A Changeling and his Bond Brother: Days of Nightmare Moonby Southern WingChaptersPrologueChapter 2Chapter 3chapter 4Chapter 5Chapter 1PrologueSouthern Wing awoke to the sounds of birds chirping outside his window. Groaning, he looked at the time to see it was 7:30 in the morning. He rolled out of bed and rubbed his eyes, putting his glasses on as he walked to the bathroom. Walking by his roommate’s room, he glanced inside and didn’t see his friend. “Did he wake up early or spent the night with Dash?” he asked himself. He looked in the mirror when he arrived at the bathroom. The sight of a grey bug like pony looked back at him. A smile came to his face as the figure disappeared with a flash of red magic, a grey pegasus with a brown mane and eyes emerged when it was over. “Another fine morning.” “Indeed,” a familiar voice replied. “Hey Sev,” Wing greeted back. “When I saw your bed was empty, I thought you’d spent the night with Dash.” Sev scoffed. “Really? Just because I’m not home doesn’t mean I’m with a mare… or two…” His eyes shifted left and right. “Ugh…” Wing face hooved, his mind going there immediately. “Let’s just get some breakfast.” “Right. You’re not going to me crap over last night, right?” “I’m not smacking you on the back of the head…yet,” Wing glared at Sev. The two friends trotted to the kitchen of their two-bedroom renthouse. Wing picked up the newspaper lying on the table. “Thousandth Summer Sun Celebration: Princess Celestia To Go To Ponyville For Event,” Wing read out loud. “If Celestia’s coming here, do you think she is?” Sev asked. “Heh, if she can drag her away from her books, maybe.” “Yeah, I’ve never met an egghead as big as her. Aside from you, buddy,“ Sev ribbed. “Ha ha. You so funny,” Wing groaned. “Just joking with you, you know that..” “Sure. Keep saying that.” “Am I…” Sev started. “You finish that and I’m kicking your flank.” “Bugging you?” "Oh wait, that reminds me!" Wing said as sarcastically as possible with a smile to accompany, soon after raising his left wing up and displaying a middle feather to Sev. “Just kidding, bro. Geez, why do you gotta be so serious sometimes?” Wing rolled his eyes at him, but a knock at the door prevented Sev from saying his comeback. “I’ll get it,” Wing said as he got up and trotted to the door. He found a grey blonde-mane pegasus at his doorstep. “Hey, Derpy. What came in today?” “You got a lot, actually!” Derpy rummaged through her mail bag and gave a small stack of letters to Wing. “Have a nice day!” “You too!” Wing closed the door, trotting back to the kitchen. “So what did we get?” Sev asked, noticing the little pile of letters. “Bill, bill, bill…” “I get the idea, it’s mainly bills. Anything else?” “Looks like that’s it.” Wing tossed the stack of letters on the counter. “Well, time to uh… ‘make some more money.’” Sev replied with a small smile. “Yep, but it’ll have to wait til after the Summer Sun Celebration.” Wing replied shoving a chocolate chip muffin into his mouth. “I know. We both have our own ways. Mine being more…’hostile’.” Sev had a semi-devious look on his face. He’d always been the brawn while Wing had been the brains. “I’ve been thinking of moving in with Fluttershy recently.” Wing announced drinking a glass of orange juice. “Yeah, I might do the same with Rainbow Dash.” Sev took a drink from his glass of orange juice as well. “Although, this year marks the thousandth Summer Sun Celebration.” “And that means?” Sev asked a confused expression on his face. “Nightmare Moon? Haven’t you read the books on her?” Wing had the tone that one would have speaking to a foal. “Occasionally. And I know what that is I’m a grown pony! I’m not a foal!!” Sev protested glaring at wing for speaking to him like a child “Well, since you’ve read up on her, what can you tell me about them?” Wing quizzed. “That… oh my Celestia…” Sev’s eyes widened at the revelation. “She’s returning at the event, and I’m sure Celestia has seen the signs as well.” “Duh, they’re sisters. Of course she’d know.” “Oh, so you were paying attention, unlike most ponies.” “You mean ignoring the blatant phrase? What was it? Ah, yes: ‘Once upon a time in the magical land of Equestria there were two sisters’?” “Can you believe that some ponies don’t pay attention to that line?” “Well then, they’re idiots.” “No kidding.” “But do we do while we’re waiting?” “We could head to our bunker to kill some time.” “That might work. Besides ,we have a bit of planning to do.” “That we do, my friend.” Wing and Sev got up from the table and set their plates in the sink. The gears in their minds were already whirring with what would happen once Nightmare Moon returned. “And to think, we’d never have met if you didn’t use that wing spell from the book in the restricted section as a colt,” Wing wondered. “I know, right? I wonder how that would have gone if I did something else?” “For one you wouldn’t be…the Con Mane clone you are today,” Wing chuckled. “Buck you, Wing.” “I’m just kidding with you, buddy,” Wing said. “Uh huh. I ‘believe’ you.” “Come on, let’s go hang out in our home away from home.” Wing got up from the table and trotted to the door. “Yeah yeah let’s get going.” Sev followed Wing out the door to the great outdoors, where the pegasi arranged for a sunny day with a gentle breeze. “Beautiful day today,” Wing commented. “Yep. Celestia really did a good job today,” Sev added. The two ponies walked through town. Given the occasion, they witnessed the townsponies getting the place ready for the event, hanging decorations in every nook and cranny in every street. The pair walked to the edge of town, standing at the entrance to the Everfree Forest. The shade of the trees cooled the pair from the heat of the summer sun. The two stayed on the main path to avoid any and all posion joke plants in their path. “Good thing we know to avoid those,” Wing commented, remembering the last time they were hit with poison joke. “Yeah, stepping in that once is more than enough,” Sev cringed. Wing and Sev arrived at their bunker after an half hour’s walk through the forest. The structure was built into a hill, looking very familiar to a certain village in a galaxy far, far away. “Always good to come out here, eh Sev?” Wing commented. “Yes it is, Wing. It’s good to get away from town once in awhile.” Sev flipped a box open with his magic and typed in a code in the keypad. After a beep. the doors to the bunker opened up, and the two ponies trotted in. Sev switched the lights on, revealing a rather spacious and well decorated room. “Oh, there it is.” Wing walked over to a couch and picked up a comic that was on the coffee table next to it. “Find that Pony Rangers comic you were looking for?” Sev asked. ‘Yeah, it’s right where I left it. I’ve been looking for it for weeks!” “Least you found it.” “Yeah, about time.” Wing flopped on the couch and started reading the comic. “I’m gonna go back into town to get something. Be right back!” Sev walked outside the door, closing behind him. “Alright, buddy!” Wing called over as Sev left. He chuckled to himself as he picked up where he left off in the comic. Deep down, he knew that the Elements of Harmony would have to be found soon if Equestria had any hope of defeating Nightmare Moon. Chapter 2Wing and Sev lead the way back to town with Spike in the middle and Twi taking the trail position. Her stomach was hanging down from all the pie she’d eaten. “Oh, I ate too much pie,” Twilight groaned. Sev looked back. “Looks like you had too much of something else, Twilight.” Wing sighed then smacked Sev across the back of the head with his hoof. “Ow! What the buck was that for?!” “You know what!” Wing snapped back. “Wow… Sev really hasn’t changed since high school,” Spike commented. “Anyways, barring Sev’s… obtuse comments…” Wing started. “My comments are not obtuse! I am a perfect gentlecolt!” Sev argued. “You take after Con Mane, I wouldn’t call him a gentlecolt,” Wing shot back. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.” The entire group except Sev groaned loudly. “What?” Sev asked, feeling a bit offended. “Buddy, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were Con Mane’s son.” “Wish I was sometimes,” Sev replied, causing Wing to groan. “Anyways… what’s next, Spike?” Twilight asked. “Well, it says there’s supposed to be a pegasus named Rainbow Dash keeping the sky clear.” “Well she’s not doing a very good job,” Twilight noted, looking at the clouds in the sky. As Twilight stood there, a cyan blur crashed into her, causing them to tumble into the mud. “Oops. Excuse me?” A giggling mare’s voice said as she removed herself from the mini pile. “Honey…” Sev said to the mare shaking his head. “Here, let me help,” the pegasus said, getting a rain cloud. She hovered it over Twilight and started bouncing on it, causing it to pour rain on Twilight to wash off the mud. “No you don’t need to… help…” Wing and Sev said, facehooving at the sight. “Oops. I guess I over did it.” “No, really dear?” Sev replied sarcastically with an equally sarcastic expression. “Here let me try this,” The pegasus said as she started to fly fast in a circle around Twilight. “No, not the…” Sev groaned. “My very own patented...” the mare said “For the love of Celestia, honey…” Sev facehooved again. “Rainblow Dry! No no, you’re quite welcome,” The mare said, landing on the ground. She then looked at Twilight’s mane, which was now massively poofed up. She started snickering then broke into full on laughter, Sev and even Spike joining in soon after. Twilight merely rolled her eyes. “Let me guess: you’re Rainbow Dash?” she asked the mare. Wing and Sev got their laughter under control while Spike was knocked away as the mare stood up. “The one and only!” Rainbow Dash proudly proclaimed. “Why, you heard of me?” She asked as she started to hover next to Twilight. “This is my fillyfriend, Twilight.” Sev said. “Wow, she’s absolutely perfect for you, Sev.” Twilight groaned before looking to Dash. “I’m Twilight Sparkle. And the princess sent me to check on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. So can we discuss the weather?“ “Yeah yeah, I’ll be done with it once I’m done practicing,” Rainbow assured Twilight. “Practicing? Practicing for what?” Twilight asked. “The Wonderbolts! They’re going to be performing at the ceremony tomorrow and I’m gonna show them my stuff!” “Dash, we’ve been over this. You have to go to the academy to join the Wonderbolts,” Wing remarked. “Yes, Dashie. Just butting in during their performance will get you tased by security. And I’m not gonna be paying your bail,” Sev added. “Whatever! Once they see how awesome I am they’ll be asking me to join!” Wing and Sev groaned and facehooved again. “The Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked. “Yep,” Dash replied. “As in the most talented flyers in all of Equestria?” “That’s them.” “Please, they’d never ask for a pegasus that couldn’t keep the sky clear.” “Hey! I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!” Dash exclaimed. ‘Prove it.” Twilight challenged with a smirk, causing Sev and Wing to drop their jaws in shock. Rainbow locked eyes with Twilight then took off in a dazzling display. True to her word, she cleared the sky in ten seconds flat. “What’d I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I’d never leave Ponyville hanging!” Twilight and Spike had utterly shocked looks on their faces. “Ha! ha! You should see the look on your face! You’re a laugh Twilight Sparkle! I can’t wait to hang out some more,” Rainbow Dash said before she zoomed off. “She’s incredible,” Spike marveled, then chuckled as he played with Twilight’s poofed up mane. “Hey, eyes off the rainbow mare, Spikey!” Sev glared. Wing chuckled as he and Twilight lead the way to Town Hall. “Decorations,” Spike said, checking the item off the list before something caught his eye. “Whoa...” “Yes, it seems to be coming along nicely,” Twilight remarked taking a quick look. “Not the decor... her!” Spike pointed to a marshmallow white unicorn that was using her magic to judge various ribbons. “No... no… oh goodness, no!” Apparently she hadn’t liked any of the ribbons she’d been looking at. Sev and Spike sighed dreamily, love hearts floating above them as they looked at the unicorn. “How are my spikes? Are they straight?” Spike asked worryingly. “Buddy, how’s my mane?” Sev asked Wing. Wing groaned in response as the group approached the unicorn. “Ah, perfect!” The unicorn had settled on a big red ribbon. “Rarity? Do you have a moment?” Wing asked. “Yes, Wing dear. Just a moment, please! I’m in the zone, as ‘twere. Ah, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why Rarity, you are a talent!” After finishing up with her work, she turned to face the group. “Now, how might I help... wahaha!” Rarity shrieked when she saw Twilight’s mane. “Oh my stars! Darling, whatever happened to your coiffure?” “Oh, you mean my mane? It’s a long story,” Twilight replied. “Another unfortunate victim of the Rainblow Dry,” Wing said shaking his head. “I keep telling her she doesn’t need to do it but she doesn’t listen,” Sev lamented. “Hmm, a bit like you Mr. Divine.” “Hey!” Wing snickered at Sev’s response. “Shut up, Wing!” “Darlings! This is no time to argue!” “Sorry, Rarity.” Wing apologized. “Apologies, Ms. Rarity.” Sev apologized. “Anyways, we were just gonna check on the decorations and then be out of your hair,” Twilight said. “Out of my hair? What about your hair?” Rarity asked as she started pushing Twilight out of Town Hall, much to her objections. “Wait, where are we going? Help!” Twilight yelped as she was being pushed out. Sev, Wing and Spike followed the fashionista and the unfortunate pony she was pushing. After they had arrived at Rarity’s home. Wing, Spike and Sev watched as Rarity had Twilight try on a bunch of different dresses, but finding something wrong with each of them. “I know Rarity means well, but could she just pick a dress for Twilight?” Wing asked Sev telepathically. “Never rush a lady,” Sev replied. “Ah, here we are!” Rarity had finally picked out a dress for Twilight. “Now go on my dear, and tell me where you’re from.” Wing and Sev shared worried looks. “Don’t say you’re from Canterlot, don’t say you’re from Canterlot...” Wing muttered under his breath. “Twilight if you value your sanity, you won’t say you’re from Canterlot.” Sev also muttered under his breath. Twilight was struggling to breath as Rarity tightened the dress. “I’ve… been… sent… from… Canterlot… to…” Rarity’s eyes snapped open at the mere mention of Canterlot and let go. The act sent Twilight and herself in opposite directions. “Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamor! The sophistication! I’ve always dreamed of living there!” “The classism!” Sev chimed in. “Don’t forget the racism!” Wing added. “Well, that’s not all Canterlot ponies,” Sev corrected. “True.” “Honestly, Mr. Wing, Mr. Divine!” “We’re just speaking the truth,” Sev said. Rarity shook her head and turned back to Twilight. “Anyways… I can’t wait to hear all about it! We’re going to be the best of friends, you and I.” Rarity then gave a look of disapproval at the dress. “Emerald? What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!” Rarity rushed off to get the gems. Twilight took the opportunity to escape. “Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat another color!” Sev grabbed Spike after he sighed dreamily as the group made their escape. After escaping Rarity’s shop, the group made the short journey to the park. Spike, however, was still focused on Rarity. “Wasn’t she amazing?” Spike asked aloud. “Focus, Casanova,” Twilight replied annoyedly. “What’s next?” “Music is the last one.” “My fillyfriend’s in charge of that,” Wing said. The sound of birds singing guided the group. They came upon a clearing where a butter yellow pegasus mare was hovering in front of a tree conducting the birds. Wing slowly flew over next to the pegasus, watching as one of the birds went out of tune. “Ohmy… umm, stop please, everyone,” the mare said as she flew over to the out of tune bluejay. “Excuse me sir, I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just the teenist tiniest bit off.” “Yes, but other than that, it was perfect,” Wing added in a whisper. Fluttershy looked over to Wing. “Oh, hi honey. How has your day been?” “Good dear. It sounds like practice is going good.” Fluttershy smiled and floated back to her original position, followed by Wing. “Now let’s pick up where we were. A one, a two, a one two three…” Fluttershy started only to be interrupted by Twilight. “Hello!” Twilight said loudly, causing the birds to scatter and Fluttershy to jump in fright. Wing shot a glare at Twilight before his eyes relaxed. He forgot that Twilight hadn’t met Fluttershy yet. The two pegasi landed on the ground and an awkward silence filled the air as Sev came out from behind the bush. “Well this is awkward,” Wing said to Sev telepathically. “Yep,” Sev replied. Twilight shifted her eyes from left to right smiling widely. “I’m Twilight Sparkle. What’s your name?” Twilight asked. “I’m...Fluttershy…” Fluttershy mumbled under her breath. “I’m sorry, what was that?” “M...My...name is... Fluttershy…” Fluttershy mumbled again. “Didn’t quite catch that.” Fluttershy did nothing after that but squeak in reply. “Fluttershy…” Sev moaned before turning to Wing. “You really need to give her assertiveness lessons.” “I am,” Wing replied. The birds had returned by this point which Twilight noticed. “Well I can see your birds are back so keep up the good work.” Fluttershy squeaked in reply once more. “Ookay...” Twilight backed up to the bush, Spike coming into view. “Well, that went well.” “Oh! A baby dragon!” Fluttershy suddenly shouted, rushing forward and knocking Twilight forward several feet. Oh! I’ve never seen a baby dragon before! He’s sooo cute!” “Well well well,” Spike said to Twilight. “Oh my, he talks. I didn’t know dragons could talk. That’s just so incredibly wonderful. I don’t know what to say.” “Yes, well we’d better get going.” Twilight said levitating Spike to her back as she started to walk off. “Twilight...” Wing said as he, Fluttershy and Sev started following her. “Wait what’s his name?” Fluttershy asked. “I’m Spike.” “Hi Spike, I’m Fluttershy. Wow a talking dragon. What do dragons talk about?” “Well, what do you want to know?” Spike asked. “Absolutely everything.” Fluttershy said, excited about the prospect. Wing, Sev and Twilight all groaned in unison at the thought. “Well, I started out as a cute purple and green egg…” Spike started. The walk to the library, although short, was exceeding painful for the three who did know Spike’s life story. “Good. We’re there and he’s done with his story,” Sev said to Wing telepathically. “And that’s the story of my whole life up until today. Do you want to hear about today?” “Oh Celestia please make him stop” Wing told Sev telepathically. “Oh, yes please!” “I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I’m staying while I’m in Ponyville and my poor little baby dragon needs his sleep.” “No I don’t,” Spike protested only for Twilight to kick him off her back, causing him to fall to the ground. “Aww, wook at that, he’s so sweepy he can’t even keep his widdle balance,” Twilight cooed. “Poor thing, we simply must get him to bed.” Fluttershy said, picking up Spike and flying him inside the library. “Yes, yes we’ll get on that. Well goodnight,” Twilight said pushing Fluttershy outside and closing the door in her face. “Did Pinkie see her?” Fluttershy asked looking to Wing and Sev. “Yep,” Wing replied. “Did you warn her?” “Nope,” Sev replied. “Oh dear. Well let’s take the back entrance so we’re not late.” Fluttershy said as the three went through the backdoor to the library. As the three made their way, Spike and Twilight were talking inside the library in the dark. “Hmph, rude much?” Spike asked. “I’m sorry Spike, but I have to convince the princess that Nightmare Moon is coming. And we’re running out of time. I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now where’s the light?” The lights suddenly flipped on, revealing a large group of ponies that had been waiting in the dark. “Surprise!” the group said in unison. Twilight groaned as a pony blowing a party horn moved in front of her face. Chapter 3“Surprise!” A pink earth pony mare shouted as she came into Twilight’s view. “I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were you? Were you?” Pinkie asked excitedly. “Yes, I was surprised,” Twilight replied. “Libraries are suppose to be quiet.” "How can a party be quiet? I mean boooring!” Pinkie chirped loudly. Twilight started to walk away from her. But Pinkie followed her every step, continuing to chatter on and on, causing Twilight to groan softly. Twilight eventually reached the drink table and took a bottle of hot sauce, pouring it in a glass as Pinkie still continued to talk her ears off. “Celestia I need a drink…” Twilight thought to herself. “And now you have lots and lots of friends!” Pinkie finished as she, the other ponies Twilight had met on the tour and Wing and Sev gathered in a small semi circle, looking at Twilight. The hot sauce had taken effect by this point as Twilight’s face turned a fiery red due to the peppers in the sauce. “You alright, sugarcube?” Applejack asked. Twilight didn’t respond as the heat in the sauce became too much for her, and after bursting into flames for a moment, she raced upstairs to her room. “Aw, she’s so happy she’s crying!” Pinkie Pie said. Spike walked over to the table, picking up the bottle of the spicy condiment that Twilight unknowingly poured into her drink. “Hot sauce?” he asked aloud. Pinkie Pie tipped the bottle so it poured over a cupcake, which she devoured in a single bite, much to the disgust of the others. “What? It’s good!” she said. “That was disgusting, Pinkie,” Sev remarked. “Yeah...hot sauce on cupcakes is just nasty,” Wing added. “Are you crazy? It’s one of the best things ever!” Pinkie said. Wing sighed and chuckled. “Oh Pinkie Pie, you are...so...random.” “That’s what the humans think!” Pinkie beamed. Wing sighed and facehoofed. “Have you been talking to Lyra...or the more scary thought, helping her with her experiments?” “Do you really want the answer to that?” Pinkie asked. “Now that you mention it, I really really don’t,” Wing replied, a hint of fear in his voice. Pinkie Pie smiled and drank some of the punch she brought for the party. “Pinkie can be really scary sometimes,” Wing said to Sev. “You’re just now noticing this?” Sev asked, a bit shocked. “Yes, I did in fact,” Wing replied sarcastically. “Ok smartass, very funny,” Sev replied. Sev then took note of Dash being busy and went to chat with another mare. “Typical Sev…” Wing muttered sighing. “Yeah...he really does need a leash sometimes...but um...that’s just my opinion,” Fluttershy whispered. “Yeah, I agree dear.” “So you used to date Twilight?” Fluttershy asked. “Yeah, it was when I was going to school in Canterlot while we were taking our break,” Wing replied. Fluttershy eyed Wing with suspicion. “Flutters, I broke it off before I left Canterlot. It was the same situation with you. I didn’t want to put her through the strains of a long distance relationship.” “Ok,” Fluttershy replied in acceptance. “Still, it is good to see her again, though.” “And Spike?” “Huh? Oh! Yeah, it was...good to see him again, too.” Pinkie Pie hopped up to the two of them. “Drinks?” she asked. Wing looked to Fluttershy, who shrugged then looked back to Pinkie. “Why not?” he replied, taking a drink and downing it in a single gulp. “Whoo! Party!” Fluttershy shook her head as she drank hers slowly. The hours passed by Twilight slowly. She had fallen asleep, but the sounds of the party downstairs kept her awake. She groaned in frustration as the door opened and Spike walked in, a lampshade on his head. “Hey Twilight, Pinkie Pie started a game of pin the tail on the pony! Wanna join?” Spike asked. “No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you realize what time it is?!” Twilight shouted. “Aw gome on Rwi!” Wing said stumbling in the door as well. “You gots habe a vittle zun!” he slurred, the drunken speech an indication of how much alcohol he’d consumed. “Wing, I expected this kind of thing from Sev, not you!” She took note of Sev not appearing to defend himself. “Where’s Sev?” “Zast I faw him he sas hatting it ut lith pome care.” Wing replied before leaving to rejoin the party. “Anyways...I was gonna say it’s the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony’s gotta stay up or they’ll miss the princess raise the sun. You really should lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party,” Spike said before he left. “Schkitz, is everything alright there?” Queen Chiton communicated with Wing “Vas muter,” Wing replied before hiccuping. “Schkitz...are you drunk?” Wing drunkenly belched in reply. Queen Chiton sent a charge telepathically to get Wing out of his stupor. “Ah! Wha? Where am I?” Wing asked Queen Chiton. “Ponyville, coming out of a drunken stupor thanks to me. Do the same to Sev. I need you to be on your guard due to Nightmare Moon’s return.” “Yes mother.” “Now go find Sev. The princess should be raising the sun soon.” “On it.” Wing cut off communication and went off to find Sev, finding him in a broom closet by himself on the floor. “Get up!” Wing said, shaking Sev. Sev groaned and opened his eyes. “Where’d the pretty mare go?” Sev asked. “Gee, the princess is about to raise the sun. Where do you think?” “Wiseass. Help me up and let’s get over there. Oh my head...” “Here, instant sobriety pill,” Wing said, giving Sev a small pill. “Thanks,” Sev replied, taking the pill. Wing and Sev walked over to Town Hall where the celebration was taking place. Wing was also keeping an eye on the stars as they entered. Pinkie Pie zoomed up to Twilight. ”Isn’t this exciting? Are you excited cause I’m excited! I’ve never been so excited! Well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went *gasp* but I mean really, who can top that?” Pinkie rambled out. Fluttershy’s bird choir quieted the hyperactive mare. “Fillies and gentlecolts! As mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!” Mayor Mare announced. The crowd cheered in response. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise and witness this, the longest day of the year. And now it is my great honor to introduce the ruler of our land…” As Mayor Mare was speaking, the four stars surrounding the moon disappeared into it, causing the imprint of the mare in the moon to disappear. “Um...buddy…” Wing elbowed Sev indicating toward the moon. “Aw...buck.” Sev muttered as he saw it. “The very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria, Princess Celestia!” Rarity pulled back the curtain where Celestia was suppose to be standing. But nothing was there, causing muttering through the crowd. “This...can’t be good,” Twilight said. “No shit, Sherclop.” Sev countered. “Shut up Sev,” Twilight replied. “Remain calm, everypony. There must be a reasonable explanation,” Mayor Mare said, trying to keep the crowd calm. “Ooh! Ooh! I love guessing games! Is she hiding?” Pinkie asked, looking around. Rarity came into view have left to search where the Princess was waiting. “She’s gone!” causing many gasps through the crowd. “Ooh, she’s good!” Pinkie said before gasping herself upon seeing a puff of bluish/black smoke. The crowd also gasped on seeing it. “Um...mother…” Wing telepathically communicated to Queen Chiton, and began to stream the events live. “Oh no…” Twilight said under her breath. The smoke began to form before it revealed itself as a tall alicorn with a coat as black as night itself. “Nightmare Moon.” Spike fainted off of Twilight’s back on seeing the dark queen of the night. “Oh, my beloved subjects. It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun-loving faces!” Nightmare Moon said. “What did you do with our princess?” Rainbow Dash shouted, zooming toward her, only to be held back by Applejack. “Whoa nelly!” Nightmare Moon chuckled. “Why? Am I not royal enough for you? Don’t you know who I am?” “Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um...Hokey Smokey! How bout Queen Meanie! No, Black Snooty, Black Snooty!” Pinkie Pie’s babble was cut off by Applejack shoving a cupcake in her mouth. “I think Queen Nighty seems about right!” Wing said. “Seems good to me, buddy!” Sev agreed. Nightmare Moon gazed at the two. “I must admit you’re either the bravest or the stupidest ponies ever.” “Well, say, if you were to win, I’d join right up with you. If you won, that is.” Nightmare Moon slowly grinned. “You’d gladly join my side if I won?” She asked. “You heard correctly,” Wing said, giving his best poker face. “I sincerely hope you’re bluffing, Schiktz,” Queen Chiton communicated. “I am, mother. But if she did win, it would be the only thing I could do to help keep the hive safe, and you know I would do such a thing.” “Yes...I know. Just stay safe and try to get the Elements of Harmony their bearers. And defeat her before it comes to that.” “Will do, mother. Schkitz out.” Wing cut the communication with Queen Chiton. Nightmare Moon continued with her speech. “Does my crown no longer count, now that I’ve been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” “I did!” Twilight spoke up. “And I know who you are. You’re the Mare in the Moon.” “Nightmare Moon!” Twilight Wing and Sev said in unison. The crowd gasped at this. “Well well well, three ponies who remember me. Then you also know why I’m here.” “You’re here to...to…” “To bring about nighttime eternal. And rule Equestria while your s... I mean...Princess Celestia resides in the moon forever and ever and ever.” “That’s three evers. That’s like...forever,” Pinkie moaned. “Ooh! I have something planned for this kind of situation!” “Pinkie, how do you…” Sev started, only to be cut off by Wing. “Sev...It’s Pinkie Pie. Are you really that surprised?” “Not really.” Nightmare Moon stomped her hoof immediately, silencing the two friends. Once they were silent, she started to laugh. “Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” Nightmare moon started cackling in delight at the prospect. She had gotten her revenge against Celestia. Now, she had Equestria for herself. chapter 4Nightmare Moon continued cackling, as lightning crackled all around her. “Seize her! Only she can tell us where the princess is!” Mayor Mare shouted. “Stand back, you foals!” Nightmare Moon reared back on her hind legs and attacked the approach guards. She swatted them down to the floor like flies. Another cackle taunted the guards as she disappeared into a black puff of smoke flying out of the town hall. “Just what were you expecting to do against an alicorn?” Wing asked, trotting up to one of the guards. “Ow…” the guard muttered. “Rainbow Dash, what the buck are you doing?!” Wing looked to the door and saw Dash racing out in pursuit of the smoke monster. “Nighttime forever?” Wing heard her mutter as he and Sev arrived to her spot. “Yes, Dash, that’s what she’s here to do,” Wing replied sarcastically. “There’s no need for sarcasm, Wing,” Dash groaned. “Well, there goes Twi,” Sev noted as Twilight scrambled out of the town hall. “Where’s she going?” Dash replied. “What the hay does she think she’s doing?” “Oh, for crying out loud,” Wing facehooved. “Come on, let’s find her before she starts accusing Twi of being a spy.” The rest of the girls in the vicinity nodded in agreement. By that point, Spike was in bed and Twilight was searching through the library’s books. “Oh, how am I supposed to defeat Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?” “And just what are the Elements of Harmony?!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she got in Twilight’s face. “And how you you know so much about Nightmare Moon? Are you a spy?” Rainbow felt herself being dragged as she finished the last sentence. “Simmer down, Sally. She ain’t no spy, but she does know bout what’s goin on. Don’t ya, Twilight?” the pony dragging Dash, Applejack, inquired. “I read all I could about the predictions on Nightmare Moon.. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her. I don’t even know where they are where to find them or what they do,” Twilight sighed. Pinkie Pie bounced around the bookshelves and bumped her head into one of the books. “The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide. Cool,” she commented. “How did you find it?” Twilight gasped, as she knocked Pinkie over to get a look at the book. “It was under E,” Pinkie grinned. “Duh. You didn’t think to go in alphabetical order to find it, Twi?” Wing asked. “That’s so unlike you, given your OCD,” Sev added. Twilight glared at Wing and Sev and gave Pinkie a more quizzical look before she opened the book. “There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known. They are kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty and loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery.” “It’s magic.” Wing told Sev telepathically. “Huh?” Sev replied. “The sixth element, it’s magic.” “Why don’t you tell Twi that, then?” “It would raise questions of how I know what the element is. No Equestrian books about the elements of harmony mention what the sixth element is. So how else would I know about it?” “Okay, I get it. I hope they can find it on their own.” “It is said that the last location of the six Elements was in the ancient castle of the Royal Pony Sisters. It is located in what is now...” Twilight stopped reading as her lip quivered. “Well, where is it, darling?’ Rarity asked. “I think you know the place, but it’s not somewhere you want to be alone…” Wing added. “Wait, you don’t mean…” Rarity replied. “Oh yes, that’s what he means,” countered Sev. “It’s in…” “The Everfree Forest?” the six mares spoke in unison. The group of adventurers arrived at the edge of the creepiest forest in Equestria. To say they were nervous was an understatement--well, save for one pony. “Whee, let’s go!” Pinkie cheered. “Not so fast,” Twilight cut her off. “I appreciate the offer but I’d like to do this on my own.” “Have you gone nuts recently?” Sev gaped. “You know it’s dangerous in there.” “No can do, sugarcube,” Applejack added. “We sure ain’t letting any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We’re sticking to you like caramel on a candy apple.” “Especially if there’s candy apples in there. What? Those things are good?” Pinkie Pie commented. “What do you think, buddy? Should I go for max firepower or penetration?” Wing asked Sev. Twilight looked back to see Wing holding two firearms. “Um, Wing will we really need those?” “Twilight, it’s the Everfree Forest. Of course we’re gonna need them,” Sev replied. “As for your question, Wing, penetration.” Wing looked at his weapons again. ‘How bout you take the penetration and I take the max firepower? That way we’re ready against any threat?” “Sounds good to me!” Sev replied, taking a bulky firearm as Wing took the lighter one. “Are you two ready yet?” Twilight butted in. “Yes, Mom,” Sev replied sarcastically. Twilight sighed and shook her head as the three ran to catch up with the others. “So none of you have been in here before?” Twilight quizzed the rest of the group. “Wing and Sev have been in here before, I know that, but this is our first trip here. Hopefully the last one, too. Just look at all this horrid dirt!” Rarity replied in disgust. “It ain’t natural. Some folks say it doesn’t work the same as the rest of Equestria,” Applejack added. “What’s that suppose to mean?” “Nopony knows.” Rainbow Dash said spookily. “Dash… we don’t have time for that story,” Wing rubbed his head in frustration. “Because nopony who’s ever gone in has ever come out!” Dash finished her story. “Um, we’ve been in there…” Sev trailed off. “Oh, right.” Rainbow Dash chuckled. “Lemme change the story. Many have come in, few have come out! There, much better already.” Wing felt the ground beneath his hooves tremble for a second before it collapsed underneath him. It happened so suddenly that that pegasi in the group barely had enough time to take off. The rest screamed as they were falling to their doom off a cliff. “Time to do what pegasi do best!” Dash shouted. Wing and Sev flew to grab Rarity, while Rainbow and Fluttershy swooped in to help Pinkie Pie. Applejack grabbed a branch to hang on, but noticed Twilight had slid to the edge of the cliff. “Hang on, I’m coming,” she said as she let go, sliding down the hill to help Twilight. “Applejack, help!” Twilight cried out. Applejack tried her best to help her up, until she saw something below the cliff. “Sugarcube, you’re gonna have to let go.” “Are you crazy?!” “Ah promise you’ll be alright.” “That’s not true!” Twilight shrieked. “Now listen here. What ah’m telling you is the honest truth.” Twilight looked at Applejack, seeing the sincerity in her words, before closing her eyes, taking a deep breath, and letting go. Instead of plummeting to her doom, Twilight found herself hovering in place after a few seconds. “Did you really think we’d let anything happen to you, Twi?” Twilight opened her eyes and saw Wing and Fluttershy holding her. “Wing? Fluttershy?” “You were expecting someone else?” Wing smiled. Before Twilight could reply, the trio dropped down to the ground safely. “Sorry, but I’m not used to carrying anything more than a bunny or two,” Fluttershy admitted, as her wings were a little strung out. “It’s okay, Flutters. You came in when we needed you,” Wing commented. “For now, let’s keep moving.” “Yeah, Nightmare Moon’s still out there,” Sev responded. “Right, good idea,” Twilight commented as the rest of the group got their bearings and went on their way. “One down, five to go,” Wing communicated to Sev. “What do you mean?” Sev asked. “You’ll see soon enough.” However, nopony there spotted a purplish puff of smoke emerging near them, speeding off to a shadowy figure further down the road. Author's Note I suggest re-reading or reading depending on if this is your first chapter. The prologue has had all the unnecessary exposition removed. Chapter 5As the group continued walking, Rainbow Dash was still yakking about Twilight’s rescue. “And then Wing and Fluttershy went looped around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time.” “Yes, Dash,” Wing replied, not even hiding how annoyed he was. “We were all there, though I’m sure Twi is grateful.” “I am pretty thankful I’m not dead,” Twilight agreed. “But we really have to get to the castle.” However, she was interrupted by a loud and nasty roar in front of them. “A manticore!” Twilight shouted. The beast stood between them and their way home, blocking their path to the castle. “We’ve gotta get past him!” Wing and Sev raised their weapons to fight him. Before they charged, a soft voice from the left squeaked out in protest. “Wait,” Fluttershy spoke in her soft tone. “What? This might be a bad time, but can you speak up?” Sev sighed. “Wait,” Fluttershy repeated, a little louder that time. “I can help.” “Ugh. I’m charging in if something goes wrong,” Sev facehoofed. He kept his weapon ready in case things went that way. “Come on, Flutters, you can do it,” Wing replied. “Give her a little faith, Sev.” Looked like he had no problems hearing her. The rest of the group lowered their weapons to give the yellow pegasus her chance. “You really need to give her assertiveness lessons, you know that?” Sev snorted. “Why do you think she’s facing a manticore by herself?” “We can’t be nice to this thing!” Rainbow Dash cut in. She went ahead and lunged right at the manticore. Next thing she knew, she was thrown back into the trunk of a tree. She saw stars circle around her eyes. “Rainbow!” Twilight shouted. She scrambled to Dash’s side to make sure she was okay. She was, just a little stunned that she got her flank handed to her like that. “Waaaaaaaaait! Let me try!” Fluttershy yelled. Her loud and snappy tone made the whole group shut up, as it was so unusual for her. She calmly stood up to the manticore with a nervous smile. “Shh, it’s okay. I’m not going to hurt you. What’s wrong?” The manticore blinked his massive eyes and calmed down. He didn’t expect a pony to treat him so kindly. Realizing she was on his side, he sat down and lifted a front paw in front of her. A purple thorn was sticking out of its toe pad. “Oh, you poor baby,” Fluttershy gasped. “No wonder you were in so much pain. If you’ll let me, I can take it out for you.” “Don’t tell me she’s talking to that thing like it’s a baby,” Rainbow Dash groaned. “Shh. I think it’s working,” Twilight commented. “Now this might hurt for just a sec.” Fluttershy pulled the thorn out of the manticore's paw. He winced as it was removed, but he flexed his paw and realized that the pain was gone. That did it; he threw his front legs around Fluttershy and pulled her in. “Fluttershy!” the group shouted at once. They feared he was going to eat her or worse. Instead, he had pulled her in for a big hug. His big grin told the whole story, and he licked her face for good measure. “Aww, you’re just a little baby kitty. Yes you are,” Fluttershy giggled in response. “See, buddy? She’s really good with animals,” Wing pointed out. “Bet she’ll be good with kids, too. They’re the same thing,” Sev snickered. “Oh, please. You’ll get Mother started,” Wing communicated to Sev. Much to his dismay, it was already too late. “I’m not getting any younger, Schkitz. It’s time you and fluttershy got married and started making little nymphs! Then you can tell me all about the similarities between kids and animals,” Queen Chiton chided, milking Wing’s misery for all its worth. “Mother!” “Ah, come on buddy. I’m sure your children would be cute!” Sev snickered again. He shared Chiton’s talent for soaking in all the misery Wing offered. “This conversation is not over,” Wing snorted. He turned around and started to head back to the group. “Oh, buddy, it’s just getting started,” Sev laughed. “You know I’m just screwing with you, right?” “LIke how you ‘screwed around’ with Vinyl? Did you tell Dash about it yet, or should I have the honor?” “You wouldn’t dare.” Sev lost his innocent look at that threat. “What makes you think I won’t?” “Okay, okay, we’ll call it a draw. Truce?” “Truce. Let’s drop it, they’ll hear us.” They found their way back to the gang by then. “I heard some of that,” Twilight noted. “Do you always bicker like that?” “Kinda. It’s our thing,” Sev nervously smiled, hoping she didn’t hear the Vinyl bits. “Huh. I wonder how a friendship lasts when you two do that.” Before Sev could continue, he heard Wing say something. “Two down four to go.” “What are you talking about, Wing?” “Spoilers.” “I really hate it when you do that.” Sev scowled. “I know.” Wing smiled sarcastically at Sev. The group resumed their long march through the forest. Wing and Sev had their weapons standing by in case they’d deal with another threat. Rarity, meanwhile, wasn’t too big on what they were seeing around them. “I wish we could get a break from these… eh, awful sights,” she complained. As if to answer, a group of branches overhead blacked the area out. They couldn’t even see their hooves in front of their faces. “I didn’t mean that literally,” she cried. “Called it,” Sev thought. “That’s just asking for trouble.” He accidently bumped into her soon after. “Oh, sorry, Miss Rarity.” “No, I should be issuing my apologies,” the white unicorn interrupted. Suddenly, everypony was bumping into something in the area. Hooves collided, horns nearly went into places horns weren’t meant to go, and feathers were brushing everywhere. “Oops. Ah think ah stepped in something,” Applejack said. “Don’t you live in a farm? I thought you were used to that,” Dash repiled. “It’s nuthin’ like that! At least Ah can see what I stepped into back there!” “Ow! What the buck was that for?!” Sev rubbed the back of his head after a big whack. “What are you talking about?” Wing mumbled. “That wasn’t me!” “Whatever…” Sev muttered before a scream broke the little silence that was left. “What the buck?!” Wing raised his rifle at the sight of a tree. Not just any tree, but one with an evil face. “Oh no. I’ve seen enough 80s horror movies to see where this is going!” Sev groaned. “Yeah. Let’s just get away from here before the vines do bad things to us.” Almost everypony agreed with him and backed off...save for one. A pink one, so to speak. “Don’t you see, girls?” Pinkie cheered, the only one that wasn’t scared for her life. ♫When I was a little filly and the sun was going down…♫ “Pinkie, this isn’t time for a song!” Sev cut in. “Is she really…” Twilight wondered. ♫The darkness and the shadows would always make me frown♫ Pinkie continued to sing. “Yep, she’s really doing it,” Wing groaned. ♫I'd hide under my pillow♫ ♫From what I thought I saw, ♫But Granny Pie said♫ ♫That wasn't the way♫ ♫To deal with fears at all♫ “Pinkie, what is the answer?” Dash asked ♫She said♫ ♫Pinkie♫ ♫You gotta stand up tall♫ ♫Learn to face your fears♫ ♫You'll see♫ ♫That they can't hurt you♫ ♫Just laugh to make them disappear♫ HA HA HA” While everyone else gasped from Pinkie’s antics, Wing and Sev stayed silent. “Pinkie gonna Pinkie,” Wing whispered, while Sev shrugged. ♫So, giggle at the ghostly♫ ♫Guffaw at the grossly♫ ♫Crack up at the creepy♫ ♫Whoop it up with the weepy♫ ♫Chortle at the kooky♫ ♫Snortle at the spooky♫ ♫And tell that big dumb scary face♫ ♫To take a hike and leave you alone♫ ♫And if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna… Ahahaha, ha ha ♫Pinkie gasped as she needed a deep breath after all that singing. She was very silly the whole time she sang, but it worked. All those evil trees in the forest with the evil faces were gone. A bunch of happy, smiling trees took their place, and the whole evil atmosphere was gone now. “Hey, it actually worked,” Wing commented. “ONE MORE TIME!” Pinkie shouted. ♫Giggle at the ghost--♫ “You know we have an evil horse bringing night forever out there?” Sev interrupted. That made the whole gang erupt in laughter. Twilight nodded. “What you did was really heroic, Pinkie, but he’s right. We still have a job to do.” “Three down, three to go,” Wing communicated to Sev. “Ugh, the suspense is killing me. You gonna keep me waiting or just tell me?” Sev pondered. “I’ll explain it eventually.” “Exactly, all good things come to those who wait, as they say,” Queen Chiton commented. “Yeah yeah.” Sev grumbled. He kicked the ground as they went on their way through the forest. “I just wanna get back home now.” “We will. Have a little faith, will you?” “Schkitz is right, Sev. Good things come to… what’s the rest of the saying?” Queen Chiton communicated. “Those who wait. I heard you the first time!” Next up on the menu was a river in the midst of a clearing. It should have sounded like a calm stream, but it sounded like a roaring river instead. “Do you hear that, buddy?” Wing commented. “Yeah. It’s not right.” Sev raised his weapon in preparation, and Wing followed his lead. They arrived at the edge of the river. Its roar filled their ears with its torrential downpour. “How are we going to cross that?” Twilight gawked. “Any ideas on why it’s doing this?” “Something happened to it. Maybe it’s magical?” Sev noted, rubbing his chin. “I suppose that’s possible, just don’t know any spells that could do that. Unless whoever cast it is really powerful...like Nightmare Moon,” Twilight thought. “Whatever it is, make it stop! It’s hurting my ears!” Pinkie complained. “It’s coming from over there!” Sev pointed out. He and Wing rushed to the source of the disturbance, and it was something else. A huge monster emerged from the water, and it wasn’t just any monster, but a sea serpent. “Oh hey, it’s just Steven Magnet,” Wing noted. “Stevie, baby! What happened?” “Sev? Wing? How wonderful is it to meet old friends in my most dire hour!” Steven pouted. “Wait, you KNOW him?” Twilight said in disbelief. “How is this possible?” “Of course we do. It’s possible to have friends other than ponies, Twily,” Sev snarked. “What happened to you, Steven?” “The worst possible thing happened. I went out swimming, like I tend to do, when a purple wisp of smoke shot right past me. When it was gone, it took half of my beloved mustache clean off! How can I be seen with just half a mustache? Don’t look at me like this…” He turned away to hide his face. “That’s not good,” Wing remarked. “You spend so much time growing it out only to have it gone.” “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy,” Sev agreed. “Actually, I would, but not on a friend.” “I know I look horrible. Leave me to my fate!” Steven fainted dramatically, sending a large wave everywhere when he flopped down to the surface. “Gimme a bucking break.” Dash muttered. “That’s what all the fuss is about? A mustache?” Applejack cocked her head in confusion. “Honestly, I can’t believe you have the gall to call him out like that!” Rarity was practically in shock. “Seriously, do you know how important a mustache is to a man?” Wing shook his head. “To be fair, they’re women. They’re not really known for facial hair,” Sev pointed out. “Hey! Just because I’m a girl doesn’t mean I can’t say it’s stupid!” Dash snapped back at Sev. “This isn’t helping!” Wing retorted. “Miss Rarity, do you have any ideas how we can help Steven out?” “Hmm, I might have just the trick. Give me one moment.” Rarity approached Steven carefully, and she used her magic to yank one of his scales out. “Ow! What did you do that for?” Steven asked. “Rarity, what are…” Twilight was cut off by a slicing sound. Steven fainted again from the sound, but at least he landed on the ground this time. “How could you do that?! You killed Steve!” Sev sobbed. Wing stayed silent, but his facial expression said everything. Rarity ignored the commotion and got to work. She didn’t cut any part of Steven off; rather, she had cut off part of her own tail. She hovered it to his face and stitched it together with her magic, and it took hold. Sure enough, it was like Steven’s mustache was whole again. “My mustache! How I’ve missed you!” Steven gleamed. He felt up the new facial hair, and it felt as good as new. “You look simply smashing.” Rarity smiled. “Just took a little faith and time, and wa-la!” “It does look really good on you, Stevie,” Wing commented. “Yeah. It should work until your mustache grows back,” Sev agreed. “Oh, Rarity, what about your tail?” Twilight pointed out. “It’s quite alright, dear. Short tails are in style this season. Besides, it’ll grow back.” “Wait, look over there. Everything’s clear now!” Twilight exclaimed. She jumped into the river to cross it, only to be picked up with her friends by the now-cheerful sea serpent. “Please, allow me to help my new friends!” he exclaimed. He used his backside to create a bridge for them to cross. “Thanks Stevie!” Wing called. The group was able to cross without incident, and Steven went back below the river once they were through. It would be smooth sailing from here, as the journey was almost over. What obstacles were left would be a surprise, but one Sev and Wing agreed they could handle. With a little help from their friends, of course. “And then there were two…” Wing said on his breath. “You really gotta stop talking in riddles,” Sev shrugged. Chapter 1Wing sat in the bunker that served as a home away from home in the Everfree Forest. He and Sev had built together one summer. He took up his time reading a Mighty Morphin Pony Rangers comic book in his natural changeling form. Sev walked in the bunker with a smile on his face and some bags of food. “Hey Wing! I'm back!” “Welcome back. What you get?” “The essentials pretty much. You ready for the upcoming celebration?” “You mean the thousandth Summer Sun Celebration? The one where it’s foretold Nightmare Moon will return?” Wing said gleefully. “That’s the one. You ready or not?” “As ready as one can be,” Wing said hesitantly. “Only the Elements of Harmony can stop her and they’ve been lost for a thousand years.” “Sounds like you really believe in this stuff. I believe in it, too. So they could be anywhere?” “Well, to be fair, they’re in the remnants of the castle of the two pony sisters.” “You mean Celestia and Luna?’ “Duh.” “Who do you think the bearers will be?” “I can think of a few possibilities, but you won’t like one of them.” “Don’t tell me it’s that redneck. Sheesh, I really hope it’s not her.” “Oh, you mean your secret crush? Yeah, it’s possible she’s one of them.” “You’re sick, you know that?” Sev groaned. Wing snickered in response. “Don’t blame me for being able to pick up on vibes. I know you like Applejack.” “That’s not true, I’d never do anything with her! I’d rather gouge my own eyes out!” “If you say so,” Wing teased. “Shut up!” Wing couldn’t help himself and burst out into laughter, only to see Sev throw a book at him. “Ow!” “Serves you right. You always smack me on the back of the head when I make even the littlest comment about a mare.” “Killjoy,” Wing muttered under his breath. “What was that?” “Nothing, Sev.” “Better have been nothing.” Wing closed the comic and put it up on the shelf. “Well then, shall we go into town and see who Celestia sent to oversee the celebration preparations?” “Yeah. Let’s go see who it is. I’m kinda curious about it.” Wing transformed to his pegasus form and led the way. The pair flew back to their home of Ponyville. The only differences about Wing’s normal form were the crimson red chitin around his midsection and his bug-like red eyes and wings. “I assume Dash is practicing for when the Wonderbolts show up tomorrow?’ “Eeyup. You know how she is.” “Heh, I know what you mean. You two were made for each other.” “You know how she is about marriage, though. ‘It’ll slow me down, it’ll affect me becoming a wonderbolt,’” Sev said in Dash’s voice. “I get it, Sev.” “While we’re at it, you and Fluttershy were made for each other.” “Hey now, buddy. Let’s not jump to conclusions.” “I’m just saying, you’ve been together for a long time.” “Not counting when we went to school in Canterlot.” “Of course, you dated Twilight after things didn’t work out with Octavia.” “Or, rather, her racist father.” “Yeah…that was rough. Sorry about that.” “And then there’s Prince Blueblood, with what he did in school. What a jerk.” “And yet Ms. Rarity thinks Canterlot is the greatest thing to ever happen.” That got both of them to groan. “Hey, one day she’ll learn, once she goes there and actually meets some of those ponies.” “Indeed, Schkitz,” Queen Chiton interjected telepathically.. “Ah, Mother. Getting the hive ready?” “Yes. I gather that you will stay in Ponyville?” “Indeed. I’m not just gonna leave Sev here.” “That is your choice. But I will stay in contact til it is clear that Nightmare Moon does indeed return. Stay safe out there, Schkitz.” “Don’t worry mother I will.” “Queen Chiton again?’ Sev asked. “Yep,” Wing replied verbally, as the pair began final approach to Ponyville. “She’s worried as well?” “About Nightmare Moon? Well yeah. Can you blame her?” “Understandable. I’m a little edgy about it myself.” Sev and Wing landed and started walking down the main street. Wing looked over to one corner and saw a familiar face. “Hey buddy, is that who I think it is?” Wing asked. “Huh?” Sev looked over and saw Twilight Sparkle with her assistant Spike. “Hey, Twiley’s here.” “Uh-oh look who’s walking up to he..” Wing motioned to Pinkie Pie. “Oh boy…” Sev replied. “Here we go.” They two heard Pinkie Pie gasp loudly. “Pinkie Pie!” Sev shouted loudly. Wing walked over to meet Twilight, followed by Sev. “Don’t mind her, she’s just being Pinkie Pie.” Wing said. “That voice…” Twilight said, before turning to see Sev and Wing. “Wing? Sev?” “Hey Twi,” Sev said. “It’s been a while.” “How ya been, Twi?” Wing asked. “I can’t believe it’s you!” Twilight gleamed, coming over to meet some old faces. “Sev, where have you been all these years?” “He’s been in Cloudsdale with me,” Wing replied. “Yeah...I had to get away from Canterlot,” Sev said meekly. “It was way too much for me.” “Well, it’s good to see you two again. I have to catch up with you guys soon.” “What about me?” Spike interjected. “Yes, it’s good to see you too, Spike.” Wing replied. “Nice to see you’ve gone on a growth spurt.” “You guys are here for the Summer Sun Celebration, right?” Sev asked. “Yeah, that’s what we’re here for.” Spike replied, gleaming with pride at the growth spurt comment. “How about Sev and I show you around?” Wing offered. “That’s a great idea Wing! And it will give us a lot of time to catch up. Go ahead and show me around.” With that settled, the four friends walked down the street, with Sev and Wing leading the way. “So where we going first?” Wing asked. “We’re checking out the food situation at uh...Sweet Apple Acres?” Spike muttered. “Oh...Goody…” Sev moaned. “What’s with him?” Spike whispered over to Wing. “Oh don’t mind Grumpy Pants here. He’s just upset that we’re going to see his secret crush first” Wing snickered. Sev looked over as he'd heard that. “You’re sick in the head, you know that? Why would I ever date that hick?” “What’s all this about?” Twilight asked, overhearing Sev. “You’ll see when we get there,” Wing replied. “Okay, then…” The group soon arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, the smell of apples wafting into their nostrils. “Yeehaw!” an orange earthpony with a blond mane shouted. She ran to a tree and bucked it, causing the apples in it to fall into buckets underneath it. “Let’s just get this done so we can get back to our research and tour of Ponyville.” Twilight said as she walked up to the mare, Wing and Sev following. “Uh, hello. I’m Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight was unprepared for the mare grabbing her hoof and shaking it violently. “Well, howdy do, Twilight. Name’s Applejack. What can I do fer ya?” Twilight continued shaking her hoof until Spike grabbed onto it, stopping the near earthquake. “Hey, Applejack,” Wing spoke up. Applejack looked to Wing with a smile. “Howdy Wing!” Her smile turned into a glare when she laid eyes on Sev. “Howdy...you.” There was a hint of venom in her voice. “Hello yourself,” Sev replied with an equal amount of venom. “Am I missing something here?” Twilight asked in confusion. “This is Sev’s secret crush, Twilight,” Wing introduced her. “We do not like each other!” Sev and Applejack replied at the same time. Wing stifled with laughter at the pair. “Don’t even think about,” Sev warned. Wing regained his composure taking a deep breath. “Okay, it’s out of the system.” “Better be,” Sev growled. “Ya, Wing, I’m not gonna take this funny business well,” Applejack piled on. “Anyways...Princess Celestia sent me to check on the food situation.” Applejack perked up. “How bout I introduce ya to tha Apple family while we do that?” “Here we go..” Sev muttered under his breath. “Thanks, but--” Twilight said only to be interrupted by Applejack. “This here’s Apple Bumpkin.” she said, pointing to a mare with an apple related snack cutiemark. And after introducing several ponies and many snacks, she finally introduced the remaining three. “Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and… Granny Smith. Up and at’em Granny!” “Huh? Wha uh Soups on,” Granny said, groggily waking up from a nap in her rocking chair. “Ah might say yer already part of tha family!” Applejack said to Twilight. “When you gonna give me some grandfoals, Applejack?” Granny Smith asked, causing Applejack’s face to turn a deep red color. “G...Granny!” Applejack shouted “Ah ain’t getting any younger! You and that Sev fella would make a good couple!” Granny continued. “Granny!” Wing and Big Mac, who had been composed at this point, lost it and started laughing uncontrollably. “Dangit Wing!” Sev shouted. “Big Mac!” Applejack shouted. Twilight rolled her eyes at the situation. “Seriously, you two should calm down.” Big Mac and Wing soon got their laughter under control. “Anyway, I see the food situation is handled, so we’ll be on our way.” “Aren’t you gonna stay for brunch?” Apple Bloom asked, giving Twilight the classic bait of puppydog eyes. “Sorry, but we have a lot to do.” “Awww,” the entire Apple family said. “Come on, Twi, they have fritters,” Wing said, holding up an apple fritter. “Fine. I guess I should stay for a minute…” Twilight trailed off. The Apple Family, along with Sev and Wing, cheered with delight at Twilight’s decision. “This is going to be a long day,” Twilight thought to herself as the apple feast started. Author's Note This story take place chronologically before Imprisonment of a Changeling. But is not a direct prequel to it.
PrologueSouthern Wing awoke to the sounds of birds chirping outside his window. Groaning, he looked at the time to see it was 7:30 in the morning. He rolled out of bed and rubbed his eyes, putting his glasses on as he walked to the bathroom. Walking by his roommate’s room, he glanced inside and didn’t see his friend. “Did he wake up early or spent the night with Dash?” he asked himself. He looked in the mirror when he arrived at the bathroom. The sight of a grey bug like pony looked back at him. A smile came to his face as the figure disappeared with a flash of red magic, a grey pegasus with a brown mane and eyes emerged when it was over. “Another fine morning.” “Indeed,” a familiar voice replied. “Hey Sev,” Wing greeted back. “When I saw your bed was empty, I thought you’d spent the night with Dash.” Sev scoffed. “Really? Just because I’m not home doesn’t mean I’m with a mare… or two…” His eyes shifted left and right. “Ugh…” Wing face hooved, his mind going there immediately. “Let’s just get some breakfast.” “Right. You’re not going to me crap over last night, right?” “I’m not smacking you on the back of the head…yet,” Wing glared at Sev. The two friends trotted to the kitchen of their two-bedroom renthouse. Wing picked up the newspaper lying on the table. “Thousandth Summer Sun Celebration: Princess Celestia To Go To Ponyville For Event,” Wing read out loud. “If Celestia’s coming here, do you think she is?” Sev asked. “Heh, if she can drag her away from her books, maybe.” “Yeah, I’ve never met an egghead as big as her. Aside from you, buddy,“ Sev ribbed. “Ha ha. You so funny,” Wing groaned. “Just joking with you, you know that..” “Sure. Keep saying that.” “Am I…” Sev started. “You finish that and I’m kicking your flank.” “Bugging you?” "Oh wait, that reminds me!" Wing said as sarcastically as possible with a smile to accompany, soon after raising his left wing up and displaying a middle feather to Sev. “Just kidding, bro. Geez, why do you gotta be so serious sometimes?” Wing rolled his eyes at him, but a knock at the door prevented Sev from saying his comeback. “I’ll get it,” Wing said as he got up and trotted to the door. He found a grey blonde-mane pegasus at his doorstep. “Hey, Derpy. What came in today?” “You got a lot, actually!” Derpy rummaged through her mail bag and gave a small stack of letters to Wing. “Have a nice day!” “You too!” Wing closed the door, trotting back to the kitchen. “So what did we get?” Sev asked, noticing the little pile of letters. “Bill, bill, bill…” “I get the idea, it’s mainly bills. Anything else?” “Looks like that’s it.” Wing tossed the stack of letters on the counter. “Well, time to uh… ‘make some more money.’” Sev replied with a small smile. “Yep, but it’ll have to wait til after the Summer Sun Celebration.” Wing replied shoving a chocolate chip muffin into his mouth. “I know. We both have our own ways. Mine being more…’hostile’.” Sev had a semi-devious look on his face. He’d always been the brawn while Wing had been the brains. “I’ve been thinking of moving in with Fluttershy recently.” Wing announced drinking a glass of orange juice. “Yeah, I might do the same with Rainbow Dash.” Sev took a drink from his glass of orange juice as well. “Although, this year marks the thousandth Summer Sun Celebration.” “And that means?” Sev asked a confused expression on his face. “Nightmare Moon? Haven’t you read the books on her?” Wing had the tone that one would have speaking to a foal. “Occasionally. And I know what that is I’m a grown pony! I’m not a foal!!” Sev protested glaring at wing for speaking to him like a child “Well, since you’ve read up on her, what can you tell me about them?” Wing quizzed. “That… oh my Celestia…” Sev’s eyes widened at the revelation. “She’s returning at the event, and I’m sure Celestia has seen the signs as well.” “Duh, they’re sisters. Of course she’d know.” “Oh, so you were paying attention, unlike most ponies.” “You mean ignoring the blatant phrase? What was it? Ah, yes: ‘Once upon a time in the magical land of Equestria there were two sisters’?” “Can you believe that some ponies don’t pay attention to that line?” “Well then, they’re idiots.” “No kidding.” “But do we do while we’re waiting?” “We could head to our bunker to kill some time.” “That might work. Besides ,we have a bit of planning to do.” “That we do, my friend.” Wing and Sev got up from the table and set their plates in the sink. The gears in their minds were already whirring with what would happen once Nightmare Moon returned. “And to think, we’d never have met if you didn’t use that wing spell from the book in the restricted section as a colt,” Wing wondered. “I know, right? I wonder how that would have gone if I did something else?” “For one you wouldn’t be…the Con Mane clone you are today,” Wing chuckled. “Buck you, Wing.” “I’m just kidding with you, buddy,” Wing said. “Uh huh. I ‘believe’ you.” “Come on, let’s go hang out in our home away from home.” Wing got up from the table and trotted to the door. “Yeah yeah let’s get going.” Sev followed Wing out the door to the great outdoors, where the pegasi arranged for a sunny day with a gentle breeze. “Beautiful day today,” Wing commented. “Yep. Celestia really did a good job today,” Sev added. The two ponies walked through town. Given the occasion, they witnessed the townsponies getting the place ready for the event, hanging decorations in every nook and cranny in every street. The pair walked to the edge of town, standing at the entrance to the Everfree Forest. The shade of the trees cooled the pair from the heat of the summer sun. The two stayed on the main path to avoid any and all posion joke plants in their path. “Good thing we know to avoid those,” Wing commented, remembering the last time they were hit with poison joke. “Yeah, stepping in that once is more than enough,” Sev cringed. Wing and Sev arrived at their bunker after an half hour’s walk through the forest. The structure was built into a hill, looking very familiar to a certain village in a galaxy far, far away. “Always good to come out here, eh Sev?” Wing commented. “Yes it is, Wing. It’s good to get away from town once in awhile.” Sev flipped a box open with his magic and typed in a code in the keypad. After a beep. the doors to the bunker opened up, and the two ponies trotted in. Sev switched the lights on, revealing a rather spacious and well decorated room. “Oh, there it is.” Wing walked over to a couch and picked up a comic that was on the coffee table next to it. “Find that Pony Rangers comic you were looking for?” Sev asked. ‘Yeah, it’s right where I left it. I’ve been looking for it for weeks!” “Least you found it.” “Yeah, about time.” Wing flopped on the couch and started reading the comic. “I’m gonna go back into town to get something. Be right back!” Sev walked outside the door, closing behind him. “Alright, buddy!” Wing called over as Sev left. He chuckled to himself as he picked up where he left off in the comic. Deep down, he knew that the Elements of Harmony would have to be found soon if Equestria had any hope of defeating Nightmare Moon.
Chapter 2Wing and Sev lead the way back to town with Spike in the middle and Twi taking the trail position. Her stomach was hanging down from all the pie she’d eaten. “Oh, I ate too much pie,” Twilight groaned. Sev looked back. “Looks like you had too much of something else, Twilight.” Wing sighed then smacked Sev across the back of the head with his hoof. “Ow! What the buck was that for?!” “You know what!” Wing snapped back. “Wow… Sev really hasn’t changed since high school,” Spike commented. “Anyways, barring Sev’s… obtuse comments…” Wing started. “My comments are not obtuse! I am a perfect gentlecolt!” Sev argued. “You take after Con Mane, I wouldn’t call him a gentlecolt,” Wing shot back. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.” The entire group except Sev groaned loudly. “What?” Sev asked, feeling a bit offended. “Buddy, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were Con Mane’s son.” “Wish I was sometimes,” Sev replied, causing Wing to groan. “Anyways… what’s next, Spike?” Twilight asked. “Well, it says there’s supposed to be a pegasus named Rainbow Dash keeping the sky clear.” “Well she’s not doing a very good job,” Twilight noted, looking at the clouds in the sky. As Twilight stood there, a cyan blur crashed into her, causing them to tumble into the mud. “Oops. Excuse me?” A giggling mare’s voice said as she removed herself from the mini pile. “Honey…” Sev said to the mare shaking his head. “Here, let me help,” the pegasus said, getting a rain cloud. She hovered it over Twilight and started bouncing on it, causing it to pour rain on Twilight to wash off the mud. “No you don’t need to… help…” Wing and Sev said, facehooving at the sight. “Oops. I guess I over did it.” “No, really dear?” Sev replied sarcastically with an equally sarcastic expression. “Here let me try this,” The pegasus said as she started to fly fast in a circle around Twilight. “No, not the…” Sev groaned. “My very own patented...” the mare said “For the love of Celestia, honey…” Sev facehooved again. “Rainblow Dry! No no, you’re quite welcome,” The mare said, landing on the ground. She then looked at Twilight’s mane, which was now massively poofed up. She started snickering then broke into full on laughter, Sev and even Spike joining in soon after. Twilight merely rolled her eyes. “Let me guess: you’re Rainbow Dash?” she asked the mare. Wing and Sev got their laughter under control while Spike was knocked away as the mare stood up. “The one and only!” Rainbow Dash proudly proclaimed. “Why, you heard of me?” She asked as she started to hover next to Twilight. “This is my fillyfriend, Twilight.” Sev said. “Wow, she’s absolutely perfect for you, Sev.” Twilight groaned before looking to Dash. “I’m Twilight Sparkle. And the princess sent me to check on the preparations for the Summer Sun Celebration. So can we discuss the weather?“ “Yeah yeah, I’ll be done with it once I’m done practicing,” Rainbow assured Twilight. “Practicing? Practicing for what?” Twilight asked. “The Wonderbolts! They’re going to be performing at the ceremony tomorrow and I’m gonna show them my stuff!” “Dash, we’ve been over this. You have to go to the academy to join the Wonderbolts,” Wing remarked. “Yes, Dashie. Just butting in during their performance will get you tased by security. And I’m not gonna be paying your bail,” Sev added. “Whatever! Once they see how awesome I am they’ll be asking me to join!” Wing and Sev groaned and facehooved again. “The Wonderbolts?” Twilight asked. “Yep,” Dash replied. “As in the most talented flyers in all of Equestria?” “That’s them.” “Please, they’d never ask for a pegasus that couldn’t keep the sky clear.” “Hey! I could clear this sky in ten seconds flat!” Dash exclaimed. ‘Prove it.” Twilight challenged with a smirk, causing Sev and Wing to drop their jaws in shock. Rainbow locked eyes with Twilight then took off in a dazzling display. True to her word, she cleared the sky in ten seconds flat. “What’d I say? Ten. Seconds. Flat. I’d never leave Ponyville hanging!” Twilight and Spike had utterly shocked looks on their faces. “Ha! ha! You should see the look on your face! You’re a laugh Twilight Sparkle! I can’t wait to hang out some more,” Rainbow Dash said before she zoomed off. “She’s incredible,” Spike marveled, then chuckled as he played with Twilight’s poofed up mane. “Hey, eyes off the rainbow mare, Spikey!” Sev glared. Wing chuckled as he and Twilight lead the way to Town Hall. “Decorations,” Spike said, checking the item off the list before something caught his eye. “Whoa...” “Yes, it seems to be coming along nicely,” Twilight remarked taking a quick look. “Not the decor... her!” Spike pointed to a marshmallow white unicorn that was using her magic to judge various ribbons. “No... no… oh goodness, no!” Apparently she hadn’t liked any of the ribbons she’d been looking at. Sev and Spike sighed dreamily, love hearts floating above them as they looked at the unicorn. “How are my spikes? Are they straight?” Spike asked worryingly. “Buddy, how’s my mane?” Sev asked Wing. Wing groaned in response as the group approached the unicorn. “Ah, perfect!” The unicorn had settled on a big red ribbon. “Rarity? Do you have a moment?” Wing asked. “Yes, Wing dear. Just a moment, please! I’m in the zone, as ‘twere. Ah, yes! Sparkle always does the trick, does it not? Why Rarity, you are a talent!” After finishing up with her work, she turned to face the group. “Now, how might I help... wahaha!” Rarity shrieked when she saw Twilight’s mane. “Oh my stars! Darling, whatever happened to your coiffure?” “Oh, you mean my mane? It’s a long story,” Twilight replied. “Another unfortunate victim of the Rainblow Dry,” Wing said shaking his head. “I keep telling her she doesn’t need to do it but she doesn’t listen,” Sev lamented. “Hmm, a bit like you Mr. Divine.” “Hey!” Wing snickered at Sev’s response. “Shut up, Wing!” “Darlings! This is no time to argue!” “Sorry, Rarity.” Wing apologized. “Apologies, Ms. Rarity.” Sev apologized. “Anyways, we were just gonna check on the decorations and then be out of your hair,” Twilight said. “Out of my hair? What about your hair?” Rarity asked as she started pushing Twilight out of Town Hall, much to her objections. “Wait, where are we going? Help!” Twilight yelped as she was being pushed out. Sev, Wing and Spike followed the fashionista and the unfortunate pony she was pushing. After they had arrived at Rarity’s home. Wing, Spike and Sev watched as Rarity had Twilight try on a bunch of different dresses, but finding something wrong with each of them. “I know Rarity means well, but could she just pick a dress for Twilight?” Wing asked Sev telepathically. “Never rush a lady,” Sev replied. “Ah, here we are!” Rarity had finally picked out a dress for Twilight. “Now go on my dear, and tell me where you’re from.” Wing and Sev shared worried looks. “Don’t say you’re from Canterlot, don’t say you’re from Canterlot...” Wing muttered under his breath. “Twilight if you value your sanity, you won’t say you’re from Canterlot.” Sev also muttered under his breath. Twilight was struggling to breath as Rarity tightened the dress. “I’ve… been… sent… from… Canterlot… to…” Rarity’s eyes snapped open at the mere mention of Canterlot and let go. The act sent Twilight and herself in opposite directions. “Canterlot?! Oh, I am so envious! The glamor! The sophistication! I’ve always dreamed of living there!” “The classism!” Sev chimed in. “Don’t forget the racism!” Wing added. “Well, that’s not all Canterlot ponies,” Sev corrected. “True.” “Honestly, Mr. Wing, Mr. Divine!” “We’re just speaking the truth,” Sev said. Rarity shook her head and turned back to Twilight. “Anyways… I can’t wait to hear all about it! We’re going to be the best of friends, you and I.” Rarity then gave a look of disapproval at the dress. “Emerald? What was I thinking? Let me get you some rubies!” Rarity rushed off to get the gems. Twilight took the opportunity to escape. “Quick! Before she decides to dye my coat another color!” Sev grabbed Spike after he sighed dreamily as the group made their escape. After escaping Rarity’s shop, the group made the short journey to the park. Spike, however, was still focused on Rarity. “Wasn’t she amazing?” Spike asked aloud. “Focus, Casanova,” Twilight replied annoyedly. “What’s next?” “Music is the last one.” “My fillyfriend’s in charge of that,” Wing said. The sound of birds singing guided the group. They came upon a clearing where a butter yellow pegasus mare was hovering in front of a tree conducting the birds. Wing slowly flew over next to the pegasus, watching as one of the birds went out of tune. “Ohmy… umm, stop please, everyone,” the mare said as she flew over to the out of tune bluejay. “Excuse me sir, I mean no offense, but your rhythm is just the teenist tiniest bit off.” “Yes, but other than that, it was perfect,” Wing added in a whisper. Fluttershy looked over to Wing. “Oh, hi honey. How has your day been?” “Good dear. It sounds like practice is going good.” Fluttershy smiled and floated back to her original position, followed by Wing. “Now let’s pick up where we were. A one, a two, a one two three…” Fluttershy started only to be interrupted by Twilight. “Hello!” Twilight said loudly, causing the birds to scatter and Fluttershy to jump in fright. Wing shot a glare at Twilight before his eyes relaxed. He forgot that Twilight hadn’t met Fluttershy yet. The two pegasi landed on the ground and an awkward silence filled the air as Sev came out from behind the bush. “Well this is awkward,” Wing said to Sev telepathically. “Yep,” Sev replied. Twilight shifted her eyes from left to right smiling widely. “I’m Twilight Sparkle. What’s your name?” Twilight asked. “I’m...Fluttershy…” Fluttershy mumbled under her breath. “I’m sorry, what was that?” “M...My...name is... Fluttershy…” Fluttershy mumbled again. “Didn’t quite catch that.” Fluttershy did nothing after that but squeak in reply. “Fluttershy…” Sev moaned before turning to Wing. “You really need to give her assertiveness lessons.” “I am,” Wing replied. The birds had returned by this point which Twilight noticed. “Well I can see your birds are back so keep up the good work.” Fluttershy squeaked in reply once more. “Ookay...” Twilight backed up to the bush, Spike coming into view. “Well, that went well.” “Oh! A baby dragon!” Fluttershy suddenly shouted, rushing forward and knocking Twilight forward several feet. Oh! I’ve never seen a baby dragon before! He’s sooo cute!” “Well well well,” Spike said to Twilight. “Oh my, he talks. I didn’t know dragons could talk. That’s just so incredibly wonderful. I don’t know what to say.” “Yes, well we’d better get going.” Twilight said levitating Spike to her back as she started to walk off. “Twilight...” Wing said as he, Fluttershy and Sev started following her. “Wait what’s his name?” Fluttershy asked. “I’m Spike.” “Hi Spike, I’m Fluttershy. Wow a talking dragon. What do dragons talk about?” “Well, what do you want to know?” Spike asked. “Absolutely everything.” Fluttershy said, excited about the prospect. Wing, Sev and Twilight all groaned in unison at the thought. “Well, I started out as a cute purple and green egg…” Spike started. The walk to the library, although short, was exceeding painful for the three who did know Spike’s life story. “Good. We’re there and he’s done with his story,” Sev said to Wing telepathically. “And that’s the story of my whole life up until today. Do you want to hear about today?” “Oh Celestia please make him stop” Wing told Sev telepathically. “Oh, yes please!” “I am so sorry, how did we get here so fast? This is where I’m staying while I’m in Ponyville and my poor little baby dragon needs his sleep.” “No I don’t,” Spike protested only for Twilight to kick him off her back, causing him to fall to the ground. “Aww, wook at that, he’s so sweepy he can’t even keep his widdle balance,” Twilight cooed. “Poor thing, we simply must get him to bed.” Fluttershy said, picking up Spike and flying him inside the library. “Yes, yes we’ll get on that. Well goodnight,” Twilight said pushing Fluttershy outside and closing the door in her face. “Did Pinkie see her?” Fluttershy asked looking to Wing and Sev. “Yep,” Wing replied. “Did you warn her?” “Nope,” Sev replied. “Oh dear. Well let’s take the back entrance so we’re not late.” Fluttershy said as the three went through the backdoor to the library. As the three made their way, Spike and Twilight were talking inside the library in the dark. “Hmph, rude much?” Spike asked. “I’m sorry Spike, but I have to convince the princess that Nightmare Moon is coming. And we’re running out of time. I just need to be alone so I can study without a bunch of crazy ponies trying to make friends all the time. Now where’s the light?” The lights suddenly flipped on, revealing a large group of ponies that had been waiting in the dark. “Surprise!” the group said in unison. Twilight groaned as a pony blowing a party horn moved in front of her face.
Chapter 3“Surprise!” A pink earth pony mare shouted as she came into Twilight’s view. “I’m Pinkie Pie, and I threw this party just for you! Were you surprised? Were you? Were you?” Pinkie asked excitedly. “Yes, I was surprised,” Twilight replied. “Libraries are suppose to be quiet.” "How can a party be quiet? I mean boooring!” Pinkie chirped loudly. Twilight started to walk away from her. But Pinkie followed her every step, continuing to chatter on and on, causing Twilight to groan softly. Twilight eventually reached the drink table and took a bottle of hot sauce, pouring it in a glass as Pinkie still continued to talk her ears off. “Celestia I need a drink…” Twilight thought to herself. “And now you have lots and lots of friends!” Pinkie finished as she, the other ponies Twilight had met on the tour and Wing and Sev gathered in a small semi circle, looking at Twilight. The hot sauce had taken effect by this point as Twilight’s face turned a fiery red due to the peppers in the sauce. “You alright, sugarcube?” Applejack asked. Twilight didn’t respond as the heat in the sauce became too much for her, and after bursting into flames for a moment, she raced upstairs to her room. “Aw, she’s so happy she’s crying!” Pinkie Pie said. Spike walked over to the table, picking up the bottle of the spicy condiment that Twilight unknowingly poured into her drink. “Hot sauce?” he asked aloud. Pinkie Pie tipped the bottle so it poured over a cupcake, which she devoured in a single bite, much to the disgust of the others. “What? It’s good!” she said. “That was disgusting, Pinkie,” Sev remarked. “Yeah...hot sauce on cupcakes is just nasty,” Wing added. “Are you crazy? It’s one of the best things ever!” Pinkie said. Wing sighed and chuckled. “Oh Pinkie Pie, you are...so...random.” “That’s what the humans think!” Pinkie beamed. Wing sighed and facehoofed. “Have you been talking to Lyra...or the more scary thought, helping her with her experiments?” “Do you really want the answer to that?” Pinkie asked. “Now that you mention it, I really really don’t,” Wing replied, a hint of fear in his voice. Pinkie Pie smiled and drank some of the punch she brought for the party. “Pinkie can be really scary sometimes,” Wing said to Sev. “You’re just now noticing this?” Sev asked, a bit shocked. “Yes, I did in fact,” Wing replied sarcastically. “Ok smartass, very funny,” Sev replied. Sev then took note of Dash being busy and went to chat with another mare. “Typical Sev…” Wing muttered sighing. “Yeah...he really does need a leash sometimes...but um...that’s just my opinion,” Fluttershy whispered. “Yeah, I agree dear.” “So you used to date Twilight?” Fluttershy asked. “Yeah, it was when I was going to school in Canterlot while we were taking our break,” Wing replied. Fluttershy eyed Wing with suspicion. “Flutters, I broke it off before I left Canterlot. It was the same situation with you. I didn’t want to put her through the strains of a long distance relationship.” “Ok,” Fluttershy replied in acceptance. “Still, it is good to see her again, though.” “And Spike?” “Huh? Oh! Yeah, it was...good to see him again, too.” Pinkie Pie hopped up to the two of them. “Drinks?” she asked. Wing looked to Fluttershy, who shrugged then looked back to Pinkie. “Why not?” he replied, taking a drink and downing it in a single gulp. “Whoo! Party!” Fluttershy shook her head as she drank hers slowly. The hours passed by Twilight slowly. She had fallen asleep, but the sounds of the party downstairs kept her awake. She groaned in frustration as the door opened and Spike walked in, a lampshade on his head. “Hey Twilight, Pinkie Pie started a game of pin the tail on the pony! Wanna join?” Spike asked. “No! All the ponies in this town are crazy! Do you realize what time it is?!” Twilight shouted. “Aw gome on Rwi!” Wing said stumbling in the door as well. “You gots habe a vittle zun!” he slurred, the drunken speech an indication of how much alcohol he’d consumed. “Wing, I expected this kind of thing from Sev, not you!” She took note of Sev not appearing to defend himself. “Where’s Sev?” “Zast I faw him he sas hatting it ut lith pome care.” Wing replied before leaving to rejoin the party. “Anyways...I was gonna say it’s the eve of the Summer Sun Celebration. Everypony’s gotta stay up or they’ll miss the princess raise the sun. You really should lighten up, Twilight. It’s a party,” Spike said before he left. “Schkitz, is everything alright there?” Queen Chiton communicated with Wing “Vas muter,” Wing replied before hiccuping. “Schkitz...are you drunk?” Wing drunkenly belched in reply. Queen Chiton sent a charge telepathically to get Wing out of his stupor. “Ah! Wha? Where am I?” Wing asked Queen Chiton. “Ponyville, coming out of a drunken stupor thanks to me. Do the same to Sev. I need you to be on your guard due to Nightmare Moon’s return.” “Yes mother.” “Now go find Sev. The princess should be raising the sun soon.” “On it.” Wing cut off communication and went off to find Sev, finding him in a broom closet by himself on the floor. “Get up!” Wing said, shaking Sev. Sev groaned and opened his eyes. “Where’d the pretty mare go?” Sev asked. “Gee, the princess is about to raise the sun. Where do you think?” “Wiseass. Help me up and let’s get over there. Oh my head...” “Here, instant sobriety pill,” Wing said, giving Sev a small pill. “Thanks,” Sev replied, taking the pill. Wing and Sev walked over to Town Hall where the celebration was taking place. Wing was also keeping an eye on the stars as they entered. Pinkie Pie zoomed up to Twilight. ”Isn’t this exciting? Are you excited cause I’m excited! I’ve never been so excited! Well, except for the time that I saw you walking into town and I went *gasp* but I mean really, who can top that?” Pinkie rambled out. Fluttershy’s bird choir quieted the hyperactive mare. “Fillies and gentlecolts! As mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!” Mayor Mare announced. The crowd cheered in response. “In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise and witness this, the longest day of the year. And now it is my great honor to introduce the ruler of our land…” As Mayor Mare was speaking, the four stars surrounding the moon disappeared into it, causing the imprint of the mare in the moon to disappear. “Um...buddy…” Wing elbowed Sev indicating toward the moon. “Aw...buck.” Sev muttered as he saw it. “The very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestria, Princess Celestia!” Rarity pulled back the curtain where Celestia was suppose to be standing. But nothing was there, causing muttering through the crowd. “This...can’t be good,” Twilight said. “No shit, Sherclop.” Sev countered. “Shut up Sev,” Twilight replied. “Remain calm, everypony. There must be a reasonable explanation,” Mayor Mare said, trying to keep the crowd calm. “Ooh! Ooh! I love guessing games! Is she hiding?” Pinkie asked, looking around. Rarity came into view have left to search where the Princess was waiting. “She’s gone!” causing many gasps through the crowd. “Ooh, she’s good!” Pinkie said before gasping herself upon seeing a puff of bluish/black smoke. The crowd also gasped on seeing it. “Um...mother…” Wing telepathically communicated to Queen Chiton, and began to stream the events live. “Oh no…” Twilight said under her breath. The smoke began to form before it revealed itself as a tall alicorn with a coat as black as night itself. “Nightmare Moon.” Spike fainted off of Twilight’s back on seeing the dark queen of the night. “Oh, my beloved subjects. It’s been so long since I’ve seen your precious little sun-loving faces!” Nightmare Moon said. “What did you do with our princess?” Rainbow Dash shouted, zooming toward her, only to be held back by Applejack. “Whoa nelly!” Nightmare Moon chuckled. “Why? Am I not royal enough for you? Don’t you know who I am?” “Ooh, ooh, more guessing games! Um...Hokey Smokey! How bout Queen Meanie! No, Black Snooty, Black Snooty!” Pinkie Pie’s babble was cut off by Applejack shoving a cupcake in her mouth. “I think Queen Nighty seems about right!” Wing said. “Seems good to me, buddy!” Sev agreed. Nightmare Moon gazed at the two. “I must admit you’re either the bravest or the stupidest ponies ever.” “Well, say, if you were to win, I’d join right up with you. If you won, that is.” Nightmare Moon slowly grinned. “You’d gladly join my side if I won?” She asked. “You heard correctly,” Wing said, giving his best poker face. “I sincerely hope you’re bluffing, Schiktz,” Queen Chiton communicated. “I am, mother. But if she did win, it would be the only thing I could do to help keep the hive safe, and you know I would do such a thing.” “Yes...I know. Just stay safe and try to get the Elements of Harmony their bearers. And defeat her before it comes to that.” “Will do, mother. Schkitz out.” Wing cut the communication with Queen Chiton. Nightmare Moon continued with her speech. “Does my crown no longer count, now that I’ve been imprisoned for a thousand years? Did you not recall the legend? Did you not see the signs?” “I did!” Twilight spoke up. “And I know who you are. You’re the Mare in the Moon.” “Nightmare Moon!” Twilight Wing and Sev said in unison. The crowd gasped at this. “Well well well, three ponies who remember me. Then you also know why I’m here.” “You’re here to...to…” “To bring about nighttime eternal. And rule Equestria while your s... I mean...Princess Celestia resides in the moon forever and ever and ever.” “That’s three evers. That’s like...forever,” Pinkie moaned. “Ooh! I have something planned for this kind of situation!” “Pinkie, how do you…” Sev started, only to be cut off by Wing. “Sev...It’s Pinkie Pie. Are you really that surprised?” “Not really.” Nightmare Moon stomped her hoof immediately, silencing the two friends. Once they were silent, she started to laugh. “Remember this day, little ponies, for it was your last. From this moment forth, the night will last forever!” Nightmare moon started cackling in delight at the prospect. She had gotten her revenge against Celestia. Now, she had Equestria for herself.
chapter 4Nightmare Moon continued cackling, as lightning crackled all around her. “Seize her! Only she can tell us where the princess is!” Mayor Mare shouted. “Stand back, you foals!” Nightmare Moon reared back on her hind legs and attacked the approach guards. She swatted them down to the floor like flies. Another cackle taunted the guards as she disappeared into a black puff of smoke flying out of the town hall. “Just what were you expecting to do against an alicorn?” Wing asked, trotting up to one of the guards. “Ow…” the guard muttered. “Rainbow Dash, what the buck are you doing?!” Wing looked to the door and saw Dash racing out in pursuit of the smoke monster. “Nighttime forever?” Wing heard her mutter as he and Sev arrived to her spot. “Yes, Dash, that’s what she’s here to do,” Wing replied sarcastically. “There’s no need for sarcasm, Wing,” Dash groaned. “Well, there goes Twi,” Sev noted as Twilight scrambled out of the town hall. “Where’s she going?” Dash replied. “What the hay does she think she’s doing?” “Oh, for crying out loud,” Wing facehooved. “Come on, let’s find her before she starts accusing Twi of being a spy.” The rest of the girls in the vicinity nodded in agreement. By that point, Spike was in bed and Twilight was searching through the library’s books. “Oh, how am I supposed to defeat Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony?” “And just what are the Elements of Harmony?!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she got in Twilight’s face. “And how you you know so much about Nightmare Moon? Are you a spy?” Rainbow felt herself being dragged as she finished the last sentence. “Simmer down, Sally. She ain’t no spy, but she does know bout what’s goin on. Don’t ya, Twilight?” the pony dragging Dash, Applejack, inquired. “I read all I could about the predictions on Nightmare Moon.. Some mysterious objects called the Elements of Harmony are the only things that can stop her. I don’t even know where they are where to find them or what they do,” Twilight sighed. Pinkie Pie bounced around the bookshelves and bumped her head into one of the books. “The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide. Cool,” she commented. “How did you find it?” Twilight gasped, as she knocked Pinkie over to get a look at the book. “It was under E,” Pinkie grinned. “Duh. You didn’t think to go in alphabetical order to find it, Twi?” Wing asked. “That’s so unlike you, given your OCD,” Sev added. Twilight glared at Wing and Sev and gave Pinkie a more quizzical look before she opened the book. “There are six Elements of Harmony, but only five are known. They are kindness, laughter, generosity, honesty and loyalty. The sixth is a complete mystery.” “It’s magic.” Wing told Sev telepathically. “Huh?” Sev replied. “The sixth element, it’s magic.” “Why don’t you tell Twi that, then?” “It would raise questions of how I know what the element is. No Equestrian books about the elements of harmony mention what the sixth element is. So how else would I know about it?” “Okay, I get it. I hope they can find it on their own.” “It is said that the last location of the six Elements was in the ancient castle of the Royal Pony Sisters. It is located in what is now...” Twilight stopped reading as her lip quivered. “Well, where is it, darling?’ Rarity asked. “I think you know the place, but it’s not somewhere you want to be alone…” Wing added. “Wait, you don’t mean…” Rarity replied. “Oh yes, that’s what he means,” countered Sev. “It’s in…” “The Everfree Forest?” the six mares spoke in unison. The group of adventurers arrived at the edge of the creepiest forest in Equestria. To say they were nervous was an understatement--well, save for one pony. “Whee, let’s go!” Pinkie cheered. “Not so fast,” Twilight cut her off. “I appreciate the offer but I’d like to do this on my own.” “Have you gone nuts recently?” Sev gaped. “You know it’s dangerous in there.” “No can do, sugarcube,” Applejack added. “We sure ain’t letting any friend of ours go into that creepy place alone. We’re sticking to you like caramel on a candy apple.” “Especially if there’s candy apples in there. What? Those things are good?” Pinkie Pie commented. “What do you think, buddy? Should I go for max firepower or penetration?” Wing asked Sev. Twilight looked back to see Wing holding two firearms. “Um, Wing will we really need those?” “Twilight, it’s the Everfree Forest. Of course we’re gonna need them,” Sev replied. “As for your question, Wing, penetration.” Wing looked at his weapons again. ‘How bout you take the penetration and I take the max firepower? That way we’re ready against any threat?” “Sounds good to me!” Sev replied, taking a bulky firearm as Wing took the lighter one. “Are you two ready yet?” Twilight butted in. “Yes, Mom,” Sev replied sarcastically. Twilight sighed and shook her head as the three ran to catch up with the others. “So none of you have been in here before?” Twilight quizzed the rest of the group. “Wing and Sev have been in here before, I know that, but this is our first trip here. Hopefully the last one, too. Just look at all this horrid dirt!” Rarity replied in disgust. “It ain’t natural. Some folks say it doesn’t work the same as the rest of Equestria,” Applejack added. “What’s that suppose to mean?” “Nopony knows.” Rainbow Dash said spookily. “Dash… we don’t have time for that story,” Wing rubbed his head in frustration. “Because nopony who’s ever gone in has ever come out!” Dash finished her story. “Um, we’ve been in there…” Sev trailed off. “Oh, right.” Rainbow Dash chuckled. “Lemme change the story. Many have come in, few have come out! There, much better already.” Wing felt the ground beneath his hooves tremble for a second before it collapsed underneath him. It happened so suddenly that that pegasi in the group barely had enough time to take off. The rest screamed as they were falling to their doom off a cliff. “Time to do what pegasi do best!” Dash shouted. Wing and Sev flew to grab Rarity, while Rainbow and Fluttershy swooped in to help Pinkie Pie. Applejack grabbed a branch to hang on, but noticed Twilight had slid to the edge of the cliff. “Hang on, I’m coming,” she said as she let go, sliding down the hill to help Twilight. “Applejack, help!” Twilight cried out. Applejack tried her best to help her up, until she saw something below the cliff. “Sugarcube, you’re gonna have to let go.” “Are you crazy?!” “Ah promise you’ll be alright.” “That’s not true!” Twilight shrieked. “Now listen here. What ah’m telling you is the honest truth.” Twilight looked at Applejack, seeing the sincerity in her words, before closing her eyes, taking a deep breath, and letting go. Instead of plummeting to her doom, Twilight found herself hovering in place after a few seconds. “Did you really think we’d let anything happen to you, Twi?” Twilight opened her eyes and saw Wing and Fluttershy holding her. “Wing? Fluttershy?” “You were expecting someone else?” Wing smiled. Before Twilight could reply, the trio dropped down to the ground safely. “Sorry, but I’m not used to carrying anything more than a bunny or two,” Fluttershy admitted, as her wings were a little strung out. “It’s okay, Flutters. You came in when we needed you,” Wing commented. “For now, let’s keep moving.” “Yeah, Nightmare Moon’s still out there,” Sev responded. “Right, good idea,” Twilight commented as the rest of the group got their bearings and went on their way. “One down, five to go,” Wing communicated to Sev. “What do you mean?” Sev asked. “You’ll see soon enough.” However, nopony there spotted a purplish puff of smoke emerging near them, speeding off to a shadowy figure further down the road. Author's Note I suggest re-reading or reading depending on if this is your first chapter. The prologue has had all the unnecessary exposition removed.
Chapter 5As the group continued walking, Rainbow Dash was still yakking about Twilight’s rescue. “And then Wing and Fluttershy went looped around and WHAM! Caught you right in the nick of time.” “Yes, Dash,” Wing replied, not even hiding how annoyed he was. “We were all there, though I’m sure Twi is grateful.” “I am pretty thankful I’m not dead,” Twilight agreed. “But we really have to get to the castle.” However, she was interrupted by a loud and nasty roar in front of them. “A manticore!” Twilight shouted. The beast stood between them and their way home, blocking their path to the castle. “We’ve gotta get past him!” Wing and Sev raised their weapons to fight him. Before they charged, a soft voice from the left squeaked out in protest. “Wait,” Fluttershy spoke in her soft tone. “What? This might be a bad time, but can you speak up?” Sev sighed. “Wait,” Fluttershy repeated, a little louder that time. “I can help.” “Ugh. I’m charging in if something goes wrong,” Sev facehoofed. He kept his weapon ready in case things went that way. “Come on, Flutters, you can do it,” Wing replied. “Give her a little faith, Sev.” Looked like he had no problems hearing her. The rest of the group lowered their weapons to give the yellow pegasus her chance. “You really need to give her assertiveness lessons, you know that?” Sev snorted. “Why do you think she’s facing a manticore by herself?” “We can’t be nice to this thing!” Rainbow Dash cut in. She went ahead and lunged right at the manticore. Next thing she knew, she was thrown back into the trunk of a tree. She saw stars circle around her eyes. “Rainbow!” Twilight shouted. She scrambled to Dash’s side to make sure she was okay. She was, just a little stunned that she got her flank handed to her like that. “Waaaaaaaaait! Let me try!” Fluttershy yelled. Her loud and snappy tone made the whole group shut up, as it was so unusual for her. She calmly stood up to the manticore with a nervous smile. “Shh, it’s okay. I’m not going to hurt you. What’s wrong?” The manticore blinked his massive eyes and calmed down. He didn’t expect a pony to treat him so kindly. Realizing she was on his side, he sat down and lifted a front paw in front of her. A purple thorn was sticking out of its toe pad. “Oh, you poor baby,” Fluttershy gasped. “No wonder you were in so much pain. If you’ll let me, I can take it out for you.” “Don’t tell me she’s talking to that thing like it’s a baby,” Rainbow Dash groaned. “Shh. I think it’s working,” Twilight commented. “Now this might hurt for just a sec.” Fluttershy pulled the thorn out of the manticore's paw. He winced as it was removed, but he flexed his paw and realized that the pain was gone. That did it; he threw his front legs around Fluttershy and pulled her in. “Fluttershy!” the group shouted at once. They feared he was going to eat her or worse. Instead, he had pulled her in for a big hug. His big grin told the whole story, and he licked her face for good measure. “Aww, you’re just a little baby kitty. Yes you are,” Fluttershy giggled in response. “See, buddy? She’s really good with animals,” Wing pointed out. “Bet she’ll be good with kids, too. They’re the same thing,” Sev snickered. “Oh, please. You’ll get Mother started,” Wing communicated to Sev. Much to his dismay, it was already too late. “I’m not getting any younger, Schkitz. It’s time you and fluttershy got married and started making little nymphs! Then you can tell me all about the similarities between kids and animals,” Queen Chiton chided, milking Wing’s misery for all its worth. “Mother!” “Ah, come on buddy. I’m sure your children would be cute!” Sev snickered again. He shared Chiton’s talent for soaking in all the misery Wing offered. “This conversation is not over,” Wing snorted. He turned around and started to head back to the group. “Oh, buddy, it’s just getting started,” Sev laughed. “You know I’m just screwing with you, right?” “LIke how you ‘screwed around’ with Vinyl? Did you tell Dash about it yet, or should I have the honor?” “You wouldn’t dare.” Sev lost his innocent look at that threat. “What makes you think I won’t?” “Okay, okay, we’ll call it a draw. Truce?” “Truce. Let’s drop it, they’ll hear us.” They found their way back to the gang by then. “I heard some of that,” Twilight noted. “Do you always bicker like that?” “Kinda. It’s our thing,” Sev nervously smiled, hoping she didn’t hear the Vinyl bits. “Huh. I wonder how a friendship lasts when you two do that.” Before Sev could continue, he heard Wing say something. “Two down four to go.” “What are you talking about, Wing?” “Spoilers.” “I really hate it when you do that.” Sev scowled. “I know.” Wing smiled sarcastically at Sev. The group resumed their long march through the forest. Wing and Sev had their weapons standing by in case they’d deal with another threat. Rarity, meanwhile, wasn’t too big on what they were seeing around them. “I wish we could get a break from these… eh, awful sights,” she complained. As if to answer, a group of branches overhead blacked the area out. They couldn’t even see their hooves in front of their faces. “I didn’t mean that literally,” she cried. “Called it,” Sev thought. “That’s just asking for trouble.” He accidently bumped into her soon after. “Oh, sorry, Miss Rarity.” “No, I should be issuing my apologies,” the white unicorn interrupted. Suddenly, everypony was bumping into something in the area. Hooves collided, horns nearly went into places horns weren’t meant to go, and feathers were brushing everywhere. “Oops. Ah think ah stepped in something,” Applejack said. “Don’t you live in a farm? I thought you were used to that,” Dash repiled. “It’s nuthin’ like that! At least Ah can see what I stepped into back there!” “Ow! What the buck was that for?!” Sev rubbed the back of his head after a big whack. “What are you talking about?” Wing mumbled. “That wasn’t me!” “Whatever…” Sev muttered before a scream broke the little silence that was left. “What the buck?!” Wing raised his rifle at the sight of a tree. Not just any tree, but one with an evil face. “Oh no. I’ve seen enough 80s horror movies to see where this is going!” Sev groaned. “Yeah. Let’s just get away from here before the vines do bad things to us.” Almost everypony agreed with him and backed off...save for one. A pink one, so to speak. “Don’t you see, girls?” Pinkie cheered, the only one that wasn’t scared for her life. ♫When I was a little filly and the sun was going down…♫ “Pinkie, this isn’t time for a song!” Sev cut in. “Is she really…” Twilight wondered. ♫The darkness and the shadows would always make me frown♫ Pinkie continued to sing. “Yep, she’s really doing it,” Wing groaned. ♫I'd hide under my pillow♫ ♫From what I thought I saw, ♫But Granny Pie said♫ ♫That wasn't the way♫ ♫To deal with fears at all♫ “Pinkie, what is the answer?” Dash asked ♫She said♫ ♫Pinkie♫ ♫You gotta stand up tall♫ ♫Learn to face your fears♫ ♫You'll see♫ ♫That they can't hurt you♫ ♫Just laugh to make them disappear♫ HA HA HA” While everyone else gasped from Pinkie’s antics, Wing and Sev stayed silent. “Pinkie gonna Pinkie,” Wing whispered, while Sev shrugged. ♫So, giggle at the ghostly♫ ♫Guffaw at the grossly♫ ♫Crack up at the creepy♫ ♫Whoop it up with the weepy♫ ♫Chortle at the kooky♫ ♫Snortle at the spooky♫ ♫And tell that big dumb scary face♫ ♫To take a hike and leave you alone♫ ♫And if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna… Ahahaha, ha ha ♫Pinkie gasped as she needed a deep breath after all that singing. She was very silly the whole time she sang, but it worked. All those evil trees in the forest with the evil faces were gone. A bunch of happy, smiling trees took their place, and the whole evil atmosphere was gone now. “Hey, it actually worked,” Wing commented. “ONE MORE TIME!” Pinkie shouted. ♫Giggle at the ghost--♫ “You know we have an evil horse bringing night forever out there?” Sev interrupted. That made the whole gang erupt in laughter. Twilight nodded. “What you did was really heroic, Pinkie, but he’s right. We still have a job to do.” “Three down, three to go,” Wing communicated to Sev. “Ugh, the suspense is killing me. You gonna keep me waiting or just tell me?” Sev pondered. “I’ll explain it eventually.” “Exactly, all good things come to those who wait, as they say,” Queen Chiton commented. “Yeah yeah.” Sev grumbled. He kicked the ground as they went on their way through the forest. “I just wanna get back home now.” “We will. Have a little faith, will you?” “Schkitz is right, Sev. Good things come to… what’s the rest of the saying?” Queen Chiton communicated. “Those who wait. I heard you the first time!” Next up on the menu was a river in the midst of a clearing. It should have sounded like a calm stream, but it sounded like a roaring river instead. “Do you hear that, buddy?” Wing commented. “Yeah. It’s not right.” Sev raised his weapon in preparation, and Wing followed his lead. They arrived at the edge of the river. Its roar filled their ears with its torrential downpour. “How are we going to cross that?” Twilight gawked. “Any ideas on why it’s doing this?” “Something happened to it. Maybe it’s magical?” Sev noted, rubbing his chin. “I suppose that’s possible, just don’t know any spells that could do that. Unless whoever cast it is really powerful...like Nightmare Moon,” Twilight thought. “Whatever it is, make it stop! It’s hurting my ears!” Pinkie complained. “It’s coming from over there!” Sev pointed out. He and Wing rushed to the source of the disturbance, and it was something else. A huge monster emerged from the water, and it wasn’t just any monster, but a sea serpent. “Oh hey, it’s just Steven Magnet,” Wing noted. “Stevie, baby! What happened?” “Sev? Wing? How wonderful is it to meet old friends in my most dire hour!” Steven pouted. “Wait, you KNOW him?” Twilight said in disbelief. “How is this possible?” “Of course we do. It’s possible to have friends other than ponies, Twily,” Sev snarked. “What happened to you, Steven?” “The worst possible thing happened. I went out swimming, like I tend to do, when a purple wisp of smoke shot right past me. When it was gone, it took half of my beloved mustache clean off! How can I be seen with just half a mustache? Don’t look at me like this…” He turned away to hide his face. “That’s not good,” Wing remarked. “You spend so much time growing it out only to have it gone.” “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy,” Sev agreed. “Actually, I would, but not on a friend.” “I know I look horrible. Leave me to my fate!” Steven fainted dramatically, sending a large wave everywhere when he flopped down to the surface. “Gimme a bucking break.” Dash muttered. “That’s what all the fuss is about? A mustache?” Applejack cocked her head in confusion. “Honestly, I can’t believe you have the gall to call him out like that!” Rarity was practically in shock. “Seriously, do you know how important a mustache is to a man?” Wing shook his head. “To be fair, they’re women. They’re not really known for facial hair,” Sev pointed out. “Hey! Just because I’m a girl doesn’t mean I can’t say it’s stupid!” Dash snapped back at Sev. “This isn’t helping!” Wing retorted. “Miss Rarity, do you have any ideas how we can help Steven out?” “Hmm, I might have just the trick. Give me one moment.” Rarity approached Steven carefully, and she used her magic to yank one of his scales out. “Ow! What did you do that for?” Steven asked. “Rarity, what are…” Twilight was cut off by a slicing sound. Steven fainted again from the sound, but at least he landed on the ground this time. “How could you do that?! You killed Steve!” Sev sobbed. Wing stayed silent, but his facial expression said everything. Rarity ignored the commotion and got to work. She didn’t cut any part of Steven off; rather, she had cut off part of her own tail. She hovered it to his face and stitched it together with her magic, and it took hold. Sure enough, it was like Steven’s mustache was whole again. “My mustache! How I’ve missed you!” Steven gleamed. He felt up the new facial hair, and it felt as good as new. “You look simply smashing.” Rarity smiled. “Just took a little faith and time, and wa-la!” “It does look really good on you, Stevie,” Wing commented. “Yeah. It should work until your mustache grows back,” Sev agreed. “Oh, Rarity, what about your tail?” Twilight pointed out. “It’s quite alright, dear. Short tails are in style this season. Besides, it’ll grow back.” “Wait, look over there. Everything’s clear now!” Twilight exclaimed. She jumped into the river to cross it, only to be picked up with her friends by the now-cheerful sea serpent. “Please, allow me to help my new friends!” he exclaimed. He used his backside to create a bridge for them to cross. “Thanks Stevie!” Wing called. The group was able to cross without incident, and Steven went back below the river once they were through. It would be smooth sailing from here, as the journey was almost over. What obstacles were left would be a surprise, but one Sev and Wing agreed they could handle. With a little help from their friends, of course. “And then there were two…” Wing said on his breath. “You really gotta stop talking in riddles,” Sev shrugged.
Chapter 1Wing sat in the bunker that served as a home away from home in the Everfree Forest. He and Sev had built together one summer. He took up his time reading a Mighty Morphin Pony Rangers comic book in his natural changeling form. Sev walked in the bunker with a smile on his face and some bags of food. “Hey Wing! I'm back!” “Welcome back. What you get?” “The essentials pretty much. You ready for the upcoming celebration?” “You mean the thousandth Summer Sun Celebration? The one where it’s foretold Nightmare Moon will return?” Wing said gleefully. “That’s the one. You ready or not?” “As ready as one can be,” Wing said hesitantly. “Only the Elements of Harmony can stop her and they’ve been lost for a thousand years.” “Sounds like you really believe in this stuff. I believe in it, too. So they could be anywhere?” “Well, to be fair, they’re in the remnants of the castle of the two pony sisters.” “You mean Celestia and Luna?’ “Duh.” “Who do you think the bearers will be?” “I can think of a few possibilities, but you won’t like one of them.” “Don’t tell me it’s that redneck. Sheesh, I really hope it’s not her.” “Oh, you mean your secret crush? Yeah, it’s possible she’s one of them.” “You’re sick, you know that?” Sev groaned. Wing snickered in response. “Don’t blame me for being able to pick up on vibes. I know you like Applejack.” “That’s not true, I’d never do anything with her! I’d rather gouge my own eyes out!” “If you say so,” Wing teased. “Shut up!” Wing couldn’t help himself and burst out into laughter, only to see Sev throw a book at him. “Ow!” “Serves you right. You always smack me on the back of the head when I make even the littlest comment about a mare.” “Killjoy,” Wing muttered under his breath. “What was that?” “Nothing, Sev.” “Better have been nothing.” Wing closed the comic and put it up on the shelf. “Well then, shall we go into town and see who Celestia sent to oversee the celebration preparations?” “Yeah. Let’s go see who it is. I’m kinda curious about it.” Wing transformed to his pegasus form and led the way. The pair flew back to their home of Ponyville. The only differences about Wing’s normal form were the crimson red chitin around his midsection and his bug-like red eyes and wings. “I assume Dash is practicing for when the Wonderbolts show up tomorrow?’ “Eeyup. You know how she is.” “Heh, I know what you mean. You two were made for each other.” “You know how she is about marriage, though. ‘It’ll slow me down, it’ll affect me becoming a wonderbolt,’” Sev said in Dash’s voice. “I get it, Sev.” “While we’re at it, you and Fluttershy were made for each other.” “Hey now, buddy. Let’s not jump to conclusions.” “I’m just saying, you’ve been together for a long time.” “Not counting when we went to school in Canterlot.” “Of course, you dated Twilight after things didn’t work out with Octavia.” “Or, rather, her racist father.” “Yeah…that was rough. Sorry about that.” “And then there’s Prince Blueblood, with what he did in school. What a jerk.” “And yet Ms. Rarity thinks Canterlot is the greatest thing to ever happen.” That got both of them to groan. “Hey, one day she’ll learn, once she goes there and actually meets some of those ponies.” “Indeed, Schkitz,” Queen Chiton interjected telepathically.. “Ah, Mother. Getting the hive ready?” “Yes. I gather that you will stay in Ponyville?” “Indeed. I’m not just gonna leave Sev here.” “That is your choice. But I will stay in contact til it is clear that Nightmare Moon does indeed return. Stay safe out there, Schkitz.” “Don’t worry mother I will.” “Queen Chiton again?’ Sev asked. “Yep,” Wing replied verbally, as the pair began final approach to Ponyville. “She’s worried as well?” “About Nightmare Moon? Well yeah. Can you blame her?” “Understandable. I’m a little edgy about it myself.” Sev and Wing landed and started walking down the main street. Wing looked over to one corner and saw a familiar face. “Hey buddy, is that who I think it is?” Wing asked. “Huh?” Sev looked over and saw Twilight Sparkle with her assistant Spike. “Hey, Twiley’s here.” “Uh-oh look who’s walking up to he..” Wing motioned to Pinkie Pie. “Oh boy…” Sev replied. “Here we go.” They two heard Pinkie Pie gasp loudly. “Pinkie Pie!” Sev shouted loudly. Wing walked over to meet Twilight, followed by Sev. “Don’t mind her, she’s just being Pinkie Pie.” Wing said. “That voice…” Twilight said, before turning to see Sev and Wing. “Wing? Sev?” “Hey Twi,” Sev said. “It’s been a while.” “How ya been, Twi?” Wing asked. “I can’t believe it’s you!” Twilight gleamed, coming over to meet some old faces. “Sev, where have you been all these years?” “He’s been in Cloudsdale with me,” Wing replied. “Yeah...I had to get away from Canterlot,” Sev said meekly. “It was way too much for me.” “Well, it’s good to see you two again. I have to catch up with you guys soon.” “What about me?” Spike interjected. “Yes, it’s good to see you too, Spike.” Wing replied. “Nice to see you’ve gone on a growth spurt.” “You guys are here for the Summer Sun Celebration, right?” Sev asked. “Yeah, that’s what we’re here for.” Spike replied, gleaming with pride at the growth spurt comment. “How about Sev and I show you around?” Wing offered. “That’s a great idea Wing! And it will give us a lot of time to catch up. Go ahead and show me around.” With that settled, the four friends walked down the street, with Sev and Wing leading the way. “So where we going first?” Wing asked. “We’re checking out the food situation at uh...Sweet Apple Acres?” Spike muttered. “Oh...Goody…” Sev moaned. “What’s with him?” Spike whispered over to Wing. “Oh don’t mind Grumpy Pants here. He’s just upset that we’re going to see his secret crush first” Wing snickered. Sev looked over as he'd heard that. “You’re sick in the head, you know that? Why would I ever date that hick?” “What’s all this about?” Twilight asked, overhearing Sev. “You’ll see when we get there,” Wing replied. “Okay, then…” The group soon arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, the smell of apples wafting into their nostrils. “Yeehaw!” an orange earthpony with a blond mane shouted. She ran to a tree and bucked it, causing the apples in it to fall into buckets underneath it. “Let’s just get this done so we can get back to our research and tour of Ponyville.” Twilight said as she walked up to the mare, Wing and Sev following. “Uh, hello. I’m Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight was unprepared for the mare grabbing her hoof and shaking it violently. “Well, howdy do, Twilight. Name’s Applejack. What can I do fer ya?” Twilight continued shaking her hoof until Spike grabbed onto it, stopping the near earthquake. “Hey, Applejack,” Wing spoke up. Applejack looked to Wing with a smile. “Howdy Wing!” Her smile turned into a glare when she laid eyes on Sev. “Howdy...you.” There was a hint of venom in her voice. “Hello yourself,” Sev replied with an equal amount of venom. “Am I missing something here?” Twilight asked in confusion. “This is Sev’s secret crush, Twilight,” Wing introduced her. “We do not like each other!” Sev and Applejack replied at the same time. Wing stifled with laughter at the pair. “Don’t even think about,” Sev warned. Wing regained his composure taking a deep breath. “Okay, it’s out of the system.” “Better be,” Sev growled. “Ya, Wing, I’m not gonna take this funny business well,” Applejack piled on. “Anyways...Princess Celestia sent me to check on the food situation.” Applejack perked up. “How bout I introduce ya to tha Apple family while we do that?” “Here we go..” Sev muttered under his breath. “Thanks, but--” Twilight said only to be interrupted by Applejack. “This here’s Apple Bumpkin.” she said, pointing to a mare with an apple related snack cutiemark. And after introducing several ponies and many snacks, she finally introduced the remaining three. “Big Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and… Granny Smith. Up and at’em Granny!” “Huh? Wha uh Soups on,” Granny said, groggily waking up from a nap in her rocking chair. “Ah might say yer already part of tha family!” Applejack said to Twilight. “When you gonna give me some grandfoals, Applejack?” Granny Smith asked, causing Applejack’s face to turn a deep red color. “G...Granny!” Applejack shouted “Ah ain’t getting any younger! You and that Sev fella would make a good couple!” Granny continued. “Granny!” Wing and Big Mac, who had been composed at this point, lost it and started laughing uncontrollably. “Dangit Wing!” Sev shouted. “Big Mac!” Applejack shouted. Twilight rolled her eyes at the situation. “Seriously, you two should calm down.” Big Mac and Wing soon got their laughter under control. “Anyway, I see the food situation is handled, so we’ll be on our way.” “Aren’t you gonna stay for brunch?” Apple Bloom asked, giving Twilight the classic bait of puppydog eyes. “Sorry, but we have a lot to do.” “Awww,” the entire Apple family said. “Come on, Twi, they have fritters,” Wing said, holding up an apple fritter. “Fine. I guess I should stay for a minute…” Twilight trailed off. The Apple Family, along with Sev and Wing, cheered with delight at Twilight’s decision. “This is going to be a long day,” Twilight thought to herself as the apple feast started. Author's Note This story take place chronologically before Imprisonment of a Changeling. But is not a direct prequel to it.
