A Tale Of Ice and Fire

Chapters

Prologue Awakening
Stripes Of Crimson
A New You
Sunny With A Chance Of Rainbow
An Unforgettable Day
A Cry For Help
Reconciliation
Zap Apple Pie And Bright Blue Skies

Prologue Awakening

It felt empty as the darkness encased its body. Around a vast and ominous emptiness were now forming. Unable to process but simple thoughts. What it was or where it was.

The creature's body was flawed and weak, a hateful existence that brought agony upon its degenerated mind.

Not like this, I am not meant like this.

An eternity seemed to have come to pass as the misshapen one continued to drift in nothingness. Where was it supposed to go? It had no light for guidance. It could faintly remember fragments of memories now, when its existence were more than this. Unsuccessful it tried to grasp for more. It strived to remember and yearned to once again to exist, to belong.

I don't want this...please...I want to live!

In the darkness a faint light began to humbly shimmer. It felt warm and serene to the flawed creature, a feeling it had forgotten, but was now eager to explore. It drifted towards the light so generously offered its warmth and kindness.

As it came closer to the light the vast darkness started to dissipate until it had almost seemed to vanish. Now the light shone brighter and instead of an emptiness the creature were surrounded by a realm of light. Instead of dread and agony it felt calm and at peace.

Ever so slowly the light seemed to change and take form, until the flawed being was surrounded by creatures of pure light that gathered near him. They shone more brightly than a thousands suns, it was overwhelming for the weak creature, which shuddered at the luminosity.

The beings of light sensed its fear and reassured that it was alright and started to dim their appearances, to make it easier for the creature to adjust to the sight of them. The flawed creature recognized their true forms as something it thought to have known once. The word ”equine” came to its mind.

The equine creatures came closer to the weak, misshapen husk of existence. It felt their light touches with their muzzles on its body. They told it that it were safe now and that there was no need to be afraid.

The creature wept inside its own mind. It had no eyes which to break down into tears with, nevertheless it wept. It couldn't comprehend the kindness it were shown. What had it done to deserve such a treatment? It had after all just made a selfish wish to exist once more.

As it also sported deficient ears, the divine beings of light spoke into its mind.

A low humming thought telegraphed itself into his head. ”Fear not little one. We have heard your wish and taken it upon ourselves to bestow you a new life.”

The warped creature couldn't believe what they whispered into its deformed mind. It sounded too good to be true. What had it accomplished to deserve their grace?

The equine beings chuckled lightly before transferring their thoughts again.
”Do not devalue yourself, little one. You are more than worthy of what we are about to give you. This is a new chapter in your life. This is your story.”

As by a signal the celestial creatures started to dissolve and break down into tiny particles of light. Then they began to pour into the flawed one's body. They made its body whole again, yet different from what it had been in another life.

”Your awakening will soon come to pass and you will be reborn into a new world. It needs your strength and through many endeavours you will learn the compassion it will take to save it from a peril that it will unwillingly take part in. Without you that world stands little chance of surviving its future ordeal.”

The new-formed one made a solemn vow to the this new world and its inhabitants, to the best its newly gained abilities. It made the vow as it now felt that it had to redeem itself for things in its past life. A whisper echoing in its mind of failures and betrayal, but unable to grasp the whole picture.

The voices of the divine beings still lingered and spoke to the new-formed one softly.

"To reincarnate you in another world, we have to bend the rules for the benefit of the universe. What this entails is, in order to maintain the balance of cosmos, we have adjusted you to it, made you a clean slate if you will. The etheral creatures paused before continuing. "If you are to be this world's strength, you have to discover yourself in a new light. Your destiny must be formed without intervention from past ”demons” and we shall keep our intervention to the minimum. This is our will, and the way it shalt unfold."

It spoke back with his on thoughts to the heavenly beings. But how do I know when the time is right? When have I discovered my new destiny?

They spoke solemnly into his mind to assure the new-formed one once again.

”When the time is right you will know. From here on, you carry with you our legacy. Go now with our blessing.”

As their voices died down a sphere were formed around the new-formed creature's body. It crackled with energy and in the next moment it were gone with a flash. The being's new life awaited.

A speck of darkness had lingered still when the realm of light had intruded and pushed it so disgustingly away. With the disappearance of the godly beings it now flared up again as if in anger.

In the darkness two presences snarled maliciously, feeling unfairly cheated.

”INSOLENCE!” They howled in unison as much as in rage as in pain and despair.

”This foul play will not go unpunished. Our vessel will not escape our grasp. Our Marks still lingers within its reborn body. A fatal error our nemeses will learn that shall cost them of their arrogance and their disgusting celestial plan. We will grow strong once again and we shall claim what is ours and more!”

A foul laughter lingered at the place where the event had taken place. It soon died out, and then there was only silence.

Stripes Of Crimson

In a breezy glade in a dense forest, an unexpected event was about to unfold. It was the lull before the storm. At first only silence, but soon broken by a thin luminous pillar striking down into the forest, then the light became a sphere, crackling loudly as it coalesced into the glade. The energy from the sphere made the grass stand erect and unmoving. The small sphere dissipated slowly with its arrival and gradually revealed its content.

A creature now laying asleep on the green grass that had buckled under its weight. It seemed forever at peace, but as morning passes to night, it progressively regained its consciousness.

It slowly opened its eyes and took in the surroundings of the dense forest and the small glade it lied upon. The smell of wildlife filled its nostrils as it took its first deep breath in its new world.

This place was not familiar it reckoned, and it had no knowledge how it had gotten here. Racking its mind it wwasn't even sure what or who it was. It seemed like there should be something else, but it could not recall any memories before this exact moment.

Instead of trying to search for answers inwards, the creature turned outwards, taking in what was its body. It scrutinized itself as much as it could laying down. It recalled the colour of its skin were called blue when the creature inspected it, and this seemed to fall near the cyan category. ”Skin” was probably the wrong word, it looked more like fur.

To get a better inspection of itself it tried standing up. Its movement was clumsy like a newborn and it took great effort for the creature to stand up. The body could have belonged to someone else, it felt foreign to the being as it stood in the middle of the glade. Inspecting its so-called arms, it noticed that they were oval-like. It came to the same conclusion for its legs, as they felt the same as its ”arms” when they pushed down on the grass.

Something seemed to hang from its posterior as well. Glancing backwards from its right side it noticed a ruffled long cyan tail with two red stripes. Boldly it also raised one of its forelegs to touch lightly upon its crest and head. It was smooth and felt like hair, proceeding further up it also noticed an outgrowth.

The outgrowth were kind of hard, much like a horn. Its hair continued down its face with unkempt side bangs favouring its left side, concealing most of its eyes.

Becoming curious of its appearance it started to look around, to its luck finding a small collection of water nearby a couple of trees.

The creature started out slowly, not wanting to risk stumbling and breaking anything in an unknown location. It made its way slowly towards the water, albeit staggering.

Its reflection revealed ruffled blue hair, which also contained two red stripes in it. The face was round and sported a small nose. It also confirmed the suspicions about the outgrowth. The most disturbing thing though was that under its ruffled bangs, its eyes seemed to look very big, in proportion to its head.

It tried its mind for knowledge again, and came up with an appropriate answer. It was apparently some sort of small quadrupedal animal. The word "horse" came it its mind.

It was time for another test. Opening its mouth it tried to speak.

”What the actual heck?” Granted the creature first words could have been something more intelligent.

Okay. Not what I expected to see, okay I didn't know what to expect anyway. It's strange though, do horses actually talk? If so, why can't I remember anything about it, it doesn't feel familiar at all. Ugh, I guess I could rack my brain for an answer, but that would probably just give me a headache at the moment.

Looking up the small cyan horse with red stripes noticed that the forest seemed brighter in one part versus the other.

That way is strangely calling to me. I guess it is as good a way as any other.

Her thoughts were caught off she heard a howling call sounding from a far away distance.

Or! It's just a very nice path to wander on, like right now!

The equine creature started once again to move, a little frantic to be out of the way of whatever animal had made that sound. No time for feeling comfortable it started to walk briskly towards the less dangerous path, and potentially it could meet someone that had some answers to its questions.

o.O.o

The small cyan horse walked along the forest path, while taking in the view of wild-grown trees and flowers. Soon it could hear birds chirping happily and the forest became a lot less dense. It pondered how it would interact with the locals, if it was ever to encounter sentient beings that is. If the small horse was one of a kind there could be some trouble concerning communication.

If I am lucky and there are others like me, I should probably treat them politely and with respect as not to offend them. If there aren't any like me I have to prepare for the worst.

The seeds of doubt started to grow in the small horse's mind. It was almost like a voice inside its head, whispering and filling it with prejudice.

”Trust no one...Only..yourself.”

No I have to hope for the best. I am here for some kind of reason and I intend to find out what it is, and finding any locals would be the appropriate thing to start with. It thought before stopping and pondering. Wait, where did that come from?

The whispering inside the horse died down, but lingered as a reminder in its head, as the cyan horse continued along the forest path.

The path had proven to be a good choice to go, as the horse could soon make out a house with a large garden that sported several birdhouses in the trees.

The small horse chuckled to itself. A local that cared so much for animals couldn't possibly be bad right? This was probably a good place as any other to start looking for answers.

”Alright, time to find the owner of this house.” The cyan horse had decided to be bold in its search. The sooner it find out about itself the better. If the owner appeared hostile in any way...well that would be a concern for later.

The horse walked faster and were soon standing behind a big tree just outside of the garden. In the garden there were a lot of different animals, ranging from birds and bees to different kinds of mammals.

The cyan horsed became thrilled when it spotted another figure coming around the house. It was another small horse, but this one had a yellow fur coat and a pink mane. It had no horn either but the cyan horse spotted something at the yellow one's sides, which looked like feathered wings.

The yellow horse carried bags on its back and the animals started to gather around it. Soon it proceeded to pour seed into the birdhouses and also place food in bowls for the critters.

The small cyan horse patiently waited for the yellow one to finish up its duties. It wondered whether if the yellow one being of a different species than itself would complicate matters. Only one way to find out after all.

The cyan horse took a deep breath to calm its nerves, stepped out from its hiding place and greeted the owner of the house.

”Greetings friend,” the cyan horse spoke with a calm demeanour. ”I come alone and in peace, as I wish only to talk with you.”

The yellow horse stopped in its tracks like it were frozen. It slowly turned to face the stranger that greeted it. As it spotted the cyan horse it eyes grew wider as if in chock.

Uh oh. This doesn't look very good. Erm, what to do?

The cyan horse kept its calm and tried speaking again, while looking into the horse's blue eyes.

”As I said I come as a frien...”

It didn't get to finish its sentence before the yellow horse gave out a loud and horrifying yell, scaring all the animals away. It dropped to the ground covering its eyes with its frontlegs.

The cyan horse became quite startled at this. It didn't know how to react to this, it weren't prepared for this outcome! Had it actually frightened this creature? But it made no sense, it had talked normally and politely.

Or maybe this were how horses greeted each other in this world. Not thinking further the cyan pony gave out a half-hearted shriek of its own and dropped to the ground with its legs over its head.

...Well that was stupid. Why would anyone greet another like this? Its face got tinted with red and it stood up again. Fair enough the horse was still on the ground, and actually shivering now, presumably in fear.

The cyan horse decided on a gentler approach. ”Please if you can understand me. I mean you no harm, I promise. I am only here to seek answers about what I am and why I am here.”

Slowly the yellow horse removed its legs from its eyes. ”U-um, y-you promise you won't hurt me?”

Thrilled the cyan horse started to smile. It did understand!

”I give you my word.” It gently met the yellow horse's eyes. From the voice it deduced that this yellow one was a female.

”May I inquire your name Ms...?”

She looked away avoiding the cyan horse's gaze, probably still frightened.

She whispered nervously ”M-my name is F-fluttershy, Unicorn-I don't-know,”

Fluttershy? That is an odd name, or maybe such names are common here? Suits her personality though. Wait what did she call me? Unicorn?

The cyan horse bowed to Fluttershy in a polite manner. ”A pleasure making your acquaintance miss Fluttershy. What was that about me being a unicorn, if I might ask?”

Fluttershy started to whimper, clearly still uncomfortable in the presence of the stranger. If there were a prize for easily scared horses, she would win it without a contest.

”W-well that is what you are, b-but if you want to be called something else..t-that's ok. She remained on the ground still to scared to move from there.

A unicorn huh? Then what does that make her?

The cyan unicorn slowly approached the yellow horse and stood now just a meter from her. ”May I ask you what defines me as a unicorn, Ms. Fluttershy? Are you one as well?”

The yellow female now met cyan unicorn's eyes and gave it an odd look, before explaining. ”W-well to answer your first question, your horn on your head is what makes you a unicorn. The answer to your second is no, I am a pegasus pony.

”Forgive me for asking, but what is a pony?” It asked her gently.

Fluttershy looked like she had trouble believing her ears.

”It is what we are, ponies, you and me. Our species.”

The cyan unicorn gave Fluttershy a quizzical look. ”I thought I was a unicorn?”

Fluttershy finally found the courage to stand. She gave the poor cyan pony a pitiful look, like she thought it was confused, or possibly even addled in the head. She continued to stare blankly at the ruffled-looking pony before speaking.

”Well yes, a unicorn pony, as I am a pegasus pony. There are also earth ponies, but they don't have horns, or wings," She said, but go embarrassed and added, "o-oh, but they are strong and constitutional.”. Not wanting to demean earth ponies, or sound overly special.

This clarified things for the unicorn. ”Ah, so we all are equine creatures, but with some differences. Are all of the other ponies sapient like you, or are one of a kind?”

”O-oh no, everypony can talk and has special skills, that they are good at.” She dared to move a little closer now, as she didn't see the unicorn as frightening as before.

The cyan pony smiled. ”I would assume your special skill is animal care-taking? You seem to be doing an excellent job at that.”

Fluttershy started to blush. ”I-it's nothing,” she stammered, clearly embarrassed. ”Just something I like to do. The animals are all my friends so I gladly take care of them.”

Wow there is more to this one than I first thought. She is a kind and a compassionate soul. I hope there will be more like her in this world. She seems to be one of those who make the world a better place to live.

”Pathetic.” The voices inside the unicorn's mind whispered. The cyan pony shook its head. Again? Where did that come from?

Snapping back to reality. The blue pony noticed Fluttershy now staring at it, with wonder in her eyes.

”U-um, excuse me for asking, but how come you know nothing of ponies, when you are one yourself?” She fidgeted slightly, not wanting to upset the unicorn.

The cyan pony pondered whether it should tell Fluttershy its story. She seemed trustworthy enough and frankly very harmless. Probably would be best to avoid mentioning the whispering voices though.

”Well miss Fluttershy I am asking simply because I do not know who I am. I woke up in that forest over yonder, and except for today I cannot recollect anything from my past.”

Realising the truth of the situation kind of hurt and the unicorn became a little saddened by it. It's different when you talk about it I guess.

Fluttershy looked both terrified and deeply concerned for the stranger. She got up and surprised the unicorn with a caring hug.

”Oh no, you poor, poor thing. You were alone in the Everfree Forest? You must have been frightened and alone, with no one else to turn to, not even yourself.”

The cyan unicorn startled by the hug, blushed deeply. ”Err, it wasn't that bad.” The pony tried to get away from her crushing embrace. She were a lot stronger than she actually let on.

”Oh it's worse than bad. It is downright awful. You aren't hurt anywhere are you?” She began feeling the unicorn's body for injuries.

Okay! This is getting awkward. Her caring nature did not just extend to animal, it seems.

The unicorn broke free from her touch. ”I am just fine I assure you miss, please don't do that again.”

The yellow pegasus started stuttering again. ”O-oh, I-I'm sorry. You just seemed so down and depressed, and I know I always feel a little better when I get a hug so I thught...."

The cyan unicorn felt ashamed. Her concern is clearly genuine. Great, now I feel like a jerk for pushing her away.

It bowed its head and spoke to her. ”I apologize for startling you. I feel fine though, so no worries. Anyway you told me there were other ponies like you?" I am here for information after all. I need to ask as much as possible before I have to turn elsewhere.

Fluttershy brightened up. ”Oh yes, well technically between my best friends only Rainbow Dash is a pegasus like me. She is a great flier, probably one of the best in all of Equestria. I can't fly as fast, but my friends never hold that against me. Then there is Applejack and Pinkie Pie. They are earthponies. Applejack is strong and honest and Pinkie always do her best to make others smile. My two unicorn friends are Rarity and Twilight Sparkle. Rarity always makes the best of dresses and is a very generous pony. Twilight is a very knowledgeable pony and also extremely talented in magic. Then there is of course my non-pony friends like Spik...”

The cyan unicorn listened patiently to Fluttershy's narrative. Something caught its attention however. Magic? Why does that feel so familiar?

Suddenly the cyan pony felt a sharp pain in its head and groaned in agony. What was that about?

Fluttershy looked up noticing the unicorn's scowl.

”I-I'm sorry. I am boring you, aren't I? How unthoughtful of me, can't I ever learn to shut my big mouth...”

The cyan, red striped pony gave Fluttershy a reassuring look.

”Ah no, no it's not you. I got a little headache all of a sudden, 'tis all. It's gone now.”

”Forgive me for asking you another question, but what is your name? T-that is, if you remember, maybe you can tell me? Y-you don't have to if you don't want to though, it's okay..”

She really should be more assertive. Well I guess being shy isn't a bad trait, she is rather kind and pretty after all.

The unicorn smiled towards the nervous pony ”Of course you can ask me my name, miss Fluttershy. I am called...eh?” The cyan pony came up blank. What? That is odd, I am sure I had a name..then why can't I remember it? Did I really forget that as well?

”I..uh..my name is..” The small equine started to get perplexed. It hadn't thought of a name at all! It had just assumed it had one. ”I honestly..cannot..remember.” The small pony went from perplexed to sorrowful. Guess it too could win a prize, for fastest emotional mood swing. Depressing.

Fluttershy felt the unicorn's distress and despite earlier tell off she hugged it gently. The cyan red -striped pony did not object this time to her embrace.

Fluttershy consoled the distressed pony in her forelegs. ”There, there, we can try and figure your name out. Let's see if we can make any sense of it by looking at your cutie mark.”

”Cutie mark?” The blue unicorn gently wiped its somewhat runny muzzle. The embrace had felt good and it felt a little better now. Fluttershy was indeed good at taking care of others. ”What is a cutie mark?”

”A cutie mark is proof that a pony has discovered his or hers special talent or calling in life. It is a mark that shows up on your flank when you know your destiny.”

”How does that reveal my name exactly?” The blue unicorn said quizzically, noticing now the mark on Fluttershy's flank, in form of three butterflies. Oh, I guess that is quite clever.

”Well sometimes the name and the cutie mark are very similar. It doesn't apply to everypony but it doesn't hurt to take a look. Now let's see here...oh my.” She exclaimed a little surprised.

On the blue unicorn's hip were two snakelike creatures entangled in each other, as if in a fight. One was icy-blue while the other red as fire.

Odd, I didn't notice that when I woke up in the glade..

”W-well that sure is a special cutie mark. I have never seen anything like that. U-um..Ice-fire serpent..no, doesn't sound like a pony name.”

”Anything you can think of, miss Fluttershy? The blue unicorn had slipped back into polite speech.

”Please just call me Fluttershy and no, nothing really that fits a pony.”

The cyan horse sighed and proceeded to scratch its head, ruffling up its mane more in the process.

Fluttershy gave the unicorn a scrutinizing look as it did this. Then she slowly approached it and examined its mane. It was a darker shade of blue with dark red stripes in it, the same as the unicorns tail. She gently pushed its bangs out of the pony's eyes to reveal a set of gentle carnelian-shaded eyes.

She considered the pony's appearance and whispered as she released its mane. ”I guess I'll call you Crimson Stripes.”

The cyan pony looked into her blue eyes. ”W-what did you say?”

”Crimson Stripes.” She said normally.

Crimson Stripes? Is that my name? It feels...wonderful. It's a wonderful name! My name is Crimson Stripes.. In its happiness it couldn't the detect the voices in the back of its head, scowling in disgust.

”I am Crimson Stripes,” Crimson said proudly. ”It is a good name Fluttershy, thank you very much.”

Fluttershy's cheeks became red with embarrassment. ”You're very welcome, Crimson."

A New You

”I am very grateful to you Fluttershy. I didn't think that I would be so well received by you, frankly I was a little nervous to approach you,” Crimson Stripes stated.

”Hehe, you were afraid of little me?” She had a huge grin on her face. ”I never thought a day like that would come.”

”If you don't mind Fluttershy, would you teach me more about this world. I would forever be in your debt,” Crimson really hoped she would agree. The blue unicorn had really grown to like the yellow pegasus.

”Well, I am not as knowledgeable as Twilight, but I will gladly tell you more about Equestria.”

Fluttershy proceeded to explain the world as she knew it. She talked about their history, the hierarchy about the Princesses and what they did to ensure peace. She mentioned her friends and talked about the other creatures in Ponyville and in the world.

As Crimson listened intently to her story, the animals started to gather round again, finally finding the courage to trust the new pony. They sat and listened as well and enjoyed it, while eating their breakfast.

”And that's more or less a summary of our world called Equestria. I guess asking Twilight would be best though since she is Princess Celestia's star pupil...”

Crimson Stripes interrupted her kindly. ”Don't devalue yourself Fluttershy. I am very grateful for your explanation, and if the other ponies are as kind-hearted as you, I think my search will certainly give me the answers I seek.”

Fluttershy smiled at her new acquaintance. Soon she became rigid though. She noticed how high up the sun was in the sky. Her explanation had taken her longer than she expected and she totally forgot she had an appointment.

”Oh dear, I'm late!” She exclaimed horridly. She had promised to meet up with Rarity at her boutique, with the flowers she asked for yesterday. She glanced at two big baskets full with flowers at the side of her cottage. It would take her two rounds to carry both and that made her even more late.

Crimson Stripes asked her what was on her mind. Fluttershy explained to the unicorn her ordeal, while quickly flying back and forth finishing up her choirs. Rarity had learned a preservation spell from Twilight, to be able to use real flowers in her dresses without them withering or lose their scent.

”Ah, then allow me to help you Fluttershy. It is the least I can do to repay your kindness.”

Fluttershy didn't argue with the unicorn even though it was her assignment. Soon they were both off to Rarity with a basket each in their mouths.

o.O.o

”It's not very far now,” Fluttershy exclaimed without looking back. ”Rarity's Carousel Boutique is only a few leaps away.”

As to confirm what Fluttershy said, Crimson could see a building tower over some nearby houses just a little further away. The fashion boutique were in the outskirts of the village and not that far from Fluttershy's cottage.

Crimson Stripes spotted a few ponies making their way to do whatever task they had set themselves upon. They all came in different colour shades and sported a variety of manecuts. The cutie marks at their hips were also unique, some didn't have one, and Crimson deduced they were probably prepubescents.

”This is a part of my village, Ponyville,” she told Crimson Stripes. ”As I explained earlier it is home to a lot of different ponies. You will find that they are all friendly in their own way, so you don't have to be afraid to make new friends here.”

Crimson scoffed silently at her. Treating my like I am a child, huh? Well she means well I guess.

”I'm sure I can come to an understanding with these ponies if what you have been telling me is correct. Don't worry about me Fluttershy, honestly,” Crimson grinned forcefully, which were meant to reassure her. Not being born yesterday, the yellow pony sighed and turned her head forward.

”Alright if you say so,” the yellow pony said as she slowed down. “We are finally here. Thank goodness I didn't have to turn back for another round.”

The store radiated with beauty and even if Crimson didn't know of any other fashion boutiques it was clear that Rarity deeply cared for her profession.

Crimson Stripes put down the basket of flowers and wiped a little sweat away. Well now I know that I can at least run this far without too much trouble, good to know.

”Well then Fluttershy I guess I did my share. I must really thank you for taking so much time in teaching me about Ponyville.”

”Oh, u-um, are you leaving so soon?” She scratched with her right hoof in the ground as she spoke. ”You could come inside with me if you want. I am sure Rarity wouldn't mind if I brought you along.”

Hmm, tempting. Maybe meeting with Rarity could unlock some of my memories. It's not like I have a plan anyway.

”If you think that she wouldn't mind then I trust you Fluttershy.”

Fluttershy blushed at the comment. ”G-great, I-I think she would be delighted to make a new friend, no worries.”

If the store were beautiful on the outside it was even more stunning on the inside. Ponyquins were dressed in varieties of outfits, all very grand and expensive-looking. Different kinds of colourful soft-looking fabrics laid neatly on top of eachother in the room. Crimson also noted chests with sparkling gems. This Rarity seemed to work solely with the rarest of raw materials.

They both looked for the unicorn but couldn't see her in the boutique.

”Rarity? I am really sorry that I'm late. I brought the flowers you asked me about.”

A very noble-sounding voice answered her call, coming from another room in the boutique.

”Oh that is quite alright Fluttershy, dear. I am quite in the middle of something though, I will be with you momentarily..hmm no, no, oh goodness no..ah there, perfect! Alright I'm coming now, sorry for making you wait.”

A white immaculate unicorn with a lustrous purple mane and gems for cutie mark trotted into the room.

”Well well. This is a pleasant surprise, you brought a guest. It's always a pleasure to meet new...oh my goodness darling!” Rarity stared at Crimson Stripes for a second before rushing over for a closer look. She grabbed the pony's head and began twisting and turning it, examining it carefully.

Okay. Strangers inappropriately touching me seem to be all the rage today. Not being amused Crimson gently shook her off. It was kind of rude to invade one's personal space like that after all.

”Any problems, miss Rarity?” Crimson said with an icy tone.

”Sorry for startling you like that dear, but your unkempt mane is a crime towards fashion, and we can't have that now, can we?” She got a serious look in her face and eyed the unicorn intently.

Crimson stared at the white unicorn in disbelief. It's a crime to have a bad hair day?Then I am pretty screwed. She couldn't possible be serious now, could she?

”Surely you jest, miss? My mane is my business,” The blue unicorn put a hoof to its mane and brushed it lightly to get it out its eyes, it quickly fell back into its place though.

Rariry shook her head at the display, confirming her point. “Afraid not darling, it's a crime in this boutique and I am the judge, prosecutor and jury.”

Crimson gulped at her serious remark. “Don't I have the right to a lawyer?”

“Alas no dear, I fear I have already passed judgement upon you.”

This is idiotic. Like she think she can judge me for how I look. Let's see where she goes with this though, I'll play along for now.

“So what is my verdict then?”

“To be restyled by yours truly of course!”

“...What?” If the cyan unicorn's eyes weren't covering its eyes, you could see the blank stare on its face. Rarity only wanted to do a makeover!

“Denied,” Crimson said simply.

If Rarity were in Crimson's face earlier this was way worse. She proceeded to go from convincing judge to pouting pony, tears forming in her eyes.

“Please, let me restyle you, pretty, pretty please!”

Obnoxious little...No, be calm. If I just persist she has to give up. If Fluttershy had any opinion on this, she sure took her sweet time mentioning it.

“I am sorry, but my answer remains the same,” The blue pony would turn around if Rarity didn't latch on to its forelegs.

Puppies could learn from the look Rarity gave Crimson and the blue unicorn rolled its eyes under its mane.

“Please, I need you. You would look simply divine in this new style, I know you would darling.”

Crimson Stripes's face could now turn rubies to shame. This was really embarrassing to the newcomer.

As by a spell, Fluttershy finally stopped watching the event and decided to interact with the drama that were unfolding before her eyes.

“U-um, Crimson? If it's really not too much to ask, would you let Rarity help you? She is really good at what she does, and judging from her desperation, she wouldn't dream of charging you for it.”

As if money was the problem here! Couldn't Fluttershy see that this attention made the blue unicorn uncomfortable.

I am not getting out of this am I? Great...

Since resistance seemed futile and the blue unicorn was outnumbered two to one, it submitted to the will of the fashionista. If the two ponies had cared to listen, they probably would have noticed the groan coming out of Crimson's mouth.

“Fine. I'll allow you to work your magic on me, Rarity.”

Rarity made a noise that could be likened to a squeaky-toy. She stood up and regained her posture, now as majestic as before her whining.

“Splendid, dear. And I think we got on the wrong hoof earlier. Allow me to properly introduce myself. I am Rarity, fashionista by profession and owner of the Carousel Boutique here in Ponyville.

“Charmed.” My name is Crimson Stripes. Owner of nothing and with no fancy title to my name.” The words stung like bee stings in Crimson's mouth.

“Oh dear.” Rarity got a concerned look on her face, much like the one Fluttershy had given Crimson earlier today. Clearly a procedure for these ponies it seemed.

Fluttershy kindly interjected the conversation and started to explain to Rarity about her meeting with Crimson Stripes.

This time Rarity magically levitated a tissue to wipe her eyes. Ponies also seemed liable to cry often. A wonder they didn't drown in there own sorrow, and concern for others.

“That must be the saddest story I have ever heard. Crimson dear, you must have had it awful in that scary forest.”

“It's nothing really, please don't cry for my sake.” If her invading the cyan unicorn's personal space made it uneasy, crying was certainly a turn for the worse.

“Crimson sweetheart, there must be more I could do for you than fix your mane style.”

Great, more alteration. Will I even recognize myself after she is done?

“No, that's fine you don't have to go to such lengths for me.”

Rarity would have nothing of that, she was as stubborn as she was generous. “I must insist though, dear. Now that I think about it, you might be perfect for the new collection I created.”

Crimson Stripes didn't dare to object, since the waterworks would probably begin anew if that happened. The blue pony complied to the request.

“I'll try out an outfit as well then...”

“Wonderful! Fluttershy? Could you please gather the flowers. They are the last things I need to complete the collection. Styling Crimson and finishing it would align perfectly.”

“Styling me and finishing your collection at the same time. No offence, but aren't you in over your head?”

She gave Crimson the reassuring look she gave all the ponies that asked her that. “Oh darling, don't be silly. You make it sound like it's going to be hard.”

She laughed as she guided the blue unicorn to a mirror. “Now sit tight please. I need to straighten out the knots in your mane and tail.”

Crimson complied and sat down, while the white unicorn started levitating a brush and went loose on the blue pony's mane.

Crimson regarded her magic ability with interest. Sure seems like something neat to have. I wonder how much magic she can do?

The blue unicorn lost itself in thoughts as the brush caressed its mane gently. It were strangely relaxing and Crimson's tension from earlier started to fade away. The cyan pony became unaware of the passing of time.

Crimson awoke to two clips being fastened at the same time. One forcing the bangs of out of the eyes of the unicorn and one in the tail. It felt odd though, like it were out of place for the pony to wear them.

“Alright dear your mane and tail grooming is done, but don't peek yet please. I need to get this new outfit on you before you witness the new you.”

The cyan, crimson striped pony continued to close its eyes as it felt soft fabric slid over its body. It made for a really nice fit. Like it were made especially for me. How nice. There were also a nice fragrance coming from the fabric, which were probably the flowers they had carried with them earlier.

The waiting made Crimson a little excited. Now that perhaps the blue pony looked the part, maybe it would be easier to interact with other locals in the village. I really misjudged Rarity. I have to properly thank her for doing me this favour. This is sure to help me along my way.

“Time to witness your new look, dear.”

The blue unicorn opened its eyes to look into the mirror.

A pretty light blue pony, in a blue-green dress riding high on the flank, featuring both roses and carnelians professionally attached to it, stared back at Crimson. She wore a brooch made of rubies in her mane as well as one in her tail.

Wow she is kind of pretty. I didn't know Rarity worked on another pony while I were here. I guess I don't give her enough credit, huh? I wonder how I look myself.

Crimson Stripes turned to wherever the mirror were placed. Odd. It had been just in front, hadn't it? The blue unicorn noticed the other female from the corner of its eyes. That pony were also turning her head.

What?

Turning ever so slowly back to the original position, the female pony mimicked Crimson's exact movement.

“U-um, what?" The cyan unicorn said out loud, the female's mouth moved in unison with its own.

If there ever were a lull before the storm, that exact moment was happening now.

“Oh my freaking goodness. That pony is me!”

Rarity couldn't help feeling proud of her work, and took the blue unicorn's yell as a sign that she had indeed succeeded in the makeover.

“I know right? Crimson darling you look simply amazing. As a fashionista, transforming you from the raw coal of potential to this brilliant diamond has truly been a pleasure.”

Fluttershy had had her own eyes closed as well during the transformation, but now she marvelled at her new friend's appearance. “You look very pretty, Crimson. I am really happy for you.

Crimson Stripes did not respond to the ponies's comments. The pony just stared at the reflection in the mirror.

“Oh sweetheart, are you speechless?” Rarity went a little closer to the baffled unicorn. “Please, tell me what you think dear. I would love to hear your feedback.”

The cyan unicorn didn't respond to Rarity's wish. It was too preoccupied sorting out the chaos forming in its mind.

Why am I, What is, How? The thoughts all clumped together and the pony couldn't concentrate on one at a time efficiently. How come I am so pretty? It was the first thought that formed correctly in Crimson's mind, however stupid it sounded. The cyan pony hadn't been expecting this. What was eating her though? Why did the reflection seem off?

The voices in her head now started to cackle maliciously, before fading out slowly.

Great I am being mocked by my own mind.

“Crimson sweetheart? Is something the matter?” Rarity had gotten closer to the pony in concerning her palpable silence.

Fluttershy waved her hoof in front of the blue unicorn in order to get her attention. “Are you okay, Crimson? Are you hurting somewhere?”

Crimson Stripes finally turned her heads toward her pony acquaintances.

Something just doesn't feel right. I can't really say for for sure what though, Crimson sighed audibly. Maybe I am just overthinking things

She thought if she should talk to Rarity and Fluttershy about her suspicions about her apperances, but what would they think about her? Probably that I am a nutcase

“They'd be disgusted of course...” The voices in her head were now more coherent than ever. It spoke freely to the pony now. “They would think you'd be mad, no one wants to associate with weirdos.”

Then what do I have to do? I don't want them to hate me. We just started to get to know each other..

“Then lie...don't tell them...after all what they don't know, won't hurt them..” The voices died down and settled into the back of her mind again,

Lying to Rarity and Fluttershy? But they have done so much for me. Lying would be wrong, but I guess it's alright as long as they don't ask me about it. That won't be lying, just withholding the truth...right?

Her supposedly sub-conscience did not grace her with an answer.

“Sweetheart, why won't you say something? I won't be mad if you don't like the style. We can figure out another one for you, if you think it would suit you better?” Rarity patted Crimson gently on her head to reassure her that things were alright.

Oh dear. She is prepared to redo the whole thing just for me? Just because she don't think I liked the style?

There was nothing wrong with it though. Crimson felt quite alright in the dress Rarity had given her, and the brooches were a lovely complement to her carnelian eyes, while also keeping her bangs in place.

“C-Crimson Stripes, please talk to us. We are your friends.” Fluttershy on the verge of tears, begged her to snap back to reality.

Friends? I am considered a real friend to these ponies? That sealed the deal and Crimson Stripes abandoned all doubt in her mind, The voices wouldn't trouble her, for now at least.

“I-I feel different, but in a good way. I really do look pretty,” Crimson tried to choke back her tears but failed. “Thank you very much Rarity, Fluttershy.”

The Crimson Striped mare now wept as her two friends embraced and soothed her.

“You are welcome sweetheart. Anything for a friend.”

The name Crimson Stripes felt even better now. It had after all been given to her by a friend.

Sunny With A Chance Of Rainbow

After the hug and when Crimson Stripes had calmed down. Rarity began to give her some advice about how to manage her new look.

“Make sure you apply proper shampoo and conditioners for your mane and tail. Just any won't do, dear. Almost everypony have a different kind of mane quality and it should be treated with care, to not lose its luster. Also remember to brush them every morning and night. Knots and split ends are your worst enemy.”

The blue unicorn made a mental note to at least remember to brush her mane and tail regularly. She owed Rarity that much to be sure.

She returned the dress to Rarity and thanked her for the opportunity to try it out. It was more of a going-out-dress and Crimson thought it would be a shame if it got ripped or dirtied.

Crimson Stripes reluctantly grasped for the accessories as well, when Rarity stopped her.

“Keep them dear, they suit you very well, even without the dress. The dress is yours as well if you would like to have it.”

“But the fabric and the hard work you put down in making them must surely cost you tons of money? Not to mention the expensive gems.”

Rarity chuckled. “Do the outfit and the accessories make you happy, dear?”

Happiness couldn't possibly describe what the blue unicorn thought. “Yes, they do. I didn't think I would at first, but after thinking about it, they really do. I really like them.” Crimson's voice betrayed that she didn't only mean the dress and accessories.

“That is all I needed to hear, Crimson. They are yours to keep. I'll store the dress here as a display.You're welcome to come and get it whenever you have settled in properly.”

“That's very kind of you Rarity, thank you aga..*gargle*..”

Crimson placed a hoof to her stomach and turned red with embarrassment. “Excuse me.” Having ignored eating anything since her awakening it was no surprise she started feeling hungry. "My stomach and I are in a disagreement. I admit I am pretty famished."

Rarity and Fluttershy couldn't help themselves and started to giggle at their friend's predicament.

“Ah, idea.” Rarity brightened up. “There is this lovely new restaurant in town, specialising in cuisine from Trotterdam. We simply have to go there, it'll be my treat of course.”

Crimson were too hungry to object to Rarity's offer and the three ponies soon left the boutique and headed out. The sky was clear of any clouds, and the sun warmed the three ponies, as they ventured outside. Perfect for dining out.

o.O.o

As they were passing houses and ponies alike, Crimson went into deep thoughts again, rather than taking in the sights. She wondered about the weird voices that whispered to her earlier. Were they perhaps something that related to her past? Trying to feel them she concentrated inwards, but to no avail. Whatever had spoken to her a while ago, either remained silent by choice or inability.

Her stomach decided to cut her off from any thoughts. Food had apparently higher priority to her body than her mind had about imaginative demons. Well let's just enjoy the moment for now then. I'll get back to talking to myself out loud when no one can hear.. At least being able to take it in strides didn't make her crazy, right?

After a swift walk they arrived at the restaurant. Lovely fragrances poured out from the luxurious-looking white eatery. You could compare Crimson's mouth to a waterfall when she smelled them in the air, teasing her.

An earth pony waiter dressed in black and white stood at the entrance, ready to guide the new guests into the restaurant.

“Good day madames, welcome to restaurant Zilveren Lepel , table for three?”

Rarity turned towards the waiter. “Yes please. The weather is lovely today so we'd like to dine outside, if you would be so kind as to show us to a table with a view.”

“Very well, follow me madames.” He guided them to a white round table, with a parasol, that also had a view towards a lively park, where little foals and fillies were playing by a big fountain.

“Are you sure about this Rarity? I mean the restaurant looks quite exclusive. Can you really afford to pay for us all?"

“Oh this is nothing, dear. Don't worry about it.”

“If you say so.” Crimson sighed and promised herself that she would repay the two ponies someday.

The waiter gave them their menus and, as they sat down, asked what drinks they would like to start with. Rarity and Crimson both went for mineral water, while Fluttershy decided to pick orange juice. While they were thinking about what they would order, the waiter excused himself and tended to another couple of guests in the meantime.

Crimson looked the menu over, glad that she could read it. The restaurant had provided translation for the dishes they served. She was however unfamiliar with the courses. They didn't sound like anything she had ever eaten before. Seeing as ponies were obviously herbivores, it didn't come as a surprise when she found no dishes with meat in them. Hopefully all inhabitants are herbivores here. Not standing at the top of the food chain makes me uncomfortable. She could probably ask Fluttershy about this later.

Glancing over the menu again, the cyan blue unicorn noticed a dish that didn't seem too expensive. Not wanting to take advantage of Rarity's generosity, she decided to order just that. The dish itself, she read, contained of boiled potatoes and green apples, with some kind of syrup. Maybe the dish would be too sweet for her palate, but the alternatives didn't look any more attractive.

The waiter returned to them shortly after have helped the other guests settle down at a table, a little further away from their own. He took their order and after about a twenty minute long wait he brought with him their lunch.

Rarity and Fluttershy had both ordered a dish that seemed to made of mashed potatoes, toppled with curry and pineapple.

Crimson Stripes contemplated whether that would have been a better choice, since she were now fumbling with the utensils given to her. Hooves certainly weren't build for these kind of actions, how ever did the locals manage?

Eyeing Rarity, she saw the white unicorn levitate her utensils to scoop up the mashed potatoes and into her awaiting mouth. A flash of jealousy came over Crimson and she swore she would find someone who could teach her those fancy tricks. Hadn't Fluttershy said something about a pony she knew, that was talented in magic? Fluttershy didn't seem to have a problem using her utensils either, practice makes perfect apparently. After much effort she finally managed to guide the fork to her mouth, without making a fool of herself. She discovered, to her delight, that the dish was quite delectable, and not too sweet after all.

They made some small talk at the table and Rarity mentioned that their other friends would probable like to meet the new pony that had come to town. Crimson agreed, anything that could help her in her ordeal would be greatly appreciated.

“They would just adore you, darling. Our sextet just love making new friends, and I am sure you would fit right in.”

Fluttershy nodded in agreement. “They are all very nice, so don't worry. I believe they would like you as well.”

“I would love to meet your friends. I just hope I am not seen as a thir..err..seventh wheel.”

Rarity chuckled. “Nonsense dear. As soon as you make their acquaintances, you will see how silly you were to be concerned.”

When they finished their meal, Rarity turned to the cyan pony. “Hope you made some room for dessert, darling. We still have so much to talk about.”

Crimson cringed a little at his, feeling like a leech. Was there no stop to Rarity's generosity, or maybe she just liked others to think of her as generous? Either way it made her slightly uncomfortable.

The white unicorn noticed her friends concern and chuckled. “Oh come now, dear. This is no problem at all. I might not look like it, but I do have money to splurge with once in a while.”

Crimson hadn't thought of Rarity as poor, quite the contrary, her dressmaking had to be quite a lucrative business, since they were of so high quality. She had a hunch that Rarity designed outfits for royalties and celebrities as well.

They browsed their menus again and decided to all go for some baked apples, toppled with raisins. With the dessert they were also served tea, that had a fragrance of different kinds of herbs.

Before partaking in their desserts, the three ponies were interrupted by loud crying. Turning towards the park they saw a young brown earth pony filly standing at the base of a tree, staring upwards in dismay.

“My balloon.” She whimpered as tears were welling up in her eyes.

Crimson turned her gaze towards the top of the tree. Sure enough, a red balloon had managed to entangle itself in the highest branches.

Poor child. Maybe we could help. She turned to her friends to suggest the idea.

In the corner of her eye she spotted something multicoloured fly by in high speed. Crimson returned her gaze to the park. There a cyan blue pony, with a rainbow coloured mane and tail, had already taken down the red balloon from the tree.

“Thank you, Rainbow Dash.” The little filly were happy again, now that she had her balloon.

The pony named Rainbow Dash smiled. “Any time kid. You can always depend on me to help anypony in trouble. Just be careful so that you don't lose it again, okay?”

“You bet, Rainbow!” The filly trotted happily away with her red balloon in her mouth.

Crimson Stripes took a moment to think, as she continued to watch the scene. The name felt familiar. Wasn't she..

“Ah, lovely. There's our circle's ruffian. Might as well make you two acquainted.” Rarity exclaimed. She only sounded like she was half-joking. “Rainbow Dash! Over here dear.”

Rainbow turned to face the familiar voice she heard. She smiled and waved to the friends before flying towards them, where they were eating.

“Hi guys. What's up? Saved any grub for me?” She took a chair from an empty table and sat down, next to Fluttershy.

Rarity sighed. “Rainbow Dash, a lady does not eat from another pony's plate at a restaurant. Other ponies might take you for being a beggar."

“Bah, beggar shmeggar. Everypony around here knows who I am.” She courageously nibbled an apple from the white unicorn's plate as to prove that she didn't care.

“Oh, I'll gladly share some of my dessert with you, if you are hungry, Dash.” Fluttershy gently pushed a baked apple towards Rainbow with her hoof.

“See, Rarity? Fluttershy don't mind. Thanks a bunch. Fluttershy.” She dig in on that apple as well, letting out a small burp as she finished it.

“Rainbow! Control yourself. That is utterly disgusting.” Rarity said with disdain in her voice. She turned to Crimson. “See what I meant, dear? Be so kind and don't take after her behaviour.”

Crimson Stripes rolled her eyes at the suggestion. It's not like she was a kid that need to be reminded about simple table manners.

“Hey, that's unfair...wait a minute here,” Rainbow turned to the cyan coloured unicorn. She inspected her thoroughly before speaking, “I am pretty sure I haven't seen you around Ponyville before. Are you new?”

Crimson eyed the cyan pegasus back before responding politely. “That is correct. The name's Crimson Stripes. A pleasure making your acquaintance, miss Rainbow Dash.”

For a few seconds Rainbow remained silent. Then without a warning she burst out laughing, almost falling out of her chair in the process.

Crimson stared blankly at the now laughing blue pegasus. Had her introduction really been that funny? Neither Rarity or Fluttershy had laughed at her when she introduced herself to them, what made this pegasus so different?

This pony kind of annoys me, and it isn't just her laughing that disturbs me. Something about her general behaviour strike me as...familiar. She pondered in her head.

“Ignore her. Is she worth becoming friends with when she laughs at you like that?” The meddlesome voices had returned. Crimson wasn't entirely convinced if they were just a figure of her imagination, or perhaps something that really spoke to her, nevertheless it made her think.

Too flat out ignore her would be rude, not to say counterproductive of what I am trying to achieve. I am not going to judge her based on a first impression, even if she is doing a pretty lousy job at being friendly, if you could even call her that. She did help that filly earlier though, so I guess I'll just wait and see for now.

Rainbow Dash had finally begun settling down from her outburst. “That was so funny. She kind of reminds me of the way those prissy canterlot ponies talk when we were at Grand Galloping Gala. She might even rival you, Rar.”

Rarity was not amused however. Fearing the lecture, Rainbow covered her ears jokingly.

“Rainbow. This unicorn is new here in Ponyville. You should treat her with respect. You are making a fool out of yourself as well.” Rarity turned towards the other guests, apologizing for her friend's embarrassing behaviour.

“Oh relax Rarity. Anyway, sorry for laughing at ya, missy. The name's Rainbow Dash, Ponyville's top flier and aspirant to the Wonderbolts.”

“I do have to apologize for Dash, she can be such a brute sometimes.”

“Hey unfair. I'm not a brute. I just enjoy a good laugh now and then!”

Rarity gave her a look that meant that she should quiet down, before they were all asked to leave the restaurant. Rainbow muttered a little before complying and sat down on her chair.

The white unicorn spoke again. “Crimson dear, this is Rainbow. One of our circle of friends. She is rough around the edges, but you won't find a more loyal pony. She is always willing to help others in need.”

Crimson nodded towards Rainbow. “Let's try again then. I am Crimson Stripes. Unfortunately I haven't got a title to boast with, since I kind of "woke up" just today.”

Rainbow got a quizzical look on her face. “What do you mean with “woke up just today”? That sounds a little weird to me.”

Crimson began explaining her awakening in the Everfree Forest, with no memories of her past, and no knowledge about Equestria. She told Rainbow about her fortunate meeting with Fluttershy and Rarity, and how grateful she was for their help, some parts she purposely left out though, not wishing to share her emotional moments.

“Wow, that's quite something.” Rainbow Dash had enjoyed the interesting beginning of Crimson's story. Not taking any particular interest in the makeover part. “It takes some serious guts to be napping the Everfree Forest like that. You may be quite cool after all. Not as cool as yours truly of course, but perhaps, twenty percent as cool.”

Gee, thank you, Dash.

Did she think things always revolved around her? Crimson couldn't really tell if you she liked she cyan pegasus. Still Rarity and Fluttershy considered her a friend, so Crimson decided to let Rainbow's attitude slide for now.

The three ponies finished up their desserts. Dash had eyed the last apple at Crimson's plate as well. The unicorn gave it up a little reluctantly, and pushed it to the blue pegasus.

“Thanks a bunch, Crimmy!” She said as she proceeded to pretty much swallow the apple whole.

Great, a weird nickname already. What a great trade for a tasty apple. Crimson Stripes sighed.

Their stay at the Restaurant was cut short, as Fluttershy and Rarity said that they had to leave. Fluttershy needed to return to her cottage, to tend to some of her patients, while Rarity had to take care of her afternoon clients and orders.

Fluttershy asked Dash if, she was free, she could perhaps be Crimson's guide in Ponyville. It could be a chance for Crimson to further get acquainted with the pegasus. If Rarity had doubts about them going together, she didn't reveal it.

Rainbow promised that she would show the newcomer the ropes around town. Crimson cringed a little at this, but remained silent. She understood that her new friends couldn't cancel their previous arrangements just for her.

“Sorry that we have to leave you like this dear, we have obligations after all. Don't worry though, you are always welcome at my boutique if you are feeling lonely. I still have a lot of dresses I would like for you to try out, and we must simply visit the Ponyville Spa someday together.” Rarity said with a smile. She clearly had a lot in mind for the unicorn.

“Um, Crimson? If you need a place to sleep for the night...” Fluttershy's cheek turned red, but she continued. “Then you are welcome to stay at my cottage, if you want to, if not, then that's okay as well. Oh and I'll introduce you to Angel next time you visit. He's my little bunny friend and he would probably like to meet you as well.” She beamed at the notion of introducing Crimson to more of her animal friends.

Crimson Stripes was deeply touched by their friendly concern and the three ponies embraced in a hug before parting ways. They waved goodbye and Rarity and Fluttershy left the cyan unicorn with Rainbow Dash, hoping they would become great friends as well.

I'll make sure to visit them later. For now though let's get exploring this town and perhaps find some clues about my origin. She frowned a little when she remembered whom her guide was.

Rainbow turned to Crimson, with a glint in her eyes. “Well, well newcomer. It seems like it's just you and me for the time being. Guess I'll have to show you how things work around here. First let me tell you more about myself, though.”

The blue pegasus cleared her throat and began to tell Crimson about her bravados. “As a filly I was already awesome. At flight camp I already made a name of myself, as a junior speedster...”

Crimson sighed and rolled her eyes at the blue pegasus, when she wasn't looking. Oh joy. Hopefully we won't get in any significant trouble. She sure likes the sound of her own voice, better give her the time of the day, I guess. What other choice did she have?

Crimson thought that all though she didn't have any prior memories to this day, it would certainly be one that she would never forget.

An Unforgettable Day

“And then I refused the Shadowbolts's offer and tied the bridge back into its place.”

Crimson listened with patience while Rainbow Dash told her abut her past heroics.

“That's incredible Rainbow.” Crimson mumbled apathetically, paying more attention to her surroundings. Quite a lot of ponies had noted the newcomer. Some gave her weird stares, some greeted her with a smile, probably because she was with Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow proudly stuck her chest out, “I know, right?”

Crimson wondered how much were true of what she had been told. According to the story, the six ponies were like celebrities, but no one seemed to give them any special treatment. Rainbow didn't seem like the sort to brag without a reason though. The sextet were perhaps more modest than Crimson first thought.

Instead of Rainbow rambling on more about herself and her friends, Crimson decided to interrupt the pegasus.

“So Rainbow Dash, when would be a great time to show me the ropes around here?”

“Well first of all. You are still quite stiff, relax kid, just call me Dash or R.D for short. Second, just follow my lead and I'll show you.”

“Alright, if you say so, R.D,” She muttered at being called a kid again, especially from an immature bragger, she endured the remark nevertheless.

They had arrived at a market street, where ponies selling everything from apples to saddlebags yelled out their quality wares and fair prices.

Rainbow Dash showed Crimson around the stands, telling her where you could haggle yourself the best prices, and where the quality stuff actually were. How much a bit was worth and the going rate.

Crimson had to confess that she enjoyed this. Something about visiting markets had triggered a feeling of excitement in her, even though she had no previous memories of visiting markets. It was a complicated, yet thrilling feeling, like she had snuck out after dark to explore the unknown, without parental consent.

Rainbow stopped for a moment and sniffed in the air. She got a mischievous look on her face.

“Looks like we are in luck, rookie. I could recognize that scent anywhere,” Dash licked her lips in anticipation.

Taking a moment to find out what Dash meant, Crimson took a sniff of her own. Her nostrils were invaded with a sweet aroma, that seemed to be coming from a shop, further down the street.

“That smells delicious, Dash. What is it?”

Rainbow smiled. “It's Pinkie's famous apple cupcakes. I bet she is going to need a pony or two's second opinion on them as well,” She grinned widely.

Crimson chuckled. Do this pony think only of food?

“You reckon those ponies should be you and I?”

“You bet! Now let's hurry before she gives them to somepony else.”

Crimson gave out a small cry, when Rainbow Dash practically dragged her to the colourful bakery. In the speed of the moment, Crimson could barely make out the sign that said “Sugarcube Corner”, before Rainbow bolted them both through the door.

Crimson tried to follow with Rainbow's movement, but ended up flat on the floor when the pegasus released her grip.

“Ouch. Pain. Imminent. Need medical attention.” Crimson groaned quietly as she proceeded to stand up again.

Rainbow blissfully unaware of Crimson's predicament called out to her friend.

“Hey Pinkie! Ponies starving over here. Hope you saved some goodies.”

Crimson stared in disbelief at the blue pegasus. The nerve of this girl, unbelievable.

The shop's interior were as colourful as the outside, heck you could probably eat the bakery itself. Crimson basked in the scents coming from the kitchen, while admiring the shop's heart.

“I hear some ponies are looking for a tasty treat. Well never fear, your friendly party pony Pinkie Pie is here!”

Crimson watched as a bright pink pony with a pink curly mane came out from the kitchen door. Well more like bounced out. She could put bunnies to shame with bounces like that. Wait, how did she even do that?

“Hey Dashie! Don't worry the cupcakes are done in any sec..*gasp*!” Pinkie eyes grew wider as she noticed Crimson.

Crimson gave her a quizzical look before the pink pony was instantly in her face, squeeing happily.

“Oh my gosh! Are you new in Ponyville? Of course you must be, because I haven't seen you before and if I haven't seen you before, that means you must be new. My name's Pinkie Pie! What's your name? You seem to know Dashie, guess what,so do I! Isn't that great! We are the best of friends and I know..*thump*mrrmrlr.”

Rainbow Dash had gently stuck her hoof in Pinkie's mouth, dampening the sound of the pink word- train.

“Take it down a notch or two, Pinks. The newcomer won't understand you if you get all riled up like that.”

Pinkie giggled out loud, as Dash released her hoof, “Oh silly me. I lose myself in talking sometimes, I can't help it.”

Rainbow rolled her eyes, “Yeah, sometimes, meaning quite often.”

Crimson couldn't help but chuckle with the pink pony. She was weird, but funny in a good sense. The blue unicorn felt a familiar feeling creeping up inside.

“Disgusting.” The voices had returned with their sour opinion. “The only thing laughable is her disgusting childish behaviour.”

Who are you anyway? Crimson thought, yet she received no answer as the voices had died down once again.

Returning to reality, Crimson turned to the pink pony. “Well, that's alright. A pleasure to meet you, Ms. Pinkie Pie.”

“Heh, you talk funny, but that's alright, I like you. Want to be best of friends too? I am good friends with everyone in Ponyville, and I couldn't stand it if I wasn't good friends with you. And it's always better to have a lot of friends so that you aren't feeling lonely, and if you were to be lonely I would be so sad. So what about it? Wanna be friends?”

Crimson was impressed that Pinkie Pie hadn't even once missed a beat or stopped to breath. She turned to Rainbow with a quizzical look on her face.

“Is she always this, um, excited?”

“You bet, I wouldn't even count this as one of her longest gabbing either. Anyway, Pinkie? You were making cupcakes, right?” Dash could no longer contain her anticipation as water started dropping out from her mouth.

Pinkie turned an even brighter shade of pink. “Sure did Dashie, and I am happy to share them with you and our new friend.”

She went over and embraced them both in a hug. “Welcome new friend to Ponyville, and to Sugar Cube Corner.”

Crimson had gotten quite used to hugs at this point, but she didn't expect that Pinkie Pie would be this strong. She huffed for air as the pony proceeded to squeeze the living daylight out of her.

“Thank you,” She managed to say with great effort.

Pinkie released them from her hug of death. “No problem, silly. I'm sorry I can't throw you a welcoming party right now. I have taken a teensy bit too much off work lately. Mr. and Mrs. Cake are depending on me finishing up the week's orders, so that they can spend some more time with the twins. The apple cupcakes I am making is for a client in Canterlot, who thinks they are really yummy. So it would be awesome if you could try some out and see what you thi...”

Pinkie stop in mid-sentence as she started to twitch weirdly, her ears flopped in an unusual fashion. She sniffed the air and grew panicked look. “Oh no!” She exclaimed horrified.

The two cyan coloured equines understood her predicament as they saw grey smoke coming out from the kitchen.

The three ponies bolted towards the kitchen and found out the source of the smoke. The inside of an oven had started to fume vigorously, and all the pastries inside had turned black and were burning.

“No, the cupcakes!” Rainbow and Pinkie screamed in unison.

Pinkie rushed and unplugged the cord to the oven. The flames inside refused to die down however, and the room started to reek heavily.

“Dash! Grab the fire extinguisher!” Pinkie said as she pointed to a corner, her eyes watering from the smoke, as she opened the burning monstrosity.

Rainbow tried to locate where it was, as she coughed frantically, “I can't find it Pinkie.”

Pinke facehoofed when she remembered that she had used the extinguisher on a market stand, that had caught fire earlier this week, due to some careless unicorn foal. She had totally forgot to replace it!

“Rainbow! Ask in a another house but hurry please, or it might spread!”

Crimson watched in horror as the scene had unfolded itself. The reeking smoke had filled her sensitive nostrils, tensing her up. Memories started to flash by, devouring her consciousness.

A large burning field. People screaming in pain as fire consumed their flesh. A wicked shadow howling in satisfaction, as the innocent burned alive, feeding on their anguish, and the torment of those still alive. A flash of red malicious eyes and a soul trapped within, crying out to the innocent, begging for the killing to end.

“NOOOOOO!” Crimson let out a horrid cry, taking the other two a back.

Suddenly Crimson's horn started sparkling, and in the next moment a chilling wind emanated from the unicorn's horn.

Rainbow noting the magic at hand, threw herself at Pinkie to get her out of the way.

Crimson continued channelling the magic, directing it with more intensity at the open oven. With overwhelming power, the chilling wind became a beam of ice, instantly extinguishing the fire.

Pinkie and Rainbow whom both had ended up at the floor, sat in awe as the flames died down.

The ice however didn't stop. Soon the whole room turned chilly, and the ice started to spread from the oven to its surroundings.

Rainbow Dash got over her shocked state and hurried to Crimson's side.

“Okay Crimmy. You did a good job putting the fire out, you can stop now! Hey Crimson!”

The unicorn couldn't hear her friend's voice, as she continued adamantly to channel her magic.

“No...fire...must put it out...must save...” She muttered unconsciously. Pain palpable in her expression.

“Crimson! That is enough!” The pegasus had started to shake the her violently, to make her come to her senses.

“...Wha?...sis?..” She stammered as her conscious started to return.

“No, It's Rainbow Dash, remember?”

“Rainbow...Dash?...AH!” She awoke with a jolt, her magic ending instantly.

She slumped to the floor, exhausted. Rainbow Dash caught her just in time with her body, supporting the now very tired unicorn.

“What happened?” She said with a groan. Her head felt as if it was split into two.

Pinkie who now had regained her sense, decided to chime in. She bolted towards the unicorn and gave her an even bigger hug than before.

“You saved the bakery, that's what. Thank you so much,” Pinkie gave her a peck on the cheek to express her gratitude.

“I did what?” Crimson had no clue about what had transpired. She remembered fire and smoke, and then everything went black. She noticed that the room felt a lot colder as well than before.

“Yeah you used some wickedly cool ice magic to put the flames out. You went a little overboard and I couldn't really snap you out of it at first, but things went well in the end.” Rainbow gave her a tap at her shoulder, indicating that she had done well.

Crimson was still confused. “Ice magic?” Her eyes went big as she noted the ice covered oven, “I did that?”

Pinkie went back to inspect the oven, and what had made it spontaneously erupt in flames.

“Hm, it's kind of hard to make it out because of the ice, but the coil seems fried. It was quite old though so no wonder it happened, oh well,” She cheered up, despite the situation she was in.

Crimson realised that she may have destroyed the oven beyond repair, and started feeling terrible.

“Pinkie Pie, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to break it. Please don't be mad, I'll promise to find a way to repay you for it.”

“Hmm?” The pink pony turned to Crimson and smiled, despite her predicament. “Oh don't you worry about that. This old timer was due for the scrapyard anyway. I am just glad no pony got hurt.”

Crimson noticed the small lie in Pinkie's eyes however. It probably didn't have to be scrapped, just a part that needed to be replaced. Crimson hadn't given the bakery much choice now though.

“Still I feel awful for doing it. I wasn't aware of what I were doing, but that's no excuse. Please allow me to pay you back.”

“It's going to take a while to earn money for a new oven. Oh, but don't worry, we have more.” She pointed to two other black ovens in the kitchen. “Business will just have to go a teensy bit slower for a while, that's all.”

Pinkie's reassurance didn't brighten up Crimson's mood however. What a mess I've gotten myself into, and how come I can't remember casting any magic? A flash of pain reminded her that her head still hurt.

“Still, I never thought you were so capable, Crimmy.” Rainbow rattled between her teeth. The drop in temperature had started to get to the pegasus, now that the adrenaline had worn off.

“Can you take the ice away now, please?” Both of the ponies pleaded.

Crimson looked them in the eye and shook her head sadly, “I'm sorry. I don't even know how I conjured it up in the first place.”

“Aww, ponyfeathers.” Dash exclaimed disappointed. She wasn't getting any cupcakes today at all.

“Well, how about we just go outside for now girls?” Pinkie chimed in. “The ice is bound to melt sooner or later, might as well enjoy the sun instead of turning into pony popsicles.”

"Think you can stand on your own, Crimmy?" Dash wondered.still holding her up with part of her body.

The unicorn slowly got up on all four. She was still tired and rather dizzy, but she could probably walk without any help.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. Don't worry about me, let's go outside."

o.O.o

Applejack stood quietly at her apple stand in Ponyville's market. Business wasn't going shabby, already earning forty bits this day.

She had brought Apple Bloom with her. This time she had promised to behave, and not repeat the embarrassing things she had done last time she tried to earn her cutie mark. This time however she was allowed behind the counter only.

Around them a lot of haggling were going on. Ponies always trying to get the better deal from their customers. Not at Applejack's stand. She honestly knew what everything was worth and would never trick naïve customers into a bad deal.

She overheard some ponies, who seemed close friends, talking about getting free sample cupcakes at Sugar Cube Corner.

Applejack chuckled to herself. That ought to be Pinkie's idea. She was always giving away stuff for free if it made others happy.

She took a quick glance towards the bakery further down the street, and almost missed it. She now stared in disbelief as she saw smoke coming from that direction.

She undid her apron and turned to her little sister, “Apple Bloom, watch the stand. Big sis, has some business t' take care of.”

Apple Bloom had no time to ask her sister what was going on, as Applejack darted off in a hurry.

o.O.o

Outside the bakery a wide crowd of startled ponies had gathered. They'd noticed smoke coming from the shop. The real surprise however was that the closer you got the bakery, the colder it got.

The trio was met with stares from distraught ponies as they went outside the shop. Rainbow reassured them however that everything was under control.

“Alright nothing to see here folks. Just some unicorn magic, nothing special.”

Some seemed to be satisfied with this, however some eyed Crimson suspiciously and started to talk to each other about the stranger.

Wow, way to be subtle, Rainbow Dash. Crimson thought. Still it probably had been for the best to tell a minor truth, than a lie. If the locals had become suspicious of her, then lying would certainly not do her stay here any friendlier.

In the midst of the crowd a light-orange pony, with blonde mane and likewise as blond tail, broke through.

“Rainbow, Pinkie! Are y' two okay?” The pony exclaimed. “Ah saw smoke coming out from the shop, so Ah bolted over here as fast as possible.” Crimson thought the way the mare talked was a little peculiar. Must be an accent of some sort.

“Yeah, no worries AJ,” Dash reassured the mare. “Just an oven that felt like going haywire.”

“Everything alright in the store, Pinkie?”

“Yes, everything is just dandy, thanks to Crimmy here.” Pinkie pushed the blue unicorn in front of her, so that Applejack could witness the shop's saviour,“ She put the flames out with her magic.”

Now I'm Crimmy to Pinkie as well...

“It was nothing, really. I caused more damaged in the process anyway,” She muttered to herself.

“Well Ah'll be. Ah guess Ah must thank you for saving my friends and the bakery. Would had been a durn shame if it had burned down.”

Applejack extended her hoof towards Crimson, in greeting, “The name's Applejack, nice to meet y'.”

Rainbow and Pinkie snickered quietly as Crimson greeted the orange earth pony.

“Greeting miss Applejack. My name is Criiiiiimssssooon Striiiiipppes.” Crimson tried to say, as the mare's hoofshake shook her up and down.

“Well...prffff. Now you have met AJ.”

Rainbow and Pinkie couldn't contain themselves any more and started to laugh, “She is quite the greeter, if you know what I mean.” Rainbow said with a grin.

“Ah'll take that as a compliment, Rainbow,” The mare grinned as she released Crimson from her grip.

“Now sugarcube, why don't y' tell me a lil' about y'self, hmm? Ah haven't seen you 'round before so a reckon y' re new 'round here?”

Crimson remembered what Fluttershy had told her about earth ponies being strong, but this was just ridiculous. This mare's strength could put males to shame, Crimson didn't really mind though.

“Well it's not really anything interesting...” She said silently.

“Ah have got some time to spare, my lil sis is watching the stand at the moment. Ah trust it would be alright to listen for a while.”

“Oh, oh! I want to listen to!” Pinkie interrupted and started munching on some popcorn she had pulled out of nowhere.

“How did she...” Crimson began

“Don't ask!” Rainbow and Applejack shouted at the same time.

Okay. Weird...Crimson cleared her throat and began, what felt like the millionth time today, explain how she woke up in the Everfree Forest and, up until now.

After the story, Applejack looked at Crimson quizzically.

“So let me get this straight. Y' woke up in the Everfree forest with no memories, right?”

Crimson nodded “Pretty much, yeah.”

“But y' are also telling me that you know squat about ponies? That's a little hard to believe, no offence sugar.”

“Well I'm not surprised you think so, frankly I suspected more ponies to wonder about that. I really don't know anything about being a pony, well until I met Fluttershy and she explained the basics. I even had a hard time walking in the beginning, but I got the hang of it after a while,” Crimson said with a sad smile on her face.

Applejack stared into the unicorn's carnelian eyes for a while, trying to detect if she hid something from her.

She saw no lies in her eyes, whatever had happened to the unicorn, she was not aware of it herself. Applejack decided then that she would help this poor mare however she could. No one should have to shoulder such a burden by themselves.

“Don't worry, Ah believe y' sugarcube.”

“You do?”

“Hey, Ah don' tell lies, okay? Trust me,” She put a reassuring hoof on Crimson's shoulder. “Tell y' what, Ah'll do my share to help y' recover y'ur memories, since you helped Pinkie an' all. And Ah don' plan to make light out of that promise.”

“Pinkie promise?” Pinkie Pie interrupted with a grin.

Crimson watched as Applejack proceeded to make some weird gestures, ending with her almost poking her eye out with her hoof.

“There's gotta be a less painful way, t' do these promises...” Applejack grumbled to herself.

“It's very kind of you wanting to help me Applejack, but you don't have to go to such length for me. I have gotten so much help already, I am starting to feel like a leech.”

“Sorry, no can do. Ah already made an unbreakable vow t' help y'. Sorry sugar, Ah am sticking to you like a flies on rotten apples.”

Fluttershy and Rarity were right. Crimson thought. Their friends really do care for others in need.

Once I discover who I am, I will be sure to repay them all in some way.

Pinkie had listened intently to the story and was now bouncing up and down.

“I'll help to of course, and what better way to jolt some memories, than a welcoming song.”

Once again she produced stuff out of nowhere. This time it was a wagon of some sort.

What sorcery is this? Her thoughts were interrupted by Pinkie's singing

“Welcome, welcome, welcome. A fine welcome to you...”

Some more singing, busted eardrums and cake-mix instead of confetti in the face. Crimson broke down laughing as they were all covered in dough. Where did this pony get all these crazy ideas from?

“This happens to everyone, or am I getting the royal treatment?” She said looking towards Applejack and Rainbow, while licking cake-mix from her face.

“Well, let's just say that Pinkie is quite adamant in making ponies laugh and feel welcome,” Rainbow chuckled.

“Well, why wouldn't I silly?” Pinkie bounced cheerily up and down, spreading dough all over the street. “Making other ponies smile is what I live for.”

“I see, thanks Pinkie,” Crimson beamed at the pink pony, “I feel better now, you really are practised in making others happy.”

“Practice?” Rainbow frowned and started to think a while, before realising. “Oh ponyfeathers!”

Rainbow Dash had forgotten that she had promised Scootaloo flying lessons this afternoon. The filly looked up to her especially and she couldn't just break that promise.

“Sorry Crimson. It seems I can't be your guide right now, I'm sorry.”

Crimson understood the pegasus predicament. Promises to children should always come first after all.

The bakery had finally started to feel warmer as well. Pinkie reluctantly decided that she needed to check on the damages and starting with this week's order right away. She had already been delayed too much.

“Don't worry about me guys. You have already done so much for me. I can make it on my own for the rest of the day.”

“Well not necessarily.” Applejack said to the unicorn. “If y'd like y' can come with me. Ah promised ah would help y', so how about y' come with me to the farm? Ah just need to pick up Apple Bloom and pack up the stand. Business has been good today so we were thinking of calling it a day anyway.”

“It's really not too much?” Crimson said with a smile. She would really like to get to know Applejack better, she seemed easy to get along with.

“Not at all, come Ah'll introduce y' to mah sister. Ah bet Apple Bloom will be thrilled to hear about y' as well.”

“I'll come back when I am done with today's training schedule, promise.” Rainbow gave the unicorn a tap at her shoulder.

“And I'll try to finish up as quickly as I can, so I can plan for your welcoming party.” Pinkie gave Crimson a hug, before rushing into the bakery.

“Alright see you guys later.” Crimson turned to her new benefactor. “Lead the way, AJ.” She said with a smile.

o.O.o

Princess Celestia sat upon her throne in the Day Court while she tried to be interested in one of her subject's “poor” predicament. It was always some pony who thought that by crawling before her, begging enough with sweet words and self-righteous attitude , she would consider favouring them in their monetary self gaining projects.

This one was a exceedingly tiresome sweet talker. An earth pony by the name of Swiftly Rich, no doubt a relative to one called Filthy Rich, residing in Ponyville. He was going on about how this new project would create opportunities for ponies all around Equestria, while elusively sidestepping the matter how such a feat would be accomplished without compromising the usual work benefits, written down by the co-rulers themselves in Equestrian law.

Celestia really tried to listen and care for every problem her little ponies presented to her, but thousands of years of them vying for her favour in petty little projects to fill their own projects had merely made her indifferent, whenever such a ludicrous project was raised before her.

She was about to dismiss the money grabber, that's when a scroll wrapped with golden thread appeared. She gestured for Rich's silence and rightly so, this type of scroll meant that the business was urgent, and she trusted the agents she had out in the field not interrupting her with insignificant matters.

Celestia started to read the report thoroughly. She frowned at what she read. Supposedly her agents had witnessed a strange light strike down into the Everfree Forrest. The report stated that it seemed to come from the very atmosphere itself. Her agents weren't sure what to make of the situation, but one of the unicorn's on duty stated it didn't feel like any magic she had encountered earlier.

The alicorn ruler concentrated to feel the magic field that surrounded her land. Sure enough she could feel a faint disturbance in the field, it was however very small and didn't feel like it was of malicious intent, yet she knew from experience that she could not leave such a matter unattended.

Celestia sighed. Neither she or Luna had the time to investigate the matter at hoof. Not because of the tedious Day Court of course. No after her meeting with her little ponies there would be ambassadors from the Dragon country coming to discuss the terms of their continued treaty between the two lands. And they had requested that both rulers be present for such an occasion.

There was nothing else to do than to yet rely on her faithful student to make sure this was taken care of with as much discretion that could be mustered. Sighing again she composed a quick letter before magically sending it away. She hoped that Twilight would be up to the task, and that she wouldn't have to worry about putting it in her hooves. She offered a quiet silence as forgiveness to her precious student.

She then turned to the earth pony, still waiting to continue his endeavour to gain her favour. He looked so hopefully the poor dear. Celestia almost grinned a little.

“Well Mr. Swiftly Rich. About this project of yours...”

o.O.o

“Twilight?” Spike tried to get his foster sister's attention, a losing fight since she was burrowed deeply in one of her books.

“Mhm?”

“Twilight it's way past lunchtime. You have to eat something.”

“...Aha”

“I made your favourite, daffodil sandwich.” He tried.

“...Great.”

Spike ran out of patience towards his sister's study-engrossed attitude at this point. How could she just space out like this? Oh right, she was Twilight.

“Spike? Fetch me the “Study Of Advanced Barriers vol. III”, please.” She had been obsessed with finding a way to replicate her brother's spell, in case she needed to cast it over Ponyville, should they ever be under any kind of lethal threat.

Well at least that's better than “mhm”. The purple dragon thought to himself. He put the plate with the sandwich at her desk, then went and got the book from the back room.

“...Spike? Did you find it?" Twilight said, never taking her eyes off her desk.

I sure did. You aren't getting it before you eat something though.

“Start by looking to your right, Twilight,” He suggested.

Twilight Sparkle unwillingly took her eyes off her desk to notice the daffodil sandwich, waiting for her to eat it.

“Oh dear. I guess it is time for lunch. Thanks Spike. I didn't even notice,” She levitated the sandwich and took a big bite out of it. “Mm, delicious.” Spike really knew how to make even the simplest of meals extraordinary.

“You're welcome Twi. I'll give you the book when you're done.”

Spiked stopped for a second, as a familiar feeling started to creep within him. As so many times before he let out a huge burp, and with the fire, a scroll materialised.

Spike picked it up and confirmed the royal seal on the letter. Yep, it was from Princess Celestia alright. Carefully he undid the seal and started reading, since Twilight was still preoccupied with her sandwich, and would probably like for him to read it out loud anyway.

“My dear faithful student Twlight Sparke.” He began. “It has come to my attention, yadayadayada. Light in Everfree Forest, blablabla. Suitable measures...oh.”

“What is is, Spike?” Twilight had finished hear meal and now wondered what caused his distress.

“Letter from the Princess, Twilight. I think you better read this one yourself.”

“Oh dear, hope it's nothing serious.” She magically took the scroll from Spike and started to read.

My dear faithful student Twilight Sparkle

It has come to my attention that a mysterious light has been sighted descending into the Everfree Forest earlier today. Neither Luna and I have any knowledge of this phenomenon. Due to political circumstances We are unable to locate the source of this light, at this given time. Thus I would like for you to investigate the matter at hoof and to take suitable measures, regarding what you find. Remember; Utter discrection is advised.

Report back as soon as possible when you have discovered the source of the phenomenon.

Your loving teacher,

Princess Celestia

“Mysterious light? That sounds quite odd to say the least,” Twilight scratched the back of her head with her right hoof before frowning, “well whatever it is, if it's dangerous, I will make sure it doesn't hurt anypony.”

Spike gave her sister a thoughtful look, “You don't think you're becoming, well, a little obsessed with trying to fix everything harmful that comes our way? It's going to wear you out sooner or later Twilight.”

Twilight looked to her adopted brother, “No Spike, I don't. I might not have been sent by the Princess to be Ponyville's protector, but everypony here means the world to me. If there's any chance that this “mysterious light” is a threat to us, I will personally make sure that it can't wrongfully harm any of my ponies.”

Your ponies? Oh, Twilight...

Spike considered his sister's words, “Well I still think losing sleep and forgetting to eat is not helping in that matter. ”

“You may be right Spike, still I will remain vigilant.

“So what are you going to do about the light in the forest?”

“I'll find out what this is all about. If it's dangerous I'll take any necessary measure, and I'll report it to the Princess as soon as I can”

Spike shuffled with his feet before asking, “Can I come with you? I kind of have to stretch my claws for a bit, considering I have cleaned the library almost all day. I promise not to be in the way.”

“The Princess wrote that she would like utter discretion concerning this problem and it could very well be dangerous, Spike."

"Oh come on Twilight, I can keep my mouth shut, I promise!" Spike looked at her with pleading eyes. In truth. Spike was actually worried about his sister, but she didn't need to know that.

"Oh come on Twilight, I can keep my mouth shut, I promise!" Spike looked at her with pleading eyes.

Twilight sighed. Spike would probably be grumpy for the whole evening if she didn't let him tag along. Some times it's hard to be a big sister, always wanting to keep her baby brother safe, even though she knew he wasn't that little anymore.

"Fine, you can come, but at first sight of danger I am teleporting us both back, understand?"

“Yes, m'am!”

o.O.o

Finding traces of magical residue was not hard for the purple unicorn. She had a spell ready for such an occasion, that is if the light were of magical properties. She was proven right however as her horn began tingling when they started to reach the entrance of the forest.

Spike was a little nervous venturing into the woods, as you never know what you might find in there, the sunlight and the presence of his sister helped to wash away his fear though.

After a silent walk they soon discovered a glade in the thick forest. Twilight's horn started to tingle more and more as they approached the glade. However she felt nothing beyond the glade, meaning that the sphere must have landed here.

She perplexedly looked around but saw nothing out of the ordinary.

“So, Twilight. Why are we stopping?”

“I-I am not sure Spike. It's supposed to be here. My horn isn't picking up anything else beyond this vicinity.”

“Well that's weird. There's nothing here Twi. What does that mean?”

She didn't respond and started to frantically look around some more, but except for the grass being a little singed, there was nothing.

The realisation hit her late.

“Oh no,” She looked back from where they came. Whatever that light had been it certainly wasn't here now, and that could only mean one thing.

“Spike hop on! We are returning to town.”

A Cry For Help

“That's a weird cutie mark,” The little red-haired, yellow filly said, with curiosity shining in her eyes.

As Crimson and Applejack had made their way back to the Apple family's stand, Apple Bloom had immediately taken interest in the new unicorn.

Applejack had tried to introduce Crimson properly to her sister, and why she was going with them to Sweet Apple Acres. Her little sister though, had other things in mind, as she bombarded the blue unicorn with questions.

“Who're y'? Where're y' from? How did y' get yer cutie mark? It looks cool, what does it mean?”

The little filly's enthusiasm made Crimson chuckle as they made their way to the farm. She hadn't had the chance to talk to a child yet, and it was quite entertaining to say the least. This child especially was a blast to listen to. Her cute accent was simply adorable.

“Ah think y' should take a question at a time, Apple Bloom," Applejack chided her sister. "Yer giving poor Crimson here a headache fer sure.”

Crimson turned to the mare to ensure her that it was alright. She didn't mind the distraction at all.

“Apple Bloom is free to ask me anything, but I am not sure I can give an answer to everything I'm afraid.”

Turning her attention back to the little filly, Crimson graced the child with a heart-warming smile.

“To answer some of your questions, sweetheart; My full name is Crimson Stripes.” She pointed towards the red stripes in her mane and tail. “Quite a give away, wouldn't you say?”

“Ah think it's a lovely name, miss Stripes,” Apple Bloom said.

“Thank you sweetie, so do I. Call me Crimson, if you would though. My name was actually given to me by a lovely pegasus named Fluttershy. Do you know her?”

Apple Bloom nodded to show that she did, before frowning quizzically. “Fluttershy named y'? Why? Are y' two related? She has never talked 'bout y' before.”

Crimson wondered if it was wise to reveal too much to this young child. She turned to Applejack, as if to ask permission.

The orange mare gave her a look that could only be described as indifferent. Applejack shrugged slightly. In for a bit, in for a pound.

“Well no, dear. She is in fact the first friend I made.”

Crimson gave Apple Bloom a shortened version of her usual story. Leaving out the part concerning the bakery, which in Crimson's opinion was better left unsaid.

“Wow.” Apple Bloom looked up at the cyan unicorn in curiosity. “So y're saying y' don't really know who y' are?”

“That would be the gist of it,” Crimson said as they passed a number of apple trees. They must be quite near to the orchard by now.

“Ah've never heard of any pony with no memories. How's that like?”

Crimson got a blank look on her face and stopped for a moment. She hadn't really considered the matter much up to this point. It's true it hurt when she realised she didn't even know her own name. Fluttershy and Rarity had really helped out though. If it wasn't for them, she might have had a much harder time being able to fit in and talk to others. It's strange how much can change within a single day.

“Apple Bloom! Ah think that's enough questions for now.” Applejack looked harsly at her sister. "Mind what yer asking for Celestia's sake."

Apple Bloom dejectedly looked down on the ground.

Applejack turned towards the still dazed unicorn. “Sorry 'bout that Crimson, lil sis here can get a little too talkative sometimes.”

As by a spell Crimson returned to reality. “Oh, what? Oh, no, don't worry about it...”

They continued along the path to the orchard.

“Y' okay, sugarcube?” Applejack said worriedly.

“Yes, I am fine, no worries Applejack.”

“Alright, jus' wanted to tell y' that we're here.”

Crimson in her dazed off state had completely missed that they had arrived at the orchard's entrance. Now she witnessed the Apple family's pride and joy with her own eyes.

“Incredible Applejack. I have never seen so many apple trees in one place before,” she said before realising. “well, not like I can remember seeing any other place with so many trees, but...”

"Ah understand, sugar. Thank y' kindly for yer compliment.”

A big red stallion approached the group and the Apple sisters turned to greet him.

“Big Mac. Y' done with the choirs fer the day?” Applejack asked her brother.

“Eyeup!” He said proudly.

“Great, then let me introduce y' to Crimson here. She is going to stay with us for awhile, as she is new in Ponyville. Crimson, Big Macintosh, Big Mac, Crimson Stripes.”

“Nice meeting you, miss Stripes.” He bowed his head politely.

“Yes, a pleasure meeting you as well, Big Macintosh.” Returning a bow of her own.

“Well, we better start working on tonight's dinner. Can't have Granny Smith nagging on us for being tardy.”

Applejack went over to her sister, whom still looked a little sad for being banned to ask more questions.

“Hey sis, Ah need to stuff this cart away with Big Mac, and prepare dinner. Why don't y' take Crimson for some sightseeing 'round here?”

Apple Bloom shone up at her sister. “Yes ma'am!”

“Take it easy with what y' say though!” She yelled after them as the excited Apple Bloom dragged Crimson with her into the orchard.

o.O.o

Twilight and Spike had made it back to the entrance of the woods. Now a hard time started for the unicorn, as she concentrated to feel any traces of magic, that lingered in the air for them to follow.

Spike understood that Twilight didn't want to rile him up, but he wasn't stupid. He could put two and two together and knew that the source they were looking for was probably somewhere in the village.

“So, any luck yet?” He asked his sister.

“I'm not sure. It's hard to make out since the energies are so subtle, for some unknown reason," she paused and sighed. "It's like; a leaking pouch of water, slowly dribbling a little all the time, yet vaporizing as it hits the earth. I believe there is a faint trace over there though,” she said, pointing with her hoof.

“Isn't Fluttershy's cottage that way?” He said worriedly.

“Yes, I was afraid of that. Alright, hold on Spike, it's time for a ride.”

What Twilight actually meant was that it was time to teleport, as she concentrated on the location of their instantaneous travel. With a shimmer and a flash they were gone.

o.O.o

Fluttershy had finished her afternoon choirs and had begun a singing session with her feathered friends. They were getting better by the day, even sir Bluebird, whom seemed to have gotten over his bad habit of getting ahead of the rest of the chorus. It was quite short-lived however, as a flash of light startled her and made her hit the ground. Her choir scattered as well. scared of the sudden intrusion.

“Oh hayseed! Sorry Fluttershy. I didn't mean to scare you like that,” A voice said to the now cowering pegasus.

Two bad scares in a day. My life is sure to be shortened by 10 years by now. She thought, before realising who talked to her.

“Is that you, Twilight?” She said while covering her eyes, not moving an inch.

“Yes, and Spike. Look I'm very sorry I frightened you, but I must talk with you about something important. The fate of Equestria might depend on it!”

Yay...more bad guys incoming... What had happened this time?

Finally the mare removed her hooves from her eyes and looked up to see her two friends.

Twilight looked quite apprehensive, and quite frankly, very worn out. Spike on the other hand looked fine and not too nervous.

“Gee, Twilight, cool down. You'll scare her again.”

“No time for cooling down, Spike,” She growled at her foster brother.

“Fluttershy it's vital that you tell me if anything strange has happened today,” she looked at her friend, with an alarming hint of insanity in her eyes.

Fluttershy got the courage to stand up again and now looked her friend in the eye, before speaking.

“Well earlier today there came a unicorn to my cottage, whom I had never seen before.”

“Did it say where it came from.” Twilight said, hoping for good news.

“She told me she woke up in the Everfree forest...” She didn't get to finish her sentence, as Twilight let out a squee and, put her front legs together, as in having an epiphany.

“Bingo. Our target is a unicorn. Now, what did she look like?” She said frantically, stepping forward into Fluttershy's comfort zone.

“W-well, She is blue with red stripes in her mane and tail,” Fluttershy said, getting uncomfortable. She wasn't certain what Twilight would do with this information, and referring to Crimson as a “target” didn't make her feel any better. She hadn't seen Twilight in a while, and she looked really haggard.

“Excellent.” Twilight almost whispered, maliciously.”Where was she going?”

Fluttershy hesitated for a little while before speaking. “She should be in the village by now, but...” Again she was interrupted by her friend.

“Good. I better apprehend her as quickly as possible, before something happens that she will regret.” She added.

“Apprehend?” Fluttershy gasped silently. Twilight seriously thought Crimson was a bad guy. She had to explain the situation.

“But, Twilight, Crimson is...”

“Sorry Fluttershy. You've been a great help, but I have to do this now, or I can't trace her anymore.”

“Wait...”

The unicorn turned to her assistant.

“Spike I've changed my mind about you coming with me. You will stay here with Fluttershy. This might get dangerous, and no, I will not argue about this.”

“Wait...” Fluttershy tried again.

“Twilight, I still think you are overex...” The dragon tried to say, but this words were drenched in the sound of Twilight teleporting away with a loud bang.

“Wait!” The pegasus screamed, alas unheard to the purple unicorn, who was already in the village.

Fluttershy turned to her scaled friend.

“Oh Spike, I think Twilight is about to make a huge mistake. We need to follow her," she felt like crying, but told herself that it wasn't the time for that, and so stopped. “Crimson isn't a bad pony!” She shouted out, getting a surprised look from Spike.

“Alright Fluttershy, I understand, in truth, Twilight has been acting weird for a couple of days now. Neglecting sleep and only eating when I've forced her.," he sighed audibly. "After this whole changeling incident, I think she has taken it upon herself to make sure that nothing like it will happen again. It's almost like she's obsessed with it!"

"Then it's even more important to stop her before she does something she regrets!"

“I hear you Fluttershy, let's get to it," he hopped on to her back. "Meanwhile, tell me more about this unicorn." Fluttershy started to explain as she flew them in the direction of the town.

o.O.o

“...And here's a very special place. These trees might seem dead, but they bare us delicious apples once every year.” Apple Bloom explained to Crimson, while putting a proud hoof at one of the trees.

Crimson looked sceptical on the barren trees. It seemed unlikely that they would serve any other purpose than firewood.

Apple Bloom had been a gracious host though, showing her around the orchard, so she didn't say anything.

Crimson had gotten permission to sample varieties of apples and had marvelled at how different each sort tasted. Managing a farm was apparently more work than one would first think.

Apple Bloom had left the apple tree and was now standing in front of Crimson.

“What's wrong?” She asked, interrupting the unicorn's train of thought.”Don't y' believe me?”

She's sharp for a child!

Crimson shifted uncomfortably. She really wanted to humour the child's imagination, but lying outright was not Crimson's idea of setting a good example.

“It just, seems, a little unlikely?” She said carefully, bracing for tears.

Apple Bloom looked at her weirdly, before letting out a laugh.

“Ah'm not makin' up stories, silly. These trees come from the Everfree forest, and while it seems like Ah'm imagining things, Ah am not.”

The unicorn was intrigued by the filly's claim and sat down on the grass, expecting a explanation.

“Do tell, Apple Bloom. I would love to hear about the origin of these trees.” Maybe there was something she could learn from it.

“It'll be mah pleasure.” The filly said with a grin.

Apple Bloom went on about how her granny had found the trees when she was little, and the so called ´zap apples´ that grew on them.

The more Crimson listened to the story the more it seemed like a fairy tale, that Apple Bloom's granny had made up. Still it was interesting, so Crimson let the filly finish the story without any interruption.

The filly had also claimed to have helped making zap apple jam last year. The procedure in making the jam also seemed a bit far-fetched, but Crimson held her tongue.

Time had moved hastily as Apple Bloom finished the story up. The sun had begun setting over the horizon, a feat apparently performed by the ruler of this land. Crimson found it quite fascinating. It must take an incredible power to move a sun.

“That was a lovely story Apple Bloom, Maybe you can treat me to some zap apple jam someday.”

Apple Bloom responded with a smile of her own. Her cuteness almost making Crimson melt inside.

Her smile quickly turned into a sigh, as she she looked at her flank.

“What's the matter? You seem upset.” Crimson inspected the filly's sad expression.

“Well, not really. Ah am kinda used t' it by naow.”

“Something you'd like to share with me?” Crimson was more than willing to help her little guide, if she was troubled.

Apple Bloom looked her in the eye and sighed audibly again.

“Well it's like this. Y' noticed that almost every pony in Ponyville have cutie marks, right?”

“Yes. What about it?” Crimson enquired.

“Well that's the problem, Me and mah friends don't have ours yet. It's embarassin'!”

“What I remember from Fluttershy telling me, a cutie mark means that a pony has discovered his or hers special talent, yes? Is that such a big deal to be frowning about?”

“It is a big deal!” Apple Bloom shouted, annoyed at Crimson's indifference.

“Y' get treated like a child all the time, even by kids your own age. Recess at school is horrible, almost everypony calls you names or talk behind your back.”

Crimson looked apologetically at the young filly. She never knew it could be such a issue for a foal to not have a mark.

Crimson trotted over and laid a comforting hoof at the filly's back.

“Apple Bloom, I'm sorry. I didn't know it caused you such distress.”

“S'not yer fault.” She said snivelling silently. “Ah just hope it would come soon. Feels like an eternity would pass before I get my mark.”

“I'm not sure I am the right pony to say this, but don't give up. You'll find your special talent some day, I guarantee it.

Apple Bloom moved closer to the unicorn and gave her an affectionate hug.

“Thanks. Y' are quite good at comforting others, maybe that's your special talent. It seems like my talent ain't guiding or story-telling though.”

Crimson smiled at the compliment before responding.

“So that is why you looked at your flank from time to time, while we moved through the orchard. Are you trying to guess your special talent?”

“Yeah even though my friends aren't here right now, the cutie mark crusader spirit lives inside of me, always.”

“You seem to have good friends Apple Bloom, introduce them to me some day, I would love to meet with them, and cutie mark crusaders? Quite a catchy name.”

Apple Bloom had calmed down and had now disentangled herself from the unicorn. She brightened up when she came to a realisation.

“Oh, Ah forgot! Ah haven't shown y' our barn yet. Maybe Ah can still get a cutie mark in guiding. Quick come with me.”

Apple Bloom hastily dragged Crimson with her in the direction of the Apple family's big barn, in anticipation of a cutie mark.

o.O.o

In the Ponyville square, a purple unicorn got a lot of stares from passer-by ponies, watching her as she adamantly investigated the place. Her horn sparkled like a bright star in the forthcoming evening.

Twilight Sparkle downright ignored the attention she drew to herself. She searched furiously after any traces of magic that could still linger, if the blue unicorn had been here earlier, she would find her.

She was stressed to her limits. Not only was she overcome with worry about the safety of her fellow ponies, but her mentor had personally left this task in her hooves. Failure was not an option.

Her body protested as well, claiming it needed nourishment. She became conscious for a second how much she had neglected herself, since the return from her brother's wedding. It soon passed though, even when her mind cried out from the strain of using magic when physically and mentally fatigued.

She went into the market street, hoping to find any clue about the unicorn's whereabouts.

Ponies had finally started to wrap up for the day, making their retreat into their warm and cosy houses.

Twilight passed the Apple family's usual spot, where they had their apple stand, when her horn started tingling lightly, like it had at the entrance of the forest.

Full of determination, she followed the faint trace as it gradually got stronger, until her horn indicated that she should stop.

She looked up at her supposedly point of destination, only to frown in disbelief. Sugarcube corner? That couldn't be right. Better check it out anyway.

Twilight hurried head first into the bakery to further confirm her findings.

“Pinkie? Are you here?” She called out to her friend, hoping to hear that she was okay.

“Well, why wouldn't I be, silly?” Pinkie laughed behind Twilight.

The unicorn nearly lost it as she jumped forward awkwardly at her friend's sudden appearance.

Mother of Celestia! I hate when she does that. Twilight thought while calming herself again.

The pink disaster had already taken notice of Twilight's horn, and was already in full way of invading her friend's personal space.

“Ooooh shiny!” Pinkie ogled it closely while Twilight grew more and more annoyed at her friend's behaviour.”

“Pinkie, please!” Twilight exclaimed, adding more mental fatigue to her list.

“Anything on your mind Twilight?” She wondered cheerily, while looking at her worn out friend. “Sorry to say this, but you look awful. Want a cupcake?”

“Yes, and it happens to be very important.” She said, ignoring the remark.

“Well I always listen to a friend in need. So what can auntie Pinkie Pie do for you?” She grinned, while stuffing a cupcake into her own mouth, chewing loudly.

“I need to know if there's been a unicorn here today. It's important that you tell me if you know.”

“There are always unicorn going in and out to buy pastries here, Twilight. Nothing really unusual about that.” Pinkie said, consuming another cupcake instantly.

Twilight sighed heavily. “Yes I can understand that, Pinkie. What I need to know if there has been any new unicorn here today.”

“Why yes indeedy, Twilight, and what a visit it was! It took forever for the ice to melt.

Pinkie leaned in to whisper in her friend's ear. “foreeeeeeveeerr.”

Twilight shook her friend off her, almost leaving the bakery for her friend to be alone, when she realised.

“Wait, what ice?” She asked perplexed.

“Well Crimson shot out this huge beam of ice and totally scrapped poor Joe.” Pinkie motioned with her arms, trying to imitate the magic. “Well it was old anyway so it doesn't...matter...Twilight? You okay?”

Twilight had stopped listening to Pinkie after the mention of ice magic. The unicorn was skilled in advanced sorcery and was clearly dangerous if it had already exercised its power. She had to put an end to this right now!

“Pinkie!” She yelled, startling the pink pony to stumble and fall.

“Y-yes, Brain?” She said as she laid on the floor, giggling.

“Where did it take off to? Did you see it leave?”

“Well, yes. Crimson left for Sweet Apple Acres with...”

“The apple orchard, got it!” She turned around before reassuring her friend. “Don't worry Pinkie. I'll put an end to this threat.”

“Threat? But Twi...” Pinkie tried to say.

Twilight couldn't hear Pinkie's words before she darted out of the door, and left in the direction of the farm.

A shadow watched the purple mare behind the bakery, as she made her way to the apple orchard. It patiently waited until it was sure to go undetected. Silently it scurried after her, following her from a distance, unseen by any passersby.

o.O.o

“Here's the barn.” Apple Bloom spoke proudly. “It's one of the biggest buildings in Ponyville. Come let's go inside before Applejack says it's time fo' dinner.”

Crimson didn't dare to object to her cute little guide, fearing she might be subjected to a fearsome puppy eye stare, so she willingly let the filly push her into the barn.

“In here we stack hay that we sell to restaurants, who also buy our apples. Got to keep an open mind in business mah sister always says.”

In the barn a lift of some sort looked like it could be operated to place hay bales in the upper loft.

Apple Bloom noticed Crimson looking at the machine and grinned.

“Neat, huh? This whatchamacallit makes it easy t' stockpile the hay so that they don't take up no space. Watch, Ah'll show you.”

Apple Bloom went over to the machine and pushed a button. Slowly it picked a hay bale and carefully began transporting it.

Crimson had her doubts about children handling such devices, but kept her mouth shut, since she definitely wasn't the expert here.

Confirming her doubt however, the machine started to act up. Instead of placing the hay in an empty spot, it attempted to fill an already full one. It then released its grip, as if it was done with its task, making it fall down on an unsuspecting Apple Bloom.

“Watch out!” Crimson shrieked as she darted off, grabbing Apple Bloom in the process, dodging the hay bale in the nick of time.

Luckily they weren't too hurt. Crimson groaned as she hit the ground, but she had her front legs tightly wrapped around the filly, shielding her from harm.

They laid on the barn floor for a while, both still in shock of what had happened.

Apple Bloom began sobbing in Crimson's embrace, and the unicorn was quick to calm her down.

“Shhh, it's ok, you are safe.” She whispered into her ear, ensuring her that everything were fine.

The scene was interrupted however by a angry and demanding female voice.

“Get away from Apple Bloom. Right this instance!” The voice growled.

Crimson turned, with the filly still in her embrace, as she witnessed the source of the voice.

Before her, a furious purple unicorn stomped her hooves in the ground, glaring at Crimson with contempt.

“Release her, now.” The unicorn demanded again.

Crimson carefully stood up, wincing from the pain that radiated from her side.

She did not let go of Apple Bloom, instead sheltering the crying filly between her legs.

“Look, whatever the problem is, I am sure we can...”

Crimson got cut off by a frontal assault of pure pain. Had she had time to react she would have noticed the magic shooting out from the unicorn's horn, propelling her backwards, straight into a wall.

In the commotion a lantern had unbuckled from the wall, and had fallen into the hay, unknown to the ponies.

Crimson felt like she had been trampled by a thousand ponies. It felt unreal. Had she really been attacked? Why? What had she done?

“Please stop.” She whispered weakly while coughing up blood. “Why are you hurting me?”

“So that you can't hurt any pony else! I know what you are, and what you are up to, you fiend!”

Twilight glared at the unicorn. It may not look like it was dangerous, but looks were deceiving, it may not even be a pony. It was however undoubtedly evil, it had to be. She was convinced it was so.

“Me...hurt? I would never do that!” Crimson cried out.

“Don't lie! Why did you go loose in the bakery, what did you try to do to Apple Bloom? Answer me!”

“I-I” She stammered.

Crimson's thoughts were in disarray, as her nostrils were once again filled with something horribly familiar.

“So, you don't deny it.” It was more of a statement than a question.

Twilight smiled triumphantly, thinking that she had stomped out the threat before it began infesting her village.

“Surrender peacefully or I'll *sniff*...Am I smelling burnt hay?”

The two fatigued ponies spun around to find hay bales on fire.

“You!” The purple pony yelled at Crimson accusingly. “Did you do this?”

Crimson tried to stay in reality, half muttering. “No, never.”

She was fighting a losing battle as she felt darkness overwhelm her. She could feel its embrace and was about to lose her consciousness.

“Don't give up! You can't die here!” A voice, unlike the others shrieked inside her head. It sounded distressed and worried.

Snapping back into the real world, she now witnessed the flaming inferno that had spread to the barn itself.

Even if she was back to reality, she was still powerless before the situation. She then remembered, Apple Bloom!

She looked around, and was relieved that the filly was okay, now in the hooves of her attacker. Her malefactor was looking as helpless as herself though.

Apple Bloom had stopped crying, but was now having fits.

“Nooo, mommy, daddy! Help me Applejack, Big Mac. Help me Crimson!”

Crimson cried inside, for being so weak. If she only could use that magic she had done unconsciously earlier, she would give the world for it!

Please, whoever you are inside of me, please give me the strength to protect!

“Well.” Another clear voice in her mind echoed. “You only had to ask”

Suddenly great power coursed throughout the unicorn's body. Crimson's mind became clear of everything, except for the guidance on how to utilize her magic. It made an almost elementary sense to her, as knowledge about magic flowed through her. She knew what she had to do.

She turned to her attacker and uttered a plea.

“Please, if you care about the child, take her out of here. I'll handle the fire.”

Twilight hesitated for a second, before complying to the blue unicorn's wishes. Outside she heard the cries of Applejack and Big Macintosh as they desperately tried to make their way between the flames.

She mustered the last of her strength and teleported herself and Apple Bloom out of the burning mayhem.

“Thank you.” Crimson whispered, as she released the pent up energy inside herself. Channelling it with great effort into a wave of chilling ice, dousing the raging flames within the barn.

As Crimson emptied herself, putting out the last of the fires, the voice that guided her returned.

“See, that wasn't so hard now, was it?” The sound of the voice ringed beautifully in Crimson's mind, almost enchantingly so.

Thank you, Crimson thought, hoping her gratitude would reach her benefactor.

“We will get acquainted later,” It said cryptically.

Crimson Stripes thought not on what that meant as she passed out, now completely drained. The darkness welcomed her with open arms.

Reconciliation

Twilight Sparkle stood outside the barn, Apple Bloom resting on her shoulders. Applejack and her brother Big Mac hurried to their side, anxious for their little sister and friend.

Their worries were eased when they saw them both practically unharmed, catching sign of Apple Bloom breathing normally.

The fires had now died down. The barn had been burnt badly, but thankfully it still stood its ground.

“Sweet Celestia, Twilight! Ah'm so glad you two are okay. What happened in there?” Applejack asked her friend.

Twilight Sparkle hesitated. She had been set out to punish, what she thought had been, a criminal. Now she wasn't sure what to think.

“Twilight! Answer me. Why did a fire break lose in the barn with you and Apple Bloom inside?”

Before the purple unicorn could answer, they were interrupted by familiar voices approaching them.

“Twilight, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Big Mac. Are you all okay?”

They turned around to see all of their friends in the distance rushing over to them, all with worry hinting in their eyes.

Fluttershy, Spike, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Rainbow Dash had all answered the call and had hurried over as fast as they could.

Rainbow Dash was the first one to speak. “What happened here? I was working on my usual, awesome routine when I saw a fire rising up from your orchard.”

“Yes we were quite worried when we saw the fire as well. Fluttershy, Spike, Pinkie and I coincidentally met while I was picking out materials for my new fabulous collage.” Rarity said.

“Yeah! But the main reason we came was because we were worried about Twilight going after Crimson like a crazy mare, then there was the fire and I was like, ohmygosh and got really really scared, because I thought my friends were hurt, and that made me so sad, but now that everyone is safe, Pinkie is happy again, speaking of happy, have you ever *thump *.”

Rainbow stuck her hoof in her friend's mouth again. “That's enough Pinkie.”

“Mrmrfl, mirfm, frllilf.” The pink pony tried to say pleadingly.

“What is that Ah heard about Twilight chasing after Crimson?” Applejack said while looking questioningly at her friend. “Why would you do that sugarcube? Crimson isn't dangerous or anything, and Ah still need an answer why there was a fire in the barn with you and Apple Bloom in it.”

“I was sent by the Princesses to...” She began but couldn't finish. The words were stuck in her throat, constricting her. Had she made a terrible mistake?

“Um, girls?” Fluttershy gently interrupted. “If you don't mind me asking, where is Crimson anyway?”

“Ah don't know, she was with Apple Bloom this whole...*gasp*.” Applejack's worried face turned into horror. She glared at her ashamed friend, confirming her thoughts.

“She's in the barn!? Good gracious girl, why the hay didn't you say something? Everypony come on!” The others followed Applejack into the barn.

Twilight stood still on the same spot, unable to move. What had she done? Had she really acted in everypony's best interest?

It all came back to her. She hadn't listened to her friends, had taken it on herself again to cast judgement. She was so sure that her instincts were right that she had forgotten to think.

I've erred terribly and an innocent unicorn has paid the price for my arrogance and ineptitude.

It hurt, but it was the truth.

Her friends emerged from the barn, Big Mac supported Crimson on his back.

Twilight knew that she had to do. It was far from making amends. She was sure to be shunned for what she had done to the poor thing, but still she had to do it. She gathered herself and went over to her friends.

“Give her to me, Bic Mac. I'll heal her.” She said determined.

Her friends looked at each other before they nodded in agreement. They laid the cyan unicorn nearby a tree, on thick lawn of grass, to cushion her. She wasn't showing any signs of moving, except for her pained expression and her chest which moved slowly up and down.

Good. At least she's breathing. I must have hurt her internally though, she was coughing up blood earlier.

“I'm sorry I did this to you.” The purple unicorn whispered before she started channelling her magic. Her powers swept over the cyan mare, working their way into her body.

Some ribs were fractured, thankfully they hadn't punctured her lungs or anything else vital. Twilight mended and set them back to their original position. The waves of magic soothed the unicorn's pain, her face relaxed, and expression softened.

Applejack however had heard her whispering and came up to her friend, leaning in for her to hear. “It seems to me, that y' have a lot to be sorry for today, Twilight.”

Twilight turned around for everyone to hear.

“Yes, I have. Everypony. Please hear me out, and I will explain what I discovered. Today I got a mission from Princess Celestia. It was about a light that had been seen descending into the Everfree Forest. Spike and I set out to find the source, our journey taking us to a glade, where it was supposed to have been. Yet it wasn't.”

Twilight took a deep breath and continued.

“I tracked the source back to Ponyville, first was Fluttershy's cottage, where I made my first mistake. I didn't heed Fluttershy's warning. I was so absorbed in my task that I forgot to listen. My second mistake was at the bakery. I heard about what had happened there, and I thought that whatever I was set out to find, was dangerous. Pinkie also tried to call out to me, but I darted off to the orchard before she could finish, and there was it that made my third and most regrettable mistake.”

They were now all looking at her intently.

“I saw a cyan unicorn fitting the description I'd gotten from Fluttershy, holding Apple Bloom tightly. In my fatigue from running almost all over Ponyville and my determination to get rid of the intruder, I did not think straight. I attacked Crimson unprovoked, and I hurt her.”

Apple Bloom stirred from hearing her explanation. “Twas mah fault. Crimson protected me from a hay bale, after I had tinkered with our new machine, which I wasn't supposed to. I'm sorry sis, brother.”

Applejack and Big Mac comforted their sister, telling her that it was also their fault for not making sure that it wasn't shut down before leaving it unattended.

They others were now staring at her in shock. Never had they imagined Twilight being capable of hurting somepony else in this way.

“What I did was monstrous, and I don't expect to be forgiven. I thought I was acting in everypony's best interest, and I was afraid if I tried to solve it with everyone, it would end up like it had been at Shining Armor's wedding. Every since we came back from Canterlot I have been busy studying shielding magic, in case if we were ever attacked by the changelings again.”

Yeah they remembered that. How they had all thought that she was overreacting. She had been kind of obsessed with that event, but they never knew it still haunted her.

“Sugarcube.” Applejack started. “We're yer friends. Y' know y' can always come and talk to us. Y' shouldn't shoulder everything yerself. Today you made a huge mistake, but I know you will do your best to set things right.”

“It's partly our fault as well. We failed to pick up how you were feeling. You were holed up in the library for days. I for once had no idea you were still going on about that. I was so swamped up in my work, that I merely...forgot.” Rarity said. She looked apologetically at her friend.

“And I was so busy tending to my animals and helping Rarity that I forgot to pay you a visit as well. Then Crimson came along, and well, I had to help the poor thing out.” Fluttershy said.

“Don't talk about being busy. After we came back I've been up to my ears with orders, now that the Cakes are on vacation with the twins. I didn't even have time to plan any parties! I was lucky Crimson came along when she did, things could have gotten pretty ugly is she hadn't used her magic.” Pinkie looked horrified. “Just think of how long it would take to fill the orders if the bakery burned down! Anyway, I'm sorry for not seeing how you were doing Twilight.”

“Well, uh, I was busy, as well, yeah, busy preparing my routine and teaching Scoots. So yeah, I'm sorry too.” Rainbow tried unconvincingly.

“You have nothing to apologize for. The blame is entirely my own. I neglected sleep and barely ate anything. No wonder I was such a wreck, still it's not an excuse for what I did.”

“Hmph, I tried to tell her several times that she should eat and sleep but would she listen to me? Oh no, she would...ouch.”

Applejack had whacked him lightly on his head. “Ah think she knows now Spike, don't be rubbin it in now, y' hear?”

Applejack turned to Twilight. “Ah think that the best thing to do now is just to wait for Crimson to wake up. Y' have some real apologizing fer her to hear, and maybe y' should lay down for a while to think about it.”

Twilight nodded and complied. She laid herself on the ground, waiting for the unicorn to wake up from her resting, bit was interrupted by Pinkie.

"Just one little detail." She said while looking at her friends. "If it's true that Crimson did have something to do with that light in the forrest, what does that mean exactly?"

The six friends watch each other, then at the unconcious and now seemingly peaceful-looking blue unicorn laying on the grass.

o.O.o

The shadow lurked behind one of the bigger apple trees in the vicinity. It observed them carefully as it had been ordered to. Its ragged-looking ears perked up as it got a new set of orders. It was to abandon its current task and head into the Everfree Forest. It complied without question and carefully made its way to the forest, the night cloaking its visage.

o.O.o

“I think she's waking up girls.”

Crimson slowly opened her eyelids. She had been hearing a lot of familiar voices talking around her and keeping her from sleeping.

Her body ached horribly all over, but it was out shadowed by the agonizing pain in her head. She felt like it would split in two, and that was an understatement.

With great effort she could finally focus on the different forms talking and trying to get her attention.

“Hey Crimson! Can you hear me?” A blue blur called out to her, slowly turning into a familiar sight. Rainbow Dash.

Crimson gave out a small cough before she hoarsely responded to her friend.

“Rainbow. What are you doing here?” She asked weakly.

“Same as we all are dear.” Another familiar voice spoke to her from the corner of her eye. “We are all worrying for you of course. Honestly. Why did you feel the urge to pull of a stunt like that?” Crimson felt a concerned hoof on her face.

Crimsone recognized the voice immediately. The white unicorn's regal tone could never be confused with another. “Rarity?” You're here too?”

Before she could ask anything else she got hugged by three other ponies.

“I'm so glad you are okay Crimson. Seeing you passed out in the barn was awful, just awful!” Fluttershy said in between her tears.

“And I'm happy one of my new best friends wasn't hurt.” Pinkie hugged her closely, almost putting her in a new danger, by choking her in her arms.

“Ah'm glad yer alive. Y' saved me in there.” Apple Bloom couldn't contain her tears and started bawling.

“And Ah can't thank y' enough fer saving mah little sister.” Applejack put a grateful hoof on Crimson's shoulder, tiny tears moving down from her eyes unto her freckled cheeks.

They helped the cyan unicorn to stand up. Crimson felt very wobbly, like she had been running for hours without stopping. She was glad that they were there to support her.

“There's somepony here as well who owe y' a big apology as well. “The orange mare turned to face the ashamed – looking pony farther away. “Well, Twilight?”

Twilight Sparkle hung her head as she slowly made her way to the unicorn, supported in the middle of her friends. She let out a heavy sigh, emphasizing her unjust actions.

“Miss Crimson Stripes. I, Twilight Sparkle, protege of our ruler Princess Celestia, offer my most sincere apologies to you.”

Crimson got startled in fear, as recognized the voice of her perpetrator from earlier, she tried to speak, but the words wouldn't come out. Twilight continued talking, before Crimson could muster anything coherent.

“I attacked you unprovoked and without knowing who you really are or what your intentions of coming to Ponyville were, and for that, I am deeply sorry.”

Crimson met the purple look and gazed into her eyes. She wasn't so frightening now when she was not screaming and threatening her like a lunatic. She nodded in confirmation to Twilight, acknowledging her apology.

“W-what I would like to know.” She began carefully. “Is what drove you to such an extent as to harm me in such a way.”

Twilight bit her lip, knowing she would have to explain her mission to this outsider. She owe her that much and more.

She began explaining about the letter from the princess, what had happened when she didn't find anything in the forest and her discoveries in town.

Crimson listened intently to the purple unicorn's story. She was appalled to hear about the mysterious light that had descended into the forest, and presumably in the location where the blue pony had awoken. What could it mean?

She noted an increasing of fear in Twilight's voice as it came to an end. She hung her head again when she was finished.

Feeling a little better the blue pony carefully broke from her fellow friends, she looked them over and nodded to herself. “You really care deeply for your friends, don't you, Twilight Sparkle?” Crimson managed a strained, yet genuine smile towards the lavender unicorn.

Twilight raised her head again, confused by the blue unicorn's choice of words. She recollected herself quickly. “They mean everything to me. I couldn't stand if they got hurt in any way. That's why, when I witnessed the scene at the bakery and you holding Apple Bloom, I snapped.”

Twilight continued. “Not very long ago our nation stood in front of a huge threat. I suspected it, but didn't have any valid proof at that time, neither was my explanation for the threat credible. Sadly it escalated without me or my friends being able to handle the situation. Many ponies got hurt in the process, especially our princess.” Twilight shed a tear when she remembered the vulnerable state of her teacher. “In the end, it was neither I or my friends who solved the ordeal, but my brother and his bride Cadance.”

“How exactly did they manage to accomplish something you and your friends could not?” Crimson asked.

“Well it's kind of complicated. Let's just say that love is a powerful thing.” Twilight smiled meekly.

Love, huh. Crimson thought.

“The thing is.” Twilight continued. “I have never felt so powerless like that before, and I knew that had to take matters into my own hooves, if something were to threaten the lives of my friends again. I can't rely on my brother to solve every little thing that turns up. He has enough to deal with, upholding the law in Equestria. I thought I at least could do the same, in Ponyville.”

“It's a shame though,” Crimson said. “That you feel it necessary to suffer alone, when you have such strong and wonderful friends at your side.”

“Yeah, that's right! This girl gets it,” Rainbow Dash chimed in. “It's not fair for you to do everything on your own, Twilight. Just talk to us and we'll figure things out together, yeah?”

Everyone else agreed with this, and encouraged their friends to confide in them, next time she suspected something was wrong.

Crimson became a little envious of their friendship. They were all true friends. Her heart started aching terribly, as if she was trying to remember something painful.

“Twilight Sparkle?” She said solemnly, after she calmed her heart.

“Y-yes?” She managed to say, now looking directly into the eyes of the cyan pony.

“I forgive you,” Crimson added a little smile to reassure the purple unicorn.

“What? I-I,” Twilight stammered, chocking back tears. “I-I don't deserve your forgiveness.”

“Well that is too bad, I already gave it to you, without any choice of a refund,” Crimson playfully let out her tongue, making everyone else laugh. “Guess you'll just have to deal with it. Even if you hurt me I now understand that you were only looking out for your friends, therefore, I forgive you, so don't say you don't deserve it."

Crimson face became serious. "I do however have a wish I would like for you to grant me.”

“W-well, what is it? If it is in my power I shall certainly do my best to make it come true.”

Crimson turned around to look at Fluttershy and Rarity, grimaced, then turned back to Twilight.

“Teach me how to levitate those frickin' table utensils!”

o.O.o

It was now way past any pony's bedtime. Everyone was exhausted from the event that had transpired this evening.

Crimson and Twilight agreed to meet the next day, when they were both rested enough. Crimson was eager to talk about any details regarding her awakening in the Everfree Forest. They all went their separate ways back home. Rainbow made sure to escort poor Fluttershy home first.

Crimson still having trouble moving on her own, was supported by the Apple siblings. They all insisted that she stayed at their house for the time being.

They moved quietly as not to wake Granny Smith, whom had fallen asleep earlier after dinner. They wouldn't mention any major details when she would ask about what happened to the barn tomorrow. The old mare's heart was very frail, even though she never quite showed it.

Applejack, Apple Bloom and Big Mac ventured upstairs to the guest room, with Crimson supported by their bodies.

Crimson blushed as they pretty much tucked her in like a little child. She wasn't that exhausted, honestly!

“Erm.” She cleared her throat. “Um, I guess I'm in your care then, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Big Mac.”

“Eyeup!” Big Mac responded, as he always did.

“That y' are sugarcube. Don't y' worry now, an' get plenty o' rest.” Applejack smiled at her.

Apple Bloom launched herself into Crimson's embrace for another hug. The filly clinging to her like a band aid.

“Thanks again for saving me. Hope y'll sleep well tonight and that y will be back on your feet tomorrow.”

Kid, please stop. If you get any sweeter, you'll make me collapse from sugar coma. Crimson thought to herself.

“You have some sweet dreams yourself, kiddo.” She ruffled the little filly's mane playfully. “Good night everyone. See you tomorrow.”

Applejack put out the lantern illuminating the room and they all went to their separate rooms for the night.

Crimson sighed as darkness embraced her fatigued body. Sleep would probably come fast for her, even if she had a lot on her mind. How did she survive in the barn when it was on fire? She remembered praying for strength but then everything blacked out and next thing she remembered was waking up outside.

She thought back to Twilight's story. Why did my heart ache so horribly when she told me love saved the day?

Crimson tried to supress a yawn but failed. Guess I shouldn't over think anything tonight. I am just too worn out. I can worry about these things after I have gotten some proper shut-eye.

Tomorrow would be a new day. A day where she would talk to Twilight Sparkle about her thoughts on magic and perhaps learn something useful spells, and maybe, just maybe unlock something about her blurry past.

Zap Apple Pie And Bright Blue Skies

“There you are.”

“....”

“What's the matter?”

“....”

“Are you afraid?”

“....”

“Don't be afraid. I will be with you, always.”

Crimson felt like floating. She also felt very warm. Was it really supposed to be this warm this season around? She opened her eyes and became baffled as she was soaring above a magnificent tropical garden.

Okay? Well this is clearly not the Apple family's house. That explains the heat I guess, where am I though?

She could see a paved footpath extend beyond a large coppice. It looked way to perfect and straight to be natural, and probably was cared for by someone.

Crimson noticed quickly that she had full control of her movements, and descended slowly unto the pavement. Down on the stony surface she was surprised again, she could actually take in the sweet aroma her surroundings exuded.

Taking a deep breath she stood silently, watching the garden calmly. It felt strange. Like she had always known about this place, yet couldn't quite figure out from where.

“Enjoying the scenery?” A clear voice said behind Crimson. It sounded almost ethereal.

She turned around to face the source of the voice. A slim creature dressed in a white gown, with long silvery hair stood before her, floating in mid-air. The creature was nothing like a pony, instead for hooves it had slim legs ending up in five smaller sections, her forelegs were almost the same, ending in slim spidery appendages. If she stood before a white canvas you wouldn't be able to make her out, if not for the single protruding black wing on her back.

Crimson couldn't muster a reply, anything other than obedient silence felt like it would sound shameful or ridiculous, while in presence of her beauty.

“Well? Aren't you going to answer me? I brought you here after all.”

Crimson tried to break the trance the lady's presence had caused with some carefully placed words.

“I-I am, I-I mean...” she stammered. Yes! Time to stammer like an idiot, thank you brain.

The winged being just laughed heartily at her predicament.

“Speechless, dear? Don't be, my little Crimson.” She moved closer to the unicorn, coming up so that Crimson could see her face more clearly.

She noticed the colour of her eyes, they were as blue and felt as cold as ice. Crimson jerked back a bit, feeling some sense of dread flow over her.

“Don't worry little pony, I'm not here to hurt you. I told you before that we would get acquainted, did I not?”

Her soft voice soothed Crimson's fear, and brightened up when it made her realise.

“Ah! You were the one that helped me. You put those flames out in the barn!” Crimson said in awe.

The winged creature chuckled. “Well, that is only part true. I made you utilize an extent of your power, temporarily. You could say that I let you borrow the knowledge you needed to unleash your innate magical abilities.”

Crimson looked quizzically at the lady in white, “Innate magical abilities? I have something like that?”

“Why yes of course. All unicorns possess some magical talent in some shape or form. You have a special affinity to, well, primarily ice. You used your powers before the barn incident as well, remember?”

“Well, erm, not exactly, I-I guess. Everything kind of went black back then, and when I finally came to the whole room cold and covered in frost. I guess I was using it, but I can't remember how I did it.”

“Hmm.” The lady pondered. “Well, no matter. I want you to do something for me.”

“Y-yes, what is it?” Crimson felt a slight tugging urge to obey, like she couldn't deny her supposed saviour her request. To listen to this lady felt like the obvious thing to do, at least that's what she felt.

“Close your eyes and concentrate your thoughts inwards. Try and feel for a source, imagine yourself dipping your hooves in a slow streaming river.”

Crimson complied and closed her eyes. After a while she could indeed sense something, it was cold to her senses, yet concealed a hidden warmth as well.

“I feel something, yes. It's exactly like you described it.” Questions forming in Crimson's head.

“Good, now try and guide it towards your horn. Try and slowly increase the stream's speed, manipulating its course with your thoughts.”

Crimson closed her eyes again and tried to do as instructed, This however was a great deal harder. The river inside her wanted nothing more than to escape her thoughts and flow its roguish course.

With great effort she managed to get a hold of a minuscule part, causing her horn to glow with shimmering cyan light.

“Good that is enough for now, you may stop.”

Crimson stopped trying to channel her magic into her horn. She felt utterly exhausted, like she had sprinted for an hour without stopping.

“That is the foundation for you to control your magical abilities. The more you train the easier it will become to control the flow of magic nesting inside you.”

Crimson gasped for air, more questions now forming in her head. She felt compelled now to ask, she needed answers. This whole situation was just overwhelming to her.

“W-who are you? Why did you help me back there? Why teach me something like this? Why do you know so much about unicorn magic, when you clearly are not a pony yourself?”

Crimson bit her lip, before forming the real question she wanted answered, The one she sought so desperately for.

“Who am I?”

The white lady remained silent for a little while, before carefully answering. “A curious one indeed. Very well I will try and answer your questions to the best of my abilities. As to who I am, well, you may call me “Mael”, that will be enough concerning name basis. Why I chose to help you? Because you needed me, and you called for me. Simple perhaps, but a reason enough. Teaching you also falls in that category, you needed to be taught, it is not something you can afford not to learn about." She paused for a bit of breath, at least that what it looked like to Crimson. "I have been around for many eons and I have experienced a lot in my time, unicorn magic works similar to many other sources of power, uncovering their fundamentals was nothing too noteworthy.”

Crimson felt that with more of her questions answered, even more seemed to sprout.

“Alas for who you are, I am sorry.”

Crimson sighed. “So you don't know?”

The winged being answered with silence. Crimson could not make out if the lady knew and simply withheld the information, or if she simply did not know at all.

“I have some more questions.”

“Yes?”

“Why exactly can I not afford to not know about my magic?”

“That I am not allowed to answer. I am sorry.”

“Why not?”

“`Tis not my place to say. For all my power I can only nudge something in order for the flow of time to not collapse into itself. She said cryptically.

“Rather convenient for you. Also that made no sense to me.” Crimson almost sneered.

“I am sorry. I am already breaking a lot of rules by appearing before you, yet even I have restrictions to what I can reveal to mortals." The lady seemed genuinely sorry, it was hard to tell as her eyes still felt chilling to be observed by.

Crimson gave out a small sigh. “No, I shouldn't expect to have my answers laid before me on a silver plate anyway. Sorry for the rude comment.”

“No offence taken, child. In due time everything will be revealed to you. You just need to be patient.”

“What should I do in my time of patience? Crimson asked.

“Concentrate on the source of your power, until it is second nature for you to tap into it, try and achieve small feats. You'd want to focus on minor conjurations and cantrips. Yes I believe that would suffice, considering you're trying to learn the basics,”

“Conjurations and cantrips. Sounds just great, and how exactly do I do that? You left that little detail out.”

The lady in white chuckled again. “Sorry, child Living for a long while has it disadvantages, you get tend to forget that not everyone is practised in magic.”

She cleared her throat. “To conjure something, simply try and channel your magic towards your horn, while holding a clear picture of thing you'd want to conjure. Concentration is key, also the amount of magic can and will determine the size of the object and how life-like it can become. Especially vividness. That consumes more magic, than just the basic size. You do well to remember that, my child.

Crimson Stripes nodded. "And these cantrips you told me about? What about those?"

“Crimson! Crimson!”

The unicorn looked around, someone was calling for her, but it felt faint and far away.

“Looks like our meeting will have to end here. Try your best with your magic until I appear before you again, little Crimson.”

“Wait!” Crimson pleaded. “I still....” The lady vanished, taking garden and its sensations with her, leaving Crimson in a void of nothingness.

o.O.o

“Crimson! Crimson, Wake up, ya sleepyhead. “ Apple Bloom shook the unicorn enthusiastically, almost making her fall out of bed.

Crimson groaned at her rude awakening. She didn't feel rested at all, thanks to her saviours visit and lesson. She wondered for a while what kind of place she had ended up in, before she answered the her. Was that just a dream?

“Apple Bloom,” she whined. “Do I have to?”

“Yeah!” The little filly shouted, almost breaking Crimon's eardrums. “Ya wouldn't want to miss breakfast now, would ya? What's left of it anyway. You really slept in, you know?”

Crimson rubbed the sleep from her eyes before getting a clear look on Apple Bloom. Good. She thought to herself. She seems to at least put yesterday behind her. That's good. Hopefully she will forget about that terrible ordeal soon enough.

“Hehe, did you save some for me, kiddo?” She asked.

“Barely.” Apple Bloom said honestly. “Today we had Granny Smith's freshly baked Zap Apple pie for breakfast, that stuff is too good to be left uneaten.”

“Oh dear, I better get my flank up then.”

“You bet!” The filly then pondered for a little awhile. “Say, today is not a school day, so Ah was just wondering, if you would like to me mah friends? They'll be coming over here anyway, since we're supposed to go crusading today.” Apple Bloom shone up. “Hey Crimson, would you like to come with us? We are going to try and earn our cutie marks today!”

Like all those other times that you told me of? Hmm... She'd hate to let the filly down, but felt like she just couldn’t tag along right now.

She looked towards the anticipative filly. “Sorry Apple Bloom. Right now might not be the best time. I really have to go to talk to Twilight, so that we may properly sort out yesterday's mishap.”

Apple Bloom eyes shot down, with a disappointed look. “Y-yeah, yesterday...”

Damnit! Did I have to bring that out so blatantly? Damage already done I guess...

“Look sweetie, it's really important to me.” Crimson put her hoof to Apple Bloom and brought her chin up. “I promise you that I'll come with you on your adventures when I have settled in a little, that sound good to you?”

The little earth pony shone up, her disappointed look gone as quickly as it came. “Hehe” She smirked. “It's a promise then, and don't you dare forget it!”

What the? Did she plan this? She's quite devious, despite her sister being so honest. Crimson thought to herself amused.

“Yeah it's a promise, Apple Bloom. Now...” Crimson tone became serious as she got out of bed. “Bring me to this appetizing apple pie, for I, am quite hungry.”

“Haha, right this way if y' please.” The filly chuckled, as they both went downstairs.

o.O.o

The Zap Apple pie, as it was called. Was probably the best apple pie Crimson had ever had the happy chance of consuming. At least she thought that it was, she didn't ponder however if she had had any other pies in her life, she was too busy stuffing her face to care.

“Oh, Abble Boom, tis bie ish jush delibious.” She tried to say with her mouth full.

“Hey, it's rude to talk with food in your mouth you know.” The little filly smiled.

Crimson reached for her glass of milk. Slowly balancing it between her hoof to tip its content into her throat. She swallowed audibly and continued to talk.

“Hehe, sorry about that. It was just too good that I forgot my manners.”

“Well it's nice to see a young mare as yourself enjoy this old granny's cooking. It sure brings joy to my heart.” Granny Smith said, resting in her favourite chair.

The old mare had heard from Applejack and Big Macintosh earlier today, before they went out to work in the orchard, that they were having a guest for breakfast, so she gotten her flank up and prepared one of her special recipes. Now she was exhausted, but it wasn't like she had much to do around the farm considering her bad back, and faltering health. She had taken joy in contributing to Crimson's stay however. She had a feeling that they owed this unicorn somehow. Call it old folk's intuition.

“So I'm guessing Applejack and Big Macintosh is already up and about?”

“Oh yes, we start our day very early here on the farm. Our rooster crows in vain every day I might add, but we wouldn't have it any other way.” Granny Smith chuckled.

“Speak for yourself Granny,” Apple Bloom whispered.

“What was that now, Apple Bloom?” The old mare asked inquisitively.

“Erm, nothing Granny Smith!” The little filly said elusively, while getting down from her chair. “Anyway, mah friends are here any minute now. Want to go out and meet them with me, Crimson?”

“Sure, just a second.” Crimson finished the last slice of her pie, and contently putting her plate down. “That was just lovely Mrs. Smith, thank you again.”

Her words of gratitude were wasted however, as Granny Smith had already fallen asleep in her chair, snoring loudly.

Apple Bloom put away their plates and motioned for the unicorn to follow her outside.

It didn't take long for Crimson to notice a vehicle moving in the not so far off distance, which seemed to contain two fillies, presumably Apple Bloom's friends.

How nice! Must be neat to have such a thing when your friend lives quite a away from town. It's pretty fast as well, I wonder what powers it? Crimson thought.

The vehicle had gotten even closer, and Crimson could spot that the filly in the front was flapping something, her wings?

That's very neat, these fillies sure are resourceful! Almost here now, closing in, closing in...closing in...!

Crimson was not the most agile of ponies, although in that moment her sub-conscious took control and dodged the vehicle instinctively, before it crashed into her.

Pushing the brakes down harshly and making a sharp turn, before hitting the Apple family's barn, the little orange pegasus managed to avoid disaster.

Alas Crimson's fall was not very graceful, as she hit the ground quite hard. A perfect way to squash what seemed to be a good day.

Crimson turned over, laying on her back, trying to shake off what felt a slight concussion. The sky was particularly blue today, the clouds blending into it, due to her blurry vision. She could barely hear the apologetic voice behind her.

“Are you okay, miss?”

Trying to locate the voice, she managed to see something white, with some strokes of pink and purple in it.

Durrr. Pretty....

“Wassat?” Crimson slurred.

“Oh great, I think we broke her Scootaloo!”

“W-well, I-I didn't mean to come in so fast, it just kinda happened, Sweetie Belle!”

“Oh, I just know Rarity going to be so mad at me, she's already banned me from the kitchen today, when I managed to burn a hole in the table with those omelets!”

“Hayseed, my parents told me that if I caused any more trouble this month they would take my scooter away for the rest of the year!”

“What should we do, Scootaloo?” Sweetie Belle whined.

The orange filly looked at her friend before considering. “W-well, maybe no one has to know?”

“What do you mean?” The little unicorn asked.

“Well, look at her.” She pointed towards the blue unicorn. “She is pretty out of it, and...” Scootaloo leaned in closer to whisper to her friend. “This orchard is pretty big after all...”

Sweetie Belle looked at her, like she had gone insane.

“What? All I'm saying is that accidents can happen...”

Scootaloo's seemingly diabolical plan to silence their victim was interrupted by Apple Bloom, who cleared her throat behind them.

“Girls, Ah'm pretty sure that is taking it a little bit too far.”

The unicorn and pegasus turned around to the sound of their friend.

“Hi Apple Bloom!” They both said in unison, completely forgetting what they were up to.

“Yes, hi you two. You know, I'm pretty sure Crimson will forgive you when she comes to, she's kind like that. So let's say we forget about doing something we will regret, okay?”

The two fillies shuffled uncomfortably. “I-I don't-know what you're talking about Apple Bloom..” Scootaloo tried to say, embarrassed.

“Right..” Apple Bloom went over to check on Crimson Stripes, who now seemed to have recovered to a point where she could stand without holding on to something.

“Hey, you al right there?”

Crimson groaned as she focused on Apple Bloom's voice, slowly gaining a non-blurry vision of the little filly.

“Yes, I am quite dandy, thank you.” She tried not to sneer, as the world returned to normal. “Did you manage to get the number on that truck, Apple Bloom?”

“What?”

“Never mind.” Crimson turned around the face her assailants. “So, you guys like to go fast, am I right?”

“Uhm...” The both of them tried to say in their defence.

“Never really thought you could end up hurting somepony, hmm?” Crimson trying her best to sound stern.

It didn't take much more than that to make the two fillies break down and cry.

“W-we're sorry, we didn't mean to do it.” Sweetie Belle said, tears forming in her eyes.

“Y-yeah, we're awfully sorry miss!” Scootaloo said with her head hung low, not wanting to face the unicorn.

“Yes, I can see that you're sorry.” Crimson tried to hide a smirk. “But, I dont know, maybe I should have to talk with your guardians about this little habit of yours...”

“No, please!” They pleaded at the same time. “Please don't do that. We promise we'll never do it again!”

“Oh, really? How do I know you're telling the truth?” She winked at Apple Bloom, while the other two weren't looking. The earth pony could barely contain a snicker of her own.

“T-that, uh, we..” Sweetie Belle tried to say. “I-I don't-know, please we'll do anything if you don't tell them.” The white unicorn hung her head as low as Scootaloo now, to show her regret.

Crimson walked slowly to the two fillies bowing their head before her. The little ones expecting some sort of punishment. She waited for a while, before giving them both a light pat on their noggins. “There, there you two, it's okay.”

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked up to find that Crimson was smiling very warmly at them.

“I can tell that you're being sincere, and I'm just kidding, I won't tell your parents about what happened today.”

“Y-you won't?” Scootaloo said hopefully.

Crimson looked at them, this time more serious than before. “However, I won't tolerate a second offence, either you learn to slow it down while you're on your scooter, or I will have that talk with your parents, am I clear?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Crimson turned to Sweetie Belle. “Now, I know you weren't the one directly in control of that thing, but you have part in this as well. As a friend you should always try and steer your friend off dangerous paths, al right?”

“Yes, ma'am.”

“Good, then consider the whole incident forgotten. I guess some introductions are in order though, right?” Crimson smiled. “My name is Crimson Stripes, and you are?”

The two fillies introduced themselves to Crimson, now feeling a lot better, despite what they had done. Sweetie Belle gasped a little when she heard Crimson's name. She had heard from her sister about a unicorn she had encountered, who seemingly had lost her memories. Safe to say, Crimson was bombarded with a lot of questions from the unicorn and the pegasus when it came to light. Crimson's trip to the library was put on hold for a little while longer, as she tried to answer the two children.

After they were satisfied, Crimson turned to Apple Bloom and chuckled. “So, this is the Cutie Mark Crusaders, huh? You sure are a lively bunch of kids, you make quite the trio.”

“Hehe, eyeeup.” Apple Bloom said, imitating her brother.

“I would love to hear more about your adventures, but I think I have delayed my visit to Twilight for far to long now.” She looked up to watch the sun. It was not that high up yet, not quite noon then, still it was time she got going.

“Awww, you have to go already?” The three fillies said at the same time.

Talk about being in sync. They must really be the best of friends. Crimson smiled.

Crimson didn't linger any longer and waved goodbye to the little ones, after also promising the other two as well, that she would accompany them someday in their cutie mark endeavours.

She made her way back to the village, as she pondered about what the little fillies would end up doing to earn their marks today, and hopefully heeding her words about taking it easy.

Not going to count on it too much, I guess. They are kids after all.

More importantly she contemplated, as she went on her merry way. What would she start to talk about when she arrived at the library? Decisions, decisions.

After a brisk walk along the path back to Ponyville, the cyan mare was hit by a realisation. She hadn't the slightest idea where Twilight's house even were!