Of Chaos and Harmony: The Shadow of Doubt

Chapters

Chapter 1 - From the Darkness
Chapter 2 - Lectures From Beyond the Grave
Chapter 3 - Nothing Spreads
Chapter 4 - All Out
Chapter 5 - Falling Star
Chapter 6 - Sun and Shadow
Chapter 7 - Setting Sun
Chapter 8 - The Darkest Night
Chapter 9 - Midnight Rainbow
Prologue - Ditzy Doo's Disappearance

Chapter 1 - From the Darkness

From the Darkness

“Twilight, can you please put that book down and help?” Spike asked pleadingly, balancing four books in each hand.

“Just a second, Spike. I’m almost done with this new spell!” Twilight said. “I’m so excited! Just imagine all that we would be able to learn talking to the spirits of our ancestors!”

“I dunno Twilight,” Spike said placing a book in a shelf. “Don’t you think it’s a little… unnatural? Talking to the dead an’ all.”

“I should be fine, they can’t affect this realm anyway.”

“This realm?”

“Yes, you see, there are two Realms that compose Equestria: The Physical, where we are now, and the Spiritual, where our souls go when we die. Normally spirits can only cross the boundary during birth or death, but this spell should allow us to exchange thoughts. Besides, the spell should only last for an hour.”

“I guess so. But what exactly do you expect them to do?”

“To teach me. To be able to talk to powerful Unicorns of the past would be a dream!”

“Like who? Starspiral the bearded?”

“Starswirl the Bearded, among others. To be able to learn from the best… I have to get back to work. If you want, after you put those books away, you can go get some dinner.”

“Now that sounds like a plan!”

Spike hastily put away the remaining books and left, eager to eat.

“Alright, I’m ready.” Twilight said soon after Spike left. “Maybe I should wait for Spike…” She wondered, looking up from the book to think for a moment. Turning to the door, she sighed, “It’ll be fine; he’ll be back soon. I can’t wait any longer!”

*****

This fateful evening, a light gray pony was enjoying the cool air on his way home, the wind ruffling his red mane.

The stars are really beautiful tonight. He thought to himself. I wish I could make something so-

“Hey, Gary.”

My name is Garret!

Turning around, he spotted a familiar purple dragon.

“What’s up, Spike?”

“Oh, not much. Just heading to The Clover Patch to grab some dinner. Twilight's been obsessing over this new spell of hers, you know how she is.”

“Heh, yeah.” If only I was that determined. “Wait, I thought you ate gemstones.”

“When I can find them, yeah. In the meantime I have to eat something, so I settle for grass.” A low rumbling erupted from Spike’s stomach. “Speaking of eating, that’s my cue. See ya, Gary.”

Garrett waved to his scaly friend. “See ya later, Spike.”

I wish I had a familiar. Of course, I’m not responsible enough to take care of someone else. Not that they’d want to serve me.

As the pony quietly walked back to his house, the voice of a young filly caught his ears. He looked over his shoulder to see Apple Bloom walking with her sister, Applejack.

“But Applejack, we were so close!” Apple Bloom exclaimed reluctantly. Applejack turned to her and said, “No but’s about it lil’ missy. Granny Smith has been worried sick about you.”

“But we almost got our cutie marks! An’ Ah can take care of mahself.”

“Sorry sugar cube, but you have ta go to school tomorrow. Ah know ya’ll want yer cutie marks, but ya can’t skip out on school.”

Apple Bloom trotted slowly behind her sister staring at the ground with a depressed look. But quick as a flash, her face changed from solemn to excited. “Hey sis! What about a lion taming cutie mark!”

Applejack looked at her sister humorously. “Have you ever seen a lion in Ponyville?”

Apple Bloom’s smile faded and returned a second later. “An ursa taming cutie mark then!”

Applejack chuckled a bit and smiled at her little sister. “You’ve sure got a big imagination for such a lil’ filly.”

Garrett didn’t even realize that he had stopped mid stride to listen to the two sisters talk. He turned back to the road and started walking, trying to clear his mind, but the scene played over and over in his head. Apple Bloom had so much potential and was still young. Garrett glanced at his blank flank and let loose a heavy sigh.

It wasn’t easy being the only adult pony in Ponyville with no cutie mark. He was always the odd one out. Even young fillies and colts had their marks. Garrett shook his head in a desperate attempt to banish the thought.

On the way home he saw a bright purple light emanating from Twilight Sparkle’s house. Garrett curiously approached the library and took a peak through the window. Twilight sat in the center of the room staring at an opened tome. All of the candles were doused except for one on her stand helping her read. Her horn glowed brighter and brighter until Garrett had to shield his eyes from the light. He turned away from the window and scuffed his hoof in the dirt.

Twilight… she’s so intelligent and gifted. A true prodigy. Ponies will remember her forever. I wonder… will anyone remember me?

Suddenly, an enormous explosion of magical energy engulfed the library blowing the windows open and scattering loose papers inside. Garrett quickly stammered away, eyes widened in shock. His heart beat wildly as he ran back to the road. As the explosion died down and soon completely stopped, he tried frantically to catch his breath.

“What in Equestria was that?!” He exclaimed, still breathing heavily. He stared at the door just waiting for a terrified Twilight Sparkle to step out. But much to Garrett’s surprise, nothing happened.

He finally caught his breath and sighed. This was certainly the weirdest walk he had ever had. The evening became silent with only the slight whistle of a faint breeze. Garrett started on his way again when all of the sudden, he began hearing voices. He glanced in all directions but saw nopony around. The voices steadily rose in volume Garrett was panicked even more than before. Finally, the voices became audible enough for Garrett.

Wait… I think he can hear us.

“Who can hear you!? Who are you!?” Garrett called aloud. But nopony answered. Yet the voices in his head became clearer.

Don’t be afraid, Garrett.

Wha…what happened?

Something wonderful!

Who-?

But it’s so unnatural.

Isn’t this cool, though?

Why can’t you hooligans let me rest!?

Wha-?

You’ve been asleep for the past seventy-six years, you lazy old hoof!

Who’re you calling old! Oh forget it. I’m going back to sleep.

How can you sleep at a time like this?

Here, let me show you…*snore*

What is going on!?

I, for one, don’t find this amusing in the slightest.

Who are you?

Of course you wouldn’t recognize me you unlearned git. I’m your great great great great exceptionally superb grandfather, Isaiah Von Ishtavoi IV.

Give it a rest, you stuck up-

I don’t appreciate being forced into a conversation with this no talent hack.

…

You don’t have to call him names.

Look at that! Only the dead will stand in his defense. It’s that kind of attitude that’s gotten him nowhere in life.

… but…

You have brought shame to the long-honored Ishtavoi lineage.

*snore*

I’m trying…

Trying to do what? Make room for REAL stallions? You’ve spent your whole life in this pitiful backwater town eking out a living from various meaningless, degrading jobs with no intent on improving. You don’t even have your mark of destiny yet.

I’m not…

If I had a body, I’d come down there and put you out of your useless mockery of an existence. It would be as easy as disposing of the garbage, and just as productive.

Isaiah, honey. Don’t you think you’re being harsh?

I won’t feel pity for some pony with no self-respect.

I just…

I’ve wasted enough of my time here. Good day.

… I’m sorry.

…

*snore*

Watch ou-

He’s right, you know.

And who are you?

You are quite worthless.

I’m not worthless!

Really? What have you done to prove yourself?

…

You’re friendless, jobless, almost homeless, and completely powerless.

What do you expect me to do!? I’m not smart, not strong, not fast.

Then change that.

… I can’t.

Of course not. Not someone as pathetic as you.

…

You have not the strength.

I… I know.

But you can.

Can what?

Attain power.

How?

What are you willing to sacrifice?

Anything! Everything!

Everything?

Yes… I have nothing to begin with.

Perfect. First, I require control.

Of what?

Of you.

… I’ll lend you my body, if you’ll give me strength.

Then let us begin.

Chapter 2 - Lectures From Beyond the Grave

Lectures from beyond the grave

Night fell in Ponyville. The stores had all closed and the lights had been doused. Spike walked slowly down the dirt road, enjoying the cool breeze under the moonlight. Eventually, the library came into view. But something was amiss. He approached the building with growing concern. At first, it didn’t look like anything was wrong, but as he got closer he noticed that the windows had been shattered and papers scattered. His eyes widened in surprise as he burst into a sprint for the house.

“Twilight! Hey, Twilight! Are you ok?” Spike yelled upon entering the library.

Books covered the floor and the desk had fallen over spilling ink on most of the papers. In the center of the room sat Twilight Sparkle, mane frazzled and eyes bloodshot. She appeared to be talking to the fallen desk.

“I understand that you animated broomsticks to help you clean your master’s chamber,” She exclaimed with a hoarse voice. “but making books read themselves will not get you anywhere!”

Spike looked around nervously. “Uh, what?”

Turning to a half empty bookshelf, she said, “And no, if you overload a crystal already saturated with arcane energy, it will sublimate erratically, resulting in a destructive explosion! Not implode upon itself! Where would the excess magic even go? The moon!?”

“Twi? Who are you talking to?”

She then addressed the ceiling fan. “I’ve had it with all of you stuck up, pompous dead geezers! I just wanted to learn, and all you have done is debate whether or not controlling animated utensils is slavery!”

Running up to Twilight, Spike tried to shake some sense into her. “Twilight! Hey, Twi! Who are you talking to?”

“Oh, Spike! Thank goodness you’re here! I can’t stand listening to these guys anymore!”

“Twilight! Calm down!” Spike exclaimed, vigorously shaking his friend.

“Wait…” Twilight froze, holding her breath. “Do you hear that?”

Spike waited a moment, wondering if this was a trick question. “Uh… hear what?”

“Oh thank Celestia, they’ve stopped! The spell wore off!”

“The spell? You mean you tried the new spell alone?!”

“… Yes? But I’m fine now, see!” she responded exhaustedly, attempting to stand. The most she could manage was getting her forelegs straight before shakily falling back to the floor.

“You are not fine! What if something worse happened to you? I worry for you, Twilight. You have to be more careful from now on.”

Twilight stared at the ground with an unhappy frown. “Alright, Spike. I’m sorry.”

The young dragon kneeled down in front of his friend and smiled. “It’s alright, Twi. I’m just glad you’re ok. The library, on the other hand…”

Twilight looked up in disbelief at the destruction the spell had caused. She smiled at her friend and said, “I’ll take care of it Spike.”

“Oh no, Twilight. You’re in no condition to work. I’ve got this; you need your rest. Now lets get you to bed.”

Without another word, the two struggled up the stairs to Twilight’s bed. Spike quietly descended to start cleaning the library. The exhausted unicorn was asleep before she felt the sheets.

*****

“Well, Rarity, you were right. I really needed this.”

Twilight and her friend sat neck-deep in a bath of perfumed mud, soaking the soreness out of their muscles.

“Oh, don’t mention it, darling,” said the ivory unicorn. “Poor Fluttershy was too preoccupied with her animals to make it, and you’ve been so tense recently. What happened to you, anyway? Are you feeling alright, dear?”

“Well, last week I created a spell that would allow me to talk to ponies of the past.”

“You mean, to the dead?”

“Well, yes. It took a little more energy than I expected, and the resulting explosion sure made a mess of the place. Luckily nopony was hurt.”

“Why Twilight, what ever would posses you to do such a thing?”

“I wanted to learn about magic from great sorcerers, but most of them are dead, so I created a connection from our world to theirs.”

“Did any of them escape?” Rarity asked worriedly. “Is your library haunted now?”

“No. I made the spell so only thoughts could get through. You don’t have to worry about any ghosts.”

“Oh thank goodness for that!” She said, visibly relieved. “Well, did you learn anything?”

Twilight’s smile fell a little. “Not much. Turns out there are a lot of dead ponies, and they have many different opinions. I couldn’t get a word in edgewise. But I did learn how to make dancing broomsticks and crystal bombs.”

“Oh. Well, what are you going to do now?”

“I’ll probably try again in the future, but I’ll have to do more research. Maybe I’ll ask Princess Celestia.”

“Don’t push yourself too hard Twilight. I’d hate to see you get hurt.”

“Thank you Rarity. I’ll be careful. By the way, wasn’t Sweetie Belle supposed to meet us here?”

“She should be on her way from school now. She just-“

A sudden ring came from the front door.

“Oh, that must be her. ~Aloe!~ Could you bring my sister here, please?”

The pink earth pony jumped to attention. “Yes, madam.”

She returned shortly leading a young white filly with a purple and pink mane.

“Hi Rarity. Hi Twilight!”

“Hello, dearie.” Rarity said lovingly. “How was school today?”

“It was ok, but I’m worried about my friends.”

“What happened?”

“Well, Dinky Doo came to class today after being gone a whole week, but she only stayed a little bit. I heard her talking to Ms. Cheerilee, and she said her mother was missing. And Snips and Snails were gone too. And Silver Spoon and Twist!”

“Ponies are disappearing?” Twilight questioned, leaning up anxiously.

Rarity shot a worried look to Twilight. “Are you sure no ghosts escaped?”

“G-ghosts?” Sweetie Belle squeaked, cowering fearfully.

“Yes, I’m sure Rarity. I could feel all of them while I was talking, and nothing happened.”

“Then why have so many ponies gone missing?”

“Well… Isn’t it almost flu season?”

“Oh! Of course! They aren’t gone, just sick. ”

Turning to her younger sister, Rarity said, “See? There’s nothing to worry about. Now you just run back to the boutique Sweetie. We won’t be long. We just have to clean ourselves up.”

“But Rarity-“

“I promise you’ll be fine. You can lock the door if you want to.”

“Ok... Please hurry.”

*****

The sun sank behind the horizon as a little filly hurried home. The streets were more vacant than they usually were at this time. As the sunlight faded, Sweetie Belle became more frightened, quickening her pace.

“It’s just the flu, Sweetie Belle,” she tried to reassure to herself. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. There’s no such thing as ghosts… there’s no such thing as-“

“Hey there-”

“AAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!”

“-Sweetie Belle?”

Peeking out from the tree branches where she had landed, Sweetie spotted a familiar yellow filly with a very confused look on her freckled face.

“Apple Bloom! Don’t sneak up on me like that!” She yelled.

“Ah’m sorry. Ah didn’t mean to scare you. That was some jump though. Maybe it’s your special talent! Didja get yer Cutie Mark?”

“No.” She said irritably while climbing down from the small tree. “It’s ok, Apple Bloom. You just surprised me, that’s all. Where are you going?”

“Back to the farm: it’s gettin’ late. I’ll see you tomorrow Belle!” she said, turning to leave.

“Wait!”

“What is it?”

“Um… could you walk to the boutique with me?”

“But it’s right around that corner. Don’t tell me you’re lost?”

"No, it’s just that…”

“Then are you scared of the dark?”

“N-No! Fine! I’ll just go by myself!”

“ Ah’m sorry Sweetie Belle. Ah didn’t mean any harm.” She said quietly before galloping off.

Sweetie Belle reluctantly continued home alone.

~BANG!~ A door slammed shut. Sweetie Belle jerked her head toward the sound with a small shriek. But she saw nopony. A chill ran down her neck. The moon suddenly disappeared behind a dark cloud, leaving the frightened filly alone and completely shrouded in shadows. Her shaky legs wouldn’t allow her to take another step. She nervously looked around in all directions, but could barely see a hoof in front of her face.

If only Rarity or Big Macintosh were here. If only I wasn’t so small. Then I could stand up for myself. But… I can’t...

A shuffle, a glance. She saw red and gray, before black.

Chapter 3 - Nothing Spreads

Nothing Spreads

Morning arrived in the small village. The birds peaceful chirping echoed about the town as the sun’s rays slowly crept up the horizon. But one pony was already awake. Twilight sat in the library flipping through a book, feeling refreshed after her spa treatment the other night.

If flu season has started early this year, I’m sure some ponies will come here seeking help.

She levitated a book from a high shelf down to her level.

Let’s start with prevention methods.

She quickly reviewed book after book, absorbing the information at an almost unnatural pace. Tome after tome, she continued to skim searching for a cure. The stacks of books began to pile higher and higher until they became dangerously unstable. Suddenly the front door flew open, knocking over several stacks of books as Rarity skidded into the foyer.

“Twilight! TWILIGHT! Where are you!?”

*Mmph,* said a pile of books shuffling a bit.

“Oh! I’m sorry dear!” She said, throwing literature wildly in her attempts to free her friend. “I really need your help!”

She reached for Twilight’s hoof and pulled her free from the heap. Twilight winced once and then jumped to her hooves. “What’s wrong? Are you ok?”

“I’m fine, but I can’t find Sweetie Belle anywhere! I woke up this morning and looked in her room, but she was nowhere to be found!” yelled Rarity, on the verge of hysterics.

Twilight’s stomach dropped.

“What!? She’s not in the Boutique?”

“She’s not! I searched through and through!” she exclaimed, bursting into tears. She fell to the ground, sobbing as she buried her face in her hooves.

“Maybe she’s out with her friends?” Twilight said quickly, trying to calm the distraught unicorn.

“But she… wouldn’t worry me… like that, would she?” She said peeking up at her friend a bit.

“It wouldn’t be the first time she’s snuck out without permission. I’m sure she’s out crusading.”

“You’re probably right Twilight. Lets find them quickly.” She stood and wiped her eyes. “I’ve got a few words for her.”

The two walked out of the library, but didn’t get far before hearing a familiar cry from the clouds. They looked up in confusion for a moment until finally spotting the sentient rainbow flailing through the air and plummeting toward the earth. As her voice grew louder, Twilight threw open a magic net just above the ground to catch her. The net stretched, almost touching the ground and then bouncing back up and tossing Rainbow Dash up and then back down with a slight ~thud~

“Rainbow Dash. Can I ask you a question?”

“What’s up Twilight?” The flamboyant blue Pegasus asked, brushing herself off.

“Have you seen Scootaloo or Apple Bloom anywhere?”

“I haven’t seen that orange fur ball all day, but I think I saw Apple Bloom with her sister on their farm. Why? What’s wrong?”

“Sweetie Belle has gone missing. And we think she might be with Apple Bloom.” Rarity said with a sniffle.

“Missing? What do you mean ‘missing’?” Rainbow Dash asked tilting her head a bit.

Twilight looked to both of them and said, “Come on Rainbow. We’ll tell you on the way.”

The three quickly made their way to Sweet Apple Acres. The town was as bustling as always, ponies went about their everyday lives. When all of the sudden, the trio was stopped by a frantic Lyra.

“Have you seen Bon Bon?” she asked without hesitation.

“Um, no. I’m sorry. Is something wrong?” Twilight asked, leaning in with a raised eyebrow.

“I can’t find her anywhere!” she shouted as she galloped to another group of ponies.

The three exchanged worried glances. Rarity turned to Twilight. “You don’t think…”

“It’s just a coincidence. Let’s hurry.” She said, speeding her pace.

They galloped through Ponyville to Sweet Apple Acres, Not stopping for anything. As Soon as they arrived, they spotted Applejack and her little sister carrying basketfuls of fresh apples into the barn. Big Macintosh sat next to the barn chewing a piece of straw and Granny Smith sat in a rocking chair fast asleep. But who they didn’t spot, was Sweetie Belle.

“Hey, girls.” Twilight called out to Applejack. “Have you seen Sweetie Belle anywhere?”

The orange pony turned and pondered for a second. “Ah can’t say that Ah have. Last time Ah saw that little cutie was when she came over two days ago with Scootaloo.”

“Wait.” Apple Bloom piped up. “Ah saw her last night on my way home. She was going to your shop, Rarity.”

“Was she ok?” Rarity asked, moving closer to the filly.

“She seemed fine, just a little jumpy. She didn’t want to admit it, but I think she’s scared of the dark.”

“And after that?”

“Well, Ah came here and she went home. Why? Did something happen?” She asked with growing concern.

“We can’t find her anywhere!” Rarity exclaimed.

“What!”

“Well, it seems ponies are disappearing.” Twilight explained. “I’ve heard Bon Bon and several of your classmates are gone as well. If we’re going to find them we need help. I think it’s time to call a town meeting.”

“Oh yes, let’s.” Rarity pleaded.

“Good thinking Twilight!” Rainbow Dash said brashly.

“Count us in.” Applejack offered. “Ain’t nopony gonna vanish if Ah have anything to say ‘bout it.”

The group set off for Ponyville’s town hall.

*****

The mayor contacted and the hall opened. The citizens gathered outside and wondered what was going on. The prattle rose in volume louder and louder until Twilight finally stepped up to the podium. Rainbow Dash arrived shortly with Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie and gave the signal that all of the citizens were present.

Twilight cleared her throat and began the proceedings, “Citizens of Ponyville. I believe we have an emergency on our hooves. Ponies are disappearing.”

A worried whisper stirred the crowd. Twilight silenced them before continuing.

“But do not panic! The Mayor has a few things to say about the epidemic.” Twilight took a few steps to the side. “If you would, ma’am.” she said, turning backstage.

To everyone’s surprise, Rarity rushed out.

“She’s gone!”

Total silence filled the hall.

A tiny voice piped up, “Now do we panic?”

Chapter 4 - All Out

All Out

Why are we doing this?

What do you mean? Isn’t this what you wanted? To be noticed?

Well I-

To finally be respected?

Yes, but-

But nothing. The best way to be respected is to be feared.

Are you sure?

Of course my friend. I promise you, when I’m finished here, you will bring honor to your family’s name.

I… I will?

Yes. But right now, we have more work to do.

What work?

First, we must substitute somepony with more… potential. And I know just who to get.

*****

The sun sat in the center of the sky shining its light upon a frantic Ponyville. All of the ponies either hid in their homes or panicked through the streets looking for loved ones. It was chaos like nopony had ever seen before, and yet nopony knew what it was. The very essence of fear flooded the air all around the frightened town.

Quick as lightning, Rainbow Dash blew through the clouds. She desperately scanned the ground below searching for her friends. Finally, she spotted Twilight Sparkle and swiftly flew down to her.

“Rainbow Dash! Any luck?”

Rainbow landed on the dirt road, sweating and panting heavily. She looked back up at Twilight. “Not… a thing… I flew… all around… Ponyville… and couldn’t find them anywhere…” She said through gasps of air.

Twilight sighed at the news and hung her head. “I didn’t have much luck either. I’ve looked everywhere and still no sign of them.”

The two ponies sat in the midst of a catastrophe with no solution out as far as they could see. The cries of terrified ponies echoed in their ears until they could barely hear themselves think.

Suddenly, the two heard flapping nearby. They turned around to see a familiar yellow pegasus pony landing right next to them.

“Did you find them?” Fluttershy asked with a hopeful glint in her eyes.

Twilight just looked down and sighed again. “I take it you didn’t find anything either…?” She said in a disappointed tone.

Fluttershy looked away from Twilight. She took in some air and said “No… and you’re not going to believe this, but the post office and hospital are empty too.”

“WHAT?!” Twilight and Rainbow yelled simultaneously, both stammering to attention. Rainbow Dash approached Fluttershy intensely.

“That’s not possible! I flew by there just a minute ago and they were packed!”

Fluttershy gasped at her friend and backed away a few steps. “I…I’m sorry…”

Rainbow was shocked at her own rage. She shook her head violently and apologized to Fluttershy.

“This is unbelievable.” Twilight said pacing back and forth trying to concentrate. “First Ditzy Doo, then Snips, Snails, and Silver Spoon. Bon Bon and Sweetie Belle, and now Boxxy Brown and Redheart?!” She marched in her rut faster and faster, her anger building by the moment. She finally let out a furious yell, “How can we stop something when we don’t even know what it is!?”

Rainbow and Fluttershy swapped worried glances and slowly approached the unicorn. Rainbow Dash hovered just above Twilight and patted her shoulder. “Calm down, Twilight. We’ll get to the bottom of this.”

The exhausted unicorn sighed. “I hope so.”

Looking around at the surrounding chaos, she collected herself and said,

“Alright, first we need to regroup. Fluttershy, go tell all the ponies you can to meet in the main town square. There’s safety in numbers, after all. Dash, you go to Sweet Apple Acres and get Applejack and her family. I’ll get Rarity and Pinkie Pie and meet you at the library. I have a feeling we’ll need the Elements of Harmony to overcome this.”

As they quickly sped off, Twilight headed towards Carousel Boutique the cries of the citizens growing further and further away. As it came into view, she noticed that something was wrong. None of the lights were on, but the ‘open’ sign was lit. Upon closer inspection, she saw the side window was broken. She gasped and quickened her pace to a gallop.

“Rarity! Are you there?” She yelled, busting down the front doors.

She hoped for a voice, a sound, anything to tell her that it was ok. The boutique was a mess: clothe hanging down from the dressers and mirror and the floor was scattered with gemstones. Poniquins stood all in a row except for one knocked over by the staircase. Out of the silence, a small sniffle crept its way to Twilight’s ears.

She followed the sound to the stairs and looked up with anxiety and fear. “Rarity?” She called out quietly, taking one step up. The sound of crying became more audible with each quivering step. At last, she reached the door, but stopped herself before opening it for fear of what she might find. She lifted her hoof up and reached for the door as slowly as possible. It creaked quietly as the purple unicorn finally walked in.

She saw Spike sitting face down by Rarity’s bed. His sobs seemed to carry over to Twilight. She stopped in the center of the room and looked around. Ears drooped and head hanging, though she already knew the answer, she quietly asked, “Spike… are you alright?”

“She’s gone… Twilight… he… he got her…” he choked out in a muffled voice.

Twilight walked over to her friend and patted him on the shoulder. She tried to hold back her tears, but she could not. “I’m so sorry Spike…”

He looked up at Twilight for a second and then embraced the pony. “It’s all my fault Twilight. He came in and then… and then…” He shut his eyes tight, unable to finish his sentence.

Twilight lowered her head to his level to try to comfort him. Trying not to pry, she gently asked, “Who did this?”

Spike didn’t answer for the longest time. Finally, looking up with teary eyes he shakily said, “It was a pony, I think… There was this crash; I heard her scream… and a flash of light. And then he left…”

“What did he look like?”

“He was… was gray, with a red mane. He had these weird bumps on his back and head. And his eyes… I’ll never forget those horrible yellow eyes…”

The two stayed motionless for some time.

“What are we gonna do, Twi?” Spike asked, trying to hide his obvious sorrow.

For once, Twilight didn’t have an answer. This catastrophe was too far out of her reach. She looked down at her friend. “I don’t know Spike… I don’t know.”

She paused for a moment, thinking of what to say next. She slowly rose and said, “But we have to get out of here. Head to the library. You’ll be safe there. I have to get to Sugarcube Corner to get Pinkie.”

She hugged her friend one last time before turning and rushing down the stairs and out the door.

Spike followed down the staircase still mourning the loss of Rarity. “I’m a failure. A big, useless failure.” In an instant, the purple dragon tripped and crashed down the rest of the staircase. He landed at the bottom with a loud slam and grunted from pain. His aching outside, however, paled in comparison to his shattered heart.

And there he lay. He tried once or twice to get to his feet, but just fell back down. “Rarity needed a hero… but all she got was me…”

Pounding his fist into the floor, he yelled, “WHY AM I SO WEAK!”

…

“You don’t have to worry about that any more.”

Chapter 5 - Falling Star

Falling Star

Twilight was returning to her library after finding Sugarcube Corner devoid of ponies.

Oh, I hope Pinkie’s all right. She thought. Please keep her safe Celestia…

She skidded to an abrupt halt on the dirt road and gasped. “Princess Celestia! Oh my stars, I haven’t told her!”

She galloped even faster to the library. Ponyville was still alive with the sounds of fear and the sky began to darken on the town. Almost breaking down the library door, Twilight fell to the floor gasping for breath. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash stared at her with surprise.

“Twilight! Where have you been!?” Rainbow Dash exclaimed, noticeably tired from her numerous flights around the village.

“And where’s Rarity?!” Fluttershy added, breaking out of her quiet, calm demeanor.

Twilight looked up with tear-filled eyes. She tried to speak, but couldn’t even muster that.

Fluttershy gasped in horror and covered her mouth with her hooves. Her eyes began to water as she ran to Rainbow Dash and embraced the speechless pegasus.

The cries of Ponyville echoed throughout all of Equestria. The fear of the unknown shrouded the entire world. And yet, the three friends heard nothing. Only the sound of silence resonated in their ears. Twilight trembled next to the door, a cold chill running down her back. Fluttershy sat crying, still holding on to Rainbow who hid her sorrow on the inside.

Hopelessness. Absolute hopelessness.

“That’s it!” Rainbow yelled, voice hoarse and shaky. She lifted her head and opened her eyes, letting loose a few tears. “I’m done sitting and waiting! … This monster has gone too far!”

Twilight stood and walked over to her friends. “No! Rainbow, we have to think this through!”

“After all that he’s done! He killed Rarity!”

The words hit Twilight like a steam engine. She looked around in despair. “Where are the others?”

“I… I saw Pinkie… and Mr. Cake,” Fluttershy whispered between sobs. “So I told them… to meet… with the other citizens in… the town square.”

“And Applejack?”

“I found her on the farm.” Rainbow Dash said as calmly as she could, though obviously frustrated. “She’s on her way into town, family in tow.”

Twilight gazed around the library slowly, and then became more anxious. Eye’s widened, she murmured, “Where’s Spike…”

The two said nothing. Just stared at each other, then back at Twilight.

“Where is he…?” She asked again, a bit louder.

Finally, Rainbow Dash quietly answered, “He’s not here…”

“… No…”

Twilight stood tall, though her heart fell tremendously. She had tried her best to be strong. She had tried her hardest to lead her friends. But it was becoming increasingly evident to her that she was failing them. Failing Ponyville… failing Equestria.

She dried her eyes and then remembered what she had to do. “Spike… he saw the culprit.

The other two looked up with a spark of hope.

“It’s a gray pony with a red mane… and yellow eyes.” She said remembering the words Spike had said.

“Well what’re we waiting for?” Rainbow shouted. “Let’s find this freak and make him pay!”

Shaking her head, Twilight said, “No. You have something more important to do. You need to go to Princess Celestia and tell her what’s going on.”

“Fly all the way to Canterlot?”

“It’s our only chance! We need her help, and you are the fastest flyer in Equestria.”

Rainbow looked down at her friends and nodded. “Alright. Be careful, you guys.”

As she took off, Twilight turned to her friend. “Fluttershy.”

“Eeep!”

“Fly to the town square and make sure the others are alright. Tell them to keep watch for the fiend.”

“Ok… What about you?”

“I need to find my copy of Teleportation and Transmutation. What ever he’s doing to his victims, he doesn’t leave a body or traces. I’ll be there shortly, but they need to know now.”

“Please hurry.” she said, bolting out the door.

Twilight turned to the bookshelves, but had hardly taken a step before bursting into tears. “I’m sorry Spike… I wasn’t there for you when you needed me the most.” As her tears fell to the floor and her exhaustion took hold, she heard the door slowly creak open. Her sorrow turned to terror as she turned to behold a fearsome figure.

“Hello, Twilight Sparkle.” He echoed in a distorted voice that sounded normal yet low and gritty at the same time.

His blood red mane flowed like flames against his dark gray coat. His eyes a piercing yellow surrounded by black. He had to duck his head as he crossed the threshold. His powerful form a contrast to his fledgling wings and stunted horn.

Twilight trembled beneath his gaze… the gaze of a connoisseur.

“Wh-Who are you?”

“My existence is questioned, he is not who he was, but you may call us, Devil-Ish.”

“Devil…Ish?” She repeated, still shuddering in fear. All too soon, she remembered her friends. She remembered all that he had done. Anger overtook her as she jumped to her hooves, horn charged with magic.

“Where are they? What did you do to them?” She demanded.

“You think you stand a chance against us?”

“Give me back my friends or else!” Her horn grew brighter “I’m warning you!”

“What makes you think you threaten us? We wouldn’t stand before you like this if it was otherwise. But we have no fear. After all, you couldn’t protect your friends.”

Twilight faltered.

“They cared for you. They trusted you. You were to lead them, but where are they now?”

“T-that…You…”

“I don’t believe you cared for that dragon anyway. The way you treated him like the slave he is. You let him come here by himself when you knew we were taking ponies. That’s hardly what a friend would do.”

“Shut Up! SHUT UP!”

“Can you not face the truth?”

“It’s a lie!”

“Look at yourself. You know it’s not. You’ve always stepped on him, pushed him around, and made him clean all of your messes. You may have been his friend, but he was not yours.”

She fell to the floor and closed her eyes. “Just…just go away.”

“I’m sorry Twilight. I can only speak the truth. It is my curse.” He reached a hoof towards her. “But don’t worry. It won’t hurt for much longer.”

“…Before you kill me, just tell me: What are you?”

He paused. “Kill you? I don’t kill ponies. As for who I am. I am Doubt.” Touching her forehead, he said, “Now sleep, my dear. You’ve had a very hard day.”

*****

Now to visit an old friend of mine. I wonder if she’s still as sunny as ever.

*****

This feeling, I know this. Oh yes, now I remember. The Elements must have fallen. I didn’t expect this so soon, but I won’t complain. Do you smell that? It smells beautiful. It smells wild. It smells… like Chaos.

Chapter 6 - Sun and Shadow

Sun and Shadow

Evening fell over Canterlot, as a certain princess paced around the royal throne room, her colorful mane flowing violently, less vibrant than usual. Her usually charming smile had been replaced with a look of burden and concern. All of the sudden, a sealed envelope appeared in front of the throne. She galloped to it quickly and opened it.

She read the first few words, then frowned and threw it to the ground. Her letter had been returned to her for the third time. “Why isn’t Twilight receiving my messages?” She said agitated. Had she not been princess of Equestria, she would have flown down to Ponyville and confronted Twilight Sparkle face to face. But her kingdom needed her here. She felt helplessly imprisoned in the castle, waiting for word from her most trusted pupil.

Princess Luna then walked into the room, looking disheveled after her sleep. She walked up the red carpet and to her sister.

“Good evening sister. Did you not sleep well?” Princess Celestia asked, turning to her sister.

“I did not.” She answered, raising her head wearily. “Throughout the night I felt that something was wrong. I just felt…empty.”

“I have as well, sister.”

The two walked down the steps side-by-side, looking grimly at the dimming sky. Luna turned to one of the stain glass windows featuring six ponies vanquishing the spirit of chaos. She stopped and quietly asked, “What is happening sister?”

The two walked over to the window and stared into the colorful glass solemnly. Celestia stared at the figure of Twilight Sparkle for a moment. She looked down to her sister and said, “I don’t know Luna… I don’t know.”

The two stood silently for some time, waiting for the other to say something.
Suddenly they both felt the backlash of a nearby spell. Turning back to the throne, they witnessed an ethereal gate open to a familiar scene; Ponyville’s library, but an unfamiliar face. As the strange pony stepped through the portal he flexed his powerful wings, horn glinting in the dying rays of the sun. He strode closer to the two princesses, a grim smile resting upon his face.

Luna cowered behind her sister, who took a defensive stance. Celestia glared at the dark gray figure and commanded, “Who are you? Speak intruder!”

“Do you like them?” he asked, showing off his recent additions. “We just got them. And these are merely the beginning.” He smirked.

“I said, who are you?” Celestia demanded, stomping her hoof down.

“What? Dear Celestia, don’t you recognize us?”

“Should I?”

“We would hope so. Of course, our appearance has changed since we last met. You were much angrier then. And much more violent.”

“Enough games, tell us who you are!”

“My my, aren’t we impatient? Very well then. If you are so against conversation, then we’ll tell you. Our name is Devil-Ish.”

“That doesn’t ring any bells.”

“Then you may remember me as Doubt.”

A look of horror crossed the younger one’s face, while the elder’s horn grew all the brighter.

“Ah, so now you remember me. The spirit you banished into an eternity of nothingness! To forever wonder the barren realm of the spirit world! Did you think I wouldn’t take it personally!?”

“Luna, run.” Celestia growled. “I won’t let him hurt you again.”

“B-but sister-“

“Go already!” She yelled. “I’ve killed him once, I can do it again.”

Scrambling to her hooves, Luna bolted out the door.

“A futile gesture.”

“You shouldn’t have come back Doubt. You’ll find I’ve become much stronger in the time you’ve been banished.”

“Don’t think you’re the only one who’s been growing. It’s that kind of attitude that almost got Luna killed last time.”

“A mistake I don’t intend to make again.” Celestia moved back to the red carpet, lining herself up with the stallion. The magnificent white mare looked into his bright yellow eyes and said, “So tell me, Devil-Ish, just how did you cheat death?”

He scoffed for a moment. Sitting on the princess’s throne, he smirked and said, “We couldn’t have done it without a particular pony. One by the name of… Twilight Sparkle.”

Celestia’s breath caught in her throat at the mention of her favorite student. Her eyes widened in shock, then glared in rage. “If you’ve done anything to her…”

“Then what? You’ll kill us again?” Devil-Ish grinned menacingly. “While we’re on the subject, her potential was quite… delicious.”

“I’LL SEND YOU BACK TO OBLIVION, YOU MONSTER.” Her divine fury suddenly boiled over. Her powerful roar shattered the stain glass windows all about the throne room. Her horn glowed even brighter with the magic of many millenniums manifesting maliciously in the mare. The sun outside grew in brightness with its master and she prepared to strike.

Her mane turned to Technicolor flames as she wildly charged at the fiend. Unfazed, he teleported behind his attacker, who turned mid-charge to face him again. She scowled at him, not taking her eyes off of the stallion. A golden aura enveloped the royal throne before flying towards the intruder.

“Let us see how well these work.” He said, taking to the air. The seat smashed into a wall, splintering below the dark alicorn. Devil-Ish’s horn glowed a neon red and he unleashed a spiraling stream of crimson flame towards the goddess. She quickly opened her wings and ascended to his level, the fire barely singeing her hooves.

As their aerial maneuvers grew in complexity and their blows in strength, the throne room looked less like itself with each passing moment. The sorrow portrayed on Celestia’s face and the rage contained in each attack had not been seen by any mortal pony for eons. The confident, almost joyous look on her aggressor, however, was constant despite their increasingly heated exchanges.

Eventually, the roof couldn’t stand up to their attacks, and a powerful buck brought it down. Celestia protected herself with a magic blast upwards, while Devil-Ish teleported himself outside.

Glancing backwards, he barely had enough time to throw up a shield between him and the concentrated rays of the sun, but didn’t react quickly enough to prevent the flying tackle. As they tumbled through the air, each trying to gore the other with their horn or shatter bones with their hooves, the ground quickly approached them. Gaining a momentary advantage, Celestia threw her opponent to the earth, herself remaining airborne.

Although the landing would have killed any mortal pony, the impact only left him dazed. Celestia attempted to finish him off with a crushing stomp to the head. He quickly regained himself and recovered, transporting himself near one of Canterlot’s many towers. Collecting his strength, he tore the tower from its base, directing its point towards Celestia, and released it with a mighty toss.

The Princess, noticing the attack, barely had enough time to charge a solar beam. Before being crushed under the tower, she fired an immense beam and obliterated the structure. Taking flight, she powered through the falling debris in pursuit. Dodging between towers, their furious ethereal volleys rained down upon an unsuspecting Canterlot.

Celestia continued after Devil-Ish, weaving in and out of the towers. The white alicorn suddenly stopped and gasped in horror at the destruction the battle was causing to the city below. Noting her concern, Devil-Ish formed a wicked smile. “Go on ‘princess’.” He called in a mocking tone. “Protect your ponies!” He laughed maniacally, raining blast after blast of fire upon the horrified city.

Celestia gathered all of her magic and teleported to the ground. Calling upon the quickly fading rays of the sun, she threw up a magic barrier to protect her citizens. The fireballs collided with the shield, spouting flames in all directions and crackling wildly. Finally, the volley ceased, and she collapsed to the ground, panting heavily, as the townsfolk began cheering.

The victory was short lived and the cheering came to a dead stop as the gray stallion came crashing to the ground. He clopplauded sarcastically and chuckled, “Well done Celestia. You’ve managed a little compassion.”

Celestia angrily looked up. “Stop it Doubt! This battle is between you and me. Leave them out of it!”

“Oh but Celestia, that’s no fun at all.” As he approached the exhausted princess, surrounding ponies backed away and cowered from the menacing foe. He kneeled down to her level and let out a low cackle. “What’s the matter princess? Unfamiliar with old magic?”

Celestia glared into his eyes and leapt at the brute pinning him to the ground. “I won’t let you win!” She shouted, holding him down with all of her strength. Her horn glowed brighter and brighter until the two disappeared with an explosive flash.

The two appeared in Whitetail Woods, Celestia still overpowering Devil-Ish. Before he had time to react, she levitated him off the ground and delivered an airborne kick to his stomach. Devil-Ish flew through the air knocking over several full-grown trees before hitting the ground and skidding to a painful stop. Before he could even blink, he was levitated yet again and thrown high into the air.

“You’ll wish you never came back!” Celestia called out just above her opponent, bringing a hind leg down upon his head and sending him spiraling to the ground.

The pillar of smoke and dust cleared to reveal Devil-Ish standing with a broken left leg and a bloodied face. Yet in his wounded state, he mustered a small smile. “What gives you strength Celestia?” he echoed in his two-toned voice. The princess remained silent and still in midair. Devil-Ish winced in pain and continued. “Is it your will to retain your position of power? Or perhaps it’s your desire to prove you are stronger than all who oppose you?”

Princess Celestia’s stare intensified. “My strength comes from my little ponies. I fight to protect them!”

“Yet you couldn’t protect them from your sister’s jealousy. Or the reign of chaos. And you can’t protect them from our rage.”

“Your tricks won’t work on me Doubt.”

“You’re right. It’s been fun, but we’re done playing games. It’s time you learned how it feels to die!”

Chapter 7 - Setting Sun

Setting Sun

I can’t… I can’t do this anymore!

Stand, Garrett! Stand up and fight!

Please, just make the pain stop…

It’s too late for that! The only way out is to finish the fight.

But she’s too strong-

Perhaps, but I’m not out of tricks yet. Now stand! I can grant you the power to defeat her, but you have to pull your own weight. Do you understand?

…

Do you understand!?

… yes.

Then get up and finish the job.

*****

Devil-Ish stood in the middle of a large crater in Whitetail Woods, Celestia hovering not too far away. The dust had cleared to reveal surrounding trees had toppled over from the power of the attack. The dark stallion kept his left hoof off the ground, his smile fading into a frown. He glanced at the setting sun and flew up to the princess’ level.

The villain said nothing, just stared in disgust. He was obviously through with words and prepared for whatever his opponent could dish out. The two remained still for some time, both of them waiting for the other to flinch. A cool breeze blew through their manes. Finally, Devil-Ish made his move.

He charged at the princess at blinding speed. Celestia saw the attack coming and quickly dodged to the left. Devil-Ish turned hastily to get behind his foe, but before he could circle around, she was already hot on his tail.

He piloted through the dense forest trying to lose her, but she kept up with him. Swerving and dodging the enormous trees, the chase continued for some time. Becoming increasingly annoyed, Devil-Ish’s horn began to glow bright red. He turned and saw the white alicorn still following him. In an instant, he fired a red beam of energy at the princess. She barrel rolled to the side just in time to evade the attack. But just as she had avoided the first beam, a second was fired.

A third beam was fired, then a fourth, and a fifth, each one coming closer and closer to hitting the target. The princess was barely able to keep up with the onslaught as the villain gained a significant lead. Devil-Ish smiled grimly as he charged his horn yet again, but this time blasted a nearby tree.

The crackling of the splitting wood filled the air as the trunk gave out. The huge tree fell to the ground, slowly at first, but swiftly gained speed. Devil-Ish flew under the falling log but stopped a few yards away. A neon red aura engulfed the tree and broke its fall. Just as Celestia came bursting out of the thick forest, the sharp tip of the tree was already flying at her.

Thinking fast, a golden glow joined the red aura and she summoned all of her might to push it back toward Devil-Ish. Their powers seemed evenly matched, the tree barely moving an inch. Occasionally, one of the alicorns would push the giant spear forward a few feet, but never enough to overpower the other.

Sweat dripped down Celestia’s brow. She struggled to keep up with Doubt’s strength, but with the setting of the sun, her power was rapidly dying. She grinded her teeth and closed her eyes, feeling the might of her foe slowly intensifying. Her wings grew tired, but the second she landed would give him the upper hoof.

The tree began to splinter from the pressure both combatants forced upon it. The princess became exhausted from all the magic she had used in the battle, but how was Devil-Ish retaining so much power? He was a formidable spirit, but he had used just as much magic as she had, and he was still pushing his limits.

Suddenly, a moment of weakness. Celestia felt her opponent falter and lose his concentration. At that moment, Princess Celestia focused every ounce of energy she could spare and pushed the tree at the monster like a freight train. The sheer force of the throw was enough to shake nearby trees. She breathed in heavily and sighed in relief. “It’s over.”

“Oh yes it is”

Celestia turned around to see a hoof crashing down into her head. She tumbled to the ground, smashing her back against a huge rock. She felt her spine crack a bit as her body collided with the boulder. She grunted in pain, but stood back up regardless. Devil-Ish landed just ten yards away and charged at her again.

The princess dodged as best she could, but to no avail. She took a right hoof to the face but remained standing. Though she tried to fight back, the princess was drained. Her magic was nearly gone and her body badly beaten. The wound her spine had taken would not allow her to fly or even walk properly. And her horn had nearly been shattered. She opened her eyes just in time to avoid another right hoof, but was knocked to the ground by a powerful buck.

As she lay on the soft grass, broken and bruised, she let loose a tear. Doubt had beaten her. There was only one thing left for the great princess of Equestria to do. She had to keep her sister safe. The scene played over in Celestia’s head:

“Luna, run. I won’t let him hurt you again.”

“B-but sister-“

“Go already! I’ve killed him once, I can do it again.”

She had promised her sister that no harm would come to her. And she intended to see that promise through. There was one hope for Equestria: The Elements of Harmony. No matter what happened to Celestia now, she had to make it back to Canterlot. She had to break the spell on the door. If she didn’t, all hope would be lost.

“Celestia! What an honor to have you bowing before your new kings.”

The princess looked up at the gray stallion. His wicked smile sickened her, as she coughed, “You… are no king of mine.”

“Oh will you give it up! You’ve lost and we have won! It’s over!”

Devil-Ish approached the beaten mare and levitated her off the ground so that they were face-to-face. “But I’m going to give you what you didn’t give me; a choice. We will let you live…” He paused and smirked at the weak princess, then continued. “… if you hand over your entire kingdom to us.”

Celestia stared into his soul piercing yellow eyes, took in a deep breath… and spit in his face.

Devil-Ish wiped his face and frowned. “HAVE IT YOUR WAY!” He shouted an inch from her face, throwing her to the ground. The stallion flew high into the air. His horn began to glow red again, and continued to shine. Bright as a star, his power built in his horn until it could have been mistaken for the sun.

*****

Rainbow Dash weakly soared across the sky, flapping her wings as best she could. Her day had been spent flying around Ponyville on a wild goose chase, and suddenly she became the new Spike. Her tired wings could barely support her weight just as the city of Canterlot became a speck in the distance.

“Almost there,” She though to herself in an attempt to stay motivated.

~BOOM!~ The ground shook from an unknown explosion and frightened Rainbow out of her skin. She turned to Whitetail Woods to see what appeared to be a huge red pillar. She stared at the explosion until it died down and faded to reveal a burning forest. Her jaw dropped in disbelief. What could have caused such a tremendous eruption?

She turned back to Canterlot, against her will, and forced herself to fly even faster. Whatever was going on in Whitetail Woods, it was not good. The sooner Celestia knew about the epidemic, the sooner she could put an end to it.

*****

The fire danced through the forest, burning trees and sending wildlife running. The sounds of the forest were replaced with the racket of the crackling flames. The forest smelled of burning pine and grass. And in the center of the woods, a massive crater scarred the earth.

The dark alicorn landed inside the crater, smiling as he did so. He trotted excitedly over to a source of smoke where Celestia’s body laid. But something was wrong. Seconds after he put pressure on his left hoof, he lifted it off the ground and yelped in pain. A look of confusion replaced his joy. “This can’t be right…”

Devil-Ish flew over the smoke and noticed a fading trail of light leading back to Canterlot. His look of confusion was replaced by anger. “CELESTIA!”

*****

Princess Celestia limped down the hall, toward the Door of Harmony. The only thing that kept her going was the memory of her favorite student, and her promise to keep her sister safe. The hallway seemed to stretch on forever as she lugged her wounded body through the ruins of the castle. She glanced over at the stain glass windows she had shattered.

She finally reached the Door of Harmony. She stared at the multicolored door and quietly cried. She knew that Doubt would arrive shortly to finish the job. But perhaps by sacrificing her life to save Equestria, No one would ever doubt her love again. Maybe…

She shakily placed her battered horn into the door and performed the spell. Her last spell. She knew Doubt of all spirits would underestimate the powers of the Elements of Harmony.

With her last oath fulfilled, Princess Celestia spun around to face down the long hallway.

She didn’t have to wait long before a red flash blinded her. Devil-Ish appeared at the end of the hall, half grinning and half growling. He had lost all patience and called out to the white mare, “No more running Celestia! It’s the end of the road for you.”

The princess looked at the monster with teary eyes. “I know.”

Silence filled the room, so thick it was tangible. Devil-Ish looked ready to say something else. But Celestia’s words caught him by surprise. Both warriors were badly beaten, shaken to their cores. The fight had taken its toll on them both. But the winner had been decided.

Devil-Ish charged his horn one last time. He said nothing as he fired a thin beam of energy, no larger than a thread. The attack was silent and painless as it pierced Princess Celestia’s heart. The white mare fell to the floor; eyes shut tight and tears dripping. She felt nothing as her body hit the solid marble. Blackness surrounded her vision. Colors disappeared. Then she only saw shapes. She mustered one last breath of air as the cold slowly crept along her body. She sighed one final word, “Forgiveness…?” She closed her eyes for the last time.

The sun had set.

Chapter 8 - The Darkest Night

The Darkest Night

Rainbow Dash could hardly breath. She was exhausted from her flight, yes, but the sight of the Royal Castle in ruins is what really took her breath away. Canterlot was in no better shape. Through the smoke and dust she could barley see the city. Many buildings were destroyed or burning, their former inhabitants galloping through the streets. Members of the royal militia were hurrying to and fro trying to protect the ponies from being crushed or burned.

Gathering herself, she descended to a group of royal guards who were herding citizens away from the various fires and rubble scattered throughout the city.

“Hey!” she called. “What happened here?”

“You shouldn’t be here!” shouted the nearest guard. “This sector is off-limits to-“

“Hold up soldier.” Another soldier interrupted him, “That’s Rainbow Dash! The Element of Loyalty.”

“Oh. My apologies ma’am.”

“Don’t worry about that.” Dash said impatiently, “I just want to know what happened here.”

“Well, ma’am, we don’t rightly know.” answered a heavyset earth pony, his insignia denoting a higher rank.

“Captain Achilles!” The guards stepped aside and let their superior pass. He stood tall even in the face of sheer destruction, his white mane blowing in the ash-filled breeze.

“At ease. All was quite today, like normal, until Princess Celestia was attacked by some strange and powerful Alicorn. He destroyed the city, tore the castle to pieces, and has endangered the lives of every pony in Canterlot.”

“Another Alicorn? I thought the princesses were the only ones?”

“We all did. Apparently we were wrong.”

“What did she look like?”

“From what I saw, he had a fiery red mane and a dark gray coat.” Rainbow’s heart dropped. “His power was immense, raining crimson flame upon our beautiful city and throwing whole towers like you would toss a spear. Last I heard, Celestia had him pinned and-”

“They teleported to Whitetail Woods.” She finished, limbs shaking as the realization came over her.

“Yes. I assume you saw that enormous blast. Well, right after that, a trail of light led to the throne room, or what was left of it. There’s a squad headed there now to arrest the villain.”

“Arrest him? What makes you think you can arrest him? Did you see that explosion!?” She yelled in his face.

Pushing her back, he replied flatly, “Our beloved Princess is no mortal pony. She is a goddess. She wouldn’t be defeated by the likes of him.”

Rainbow Dash was speechless. The captain’s face wasn’t even fazed. He turned to the ravaged city and called out to all of the citizens, “Attention residents of Canterlot. Gather your families and follow me and my men.” His voice rang across the burning city, louder than the crackling flames that littered the leveled kingdom.

His faith astounded Dash, but it was short lived. A great tremor shook the earth as fire erupted from the castle, obliterating many of the already damaged rooms. The light from the burst was bright as the sun, lighting up the night sky. The deafening sound alone was enough to knock several ponies off of their hooves. Above it all, a dark figure rose, wings spread like that of a dragon, and a body just as intimidating. His look was more fearsome than anypony could ever imagine. His mane swam like a lake of fire, outlining his ashen form. His muscular build a mockery of the former goddesses. Power seemed to flow from his horn as it warped, becoming more of a crest. He ascended, cloaked in crimson light as enchanting as it was mortifying. His wings grew and split, and with a rush of wind he unfurled them, both pairs.

“Absolutely beautiful.”

His voice reverberated across the city. It was both great and terrible, full of confidence and uncertainty, urging those who heard it to worship its speaker, and cower before him as well. Many of the unicorns in the city fell prone, unable to stand the tremendous shift in magic. He took a step forward, his hooves and chest protected by armor even darker than himself.

“Yes, bow before your new rulers! Bow before the future of Equestria! The future that we have created!”

“It-it can’t be…” Achilles stammered, breathing rapidly. “She can’t be defeated…it’s not possible…”

Dash turned to the captain, seeing the fear in his eyes. “Achilles…”

Suddenly his eyes filled with joy. “A ruse! Of course! She let him win!”

Rainbow became fearful. His valor was admirable, but this was no time for him to do anything stupid. “I don’t think…”

Leaping upon the nearest pile of rubble, he called to Devil-Ish, “YOU THINK YOU HAVE WON?”

“Captain! Don’t!” One of the guards called out desperately.

“THAT YOU HAVE DEFEATED THE MOST POWERFUL BEING IN ALL OF EQUESTRIA?”

Rainbow knew when a pony had lost their mind. Not in any condition to confront a God-Killer, she quickly hid behind a pile of bricks. Peering out of the side, she saw Achilles was still at it… and the dark stallion was listening.

“YOU IGNORANT FOOL! I COULD KILL YOU MYSELF!”

Taking note of the captain’s ravings, Devil-Ish chuckled, “Oh? What have we here?” A small spark ignited at the alicorn’s hoof. “An insubordinate subject, so it seems.”

“I AM NO SUBJECT OF YOURS, YOU WEAKLING!”

“Weakling?” He looked amused, the flames rising up his legs, engulfing his entire body in seconds. “You would call us weak after you witness the fall of your beloved goddess? Does anyone else support your thoughts?”

He looked around, the large crowd as no one stepped up to aid. Even the other guards knew what they were up against. He let out a distorted laugh at the captain.

“Ah ha ha ha! You see? My subjects already know better than to join your suicidal rebellion.”

“ENOUGH! I’LL KILL YOU MYSELF!” Achilles screamed, charging at the Alicorn. He was a blur as he approached the burning villain, headfirst. He stopped suddenly, frozen inches away from his enemy.

Devil-Ish smirked, His yellow eyes glaring through the blazing orange mist that surrounded him. “I relieve you of your duties, Captain.”

He tapped the suspended pony with his hoof. From that spot a blinding light spread across the captain’s body, giving him just enough time to yell in rage and pain before exploding into a cloud of dust. Inhaling deeply, Devil-Ish breathed the mist, exhaling contentedly.

“My, what a delicious potential for a mere earth pony. Now,” He said, turning to the other soldiers, “anyone else?”

Those left in the street turned and fled, vacating it in seconds. At the sight of this, Devil-Ish let out a boisterous cackle. “Let it be known that on this day, there shall be a new Order! Your princess has failed. The Elements of Harmony have fallen. And all shall burn in the fires of my rage! Of our rage!”

Rainbow Dash sat terrified and motionless behind her wall: The only thing protecting her from him. At the mention of the elements, Rainbow felt her blood boil. She felt frightened, angry, and sad all at the same time. But what really caught her interest was the mention of the princesses. He hadn’t said anything about Luna. Maybe, just maybe, he hadn’t killed both of the princesses.

“Now, we still have some unfinished business back ‘home’.” Admiring his wings, he said, “Let’s enjoy these on the way back.”

He took to the air, heading towards Ponyville, a light red trail following closely behind him, and then quickly evaporating. After a few seconds, Rainbow Dash emerged from her hiding place, eyes dripping and wings lowered.

“…What now?” She whispered. She was all alone in the demolished city of Canterlot. Not even Discord brought about this level of chaos. She walked about the rubble, avoiding the flames scattered across the ground.

Chapter 9 - Midnight Rainbow

Midnight Rainbow

A trapdoor under the castle throne room quietly creaked open. Luna peered out into the unpleasant sensation of cold rain. The night had begun, but the sky was a black void. Only the stars dotted the night sky. Though it was her responsibility to raise the moon, if she did, Doubt would kill her. While it pained her to leave her ponies in a lightless night, she was their last hope. If Doubt could be stopped, Equestria would need her alive.

She walked down the city, or what was left of it. The castle was blown to pieces, the city leveled, and the entire kingdom was completely abandoned. The rain had doused the flames, but the destruction had already taken its toll. Suddenly, the princess caught a glimpse of somepony walking alone in the city.

Without a second thought, she sprang to her hooves and yelled, “Halt! Who goes there?!“ She stopped as the pony came closer into view.

“Princess Luna?”

Looking towards the voice, she found a familiar cyan pegasus, lifting her head and looking back at her.

“Rainbow Dash.” she said flatly, “What purpose doth thee have here?”

“Seriously,” Dash said, “You can drop the whole ‘ Royal Canterlot Voice.’ It kinda gets on my nerves.”

Luna was taken aback by her rudeness, but saw her drooping wings, heavy breathing and red-rimmed eyes. She decided to drop the subject.

“… What are you doing here?”

“I came here looking for Princess Celestia’s help. But…” She looked around. “I guess it’s too late for that.”

They stood in silence. Tears fell to the ground, though neither let loose a sob. Time seemed to move slowly. The cold rain falling onto their backs. Thin streams of smoke rose lazily from the crumbling city. The only sound was the pitter-patter of the rain.

Outside all was still, but within Luna’s heart was a maelstrom of emotion. She swept wildly from one sensation to the next, to quickly to react. After an eternity of chaos, she finally decided on a course of release: exacting her revenge.

Turning to Rainbow Dash, she ordered, “Come with me Rainbow Dash. There is something I must show you.”

*****

The two walked through the throne room, the rain falling through the non-existent roof. Luna kept her gaze forward, while Rainbow looked all around. The pillars had been smashed, broken, and some had even been knocked over. All of the stain glass windows had been shattered. And the throne no longer sat at the back of the room, but instead in a pile of splintering wood near the doors.

“For centuries,” Luna began, keeping her eyes forward. “My sister and I have ruled over Equestria. Every morning she would raise the sun, and every night I would raise the moon. Thus maintaining balance and harmony in the land.”

Rainbow Dash sighed. “I already know this. Why did we have to come in here?”

Luna nodded her head. “Yes of course. Everypony knows this story.” She looked at Rainbow through the corner of her eye. “But there is more to this story that you do not know.”

Rainbow looked up at Luna, confused and impatient. Luna continued. “In order to keep the land free of fear, my sister and I have kept a secret. Not even the royal guards know about this place.”

They arrived at the top of the staircase where the throne used to be. The princess’ horn glowed and an aura of dark purple encased a dangling piece of cloth. She pulled down on the blue cloth. A symphony of clicks and clatters rang from the wall as it slowly lifted upward to reveal another stairway leading down. Rainbow looked hesitant to set hoof in there, but Luna reassured her by leading the way.

“You of all ponies should know that Equestria is not immune to the forces of darkness.” She started, her voice echoing down the dank hallway. “Both myself and Discord were brought to justice thanks to you and your friends.”

“Yes princess. I know this.”

“But before you and your friends were born, the fate Equestria fell to Celestia and me.”

They reached the end of the staircase. The room was so dark, they couldn’t make out a thing. Rainbow Dash squinted her eyes, wondering why Luna had dragged her down here. Then, Luna magically lit torches down every row of the long room. The room they had entered was an underground hallway of sorts. All along the walls were stain glass windows. But unlike the ones in the throne room that were glorious and magnificent, these were dark and discomforting.

“Many a centuries have passed that my sister and I have had to face a new threat.”

The two walked down the hallway, stopping at the first mirror on the left. “The spirit of deceit.” A dark green portrait of a snake rested before them. Rainbow Dash gulped as Luna continued.

“His powers were great, but no match for the Elements of Harmony. Unfortunately, he was merely the first.”

They passed a window featuring a great black dragon. “The spirit of greed.”

A hydra. “The spirit of destruction.”

The two then passed by a familiar face in a window, a draconequus. “And Discord… the spirit of chaos and disharmony. Each and every one fell to the Elements of Harmony.”

The two reached the end of the hallway, greeted by one last window. “But there was one spirit that almost won.”

Rainbow Dash looked at Luna quickly, a worrisome look on her face. She didn’t know what to say to that. The elements had almost failed against one. And she had a pretty good idea who it was.

“Long ago, my sister and I ruled side-by-side, sustaining the peace of Equestria as we were meant to. But there was one spirit who didn’t like the way things were. His name was Doubt. And one day, something terrible happened. He became jealous of my sister’s power, and mine and wanted Equestria for himself. Doubt took the form of an alicorn like us, but he was far from our grace. When he tried to win over the ponies of Equestria, they shunned and rejected him.”

The illustrations of the window showed his powerful alicorn form with two sets of wings and armor, just as Rainbow had seen just a few minutes ago.

“But…” Luna continued. “What he did next… was unforgivable. He decided that if nopony would respect him, then they would fear him instead. In one night, he caused more destruction than we ever expected: tsunamis, earthquakes, tornados, one disaster after another, the world began to crumble under his hoof. So many ponies lost their lives to his rage.”

Luna began to tear up, remembering this painful past. “Celestia and I tried to use the elements against him, but he hid them away before we could use them. I tried to stand up to him alone, but he had caused so much doubt all over the world, that his power was too strong for me. If my sister hadn’t been there… I would have died.”

“How did you beat him?” Rainbow desperately demanded, turning from the window to the princess.

“My sister battled Doubt. The fight lasted for hours, neither one letting up. I’m ashamed to say that at one point, I began to think that Celestia would lose. But then, she used a powerful spell against Doubt, taking all of his negative energy and turning it against him. He was banished to the spirit world for eternity, never again to return to our world.”

Silence. The two stood there for a long time, neither knowing what to say. “Though I was able to abandon my feelings of jealousy and hatred after returning, Doubt… or as he calls himself now, Devil-Ish, will never forsake his rage. He will keep destroying… and there is only one way we can stop him.”

“And exactly what is that?!” she yelled, turning away from Luna. “ HE KILLED CELESTIA! Are you stronger than her?!”

“No Rainbow Dash. But the Elements of Harmony are. He is not yet at full power. Devil-Ish does not know how powerful the elements are.”

“But we only have five of them!”

Luna gasped. “You mean…”

“He’s already… killed Rarity.” She struggled to say. “And he’s on his way back to Ponyville now. He may be there already.”

“What kind of talk is that!? Are you not the element of loyalty!?”

“I…!” Rainbow quit her thought. Her ears and wings drooped and she looked at the ground. Luna was right. “I wasn’t able to save Rarity or spike, but I’m not going to give up on my other friends. We have to save them. We have to hurry back to Ponyville.”

“There’s no way we’ll beat him there.”

“Actually, his pride might give us a chance. He wanted to show off his wings, and it’ll take a while for him to fly there. Can you teleport us both?”

“Maybe… but it’s not safe to go straight to Ponyville if he’s there already.”

“Just get us close.”

“But... teleporting two ponies is extremely unpredictable. You could be incinerated!”

“You have to try.”

“But, I…”

“For your sister.”

Luna took a deep breath. “Very well. Come here, Rainbow Dash. It’s easier with contact.”

As Dash set her hoof on the goddess’ shoulder, she felt her whole being thrum with magic.

“A friendly warning,” Luna said. “This may hurt.”

A crackle of lightning, a rush of air, and they disappeared in a flash of light. The dust settled back into the crater, leaving the castle desolate once again.

Prologue - Ditzy Doo's Disappearance

Ditzy Doo’s Disappearance

“Ditzy Doo!”

Ditzy sat in the center of the post office as her boss Boxxy Brown continued to have a fit. Exfoliating cream spilled over the countertop with gummy worms sprinkled from here to there. Most, if not all, of the wiring in the walls exposed. A pair of bongos turned inside out sat just in front of the door with a small fire burning behind the sofa. One of Ditzy’s coworkers, Raindrops, sat in the back of the room in a full body cast.

“You’ve made a lot of mistakes Ditzy, but this one really takes the cake!” He paced back and forth hastily, his eyes fixated on the floor. He lifted his eyes to Ditzy’s and scowled menacingly. He always was one to be short tempered with his employees, especially Ditzy. He opened his mouth to continue the lecture, then closed it to pace some more.

Ditzy Doo shot a nervous glance to Raindrops to show that she was sorry, but she returned with an intimidating glare. Ditzy looked all around the room, but everywhere she turned, the same unwelcoming frowns awaited her. She instead settled for staring solemnly at the ground just hoping that it would end soon. Silence crept into the room once again. The only sound to be heard was from Ditzy’s anxious shaking against the wooden chair and her boss’ unsteady pacing of the floor.

Finally, the slow striding sounds from her boss stopped. She raised her head to face Boxxy and smiled hesitantly. “I just don’t know what we’re going to do with you.” He had calmed down from his furious demeanor and approached Ditzy. He placed his hoof on her shoulder and looked at her with a mixture of sympathy and disappointment. “I think you should take some time off.”

The words were slow and soothing but still managed to summon tears to Ditzy’s eyes. She tried to hide her sadness by burying her face in her hooves. Boxxy Brown tapped her lightly on the neck and said, “Listen kid, go home and get some rest. I’ll see ya in a few days, when you feel better.”

Ditzy lifted her head and attempted to smile, but could only nod as she stammered out of her seat. Before reaching the door, her boss offered a tissue. Without making eye contact, she accepted it only out of appreciation. Stepping out of the door, she turned around with tear-filled eyes and a quivering lip. She quickly turned away and shut her eyes tight.

Ditzy Doo took a shaky flight into the late evening back to her home, leaving the tissue behind.