Advice *optional chapter*

The train ride to Canterlot was so far the worst one Twilight had ever experienced. During her previous rides on the Friendship Express, she and her friends would crack jokes, solve mysteries or chat excitedly about the events to come. This time, nopony seemed in the mood to talk, including herself. Everypony just solemnly hung their heads, or stared blankly out the window. Many of their close friends were gone, and if they couldn't find a way to free them, they would stay frozen in stone forever. Any of her friends here on the train could turn into a statue at any moment. Her last hope had been Princess Celestia and that had been cruelly snatched away.

Twilight realized there was one pony right here she could ask for advice. "Starlight?" she asked.

Starlight looked up and trotted over. "Yes?"

"You were in this situation before... when the changelings captured every pony. How did you cope? Weren't you scared almost every pony you knew could- you know be gone forever? I- I'm a little scared right now." Twilight admitted.

Starlight thought for a minute. "I was scared too. I am scared now for Trixie. This isn't the first time that this has happened to you though. Were you scared when you fought Tirek?"

"I guess I was a little scared, but I was really determined to save everypony, especially my friends." Twilight said waving a hoof at the other occupants of the train. "I guess I just sort of was focused so hard on stopping Tirek that I forgot to be scared."

"The same thing happened to me. Before I came to rescue you and everypony else, I was totally freaking out. But once I focused on the task at hand, my fear just sort of faded to the background." Starlight said.

Twilight realized her student was right. Every time she had faced a perilous mission, facing Queen Chrysalis in Canterlot, Tirek in ponyville and even Starlight when she changed time, Twilight had had no time to think about her fears, only the mission. This time was no different. Whatever she felt didn't matter, right now she had to put her friends' wellbeing ahead of her fear. "You're right Starlight, I should've done the same thing before. I guess I'm not a very good teacher if I don't know stuff like this..." Twilight said sheepishly.

Starlight put a hoof on her shoulder. "Twilight you're the best teacher any pony has ever had, and don't ever think different. With your help, I've become a better friend than I ever would've on my own." Seeing Twilight still frowning Starlight continued, "You know, somepony very famous once said 'The best teacher is the one who is willing to learn'."

Twilight perked up at that, recognizing the words of her favorite wizard. "Star Swirl the Bearded quote? You really do know me Starlight." They both giggled. Twilight heard the train start slowing as it pulled up at Canterlot Station and immediately grew serious again. It was time for their mission to really begin.

As she trotted through the streets of Canterlot toward the towering castle, Twilight noticed that the city was just as busy as ever. The hypermodern city never ceased to amaze with its grand shopping plazas, elaborately decorated restaurants and its upper class atmosphere. Nobles dressed in fancy tuxedos and frilly dresses chatted as they went about their shopping. They would all give Twilight a nod or a quick bow as she passed. Most in Canterlot knew that Twilight wasn't really interested in the formalities offered toward a princess, but nonetheless felt obligated to show some sign of respect.

"I must say, I wish we were coming here under better circumstances. This season's fashion in Canterlot is simply divine!" Rarity commented as a noblemare in a sparkling dress passed by with a nod to Twilight.

"Ooh look Rarity, it's Tasty Treat! " Pinkie Pie exclaimed. "Hi Coriander!" She waved at a stallion in a waitor's apron who was serving a table of customers outside the restaurant. He waved back grinning.

"They seem to be doing quite well for themselves." Rarity observed smiling.

Eventually they passed the bustling streets of the city, and made their way to the castle gate. Two guards on the other side bowed to Twilight, and opened the gates with a creak. One of the soldiers trotted over from his post, "Princess Cadenza- Cadence is waiting for you in the throne room. It has been sealed off to all visitors." Twilight realized that she was right about the Princess' petrification being kept from the public. She thanked the guard and entered Canterlot Castle.

Normally, Twilight enjoyed being in the castle. Memories would flood back to her of her childhood here with Princess Celestia. Today however those weren't memories she wanted to see. Remembering her conversation with Starlight, Twilight steeled herself and pushed her fears and regrets to the back of her mind. She had a duty and she couldn't let her emotions get in the way of that.