Twilight, Sunset and the others are off to the mountains for a senior class retreat. The unexpected appearance of the Dazzlings ensure it will be for from routine. Especially with Sonata using hypnosis to ensure Twilight's weekend is more fun.

Awesome Cover art design by crazytreasurestudio on deviant art.

Published 2016-05-10 17:20:01 UTC
Last updated 2016-08-08 05:33:29 UTC

Mountain Madness

Twilight Sparkle walked around the map room of her castle lifting scroll after scroll in front of her with her magic writing on each one before setting it back done. When she was done she let out a sigh of relief.

That’s three treaties approved, seven royal decrees co-signed, and one expense report…reported, she thought, I need a break.

“Uh Twilight, you’re getting a ‘book report,’” Spike said, as he entered the room.

“Really?” Twlight asked, “I wonder what Sunset needs?”

Spike followed her as she ran to room with the mirror portal that linked her world with the human world and noticed the magic journal she and Sunset Shimmer used to communicate was glowing and vibrating.

I wonder what’s up? Twilight thought, I hope some new threat or some long forgotten creature that was banished from Equestria hasn’t shown up.

“Dear Twilight, don’t worry this isn’t about some long forgotten creature that’s been banished from Equestria creating a new threat,” she read aloud, before rolling her eyes, “I wanted to let you know that the annual senior retreat is coming up and if you have some time maybe you’d like to come along. This year it’s a weekend ski trip out in the Ember Mountains where we’re staying at the Dragon Scale Lodge. Sadly it doesn’t allow pets so Spike can’t come.”

“Hmmm a place called the Dragon Scale Lodge that doesn’t allow dragons even if they’re dogs…I should be offended,” Spike said, crossing his arms.

“Let me know if you can come and we’ll stand by for your arrival,” Twilight said, finishing up the entry.

“So are you going to go?”

“I think I should,” Twilight said, “Things have been quiet around here so I think it’s safe to do so and I really should visit my friends in the human world more often. I’ll let Celestia and Luna know where I’m going.”

Once she finished all the preparations she braced herself and stepped through the mirror portal.

As she found herself being flung through time and space she braced herself for impact.

I’ve always hated the landings, she thought as she flew out of the statue that served as the portal to the human world. She was relieved, yet still slightly banged up when landed halfway onto a gym mat that was sitting on the ground.

“Sorry we couldn’t get more mats, but we didn’t want to arouse suspicion,” Sunset Shimmer said, walking over to her and helping her up.

“That’s okay. This is better then the last few landings that’s for sure,” Twilight said smiling at her.

“It’s good to see you again,” Fluttershy said, as she the others ran over and gave Twilight a group hug.

“It’s good to see you too. Looks like you’re all ready to go to the mountains,” Twilight said, looking at the others and their cold weather clothing they were wearing, “I think I might be in trouble. It’s not like the portal let’s me choose what kind of clothes I come out with…even let’s me bring extra.

“Don’t worry darling, I’ve planned for just such a contingency,” Rarity said, as she held up a suitcase, “These are you’re extras, but this is the outfit I’ve put together for you.”

“Thanks,” Twilight said, taking the folded up bundle of clothes from her, “Ummmm where can I change?”

“The equipment shed. Don’t worry we’ll guard it,” Rainbow Dash said.

Sunset and the others watched her as she started to make her way towards the equipment shed before she veered off and ran into the school.

“What in tarnation is she doing?” Applejack asked.

“Sorry I had to go get some books,” Twilight said, a few minutes later when she emerged from the school prompting a facepalm from the other girls.

They stepped over to the equipment shed and stood watch while Twilight changed.

“So how are we getting there?” Twilight asked from within.

“We’re driving,” Sunset said, “You’re with me. Rarity’s going with Applejack and Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash will be together.”

“Yup I can’t wait to fly up those twisty windy mountain roads,” Rainbow Dash said.

“Me too!” Pinkie shouted.

“I think I’ll go with Applejack and Rarity,” Fluttershy said fearfully.

“Good idea,” Applejack said.

They stood back as the door opened and Twilight stepped out. She was now wearing purple pants, a light blue parka, a purple scarf, and a light blue stocking cap with a pair of ski goggles pushed up to her forehead.

“I really like this outfit,” Twilight said, “But are these goggles necessary? What if I don’t go skiing?”

“Of course they are,” Rarity said, “Even if you don’t go skiing they’re there to create the illusion you might. No one wants to be caught at a ski resort and have people think they’re not there to ski right?”

“I guess so,” Twilight said.

“Alright then let’s hit the road,” Sunset said, “We’ll see you guys there.”

They all waved goodbye to one another before piling into their respective cars.

For the first few hours of the car ride Twilight and Sunset talked endlessly about what was new in the Human World as well as Equestria, but as they traveled farther from Canterlot High Sunset began to focus more and more on the road and where she was going. Twilight opted to bury herself in the books she had grabbed from the school’s library.
After a long period of silence they found themselves stuck in a traffic jam due the roadways being cleared ahead of them. Sunset decided to take the opportunity to strike up a conversation again.
“So what have you been reading?” she asked.

“I’ve been reading all about the history of both skiing and snowboarding,” Twilight said happily, “As well as all about the different tricks and maneuvers one can perform while doing so from the simple to the complex. I think I’ve got it mostly figured out.”

“Wow, do you think you’ll give it a try then?” Sunset asked.

“I….I don’t think so,” Twilight said, “As much as I’ve learned about them there’s still the physics involved when it comes to them. Momentum…velocity….suddenly stopping when you hit a tree.”

Twilight shuddered at the last thought.

“Hey don’t worry about it,” Sunset said smiling at her, “There’s plenty to do at the lodge. From what I read online they’ve got a big library, a game room, and we can always just sit in the lobby and look out at the snow and drink hot chocolate.”

“I’d like that,” Twilight said.

Their conversation was cut short by the traffic in front of them moving forward once more.

A short while later they had finally arrived at their destination. Sunset made sure to park next to the other girls in the parking lot.

“Wow, this place is amazing,” Twilight said, looking up at the Dragon Scale Lodge.

Unlike the other resorts in the area it had opted for length over height, stopping after only four stories, which looped around forming a horseshoe shape around the section of the mountain. Its large windows provided guests with unobstructed views of the mountain’s beauty. The dark red mahogany that made up the bulk the complex helped add to its unique beauty.

“Looks like a log cabin on steroids,” Rainbow Dash said.

“I guess you could say that,” Twilight said, as they all walked into the front entrance.

Once inside she looked around in awe. Several overstuffed chairs sat in front of a large fireplace. Out the large windows of the lobby they could see the ski slopes with several skiers taking advantage of them. Off to the side was a gift shop that also dealt in equipment rentals, the clerk had their feet propped up on the counter and was reading a magazine, obscuring their face.

“I just know this is going to be a great weekend,” Twilight said, as she rang the service bell at the front desk.

“Hello and welcome to the Dragon Scale Lodge,” came a disinterested voice as the clerk approached, “How can I help…YOU!!”

Twilight gasped in horror when she realized the front desk clerk was Adagio, “Me?! What about YOU?! What are you doing here?”

“I work here,” Adagio said, gritting her teeth.

“Then make with our rooms already. Chop chop,” Rainbow Dash said in annoyance.

“Fine. Oh my, there seems to have been an error in your room reservations. It seems instead of three separate rooms with a mountain view, you’ve only got one with a parking lot view…next to the ice machine,” Adagio said smiling evilly.

“You might think you’ve got some sort of power over us but you don’t,” Sunset said, “I’m going to talk to your manager.”

“He’s not here. So take it or leave it.”

“We’re not going to take it or leave it,” Twilight said as the seven of them crowded around the desk, “We’re here to have fun and we won’t let you ruin it.”

“Sorry fun is forbidden for the likes of you. Now go back to your little school or else I might have to call security.”

Sunset was about to say something when a booming voice shouted from behind her, “Ms. Adagio are you giving these guests…bad customer service?!”

They turned to see a middle aged man in a business suit that matched the color of the lodge standing behind them.

“But…but Mr. Sardo they foiled my plans,” Adagio sputtered.

“I don’t care if they stripped you naked and poured a bucket of blue paint on you. You will give them the Dragon Scale Lodge customer service experience that we provide to all guests.”

Mr. Sardo’s comment caused Rainbow Dash to burst out laughing, Fluttershy to nearly pass out from blushing, and stunned the others into silence.

“Yes sir,” Adagio said in annoyance, “Oh my, it looks like the computer error has been fixed. Here are your room keys.”

She handed off the room keys while sporting the biggest most unnatural smile she could possibly form.

“Stop smiling, you’re scaring every single child in a half mile radius,” Sunset said to her as she grabbed her key.

“I’m sorry about Ms. Adagio’s behavior. She and her friend haven’t exactly embraced the idea of Dragon Scale Lodge Hospitality yet,” Mr. Sardo said.

Friend?! Twilight and the others thought nervously.

“Aria what did I tell you about idle hands,” he said to the gift shop worker.

Hearing this Aria lowered her magazine and began stocking the shelves.

“Where do you think the third one is?” Twilight whispered to Sunset.

“Normally I wouldn’t hire employees with their…unique attitudes, but their friend asked me to do it as a favor. I couldn’t really say no. Her show’s boosted my business by five percent in the pre-peak season,” Mr. Sardo said, “Oh my, I am rambling a bit aren’t I. Let me know if you girls need any other help.”

Once he was gone Adagio left her post and Aria returned to her magazine.

“Their friend he mentioned has got to be Sonata,” Sunset said.

“What kind of show does she put on? I mean she can’t sing anymore right?” Twilight said her curiosity mounting.

“Y’all might want to come see this,” Applejack called from the hallway by the elevators.

Once the others made their way over they could see what she meant by there being something they had to see. Mounted on a large display easel was a poster featuring Sonata wearing the jagged edge skirt with the blue and teal flame print, pink belt, fingerless gloves, and sleeveless black top that had become her stage hypnotist attire. She was smiling playfully at the viewer of the poster. She had her arms crossed in front of her chest and her pocket watch dangled by its chain from her left hand. Written above her the poster declared: Fantasy Inc. is proud to present: Sonata Dusk, Stage Hypnotist Extraordinaire. Come see her Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings in the Baroque Lounge. An extra piece of paper had been tacked on declaring the next Saturday show would be exclusive to Canterlot High students.

“Well I wasn’t expecting that,” Twilight said.

“I know one thing I’m not doing on Saturday that’s for sure,” Rarity added.

“Yeah, there’s no way I’d let that little twerp get inside my head,” Rainbow said.

“I don’t know. It might not be all bad. Her outfit reminds me of the one Sunset wore in a dream I had where she was a stage hypnotist and hypnotized me. It was a lot of fun so I might volunteer,” Fluttershy said, before realizing the others were staring at her, “What?”

“Well I won’t stop you if you want to give it a try,” Applejack said, “But I guess that means we’ll have to come to the show to make sure she doesn’t try anything funny.”

While the others continued to talk about the show they climbed into a waiting elevator, leaving Twilight and Sunset behind as they continued to stare at the poster.

“So this trip took an unexpected turn,” Twilight said.

“Yeah who could’ve guessed,” Sunset said, “But you know it’s weird, I’ve got a sort of feeling maybe Sonata can be trusted.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well I have a recurring dream where I’m a nurse and my patient is Sonata. After I’m done giving her a checkup we talk about how she genuinely wants to reform and how most of her bad acts were due to following Adagio. Maybe it’s just a weird dream or maybe I’ve got some sort of prophetic abilities due to latent Equestrian magic. Either way somehow I think I can trust what she said in my dream.”

“Wow, between you being a stage hypnotist in Fluttershy’s dream and being a nurse in your own I think Princess Luna would have a field day here…no offence,” Twilight said.

“None taken,” Sunset said, “But like Applejack said, maybe we should go to the show and make sure nothing funny happens.”

“I agree. Right now I’m not exactly the most trusting person towards the sirens,” Twilight said, as the two of them got on the elevator.

Once they got in their room they dumped their stuff and headed off to meet with the other girls.

Later that evening after having eaten way more then they should’ve at the lodge’s buffet Sunset and Twilight drug themselves back to their room.

“Ughh I ate way too much. No way am I going to have trouble falling asleep tonight,” Sunset said.

“Same here,” Twilight added.

The two changed into their pajamas and climbed into their beds shortly afterwards.

Apparently not ‘same here.’ Twilight thought a half hour later, as she continued to toss and turn before looking over at the sleeping Sunset.

She climbed out of bed and quietly made her way over to the window.

Wow it’s really snowing hard, she thought looking out at the large flakes that drifted by the window, And all of it happening naturally and not driven by Pegasi. So why can’t I do the natural thing and fall asleep. What’s bothering me?!

Sunset breathed out a small sigh in her sleep before mumbling, “Now whenever you feel my stethoscope on your skin please take a deep breath in and out.”

Is she dreaming about being a nurse again? Twilight thought, raising an eyebrow, Wait, she said her patient when she’s a nurse is Sonata. That’s why I can’t sleep I’m still worried about her. Ugh but why? We all said we’d go to the show and watch for funny business, especially if Fluttershy volunteers so there shouldn’t be anything to worry about. Maybe I just need to take a walk and clear my head.

She grabbed her room key and made a quiet exit from the room.

After a quick elevator ride she found herself in the lobby. The large windows offered another view of the snow fall, but it had a rather eerie feel to it since it was deserted, even the front desk was unmanned.

Maybe this was a bad idea, Twilight thought, as she wandered around.

She eventually found herself wandering into a side room. It was a nice lounge style area with a wood bar, large fire place, and an elevated stage at the front of it. She let out a gasp and hugged the wall when she saw who was standing up on the stage.

Sonata Dusk, completely unaware of her arrival, was more focused on the five chairs she had placed in a horseshoe pattern up on the stage. Backing away towards the edge of the stage she stood so she faced the center chair and looked back and forth before declaring, “Yup, I should definitely be able to hypnotize five Canterlot High Students easily.”

Five at once? That seems pretty high, and what if that’s just for starters? Maybe this is more dangerous then I thought.

Stepping forward Twilight said, “Sorry but that’s not going to happen, since there won’t be a show,”

I shouldn’t be doing this alone but maybe I can intimidate her.

Hearing her voice Sonata turned to face her.

“Hi there!” she said happily before jumping off the stage and walking up to Twilight, “Long time no see. It’s Twilight right?”

“Uh yes,” Twilight said, confused at the pleasant greeting.

“What are you doing here? Couldn’t sleep?” Sonata asked, noticing Twilight’s pajamas.

“Yes..wait I mean none of your business,” Twilight said, trying to get on the defensive, “I came to put a stop to your little show. You’re planning on turning Canterlot High Students into evil jerks again. I don’t know how you got your siren powers back but I won’t let you use them for evil again.”

“No…no I don’t have my siren powers back. I got trained to be a stage hypnotist by Ms. Fanta. Well I guess it’s more like I woke up knowing how to be one,” Sonata said.

Ms. Fanta? Who the heck is that? Twilight thought.

“And no, I don’t think I’ll be planning on turning my volunteers into jerks. That doesn’t sound like much fun. I might have them bicker or have a made up fight but that’s about it. Plus I tend to improvise a lot so I don’t really plan out stuff.”

“If you don’t have your powers back then how do you do your hypnosis?” Twlight asked.

Wait, I just noticed her eyes. They’re subtle but they’re there, spirals. Black and silver ones hidden in them. That’s how she’s hypnotizing people.

“With this silly, didn’t you see it in my poster?” Sonata said, as she pulled out her pocket watch and let it dangle in front of Twilight’s eyes.

“With that?” Twilight said in confusion.

“Yup it’s really simple and not bad at all like you think. I just swing the watch back and forth in front of people’s eyes and tell them to watch it swing back and forth,” Sonata said, as she started to swing the pocket watch in front of Twilight’s eyes.

What…there’s no way she could do it with that thing, Twilight thought as her eyes started to follow the watch.

“Then I usually tell them to take a nice relaxing breath.”

Without thinking Twilight did as Sonata asked.

Wait…what’s going on? Did she make me do that?

“Hey you’re playing along! Does that mean you want me to hypnotize you so you can see it’s not a bad thing?” Sonata asked her excitement building.

“Yes…No…I mean…I don’t know,” Twilight muttered, her eyes never leaving the watch.

“Well I’ll just keep going and if you want me to stop just say so. Now just relax for me Twilight and continue to watch the watch. Watch it swing back and forth.”

What am I doing? Why am I still going along with this? She said she’d stop if I told her to. So why aren’t I? Twilight thought.

“That’s it just watch my silver watch. Just let your whole body start to relax Twilight. It’s getting late so you need to relax. Just listen to my voice and relax. You can trust me,” Sonata said, flashing a kind smile.

Maybe…maybe I can trust her, Twilight thought, It does feel good to relax and I imagine she’d be a lot more malicious if her intentions were less then honest.

“You’re doing great! Just relax a little more for me. Let your muscles relax and let your arms grow limp. You feel relaxed. You feel warm all over, which is so nice to feel up in the mountains.”

I do feel warm. So calm and warm. It feels so gooood. Maybe this won’t be so bad after all, Twilight thought, as her arms dropped limply to her sides.

“Just relax some more Twilight. You know you can trust me. I know you’re worried about bad things happening when I hypnotize people but I promise I won’t do anything bad to you or anyone else. I won’t turn you evil or anything like that at all. You can just relax and begin to grow sleepy for me.”

She…she promised that I won’t be turned evil…she really has changed…So…sleepy, Twilight thought, as she started to succumb to the hypnosis.

“So sleepy now. Letting your eyelids grow heavy and tired. You’ve been up for far too long so when I count from three to zero you will drift off into a nice peaceful hypnotized sleep for me. Three…So sleepy. Two…Ready to fall into trance. One…Your eyes are closing. Zero…And sleep,” Sonata said, finishing off the induction with a finger snap.

Twilight’s eyes blinked shut on Sonata’s count of zero and head dropped forward.

“You are now hypnotized Twilight. How do you feel?” Sonata asked, as she put her watch away and walked over so she was right next to Twilight.

“Calm…relaxed….wonderful,” Twilight said, as a slight smile formed on her face.

“See there was nothing to worry about. Like I said, nothing bad’s going to happen while you’re under the spell of Sonata Dusk, Stage Hypnotist Extraordinaire. I mean sure you will now follow any command or suggestion I give you, but it’s not like turned you into my slave or something like that,” Sonata said, flashing a reassuring smile at the sleeping Twilight.

“I must obey you Mistress Sonata, but I am not your slave,” Twilight said, her voice quiet.

“Exactly.”

“Hey Sonata you in here?! Aria and I convinced the kitchen staff to let us have the leftover chicken wings as a midnight snack. We saved you one if you want it,” Adagio said, entering the room. Upon seeing Twilight a sadistic grin formed on her face.

She quickly rushed over to the two of them and looked Twilight over.

“Oh, this is just too perfect. Arms limply at her sides, eyes locked shut, head slumped over, and that goofy grin on her face. You hypnotized her didn’t you?” Adagio said, the grin not leaving her face.

“Yup, I just finished putting her under,” Sonata said happily.

“Well well, I do hope you’ve been enjoying your victory over us, because it’s about to become pyrrhic,” Adagio said, as she placed her hand under Twilight’s chin and lifted her head up slightly, “Because from now on you’re going to be evil. You will be pure unadulterated evil and you’re going to love it.”

Adagio continued to stare at the sleeping Twilight for a few more seconds before getting annoyed.

“Why isn’t she acknowledging me? No ‘Yes Mistress Adagio’. Not even a nod of her head. Why isn’t she pledging her life to evil?”

“Hello?! That’s not how it works,” Sonata said, thrusting her hands in the air in frustration, “I’m the one that hypnotized her so the only one she’ll listen to is me.”

Adagio growled in frustration, “Alright fine. You tell her that she’s evil now.”

“Sorry I can’t do that. I promised her I wouldn’t turn her evil or anything like that,” Sonata said, placing her hand on Twilight’s shoulder.

“Fine if you won’t turn her evil then why don’t you do that thing where you make people forget what happened while they’re hypnotized, only make it so she forgets everything. Her name. Who she is. Everything. She’d be just an amnesiatic clean slate.”

“Hmmm nope. That doesn’t sound like much fun either. I think I’ll just stick with the usual of her not remembering what happened while she was hypnotized unless I tell her to,” Sonata said, getting slightly annoyed.

“Fine you want fun, then make her think she’s a chicken, but make it permanent,” Adagio said, her frustration at Sonata’s moral compass growing.

“I won’t do that either. Now please stop trying to mess with her mind. Unless you want to join in on the hypno-fun with her? All I have to do is say two little words,” Sonata said smiling.

Not ‘Taco Tuesday,’ Adagio thought, horror filling her as she remembered the trigger phrase Sonata had given her and Aria when she had practiced on them awhile back.

“Fine. I’ll go. But you don’t get that last chicken wing,” Adagio said, storming out of the room.

“Sorry about that,” Sonata said, once she was sure she was gone, “So whatcha gonna be doing tomorrow? Well besides volunteering to be in my show now that you know it’s not a bad thing.”

“I plan on sitting around and reading. Enjoying some hot chocolate and playing in the game room,” Twilight answered.

“Awww you’re not going to do any skiing or snowboarding?”

“No Mistress Sonata.”

“Seems like kind of a waste to come up here and not do that. Wait I know. Twilight whenever you hear a bell you will become someone who loves skiing, snowboarding and having all kinds of fun out in the snow and when you hear a bell again you’ll change back to your normal self. Now you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Isn’t that great?” Sonata said, clapping her hands together, happy she was going to improve upon Twilight’s stay.

“Yes. It’s a great idea Mistress Sonata. I will obey,” Twilight said.

“Very good. Now why don’t you go back to your room and get a good night’s sleep. When you wake up in the morning you’ll come out of your trance and feel great,” Sonata said, snapping her fingers.

Twilight’s eyes blinked opening revealing blue and teal spirals, “Yes, I will go back to bed. Goodnight Mistress Sonata,” she said, as she turned and walked out of the room.

“Goodnight Twilight,” Sonata called after her.

Twilight quickly made her way back to the room. Once inside she climbed back into bed and fell into a deep sleep.

I must obey Mistress Sonata. I will get a good night’s sleep. When I wake up I will come out of my trance. Tomorrow night I will volunteer to be in Mistress Sonata’s show. Being hypnotized by her is not a bad thing. Whenever I hear a bell ring I will love winter sports and being in the snow. When I hear the bell again I will return to normal. I must obey Mistress Sonata, Twilight thought, repeating all the commands Sonata had given her in her head over and over again.

Author's Note

And so we start a new story set in the Fantasy story timeline.

I thought I'd do things a little different here so there'll be no Fanta or abandoned mansion. Just mountain top ski resort hypnosis fun with Sonata.

I wanted to use this story to do the old "hypno fool" style storyline. But rather then acting like a child or monkey Twilight's gonna become a winter sports enthusiast when she's triggered.

I also wanted have fun at Adagio's expense since she can't even win against a pajama clad hypnotized Twilight.

Let me know your thoughts on it and as always thanks for reading.

An Awesome Nerd

For Whom the Bell Tolls

Chapter II An Awesome Nerd

Sunlight streamed through the window of Twilight and Sunset’s room, finally prompting the hypnotized Twilight to wake up. She sat up and stretched. The blue and teal spirals in her eyes faded away as she came out of her trance.

Wow, I feel great. That was one of the best night’s sleeps I’ve ever had, she thought.

“Oh hey, you’re up,” Sunset said, stepping out of the bathroom, “You were dead to the world a few minutes ago.”

“Good morning,” Twilight said, “Yeah, I was pretty out of it I guess. I actually had trouble falling asleep last night; I guess that walk I took helped.”

“Well I’ll let you get changed, and then we can head to breakfast, “Sunset said.

“Sounds good to me, I’m starving,” Twilight said.

Sunset gave her some privacy while she changed back into her winter outfit.

These goggles are growing on me, Twilight thought, looking in the mirror at the ski goggles that were pushed up on her forehead, But then again, they’re almost like bigger, cooler, less protective lab goggles, and I’ve always loved a good pair of lab goggles.

She joined up with Sunset and the two of them made their way down to the lodge’s restaurant. Once there, they joined up with the others and Twilight began digging into an enormous omelet.

“I’ll be hitting the slopes early,” Sunset said, “But then I’ll come back to the lodge so we can spend some time together.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Twilight said smiling at her.

The sound of a knife tinkling on the side of a glass caused them all to turn towards its origin.

Mr. Sardo was standing at the side of the restaurant, flanked by two chefs and some carts with skillets on them.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the Dragon Scale Lodge prides itself on its weekly bellside breakfast special. Which is why I’m proud to announce today’s special will be: crepes,” he said.

Mmmmm crepes, that sounds delicious, Twilight thought.

“That being said, let the crepe-ing commence,” Mr. Sardo said, as he pressed a desk service bell on one of the carts.

Maybe I’ll get blueberry filling…I…I…I will obey Mistress Sonata, Twilight thought, as the bell activated her trigger, Whenever I hear a bell I will become someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, and having fun in the snow.

Her eyes turned back into blue and teal spirals, but she quickly concealed them by pulling down the ski goggles.

“Forget about the crepes,” she said, “From what I observed from the storm last night, it should’ve delivered three inches of fresh powder to the slopes and I want to take advantage of that as soon as possible.”

“You want to go skiing?” Sunset said in confusion, “I thought you said you didn’t want to.”

“Well, I guess sleeping on it helped,” Twilight said, “So let’s hit the slopes.”

“Uhhh, sure,” Sunset said, still slightly baffled.

“When you guys are up for a real challenge, drop by the snowboarding area,” Rainbow Dash called after them.

“Don’t worry we will,” Twilight called back to her.

Fortunately Aria was not on duty at the gift shop/rental shop that morning, and the much more helpful clerk was able to get them their equipment quickly. They then made their way out to the ski lifts.

“I just love this scenery,” Twilight said, as they road up to the top of the mountain.

“I’m really glad you had a change of heart,” Sunset said, “Now we can spend even more time together.”

“Exactly, having fun in the snow and with my friends is what this weekend is all about.”

They got off the ski lift and showed the attendant their lift tickets. As they walked by the attendant’s shack, they noticed an employee napping outside of it next to a space heater. Shrugging off the odd sight, they paused at the top of the mountain.

“Let’s do this,” Twilight said, as she and Sunset pushed off.

Sunset did her best to ensure her decent was a nice easy one, so she was surprised when she looked over and saw Twilight slaloming around some of the pine trees that lined their slope.

When they reach the bottom Twilight thrust her hands in the air in excitement.

“That was a great run!” she shouted, “The wind in my hair, the landscape flying by, and all the complex calculations needed to ensure the run was flawless.”

“I’m glad you had fun, I guess sleeping on it got rid of your fears of ramming into a tree too,” Sunset said, smiling at her.

“Yup, I guess I forgot my fears and began focusing on the thrills,” Twilight said, as she and Sunset climbed back on the ski lift.

Making their way to the edge of the mountain once more, Sunset was baffled as Twilight’s second run was pretty much a mirror of her first, though she did add a little flourish by ramping off a snow drift that had been compacted down by other skiers.

“That was a nice little jump you did up there,” Sunset said, when they reached the bottom.

“Yeah, and now that I have a feel for it, I’ll try and do a trick or two off it this time, maybe a three sixty spin,” Twilight said, as she began strategizing how to pull off some tricks.

“Well I’ll be keeping an eye on you,” Sunset said.

They made their way back to top of the mountain and prepared to push off once again.

“Hey Double Diamond, shift change,” the ski lift attendant shouted to the sleeping employee, before ringing a cowbell as an impromptu alarm clock.

I must obey Mistress Sonata, when I hear a bell again I will return to normal, Twilight thought, as the spirals faded from her eyes, Huh, what? Where am I? Oh, right I’m on the top of the mountain.

“Yeeeek!” she shouted in terror, “What am I doing up here?! Oh right, I’m skiing…why am I skiing!?”

“Twilight, what’s wrong?” Sunset said, concern filling her voice as she made her way over to her.

“I…I don’t want to be up here….Why did I want to go skiing?” Twilight said, her voice a mix of fear and confusion.

“Okay…okay, we don’t have to be up here, let’s go back to the lodge,” Sunset said, as she took Twilight’s arm and began to lead her back towards the ski lift.

They rode back down and relative silence, Sunset doing her best to comfort Twilight.

Back at the lodge Twilight sat in one of the large overstuffed chairs in front of the fireplace.

“Here, I brought you some hot chocolate,” Sunset said, handing her a mug.

“Thanks, Sunset,” Twilight said, smiling at her.

“What the heck happened up there? One minute you’re all gung-ho about skiing, the next you’re frozen in fear. Are you feeling okay?” Sunset asked, her concern for her friend growing.

“I’ve been going over it in my head over and over again. It’s like a switch just got turned on and off,” Twilight said, “I think the mountain air, high altitude, and the excitement of being with you guys again affected me somehow.”

“Kind of a weird way to effect you,” Sunset said, as she sat down next to Twilight, “And like you said, it seemed like a switch turned off and on in you. You went from Ski Loving Twilight back to Ski Hating Twilight almost in an instant.”

“Then it must have been a mini adrenaline boost caused by those things. When I felt the rush of it, I pushed my inhibitions and fears to the side and wanted nothing more then to have fun up on the mountain,” Twilight said, “But once it wore off, it really wore off, kind of like coming off a bad sugar rush.”

“A real bad sugar rush,” Sunset set said, taking a drink of hot chocolate, “I guess that makes sense though. I didn’t even know there was such a thing as a mini adrenaline rush.”

“There is in Equestria at least, I’ve read about them a few times,” Twilight said.

“Well, the one you had is past, so let’s forget about skiing and enjoy the fire.”

“Fine by me,” Twilight said, as she and Sunset enjoyed the crackling fire and their hot chocolate for awhile.

“This is ridiculous!” an annoyed voice said.

Twilight and Sunset turned and saw an angry customer standing at the front desk.

“Looks like Adagio’s track record for customer service hasn’t improved,” Twilight said.

“I’m just hoping we don’t have to deal with her again,” Sunset said.

The angry customer’s frustration had reached a boiling point, and he slammed his fist down onto the call bell.

Twilight gasped a little upon hearing the bell.

I must obey Mistress Sonata. Whenever I hear a bell I will become someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, and having fun in the snow, she thought, the spirals forming in her eyes once more.

She pulled her goggles back down over her eyes as a smile spread across her face.

“You were right Sunset, I should forget about skiing,” Twilight said, “Because it’s time to go snowboarding!”

“Wait, what?!” Sunset said in confusion.

“Let’s hit the snow!” Twilight said, before chugging her hot chocolate, “Ow…ow…ow still real hot.”

She ran over towards the gift/equipment rental shop to rent a snowboard.

“I’ll take a snowboard please,” Twilight said to Aria.

“Whatever,” Aria said.

“I would like it today,” Twilight said, getting annoyed.

“I bet you would.”

“Mr. Sar…” Twilight, started to shout for Mr. Sardo.

“Ugh, fine,” Aria said, handing her a snowboard, “You just like to keep making life difficult don’t you?”

“If you’re trying to take over the world or preventing me from having fun in the snow, I will make your life as difficult as possible,” Twilight said to her.

“Uh, Twilight maybe we should stay inside,” Sunset said, as she watched Twilight in action.

“No way, after all I promised Rainbow Dash I would show up,” Twilight said, as she walked towards the exit.

Sunset shrugged her shoulders in defeat and followed after her.

The snowboarder’s section of the mountain had been carved into two different portions, one acted as a combination downhill/obstacle course section and the other was a half-pipe section.

Rainbow Dash stood next to Flash Sentry as they watched Derpy make a run at one of the obstacles. She slowly slid across a picnic table that had been half buried in the snow before promptly falling off it, leaving a Derpy shaped impact crater in the snow.

“Derpy, I thought you said you can snowboard,” Rainbow Dash said, facepalming.

“I can snowboard…just not real well,” Derpy said, from within the crater.

“Now she tells us,” Rainbow Dash said, rolling her eyes.

“Hi guys!” Twilight said, as she and Sunset walked up to them.

“Hey Twilight, I didn’t know you were here,” Flash said.

“That’s because she’s been holed up in the lodge or over on the baby ski slopes until now,” Rainbow Dash said, “Looks like you accepted my challenge to come on over to the cool side of the mountain….and don’t you dare say something about it being warmer over here because the sun’s out of something.”

“Oh, I wasn’t going to,” Twilight said, “There’s definitely a lot more going on over here. I can’t wait to try out this course they’ve laid out here.”

“It’s pretty tricky, do you snowboard often?” Flash asked.

“Nope, this is my first time,” Twilight said, smiling at him.

Flash stood in stunned silence while Rainbow Dash burst out laughing.

“Alright then, let’s see you try it,” Rainbow Dash said, taking out her phone, “But if you do worse then Derpy, it’s going on the internet.”

“You’re on!” Twilight said, as she made her way to the starting line of the obstacle course.

They watched in amazement, as she kicked off and began gathering speed in the down hill section, masterfully going around the turns and corners carved into the snow, before she jumped up and grinded across a metal bar set up in the middle of the course. She flew up another section of the course before making the jump off the picnic table and avoiding the Derpy shaped crater upon landing. She grinded across another railing, before she entered a tunnel in the snow that sent her looping back around to them.

“So, did I become internet famous?” she asked, walking back up to them.

“Twilight, that was amazing!” Flash said.

“Eh, it was okay for a beginner,” Rainbow Dash said.

“How did you do all that?” Sunset asked.

“It was a simple matter of maintaining velocity by taking all the hills and corners dead on, and making sure I had equal weight distribution on all the obstacles,” Twilight said.

“Twilight, you can be such a nerd sometimes,” Rainbow Dash said.

Twilight pushed herself up a small incline so she could gain some momentum, and began making circles around Rainbow Dash.

“Correction,” Twilight said, smiling broadly, “I’m an awesome nerd all the time.”

“Well Ms. Awesome Nerd, how would you like to race against me on the half-pipe?” Flash asked.

“I’d love to,” Twilight said, as she walked off with him.

“What gives?” Rainbow Dash asked, “Normally she’s sputtering nonsense when around him, but he asks her to race him and she happily goes along with it?”

“She’s done a lot of things today that are making less and less sense,” Sunset said, “I think she might be right about the mountain air, and high altitude affecting her in odd ways.”

“Real odd ways,” Rainbow Dash said.

Up on the half-pipe Twilight and Flash were waiting to start. Their progress was currently impeded by a starting gate.

“So uh, how do we know when to start?” Twilight asked.

“She’s been telling everyone when to start all day,” Flash said, pointing to a tower off to the side of the half-pipe.

Standing in the tower next to a microphone, Pinkie Pie was suited up in a brightly colored winter outfit, complete with a knitted jester style cap.

“Here yee! Here yee! Pinkie Pie, the official starter of races welcomes you to another race, and also wishes you a happy Earmuff Day!” Pinkie said, slipping on a pair of earmuffs.

Twilight and Flash shrugged at one another upon hearing the odd holiday declaration.

“Now, on your marks! Get Set!” Pinkie shouted, before signaling the start of the race with an air horn.

The starting gates popped open and Twilight and Flash began flying down the half-pipe.

Flash smiled confidently as he picked up speed, but was soon shocked as he spied Twilight zoom past him, she was leaning forward to gain momentum. She then began ramping up and down the sides of the half-pipe, cautiously grabbing the front of her snowboard at first, but as she started gaining more and more air she began executing spins and other tricks. In the end she cleared the finish line almost a minute ahead of him.

“Twilight, that was incredible!” he said running over to her.

“Thanks,” she said, blushing slightly, “Like I said before it’s all about velocity and in this case hitting the half-pipe at the proper angles.”

“Well you definitely proved you’re an awesome nerd,” he said, playfully.

“It was cool and all, but let’s see how you do against an expert,” Rainbow Dash said, walking over to them.

“You’re on!” Twilight said, as she rushed back up to the starting gates.

“You’re living in denial, Rainbow Dash, you don’t stand a chance,” Flash said to her.

“Denial, schmenial, I won’t let that egghead beat me,” Rainbow Dash said confidently.

She joined Twilight at the starting gate and waited for Pinkie to start the race.

“Ready guys? On your marks! Get set!” Pinkie said, before she pressed the button on the air horn, but it only produced a disappointing ‘fweep’ whistle, “Ooops out of ammo.”

“Come on Pinkie, say ‘go’ or something!” Rainbow Dash shouted up to her.

“Oh I know, I’ll use this,” Pinkie said, as she took off the knit jester hat and shook it in front of the microphone to amplify the sound of the tiny bells attached to it.

I must obey Mistress Sonata. When I hear a bell again, I will return to normal, Twilight thought, as the spirals faded from her eyes once more, Huh…what…oh no, not again!

“Wait don’t start….crud!” Twilight said, hoping to halt the race, but her hopes were dashed when the starting gates opened and she began to slide downward.

“Whoa no! Whoa! AAAAA!” Twilight shouted, as she flailed her arms wildly, while turning sideways. This resulted in her barely being able to remain upright, while descending down the half-pipe at a snail’s pace.

“What’s going on with Twilight?” Flash asked, as he watched the race with Sunset.

“I think I know,” Sunset said, her voice laced with concern.

Back up on the half-pipe Rainbow Dash had finished her run and looked up in confusion at Twilight. She continued to wait and stare for a solid ten minutes as Twilight made her slow, slow decent down the half-pipe.

“What the heck happened up there?” Rainbow Dash asked her, once she finally made it to the bottom.

“I wish I knew,” Twilight said, her voice a mixture of sadness and confusion.

“Come on, let’s get you back to the lodge,” Sunset said, taking her arm.

“You gonna be okay? Do you want us to come with you,” Flash asked.

“No…no I’ll be foom, I mean fine,” Twilight said, slightly flustered.

As they walked away Rainbow Dash and Flash turned to each other and shrugged in confusion.

Back at the lodge Twilight sat in one of the overstuffed chairs in front of the fire again.

“That’s twice this has happened now,” Twilight said.

“Are you sure you’re feeling okay? Do you think you could be coming down with something and it’s not another mini adrenaline boost?” Sunset asked, as she took Twilight’s wrist and began taking her pulse.

“No, I’ve been fine. I didn’t feel sick in Equestria and I didn’t feel like I was coming down with anything when I came into this world, and…what are you doing?”

“Ooops sorry,” Sunset said, as she released Twilight’s wrist and grinned sheepishly, “I had that dream where I was a nurse again last night. Guess it kinda stuck with me.”

“Well you’ve got a great bedside manner,” Twilight said, smiling at her.

“Thanks,” Sunset said, smiling back.

“I just hope it doesn’t happen again,” Twilight said.

“Well, maybe if we get you to a slightly lower altitude and help you burn off some adrenaline there’s less of a chance of it happening again,” Sunset said.

“Where and how do we do that?” Twilight asked.

“The game room in the basement of course,” Sunset said.

“Sounds good to me,” Twilight said, as she followed Sunset to the elevators.

They descended down into the basement of the lodge and after passing by a creepy café that was closed for the indefinite future they found the game room. A pool table and air hockey table stood in the center of the room, while a few arcade games lined the walls.

“I guess it’s more of a night time use game room,” Sunset said, noticing that they were the only ones there.

“So what should we do first?” Twilight asked.

“How about some pool?” Sunset said, as she grabbed one of the well used cues.

“Okay,” Twilight said.

Sunset racked up the balls and broke them. She then stepped aside so Twilight could take her shot.

Twilight studied the table and lined up her shot, before sinking the four ball.

“Looks like I’m stripes,” Sunset said.

Twilight then got to work, making her way around the table, sinking ball after ball with perfectly aimed shots or bank shots that went off without a hitch.

“Correction, looks like I’m not taking another turn,” Sunset said, once Twilight had finished, “I didn’t know you were so good at pool.”

“It’s just a game of math and angles,” Twilight said, pointed to the table.

“You can apply math to anything, can’t you,” Sunset said.

“Ooops, sorry. Bad habit of mine,” Twilight said.

“Don’t worry about it,” Sunset said, as she walked over to the air hockey table, “Let’s play a game where math and angles don’t hold a candle to random chance.”

Twilight joined her at the table and grabbed her paddle.

“Get ready,” Sunset said, as she put a quarter in the machine to start it.

Twilight watched as the air hockey puck floated over the table’s surface and smacked it towards Sunset. Sunset sent it back towards her. Twilight went to strike it again only to accidentally hit it into her own goal.

“You weren’t kidding about random chance,” Twilight said, putting the puck back on the table. She hit it back towards Sunset, getting a better feel for the game.

Despite many hiccups due to the randomness of the air currents, Twilight was able to eek out a narrow victory.

“Looks like you won again. I’ll get some more change,” Sunset said.

While she made her way over to the change machine Twilight watched the mini light show the table put on.

“Congratulations! You’re a winner,” an automated voice said, which was followed by a cacophony of random noises, including a ringing bell.

I must obey Mistress Sonata, Twilight thought, being triggered again, Whenever I hear a bell, I will become someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, and having fun in the snow.

She pulled her ski goggles back over her spiraling eyes and smiled.

“You know Sunset, I’ve been skiing and snowboarding today, but there’s one thing I haven’t done out in the snow yet,” Twilight said.

Oh no, what now?! Sunset thought nervously.

“Build a snowpony!” Twilight said triumphantly.

Sunset let out a sigh of relief before smiling.

“Actually in this world it’s called building a snowman,” Sunset said.

“Can’t we make both?”

“Absolulety.”

“Yay!” Twilight said, clapping her hands together excitedly.

They made their way outside to a quiet corner of the lodge.

“Hey look, it’s Fluttershy,” Twilight said, “Hi Fluttershy!”

“Oh, hello,” Fluttershy said, turning around.

“What are you doing out here?” Sunset asked.

“Watching the snowbirds fly in for the evening. They’re very beautiful creatures.”

“They sure are,” Twilight said, “We came out to build a snowpony and snowman. Wanna join us?”

“Um, sure,” Fluttershy said, smiling.

The three of them quickly got to work making their snow creations. Twilight rolled out the lower body for the snowman and quickly made the middle section, but had trouble lifting it.

“Thanks,” Twilight said, after Sunset helped her lift it up, “It’s times like this I miss having levitation magic.”

“Yeah, it’s one of those things you definitely come to miss after awhile,” Sunset said.

Once Twilight finished the head of the snowman she started forming the legs of her snowpony, while Fluttershy and Sunset built a body. Once they were done, the three of them placed it on top of the legs, only for it to collapse almost immediately.

“I think maybe it would be best if the snowpony was lying down,” Sunset said.

“Good idea,” Twilight agreed.

A short while later they had repurposed the remains of the original snowpony into one that was lying down.

“Hmmmm there’s still some snow leftover,” Twilight said, once they were done, “Let’s make something else.

“Perhaps we went a little overboard,” Fluttershy said, a short while later.

“Twilight was a bit of a snow building machine,” Sunset said, as she looked over at the snowman, snowpony, snowcat, snowdog, snow Celestia, and snow Star Swirl the Bearded, they had built.

“That was fun,” Twilight said, taking a selfie in front of the snow menagerie.

“It’s getting dark, maybe we should head inside,” Sunset said, “Maybe we can get more hot chocolate.”

“That sounds great,” Twilight said.

Back inside the lodge they noticed a large group of angry people gathered at the front desk.

“Is Adagio the only employee they have running the front desk at this hour?” Sunset asked, noticing her post had been abandoned…again.

“I’m gonna kill that clerk,” one of the customers said, as he angrily slammed his hand down on the call bell three times.

I must obey Mistress Sonata, whenever I hear a bell again I will return to normal. I must obey Mistress Sonata, whenever I hear a bell I will become someone who loves skiing, snowboarding, and having fun in the snow. I must obey Mistress Sonata, whenever I hear a bell again I will return to normal, Twilight thought, as her mind was repeatedly triggered in rapid succession.

“Ugh,” Twilight said, as she lifted her goggles and rubbed her temples.

“You okay Twilight?” Sunset asked.

“Yeah, just a bit of a brain freeze I guess,” Twilight said.

“Maybe we spent too much time out there building snow things,” Sunset said.

“Maybe, but it sure was fun,” Twilight said.

“And there’s still fun to be had later on tonight,” Fluttershy said, “We’ve still got Sonata’s hypnosis show to go to.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot about that,” Sunset said.

“I can’t wait to volunteer,” Fluttershy said, her voice filled with an air of nervousness and excitement.

Me either, Twilight thought, as another post hypnotic suggestion appeared in her mind.

Author's Note

And here we are with Chapter 2 AKA fun with Triggers!

First off I'm not a skier or a snowboarder so if I messed up the terminology I'm sorry. Secondly it was fun coming up with the different ways for Twilight to be triggered and retriggered...well the non-call bell related ones.
It was also fun coming up with Sunset and Twilight's interactions, between having fun and Sunset being concerned for Twilight's odd behavior. And while the snowman building session was short, I felt I should end the last triggered moment on a fun note, rather then Twilight being in a panic at the top of a mountain.

Of course there's more hypno-fun to be had now that Twilight's eager to volunteer in Sonata's stage show along with Fluttershy.

Your thoughts and comments are always welcome :)

The Big Show

Twilight and Sunset stood in the lobby with the others after dinner.

“How you doing, Twilight?” Applejack asked, “We heard about the weird day you’ve been having.”

“Yeah, I think I’m okay now, thanks,” Twilight said, smiling at her.

“So should we head to Sonata’s show now?” Rarity asked, “It’s starting soon and we want to make sure we get good seats.”

“Of course, so we can make sure she doesn’t try anything funny,” Rainbow Dash said.

“I’d be more worried about the other two,” Sunset said, “We need to look around and make sure they’re not there.”

“Right!” the others said.

Adagio sat in the room the lodge had provided for the three of them. She turned when she heard the door open and Aria stepped inside.

“There you are,” she said in annoyance, “Now I’ve been thinking; I couldn’t take control of that Twilight girl last night because she would only listen to Sonata. However, the show tonight is for Canterlot High students only. We had that whole student body under our spell. If they get hypnotized by Sonata they’ll think it’s similar to how we had control of them before, and I bet they’d be more then happy to take orders from all three of us again. So all we need to do is: sneak in there and stealthily take over their minds during the show. How does that sound?”

Aria turned to her and Adagio could see she had teal and blue spirals in her eyes.

“Sorry, but Mistress Sonata isn’t happy with you after you interfered with her hypnosis session with Twilight last night. She doesn’t want you interrupting her show tonight, so she asked me to keep you away from it. She didn’t specify how, so I’ll improvise.”

“Improvise how?” Adagio said in annoyance.

Aria stood between her and the door and pulled out a frying pan.

“With this,” she said, pointing it towards Adagio.

“Why can’t you be this proactive when you’re not hypnotized?” Adagio said, as she back away.

The Baroque Lounge had been transformed for the show, the once empty floor was now filled with tables, the bar was serving non-alcoholic drinks, and blue flames danced in the fireplace.

Twilight and the others sat at a table with seven chairs around it and looked around at the ever growing crowd of people entering the lounge.

“Wow, I guess a lot of people wanted to see the show,” Sunset said.

“I bet a lot of them just want to see if this stuff actually works,” Rainbow Dash said, “It’s probably fake, she’s lost her powers after all and it never seemed like Sonata was the brains of the outfit.”

They chatted a little while longer until the houselights dimmed.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, the Baroque Lounge is proud to present: Sonata Dusk, Stage Hypnotist Extraordinaire!” an announcer declared.

Sonata then stepped up on the stage and smiled as the crowd applauded her.

“Thank you everyone,” she said, waving to the crowd “Are you ready to have some hypno fun? All I need is five brave volunteers to come up on stage and fall under my spell. So who wants to be hypnotized tonight?”

Fluttershy’s hand immediately shot up, followed by Twilight’s.

“You’re volunteering too?” Sunset said in disbelief.

“Yup,” Twilight said.

“What made you change your mind?”

“I guess your speech about how maybe she’s changed made me want to give her another chance,” Twilight said, trying to justify the effects of the previous night’s post-hypnotic suggestion.

“Alright, you two come on up,” Sonata said, pointing to them.

Twilight and Fluttershy got up and sat next to each other on the stage.

Over at his table, Flash sat with his group of friends.

“Hey Flash, you gonna volunteer?” one of them asked.

“No,” he responded, glaring at him.

“What, are you, chicken?”

“No, plus if I go up there, she’ll probably make me think I am one.”

“Better to think you’re one, then be one,” the friend responded.

“Alright fine,” Flash said, raising his hand, “But if you put any of this online, I’m pushing your bed off the mountain while you sleep tonight.”

He got up when Sonata pointed to him and made his way to the stage.

Sonata then proceeded to select two more volunteers. Once they were seated, she faced her five subjects.

“Thanks for volunteering guys, now please introduce yourselves to everyone.”

“Twilight Sparkle.”

“Fluttershy.”

“Minuette.”

“Flash Sentry.”

“Roseluck.”

“It’s nice to meet you all,” Sonata said, smiling at them, “Are you guys ready?”

The five volunteers nodded.

“Then let the fun begin,” Sonata said, as she pulled out her pocket watch and let it dangle in front of their eyes, “Now, just watch my watch.”

This’ll never work, Flash thought, as he followed the swinging watch with his eyes.

I’m getting the strangest feeling of déjà vu, Sunset thought from the audience.

“That’s it, just watch it swing. Back and forth. Back and forth. Follow the watch with your eyes and take a nice deep breath,” Sonata continued.

This really is just like my dreams, Fluttershy thought, as she took a deep breath in and out, I’m so excited.

“Breath in and out. In and out. Just relax,” Sonata continued, “Focus on my pretty silver watch. It’s so beautiful. It’s all you want to look at, as it swings back and forth in front of your eyes.”

It’s so beautiful. I can’t look away, Minuette thought.

“Watch the watch and relax. Feel a warm wave of relaxation come over you like you’re being covered by a soft fuzzy blanket,” Sonata continued.

I feel so warm and relaxed, Roseluck thought.

“Just relax more and more. You’re so warm and relaxed, your bodies relax as wave after wave of relaxation comes over you. Let your arms and legs grow limp.”

This feels wonderful, Twilight thought, as her arms flopped to her side, It’s familiar somehow, but very wonderful. I’m so relaxed. I feel a little sleepy even.

“You’re so relaxed now,” Sonata said, “So relaxed and so sleepy. All you want to do now is focus on how tired and drowsy you are. You’re feeling very sleepy. So sleepy that when I count from five to zero you will fall into a deep hypnotized sleep for me. Five…you guys are doing great. You’ve been the most wonderful volunteers. Four…your eyelids are getting heavy. Three…think only about falling into hypnosis. Two…minds growing blank. One…so ready to sleep. Zero….now sleep for me,” Sonata said, finishing up the induction with a finger snap.

At her count of zero, all five volunteer’s eyes blinked shut and their heads slumped forward. Fluttershy’s flopped to the side a little so she was resting her head on Twilight’s shoulder.

Sonata then turned and faced the audience, “My brave volunteers our now under my hypnotic spell, so that means the real fun can begin.”

She clapped her hands together in excitement before she turned around to face her hypnotized subjects again.

“Alright guys, you are now deeply hypnotized. As long as you are in your trances you will be completely open to all my suggestions and commands, do you understand?”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” the five said in unison.

“Great! Now, don’t you just love how being hypnotized feels?”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata.”

“I bet you love it just so very much. In fact you might want get up and cheer about it. Fluttershy, when I snap my fingers you will open your eyes and think you’re a cheerleader. You’ll then lead us all in a cheer routine dedicated to how awesome hypnosis is.”

Sonata snapped her fingers and Fluttershy’s eyes blinked open, revealing blue and teal spirals in them.

She sprang out of her chair and faced the crowd.

“Good evening, Canterlot High!” she shouted excitedly, “Let’s all show hypnosis how much we love it! Give me an H! Give me a Y! Give me a P!”

“Come on guys, join in,” Sonata said, to the others.

“Give me an N!” Fluttershy shouted.

“N!” Twilight and the others said, their voices in a monotone as they limply thrusted their fists into the air.

“Give me an O!”

“O!”

“Come on, everybody join in,” Sonata said, to the crowd.

“Give me an S!” Fluttershy shouted, her enthusiasm reaching its peak.

“S!” murmured the crowd and the hypnotized volunteers.

“Give me an I”

“I!”

“Give me another S!” Fluttershy said, jumping in the air as she shouted.

“S!”

“What’s that spell?”

“Hypnosis!” the crowd said, with varying levels of enthusiasm.

“Hypnosis, Hypnosis it’s the best! It puts our brains to rest!” Fluttershy chanted, “Sonata, Sonata we all fell! Deep under your powerful hypnotic spell!”

“Wooo!” Sonata shouted, “Thanks for firing us up Fluttershy, you can take your seat again.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” Fluttershy said, as she sat back down.

“Now that there’s been some excitement, let’s have some real fun,” Sonata said, as she walked over to Twilight and whispered something into her ear. She snapped her fingers and Twilight’s eyes opened, revealing blue and teal spirals.

Twilight got out of her seat and walked wordlessly across the stage. She then walked over to where Sunset was sitting and put her hand on Sunset’s chair.

“You’re beautiful,” Twilight said.

“Wait..what?!” Sunset said her voice filled with shock.

“Your body is wonderful. It is the very picture of perfection,” Twilight said.

“Twi…Twilight, what are you saying,” Sunset said, blushing, “Did Sonata put you up to this?”

“And you’re made of oak…no wait maple. That’s why you’re so sweet,” Twilight added.

“Huh? What are you talking about?” Sunset said her shock turning into confusion.

“I’m talking about your chair, Sunset. It’s the most wonderful thing in the world. I call him, Reginald…and I am in love with him.”

Everyone immediately burst out laughing.

“Oh Reginald, promise me you’ll wait for me until the show is done,” Twilight said, rubbing her hand across the back of the chair.”

“Of course I will,” Rainbow Dash said in a bad British accent, resulting in Applejack elbowing her in the ribs.

“Thank you, Reginald,” Twilight said, as she smiled and made her way back to her seat.

“That was weird,” Sunset said, still blushing a little, “Sonata has so much influence over their minds now.”

Once Twilight had sat back down, Sonata turned her attention to Flash.

“You look really strong,” she said, “Please open your eyes and stand up.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” Flash said, revealing his own spiraling eyes.

“Now, I want you to imagine all the strength leaving your arms. You’re growing weaker and weaker. All your strength is gone. Poof!”

“My strength is gone,” Flash said in a monotone.

“Now, would you be a gentleman and hold my bendy straw?” Sonata said, as she pulled out a straw.
“Of course, Mistress Sonata,” Flash said, as he held out his hand.

She placed the straw in his hand and immediately he began to strain against its ‘weight’

“So…heavy!” Flash grunted, trying to help relieve the strain by bracing his wrist with his other hand. Eventually he gave into the weight of the bendy straw, and fell to the ground.

“Thank you,” Sonata said, taking the straw back from him, “Your strength has returned, you may return to your seat.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” he said, as he got back to his feet.

Sonata walked over to Fluttershy again.

“Did you enjoy being a cheerleader, Fluttershy?”

“Yes I did, Mistress Sonata,” Fluttershy said, smiling at her.

“Well, it’s time to think you’re something else. When I snap my fingers, you will think you’re a mouse,” Sonata said, before snapping her fingers.

Fluttershy got down on her knees.

“Squeak squeak!” Fluttershy said, as she sniffed the air and chattered her teeth a little. She then began to crawl around on all fours.

“And Roseluck, when I clap my hands you will think you’re a cat,” Sonata said, as she clapped her hands.

Roseluck’s eyes blinked open, and she got on all fours as well.

“Meow, meow,” Roseluck said, before she crawled over and rubbed her head against Sonata’s leg, “Purrrr.”

A few people in audience shouted, “Awwww.”

Roseluck then narrowed her spiraling eyes, as she had noticed Fluttershy, “Hisssss”

“Squeeeeeeeeeak!” Fluttershy cried in terror, before she began racing around the stage, with Roseluck in hot pursuit.

The two chased each other in circles around the chairs, Fluttershy always maintaining a slight lead. Eventually the lead narrowed, and Roseluck cornered her at the back of the stage.

“How about we turn the tables,” Sonata said, “Fluttershy, on the count of three you will think you’re a dog. 1…2…3.”

When the count of three reached her, Fluttershy’s expression went from fear to anger.

“Grrrrrrr,” she growled at Roseluck.

“Rowwwwr!” Roseluck shrieked, as she turned around as Fluttershy began pursuing her. Fluttershy chased her around the stage in a reverse version of their earlier chase and eventually cornered Roseluck.

“Meowwww!” Roseluck cried in terror.

“And back to your trances,” Sonata commanded, as she snapped her fingers.

Fluttershy and Roseluck immediately stopped acting like animals, and stood up with their arms at their sides.

“I guess the stage hypnotist is at the top of the food chain,” Sonata said, as she winked at the crowd, “Okay, you guys can sit down now.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” Fluttershy and Roseluck said.

Once they sat down, Sonata whispered something into Minuette’s ear. Minuette’s eyes blinked open, and a confident smirk spread across her face. She then ran over and grabbed a microphone off its stand and pointed to the crowd.

“Alright you losers listen up!” she shouted, “Minuette the Mauler’s back in town, and she is determined to retake the belt in the CWW championship match! I won’t take any sass and I’ll take on all comers. So who will meet me in the squared circle? Heck, I’ll even take on a tag team, because I’m that amazing.”

“Oh my, she’s acting even less civilized then Fluttershy and Roseluck were,” Rarity said.

“This is great,” Rainbow Dash said, chuckling.

“Oh, I see Fancy Pants and Rainbow Head have accepted my challenge. Well I’m ready to go if you are Team Fancy Head!” Minuette said, the hamminess in her voice increasing by the second.

“You’re on!” Rainbow Dash said, getting to her feet.

“Don’t encourage her!” Rarity shouted in annoyance.

“You don’t stand a chance,” Minuette said.

“Heh, you’ll be down for the count in a second, I’ve got a black belt in karate after all,” Rainbow Dash said confidently.

“Well, I’ve got a black belt in butt kicking. I’ll kick your butt, then I’ll body slam her so hard her hair will hurt.”

“You’re nothing but a brainwashed brute,” Rarity said, taking the threat personally.

“Then I’ll see you two in the ring September 23rd at Canterlotamania 37, only on PAY! PER! VIEW! Be there or be square!” Minutette shouted, thrusting her fist in the air. She then went back to her seat and promptly fell back into her trance.

“Hmmm, what to do next,” Sonata said, thinking out loud, “Oh, I know. Twilight, you can no longer remember the number four. It doesn’t exist in your mind.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata. I no longer know the number four.”

“Wonderful, now can you tell me what two plus two is?”

A confident smirk spread across Twilight’s face, “That’s easy. It’s uh…um…”

Confused by being able to answer the question, Twilight began counting off her fingers, “Let’s see here, 1…2…3…5….no, no that doesn’t make any sense. Two plus two, gah I should know this. Okay let’s break this down. You’ve got the two, that’s 1..2. Then you’ve got the other two, 1…2. Then you stick them together and get…what…what do you get? There’s an answer there, but it’s not coming to me. Maybe my math skills are getting rusty. One plus one is two. Three plus three is six. Two plus two issssssss…..I got nothing.”

“Please could you try again,” Sonata said, flashing her puppy dog eyes at Twilight.

“Anything for you, Mistress Sonata,” Twilight said, “Okay, this is it. Time to figure it out. Two plus two is….Ffffffffffffffffff….Thrieve! I think that’s a number.”

“Works for me,” Sonata said, “Now then, you can no longer remember the letter T either.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata. I can no longer remember the letter T.”

“What is your name?” Sonata asked.

“Wiligh Sparkle,” Twilight said, happily.

“And what is my name.”

“Sonaa Dusk, Sage Hypnois Exrodinare!” Twilight said, still struggling to pronounce the strange new words she was creating.

“Very good, you can remember the number four and the letter T again,” Sonata said.

“Ohhhhhh, now I remember. Two plus two is four, not thrieve. How silly of me,” Twilight said happily.

“I knew you could help me with that,” Sonata said, “Now, Flash and Roseluck, when I snap my fingers you will come to the front of the stage and believe you’ve just been voted prom king and queen. You will be giving your acceptance speeches, there’s just one small problem, you’ll hate each other’s guts.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” they said in unison.

Sonata snapped her fingers, and the two made their way to the front of the stage, making it a point to bump into one another as much as possible.

“Thank you, Canterlot High, for voting me your prom king, I’d say you have good judgment but then I realize you voted for this annoying piece of work,” Flash said.

“Hah, you’re one to talk. You’re ego is so big it’s about to push me off the stage,” Roseluck said, “Thank you, Canterlot High, for choosing me to be your prom queen. I will serve the role with beauty, charm, and grace.”

“Highly unlikely since you lack all three,” Flash said.

“Oh snap!” one of Flash’s friends shouted.

“At least my hair doesn’t look like I stuck my finger an electrical socket,” Roseluck said, glaring at Flash.

“At least I’ve got a cool sounding name. Here’s a newsflash for ya, Roses aren’t lucky.”

“Oh, that is it! I don’t have to put up with this!”

“I don’t either! I’m forming my own kingdom to take you down!” Flash said, before turning towards the other volunteers, “Twilight, will you be my queen and help me take down the Roseluck Kingdom!?”

Twilight sprang to her feet and joined him by his side, “Of course I will. Down with the Roseluck Kingdom!”

“If you need two people to take me down, that just means you’re weak!” Roseluck said.

The two then stared angrily at each other. Roseluck and Twilight growled, while Flash made a throat cutting motion.

“Is it me, or did Twilight, jump to his defense a little too quickly,” Applejack said.

“She’d better be careful, or Reginald will get jealous,” Rainbow Dash said, laughing.

“We’d better hide the silverware in case they jump off stage before Sonata stops them,” Sunset said.

“And sleep!” Sonata said, snapping her fingers.

Twilight, Flash, and Roseluck’s eyes blinked shut as they fell back into a deep hypnotized sleep.

“Whew, that got a little more intense then I thought,” Sonata said, as she guided them back to their seats, “Oh well, when you make stuff up as you go you learn what works and what doesn’t.”

The audience laughed nervously for a bit, as they weren’t quite sure how to react to her statement.

“Now let’s try something a little less intense. Minuette, on the count of three you will believe you are the world’s best accountant. 1..2…3.”

“Mistress Sonata, I’m glad I caught you,” Minuette said, “You forgot to file a 12-37b form with your last tax return. Don’t worry though; I filed a temporary 779-23 form to get you an extension. You won’t be audited on my watch, for I am Minuette, the world’s greatest accountant. I also organized all your receipts and found a couple of loopholes. Since you use your pocket watch in your place of business you can write it off as a tax deduction, since it’s more then just a piece of jewelry.”

“Thank you Minuette, you really came through for me,” Sonata said, smiling at her.

“If you ever need any further assistance you can reach me at any one of my offices. I’m located in Canterlot, Wollertown, and of course, Painville…which where I’ll be taking you Rainbow Dash,” Minuette said, as she pointed at Rainbow Dash and took on her hammy way of speaking again, “When we meet in the ring September 23rd, only one PAY! PER! VIEW!”

“What in tarnation was that about?” Applejack said, as she watched Minuette return to her seat.

“I think Minuette’s original suggestion merged with her second one, making her an…accountant wrestler,” Sunset said, becoming just as confused as Applejack.

“Alright guys, drop back into a deep hypnotized sleep,” Sonata said.

The volunteers complied, and their eyes locked shut again as their heads dropped to their chests.

“Now it’s time for a suggestion you can all enjoy,” Sonata said, smiling, “When I snap my fingers you will open your eyes and imagine the audience has disappeared.”

She snapped her fingers and their eyes opened.

“Oh my gosh, Twilight, everyone’s gone,” Fluttershy said, her voice filled with fear.

“For realisies? I didn’t notice,” Sonata said, playing along.

“How is this possible?” Minuette asked.

“Maybe some sort of catastrophe happened, and we were all spared,” Twilight said, “I’ll have to do some research.”

“Or maybe they all went to the bathroom at once,” Roseluck said.

“That’s ridiculous,” Flash said, “No, there’s really only one explanation for all this. It wasn’t a disaster, it wasn’t a bathroom break. They were all abducted by aliens!”

“What?” Twilight said, her voice a mixture of annoyance and disbelief.

“They’ve vanished without a trace, that means we’re dealing with something more powerful then anything on earth,” Flash continued, “By shear luck we didn’t get abducted. That means we need to form a rebellion. If aliens are abducting people, you all know what comes next right?”

“An alien invasion!” Fluttershy, Minuette, and Roseluck screamed.

Twilight opted to rub the bridge of her nose in annoyance.

“No! No! No! This can’t be happening,” Minuette said.

“It is, and we need to get ready for anything,” Flash said.

“Guys, there isn’t an alien invasion,” Twilight said.

“That’s what the aliens would want us to think,” Roseluck said, “She must be one of them.”

“Get her!” Flash shouted.

“What?!” Twilight said, her disbelief and annoyance reaching a breaking point.

“Why don’t you guys go back to your seats?” Sonata said, “There’s been one too many angry mobs on stage so far tonight.”

“Yes, Mistress Sonata,” the volunteers said, as they obeyed.

“Sorry guys, but it’s time for the show to come to the end and bring you out of hypnosis,” Sonata said, “You’ve been great volunteers.”

Her compliment resulted in smiles spreading across all their faces.

“Now, when I count to three you will come out of your trances. You’ll feel great, and remember everything that happened and you’ll be free from my hypnotic influence. 1…waking up. 2…coming out of trance….3…back to normal,” Sonata said, adding in one final finger snap.

The spirals in their eyes faded away, and the volunteers began to yawn and stretch.

“Thank you for coming to my show tonight. You were a great audience,” Sonata said, facing the crowd as they applauded her, “And don’t forget to clap for my great volunteers.”

The audience did as she asked and applauded for them as they walked off the stage.

“So did you enjoy yourself, Fluttershy?” Rarity asked.

“Oh, I most certainly did. It was just like my dreams where Sunset is a stage hypnotist, only real! I still can’t believe I got up and cheered like that in front of everyone,” Fluttershy said happily.

“Wait, what if Sunset really is a stage hypnotist and she’s secretly plotting to turn us all into chickens in order to run all the egg farmers out of business,” Pinkie said.

“I was a bit concerned about how y’all were a bit eager to call her ‘Mistress Sonata,’” Applejack said, ignoring her.

“Yeah, I just felt the urge to call her that,” Twilight said, “Everyone else did apparently. But, I guess it was all just for show in the end.”

“You were also a bit eager to join up with Flash’s ‘kingdom,’” Rarity said.

“Well…um, it was kind of an impulse thing…due to the hypnosis…yeah,” Twilight said, blushing.

“Ow!” someone shouted from across the room.

They turned to see one of Flash’s friends rubbing his shoulder.

“Poke me with that bendy straw again and I’ll punch the other arm,” Flash warned him.

“Impulse or not, he probably lost a few points in your book with the whole ‘alien invasion’ theory right?” Rarity asked.

“Yeah, I was not happy about that,” Twilight said.

“If that’s the case, you don’t need to worry,” Rainbow Dash said, waving her arm towards Sunset’s chair, “Reginald waited for you, just like you asked him to.”

Twilight blushed, before turning to Sunset, “Sorry if what I said made you uncomfortable.”

“That’s okay, at least what you said was nice, even if it was meant for a chair.”

They all giggled for a bit before they got up to leave.

“It’s been a wild and crazy day. I’d say it’s time to hit the hay,” Applejack said.

“Yup,” they all said in unison.

As they started to walk towards the door they heard another shout of, “Ow!”

“What did I just tell you five seconds ago?” Flash said angrily.

The next morning Twilight and the others stood in the lobby checking out.

“I hope you enjoyed your stay,” Mr. Sardo said, “I’m once again sorry for Ms. Adagio and Ms. Aria’s behavior.”

“That’s okay,” Twilight said, “Everyone else was super friendly.”

“Glad to hear it. Join us again someday, please.”

The checkout process complete, they took one last look at the lobby and stepped out to their cars.

The ride down the mountains was a lot less intense due the weather and roads being nice and clear.

“Did you see Flash at breakfast?” Sunset said, “He was doing his best to convince Roseluck that all those nasty things he said were due to the hypnosis.”

“Yeah, I felt sorry for him.”

“Minuette, developed a bit of fan club though. Lyra and Bon Bon were posing with her for pictures and to get ‘Minuette the Mauler’s’ autograph.”

Twilight chuckled at the thought.

“Thanks again for sticking with me for all that craziness yesterday,” Twilight said, smiling at her.

“No problem.”

“Hopefully if we can make it up here again, we won’t have to deal with it.”

“If we do, I’ll be at your side again.”

“Thanks.”

They drove back to Canterlot High, continuing their conversation all the way home.

Once they had arrived back at the portal, Twilight wished them all goodbye and hugged them all before traveling back to Equestria.

Back at the lodge, the Dazzlings sat at a table eating lunch.

“I still can’t believe you hypnotized Aria to keep watch over me,” Adagio said in annoyance, “And I can’t believe your definition of improvising is to use a frying pan.”

“You should’ve seen the look on your face,” Aria said, smirking.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t trust you to come to my show last night. It was ah-mazing, I had some of the best volunteers ever. Hmmmm I wonder though, when I told them that when they came out of their trances that they’d be free from my hypnotic influence did Twilight realize I meant she was also free from my influence from the night before too? I’m sure she did, she’s pretty smart,” Sonata said, before she dove back into her sandwich.

Back in Equestria, Double Diamond studied the mountain below him. A flash of light caused him to turn his attention to the source.

He was shocked to see Twilight standing there, she had on a scarf and ski goggles. A snowboard sat by her, and she had teal and blue spirals in her eyes.

“Pri…Princess Twilight? What are you doing here?” he asked.

“Why, to check out these amazing slopes of course!” Twilight said, as she hopped onto her snowboard and pushed off.

Double Diamond stared in disbelief as she rocketed down the mountainside.

“Woooo hooo!” Twilight happily shouted.

Author's Note

And so this fun little hypno-fun story comes to a close with a big dose of hypno-fun.

I must admit a lot of the suggestions I thought up on my own but a couple i cheated with like the forget numbers by looking up a list of popular stage hypnosis suggestions.

Hope you liked my choices. I know we didn't see really any of non-hypnotized Minuette and Roseluck, but I just wanted a couple of underrepresented EQG characters to take the stage.
Plus Minuette the Mauler has great added alliterative appeal.

I'm not much of a shipper I just look at what the show presents and go 'eh' but I felt having a bit of a ship-tease moment between the two biggest Twilight setups for EQG might be fun to include.

All and all I hope you guys enjoyed Sonata's stage hypnosis show and the story as a whole.

Let me know your thoughts and opinions please :)