A Haunting in Canterlot

Chapters

One: A Friendly Invitation
Two: A Strange Encounter
Three: "There's a Monster on the Loose!"
Four: Trouble is Brewing
Five: The Case of the Stone Ponies, Part 1
A Message from the Princesses
Six: The Case of the Stone Ponies, Part 2
Seven: The Premier
Prologue: Unveiled
Epilogue: Reunion

One: A Friendly Invitation

Twilight Sparkle, Spike, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Starlight Glimmer were gathered at the Castle of Friendship enjoying some down time. From saving the past to allow friendship to thrive in the future to saving the Crystal Empire and celebrating Flurry Heart's Crystalling, "enjoying some down time" may just be an understatement.

Sitting around the crystal table in the throne room, the six ponies and one dragon were immersed in lively conversation, discussing their plans and activities.

"This is great, Starlight!" Twilight began with excitement. "You've reunited with Sunburst and now you two are friends again! I'm so proud of you."

"It felt really good to talk to him again," replied Starlight. "It was kind of hard. I wasn't sure that I could do it."

"But you did it and you completed your first friendship lesson." Twilight leaned close to Starlight. "Sometimes you'll be faced with things that are hard or scary, but always know that you have friends by your side to help you through them."

Starlight smiled. She was still a little nervous about making new friends. She took comfort in knowing that around her were six ponies and a dragon who called themselves her friends.

"Thank you, Twilight," Starlight said with watering eyes. They embraced each other. "It feels good to have friends again."

Across the table from them, Rarity and Pinkie Pie were making plans of their own.

"Sassy Saddles is doing such a wonderful job making Canterlot Carousel a success, I'm planning on opening another boutique in Manehattan," said Rarity. "In just a few days' time, I'll take the Friendship Express there to seek out the perfect location."

Pinkie Pie gave a big gasp. "You're going to Manehattan?!"

"I am indeed, darling."

"This is so-o-o crazy. I'm going to Manehattan, too! I'm meeting Maud there for our Pie Sisters' Surprise Swap Day." An idea suddenly popped into Pinkie Pie's head. "Wait a minute! I just had the greatest, most fun-tastic idea ever! Why don't we all go to Manehattan together?"

"What a splendid idea, Pinkie Pie."

Just then, Applejack happily trotted in.

"Hey, y'all!" she greeted.

"There you are, Applejack," said Fluttershy. "We were wondering where you were."

"Now don't y'all go worryin' your pretty little heads. Ya might wanna stand up for this, 'cause I've got some great news."

"What is it?" asked Rainbow Dash, eager to know what's going on.

Applejack began, "I just got a letter from Rara."

"Rara?" questioned Starlight.

"She's Applejack's foalhood friend," Twilight clarified.

"You know? Coloratura," Pinkie Pie jumped in.

"Uh, sorry. I don't," Starlight replied.

"You don't know who Coloratura is?!" Pinkie Pie was flabbergasted. "She's only the biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria."

"Well, in my old village, we really didn't listen to music." Starlight turned to Applejack, "Don't let me spoil your good news."

"No worries," said Applejack. She continued, "Rara's gonna be puttin' on a new show and wants us all to go to the premier in Canterlot!"

Excitement filled the air as everypony gathered around Applejack to see the letter, which was written on official Canterlot stationary. Everypony, that is, but Starlight.

"Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun," Starlight tried to sound happy for her friends. "I'm sure you'll have a great time."

"What are y'all taking about?" asked Applejack. "You're comin', too!"

"Do you really mean that? I mean, it would be fun. I like music as much as the next pony."

"Sure, I mean it, sugar cube. You're our friend."

"Thank you, everypony. I really do appreciate it."

A few mornings later, Coloratura woke up in her room at the Canterlot Suites where she was staying. She washed up, brushed her mane, and was about ready to go down to the diner to meet Show Biz, DJ Pon-3, and Octavia Melody for breakfast when there was a knock on her door.

Knock, knock, knock!

Coloratura answered the door.

"Good morning, ma'am," the bellhop greeted. "I have a letter for you."

"Thank you, sir." Coloratura took her letter and tipped the bellhop.

"Thank you, ma'am. Have a nice day."

Coloratura sat down for a moment to open her letter. It read:

Howdy Rara,
Mighty fine hearing from you. I'm sure glad everything's working out for you with your new show and all. You can bet your boots we'll be there! By the way, might we get an extra seat for our new friend, Starlight? Can't wait to see you. Thanks a million!
Your friend,
AJ

Thinking of her friend, Coloratura held the letter close to her. She looked admiringly upon it, as if Applejack was really there and said softly, "Of course, AJ. Anything."

She placed the letter gently on the bed. As she started for the door, there came another knocking.

Knock, knock, knock!

She opened the door to find Show Biz standing on the other side.

"Good morning, Miss Coloratura," he said. "I just came by to see if you were coming down for breakfast. They've got a nice buffet."

"I was just on my way down," Coloratura replied. "I was reading a letter my best friend in all of Equestria sent me."

"That wouldn't happen to be, uh, Apple...Apple..." Show Biz thought for a second. "Applejack?"

"Yes!"

"Don't think for a single moment that ol' Show Biz don't listen to your stories, Miss Coloratura. I think they're wonderful."

"It's nice to know somepony thinks so."

"Now just what kind of talk is that?"

"Svengallop never took the time to listen to me. He never even tried to be my friend. All he ever thought about was himself. He never cared about me."

A tear rolled down Coloratura's cheek.

Show Biz put a comforting hoof on her shoulder. "There, there. So maybe Svengallop isn't the nicest pony around."

"I can't believe I let him use me. How could I be so blind?"

"It was that veil he put in front of your eyes. He didn't want you to know what he was doing. Remind me, Miss Coloratura, who was it you told me helped you to see it?"

"My friends." Coloratura's eyes brightened.

"Your friends exactly! That's all part of the Magic of Friendship. Friends helping each other to see what may not be visible. You've got friends looking out for you, Miss Coloratura."

Coloratura sniffled. "Thanks, Show Biz."

"I couldn't call myself a good manager if I wasn't a good mentor." Show Biz pulled a handkerchief from his vest pocket. "Now dry those eyes of yours and let's go dig into those pancakes!"

Coloratura dried her eyes and smiled. What a joy Show Biz was! They went down to the diner and had breakfast with DJ Pon-3 and Octavia Melody before they began rehearsing for Coloratura's new concert.

Author's Note

This vignette takes place between the Friendship is Magic season 6 premier, "The Crystalling" and episode three, "The Gift of Maud Pie."

The biggest pony pop star in all of Equestria

This is Pinkie Pie's description of Countess Coloratura in season five, episode 24, "The Mane Attraction."

Two: A Strange Encounter

Ever since Twilight had assigned her the task of making a new friend, Starlight had become closely acquainted with Trixie. Their friendship grew from what they had in common: a dark and troubled past. It was their newfound friendship, however, that revealed to them the prospects of a bright future. It even helped Twilight, the Princess of Friendship, to see that even a mischievous pony deserves to be given a second chance. Friendship is magic and something from which nopony could ever stop learning.

Over the past several days, Starlight had been accompanying Trixie on her travels across the countryside as she put on her magic shows. She saw this as a great opportunity to get to know her new best friend. This apple-scented afternoon found Starlight and Trixie in Appleloosa. The townsponies watched in awe as Trixie, with Starlight as her assistant, performed amazing tricks.

Starlight trotted onto the stage with a shiny silver loop-de-hoop around her neck. She stepped half way through it and began to twirl it around her waist. Standing up on her hind legs, she let the loop-de-hoop rise until she was twirling it around her neck. Returning to all four's, she motioned her head around and the loop-de-hoop flew above her. As the crowd cheered, Starlight gave a nervous smile. Though she had performed this routine over the past few days, she didn't want to ruin it by missing the hoop. She didn't want to let Trixie down either. Gravity brought the loop-de-hoop back down. Starlight extended a foreleg, caught it, and, without a pause, twirled it around her hoof. After a few rotations, she tossed it into the air again. When it came back down, she caught it, stood it on the stage, holding it up with one foreleg, the other outstretched. She balanced on one hind leg with the other extending out behind her. Striking her pose, the audience stomped and clapped their hooves together.

"Thank you, Starlight, thank you," said Trixie as she came onto the stage wearing three loop-de-hoops around her neck. She addressed the audience, "Prepare to once again be amazed as the Great and Powerful Trixie and her Great and Powerful Assistant, Starlight the Magnificent, will link all four of these loop-de-hoops together!"

Trixie and Starlight began to toss the loop-de-hoops, one at a time, back and forth to each other. Next, they tossed two hoops at a time. When they each caught the two hoops, they spread them out to show that they had become linked together. The two magical mares approached each other at center stage. Together, they threw their linked loop-de-hoops above their heads into the air. The loop-de-hoops lined up perfectly with each other, looking like a single hoop. When gravity brought them back down, Trixie and Starlight took hold of them. They stepped back, spreading out the chain of loop-de-hoops. They took a bow as the audience applauded them. Starlight and Trixie exchanged smiles.

Trixie turned to the audience of awestruck Appleloosans. "For my final trick, I will be performing the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive!"

A curtain was raised, revealing a tall box adorned with a star on its door and a manticore, who upon seeing the audience, began to roar and swat the air with its massive paws.

"Behold, the mighty manticore!" Starlight exclaimed.

The crowd gasped and shuddered with fear at the sight of the Everfree Forest native. He'd just as soon jump down had it not been for the chain around his neck.

Trixie's voice rang out, "I will now climb into the cannon at the back of the audience and fire myself into the mouth of the manticore!"

As Starlight discreetly slipped out of sight, Trixie stepped down from the stage and trotted to the large cannon positioned behind the crowd. Everypony watched in hoof-biting wonderment as she climbed into its dark barrel. Before she disappeared from their view, she used her Unicorn magic to ignite a spark at the end of the fuse. To the spectators, the fuse could not burn slower. Boom! Trixie was launched from the maw of the cannon towards that of the manticore. Everypony watched as she soared above their heads. As she neared the manticore's mouth, some ponies shuddered, some shut their eyes and turned their heads, while others stood frozen in their places. They gasped in disbelief as Trixie disappeared into the manticore's gaping jaws which then shut tightly like a bear trap. One or two ponies fainted at the thought of something going horribly wrong. The manticore swallowed. He opened his mouth to show that it was empty. Poof! The door of the tall box opened. The ponies excitedly stomped their hooves with whoops and hollers, throwing their hats in the air as the Great and Powerful Trixie stepped out unscathed. Starlight trotted to her side and they bowed.

"Fillies and gentlecolts, the Great and Powerful Trixie!" Starlight announced.

Trixie added, "And my Great and Powerful Assistant, Starlight the Magnificent!"

Everypony roared with applause and cheers. Trixie and Starlight took one more bow and then the curtains closed. Backstage, they excitedly reflected upon the afternoon's performance.

"Wasn't that just amazing? I think it was our best show yet," said Trixie, the thrill of the show coursing through her.

"It certainly was," Starlight replied. "And I think I'm getting better with the loop-de-hoops, wouldn't you say?"

"Getting better? You couldn't be better."

Starlight blushed. "You're just saying that."

After they had finished packing, they opened the door to exit backstage and were greeted by Braeburn.

"Yee-haw!" the Apple stallion exclaimed. "That was one hog-killin' time! Thank you all so much for comin' out here."

"The Great and Powerful Trixie thanks you for having us."

"You're mighty welcome. Now before y'all vamoose, let me offer you some of Appleloosa's most delicious pastries."

Braeburn presented Trixie and Starlight with a variety of cakes, pies, tarts, and fritters.

"These look so good," said Starlight.

"I guarantee they taste better!" Braeburn replied.

With help from Braeburn, Starlight and Trixie loaded up their magic wagon, then set out for the Whitetail Woods with the manticore following on a leash.

In the late afternoon, Trixie and Starlight crossed Ghastly Gorge. By early evening, they were passing through the Everfree Forest. Their travels had been calm and quiet, a perfect lazy day. It provided the two friends with an opportunity to talk.

Just then, the manticore gave a low growl. Starlight and Trixie turned to see what was agitating him when they heard a rustling in the bushes.

"What was that?" Starlight asked nervously.

The manticore's growl grew into a roar.

"I sure hope it's not an ursa major," Trixie replied.

Strange chittering noises sounded around them. Starlight and Trixie huddled close to each other, the comfort of one another giving them sanctuary. The manticore's presence also helped them to feel safe. Whatever that strange noise was, it grew louder and more frantic.

"Aahh!" the two friends cried out and took shelter under the wagon.

As the darkness of the night spread across the woods, it became difficult to tell what was happening. Somepony, or something, seemed to be prancing around the wagon. Neither Trixie nor Starlight dared to move. All they could do was listen to the chittering of the mysterious figure and the growling and roaring of the manticore.

Silence.

Trixie opened her eyes. Should she be thankful or afraid that the commotion had settled? Not even the manticore made a sound.

"Well that's over," Trixie said, a bit irked that they had to put their travel on hold for what appeared to be nothing. "I'm getting out."

"Trixie, wait! You don't know if it's safe," Starlight kept her voice low, unsure of whether or not the coast was clear.

Trixie crawled out from under the wagon, stood up, and dusted herself off. She looked around to see what the fuss was about. When she turned around, she couldn't believe her eyes.

"Star Swirl's beard!" she exclaimed in shock, her eyes widened. "The manticore--" That was all she could say before a scream of terror escaped her mouth.

"Trixie! Trixie, are you okay?" Starlight called out from under the wagon, fear for her friend's safety overcoming her fear of what was out there.

She hurried out from her hiding place and stood in horror at the sight. Stone. The manticore and Trixie. They were both turned to stone.

"No, no, no," Starlight's eyes filled with tears as she rushed to her petrified friend. "Trixie, I'll get you out of this. I promise."

There came a rustling from the bushes. Wiping the tears from her eyes, Starlight looked around. Who, or what, was there?

"Hello?" her voice was a little shaky from crying.

There stood a shadowy figure, blending almost completely with the darkness of the night. Starlight squinted her eyes to get a better look. The figure began to approach her. She saw two flaming red eyes glare at her. Before she could do anything, the ominous figure began to emit the chittering noises she and Trixie had heard before. Then the figure began to shake, almost uncontrollably, as if it were having some kind of convulsion. It turned and vanished into the night. Starlight looked out in the direction in which the figure had fled. Once she was sure that it was gone, she returned to Trixie.

"Don't worry, Trixie," Starlight assured, "I'll get you some help."

She hurried as quickly as she could up the trail to Ponyville.

Author's Note

This vignette takes place shortly after My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic season six, episode six, "No Second Prances."

Three: "There's a Monster on the Loose!"

The petrified bodies of Trixie and the manticore, as well as Trixie's magic wagon, were brought under investigation as soon as Starlight had relayed the horrifying news. Early the next morning, Mayor Mare called an emergency town meeting to address the situation.

"Mayor Mare is holding a town meeting. This is an emergency. Everypony is needed at town hall posthaste!" the voice of Ponyville's town crier rang out.

Lyra Heartstrings and Bon Bon were out for a morning constitutional, enjoying the warm sun and the cool, gentle breeze, when the alarming message of the town crier disrupted their peaceful stroll.

"What's going on?" Lyra asked in curiosity.

"Didn't you hear?" Passing by, Davenport paused momentarily to explain. "There's a monster on the loose! It's turned Trixie and a manticore to stone. Mayor Mare is holding a town meeting to discuss it. You two had better hurry over to town hall. The meeting will start soon." He then hurried off to the meeting.

"A monster turning ponies to stone," pondered Bon Bon.

"Let's investigate," said Lyra, eager to take on a new case.

"Alright." Bon Bon organized a game plan. "Our first step is to attend Mayor Mare's meeting and gather as much intelligence as we can."

Their morning walk would have to wait. The two S.M.I.L.E. agents instead proceeded to town hall.

Everypony gathered at town hall. They talked among themselves about the safety and wellbeing of Ponyville. At the front of the hall sat Starlight and her friends. Starlight was in tears, feeling fear and remorse for what had happened.

"Am I not meant to have friends?" Starlight cried. "Fail me now, Twilight. I think I'm better off alone."

"Starlight, listen to me," Twilight began. "Trixie's being turned to stone was not your fault."

"I should've tried harder to-" there was a catch in Starlight's throat. "To keep her from leaving the wagon." She sniffled. "Admit it, Twilight. It is my fault. Some friend I am, huh?"

"Starlight, you can't blame yourself. And you are a good friend. If you weren't Trixie's friend, you wouldn't have come to let us know what happened to her. You wouldn't be worried about her."

Twilight really hoped that she could get through to Starlight, but the student was too unmoving to reflect upon her teacher's words.

"If I was a good friend, I would've stood by Trixie's side," Starlight remarked. "I wouldn't have stayed hidden under the wagon. If I was her friend, I'd be stone, too."

Starlight maintained her assertive position. The sorrow she felt, however, could be seen in her eyes, reddened from crying.

"May I have your attention, please?" Mayor Mare began to speak, stepping up to the podium. The room quieted down. "Thank you, everypony, for coming. Some of you know that our dear Trixie and a manticore had been turned to stone last night." Ponies began to murmur to each other. "Our eyewitness reports that a strange figure dressed in a black cloak with red eyes and making chirping noises was present before and after the petrification."

Seated in the assembly, Bon Bon took careful notes of the mysterious perpetrator and the incident.

"What do you think this thing could be?" whispered Lyra.

"It's too early to tell," Bon Bon answered. "We need to search for more clues before we can reach a definitive answer."

Mayor Mare continued, "I ask everypony to please be careful, especially if you will be leaving town. I advise you to remain in Ponyville if possible. I am issuing a safety ordinance declaring that everypony is to stay alert and listen out for strange chirping noises. Report any sightings of this cloaked thing immediately. We cannot let it harm anypony else. Lastly, nopony is allowed out after dark. I have commissioned our resident time turner, Dr. Whooves, to set the chimes of our town clock to ring at sundown. You will have until the sun is fully set to get indoors. Please plan your time accordingly. Once again, be careful, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. May Harmony abound. Thank you."

Over at the crime scene, Ponyville's Detective Gumhoof was on the case. He observed every detail, snapping pictures, and jotting down notes. A light blue aura of magic began to glow around the gray Unicorn's horn as a magnifying glass, surrounded by the same blue aura, was raised to his eye. He followed the hoof prints around the magic wagon. He noted that there were four sets of prints: three belonging to ponies, and one belonging to the manticore. He followed one of the sets of hoof prints to Trixie's stone form. He noted that she had been facing the manticore. Something had caught her attention and she turned to her left. Then she was turned to stone, frozen in place, her posture suggesting that she attempted to shield herself or run.

Very curious, Detective Gumhoof thought to himself as he observed the hoof prints of the perpetrator. The perpetrator approached the scene walking on three legs. When they stopped to turn the victim to stone, they stood on two legs. They hurried away on three legs.

The detective scribbled these observations in his notepad. When he finished, he began to pack his magnifying glass, camera, and notepad into his black leather saddlebag. He saw somepony approaching through the corner of his eye.

"Can I help you?" Detective Gumhoof turned to the pony.

"I was just...I just came by to..." Starlight let out a sigh.

"Did you know the victim?"

"She was the first best friend I've made in a long time." Starlight paused. "May I?"

"Yes."

Starlight walked up to Trixie and put a hoof on her stone shoulder.

"Even though we knew each other for a short time," Starlight opened up, "I felt... We had something special." Her eyes began to water. She wiped them dry and exhaled to keep from crying. "I don't know why I'm telling you all this. I should let you get back to work. I'm sorry to have bothered you. I'll get out of your way."

"No, no. It's okay," Detective Gumhoof assured. He used his magic to cinch up his saddlebags. "I'm sorry about your friend. My condolences."

"Thank you," Starlight said softly.

Detective Gumhoof gave a nod and gathered the rest of his belongings. "You're Starlight Glimmer?" he asked.

"I am."

"Starlight Glimmer, my name is Detective Gumhoof." His horn began to glow as his quill and notepad levitated from his saddlebag to in front of him. "Do you know if your friend, Trixie, had any enemies? Anypony who would do this to her?"

"Enemies?" Starlight questioned defensively.

"Forgive me. I have to ask. Any information we have takes us one step closer to solving this mystery."

"No, Detective," Starlight answered. "She didn't have any enemies."

"That you know of?"

"That I know of."

Detective Gumhoof jotted down Starlight's answers in his notepad. He continued, "On the night of the incident, from where were you, Trixie, and the manticore leaving, and to where were you headed?"

"We were coming from Appleloosa. We were on our way to the White Tail Woods."

"For what purpose?"

"We had been putting on magic shows in the small villages around the countryside. The White Tail Woods was our next stop."

"And the manticore is part of the show?"

"He is."

Detective Gumhoof continued to write. When he finished, he put his pad and quill away saying, "Thank you, Miss Starlight. I've got everything I need. If you'll excuse me, I need to get back to my office. Good day."

He smiled and started for Ponyville. Starlight remained behind. She took one last look at her stone friend, wishing there was something she could do to reanimate her.

Author's Note

Bon Bon and Lyra being secret agents is a reference to the book, Lyra and Bon Bon and the Mares from S.M.I.L.E. by G.M. Berrow, whose events precede this vignette.

Four: Trouble is Brewing

The premier of The Unveiled Tour is just days away! The stage is set, rehearsals have been going smoothly, and the Pegasi from Cloudsdale have promised a clear evening for the concert. This morning, a sound check was underway. Octavia Melody bowed and tuned the strings of her cello and DJ Pon-3 scratched records on her turntables. At the center of the stage, Coloratura sat at her piano. As she played a contemporary pop rock tune, she sang the lyrics of her new song, "A Beautiful Friendship." The rehearsals were momentarily put on hold when a small group of invited reporters from different newspapers across Equestria arrived for a behind-the-scenes look and the chance to interview Coloratura. After formerly introducing herself to her guests, Coloratura serenaded the reporters with one of her new songs. A question-and-answer session was opened right afterward.

"Coloratura, what made you decide to change your style of music?" asked a reporter from The Canterlot Chronicle.

"A very dear friend of mine helped me to see me for myself," Coloratura answered. "My new style is a reflection of my true self."

A reporter from Daily Horseshoe questioned, "How does your new style compare to your previous style?"

Coloratura responded, "My previous style was very much like Sapphire Shore's music. It was hip-hop, it had a lot of beats. My new style may not have as much glitz and glam, but it is more personal for me. I feel very comfortable sitting at my piano."

"Will you dance in your new concert?"

"No, I won't be dancing."

The Equestria Daily Inquirer reporter asked a question which caught Coloratura off guard, "I understand that you had a falling out with your previous manager, Svengallop. Could you explain what happened?"

"Well..." Coloratura almost didn't know what to say. She hadn't expected to be asked about Svengallop. She looked over at Show Biz who gave her a nod of encouragement. "Svengallop and I didn't see eye to eye," Coloratura replied. "Somepony really close to me helped me to see that he was just using me to get what he wanted. I told him I wasn't going to allow that, and then he walked out. It was just before showtime. I didn't know how I could go on without a manager, but my friends helped me, and it's them to whom I dedicate my new show."

A Ponyville Express reporter inquired, "Are you still going to do charity and benefit shows?"

"Absolutely!" Coloratura said smiling. "I always love helping others and getting to meet the little foals."

After the interview, it was time to resume rehearsals.

"Okay, fillies and gentlecolts, that's about all the time we have," Show Biz announced. "Thank you for coming."

Coloratura played one more new song for the reporters before they returned to their respective newsrooms to write the next day's columns.

The next morning, the headlines ran hot off the presses. The Canterlot Chronicle, the Daily Horseshoe, and the Ponyville Express had nothing but great things to say about Coloratura and The Unveiled Tour. The column in the Equestria Daily Inquirer, however, left Coloratura and company almost speechless.

Coloratura a Backstabbing Diva

The Coloratura you hear on record and see on stage is not the pony she appears to be. While she may seem sweet on stage, offstage she is anything but. She is a demanding diva who is only in the business for the fame and fortune. Though she may say that she loves performing charity shows, it is only a candy coating over her nefarious personality. Her former manager, Svengallop, put up with her demands as best he could as he helped make her the pop sensation she was. But did she ever thank him? Not even once. This reporter managed to sit down with Svengallop and this is what he had to say, "When I discovered Coloratura, I knew she had something special. I helped her to achieve her dreams. I worked my hooves to the bone. Out of the kindness of my heart, I did all this for her. She felt is wasn't enough. She became greedy, obsessed with her own glory. Then at the Helping Hooves Music Festival, she set me up to be the bad guy. She saw it as an excuse to fire me. Now she's found a new manager in Show Biz. I only wish him the best of luck. I tried to be Coloratura's friend, but she didn't want to be mine." Coloratura admitted it herself when I interviewed her yesterday. She confessed that she "wasn't going to allow" Svengallop's help and sent him on his way. What more need be said? Does somepony like Coloratura deserve to be a celebrity? This reporter says no. Do not buy her records. Do not even attend her new concert. You will only be supporting her corrupt and disreputable stardom.

"I don't believe this," said a distressed Coloratura. "These are all lies. That reporter took what I said completely out of context."

"Slandering yellow journalist," grumbled Show Biz. "This newspaper's based here in Canterlot. I oughta march down to that newsroom and give them a piece of my mind. How dare they publish such a despicable column."

Show Biz stormed for the door.

"Show Biz, hold on a second." Coloratura stopped him. "I really don't think this is a good idea."

"Miss Coloratura, I know what you're thinking. I'm not going to fight fire with fire. They've started the fire, but I've got the water to put it out."

Show Biz started out the door. Coloratura had a feeling that something bad was going to happen. As requested by her manager, she remained at Canterlor Suites.

"Who's in charge here?" Show Biz roared as he burst into the Equestria Daily Inquirer office.

Something wasn't right. The office was dark. Show Biz looked around. Where was everypony? His eyes surveyed the deserted office as he carefully maneuvered his way around the paper-littered floor. Things kept getting more curious. Two voices sounded from down the hall.

"I did what you said, now let me go," said one of the voices.

Show Biz recognized the voice as the reporter's from the previous day's Q&A with Coloratura.

"I don't need you any more," said the second voice.

"Then let me go!" exclaimed the reporter.

"I'm not letting you go. There can be no witnesses."

Show Biz listened carefully. He was certain he knew to whom the second voice belonged. Could it really be? He thought to himself. No. It couldn't be.

"No, please!" the reporter cried. "No! No-o-o!"

The reporter's voice faded away and all was silent.

Up ahead was a door with "Editor in Chief" inscribed on its window. Show Biz opened the door, and to his surprise, he found the reporter and the editor frozen in place. Both had been turned to stone.

"Dear Celestia!" the manager spoke out in astonishment.

Show Biz turned to hurry out, but halted before he could clear two inches of where he stood. Standing before him was a figure dressed in a black cloak.

"W-who are you?" Show Biz asked a little startled.

The Phantom said nothing. There were chittering sounds and a pair of glowing red eyes. Then, everything went dark.

Five: The Case of the Stone Ponies, Part 1

Manehattan, 0800 hours.

Beneath the Hay's Pizza restaurant, Bon Bon and Lyra walked through the large, cold chrome room of the Secret Monster Intelligence League of Equestria hidequarters. Their boss, Agent Furlong, had called them in to discuss the recent string of petrifications in Canterlot and Ponyville. The agency seemed particularly busy today. The black-suited ponies hurried back and forth from desk to desk, reports in mouth, like an army of ants at a picnic. The agency's motto, proudly displayed on the back wall and large enough to be seen no matter where you stood, was a haunting reminder that "We're everywhere and we're nowhere." The two mares met Agent Furlong in the conference room where he was to assign them their next mission.

"Agents, I've got a new assignment for you," Agent Furlong notified. "There've been several cases of ponies turned to stone in Canterlot. We don't know who or what is behind this, but we can't let it go any further." His horn began to glow with a purple aura as he magically set a file folder containing the incident reports before Lyra and Bon Bon.

Bon Bon opened the folder and carefully studied the reports inside.

"Do you think this has anything to do with the incident in Ponyville?" Lyra asked as she looked at the reports.

"Said incident was reported in Ponyville, but the crime scene is in the Everfree Forest," Agent Furlong corrected as he wiped the frozen hot cocoa mustache from his mouth. "And yes. We have every reason to believe that both cases are related."

"Sir," Bon Bon started, her eyes fixed on the reports. "No known pony has glowing red eyes. No known centaurs. It certainly isn't a cockatrice for the suspect has been described to be of pony height and body type." She looked up at her boss. "Through process of elimination, I deduce we have a full-fledged monster on our hooves."

Agent Furlong puffed with pride. "Well, Agent Drops-" Sweetie Drops is Bon Bon's actual name "-you certainly have moxie, which is why I'm assigning you and Agent Heartstrings this mission. You've proven yourselves a formidable team on your last mission. So now, you two will go to Canterlot undercover to gather intelligence on whatever this Phantom thing is. Report back to me your findings. I'm counting on you two. Don't let me down."

"We won't, sir," said Bon Bon.

"Good luck, agents. There's the door."

Agent Sweetie Drops and Agent Heartstrings gathered their effects, strapped on their hoofpacks, and, disguised in attire befitting the Canterlot Elite, took the first train to Equestria's capitol city.

The Friendship Express, en route to Canterlot, 0930 hours.

The two undercover friends made lively conversation with each other during their train ride. They remained in character, blending in with the other ponies.

"It'll be nice going back to Canterlot," said Lyra. "It's been a while since I've been there." She rested her chin on her hoof and cast her eyes out the window toward the tall mountain standing at the center of Equestria with the Princesses' castle perched on the cliff face. "I'm a Canterlot girl."

Bon Bon reminded, "Don't forget, we're only in Canterlot as part of..." she continued more discretely, "our you-know-what."

"I know that. We're a couple of very important ponies. We've got a job to do. Canterlot, maybe even all of Equestria, is counting on us."

"I'm sorry. Please don't think that I don't have faith in you. This, er, job has me a little nervous."

"You? Nervous?" Lyra was surprised to hear that her tough-as-nails, can-do friend would be nervous.

"We've never had a 'client' like this before," Bon Bon explained in code. "What if we get more than we bargained for?"

"Well if he drives a hard bargain, I suppose we'll have to take our business elsewhere. I'm sure it'll put a 'F.R.OW.N.' on his face." Lyra gave Bon Bon a wink, referring to the Friendship Ranger Organization of Worldwide Neighgotiations (a.k.a. Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie).

Bon Bon smiled. "You're right. What would I do without you?"

"This is what friends do," said Lyra. "We're in this together."

The two mares' eyes met. The Fire of Friendship burned within them, giving them the courage to face whatever challenge lay ahead.

"Next stop, Canterlot Station," announced All Aboard as he walked down the aisle of the passenger car.

Canterlot, 1000 hours.

When the Friendship Express rolled into the station, Bon Bon and Lyra disembarked, collected their luggage, and set out for where they'd be staying. There was no doubt the city was anticipating Coloratura's premier. The two undercover agents walked streets with places of business whose windows displayed tour posters, lamp posts with streamers and little flags, and even the amphitheater where the concert will be held. When they arrived and checked in at their residence, they unpacked, made sure that the windows and doors were locked, closed the blinds, and analyzed the incident reports.

"One manticore and one Unicorn petrified in the Everfree Forest," noted Bon Bon. "Intelligence gathered by the agency suggests that our suspect is a pony based on hoof print size and shape."

"Here in Canterlot, music producer and manager Show Biz was turned to stone along with several ponies from the Equestria Daily Inquirer," Lyra observed.

Bon Bon studied the reports. "The Everfree Forest incident happened at night. By the time a report was made on Show Biz and the newspaper staff, it was almost noon."

"Could our suspect be only active at night?" Lyra asked.

"It's hard to say," answered Bon Bon. "Going by the Everfree Forest incident, yes. As for the incident here, reports weren't made right away. It could have happened before or after sunrise."

"Hold on. If yesterday's papers were already sent out, then the ponies would have been turned to stone in the morning. The sun would have already been out."

"Good point, Lyra. We'll need to find out. This information will help us determine if the suspect is active at night, during the day, or if hour is of no importance."

Lyra and Bon Bon secured the reports and hit the streets of Canterlot. Spotting a couple out for a stroll, Lyra, in true Canterlot fashion, casually approached them.

"Excuse me," she began. "I don't mean to trouble you, but would you be so kind as to tell me what yesterday's headline was in the Equestria Daily Inquirer?"

"Oh, why certainly," responded Fancy Pants. "The headline spoke of Coloratura and her former manager, Svengallop. An atrocious article if I do say so myself."

"Very distasteful," commented Fleur de Lis as she flipped her mane.

"I refuse to believe a single word of it. Coloratura is a sweet young filly and doesn't deserve such rubbish."

"Are you going to her new concert?" Lyra asked.

Bon Bon nudged Lyra on her shoulder. The look on her face said, What are you doing? We've got our answer. Let's go.

"Indeed, I am," replied the most important pony in Canterlot with enthusiasm. "Fleur de Lis and myself will be attending with some close, personal acquaintances. What about you, young filly?"

Before Lyra could answer, Bon Bon interjected, "Would you look at the time? We really should be going. Thank you for your time, sir. Good bye."

Bon Bon nudged Lyra to start walking.

"Perhaps I'll see you at the concert?" Fancy Pants called out.

"Perhaps you will," Bon Bon answered for Lyra.

Canterlot, 1200 hours.

Bon Bon and Lyra returned to their room with knowledge that the Phantom had been active in both the light of day and the dark of night. They reported their findings to Agent Furlong and went out to have lunch.

Canterlot, 2000 hours.

Lyra and Bon Bon had been out on the town, trying to find any evidence that would point them to who or what the Phantom is, but they hadn't much luck. They took one last walk.

"You know, Bon Bon," Lyra began, "a case like this is very familiar to me."

"How so?" questioned Bon Bon.

"I read a book once called The Peculiar Perusal of the Petrified Ponies. In it, this strange pony named Spring-Hoofed Jack, a mischief-maker who was the terror of Canterlot, could turn ponies to stone just by staring into their eyes. Plus, he had glowing red eyes, just like our suspect."

Bon Bon stopped in her tracks. "Lyra, let me stop you there."

"What's wrong?"

"Please tell me that you're in no way implying that Spring-Hoofed Jack is behind all this."

"I'm not saying he is, Bon Bon. I'm just saying he could be a possible suspect. We need to consider all possibilities."

"I know that, Lyra, but characters from bit novels and pony dreadfuls don't count as possibilities."

"But you're always saying, 'Investigate everything,' and 'Consider all possibilities.' We don't know who or what this thing is. It very well could be Spring-Hoofed Jack."

Bon Bon thought for a moment. She knew that Lyra was right about considering all possibilities, even if they do seem far-fetched.

"Lyra," Bon Bon started, "I really don't think that somepony from a little foals' bedtime story is the culprit, but seeing as there is no evidence to suggest otherwise, I must accept it as an option."

A terrified scream pierced the night. The two agents hurried as quickly as they could to find the pony in distress. On a dark street corner, they found a petrified stallion and a mare crying beside him.

"Are you okay?" Bon Bon asked.

"I-I'm fine," the mare answered, tears pouring from her eyes. "But just look what that beast has done to my husband."

"Where did it go?" inquired Bon Bon.

"It ran off that way," the mare pointed in the direction.

Bon Bon turned to her partner, "Lyra, stay with her. I'll go after the perp. If it comes back, you know what to do."

"Okay, Bon Bon," Lyra replied. "Be careful."

Bon Bon nodded and hurried after the Phantom. As she gave chase, she came upon another pony turned to stone. Ahead, two more ponies, among them the Constable. Bon Bon knew by this grim sight that she was going the right way. She also knew that perhaps she and Lyra were getting more than they bargained for. She took out her communicator watch and activated it.

"Agent Furlong, this is Agent Drops. Do you copy? Over."

The Chief's voice came through the communicator watch, "Agent Drops, this is Agent Furlong. I copy. Over."

"Agent Furlong, I'm in pursuit of our suspect. Agent Heartstrings is tending to the victims. I'm concerned the two of us won't be enough to handle this case. I'm requesting backup. Over."

"I can't believe I'm hearing this from you. You're one of my top agents. I'll send Agent Bravo post haste."

"Ten-four. Thank you, Agent Furlong. Over and out."

Bon Bon stopped to catch her breath. There was nopony around. She had lost the Phantom's trail. Making her way back to help Lyra, she found a pair of glasses on the ground. They appeared to be in good condition with the exception of a cracked lens. Could this be a clue?

Canterlot, the next morning, 0700 hours.

Lyra and Bon Bon brought Agent Bravo up to speed on the Canterlot incidents.

"This Phantom is the haunting of Canterlot," said Lyra. "Two days ago, five ponies were found petrified at the Equestria Daily Inquirer office. Last night, four more ponies were turned to stone."

"Interesting," Agent Bravo said in his usual stern tone. "Very interesting indeed."

"I went in pursuit," said Bon Bon, "but the trail went cold." She showed Agent Bravo a sealed plastic bag with the broken glasses inside. "These were all I could find after coming the trail. It could be a clue."

"Hmmm. Could be a clue," Agent Bravo said, examining the glasses. "It could very well be a clue."

"The eye witness report from Ponyville describes the suspect as a pony, or something with a pony body type," Lyra explained. "However, I spoke with a mare last night whose husband was turned to stone and she said it was a cockatrice."

"Call them together. We'll call the witnesses together and see how their stories line up."

Author's Note

Hay's Pizza, S.M.I.L.E., F.R.O.W.N., Agent Furlong, and Agent Bravo are from Lyra and Bon Bon and the Mares from S.M.I.L.E.

A Message from the Princesses

The terror sweeping the streets of Canterlot have not gone unnoticed by Their Royal Highnesses, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. The two sisters have penned a letter to address this trying time and to assure their loving subjects that all will be well.

Our most Loyal Subjects,

Within the past several days, eleven innocent souls have fallen victim to a pony, or beast, being referred to as "The Phantom," having been turned to stone where they stood. We give our condolences to all of their loved ones. In light of these events, we are declaring a state of emergency. The Royal Guard of Equestria have been deployed to ensure the safety of everypony. We ask that you take precaution and follow our safety ordinance enacted on this, the one thousand and sixth year of our reign. We will keep an ever watchful eye over day and night until the Phantom is found and brought to justice. Our hearts go out to you.

May Harmony abound,

Princess Luna
Princess Celestia

Six: The Case of the Stone Ponies, Part 2

Canterlot, 0800 hours.

Lyra, Bon Bon, and Agent Bravo have called the mare whose husband was petrified for interrogation. The mare and Agent Bravo sat at opposite ends of the table. In front of Agent Bravo was the mare's incident report which Lyra had written out, a notepad, an inkwell, and a quill. In front of the mare was a glass of water. Lyra sat at another end of the table. The two S.M.I.L.E. agents made their meeting with the mare a comfortable one. Meanwhile, Bon Bon went out to search for clues around the ponies she had seen petrified last night while she was in pursuit of the Phantom.

"Name, please," said Agent Bravo. "Could I please get your name?"

"Azimuth," the mare replied.

"And your husband's name?" Could I get your husband's name, please?"

"Z -Zenith," Azimuth responded with a catch in her throat.

"Miss Azimuth," Lyra began, "we are trying to identify the Phantom. Please explain to us as best you can what you saw the night your..." Her voice trailed off. She was going to, but couldn't bring herself to, say, "the night your husband had been petrified," and knew Azimuth wouldn't want to hear such words either.

Azimuth took a moment to compose herself. "Zenith and I were avid stargazers," she explained. "We were on our way to the park to observe the night sky. I heard a chirping noise, like a chicken. I saw to red eyes hurrying toward us. Zenith knew it was a cockatrice. He put his hoof over my eyes and told me not to look. The next thing I know, he was... he was..." she began to sob. "I'm sorry."

Lyra patted Azimuth on the shoulder and offered a tissue from the box on the table.

"I realize this is difficult," started Agent Bravo. "This is difficult, I know, but could you tell us if you saw anypony suspicious? Any suspicious characters?"

Azimuth dried her eyes. "Somepony did chase away the cockatrice," she clarified.

"Who was this pony? Did you see who the pony was?"

"I didn't see their face. They were wearing a hood. It must have been a cloak. I had thought it was the Constable in his duster."

Agent Bravo took notes of everything Azimuth explained. "The color. Did you notice the color of the cloak?" he asked.

"It could have been black," Azimuth answered. "Or maybe dark blue. I really can't say with certainty."

Agent Bravo wrote these observations in his notepad. He finished and looked up at Azimuth. "Thank you, Miss Azimuth, thank you. We've got everything we need."

Canterlot Station, 1000 hours.

The Friendship Express pulled into the station right on schedule. Lyra stood on the platform, carefully scanning the crowd of ponies. Among the disembarking passengers were Twilight and Starlight. Twilight's presence didn't go without a warm welcome from the ponies.

"Your Majesty," one pony genuflected.

"It's Princess Twilight!" exclaimed another pony.

"Hello, everypony," Twilight greeted. She put her hoof on the shoulder of the genuflecting pony. "You don't have to bow. It's okay."

"Twilight!" exclaimed a voice.

The Princess of Friendship looked up to see her Canterlot friend, Lyra.

"Lyra!" Twilight called out with as much excitement as Lyra had.

"It's good to see you, Twilight," said Lyra. "Oops! I mean, Princess Twilight," she corrected herself with an expression of embarrassment.

"Please, just call me Twilight." She gestured toward Starlight. "And this is Starlight," she introduced. "Starlight, this is Lyra. She was one of my friends growing up here in Canterlot."

"Hello, Lyra," said Starlight. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure's all mine, Starlight," said Lyra. She addressed both Starlight and Twilight, "I don't mean to cut our welcomes short, but we really must speak to you, Starlight. We have a few questions for you, too, Twilight. If you'll please come with me, we can get started."

Canterlot, Undisclosed Location, 1030 hours.

Lyra and Agent Bravo met with Starlight first. Starlight sat opposite Agent Bravo. Lyra occupied the third seat at the table. In front of Agent Bravo was Starlight's incident report, his inkwell, quill, and notepad. In front of Starlight was a glass of water.

"Name, please," said Agent Bravo. "Could I please get your name?"

Starlight was nervous. "Starlight," she answered. "Starlight Glimmer." She swallowed hard.

Lyra could tell that Starlight was nervous. She's playing with the ends of her mane. A nervous tick, perhaps? she observed.

"Miss Starlight, we've called you here to help us identify the Phantom," said Agent Bravo. "What can you tell us about the identity of the Phantom?"

"I don't know who it was," Starlight answered. "I just remember seeing red eyes."

"What else? Is there anything else you can tell us?"

Starlight took a deep breath.

"Are you okay?" Lyra asked.

"I'm fine," Starlight replied. "It's a lot of pressure. I'm just getting back into the world. One of my best friends was turned to stone."

"It's alright. We're here to help. Is there anything else about the Phantom you can remember? Or of the night in question?"

"Just some chittering noises."

Like before, Agent Bravo took notes. "These noises," he began. "What made these noises?"

"It had to have been the Phantom," Starlight answered. "There was nopony else around."

"Something else. So, there is a chance that something else was making the noises?"

"I, uh, I suppose so."

"Concerning the Phantom's appearance, what do you remember of its appearance?"

"It was about average height."

"Average height for a pony? Please define average height."

"For a pony, yes. It was about my height."

"Concerning the Phantom's attire, what sort of attire was the Phantom wearing?"

"It was wearing a black cloak. It had the hood up so I couldn't see its face. Just its eyes." Agent Bravo continued to take notes as Starlight proceeded, "It was weird. When I saw its eyes, I felt sort of funny. It was like I couldn't move, like I couldn't feel anything. The Phantom started shaking and then it just ran off. Once it left, I felt fine."

Agent Bravo finished writing his notes. "Thank you, Miss Starlight. Your testimony will help us find the Phantom. Thank you."

Lyra walked Starlight to the door.

"You did well, Starlight," said Lyra. "Thank you for your cooperation."

Twilight was waiting outside. The door opened and Lyra and Starlight walked out.

"Twilight, I just have a few for you," Lyra said. "This'll just take a minute."

Twilight followed her inside.

Agent Bravo was studying Starlight and Azimuth's accounts. He looked up to greet Twilight. "Good morning, Princess Twilight. I hope your morning is going well. Is there anything I can get you? Can I get you anything?"

"Good morning, sir," Twilight replied. "Just call me Twilight. You don't have to get me anything. I'm fine."

Agent Bravo bowed his head and returned to his studies.

"What's going on, Lyra?" asked Twilight.

"Twilight, have you ever read a book called The Peculiar Perusal of the Petrified Ponies?" Lyra questioned.

"Of course! I have the whole series. I've read each one several times."

"What can you tell me about Spring-Hoofed Jack?"

"I know that there is considerable debate over his existence. There are accounts of his meeting with ponies in Canterlot, none of which have ever proven to be true. As far as The Peculiar Perusal of the Petrified Ponies goes, it's one of many pony dreadfuls written at the height of Spring-Hoofed Jack popularity and interest."

"In these accounts you mentioned, what do they say of Spring-Hoofed Jack turning ponies to stone?"

"They make no mention of his petrifying anypony."

Hmmm. This rules him out as a suspect, Lyra thought to herself. She jotted down these notes. "Okay, Twilight. That's all I wanted to ask you."

"I'm happy I could help you, Lyra," replied Twilight. "If you ever want to borrow any of my Spring-Hoofed Jack books, my library is your library."

Canterlot, Undisclosed Location, 1130 hours.

Lyra and Agent Bravo compared Starlight and Azimuth's incident reports and accounts. There were three things which they concluded: 1) chittering sounds, 2) red eyes, and 3) a ponyesque figure in a dark-colored cloak. Nothing seemed to identify the Phantom. Azimuth's account specifically stated a cockatrice turned her husband to stone, but Starlight's account suggested otherwise, though it wasn't without the possibility that it could be a cockatrice.

"I've got it!" exclaimed Lyra. "Our culprit is a cockatrice. Azimuth said a cockatrice petrified her husband. Starlight wasn't totally sure what made the noises she heard, but we can't rule cockatrice out. They both reported seeing red eyes and hearing chirping sounds. A cockatrice has red eyes and makes chirping sounds. Now look at this." She pointed to specific lines in Detective Gumhoof's report. "In the Everfree Forest, Detective Gumhoof notes that the suspect walked on three legs, then stood on two legs, and on three legs again." She elaborated, "The 'Phantom' walked on three legs because it was holding the cockatrice. It stood on two legs when it held up the cockatrice to petrify the manticore and Trixie. In Azimuth's account, it wasn't the Constable who chased the cockatrice away. It was the cloaked pony trying to get the cockatrice back because it had escaped."

"Incredible, Agent Heartstrings!" Agent Bravo exclaimed. "Incredible!"

Having completed her field work, Bon Bon returned to their base of operation.

"Bon Bon! We've just uncovered a piece of this mystery," Lyra announced with excitement. "It was a cockatrice who turned those ponies to stone, but that's only one side of the coin. We still don't know the identity of the cloaked figure."

"Well I've got the other side of that coin right here," said Bon Bon. She explained, "It was brought to my attention that a camera was discovered at the Equestria Daily Inquirer. There was a message attached reading, 'Develop in case I'm turned to stone.' The film has been developed and the photographs have revealed the identity of the Phantom, the cloaked suspect, that is, and the owner of the broken glasses I found."

Seven: The Premier

It is the night of the premier of The Unveiled Tour! Ponies from all across Equestria were arriving in Canterlot for Coloratura's all-new show. They all made their way to the amphitheater and took their seats. Fancy Pants confabulated with Fleur de Lis and his entourage (Swan Song, Golden Gavel, and Silver Frames) as they entered the house of the theater.

"I do say, I am quite delighted to see Coloratura's new show," said Fancy Pants. "'The Magic Inside' is such a heartfelt composition."

"It certainly is!" agreed Swan Song.

"Among the best songs I've heard," noted Golden Gavel.

"It's sure to be a million-seller!" exclaimed Silver Frames.

As the high society ponies took their seats, a group of familiar faces stood in the doorway, looking their best.

"Well golly!" Applejack exclaimed. "Would ya look at all the ponies here?"

"Yeah! Coloratura's got a full house," Spike added.

"C'mon, you guys," said Rainbow Dash, "let's get our seats."

Before anypony could say anything, Rainbow Dash sped away leaving a rainbow trail in her wake.

"She does realize that we have tickets?" Rarity commented. "Nopony will be taking her seat."

The group walked down the aisle for the VIP seats.

"Applejack?" began Starlight.

"Yeah, Starlight?"

"I can't thank you enough for asking Coloratura to save a seat for me."

"Think nuthin' of it. We weren't gonna leave you behind."

Their mission not yet complete, the three S.M.I.L.E. agents arrived at the amphitheater. Lyra and Bon Bon were dressed nicely like everypony in attendance and Agent Bravo wore a concert security uniform.

"Are you certain he will be here?" Lyra asked in a low voice, referring to the Phantom.

"I've never been more certain of anything," replied Bon Bon. "The writing is on the wall. This is our chance to catch him. Let's get to our posts."

As Lyra and Bon Bon made for their seats, Agent Bravo headed backstage. Lyra sat toward the back of the house and Bon Bon sat near the center. They surveyed the house for any suspicious activity. Backstage, Agent Bravo looked for any trace of the Phantom and the cockatrice.

In the green room, Coloratura, DJ Pon-3, and Octavia Melody were preparing to go on stage. Octavia rosined up her bow and DJ Pon-3 looked through her box of records. Coloratura sat on the sofa, sipping a glass of water. Something was on her mind. Then there was a knock on the door.

Knock, knock, knock!

Octavia answered the door.

"I'm here to see Coloratura," Applejack said in the doorway.

Coloratura's ears perked up at the sound of Applejack's voice. "AJ!" she exclaimed.

The two friends embraced each other in a warm hug.

"Rara, this is so excitin'!" Applejack said, holding her friend close. "I'm proud of you."

"Thanks, AJ. I really hope everything goes well. My new manager, Show Biz, was petrified and it kind of made me think of my show in Ponyville when Svengallop left."

"I'm sorry to hear about Show Biz, Rara, but I know you can do it. You did it in Ponyville and you can do it here. I believe in you, sugar cube. Don't tell me you stopped believin' in yourself."

"You're right," Coloratura replied. "I can do this. I just needed a little reassurance."

"And if ya need anything, we're sittin' right outside."

The chime of a clock sounded.

"Coloratura, dear," Octavia started, "DJ Pon-3 and I are on in five minutes. We must all get ready."

"Sounds like the show's about to start," said Applejack. "I best be gettin' back."

"Thanks again, AJ," said Coloratura.

"I believe in you." Applejack smiled then turned to leave the green room.

The lights of the amphitheater dimmed and a spotlight shown on the stage as the emcee walked out.

"Fillies and gentlecolts!" the emcee announced. "Opening for Coloratura, please welcome Octavia Melody and DJ Pon-3!"

Everypony stomped and clapped their hooves as Octavia picked up her cello, bow in hoof, and DJ Pon-3 stood at her turntables. Octavia played a solo before DJ Pon-3 dropped beats, leading into their duet.

In the audience, Bon Bon and Lyra remained ever alert while Agent Bravo, backstage, carefully looked around for any sign of the culprit. The Phantom could be anywhere in the audience or backstage.

After Octavia and DJ Pon-3's first song, Bon Bon spoke into her communicator watch, "This is Agent Sweetie Drops. Any sign of the Phantom? Over."

"No, Agent Sweetie Drops," replied Agent Bravo. "No sign of the Phantom yet."

"Negative," Lyra reported.

DJ Pon-3 and Octavia played a few more songs together, and after completing their set, introduced Coloratura.

"Fillies and gentlecolts, the moment has arrived!" Octavia announced with glee. "Please welcome to the stage, for the premier of her new Unveiled Tour, Coloratura!"

Wearing an elegant black gown, Coloratura walked out onto the stage to a roaring crowd. She gave a big smile and waved as she made her way across the stage. She held a hoof out to DJ Pon-3 and Octavia in a gesture of gratitude and appreciation, receiving a wave from the DJ and a bow of the head from the cellist.

Coloratura sat down at her piano, and to the audience extended a warm greeting, "Good evening, everypony! Weren't Octavia Melody and DJ Pon-3 amazing?" The crowd applauded and cheered. "I'm so glad you could come to the premier of my new show." She played a few notes. "You'll hear new songs and even a few familiar ones." She then began playing "The Magic Inside." Before she began to sing, she made a dedication, "Many thanks to all of you, and to my friends, old and new, for all of your help and support. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to come on this stage and let me be myself." The audience applauded as she began to sing "The Magic Inside."

Bon Bon sat uneasily during the concert. She knew that the Phantom would be here. Where is he? she thought to herself. He's here. I just know he's here. All of the evidence which the agents of S.M.I.L.E. had gathered pointed to the Phantom presenting his pièce de résistance tonight. Right here. Bon Bon rubbed her temples. Waiting for the Phantom was stressful. One wrong move could lead to disaster. She glanced down at her communicator watch. She considered calling Lyra and Agent Bravo for a status report...

"Hey, you can't be back here," Agent Bravo heard a security pony assert.

The agent turned his head. There was the security pony, and there was the Phantom!

"Don't look! Don't look!" Agent Bravo shouted.

He was too late. The Phantom uncovered the cockatrice and petrified the security pony. The Phantom held the cockatrice up to Agent Bravo. Stopping dead in his tracks, Agent Bravo tried to look away, but had already made eye contact. As he was turning to stone, he activated his communicator watch.

The little lights on Bon Bon's communicator watch blinked as Agent Bravo's call tried to go through. She put the communicator watch to her ear to hear better. All she could hear was chirping sounds. Was this really the chirping of the cockatrice, or was she hearing the static of a faulty connection? She tapped the watch face and lifted it back to her ear. Realizing that it was the sound of the cockatrice, she jumped up and turned to look for Lyra.

"Down in front!" grumbled the pony sitting behind her.

"Sorry," Bon Bon apologized as she hurried out of the row. She contacted Lyra, "Agent Heartstrings, this is Agent Drops. I think Agent Bravo is in trouble. Hurry backstage. Over."

"Roger that," Lyra replied. "I got his call, but there was nothing. I tried calling him back, but he didn't answer."

Backstage, Lyra and Bon Bon found Agent Bravo and the security pony petrified.

"No," Bon Bon spoke quietly.

"The Phantom has got to be here," said Lyra.

There came the sound of the cockatrice's chirping. Lyra and Bon Bon looked desperately around. The sounds seemed to come from all over.

"Up top!" exclaimed Lyra. "He's climbing the scaffolding!"

The two agents hurried up the steps. The passageway was narrow so they ran single file. Using the narrow staircase to his advantage, the Phantom set the cockatrice loose.

"Look out!" Bon Bon cried.

She and Lyra quickly shielded their eyes. Fighting the cockatrice while trying not to look at it all while in a narrow staircase was no easy task. Lyra took off her blazer and covered the feisty bird-snake hybrid.

"I've got the cockatrice, Bon Bon," said Lyra. "You go get the Phantom."

Bon Bon hurried after the Phantom. Standing at the top of the platform was the Phantom. He looked down at the stage below. Coloratura was singing and playing her piano. Directly above was a disco ball whose support reached up to the scaffolding where the Phantom stood. Bon Bon made it to the top and found the Phantom attempting to sever the supporting cables. As the cables snapped, the disco ball began to sway. The ponies in the audience noticed.

"Stop right there!" Bon Bon commanded.

"Stay out of my way," the Phantom barked.

The disco ball swung as the last cable was cut. Although it happened in a matter of seconds, it felt longer, like time had suddenly slowed down. Bon Bon dove for the Phantom before he could cut the cable. She tackled him just as the disco ball fell for the stage. With nothing to grab hold of, Bon Bon and the Phantom plummeted to the stage. Seeing the disco ball's descent, a security pony standing just offstage rushed onto the stage and pushed Coloratura out of the way just as the disco ball, along with Bon Bon and the Phantom, came crashing onto the stage. In both shock and surprise, everypony gasped. The musicians nearly dropped their instruments. DJ Pon-3 scratched a record.

"Rara!" Applejack cried out, jumping up from her seat.

"Are you okay?" the security pony asked Coloratura as he helped her up.

"I'm fine," Coloratura answered.

Bon Bon sat up, shaking off the fall. Lying on the stage in front of her, the Phantom groaned.

"Get up," Bon Bon told him.

Security ponies rushed to the stage.

"It's the Phantom!" ponies cried as the cloaked culprit staggered to his hooves.

Some ponies ducked, some covered their eyes, and others made for the exit.

"Hold on, everypony," said Bon Bon. "You've got nothing to fear. His petrifying days are over. I give you your Phantom!"

Everypony was taken aback when Bon Bon pulled down the Phantom's hood.

Coloratura stood in disbelief. "Svengallop?"

"Yes, I am the Phantom," the former manager declared bitterly.

"But why? Why would you do this?"

"'Why?'" Svengallop repeated in spite. "You humiliated me and you ruined my career. You destroyed my reputation." As if it had been the most ridiculous thing he had ever heard, he repeated with a scoff, "'Why.'"

"Get him out of here," said Bon Bon.

The security ponies apprehended Svengallop and escorted him out of the amphitheater.

"Are you going to be alright?" Bon Bon asked Coloratura.

"I just need a minute," Coloratura replied. She started off, but turned back saying softly, "Thank you."

Bon Bon nodded. "It's what we do. Well, sort of. You're welcome."

As Coloratura walked offstage, the emcee announced a brief intermission during which the stage ponies cleaned up the debris from the disco ball.

Bon Bon went backstage to Lyra, the cockatrice, and their petrified comrade. She and Lyra made their last mission report to Agent Furlong.

"We've cracked this case wide open, sir. It turns out our Phantom was Svengallop and a cockatrice," reported Lyra.

"Svengallop?! Coloratura's deserting manager?" Agent Furlong was surprised.

"Affirmative," said Bon Bon. "His was a mission of vengeance."

"Well congratulations to the three of you. Svengallop isn't the kind of monster we normally deal with, but you've proven yourselves yet again. Good job, agents. The frozen hot cocoa's on me!"

"Thank you, sir. Over and out."

In the green room, Applejack and company checked on Coloratura.

"I'm so glad you're okay, Rara," said Applejack, her eyes glassy with tears.

"We're all very sorry that Svengallop did this," said Twilight.

"Thank you, everypony," Coloratura replied.

"That ruffian never deserved to be your manager," Rarity added.

"He's such a bully!" grumbled Pinkie Pie. "No! He's more than a bully. He's a mean, nasty, rotten, no-good, ne'er-do-well, bully. And that's the worst kind!"

"You have my word, Coloratura. I will make sure that Show Biz and all the petrified ponies will be cured," Twilight declared.

"Thank you, Twilight," Coloratura said with a smile.

The stage had now been cleaned up. Twilight and friends gave cheers to Coloratura before returning to their seats so she could prepare for the remainder of her show. Starlight stayed behind for a moment.

"Uh, Coloratura?" Starlight began.

"Yes?"

"I'm Starlight Glimmer. Applejack asked you for an extra seat for me."

"You're Starlight? Applejack told me you were her new friend."

"I don't want to keep you from your show, but I just wanted to say thanks. It's been quite a while since I've had any friends and it means a whole lot to me."

"You're welcome, Starlight. Any friend of AJ's is a friend of mine."

After the intermission, the emcee welcomed Coloratura back to the stage. The crowd went wild as she walked back out, happy to see that she was alright. She took her seat at her piano and adjusted the microphone.

"Well none of that was part of the show," she quipped. The ponies in the audience laughed along with her. Joking aside, she continued, "During the intermission, I had the chance to talk with my friends, and I even made a new friend." She glanced at Starlight. "I started thinking of the Magic of Friendship and how my friends have always been there for me in good times and in bad." She began to play her piano and the orchestra followed suit. "I really appreciate everyponies' staying. This is one of my new songs and I'm dedicating it to all of you and to all my friends. It's called 'A Beautiful Friendship.'"

Octavia Melody played her cello and DJ Pon-3 scratched her records and dropped beats as Coloratura sang her heart out. After, she was given a standing ovation.

"Go, Rara, go!" Applejack hollered.

"A phenomenal performance!" said Fancy Pants.

"Simply marvelous," added Fleur de Lis.

"Thank you all so much," Coloratura said. "This has been such an amazing show, save for the mishap earlier, and it's all thanks to you, to Octavia Melody and DJ Pon-3, to my manager, Show Biz, and to all my friends. And now I'd like to invite some very special ponies to the stage to help me sing one last song. Please welcome my friends, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Spike, the Princess of Friendship herself, Twilight Sparkle, and my new friend, Starlight Glimmer. Come up here, you guys!"

Coloratura's Ponyville friends excitedly ran up onto the stage. They exchanged hugs and greetings. Coloratura was congratulated for a great show.

"If you know the lyrics, don't hesitate to sing along," Coloratura spoke into the mic. "My foalhood friend, Applejack, and I used to play this song at Camp Friendship when we were fillies. This is 'Equestria, the Land I Love.'"

Equestria, the land I love
A land of harmony
Our flag does wave from high above
For ponykind to see

Equestria, a land of friends
Where ponykind do roam
They say true friendship never ends
Equestria, my home

Just as she had done every time they played this song, Applejack struck a triangle at the end.

"Thank you, everypony! Have a wonderful night!" Coloratura took a bow, waved, and blew kisses to the audience.

Bouquets of roses and beautiful flowers were tossed on stage. Coloratura picked one up and breathed in its sweet aroma. The applause and whistles continued even after she walked off the stage. She was so happy for such a great new first show, minus Svengallop's interruption, of course. She only wished that Show Biz could have seen it, but she was relieved with Twilight's assurance that he would be himself again.

In her room at the Canterlot Suites, Coloratura's dresser was topped with vases of flowers, stuffed animals sat on the armchair, and letters and fan mail rested on the table. Tonight certainly was a dream come true. As Coloratura got ready for bed, she gazed intently at her pillow and reflected upon the many nights she lay dreaming of sharing her music and her voice with Equestria. She thought of the first time she stepped hoof on a stage. She was a little filly who had never performed live on stage. She always did have a knack for singing. It was that one fateful night when she realized that singing was her passion, and when she took a bow, she received her cutie mark. She climbed into bed and pulled up the sheets. As she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, she knew that she was that little filly again.

Author's Note

"Equestria, the Land I Love" is from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic season five, episode 24, "The Mane Attraction."

Prologue: Unveiled

"Helping Hooves Music Festival in Ponyville a Big Success!" "Countess Coloratura Shines in Helping Hooves Music Festival." These were just a few of the headlines sweeping across Equestria. The most eye-catching and head-turning headlines, however, read not of the charity festival, but of the hip-hop pony herself: "Countess? Coloratura." "The Countess Hangs Her Veil." "Coloratura, Countess No More?"

It is the beginning of a new musical career for Coloratura. Since her charity concert in Ponyville, she has begun to modify her music and her shows to reflect her true self. With her new manager, Show Biz, she has been working hard to make her vision a reality. In the aptly named "The Unveiled Tour," Coloratura will introduce her true self and new musical style without the makeup and the veil. She and Show Biz have scheduled dates and locations for the new tour. Thanks to Show Biz, DJ Pon-3 and Octavia Melody will be touring with them as Coloratura's opening act!

In the latest issue of The Manehattan Review, columnist, Buried Lede, had gotten the inside scoop:

"The Unveiled Tour marks the beginning of a new direction for singing sensation, Coloratura. Formerly known as Countess Coloratura, the pop icon has written new songs and will perform an entirely new show.

"'The Unveiled Tour will be very different,' says Coloratura. 'The music, the show itself, all different. It's a self-portrait, reflecting who I really am.'

"On this new direction, Coloratura's new manager, Show Biz, said, 'Coloratura has heart and potential. She's the real artist here. I don't sit in the office pulling strings. Coloratura calls the shots. We work with each other to figure out the right stops to pull.'

"Concerning her new manager, Coloratura had this to say, 'Show Biz is so great to work with. He listens to what I have to say and respects my decisions. We've been working hard together to make this new tour happen. I cannot thank him enough.'

"Beginning in Canterlot (5th), The Unveiled Tour will kick off Coloratura's new career with stops in Rainbow Falls (7th), Whinnyapolis (9th), Manehattan (10th), Fillydelphia (11th), Baltimare (12th), Ponyville (15th), Las Pegasus (18th), Vanhoover (22nd), with the grand finale in the Crystal Empire (26th).

"Tickets on sale now!"

Author's Note

This takes place after My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic season 5, episode 24, "The Mane Attraction."

Epilogue: Reunion

Working with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, Twilight helped to free the ponies who had been turned to stone.

Starlight was reunited with Trixie and the manticore. Together, they traveled the rest of the countryside, dazzling audiences with their prodigious prestidigitation.

The ponies at the Equestria Daily Inquirer were cured. Once they got the presses running, they published an apology to Coloratura for purposely writing a slandering article, although Svengallop had threatened them with petrification if they didn't do what he said.

The Canterlot ponies were unfrozen and back to their own selves again. The Constable returned to patrolling the streets. Azimuth was reunited with her husband, Zenith, and to celebrate his return, they went out to dinner and spent the nice quiet evening at the park gazing upon the many stars glistening like diamonds in the violet night sky.

The agents at the S.M.I.L.E. hidequarters in Manehattan threw a welcome back party for Agent Bravo, with another round of frozen hot cocoa on Agent Furlong.

Coloratura was preparing for her next show in Rainbow Falls when she was reunited with Show Biz.

"Show Biz, I'm so glad you're back!" Coloratura exclaimed.

"I've heard tell your first show was a huge success," said Show Biz. "I've also heard there was an unexpected guest."

"It was incredible, Show Biz. I wish you could've been there."

"I was there, Miss Coloratura. In spirit I was there."

From Rainbow Falls to the Crystal Empire, Show Biz accompanied Coloratura on her Unveiled Tour just as he said he would, being the good manager that he is.

As for Svengallop, he was busy in Canterlot, under the surveillance of the Royal Guard, paying his debt to society in an "unstylish and uncomfortable," his words verbatim, orange jumpsuit.

Under the care of Fluttershy, the cockatrice was returned to its home in the Everfree Forest.