Friendship is Failure #9: Inherit The Sun

Chapters

Act 1: Theories
Act 2: Case Building
Act 3: What do you Believe?
Act 4: Suffering
Act 6: Wishing for Fairness
Act 7: Friendship is Literal?
Final Act: Believe in Belief
Intro: Tears?
Act 5: Big Bad Badger

Act 1: Theories

ACT ONE

The six friends reappeared in the streets of Canterlot, but everything seemed very different. Not only did the palace seem a bit smaller, and missing several towers and wings, but houses were much smaller, made with more simple thatched roofs, and the ponies themselves were all wearing old-style clothing.

Stallions wore suits, had pocket watches, and wore a bowler, top, or skimmer hats.

Mares wore simple dresses. Some wore bonnets, others wore fancy hats.

“Wow! Where are we?” Spike asked.

“Not where… but when.” replied Celestia.

“This is what Canterlot looked like one-hundred years ago.” added Twilight “I remember studying it in Equestrian History.”

Princess Luna looked all around her, at all the many things she had missed out on being banished to the moon for so long. “It still fascinates me; all that happened in my absence.”

Celestia felt a bit down about all that, but that wasn’t the reason she brought them. “Come with me…” she instructed everyone, and they all floated magically along the wind.

“Oh, but… what if some-pony sees us?” asked Fluttershy. “They won’t…” replied Starlight. “I’ve seen this kind of magic before. All these are just shadow-images of the past and memory. No-pony down there can see or hear us.”

“That is correct.” Celestia assured her. “Come along…”

Onward they flew, until they reached their destination, “…The Summer Sun Festival!” cried Twilight. Surely enough, it was almost exactly the same as the one she had just witnessed before the time travel, only there weren’t as many ponies gathered round because Canterlot was not as populated as it was back then.

The royal fanfare announced and Princess Celestia, or rather her past-self took the stage, welcoming her guests and preparing to raise the sun.

“This is so incredible!” cried Spike “The festival happened way back here as well…?”

“Oh, much longer than that.” replied Celestia “The Sumner Sun festival is one of the most well-known and noblest traditions from ancient Equestria, but that’s beside the point.”

She then pointed her hoof at a single pony amongst the crowd.

His name was Dr. Beckon Rates: He was a red unicorn, with a dark brown mane. He was also a scientist and scholar, whom taught at Canterlot School while maintaining a life of philosophy founded through his research and discoveries, hence why his cuitemark was a picture of a pendulum in a flask.

He was also engaged to a very lovely mare; Petal Dance; A Pink unicorn with a long yellow mane. She was a basic flower pony. She sold all kinds of beautiful flowers. Naturally, her cutiemark was a big basket of flowers.

She unfortunately was standing with her father; Preach Choir. He was a pale yellow unicorn with a short grey mane, due to his age. As his name, and his tome cutiemark picture, inquired, he was the town preacher of the church, and he was rather skeptical and somewhat uneased with the engagement.

He was never one to care for science and discoveries and all that, as he preferred to stick to believing in the power of friendship, the righteous in magic, but as a preacher he also preferred not to get so overly worked up at every little detail and, as was entailed in his biblical studies; respect his fellow pony-kind.

“Wow, I don’t think I’d want to get into an argument with that pony.” said Spike.

“Keep quiet, the ceremony starting.” Twilight snapped. She had quite forgotten in all the excitement that she and the others couldn’t be heard anyway.

Celestia’s past-self prepared to raise the sun, but the real Celestia motioned her friends to, “Look at Rates…”

Everyone looked down at the young pony and saw him don a pair of unusual spectacles, with a load of tiny but weird gizmos and gadgets on them. He put the glasses on, and stared directly at what was happening.

The real Celestia was growing nervous at this point, that she suddenly froze the images, like hitting “Pause”. She looked very shameful, and was quivering softly.

“Sister…” Luna cried in concern.

“Something wrong?” asked Starlight.

Celestia almost went into a hyperventilation, but managed to get a-hold of herself, and she told the others “What you are about to see is a deep and dreaded secret I have held for ages.”

The others felt nervous but curious at the same time, and Celestia made the images go again. That’s when her past self’s horn was glowing and it was the moment of truth…!

The sun began to rise… only… it was rising very slowly, like it naturally would. It didn’t raise at the same speed as Celestia rose in the air herself.

“What the…?” cried Twilight.

“What’s happening?” asked Fluttershy. She suddenly got her answer as the sunlight shone directly down on all the ponies, through the sun-monument on the stage, and Past-Celestia’s cutiemark began to glow brightly as the light!

“It can’t be…!” cried Starlight, but she knew exactly what she was “She’s absorbing the energy from the sunlight.”

All the friends slowly gawked at Celestia, whom was looking greatly saddened and ashamed of herself as she slowly admitted, “…I… cannot truly raise the sun.”

Twilight felt like she wanted to fall down, though she was floating in midair. “No, that can’t be true!”

Princess Luna confessed, “I’m afraid it is. My sister cannot truly raise the sun, and I myself am incapable of raising the moon.”

“No way!” snapped Spike “I can’t believe that. I mean… we see it happen. I even saw Twilight shift the moon all around when she tried to raise it.”

The friends agreed to that, but Celestia insisted “…Just watch the images. You will see.”

Rates was shocked by what his glasses had revealed to him. They were his own special invention that would prevent him from being tricked by any illusion caused by magic, and what he was exactly what the friends had seen.

“I knew it…!” he said softly to himself, and he excused himself from the crowds in such a hurry, and went right past his fiancée and her father, not even stopping to say hello or say where he was going. “What’s up with him?” Petal asked; “Probably in such a hurry to get back to his science mumbo-jumbo.” said her father. “I really don’t know what you see in that pony.”

“Father, he means well, and he’s a good-pony.”

“Ha! Then why did renounce his faith in our Celestial House… turn his back on the foundations that make this world righteous?”

Petal hesitated. It was true, her fiancé had quit attending her father’s services some time ago, but she was confided between herself and Rates. “Father, he doesn’t mean any harm. Don’t go hard on him.”

“Oh…” her father scoffed “Well, I supposed it’s not that much trouble, and if you’re happy… I supposed I can be happy too, just as long as…”

“Just as long as I know where my faith lies… I know. It lies with Friendship, magic, and the belief of Celestia.”

Petal pecked her father on the check, and then left him to find her fiancé.

She knew, from the way he had run, he had retreated to his home and laboratory, not far from the fair grounds. She knocked on the door, “Beck…? Are you in there?”

“It’s not locked.” Rates called to her, and she let herself inside the small house.

Rates was a serious pony when it came to his work and studies. He had small chemistry sets in a corner of the one-room house, posters of star constellations and of the moon, and many shelfs of books.

“Petal… I’ve done it! I’ve confirmed my theory of the sun.”

Petal froze on the spot, “What?”

“I mean it…” Rates said, with giddy in his voice, “I’ve always theorized that the sun and stars can’t simply be manipulated, especially when confirming it with natural science studies. Now, thanks to my disillusion-specs, I’ve finally seen…

Princess Celestia can’t actually make the sun rise or set. It’s all an illusion, a trick.”

Petal did not like the way he was preaching, against such things that were her faith, her family’s faith, and the faith of many ponies all over Equestria, “I can’t believe that…!” she simply said and turned to leave, but Rates dashed up and stopped her, “No, no… hear me out…

Petal, for a long time now, Natural Science and Faith and Belief have always been on opposing sides. Some ponies believe in one truth and try to silence the others out, thinking they’re always right. But just think, like all the scientists and naturalists of the past, what if I was able to help them bridge that gap; introduce new theories and new ideas of ways for everyone to think instead of being pushed all the time of what to believe in?”

He was starting to sound like an obsessive mad pony, but Petal knew him better than that. “You just be careful, Beckon Rates. You’re going to marry me… not your work.”

He smiled at her, and they shared a soft kiss.

Over the past month, Rates made it his mission to get what he saw out into the public to help induce his theory, even if it meant labeling the Princess herself as a “Fraud” as the case was, which also included a full documentation of his theory and how he had seen with his own eyes that Celestia could not in fact move the sun, but rather just absorbed light from it as her source of power, and that the illusion that the sun and moon moved were just that, illusions caused by the magic: “Any pony or creature nearby would fall under the illusion the magic created making them only See the sun actually moving.”

Some ponies found this theory interesting, and began to study more in the fields of natural science, but as was possibly anticipated, many ponies were livid and outraged by such a thing.

Especially Petal’s father as he read the daily paper which featured an article on Rate’s theories and teachings. “He’s crazy; absolutely blasphemous.”

“Father he’s not being blasphemous!” Petal protested.

“Oh, you would say that about him, wouldn’t you? Look at this headline; he’s calling the princess a fraud and a cheat!”

“He didn’t say she was a fraud, he said that she just isn’t what she seems, like is all magic.”

“Well, it’s all the same to me.” her father grumbled “Now he’s brainwashing ponies all over to think like he does. Making them turn their backs on Celestia, or the very prophets we live by through friendship and magic!”

Petal didn’t like the way her father was acting, as if for once he was willing to forgo respecting his fellow ponies. “Father, can’t you just let it slide? It’s not doing any harm and neither is Beck.”

“Sorry, hon… but this time I just have to put my hoof down.” her father said “The last thing I want is people leaving my flock the way he did, and saying that friendship isn’t magic and that it can’t help you like he did.”

Petal had heard enough and got up to leave.

“Where do you think you’re going?”

“I’m going to see Beck.”

“Not if I have anything to say if it you won’t. He’s nothing but bad news and you won’t see him so he can put all these ideas into your head.”

“But we’re engaged, and I don’t care what you think of him… I care for him and I will see him as I like.”

Before her father could protest, his daughter had gone, leaving him feeling disgusted in her. “I don’t know where she gets it from. Her mother was never this much of a nag.”

He really felt Petal didn’t understand. He wasn’t trying to smite or badmouth Rates. All he really wanted was for him to stop his preaching, feeling that he was wrong to do it in every way; wrong to mix up ponies emotions and ways of looking at life.

Just then, the mail pony dropped a series of letters through the mail-slot. “Ah, mail’s in.”

He ran through the letters, and discovered one of them was from his friend who worked as an attorney at town-hall.

“Dear Preacher…

I think I may have found a way to get that no-good science blabbermouth to hush up.

Look at the document I’ve enclosed and you’ll see what I mean.”

Preacher looked at the document enclosed with the letter, and as he read it, his eyes twinkled, and he looked up in a thankful prayer, “Celestia, bless you.”

The six friends saw the whole thing, “What does he mean?” Spike asked.

Celestia, looking more shameful than ever admitted, “It turned out that a law had been passed long ago about the teachings of friendship and harmony in Canterlot; and that any teaching against it was highly illegal. It was just never enforced.”

The others didn’t like where this was leading. “Didn’t you know of it?”

“Of course I did…” replied Celestia “When I read the headlines, I was surprised that my secret had been discovered. Many ponies had theorized about it but were just never able to prove it, but after receiving so many letters of protests, calls for the law to be passed in order to maintain the good order the ponies had…” she paused, and she didn’t have to say another thing.

“You passed the law…” said Fluttershy.

Celestia nodded regretfully, “Even though I always felt every-pony had a right to their own opinion, this was a strong secret that I always feared would cause a rift in the harmonies and friendships established throughout the land.

And just at all that happened recently-- all these uproars, and ponies arguing with one another-- I couldn’t bear it. I was worried what would happen if this continued; that many nations and countries would turn on others.

So I felt I had to pass the law. Even though I knew what would happen then to Dr. Rates.”

The next images everyone saw was that of Rates being arrested for teaching theories of the sun and stars to his class, which was made illegal by the passing law, and he was hauled off to jail!

Act 2: Case Building

ACT TWO

The friends could not believe what they had just witnessed. “He’s being hauled off to jail just for teaching things that we learn every day in life?” Starlight asked “That’s just cruel.”

“Oh, that poor Pony...” Fluttershy cried. Her eyes were filling with tears of pity for Rates.

Twilight and Spike were still in total shock by the fact that Celestia could not truly raise the sun; which was what started all this.

None felt as bad as Celestia herself, especially when she had passed the law forbidding the teachings against the beliefs of friendship.

Luna tried to comfort her, “Sister, you were under pressure, and trying to help your subjects maintain a peaceful order.”

“I know…” agreed Celestia “But so much had happened already, and I didn’t wish for things to get any worse.”

She clenched herself tightly, telling the ponies that things did get worse from then on.

The images continued…

Over the past few days, Beckon Rates was labeled as a piranha. So many ponies in town turned against him. Protesting outside the Canterlot jailhouse, even making straw statutes of him to burn while singing rejoicing songs, some even threw a few rocks at the cell window hoping to hit the newly labeled “Heathen”

“Friendship hater…!”

“May the Princess have your head on her wall!”

“Friendship: Forever! Science: Never…!”

Poor Rates just sat in his cell contemplating the ridiculousness of all this; just because of a simple theory which he had proven was correct, and a such a ridiculous law saying not to teach against friendship.

Suddenly, the cell doors opened and the police ponies came in, “You’ve got a visitor, Rates.”

“I’m not in the mood right now.” Rates responded calmly.

“It’s Petal Dance.”

Hearing that, Rates dashed out of his cell…

Before long, he and his fiancée were sharing a loving embrace. She defied her father to visit the pony she loved. “Oh, Beck, can’t you just apologize… say that you didn’t mean it.”

Rates backed away from her softly, feeling insulted, “I never meant it to begin with. I wasn’t trying to destroy friendship or call it bad.

Besides, what good would it do anyway? They’re trying to silence me, Petal. They’re trying to block out the things I’ve studied, and the facts of natural life. What, they want to free my body and lock up my mind?”

His fiancée looked at him lovingly, “At least we could be together.”

Much as that would normally comfort him, Rates disagreed, “It wouldn’t be the same. I can’t live a lie, Petal. I could never lie outside while still locked up inside; forbidden from being myself.”

He paused and gazed at her deeply in her eyes, “Could you do that, Petal? Could you stand to live like that?”

Petal honestly didn’t know how to answer him. “I remember all the good times we had; skipping through the meadows. Swimming in the lakes, picnics on the hillsides while we looked up at the stars wondering about them, and looking at the moon wondering what was beyond it.

Beck, we can still have all that.”

“No, Petal… we couldn’t.” said Rates, “They’re asking to stop thinking like that because they feel it goes against friendship and magic. Who knows, maybe it does… but if all ponies continue to think like that, there would be no more free thinking, and nothing to set us apart from one-another or to make us different and unique.”

Tears were starting to form in Petal’s eyes, “I’d rather be apart from them than be away from you.”

They shared a kiss, only to be suddenly interrupted when someone cleared their throat.

There stood a middle aged, grey Earth Pony with a short white mane, and his cutiemark was that of a law book. “So, sorry to interrupt.” he said kindly.

“And who are you?” asked Petal.

The pony passed her a card from his jacket pocket, “Lawford Drummer, attorney law, scientific journalist, and representative of your fiancé.”

Rates hastily grabbed the card, “Oh, yes, I’ve heard of you. I’ve even read up some of your works. They inspired me to become a scholar.”

“Well your compliment gives me some hope.” said Drummer “These are dark times for the studies of science and naturalism, and it appears you caused quite an uproar that spread all over Equestria.”

He got out a newspaper from his briefcase; the headline which read: “Rates Label Princess Celestia Fraud!”

Rates was outraged by such a headline. “I never called her a fraud, I merely said that…”

“Oh, save your breath, son.” Drummer said “You can preach about what you say all you want, but unless you’re a holy preacher, or a biblical scholar… the folks won’t care a bit.

I know this, sir, because I’ve had my own share of ridicule and harsh judgement over my own theories and thought processes. That’s why I came straight here from Ponyville to defend you myself, like I would gladly defend a colleague of the finer facts of life, as well as the state of knowledge and learning.”

Petal was starting to feel worried of the upcoming trial. “Can’t we just appeal to Princess Celestia about the law; have it repealed?”

Drummer shook his head, “No, ma’am. Magna Carta states that even the Princess must abide by her own laws. Once she passes up a law she can’t cut it out willy-nilly. She has to have a good and legitimate reason to repeal it, and that’s what I’m here for; to get that reason.”

He then looked at Rates, “Don’t you worry, son. There hasn’t been a case of science yet that I can’t pull through. No matter what tricks they try to pull.”

Beck felt hope returning, but Petal was more worried than ever.

When she returned home, it was very late. She assumed her father would be asleep, but surprise… he was right there, waiting for her, and he didn’t look too pleased. “I saved you some dinner.” he said to her in a deep dark tone.

His daughter said nothing, and she didn’t have to. He knew she was with Rates again, even though he told her not to. Rather than reprimand her, he gazed at her pitifully, “Peace will come, my dear. There will be hope for you yet now that the sinner is exposed for all to see.”

“Stop it!” snapped Petal “Beck isn’t a sinner, father, and I won’t leave him no matter how much you may want me to. I love him!”

Her father struggled to maintain his demeanour, “But you can’t love him anymore! He’s brought nothing but shame and heresy to our town, our congregation.”

“No, he hasn’t!” snapped Petal “Father, I don’t understand you. You said you wanted me to be happy.”

“Yes, but I want you to be of pure in mind, righteous of soul. Now that I see Rates for what he truly is--”

“A teacher, Father…! He is a teacher and a scientist. All he was doing was proving and teaching there are alternative methods. Why can’t you see that? Why can’t any-pony see that? Why do you hate him so? You have ever since you first met him when I introduced him to you.”

Peach turned his back to her and stated very deeply, “Because… he stands against everything that I believe in, everything that I love and stand for; my faith in Princess Celestia, my love of her teachings and magical gifts to the world. These are the things that Equestria is built on and that which sustains us from evil!”

Petal felt heart-struck that her father would call her fiancée evil! He was beginning to seem less like a preacher and more a self-appointed prophet telling ponies how to think and what to do! Almost like how every-pony in town was behaving towards Rates.

Her father then looked at the daily paper which told of how Lawford Drummer was going to be representing Rates in the upcoming trial. “Now we have him to deal with. Him and his scientific fiddle-fuddle to say Celestia is a fake and that friendship is wrong!”

“Friendship is not wrong!” snapped Petal “That’s not what this is all about!”

Her father glared sternly at her, and then looked a picture of his late wife on the mantle above the fireplace, “I thank Celestia that your mother isn’t here to see what you’ve become. You’ve betrayed me, and you should pray for forgiveness!”

Finally, he had gone too far. Petal looked him dead in the eyes and stated “I haven’t betrayed anyone, Dad!” There was a harsh silence as her father looked at her; having never been addressed merely as “Dad” before.

“Maybe it’s you who has betrayed me!”

Her father nearly broke into tears, and got down on his knees praying for forgiveness, but in really an attempt to ignore his daughter’s bashing him.

“Ever since I was little filly, I was afraid to go to bed in the dark, fearing of shadows and monsters, and I wanted to run to you and having you hold me and tell me that everything would be okay…

…But it turns out, I was more afraid of YOU than ever I was of the dark!”

Still her father would not listen and continued to cry out to the heavens for his daughter’s forgiveness, prompting her to run to her room in tears.

At the same time, her father burst into tears himself. “Where did I go wrong?” he cried to no one in particular “How can I help her? Please… I pray… send me a miracle to save my daughter!”

Fluttershy began to cry herself. She had never seen such drama and sadness. One pony was in jail, a father and daughter were losing faith in each other. “It’s so sad!” she sobbed “So heartbreaking!”

Celestia’s tears were falling as well, but she stayed strong not to cry herself.

Her sister took pity on her, “Sister, if you wish to stop this…?”

“Yes, your highness. We’ll understand.” added Twilight, but Celestia shook her head, insisting that they continue onward.

There was a knock at Preach’s front door. It was one of his well-known supporters named Ma Wool; a middle-aged blue Earth Pony mare, with a two-toned colored mane due to her age, and a cutiemark of knitting needles.

“What brings you hear, my child?” Preach asked kindly.

Ma smiled widely and said, “I’ve got great news, and surely it’s the work of the friendship of heavens. I know who’s going to be representing our side of the trial…”

She handed him a letter of notice, and Preach’s eyes glittered brighter than when he first learned about the law enforcement. “Thank Celestia! Thank the gods and the magic of friendship!”

A few days later, which the friends skipped instantly to, there was a big celebration. The streets were loud with cheers from the many ponies that had gathered, welcoming a visitor to Canterlot.

His name: Mayhew Sunshine Shady. A middle-aged maroon tawny colored Pegasus pony. With dark hair on the sides of his head while the top of his head was clear. His cutiemark: a picture of a table, the kind used in the ancient days for writing commandments.

He was a well-known biblical scholar, and considered among the holiest of many ponies; almost the equivalent to Preach Chior; believing in magic and in Celestia’s teachings and friendship, knowing many passes in the history of said actions.

His wife, Penny Till, a maroon colored pegasai with a dark toned mane, and a penny in a poor-box as her cutiemark… she rode next to him in the carriage, waving to the crowds and accepting their welcome cheers.

As soon as they got to Canterlot town-hall, Shady greeted everyone. “My friends, my fellow ponies, believers, and of course, thanks to the light of the princess.”

Everyone bowed as if he were addressing Celestia as a prayer, despite her not even being present.

“You didn’t attend?” Starlight asked.

Celestia shook her head, “I was away at a conference in Baltimare while this was happening. This was a mere meeting setup by the townsfolk, but of course I knew then the kind of pony that Mr. Shady was. Despite him claiming to be biblical and righteous…

…Well, see for yourself.”

The friends all watched as Shady gave his speech.

“My friends, my wife and I have come all the way from Cloudsdale, to help represent you in this dark time that you village has fallen into. For as said in the biblical studies…

Gusty 25:17 The path of the thinker and the pony is beset on all sides by the inequities of the spiteful and tyranny of hate teachings

Blessed are they who, in the name of the magic of friendship and harmony, shepherd the meek through the valley of the opposing

For they are truly their fan's keepers and the finders of lost wills
And we will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy our ways of life!

Blessed are you who withstand malevolence, for you with approval, shall receive the crown of friendship. Peace be with you!”

The crowd of supporters cheered for joy, feeling the case was already one. Many were even slandering at the arts and sciences that were being put to trial.

…Much to Twilight’s outrage! “I can’t believe this! They’re all behaving like a brigade of avengers… over learning?!”

“Believe me, I felt the same when I first witnessed these images.” said Luna.

Spike couldn’t stop glaring at Shady, “Boy, he doesn’t seem like the kind the ponies want to question.”

“That’s what I felt as well.” agreed Celestia “Shady would send me many letters of thanks to me for providing for the community, sharing my teachings. As flattering as it was, it did get rather annoying in time; being constantly thanked for every single thing! Some of which I didn’t even cause myself.”

The friends felt sorry for her having to endure all that, but then again it came with her title and role as monarch of Equestria.

“If you think that’s all bad… wait until you see the trial.”

Act 3: What do you Believe?

ACT THREE

The images skipped then to the day of the trial. It was a very hot day, as it was summer, and the Pegasus Ponies were performing their weather duties elsewhere as was arranged by the Cloudsdale council. There were other places all over Equestria that needed rain and strong cool breezes more than Canterlot did.

Still, it was only the first day of court, and in those days of Equestria, the Jury was selected by interview in court itself, cross-examined by the prosecution and the defense.

Many ponies from all over Canterlor wowed and cheered for Shady and his Prosecuting attorney pony as they proceeded to the courthouse, while many ponies booed and taunted at Drummer as he approached the courthouse alone, as he was the defense attorney.

“Blasphemer!”

“Take you science stuff, and go home!”

Drummer merely took the insults with humor, “If I didn’t know any better I’d say they didn’t like me.”

He didn’t let it discourage him as he preferred to concentrate on his case.

The courtroom was a simple place. Many ponies in town wished to attend, greatly siding with the prosecution, but the defense was not without its siders as well, and mainly a bunch of students, teachers, and even colleagues at the firm of science and technology, angry at the way people were scoffing at science being an enemy of friendship.

Reporters for the papers were busy taking photographs and working on their typewriters, which were special enchanted with magic not to make noise as the ponies typed, but much to the Judge’s displeasure.

She was dark grey unicorn with a light brown mane, but very strict and determined to maintain the order of the court.

She used her magic to bang her gavel, “You will kindly desist with the taking of pictures for the moment.” she ordered. “We shall proceed to select our twelfth and final juror. Is the defense ready?”

Drummer nodded, “Ready your honor.”

“The prosecution… Mr. Shady, are you ready?”

Shady’s attorney stood, “Proceed, your honor.”

Shady nodded in agreement.

The last pony to be called to be questioned for jury duty was a simple White Unicorn, with a golden yellow mane, and his name was Night Light.

Much to Twilight’s astonishment, “Night Light…? That’s my father’s name!”

Celestia nodded and confirmed, “That, Twilight Sparkle, is your father’s grandfather, and your great-grandfather.”

Twilight was ever so astonished. Her great father was already deceased before she was born and she never knew much of him from what she studied form her family history. Only that he was a simple farm pony from Canterlot.

He even had his picture taken by the reporters, forcing the judge to bang her gavel angrily, “I thought I had made myself clear about those pictures?! I will not say it again!”

The photographers put their cameras down, while the other reporters worked on their silent typewriters.

“Shall we continue!” shouted the judge.

Shady then stood, “Your honor, before we continue, I would like to present a small gift to this court, as a motion to a matter of procedure.”

The judge adjusted her glasses, “And what sort of gift is this, and how is it a motion?”

Shady stated, “Due to the sweltering heat outside, this courtroom has become rather steamy for proceedings. Therefore, out of the goodness of my heart, and a gift to all, I shall like to present the courtroom with these…”

He motioned towards the door and several unicorns came in presenting large electrical fans, much to the pleasure of the crowd, and even the judge was touched by this gift, and she allowed the motion to pass, as she herself was discomforted by the heat.

The crowds cheered and blessed shady, much to the chagrin of the defense. “Case hasn’t even started, and already it’s like he’s trying to bribe everyone to think his way.” groaned Rates.

“Don’t worry about it.” said Drummer “It’s against the law to bribe the court anyway, and besides it’s better than sweltering.”

Rates sighed, and then looked over his shoulder at his beloved Petal Dance, who was sitting in the crowds, on the side of the prosecution with her father. Most likely, Preach Choir demanded she show her faith and side with him, but she gazed lovingly at him, giving her all her best hopes, much to the charge of her father, and other members siding with a the prosecution.

Once the fans were plugged in and switched on, the courthouse felt a little cooler. The judge then declared, “Now then, we shall proceed in the selection of the final juror.”

The two represent ivies nodded, and the belief approached Twilight’s Great Grandfather. “Sir, your name and occupation please.”

“Name’s Night Light, I am simple farmer, but I wish it to be known, I believe in the faith of Celestia. I believe in magic, and I have more than a lot of belief in the power of friendship.”

The crowds were bedazzle by his speech and cheered him on, until the judge banged her gavel demanding silence.

Shady’s attorney stood, “Well, I believe it’s safe to say the prosecution deems this pony acceptable.”

“And may I add… Bless you sir, for your kind devotion in our cause.” Shady added. Night Light nodded thankfully.

“Mr. Drummer…?” the Judge called.

“No questions.” Drummer simply replied, and without much hesitation, much to the confusion. “I see him fit. I have nothing to question him about.”

There was an outbreak of chattering, and the judge banged her gavel.

“I object to this.” said Shady “I find it quite baffling to the defense attorney rejecting to questioning a noble citizen without questioning.”

Drummer turned and gazed at Shady, telling him, “Unlike yourself, Mr. Shady, I choose not to judge someone simply of their beliefs, as the way you and your followers have at us scientists.”

“The objection is sustained.” The judge declared “You should at least ask the witness one question, Mr. Drummer, in view of proper proceedings.”

Drummer sighed, and complied, “Fine, I will ask him a question.”

He approached Night Light and asked him simply, “What’s one plus one? There, I asked a question.”

Everyone burst into laughter.

The judge demanded order, and the prosecutors were outraged, but Drummer repeated, “As I have said, I have no objections to this pony being on the jury, just as I am not protesting to his beliefs and faith.”

“Your honor!” snapped Shady “In the case of which, I will not hesitate to ask questions. If you will permit so...”

“Very well; Proceed, Mr. Shady…”

Shady stood up, and approached Night Light. “Mr. Light, you have a family I presume?”

Night Light nodded, “I have a wife, and she expected to give birth in few months.”

“Well then, tell me sir. When your children are all born, how you rather they be brought up: Either basking in the glories of friendship and magic, or learning of fancy science tale…”

“Objection!” snapped Drummer “We’re supposed to be selecting jury members, not denouncing them. This is exactly the kind of stuff I was telling you of earlier.”

“Objection sustained.” declared the judge.

With that, Shady asked a different question, regarding Rates, “How do you regard the defendant?”

“Dr. Rates? Well… I hardly even know him. He came to my farm to buy vegetables, and paid his bill normally. I can say he’s an honest and hard-working individual.”

Some of the crowd began to think differently about Night Light. He had stated he was a faith believer, and yet he wouldn’t hold Rates in any contempt.

“Well, I can see Mr. Light here is an honest and faith-fearing pony himself.” said Shady, “I still accept him.”

“Very well, Mr. Shady…” said the Judge, “Mr. Drummer, do you still wish to ask no actual questions?”

“No, your honor. I shall ask...” replied Drummer, and he approached the witness, “Now, sir, you have stated that you are a faith believer, yet you don’t hold the defendant in any contempt whatsoever. Is that true?”

“Well… yes, I can’t really say much about a pony I don’t even know.”

“Tell me, something… do you know how to read?”

Night Light felt stunned…

…Twilight felt just as stunned.

“Why… yes I know how to read.”

“What sort of things do you read? Poetry, engineering, math, history; or maybe even science…?”

“I… uh… I’m not sure.”

“Did you ever curl up one night in bed, unable to sleep, picked up a book of science, read it and found its passing and teachings to be somewhat fascinating?”

Shady wasn’t going to take this standing down!

“Your honor… the defense attorney is deviating from the issue at hand with all these hypothetical and irrelevant subjects.”

Drummer sneered at Shady, “I am merely trying to establish what he believes in the form of science, just as you did with your questioning him in his faith, and you have already accepted him… haven’t you?”

“All I wish is a fair trial, and a good jury to make it.”

“…And so do I, Mr. Shady, but it seems to me you are only interested in finding supporters to your own cause. What, you wish to pass every-pony through inspection, keep all the ones you like to yourself and disregard all the rest over petty and illogical reasoning?”

The Judge banged her gavel and sneered, “Gentlemen, you are both out of order! I hereby rule that jury has been selected.”

She banged her gavel hard, and at the precise moment, all the lights went out. The electric fans and all their plugs overloaded the circuit-breaker in the building.

The maintenance ponies jumped straight to work and promised to have everything working and much better soon.

The judge decided, “Due to this power failure, and the incoming the intense heat… court is adjourned until tomorrow at midday.”

Ponies began file out, and Petal wanted to go over the Rates and talk with him, but the belief already took him along, to take him back into custody. As he walked off, he looked over his shoulder at her, with a comical look on his face; a look of hopelessness.

As he was removed from the courtroom, ponies began to slur at him.

“We’ll fix you, Rates!”

“We’ll run you out of town!”

“Fascist!”

Ma Wool took a moment to slander at Drummer, “You scientific scoundrel! We’ll burn you at the stake!”

“On what law, ma’am…?” Drummer sneered at her “I do not believe they burn ponies at the stake anymore. Now, I suggest you leave before you are charged with threatening.”

Ma felt insulted, but left graciously.

The friends watched as Rates was taken away, and they all felt a mixture of sadness for him and Petal, and anger and outrage at the proceedings. “Well was pathetic…” snapped Starlight “All they did was pretty much act like spoiled ponies arguing over a bright shiny toy.”

“Poor Rates…” cried Fluttershy “He seemed so helpless. I wish I could be there to comfort him.” she knew she couldn’t as Rates was just an image, but the others all shared Fluttershy’s idea, feeling Rates really needed a lot of comfort.

Suddenly, Petal couldn’t take it any longer. “Wait! Hold it!” she called as she dashed up to Rates, much to her father’s disapproval, as hinted by his shaking his head.

“Beck… Beck, please… I can’t bear this anymore; you have to call this off right now.”

“And, who are you?” Drummer asked.

“This is Petal Dance, my fiancée.” replied Rates “She’s the daughter of the Preacher.”

“You mean Preach Choir?” asked Drummer “Oh, boy, this puts a big explanation on some things.”

Ignoring Drummer’s slandering, Petal begged her fiancé, “Beck, I can’t stand the way others are looking at you, and they might turn on me next. Can’t you see, they’re just using you as an excuse; a pawn to turn you against your country-ponies.

All you’re doing now is just making things worse!”

Rates felt shocked that she said such a thing to his face; and he wondered if perhaps her father had something to do with it, knowing what kind of pony he was!

It was Drummer who spoke up, “My dear, you must understand, the world we live in is shrouded in mysteries waiting to be realized, and understanding in those makings.”

Rates sighed, “Well I don’t seem to understand anything anymore. All I tried to do was teach about alternative idealisms, different choices, but no… every-pony looks at me like I’m some kind of murderer! All because I was trying to open their minds; give them a little knowledge they could use!”

“Well they are using it…” said Drummer “They’re using it against you, or at least trying to. After all, in a way you are murdering their beliefs, their fairy-tales.” he chuckled “Well they seem to be acting accordingly; they want to bring down a wrath of protest and stones upon your beliefs like they did to ponies of the past for their ways.”

“Please, stop!” cried Petal “I can’t stand the way you speak of it, you make it sound like it were all a joke.”

“My dear…” Drummer said, and he looked her deeply in her eyes so that she would pay attention, “I’ve already seen enough to label this whole as ten jokes, but I understand what Dr. Rates is feeling. I know what it feels like to be shunned, to be ridiculed, poked and prodded at for what you believe in and what you wish to stand for.”

He stopped and then looked at Rates, “Well sir, that’s what I’m here for; not to change ponies’ minds, but to defend you because you got yourself into this. You were standing up for something you believed in.

But what happens if someone walks up to you and offers you shelter and food, but under the notion, “Sir, I ask you to think like me. Believe what I believe in. Like what I like, hate what I hate, and never question why.”

Petal and Rates both felt struck by his preaching.

“Well, it’s up to you, sir.” said Drummer “But consider this… Look at me…! I have works published in a order of scientific education, I’ve defended many like you before when they were down and had no-pony else to turn to…

…And did I get here because I let other ponies push me around and tell me how to live my life, and what was right or wrong?”

A moment of silence followed as Rates thought it over hard.

“Well, think of it.” said Drummer “Is the law right and are you wrong? Just say so, we can change the plea, the whole thing ends and you go right on with whatever you think is right…

…Unless of course, you know the way they think is wrong for you.”

With that, he said no more, and packed up his briefcase to go prepare his case.

Petal knew there was only one thing to say to Rate now…

“Beck, listen to me. I love you… and I want to be with you, and raise a family, but how can we if things stay the way they are now? I want our children to grow up not being hated and scorned, but well respected and understood among others. But if things stay the way they are now, I don’t know what to think.”

Rates hated what he was about to say, but ultimately it came out, “Well what kind of life could I give them if I gave up?

I told you before, Petal… I can’t live a lie. I won’t do that. Plus, if I quit now, nothing will really have changed for the better. Every-pony would still hold it against me, they don’t forget things like this, and what about others who are with me by my side; those who want to think like I do and bask in the glories of options?”

Tears were flowing down Petal’s face. It was as if he was trying to make her choose, and this was ultimately confirmed as he said earnestly, “Petal, I can’t live how you want me to, or how they want me to. That’s not even friendship or magic, it’s nothing more than blatant dominance.

It’s your choice, Petal, but you need to pick your side.

What is it going to be: Living in ignorance and lies, or standing up for rights and freedom of knowledge?

Is it me or your father, Petal? …You cannot have both.”

Petal stood where she was, feeling her heart-breaking.

“Let’s go, Rates. You’ve taken long enough.” the bailiff said, and he took Rates off with him back to the jailhouse, leaving Petal all by herself in the empty courtroom.

The other six friends felt as heartbroken as Petal looked. No one said a thing, it was just so heart-wrenching to see a mare torn between her family’s beliefs and the one she loved.

What was Petal going to do? ��ި�"

Act 4: Suffering

ACT FOUR

The next images the friends saw was later on that night. A big banquet dinner was being hosted at the hotel for the attorneys, and anyone from the prosecution or defense was welcome without question.

Sad to say, more ponies seemed to huddle around Shady at his big table, requesting to sit with him to discuss matters of the case, while Drummer at a small table for two by himself in a corner of the room and at his meal.

Shady’s followers were listening to Shady preach on about slander the science community. “It constantly amazes me; the way these ponies would have their children defecting to a world of science and disrespect. If you ask me it’s just a whole lot of ways to kill each other in wars than come to mutual agreements.

It’s all just a load darkness compared of the light of friendship, I say.”

“HERE HERE…” the ponies all cheered, raising their glasses.

“But Mr. Shady…” asked a supporter “Do you really think all of Canterlot will share your view of things?”

“Oh, I should hope so…” replied Shady “But then again, it’s not just for Canterlot, but all of Equestria, and I’m sad to say there are just as some out there who share the point of view of the scientific evolution.”

The friends were far from amused with Shady’s attitude, “I’m really starting to hate this guy…” said Spike.

“Spike, don’t you think that’s a little strong?” asked Twilight.

“Actually, Twilight, I think I’m with Spike.” said Starlight “He seems more bent on changing ponies’ way of thinking than supporting a cause. His type usually only end up in one place on such a path… bottom-ring.”

She based all that from her own past experience and wicked ways in trying to control ponies to think like her, which earned her much sympathy from the others.

“You have to admit, he is rather convincing.” said Fluttershy, as she noted the many ponies gathering around Shady as he said grace to bless the meal. Even thanking Princess Celestia for “The glorious feast” which “She” provided for them; even though she was still in Baltimare attending her conference and would be there for a whole week.

“I said grace for you too, Lawford.” Shady called over, and Drummer grimly raised his glass in mock-thanks, and then turned to concentrate on his own meal while Shady and his followers continued to discuss their matters.

Penny Till came into the dining hall, and smiled at how much fame and attention her husband was getting, even if there was no room for her to sit at the master table.

“Penny, you may sit with me if you want.” Drummer offered.

She kindly accepted his offer. “Oh, Lawford… it’s been too long hasn’t it. You and Mayhew used to be so close.”

Drummer couldn’t deny his own past; there was a time when he and Shady looked up to one another, both believing in friendship and magic. “Well, that’s the evolution of science for you. I saw the light… or in his case, I saw the darkness.”

Penny couldn’t help but chuckle at his humor. She knew he didn’t wish to insult her husband, despite being on opposing sides in the trial. “I never thought I’d see the day when both your ideas would come to this; conflict in the law, and a fight to resolve.”

“Well, it’s not exactly that. It’s more a fight for the right to be different.”

He gazed over at Shady, who was happily talking with his followers, and cracking a few jokes here and there.

“I see the volume of his voice hasn’t changed much either.” Drummer joked.

Penny chuckled, “He does mean well, Law, and I know you do too.”

Drummer smiled, “It sounds better coming from you.”

Both of them looked over at Shady, as he continued to converse and joke about. “Something about him just brings out the worst in me.” Drummer said “The way he keeps telling others how to act and live.”

“Oh, come now…” said Penny, “I think that all any-pony wants is to be cared for and about, and honored in truth.”

The friends thought it was somewhat touching to see how similar both ponies were. “They are two sides of the same coin.” said Celestia

Luna shook her head as she gazed between the two stallions. “It still fascinates me that such ponies as they represent the trial.”

The next images came around later that night, in the churchyard of Petal’s father a she delivered a welcoming mass for all involved, Prosecution and Defense alike, just to hear him out.

Naturally, Shady and his wife attended, and even Drummer attended to get a good idea of what he was fending off; how much devotion the ponies had to their faith and beliefs in Magic and Friendship.

Petal in the crowd as well, as ordered by her father, and she was still trying to stick to her family’s faith so as not to appear unholy, but she had a rather distraught look on her face; still shaken from the ultimatum Rates had presented her with.

It was thing like these that she and many others would turn to her father for confiding, but of course her father’s increasingly and baffling behaviour turned her away from him, especially the way he shouted out to the assembly…

“And it was on that night, that Princess Celestia smite the wicked Nightmare Moon, and banished her to the moon, letting there don light from the glories of harmony, that was caused by the elements, used in the good will of friendship and magic!”

The crowds cheered for him.

Drummer sighed, “My, is this what I came to deal with?” he muttered to Petal. “I think I’ve heard enough. I’ll see you tomorrow in court.” And he left, and just as Preach shouted out…

“Do we believe in the faith and in Celestia?”

“YES!!” responded the crowds.

“Do we believe in the light of friendship and magic?”

“YES!!”

“Do we curse the wicked one who denies the faith?!” naturally he refered to Rates, much to Petals heart-break.

“YES!!” the crowd cheered.

“SHALL WE SMITE THE WICKED ONE FOR HIS GOING AGAINST THE FAITH AND CAST HIM INTO ETERNAL DAMNATION!!”

“YEEEEEEEESSSSSSS!!”

“O’ great gods of friendship, might prosper of magic! Give us the strength to silence the great evil that has descended upon us, as ye had to those who faced our dreaded enemies of old. Let him know… the word of the true faith… let him feast upon the wrath of thy vengeance… and mat his filthy soul be damned for all eternity!!”

“NO!!” screamed Petal, and she ran up to her father, “You can’t damn Beck like this! Don’t pray to destroy him!”

He big father angrily shoved her to the ground, glaring at her most furiously, “And may the teachings of faith condemn the souls who show mercy to this sinner to the same fate! EVEN IF THEY BORN OF MY FLESH AND BLOOD!!”

The crowds gasped, and Petal burst in tears!

Even the friends felt her father had gone too far. “Why you…!!” Spike shouted as he lunged straight for Preach, “Spike…!” cried Twilight.

Spike lunged straight at the loudmouth pony, and flew right through him, crashing onto the ground. The others winced, and spike lay face down on the ground.

“Oof…!” he groaned, “…I forgot, they aren’t real!”

Due to the surroundings and circumstances, even though they could physically walk on the ground, Spike left no prints or marks in the dirt, or even stirred up any dust.

Twilight and Fluttershy floated down to help him back up to the group, and Celestia hung her head low, “They may not be real to us, but they were real and alive once, and all this really happened!”

Luna comforted her sister, and the others were horridly infuriated. Fluttershy felt like crying for poor Petal for the way her father had just treated her.

Shady and Penny comforted the fallen pony, and Penny held her close letting her cry softly, and Shady spoke directly but calmly to her father, “Reverend Choir… that is enough. I understand your feelings and desires to defend your faith that would carry you far, but you needn’t go too far sir. If you wish to save your daughter, you shouldn’t be so quick and brash with her, otherwise will be left with nothing but regret and emptiness, and nothing left to save.”

Preach, panting heavily began to regret his actions, but couldn’t find it to apologize to his daughter either.

“Remember, the proverb taught to us in the chronicles of harmony…” said Shady “It reads: He that troubleth his own family shall inherit the sun: and the fool shall be servant to darkness of soul.”

He then turned to address the crowd, “The teachings of friendship teach us to forgive and forget, and to leave damnation to the will of the fates.

Now I suggest you all go home and rest well. May the blessings of harmony be with you all...”

The stunned, silent crowd left the vicarage not saying a single word, while Preach, ever in so much regret, hung his head low as he himself headed off, not even bothering to look back at his shaken daughter, nor would she look at him, not after what he did! She was so upset and so frightened she didn’t want to go home, not to him!

“Oh, come now, dear…” said Penny “He didn’t mean those things he said.”

Petal tearfully shook her head, “He damned me… my own father!”

“No, no, Petal… he didn’t mean that.” said Penny, but Petal refused to believe “He’s done it to me, he’s done it to Beck, and he did it to…” she stopped before uttering another sound!

“What was that?” Shady asked. Petal tried to deny it, not wishing to say anything. “My dear, if it will help you… that is all I wish to do.”

Petal still felt skeptical, “It’s what started the whole thing, what drove Beck to quit church and question beliefs; a friend of his…! But I told it to Beck in confidence, I swore I’d never tell another soul the reason for his turning his back…!” she began to get hysterical again.

Penny handed the shaken pony a hankie from her purse, “Calm down, Petal. Try to keep calm.”

“We’ll do all we can to help if you explain to us.” her husband added.

Petal was so hysterical and so desperate for help; she actually decided to put her trust in Shady and agreed for her to confide in him.

The friends saw the trio walk off, and they were far from amused by Shady’s sudden act of kindness and sympathy.

Later on, Shady and Penny returned to the hotel to find Drummer sitting outside on the porch. He looked rather lonesome all on his own, of which Shady also seemed to take pity on. “I’ll be up in a moment, dear.” He said as his kissed his wife goodnight.

“Don’t be too long.” Said Penny, “Goodnight, Lawford.”

“Goodnight, Penny.” Drummer called.

After Penny went inside, Shady walked over to Drummer and sat on a chair away from him, “You can’t sleep?”

“No; too hot, too concerned… can’t stop thinking about the case. And you…?”

Shady chuckled, “Oh, what’s the use?” he teased “It still baffles me how it’s come to this. We used to be so close, came from the same view, and then we drifted apart like leaves floating on the water.”

Drummer shrugged, “It’s a natural realism, Mayhew. Things are always changing and we can’t really stop it. Sometimes it’s all for the best.”

Shady couldn’t disagree too much with that, “Still, who has it better, myself or you? Or is it just another one of your scientific realisms?” he joked.

Drummer chuckled, “I know what you’re thinking, but even if I try to explain it, I know just how you’ll react, probably like how that Preach Choir behaved today.”

“How do you know what happened? You left early.”

“He was shouting at the top of his lungs, Mayhew, I could hear him form all the way down the street, so could others.” He paused, “I tell you, if he weren’t a preacher and if I wasn’t as civilized… I’d probably belt him a couple times.”

Shady’s features hardened, but he kept calm, “Oh, really… what happened in the yard was the result of his faith being challenged. He acted in a manner that anyone would have.”

“Well, it still didn’t give him the right to do it, as far as I see.” said Drummer “Faith may be one thing, but the law is another. He’s lucky he didn’t get charged with assault, domestic abuse or making a public spectacle of himself disturbing the peace.”

Shady made no remark about that, he just sighed pitifully, “Is that why you decided to abandon the faith? That which bound us together like brothers, and which we lived among our breather in sanctity and bliss…?”

“Believe me, Mayhew, you may not see it but I still hold some faith, but I also discovered that sometimes things are not as simple as they seem, but that’s all I’ll say to you. I don’t think you’d understand… or least you wouldn’t be willing to.”

It was really getting late and Drummer decided to adjourn to bed.

“I don’t intend to lose this case, Lawford Drummer, just so you know.”

Drummer smirked at his rival, “You something, Mayhew Sunshine Shady… neither do I.”

The two ponies looked at each other either in great respect, or a slight hint of intimidation and determination. “Goodnight, Mayhew, and good luck. You’re going to need it.”

Then he went back inside to adjourn to his room, leaving Shady to sit on the deck ad say to himself, “I don’t need luck, my old friend… because I have faith… and I have something much more than that to back me up.”

He acted rather sinister and secretive.

Act 6: Wishing for Fairness

ACT SIX

Poor Petal, she softly stepped down from the witness stand, and excused from the court so she could recover.

The friends were all outraged with Shady. The way he had just behaved, he was starting to show his true colors. “He’s no scholar, he’s a loudmouthed control-freak!” grumbled Starlight.

Twilight and the others agreed, and Celestia was infuriated with what she had seen. Even though she had seen this before when revisiting the images, it still burned her greatly inside she had not been their live to witness it all.

“Had I been here…” she stated “I would have personally demanded that Shady being held in contempt for his behavior and actions, and charged him with offenses!”

It also brought on great shame to her, remembering it was the fact she couldn’t really raise the sun being discovered that all this began, not to mention how she passed the law.

The trial continued…

“Does the prosecution have any other witnesses?” asked the Judge.

“No, your honor.” replied Shady’s attorney “The prosecution rests.”

“Very well,” said the Judge “We shall proceed with the defense’s case… Mr. Drummer.”

Drummer stood up, and maintained his calm demeanor though he was highly infuriated with how Shady had behaved. Still, he felt that without Petal’s testimony, he could still win the trial with other witnesses he had called in that day.

“I should like to call to the stand a friend and colleague of mine from Ponyville. Dr. Rocky Roads; geologist from the university--”

“Objection…!” Shady cut in “I think I speak for all of us when I ask… How does a geologist fit into this case, and what possible relevance he has?”

“And just what do you mean by that?” snapped Drummer “My client is on trial for teaching sciences and naturalisms. Surely any testimony to this so-called infringement of the law must be submitted by that of an expert.”

Shady shook his head, “It is irrelevant… impossible… improbable.”

Drummer tried talking to the judge. “Your honor, I wish to call my colleague to the stand to demonstrate to the jury the actual meaning of sciences and naturalism. Surely judgment cannot be passed if the jury is not shown this evidence.”

Before the judge could even speak, Shady stood and declared, “Surely we must not forget the law in which we are surfacing excludes such teachings in methods that are used to go against the prophets of magic and friendship.”

He then turned to address the crowd, “You all made it clear that you do not wish any of this scientific hogwash going around town. I refuse to allow any such agnostics to be allowed to preach of any such information.”

Drummer felt shocked at what Shady had just said about science, but unfortunately the judge ruled in his favor, “Mr. Drummer, the objection is sustained. The court rules that Geology is irrelevant in the matter of this case.”

Drummer glared sternly at Shady, “…Agnostics, Mr. Shady? Is that what you think of them, or me?”

Shady didn’t respond and merely stood by his pride and sat down again.

“In that case…” said Drummer “I call to the stand, Professor Cumulus White, from the department of meteorology in Cloudsdale, and teacher of philosophy and zoology of aerial-creatures.”

“Objection!” snapped Shady.

“Sustained.” declared the judge.

Drummer was losing his patience, and he spoke to the judge, “Do you mean to tell me that you also rule out any evidence presented in zoology and meteorology?”

“I’m afraid so, Mr. Drummer. This court will not be submitted to any evidence that is not relevant to this case.” She handed him a list of all the things that were ruled out.

-Archeology

-Biology

-Ecology

…Just those and more practically ruled out every single witness Drummer had intended to call to the stand, and didn’t leave much for him to defend his case with.

“Your honor, I protest to this!” he sneered “How am I to defend my own case if you will not allow me to call forth my own witnesses, which I have called at great expense and inconvenience to bring here, and present my own evidence.”

“As I have stated, Mr. Drummer…” said the Judge “The court will not be submitted any evidence that is irrelevant to this case.”

“Well I fail to see what makes it so irrelevant.” said Drummer, and he turned to address the entire courtroom, “I also fail to see what makes science and its teachings such a crime in the community or why it is that ponies like Mr. Rates and myself and those like us should be treated unfairly for being a part of that world?”

Shady’s attorney chuckled at such an inquiry, and replied “This community, Mr. Drummer, clear knows what it wishes, and the voices of the law are quite clear! We do not wish to have these experts here to tell us anything that questions the law or those wishes.”

“Well what do you wish?” sneered Drummer “Do you wish for; a giant guillotine to lop all our heads off with?”

The attorney’s features hardened, “How dare you make such an insult to this community!”

“Well how dare this community behave in such a deserving manner!” snapped Drummer, which made the crowd gasp and chatter in outrage.

The judge banged her gavel to quiet the crowds, and then Drummer proceeded to tell her, “I wish to declare a mistrial!”

The crowds gasped again, and even the judge was shocked, and Drummer already began to pack up his things.

“Mr. Drummer, you can’t!” cried Rates “You can’t quit now.”

“Why not…? You were about to a few moments ago, and it’s clear they don’t care about what we have to say, and I’m not pleased with the attitudes going on around here. I’ve seen kangaroo courts that were more merciful than this.”

Pretty much everyone heard what he had said.

Shady stood and asked, “Are you saying, Mr. Drummer, everyone here is unjust and ignorant over simple expressions of emotion?”

“That and more!” snapped Drummer “You are not only abusing the law, but destroying it, punishing it, and more!

You’re all making it a crime to be able to learn things, or understand how life works. Today you forbid science, next you may forbid art, and before you know it, you’ve banned books, newspapers and even shut whole schools down from their systems…

I submit to you all; continue on this path, and you may very well send us all backwards… BACKWARDS from the paths in which we came to our modern ways, and reduce ourselves to the way our primitive ancestors lived: a world of ignorance and suffering with no light at the end of the tunnel!”

By this time, even the judge was losing her patience, “I sincerely hope, Mr. Drummer, that you are not implying that this court is bigoted!”

Drummer shot her a straight look, “If your honor wishes to think so, that is your right.”

The judge cringed angrily, “It also not only my right, but my authority to demand to know why you should not be held in contempt, Mr. Drummer! I hereby order you to show cause tomorrow at Noon, and until then I hereby place you under house arrest, confined to your hotel suite!

Court will reconvene tomorrow at Noon.”

With that court was dismissed, and Drummer felt a deep inner sense of hopelessness strike him, but as the ponies exited the courthouse, one particular mare among the crowd; a light green Earth Pony with a puffed up pink mane-- gazed pitifully at him, and she reached into her bag and pulled out a book, thinking perhaps there was a way to get past all of these unjust and horrid displays of ignorance... maybe even for both sides.

Meanwhile the friends couldn’t possibly have been more outraged, “I’ve never seen so much stupidity and unfairness.” said Twilight.

“Urgh!” growled Spike “That Shady really boils my blood. I’d like to set his tail on fire.”

“Now, that will do, Spike.” said Princess Luna “While I agree that many actions and attitudes of the trial may seem unjust, two wrongs would not make a right.”

“Princess Luna is correct, Spike.” agreed her sister “However, it may interest you all to know, there was a small light at the end of this tunnel.”

Everyone’s heads perked up with interest, and Celestia changed the images again.

That night, things were absolutely horrendous.

Many of the ponies in town, supporting the prosecution, felt that the case was already won for them. Pep rallies and mobs were all in the streets gloating over their assured victory.

Some even made large straw dummies of both Drummer and Rates and set them ablaze rejoicing how lovely it would be if they could have them hung for their so-called “heresy!” even though modern day laws forbad such draconian procedures.

Still, that didn’t excuse them from happily rejoicing, not to mention standing outside the jailhouse, knowing Rates was there in his cell, and taunted him mercilessly.

“We’ll burn you, Rates!”

“And your miserably lawyer too!”

“Friendship always wins!”

Rates could only look through the window in horrors, and feel so defenseless and sore when a rock came, pitched by a protester, at his cell window and struck his forehead!

Petal Dance, she lay wide awake in bed, unable to sleep due to the heat, and also due to all the noise outside from those awful gloaters, but also… her mind didn’t stop haunting her the way Shady had badgered her that day, even after she actually tried to confide in him her troubles.

Now she had already lost more than just her faith in him…!

The door to her room opened slightly, and her father peeked in, “Petal… are you alright?” he asked softly. He could tell, even with her backed turned to him she was still awake, but his daughter would not answer or even look at him.

“Petal, please…”

No response!

Her father hung his head sadly, in deep regret and shame, and left his daughter in peace, while poor Petal shed a few tears, for herself, for Rates, and the over-zealousness of all those horrible voices she kept hearing in the streets below.

The friends observed everything and Starlight complained, “Um… I wouldn’t exactly call this enlightening.”

“Oh, trust me, it happens…” said Celestia, and she told everyone to follow her to the hotel… where Drummer stood by his window, sulking miserably. The hotel building was surrounded by police officers to ensure he didn’t leave the premise.

He sighed heavily as he heard the sound of the protesters denouncing him so heartlessly, as if he weren’t already upset enough! He had never been so upset with a community for putting science down like that, the very subject he devoted half his life to and studying.

It was usually times like this when he was feeling down he would read a science book, or even look at his own published works, but this time even that didn’t help him.

Who could blame him? The way his case was looking more hopeless by the minute and with no way to even speak a word without it being objected.

He felt so alone, that he broke out into a song to help comfort himself, and maybe even… wish for some help.

Ever since I was a foal,
Studying has been by goal,
Now that things have gone so wrong,
…I’ll make a wish

Laws with science did it clash,
Regarding such works as trash,
Can’t it all just get along…
…I’ll make a wish

Things could be fine,
If both way could combine
But such thing wouldn’t do
If there was some way to get through…
…Every pony’s mind.

He paused and peeked through his own published science books, and used his magic to transport himself into the book, like a kind of fantasy. He rode on the stars… flew through the air… swam in the seas… and stood on a hilltop surrounded by many ideals and methods waiting to be learned and understood.

Though it goes against logic,
Maybe it can do the trick
Send me something to help my case…

…I’ll make… a… Wish…!

The song ended, and he went back to reality just as there came a knock at the door. “Who is it?” he called. “Room service.” called a feminine voice, and the server came right in; it was that same pony that looked at him at the trial.

She came in pushing in a trolley cart with a meal atop it.

“I didn’t order any room-service.”

“I know, but you should eat something for the trial tomorrow.”

“Oh, what’s the point?” groaned Drummer “Everyone already seems so sure I’ve lost anyway. Huh! They didn’t even let me say anything or present anything, why; because it was a whole bunch of “scientific hogwash” to them.”

The other pony sighed, but she reached underneath the trolley and pulled out a small book, “Maybe this will help you?”

“What’s this?” Drummer asked as he examined the book’s title: “History of Friendship and It’s Uses” and it was written by “Pendulum Swinger?” Drummer exclaimed softly.

Her turned to the other pony, who nodded almost sadly, “He was my husband. He wrote that book and had it published just before he died. He would research friendship and magic and question them through science. I thought maybe it would help you.”

Drummer said nothing, but stood where he was with a look of curiosity on his face.

“Goodnight sir.” said the pony, and she left, leaving Drummer to eat his meal and go through some portions of the book he was given, and what he read… made him smile.

Perhaps his wish had been granted, and he had been passed the miracle he had asked. He couldn’t help but look out his window, up and the night sky and smile in thanks.

Act 7: Friendship is Literal?

ACT SEVEN

The next images the friends saw was at the trial the next day, and Drummer still looked as confident as he had before.

The first thing Drummer did was offer an official apology directly to the judge. “I realize that my short-tempered actions yesterday were highly inappropriate and uncalled for. I promise to try and behave and continue only fairly for the rest of this trial… if your honor will accept my apology.”

The judge cleared her throat, “In spite of your attitude, Mr. Drummer. If there is one thing Princess Celestia has taught it is that forgiveness is divine, and virtually all are well deserving of another chance, if they seek it, to which you do… and I abide by those teachings and principles. I accept Mr. Drummer’s apology and hereby withdraw the citation of contempt.”

Drummer nodded in thanks.

“I wish to add upon that.” Shady said as he stood, “I feel and wish to add to the forgiveness towards Mr. Drummer. He has been known to slip up a bit now and then, but perhaps when he returns home to Ponyville, he’ll have returned that much wiser, for as the saying of friendship passes “If thirst is they difficulty, come seek me, and I shall free thee of darkness.”

Drummer acted politely, “I thank you for those kind words, Mr. Shady.” but really, nobody else in the entire courtroom had any idea of what was about to happen… would shock and amaze everyone!

Drummer cleared his throat, “I also wish to withdraw my request for a mistrial, and ask to continue as council for the defense.”

The judge agreed, “If that is truly your wish, I see no reason to do otherwise. You may proceed. But I would wish to inquire as to what has made you change your mind.”

Drummer cleared his throat, “As of yesterday, nearly all my scientific evidence and witnesses were rejected to, being noted as irrelevant in the case. However, your honor, perhaps I can offer another point of view…

Would your honor object to any expert evidence on the subjects of friendship and magic?”

A silence fell as faces in the courtroom turned to expressions of curiosity, and some of astonishment that Drummer would suggest such a thing.

“Does the prosecution object?” asked the judge.

Shady could barely contain himself from bursting out with joy on the thought that his subject was finally being recognized and understood. “Your honor, the prosecution will take no exceptions. If the council of the defense wishes to use the scriptures of friendship and magic, I welcome it with open hooves.”

The crowd cheered for him softly, but quieted down before the judge banged her gavel, and as for Drummer, “I’m very glad you feel that way…” he said, and he announced, “I now call to the stand one of the foremost experts of the bibliography Friendship Magic, and its teachings…

…Mayhew Sunshine Shady.”

Shady was stunned, and the crowds began to chatter in concern. Shady’s attorney was livid, “Your honor, you can’t possibly allow this!”

The judge adjusted her glasses, in her own slight hint of astonishment, “Um… unfortunately there is nothing that prohibits this, seeing as it’s never actually happened before. I have never seen the defense call the prosecuting council as a witness before.

Um… unless Mr. Shady has any objections, the court will support you if you wish to decline.”

Shady only stood with pride and boasted just as proudly, “Your honor, I have no fear or shame of testifying. In fact, I shall not call what I am doing testifying, but rather speaking as I always have: on behalf of the glories teachings of the prophets of friendship and magic.”

With that said, Shady proudly took the stand.

The friends saw it all happening. “He sure seems confident.” said Fluttershy “I don’t see why Mr. Drummer would call him to the stand.”

Twilight, Starlight and Spike on the other hand had a pretty good idea what Drummer was planning, and both Celestia and Luna nodded at them, but urged them all to watch… and learn.

The bailiff didn’t even bother to swear Shady in to oath, feeling he didn’t have to, “I am positive that Mr. Shady will tell the truth.”

“Well, bless you anyway, sir.” commented Shady.

With that, Drummer began to put his plan into action. “Now then, Mr. Shady… am I correct to assume you are a highly-respected authority on the biblical teachings and studies of magic and friendship?”

Shady nodded, “I believe it not boastful but truthful to say that I have studied the arts of magic and friendship as a fine believer, and I have tried to honor and lead my life according to all their glorious precepts.”

“Good for you…” said Drummer, “I suppose you can quote even the earliest teachings of friendship’s history, its lessons, as well as magic and the discovery of its uses and all that?”

“Yes…” replied Shady “there are many historical moments of friendship and many valuable lessons of both it and magic that I have committed to memory.”

Drummer cleared his throat and walked back to the defense table to where he showed several science books. “I don’t suppose you’d familiar with any passages from these books; “Astonishing Astrology…”

“National Geologic…”

Or even my own book; “Nature and Forces Combine?”

Shady’s features hardened, “I have never read those disgraceful pieces, and have no intention to. For I am not the least bit interested in the misguidances they conceal!”

Drummer figured he’d say that. “So you’ll never read them?”

“No, sir… Never! I know that such books are wicked teachings.”

Drummer chuckled, “That is just so hilarious. You’ve never read these books before, yet you claim they are evil? Tell me, where in the wide world of Equestria do you get the nerve to stir up all this boasting… to declare war on such things and subjects you don’t know anything about?

Do you honestly think that the teachings of science and the teaching of friendship are so different that one holds no boundary over the other?”

Shady felt confused, “Would you please rephrase that?”

“Well, I would…” replied Drummer “…But that would mean reading to you from these fine books, and as you yourself have stated, you are not interested, as well as the court having ruled out any evidence from these sources… I’m afraid I cannot.”

The ponies in the court exchanged concerned and confused expressions. How did Drummer expect to hold his ground then if he couldn’t deliver evidence?

“Mr. Drummer?” the Judge asked “I hope you have indeed brought some form of evidence to present and to cross-examine the witness with…”

“I have indeed, your honor…” replied Drummer, and he put the science books down, and took out the book that was given to him the other night.

He took a moment to look back at the crowds and saw Pendulum Swings widow seated in one of the rows, and she gave him a “good-luck” smile.

Drummer then turned back to face his witness, “We’re going to play in your field today, Mr. Shady. We’re going to talk about Friendship and Magic… and with a little help from this book; “The History of Friendship and its Uses”… written by the late Pendulum Swings.”

The crowd broke into chatter, and Shady’s attorney stood, “Objection! Your honor has previously heard of the late Pendulum Swings being a scientist, and that your honor has previously ruled out the submission of all science related topics.”

“Objection overruled!” snapped the Judge “The teachings of friendship and its histories don’t seem irrelevant to the case in the matters. Mr. Drummer, you may proceed.”

Drummer nodded thankfully. “Now then, Mr. Shady… have you ever read this book before?”

Shady examined the book and its title, “I do not believe I have. Mind you; I stated I have committed many teachings and studies of friendship to memories… not all of them.”

“Good, because I would like to test your knowledge on the subject of friendship Do you actually believe that friendship can solve all things, and should be taken as literally as it is taught?”

“I do indeed…” Shady declared “There is no finer mending tool than the gift of friendship, and to bask in the presence and brotherly love of others.”

Drummer opened the book to a passage, “Well, according to this book, about fifty years ago, a fine business pony named Bill Dollar, donated a sum of ten-thousand bits to a local animal shelter.”

The crowd awed at that, and Shady smiled “Well, surely he understood what friendship meant, and was truly well educated by it.”

“On the contrary, Mr. Shady…” Drummer said “It reads here, that Bill Dollar claimed to have had no friends at all.”

The courtroom felt silent, and Shady blinked once in shock.

Drummer then read a quote from Bill Dollar’s section, and it went, “Friendship is nothing but a waste of time to me, as it cuts in to my working lifestyle. Just because I donated to the shelter does not mean that we are friends.”

Drummer then cast a look at Shady, “…What do you make of that? A pony who did something very nice yet felt friendship was a waste of time and effort; what do you think?”

Shady, acting cockier than ever, simply smiled and stated, “I do not believe his attitude made too much of a difference. The fact remains that though he had no friends that did not stop him from his friendly deed in donating the money to the shelter. In the eyes of true friendship, he could still be viewed in high regard.”

At that point, Ma Wool stood from the crowd and called out, “Celestia may bless you, Mayhew Sunshine Shady.”

The crowds added soft cheers, agreeing with her and giving Shady their praise, until the judge ordered silence!

Drummer was far from finished, “While we’re on the subject of friendship, why don’t we dig into magic as well, or do you object to that, Mr. Shady?”

“Sir, I am shocked you would ask me to object to such a subject.” replied Shady.

“Good, because I would like to recollect a story of one of our most traditional and noble celebrations: Hearth’s Warming. Now of course, we all know that story, of the three tribes of ponies being divided up and all that…getting caught in a big blizzard… and so-on, and so-on, the leaders were trapped in a cave and all that… you know what I mean.”

“I know what you mean in spirit, but I fail to understand your question.” said Shady.

Drummer cleared his throat, “Well, it says here that the blizzard that struck across the land only grew worse and worse as the three tribes continued to grow more irate. The more they fought, the greater the storm.

They must’ve been under some strange notion that the weather was somehow linked to their emotions.”

As expected, the entire courtroom, even the judge gasped in such horror.

Even the friends gasped at that!

“And they were!” snapped Shady “Everyone knows it was the Windigos and their ability to feed off the negativity and fighting that brought out the shameful blizzard that covered the lands.”

Drummer smirked, “Correct… it was their magic, Mr. Shady… the very magic of the Windigos that caused the blizzard. The very magic you have come to defend.”

Shady felt slightly stunned, but managed to save himself “I am here to defend that of the good magic, not the dark arts.”

The crowd applauded him for that, and the judge ordered them silent again!

“Yes, I seem to recall a bit of good magic known as “The Fire of Friendship” which was created by the leaders upon being encased in ice, while trapped in a cavern that was freezing.” Drummer then quoted from the book, “A Magic so warm, that it vanquished the evil windigos, ended the fearsome blizzard, and thawed out the lands instantly of all the ice and snow.”

“That is correct.” stated Shady “The power of friendship and the strength of the magic prevailed over the evil that threatened the land.”

Drummer nodded in agreement, “There is just one thing though, and that is natural law.”

“What do you mean?” asked Shady.

“What I mean is the way things occur naturally, regardless of magic.

Have you ever pondered, Mr. Shady, what else would’ve happened to Equestria if the Fire of Friendship made all that ice melt?”

“I have faith in the magic and friendship. The ice and snow melted, and that satisfies me.”

“Good…” Drummer hissed, “Now, I’d like to point another form of magic to you, known as erosion… When ice forms, it eats away at rock forming cracks and expands the point of subsidence.

Now, if what you say actually happened, if The Fire of Friendship did in fact melt all that ice so suddenly, the forming waters would expand the faults in the rock, consequently breaking up the grounds of the land so violently… Earthquakes rocked the land… Mountains collapsed to mounds of pebbles, and the land was basked in a thick layer of moist formed from all the evaporating waters, increasing humid temperatures to the point of suffocation for all life.”

There was a soft bit of concerned chattering coming from the crowds.

“Tell me, Mr. Shady… how come that bit of information is not mentioned in the story of Hearth’s Warming?”

Shady simple snuffed and remarked, “Simple, it isn’t recorded because it never happened.”

“But it HAD to happen, it MUST’VE happened, according to natural law. You believe in magic, why don’t you believe in natural law? Are you saying we should continue to shut it out, and deprive ourselves the knowledge and information that can help us survive?

Most importantly, do you not think that natural law is a magic in its own way?”

“Natural law can be controlled by magic as well.” replied Shady “And that is how we are able to survive today, by going past all these scary things you concoct. We can change it, cancel it, use it as we please… and it still amazes me how much you and all the other upholders of the scientific community refuse to acknowledge that simple fact.”

A silence fell, and everyone else seemed convinced by what Shady had just said, but Drummer was still determined to prove him wrong and read from another passage in the book.

“Now then, here’s a passage that explains the magic properties of ponies.” he quoted from the page “Unicorns are capable of producing magical spells and waves.” He paused and demonstrated by using his magic to juggle several books in midair, earning him applause from the crowd.

“Order!” the judge called, using her own magic to bang her gavel, further proving the point.

Drummer cleared his throat and read from the book again, “And the Pegsai can control the weather, and sit on clouds, while Earth ponies have a connection with nature…

Now, just what is that connection?”

Shady gawked at Drummer and stated, “You of all studiers should know that. They are better gardeners, know how to navigate the lands, they even are able to connect with other forms of animal life.”

Drummer chuckled.

“What’s so funny?”

“Nothing really, it’s just that, you’re a Pegasus, and I’m a Unicorn correct?”

“I am well aware of our species of pony.”

“Good, because it may interest you to know that one of my greatest pastimes is gardening, and as I recall, you yourself give blessings and offering to animal preserves and shelters around the world.”

“I don’t understand what you’re trying to imply.”

“Well, what I’m implying is, there is nothing magical about our hobbies, is it. It’s just as normal as natural as any-pony can do.”

“That is correct.” said Shady “But the Earth Ponies have it specially. Their crops are always finer than ours, and the forests have never been greener, and animals are well tended too.”

Drummer rubbed his eyes slightly, “If I read you correctly, you’re saying that Earth Ponies are always better than us Non-Earth Ponies, because they possess what are not in fact magical-abilities, but in fact normal talents and hobbies developed and pursued by the art of studying and observing… something that in fact ANY PONY can learn to do if they try.”

More chatter was heard amongst the crowds in astonishment. No one had ever bothered to see it like that before… or rather most didn’t.

“Did you ever stop to think that maybe there is no magic in certain things, Mr. Shady?” Drummer asked.

“No sir, although I am quite aware of these things, I believe in the magic of giving and providence by Princess Celestia; and that it is all that the gives us what we are today. It is enough to satisfy me.”

Drummer rolled his eyes, and held in a chuckle, “I can only begin to imagine the state of learning in the world and how things would turn out if every-pony else had your sense of curiosity.”

Shady felt insulted, but didn’t let on, wanting to maintain his cool.

Drummer turned back to the book, “Now this book also shows many events of friendship and its powerful ways. I’d like to recall a very old folktale legend known as “The Mare in the Moon”

It reads on the two Alicorn Sisters, one of them being Princess Celestia of course, and the other known as Nightmare Moon, an evil creature aiming to bring eternal night to the land, and she was banished to the moon by Princess Celestia by harnessing the power of the Elements of Harmony.

Now, the Elements of Harmony; these legendary items…”

“They are not legendary…” protested Shady “Of all known items in the history of the world of Equestria, The Elements of Harmony are considered to be the holiest, most magical items; the very embodiment of all friendship and all magic, used to bring joy and harmony to the world as we know it.”

The crowd applauded him thunderously, and the judge silenced them.

“…Even if that means they are used to fight and destroy?”

Everyone’s expressions turned to shock, “Use your eyes and your mind, Mr. Shady. Celestia used the elements to BANISH Nightmare to the Moon.”

The two sisters, both felt great amounts of inner pain strike their hearts. They never forgot their past and their horrible and reluctant actions that changed them both forever!

Drummer even pointed out, “That doesn’t seem much like harmony to me; using said friendship to fight creatures with, and even still… the land was spared of evil, but the Princess cast her own sister away… meaning they were unable to resolve whatever conflict they had!

Well… does that mean friendship didn’t really succeed? Does it make the power of Harmony any less magical?”

Shady’s attorney felt this had gone on long enough, and protested, “Your honor, what has any of this got to do with the state of Canterlot VS Beckon Rates?”

The judge cleared her throat, “Mr. Drummer, if you have a point to make, I suggest you make it in which to satisfy the court that your evidence has relevance to the case.”

Before Drummer could speak, Shady cut in, “I am more willing to sit here and endure the disrespect and rantings Mr. Drummer has given, as well as his contempt for all that is righteous in the world.”

Drummer angrily pounded the judge’s stand shouting, “I couldn’t object more to your philosophy, Mr. Shady!”

“On what grounds?” asked Shady “Is it possible that something is far more valuable, more holy than the arts of friendship and magic?”

“Yes!” sneered Drummer “The individual mind! The ability to observe, study, and understand…! Just asking a simple question, or the curiosity of how the world around you works, has more comfort and sanctity than all your philosophies prophets combined!

An Idea… a thought… a theory-- these things are what truly provide us with the progress needed to shape our lives and our communities. Without all this we’d still be as primitive as our ancestors of ancient times… but here we stand now. Are we to forgo all of this progress because Mr. Shady now frightens us with clichéd fables and falsehoods?”

Drummer placed down the book and turned to address the jury, “Ladies and gentle-ponies, I submit to you… life may be a precious gift and all that, but it isn’t some magical deal and progress… Progress has never been a bargain; you have to pay for it! Everything comes with a price, and you can’t expect Friendship and Magic to bail you out of it.

-What did you pay for those groceries with? It was money, not friendship.

-How did you even earn that money? You worked for it; it wasn’t just handed to you in some act of kindness.

Or what about natural changes…? They too come with their prices.

-You may grow from a colt or a filly, but at a price: You lose more than half the freedom of active and enjoyable life style, under the obligation to work for a living and support.

-You may choose to move away to another town and make a fresh start, but you lose all that you had from your previous conditions, and quite possibly your friends too.

-You may use wood to create fire, but in doing so, the trees will be cut down, and the animal life could face endangerment.”

A lot of ponies, even those on Shady’s side began to realize the truth in all of Drummer’s words, though many still remained unconvinced, they couldn’t find words in which to speak.

“You see what I mean?” Drummer asked out loud, “Science… Discovery… these things are here to help elevate us to new heights in which we can look back from which we came, and progress for the future… but for this insight and for this knowledge…

…We must abandon and rid ourselves of our faith in all these one-sided pleasantries and teachings of friendship!”

“WE MUST NOT LOSE FAITH!!” shouted Shady “Without our faith, we’ll be no different than the Neanderthals we are descended from!”

Drummer marched straight over to him on the stand and shouted, “Then why were we ALL gifted with the power to think, Mr. Shady? If we were all intended to be as you said-- just basking in the glories of friendship and harmony-- why bother give us the audacity and the power to be idealistic?

The power of our brains to reason is, what I would consider, the most magical merit that we have, Mr. Shady. It is these things that separate us, and which elevate us above other forms of animal life that have been gifted with brain power, but fail to use it…

Don’t you believe, Mr. Shady, that every living creature should be gifted with the power to think?”

Shady was finding it harder to argue and keep up his defenses, as well as maintain his cool, “All living beings with a brain are gifted with a power, and if they wish to use it… so be it!”

Drummer nodded and then marched right over to Rates, “This pony… wishes to be appointed that privilege! He wishes to study… he wishes to understand… he wishes to learn… AND HE WISHES TO THINK!!”

Truly inspired by Drummer’s outburst, the crowds gave him the most thunderous of applause given all through the trial. The friends cheered and whistled for him, even though they couldn’t be heard, and even the judge found a moment to applaud for him before silencing everyone again.

Shady could only protest, “What he’s doing isn’t thinking! It is delusional! It’s blasphemous and inappropriate!!”

“Unfortunately, we do not all share your unique knowledge of what is right and wrong, sir.” replied Drummer.

Shady gnashed his teeth softly!

“I have one final challenge for you, Mr. Shady.” Drummer said as he reached into his briefcase, and held out an odd pair of spectacles; the very ones Rates had invented when he discovered Celestia’s secret!

“Mr. Shady… do you believe, in all your truths and honesty, that Princess Celestia is capable of raising and setting the sun, and even capable of changing its position?”

“Of course!” snapped Shady “I’ve seen her do it, we’ve all seen her do it, and that is why I scoff at those who disrespect the power of our Princess.”

Drummer held up the spectacles, “This device was invented by Dr. Rates, enchanted with a slight hint of magic, which allows the wearer to see through illusions created by magic, in which he used to prove conclusively that Princess Celestia cannot in fact raise the sun, but rather the sun raises by itself, and that the Princess merely absorbs energy from its light as her source of power, and when that happens, a side effect of her magic, combined with the sun rays lead us all to believe and actually see the sun moving at her command.

…I must say, that’s a very unusual trick.”

“It is no trick, sir. It is that horrible invention that has you tricked, and giving you some false bit of information. What you see through those eye-pieces cannot possibly be the truth.”

“Well, now that’s just your own opinion of things.”

“Oh it’s not opinion, it’s a literal fact. Machines and devices often develop faults, preferably these newfangled inventions. So it cannot be held in literal truth.”

Drummer paused and gawked straight at Shady, “You know there also goes an old saying, “Things are not always as they seem.” or “You can’t always believe in what you see?”

“Tell, Mr. Shady, have your eyes ever deceived you before? Have seen things before your eyes that no one else could in the form of a mirage?”

Shady tried and he tried, but he couldn’t seem to come up with a legitimate answer, “I don’t know.”

“No thought whatsoever, eh?”

“I do not think of things… I… do not think about!”

“Do you ever think about things that you DO think about!” sneered Drummer “Isn’t it possible for us to misjudge what we see with our own eyes, is it possible to be mistaken? No-Pony is perfect after all…

It’s also possible to wonder and question things as well. If the princess was truly able to change the position of the sun, wouldn’t that include some kind of impression that the Sun moves around our world… when factually speaking, it is our world that goes around the sun.

The sun is a very large object, and very far from us as well Mr. Shady. Surely the magic of one pony, no matter how powerful, or glorious can possibly move it.

Even still, even you cannot deny it is not the sun itself that causes the flow day and night, but rather our world spinning on its own axis, which also gives off the illusion of the sun and moon moving in the sky!”

“I mean to state, that faith should not be questioned!” snapped Shady, but by this time, even he became aware that his case was plummeting downhill and he was losing the argument.

“Oh, it shouldn’t be questioned?”

“No, it shouldn’t!”

“Well we aren’t questioning faith; we are implying the possibilities of a supposed trick on our hands!

Suppose the Princess really did have the power to move the sun. It’s swelter hot in the summer time… why does she not move it further back to cool us down? Or in the winter, when it is unbelievably cold, why not bring the sun closer to warm things up a bit?

Then again, it’s probably best she didn’t anyway, because if she actually DID change the position of the sun, would that not upset the gravitational force of our planet? Would it not either crash into the sun, or fly off into the cosmos and freeze to eternal doom if that were to happen to it?!”

Shady’s attorney shouted out from his seat, “This has gone far enough! I demand to know the purpose of your questioning, sir… what are you trying to do?!”

The judge ordered the attorney to be seated, while Shady sneered, “I’ll tell you what he’s doing; he’s trying to mess us all up… trying to destroy our faith in Celestia… and in magic. He wishes us to believe that friendship is a horrible thing!”

Drummer glared furiously at him, “That is a lie! I am attempting no such thing, and you know it well!

Friendship, Magic, Harmony… these are ways of life. They may be glorious, and wonderful, but they are not the only ways to get through. They are not requirements, or actual necessities in making things happen!”

“They are best things that can happen to anyone!” Shady cut in “They should not be defied, and these are the wishes of Princess Celestia!”

“How do you know that Princess Celestia didn’t approve of the arts of science and their teachings?”

“Because of her teachings have taught me to oppose the evil teachings of those subjects…!”

“Aha, so it’s not Princess Celestia, but it’s just YOU!!” snapped Drummer “You learn from the teachings Celestia, and you follow them as literally as you can, and you pass it on to make everyone act like you do!

WELL…

…Meet the prophet from Cloudsdale! The one and only gospel, is THAT the way of things?! Shady knows what’s good! To be against Shady is to be against Celestia!”

“NO!!!!” shouted Shady “EVERY PONY IS A FREE CREATURE WITH RIGHTS AND WILL!!”

“THEN WHY IS BECKON RATES IN A CANTERLOT JAIL!!” shouted Drummer. He calmed down a bit, but still spoke severely to Shady, “What if Dr. Rates was just like you; what if he had the power and nerve to file a law stating that it was illegal to teach friendship, making it that only science could be taught!”

“That is preposterous!” snarled Shady, “There can only be one great path; one truth in this world!”

“The gospel!” shouted Drummer, “The gospel accord to you! Shady learns from Celestia, and Shady preaches to the world, “Do as I say, or you’re condemned!”

“NO, THAT’S NOT IT AT ALL!!” Shady shouted, but Drummer shouted over him, “My only thanks are that Princess Celestia herself isn’t here, and then maybe she could see what kind of pony you really are…

A Self-appointed prophet!

A preacher with an iron fist who tends to enforce his beliefs on others to be just like him!

…MUST A PONY GO TO PRISON BECAUSE HE OR SHE DISAGREES WITH YOUR PHILOSOHPY? OR PERHAPS WE SHOULD ALL MAKE A BOOK ABOUT YOU… HAVE YOUR TEACHINGS IMBEDDED INTO HISTORY… so that future generations will know that your will IS LAW!!”

Content with himself and what he had finally done-- exposing Shady for the loudmouthed fraud he was-- Drummer declared to the judge, “The witness is excused, no further questions!”

Outraged and livid with all this, Shady shot up right and shouted out in attempt to defend himself to the crowds, “My friends… my fellows ponies! You know what I believe in…! I believe in the truth of friendship and the glories of harmony!”

But all his ranting and raving did was stir up an uproar of chattering and confusion amongst the crowds, even those who supported him were not sure of how to see him anymore, and even his own wife gazed pitifully at her husband trying to defend himself.

“You must believe me, friends… YOU MUST BELIEVE ME!!!”

The judge whacked her gavel harder than ever, “Court is adjourned until Noonday tomorrow!”

Shady stood silent and still on the witness stand, finally feeling the full effects of his humiliation sinking in.

His wife approached him, and spoke to him ever so comply, “Mayhew… let’s go back to the hotel.”

Her shaken husband stepped off the stand, and walked shamefully with her out of the courtroom.

Final Act: Believe in Belief

FINAL ACT

The friends had almost forgotten how to move, even in their magical state while observing the images.

Twilight hardly knew what to think or say as she just gawked at the empty courtroom so shocked and horrified. “I’ve never seen such a war on friendship…” she cried softly “Friendship isn’t meant to cause pain, suffering, humiliation…”

“And I thought I had it hard, not knowing what it’s really about.” added Starlight.

Celestia said nothing, just stood there with a very sad glance on her face.

“Your majesty…?” peeped Fluttershy, “…I’m alright…” Celestia replied, “But I can’t believe all this happened… all because of me and my secret.”

Luna comforted her sister, “We cannot stop now, sister… we are so near the end.”

Celestia pulled herself together, and lead everyone on to the next images.

Late in the night, Petal Dance, having witnessed everything that happened in that courtroom that day finally couldn’t stand it anymore and she wished to confront Shady herself…!

But when she pounded on the door of the hotel suite, it was Penny Till who answered it.

“Please, Ms. Till I must speak with him!”

“Not now, Petal. He isn’t feeling well. He’s been cooped up in his bedroom since the trial.”

Petal was most insistent, “No! I must see him! He has to tell Beck that it wasn’t my fault!”

“Please, not so loud.” begged Penny “You’ll wake him up, and he’s had a terrible day!”

“So what?!” snapped Petal “I want all of Equestria to know that Mayhew Sunshine Shady is a fraud!”

“How Dare You…!” Penny snapped, striking her across the face softly with her hoof, which she immediately regretted. “Please… forgive me…!”

Petal backed away from her a few paces.

“Petal, you must understand…”

“I understand plenty now.” cried Petal “I used to understand Mayhew. I would hear of him form my father. He as regarded as the noblest of ponies, and the most well-known of biblical scholars in Equestria.” She paused as tears began falling down her face, “I needed help, and I turned to your husband for help! But all he did was use me! He twisted my words…!

Why?! Please tell me why, Penny Till?!”

Even Penny couldn’t seem to answer for her husband’s actions that day. “I have no idea why, I’m just guessing… guessing that it was too much for him to bear. Maybe he was afraid… afraid to be proven wrong, or challenged in way that he couldn’t defend himself.”

Petal couldn’t believe what she was hearing, “And yet you still try to defend him, after all the wicked things he’s done?”

“Stop it!” cried Penny “He is my husband, I have lived with him for a very long time, and I am defending only that! That is how I see him, as my husband, and provider, and he done so much for me over the years. I could never turn my back on him even after what he did today.

He is a pony, not a saint, not a devil…and even he is capable of making mistakes. Even then, he is willing to stand up for what he believes in, but are you, Petal Dance?

Do you believe in my husband, or do you believe in Beckon Rates? Only you can choose that for yourself, but I choose to believe in my husband!”

The argument of the ladies eventually awoke Shady, and he came out from the bedroom. He looked awfully sad and tired, as if he hadn’t really rested at all.

“Mayhew…” said his wife “We didn’t mean to wake you.”

“It’s alright, Penny.” her husband said, and he looked earnestly at Petal, “What can I do for you, my child?”

Petal didn’t respond to him. She just glared at him with hurtful eyes, and then turned to leave the suite, knowing what she had to do now.

Dejected, and already feeling miserable, Mayhew consulted his wife, “What did she want, Penny?” but then again, he didn’t need her to answer, as he had been reflecting upon his own actions “…Did I really hurt her that much?”

Penny comforted him, “You didn’t mean to. Oh, Mayhew…! I know you were only trying to stand up for your beliefs, and I never doubted you before. That’s what made me love you from the start, because you never gave up your hope or your principles.”

Shady sighed and said, “Penny, it’s more than just that. I’m not fighting for myself. I’m doing this for all those like me, who support me. A victory here would mean a monument to the gods that would last for ages.”

Penny shook her head, “But Mayhew, try to understand; you can’t build the monument for them all, or it’ll just be your monument, not theirs. They’ll turn away from it… just like they turned away from you today.”

Shady, in a mix of shame and anger, stated, “They didn’t understand… but I’ll make them understand!” and with that he dashed back into the bedroom.

“Mayhew…!” cried Penny as she followed him in, and saw that he had spent all his time preparing a speech for the court; parchments and open books lay all about. “I’ll make them understand! I’ll give them such a speech they’ll have to listen!”

“Mayhew! Mayhew please, don’t do this!” cried Penny.

“I have to!” shouted Shady “I have to do this! I have to fight… for honor… for truth…” he stopped as he sagged down into his chair, and he broke down in tears, “They were laughing, Penny! They were laughing at me! I can’t stand it when ponies laugh at me…!”

His wife cuddled him close letting him cry, but at the same time it broke her heart to see him all messed up like this, “It’ll be alright, Mayhew. Just take it easy…!”

The friends didn’t know whether to take pity on Shady, or continue to loathe him for his previous actions.

“I don’t know how much more sadness and heartbreak I can take!” cried Fluttershy “Every-pony’s just falling apart because of this trial.”

Celestia hung her head low for a moment in shame, but then perked up and changed the images to the final day of the trial, the next day…!

As everyone began to assemble, the judge was looking over a newspaper that had been given to her; news of the trial and the law passed in Canterlot had every other state in Equestria in uproar of the silliness that was taking place… especially the part of Shady’s rantings and how he was being denounced as a fraud himself.

The judge felt humiliated herself by all this, but whatever was she to do; go easy on the case? As a judge she an obligation to the law! However, upon re-examining the documents and records of the case, as well as the law that was supposedly being violated… there was one way out of it, but it all depended on what the final verdict would be.

Meanwhile, the bailiff brought in the prisoner, and Rates suddenly stopped when he noticed Drummer wasn’t sitting at the defense table alone.

“Petal…?”

His fiancée looked up at him as he approached her.

“What are you doing here?”

“Beck… I’ve left my father. I know where my loyalties lie now; not with him, and not with Shady, but what I believe in… and I believe in you, Beck.”

Rates smiled warmly at her.

“Beck, Shady twisted my words…”

“I know… it wasn’t your fault. I’m just glad you’re here, that’s all.”

Petal smiled at him as they both sat down. Drummer smiled at how happy the two of them looked together, “Welcome back to our side.” Drummer said to Petal.

She nodded loyally at him.

Finally, the jury came in after a long time of discussing the final verdict and each took their seats.

Twilight’s eyes fell upon her great-grandfather, Night Light, at the head of the jury.

The judge banged her gavel and declared, “Court will now come to order!”

Everyone quieted down, and the jury turned to the ponies of the jury, “Have you reached a verdict?”

Night Light stood, “We have, your honor…” and he used his magic to levitate to the judge for her to see. “We of the jury have voted unanimously… and we find the defendant, Dr. Beckon Rates… Guilty!”

Rates gasped!

“No!” Petal cried softly.

Drummer angrily pounded the table, “Silly fools!” he grumbled, while the rest of the courtroom was echoing with the mixed sounds of outrage for those who now sided with the defense, while all the rest cheered and rejoiced that Shady had won!

As for Shady, he was overjoyed with excitement as he exchanged hoof-shakes, compliments and blessings form his supporters.

“SILENCE!” the judge shouted as she banged her gavel, “This court is still in session!”

The courtroom silenced instantly.

“Beckon Rates, come and stand before me.”

Rates nervously stood, and Petal felt her devastation returning.

“Dr. Rates, have you anything to say before sentence is passed?”

Rates took in a deep breath and carefully chose his words, fearing they would be his lasts as a free-pony. “Your honor, I am not a political speaker, nor am I a catalyst or some big-shot preacher…” he paused “I am but a humble scientist and a school-teacher.”

“NOT ANYMORE YOU’RE NOT!!” shouted Ma Wool!

“Yeah… Lock him up!” demanded another pony.

More ponies chattered away offering their scorn for Rates while others booed them for their bad attitude, having been reformed by the trial’s teachings.

The judge silenced them by banging her gavel.

Rates cleared his throat, “Regardless of what I am, or what you or any other pony may think or see me as now, I feel that I have been convicted of violating an unjust law, and regardless of what you may or may not do to me, I will continue to oppose this law, and stand for what believe in, for I do not wish to be subjected to a community where one cannot think for themselves, and must be told what to believe in or be punished.

I cannot live a lie!”

He said nothing else.

The judge cleared her throat, “Dr. Beckon Rates… this court has found you guilty of violating statured law of teaching against the ways of friendship and magic. This violation is punishable either by imprisonment, and/or a fine payment.”

The crowds gawked on in anticipation, waiting for the big sentence!

“However!” the judge stated as she adjusted her glasses “In view of recent documentation, and the knowledge that this law was only put into effect seven days ago, and despite the its long-term but never enforced existence, records indicate there has never been any previous violation of this law.

Also, the evidence presented by both side have proven that neither is right or wrong over the other; each with their own pros and cons to follow.

Therefore, the bench cannot hold precedence to pass a sentence of imprisonment.”

Expressions began to change, from hopeful to nervous and vice-versa, depending upon which side one was siding with.

“Therefore…” the judge declared, “It is my decision, and I deem it proper, to sentence Beckon Rates to pay a fine of…” she paused and cleared her throat “…50 Bits.”

Beck grinned from ear to ear, and Petal wiped her tears of happiness while most of the crowd cheered, while others were livid!

Shady bolted upright, “Your honor, did you really just say… “Fifty bits…?!” …Such a low fine?”

“That is what I said, sir.” replied the judge.

“B-B-But your honor…!” cried Shady “This is preposterous! I take offense to this, the whole prosecution does! Surely you must dish out a much larger fine… or some harsh punishment!”

Drummer stood and called out, “I object to Mr. Shady’s ramblings. The amount of the fine, whether high or low, makes no difference to me or my client. Dr. Beckon Rates has no intention of paying it or any fine whatsoever, not even if it were one-single bit, we will not pay it.

We are going to appeal this decision to Princess Celestia herself upon her return form her conference in Balitmare, and also with the reports and record form this court, we shall also appeal for the law of the teachings of science to be repealed.

…Will the court grant us thirty days in which to prepare our appeal?”

“So Granted…” replied the judge “Court fixes bond at 100 bits, and I believe that concludes this trial and its business.”

She was about to dismiss the court, when Shady, refusing to accept defeat, ranted, “Your honor… please wait! I wish to read into the record some remarks I have composed!”

“Objection!” shouted Drummer, “You may wish to read those passages you have written, Mr. Shady, but as you can’t seem to accept; they no longer hold any boundaries as this case is now through. Our business here is completed.

The defense moves that court be adjourned!”

Panicking, Shady tried to appeal to the judge, “But your honor, I have remarks to make, the court must hear this!”

The judge only glared pitifully at him, “I’m sorry, Mr. Shady. Although I am quite certain that every pony here would love to listen to your findings… perhaps in a public reading or a church preaching, but I’m afraid that Mr. Drummer is quite correct.

I hereby declare this court is officially adjourned sine die!”

“No! NO!!!” cried Shady, and even after the gavel was banged he still refused to accept defeat, and began to shout out and ramble his speech to the court; about friendship, magic, and the joys he truly believed in… anything to save his reputation. However, most ponies were not interested in what he had to say and had already left, while those that did stay only gawked at him with extreme shock, the way he was panicking, and desperately trying to win back support.

“You must listen to me!!” shouted Shady “The prophets of friendship, magic and harmony, these are our salvations… our only true paths to govern all… I will… continue… to support… them… even in… death…!”

His voice suddenly cut out, and he clutched his aching chest, falling flat on the floor.

“Mayhew!! MAYHEW…!!” Penny screamed as she ran to her husband’s side!

Devastated, everyone huddled around him, even Drummer, Rates and Petal!

Ma Wool prayed above for someone to “…Please pass us a miracle! Save our friend, our prophet!”

“Quick, get a doctor!” shouted Drummer.

The images paused again, and Celestia was quivering with guilt and shame, as her tears cascading down her face, but she didn’t sob.

“Did he…?” cried Twilight “Tell me he didn’t…!”

Celestia couldn’t find her words, so it was Luna whom replied, “…He died… of a fatal heart attack.”

The friends were positively crushed! Shady was loud, and pushy, but they all felt he didn’t deserve to die, although he did rather bring it on himself.

“He just couldn’t accept defeat.” said Spike.

Celestia wiped her tears away and said, “When I returned, and I had heard of all the baffling commotions caused by the trial, I accepted Mr. Drummers appeal. Dr. Rates was left off the hook, and I repealed the law, but… it was already too late. So much irreparable damage had been done.

Shady was dead, and though he was horrible in his own way, there was much greatness in him if he was well known and respected by others.”

The ponies and Spike all bowed their heads, feelings part of the shame.

“Um… what happened to every-pony else…?” Fluttershy asked.

Celestia, showed the final images of what happened…

Even though the law was repealed and Rates was a free pony, he was still being ridiculed and taunted by all the ponies still loyal to the late, Mayhew Sunshine Shady.

“You killed him! You black-hearted murderer…!”

“They should’ve lopped your head off in that courtroom!”

“Take your science and your face and get on out of this town!”

Unable to stand the ridicule and the unjust, and fearing for Petal’s own reputation and safety, the two decided to leave Canterlot and make their own lives elsewhere. They moved to Ponyville where Rates continued his studies and his teachings, but he no longer mentioned word of Celestia’s secret, being unable to move the sun.

“Every-pony is free to believe in whatever they choose to believe.” he would preach.

He and his wife settled down, and had a son and daughter that went on to follow in their father’s hoof-steps and be scientists and well-educated like he was.

Penny Till missed her husband so much, that she eventually became ill, but she requested no medical treatment, wishing to die in peace so that she would reunite with her beloved Shady.

Petal’s father, he remained in Canterlot, and never had any contact with his daughter again, and finally accepting his punishment for his rash and uncouth behaviour. He spent the rest of his life preaching to his choirs about his mistakes, helping them to never be repeated amongst others.

As for Lawford Drummer, he returned to Ponyville and allowed Rates to become a colleague in his law firm and studies.

The two remained good friends, but always remembered the trial, and also mourned a bit of the loss of Shady, feeling he didn’t deserve to die.

That was all there was to see. Celestia undid the spell, and cast everyone back to the present; 100 years later.

“Ever since then, every year at the Summer Sun Festival, I take a few moments to myself to reflect upon that time… when my secret and dishonesty raised such an issue that it cost several ponies their lives, and disbanded so many friendships.”

No one could argue with her there, and now they all understood why.

“But then, why do you continue to let everyone think you can raise the sun?” Starlight asked.

Luna filled in the answer, “Whatever anyone chooses to believe of us is their own right. However, to ensure that the past does not repeat itself, my sister and I did make it a law that this issue is never to be questioned or made into a public case ever again.

You may believe and read about it, you just may not use the law to enforce it.”

“That’s a law I can agree to.” said Spike. The others all nodded, agreeing with him.

“Now that you all know…” said Celestia “I must repeat my solemn request for you not to mention this to another living soul.”

“But, we can’t just let you continue to dwell like this.” cried Fluttershy.

Celestia shook her head, “Shedding a few tears year, or being haunted by my past may seem hard, but it’s my own problem, and I don’t wish for any more to be involved.

You understand this?”

Twilight spoke on her friends’ behalf, “We understand, your highness. We won’t tell anyone.”

The friends all bowed to the royal sisters, and with that all done, the friends took their leave to rejoin their friends and other guests at the festival.

Celestia and Luna watched the festival from the terrace of the palace, and while Celestia felt joy to see all her subjects having a wonderful time, she still felt the darkness eat at her remembering all those affected by her secret long ago, and no amount of friendship would ever put things right there.

Luna hated seeing her sister so distraught. “Remember the old proverb, sister…” she said to her, “Ye that troubleth their own family shall inherit the sun…”

Celestia smiled softly, and continued, “…and the fool shall be servant to darkness of soul.”

The two sisters simply stood side-by-side, basking in the sunlight as they continued to watch out over the land and those who lived and believed in it.

Intro: Tears?

INTRO

Summer Sun Celebration, the longest day of the year in Equestria-- there would be more daylight hours before dark than any other day, and all over Canterlot, many ponies had gathered by the royal palace to await Princess Celestia to do her most noble duty, and raise the sun at the crack of dawn to welcome the new day.

Princess Twilight Sparkle, and all her friends, including Starlight Glimmer were given special front-row seats to witness the event close up.

“Ooh, this is so exciting I can hardly contain myself!” squealed Pinkie.

“Take it easy there, sugar-cube.” said Applejack “We don’t wanna be makin’ a scene now.”

Rarity had on a pair of silver-glittering shades, very expensive as well. “What are they for?” asked Rainbow “The sun’s not so bad to look at, even when the princess raises it.”

“Really, Rainbow Dash…!” snapped Rarity “Even you should know how important it is that one keeps a fine exemplary of elegance and grace on an event such as this, and I just love the way these sparkles glitter in the pre-dawn light.”

Spike couldn’t stop lookin at Rarity, “I think they make you look beautiful.” he said silently, not wanting to be overheard.

Soon the royal fanfare sounded, and the two Royal sisters were announced. “It’s starting!” cried Twilight.

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna appeared, and Luna welcomed everyone to the event. “All you whom have gathered here today are about to bear witness to the princess, my elder sister, as she once again raises the sun to honor our noble tradition of the celebration of the Mid-Summer…”

She then nodded over at her sister, and Celestia nodded back in response, taking her place beneath the sun structure.

Her horn began to glow brightly as she declared “…And now… I bring the sun forth!” and she hovered up, as the bright sun rose over the horizon, creating the most beautiful warm glow that cast across the land, wowing the crowds.

“Incredible!” cried Starlight “I’ve never actually seen this before. Now I see why every-pony loves it so much.”

“It’s one of the most magical sights in all of Equestria.” agreed Twilight. She still remembered the time when she had to absorb Celestia and Luna’s powers to help raise the sun and moon while Equestria was suffering from a dark curse.

Fluttershy thought the sight was absolutely breath taking, however… as Celestia touched down on the stage, she couldn’t help but catch a glimpse of what looked like tears in her eyes.

“She’s crying…?” she asked herself, still unsure of anything.

Applause erupted over the crowds, cheering for another successful sun-raising, and Celestia bowed to all her wonderful subjects, “My subjects… my friends and country-pony… to a brighter, and better future.”

More applause came, and soon everyone was off to enjoy the funfair, party games and other celebrations. “WHOO-HOO… PARTY!!” Pinkie shouted as everyone dashed about and had a ball, but Fluttershy was still concerned about Celestia and what she thought she saw.

“Are you okay, Fluttershy?” Twilight asked.

“Huh? Oh… um… I’m… fine, nothing’s wrong. No ma’am, nothing at all.”

Twilight, Spike and Starlight were far from convinced, knowing she only acted like that when something really serious was up. “Come on, Fluttershy… What is it?” said Starlight.

Fluttershy quivered softly, feeling a bit nervous to say, but before she could say anything, the royal sisters approached the gang. “Why are you all still hanging around” Celestia asked “Go on and join the celebration. Have some fun.”

“Aren’t you two coming with us?” asked Spike.

“Oh… we shall, in due time.” said Luna “But we have some important business to tend to and then when shall return.”

“Yes… quite right.” agreed Celestia “If you’ll excuse us then…” she quickly turned, but Twilight looked up and managed to see a small tear in Celestia’s eye before she turned completely away and walked off with her sister.

“Was that a… tear?” Twilight asked.

“You saw it too?” asked Fluttershy, “That’s what’s bothering me.”

Spike and Starlight didn’t see the tear, but felt Twilight and Fluttershy were onto something. “She seemed rather desperate to leave, now that I think of it…” said Starlight.

“Do you think maybe she’s hiding something?” asked Spike.

All of them cast a look at Twilight, and she thought it over deeply. “If something’s bothering Princess Celestia, I think we should find out what it is, like good friends should.”

The others agreed wholeheartedly.

An hour later, Celestia and Luna returned to the palace, and adjourned to Celestia’s private bedroom, unescorted, from their private outing. Celestia, was wiping her eyes with a handkerchief and she blew her nose softly.

Luna was very concerned. “Sister, you must not let this get to you like this.”

Celestia sniffled softly, “I’m sorry, Luna, but I can’t help it. It was just as much my own fault, and not a day goes by that I don’t think back to it.”

Her sister sighed in sympathy…

“…Think back to what?” Twilight suddenly asked. The sisters looked and saw the four friends standing there, waiting for them. “What are all of you doing in here?” Luna snapped. “How did you even get into here to begin with?” added Celestia.

“That’s not really as important as what we wish to know.” said Starlight.

Twilight agreed, and asked calmly, “Princess Celestia… we know that you’re upset about something. Will you please tell us what it is?”

Celestia knew she couldn’t deny her emotions, being caught red-hoofed, bus she turned away and snuffed, “That is my personal privacy if you please, and I don’t wish to discuss it.”

Spike tried to speak, “But if you could--”

“No!” Celestia snapped, making all of them, even her own sister jump in fright. “Oh, I’m sorry about that. Please forgive me.”

Fluttershy approached her, “Your majesty… you don’t have to tell us if you don’t want to, but… don’t you think… maybe… it’ll clear the air a bit?”

Twilight agreed, “Besides, then maybe we can try and help you… like good friends would help other good friends.”

Starlight and Spike nodded.

Celestia smiled at their innocence, “I appreciate your concern, but I’m afraid that even friendship cannot fix this problem I have. It happened far too long ago…”

Luna tried to protest “Sister, you said that you didn’t wish--”

Celestia held her hoof up, “No, they’re right. I should explain.” She then gazed deeply at the others, “What am I am about to tell you all may shock and amaze you, but… I suppose you should know the truth, but you are not to tell a single soul of what you are about to learn… understood.”

The friends solemnly swore not to tell anyone anything, not even their other friends.

“Very well…”

Celestia’s horn glowed brightly, and she shrouded everyone around her, even Luna in a veil of bright, sparkling lights, and they all felt themselves faded away. “I’ve seen this before…!” cried Starlight.

“It’s… Time Magic!” yelled Twilight.

Poof! They were gone!

Act 5: Big Bad Badger

ACT FIVE

The next images were of the trial the next day. It was still pretty hot, but the fans were working and wouldn’t blow the fuses again.

Now, today was the day, to being the questioning witnesses and testimony, in which to determine the fate of Beckon Rates for his teachings.

“Court will come to order.” the judge declared, and everyone took their seats. Rates cast a look over at Petal, and he was surprised to see her sitting next to her father after what he was able to hear of last night, as the jailhouse was not far from the churchyard, and judging from her father’s “normal” expression, “I don’t think he’s really forgiven her.” Rates whispered to Drummer.

“Never mind that.” said Drummer “I’ve got this case beaten, you’ll see. I called in all the best witnesses that I could.”

The judge banged her gavel shouting “Order in the court! We shall begin with the first witness…”

The first witness was non-other than a Pegasus named Stuttershy, Fluttershy’s great-grandmother, and she was just a timid and meek as Fluttershy herself, and she stuttered and stammered a lot when trying to speak.

“Is it something that runs in your family?” Spike asked.

Fluttershy blushed in embarrassment.

“Shh…!” said Twilight and Starlight; they wanted to hear the proceedings.

Shady, as the prosecutor cross-examined Stuttershy first. “Now, my dear… you were a student of Dr. Rates, were you?”

Due to her timidity, Stuttershy spoke very spoftly, “Um… I… w-w-w-well.”

“Eh, would you speak up please, ma’am…?” said Shady.

“I w-w-was his student… a year ago… be… before I graduated.” replied Stuttershy.

“I see…” said Shady “And how much science and naturalism did he teach you?”

“Um… I guess… a… a lot.” replied Sttutershy “W-w-we… learned about… evolution, formation, energy-forces… a-a-and, I think what I liked the most was…”

“Er, never mind that…” Shady cut in “Let me ask you this: In all his scientific teachings, did Dr. Rates ever mention anything about magic?”

“Um… No…”

“No?” Shady asked rather sternly, “Did he happen to mention any passages about friendship in his lessons either?”

Stuttershy quivered nervously and she squeaked, “…No.”

“And do you also feel that maybe he should have taught you about it?”

“I… I…” she stammered heavily and finally said “…I don’t know.”

“Well, there you have it…” Shady announced to the court, “Let it be known that her poor mind was denied of the teachings of friendship and magic, and ruled out by the teachings of Dr. Rates.”

Rates sighed angrily. The way Shady spoke of him, he made it sound like he deliberately taught Stuttershy to go against friendship for science.

“I also state…” Shady continued “That the ways of the teaching of science and its evil ways; should the law as it stands not be upheld, shall continue to confuse and twists the minds of our youth today, subjecting them to a faithless world of ignorance and meaninglessness.

Hence forth, we should uphold the law to hold Dr. Rates in contempt for his means to brainwash our society as it stands.”

He sat back down again and passed control to Drummer, “Your witness, sir.”

A silence fell as Drummer sat unamused and unimpressed by his opponents rantings, until he got up and said to Shady, “Thank you very much for that rather inspiring speech.”

“Ooooo…” hissed the crowd, while Shady cringed softly at the obvious insult.

Drummer quietly approached the witness, keeping in mind of her meek nature, so he spoke soft and gently to her. “Now, Ms. Stuttershy… you say that you studied science from the teachings of Dr. Rates, is that right?”

“Y-Y-Yes…”

Drummer smirked, “Very good, now tell me… did you happen to think anything was wrong about that?”

Stuttershy hesitated as she tried to find an answer, “I… I don’t think so.”

Shady’s attorney stood up shouting, “Objection! The defense is asking a timid, stuttering pony, who graduated school a couple of years back, to hand down an opinion on morality.”

Drummer cleared his throat, “I am merely trying to inquire that if this pony, I myself, every-pony in this courtroom, or even you yourself, your honor, has the right to think.”

The judge tipped her glasses, “Mr. Drummer, the right to think is not standing trial here.”

Drummer looked the judge right in the eyes, “With all due respect, madam, I highly disagree. It seems not only is the right to think on trial, but the right to teach, learn, understand, and even evolution itself, and on the very verge of collapsing I might add.”

Shady stood, “Preposterous. These things are not on trial…” he then motioned towards Rates, “It is a pony that stands on trial.”

Drummer turned to sternly address Shady, “Yes, a pony…: A pony who wishes to think, and teach so that others may learn and understand the things that he learned and understood; a pony that is facing potential punishment all because of other ponies disagreeing with his views.”

The judge could not see whether to sustain or overrule the objection, and simply asked for Drummer to “…Kindly rephrase your question.”

Drummer complied and asked Stuttershy, “Now, ma’am, these teachings of Dr. Rates… did they hurt you in any form or manner?”

“Uh… N-N-No… not really.”

“So, nothing bad happened at all? No physical injury? No run of misfortune, causalities of any sorts? Was your lifestyle affected, or was your family life put in danger?”

Stuttershy shook her head nervously.

Shady called out, “Why not ask if her faith in magic and friendship has been shattered, or even her faith in Princess Celestia.”

Drummer cringed softly, and turned to look over at Shady, “Mr. Shaddym you have already cross-examined the witness. Will you kindly let me ask my own questions?”

Shady grumbled and sat down quietly.

“Now, Ms. Stuttershy…” Drummer continued “What did you ever think of your teacher, Dr. Rates?”

“I… I-I-I beg your pardon?” stammered Stuttershy.

“Was he mean to you and your fellow classmates in any way? Did he force you to obey his commands, and cram the knowledge down your throats in any manner?”

“Oh, no… no, no, no… he was very kind and gentle. We found his teachings very interesting.”

Rates smiled at her from the defense table, and she smiled at him in thanks, and Drummer smiled as well believing he was gaining strength in his case.

“Now one other I’d like to know is… how did all this science and natural-law and things you learned, how did you feel about them, apart from interested as you learned?”

“Um… I-I-I… don’t understand.” replied Stuttershy.

“Well, let me put it this way, did you ever question about things? Like, how about those fans in the room? Now they’re powered by the force known as electricity, not friendship. Does that make them bad in anyway?”

“No, of course not…”

Drummer nodded, “And what of our ancient ancestors who lived centuries before us who built all that we now call our village, do you honestly believe it was friendship alone that build this city or lead to the discoveries of new products?”

Shady wouldn’t stand for this. “Your honor!” he shouted as he stood “I believe I’ve heard enough of this. The defense is clearly confusing living beings with inanimate objects that cannot feel or be subjected to the great words and prophets of faith, and I do not believe the witness should be brainwashed by this scientific mumbo-jumbo any longer.

Have you no shame, Mr. Drummer?”

Drummer turned and looked straight at him, “Mr. Shady, in view of this trial, “Shame” has no meaning to me…”

The crowds began to exchange expressions and words of concern from what was just said, while Shady took this as a good sign for him.

“…It has no meaning to me YET!” snapped Drummer “But right now, TRUTH does! The truth of the way to exist and be... the differences between right and wrong… and most of all; how we uphold these rights and ways and what we do with them, preferably when it comes to the behaviour of judging others.”

The crowds were stunned again by Drummer’s outburst.

“Inspiring, truly inspiring.” said Luna.

Even Twilight was beginning to admire Lawford Drummer and his idealisms. “I think I’d like to read more about him when this is over.”

Celestia herself was equally as pleased, “I never knew Drummer personally, but the way I see him now is the way I see him as always since that first time I went through this; he would have made a great governor for Equestrian bylaws and teachings.”

Back to the trial, Drummer excused Stuttershy from the stand, having no further questions to ask her, but Shady was far from beaten.

“Well, well, Lawford Drummer. That was very touching, but highly immoral as well.”

“On what grounds to you base that off of?” Drummer asked.

“It’s obvious isn’t it; the way you intend to twist ponies’ minds-- you already showed that when you chose the jury without question-- thinking you can mold them and convince them to think like you do, and like you just did to the witness just now.”

Drummer was growing furious, “How dare you accuse me of such a horrible act, Mayhew Sunshine Shady! All I am merely trying to prevent is a whole lot of nonsense from medieval mentioning and ancient proverbs affect us in our modern day society!”

The Judge banged her gavel, “Mr. Drummer, you are falling out of order. This is not a federal court.”

Drummer didn’t seem to care as he sat down saying, “Well it has to be stopped somehow.”

Shady then spoke to the judge, “Your honor, I’ll tell you what is happening. He is trying to trying to make us overlook the crimes of the defendant and put the law itself on trial.”

“No, I am not!” snapped Drummer “I am merely questioning things.”

“Oh, is that what you call it? Well I have someone else for you to question.” Said Shady, and he turned back to the judge, “I’d like to call a surprise witness to the stands to shed some light on this case…

…Call Miss Petal Dance to the stand!”

The courtroom was filled with gasps and chattering of shock… even the friends were shocked… but Petal was easily the most shocked by all this, and so was her fiancé

“Did you know of this?” Rates asked to Drummer.

“I didn’t know. That’s just like Shady, always trying to pull a last minute stunt out of his hat!”

Petal had no choice but to approach the stand.

Rates bolted up right and asked with concern, “Petal… what happened? What did you tell him?”

Petal didn’t get a chance to answer as the judge banged her gavel, directing her to come forth, “Ms. Dance… if you please…”

Poor Petal had to comply and was seated in the stand, and the bailiff swore her to oath, “Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing bu the truth, by the prophet of Celestia?”

“…I do.”

Rates sat back down feeling very worried, as Shady approached his fiancé and began to question her.

“Now then, Miss. Dance… I would like you to repeat for me some of things you said to me last night.”

Petal shook her head, “Mr. Shady, I confided in you, please don’t make me say it.”

“Now, now, my dear… you said you wanted a chance to help Dr. Rates and let everyone understand; this is your chance.”

Petal nodded regretfully, much to Rates horror. “He can’t do this to her, can he?”

Drummer sighed and rubbed his eyes, “He’s a biblical scholar, not a preacher. There’s no rule saying he can’t… plus, she’s under oath.”

Shady cleared his throat, “Now, Miss. Dance… how well do you know the defendant?”

Petal nervously but calmly answered, “We were old friends. We knew each other in pre-school. We grew up together. Now we’re engaged to be married.”

“Which means you both basked in the glories and wonders of friendship, correct?”

“Yes.”

“And as you are both unicorns, I suppose you also had faith in magic too?”

“Yes, we both practiced together, learning to use our own special magic, and we attended my father’s services together, learning and basking more in the power of the prophets of friendship and magic.”

Shady smirked, almost wickedly, as if he were pleased with what power he had now, “But I as I recall correctly, your fiancé left your father’s church and abandoned his teachings.”

Petal felt her insides cringing, “No! He didn’t abandon friendship.”

“I’m not asking if he abandoned friendship, I am asking if he left the church.” said Shady “He stopped attending your father’s services, now why was that?”

Petal twiddled her hoofs nervously, but knowing she had to answer despite Rate’s softly shaking his head at her, and the fact she was under oath. “It was because of Pendulum Swinger.”

A silence fell over the court, as if everyone knew whom she referred to.

“Would you kindly explain that?” Shady asked.

Petal explained how Pendulum Swinger was a scientific pony, one of Rate’s best friends, and his inspiration in studying science. “The two were so close they were practically like brothers.”

She stopped for a moment.

“Yes, go on…” said Shady.

“It was only five years back… before my engagement to Rates.” said Petal “Pendulum… got sick from Pneumonia, and he died in the hospital.” Petal was starting to become a little tearful, “Then… at the funeral, my father delivered the service, but… but he…” she paused.

“He what?” asked Shady “Come on, tell us…”

“My father preached that Pendulum didn’t die in grace, because… he was not a member of his flock of followers.”

Rates bolted upright and called down to her, “Tell him what your father really said: he said that he was killed by the fates and he considered it a blessing that an “enemy of friendship” had been downed!”

This earned him ire from the crowds!

“Rates, you blasphemer…!”

“Sit down, sinner!”

Petal’s father however, had a look of regret on his face, knowing it was true, but he refused to speak out for fear of damaging his reputation any more than on the night he damned his daughter… but Rates gawked him right in the eye and shouted, “FRIENDSHIP IS SUPPOSED TO COMFORT OTHERS, NOT CONTROL THEM OR FRIGHTEN THEM TO DEATH!!”

The judge banged her gavel multiple times shouting, “Order in the court! ORDER IN THE COURT! Sit down, Dr. Rates!”

The crowd quieted down, but poor Petal was shaking, “Don’t you see; Beck thought it wasn’t fair the way the ponies disrespected Pendulum, just because he was a scientist and not a member of the church!

He left my father’s church, not friendship!”

“So it’s true then…” snapped Shady “We finally have some insight on reasons for going astray-- Beckon Rates left the church on his own accord in an act of spite towards the faith of friendship, and the support of fellow scientists and non-believers!”

Drummer pounded the table, “Objection! Whether my client went astray or not is a matter of opinion and interpretation. Strike that from the record.”

“Objection sustained.” agreed the judge “The previous statement is to be ignored by the jury.”

“Very well…” said Shady, “Now then, Miss Dance… Perhaps you’d care to explain some more insight of Rates’ opinions and views on the subject of friendship and magic.”

“Objection!” snapped Drummer “We have already ruled out the need of such evidence.”

The judge unfortunately couldn’t comply this time, “I’m afraid this matter of opinion is neceassy to be passed.

Proceed, Mr. Shady…”

Shady cleared his throat, “Now, as I was saying… would you kindly tell us the many conversations you had with the defendant and his opinions on friendship and science.”

Rates stood up again, “Petal, don’t do it…!” he cried “All the things I said to you were just my opinions, not lusts or desires. You know that! If you say them out loud, you’ll make me sound like a mad-pony.”

Tears were streaming down Petal’s face, her insides were quaking with shame ready to eat her alive. “I… I can’t… I won’t!”

“My dear, you won’t be hurting him… it’s for his own good, and the good of the town to hear the truth. That’s all we want.”

Petal could not believe how the pony she confided in was now using her like a pawn to strengthen his own case, in attempt to condemn her love to the subject of ridicule, scorn, and make him look to be wicked.

“I will not!” she snapped, but the judge wouldn’t hear of it. “Petal Dance, you are under oath. It is highly unlawful to keep evidence of great value a secret.”

“Well, Miss Dance…” said Shady “Go on, tell the court your own feelings of Dr. Rates, like he told you that friendship is a load of hogwash!”

“No!” cried Petal “Beck never said any of that stuff! He just said friendship can’t solve all things!”

“And I suppose he meant no bigotry when he denounced Princess Celestia herself for being a fraud!”

“HE DIDN’T SAY THAT!!” shouted Petal.

By this time, Shady was completely out of control, shooting his mouth off as his voice got louder as he badgered the poor pony with insane questions.

“And I bet perhaps he told you that it’s wrong to think of friendship as the one true path, or that magic doesn’t simply happen?! DOES SCIENCE KNOW ALL THE ANSWERES, DID HE MENTION THAT!”

Drummer tried to object, and the crowds began to chatter at this horrible sight, but Shady continued to shoot off…!!

“IS THIS THE KIND OF PONY YOU SUPPORT?!

ARE HIS IDEAS THE WORLD YOU WANT TO LIVE IN…?

…FILLED WITH FORCES AND ENERGRIES AND ALL BUNCH OF OTHER PARAPHENALIA TO TWIST OUR MINDS AND ROT OUR SOULS!!!

ANSWER ME…!!!!

…ANSWER ME NOW I SAY!!!!!!!”

“MAYHEW!!” shouted Penny “Mayhew, stop!”

The judge banged her gavel the hardest and loudest she ever had and a hush fell over the court. Poor Petal was quaking as she sobbed softly, hanging her head low.

“Oh… Petal…!” Rates cried.

Shady felt every eye in the court looking at him, making him realize how far he had gone. “Ahem… I believe under the circumstances… the witness should be excused.”

Judge the asked to Drummer, “Do you have any objections for the witness to be excused from cross-examination?”

Drummer had every intention to get a few words in, feeling that the defense had to have a chance to question, especially after the baffling acts of the prosecution. But Rates, out of love and concern for his fiancée, begged him “Please… don’t do it! Just let her go!”

“What are you doing?” Drummer asked “Don’t you realize if I don’t question her…”

“Don’t do it!” snapped Rates “She can’t handle it, and neither can I! I won’t put her through anymore!”

“What are you trying to do? Hand them your head on silver platter!”

“Let her go, or I swear, I’ll change my plea to guilty!”

Seeing the seriousness in his eyes, and finally coming to grips with the hysterical condition of Petal, Drummer gave in to his own conscience. “No questions.”

With that, the witness was excused.