Return to Harmonyby The Hero of HarmonyChaptersHarmony RebornThe Bonds of FriendshipUnspoken TaleA Day with Harmony - Celestia and LunaHarmony RebornGolden Oaks Library, Ponyville It has been a few weeks since Twilight Sparkle and her friends relinquished the Elements of Harmony, in order to save the Tree of Harmony from the plundervines that were sowed by Discord before he was encased to stone by Princess Celestia and Luna using the Elements a thousand years ago. Ever since that day, Twilight has been trying to find anything regarding the Tree of Harmony, as well as the mysterious locked chest that she received from the Tree after her and her friends saved it. Her search has been fruitless to say the least, as the books in the Golden Oaks Library seemed to have little, if any, information on the Tree or the chest. "Ugh! I don't get it, how can there be nothing in regards to the Tree of Harmony or this chest? It has been around for Celestia knows how long, and nopony else ever seen it aside from the Princesses?" Twilight groaned as she looked through book after book, clearly tired and riled up. Spike, picking up the books that were scattered on the floor after Twilight was done looking through them, just gave her concerned look. "Come on Twilight. You've been at it for four weeks already..." Twilight just kept pacing around in thought, but she did acknowledge him. "I know Spike, but this is a big deal! We never knew about the origins of the Elements of Harmony until after the plundervines attacked from the Everfree Forest, and even about the existence of a Tree that housed the Elements. There has to be some sort of book or research journal on this Tree. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna could not have been the only ones to have seen the Tree, since Discord knew of its existence. Otherwise he wouldn't have planted those plunderseeds to drain the Tree of its magic in the first place." Spike sighed. "Well, if you really want to try to look into this further, maybe the Old Castle in the Everfree Forest might have stuff on the Tree. After all, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna did live there and right above the Tree." Twilight's ears perked up upon hearing Spike's suggestion, and then grinned brightly. "Spike! You're a genius! The Princesses might've left some journals behind there after Celestia moved from there and established her new castle in Canterlot. Come on!" Twilight was rushing toward the door, but Spike stopped her. "Wait a minute Twilight! Perhaps we could go tomorrow? I mean, it is getting late out, and it would be dangerous to go through the Everfree at night. Besides, you look beat from running around here reading non-stop." Spike explained. Twilight frowned, but he did have a point. She knew the castle wasn't going anywhere, and it was getting dark out already. She turned to look at the baby dragon and nods. "You're right Spike. I think it would be wise to wait until tomorrow. Let me help put away these books and then we'll get to bed. We have a big day tomorrow!" Twilight gave a confident smile as she trots over to some books, lifting them with her magic and puts them back in their place. Spike simply rolls his eyes, and goes over to help the young princess. Everfree Forest Later that night... All was quiet in the Everfree Forest, especially in the cave that houses the crystalline tree that is the Tree of Harmony and the six Elements of Harmony back where they belonged. For the past few weeks, the Tree has been rooted there, glowing quietly in the cave, as it continues to maintain the balance of the Everfree's chaotic nature. Tonight however would be different, however. It was natural that the Tree would be giving off magic, strong magic thanks in part with the Elements, but now that strength just keeps increasing to the point the Tree's quiet glow began to get brighter and brighter. The Elements suddenly detach themselves off the Tree and began to surround it. They shot beams of magic right at the center of the Tree which only made it into a blinding light. After that, it unleashed a large burst of magic, that erupted from the cave. Golden Oaks Library, Ponyville Twilight and Spike were already asleep for the night, however for the former, she suddenly opened her eyes and jerked up from her bed. "...Huh? What's this... powerful flux of magic coming from...?" She looked out her window, and realized that source was coming from the Everfree Forest. She then put two and two together. "The Tree...!" Twilight shouted, causing Spike to stir. "Twilight... I know you're eager... but can't it wait until the morning...?" Spike said, groggily. "Sorry Spike, but I just felt a burst of magic coming from the Everfree Forest. Something must've happened to the Tree of Harmony! I have to go check it out!" Twilight began galloping to the door, which caused Spike to perk back up at the mention of her leaving. "W-Wait a minute Twilight!" Spike got up and chased after her, yelling for her, but she was already out the door, Spike shouting out at the street. "You can't go there alone!! Wait!" But she was already out of earshot, and was now gone. Spike just groaned. "I better go get the girls and go after Twilight!" Spike said in a determined tone as he closes the door behind him and made his way to wake up Applejack and the others. Everfree Forest Twilight was galloping as fast as she could go, still not attuned to flying yet, though she did manage to glide to the entrance of the Everfree Forest and just went on hooves from there. As she continued galloping, she realized that the forest was still dead quiet, despite the fact the magic she sensed was getting stronger as she got close to the Old Castle. She stopped at the steps that led down into the ravine across the Old Castle, catching her breath. She looked around, not seeing any malicious creatures or whatever lurked in the forest. She looked down toward the cave, and notice that bright glow coming from it. She made her way down, readying herself, not knowing what she would face. She slowly trots into the cave, looking around, making sure nothing jumped out at her. She eventually approached the spot where the Tree of Harmony stood, but what she saw there shocked her. The Tree of Harmony, was no longer there. Instead, Twilight was greeted by something she never expected: a tall, majestic looking unicorn. She was standing at a height almost as tall as Celestia, having a white coat, her hooves have violet fur around them and being cloven instead of normal hooves she was used to seeing. She had a cutie mark, which had a white starburst inside a light purple one with the points jagged, much like the center of the Tree of Harmony with Twilight's cutie mark in the center of it. Her mane and tail were done in a very unique style, having small flowers that braided in her mane and tail, her mane tied into what looked like a bun with the strands of mane spiked out with small little balls that hung out on the tips of her mane, much like the Tree of Harmony had on its branches. Her horn was unlike any other, being in the shape of what looked like a tree branch, much like the ones at the top of the Tree. And on her head, was something that also caught her off guard, was a crown that resembled the same one Twilight had when she had the Element of Magic a few weeks earlier, but this time it had not just the Element of Magic on it, but five smaller colored gemstones that were the original forms of the Elements of Harmony back when Celestia and Luna used them. The unicorn slowly approached the young alicorn, Twilight slowly backing away, speechless. She regards Twilight with a soft smile, as she lowers her head down to her level, staring at her with her cool, serene blue eyes. The words she spoke were few, but she spoke softly as to not further startle the princess, despite the young mare being flustered by this unicorn's appearance. "Hello little one..." Author's Note Hello, this is RPD490 here, and yes I am back with another story. This one has been on my mind for awhile now, and after seeing this beautiful character, I just wanted to see a fanfic made about her. I even created a tumblr RP blog for her, with permission from the original creator. How far will this go, I have yet to see, though it won't be a long story I can tell you now. Art credits go to Heilos. You should check her out on deviantArt or on tumblr, she is a very talented artist, and is the creator of Harmony. Anyway, hope you enjoyed this first snippet of a short story! Later! The Bonds of FriendshipThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest Twilight didn't know what to think. Expecting find some evil creature wanting to harm Equestria, she is instead greeted by this majestic unicorn, who was wearing the Elements of Harmony on her head much like her old crown but with all six of them on the crown. She at first couldn't speak a word, taken back by this mysterious pony's beauty, and at the same time calming essence, which felt familiar to her. "Hello little one..." Her mind snapped back to reality when she heard the pony spoke to her. Her voice, sounding so calm, so caring, almost as if she was talking to Princess Celestia, but she sensed this unicorn was older than Celestia and Luna combined. Her voice also sounded more ethereal, as if she was a spirit in the wind. Twilight slowly regained her composure, as the unicorn continued to smile at her softly. "U-um... hello there miss..." Twilight stuttered out. The taller mare simple just gave a soft chuckle. "I would have expected this sort of reaction. After all, it is not everyday you see a mysterious, tall, and elegant, unicorn like myself. Twilight had so many questions, no doubt. The Tree of Harmony is gone and here stands a tall pony she never seen or ever thought about seeing in her lifetime. Finally, she gathered the words she wanted to ask. "Who... are you? And what happened to the Tree of Harmony?" The unicorn just closed her eyes as she turns around and walks toward the stump of where the Tree stood. She stared at the stump for a few moments before turning her head back at the princess, with the same smile. "Well, my little pony. To answer your question, my name is..." Everfree Forest "Come on girls! We've gotta hurry if we are going to find Twilight!" Rainbow Dash yelled as the pegasus flew off ahead into the Everfree, as she sees her friends gallop after her, though Pinkie was just hopping merrily as usual. Spike ran to the wake up Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie and told them about Twilight running into the Everfree Forest alone after she mentioned something happened to the Tree of Harmony. Soon after, they made their way to the forest to find their best friend. "Boy, I dunno what Twi was thinking, running here by herself. You'd think she come by and wake us if things wit the Tree were serious..." Said Applejack. "Well... maybe she didn't want to wake us up... consider it being the middle of the night..." Fluttershy replied. She was hesitant at first when she was told they had to chase Twilight into the Everfree at this hour, who wouldn't be? But realizing it was their best friend, she had to do what was right and go with the girls. "...I do find it odd that Twilight never thought to stop to wake me up considering she had to have run past my cottage to get to the Everfree..." She added. "Well considering she was in a hurry to rush to make sure the Tree of Harmony was alright, she probably wasn't thinking clearly as it was the one thing on her mind at the moment, darling." Rarity responded. "Yeah! Maybe it's somepony new and she came to welcome them to Equestria!" Pinkie shouted out as she hopped past Rarity and Fluttershy. "Hey! Instead of chatting, maybe we can keep moving to see if the Tree and Twilight is alright?" Rainbow Dash shouted as she flew back to the group. Applejack just stares at Rainbow Dash. "We are hurrying Sugarcube, but you just darting ahead into the forest, not knowin what will jump out at you." Rainbow Dash frowned, "Well sorry AJ, but I'm just worried that our best friend, who is a Princess, could be attacked by Celestia knows what!" "Um girls..." Fluttershy asked meekly as she approaches the two. "I-is it me, or does the Everfree seem... more quieter than usual...?" The group looked around and have noticed that the Everfree was completely silent. Not even any crickets could be heard chirping. "...Yeaaah... it is kind of eerie. The Forest is too quiet..." Spike added. "I mean, usually there are dangerous creatures that lurk around the Everfree at night, yet since we entered the place, we haven't come across a single creature... Why is that?" Spike further added. "Hmm, well whatever the reason, it might have something to do with the Tree! Let's hurry!" Rainbow Dash barked out as she darts off down the path, leaving a rainbow trail behind, as well as the girls and Spike. "Wait up Dashie!~" Pinkie shouted as she and the others continued after her. The Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest Twilight couldn't believe her ears from what the mysterious unicorn replied with. "...Y-You're the...? No, that's impossible. How is it possible??" Twilight questioned. The unicorn simply stood there, still keeping that sincere smile on her lips. "My dearest Twilight... I know it is hard to believe, and you probably would never ever imagined this ever happening in your lifetime, but I speak the honest truth..." She then added, "Surely, you seen the resemblance and connected the dots, hmm?~" She thought about it, and taking it all into consideration, it seems to make sense: her appearance, the fact she is wearing the Elements of Harmony on her head, the fact she was standing in the place of the Tree. But still, that leaved one other question that was creeping up in her mind. "But, how is this possible...?" Just before the unicorn responded, she looks past Twilight to the entrance of the cave, with her soft smile. "Well, I believe you are not the only one who wants to know..." She simply said as she nods her head behind Twilight. At first, she didn't see anything but then she heard a familiar voice yell out. "Twilight! You down there!?" "Rainbow Dash? But how did she...?" Twilight asked herself, before Rainbow Dash sees her and smiles brightly. "Twilight! Hey guys, I found her! She's down here!" Rainbow Dash yelled up and soon she looked out and saw her friends come down the steps from the top of the ravine to the cave entrance. She was surprised. "Girls! Spike! What are you doing here?" Twilight asked as they all approached her, relieved. "Well Sugarcube, Spike told us you just went and galloped all the way from home to the Everfree without thinkin twice!" Applejack answered as they gave Twilight a hug, clearly been worried about her. "Oh yes darling! We were worried that something might've happened to you! You know it is not right to wander here after night. Who knows what could've happened to you!" Rarity added. "Yes Twilight, you should've woken us up if something bad was happening... even if it was at this hour... in the Everfree..." Fluttershy meekly replied. Twilight was shocked. She was so wind up about something happening to the Tree that she never thought about getting help from her friends. "Oh girls... oh Spike, I'm sorry... I was not thinking clearly when I came here. When I sensed that magical flux, I just had to come investigate." Twilight let them go. "Thankfully, nothing bad has happened. In fact, you are not going to believe this..." She added. "Whatever do you mean, darling?" Rarity asked, as she simply looks past her and sees the unicorn still standing there, with her content smile. The others gasped as they didn't see her there. "Twi? Who is that pony? And where is the Tree of Harmony at...?" Applejack asked, clearly in awe at this unicorn's grace and appearance. Rainbow Dash, despite being in awe, frowned, "Yeah, who the hay is that? Did she do something to the Tree?" She was about to charge at the unicorn, who didn't at all seemed fazed by her sudden change of emotion. Twilight stopped her by grabbing her tail with her magic. "Wait a second, Rainbow Dash! Don't attack her! She is the one thing you are not going to believe!" The unicorn slowly approached the group, as she spoke softly once more. "It is alright my little pony... You have every reason to be suspicious of me. I know, this will come as a shock to you all, but I speak with honesty..." The unicorn looked toward Applejack when she mentioned 'honesty'. For you see, I am the one who chose you to be my new Bearers. You bore the Elements, and helped save Equestria with your friendship and courageous acts. You knew that the Elements are what brought you together, and by giving them up, your bonds would remain eternal without them. It was that reason, you saved me from my terrible fate... The Plundervines that ravaged the Everfree and part of Equestria... have it not been for you six, I would've died. The bond you six shared were so powerful, that upon being returned the Elements of Harmony, I gained a higher sentience than what I had prior. The time came now, that I wanted to be free from my roots, and to take on this appearance... The group listened, as they all thought about what she was saying, and it slowly clicked in their minds. The unicorn can see the realization hitting their faces, and she simply chuckles. "Yes, my Chosen Bearers. you are not mistaken. I am the Tree of Harmony, but you may simply call me... Harmony.~ Author's Note And another chapter. I can't believe you guys actually love this story so far. I never expected this many likes and favorites. Thanks for your support! ^^ So now, the pony introduces herself as the Tree of Harmony, or simply Harmony. How will our group take this revelation? Find out in the next chapter!~ Until next time! Unspoken TaleThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest "YOU'RE THE WHAT!?" The group, sans Twilight and Pinkie Pie, shouted in unison and in disbelief. Pinkie, being Pinkie Pie, then jumps in. "Hold on a second!" She yelled out, grinning softly as she pulls a glass a water from nowhere, takes a drink, and suddenly does a spit-take. "WHAT?!" Pinkie yelled out in disbelief. Harmony, who was calm during their outburst, nodded. "It is true. It is because of you six ponies, that I was able to manifest into this body you see now." "So you mean to say you've always were... aware of what was going on around you, all this time?" Twilight asked. Harmony nods, "That is correct, dear Twilight. Even though I was in the form of a crystal tree, acting as the very thing that kept balance to the Everfree Forest, I had a level of sentience. It is why I gifted you the Chest after you made the sacrifice to give up the Elements to save me. And, before you ask, I can't reveal what are in the contents in the Chest. All I can tell you is your keys will appear before you, when an important lesson is revealed to you.~ Those events, will happen sooner than you think. Twilight frowned, realizing her question was answered, but not the type of answer she hoped for. "So, how is it that our friendship was enough to actually... do this to you, Harmony? I mean, Princess Celestia and Luna wielded the Elements in the past and surely they could've been enough to make you what you are now." Twilight added. "Well, it is true that Tia and Lulu both wielded the Elements. You see, this stems back further than you think. It wasn't the first time Celestia and Luna found me with the Elements. So, gather around my little ponies, for I have a small untold tale to tell...~" "Oooooh!~ Storytime!~" Pinkie squeaked in delight as she pulled a lawn chair and some popcorn out of her mane and began munching on it. "Ready!~" The group just giggled as they all sat down before Harmony as she also lays down, smiling softly as she clears her throat. "This tale isn't known by many ponies, however the only two who would recall this event was Celestia and Luna. It during the coronation of the two that they were approached by Wise Old Star Swirl the Bearded, and his three representatives: Private Pansy of the Pegasi, Smart Cookie of the Earth ponies, and Clover the Clever of the unicorns. Old Star Swirl figured that harmony between the three tribes could be balanced if Alicorns would act as the ones to rule over the three pony tribes. Needless to say, young Lulu and Tia were anxious with the position they were given, even though they didn't earn their cutie marks yet at that age, but regardless the ceremony went off without problems." "Shortly after the coronation, the two were scouring across Equestria, trying to find a place to build their castle. It was then that Old Star Swirl suggested that the two come here, to the Everfree Forest and it was here the two discovered me in this very ravine." Twilight perked up at this information. "They found you long before they used the Elements of Harmony to seal Discord into stone?" Twilight asked. Harmony nods. "Oh yes. Old Star Swirl knew of my existence and realized that the two would be drawn to my magic, which is why they built their castle close by. They knew I was of importance, however, they were unaware of my sentience and knew I was watching them. My magic back them isn't as strong as it is now, so I wasn't able to communicate through telepathy. Though, I had a feeling that Old Star Swirl knew of my sentience and knew I was a living entity."] Harmony thought before shaking her head. "Forgive me, I am getting off topic. So as I was saying..." She continued talking about the two Princesses, and their involvement with the other kingdoms at the time. They laughed when they learned the kind of prankster Princess Luna was, when she wanted to get back at Princess Platinum for calling both her and Celestia 'blank flanks' with the help of a manticore named Melvin that was subdued by Celestia and Star Swirl, who then apologizes after taking it too far and the two princesses became friends and accepted Celestia and Luna as rulers. Pinkie and Rainbow Dash laughed, never knew Luna was big prankster back then, and Fluttershy thought it was rather sweet and adorable the future Princess of the Night made friends with a manticore. Rarity never knew how similar Princess Platinum was to her, and not just because she played her during the Hearth's Warming Play in Canterlot the previous year: She had the same sense of fashion and interior decorator as the fashionista, making the Equestrian flag and the banners that are in the Old Castle just above the cave. Twilight was intrigued to the fact that Celestia and Star Swirl were close friends because of their love for knowledge and reading books. "Yes, it was with Celestia's help that Old Star Swirl learned the two spells he was striving for: a cutie mark spell and a time-traveling spell that allowed him to travel through space and time without limitations. Twilight's eyes widen, when Harmony mentioned those two spells. Those were the same spells she used: the time-travel spell was the spell she was studying before her future self came and warned her past self about what she thought was an unspecified disaster that would occur that next Tuesday morning, but realized it wasn't anything to worry about. The cutie mark spell, was the spell that Princess Celestia wanted her to finish, but ended up changing the cutie marks of her friends as it effected the Elements of Harmony themselves, but after fixing her mistake by helping her friends see what their true destiny was, she was able to finish the spell, and in turn, earned her the wings she now got on her back. "Now, as you may be aware, Old Star Swirl became a teacher to young Celestia and Luna, acting as their royal adviser. He taught Luna how to move the stars when the young filly was mesmerized with the night sky, namely the moon. He also perfected his time-travel spell, allowing him to travel to different points in Equestria's history, being subtle enough to not reveal events that will occur in the future, but Celestia had a feeling that with his reaction, the sun, moon, and star markings on me were important." She goes further, detailing the events of the Crystal Empire and the meeting of Princess Amore, and how a dragon stole the Crystal Heart since it was found in the Crystalline Mountains, where the heart was first found and the dragon's lair was in those mountains, claiming everything in that cave was his, including the heart. Celestia was enraged, so much she bursts into flames and going into Royal Canterlot Voice, which scared the dragon enough to drop the heart and flee back to its lair, and thus saving the Crystal Empire and celebrate the first Crystal Faire. And then she describes how Luna and Celestia finally earned their Cutie Marks after the unicorns, including Star Swirl, lost their magic because they tried to lower the moon for the sun to rise. Luna was able to lower the moon while Celestia raised the sun, seeing as they were alicorns and their magic would just be restored after raising and lowering the celestial bodies. They were able to restore the unicorns and Star Swirl's magic thanks to the power of the sun and moon strengthening their magic. "The sister's were overjoyed to finally received their cutie marks, Celestia noting how their marks resembled the markings on my Tree form. However, after they earned their cutie marks, the two were just excited to see what the future held for them as rulers of Equestria. Harmony closed her eyes and sighed contently. "And that, my little ones, is the untold tale I shared.~ Pinkie claps her hooves enthusiastically. "YAAAAY! THAT WAS A FUN STORY!!~ Can you tell another one?" Pinkie asked, with a bright grin. Harmony giggles. "Oh I have a lot of tales I can share my little Bearer of Laughter, however I think for now, you should all be returning home for the evening. It is pretty late and surely you are all tired from this excitement, hmm?~" The group yawned. "She's right y'all. With all this excitement, forgot it was still middle of the night. I need to get home for some shut eye, a lot of apple need to be bucked." Applejack stretched, getting up. "Oh I agree, we are young ladies that need their beauty sleep. I must head home for I have several orders that I need to get started on in the morning." Rarity added. "You said it...!" Rainbow Dash said, stretching her wings out. "Um... it was nice to meet you miss Harmony." Fluttershy said softly, giving a soft smile. "Yeah! I totally need to throw you a Welcome and Congratulations for Becoming Alive Party!~ But first, BACK TO BED!~" Pinkie shouted as she started to hop off out of the cave. "Pinkie! Wait for us, we can all walk back to the entrance together!" Twilight yelled out for Pinkie Pie. "How about, I all accompany you to the entrance of the forest? It will give me a chance to... well stretch my hooves out, and see everything outside of my little cave.~ Harmony asked as she got up. The group all nod. They knew they would probably feel safer with Harmony with them. "Yeah, that would be nice, Harmony." Twilight said. Harmony smiled. "Well then, my little ponies... shall we?~ The Everfree Forest The group began their trek back to the forest entrance, as Harmony walked before the group, quietly humming to herself as she looks to the forest. "It does feel nice... to see Luna's night sky for the first time in my life... It's beautiful..." "Oh yes, Luna's night sky is always a joy to see. Especially when each night looks different, and if there is a meteor shower!" Twilight beamed. "I suppose it will be a good time to explore the rest of this forest... I know I can help maintain it better now that I can move about freely here..." Eventually they all made it to the entrance of the forest. Harmony stops at the very edge as the group walk out. "And this is where we must part ways for now, little ones. I really enjoyed meeting you, and talking to you all. I look forward to seeing you again.~ Harmony bows her head down. "Well we'll come visit again soon! I still need to throw you your welcome party!~" Pinkie said in glee. "Yeah, and I have to bring you some fine apple-made products from the Sweet Apple Acres. I know you will enjoy them, Harmony." Applejack added. "Just meeting you, dear, gives me some new ideas for some dresses. I never got a chance to say this, but you are just absolutely GORGEOUS, darling. I must make a dress for you one day, Harmony!" Rarity squealed. Seeing the Tree of Harmony as a pony of this majesty, it gives her some new ideas for designing some dresses revolving around Harmony's style and appearance. "Oh yes... and I just have to introduce you to some of my animal friends. I'm sure they will feeling very comfortable around you, miss Harmony.~" Fluttershy said in a gentle, excited tone. "I just want to be able to show you some of my neat stunts and tricks! I mean, considering you are up and walking around now, surely you would be curious as to see how an awesome pony like me can be the talk of Ponyville!" Boasted Rainbow Dash, as the girls just rolled their eyes and shook their heads. "Yes, it was a very interesting evening to say the least. I still have so many questions I want to ask you too, and maybe I can bring some books from the library and I can show you some of my favorites!" Twilight beamed. Harmony giggles. "I am glad to have chosen you as my Bearers... You all represent your Element to the mark, and it just feels me with joy inside. So, I would enjoy seeing each of you again. I may be an old magical tree that is the very essence of harmony and order, but I would love to see what the world has to offer. Even if I am bound to this forest, as I need to maintain the balance here and me setting foot outside of it could be rather... troublesome, do not be afraid to come back. The creatures that dwell here would be at ease around my presence, so you shouldn't worry about any danger as long as I roam the forest.~" "For now, I bid you all a good night my little ponies.~ Harmony waves as she slowly turns around and began trotting back into the Everfree, her humming could be heard echoing throughout the forest. The rest of the group all bid each other good night and returned to their respectable homes for the night. Twilight and Spike enter the library, both heading to the bedroom for some shut eye. "Boy, this has been some night. What you thought was something that seemed bad, turned out to be rather good in the end. Who ever thought the Tree of Harmony could be alive and now... walking around like a normal pony?" Twilight chuckles. "I agree Spike. This is rather huge though. Tomorrow morning, we need to send a letter to the Princess Celestia and Luna. They really need to know about this and meet Harmony." The two reached the bedroom as Spike collapsed into his little bed, finally relieved to be back in it after this rather long and eventful night. Twilight crawls back into her bed and gets under the covers. "Well, good night Spike." Twilight said with a soft tone as she shuts the lights out. "Night Twilight..." Spike replied as he was already out after making the reply. Soon after, the alicorn drifted off into a peaceful sleep. Author's Note So yeah, here be Chapter 3. I figured why not make mention of The Journal of the Two Sisters in this chapter as Harmony tells the story about Celestia and Luna's past? This one really took some thought XD Though of course, the next chapter has Tia and Lulu being told about Harmony and going to meet her themselves. Look forward to it. Until then, later! A Day with Harmony - Celestia and LunaThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest The Following Day "Hmm..." Harmony pondered in thought as she sat in her cave. "I don't wish to inconvenience dear Celestia and Luna by coming down here to see me. No doubt Twilight likely written a letter to them about my sudden appearance, but..." Harmony goes and paces around in thought. Since meeting her Bearers the previous night, she wandered around the Everfree Forest, ensuring all was normal, as well as plan out the eventual task of trying to bring life back to it. The Everfree wasn't always this dangerous, and was once as vibrant as any other forest in Equestria. After the Elements were taken by the Princesses to stop Discord, and eventually the inevitable banishment of Nightmare Moon, the forest began to become more unbalanced as the harmonic magic that was balancing the chaotic magic weakened over the centuries, eventually the forest became what it was today. She knew that in order to bring the Everfree back to what it once was, she would need to slowly influence her magic throughout the forest, which could take a long time before it is complete. She also needed to take into account the creatures that resided here that adapted to the nature of the forest, but after what occurred last night, most of the creatures whom seen Harmony simply let her roam. They knew she was part of this forest, being the one that maintained all that lived and grew here. She stopped, after thinking for five minutes, something came to mind. She smiled. "Hmm... I wonder..." Golden Oak's Library, Ponyville After last night, Twilight knew that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would be excited, intrigued, and shocked about the fact the Tree of Harmony came to life and became a living entity. She and Spike were just finishing breakfast, and upon cleaning up the dishes, the two made their way into the library. "Alright Spike, take a letter." Twilight said, as Spike grabbed parchment and a quill. "Ready!" Spike said as he held the quill toward the parchment. Just before Twilight could get out her message, there was a knock on the door, surprising the two. "Huh? Who could that be?" Twilight asked out loud as she goes to the door and opens the door. "Hello? Can I help--" Twilight's eyes widen as she looked at the visitor. The mare at the door, simply giggled, giving a serene smile. "Hello my little pony.~ Are you impressed?" It was Harmony. She was a regular sized unicorn mare, but still looked like she did while tall. Twilight's eyes bugged out. "Wh-what?? But-but how are you-- When did you...??" Twilight was just flabbergasted. Harmony giggled, finding the princess's reaction entertaining, and precious. "Well, are you going to let me come in, and let me explain or you just going to stare at my radiance all morning, hmm?~" Harmony joked. Twilight, still confused and in shock, just sighed and nods. "O-of course, Harmony. Come in." Twilight let's her in as the Tree Pony looks around, keeping her smile. "My my... what lovely little library you live in dear. It looks so quaint and homey.~" Twilight just chuckled sheepishly. "Oh, well it is nothing too special. But me and Spike do enjoy living here as we are close to our friends, near the center of Ponyville, and of course: the books.~" Harmony nods and looks to Spike. "Hello my dear little dragon. How are you this fine morning?" Harmony asked. "Oh, I'm doing fine Miss Harmony. Me and Twilight just got done with breakfast. Do you want me to get you something?" Spike replied. "Oh don't trouble yourself dear. I'm fine." Harmony held her hoof up and shook her head. "So, Harmony. What exactly are you doing here, and more importantly, how are you here? I thought you said that you can't leave the Everfree Forest unattended without your presence there." Twilight asked, walking over to the unicorn. Harmony just looks to her. "Well, after you all left to return home last night, I spent the good night seeing all of the Everfree for myself, bringing back my influence that once kept it in balance. As I said, I didn't wish to remain rooted to where I was any longer, and wanted to be free to move outside the Cave. While it is important for me to remain in the Everfree Forest to prevent another incident like before with the plundervines, I was able to come up with a solution. That solution is what you see now." She explained. Twilight and Spike looked at each other, clearly confused. Harmony then held her hoof out, as her horn glowed a whitish-blue aura. A small sapling appeared in her hoof. "...A sapling?" Twilight asked. "Not just a normal sapling, my little pony. This sapling is created using half of my magic. In order for me to keep the Everfree Forest maintained, I need to keep a constant presence from within but even a small amount of my magical influence, can keep the forest maintained while I'm not there physically. So, I created a sapling like this, placed it where I once stood as a Tree, and let nature take its course." Harmony replied. "So by taking out half of your magic, you can continue to keep the Everfree from growing out of control, and not be there at all? So you can leave the forest anytime you like?" Twilight asked in an excited tone. Harmony chuckled, and nodded. "Yes, however, doing this comes at the cost of me only having half of my full magic, and thus I developed this form. It is weaker than my taller form, but as you can feel, I still have strong magic in me." Harmony added. Twilight nodded, feeling Harmony's magic. It wasn't as powerful as what she felt last night, but she still seemed to be still stronger than a normal unicorn. "And when I return to the forest, I can simply reabsorb the magic I placed in the sapling and return to my full strength. But it does leave me a bit tired afterwards so I would likely require at least a full day before I can leave the forest again. Plus, I don't wish to remain outside of the forest for too long as even if half my magic runs through the Everfree, it will eventually wane and could be taken over by the chaotic magic and would take longer for me to regain what I lost, so I plan on limiting my time outside of the forest for at least a day." Harmony added further. "Well, it is great you were able to figure out a way to leave the forest, Harmony, and within one night no less!" Twilight said in a gushed tone. "Means I can show you all around Ponyville and you can meet the girls and see what they do!" The alicorn added. Harmony just stifles a giggle. "That would be most lovely. But, I did have a reason to visit you, dear Twilight. I was wondering if you have written a letter to Princess Celestia about me." She nods, "Oh! I was just going to do that when you knocked at the door. I was going to let them know about what happened and that they needed to come to Ponyville right away." "Well, I was actually thinking of this Twilight. I don't wish to take Tia and Lulu out of the busy schedule, which is why I wished that you let them know that I would come visit them personal in Canterlot.~" Harmony said. "You want to go visit them yourself?? But Harmony, you just came to existence last night, and I know you were able to find your way here to Ponyville, but you don't know your way around outside of here." Twilight replied in a incredulous tone. "No need to worry that my little pony. From what I can see, is that Canterlot is just up that mountain ridge right?" Harmony asked pointing out the window toward the distant capital city. "Well... yes you are right, but..." Twilight said before being cut-off by Harmony. "And all I would need to do is take the train that runs up there, correct?~" Twilight blinked. She never knew that despite being a Tree for centuries, she is quite aware of what happens in the world. "Um...yeah that's correct." Twilight replied. "Well then there you go. I know I just came into being just last night my dear, but I am a big filly and I can figure it out. Besides, it isn't hard to find Celestia and Luna's magical signatures considering they were my Bearers in the past, so they can't be forgotten that easily. You simply write to them on your findings and to expect a guest that is coming to see them at this moment. Don't worry, Tia and Lulu are bright ponies, I'm sure they'll figure me out." Harmony chuckled. "Well... if you want to, then I don't want to keep you then. It should take an hour to get here to Canterlot by train, but you don't have any bits do you?" Twilight asked. Harmony held her hoof up in thought. "Hmm... that might be a small issue. Considering I been residing in the Everfree for centuries, really didn't need any money... But I can always use an easier method of travel.~" Twilight raised a brow, "Oh? And what's that?" "...Teleport." Harmony quietly responded, as her horn glowed and suddenly she disappeared in a bright flash. Twilight and Spike shielded their eyes, being caught off guard and once they looked, Harmony was gone. "W-what?? Harmony! Did she really just teleport all the way to Canterlot from here...? There is no way a unicorn could do that, I can't even do that and I'm an alicorn...!" Twilight screamed out. "Um Twilight...? She is the very spirit of harmony, and you said you still sensed her magic being that strong, even if half it was back in the Everfree right? So, whose to say she is capable of teleporting all the way to Canterlot? I mean, she isn't a normal pony." Spike explained. Twilight just blinked, not really aware Spike would explain that to her. "Huh... well I suppose she could do that... But still, it makes me wonder if she did get there..." Twilight wondered. "Alright Spike, take a letter again!" Twilight said, back in her confident tone. Spike just rolled his eyes as he held the quill back up to the parchment as he began to write out what Twilight wanted to tell Celestia and Luna. "Dear Celestia and Luna, I have some news that might shock you both..." Canterlot Castle, Canterlot Princess Celestia was going about her usual day-to-day duties. She wouldn't lie if most of the day court would be boring, but as one of the leading rulers of Equestria, what can you do? Though today was different, as her mind wandered about last night, as Twilight wasn't the only one who picked up that magical flux. Luna was going about her duties while Celestia was asleep for the night but was woken when she felt the surge of magic that got her attention. Ever since last night, she seemed to be awaiting a report from Twilight, since she knew it happened in the Everfree Forest. As she was signing some documents, a familiar green wisp of flame entered the throne room and stopped before Celestia as a scroll appeared. Celestia knew this was it. "Guards, I wish for you to fetch my sister. It is of most urgency." Celestia ordered her two guards in a calm tone. "Yes, Your Highness!" The Royal Guard ponies saluted as they galloped off to find Luna. "The rest of you, I wish to be alone with my sister for the time being. You are excused." Celestia said to the rest of the guards, who all saluted and made their way out of the throne room, with two guards standing outside the door. It didn't take long, as Luna appeared in flash and goes up to her older sister. "Dear sister, is it from Princess Twilight?" Luna asked. Celestia nodded, "It is, let us see what her findings are..." She opened the scroll and began to read the letter. Dear Celestia and Luna, I have some news that will shock you both. As you are aware, last night a powerful surge of magic erupted from the Everfree Forest, where the Tree of Harmony was located. Naturally I ran out there to investigate to ensure that the Tree was alright and no malicious threat was harming the tree, despite me and my friends returning the Elements of Harmony to it. When I was traveling through the forest, I noticed it was very silent and that none of the creatures that normally roam at night, were nowhere to be seen. It was unusual, so I made haste to the cave where the Tree was at, and to my shock and surprise... The Tree of Harmony is alive! As in, the Tree was able to create a body for itself and now roams around like a living pony. She called herself 'Harmony' and she appeared as a tall, majestic white unicorn, much like your height. Me and the girls, whom Spike ran to get after I ran out from home to investigate without thinking twice, listened to Harmony and how it became possible to be alive. She said our friendship and our bond with the Elements were so powerful she was able to gain higher sentience than before and used the Elements to create the body she is now in. I would go into more detail, but I have to tell you this: you are about to meet a pony whom teleported from Ponyville all the way to Canterlot, and when you meet this pony, you will know. She really wants to meet you both, and you will be just as shocked and in awe as me and my friends were. She said before leaving my library, that you both will point out who she is quickly. Yours truly, Princess Twilight Sparkle The Princesses looked at the letter and were silent. This was rather... unbelievable news to say the least. "The Tree of Harmony... alive?" Celestia questioned. "Sister, what do you think? I knew that magical surge was familiar and powerful, but I couldn't put my hoof on what it was exactly." Luna asked, still trying to process this news. Celestia was silent, and shook her head, "I do not know, Luna... This is very interesting news indeed, and I know Twilight hasn't lied about something big like this..." Though, thoughts of the Changeling invasion during Princess Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding came to mind, when she, along with everypony else, thought Twilight wasn't herself when she made claims that the Cadance they were about to wed Shining Armor with wasn't the real Cadance, but turned out to be Queen Chrysalis disguised as Cadance. She knew after the revelation was true, she couldn't help but feel guilty for not listening to Twilight's accusations when she and everypony else was fooled. Considering the news Twilight has sent them now, Celestia knew Twilight would be telling the truth. Her thoughts are interrupted when a Royal Guard comes into the throne room. "Pardon my intrusion, Your Highnesses. But a young unicorn is outside and says you are expecting her." He explained. Both Princesses looked at each other, and Celestia nods to the Royal Guard. "Send her in, and leave us be." The Royal Guard salutes. "Right away, Your Highness. You may enter, ma'am." He looked back, as a white unicorn walks in, with a content smile on her face. The Royal Guard bows and then leaves the throne room with the three ponies alone. The Princess looks at the unicorn, and suddenly, they felt her magic. "Luna... do you feel that?" Celestia asked, her eyes widen. "I do Celestia... this is the magic I felt last night. This pony... could she be...?" Luna replied. The unicorn approached them and just chuckles. "...It is so wonderful to finally meet you like this, my dear Tia and Lulu. My past Bearers of Harmony... I am who you think I am...~" The unicorn answered. There was no doubt now. Twilight was correct. "...You are the Tree of Harmony, correct?" Celestia asked as she got up from her throne and slowly approached Harmony. She can feel the magic from Harmony: pure, raw, powerful harmonious magic. It was warm, and comforting to the Princess of the Sun. Harmony nods. "I am... but you can simply call me Harmony, my little ponies.~ My... you two have grown up so much since I last seen you, 1000 years ago..." Luna comes to her sister's side, "So Princess Twilight was right... you used the power of the Elements to come to life as a pony...?" "It is a lot to take in, I know. But, I wouldn't lie if I said I do enjoy seeing the reactions ponies make when they see who I am, hee hee.~" She giggled. "...Harmony, it is... a real honor... to be in your presence like this... We never thought in our lifetime, that you would appear before us... and talk to us." Celestia said as she bowed, Luna doing the same. "Oh... come now my little fillies... No need to do that. I am not royalty, and while I am the very embodiment of harmony and order, you can just treat me as your equal, alright?" Harmony said. Both Princesses just looked at her and slowly raised their heads up, chuckling sheepishly. "But in all seriousness, it is a real honor to actually be communicating with the one that allowed for us to stop the reign of Discord... From what Princess Twilight has said, she said you gained a higher sentience after the Elements were returned to you... Does that mean you were always sentient?" Luna asked. Harmony nods, "I know we have much to discuss, and I will answer everything you want to know, but perhaps we can chat in a more... cozier environment, hmm?~" The two sisters agreed. Celestia calls out to her guards. "My loyal guards, my sister, our guest, and I will be convening in my quarters. Tell anypony who wishes to see me or my sister, not to disturb us unless it is of utmost importance." "Yes, Your Highness." The Royal Guards salute. Celestia looks to the two. "Shall we?" They arrive in Celestia's private quarters, where she had her maids bring them some tea and scones. The three ponies sat together, as Harmony discusses how she was able to bring herself to life, using the Elements, how it was thanks to Twilight's friendship and the strong impact it made on the Elements to allow for her to transform into the pony they see now. "I know, it is rather shocking, but stranger things have happened in Equestria. I'm sure me roaming about now is nothing much to write home about.~" Harmony said, sipping tea. "True, a lot of things have occurred in Equestria that this point, most ponies, least the ones in Ponyville, seem to right off as a natural occurrence. And of course, it is nothing Twilight and her friends are capable of doing. After all, as you said, you chose them to be your Bearers." Celestia replied. "So Harmony, now that you are free to go about as you please, what do you plan to do? I mean I know you wish to remain in the Everfree Forest to ensure it doesn't spiral out of control like what happened a few weeks ago with the plundervines..." Luna asked, as she munched on a scone. "Well, dears, I wish to bring back balance to the Everfree. As you recall, it was once a vibrant wood that surrounded your Old Castle and was a place of beauty. Now that I can move about freely in the forest, it will make my task easier to restore it to what it once was, though it might take some time before it is done, years perhaps..." Harmony replied. "I do remember those days, especially when I ventured through the forest and found myself in the grasslands where the zebras resided. I don't know how they could confuse me for a manticore however. Tia was rather cross with me for roaming off, but she was impressed with me finding zebras outside of Equestria." Luna recalled, as she smiled softly to her older sister. Celestia chuckled, "Oh yes, considering how far the Everfree stretched, it seemed like a place of no end, yet you did find a way through and we met a neighboring land. Even so, seeing a zebra in Equestria is rare, aside from Miss Zecora who resides in the Everfree." "Ah yes, a very kind zebra. Not many live in the forest, but she finds no fear living there. I am just glad that the ingredients she finds in the forest helps her in potion making. After all, she is good in her craft, especially when it can help save another pony's life." Harmony replied. The three went silent, as a thought came to mind for Harmony. "...How is Discord doing?" Harmony asked. The sisters blinked when she suddenly mentioned Discord. Luna puts her hoof up to her chin to think. "Discord has been well. He does occasionally pop in for a visit, but for the most part he seems to hang around with dear Fluttershy, considering she was able to reform him from his chaotic ways, though he does like to still cause some minor mischief. At this point, he is tolerable, though at times can be rather a nuisance, but other times he does try to brighten up our days with a little bit of harmless fun." Luna answered, smirking. "I see. I do find it amazing that my little Bearer of Kindness was able to set him straight..." Harmony replied, sipping her tea. "Are you at all... angry with him? I mean, I sense no hostility from you, but considering he sowed those plunder seeds a century ago to drain your magic, and almost succeeded in killing you..." Celestia asked, with a soft frown. "What's done is done. He was only acting as he would been acting, as my counterpart. I don't think he would've realized I been sentient this whole time, and eventually, come to life. I'm sure he would pick up on it and find out sooner or later... But, I can't hate him for doing what he was born to do: cause chaos. After all, this world has to follow the laws of balance: light and darkness, good and evil, harmony and chaos. You can't have one without the other after all, for it would cause disaster on either case..." Harmony mused. The three continued to enjoy their chats, and then soon took a stroll around the castle gardens, allowing for the Tree spirit to enjoy its splendor. She enjoyed this, just being with her previous Bearers and talking to them. However, all good things must come to an end, when she saw that it was soon dusk. They returned to the throne room, where the two sisters prepare to lower the sun and raise the moon for the night, and Luna beginning her evening duties. "I really enjoyed our day today, my little ponies.~ I'm glad that everything has been going well for you all, but I fear I must depart back home and begin my task of bring the Everfree back to its former self, as well as regain the rest of my magic before it fades away." Harmony said, with a sad smile. "Oh, I wish you could stay a bit longer, but you have your duties and we have ours. It was a real honor to meet you like this, Harmony. We found it to be a nice change of pace." Celestia said, with a soft smile. Luna nodded in agreement, "We do hope you can find time to visit Canterlot again." "Well, I will try to make time to visit again. And if I can't, you can always visit the Everfree, as I'm sure you would be eager to see what I truly look like, considering this is me at half my power." Harmony bows her head. "Until we meet again, my precious little ponies...~" Harmony turns around as she began to walk toward the doors and, in a flash of light, she disappeared. "Today has certainly been an interesting one, my dear sister." Luna said. "It certainly has, and I can't help but feel that it will get more interesting as the days go on." Celestia replied, as she looks down at her younger sister. "Well, shall we bring about the night?" Celestia asked, and Luna nods. "Yes, let us show Harmony a beautiful transition." The two princesses both disappear in a flash of light, returning to their private quarters to bring about the evening. Entrance to the Everfree Forest Harmony reappears just outside the entrance to the forest. She looks out back toward the horizon, toward the mountain range where she was just at, and saw the sun beginning its descend. She smiled softly, wanting to see Celestia and Luna do their duty, and it was breathtaking to say the least. "...They have come a long way Old Star Swirl... You would be proud of your students..." Harmony muttered quietly to herself, smiling contently Soon after, the sun disappeared beneath the horizon, and slowly the stars began to dot the sky, as the moon begins its rise. She didn't want to leave and miss this all beauty in the world. Despite the amount of danger Equestria has faced, there are the little things in life that everypony take for granted and enjoy. This is something to enjoy until the end of time. With that, the spirit walks back into the forest, as she began to glow faintly. Her magic slowly returns to her, as her height begins to grow to what it was. The small sapling that she left in the cave, disappeared as the rest of her magic returns to her, and soon is back to her full power. "Only day ends, another chapter in life begins...~" She said softly and wanders deep into her forest, humming a small tune that would quietly echo the sleeping forest. Author's Note And that my dear readers, is another chapter done. Yep, longest on I did. The next few chapters will follow this, as Harmony spends the day each of the Mane 6, but I wanted to get Tia and Lulu out of the way. Hope you enjoyed this, and look forward to the next chapter!
Harmony RebornGolden Oaks Library, Ponyville It has been a few weeks since Twilight Sparkle and her friends relinquished the Elements of Harmony, in order to save the Tree of Harmony from the plundervines that were sowed by Discord before he was encased to stone by Princess Celestia and Luna using the Elements a thousand years ago. Ever since that day, Twilight has been trying to find anything regarding the Tree of Harmony, as well as the mysterious locked chest that she received from the Tree after her and her friends saved it. Her search has been fruitless to say the least, as the books in the Golden Oaks Library seemed to have little, if any, information on the Tree or the chest. "Ugh! I don't get it, how can there be nothing in regards to the Tree of Harmony or this chest? It has been around for Celestia knows how long, and nopony else ever seen it aside from the Princesses?" Twilight groaned as she looked through book after book, clearly tired and riled up. Spike, picking up the books that were scattered on the floor after Twilight was done looking through them, just gave her concerned look. "Come on Twilight. You've been at it for four weeks already..." Twilight just kept pacing around in thought, but she did acknowledge him. "I know Spike, but this is a big deal! We never knew about the origins of the Elements of Harmony until after the plundervines attacked from the Everfree Forest, and even about the existence of a Tree that housed the Elements. There has to be some sort of book or research journal on this Tree. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna could not have been the only ones to have seen the Tree, since Discord knew of its existence. Otherwise he wouldn't have planted those plunderseeds to drain the Tree of its magic in the first place." Spike sighed. "Well, if you really want to try to look into this further, maybe the Old Castle in the Everfree Forest might have stuff on the Tree. After all, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna did live there and right above the Tree." Twilight's ears perked up upon hearing Spike's suggestion, and then grinned brightly. "Spike! You're a genius! The Princesses might've left some journals behind there after Celestia moved from there and established her new castle in Canterlot. Come on!" Twilight was rushing toward the door, but Spike stopped her. "Wait a minute Twilight! Perhaps we could go tomorrow? I mean, it is getting late out, and it would be dangerous to go through the Everfree at night. Besides, you look beat from running around here reading non-stop." Spike explained. Twilight frowned, but he did have a point. She knew the castle wasn't going anywhere, and it was getting dark out already. She turned to look at the baby dragon and nods. "You're right Spike. I think it would be wise to wait until tomorrow. Let me help put away these books and then we'll get to bed. We have a big day tomorrow!" Twilight gave a confident smile as she trots over to some books, lifting them with her magic and puts them back in their place. Spike simply rolls his eyes, and goes over to help the young princess. Everfree Forest Later that night... All was quiet in the Everfree Forest, especially in the cave that houses the crystalline tree that is the Tree of Harmony and the six Elements of Harmony back where they belonged. For the past few weeks, the Tree has been rooted there, glowing quietly in the cave, as it continues to maintain the balance of the Everfree's chaotic nature. Tonight however would be different, however. It was natural that the Tree would be giving off magic, strong magic thanks in part with the Elements, but now that strength just keeps increasing to the point the Tree's quiet glow began to get brighter and brighter. The Elements suddenly detach themselves off the Tree and began to surround it. They shot beams of magic right at the center of the Tree which only made it into a blinding light. After that, it unleashed a large burst of magic, that erupted from the cave. Golden Oaks Library, Ponyville Twilight and Spike were already asleep for the night, however for the former, she suddenly opened her eyes and jerked up from her bed. "...Huh? What's this... powerful flux of magic coming from...?" She looked out her window, and realized that source was coming from the Everfree Forest. She then put two and two together. "The Tree...!" Twilight shouted, causing Spike to stir. "Twilight... I know you're eager... but can't it wait until the morning...?" Spike said, groggily. "Sorry Spike, but I just felt a burst of magic coming from the Everfree Forest. Something must've happened to the Tree of Harmony! I have to go check it out!" Twilight began galloping to the door, which caused Spike to perk back up at the mention of her leaving. "W-Wait a minute Twilight!" Spike got up and chased after her, yelling for her, but she was already out the door, Spike shouting out at the street. "You can't go there alone!! Wait!" But she was already out of earshot, and was now gone. Spike just groaned. "I better go get the girls and go after Twilight!" Spike said in a determined tone as he closes the door behind him and made his way to wake up Applejack and the others. Everfree Forest Twilight was galloping as fast as she could go, still not attuned to flying yet, though she did manage to glide to the entrance of the Everfree Forest and just went on hooves from there. As she continued galloping, she realized that the forest was still dead quiet, despite the fact the magic she sensed was getting stronger as she got close to the Old Castle. She stopped at the steps that led down into the ravine across the Old Castle, catching her breath. She looked around, not seeing any malicious creatures or whatever lurked in the forest. She looked down toward the cave, and notice that bright glow coming from it. She made her way down, readying herself, not knowing what she would face. She slowly trots into the cave, looking around, making sure nothing jumped out at her. She eventually approached the spot where the Tree of Harmony stood, but what she saw there shocked her. The Tree of Harmony, was no longer there. Instead, Twilight was greeted by something she never expected: a tall, majestic looking unicorn. She was standing at a height almost as tall as Celestia, having a white coat, her hooves have violet fur around them and being cloven instead of normal hooves she was used to seeing. She had a cutie mark, which had a white starburst inside a light purple one with the points jagged, much like the center of the Tree of Harmony with Twilight's cutie mark in the center of it. Her mane and tail were done in a very unique style, having small flowers that braided in her mane and tail, her mane tied into what looked like a bun with the strands of mane spiked out with small little balls that hung out on the tips of her mane, much like the Tree of Harmony had on its branches. Her horn was unlike any other, being in the shape of what looked like a tree branch, much like the ones at the top of the Tree. And on her head, was something that also caught her off guard, was a crown that resembled the same one Twilight had when she had the Element of Magic a few weeks earlier, but this time it had not just the Element of Magic on it, but five smaller colored gemstones that were the original forms of the Elements of Harmony back when Celestia and Luna used them. The unicorn slowly approached the young alicorn, Twilight slowly backing away, speechless. She regards Twilight with a soft smile, as she lowers her head down to her level, staring at her with her cool, serene blue eyes. The words she spoke were few, but she spoke softly as to not further startle the princess, despite the young mare being flustered by this unicorn's appearance. "Hello little one..." Author's Note Hello, this is RPD490 here, and yes I am back with another story. This one has been on my mind for awhile now, and after seeing this beautiful character, I just wanted to see a fanfic made about her. I even created a tumblr RP blog for her, with permission from the original creator. How far will this go, I have yet to see, though it won't be a long story I can tell you now. Art credits go to Heilos. You should check her out on deviantArt or on tumblr, she is a very talented artist, and is the creator of Harmony. Anyway, hope you enjoyed this first snippet of a short story! Later!
The Bonds of FriendshipThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest Twilight didn't know what to think. Expecting find some evil creature wanting to harm Equestria, she is instead greeted by this majestic unicorn, who was wearing the Elements of Harmony on her head much like her old crown but with all six of them on the crown. She at first couldn't speak a word, taken back by this mysterious pony's beauty, and at the same time calming essence, which felt familiar to her. "Hello little one..." Her mind snapped back to reality when she heard the pony spoke to her. Her voice, sounding so calm, so caring, almost as if she was talking to Princess Celestia, but she sensed this unicorn was older than Celestia and Luna combined. Her voice also sounded more ethereal, as if she was a spirit in the wind. Twilight slowly regained her composure, as the unicorn continued to smile at her softly. "U-um... hello there miss..." Twilight stuttered out. The taller mare simple just gave a soft chuckle. "I would have expected this sort of reaction. After all, it is not everyday you see a mysterious, tall, and elegant, unicorn like myself. Twilight had so many questions, no doubt. The Tree of Harmony is gone and here stands a tall pony she never seen or ever thought about seeing in her lifetime. Finally, she gathered the words she wanted to ask. "Who... are you? And what happened to the Tree of Harmony?" The unicorn just closed her eyes as she turns around and walks toward the stump of where the Tree stood. She stared at the stump for a few moments before turning her head back at the princess, with the same smile. "Well, my little pony. To answer your question, my name is..." Everfree Forest "Come on girls! We've gotta hurry if we are going to find Twilight!" Rainbow Dash yelled as the pegasus flew off ahead into the Everfree, as she sees her friends gallop after her, though Pinkie was just hopping merrily as usual. Spike ran to the wake up Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie and told them about Twilight running into the Everfree Forest alone after she mentioned something happened to the Tree of Harmony. Soon after, they made their way to the forest to find their best friend. "Boy, I dunno what Twi was thinking, running here by herself. You'd think she come by and wake us if things wit the Tree were serious..." Said Applejack. "Well... maybe she didn't want to wake us up... consider it being the middle of the night..." Fluttershy replied. She was hesitant at first when she was told they had to chase Twilight into the Everfree at this hour, who wouldn't be? But realizing it was their best friend, she had to do what was right and go with the girls. "...I do find it odd that Twilight never thought to stop to wake me up considering she had to have run past my cottage to get to the Everfree..." She added. "Well considering she was in a hurry to rush to make sure the Tree of Harmony was alright, she probably wasn't thinking clearly as it was the one thing on her mind at the moment, darling." Rarity responded. "Yeah! Maybe it's somepony new and she came to welcome them to Equestria!" Pinkie shouted out as she hopped past Rarity and Fluttershy. "Hey! Instead of chatting, maybe we can keep moving to see if the Tree and Twilight is alright?" Rainbow Dash shouted as she flew back to the group. Applejack just stares at Rainbow Dash. "We are hurrying Sugarcube, but you just darting ahead into the forest, not knowin what will jump out at you." Rainbow Dash frowned, "Well sorry AJ, but I'm just worried that our best friend, who is a Princess, could be attacked by Celestia knows what!" "Um girls..." Fluttershy asked meekly as she approaches the two. "I-is it me, or does the Everfree seem... more quieter than usual...?" The group looked around and have noticed that the Everfree was completely silent. Not even any crickets could be heard chirping. "...Yeaaah... it is kind of eerie. The Forest is too quiet..." Spike added. "I mean, usually there are dangerous creatures that lurk around the Everfree at night, yet since we entered the place, we haven't come across a single creature... Why is that?" Spike further added. "Hmm, well whatever the reason, it might have something to do with the Tree! Let's hurry!" Rainbow Dash barked out as she darts off down the path, leaving a rainbow trail behind, as well as the girls and Spike. "Wait up Dashie!~" Pinkie shouted as she and the others continued after her. The Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest Twilight couldn't believe her ears from what the mysterious unicorn replied with. "...Y-You're the...? No, that's impossible. How is it possible??" Twilight questioned. The unicorn simply stood there, still keeping that sincere smile on her lips. "My dearest Twilight... I know it is hard to believe, and you probably would never ever imagined this ever happening in your lifetime, but I speak the honest truth..." She then added, "Surely, you seen the resemblance and connected the dots, hmm?~" She thought about it, and taking it all into consideration, it seems to make sense: her appearance, the fact she is wearing the Elements of Harmony on her head, the fact she was standing in the place of the Tree. But still, that leaved one other question that was creeping up in her mind. "But, how is this possible...?" Just before the unicorn responded, she looks past Twilight to the entrance of the cave, with her soft smile. "Well, I believe you are not the only one who wants to know..." She simply said as she nods her head behind Twilight. At first, she didn't see anything but then she heard a familiar voice yell out. "Twilight! You down there!?" "Rainbow Dash? But how did she...?" Twilight asked herself, before Rainbow Dash sees her and smiles brightly. "Twilight! Hey guys, I found her! She's down here!" Rainbow Dash yelled up and soon she looked out and saw her friends come down the steps from the top of the ravine to the cave entrance. She was surprised. "Girls! Spike! What are you doing here?" Twilight asked as they all approached her, relieved. "Well Sugarcube, Spike told us you just went and galloped all the way from home to the Everfree without thinkin twice!" Applejack answered as they gave Twilight a hug, clearly been worried about her. "Oh yes darling! We were worried that something might've happened to you! You know it is not right to wander here after night. Who knows what could've happened to you!" Rarity added. "Yes Twilight, you should've woken us up if something bad was happening... even if it was at this hour... in the Everfree..." Fluttershy meekly replied. Twilight was shocked. She was so wind up about something happening to the Tree that she never thought about getting help from her friends. "Oh girls... oh Spike, I'm sorry... I was not thinking clearly when I came here. When I sensed that magical flux, I just had to come investigate." Twilight let them go. "Thankfully, nothing bad has happened. In fact, you are not going to believe this..." She added. "Whatever do you mean, darling?" Rarity asked, as she simply looks past her and sees the unicorn still standing there, with her content smile. The others gasped as they didn't see her there. "Twi? Who is that pony? And where is the Tree of Harmony at...?" Applejack asked, clearly in awe at this unicorn's grace and appearance. Rainbow Dash, despite being in awe, frowned, "Yeah, who the hay is that? Did she do something to the Tree?" She was about to charge at the unicorn, who didn't at all seemed fazed by her sudden change of emotion. Twilight stopped her by grabbing her tail with her magic. "Wait a second, Rainbow Dash! Don't attack her! She is the one thing you are not going to believe!" The unicorn slowly approached the group, as she spoke softly once more. "It is alright my little pony... You have every reason to be suspicious of me. I know, this will come as a shock to you all, but I speak with honesty..." The unicorn looked toward Applejack when she mentioned 'honesty'. For you see, I am the one who chose you to be my new Bearers. You bore the Elements, and helped save Equestria with your friendship and courageous acts. You knew that the Elements are what brought you together, and by giving them up, your bonds would remain eternal without them. It was that reason, you saved me from my terrible fate... The Plundervines that ravaged the Everfree and part of Equestria... have it not been for you six, I would've died. The bond you six shared were so powerful, that upon being returned the Elements of Harmony, I gained a higher sentience than what I had prior. The time came now, that I wanted to be free from my roots, and to take on this appearance... The group listened, as they all thought about what she was saying, and it slowly clicked in their minds. The unicorn can see the realization hitting their faces, and she simply chuckles. "Yes, my Chosen Bearers. you are not mistaken. I am the Tree of Harmony, but you may simply call me... Harmony.~ Author's Note And another chapter. I can't believe you guys actually love this story so far. I never expected this many likes and favorites. Thanks for your support! ^^ So now, the pony introduces herself as the Tree of Harmony, or simply Harmony. How will our group take this revelation? Find out in the next chapter!~ Until next time!
Unspoken TaleThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest "YOU'RE THE WHAT!?" The group, sans Twilight and Pinkie Pie, shouted in unison and in disbelief. Pinkie, being Pinkie Pie, then jumps in. "Hold on a second!" She yelled out, grinning softly as she pulls a glass a water from nowhere, takes a drink, and suddenly does a spit-take. "WHAT?!" Pinkie yelled out in disbelief. Harmony, who was calm during their outburst, nodded. "It is true. It is because of you six ponies, that I was able to manifest into this body you see now." "So you mean to say you've always were... aware of what was going on around you, all this time?" Twilight asked. Harmony nods, "That is correct, dear Twilight. Even though I was in the form of a crystal tree, acting as the very thing that kept balance to the Everfree Forest, I had a level of sentience. It is why I gifted you the Chest after you made the sacrifice to give up the Elements to save me. And, before you ask, I can't reveal what are in the contents in the Chest. All I can tell you is your keys will appear before you, when an important lesson is revealed to you.~ Those events, will happen sooner than you think. Twilight frowned, realizing her question was answered, but not the type of answer she hoped for. "So, how is it that our friendship was enough to actually... do this to you, Harmony? I mean, Princess Celestia and Luna wielded the Elements in the past and surely they could've been enough to make you what you are now." Twilight added. "Well, it is true that Tia and Lulu both wielded the Elements. You see, this stems back further than you think. It wasn't the first time Celestia and Luna found me with the Elements. So, gather around my little ponies, for I have a small untold tale to tell...~" "Oooooh!~ Storytime!~" Pinkie squeaked in delight as she pulled a lawn chair and some popcorn out of her mane and began munching on it. "Ready!~" The group just giggled as they all sat down before Harmony as she also lays down, smiling softly as she clears her throat. "This tale isn't known by many ponies, however the only two who would recall this event was Celestia and Luna. It during the coronation of the two that they were approached by Wise Old Star Swirl the Bearded, and his three representatives: Private Pansy of the Pegasi, Smart Cookie of the Earth ponies, and Clover the Clever of the unicorns. Old Star Swirl figured that harmony between the three tribes could be balanced if Alicorns would act as the ones to rule over the three pony tribes. Needless to say, young Lulu and Tia were anxious with the position they were given, even though they didn't earn their cutie marks yet at that age, but regardless the ceremony went off without problems." "Shortly after the coronation, the two were scouring across Equestria, trying to find a place to build their castle. It was then that Old Star Swirl suggested that the two come here, to the Everfree Forest and it was here the two discovered me in this very ravine." Twilight perked up at this information. "They found you long before they used the Elements of Harmony to seal Discord into stone?" Twilight asked. Harmony nods. "Oh yes. Old Star Swirl knew of my existence and realized that the two would be drawn to my magic, which is why they built their castle close by. They knew I was of importance, however, they were unaware of my sentience and knew I was watching them. My magic back them isn't as strong as it is now, so I wasn't able to communicate through telepathy. Though, I had a feeling that Old Star Swirl knew of my sentience and knew I was a living entity."] Harmony thought before shaking her head. "Forgive me, I am getting off topic. So as I was saying..." She continued talking about the two Princesses, and their involvement with the other kingdoms at the time. They laughed when they learned the kind of prankster Princess Luna was, when she wanted to get back at Princess Platinum for calling both her and Celestia 'blank flanks' with the help of a manticore named Melvin that was subdued by Celestia and Star Swirl, who then apologizes after taking it too far and the two princesses became friends and accepted Celestia and Luna as rulers. Pinkie and Rainbow Dash laughed, never knew Luna was big prankster back then, and Fluttershy thought it was rather sweet and adorable the future Princess of the Night made friends with a manticore. Rarity never knew how similar Princess Platinum was to her, and not just because she played her during the Hearth's Warming Play in Canterlot the previous year: She had the same sense of fashion and interior decorator as the fashionista, making the Equestrian flag and the banners that are in the Old Castle just above the cave. Twilight was intrigued to the fact that Celestia and Star Swirl were close friends because of their love for knowledge and reading books. "Yes, it was with Celestia's help that Old Star Swirl learned the two spells he was striving for: a cutie mark spell and a time-traveling spell that allowed him to travel through space and time without limitations. Twilight's eyes widen, when Harmony mentioned those two spells. Those were the same spells she used: the time-travel spell was the spell she was studying before her future self came and warned her past self about what she thought was an unspecified disaster that would occur that next Tuesday morning, but realized it wasn't anything to worry about. The cutie mark spell, was the spell that Princess Celestia wanted her to finish, but ended up changing the cutie marks of her friends as it effected the Elements of Harmony themselves, but after fixing her mistake by helping her friends see what their true destiny was, she was able to finish the spell, and in turn, earned her the wings she now got on her back. "Now, as you may be aware, Old Star Swirl became a teacher to young Celestia and Luna, acting as their royal adviser. He taught Luna how to move the stars when the young filly was mesmerized with the night sky, namely the moon. He also perfected his time-travel spell, allowing him to travel to different points in Equestria's history, being subtle enough to not reveal events that will occur in the future, but Celestia had a feeling that with his reaction, the sun, moon, and star markings on me were important." She goes further, detailing the events of the Crystal Empire and the meeting of Princess Amore, and how a dragon stole the Crystal Heart since it was found in the Crystalline Mountains, where the heart was first found and the dragon's lair was in those mountains, claiming everything in that cave was his, including the heart. Celestia was enraged, so much she bursts into flames and going into Royal Canterlot Voice, which scared the dragon enough to drop the heart and flee back to its lair, and thus saving the Crystal Empire and celebrate the first Crystal Faire. And then she describes how Luna and Celestia finally earned their Cutie Marks after the unicorns, including Star Swirl, lost their magic because they tried to lower the moon for the sun to rise. Luna was able to lower the moon while Celestia raised the sun, seeing as they were alicorns and their magic would just be restored after raising and lowering the celestial bodies. They were able to restore the unicorns and Star Swirl's magic thanks to the power of the sun and moon strengthening their magic. "The sister's were overjoyed to finally received their cutie marks, Celestia noting how their marks resembled the markings on my Tree form. However, after they earned their cutie marks, the two were just excited to see what the future held for them as rulers of Equestria. Harmony closed her eyes and sighed contently. "And that, my little ones, is the untold tale I shared.~ Pinkie claps her hooves enthusiastically. "YAAAAY! THAT WAS A FUN STORY!!~ Can you tell another one?" Pinkie asked, with a bright grin. Harmony giggles. "Oh I have a lot of tales I can share my little Bearer of Laughter, however I think for now, you should all be returning home for the evening. It is pretty late and surely you are all tired from this excitement, hmm?~" The group yawned. "She's right y'all. With all this excitement, forgot it was still middle of the night. I need to get home for some shut eye, a lot of apple need to be bucked." Applejack stretched, getting up. "Oh I agree, we are young ladies that need their beauty sleep. I must head home for I have several orders that I need to get started on in the morning." Rarity added. "You said it...!" Rainbow Dash said, stretching her wings out. "Um... it was nice to meet you miss Harmony." Fluttershy said softly, giving a soft smile. "Yeah! I totally need to throw you a Welcome and Congratulations for Becoming Alive Party!~ But first, BACK TO BED!~" Pinkie shouted as she started to hop off out of the cave. "Pinkie! Wait for us, we can all walk back to the entrance together!" Twilight yelled out for Pinkie Pie. "How about, I all accompany you to the entrance of the forest? It will give me a chance to... well stretch my hooves out, and see everything outside of my little cave.~ Harmony asked as she got up. The group all nod. They knew they would probably feel safer with Harmony with them. "Yeah, that would be nice, Harmony." Twilight said. Harmony smiled. "Well then, my little ponies... shall we?~ The Everfree Forest The group began their trek back to the forest entrance, as Harmony walked before the group, quietly humming to herself as she looks to the forest. "It does feel nice... to see Luna's night sky for the first time in my life... It's beautiful..." "Oh yes, Luna's night sky is always a joy to see. Especially when each night looks different, and if there is a meteor shower!" Twilight beamed. "I suppose it will be a good time to explore the rest of this forest... I know I can help maintain it better now that I can move about freely here..." Eventually they all made it to the entrance of the forest. Harmony stops at the very edge as the group walk out. "And this is where we must part ways for now, little ones. I really enjoyed meeting you, and talking to you all. I look forward to seeing you again.~ Harmony bows her head down. "Well we'll come visit again soon! I still need to throw you your welcome party!~" Pinkie said in glee. "Yeah, and I have to bring you some fine apple-made products from the Sweet Apple Acres. I know you will enjoy them, Harmony." Applejack added. "Just meeting you, dear, gives me some new ideas for some dresses. I never got a chance to say this, but you are just absolutely GORGEOUS, darling. I must make a dress for you one day, Harmony!" Rarity squealed. Seeing the Tree of Harmony as a pony of this majesty, it gives her some new ideas for designing some dresses revolving around Harmony's style and appearance. "Oh yes... and I just have to introduce you to some of my animal friends. I'm sure they will feeling very comfortable around you, miss Harmony.~" Fluttershy said in a gentle, excited tone. "I just want to be able to show you some of my neat stunts and tricks! I mean, considering you are up and walking around now, surely you would be curious as to see how an awesome pony like me can be the talk of Ponyville!" Boasted Rainbow Dash, as the girls just rolled their eyes and shook their heads. "Yes, it was a very interesting evening to say the least. I still have so many questions I want to ask you too, and maybe I can bring some books from the library and I can show you some of my favorites!" Twilight beamed. Harmony giggles. "I am glad to have chosen you as my Bearers... You all represent your Element to the mark, and it just feels me with joy inside. So, I would enjoy seeing each of you again. I may be an old magical tree that is the very essence of harmony and order, but I would love to see what the world has to offer. Even if I am bound to this forest, as I need to maintain the balance here and me setting foot outside of it could be rather... troublesome, do not be afraid to come back. The creatures that dwell here would be at ease around my presence, so you shouldn't worry about any danger as long as I roam the forest.~" "For now, I bid you all a good night my little ponies.~ Harmony waves as she slowly turns around and began trotting back into the Everfree, her humming could be heard echoing throughout the forest. The rest of the group all bid each other good night and returned to their respectable homes for the night. Twilight and Spike enter the library, both heading to the bedroom for some shut eye. "Boy, this has been some night. What you thought was something that seemed bad, turned out to be rather good in the end. Who ever thought the Tree of Harmony could be alive and now... walking around like a normal pony?" Twilight chuckles. "I agree Spike. This is rather huge though. Tomorrow morning, we need to send a letter to the Princess Celestia and Luna. They really need to know about this and meet Harmony." The two reached the bedroom as Spike collapsed into his little bed, finally relieved to be back in it after this rather long and eventful night. Twilight crawls back into her bed and gets under the covers. "Well, good night Spike." Twilight said with a soft tone as she shuts the lights out. "Night Twilight..." Spike replied as he was already out after making the reply. Soon after, the alicorn drifted off into a peaceful sleep. Author's Note So yeah, here be Chapter 3. I figured why not make mention of The Journal of the Two Sisters in this chapter as Harmony tells the story about Celestia and Luna's past? This one really took some thought XD Though of course, the next chapter has Tia and Lulu being told about Harmony and going to meet her themselves. Look forward to it. Until then, later!
A Day with Harmony - Celestia and LunaThe Cave of Harmony, Everfree Forest The Following Day "Hmm..." Harmony pondered in thought as she sat in her cave. "I don't wish to inconvenience dear Celestia and Luna by coming down here to see me. No doubt Twilight likely written a letter to them about my sudden appearance, but..." Harmony goes and paces around in thought. Since meeting her Bearers the previous night, she wandered around the Everfree Forest, ensuring all was normal, as well as plan out the eventual task of trying to bring life back to it. The Everfree wasn't always this dangerous, and was once as vibrant as any other forest in Equestria. After the Elements were taken by the Princesses to stop Discord, and eventually the inevitable banishment of Nightmare Moon, the forest began to become more unbalanced as the harmonic magic that was balancing the chaotic magic weakened over the centuries, eventually the forest became what it was today. She knew that in order to bring the Everfree back to what it once was, she would need to slowly influence her magic throughout the forest, which could take a long time before it is complete. She also needed to take into account the creatures that resided here that adapted to the nature of the forest, but after what occurred last night, most of the creatures whom seen Harmony simply let her roam. They knew she was part of this forest, being the one that maintained all that lived and grew here. She stopped, after thinking for five minutes, something came to mind. She smiled. "Hmm... I wonder..." Golden Oak's Library, Ponyville After last night, Twilight knew that Princess Celestia and Princess Luna would be excited, intrigued, and shocked about the fact the Tree of Harmony came to life and became a living entity. She and Spike were just finishing breakfast, and upon cleaning up the dishes, the two made their way into the library. "Alright Spike, take a letter." Twilight said, as Spike grabbed parchment and a quill. "Ready!" Spike said as he held the quill toward the parchment. Just before Twilight could get out her message, there was a knock on the door, surprising the two. "Huh? Who could that be?" Twilight asked out loud as she goes to the door and opens the door. "Hello? Can I help--" Twilight's eyes widen as she looked at the visitor. The mare at the door, simply giggled, giving a serene smile. "Hello my little pony.~ Are you impressed?" It was Harmony. She was a regular sized unicorn mare, but still looked like she did while tall. Twilight's eyes bugged out. "Wh-what?? But-but how are you-- When did you...??" Twilight was just flabbergasted. Harmony giggled, finding the princess's reaction entertaining, and precious. "Well, are you going to let me come in, and let me explain or you just going to stare at my radiance all morning, hmm?~" Harmony joked. Twilight, still confused and in shock, just sighed and nods. "O-of course, Harmony. Come in." Twilight let's her in as the Tree Pony looks around, keeping her smile. "My my... what lovely little library you live in dear. It looks so quaint and homey.~" Twilight just chuckled sheepishly. "Oh, well it is nothing too special. But me and Spike do enjoy living here as we are close to our friends, near the center of Ponyville, and of course: the books.~" Harmony nods and looks to Spike. "Hello my dear little dragon. How are you this fine morning?" Harmony asked. "Oh, I'm doing fine Miss Harmony. Me and Twilight just got done with breakfast. Do you want me to get you something?" Spike replied. "Oh don't trouble yourself dear. I'm fine." Harmony held her hoof up and shook her head. "So, Harmony. What exactly are you doing here, and more importantly, how are you here? I thought you said that you can't leave the Everfree Forest unattended without your presence there." Twilight asked, walking over to the unicorn. Harmony just looks to her. "Well, after you all left to return home last night, I spent the good night seeing all of the Everfree for myself, bringing back my influence that once kept it in balance. As I said, I didn't wish to remain rooted to where I was any longer, and wanted to be free to move outside the Cave. While it is important for me to remain in the Everfree Forest to prevent another incident like before with the plundervines, I was able to come up with a solution. That solution is what you see now." She explained. Twilight and Spike looked at each other, clearly confused. Harmony then held her hoof out, as her horn glowed a whitish-blue aura. A small sapling appeared in her hoof. "...A sapling?" Twilight asked. "Not just a normal sapling, my little pony. This sapling is created using half of my magic. In order for me to keep the Everfree Forest maintained, I need to keep a constant presence from within but even a small amount of my magical influence, can keep the forest maintained while I'm not there physically. So, I created a sapling like this, placed it where I once stood as a Tree, and let nature take its course." Harmony replied. "So by taking out half of your magic, you can continue to keep the Everfree from growing out of control, and not be there at all? So you can leave the forest anytime you like?" Twilight asked in an excited tone. Harmony chuckled, and nodded. "Yes, however, doing this comes at the cost of me only having half of my full magic, and thus I developed this form. It is weaker than my taller form, but as you can feel, I still have strong magic in me." Harmony added. Twilight nodded, feeling Harmony's magic. It wasn't as powerful as what she felt last night, but she still seemed to be still stronger than a normal unicorn. "And when I return to the forest, I can simply reabsorb the magic I placed in the sapling and return to my full strength. But it does leave me a bit tired afterwards so I would likely require at least a full day before I can leave the forest again. Plus, I don't wish to remain outside of the forest for too long as even if half my magic runs through the Everfree, it will eventually wane and could be taken over by the chaotic magic and would take longer for me to regain what I lost, so I plan on limiting my time outside of the forest for at least a day." Harmony added further. "Well, it is great you were able to figure out a way to leave the forest, Harmony, and within one night no less!" Twilight said in a gushed tone. "Means I can show you all around Ponyville and you can meet the girls and see what they do!" The alicorn added. Harmony just stifles a giggle. "That would be most lovely. But, I did have a reason to visit you, dear Twilight. I was wondering if you have written a letter to Princess Celestia about me." She nods, "Oh! I was just going to do that when you knocked at the door. I was going to let them know about what happened and that they needed to come to Ponyville right away." "Well, I was actually thinking of this Twilight. I don't wish to take Tia and Lulu out of the busy schedule, which is why I wished that you let them know that I would come visit them personal in Canterlot.~" Harmony said. "You want to go visit them yourself?? But Harmony, you just came to existence last night, and I know you were able to find your way here to Ponyville, but you don't know your way around outside of here." Twilight replied in a incredulous tone. "No need to worry that my little pony. From what I can see, is that Canterlot is just up that mountain ridge right?" Harmony asked pointing out the window toward the distant capital city. "Well... yes you are right, but..." Twilight said before being cut-off by Harmony. "And all I would need to do is take the train that runs up there, correct?~" Twilight blinked. She never knew that despite being a Tree for centuries, she is quite aware of what happens in the world. "Um...yeah that's correct." Twilight replied. "Well then there you go. I know I just came into being just last night my dear, but I am a big filly and I can figure it out. Besides, it isn't hard to find Celestia and Luna's magical signatures considering they were my Bearers in the past, so they can't be forgotten that easily. You simply write to them on your findings and to expect a guest that is coming to see them at this moment. Don't worry, Tia and Lulu are bright ponies, I'm sure they'll figure me out." Harmony chuckled. "Well... if you want to, then I don't want to keep you then. It should take an hour to get here to Canterlot by train, but you don't have any bits do you?" Twilight asked. Harmony held her hoof up in thought. "Hmm... that might be a small issue. Considering I been residing in the Everfree for centuries, really didn't need any money... But I can always use an easier method of travel.~" Twilight raised a brow, "Oh? And what's that?" "...Teleport." Harmony quietly responded, as her horn glowed and suddenly she disappeared in a bright flash. Twilight and Spike shielded their eyes, being caught off guard and once they looked, Harmony was gone. "W-what?? Harmony! Did she really just teleport all the way to Canterlot from here...? There is no way a unicorn could do that, I can't even do that and I'm an alicorn...!" Twilight screamed out. "Um Twilight...? She is the very spirit of harmony, and you said you still sensed her magic being that strong, even if half it was back in the Everfree right? So, whose to say she is capable of teleporting all the way to Canterlot? I mean, she isn't a normal pony." Spike explained. Twilight just blinked, not really aware Spike would explain that to her. "Huh... well I suppose she could do that... But still, it makes me wonder if she did get there..." Twilight wondered. "Alright Spike, take a letter again!" Twilight said, back in her confident tone. Spike just rolled his eyes as he held the quill back up to the parchment as he began to write out what Twilight wanted to tell Celestia and Luna. "Dear Celestia and Luna, I have some news that might shock you both..." Canterlot Castle, Canterlot Princess Celestia was going about her usual day-to-day duties. She wouldn't lie if most of the day court would be boring, but as one of the leading rulers of Equestria, what can you do? Though today was different, as her mind wandered about last night, as Twilight wasn't the only one who picked up that magical flux. Luna was going about her duties while Celestia was asleep for the night but was woken when she felt the surge of magic that got her attention. Ever since last night, she seemed to be awaiting a report from Twilight, since she knew it happened in the Everfree Forest. As she was signing some documents, a familiar green wisp of flame entered the throne room and stopped before Celestia as a scroll appeared. Celestia knew this was it. "Guards, I wish for you to fetch my sister. It is of most urgency." Celestia ordered her two guards in a calm tone. "Yes, Your Highness!" The Royal Guard ponies saluted as they galloped off to find Luna. "The rest of you, I wish to be alone with my sister for the time being. You are excused." Celestia said to the rest of the guards, who all saluted and made their way out of the throne room, with two guards standing outside the door. It didn't take long, as Luna appeared in flash and goes up to her older sister. "Dear sister, is it from Princess Twilight?" Luna asked. Celestia nodded, "It is, let us see what her findings are..." She opened the scroll and began to read the letter. Dear Celestia and Luna, I have some news that will shock you both. As you are aware, last night a powerful surge of magic erupted from the Everfree Forest, where the Tree of Harmony was located. Naturally I ran out there to investigate to ensure that the Tree was alright and no malicious threat was harming the tree, despite me and my friends returning the Elements of Harmony to it. When I was traveling through the forest, I noticed it was very silent and that none of the creatures that normally roam at night, were nowhere to be seen. It was unusual, so I made haste to the cave where the Tree was at, and to my shock and surprise... The Tree of Harmony is alive! As in, the Tree was able to create a body for itself and now roams around like a living pony. She called herself 'Harmony' and she appeared as a tall, majestic white unicorn, much like your height. Me and the girls, whom Spike ran to get after I ran out from home to investigate without thinking twice, listened to Harmony and how it became possible to be alive. She said our friendship and our bond with the Elements were so powerful she was able to gain higher sentience than before and used the Elements to create the body she is now in. I would go into more detail, but I have to tell you this: you are about to meet a pony whom teleported from Ponyville all the way to Canterlot, and when you meet this pony, you will know. She really wants to meet you both, and you will be just as shocked and in awe as me and my friends were. She said before leaving my library, that you both will point out who she is quickly. Yours truly, Princess Twilight Sparkle The Princesses looked at the letter and were silent. This was rather... unbelievable news to say the least. "The Tree of Harmony... alive?" Celestia questioned. "Sister, what do you think? I knew that magical surge was familiar and powerful, but I couldn't put my hoof on what it was exactly." Luna asked, still trying to process this news. Celestia was silent, and shook her head, "I do not know, Luna... This is very interesting news indeed, and I know Twilight hasn't lied about something big like this..." Though, thoughts of the Changeling invasion during Princess Cadance and Shining Armor's wedding came to mind, when she, along with everypony else, thought Twilight wasn't herself when she made claims that the Cadance they were about to wed Shining Armor with wasn't the real Cadance, but turned out to be Queen Chrysalis disguised as Cadance. She knew after the revelation was true, she couldn't help but feel guilty for not listening to Twilight's accusations when she and everypony else was fooled. Considering the news Twilight has sent them now, Celestia knew Twilight would be telling the truth. Her thoughts are interrupted when a Royal Guard comes into the throne room. "Pardon my intrusion, Your Highnesses. But a young unicorn is outside and says you are expecting her." He explained. Both Princesses looked at each other, and Celestia nods to the Royal Guard. "Send her in, and leave us be." The Royal Guard salutes. "Right away, Your Highness. You may enter, ma'am." He looked back, as a white unicorn walks in, with a content smile on her face. The Royal Guard bows and then leaves the throne room with the three ponies alone. The Princess looks at the unicorn, and suddenly, they felt her magic. "Luna... do you feel that?" Celestia asked, her eyes widen. "I do Celestia... this is the magic I felt last night. This pony... could she be...?" Luna replied. The unicorn approached them and just chuckles. "...It is so wonderful to finally meet you like this, my dear Tia and Lulu. My past Bearers of Harmony... I am who you think I am...~" The unicorn answered. There was no doubt now. Twilight was correct. "...You are the Tree of Harmony, correct?" Celestia asked as she got up from her throne and slowly approached Harmony. She can feel the magic from Harmony: pure, raw, powerful harmonious magic. It was warm, and comforting to the Princess of the Sun. Harmony nods. "I am... but you can simply call me Harmony, my little ponies.~ My... you two have grown up so much since I last seen you, 1000 years ago..." Luna comes to her sister's side, "So Princess Twilight was right... you used the power of the Elements to come to life as a pony...?" "It is a lot to take in, I know. But, I wouldn't lie if I said I do enjoy seeing the reactions ponies make when they see who I am, hee hee.~" She giggled. "...Harmony, it is... a real honor... to be in your presence like this... We never thought in our lifetime, that you would appear before us... and talk to us." Celestia said as she bowed, Luna doing the same. "Oh... come now my little fillies... No need to do that. I am not royalty, and while I am the very embodiment of harmony and order, you can just treat me as your equal, alright?" Harmony said. Both Princesses just looked at her and slowly raised their heads up, chuckling sheepishly. "But in all seriousness, it is a real honor to actually be communicating with the one that allowed for us to stop the reign of Discord... From what Princess Twilight has said, she said you gained a higher sentience after the Elements were returned to you... Does that mean you were always sentient?" Luna asked. Harmony nods, "I know we have much to discuss, and I will answer everything you want to know, but perhaps we can chat in a more... cozier environment, hmm?~" The two sisters agreed. Celestia calls out to her guards. "My loyal guards, my sister, our guest, and I will be convening in my quarters. Tell anypony who wishes to see me or my sister, not to disturb us unless it is of utmost importance." "Yes, Your Highness." The Royal Guards salute. Celestia looks to the two. "Shall we?" They arrive in Celestia's private quarters, where she had her maids bring them some tea and scones. The three ponies sat together, as Harmony discusses how she was able to bring herself to life, using the Elements, how it was thanks to Twilight's friendship and the strong impact it made on the Elements to allow for her to transform into the pony they see now. "I know, it is rather shocking, but stranger things have happened in Equestria. I'm sure me roaming about now is nothing much to write home about.~" Harmony said, sipping tea. "True, a lot of things have occurred in Equestria that this point, most ponies, least the ones in Ponyville, seem to right off as a natural occurrence. And of course, it is nothing Twilight and her friends are capable of doing. After all, as you said, you chose them to be your Bearers." Celestia replied. "So Harmony, now that you are free to go about as you please, what do you plan to do? I mean I know you wish to remain in the Everfree Forest to ensure it doesn't spiral out of control like what happened a few weeks ago with the plundervines..." Luna asked, as she munched on a scone. "Well, dears, I wish to bring back balance to the Everfree. As you recall, it was once a vibrant wood that surrounded your Old Castle and was a place of beauty. Now that I can move about freely in the forest, it will make my task easier to restore it to what it once was, though it might take some time before it is done, years perhaps..." Harmony replied. "I do remember those days, especially when I ventured through the forest and found myself in the grasslands where the zebras resided. I don't know how they could confuse me for a manticore however. Tia was rather cross with me for roaming off, but she was impressed with me finding zebras outside of Equestria." Luna recalled, as she smiled softly to her older sister. Celestia chuckled, "Oh yes, considering how far the Everfree stretched, it seemed like a place of no end, yet you did find a way through and we met a neighboring land. Even so, seeing a zebra in Equestria is rare, aside from Miss Zecora who resides in the Everfree." "Ah yes, a very kind zebra. Not many live in the forest, but she finds no fear living there. I am just glad that the ingredients she finds in the forest helps her in potion making. After all, she is good in her craft, especially when it can help save another pony's life." Harmony replied. The three went silent, as a thought came to mind for Harmony. "...How is Discord doing?" Harmony asked. The sisters blinked when she suddenly mentioned Discord. Luna puts her hoof up to her chin to think. "Discord has been well. He does occasionally pop in for a visit, but for the most part he seems to hang around with dear Fluttershy, considering she was able to reform him from his chaotic ways, though he does like to still cause some minor mischief. At this point, he is tolerable, though at times can be rather a nuisance, but other times he does try to brighten up our days with a little bit of harmless fun." Luna answered, smirking. "I see. I do find it amazing that my little Bearer of Kindness was able to set him straight..." Harmony replied, sipping her tea. "Are you at all... angry with him? I mean, I sense no hostility from you, but considering he sowed those plunder seeds a century ago to drain your magic, and almost succeeded in killing you..." Celestia asked, with a soft frown. "What's done is done. He was only acting as he would been acting, as my counterpart. I don't think he would've realized I been sentient this whole time, and eventually, come to life. I'm sure he would pick up on it and find out sooner or later... But, I can't hate him for doing what he was born to do: cause chaos. After all, this world has to follow the laws of balance: light and darkness, good and evil, harmony and chaos. You can't have one without the other after all, for it would cause disaster on either case..." Harmony mused. The three continued to enjoy their chats, and then soon took a stroll around the castle gardens, allowing for the Tree spirit to enjoy its splendor. She enjoyed this, just being with her previous Bearers and talking to them. However, all good things must come to an end, when she saw that it was soon dusk. They returned to the throne room, where the two sisters prepare to lower the sun and raise the moon for the night, and Luna beginning her evening duties. "I really enjoyed our day today, my little ponies.~ I'm glad that everything has been going well for you all, but I fear I must depart back home and begin my task of bring the Everfree back to its former self, as well as regain the rest of my magic before it fades away." Harmony said, with a sad smile. "Oh, I wish you could stay a bit longer, but you have your duties and we have ours. It was a real honor to meet you like this, Harmony. We found it to be a nice change of pace." Celestia said, with a soft smile. Luna nodded in agreement, "We do hope you can find time to visit Canterlot again." "Well, I will try to make time to visit again. And if I can't, you can always visit the Everfree, as I'm sure you would be eager to see what I truly look like, considering this is me at half my power." Harmony bows her head. "Until we meet again, my precious little ponies...~" Harmony turns around as she began to walk toward the doors and, in a flash of light, she disappeared. "Today has certainly been an interesting one, my dear sister." Luna said. "It certainly has, and I can't help but feel that it will get more interesting as the days go on." Celestia replied, as she looks down at her younger sister. "Well, shall we bring about the night?" Celestia asked, and Luna nods. "Yes, let us show Harmony a beautiful transition." The two princesses both disappear in a flash of light, returning to their private quarters to bring about the evening. Entrance to the Everfree Forest Harmony reappears just outside the entrance to the forest. She looks out back toward the horizon, toward the mountain range where she was just at, and saw the sun beginning its descend. She smiled softly, wanting to see Celestia and Luna do their duty, and it was breathtaking to say the least. "...They have come a long way Old Star Swirl... You would be proud of your students..." Harmony muttered quietly to herself, smiling contently Soon after, the sun disappeared beneath the horizon, and slowly the stars began to dot the sky, as the moon begins its rise. She didn't want to leave and miss this all beauty in the world. Despite the amount of danger Equestria has faced, there are the little things in life that everypony take for granted and enjoy. This is something to enjoy until the end of time. With that, the spirit walks back into the forest, as she began to glow faintly. Her magic slowly returns to her, as her height begins to grow to what it was. The small sapling that she left in the cave, disappeared as the rest of her magic returns to her, and soon is back to her full power. "Only day ends, another chapter in life begins...~" She said softly and wanders deep into her forest, humming a small tune that would quietly echo the sleeping forest. Author's Note And that my dear readers, is another chapter done. Yep, longest on I did. The next few chapters will follow this, as Harmony spends the day each of the Mane 6, but I wanted to get Tia and Lulu out of the way. Hope you enjoyed this, and look forward to the next chapter!
