Out of the Frying Pan

by AnnonyMouse

Rating: everyone
Tags: Other, Original Character, Comedy, Adventure, Princess Celestia, Slice of Life, Main 6, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 16685

Many months after the events from 'Into the Blender', Terra Harmony comes back too Ponyville...

Many months after the events from 'Into the Blender', Terra Harmony comes back too visit her friends in Ponyville... But this time, an ancient being escapes its prison and brings chaos too the peaceful community...

An ancient artifact backfires.

Ponyville becomes home to some new fillies...

NOT a Grimdark by any means.

Published 2012-07-14 23:44:01 UTC
Last updated 2014-01-17 16:25:45 UTC

Chapter 1

Author: Annonymouse
MLP:FiM is property of Hasbro. This is a free fan-fiction, not to be sold or traded for any money, goods or services.
...
A/N: No comments on spelling or grammar please. See my profile for details.
...
Terra Harmony is back... and her presence brings anything BUT harmony... again.
...
Out of the Frying Pan
01
...

Terra Harmony, middle sister too the Princesses. She didn't consider herself a Princess for a number of reasons.

One. She had long ago betrayed her sisters by siding with Discord, but had paid a heavy price. Over 3,000 years of imprisonment.

Two. Upon gaining her freedom, she had caused strife to innocent ponies, the representatives of her Elements no less.

Three. She was no Alicorn. Sure, Terra stood nearly as tall as Celestia, with a slightly more muscular build, but that meant nothing to the 'Regent of the World'. That didn't matter to her.

And four... she was quite insane. Lucid most of the time, but still quite insane. Terra was getting better at controlling her madness, but it slipped out from time to time.

The new island off the east coast of Equestria was a clear sign. It was quite a twisted and dangerous place, much like the Everfree Forest. Hey, she had to release some of her pent up insanity somehow, right?

And right now was one of her nice and lucid moment. Good thing too, because she was walking into Ponyville. Most of the ponies in town did not know what to think of this tall, beautiful Earth Pony with the smoky diamond horn, but they simply smiled and nodded politely when they crossed paths.

“Such a lovely town.” Terra said to herself, her voice rich and smooth, befitting her tall stature.

The tall mare approached the one place she knew she would find a friend, the Library, and home of Twilight Sparkle. She tapped lightly on the door and waited.

“Coming. Just a moment please.” CRASH! THUD! “OW! Spike. Watch where you put those books please.”

“Sorry Twi. I'm still cleaning up after your study binge last night.” Spike's childish voice sounded.

The door then opened and a delighted looking Twilight came into view. “Terra? It's so good to see you again. Come in, just watch out for the mess. I kinda went overboard these last few days.”

Terra simply smiled and entered the library.

Indeed the place looked like Hurricane Twilight had struck.

“I assume Spike was in Canterlot again for a few days?” Terra chuckled lightly.

Twilight grinned. “Yea... You know what I can get like.” She said as she levitated a stack of books to the side. “I have some new tea that Spike brought back with him. It's a honey spice tea.”

“A cup of tea would be wonderful.” Terra said, following Twilight to the second floor and into the small kitchen. She was greeted by the sight of a stack of take out containers on the counter, and a few dirty dishes.

“Oh...” Twilight grinned sheepishly. “I'll get this all cleaned up right away. Then I'll make the tea.”

“How about I help out.” Terra's horn glowed and created a pinpoint singularity that sucked in all the containers. In a flash, they were all gone. “I hope that helped.”

“What did you do?”

“Created a point of infinite gravity that crushed all those containers into a speck of dust, which I teleported to the nearest workshop of mine. Don't want it getting out of hoof and sucking in all of Ponyville.”

Twilight's jaw hung loose. “You can do that?”

“Yes. It's pretty easy. I'll just decompress them when I get back later.” Terra gave Twilight a smirk. “I see you're still wearing those earrings I gave you.”

“Yea, I really like them.” Twilight really did like the enchanted jewelry, especially since it looked so nice.

Terra then tended to the dishes. “I'm glad to hear that. Now, you go make that tea. It sounds wonderful.”

Twilight nodded and got to work. “I see you're getting the hang of using magic.”

“Floating is basic. Anypony can learn how to do it. Oh yes, how is Scootaloo doing?”

Twilight beamed. “She's become a student of mine. Well, kinda at least. Rainbow Dash is really impressed that she can levitate objects and her own flying lessons are going pretty well too. Scoots really loves those wings.”

“Well, she is a Pegasai. They just have to channel their magic from the air into their hearts, then out of their wings.”

“I've been wondering about that actually. Scootaloo can do it, but her Mom can't.”

“Well, Rainbow Dash IS an odd one. That, and Scootaloo is using those Orihalcon wings I created for her. She also learned a lot from her time within the Seventh Element.” Terra placed the last of the now clean dishes onto the drying rack.

Twilight finished brewing the tea at that point. “I guess, Scootaloo has been through a lot, and she's gained a lot from that adventure too. Hmm... I love how this tea smells.”

“You and me both.” The tall pony accepted a cup and sipped it. “Very nice. Sweet with a hint of spices.” Terra then set down the cup and pulled something from her saddlebags. “Now, speaking of using magic...”

Twilight hadn't even noticed the bags till now. They were the same color as Terra's coat. “What's that?”

“A new book for Pinkie Pie and Applejack. I finished writing it just recently.” She set the book on the table.

Twilight whistled. The book's cover was made from a white stone, and the pages from some paper thin metal. The cover was decorated with many beautiful gems. Three rubies, two yellow topaz and one blue sapphire. “Wow. How long did it take to just make that book?”

“Oh, a few hours. The writing took me weeks though. I had to make sure it was written in modern Equestrian, not Ancient Ponian.”

“I've been studying that language. It's very... odd.”

“Mostly pictographs. It is the first written language... and Pinkie Pie is at the front door.”

“She is?”

Knock knock knock.

“I guess she is.” Twilight laughed and headed to get the door. “One moment Pinkie Pie.” She grinned a moment before opening the door.

“Ooh, how'd you know it was me?” Pinkie's bright blue eyes sparkled with joy. “I bet you learned a new spell, didn't you? Or maybe you developed your own Twi sense like my Pinkie sense.”

Twilight giggled. “As a matter of fact, I did learn a new spell, but it's not a 'Guess who's behind the door' spell.” Twilight smirked. “I do, however, have some company. She's in the kitchen.”

Wink.

Twilight rolled her eyes and chuckled. Pinkie Pie LOVED that magical power, that and floating things. She was now able to set up parties in under half the time she used to take. She walked through the slowly organizing library, floating about thirty books into their proper place on the shelves. Spike was just sorting the books into piles, and Twilight was putting the stack onto the shelves.

“Are you almost done Spike?”

“Yea, I think so.” He wiped his brow. “Three days and you nearly destroy any sense of organization this place has. How DO you do it...”

Twilight grinned a little. “Magic?” She then shook her head. “Lady Terra and Pinkie Pie are in the kitchen. I can't leave them alone.”

“Pinkie is here?” Spike leaned out from behind a stack of books and spotted the pink pony talking energetically to the much larger gray pony. “Oh... Well, that's cool. Just... don't let Terra see me. Last time she saw me she promised she's defend herself with some new artifact she created... something to do with turning boy dragons into girl dragons.”

Twilight giggled at the concept. “How about you go take a break. Don't you usually help Rarity out about this time of the day?”

“Really? Oh thank you.” Spike shot from the library, hoping to avoid Terra and keeping his boyhood intact.

Twilight watched him leave and closed the front door with her magic. She then entered the kitchen to the following scene.

Pinkie Pie looked to be shoving a rather large cake down Terra's throat... while keeping it in one piece with her magic.

“Wha... How...” Twilight blinked. It had only been seconds since she had last looked, and this had NOT been happening.

“Terra said she's love to try one of my new cakes, and she said she was so hungry she could probably eat a whole one in one bite.”

GULP.

“Hmm, not bad at all Pinkie.” Terra grinned widely. Not a crumb or drop of icing could be seen on her face.

Twilight's jaw hit the floor. She didn't know how that was possible, or where the cake had come from for that matter.

“Aww, Twi, you distracted me. I wanted to see Terra do it. Even I can't swallow a cake whole without making a mess.” She frowned a little. “And believe me, I've tried...”

Twilight picked her jaw up and closed her mouth, a light chuckle escaping her lips. “Yea, it takes you two bites, but you're not even half Terra's size.”

They talked for a few minutes about cakes and how Twilight had never actually finished eating a whole one yet. Finally, Terra remembered why she had come.

“Oh, how forgetful of me.” She slid the book from the other side of the table. “Pinkie Pie. This is a special book about Earth Pony magic. Applejack and yourself should be able to learn some things from this.”

“Really? All I can do is make things float and wink, which is great for setting up parties and eating fast and playing pranks and especially for setting up parties. But I love winking. It's so much fun.”

Twilight had to agree, but because she couldn't simply draw the magic from the earth, she had a limited (if not VAST) amount, and winking tended to take a fair bit out of her. But then, while Pinkie could draw the magic quickly, she couldn't channel large amounts to perform any large effects. Applejack drew her magic a lot slower, but was able to create larger effects, like lifting and moving large boulders, uprooting dead trees, and even effecting repairs to the barn and house without stepping hoof off the ground. She rarely used her teleporting magic.

“So what other kinds of magic can I learn to do?” She looked at he first page. “Boulder busting?”

“That's for Applejack.” Terra pointed at the apple shaped mark in the top corner. “You potential magics are in the next chapter, and the third is about spells you can both learn, including floating and winking which you both seem to have mastered.”

“Oh sweet. I'll go get Applejack right now.” With that, Pinkie Pie closed her eye and concentrated, her tongue sticking out the side of her mouth.

Her sudden long ranged wink nearly created a small vacuum effect as she vanished.

Terra's eyes went wide. “She just winked all the way across town and to the orchard...”

Twilight cringed. “I hope she didn't end up in a tree or the wall again...”

“In the wall?” Terra laughed. “I've done that myself more than once. I personally prefer portals. They're safer for long range travel.”

Twilight nodded, then paused. “Portals?”

“But of course. I installed one from my workshop at the center of the world and the other side is in the crystalline caverns beneath Canterlot Castle. Used to take me a week to just travel one way.”

“Is... is there any way I could get one installed in the library basement? It would make traveling to Canterlot so much faster. Spike wouldn't have to travel by chariot anymore. He says he's going to hate heights till his wings grow in.”

“You don't have a crystalline cavern below the library. I could make one, but I'd most likely level half the town in the process. Oh well, when would you like me to start?”

“Start? Level Ponyville?” Twilight's eyes went wide at that news, then changed to a slight frown. “No, no leveling Ponyville. The ponies were not very happy last time I destroyed the town.” She recalled her mess up with the Parasprites. She was just glad that everypony had 'somehow' had Parasprites eating your homes included on their insurance.

“I heard about that from Tia. She was just glad that nopony was hurt.” She finished off her tea. “How about we go visit the others... And I promise not to turn Spike into a girl dragon... permanently.

Twilight nodded, the paused. “You'd really do that to Spike? Don't you pick on him enough as it is?”

“I think a week would be long enough to teach that scaly critter to keep a safe distance from me. What? Don't look at me like that. That last incident where I made gems taste bad for him was a one day thing.”

Twilight sighed. (Why do I even bother...) “Let's go visit Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Spike is currently helping out Rarity.”

...

Applejack looked up into the tree, a mix of amusement and confusion. “Pinkie Pie? What the hay are ya doin' up in mah apple tree?”

“Everything is spinning... Weee... URP.”

“Ah no ya don't.” She bucked the tree, knocking Pinkie to the ground. “Ya'll not gettin' sick in mah trees.”

“Sorry...” Pinky lay down and closed her eyes. “I winked all the way from Twilight's.”

“Now why would ya go an' do somethin' like that?”

“Terra came, and she has a book with Earth Pony magic in it. She wants to teach us.”

Applejack's eyes lit up. “Now that's an apple Ah can sink mah teeth into. Let's go.”

“Can we wait a couple minutes till everything isn't wobbly and spiny and topsy turvy?”

Applejack sighed. “Fine. Just don't take too long. Last time she was here, she said she was gonna teach me how to bust up boulders with Earth Pony magic. Ah'd really like to clear out the west field an start planing new trees.”

Pinkie Pie stood up and wobbled a bit. “All good. Let's go.” She grinned and trotted off.

“Ponyville's this way.” Applejack couldn't help but laugh at her slightly dizzy friend. “Race ya, no winking though. Looser pays for ice cream.”

“You're on. GO!”

“Hey, wait up a sec.” AJ took off after the pink streak. (Golly she's so fast...)

...

Fluttershy was equally delighted to see Terra when the Earth Pony and Twilight walked toward her cute tree cottage.

“Terra. It's been months since you last visited. I hope you're doing well.”

Terra nuzzled Fluttershy. “I am well, and your animal friends look like they are doing very well.” She tapped her hoof on the ground and some fresh clover sprung forth around Fluttershy.

A few bunnies hopped over and snuggled up too the gentle Pegasus and started nibbling away at the pretty pink and purple blossoms.

Fluttershy smiled. “Oh that was wonderful.”

“I can make an artifact that can let you do much the same thing, that is, if you'd like.” She imitated Fluttershy's soft tone for that last line.

“I couldn't ask you to make something like that for me. I wouldn't know what to do with it...”

Terra smirked. “That and you'd become obsessed with trying to find some four leaf clovers?”

“Um, yes...” Fluttershy blushed, and even now was glancing about the clover around her for said leaf.

“There's one right in front of your left hoof.” Terra winked and a perfect four leaf clover sprouted.

Fluttershy spotted it and squealed with glee. She carefully plucked it and excused herself for a moment. She literally scampered back into her cottage to add this new one to her small collection of pressed four leaf clovers.

“That was really sweet of you Lady Terra.” Twilight was fond of this powerful Earth Pony. The creator of the whole world of Equestria, and of the Earth Ponies as well, of which two were her best friends.

“Do you really think so? I could turn every clover into a four leaf clover with just a thought.” She grinned jokingly. “I'd never do that. It would be a very drastic alteration of how nature works.” Her grin softened to a smile as Fluttershy returned. “Fluttershy, Twilight, let's go visit Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo.”

...

“Mom, watch this.” Scootaloo called out to her adopted mother and dove toward the ground, building speed.

Her wings started glowing, leaving a spray of rainbow colored sparkles. Her speed suddenly increased, and Dash gasped as Scootaloo broke the sound barrier. Pride was all she could feel. She then dove toward the expanding rainbow light and created another rainbow explosion.

She caught up to her adopted daughter and hugged her. “You pulled off the Sonic Rainboom. I'm so proud of you.”

“Yea, I did it.” Scootaloo watched the double ring of beautiful lights faded. “I did it for you because I love you.”

“I love you too Scoots. What say we go and get some ice cream to celebrate?”

“Really?”

“Really really.” Dash grinned and took off.

“Wait for me Mom!” Scootaloo streaked off behind Dash.

...

Terra dropped to her haunches, looking up into the sky at the double right of rainbow light. “That... was awesome...”

Twilight was staring as well. “A double Rainboom? Did Rainbow Dash break the speed of... wait, what's faster than the speed of sound? Double the speed of sound?”

“A lot of things are faster than sound.” The Regent smiled. “And that was a double Sonic Rainboom because both Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo created it.”

“Wow.” Fluttershy's eyes were sparkling. “Scootaloo really is a great flier, just like her Mom.”

Twilight had to agree. “Oh, they're flying toward Ponyville. Let's see if we can catch them.”

“One moment, I need to check on my egg.” Fluttershy slipped back into her cottage for a few moments.

Twilight was still confused. “Um, Terra? You don't like dragons... but you gave Fluttershy a dragon egg...”

“Fairy Dragon egg.” Terra corrected. “One of my first creations. They helped me with the creation of Eden. There's only a few left, and they are all sleeping inside their eggs right now. Also, when they are full grown, they're still smaller than Spike and only need sunlight and water to live.”

“So... where did Dragons come from anyway?”

“Another world. I don't know. All I do know is, they're not native to Eden, and none of us who dwell here created them.” Terra smiled again as Fluttershy emerged from the cottage and closed the door.

“The egg is nice and safe and warm. I hope it hatches soon.”

Terra nuzzled Fluttershy's cheek. “They can take up too five years to hatch. You'll just have to show it love till it does, and then you'll have a friend forever. She'll love you as much as you love her. Now... I have a hankering for some ice cream.”

“But... you just swallowed a whole cake...” Twilight could not understand how anypony could eat so much (especially Pinkie Pie), and not get fat.

“Yes, that was a tasty little snack. Personally, I do prefer gems, but that's just personal taste.” Terra grinned and trotted toward town.

...

Deep beneath the earth, a massive stone that sealed a small doorway shifted. An opening large enough for the large pony inside to squeeze through.

“F...ree... Free... Free at.. Last...” She rose to her hooves, her body thin and covered by wrinkles. Her mane and tail long, thin, wispy and white with advanced age. A pair of pure white eyes scanned the dark passage a moment before a pale sandy yellow crystal horn lit up.

“I can feel you... You've been busy these last months... But I am now free from your prison. This slave will get her revenge... and your immortality.” She closed her eyes and concentrated. “I must find you... You will be punished for your cruelty. Terra Discord.”

Shale Nova grinned as she felt something. “Soon, I'll find you and become young, and you can become old and decrepit.”

Evil hacking laughter echoed through the ancient stone and gem passages.

...

Walking side by side, Rarity and Spike walked through Ponyville.

“Spike, thank you so much for assisting me today. I would have been lost without you.”

“Aww, you don't have to thank me, but I do appreciate it.” He pointed. “There, the new ice cream parlor. Double Scoop Parlor.”

“I wonder if Pinkie knows about this place yet.” She admired the cute design of the place. A large bowl with a large double scoop of strawberry and vanilla ice cream with whipped cream and a cherry on top, with sprinkles.

“She's the one who told me about it.” Spike laughed.

Rarity smiled. “Well, maybe we'll run into her. I do hope they have low fat ice cream...”

The pair entered and were greeted to the sight of all their friends sitting around a large booth.

Spike would have rushed over and joined them, but the sight of Terra sitting there, her back to door, made him cringe. “Ah... sorry... I think I'll be...”

“Spike, get your scaly backside over here.” Terra commanded in her rich voice.

“Eep...”

Rarity rolled her eyes and levitated the dragon, carrying him beside her as she approached the table. “Lady Terra, a pleasure to see you once again.”

“The pleasure is mine Lady Rarity.” Terra smiled sweetly, then turned a hard, cold glare at Spike. “You, sit. Have your ice cream, and no thinking about chewing on me.”

Spike was plopped down next to Twilight. He was sweating profusely. “Y... Yes ma'am...” (So much for not getting turned into a girl dragon...)

“This is neutral ground.” Terra warned Spike. “Your guardian had requested that. Do you agree?”

“Yes.” Spike squeaked. “So... no turning me into a girl dragon?”

“You are safe...” Her eyes narrowed dangerously.

“Soooo.” Pinkie Pie beamed. “I'll have the super extra large ultimate jumbo ice cream sundae surprise.”

Trust Pinkie Pie to break the ice.

...

“I found you Terra Discord.” A dark grin crossed the pale, off white face. “Now that I am out of that hole, I can gate to you. And then, your true immortality will be mine, not like this slow, agonizing death you've given me.” She started gathering magic from the world. A large amount would be needed to teleport the distance she would have to go.

...

They had all enjoyed their ice cream very much, with Terra having only barely beaten Pinkie Pie in an ice cream eating contest. The small group was now heading out of the town at Terra's request.

Twilight, Applejack and Pinkie Pie knew the reason, but the other five didn't.

Rainbow Dash, her daughter, Scootaloo, Rarity, Fluttershy and Spike followed along.

“Dashie dear, have you any idea why we are heading to the old rock quarry?” Rarity frowned distastefully.

“Don't ask me.” Dash shrugged as she walked along. “I'm as clueless as everypony else.”

Scoots' ears twitched. “I think they're talking about Earth Pony magic.” The airborne filly stared on.

“Good hearing.” Dash grinned.

Fluttershy just followed along behind, with Spike riding on her back (not that she minded. Rather, she enjoyed Spike's presence. A talking baby dragon was not something you ever really got to befriend very often after all).

“Here we are.” Terra grinned and shaped a stone into a very fancy and ornate podium in seconds. She then levitated the book she had brought with her and set it down. “Applejack, open to the first page.”

Applejack used her magic to easily open the book. “Boulder Breaker” She read the title. “Pinkie told me 'bout this spell already. Ah can really try learnin' it?”

“Read the instructions very carefully. I tailored this spell just for you. Sorry Pinkie, but you wouldn't be able to master this with how you gather and focus your magic.”

“That's ok. I don't think I'd know what to do with a magic like that.” Pinkie beamed.

Applejack read the instructions on how to focus her magic into her front hooves and how to release it into the stone she would be striking.

“Ah think Ah got it.”

“Then try it on that boulder over there.”

“That one that looks like a geod?” Applejack grinned. She recognized that style of stone from all the times Rarity's horn and talent had dragged her to them.

Rarity nodded vigorously. “That is indeed a geod. Not the biggest, but still.”

“Well, here goes.” Applejack spread her legs out and concentrated, slowly gathering the magic from the ground. She gathered it into her belly, then focused it through to her forehooves. She reared up and brought them both down, full force onto the stone.

The tremendous explosion knocked all but Terra flying.

“Oops... I guess the spell didn't need you to gather that much magic.” She grinned and started toward the half buried Earth Pony. She floated the rocks off Applejack and frowned. “You ok sweetheart?”

“Ah'm fine?” She asked. “That hurt.”

Terra looked at the crater where the geod had been, then back at Applejack. “You are lucky the spell took into account there being an explosion, automatically deflecting the blast mostly away from you.”

“Coulda warned me ya know...” Applejack staggered to her hooves. “That gonna happen every time Ah try that spell?”

“With practice, you should be able to break boulders without nearly blowing everypony up.” Terra grinned and glanced at the others.

They were scattered around in disarray, all except Scootaloo, who had shielded herself with her wings.

“Is everypony alright?”

“I need a bath...” Rarity whimpered as she rose from the ground, covered in dirt and dust.

“I'm fine...” Twilight sat up and stared at the crater. “Oh wow... That was impressive.”

“That was AWESOME.” Mother and Daughter (Dash and Scoots) called out at the same time.

“Wow, and I thought some of my parties were a blast.” Pinkie Pie giggled cutely.

“My scales are plenty tough.” Spice chuckled.

Fluttershy simply nodded, her mane and wings just a little ruffled.

Terra let out a sigh of relief. “I'm glad to hear that.” She looked at he crater again. “Maybe this wasn't as good an idea as I thought.”

“Nah, it's a good idea.” Applejack replied. “Ah just need to tone down on the magic... a lot.”

Terra was about to respond, but the ground started rumbling. “What's going on? This ground is stable...” She closed her eyes and reached out with her senses and magic. “Oh dear...”

The ground, a little ways away, suddenly exploded, the shock wave pushing everypony and dragon back.

All eyes turned to the source of the blast.

An Earth Pony, even larger than Terra, stood before them. She was old, very old. Her mane and tail dragged on the ground, and were white and thin. Her pale sand colored coat was wrinkled, as were her wrinkles. Her eyes were white, making her look blind.

“I have found you.” Her voice cracked. “Terra Discord, I am here for revenge on enslaving me and imprisoning me for over four thousand years.

“And... you are?” Terra tilted her head slightly.

“Shale Nova. You cannot seriously have forgotten me.”

Terra blinked. “Shale? Why are you... old? I created you with immortality so you could assist me in one of my workshops.”

“You enslaved me. Cursed me to live forever, yet I still age. You imprisoned me in that hell hole and sealed it with that thousand ton slab of stone. You cursed the place so I could never teleport out.” Shale Nova weakly stepped forward, her topaz horn flickering with power. “I'm here to get my revenge.”

From a small satchel at Shale's side emerged a blue metal disk. In the center of the disk was a large, smooth, clear black gem.

“What is that?” Terra raised an eye. “That looks like...” She looked down at the amulet she wore. “You're kidding, right? My soul cannot be contained again. You can't steal my body.”

“Why would I want your tiny body?” Shale laughed. “I will take all your immortality. You will age and become old and decrepit. I will become young forever.” She pointed the gem toward Terra. “Now... Time for revenge.” She stepped forward, grinning evilly.

Then Shale Nova tripped...

...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

Author: Annonymouse
MLP:FiM is property of Hasbro. This is a free fan-fiction, not to be sold or traded for any money, goods or services.
...
A/N: No comments on spelling or grammar please. See my profile for details.
...
Terra Harmony is back... and her presence brings anything BUT harmony... again.
...
Out of the Frying Pan
02
...

Shale Nova, looking as ancient as she was, had tripped.

The artifact she carried slipped from her grasp and flew through the air, tumbling toward the assembled ponies and small dragon.

Terra watched, a mix of emotions running through her.

Fear, terror, worry, curiosity, confusion, amusement.

The artifact of unknown, and potentially dangerous power, flew toward the group.

But it never touched the ground.

Spike, somehow, caught it while the others scrambled to hide, except Scootaloo who wrapped her wings about herself.

The moment Spike touched the metal disk, the gem seemed to 'expand' at explosive speeds, engulfing the entire rock quarry.

Everything became a sea of black, nothing was visible. Pain ripped through everypony, even the two oldest ones.

The as sudden as it happened, cracks appeared in the darkness, the the sound of shattering glass.

The world returned to normal, leaving quite a few smoking forms laying about.

Scootaloo, turtled away in her 'shell', unfolded her wings from around her, and folded them back to her sides. She looked around at all the smoking forms. “MOM!!!” She cried and rushed to the cyan blue form.

A sudden gust of wind blew the smoke away, revealing an unharmed Rainbow Dash.

“Mom, are... you... alright?” Scoots skidded to a stop and stared down at a form a little smaller than her own. Younger.

Rainbow Dash was... a young filly?

A groan to the side caught Scootaloo's attention. She turned and gasped at the sight of a pint sized filly that was wearing an oversized stetson.

“What the hay?” A cute voice called out from under the hat, a moment before a hoof lifted it. “Scootaloo? What's goin' on? Why're ya so big?” Applejack said quickly.

Everypony all stared at each other and started panicking. It was total chaos with much screaming and crying and Rarity whining.

“Uh...” Scootaloo started looking around. Twilight. Pinkie Pie. Rarity. Fluttershy. They were all... fillies. “Oh no...” She spun around to see a tiny grey filly standing up, wearing silver and ruby jewelry that still fit her much smaller form. It had to be Terra.

Behind Terra stood a desert sand coated filly with a dark grey mane and tail, both flowing down onto the ground and spread about.

“You IDIOT Dragon!!!” Shale Nova screamed cutely. “Where is that... stupid... eep...” She was staring past Scootaloo and the others, even as they were panicking. She then looked up, and up, and UP.

Scoots turned around, but Spike was not there.

Another gust of wind knocked her back, making her look up. Every other filly was knocked down as well, making them paused in their panic.

The massive, ancient looking dragon stood before them all, towering over them so much that his size seemed impossible. He made the red dragon they had met before look small, and he had been huge.

“What just happened?” A tiny Twilight asked, then saw Scootaloo looking up.

They all looked up.

“Spike?” Twilight gasped.

The massive dragon was looking around, then looked down and squinted. “Twi?” His voice boomed, making every pony flatten their ears.

A shriek of fear erupted from the filly that could only be Terra. Again all heads turned to see a tiny filly trying to burrow (not very successfully) into the ground.

“What he heck?” Dash cried. “Why are we all fillies... Why is my voice cracking? WHY AM I A FILLY AGAIN?”

“No... Oh no... Of all the worst possible things...”

“Don't even go there Rarity.” Twilight stopped Rarity's little cry of upset. “Spike? What happened to you? Why did you grow up while the rest of us became younger.”

Spike lowered the large house sized head and whispered. “I don't know. I remember catching that thing the other pony dropped, and suddenly everything went all freaky.” He opened one of his claws and peeked at the tiny crushed remains of the disk. The gem was missing completely. “I think I broke it.”

Shale Nova scrambled forward. “You broke it?” She glanced at the slightly larger Twilight and backed away a little. “But... I needed that to become younger again.”

“You're younger now.” Pinkie Pie bounced over and sang. “Look at ME! I'm a fill EE!” The strait maned Pinkie grinned and giggled.

“Oh dear...” Fluttershy whimpered. “How can I take care of my animal friends if I'm this young again.”

Applejack and Rainbow Dash turned to the half buried Terra, who was STILL trying to burrow through solid rock. They grabbed her and pulled her out.

“No, let me escape before that dragon eats us all.” Terra cried in fear. She dove back into her little hole and pulled a slab of stone on top of her.

Twilight sighed. “We need to figure out how we're going to get back to normal... Especially you Spike...” She looked at Terra's hiding place, seeing a pair of wide, terrified eyes peeking out.

“Spike?”

YAWN! “Yea Twi?”

“I think you're going to have to hide for a little while.”

“And eat a tone of breath mints... please...” Rarity quipped.

“Can I nap? If I'm all grown up all of a sudden, I think I'm going to be needing a REALLY long nap. Maybe one or two thousand years.”

“No, no napping. Last time we had a dragon napping in Equestria, it caused a lot of smoke. You're at least five times bigger than him, so that would mean a LOT more smoke.” Twilight grumbled. “Where in Equestria can Spike hide without causing panic? You're the largest dragon I've ever heard of.”

“I'm not that big... Am I?”

Rarity wanted to cry. She didn't want to be a filly again, but she knew crying would solve nothing. She just had to be strong, and smart. “Well... If that thing sucked out all our age... Maybe because Spike was touching it, he got all the age we lost.” She tried to sound calm, but here was still a whimper in her voice.

“Good observation.” Shale fumed. “Except it wasn't meant to be used by a Dragon, but only by me. And... and... y... you... Broooo-ooo-oo-k iiiit! She started crying, like the little filly she now was.

Twilight backed away to avoid getting soaked by the waterworks and ignored Shale, for the moment. “Ok, Spike, once we figure out how to reverse this, we'll send for you. You'll have to find a place far, far away from any ponies or anything really.”

“Where can I hide? I'm almost as big as a small mountain.” Spike was doing his best at staying still. He didn't want to wipe out a swath of forest or send trees and bounders raining down onto Ponyville.

“Maybe that new island I heard about.” Dash suggested, glancing at everypony's hindquarters. All were blank, totally lacking cutie marks, including her own. (Not good... Not good at all...This is the THIRD time in my life I've been a blank flank... It's just NOT fair...) She wanted to cry, but Rainbow Dash did NOT cry... in front of others at least.

Applejack nodded. “Ah think that might be for th' best. For now at least.” Her oversized stetson falling down and covering her head again.

“I guess that's all I can do for now. I'll wait for your message.” Spike yawned again before lumbering off, not quite realizing he was sporting a pair of wings that could cover at least half of Ponyville from a rainstorm.

“Okay...” Twilight turned to Terra, who was lifting her rock enough to keep an eye on Spike. “Terra, Spike's going to hide for a while. You can come out...” She turned to the smallest filly. “Shale Nova was it?”

Shale Nova was even smaller than Fluttershy, who was still an inch taller than her. She whimpered and nodded.

“What exactly was that thing that made us all young?”

“An immortality vacuum. It would have sucked Terra's immortality and given it to the user, in other words, ME. But NOOO! That dragon ruined everything. It took me over a thousand years to make it...”

“Of course it would take you so long...” Terra dusted herself off. “You were never smart enough to know that an item like that is flawed in it's design. All it does is suck out age and transfer it to the holder. If you had been holding it, you would have taken only my age. You'd have become... hmm, 10,000 years old? At the very least.”

“But... Why would you create something like that?”

“So I can have others foolishly use it on me... though I've never become this young before.”

“You did WHAT?” Rarity glared. “You made ponies old so you could become young again?”

Terra nodded. “That was before I was imprisoned, but after I was benevolent and... no, wait. Never was benevolent. Ok, after I was neutral. When I was in my raging mood and while I had joined up with Discord before he killed me, I wasn't exactly a good little pony.”

“So... you did a lot of bad thing?”

“Yea, like sealing most of my workshops with my assistants and servants still inside so none of my secrets would ever get out.” Terra shrugged. “What? Why are you all looking at me like I'm evil? I spent 3,000 years with my soul stuck in a little rock.” She patted the Element of Love that she wore.

The element was a little large for her and actually hung loose.

Shale Nova stared at Terra. “You were sealed these last 3,000 years?”

“Yup. Body got blown up, real bloody mess covering at least a hundred square miles. Then Discord sealed my soul in this gem... which I had altered to be a prison. Now it's what it was supposed to be, the seventh Element.”

“I don't care about that.” Shale yelled.

“Please be quiet shorty before I...” She paused and grunted.

“Before you what? Fart?”

“Magic... I can't use my magic...” She looked at all the blank flanks, then at her own blank flank. “I'll be screaming about now...”

Applejack pulled her hat over her head and covered her ears while the rest covered their ears and waited for the massive incoming earthquake.

But no earth shattering scream came. Just a little scream of a young filly. Ok, it was still pretty loud, and flattened all ears, but no world shaking happened.

Twilight tried to use her magic. Nothing. “Rarity, use your magic, make something float.”

“Um... ok... But once I do get home, and after a bath, I'll be freaking out thank you very much.” She concentrated, and nothing. “Um... nothing happened.”

“Aww, I can't wink. That's no fun,” Pinkie flopped and sat down, and pouted cutely..

“An' Ah can't do nuthin either.” AJ shrugged.

“Well...” Terra glared at Shale. “You did this to us. What are you going to do too fix this little mess up?”

“Little?” Rarity filly muttered.

“What do you expect ME to do?” Shale replied, her eyes wet from tears. “I'm a blank flank too in case you failed to notice. Not that this matters to me. I'm young again.”

Terra was just a tiny bit smaller than Scootaloo, but still taller than the others. She towered over Shale. “I expect you to go back to the workshop you crawled out of and... Um, which one was it?”

“Workshop number three hundred and fifty four.”

“Oh... One of the ones I had to abandon because of the low quality of available materials.” Terra frowned. “I thought you were out at the time.”

“No I was not... I was taking a nap.” Shale fumed. “Not that you care.”

Scootaloo had enough of the bickering, and 'technically' she was now the eldest one here. “Okay, enough. We shouldn't be fighting. We should be trying to think of some way to get everything fixed, including Shale Nova's old age problem... and ESPECIALLY Spike's big problem.” She looked at her adopted Mom. “Um... Mom?”

Dash smiled weakly. “Yea Scoots?”

“Are you ok?”

“Oh sure.” Dash kicked a rock. “I'm a filly and a blank flank for the third time in my life...” She then turned to Terra. “Can't your visits ever, oh, I dunno, NOT throw our lives into the blender?”

“Maybe one of these days.” Terra grinned. “But apparently not today.”

Twilight hopped up onto a rock. “Everypony, I have to agree with Scootaloo. We need to work together. This may have been between Shale Nova and Lady Terra, but we're all in this together now.”

“Ankle deep in pony apples...” Applejack muttered.

Rarity cringed. “Eew. That's disgusting.”

“Sorry Rare. Just an expression.” AJ grinned. “So... How are we gonna hide this from th' ponyfolk in town?”

“We need to sent a letter to Princess Celestia.” Twilight turned and froze. “But we already sent Spike off to hide.” She promptly facehoofed. “Well this was not well thought out.”

Scootaloo spread her wings. “I can deliver it for you. Tia and Luna and I are pretty close. Not as close as you Twilight, but, I did spend some time in their bodies and I do take a weekly lesson from Luna in magic.”

“That is a good idea.” Twilight beamed. “Let's sneak back to the library and get the letter written.”

Rarity whimpered. “But... I'm dirty. I want to go home and wash up.”

“You can use my bath.” she looked down at her own coat. “I don't have enough hot water at home to let us all take separate baths. We'll have to share.”

“But...”

“No buts Rarity.” Twilight gave the white unicorn a glare. “Let's go.”

...

The group of eight fillies had to rely on stealth to reach the library unseen. Okay, only seven needed to use stealth. Scootaloo was well known in town, especially with her magical artificial wings. She just flew up above and gave the all clear or incoming signs.

Finally they managed to sneak into the library.

Twilight closed and locked the doors, put out the closed sign, and shut all the curtains.

“Who lives in a tree?” Shale Nova asked, looking around. “And using paper for book? Metal lasts much longer.”

Terra rolled her eyes. “Ingrate.”

“Slave driver.”

“Runt.”

“THAT'S IT!!!”

“Oh, PONY PILE!!!”

“Pinkie wait...” Twilight turned in time to see the pink pony jump on top of the other two that were starting to fight, knocking them flat. “Never mind... I'll just get my quill and paper...” Twilight climbed the stairs. “Why are these stairs so big...” She muttered as she reached the upper library loft.

Rarity sat next to the very quiet Fluttershy. “Fluttershy?”

“I'm worried about my animal friends.”

“They'll be alright. As soon as Scootaloo can deliver the letter to Princess Celestia, the sooner we can get turned back to normal.” The white filly then flicked a little dirt off her shoulder. “Come on, let's go take a bath and get cleaned up.” The two friends headed up to the third floor where the kitchen, small living room and washroom were.

“I need help up here.” Twilight called. “Preferably somepony who can write without magic.”

Scootaloo flapped her wings and was up with Twilight quickly. “I can use my magic to write. It's a lot neater than my mouth writing.”

Twilight wanted to cry hearing that. Scootaloo was a better magician than herself now. “That's great. Just write what I tell you.” She cleared her throat and started. “Dear Princess Celestia. I hope this letter finds you well. We need your help as my friends and I, along with your sister Terra and one other pony have all been turned into fillies, and we are lacking our magic and cutie marks. Spike was turned into a 10,000 year old dragon and is heading off someplace to hide. We await your response. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.”

“Anything else?” Scootaloo asked as she finished writing.

Twilight looked the letter over. “No, that's very good. Your writing is better than Spikes. I'm impressed.”

“Really?”

“Yes. No spelling errors and you were even faster.” Twilight smiled and retrieved a seal and candle.

“So I take this now?”

“One sec...” She concentrated, trying to do ANY magic. Nothing. “I can't even light this candle.” She sighed and retrieved the wooden matches, lit the candle and sealed the letter with the seal stamp. “I haven't used this thing... ever. Spike always delivered the letters with his magic breath.”

“Well, I'll have this delivered in an hour. I'll be back as fast as possible.” She took the letter with her magic and paused. “Do you have a bag or something with pockets I can use?”

“Yes, I do.” Twilight headed up to her room and retrieved her old saddlebag from when she was younger. She brought it down. “Will this do?”

“I do have wings...” Scootaloo flapped her magic wings, then looked at them. “Hey, I was there, why wasn't I made younger?”

“I think it's because you have magical wings. They must have shielded you somehow.” Twilight then took the bag downstairs. “But first... Where's Rarity?”

Rainbow Dash pointed to the stairs that lead up. “I saw her head up the stairs to your home. I bet she and Fluttershy are talking a bath.”

“Great.” Twilight rolled her eyes. “I guess we wait.”

...

Rarity knew she couldn't modify the bag in her current state, so she referred to Fluttershy. “You can do this, right?”

Fluttershy nodded meekly. “I think so.”

“As much as Ah'd love to stick round an' wait, Ah gotta be gettin back to Sweet Apple Acres... Ah really aught to tell Big Macintosh about this. Apple Bloom will most likely think this is really funny.”

“I really have to check on my animal friends. I told them I wouldn't be gone too long.” Fluttershy said as she worked away on the saddlebags.

“And I'm hungry.” Pinkie Pie was sitting still, which was odd, but still smiling. “I haven't eaten in nearly an hour.”

“Sweetie Belle should be getting home soon... Oh what AM I going to do now. I'm all left hooves when it comes to doing physical labor.”

“What about me?” Dash muttered. “I'm grounded... again... I have weather clearing duty. It's supposed to be a clear night tonight. There's clouds starting to build up.”

Twilight sighed. “Your weather team can handle it once they realize you're not available.” She nuzzled Dash. “Princess Celestia and Princess Luna will be able to get things back to normal... I hope.”

“Done.” Fluttershy held up the saddlebags. They looked brand new, and sported Scootaloo's cutie mark on the sides. How Fluttershy had done that was unknown.

“That looks awesome.” Scootaloo beamed as she slipped it on. “It fits perfectly too.” She hugged a blushing Flutter-filly. “You're the second best, only because Mom's the best.” She released Fluttershy and headed to the door. “I'll be back as soon as possible.” With that, the 'oldest' filly present left and took to he sky.

Twilight's shoulder's sagged. “Well... I guess we have no choice but to try to get on with our lives till everything is sorted out.”

With that, all but Twilight Sparkle, Terra Harmony and Shale Nova agreed.

“What now?” Shale asked, her head hanging.

“Research.” Twilight's eyes lit up. “Maybe I can find some sort of aging spell that can return us back to normal. We can ask the Princesses to cast it on us.”

Terra patted Twilight on the withers. “Great idea. You get on that and I'll be mailing Shale back to the workshop.” She glared at the small foal. “In multiple packages if I have too.”

“Lady Terra, no.” Twilight stepped between the pair. “Shale made a mistake. You did too, remember? But we accepted you as a friend. Can't we at least give Shale a chance as well?”

Shale stared wide eyed at Twilight. “You... You're willing to forgive me?”

“Let me tell you about the first time we met Lady Terra Harmony. I think you'll understand then.”

...

Scootaloo finally landed outside the castle gates and trotted up to the guards. “Hi guys.” She could never tell them apart. All the guards looked identical in their enchanted armor.

“Miss Dash. Nice to see you again.” One guard smiled. “What brings you to Canterlot today? You're lessons with Princess Luna are not till tomorrow night.”

“I know, I know. I have a really important message for Princess Celestia.”

The guards nodded to each other. “Go on in Miss Dash.”

“Thank you.” Scootaloo Dash smiled. She loved that name. Scootaloo Dash. It was an awesome name. She trotted through the gates and headed through the halls till she reached the throne room. She sat down and waited to be called in.

It only took fifteen minutes till she was called in by the herald. Scootaloo trotted in and bowed before Princess Celestia. “Princess Celestia, I come today not as a friend or a student, but as a messenger.” She made use of the etiquette lessons she had been taking.

“What message is that Scootaloo?” Celestia smiled.

Scoots fluttered her wings and floated the letter from the bag. She held it up before herself and waited for the Princess to take it.

Celestia did so and opened it, read it, and stifled a giggle. “Oh Terra... You've done it again... somehow.” She smiled at Scootaloo. “I will make solving this a matter of utmost importance. In the meantime, I think I will be needing to see this for myself.”

“You're coming back to Ponyville with me?”

“Yes, or rather, you will be coming to Ponyville with me.” She turned to her aide. “Mr. Checklist?”

“Yes my Princess?”

“Reschedule my meetings for the afternoon, and send my apologies to my nephew, Prince Blueblood. I won't be making his birthday dinner party tonight.”

“What shall I tell him? I do not enjoy his... temper.”

“Send Silver Lance to deliver the message. I don't think my nephew's temper will dare show itself around her.”

“Will do.” Checklist Checkers bowed and took his leave, a grin on his face. Silver Lance was the only Unicorn mare that could keep the Prince in line with just a glare.

“Now, Scootaloo, shall we go?”

“Thank you Princess.”

The Princess's horn flashed with light, and the pair vanished from the throne room.

...

Twilight, Terra and Shale emerged from the bath and were drying off when they heard Scootaloo call from downstairs.

“Twilight? Are you home? Where is everypony?”

“One sec Scootaloo.” Twilight trotted down the stairs and instantly spotted an amused looking Princess Celestia.

Terra stepped next to Twilight. “Hi Sis... Um... This isn't my fault this time.”

“Oh pony apples...” Shale Nova paled at the sight of the tyrant. She bowed and scrambled forward. “Please, I beg your forgiveness... I... Please don't disintegrate me or turn me into a pebble or banish me. I'll try to do whatever I can to sort this out.”

Celestia raised an eye. She did not recognize this filly.

Terra walked up and bonked Shale on the head. “Quit groveling Shale.” She rolled her eyes. “Yea, it was a 'simple' mistake with an artifact that Shale Nova made. It backfired and, well, you got the letter.”

There was a twinkle in Celestia's eye. One that made Terra nervous, Twilight curious, and Shale downright terrified.

“Gather the others. While we work to resolve this... interesting issue, I think I know exactly what to do.”

Celestia rarely had a mischievous grin on her face.

She was not even attempting to hide this one.

...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3

Author: Annonymouse
MLP:FiM is property of Hasbro. This is a free fan-fiction, not to be sold or traded for any money, goods or services.
...
A/N: No comments on spelling or grammar please. See my profile for details.
...
Not a Grimdark story. Terra Harmony is back, and her presence brings anything BUT harmony... again.
...
Out of the Frying Pan
03
...

Applejack sat in front of the towering Big Macintosh, and the currently rolling with laughter Apple Bloom.

“Oh sure, yuck it up...” AJ fumed, glaring at her 'big' sister.

Apple Bloom did her best (honestly) to calm down. She was still snickering and giggling as she rolled to her hooves.

“Sorry sis.” Snicker. “But ya just look so cute.”

AJ wanted to just crawl into her stetson and hide... Heck, it was almost large enough.

“Whatcha gonna do now?” Big Mack eyed the tiny Applejack. She was smaller than Apple Bloom had been before she earned her cutie mark, an apple with an apple cider jug in the center.

“What am Ah gonna do? Ah can't buck apples like this. Ah can't do any real chores...” She fumed. “Ah swear, if Terra weren't the Princess's sister... Ah dunno what Ah'd do.” She then thought about Shale Nova. “But that Shale... Ah can think of some things Ah'd like to do to her.” She punched her hooves together.

Big Mack picked the large hat off his little sister's head and put it on his. “Ah dun think ya should hurt her. Sounds like she was... mistaken.”

“A mistake? This isn't a mistake. This is a catastrophe.” AJ stomped her tiny little hooves. “Ah...” She sighed, her head hanging. “Ah just dunno what to do.”

“Maybe Scootaloo does.” Apple Bloom pointed to the sky as a shower of rainbow sparkles streaked toward the farm.

A moment later, Scootaloo landed and slid to a stop. “Applejack. Tia's at the library. She asked me to gather everypony up.”

“That was fast.” AJ beamed a smile. “Ah hope she can fix this mess up right away.”

Scoots recalled the look on the Princess's face. She had no idea what the Princess was thinking. “I don't know, but you better hurry. I'll go get the others.” She took off, showering the three farm ponies with a rainbow colored spray of sparkles.

“Ah guess Ah'll be headin out how...” She eyed her hat. “Ya'll take care ah papa's hat, ya hear?”

“Eeyup.”

...

Fluttershy was chasing a very dishevelled Angel around, a brush in her mouth. “Please Angel, it's me, Fluttershy.” Tears were in her eyes.

The bunny didn't seem to understand the oddly familiar filly. It was not HIS Fluttershy. She was grown up and she could understand him.

Fluttershy finally stopped chasing Angel and set the brush down. She sniffled a few times. She didn't know what to do. She couldn't communicate with Angel, her closest animal friend. The other animals didn't seem to know what to think either, all keeping their distance.

Sniffling turned into bawling as the rejected Pegasus crawled into a corner. She felt worse then she ever had, even worse than after her 'little' breakdown at her first ever Gala.

Angel stared at the crying filly. He actually felt bad. She seemed so sensitive... just like Fluttershy. He really hated to see ponies cry like this, and all because he had run from her.

He approached and nudged the brush forward with his nose, keeping an eye on this filly.

Fluttershy looked at Angel, then at the brush. She knew she couldn't communicate with him, she was too young now for her talent to even work. She was too young to even fly.

But seeing Angel, and his gesture, she sniffled and smiled softly. “Are you sure?”

Angel just gave her a quizzical look and nudged the brush closer. All this filly wanted to do was brush him, right?

Fluttershy picked the brush up and gently started combing Angel, just the way that he liked to be brushed.

Angel almost melted. He didn't know how this familiar stranger knew JUST how he liked to be brushed, but he wasn't about to complain.

“Fluttershy?” A familiar voice called from outside, a moment before a soft knock came at the door.

Angel threw the offending door a dirty look while Fluttershy went to answer it.

“Scootaloo?” Fluttershy peaked outside. “You're back early.”

“Yea, Tia did this awesome teleport all the way from Canterlot to the Library. I wish I could do that sometimes.” She grinned. “Anyway. Tia's at the library and has asked me to go get everypony. Get there as soon as you can, alright?” She smiled and waved at Angel. “Keep a good eye on Fluttershy, ok Angel?”

Angel nodded and waved back. (Fluttershy?) He thought. (This filly isn't Fluttershy. She can't understand me like Fluttershy can.) Angel looked at the filly. Same coat. Same hair. Same eye color, though they looked more scared than gentle.

“Angel, you stay here and keep an eye on the cottage.” She hoped he understood, for some reason, but left for town.

Angel stepped outside through the pet door and followed. (How can that be Fluttershy? Did something odd happen to her again?) He was concerned.

...

Dash and Rarity sat in the kitchen at the Carousel Boutique.

“You sure I can stay here? I mean, yea, I can't fly and get home and all that... but...”

“Of course you can stay Darling. This won't be the first time I've had to clean your feathers out of my bed.”

“Yea, but you WERE me last time.” Dash rested her head on the table.

“I'm home.” Sweetie Belle trotted happily into the kitchen. She spotted the pair of younger foals. “Oh, hello. Who are you?” She tilted her head cutely. These two looked familiar, well, the Unicorn did. The Pegasus was blue with red eyes, and a white mane. If it had been rainbow colored, she'd almost swear it was Rainbow Dash's kid sister... or maybe even...

Both young fillies turned to face the older, cutie mark baring filly. They had no idea what to say.

“Wow, you look a lot like my big sister, but I know I don't have a little sister... Wait, are you... Rarity's baby? Did you just arrive in the mail today?” She was bouncing around excitedly. "And You must be Rainbow Dash's filly... but why were you delivered here? oh, I know, Derpy got the mail mixed up, right? I'm a big sister now."

(Note to self... have the 'birds and the bees' conversation with her...)

“No Sweetie Bell, I am NOT my own 'foal'. I AM Rarity, you BIG sister.”

“Oh that's so silly. My big sister is bigger than me. You're little, like, kindergarten little.”

Rarity cringed at the kindergarten little remark. “Now now Sweetie Belle. I am Rarity, and I am your older sister. We, and I mean Rainbow Dash, our friends, and I have had a little... mix up...”

“Oh, like what happened with that funny lady a while ago? What was her name? Terror... something.”

“Oh, she lives up to THAT part of her name...” Dash's squeaky voice quipped.

“That's Terra dear.” Rarity batted at her shorter mane and scowled. “And as soon as we get this... filly issue fixed... I'll be more than generous and give her a peace of my mind.”

“You should be directing that toward Shale Nova. She's the one who...”

“Was enslaved, imprisoned and forced to still age while being immortal.” Rarity glared at Dash. “Honestly, Terra seems to have a LOT of skeletons in her closet, and she really should consider cleaning them out and taking care of all the potential messes that are just waiting to jump out and cause her, and those around her, grief... Namely us.”

“Rarity?” Sweetie Belle stared. “That really IS you? But... How?”

“Long story short...” Dash was still in a somewhat foul mood, and rightfully so. THREE times in her life she had been a blank flank filly. “Some old 'so and so' that Terra knew came back to get revenge. Tried to steal her immortality, but it backfired and we all got turned into fillies, except Spike who is now a 10,000 year old dragon.”

“Oh...” Sweetie Belle eyes the white maned filly. “Rainbow Dash?”

“Yes, I'm Dash... nothing bright and rainbowy about me right now...” She flapped her tiny wings.

Rarity patted Dash on the withers. “It will be alright. We just have to wait till...”

“Celestia's here.” Scootaloo burst through the door and skidded (on her face) to a stop, against the back wall.

“That was... quick.” Rarity stepped out into her work area. It had been in worse shape before, so she didn't bother worrying about it... for now.

“Ow...” Scoots got up. “Celestia's at the library right now, and I think she has something she wants to tell everypony.” She then glanced at her Mom. “Mom? Are you going to be alright?”

“As soon as I'm back to normal I'll be alright.” Dash said, then muttered something under her breath.

“Mom, would you like to use my old scooter?”

“ERK!” Dash froze up. “Are you KIDDING?” She noted the displeased look on her daughter's face. “I mean, no. I can't handle that thing.”

“Then I'll teach you.” Scootaloo smirked and winked at Sweetie Belle. “That sounds like fun, right?”

“What will a scooter do for me when the Princess is here to 'hopefully' turn us all back to normal? Come on Rarity. Let's go.”

...

Pinkie Pie may have been looking a little 'Pinkamena' at the moment, because of her strait mane and tail, but she was still bright, optimistic, cheerful and energetic. Needless to say, this was a little frightening for the Cakes, to say the least.

Currently Pinkie was in the kitchen, standing on a stool and mixing up some batter while singing some funny song about baking cupcakes cakes and being a filly (which made little sense, but who could be so cruel to tell her otherwise?).

“Honey?”

“Yes Dear?”

“What the hay happened to Pinkie this time?”

Mrs. Cake shrugged. “I'm not sure. Last time she was only acting weird. This time, she's... just weird... er, than normal.”

“Why did she shrink?”

“Again, I have no idea. Maybe her magician friend made a mistake on one of her spells?”

Mr. Cake nodded. “Wouldn't be the first time. I remember when she turned Pinkie into Blue Pie. She was so depressed and melodramatic for those few days. Not to mention the time she turned off Pinkie Pie's metabolism.... she gained nearly fifty pounds in three days.”

“Ms. Sparkle really should be careful, like that time she turned Pinkie Pie into a stallion.” She blushed a little. “Though, he was really cute.”

“Yes, I remember that. That was during the spring heat... Good thing Pinkie can out run and out hide anypony out there.”

“Or the time that Ms. Sparkle made it so Pinkie couldn't eat sugary treats? I think that was the WORST one of all...”

“I still have that tattoo...” Mr. Cake rubbed his neck.

Pinkie suddenly called out. “May I get a hoof in here please? I want these cupcake to be super duper extra perfect.” She beamed.

The two adults sighed and went to help.

Scootaloo entered Sugarcube Corner in time to see the adults head into the kitchen. She approached the counter in time to hear the explosion, and see the wave of batter come flying out.

“Oops. I think I added a pinch too much of my secret ingredient.”

Ding. Scootaloo hit the small bell on the counter, sighing. (I feel bad for the Cakes...)

A blob of batter with blue eyes hopped into view, pounced at the suddenly screaming Scootaloo and hugged her.

“Hiya Scootie. Wow, you must have gone WAY faster than Dashie can to have gotten back so fast. What did you do? One hundred Sonic Scootabooms?”

“Scoota what now?”

“Sonic Scootaboom. Just like Dashie does her Sonic Rainbooms.” The blob of batter grinned happily.

“Uh, no. I did manage to pull off one while practising with Mom this morning, but, hey, I'm only here to tell you that Tia is here at the library. Now I'm coated in batter and you look like some blob creature.”

“Really? I'm a blobobobobob” She giggled almost insanely, yet so cutely that almost nopony could help but giggle if they were too see it.

Scootaloo sighed. 'Mr. Cake? Mrs. Cake? We're just going to use the shower really quick, is that alright?”

“Oh of course Dearie. You know where it is.”

“Thank you Mrs. Cake.” Scoots dragged the bubbly Pinkie Pie up the stairs and into the bathroom.

...

“Seriously Pinkie Pie?” A totally pink Scootaloo glared at Pinkie Pie. “Pink dye in your shampoo?”

“Yea, it saves me on having to dye my hooves all the time. We use a lot of bleach when cleaning the kitchen, especially after little mistakes like today's.”

Scootaloo fumed as she received sympathetic stares from passing ponies. “You could have warned me you know.”

“Be glad it wasn't like that time that I accidentally bought the neon pink dye shampoo. I literally was glowing in the dark, but it was so much fun.”

Scootaloo hung her head. “How long till this stuff washes out?”

“Oh, at least a week if you use regular shampoo and bath every day.”

Scoots shuddered. “Every day? Ugh... I can't stand taking them every second day. Every third is ok though.”

“Ok, make that three weeks.”

“Every day it is...”

They finally arrived at the library and entered.

All eyes fell on the pair of pink pubescent ponies.

“Any of you fillies laugh, and I'm putting you over my knee...” Scootaloo warned.

“I'm your Mom, so I can get away with it.” And Rainbow Dash burst into full blown laughter.

“Rainbow Dash, if I may have your attention please?” Celestia spoke, hiding her own amusement of the Pinkie Pie colored Scootaloo..

Dash covered her mouth and did her best to stifle her laughing. “I'm good...” From the looks of it, Dash really did need that laugh. She looked to be feeling a little better now.

“Very good.” Celestia started. “Now, I have some bad news, and some bad news.”

“Princess?” Twilight held up a hoof. “Isn't that supposed to be some good news and some bad news?”

“I'd give you any good news I had, but I'm afraid I don't.” The mischievous twinkle had not left her eye just yet. “First, the lesser of the two bad news. Neither Luna or I can restore your age, or make poor Spike younger again. Only an artifact master like Terra can do that.”

“You call that the lesser of the bad news?” Rarity's eyes were wide.

“We're still researching other ways to help you. Now, the bad bad news.”

“An' that would be?” Applejack was almost afraid to know what it would be.

“While you are stuck as fillies, you will have to attend school.”

...

Spike's large, fanned ears twitched as he heard a collective scream of NOOOOOOO!!! Accompanied with a resounding YEEEES!!!

He blinked a few times, and looked out over the ocean, toward the tiny island in the far distance. He looked at his wings and spread them wide. “How hard can flying be?” He jumped into the air, launching off the small (five hundred foot) cliff.

And dove for the water.

“AAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!”

...

Celestia's horn and ears stopped glowing, dropping her sound dampening spell.

Applejack stared in horror at the Regent of the sun. “Ya'll can't be serious. School?”

“Do we really have to attend?” Rarity asked, looking not pleased at all. “They're so... lacking in style.”

“Not to mention boooring.” Dash sat down and crossed her forelegs.

“Oh dear...” Fluttershy panicked. “Schools are crowded... I don't like crowds.”

Twilight's eyes were sparkling. “Do we get to go to school in Canterlot?”

“I'm afraid not Twilight.” Celestia was still smiling. “You will be attending classes here in Ponyville, with Ms. Cheerilee as your teacher.”

Twilight's ears drooped. “Oh...”

Pinkie was beaming brightly. “Yay, I can finally go to school. My family was too poor to send me and my sisters to school.” She started bouncing around. “I get to learn school stuff and I can finally be as smart as Twilight.”

“What about us?” Terra asked as she pointed to Shale Nova and herself. “We're a little too old for school.”

“You've never gone to school, so this will be the perfect chance for you to catch up on modern society.”

“You're evil, you know that sis?”

“Wait... I have to go too?” Shale whimpered. “But... I'm so small I'll get teased by everypony else.”

Celestia smiled. “You don't have to worry about that. You'll be among friends.”

“I have no friends.”

Twilight placed a hoof on her back. “Can't we be your friends?”

“You're kidding, right? Seriously? After what I did to you?”

“Terra made a mistake too, and we're her friends now.”

Shale Nova looked away. “But... I'm a bad pony. I was going to steal her immortality.”

Terra chuckled. “Sorry to burst your bubble, but I'm not immortal.”

All eyes, even Celestia's fell on Terra.

“You see, since I was killed, I became the Spirit of the world, as opposed to being it's Regent. I create bodies from the earth and transform them into flesh and blood. They age normally until I discard it, transforming it back into whatever I made it out of. I then make a new one and keep going.”

“But...” Shale Nova paled. “Then... All my work was for nothing?”

“You wanted to become young again.” Terra smirked. “Well, you're about as young as you can get now.”

“I loath you so much right now, you know that?” Shale scowled at Terra.

Celestia placed a hoof on Shale's shoulder. “You don't have to be worried. If I can find a way to restore your ages, I will not make you old again.”

“Really?”

“I do not lie.” Celestia said seriously.

“But you do joke, right?” Dash was looking nervous. “About going back to school, right?”

Celestia shook her head. “I'm afraid not Rainbow Dash.”

“Cool, I get to go to school with my Mom.” Scootaloo was happy, despite having been dyed pink.

“It'll be like a party.” Pinkie bounced around.

(I think I'll have to double Ms. Cheerilee's income... No, triple it... for the time being.) Celestia sighed inwardly. “I will take care of the paperwork. In the meantime, we will have to find places for Terra Harmony and Shale Nova to stay.”

“Terra can stay with me.” Twilight smiled. “I mean, the two of us can take care of school and the library easily.”

“That sounds good.” Celestia turned to Shale. “Now, where can you stay?”

“Not with us.” Dash growled at the smaller pony.

“Ya'll can stay at the farm with me an' mah family.” Applejack offered. “We got a spare room ya can use.”

“R... Really?” Shale Nova's eyes went wide in disbelief. “You'll accept me to stay with you?”

“Ah course Sugarcube. Ah never lie.”

Celestia smiled. She knew it would be difficult, challenging, educational and above all else, fun for the eight young fillies. “Now with this settled, I must speak with Ms. Cheerilee about eight new students.” Celestia then bid them a good day, and left.

“Come along Shale.” Applejack nudged the smallest pony. It's a wee bit ah a hike to th' farm with our stumpy legs.”

Shale nodded and headed out with Applejack.

“We shall retire home.” Rarity smiled headed toward the door.

“Mom? If you're staying with Miss. Rarity, what about me?”

Dash hugged her adopted daughter. “Rarity's place isn't large enough to house four ponies. I guess you'll get to know what it's like to live in a cloud house all on your own for a little while. No parties, understand?”

Scootaloo nodded.

Rarity smiled. “But you are more than welcome to come hang out and eat with us. I may be small, but I can still cook.”

“Unlike Mom.” Scootaloo teased.

Soon, everypony started filtering out of the library, except Terra and Twilight.

They looked at each other and sighed in unison.

“School? Seriously?” Terra glanced at Twilight.

Twilight giggled cutely. “School is fun. You'll enjoy it.”

...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 4

Author: Annonymouse
MLP:FiM is property of Hasbro. This is a free fan-fiction, not to be sold or traded for any money, goods or services.
...
A/N: No comments on spelling or grammar please. See my profile for details.
...
Not a Grimdark story. Terra Harmony is back, and her presence brings anything BUT harmony... again.
...
Out of the Frying Pan
04
...

“I hate school...” Terra muttered from her place in the corner. She shot a glare at Shale, who was in another corner.

Why were they in the corners? Simply because they had started arguing and then the arguing broke out into a scuffle.

Cheerilee was not mean, but had broken the fight up and sent them to the corners for a time out.

Twilight was sitting next to Rainbow Dash at the front of the class, both were mirror images of just how BORING this kindergarten class was. Twilight was more than qualified to teach anything and more than what she was 'learning'.

Applejack was actually enjoying herself, even if her basic math and business skills were good enough for her to teach lessons.

Pinkie Pie was sitting next to Applejack, looking just as happy to be here, and she was being frighteningly well behaved.

Fluttershy sat at the far back of the class, and remained quiet, doing her lessons in silence. Angel was keeping an eye on her at all times, having come to terms with the truth that this was in fact filly Fluttershy.

Rarity sat between Fluttershy, and much to her dismay, some colt who kept flashing shy glances toward Fluttershy. Needless to say, she was not pleased, but had to protect Fluttershy from the evils of young colts.

Cheerilee was a patient teacher, teaching her lessons and doing her best to make it fun for these new ponies.

Finally, recess arrived and the eight fillies hurried from the classroom, finding a place out of the way from the other playing foals. They sat in a circle, facing each other.

“I...” Twilight slumped. “I know all this already... I could TEACH these classes.”

AJ chuckled. “Never though Ah'd hear our Egghead dissin' a chance to learn.”

“You can't learn something you already know.” Twilight retorted.

“I've read all this stuff already.” Terra muttered. “And more. Why is the 'history' of Equestria so... boring? I mean, no great wars, no great events. Only little things like some exploring and such.”

AJ chuckled. “Ah'm enjoyin all this. Ah never really had much chance to to to school when Ah was growin up.”

“Hopefully we'll be doing something more exciting after recess.” Rainbow Dash muttered.

Shale sat across from Terra. “I've been stuck in a cave all my life.” She looked at the history book she had brought with her. “Would be nice if I didn't have to be here... But NOOO. Princess Celery just had to make me join you. I mean...”

“Celestia dear.” Rarity corrected Shale. “Not Celery.”

“Whatever.” Shale shot Rarity a withering glare. “What I mean to say is I don't need to know this stuff, do I? Give me a chance to create.”

Pinkie giggled happily. “Next class is art. I think we're making something with clay.”

Rarity paled. “Clay? But... that's so... MESSY.” She looked absolutely appalled at the concept of 'playing with mud', as it were.

“Ah ain't never made nothin with clay before.” Applejack looked curious.

Fluttershy lit up. “Oh I love pottery. I made all my own bows and dishes.”

All who knew Fluttershy had seen her cute and pretty dinnerware and had to agree, she was good.

“Really?” Twilight blinked. “I thought you bought everything.”

“Oh no. It's so relaxing to make things out of clay. I even made the few little sculptures I have decorating my home.” Fluttershy looked at her friends, and at Shale, who she hoped could also be a friend.

“Give me a break.” Shale snorted. “Other than Terra, I'm the best here when it comes to shaping the elements of the Earth. Clay, stone, gems. We'll be unmatched.”

Terra looked doubtfully at her hooves. “Have you ever made anything with JUST your hooves? No magic at all?”

Shale froze. “Um... Not really...”

“Then this will be a rather interesting challenge.” Terra grinned.

...

“And you young filly, you'll be staying after class to scrape the clay off the ceiling.” Cheerilee finished a rather lengthy rant towards one Terra, who still had clay stuck in her mane.

What happened you ask?

Well...

Terra 'somehow' tried her hoof at channelling her Earth Pony magic through her hooves into the clay... with explosive results.

Rarity was traumatized as she took the brunt of the blast, covering her from head to hoof in clay. She was now resting up in 'her' clinic... AKA, the Spa.

So it was with less than any form of enthusiasm that Terra not only got to experience her first ever day at school, but her first ever detention.

Shale Nova was, somehow, the ONLY filly not to have gotten an iota of clay on her entire being, her small size compared to Terra being the saving grace. “Sucks to be you.”

“Oh shut it runt.” Terra fumed. “Seriously, I'm over 10,000 years old. Why do I have to do detention?”

Cheerilee stared at Terra. “You're how old?”

“Over 10,000. When you get that old, you tend to not remember the exact numbers.”

“That will be another ten minutes of detention for fibbing.”

“What? But...” Her shoulders slumped. “Fine...”

Cheerilee smiled, then got to examining the other clay projects.

Twilight had made... something. It looked horribly lumpy, with skinny deformities jutting out of it all over, and two flat, round things hanging limp to the sides. “It's Princess Celestia.”

“That's very good Twinkle.” Cheerilee smiled, hiding her amusement.

Twilight cringed. Of course Celestia would have used her cursed, top secret, middle name...

Diane (aka, Pinkie Pie) had made... a cupcake? “That's a wonderful cupcake.”

“I don't know about that. It would taste worse than those baked bads.” The pink pony grinned sheepishly at Applejack.

Cheerilee shuddered. She remembered being one of those victims... (Think happy thoughts...)

Next was a little orange and blond filly. “Appleteenie.” She blinked at her name chart. (Who names their foal Appleteenie?) “What did you make?”

“Ah made a figure ah mah big bro.” She smile, despite wanting to take a bite out of Princess Celestia. (What the hay? How's she hear that nickname? Ah course, Spike must ah written it in Twi's letter when we befriended Zecora.)

“It looks very nice... Wait, is that Big Macintosh?” Cheerilee looked a might bit confused, considering this figure looked VERY good. “I thought Apple Bloom was the youngest member of the Apple family.”

“Not anymore...” Appleteenie crossed her forelegs, not overly pleased with the prospect of being the youngest.

“Well, you have a striking resemblance to your big sister, Applejack.”

“Splittin image, ain't Ah?”...” Appleteenie gritted her teeth.

“Yes you are... So much so that you'd think...”

Appleteenie KNEW where this was going. Heck, some foal once started a rather nasty rumor about Apple Bloom, concerning Applejack and Big Mac being her real parents. “She ain't mah mom.”

“Oh, well... Never mind then.” (Hmm, Apple Bloom's dad died three months before she was born and her mother died in childbirth... who can be Appleteenie's parents?) She shook her head as she approached Fluttershy.

A very nice and fine looking set of teacups, and even a very nice teapot were presented. “Oh my. These are lovely Shy Shy.”

“Um... thank you Miss. Cheerilee.” Fluttershy smiled shyly.

“Just wait till we get to paint them during the next art class. I'm sure they will look even lovelier.”

“Th... thank you.”

Cheerilee smiled and paused. (She looks much like the local veterinarian, Fluttershy. In fact, they almost all look like ponies I know from town...) She glanced at the blue coated, white maned Pegasus.

(Here it comes... My real name... I'm going to die from embarrassment.)

“Prism?” Cheerilee walked up and looked at the cloud and lightening bolt emblem. “What did you make?”

The filly's eyes went wide. (Mom's name?) She smiled a little, blushing as she looked down. “This... this is only the coolest cutie mark ever.”

“Oh, that looks a lot like Scootaloo's, only I believe her cloud is shaped like a wing.” Cheerilee pointed out. “Ah, I remember now. Scootaloo used to draw pictures of this very cutie mark before she got hers.”

“It's Rainbow Dash's cutie mark...” Prism smiled weakly. (I want it back. It's not fair. This is the third time I've been a blank flank. This time I can't fly at all. My wings are too weak to even use wing kites... so how can I even hope to earn my mark again?)

“She's a wonderful role model. I'm certain someday you will get your cutie mark.” The teacher patted Prism on the head. “Now, class is done for the day. Please wait for your family or guardians to come pick you up.”

All the 'fillies' grimaced. This was going to be an issue.

But a saving grace walked through the doors moments after the bell rang. Well, for a certain cyan Pegasus at least. “I'm here.” Scootaloo beamed, smiling at her Mom. She knew she couldn't be calling her that for the time being. She didn't know WHAT to call her mini mom.

Dash rushed and hugged the bright pink Scootaloo. “Come on Scootaloo. Let's go home.” She waved to her friends as the pair left.

Moments later Apple Bloom entered. “Hiya Sis. Ready to go home?”

“Ya bet yer cutie mark Ah am.” Appleteenie was glad to be out of here.

Next was Sweetie Belle. “Where's my sister?” She asked.

Cheerilee looked at Sweetie Belle. “Oh, hello Sweetie Belle. Who was your sister again?”

“Um, she looks a lot like my big sister, Rarity. Who else?” A nervous grin was on her face. Sweetie Belle knew they were going to be using fake names while in school for the time being. She just didn't know what their name would be.

“Oh, you mean Amethyst. She had a little accident and had to leave. I think she's meeting Rarity at the Spa.”

“Oh... um, ok.” The budding young mare smiled and left. “Take care Miss Cheerilee.”

“You too Sweetie Belle.”

Twilight was really worried. Who would come pick her up? Spike was gone off too hide because of his massive size. Other than him, she lived all alone.

Her question was answered when a white Pegasus entered the room. Twilight recognized the royal guard.

“I'm here for my daughter.” He looked at Twilight. “Come along Twinkle.”

“Uh... Yes 'Dad'.” She glanced a concerned look at her remaining friends before following the very stern Captain Courage from the room.

Pinkie Pie looked at Fluttershy, then at Terra and Shale Nova. “So...” She started to ask.

“Diane?” Ms. Cake walked in, and her husband, Mr. Cake. “Come along deary. Time to go home.”

She didn't know what their 'relationship' was supposed to be.

Cup Cake grinned at Cheerilee. “We're here to pick up our daughter.”

This made Cheerilee VERY suspicious. “Daughter? When did the two of you have a daughter?”

“She's adopted.” Angel Cake smiled. “I do hope she didn't cause any trouble for you.”

“Certainly not. She was an absolute sweetheart. Very well behaved.” She smiled at the pink filly. “You're certainly lucky to have the Cakes as your adopted parents.”

“I certainly am.” Diane beamed. “Bye Miss Cheerilee.” She waved and left, bouncing along in an oddly familiar fashion.

Fluttershy was left alone with Terra and Shale Nova. She sat at the back of the class, waiting.

“Shy Shy?”

“Um...” She looked up at the kind teacher, but was still quite nervous, even more so now that her friends were gone.

“Is something the matter?”

“Oh, no... I just...” She squeaked nervously, and cutely.

A rapid series of thumps came from the doorway. A small white rabbit was standing there. Holding a scroll.

“Isn't that... Fluttershy's pet rabbit?” Cheerilee glanced at the scroll, which Angel was holding out. She accepted it and read it. “Oh, it's from Fluttershy, you big sister?” She eyed Shy Shy. “My, so many new fillies in town and today was the first I've heard of any of you.”

She felt a sudden kick on her leg, and the bunny pointed angrily at the scroll.

“Oh, of course. This is a letter that allows Angel Bunny to pick up Shy Shy from school.” She smiled at Angel. “Very well, you may take her home.”

Cheerilee watched the cute filly and cute bunny leave.

She then turned to the remaining pair. “Who are your families?”

“We're sisters.” Terra grinned. “I'm the big sister of course.”

“I can see that.”

“Old nag.” Shale Nova muttered, glaring at Terra.

“Tiny runt.” Terra spat back. From there, the name calling war began. Some of the odd terms were just odd, like Granny, pebble brain, prehistoric, and itty bitty teeny weeny.

“Now now my little fillies. You may be sisters, but I don't want to see you fighting. Besides, Terra, you have a detention to do.”

“Ugh... please don't remind me...” She grabbed a stick and started poking at the clay.

...

Five minutes later, Terra had finished, but had to wait another ten minutes writing lines. “I will not tell fibs.” Over and over.

“Your detention is over. Now, where are you family?”

“Um... We only have each other.” Terra frowned.

“Oh, why didn't you tell me you were orphans? Well, the orphanage isn't very far from here. Be careful alright?”

The pair of 'Unicorns' rushed out of the class.

...

Ponyville Library.

Twilight looked up at the stern and always serious Captain Courage. “Dad? Why did you call yourself my Dad?”

“Because that was the Princess's orders.”

Twilight threw her tiny legs in the air. “Ugh... But you have your duties in Canterlot.”

“Not for the time being. My standing orders are to play the roll of your father.” He looked around the library. “And as the new Librarian while 'Twilight Sparkle' is in Canterlot.”

Twilight winced. “So you know anything about running a library?”

“No. That's where you come in. You will be my assistant. Now, we should be having company right now. Downstairs with you young lady.”

“But Captain...”

“For the unforeseeable future, you will have to call me... Dad.”

Twilight sighed. “Dad? Seriously? Couldn't Princess Celestia have sent a Unicorn? It would be more believable.”

“Feel free to ask the Princess when you see her this weekend. In the meantime...”

“I get it... Dad.” She sighed.

“Good. Now, downstairs.”

...

The Cakes walked in with their 'adopted daughter' riding on Mr. Cake's back. “Hiya Twinkle. This is going to be so much fun. I haven't gotten to see my real mom and dad in a long time, or my sisters, but that's ok because I hear they're still working on the old farm and...”

“Diane, what did we say about rambling?” Miss. Cake smiled.

“Sorry Mom.” She hopped off 'Dad's' back and hugged 'Mom'.

The mare blushed. It felt so wonderful to be called Mom.

'Amethyst' and Sweetie Bell arrived with a VERY unhappy looking Appleteenie and a very amused looking Big Mac.

“Stow it Big Brother. It ain't funny.”

“Come now... Applejack. We don't have to use our names when in private.” Rarity giggled a little.

Captain Courage glared at the small white filly. “Yes you do, at all times. What if somepony were to overhear you?”

“Ah dun get why we gotta lie.” Appleteenie was VERY unhappy.

Courage dropped a bunch of scrolls on the floor, from under his wings. “These papers show your current true identities. Now, where are the other two?”

“Right here. Don't go molting all your feathers.” A white maned 'Prism' walked through the door.

She was accompanied by Scootaloo, Fluttershy and Angel.

Scootaloo looked up at the Captain. “Wow, Captain Courage? Can I have your autograph? You're my favorite of all the Royal Guard.”

“No.” He replied simply. “Now, these papers have all been prepared and signed by Princess Celestia herself.” He looked at Fluttershy. “I'm sorry I didn't pick you up from the school. I honestly didn't see you there.” His voice softened. “Are you still so shy?”

Shy Shy nodded, cowering a little.

“You're too much like your mother...” He sighed.

“I-I'm sorry... Daddy.” Shy Shy looked up at Courage with her large soft green eyes.

...

To Be Continued...

Chapter 5

Author: Annonymouse
MLP:FiM is property of Hasbro. This is a free fan-fiction, not to be sold or traded for any money, goods or services.
...
A/N: No comments on spelling or grammar please. See my profile for details.
...
Not a Grimdark story. Terra Harmony is back, and her presence brings anything BUT harmony... again.
...
Out of the Frying Pan
05
...

“D-Daddy?” Fluttershy's closest friends all boggled.

Rainbow Dash, aka. Prism, moved over to Shy Shy. “You never said your dad was the Captain of the Royal Sky Guard.”

Shy Shy hung her head and nodded slightly.

Captain Courage simply rolled his eyes. “And I had hoped sending you off to Flight School would have helped you get over your weakness. Well, I'm here now, and I will make sure you get over it now.” He then glared at Twinkle. “And you.”

“Y-Yes Sir?” The lavender filly stood at attention, feeling very nervous now.

“Is that how you address your father?” His glare hardened.

“No Sir... I mean Dad...” Twinkle had to wonder what Princess Celestia was thinking, assigning HIM as her father while this issue was trying to be solved.

“Better. Now, this means you and 'Shy Shy' are ‘sisters’. I expect you to look out for her when I am unavailable, understood?” His tone was hard, like he was addressing the Royal Guard under his command.

“Y-Yes Dad.”

“Good.” He then faced the rest of the fillies. “As for the rest of you, I expect all of you to be on your best behavior, is that understood?”

“Yes Sir.” All but Terra and Shale replied.

“I didn't hear you two.” Courage glared at the pair of 'ancient' fillies.

Shale rolled her eyes. “Please, you're a lowly mortal. Who do you think you are to tell me what to do?”

Courage was suddenly towering over the smallest of the foals. “I don't care how old you are little Missy. I was assigned to keep an eye on all of you and to play the role of father to the Princess's prize pupil. That means, you are under MY command, now do you understand? Or will I have to make an example of you?”

Shale snorted. “And I don't care what you think... what are you doing? PUT ME DOWN!!!”
…

Shale was now in a corner, her rump stinging from the spanking she had just received. She cast a glare at the Pegasus, but averted her eyes when he looked her way.

“Anypony else wish to be made an example of?”

“No Sir/Dad/Daddy.” They all replied, with Shy Shy barely whimpering her response.

“Good. Now, the rest of you, go home, and do not stray. I WILL be checking up on each and every one of you.”

Within moments, all but Captain Courage, Shy Shy and Twinkle remained.

Twinkle looked up at the imposing Pegasus. “Um... Dad? Wasn't that just a little harsh? I mean, spanking a foal, that's kinda against the law, you know, abuse and all that?”

Courage sighed and softened his tone. “Twinkle, you have to understand. Shale keeps thinking she is a grown pony right now, when she most certainly is not. Right now, she is a foal, and she has to learn that for the time being, she will have to act like one... Preferably a good little filly like the rest of you.” He then turned to face Shy Shy. “Shy? I'm sorry I raised my voice earlier, but you do understand as well, don't you?”

“Y-Yes Daddy.” The small butter yellow filly nodded weakly, avoiding eye contact.

“Good. Now, I will prepare lunch for us.” He looked at Twinkle. “Show me the kitchen.”
…

Captain Courage looked around the kitchen and frowned. “I can't use any of this equipment. It's all designed for small dragon claws or Unicorn magic.”

Twinkle blushed a little. “Um, well, only Spike and I ever used any of it. I do have other kitchen utensils that anypony can use. They're all in the store room.”

Courage and Shy Shy followed Twinkle to the store room where she dug around till she found the labeled box. “Here they are.”

Courage nodded and tossed the box onto his back, then returned to the kitchen.
…

Twinkle looked at the 'food' and didn't know how she should feel. “Military food? How did you make military food out of the ingredients I had here?”

Courage puffed out his chest. “It's a talent.”

Shy Shy said nothing and started eating, trying not to make faces.

Twinkle sniffed her serving and backed away. “No offense Dad... but this smells really bad.”

“You don't see your 'sister' complaining, do you? Now buckle down and eat up. It'll make you strong.”

“I'm a Unicorn, my strength is in my magic, not my body.”

Courage took his seat. “Well, if you don't want to eat, then you can go without till you are hungry enough to eat what I put in front of you. I also do not want to see you sneaking food or going over to that fat house excuse of a bakery to get food either.” He then started eating. “Hmm, fresh ingredients make all the difference.”
…

Twinkle sat in her room, a book on the floor in front of her. Her stomach growled, but she ignored it as best she could.

(Why Captain Courage? Why not my brother, Shining Armor? He's always really nice, and he knows how to cook.) She looked over at Fluttershy, who was laying on the hoof of her bed, the bed they would be sharing for the time being. (And Fluttershy. Her father is none other than Captain Courage. I never would have guessed. Poor thing.)

“Girls.” Captain Courage called from below.

“Yes Daddy?” Shy Shy lifted her head.

“You have company.”

Twinkle marked her book and closed it and headed to the stairs. “Company?” She headed own and entered the library proper and saw Terra and Shale. Shy Shy peaked around the corner behind her.

“Hi Twinkle.” Terra didn't look very happy right now. “Can we stay here for a bit? That cranky old crone at the orphanage is just a horrible pony.”

“You can stay only if you keep quiet and cause no trouble.” Courage glared at the pair of fillies.

“Um... Dad?” Twinkle hated having to call him that, but in the current situation, they had no choice. “May we go out for a while?”

Surprisingly, he nodded. “Take Shy Shy with you. It will do her some good to get out. But be home before dark.”

Shy Shy followed close to Twinkle.

“Thanks Dad.” Twilight said a little dryly.

“Thank you Daddy.”

With that, four fillies left the library to try to find something to do. It was little surprise when they spotted Scootaloo, Prism and Appletini outside waiting for them.

“What are all of you doing here?” Twinkle asked.

Scoots grinned. “You are going to be the new Cutie Mark Crusaders. Diane and Amethyst are waiting at the clubhouse.”

Twinkle's eyes went wide. “Are you serious? I mean, I would LOVE to get my cutie mark back, but I don't know if we really should be the new Crusaders.”

“Don't worry.” Prism laughed a little bitterly. “Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom are there as well. They'll help us, I know they will... Hopefully without getting coated in sap.”

Shy Shy smiled softly. “Oh, it would be so nice to be able to talk to my animal friends again.”

Terra simply shrugged. “Whatever. Getting that mark back shouldn't be hard, seeing as we already know what our talents are...” She grinned at Shale. “Well, those of us who HAVE any talent at least.”

Shale glared daggers at her creator/Master/eternal enemy. “I have a great talent. There's almost nopony who can craft anything from stone better than myself.”

Terra laughed a little. “Shaping stone, perhaps. But you really shouldn't be trying to make any more magic artifacts. This IS your fault after all.”

“Your fault. You left me locked in there for about four thousand years after all.” Shale retorted angrily.

“Hey.” Twinkle stepped between the two before they could come to blows. “We shouldn't be fighting. We need to help each other regain our talents at the very least... even if we DO have to grow into adults again normally.”

Appletini did not want to hear that. “Ah'd rather not have t' wait t' grow up an' work th' orchards again. Ah mean, Ah can't do anythin' with me bein' so little.”

“Pff.” Shale scoffed. “At least you're not as pint sized as I am. I mean, seriously. I was bigger than the slave driver here. But NOOOO! I had to end up becoming the smallest one.”

Appletini nodded. “Ah Agree. Yer th' one who should'a been called 'tini' not me.”

Scoots sighed. “Let's just get going, okay?”

With much grumbling, some arguing, and a few near fights, the group of fillies finally reached the clubhouse.

They all looked quite surprised when they arrived. The tree clubhouse had grown in size, wrapping around the entire tree rather than just being on one side of it.

“What happened here?” Appletini's eyes went wide.

Scoots smirked. “Apple Bloom asked if we could fix the place up so all of you can use it. Big Mac provided a bunch of lumber and tools, and just overnight, she had the place built. She really should have gotten a carpentry cutie mark rather than an apple cider brewing one.”

Appletini actually smiled. “Ah dun care. She got an awesome cutie mark, an' she's also really good with buildin' stuff. Ah couldn't be prouder ah ma lil... er, 'big' sis.”

The group climbed the ramp and onto the sundeck. It was positioned perfectly so the tree branches were hanging overhead, but also so it got a lot of sun.

“Apple Bloom did all this?” Appletini was impressed, no doubt, and proud as well.

“Ah sure did Sis.” Bloom opened the door. “Rar... Amethyst did a lot ah th' decoratin. Kinda girly, but hey, th' clubhouse's yours now.”

The group entered and saw the place was decorated as one would expect Rarity to decorate someplace.

Ribbons, wallpaper, decorations. All very 'Rarity'.

Twinkle was impressed, the interior looked beautiful. “Wow. This is amazing.”

Prism rolled her eyes. “Seriously? Way too frilly and girly for me.”

“Ah gotta agree with Rain... Prism. Just too fru fru fer mah likins.” Appletini replied.

“It's like a party!” Diane bounced around, examining everything.

“Very pretty.” Shy Shy smiled softly.

“Well,” Twinkle sighed. “We’ll all get a chance to add our own little touches. In the meantime… I have a plan to get our cutie marks back, and hopefully, our ages as well.”
…
To Be Continued…