Those We Leave Behind...by DreadnoughtChaptersPrologueChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3EpiloguePrologueRarity loved autumn. The trees turned the most gorgeous shades of red, orange and yellow as the warm, sunny days of summer gradually slipped into the snowy days of winter. Fillies and colts returned from a long vacation to start a brand-new school year. The summer leagues held their crowning championships while other sports began playing their new seasons. Autumn also featured the harvest festivals, the Running of the Leaves, and the fun of Nightmare Night. Then of course there were countless fall galas to attend. But the thing Rarity enjoyed most of all about autumn was the fashion. She drew inspiration from the season to create the most amazing outfits, catering to every taste, budget and occasion. Her regular fall line of clothing reflected and perfectly complemented the beautiful colors of the leaves. Her foal clothing sales saw a boost, as mares and stallions brought their children in for new school clothes before the start of the semester. Fans of winning teams came in for clothes to wear during the playoffs, while others stopped by to purchase new merchandise for the start of hoofball’s regular season. Then there were themed garments worn at the festivals and the fabulous costumes of Nightmare Night. Society ponies came into her boutiques to purchase new gowns and formal attire for the different balls held throughout the season. And finally, the drop in temperatures made for something Rarity always relished: sweater weather. Yes, other seasons had their perks, but fall was the best of all. Rarity stood in the front of Canterlot Carousel, carefully arranging a new window display announcing her new fall line was ready. Humming to herself, she made sure that everything looked just so. She surreptitiously glanced out the window onto the busy street and observed passing ponies already taking an interest. When the attire went on sale on Monday, she expected the store to see heavy traffic. “Bobbins and bodkins, Rarity!” came a voice from behind. “That is sure to draw in customers,” praised Sassy Saddles. “It’s easy to create an amazing window display with clothes as fabulous as these!” replied Rarity. “This year’s line is the best I’ve done,” she boasted. “And not just your fall line,” added Sassy, “we’ve also been selling out of Canterlot Wondercolts merchandise. By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask you, how did you manage to get a license? The league is very choosy.” “Actually,” admitted Rarity, “I was asked by the league.” Pausing a moment to see the confused expression on her employee’s face, she continued, “The commissioner’s wife is a frequent patron of my Manehattan Boutique.” The two shared a laugh. “Bust my buttons! You sure make connections.” “A good businesspony knows how to network,” winked Rarity. Suddenly the front door burst open and a blur shot past the two unicorns, crashing into racks of clothing. Though buried by dresses and accessories, Rarity could tell from the rainbow-colored tail just who the perpetrator was. “Rainbow Dash! What are you doing wrecking my store!” The mass of clothing rose and the pegasus underneath struggled to get free. “Rarity! You have to come right away!” “My, what’s happened?” asked a concerned Rarity. “There’s been an accident at the Cutie Mark Day Camp! Sweetie Belle has been rushed to the hospital!” Author's Note Thanks for reading! I've wanted to enter a MLP writing contest, and this is my entry (well, the prologue). And yes, the CMC Day Camp is a reference to this week's episode, Marks and Recreation. Dreadnought Chapter 1Though a Wednesday afternoon, Carousel Boutique sat closed. Inside the deserted shop, dresses from the fall fashion line hung on racks waiting to be sold and numerous accessories filled the shelves. Throughout the storefront, a thin layer of undisturbed dust coated everything. Upstairs in the inspiration room, bolts of fabric littered the floor and half-finished gowns lay strewn about haphazardly, while naked dress forms stood silent sentinel. The back parlor was quiet and dark, the drawn curtains creating a dim twilight, one that reflected the somber mood of its solitary occupant. Rarity lay on the couch, an empty tub of death-by-chocolate ice cream and several boxes of tissues by her side. She longingly gazed at the photo album... there they were at the Sisterhooves Social... there she was as a darling flowerfilly at Cadence and Shining’s wedding... together at the Grand Galloping Gala looking their best in beautiful gowns... partying with friends at her cute-ceañera... the two of them with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo on a surprise trip to Manehattan... and a photo of them enjoying a large ice cream sundae at the diner. Reaching the end of the album, she cast the book aside onto the coffee table and stretched out on the couch, surrounded by deathly silence. Several months had passed since Sweetie Belle’s funeral. Several terrible, agonizing months. Ponies say that time heals all wounds. But they are wrong. Some wounds never heal, but remain painful and raw forever. Rarity had hardly stepped outside for months, becoming a recluse in her hometown. Her friends and family had tried their best to help her through this difficult time, doing everything they could to provide comfort and ease the heartache. Just the day before, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie had come by to coax her out of her self-imposed isolation, but to no avail. Her businesses had struggled over the past few months, the shortfall in inventory being made up for with items from guest designers, her colleagues in the industry. Rarity knew that she needed to return to her workroom, to begin designing and sewing again, to meet customers and manage her business. But every time she tried to work, the pain and sorrow just swelled within her. It was her fashion career that had taken her away from Ponyville. If only she didn’t have stores in Canterlot and Manehattan, maybe she could have spent more time with her little sister. Maybe she could have prevented the terrible accident that had caused the filly’s death. Maybe she could have been at the hospital bedside during the last few hours of Sweetie Belle’s life.... Rarity lay on the couch for a long time, the pain unbearable. Days had become weeks, weeks had become months. She couldn’t take it anymore. She needed to do something to distract her mind, to provide a temporary relief from her sorrow. She didn’t feel like interacting with other ponies socially. But Twilight had mentioned that a new Shadow Spade book was coming out. Those books always captured her attention and swept her away to a world of danger, intrigue, and mystery. Maybe it would help, if only for a few hundred pages? Rarity rolled off the couch. She knew she looked terrible, but lacked any motivation to clean up. Instead, she headed to the closet and found a black cloak, one that had once concealed her horrid mane. Now again it would shield her from unwanted attention. She donned the cloak and pulled the hood over her head. Opening the door flooded the parlor with afternoon sunshine. Rarity winced under the bright light. Nevertheless, she pressed onwards to the Castle of Friendship, home to Ponyville’s library since Tirek’s attack the year before. She took a winding route, skirting the town to avoid the main square and the market, hoping to make it to her destination without having to talk to anypony. She approached the glittering, crystal castle, one that stood as a symbol of hope for Equestria. Twilight had lost something as well and had managed. But losing a home is not the same as losing a sibling. How would Twilight handle Shining Armor’s death? Well, being an immortal alicorn, the question should be: “How will Twilight handle Shining Armor’s death?” Rarity climbed the stairs and let herself into the grand entrance hall. She continued until reaching the library. Finding a dozen patrons in the room reading, she hesitated momentarily, but decided she had come too far. Stepping inside, Rarity admired the grand library. Thousands of volumes lined the shelves, covering every topic under Celestia’s sun. It really was too big for a town the size of Ponyville, but then again, it also served the resident princess. A tall stack of books walked towards her. “Spike?” she asked. “Rarity!” came a faceless voice, a mixture of surprise and happiness. Rarity levitated the top twelve books in a light blue aura until she could see clearly see the dragon. “Are you running the library all by yourself?” “For a week. Twilight and Starlight had to go to Canterlot on business.” He paused, unsure. “How are you doing?” “The past few months have been... difficult. I miss Sweetie Belle terribly. But I’m trying to move past my grief.” “If you need any help,” he offered. “Thank you Spike. I’m actually here to check out the new Shadow Spade book. Do you know where it is?” “I will go get it for you.” “Thank you, but if you point me in the right direction, I can get it.” “Use the map over there,” said Spike, indicating with a nod towards the circulation desk. “Twilight magically enchanted it. It will lead you to whatever book you’re looking for.” “Thank you Spike,” responded Rarity. “Anything for you, Rarity.” Rarity gently returned the books to Spike, and he headed on his way. She walked over to the central desk, one frequently occupied by her dear friend Twilight. Just where Spike had indicated, she found a blank piece of parchment. Picking it up, black ink magically appeared and formed into an arrow pointing behind her. Strange, Rarity could have sworn the mystery section lay on the other side of the library. Nevertheless she turned and headed over. Rarity walked back and forth along the shelving, but found only history books. Looking down at the map, she noticed the arrow pointed askew. Walking along, the arrow gradually shifted until it pointed right at the wall. Rarity glanced up, but found herself looking at the door through which she had entered the library. Perhaps the book had been left in another room of the castle? Leaving the library, the arrow turned left. Rarity followed it until she reached the main doors of the castle. Really? The book must have been checked out by somepony else. She thought about returning to the library to find another book, but decided to press on. Maybe she could find out who borrowed it and they could lend it to her once finished? ~~~ When Rarity woke up in the morning, she never thought she’d end up walking through the Everfree Forest. But then again, she never thought she’d venture outside in the first place. The only pony she knew who lived in the forest was Zecora, but Rarity had passed the turnoff that led to the zebra’s tree cottage some time before. Who lived this deep in the forest? After what must have been well over two hours of walking, the forest suddenly stopped and Rarity stood at the edge of a deep canyon, spanned only by an old rope-bridge. On the other side towered the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters. Could Twilight have been studying there and left the book by accident? Rarity thought about turning around and going home, but she had come so far and had nothing to show for it. And besides, what would she return to but an empty shop that only reminded her of the pain and guilt? Rarity carefully and cautiously crossed the rickety old bridge until she was on the other side. Apprehensively she approached the castle, remembering the time she had run for her life from the Pony of Shadows. Though it turned out to just be Pinkie Pie, she still felt unease by the old decaying walls surrounding her. The map led her deep into the castle until she reached the library. Slowly Rarity passed the shelves, watching the arrow on the map gradually rotate until it pointed directly at the wall. Stopping before a large bookcase, she examined all the books, but found only volumes on magic. She raised the map to her face and angrily yelled, “This is not what I’m looking for!” The arrow on the map rotated upwards. Rarity levitated up the shelving until it pointed to the right. She slid the map to the right along the shelf until the arrow disappeared for a brief moment before reappearing and pointing to the left. The map must be leading her to the large red book with a broken binding. She attempted to pull it down, but it was stuck. She tried again and again until finally giving a hard yank. But instead of coming down, a large groan startled her and then the next bookcase over creaked open. Rarity stepped into the alcove and examined its contents, secreted away for who knew how long. She blew away the ancient dust and read the title: The Book of Forbidden Knowledge. Opening the book, Rarity scanned the table of contents. Suddenly her heart stopped: “Chapter 13: Necromancy.” Author's Note Thanks for reading! Things are getting interesting....Would I really post a spoiler here? Patience young Padawan. Because of site rules, I had to go ahead and post this chapter today. Annoying for me, good for you. Be sure to check back tomorrow! Dreadnought Chapter 2The forest floor lay dark, shrouded from the sun by the dense canopy above. Courting birds sang in the trees as squirrels scurried from branch to branch. On the floor a jackrabbit nibbled on a fern, then moved on to the next one. It sat there eating, for several minutes, but suddenly bolting upright. Its ears alerted to potential danger, twitching at the slightest sound as it scanned the surrounding forest for movement. Quickly it scampered off to hide amongst some scrub as the air became deathly quiet. A bush parted to reveal a white unicorn wearing a pith helmet, her long purple mane escaping from underneath. Though laden with several heavy saddle bags, she remained unconcerned with the weight and instead focused upon her destination. She pressed onward, levitating a compass and roughly-sketched map at her side. A moment later a small dragon, also carrying a heavy pack, hiked after her. Rarity had poured over the book repeatedly, scrutinizing every detail. While it didn’t provide any useful spells, it did speak of a powerful sorcerer who lived beyond the borders of Equestria, deep in the forbidding Black Forest. Rarity determined to find this practitioner and enlist his help. Though providing little in the way of specifics, she had used her feminine charms to enlist Spike’s help on this quest. Similarly, the book had been rather limited on directions, and it was apparent that geographic features had changed over the many centuries. The two had journeyed along the Red River beyond Thunder Falls and through the formidable canyon known as the Narrows. But they had failed to find the river’s horseshoe bend, and therefore had great difficulty determining the proper tributary to follow. Eventually they had decided upon a process of elimination and, after two days of ascending the wrong valley, they had moved onto the next one. Now, they trekked through the forest along the slope of a great mountain, its snow-capped peak looming high above. On they wandered for hours, without rest or food, pushing through thorny scrubs, icy-cold streams, and thick spiderwebs. Eventually the two emerged into a large mountain meadow, filled with tall grass and the occasional scrub tree. Seeing her young companion tired, Rarity suggested the two take a break. But after a light lunch prepared by Spike, they continued their search. After rounding a spur, the pair found a rocky outcropping, like several they had seen before. But for some reason, Rarity was drawn to it. Quickly taking out the book, she reread the description over and over again, comparing every detail to what lay ahead. Replacing the tome into her saddle bag, the two climbed down to the base of the bluff and walked along slowly, carefully examining the face of the rock. Rarity stopped when she saw a narrow crevice. They squeezed through the tight rock walls, until it finally opened up into a slightly larger space. Rarity looked about and discovered a small space underneath a large boulder. Poking her head underneath, she lit her horn and discovered a long shaft, so deep that the light faded into darkness before reaching the end. Rarity turned to Spike, “Wait here.” He protested, “I can’t let you go in there by yourself Rarity.” Smiling at the concern of her friend, she responded, “I appreciate your concern. But I’m afraid this is something I must do alone.” She hugged her friend, “Trust me, I’ll be alright.” Grudgingly he agreed, “Okay.” Rarity slowly descended into the tunnel, her horn only providing a faint glow against the blackness. The walls were rough and the floors uneven, making her journey difficult and slow. Long stalactites hung from the ceiling as stalagmites passed under her hooves. The wet walls glistened as drops of water occasionally pattered off her helmet. Ominously the cave felt lifeless – was lifeless. She had expected to find bats or maybe some birds, but nothing. Only stone and puddles of water. The stale air made breathing difficult. And the cave was silent, with only the sporadic drop echoing throughout. As she pressed onwards, a thought entered her head. Perhaps this wasn’t a cave, but a lair, with something terribly horrific at the end. But nothing would stop her mission, and if anyone or anything lived in this cave, she would find it. After an hour of stumbling in the darkness, climbing up and down, twisting back and forth and back again, and squeezing through tight spaces, she entered a room. Pouring more magic into her horn, the light grew stronger, revealing a great cavern, a massive expanse with ceilings high above. Ahead lay a narrow path across, dropping off into deep pits on either side. At the other end of the room, barely perceptible in the twilight, lay a large ledge populated with piles of boulders. Cautiously she began walking across the causeway, every few steps her hoof slipping off the edge. Though scared, she steeled her nerves through pure resolve and approached the other end of the room.... “Who are you?” whispered a draft. Looking about in the twilight, she found nopony was there. “Hello?” she hesitantly asked. “Who are you?” repeated the voice. “I’m Rarity, from the town of Ponyville,” she explained, trying not to be intimidated or sound frightened. “What do you seek?” the voice asked louder. “I seek a way to bring somepony back from the dead,” she answered. “Where are you going?” asked the voice. “I’m going to find the necromancer. He lives somewhere in these hills,” said Rarity, growing slightly more confident. “Lives yes. And lives no.” Rarity noticed the voice now emanated from one of the piles of rocks. “What do you mean?” she asked apprehensively. “He exists between here and the after death, a spirit roaming the hills.” “Do you know where he is?” she pressed. “Yes.” “Where is he?” Two faint yellowish glows suddenly gazed upon her and the pile of rocks rose and menacing loomed over Rarity. “Here.” Struggling to remain calm, she searched for something to say. “It’s – uh – uh – pleasure to meet you.” She began looking around for an escape route. “You seek to bring a pony back from the dead?” the glowing eyes cutting deep into her. “Yes.” “Somepony close to you?” he, or it, asked. “Yes. My sister.” “Necromancy is not something to be taken lightly,” the pile moving back into an upright position. “So, it can be done?” “Only at great cost.” “I’ll pay you everything I have.” “Life cannot be bought with bits.” “What then?” “One must trade life for life.” “In order to save my sister, I must sacrifice myself?” asked a shocked Rarity. “It is natural law. Life can only come from life.” “I knew the price would be high...” thought Rarity for just a moment. “I’ll do it.” “Are you sure? Once it is done, there is no going back.” “I’m sure. But before we start, I’d like to write some letters.” From her right came a light, shining down on a rock with parchment and quills. Rarity stepped over to the impromptu desk and quickly scribbled the letters. When she was done, everything wisped away. Turning back to the dark form of rocks, she said, “I’m ready.” The rock pile stood up, a towering hulk that almost scrapped its head on the ceiling, and its eyes turned to balls of red flame. A gust of wind howled through the cavern. Rarity gently levitated off her hooves and into the air, the wind growing into swirling torrent around her. Suddenly she felt a deathly chill course through her, the muscles go limp, and the bones grow brittle. Her breathing became shallow, with each breath more difficult and labored than the last. She saw a dull blue aura escaping from her, draining her magic and life forever. Her body slowly faded before dissolving away as dust into the wind. Rarity’s vision turned dark, and then black.... Rarity stood alone. Below lay a thin layer of cloud, overhead a beautiful starry sky. She didn’t know where she was, but it reminded her of Twilight’s description of where she teleported to during her ascension. A form slowly faded into existence. “Rarity!” “Sweetie Belle!” cried Rarity. The two raced to one another and wrapped each other in a loving embrace. Sweetie Belle felt intensely warm and her fur soft. Rarity could feel the filly growing stronger, filling with life. “What’s going on?” asked Sweetie. “Where are we?” “We haven’t much time, dear. Just know that I love you very much and I did this for you.” “Did what?” she asked, looking up into the tearing eyes of her sister. Rarity knew the moment was over, and she stepped away from her sister. “I will be waiting for you on the other side.” “Rarity! Wait!” Sweetie Belle found herself lying on the ground in the middle of a forest. She didn’t know where she was or how she’d gotten there. She peered through the trees and saw a sunrise or sunset, she couldn’t be sure. “Sweetie Belle!” She turned towards the familiar voice, “Spike!” Author's Note Come back tomorrow for the final two chapters! Dreadnought Chapter 3Though a Sunday afternoon, Carousel Boutique was alive with activity, with Rarity’s friends having come to clean and organize the shop. Twilight stood behind a desk, carefully cataloguing every item. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were in the storefront sorting the gowns and accessories. Meanwhile Pinkie Pie, Starlight, and Applejack were going through the belongings in the private residence. There was much work to be done before the auction and final selling of the boutique. The past two weeks had been an emotional rollercoaster for everyone. There was the unbridled joy of the return of Sweetie Belle, who had been first been warmly embraced by her parents before being squished between her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders. Everypony welcomed the little filly home. But this was tempered by the knowledge of the terrible price paid. Grief existed alongside joy, hope with despair. There was no denying it. The ancient book from the Castle of the Two Sisters indicated where Rarity was going. And a magical analysis by Twilight and Celestia had proven beyond doubt that Rarity’s lifeforce now resided within Sweetie Belle. Everypony had felt the pain and responded in their own way. Fluttershy cried for days, and even now had to take breaks to wipe her eyes. Rainbow Dash had grown bitter, angrily demanding to know why Rarity never told them or bothered to say goodbye. Pinkie Pie retreated to Sugarcube Corner, relentlessly baking before gorging herself, for days on end. And Twilight struggled to understand. It was only because of Applejack that the group had held together. The farmpony had experienced death before, and though she knew the pain would never really go away, had learned to live with it and served as an emotional rock in the stormy seas of emotion. Twilight examined every item, writing a brief description and giving a price estimate. The door to the back creaked open, everypony stopping and looking up from their work. Applejack stepped in, followed by Pinkie Pie and Starlight. “Gals... Ah’ve found something.” “What?” asked Twilight. Applejack held up an envelope. It read: To my dear friends - Rarity Twilight levitated the envelope over and pulled forth the letter from within. Everyone gathered around as she read the letter aloud: To my dearest friends, If you are reading this letter, then the spell was successful and Sweetie Belle has returned to life. I’m afraid I will be unable to join in the celebrations. The price for her life was mine. I do not expect for you welcome my decision or even understand it. However, know that this is what I truly wanted and I happily gave my life for the sake of my sister. Please watch over her and be the older sister that I cannot. I will keep all of you with me as you will keep me with you. Goodbye, Rarity EpilogueIt was a beautiful spring day in Ponyville. Everywhere there was life. The birds chirped in the trees, whose branches brimmed with fresh green leaves. Flowers bloomed on the ground. Rabbits and other woodland creatures romped about. A group of ponies slowly and quietly gathered. It had been one year since Sweetie Belle’s return. It had been one year since Rarity’s sacrifice. Everypony was there... Sweetie Belle... Applejack... Pinkie Pie... Fluttershy... Rainbow Dash... Twilight Sparkle... Apple Bloom... Scootaloo... Zecora... Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadence... Shining Armor... Coco Pommel... Sassy Saddles... the list went on. They took turns placing flowers around a simple stone marker. It read: Rarity A Wonderful Daughter A Loving Sister A True Friend Element of Generosity Author's Note Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed the story. And thanks for Flutterpriest for sponsoring this contest. Dreadnought
PrologueRarity loved autumn. The trees turned the most gorgeous shades of red, orange and yellow as the warm, sunny days of summer gradually slipped into the snowy days of winter. Fillies and colts returned from a long vacation to start a brand-new school year. The summer leagues held their crowning championships while other sports began playing their new seasons. Autumn also featured the harvest festivals, the Running of the Leaves, and the fun of Nightmare Night. Then of course there were countless fall galas to attend. But the thing Rarity enjoyed most of all about autumn was the fashion. She drew inspiration from the season to create the most amazing outfits, catering to every taste, budget and occasion. Her regular fall line of clothing reflected and perfectly complemented the beautiful colors of the leaves. Her foal clothing sales saw a boost, as mares and stallions brought their children in for new school clothes before the start of the semester. Fans of winning teams came in for clothes to wear during the playoffs, while others stopped by to purchase new merchandise for the start of hoofball’s regular season. Then there were themed garments worn at the festivals and the fabulous costumes of Nightmare Night. Society ponies came into her boutiques to purchase new gowns and formal attire for the different balls held throughout the season. And finally, the drop in temperatures made for something Rarity always relished: sweater weather. Yes, other seasons had their perks, but fall was the best of all. Rarity stood in the front of Canterlot Carousel, carefully arranging a new window display announcing her new fall line was ready. Humming to herself, she made sure that everything looked just so. She surreptitiously glanced out the window onto the busy street and observed passing ponies already taking an interest. When the attire went on sale on Monday, she expected the store to see heavy traffic. “Bobbins and bodkins, Rarity!” came a voice from behind. “That is sure to draw in customers,” praised Sassy Saddles. “It’s easy to create an amazing window display with clothes as fabulous as these!” replied Rarity. “This year’s line is the best I’ve done,” she boasted. “And not just your fall line,” added Sassy, “we’ve also been selling out of Canterlot Wondercolts merchandise. By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask you, how did you manage to get a license? The league is very choosy.” “Actually,” admitted Rarity, “I was asked by the league.” Pausing a moment to see the confused expression on her employee’s face, she continued, “The commissioner’s wife is a frequent patron of my Manehattan Boutique.” The two shared a laugh. “Bust my buttons! You sure make connections.” “A good businesspony knows how to network,” winked Rarity. Suddenly the front door burst open and a blur shot past the two unicorns, crashing into racks of clothing. Though buried by dresses and accessories, Rarity could tell from the rainbow-colored tail just who the perpetrator was. “Rainbow Dash! What are you doing wrecking my store!” The mass of clothing rose and the pegasus underneath struggled to get free. “Rarity! You have to come right away!” “My, what’s happened?” asked a concerned Rarity. “There’s been an accident at the Cutie Mark Day Camp! Sweetie Belle has been rushed to the hospital!” Author's Note Thanks for reading! I've wanted to enter a MLP writing contest, and this is my entry (well, the prologue). And yes, the CMC Day Camp is a reference to this week's episode, Marks and Recreation. Dreadnought
Chapter 1Though a Wednesday afternoon, Carousel Boutique sat closed. Inside the deserted shop, dresses from the fall fashion line hung on racks waiting to be sold and numerous accessories filled the shelves. Throughout the storefront, a thin layer of undisturbed dust coated everything. Upstairs in the inspiration room, bolts of fabric littered the floor and half-finished gowns lay strewn about haphazardly, while naked dress forms stood silent sentinel. The back parlor was quiet and dark, the drawn curtains creating a dim twilight, one that reflected the somber mood of its solitary occupant. Rarity lay on the couch, an empty tub of death-by-chocolate ice cream and several boxes of tissues by her side. She longingly gazed at the photo album... there they were at the Sisterhooves Social... there she was as a darling flowerfilly at Cadence and Shining’s wedding... together at the Grand Galloping Gala looking their best in beautiful gowns... partying with friends at her cute-ceañera... the two of them with Apple Bloom and Scootaloo on a surprise trip to Manehattan... and a photo of them enjoying a large ice cream sundae at the diner. Reaching the end of the album, she cast the book aside onto the coffee table and stretched out on the couch, surrounded by deathly silence. Several months had passed since Sweetie Belle’s funeral. Several terrible, agonizing months. Ponies say that time heals all wounds. But they are wrong. Some wounds never heal, but remain painful and raw forever. Rarity had hardly stepped outside for months, becoming a recluse in her hometown. Her friends and family had tried their best to help her through this difficult time, doing everything they could to provide comfort and ease the heartache. Just the day before, Applejack, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie had come by to coax her out of her self-imposed isolation, but to no avail. Her businesses had struggled over the past few months, the shortfall in inventory being made up for with items from guest designers, her colleagues in the industry. Rarity knew that she needed to return to her workroom, to begin designing and sewing again, to meet customers and manage her business. But every time she tried to work, the pain and sorrow just swelled within her. It was her fashion career that had taken her away from Ponyville. If only she didn’t have stores in Canterlot and Manehattan, maybe she could have spent more time with her little sister. Maybe she could have prevented the terrible accident that had caused the filly’s death. Maybe she could have been at the hospital bedside during the last few hours of Sweetie Belle’s life.... Rarity lay on the couch for a long time, the pain unbearable. Days had become weeks, weeks had become months. She couldn’t take it anymore. She needed to do something to distract her mind, to provide a temporary relief from her sorrow. She didn’t feel like interacting with other ponies socially. But Twilight had mentioned that a new Shadow Spade book was coming out. Those books always captured her attention and swept her away to a world of danger, intrigue, and mystery. Maybe it would help, if only for a few hundred pages? Rarity rolled off the couch. She knew she looked terrible, but lacked any motivation to clean up. Instead, she headed to the closet and found a black cloak, one that had once concealed her horrid mane. Now again it would shield her from unwanted attention. She donned the cloak and pulled the hood over her head. Opening the door flooded the parlor with afternoon sunshine. Rarity winced under the bright light. Nevertheless, she pressed onwards to the Castle of Friendship, home to Ponyville’s library since Tirek’s attack the year before. She took a winding route, skirting the town to avoid the main square and the market, hoping to make it to her destination without having to talk to anypony. She approached the glittering, crystal castle, one that stood as a symbol of hope for Equestria. Twilight had lost something as well and had managed. But losing a home is not the same as losing a sibling. How would Twilight handle Shining Armor’s death? Well, being an immortal alicorn, the question should be: “How will Twilight handle Shining Armor’s death?” Rarity climbed the stairs and let herself into the grand entrance hall. She continued until reaching the library. Finding a dozen patrons in the room reading, she hesitated momentarily, but decided she had come too far. Stepping inside, Rarity admired the grand library. Thousands of volumes lined the shelves, covering every topic under Celestia’s sun. It really was too big for a town the size of Ponyville, but then again, it also served the resident princess. A tall stack of books walked towards her. “Spike?” she asked. “Rarity!” came a faceless voice, a mixture of surprise and happiness. Rarity levitated the top twelve books in a light blue aura until she could see clearly see the dragon. “Are you running the library all by yourself?” “For a week. Twilight and Starlight had to go to Canterlot on business.” He paused, unsure. “How are you doing?” “The past few months have been... difficult. I miss Sweetie Belle terribly. But I’m trying to move past my grief.” “If you need any help,” he offered. “Thank you Spike. I’m actually here to check out the new Shadow Spade book. Do you know where it is?” “I will go get it for you.” “Thank you, but if you point me in the right direction, I can get it.” “Use the map over there,” said Spike, indicating with a nod towards the circulation desk. “Twilight magically enchanted it. It will lead you to whatever book you’re looking for.” “Thank you Spike,” responded Rarity. “Anything for you, Rarity.” Rarity gently returned the books to Spike, and he headed on his way. She walked over to the central desk, one frequently occupied by her dear friend Twilight. Just where Spike had indicated, she found a blank piece of parchment. Picking it up, black ink magically appeared and formed into an arrow pointing behind her. Strange, Rarity could have sworn the mystery section lay on the other side of the library. Nevertheless she turned and headed over. Rarity walked back and forth along the shelving, but found only history books. Looking down at the map, she noticed the arrow pointed askew. Walking along, the arrow gradually shifted until it pointed right at the wall. Rarity glanced up, but found herself looking at the door through which she had entered the library. Perhaps the book had been left in another room of the castle? Leaving the library, the arrow turned left. Rarity followed it until she reached the main doors of the castle. Really? The book must have been checked out by somepony else. She thought about returning to the library to find another book, but decided to press on. Maybe she could find out who borrowed it and they could lend it to her once finished? ~~~ When Rarity woke up in the morning, she never thought she’d end up walking through the Everfree Forest. But then again, she never thought she’d venture outside in the first place. The only pony she knew who lived in the forest was Zecora, but Rarity had passed the turnoff that led to the zebra’s tree cottage some time before. Who lived this deep in the forest? After what must have been well over two hours of walking, the forest suddenly stopped and Rarity stood at the edge of a deep canyon, spanned only by an old rope-bridge. On the other side towered the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters. Could Twilight have been studying there and left the book by accident? Rarity thought about turning around and going home, but she had come so far and had nothing to show for it. And besides, what would she return to but an empty shop that only reminded her of the pain and guilt? Rarity carefully and cautiously crossed the rickety old bridge until she was on the other side. Apprehensively she approached the castle, remembering the time she had run for her life from the Pony of Shadows. Though it turned out to just be Pinkie Pie, she still felt unease by the old decaying walls surrounding her. The map led her deep into the castle until she reached the library. Slowly Rarity passed the shelves, watching the arrow on the map gradually rotate until it pointed directly at the wall. Stopping before a large bookcase, she examined all the books, but found only volumes on magic. She raised the map to her face and angrily yelled, “This is not what I’m looking for!” The arrow on the map rotated upwards. Rarity levitated up the shelving until it pointed to the right. She slid the map to the right along the shelf until the arrow disappeared for a brief moment before reappearing and pointing to the left. The map must be leading her to the large red book with a broken binding. She attempted to pull it down, but it was stuck. She tried again and again until finally giving a hard yank. But instead of coming down, a large groan startled her and then the next bookcase over creaked open. Rarity stepped into the alcove and examined its contents, secreted away for who knew how long. She blew away the ancient dust and read the title: The Book of Forbidden Knowledge. Opening the book, Rarity scanned the table of contents. Suddenly her heart stopped: “Chapter 13: Necromancy.” Author's Note Thanks for reading! Things are getting interesting....Would I really post a spoiler here? Patience young Padawan. Because of site rules, I had to go ahead and post this chapter today. Annoying for me, good for you. Be sure to check back tomorrow! Dreadnought
Chapter 2The forest floor lay dark, shrouded from the sun by the dense canopy above. Courting birds sang in the trees as squirrels scurried from branch to branch. On the floor a jackrabbit nibbled on a fern, then moved on to the next one. It sat there eating, for several minutes, but suddenly bolting upright. Its ears alerted to potential danger, twitching at the slightest sound as it scanned the surrounding forest for movement. Quickly it scampered off to hide amongst some scrub as the air became deathly quiet. A bush parted to reveal a white unicorn wearing a pith helmet, her long purple mane escaping from underneath. Though laden with several heavy saddle bags, she remained unconcerned with the weight and instead focused upon her destination. She pressed onward, levitating a compass and roughly-sketched map at her side. A moment later a small dragon, also carrying a heavy pack, hiked after her. Rarity had poured over the book repeatedly, scrutinizing every detail. While it didn’t provide any useful spells, it did speak of a powerful sorcerer who lived beyond the borders of Equestria, deep in the forbidding Black Forest. Rarity determined to find this practitioner and enlist his help. Though providing little in the way of specifics, she had used her feminine charms to enlist Spike’s help on this quest. Similarly, the book had been rather limited on directions, and it was apparent that geographic features had changed over the many centuries. The two had journeyed along the Red River beyond Thunder Falls and through the formidable canyon known as the Narrows. But they had failed to find the river’s horseshoe bend, and therefore had great difficulty determining the proper tributary to follow. Eventually they had decided upon a process of elimination and, after two days of ascending the wrong valley, they had moved onto the next one. Now, they trekked through the forest along the slope of a great mountain, its snow-capped peak looming high above. On they wandered for hours, without rest or food, pushing through thorny scrubs, icy-cold streams, and thick spiderwebs. Eventually the two emerged into a large mountain meadow, filled with tall grass and the occasional scrub tree. Seeing her young companion tired, Rarity suggested the two take a break. But after a light lunch prepared by Spike, they continued their search. After rounding a spur, the pair found a rocky outcropping, like several they had seen before. But for some reason, Rarity was drawn to it. Quickly taking out the book, she reread the description over and over again, comparing every detail to what lay ahead. Replacing the tome into her saddle bag, the two climbed down to the base of the bluff and walked along slowly, carefully examining the face of the rock. Rarity stopped when she saw a narrow crevice. They squeezed through the tight rock walls, until it finally opened up into a slightly larger space. Rarity looked about and discovered a small space underneath a large boulder. Poking her head underneath, she lit her horn and discovered a long shaft, so deep that the light faded into darkness before reaching the end. Rarity turned to Spike, “Wait here.” He protested, “I can’t let you go in there by yourself Rarity.” Smiling at the concern of her friend, she responded, “I appreciate your concern. But I’m afraid this is something I must do alone.” She hugged her friend, “Trust me, I’ll be alright.” Grudgingly he agreed, “Okay.” Rarity slowly descended into the tunnel, her horn only providing a faint glow against the blackness. The walls were rough and the floors uneven, making her journey difficult and slow. Long stalactites hung from the ceiling as stalagmites passed under her hooves. The wet walls glistened as drops of water occasionally pattered off her helmet. Ominously the cave felt lifeless – was lifeless. She had expected to find bats or maybe some birds, but nothing. Only stone and puddles of water. The stale air made breathing difficult. And the cave was silent, with only the sporadic drop echoing throughout. As she pressed onwards, a thought entered her head. Perhaps this wasn’t a cave, but a lair, with something terribly horrific at the end. But nothing would stop her mission, and if anyone or anything lived in this cave, she would find it. After an hour of stumbling in the darkness, climbing up and down, twisting back and forth and back again, and squeezing through tight spaces, she entered a room. Pouring more magic into her horn, the light grew stronger, revealing a great cavern, a massive expanse with ceilings high above. Ahead lay a narrow path across, dropping off into deep pits on either side. At the other end of the room, barely perceptible in the twilight, lay a large ledge populated with piles of boulders. Cautiously she began walking across the causeway, every few steps her hoof slipping off the edge. Though scared, she steeled her nerves through pure resolve and approached the other end of the room.... “Who are you?” whispered a draft. Looking about in the twilight, she found nopony was there. “Hello?” she hesitantly asked. “Who are you?” repeated the voice. “I’m Rarity, from the town of Ponyville,” she explained, trying not to be intimidated or sound frightened. “What do you seek?” the voice asked louder. “I seek a way to bring somepony back from the dead,” she answered. “Where are you going?” asked the voice. “I’m going to find the necromancer. He lives somewhere in these hills,” said Rarity, growing slightly more confident. “Lives yes. And lives no.” Rarity noticed the voice now emanated from one of the piles of rocks. “What do you mean?” she asked apprehensively. “He exists between here and the after death, a spirit roaming the hills.” “Do you know where he is?” she pressed. “Yes.” “Where is he?” Two faint yellowish glows suddenly gazed upon her and the pile of rocks rose and menacing loomed over Rarity. “Here.” Struggling to remain calm, she searched for something to say. “It’s – uh – uh – pleasure to meet you.” She began looking around for an escape route. “You seek to bring a pony back from the dead?” the glowing eyes cutting deep into her. “Yes.” “Somepony close to you?” he, or it, asked. “Yes. My sister.” “Necromancy is not something to be taken lightly,” the pile moving back into an upright position. “So, it can be done?” “Only at great cost.” “I’ll pay you everything I have.” “Life cannot be bought with bits.” “What then?” “One must trade life for life.” “In order to save my sister, I must sacrifice myself?” asked a shocked Rarity. “It is natural law. Life can only come from life.” “I knew the price would be high...” thought Rarity for just a moment. “I’ll do it.” “Are you sure? Once it is done, there is no going back.” “I’m sure. But before we start, I’d like to write some letters.” From her right came a light, shining down on a rock with parchment and quills. Rarity stepped over to the impromptu desk and quickly scribbled the letters. When she was done, everything wisped away. Turning back to the dark form of rocks, she said, “I’m ready.” The rock pile stood up, a towering hulk that almost scrapped its head on the ceiling, and its eyes turned to balls of red flame. A gust of wind howled through the cavern. Rarity gently levitated off her hooves and into the air, the wind growing into swirling torrent around her. Suddenly she felt a deathly chill course through her, the muscles go limp, and the bones grow brittle. Her breathing became shallow, with each breath more difficult and labored than the last. She saw a dull blue aura escaping from her, draining her magic and life forever. Her body slowly faded before dissolving away as dust into the wind. Rarity’s vision turned dark, and then black.... Rarity stood alone. Below lay a thin layer of cloud, overhead a beautiful starry sky. She didn’t know where she was, but it reminded her of Twilight’s description of where she teleported to during her ascension. A form slowly faded into existence. “Rarity!” “Sweetie Belle!” cried Rarity. The two raced to one another and wrapped each other in a loving embrace. Sweetie Belle felt intensely warm and her fur soft. Rarity could feel the filly growing stronger, filling with life. “What’s going on?” asked Sweetie. “Where are we?” “We haven’t much time, dear. Just know that I love you very much and I did this for you.” “Did what?” she asked, looking up into the tearing eyes of her sister. Rarity knew the moment was over, and she stepped away from her sister. “I will be waiting for you on the other side.” “Rarity! Wait!” Sweetie Belle found herself lying on the ground in the middle of a forest. She didn’t know where she was or how she’d gotten there. She peered through the trees and saw a sunrise or sunset, she couldn’t be sure. “Sweetie Belle!” She turned towards the familiar voice, “Spike!” Author's Note Come back tomorrow for the final two chapters! Dreadnought
Chapter 3Though a Sunday afternoon, Carousel Boutique was alive with activity, with Rarity’s friends having come to clean and organize the shop. Twilight stood behind a desk, carefully cataloguing every item. Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash were in the storefront sorting the gowns and accessories. Meanwhile Pinkie Pie, Starlight, and Applejack were going through the belongings in the private residence. There was much work to be done before the auction and final selling of the boutique. The past two weeks had been an emotional rollercoaster for everyone. There was the unbridled joy of the return of Sweetie Belle, who had been first been warmly embraced by her parents before being squished between her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders. Everypony welcomed the little filly home. But this was tempered by the knowledge of the terrible price paid. Grief existed alongside joy, hope with despair. There was no denying it. The ancient book from the Castle of the Two Sisters indicated where Rarity was going. And a magical analysis by Twilight and Celestia had proven beyond doubt that Rarity’s lifeforce now resided within Sweetie Belle. Everypony had felt the pain and responded in their own way. Fluttershy cried for days, and even now had to take breaks to wipe her eyes. Rainbow Dash had grown bitter, angrily demanding to know why Rarity never told them or bothered to say goodbye. Pinkie Pie retreated to Sugarcube Corner, relentlessly baking before gorging herself, for days on end. And Twilight struggled to understand. It was only because of Applejack that the group had held together. The farmpony had experienced death before, and though she knew the pain would never really go away, had learned to live with it and served as an emotional rock in the stormy seas of emotion. Twilight examined every item, writing a brief description and giving a price estimate. The door to the back creaked open, everypony stopping and looking up from their work. Applejack stepped in, followed by Pinkie Pie and Starlight. “Gals... Ah’ve found something.” “What?” asked Twilight. Applejack held up an envelope. It read: To my dear friends - Rarity Twilight levitated the envelope over and pulled forth the letter from within. Everyone gathered around as she read the letter aloud: To my dearest friends, If you are reading this letter, then the spell was successful and Sweetie Belle has returned to life. I’m afraid I will be unable to join in the celebrations. The price for her life was mine. I do not expect for you welcome my decision or even understand it. However, know that this is what I truly wanted and I happily gave my life for the sake of my sister. Please watch over her and be the older sister that I cannot. I will keep all of you with me as you will keep me with you. Goodbye, Rarity
EpilogueIt was a beautiful spring day in Ponyville. Everywhere there was life. The birds chirped in the trees, whose branches brimmed with fresh green leaves. Flowers bloomed on the ground. Rabbits and other woodland creatures romped about. A group of ponies slowly and quietly gathered. It had been one year since Sweetie Belle’s return. It had been one year since Rarity’s sacrifice. Everypony was there... Sweetie Belle... Applejack... Pinkie Pie... Fluttershy... Rainbow Dash... Twilight Sparkle... Apple Bloom... Scootaloo... Zecora... Princesses Celestia, Luna, and Cadence... Shining Armor... Coco Pommel... Sassy Saddles... the list went on. They took turns placing flowers around a simple stone marker. It read: Rarity A Wonderful Daughter A Loving Sister A True Friend Element of Generosity Author's Note Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed the story. And thanks for Flutterpriest for sponsoring this contest. Dreadnought
