For the vast majority of Equestria’s recorded history, there were only two alicorns. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were divine, unique, and to even imagine a time before them was impossible.

After thousands of years, two more alicorns were born, and ponies started asking questions. Where do alicorns come from? Why are they so long-lived? What exactly does a pony need to do to ascend?

Neither of the ancient sisters were interested in answering those questions, if they even knew themselves, and that is where the leads died for so many intrepid students, scholars, and scientists. But nopony could stand between Twilight Sparkle and the truth.

Nopony, with one possible exception.

Edited by Chapter: 13.

Thanks to Cogwheelbrain for prereading.