Burn Brighter

Chapters

A call for help.
The stranger awakes
Mad memory
Midnight stroll

A call for help.

It was Nighttime in the Equestrian world. Nighttime meant Princess Luna was doing Her Nightly, Dreamy, Roundabout. She always enjoyed seeing the limitless possibilities dreams could make up. Although, this night was a bit boring because nobody was having any nightmares. Luna had a bit of a Fixation for getting rid of Her subjects nightmares because She could get rid of them in anyway She wished. However, it was getting towards the end of Her rounds and She had to leave.

"Hey" a weak voice called out.

"Hey is anyone there please. I need help." The mysterious voice sounded like it was in pain. Luna walked around in search for the mysterious voice. She found a small little white light.

"Hey there, are you that voice I keep hearing?" Luna said with care. The white light seemed like it was fading. "What do you need help with?" The princess didn't expect this to be happening.

"I'm fading. Please I don't have much time. My body needs my soul back. But I don't remember where it is. This hurts a lot." Luna was surprisingly calm about this. But that didn't stop Her from wanting to help this apparent soul. Luna in cased the soul in a box of Her own real magic and ran out of the dream world. The amount of time She had was unknown but, Luna's feet moved as fast they could to Her Sister's room. Luckily Princess Celestia was awake and dressed when Luna suddenly showed up in Her room. Princess Celestia was a little concerned about the sudden entrance.

"Oh Luna what are you doing here? Is there danger?" The sun princess was in the middle of reading a really good book about magic. But she could always put anything aside to talk to Her Sister about anything.

"Yes. Come I don't have time to explain but we need to find someone." Luna walked over to Her sister's balcony. She prepared a very unknown spell for tracking people although, it requires a lot of concentration. "Tia I need you to be my eyes. We'll follow the trail to the body but we need to be quick about it." Celestia felt tingly, Her sight was now filled with a colorless stream of light. This stream of light was going somewhere. If Celestia had to bet she probably bet that this stream of light wasn't going to end up in a place she was comfortable with.

"All I have to do is follow this stream right?" Celestia obviously wondered what was happening here. This colorless light had no feelings behind it. Why did it seem like it was fading into nothingness? It was leading both of the sisters somewhere but where? Celestia looked at Her sister and above Her was a box with a little light inside it. “Is this the person we're helping?” she asked curiously. The light inside the box like the stream seemed to be fading.

"Yes. I found this hurting soul in the dreamscape and it asked for my help. I have to warn you sister I don't know what we're walking into. But, I'm pretty sure we're helping someone who really needs help.” Luna still had Her eyes closed but Celestia could feel Her sister looking at Her.

"Luna I trust you. If you truly believe we're helping someone I want to help. Now let's go." Celestia meant those words which made Luna even more sure about this. They both took off into the clam night. There's something special about flying above their beloved Canterlot at night. The view beautiful, the lights below clam, the reflections of the full moon's light amazing. While they were flying Celestia was wondering how did Her sister’s spell work but that's a question for another time. A few minutes later the stream leant both Princesses to the Everfree Forest. The stream of colorless light went Underground for some reason.

"Luna, we're above the Everfree Forest. The stream is going underground." Celestia started to get a bad feeling. The fading light she been following had only got harder to keep track of. Luna had to stop part of Her spell to pay attention to try not to hit anything on the way down.

"Alright let's land and see where it goes." They did just that. The Everfree was creepy this time of night giving off the worse feeling of creepy in the world. The stream ended in a small open space in the Forest. In the middle of this space was a red door with a seal on it. Luna stopped Her spell completely and became cautious around the door. "Why is a Tartarus seal door here in the middle of Everfree Forest!" Both Princesses looked at their surroundings and just felt creeped out. The creepy feeling was in every direction they looked it was disturbing. The darkness within the spaces between the trees didn't help either. As far they could tell they were in no serious danger but, they had to focus on what's important.

"My best guess is... we have to open the door. As much as I don't want to do that. Do you need a minute to recover, Luna?" Celestia was getting kinda nervous but she was still more worried about Luna.

"Not really. Lets gets this done." Luna said with confidence. She was determined to see this through.

"Ok." Celestia said. They positioned themselves on opposite sides of the door. Their horns glowed with magic, their hands moved in perfect harmony with each other. A magic circle was summoned above the door and it was slowly coming down upon it.

"Ok 1. 2. 3...break!" They both said at the same time. The circle they made crushed the original seal on the red door. It opened in front of Luna showing a flight of stairs into darkness. Celestia rushed to Her side. They looked inside and saw nothing but stairs leading downward. What could lay down there? There was only one way to find out.

"Please hurry!" The little light in Luna's box said. Both Princesses ventured down the stairs, taking one step at a time, while lighting the way with some magic. About fifty-five steps later the sound of snoring could be heard from three different places. Both Princesses knew who it was coming from. They both put more power into their lights to see the beast Cerberus sleeping. Even more thankfully Cerberus was a deep sleeper. The smell of smoke quickly filled the air and lungs of both Princesses but it didn't bother them too much. Cerberus was making his own orange light with the small amount of fire coming out of one his mouths. Of course behind Cerberus was a massive gate that lead deeper into Tartarus. Thankfully they only had to go this far.

"That's it, I remember this is where my body is!” The soul said quietly but with excitement. Both Princesses reached the end of the stairs and walked around the sleeping dog. They found the soul’s body on cerberus’s left side. The body had brown skin, it's short black hair was obviously dirty, it's nails were either gone or cut deep and it was naked. Luna could tell this body could use some serious healing because it's hands, arms, legs, and feet were cut up everywhere. The little light was in Luna's box somehow broke free and went back into its body. She wasn't surprised by this at all in fact She was happy for this person.

"Luna we should go." Celestia said trying not to wake up the three headed dog.

"Yea let's go. I'll pick this body up. You watch him." They started to go back up the stairs and got hallway there until cerberus woke up. They turned around to see the dog not happy with them walking out with his sack.

"GRRRRRRRRR!!!!" the beast was pissed. He looked at the Princesses with extreme anger. Flames were coming out of all his three heads. He jumped off the ground, and came running at the Princesses. Celestia saw this as a opportunity to relieve some stress.

"Luna get that body to the Hospital. I'll deal with this for a few minutes." Celestia was dead serious but Luna was worried.

"Tia don't..." Celestia looked back at Her sister, Her eyes were glowing, Her fist were burning with magic, and She had a sadistic smile on Her face. Whatever Celestia was about to do, She's was going to enjoy doing it.

"I'll meet you back at your room, Lulu. Now go!" Luna wings flapped hard carrying both Her and the stranger to the Hospital. They got outside safely and made a beeline for the Hospital.

"Thank you, Luna." The stanger weakly said. After some time a kinda tired Princess Luna was standing next to a doctor looking at the person Luna rushed in. They both were quite just looking on in wonder.

"Well, Princess it's a good thing you came in when you did or this stranger wouldn't be breathing. As you can imagine I do have some questions." Luna grabbed a chair and sat down to the left of the Stranger's bed. From Her face Luna could tell the stranger was female. It was strange to see the stranger sleeping peacefully despite what happened. “I wonder what's your story stranger.” Luna thought to Herself.

"I don't have many answers for you, Doctor Lily." The machines in the room made up the rest of the noise in the room. The doctor walked to the other side of the patient's bed and saw something interesting.

"Hmmm let's see... can you tell me anything about Her cutie mark and why it's colorless?" Luna looked at the doctor in confusion. She got up.

"What? What cutie mark?" Doctor Lily pointed at the stranger's right hand.

"That one." It was a flame cutie mark.

"That wasn't there before I'm sure of it." She thought to Herself.

"Why does it look like a piece of Tia’s cutie mark?"

"Excuse me Princess?"

"Uh, oh sorry just thinking out loud."

"Oh ok. But now that you mention it I can see the resemblance. But what does that mean?"

"Your best guess is as good as my worst guess, doc. With that I have to go. When She wakes up notify me or my sister ok?"

"Well my best guess is that, this person a fighter because the amount of scars She has is insane. Of course, Princess Luna I shall do that." The doctor bowed. Luna took Her leave and went towards the Castle for some deserved time to think. She flew to Her room in the Castle.

"That cutie mark." She thought to Herself. Luna reached Her room and flopped onto Her bed just happy to see it again. That's when She heard a voice that's She all to familiar with.

"Rough night sister?" Celestia giggled at Her sister's expense. Luna looked at Her sister and just felt happy.

"Oh shut up and come over here so I can hug you." Celestia came over, sat down, next to Her sister and got pulled down to Luna's level on the bed. Their faces meant, and both of them were just happy to see the other safe. "You know I was extremely worried about you right?”

"Yes I know. I did say I'll be right here right?"

"Yes you did. Doesn't stop me from worrying about you though. If you don't mind me asking, what did you do to cerberus?" Celestia gave a sadistic smile.

"Let's just say that, He obeyed like a good dog." Celestia couldn't help have that same sadistic smile from before. She was proud of what she did to cerberus whatever that was.

"Well ok. Sounds like you had a little too much fun." Luna gave Her sister a smirk.

"Hey don't be blame me, I needed protect my little sister and relieve some stress. I gotta say I have to do that more often.” Celestia cracked a bones while stretching. Luna nodded and sat up on Her bed. She rubbed Her hands together trying figure out what to do next.

"The person we saved is safe in the Hospital. Not sure when She'll wake up. Tia, She had a outer part of your cutie mark and it was colorless." Luna felt Her sister's hand run and down Her back in order to relax Her. It worked. Celestia always knew how to calm Her sister down.

"Luna, let's just relax for now, we can figure it out later." The white alicorn laid back and fell asleep without any problems. Some thoughts ran through Luna's mind but that didn't stop Her from finishing a few things for the night.

Author's Note

I know this is short but i hope you enjoyed it and i hope you stick around for more. As always if anyone has any real feedback I'll gladly take it.

The stranger awakes

It's been four weeks since Princess Luna left the stranger she and her sister saved in the Hospital. Two weeks of hearing nothing was starting to get troubling. Various thoughts and questions were running through Princess Celestia's mind all that time. She wasn't really paying attention to anything else besides these thoughts. This current morning made no difference. She just sat down at the kitchen table dazed, just staring into her morning tea. That's when a guard came into the kitchen, interrupting her deep thinking.

“Excuse me Princess Celestia, a letter from the Hospital came in for you.” He said while showing her the unopened letter, setting it down and sliding it across the table to her.

“Thank you. You're dismissed.” The guard bowed and left the kitchen. Celestia opened the letter, and found it only contained two small words. “She's awake” Celestia said out loud. “Should I go by myself or bring Luna along as well? No, I will let Lulu rest. This should be good though.” Celestia looked up and around the kitchen, upon seeing nobody, she said to herself “I really need to stop talking to myself.” She finished the rest of her tea and headed out of the kitchen. She informed the staff on their duties for the day while she was out attending to personal matters. Of course the staff would do what needed to be done and more to keep things moving along until the princess returned.

Celestia went back to her room, to ensure she was properly dressed for the occasion. Choosing a more casual outfit, a light blue shirt with matching pants and black flat shoes Celestia took satisfaction with how she looked in the mirror. That didn't stop her from taking a spin and stopping suddenly.
“Hehe ok time to go.” Celestia giggled, walking out onto her balcony with a smile on her face. With a small running start, she unfurreled her wings and took off into the sky, flying across the city towards the Hospital.

About twenty minutes later Celestia arrived at Hospital’s front door. Taking a few steps inside she was genuinely surprised at how less than busy it seemed. There were only a few people seated in various locations around the room, waiting to be seen by a doctor. But that didn't stop the doctors who were available from working as diligently and with all the speed they could muster. But then came the very same doctor who’s duty it was to tend to the stranger from two weeks ago. She came running at Celestia, wholly excited and only stopped a few paces in front of her. Doctor Lily had a big smile plastered on her face that wasn't going to vanish anytime soon. Without a word, she took the Princess by the hand and led her to somewhere deep in the hospital, although Celestia had a good guess as to where.

“Good morning to you too, Doctor Lily. I see you are very happy this morning. May I ask why?”

“It's one of those days where you just wake up happy, you know? So about our guest. She's healthy, all the tests we’ve run have come up negative for any serious injury. We haven't been able to get anything really important outta her. Her name is Ariel Kindle and her height is five-three. She's apart of a race called ‘Humans’ I tried asking her about that but to no avail. Hair is black and skin color is light brown. Oh, another strange thing is she has no eye color. We have a interesting and strong girl here in my opinion.” They stopped walking when they got to Ariel’s door. Celestia looked at Doctor Lily with a question at the ready. She still had that smile goofy on her face and it was more than a little intoxicating.

“Quick questions, has she shown any freak out reactions to all of this? How long has she actually been awake for?” Celestia asked, peeking through the rectangular window into the room. The doctor put a finger to her cheek and thought about it. Celestia noticed she was bouncing up and down while attempting to stand still. It seemed the excitement was not contained solely within her big smile.

“No not at all and only just today she's managed to stay awake long enough for us to ask some questions. Which is strange now that I think about it. However, I can't help but be extremely excited about what she has to offer us. Just, I've never seen a person with colorless eyes before, what could it mean?!” The doctor was understandably excited about this whole thing.

“I'll try to get the answer for you, Doc.” Celestia giggled while grabbing the door handle and walking inside Ariel’s room.

It was a standard hospital room with all the equipment one would expect to have. The patient however was currently sleeping. Celestia wasn't surprised at all. She grabbed a chair, pulled it up next to Ariel and waited patiently. The flame mark on the top of Ariel's right hand caught Celestia's eye. With some hesitation, the princess carefully lifted Ariel's hand with her magic and examined the mark.

*Just like Luna said it's almost like my cutie mark. Does she have a connection to the sun just like me? Why is it black and feels lifeless?* The princess turned the hand over and saw three, small healed cuts. She looked on Ariel's arm and saw more healed injuries on there too. *How much has this girl been through? Does she have more of these around her body? Her face is perfectly smooth though!*

The princess wasn't expecting Ariel to unknowingly snatch her hand back and giggle to herself. The giggling turned into straight-up laughter.

“Hahaha! That idiot got into the ring right started five other fights! Oh man that was funny as hell! I honestly wish I was there to fight someone myself!” Ariel opened up her eyes and saw a wall. She wasn't expecting to wake herself up like that. “I really hope nobody heard that.” Ariel pushed herself up eyes closed and yawned. She opened up her eyes and noticed a shadow on her covered legs. Looking to her left, and seeing the princess trying not to laugh hysterically didn't help at all. “How much did you hear?” Ariel said with a salty voice.

That pushed the princess over the edge. She fell backwards onto the floor laughing hysterically. Ariel sighed and pinched her forehead. Embarrassing herself was not apart of what she thought this early afternoon was going to be. She watched as Celestia picked herself up tiring to be professional as possible as she wiped the comedy tears from her eyes.

“I'm-I'm so sorry about that. I wasn't expecting you to just laugh yourself awake like that. To answer your question, I heard all of it.” Celestia smiled and Ariel groaned with annoyance at herself. So much so that she threw herself back onto her hospital bed and covered her eyes with her left hand.

“Ughh. On the bright side I had a good night sleep I guess-” Ariel rolled around facing Celestia. She didn't think anything of the clothes Celestia was wearing. But she didn't notice the crown until now. “I'm guessing you're royalty by that crown you're wearing.”

Celestia nodded, “you're correct. My name is Princess Celestia. My sister, Princess Luna and I rescued you two weeks ago.”

Ariel raised a eyebrow in confusion, “rescued me? I don't-” A sudden rush of flashback hit Ariel's mind. She remembered calling for help and for some reason a giant dog. “Oh right, where did you find me again?” Celestia looked away from Ariel nervously.

“Um, are you sure you want to talk about this?”

“Where. Did. You. Find. Me?” Ariel said seriously. Celestia sighed and faced Ariel with a blank expression.

“We found you next to Cerberus and took you here. It's been four weeks since that night.”

“Oh, that's it? I thought it would be worse. I roughly remember my soul being detached from my body. Doesn't matter now since I'm clearly alive!”- Ariel suddenly jumped up and stood on the bed. Stretching felt good and she threw three punches to small shock of the princess sitting right next to her - “Give me twenty and I'll be right with you.”

“Take your time. I have all day.”

After exactly twenty minutes Ariel came out refreshed and dressed in a hospital gown. She sat down on her bed, legs crossed and ready for questioning.

“Ok, so why are you here, princess?” Ariel asked. Celestia noticed the confidence in Ariel's voice. It was surprising to say the least.

“Well a mysterious creature just washed-up on my homeland for some mysterious reason. I think that's a good enough reason to come here.” Ariel tilted her head in response to that.

“Mysterious creature you say? This mysterious creature is a human.” Ariel said with her marked hand proudly over her chest.

Celestia nodded and pointed- “Human? Well I can certainly say I never seen one of your kind before. Which begs several questions on my end.”

Ariel giggled, “Well I'm honestly honored to be the first human to meet you, Princess. However, the who-what-when-where and why shall remain shrouded in mystery until we figure that out. This mystery won't keep me down or out!” Ariel said with a raised fist and confident smile.

Celestia sighed, “You know, I worry about people who just wake up from comas and act like nothing happened. Are you ok?” She watched Ariel laugh again in response. *Dear me this girl is a odd one.* She thought to herself.

“Y-yea I know that I'm not putting on the normal reaction you would expect-” Ariel said as she wiped a tear from her eye. “However I'm not dead so that has to count for something right?” Celestia nodded in agreement.

“Well if you're pretending to be this carefree for your own sanity then by all means you do you.” Ariel nodded, laying back down on her bed and covering her eyes with one arm while the other hung off the edge. Celestia looked at Ariel's cutie mark again in wonder but chose not to ask about it.

“I'm not pretending. I'm just happy to be alive. I don't like to spend time remembering my half death. Besides I have a opportunity to become an Ally to a princess. I can't pass that opportunity up. If you don't mind me asking; what's your end goal here?”

Celestia quietly activated a spell that let her see the rest of Ariel's body. As she thought the healed scars were all over her body. Celestia went wide-eyed and stopped herself from giving herself away.

“Make sure you're not a threat to anyone. I'm glad to confirm you're not. Although I have a feeling you are very confident in your abilities whatever they may be.”

“OH a poor helpless girl washes up upon your shore and the first thing you wanna do when she wakes up is make sure she's isn't going to be a threat. That's.. Actually kinda smart when I think about it. And how right right you are, Princess. Take this for example.” Ariel got up from her bed and quickly sat on Celestia's lap. Celestia was impressed and surprised at the same time. Ariel wrapped her arms around Celestia's head and pushed her head into her chest. The princess wasn't sure where this was going. “I'm only going to say this once so you better listen to me and my heart. I'm not a monster-I'm just a young woman who's lost somethings very close to her and is determined to get those things returned to her. Also you smell fresh strawberries.”

Ariel didn't notice Celestia had her horn glowing the whole time during that short but sweet speech. Thanks to the spell Celestia knew Ariel wasn't lying and decided to help her even though she already decided that long before she even walked into this hospital.

“Thank you for the compliment. Now if you would kindly get off me.” Celestia asked firmly, but not unkindly.

“Aww what's wrong don't like kinda small tits? I don't bite, princess” Ariel said with a soft evil grin. She got magicly lifted up from Celestia and put back down on her bed.

“Don't ruin this.” Celestia said while standing up and dusting herself off. She walked towards the door but before she opened it she had one more thing to say, “I'll try my best to help you, Ariel. My guards will come by later to pick you up. We can discuss the details later when you are at the castle. Please try your best not make me regret this decision” Celestia said in all seriousness. With that Celestia left Ariel alone with her thoughts.

“I'll try my best. No promises though.” Ariel said. She went back to lying down on the bed letting various thoughts run around in her head. *I wonder how fun this new adventure will turn out* She thought to herself smiling.

Celestia started walk away from Ariel's room only to be greeted by doctor lily who eagerly wanted answers.

“So, Princess Celestia what did she tell you? What did you figure out? Is she friend or foe!?”
Celestia turned around and place one finger on the doctor's lips which quite her down. Doctor lily followed Celestia without speaking a word. The two reached the rooftop of hospital building.

“Well, Doctor what I can is; Ariel kindle is a very confident female to almost a fault. There's definitely an air of mystery surrounding her and on top of that I think she's going to be very interesting to have around.” Celestia said while taking a steps away from doctor lily.

Doctor lily was excited to hear this. A small part of her wanted to skip this and go straight to Ariel for a conversation. She was curtain Celestia could hear her feet tapping the ground at a rapid pace.

“Hehe, that's very.. Interesting stuff. Should I try to get a little more information outta her before you return!?”

Celestia unfurled her wings again ready to take off. Facing doctor lily and seeing her all excited did put a smile on her face.

“My guards will come by to pick her up later. I know you're excited and all but please go easy on the poor thing she just woke up you know.” With that Celestia left the doctor alone flying off to the castle.

“Yes ma'am!” Doctor lily said. In a hurry she'd went back downstairs to see Ariel.

A few minutes later Ariel hears the door open and a person come in. She was still lying down not paying attention to anything.

“Hello, Ariel.” Ariel recognized the voice.

“Hi, Doctor let me guess. You got some questions for me correct?” Ariel sat up and saw Doctor lily just sitting on the same chair Celestia sat in but with a smile that made Ariel kinda uncomfortable.

“I just want to know a few things about you? Five questions and I'm outta here ok?” Ariel raised a eyebrow.

“Ok shoot” Ariel said in response.

Mad memory

It had a been a few hours since Ariel left the hospital with the princesses guards. In that time she had gotten a new room to relax in (and the all stuff that came in it including some books) a tour of the large castle, some looks from the staff and she was expected to by live all the same rules everyone else had to. All of that information came rather quickly and it wasn't that hard to keep track of. When Ariel finally had gotten a chance to return to her room she found herself looking in the mirror after a very nice shower.

Her colorless eyes ran up and down her naked body. Everything was still in order thankfully. Seeing all the healed scars she doesn't remember getting at any point in time was a wake up call that she had to be a tough one. There was this little bit of confidence that formed when Ariel realized she really standing here alive.

“Heh..whatever doesn't kill me makes me stronger right? I'm a tough little thing aren't I hehe” she confidently giggled.
Ariel looked down towards her legs and saw a few more scars there. She turned around to look at her back and only saw two flat line scars on the middle of her back. She already knew both of her hands and fingers were messed up pretty bad. However after all of that there was only one thought that came up for sure. Ariel was still as cute and pretty as she thought she was. This resulted in a little proud twirl “Damn, even with all these scars I'm still a pretty lady hehehe. I could get anyone In this world I want to if I try hard enough~”

After Ariel finished eyeing herself up and dressing up with a casual jeans and shirt she headed out to find the princess. Since it was mid afternoon the castle was still filled with staff doing whatever they had to. Ariel had asked one of the castle guards where the princess was.

*A few minutes later at Celestia's office*

*KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK*

“Yes come in” Celestia said. She wasn't surprised to see Ariel enter.

“Hello, Princess. Your staff said you would be here” Ariel replied. Celestia nodded and pointed at the available chair right in front of her desk. Ariel took the seat, watched the princess put down her pen and put her hands together on her desk. The two made eye contact and Celestia got right into it.

“I expect you know the basics by now?” She asked.

Ariel nodded “Yes I do. Honestly I expected super strict rules and I'm glad to be proven wrong. Also I'm impressed that almost everyone seems to be glad that they work for you and your sister” Ariel declared. That got a proud smirk outta Celestia.

“Well I can assure you that we do our best to keep our staff happy. As I'm sure you can tell some of the guards probably regret their work hours hehe.”

Ariel chuckled at that truth “Why yes I did notice that. But I guess that's ok since they all they do walk around all day” Ariel responded.

Celestia shrugged her shoulders “Trust me when I say they learn how to deal with it very fast. Ok, now that the ice has been broken may I ask why are you here?” Celestia asked.

Ariel put her hands on her lap “I wanted to know what your next move was regarding me. Only seemed like the most logical thing to do.”

Celestia tilted her head a bit “I had a few ideas in mind. The most obvious thing would be to retrace your steps. Obviously the problem is: we don't know where your steps begin” Celestia replied.

“That sounds like a good plan. Alright how about this: We go back to that forest to find a clue. Maybe we can find my dairy or something” Ariel voiced while shrugging her shoulders.

Celestia's tried to hold back a chuckle because, this girl with a diary? It does seem a little funny.

“I-i’m sorry but the idea of you having a diary is funny hehhe. But that does seem like the best idea. Only problem is: I'm stuck with my duties Celestia said. Ariel didn't seem bothered by that.

“That's the perfect excuse for ditching whatever you're doing and do something a little more *exciting* right? I mean if you find helping a stranger find a personal belonging exciting that is hehe” Ariel giggled holding her fingers over her mouth.

The princess looked over her work of course she had to finish it. But freeing up a few minutes couldn't hurt that much right? Well if this doesn't work out at least she got out of the office for a few minutes.

“Alright you win, Ariel. We gotta make this quick though” Celestia stated quietly.

“Well let's go then!” Ariel excitedly jumped up. Celestia grabbed Ariel’s hand and prepared her spell. There was a quick flash of light and then suddenly Ariel found herself in the middle of the everfree forest. Of course to her it seem like a regular forest and during the day it certainly gave off that vibe.

“See, princess that wasn't so hard was it?” Ariel mockingly said looking over at the princess. Celestia paid Ariel no mind as she waved Ariel off like a kid.

“Just please keep your voice down and pay attention to where you're walking. I don't need you getting hurt” Celestia stated. Ariel gestured for Celestia to lead the way as she followed. The princess wasn't exactly sure what they looking for but anything that amounted to a clue would've been helpful. The general feeling of being watched started to make that difficult. The overall quietness of the forest didn't help either. It was such a extreme difference from the busy noise of the castle.

“Hey, princess do you see that light?”Ariel asked.

“What l..” Celestia and Ariel came out of the bundle of trees surrounding them and into a large clearing. This clearing had a sphere of light in the middle. It was just floating there without a care in the world. Celestia walked around the object and didn't see anything worth talking about. She looked at the surrounding area and realized something. This was the same area as she and Luna arrived in the other night when they went to look for Ariel. She remembered sealing the Tatarus door a few steps ahead of the glowing light floating in front of her. The odds of this happening in the exact same place caused some confusion and a little bit of fear in Celestia.

“Judging by the stunned look on your face, princess I guess we are in the right place. However, what is this thing?” Ariel said reaching out to the object. When she touched the object it shrunk down and started to reshape itself. It made itself into a book with a keyhole. “Oh my!” Ariel said extreme joy. Before Ariel could say anything else Celestia covered her mouth.

“Look I'm happy for you, Ariel but we need to go now” Celestia proclaimed seriously. Before Ariel could move Celestia's hand away from her mouth she heard a set of footsteps circling the both them. They were loud enough to hear. Though due to the thickness of the trees she couldn't see what was staring the both of them down. The thing(s) obviously wanted them gone. Yeah it was time to go. Next thing Ariel knew she was back in Celestia's bedroom on the floor still holding her locked diary close to her chest.

“OK! That was close! By all the sky's I hate that place!” Celestia shouted. Somehow she managed to place herself on her bed and even better to get back in a reasonable amount of time. “Say, Ariel you own me one” Celestia said taking in a deep breath of air. She managed to push herself up to find Ariel holding her diary in the air just starting at it with a blank expression. “Everything ok?” Celestia asked.

“I don't remember there being a lock on this thing. That doesn't scream me you know?” Ariel replied. Ariel then got up from the floor and looked around Celestia's bedroom. She was immediately impressed with the personality it showed. It fit the princess perfectly form the whites of her bed sheets, to the wooden table that sat next to her windows, this little sweet apple scent that hit Ariel’s senses and everything else. “Wow, this is a Official Princess Bedroom uh? Pretty cool if you ask me. How's the view from that balcony?” Ariel pointed.

“It's really nice actually. Could see some of city but mostly I love the views of Ponyville during certain times of the year” Celestia mentioned. Ariel thought about walking to the balcony but didn't want to be too disrespectful so instead she opted for the exit. Celestia was puzzled by the sudden move “And where do you think you're going?” before grabbing the handle Ariel turned around book held tightly.

“Well since your work day isn't finished and you already helped me out I figured I would just go back to my room and figure out this key situation” Ariel replied looking at the keyhole in her diary. The more she looked at the keyhole the more it pissed her off to a certain extent. Ariel liked to think that she knew herself well and this keyhole obviously wasn't hers. She didn't notice Celestia standing over her until her chin was lifted up by something.

“Disappearing inside your room won't solve anything and you know that already or at least I hope you do. Besides you need to come with me to court and learn a few things” Celestia declared with a smile.

Ariel took a step backwards and shook her head in protest “Hold on now I didn't agree to that! Besides that sounds boring!”

In response Celestia held up one finger “You own me remember. I don't take my subject to dangerous places unless I can get something outta it. Right now that something is you learning how my court works heheh” Celestia giggled. As much as Ariel hated it she couldn't argue that logic the princess put out.

“Ugh! Fine I'll do it. However! I will not be answering any questions about myself, deal!?” Ariel said turning around and opening the door.

“Deal”

*THIRTY MINUTES LATER IN THE CASTLE THRONE ROOM*

Walking into the throne was like walking into a history museum. Ariel ah’d in sight at the different glass windows and they're obvious storytelling. Celestia told Ariel about the six heroes who rescued her dear sister and equestria many times. Ariel made a mental note to at least meet twilight to discuss some things. But that's for later, for now it was time for court. Ariel knew that she would be bored while in Celestia's and Luna’s court. At the very least she had her locked diary mystery to keep her company. However she didn't prepare herself for the amount of uninteresting bullshit that would take place. It was almost nothing but matters that were too difficult to understand. Of course some matters were important like one or two buildings needed approval in certain areas by certain people including the princess. But the others? Bullshit questions that had obvious answers that needed out of the box thinking to think of. Or the worst thing Ariel hopped wouldn't happen: rich and the bottom feeder leveled rich a-holes walking into the into Throne room like they owned the damn place. It really pissed Ariel off to the point where she almost came out of hiding to slap one of them. Only to discover that Princess Celestia put her in box where she couldn't escape luckily she had enough room to move in. While in a rage filled state of mind Celestia's words ringed in the young girl's ear.

“Oh, Doctor Lily it's very nice to see you here. Do you have a matter that needs settling?” Celestia asked nicely.

“Why yes, Princess Celestia. Can you summon Ariel Kindle here? I have something for her” The nurse replied.

*Something for me? Did I leave something at the hospital? No that's impossible I don't remember having anything on me when I first woke up. This should be interesting*

Celestia gave a nod to the nurse “Of course, come on out Ariel.” The magical box Ariel was in deleted itself from around her. She appeared right beside Celestia much to the shock of the ponies still in the Throne room. To say the ponies who were seeing a human for the first time had questions for the princesses written all over their faces would be an massive understatement.

“Hello there, Doc. I here you have something for me?” Ariel said. Just like a few hours ago there was that very same cheerful smile Doctor Lily gave Ariel. It had a pleasant affect on her which in turn put a smile on Ariel’s face. The two meant at the bottom start of stairs right in front of the princesses. The doctor grabbed Ariel and pulled her into a hug. “Ugh! Doc! Too.. Tight!”

“Oops! Sorry hehehe” She said while letting go. Ariel caught her breath and chuckled at Lily's excitement.

“Can I ask why you are so happy today Doc? You been like this all day” Ariel said. The doctor slowly shook side to side but she did blush a little.

“I.. Can't really say. But forget about me I have something for you, Ariel” She said. Lily snapped her fingers and a bag appeared in between them. Ariel took the bag unzipped it and looked inside. It only contained one item: a colorless key.

“...” Ariel went wide-eyed and had no words for this. She just stood there in front of everyone completely stunned and shocked.

“This key appeared a little while ago on your hospital bed. I figured it belonged to you and judging by the sweat running down your face I'd say I was correct. So where does this key go if you don't mind me asking?” The Doctor questioned with that still happy smile. Ariel looked at Celestia who already had her diary floating next to her. She passed Ariel the book and left the decision up to her. Ariel took a much needed deep breath to calm herself down. This was no time to get inside her own head. With the key in one hand and the dairy in the other Ariel held the key over the locked book. Both of the items glowed and the lock around the book disappeared and revealed the title.

“‘The Lives Of Ice And Fire by Ariel Kindle’. It's a story book you wrote!? It sounds exciting!” Doctor Lily excitedly declared. Ariel strongly shook her head in response and continued to stare at her diary. That's when Lily placed her hands over Ariel’s that knocked Ariel out of her trance. “Hey, it's alright, Ariel. You're surrounded by friends remember that” She said with confidence. Those were the words Ariel needed to hear to get over her sudden dread. With that gone Ariel opened her diary to its first page and decided to read whatever on it out loud.

“Dear, future me. I only have one question: are you looking for *us*?” A massive magical circle appeared beneath Ariel and the world around her went grey. She looked around rapidly to see time had stopped. Everything and everyone was completely frozen. Ariel ran to the window and saw the thing outside. Safe to say the girl was actually afraid. “HEY.. WHA!..”

“Please don't panic, Ariel Kindle you're fine. It's nothing but a time-stop spell” the mysterious voice said. Ariel looked all around her but couldn't find the source of the voice. “Look up” the voice directed. Ariel did and saw herself but, just like the world around this Ariel was all grey.

*This can't be good.*

“Who or what in the world are you and a time-stop spell?” Ariel questioned shaking her head. This “other” Ariel nodded.

“Short answer: I'm one of the many bits and pieces of memories that's missing from your head and yes” she claimed poking her the left side of her head. She watched the memory float down to her eye level they had the same colorless eyes. The same scared up hands were the same and so was the face. Every little detail was the exact same between the two. That's until Ariel looked down and saw the beautiful looking dress this “other” her was wearing. It was princess like, the kind you saw someone of pure royalty wearing and the kind that demanded respect out of the gate in a conversation. Ariel chuckled at the sight.

“What's the outfit for? For me to get down on my knee and kiss your hand?” Ariel asked mockingly. The Grey Ariel gave a smile that sent a shiver up her counterpart’s spine. She placed her left hand on Ariel’s shoulder and super quickly drove her right fist into Ariel’s stomach. The Grey Ariel enjoyed the audible and appropriate “GAHH!” sound Ariel made. That punch brought Ariel to her knees but then she received another left leg kick that brought her high into the air.

“Nope! It's purely for fashion. I wanted to look good while kicking your ass!” the counterpart voiced looking at her stunned victim.

Ariel tried to recover but she couldn't. All she could do was prepare herself for another hit. On her way back down she noticed Celestia and Luna also frozen in the time spell but something was off it was almost like they were staring at her. But there wasn't time to worry about it now for as the ground was coming up.

*CRASH*

Ariel hit the ground face first. She didn't get any time to recover as she was picked up by her counterpart’s magical abilities. She couldn't break free and was forced to stare at her counterpart walk at her laughing louder and louder. Was Ariel always this confident or is this in the heat of the moment type situation? Either way it didn't matter at this time. Of course she continued struggle to break free but to no avail. Actual pain started to settle in which made this situation even worse.

“Let me go you.. Coward! What's the point in all of this!”

“Hehehe- HAHAHAHA! The point, *sister* is: I'm.. just letting some frustrations out honestly. Beating myself up feels so good!” The Grey counterpart answered happily. She stepped closer and closer to her hanging counterpart until they were a few steps apart. Wearing the smile of a very confident bad girl did very little compared to actually punching her counterpart. “If you haven't figured it out yet, I hold some anger towards you that needed addressing. I just hope it hurts just as much as I hope it does!” she finished with a blow to her counterpart. The pain filled reaction was music to the grey Ariel’s ears.

“Ah..ahh..hh it does..” Ariel tried to catch her breath while coughing. The pain in her mid section ringed in her ears. It was low and somehow cut off at the end with a popping sound that sounded familiar in some odd way. Luckily she could still see straight, however, that same stupid smile was on her counterparts face. “You hit like a girl hehe-ha.” Her counterpart was confused at this mocking.
“I'm sorry what gives you the right to crack a joke in this situation again?”

“What did I just say? Don't you listen to words, sweetheart?” Ariel poked fun at herself. In a unexpected move Ariel fell to the ground. She looked up at her counterpart who just stood there with a blank expression shaking her head in disappointment.

“You don't get it do you, sweetie? Why do you think this is a game? You realize I'm here to seriously hurt you right?” The counterpart replied sadistically. Ariel then bursted out into laughter so hard it echoed throughout the room. “What's so funny!?”

“I just find it funny how you actually think you're gonna succeed at this. So go ahead and make yourself feel better because you're not gonna get a apology for whatever I did” Ariel replied.

The counterpart grinned “Ooh myy.. Sweet, Ariel Kindle hehe. You thought I was here to get an apology ? No no no, honey like I said before: I'm here to let some anger out. Don't worry I'll just knock you around some more and then you can move on knowing you got your ass kicked by another you hahaha!!” The counterpart gladly voiced. “I'll let you in on a secret though. Your other memories are gonna be a rainbow of emotions when they see you. I'm just so happy I got to you first” the counterpart admitted.

Ariel went wide-eyed hearing the last part of that statement “Are you telling me all of memories got cut into pieces, given their own thoughts and opinions on shit and still have the fucking nerve to not want to fix this mess. On top of that having my abilities and are in process of doing whatever right now!” Ariel yelled. Despite still being in pain this news was much worse in Ariel’s mind. Who knows what her other sentient memories could be doing. Ariel didn't want to fear the worst but considering the situation she's in right now, didn't really help much.

“Hehe yes yes that's exactly it. Why would we want to come back to you when we can experience this world for ourselves huh? Having the freedom to whatever we want is really exciting feeling for all of us. Why would you want to take that away, Ariel, hmmm?” The counterpart mocked happily and pointing at her counterpart. Ariel walked pain and all at her Grey counterpart with no fear. She grabbed, lifted her up by her top and said her words with conviction.

“If you think I'm gonna sit by and let my memories run free to do whatever they want you have another thing coming!” Her counterpart smiled looking proud at Ariel for being this angry.

“I love the anger in your eyes. To make it convincing how about you actually hit me hmm?” The counterpart happily mocked.

Ariel chuckled so viciously that it made her very confident counterpart nervous. That's when she heard footsteps being her. In her sudden taste of fear she tried to punch her way out of Ariel’s tight grip but it came to be unsuccessful. The footsteps gotten closer and the fear grew. The fear took the shape of very sharp pain as the counterpart Ariel got stabbed in the chest by a sword.

“Honey, let me tell you rule number one. Nobody fucks with my kingdom!” Princess Celestia sharply declared. She tossed the Grey Ariel across the hall of the grey thorne room making her hit the wall with a very loud thumping sound and then caught the real Ariel in her arms. The human gave her a “Thank you” smile and then fainted in her arms. Celestia put Ariel on her shoulder and lit her horn. “Luna! I have Ariel take care of that “counterpart” for me” Celestia then teleported out of the time-stopped throne room.

“HEY HEY! what do you think you're doing!” The counterpart yelled. She tried to get up but was quickly stopped by Princess Luna who was hovering above her. “Oh please..no please not again..I'm s-”

Those were the final words the Grey Airel managed to get out before Luna Strunk her with a bolt of magic. There was no screaming like she wanted but instead she witnessed the Grey Ariel turn into a ball of magic that quickly flew to her.

“What was that we just witnessed? I also believe this belongs to you, Ariel Kindle” Luna said before she destroyed the world around her and put it back to its natural beauty. Everything returned to normal but everybody wondered what in the world was that bright light. Without anyone noticing Luna sent that Grey ball of magic to her sister and had some lying to do. *You owe me a serious favor for this, Tia*

*LATER THAT NIGHT IN ARIEL’S ROOM*

“Ghha! My head… Wh-What happened..Ga!” Holding her mouth and running to the bathroom while in pain wasn't the way Ariel expected to wake up. Her throwing up almost sounded like cries for help in the worst way “Gaaaa!” Once her little experience ended Ariel refocused her energy on freshening up with a nice cold shower. It helped but did very little in the pain department. Ariel came out of the shower to find a new set of night clothes ready to put on. She didn't bother to question it and only wanted to find her bed. With a loud slam of the bathroom door Ariel stepped outside the bathroom only to find Celestia sitting at her bedside reading a book.

“Good evening, Ariel. How do you feel?” Celestia's tone was so soft and motherly that it made Ariel think she was in a nightmare. But from the pain ringing from her body she knew she was wide awake.

“I- ah! Why.. Are.. Ow..pain all over..” Ariel groaned rubbing each said of her head. The walk over to the bed seemed to take longer than it should have. It was the best feeling in the universe once Ariel put her head down her pillows though. “Ahhhh! That's much better! Still in.. Ow! *This is what you get for tanking hits you could've easily avoided you idiot*

“Hold still” Celestia said. She placed her hand over Ariel’s back and started healing her again. The pain started to go away very slowly. Ariel felt relaxed enough to not be so tense under Celestia's healing touch.

*Why is her hand is soft fucking soft!?*

“Ahhhh! Thanks, Princess. I owe you one. Two in fact. Can I ask why you're here though?” Ariel weakly questioned.

“Obviously I'm here to help you, dummy hehhe. I have to ask: how did it feel facing apart of yourself?” Celestia softly replied. Ariel gave it some thought and remembered her counterpart’s expression throughout the altercation.

“Well.. I'm still a eight outta ten for looks” Ariel voiced confidently. She expected Celestia to chuckle and that's what she got. “No but really it was weird. She had this *demanding* air about her like she expected me to do whatever she wanted. Luckily I don't bow down to those who demand respect just because they have power. Other than that she knew how to throw down and didn't lie to me either about anything she said. Should've punched her at least once though” Ariel finished.

Celestia resisted the temptation to ask the only appropriate question as a response. At the same time she finished her healing and Ariel finally sat up straight on her bed stretching out and letting out a big yawn.

“AWWW I feel awesome! That magic of yours worked wonders” Ariel moaned proudly and gave the princess a thumbs up. Celestia returned the gesture. Then she remembered something.

“Oh, before I leave I have something for you” Celestia snapped her fingers and a ball of magic appeared above her. The ball of magic acted on its own and suddenly flew into Ariel without warning. Nothing happened for a moment. That's when Ariel’s dairy appeared in front of her and opened itself. It quickly turned pages, stopped on a page and words started to appear.

“I will Burn the void I will Burn the fear I will do everything In my power to make it clear my power shall grow stronger and fight this war” Ariel spoke. The book fell onto the bed. Ariel picked it up and turned to the very same page as before. She simply stared at the them, read them over again. It made her feel safer in a way that was unexplainable.

“In my opinion that sounds exactly like you, Ariel and I've only known you for a little while now ehehe” Celestia giggled.

Ariel blushed and turned away from the princess to hide it “I.. Wrote this to specifically pump myself up for the rough road ahead. Funny how it still works. Although it is on the edgy side I must admit” Ariel said quietly.

“Well then if that's the case I hope you succeed in ‘burning the void and burning the fear’ in your heart.-” Celestia got up from her seat and started to walk towards Ariel's bedroom door to make her exit. Ariel never noticed it before but the princess’s footsteps were really quiet. “Don't worry about being alone either, I'll do whatever I can to help you reclaim those self-aware memories of yours” Celestia voiced.

Ariel chuckled “I've only known you for a little while, princess and I'm glad to say that I appreciate your help.” Ariel said with a thumbs up and grin on her face.

Celestia gave Ariel a thumbs up back and made her exit leaving Ariel alone for the night. The moment Ariel realized she was truly alone something hit her.

“Great, I'm gonna be up all night aren't I? That's just perfect. I wonder what I should do now?”

Author's Note

This took wayyy too long to come out. As always I appreciate any good/bad feedback.

Midnight stroll

The castle was something completely different at night. The busy and almost filled hallways were replaced by this empty, calm atmosphere. If it weren't for the moon’s light filling the hallways Ariel wouldn't be able to tell where she was heading. Not that it mattered because she just wanted to walk around the castle instead of being locked in her room. She came across a choice of turning left or right. Left was a dead-end, so that was out. Turning right revealed another moon-lit hallway. But within taking a few steps Ariel was stopped by a voice.

“Don't take another step!” the mysterious voice demanded.

Ariel did stop but that didn't stop her from turning around “Ok you don't have to be so loud,” she replied. Ariel wasn't sure what she was looking at. It was obviously a female guard of the castle who was sporting dark blue armor with wings and her yellow eyes flashed bright in the shadow she was in. On top of that she was pointing her sword at Ariel. “I like what I'm seeing right now. No I'm not flirting.”

“Who are you?” the guard asked with vigor. Ariel took one step backwards with a grin on her face. The guard took three forward letting more moonlight hit her armor. Again Ariel did like it.

“I'm guessing you can fly right?” Ariel knew casually talking it out wasn't going to help.

“Are you an enemy? What are you doing around here?!” That question explained a few things to Ariel. She started to chuckle a bit. The guard’s body language suggested that she was well-trained and ready to chase Ariel if she ran.

“Let me guess. You're one of night guards and by the way your armor looks you're one of Luna’s guards. Am I correct?” The guard nodded. “Now do yourself a favor and actually look at me. Do I look I'm here to hurt anyone?” Ariel did a little spin to show the guard she was unarmed. The guard still didn't back off.

“Do you expect me to believe that?”

“How about you attack me and find out for yourself? Oh, wait you can't. So how about you run along and leave me alone?” Ariel turned around and started to walk away from the guard.

*Three, Two, One*

Right on time Ariel quickly stepped to the left and saw the guard fly right past her. She landed on her feet, turned around only to find Ariel laughing her butt off on the floor.

“What is going on here!” Another voice said. Ariel didn't recognize the voice but the guard that chased her sure as hell did. She stood up with completely straight and looked forward. Ariel sat up and saw another guard with same colored armour, but he had a symbol on the side of his helmet. He completely ignored Ariel and went straight for the girl. She looked nervous.

“Oh, Captain Leewind it's good to see you, sir. You see-”

“Save it, Private do you wanna tell me what you're doing outside of your assigned post?” He asked seriously. She simply pointed at Ariel behind him.

“I was following that creature to see what it was up to. I tried to stop her, but she bested me sadly” there was an underlying tone of anger in that reply by the Private.

“You're just predictable that's it” Ariel responded. The Captain turned around to face Ariel. He was at least two inches over Ariel if she stood up. But she refused. “Hello there, Captain Leewind” Ariel said with a smile.

“You must the human Ariel Kindle. Princess Luna mentioned you. She wants to see you personally and no she didn't tell me why” The Captain mentioned. Ariel stood up and gestures to lead the way “Well then, Captain escort me to your boss. I'll give you a kiss on the cheek for doing a good job~”

The Captain wasn't impressed and simply turned around walking towards the destination. Ariel was surprised by how quiet the walk to Luna’s office was. She tried to make some conversation but every attempt was shot down. A few minutes later Ariel found her in front of two more guards with weapons guarding a set of doors with a half-moon symbol on each of them.

“The Princess is inside” The captain said. Ariel was about to go ahead but not before keeping her promise. Her lips touched the Captains cheek which made him lightly blush much to the confusion of his fellow guards. She gave the other guards a wink just to play with them and then entered Luna’s room.

It was exactly like her sister's but a lot darker blue. At least that's what it's like at first glance. When Ariel looked up she saw what could be described as magic breaking itself up, putting itself together in different shapes and sizes. The first thing that caught her eye was the wine cabinet that was in pure moonlight. She turned her head to Princess Luna by the balcony sitting at a desk reading a book.

“Well, Ariel are you just gonna stand there? Or are you gonna sit down with me?” Luna said without looking at Ariel.

Ariel did eventually take her seat across from the Princess “I like your guards, Princess. Even though one of them tried hilariously failed attacking me for a ‘lack of information’ reason.”

Luna gave a raised eyebrow “Thank you kindly. I can assure you that the pony who attacked you will be talked to”- Luna put down her book, got up and went to the wine cabinet. She picked up a glass bottle of water and two drinking glasses. Luna sat back down and poured them both a shot. She passed Ariel one glass and to Luna’s surprise Ariel did take it and waited for a response.

“You mixed magic in that water didn't you?” Ariel asked while slowly swinging the glass around in circles.

“It's intended effect is to relax the one who's drinking it. So how do you feel?” It took a minute for the effects to kick in but Ariel did feel lighter but not in drunken way. Ariel gave a relaxed nod. “Good, it looked like you needed it. Don't worry about the effect it doesn't last very long” Luna finished. Luna expected Ariel to feel out the effects of magical water, and she did quietly tap her fingers on the table. Ariel found a rhythm and moved her head to her own beat. When Ariel finished she actually did feel a little better.

“You said you wanted to talk correct? Fine first question-- Between you and your sister who's stronger?” Ariel asked boldly with a smile.

Luna raised an eyebrow with interest “why is that important to you right now?” Luna replied.

Ariel looked around Luna’s bedroom again “it's not my imagination that's telling me your half bedroom is covered in the shadow of the moon. But yet here you are princess sitting in the light of the moon. That sings a song of ‘I'm the dark one because my sibling is the light’
And judging from the look of your room i’d say you got a very beautiful story to tell me, Princess” Ariel finished while turning back to the Princess. “Yes, I know I'm reading too much into it but I did just drink magic water so please cut me some slack.”

Luna couldn't believe what she just heard. Of course Ariel was wrong. But to confidently say all that did make a good first impression with Luna.

“I think you hit your head a little too hard, Ariel hehe” Luna chuckled. “I hate to burst the bubble but it's simply the position of the moon tonight. It's normally much brighter in my room” Luna said with a slight smile. Ariel wanted to question it but decided not to.

“Damn, I actually thought I was onto something there. But what about my other question?” Ariel replied while putting a hand under her chin.

“We are on equal terms when it comes to power” Luna said flatly. It was a lie of course. Since Luna was gone for a long time Celestia had the same amount of time to learn a lot more than her. It didn't bother Luna in the slightest since she was catching up with her sister. Of course Ariel didn't know that but Luna could tell that Ariel wasn't ready to let this topic go. That's when the human sighed.

“Ok fine I'll drop it. I understand if I can't get straight answers right away but; at the very least make it fun for me!” Ariel said frustrated while crossing her arms laying back into her chair. This caused Luna to actually giggle. “I don't understand what's so funny, Princess.”

“I'm sorry but I find this entertaining that's all. You sure swing from emotion to emotion really quickly. I don't blame you though. You're in a very hard position” Luna finished. When a quick response that was expected didn't come Luna just waited for it.

Ariel uncrossed her arms and went back to her original position “you're not getting an apology. But now that you mentioned mood swinging I should probably mention that I haven't eaten anything since I woke up hehe” Ariel giggled rubbing the back of her head.

Luna chuckled “I honestly believe you, Ariel.” Luna’s horn glowed, and she clapped her hands twice. Suddenly a guard came in the room. It was one of the two guards standing in front of Luna’s bedroom.

“Yes, Princess Luna” the guard said standing in attention.

“Please tell the cooks to prepare whatever our guest here wants. Go ahead, Ariel” Luna said. Ariel wasn't prepared for this but hey she wasn't going to pass this opportunity up.

“I-- wait I have to ask. How do you ponies feel about meat eaters?”

“We are fine with that actually” the guard replied quickly. Ariel looked Luna to make sure the guard wasn't lying to her. Luna nodded to back that up. So with that confirmed Ariel went ahead.

“Uh alright-- burger and fries please?” Ariel asked.

“Same for me, Beatbox thank you” Luna voiced. The guard nodded and quickly existed the bedroom.

Ariel turned back to Luna who was taking a sip of water “So about our chat. You were going to ask me something correct?” Ariel questioned calmly. Luna finished her drink and nodded in response.

“What are you going to do about your split memories?” Ariel knew this question was coming at some point.

“I'm going to look for them and put them back where they belong” Ariel answered confidently. Luna wasn't surprised at that answer.

“Do you even know where they are first of all, Ariel?” Luna replied turning her attention to the window. Equestria sure was beautiful at night.

“Of course not. However, they are apart of me and I love to think that I know myself perfectly. So they can't be that far away right? Besides, it doesn't any type of difference because at least I get to travel around Equestria and see all the things I'm missing out on. It's a win-win from my point of view.”

Luna didn't bother turning around but that didn't stop her from being impressed with Ariel's positive outlook on the situation.

“Seems like you don't really care about it being dangerous.” Luna said curiously.

“The potential for fun is just another win in my book.” Ariel replied somewhat grinning.

Luna scanned Ariel's body language. Ariel wasn't lying and top of that Luna could tell behind those colorless eyes there was something else driving the young girl. But before Luna could say anything else the door was being knocked on.

“Come in!” Luna said. It was the guard from earlier with her and Ariel's food. The smell hit Ariel's nose like a raging hurricane and At that moment she realized how hungry she was. Her stomach roared which caused her to jump a bit. “Hurry, Beatbox before this girl’s stomach jumps out of her and eats everything hehe” Luna teased.

The guard put the food on the desk, bowed and left just as fast as he came in. The burger looked amazing but there was no time to adore it. Ariel grabbed it and brought it up to her mouth. The first bite sent heavenly shocks through Ariel's entire body. Maybe because she hadn't eaten in a while but there was no time for that now. Luna watched Ariel take bite after bite after bite. To say Ariel was enjoying the burger would be an insult against understatements. When Ariel was finished with her victim she laid back in her chair.

“Ok that was fucking-- AMAZING!!” Ariel shouted. She actually forgot where she was for a second. “Uh..sorry you had to see that I was starving hehe” Ariel chuckled.

Luna shrugged her shoulders “I'm glad you enjoyed it. What about the rest?” Luna asked pointing towards the fries. Ariel grabbed one and ate it. Again she was very impressed with its quality. She and Luna took a few minutes to finish their meals in quiet.

“Hey, Princess do you mind if I take in the view over the balcony?” Ariel asked. Luna simply nodded and waved Ariel off. A few moments later she pushed open the doors and a very soft gust of wind hit Ariel's face. She took three steps onto the balcony and the view was wonderful. The sleeping city of Canterlot down below was also a sight to behold.

“You like?” Luna said right behind Ariel. Ariel nodded in response.

“Does it ever get boring?” Ariel said while looking upward at the stars above her. Luna walked up to the edge of the balcony laid and looked up with Ariel.

“Sometimes it does. But most of the time I have a book at my side so it's not all bad.”

“I see.” Another gust of wind hit Ariel, and she had to readjust her hair. “So are you going to help me get my memories back or not, Princess?” Ariel asked calmly.

“Before I say yes promise me one thing.” Ariel turned to the lunar Princess arms crossed across her chest.

“I can't promise you that you won't get somewhat hurt. Judging by my first memory I must have done something really wrong in my life to make other parts of me attack me. That sounds really dumb when I actually speak it out loud.”

Luna chuckled at that “No no me getting hurt is not what I'm worried about-”

“You're worried about your friends correct? Well if our last encounter is anything to go by… certain actions must be taken in order to see one of my memories to begin with. And since only three of us know about the situation I'm pretty sure we're in the clear, Princess.”

Luna stayed quiet for a time and considered Ariel’s words. If she was correct than her subjects were safe. However, if Ariel was wrong then Luna would have a lot to worry about. In the midst of thinking Luna got an idea.

“Ok, Ariel how about we test that little theory of yours?” Luna said turning to Ariel. The Princess was meant an interested look from Ariel.

“I'm listening.”

“Let's go look for another piece of your memory” Luna said with confidence.

Ariel chuckled “I don't have a choice if I want to earn your trust Princess. Let me go change and I'll come right back.”

“Right” Luna replied.

****

Ariel came back sporting a normal street outfit, hoodies, jeans and all. She was ready for whatever was going to take place tonight. She meant Luna on the very same balcony. The Princess was rocking a set of light armor that complemented her body nicely.

“Oh, Ariel you ready?” Luna said without turning to the human.

“Yeah. Let's do this.”

“Alright-” Luna got up the edge of the balcony, and then she jumped off — “let's go!” Ariel ran to the edge of the balcony when Luna went out of view. She looked down to see the Princess standing on a chariot laughing at her. “You coming or not?!”

*What the hell did I sign up for?! Oh, well- might as well follow suit* Ariel walked backwards until she was sure she could get a running start. She took a stance, braced herself and immediately sprinted. Hopping over the edge of balcony in the middle of the night in a strange land was not something she thought was ever possible but here she was.

“Nice landing” Luna said. Ariel bowed like she did that for a big crowd.

“I would give that an eight. So where to first?” Ariel questioned. Luna clapped her hands and the chariot started to move.

“I figured we would fly around until you feel something” Luna’s horn then started glowing and pulsing like a beacon. “We gotta go to Ponyville” She said. Ariel obviously had questions but those were for later. Luna directed the chariot to their destination and with the speed of flying bat ponies they got to Ponyville in a short amount of time. They landed a few feet from Twilight’s castle's front door. Ariel and Luna got off the chariot.

“Someone called you here. There's no welcome sign. So I guess something is wrong. Do we walk in carefully or bust our way in?” Luna suddenly grabbed Ariel’s hand and teleported them both inside the castle. Ariel was meant a very large library it was actually impressive.

“Luna!” The sound came from Ariel’s left.

“Twilight! I came as fast as I could. What's the problem?”

“That” Twilight directing Luna’s and Ariel’s attention to the cutie map in the middle of the room. There was a creature unknown to Twilight but very familiar to Luna and Ariel. It was another piece of Ariel’s self-aware memories. But this one completely in a moment of zen. On top of that she had three completely blank pieces of paper floating around her. “I've tried everything I could to make this thing go away. However, nothing works. I even tried blasting it but my spells just bounces off it. It also seems like those papers are protecting that thing” Twilight spoke.

“When did this start happening?” Luna questioned with interest in her voice.

“I'm not sure. It sure wasn't during the day I can tell you that much. My best guess would be sometime tonight. I wouldn't be surprised if I was wrong though.”

“I see. Ariel, any ideas?” Luna asked while turning to her. Ariel didn't reply. She simply walked up to the cutie map and got on top of it. She sat down in front of herself and pulled out her diary. Just like last time the dairy started to glow with magic. The pages floating around the memory went inside the dairy. Ariel reached for the dairy but then something stopped her. Or rather someone.

“Hello there, Ariel Kindle. I've been waiting to meet you.” Ariel looked at herself. This piece seemed less angry and calmer. That didn't stop the entire room to engulfed in the same time stopping spelling as before.

“What!?” Twilight yelled! The young Princess looked around her library with shock and awe. Everything that didn't have a heartbeat seem to completely freeze. “Lu-”

“I know, Twilight. Everything is going to be ok just don't panic. Let Ariel take care of most of it ok?” Luna meant Twilight a smile that shimmered her down just a bit.

“Ok, first off, are every single one of you going to the whole thing ‘Ariel Kindle’ thing? I get that's our name but comes off as really stupid” Ariel said. Her memory didn't seem impressed by the statement.

“As the saying goes; play stupid games win stupid prizes right? ”

“So what's my stupid prize for playing this stupid game?”

“You already know the answer to that question, Ariel. But, let's skip to the point, why are you here?” the memory questioned. Ariel tilted her head and narrowed her eyes.

“Let's see, all of my memories are separated from their original places I wonder what I could be doing here in the middle of the night. So let's not waste anymore time. Get back where you belong” Ariel finished with some anger behind her voice. Again her memory didn't seem fazed by it.

“Don't you want to know what specific memory I hold?”

Ariel suddenly grabbed her memory by the top she was wearing “Listen here you little shit I don't care what you hold. Do what you're told and get back inside my head!” Ariel’s memory stared into her eyes with a blank expression.

“I'm sorry, I can't be afraid of someone who lost their eyes colors. You're trying your hardest to be angry and maybe you are but, I'm just not seeing it, sister. However, since you started it... Tell me something, how badly did you get your ass kicked last time you did this?”

“Wh- ghah!” Ariel felt a sudden pain in her gut. Another one quickly came and then suddenly she was knocked off the table. Standing up wasn't too much of a problem, but then she was faced with her memory pointing her fist at her. “Y-you know.. This fight isn't going too last… Gah! Long.”

“Then come up here and fight me if you're so sure about yourself” The memory responded with sudden confidence.

“Ariel, wait!” Luna said.

“Stay out of this, Princess. I don't want you to get burned” Ariel replied while getting back the cutie map. Luna and Twilight watched on as Ariel walked up to her memory, evaded the incoming attacks like she knew when they were coming, get behind her memory and impressively disabled her from attacking again.

“Let me go!” The memory yelled. Ariel closed her eyes and spoke calmly.

*You know what to do*

“I will Burn the void I will Burn the fear I will do everything In my power to make it clear my power shall grow stronger and fight this war.” At that moment Ariel entire body started to shine bright orange every single scar she had showed themselves. On top of that, they seemed to follow a direct order. They surrounded the fake Ariel then tightly wrapping themselves up on her.

“NOOOO-” The memory was suddenly on fire. However, the flame did last long as the memory was quickly and literally burned into the original Ariel. Ariel then opened her eyes and a wave of happiness washed over her.

“Oh yeah! Did you see that, Princess! I honestly didn't think I could do that but here we are! Man I'm awesome!” Ariel said while hopping around with full-blown confidence.

“Uh.. Yeah, Ariel you did fine. I'm not sure what I just witnessed..” Luna watched the library return to normal and with that everything looked to be fine. That is until a certain Princess wanted to say something that had been swelling up in her chest.

“CAN ANYONE TELL ME WHAT JUST HAPPENED! AND GET OFF MY MAP!” Twilight yelled at the top of her lungs. That suddenly knocked Ariel out of her moment.

“Hehe sorry, Princess Twilight.” Ariel quickly got off the cutie map with her diary with nervous movement. Luckily Luna was there to save her.

“Ahem.. Twilight Sparkle meet Ariel Kindle. This isn't the way I wanted you two to meet but this might as well be the best time” Luna voiced. Ariel bowed as best as she could. Twilight didn't seem impressed.

“Well, Ariel it's nice to meet you. Obviously I have questions that I would love to ask you. However, since it's the middle of the night and I don't want to wake up any-”

“Twilight! What happened? Why did you yell? Are we under attack? Who's that next to the armored Princess Luna? Why does she look so weird?!”

“P-pinkie pie?! What are you doing here?” Twilight questioned. Then there was a loud bang and suddenly the rest of her friends came rushing in.

“Twilight! Pinkie got the rest us up, and we came as fast as we could. What's the emergency and Aw why does it smell like burnt paper in here?” Applejack said.

Luna chuckled, “You have a lot of explaining to do, Ariel.”

“The only good thing about this is that you're here along with me, Princess” Ariel responded with a smile on her face.

“Yeah yeah whatever” Luna said while playfully rolling her eyes.