CoH (Book Two) : Of Ancient Castles and Soldier Hassles

Chapters

Chapter One : Home Sweet Home
Chapter Two : A Sugar-Coated Surprise
Chapter Three : Silent Rumination
Chapter Four : Flint
Chapter Five : Bloom and Brews
Chapter Six : About Time!
Chapter Eight : Storm
Chapter Nine : Checking In
Chapter Ten : Helping Hooves
Chapter Eleven : Tuned In
Chapter Seven : Correspondence

Chapter One : Home Sweet Home

“Dear Twily,

I hope it's not too early to check up on you and your friends. After everything that happened, I hope you'll write me as soon as you get this to let me know how you're doing. We're moving on the best we can up here. The rightful palace staff are right where they want to be, and Lieutenant Flash Sentry returned to Canterlot to make way for Lieutenant Stronghold. Cadance and I offered Flash a permanent position, of course, but he turned it down. I don't blame him, honestly, though last I heard he was looking to get a transfer. I guess he decided he's not a city stallion after all.

Anyway, now that the upper tower is finished and we cleaned what's left of the rubble from the streets, the crystal ponies are beginning to settle into a routine. And, wow, they don't waste any time! The crystal berry fields are already in full swing and other crops are popping so fast, even the most experienced farmer's jaw would drop. Cadance thinks they'll have the marketplace up and running by the end of the week.

It's all thanks to you, little sis, and the crystal ponies know it. You're a hero! In fact, there's a statue of you on Mane Street now. I thought you'd want to know.

Love, Shining Armor”

Twilight set the parchment down on the kitchen table with a relieved sigh. Oh, thank Celestia, she thought, taking a long sip of her coffee. When Derpy showed up at her door at the break of dawn, the wax-sealed envelope pinched gently between her teeth, her thoughts jumped to dark, panicky territory.

Thankfully, there was nothing but good news, even if the last paragraph brought a blush to her cheeks.

A fresh piece of parchment, a bottle of ink, and a quill flew to the table from the other room. A short correspondence wouldn't hurt, if it brought Shining peace of mind. Although the Crystal Empire had taken great strides over the past week, the same couldn't be said for her and her friends.

“Dear B.B.B.F.F.,

I'm going to apologize in advance for the short reply, but not much has happened since our return. The girls and I have been focusing on our recovery. Yet, we are settling back into our own routines.

Applejack, ever the hard-working mare, threw herself into her farm duties almost as soon as we got off the train. None of us held it against her. We were away from home for far too long and we parted ways from the train station.

Don't worry, all is well! I've been seeing them here and there all week, though I think it will be a little while longer before we plan a get-together. Rarity is a little behind on her newest fashion line, Rainbow still needs to catch up on her sleep, and Fluttershy is working up the courage to walk around in public with her... “new” mane cut.

But, never fear, I'll send you a follow-up as soon as something interesting happens! I promise!

Love, Twilight”

Ever-so-gently, she folded the parchment in half, then slid it carefully into an envelope. She secured its contents with a generous dab of wax. As she waited for it to cool, she wrote up two short notes. The first was for Princess Celestia—a polite request to make sure her letter reached Shining. The second was for Spike to send the letter and the note to the Princess as soon as he was awake.

Arranged from left to right, starting with Shining's letter, she left everything on the table for her assistant. As much as she wanted to be there to greet him, there was something she had to do first. It was something she would never mention in any letter, nor was it a task meant for the eyes of others.

She pulled sandwiches and bottles of apple cider out of the refrigerator before she made her way to the front door. She then retrieved her saddlebags, into which went the snacks. Looking over her shoulder one last time to confirm she was alone, she placed her concentration into a teleportation spell that promptly whisked her away from the silence of the library.

In a burst of purple magic, she reappeared in a vacant alleyway. She winced, for the surge toppled a garbage bin. “Shoot!” she hissed. She hurriedly cleaned up the mess—hoping nopony heard. When that was done, she sighed and surveyed her location.

To her relief, her calculations were spot-on. The alley was connected to the back of a brick three-story building known as the Stirrup Street Inn. It was a humble establishment. Humble meant cheap, of course, because the last thing she needed was an inquiry as to why she was suddenly short on bits.

She spent them on some much-needed books or tomes for her collection, was her go-to excuse. Most of the time, it was true; spare copies of “Supernaturals” didn't purchase themselves. It was certainly better than, “I'm sorry, but a friend of mine needed a place to stay.”

That would raise even more questions. The one she feared the most was, “Who?” And, Celestia forbid, no one saw her meeting up with him.

She approached the back door and knocked three times. The wait for an answer wasn't long. Soon, the door opened and a stallion, ash-coated and gray-maned, poked his head out past the door frame. “Password?” he grunted.

Twilight pulled the door open with her magic. “It's Twilight,” she retorted, bemused. “Are you ready to go?”

Rolling his eyes, he emerged from the building—his sparse luggage levitating behind him. Draped over his body was a black cloak that barely touched the ground. “You're no fun.” Still, he went in for a brief hug, which she returned. “But, yes, I'm ready.”

“Excellent!” She smiled. “It's been a while since I've been to the old castle, though, so my aim will be off.”

“I survived nearly a month in the lifeless tundra of the Frozen Wastes, my friend. If I have to take a leisurely stroll through this 'Everfree' of yours, then so be it.” His eyes roamed over the structure behind him. “Although, I must admit I enjoyed my stay here. I've never before talked with ponies so obsessed with a customer's comfort.”

“You don't have to leave if you don't want to, Sombra.”

He dismissed her words with the wave of his hoof. “As much as I appreciate your generosity, Twilight, I will take no more of your bits. You've done more than enough for me. Besides, I look forward to an abode where I don't have to conceal my identity for hours on end.”

Her smile grew. “Well, when you put it that way... Stand close to me, and stand still.” She closed her eyes as an arcane aura encased her horn. It soon spread to cover their bodies. Then, in a flash, they were gone.

The high-pitched screams of metal wheels signaled the arrival of the Friendship Express. Ever the punctual operation, the locomotive screeched to a halt in front of Ponyville Station at exactly nine o'clock—startling the majority of the ponies who awaited it so patiently. Yet, that didn't stop the exchange of passengers as soon as the doors slid open.

Mayor Mare tapped her hoof in rhythm with the song she was humming. She was in no hurry to be anywhere in particular, other than where she currently stood. Even if it weren't her duty to greet every new resident of her beloved town, she'd be there anyway.

The instant he stepped off the train, she knew she had the right stallion: pegasus, orange coat, two-toned blue mane, and (most importantly) a cutie mark depicting a blue shield with a lightning bolt on it. “Excuse me, Mister Flash Sentry?” she called.

His ears swiveled in her direction before the rest of his head turned to look at her. Grinning, he outstretched his wings and used them to propel himself into an excited jump. “That's me!” he exclaimed. “You're Mayor Mare, I take it?”

She shook his hoof. “Yes. It's a pleasure to meet you, Flash.”

“Likewise!”

“Come, come! Allow me to show you to your new home.”

“But, what about my—?”

“Oh, don't worry about your belongings. I rallied some volunteers to take care of them for you. I promise they're in good hooves.”

“Wow, that's super nice of you.”

She chuckled as she began to lead him off the wooden platform. “Well, it's not every day a little town like ours receives somepony of your caliber, Mr. Sentry.”

“Oh, please, just call me Flash.” The stallion broke into a trot until he came to walk alongside her. As they entered town, he whistled. “I knew Ponyville was beautiful, but sweet Celestia, pictures do not do it justice.” And he poured over many, many magazines that held the small town in high regard. More than once was it awarded “Equestria's Most Beautiful Small Town.”

Now that he saw it with his own eyes, the reason was obvious. All it needed was a princess or two and some snobbish elites, and it had the chance to rival Canterlot... On second thought, he mused, the absence of the latter made it a little better than the Capitol.

Canterlot Royal Guards were the best of the best when it came to public safety. Yet, their hard work and sacrifice was often lost on those whose wealth led them to believe the academy-trained ponies were a complete waste of taxes. Flash wished he never once was accused of being nothing more than an overpriced statue clad in gilded armor.

He shook his head to rid himself of the negative thoughts. It would be different here. Ponyville was a small town, full of small-town ponies, where there was no risk of changeling invasions or power-hungry unicorns with magical amulets.

And, above all else, Ponyville was home to her.

Sombra marveled at the dense vegetation that surrounded them. “What is this place?” he muttered. He looked to the sky, only to find he could not see it. The canopy was just as thick.

“This,” Twilight replied, “is the Everfree Forest.” She slowly spun around. “From the looks of it, we're near Zecora's hut.”

He raised a brow. “Ah, yes, now I see.”

She shot him a playful glare. “Zecora is a friend of mine.” She carefully jingled a turquoise chime that dangled above her head. “She hung these chimes a mile from her hone in every direction. They can be heard from a great distance, so ponies unfamiliar with the forest can find her.” She lifted a hoof to point towards the east, where the dim glow of lanterns could be seen. “Then, you just look for the lights, and there she is! Going straight north from here will take us to the castle.”

Sombra followed her gaze. “She lives here? Strange. I thought this was a place of great peril?”

“Well, she's from Zebrica, and—”

“She's a zebra?”

“Is that a problem?”

A small smile tugged at a corner of the stallion's mouth. “No, of course not. I've never before met a zebra, is all.” When his friend began to lead him deeper into the darkness, he followed without hesitation. “All I know about them and their country is what I read when I was young.”

The tip of Twilight's horn sparked into an intense glow—one that easily illuminated their way. “You sound like you were interested in more than just magic.”

“I was, and I still am. There is much to learn about this world we live in, besides magic.” He paused. “I missed one thousand years, Twilight. There is much more for me to learn, and perhaps even more on which I need to catch up.”

Twilight swallowed the lump that formed in her throat. “One step at a time, Sombra,” she whispered. “Let's get you settled into the castle, first.”

They walked in silence. It was probably for the best, as it suddenly dawned on Twilight there were potential threats lurking in the shadows. The last thing she wanted was another grisly encounter with a cockatrice... Oh, Celestia, what if Sombra ran into one while she wasn't with him?

“Um,” she coughed. “Just out of curiosity, how's your prowess when it comes to using magic defensively?”

“I'm more than capable of defending myself, if necessary.”

“Well, it might be necessary.” Her ears folded back, snug against her head. “I forgot to mention all the creatures who live here.”

“I'm listening.”

“Timberwolves, manticores, ursas, cockatrices... to name a few. I'll bring you books on them, if you wish.”

“I'm familiar with these beasts, my friend. There's no need to worry. I don't think they'll bother me unprovoked.”

“Yes, well—”

“If it will make you feel better, I'll take the books.”

She exhaled. “Thank you.”

When they finally came to the bridge, Twilight took a deep breath and pointed to the dilapidated structure in the distance. “There.”

Her companion slowly walked up beside her—his eyes wide. “By the stars,” he whispered.

“What's wrong?”

He looked down into the crevasse over which the bridge precariously hung. “This... This didn't exist when I was last here.”

Twilight looked at him with a start. “You've been here before?”

“Of course.” Cautiously, he placed his left hoof on the bridge. The aged wooden board creaked under the pressure. “This is Roan, Equestria's capitol. Well, it used to be, but I guess that's no longer the case?”

Twilight said nothing. This was entirely new information. The extend of her knowledge regarding the ruins ended at the fact that the Princesses once lived there, and it was where Princess Celestia chose to hide the Elements of Harmony.

With that thought in mind, actually, it made sense. “A lot can change in a thousand years,” she whispered, following Sombra across the bridge.

He nodded solemnly. “There was a city here, once upon a time. There was never a forest, nor a fissure. Roan was a magnificent place, full of exquisite architecture and vibrant life.” The wooden doors of the front entrance screamed in protest as he pulled them open with his magic. He gazed into the silent gloom of the interior. “Now, it seems this castle is the only thing left.”

Twilight followed him inside. She flinched as the doors howled shut behind them, yet she continued forward. The emerald glow of Sombra's magic breathed life into nearby torches, causing them to burst into flame.

Their light revealed a large chamber. The floor was home to overgrowth and rubble. Stone archways leading to staircases lined the left and right walls. Above them dangled the scraps of long-forgotten tapestries. Only the two in the back, the left one dark blue and the right one golden in an obvious representation of Princess Luna and Princess Celestia, were potentially salvageable.

“The main hall,” explained Sombra. He looked over his shoulder at Twilight and he smiled. “Crowds wanting to see the Princesses for themselves would always gather here to await the opening of their respective courts.” His smile faltered, but only for a moment. “It's a shame, to see such a magnificent place so... abandoned—forgotten.”

Twilight gently touched his shoulder. “You sound like you missed this place.”

He sighed. “A long, long time ago, I called this place home.”

Author's Note

OH SNAP, IT'S ACTUALLY HERE. After an incredibly long wait, I give you... Crucibles of Harmony, Part Two!

Now, a word of caution, this installment is more Slice of Life than the last, and will have a more character-driven narrative. In addition, chapters will be shorter. Summer is here and, unfortunately, my writing suffers in the heat. My brain just shuts down, man.

BUT, negativity aside, I hope you all enjoy the ride!

Chapter Two : A Sugar-Coated Surprise

“And here we have Southern Equestria's most famous bakery, Sugarcube Corner!” Mayor Mare's voice vibrated with excitement and pride as she waved one of her forelegs to dramatically show off the building of which she spoke. “They serve everything from cakes to pies, to cupcakes and donuts!”

Flash's eyes widened. He thought The Tasty Treat back home was exuberant in its choice of color palate, but this was something else entirely. Sugarcube Corner was an establishment of pink, white, chocolate-brown, and purple, with a candled cupcake on top. It was cute, he thought. As a plus, it wasn't hidden away in the dimness of an alley's dead end—a melancholy place where nopony could find it and enjoy its treasures.

“Can we go inside?” he asked. The warm and sugary scent tempted his belly into a low, hungry rumble.

“Why, of course!” his guide exclaimed. On her way to the front door, she beckoned him to follow. “There's no better way than to meet your new neighbors than your first step into the Corner!”

“Wait, really?” He trotted after her. “Is this place really that popu—”

“Surprise!”

The stallion nearly jumped out of his skin as a crowd of ponies shouted at him. His wings flared, the feathers ruffled, in an automatic display of his training. Make yourself look bigger!

Mayor Mare patted his shoulder. “Easy, Flash, easy!” she laughed. “It's only a party!”

He blinked. Slowly, his wings lowered and folded back up against his sides. “A... party?”

A familiar pink earth mare bounced up to him. On her hoof balanced a platter, which was piled high with orange-and-blue frosted cupcakes. “Yeah, silly!” she chirped. “I heard you were coming, so I threw you a 'Welcome to Ponyville' party!”

To his bewilderment, gravity had no effect on her as she reached out her free hoof to shake his. “I'm Pinkie Pie! We met at the Crystal Empire, remember?”

“I do remember! You're one of Miss Twilight's friends!” Does that mean she's here, too?

“Yeppers!” She offered him one of the cupcakes, which he took with gratitude. She then spun around to face the crowd. “Alrighty, everypony! The guest of honor is here, so let's make him feel welcome and get this party started!”

The gathering of ponies erupted into a cheer. Somewhere in the back of the room, a gramophone scratched to life. Music, upbeat and soft, served as a pleasant backdrop as folks went about mingling.

Flash didn't know what to do with himself. The last party thrown for him was... Heck, it was years ago—after he graduated from the Academy, and that was thrown by his overly-enthusiastic parents. Every party afterwards was one he was ordered to patrol. He always watched, he never participated.

So, he watched from the corner near the front door, slowly munching on the cupcake he'd been given. He had to admit, it was the best cupcake he'd ever eaten. He could only imagine the quality of their other pastries. I need to try them all, I guess!

Somepony approached him, startling him out of his thoughts. Someponies, actually, as the tiny group that broke away from the crowd was a triad of mares: a white unicorn, an orange earth pony wearing a stetson, and the yellow pegasus who seemed to be hiding behind them.

“Why, hello there!” greeted the unicorn. “Flash Sentry, was it?”

Flash swallowed down his last bite of cupcake. “That's me!” he replied, hoping that none of the pastry was stuck to his face. “Say, it was awfully nice for Miss Pinkie to throw this party. You Ponyville folks really know how to make a stallion feel welcomed.”

“Oh, I'm glad, darling. It's the least we could do after... Well, you know.”

He nodded. “Yeah, I know.” He cleared his throat. “You're Miss Rarity, right?”

Her eyes lit up. “You are correct!”

“Ah, good!” He tapped his chin as he turned his attention to the other two mares. “That makes you Miss Applejack and Miss Fluttershy!”

Applejack tipped her hat. “Yep! Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Flash!”

The smallest nuance of a smile appeared on Fluttershy's face. “It's nice to meet you.”

“I'm surprised you remember us,” Rarity commented, the delight obvious from the sound of her voice.

Flash tilted his head. “Why wouldn't I? You gals are the Elements of Harmony!”

“Shucks,” laughed Applejack. “We're simple, small-town ponies. No need to get starstruck.”

Rarity huffed. “Speak for yourself!”

“Anyway, we're not always fightin' monsters and facin' down power-hungry hoodlums.” She poked the stallion in the shoulder. “My family and I own Sweet Apple Acres, for example. We grow the best apples in all of Equestria!”

“And I,” added Rarity, “own The Carousel Boutique!”

“She sells dresses.”

“Dresses I designed!”

“Yep. And Fluttershy here tends to sick 'n injured animals.”

Fluttershy nodded ever so slightly. “Rainbow Dash works for the local weather factory,” she said, her voice soft, “and Twilight is the librarian for the Golden Oaks Library.” Her ears folded back against her head. “They're not here, though...”

Flash tried to not let his disappointment show.

Applejack rolled her eyes. “Sorry about that. Rainbow's busy scheduling tomorrow's thunderstorm and Twilight's...” She blinked. “Actually, I don't know where that girl is.”

“Hold on a second, darling.” Rarity turned around. “Spike!”

The baby dragon stopped in the middle of refilling his glass of punch. “Yes?” he retorted loudly.

“Spike, darling, where's Twilight?”

Shrugging, he ladled his glass full, before he ran up to them. “You got me,” he said. “She was gone when I woke up this morning. She had some stuff for me to send to Princess Celestia, though, but that was it.”

“Ah, shame,” she sighed. Then, she smiled. “Oh, well, she's bound to turn up eventually. For now, let's introduce you to some of the others.”

“There's an idea!” exclaimed Applejack. “Folks will love to meet ya, with you bein' another member of Ponyville's finest!”

Flash chuckled. “I wouldn't go that far. I'm simply a guard—nothing more, nothing less.”

“Don't be so modest,” retorted Rarity. She began to walk towards a nearby gathering. “Come, come! Meet everypony!”

When Flash didn't move quite fast enough, Applejack jumped behind him and pushed. “You heard the lady! Go on, git!”

He yelped. “I'm going! I'm going!”

And he, indeed, went, despite the fact he was a little disappointed the one pony he hoped to see wasn't there.

Chapter Three : Silent Rumination

They were deep within the ruins of the castle before Sombra saw fit to drop his disguise. It was effortless to drop the illusion spell whilst he continued to light their way. Sconces and chandeliers alike burst into flame as they walked—each one responding immediately to his magic.

“Where are we going?” Twilight finally asked.

“Someplace you'll enjoy, I'm sure.” His smile fell a bit. “If it's not too badly damaged, or gone altogether.”

Of course, it wasn't too long before they reached another set of doors. The aged, brittle wood was stained a strange pinkish color. Given their age, Twilight surmised the true color was once a more purplish shade, before time robbed it of its brilliance.

“Here it is,” said Sombra. He took the round, silver door handles into his magic. Yet, he seemed to hesitate for a moment before he slowly pushed the doors open.

Book-stuffed shelves lined the massive chamber on the other side from floor to ceiling. Well, what was left of the ceiling. There were obvious chunks of it gone, revealing the Everfree's gray sky overhead. More than likely, those missing chunks were responsible for the piles of rubble littering the floor, alongside some of the broken and overturned reading tables.

Still, the library was in better condition than Sombra's imagination led him to believe. He exhaled a breath he didn't know he was holding. “Thank the stars,” he mumbled. As Twilight stared in wonder, he wandered over to a bookshelf. While the tightly-packed books were caked in dust and showed minor signs of wrinkling from their exposure to the elements, he was delighted to see they were in acceptable condition. The same couldn't be said about the poor, unfortunate tomes unceremoniously strewn here and there by whatever force ripped them from their proper places, but a few casualties were better than the destruction of an entire library.

“Ah, it does my heart good to see this place again,” he said. “Welcome to the Roan Royal Library, Twilight.”

A giddiness welled up in Twilight as she gazed at the old books. One-thousand-year-old books! Row after row after row of one-thousand-year-old books!

“This is amazing!” she nearly squealed. “I had no idea this was here!” Oh, which one should I read first?!

Sombra laughed. “What you see here was once the largest collection of knowledge in Equestria. It doubled as a public library—highly guarded but accessible to the public from dawn to dusk.” He grinned. “Needless to say, I spent a lot of time here.”

She followed him to one of the few intact tables, which seemed to set directly in the center of the library. “I can see why!” she exclaimed. “It's extraordinary!”

“Yes.” He set a hoof on the table. His brow furrowed. “What I don't understand is why it was left to rot in such a horrible manner. Roan was once the most sophisticated city in the world, rivaled only by the Crystal Empire, but it seems this castle is the only remaining structure... and almost everything within it was left behind.”

Twilight breathed out a silent, “Oh.” Right. He didn't know. “I think I can answer that for you.” She took a seat at the table and she rubbed her hooves together as she spared a glance at Sombra. “I don't have all the details, mind you. I never really had a reason to ask Princess Celestia about this place after my friends and I found the Elements here.”

Sombra pulled up a seat to sit beside her. Yet, he remained silent.

“Well, a thousand years ago, when the Princesses still lived here, Princess Luna slowly grew jealous of Celestia because she believed their subjects loved Celestia and the daytime more than they loved her and her night. When the finally fell to the darkness inside her, she became a malevolent being called Nightmare Moon. She then tried to take the throne for herself. They battled, and I'm sure that's how the castle was damaged so badly, but in the end Princess Celestia had no choice but to use the Elements of Harmony against her own sister. They banished Nightmare Moon to the moon.”

She looked up at the sky. “I can't imagine what Princess Celestia went through back then. I don't know what I'd do if I had to use the Elements against Shining Armor. I guess it makes sense she would leave this place behind after her ordeal.”

“Too many bad memories,” grumbled Sombra.

Her ears perked. “Pardon?”

“Nothing, Twilight.” He stood and moved to the end of the table. “It must have been some battle, to reduce Roan to nothing but a chasm and decrepit ruins.”

There was a monotone to his voice, which Twilight found odd.

As suddenly as it appeared, however, it was gone, and Sombra's voice found a nuance of hope. “But, what was left behind will not go to waste,” he continued. His eyes sparked with mischief as he touched the chair at the head of the table. In one motion, he pushed it backwards. It didn't fall to the floor, but instead stuck fast at an odd angle.

The clinks and clanks of unseen machinations came, muffled, through the left wall. Then, before their very eyes, two of the smaller shelves shifted open to reveal a secret door. Unlike everything else Twilight had seen, this door didn't appear as worn as the others. It was faint green in color and there were no markings of which to speak.

Before she was able to ask about it, Sombra was already in the process of hauling his luggage through to the other side. “Wait for me!” she exclaimed. Once she entered the room on the other side she was greeted by walls of green and blue. The left wall was home to a small bookcase; a red couch set snugly against the right. There was only one small, round table, and there were cushions on the floor in random places.

Upon said floor was a soft, violet carpet, which muffled her steps as she approached the murals in the back. There were two. The left was comprised of orange and yellow paints. It depicted the sun among the clouds. Its neighbor, a combination of different blues, was of the moon and stars. “What is this place?” she whispered.

As he set his luggage next to the couch, Sombra replied, “This was once the Princess' personal reading room.”

“How did you know this was here?”

A minute or two passed them by in silence, but Twilight was patient. She made her way to the solitary table as the sandwiches and juice she packed away floated out of her saddlebags. She banished the dust from the oaken surface, then placed their lunch upon it. There were two sandwiches and two bottles of apple juice for both of them, so there wasn't much to divide and organize. As soon as she was finished, she cleared her throat. “I brought lunch, if you want some,” she said.

The stallion snapped out of his thought-fueled daze and turned his head to momentarily regard the food. His previous thought process seemingly forgotten, he approached. “You didn't have to do such a thing,” he said.

“Well, I did, and I brought daisy and dandelion sandwiches and apple juice.”

“Thank you. I am grateful.”

Sombra unwrapped his portions; Twilight followed suit. The exact time eluded her, but she herself had been looking forward to eating since they set hoof in the library. Surely, her friend was just as famished, and so she was thankful he had accepted her meager offerings.

Yet, she kept an eye on him. His eyes didn't leave the table, even as he ate. His continued silence made her uneasy. Did she ask one too many questions? Was he tired? Was it the food? Did he really not like it here? Should she have demanded to pay for his continued stay at the inn?

“Twilight.”

Startled, she hastily swallowed her last bite of her lunch. “Yes?” she gasped and coughed.

He didn't seem to notice. “To answer your earlier question... This castle holds many secrets—mostly mischievous traps and passageways. I, in all honesty, know the majority of them, because the Princesses revealed them to me.”

“Really?” Her head tilted. “Why?”

Sombra took a deep breath. “We were friends once.” His gaze, for a brief moment, met hers. “Once. Then, we weren't... and that's all I have to say about that.”

Twilight simply nodded, and she mentally tucked away her many questions for a much, much later time.

Author's Note

For those wondering, Celestia and Luna's journal doesn't exist in this AU. Just letting you lovely people know!

Chapter Four : Flint

What a welcome...

Flash huffed a tired sigh. Giving credit where credit was due, Ponyvillians sure knew how to have fun. As if the abundance of sugary food wasn't enough, the Elements “volunteered” him for a multitude of games: Pin the Tail on the Pony, charades, Mad Libs, Blind Mare's Bluff...

It was well after noon, a quarter until one, yet there was still no sign of Twilight Sparkle.

He groaned as he rested his cheek on the table. Due to his inability to just say no, his assimilation into the town's energetic populace was pretty much complete. That was far from a problem, of course, but the one mare he wanted to see more than anypony had yet to show her lovely face.

“Looks like Miss Pinkie has claimed another victim.”

Flash started. “Huh?”

An elderly earth stallion stood before him. His coat was as gray as stone; his mane was a dull brown, with streaks of white from age. More important, however, was the other stallion's uniform: a blue short-sleeved shirt, a black tie, and a black-brimmed blue hat. “Is... Is there a problem, officer?” he stammered.

A grin manifested on the stranger's wrinkled face. “Of course not, my boy,” he retorted. He didn't wait for an invitation before he promptly seated himself next to Flash. “Why? Feelin' guilty about something?”

“Uh—”

Barking a laugh, he clapped the pegasus on the shoulder. “Kidding! Kidding!” he chortled. “I'm here for your party, Mr. Sentry. Nothin' more.”

“Oh, please, just call me Flash.”

The stallion simply nodded, then held out his hoof. “Name's Flint.”

Flash shook it without hesitation. “It's nice to meet you.”

“Likewise, my boy.”

As the older stallion leaned back against his chair, a golden glint on his shirt caught Flash's attention. It was a badge, he noticed. His interest peaked, for he wasn't close enough to read what was engraved on its shiny surface.

As such, it didn't take long for Flint to figure out why the pegasus kept glancing at his uniform. “Ah, you caught that, huh?” he muttered, tapping his badge. “Well, I was hoping to save this conversation for later, seein' as you just got here and all, but I guess there's no helpin' it. I'm Ponyville's police chief.”

Flash's eyes grew wide. “You mean...?”

“Yep. I'm your new boss.”

Rubbing the back of his neck, Flash chuckled. “Well, in that case, it's really nice to make your acquaintance, sir.”

Flint scoffed. “Take it easy. I'm not some uppity big-city captain. There's no need to butter me up.”

“Sorry, I didn't mean to cause offense.”

“Don't worry about it. Really. Worry only about enjoying yourself.”

“Am I free to ask questions?”

“If that's what you want.”

As Pinkie Pie bounced by, she left a glass of punch in front of him. He didn't even bat an eye as he lifted it to take a long sip out of the twisty straw. “But,” he added suddenly, before Flash spoke, “just be warned, not much happens around these parts.” He shot a glance at Pinkie, whose puffy pink tail bobbed in the air as the rest of her body disappeared into the crowd of revelers. “Let me rephrase that... Not much happens here that we, as the police, have to deal with ourselves. You've met them, right? The Elements?”

Flash nodded.

“Excellent. Good mares, that lot. They attract a lot of trouble, like Fate's got it out for 'em, but they've done a lot for Ponyville over the years.”

“And for Equestria as a whole,” Flash interjected.

Smiling, Flint raised his glass. “True, true.” He sighed. “It's easy-going for us, my boy, so you better get used to a nuance of boredom now and again. Drunks are a common problem. This party is all for you, Flash, but get used to them. Pinkie Pie is Ponyville's self-proclaimed Party Pony.” He deadpanned. “Sweet Celestia, try saying that five times fast...”

For the first time that afternoon, Flash laughed. “I think I'll manage! You won't believe where I was stationed before I decided to move here.”

The older stallion arched a brow. “Try me.”

“The Crystal Empire.”

Flint nearly exasperated his drink. “Get outta town!” he exclaimed.

“Hoof to Princess Celestia, I swear.”

“Well, I'll be... How the hay did you end up all the way up there?”

“The place was gone for nearly a thousand years. It needed a little extra help and my squad was more than available.” He paused, for there was a full glass of punch before him he just noticed. While he was certain it wasn't there a moment before, the timing couldn't have been more perfect. Only then did he realize he was thirsty.

He didn't hesitate to take a swig. “Anyway,” he continued, “that was where I first met them, the Elements. That was awesome, but it went downhill from there. Some crazy unicorn showed up, wanting revenge on them for something they supposedly did to her, and brainwashed the entire populace—me and my squad included!”

A low, flat whistle escaped from between Flint's teeth. “Good gravy. Must've been some serious magic they were packin'.”

Flash shrugged. “She had some super-magical necklace on her. I heard she stole it, but whatever. It was destroyed in the battle between her and Miss Twilight. Unfortunately, I don't remember any of it. I didn't come around until the fight was long over.” He, intentionally, left out the bit about how he woke up in a utility closet. “After that, we were called back to Canterlot. They offered me a paid vacation after what I went through, but I didn't take it. All I wanted was a transfer.”

“I can't say I blame you. Although, I can't say I understand your choice. We're a simple little community, but we have our moments. Like I said, the Elements are a magnet for all sorts of trouble. Not that I blame them for any of it, mind you. It's just how things work around here now—the new normal.” Flint cleared his throat. “But, enough about that. When can you start?”

“Uh, I can start tomorrow, if you want.”

“Good, good. I'll have one of the guys drop off a few uniforms for you later today. I'll set up a simple patrol route to get you started. Sound good to you?”

“Yes, sir.”

“I'll see you at seven sharp, got it?”

“Yes, sir.”

Grunting, Flint hopped off his chair. “Then I'll see you in the mornin', my boy.” He tipped his hat. “Enjoy your party.”

Flash merely nodded, then he watched as the police chief vanished into the crowd. What a nice guy, he thought, taking a long sip of punch. Despite what Flint thought, however, his choice to move to Ponyville was far above an upgrade for the pegasus.

There was more free-time in his future, though, that much was certain.

Oh, well.

Chapter Five : Bloom and Brews

The crunch of dirt and gravel beneath Twilight's hooves was the only sound to accompany her as she trudged one of the Everfree's natural trails. She happened upon it shortly after she left the castle—left Sombra. Whether it was the work of a prowling manticore or a pack of timberwolves, it didn't matter to her. It would, eventually and conveniently, return her to the grove where the trees were adorned with Zecora's chimes.

It was only fair she pay her friend a visit. She spent the last week in recovery and, much to her shame, she hadn't once thought of the zebra. She rarely left the sanctuary of the library. She emerged only when she and Spike needed a trip to the market, or when she felt compelled to check on Sombra at the inn.

So, she would stop by, for the sake of her friend and herself. Celestia knew she needed the distraction. As much as she didn't want to leave Sombra all by himself all too soon, she couldn't help but feel she had overstayed her welcome.

Well, perhaps that was too negative a thought, but it was definitely for the best she leave the stallion to his own devices for now. She knew better than to force such an issue. No, he would open up only when the time was right, and not a moment sooner.

The tip of her horn brushed against the pointed bottom of a stone chime. Its whimsical knoll was welcomed song, and her body automatically turned in the direction of Zecora's tree. The warm glow of its lanterns cut through the forest's murk as easily as any streetlight and, as she neared, she caught a whiff of the exotic incense Zecora used to ward off dangerous beasts.

Still, Twilight stiffened when a branch snapped in the distance. “Zecora?” she called. “Is that you?” A monster so suddenly close, likely for the reason it knew she was already there, would launch an attack regardless if she made her presence known or not, and heavens knew she didn't want to cast a paranoid spell at a friend.

There came more noise. “Hello...?” replied a small, hesitant voice. The small, buttercream-colored body of a filly emerged from the brush. “Who's there?”

Twilight released a breath she didn't know she was holding. “Oh, Apple Bloom, you had me worried for a second!” Her brow furrowed. “Wait, what in the world are you doing out here all by yourself?”

Apple Bloom raised an eyebrow. “I was about t'ask you the same thing. I'm headin' to Zecora's. What're you doin'?”

Ushering the tiny pony towards their destination, Twilight replied, “I'm on my way there myself. But, you need to be more careful.”

“I am careful!” The filly reached into her saddlebags and produced a sizable square of burlap. It was sealed on all edges with white thread, and it bulged with contents unknown to the unicorn. “See? Zecora gave me this t'keep the critters away. It's full of... of...” Her face scrunched up. “... Ah, that fancy-smellin' stuff she likes!”

“Oh...” A nervous laugh made its way past the mare's lips. “Well, then, it looks like I owe you an apology!”

“Eh.” Apple Bloom shrugged. “Don't worry about it.” She rapped her hoof upon the door of the ornately-decorated home. “Applejack threw the same fit.”

“Come in, my dear,” sang Zecora's muffled voice. “I am here.”

They found the zebra seated at a table in the corner—nose-deep in a tattered book. Her eyes glanced in their direction. “Ah, what is this?” she hummed. “Not one, but two guests in my midst?”

Apple Bloom ran up to her. “Zecora! Zecora!” She threw her saddlebags onto the table, which caused a hoof-full of shiny red apples to spill out past the flaps. “I brought the apples ya wanted!”

The zebra gently closed her book and set it to the side. “Thank you, little one, these will help with your next lesson a ton.” She stood. “But, as you may have guessed, I need to have a word with our other guest.”

Twilight smiled. “Hey, Zecora.”

“Twilight Sparkle! How have you been?” She pulled the unicorn into a tight hug. “I would have prepared some tea, if your arrival I had foreseen.”

“Don't worry about it. It's just good to see you again. You wouldn't believe what happened to the girls and I recently.”

Chuckling, Zecora motioned for Twilight to take a seat, which the latter took with gratitude. “I heard some things, here and there, but do not be afraid to share. You battled a pony armed with dark magic—a fight that ended quite tragic.”

“Yep, that's about it.”

Apple Bloom pushed a small stool to the table, so she could sit next to them. “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” she huffed. “But, what am I supposed to do with these apples here?”

“We need only one, and we need it for the seeds. Those will be enough to suit our needs.” Zecora held up one of the fruits. She pulled in into halves without effort and its tiny brown seeds fell from the exposed core. “It's actually quite fortunate you had so many in your pack, as the rest of them will make a pleasant snack.” She handed the seeds to the filly, then she reached for the book she was reading earlier.

“Follow these instructions,” she warned, opening up to a specific page, “for do not doubt. You're aiming not for a tree, but for merely a sprout.”

Twilight gazed at the two. “Wait... What are you doing?”

Apple Bloom looked down at the seeds with a beaming smile. “Zecora's teachin' me how to make potions!” she exclaimed, bouncing to the other end of the room.

A hint of pride graced Zecora's features. “Since her sister was away, I took her under my wing to keep her loneliness and boredom at bay. And, despite your safe return to Ponyville, I plan to continue her lessons still.”

“That's fantastic!” Twilight's tail almost began to wag in her excitement. The very thought of somepony so young taking an interest in alchemy—in any form of magic—was exhilarating. “May I watch?”

The filly nodded. “Yeah, sure, I don't mind.” She then shot a glare at the mares which, given her size, wasn't all that threatening. “Just gimme some peace 'n quiet, so I can concentrate!”

Twilight and Zecora, of course, complied and they watched with great interest as Apple Bloom went about setting up for her assigned project. She took a clay pot, already filled with loose soil, into which she dropped one of the apple seeds. She then, for the moment, abandoned the pot. Instead, she snatched a mortar and pestle off the corner table.

Afterwards, it became obvious Apple Bloom had spent a great deal of time in the humble home. She seemed to know where Zecora kept everything; after a few glances at the book, she moved quickly between drawers and cabinets—grabbing ingredients into the crook of her left foreleg. Twilight recognized a few of the items she tossed into the mortar: a fiddlehead, a sprig of glasswort, and a sprinkle of what she guessed were fish scales.

The resulting mush ended up in the cauldron with a bucketful of river water. Apple Bloom was careful as she stirred it. After a minute, when the mixture turned red and she took a second to consult the book, a purple-spotted mushroom and a pinch of salt—at least, Twilight assumed the substance was salt—were added.

A pink cloud of magic erupted from the cauldron with a loud poof, but the filly continued to stir. It wasn't for another few moments that she felt the mixture was complete. With a ladle, she dribbled some into a glass bottle.

For the moment of truth, she carried the bottle to the pot, and she let a single drop fall onto the seed.

To Apple Bloom's credit, she was astonishingly patient as the next few minutes passed. The bottle remained clenched between her teeth. Her intense stare tried to bore a hole into the pot.

Twilight bit down on her hoof, while Zecora looked on with an impassive gaze.

The tension split when a sprout finally erupted from the seed. It wasn't a large sprout, but it was a sprout nonetheless. Apple Bloom certainly thought it a success, as it had her bouncing around the pot shouting, “Yes, yes, yes!” at the top of her lungs.

Zecora smiled, turning to look at Twilight. “I knew there was no need to fear,” she said softly. “This is not the first time her talent's shone clear.”

At the sound of “talent,” Apple Bloom turned her head to look at her flank. To the filly's disappointment, it was as blank as ever. “Shoot,” she grumbled, lowering her head in dissatisfaction.

That got a laugh out of both Twilight and Zecora. “Don't be discouraged!” the former soothed. She stood and approached the child. “What you did just now was amazing, Apple Bloom. Don't let yourself think otherwise.”

“Thanks, Twilight...”

The mare placed a comforting hoof on her back. “You'll get better. Zecora will make sure of that.” She smiled. “But, if you need a little extra help, I'm more than willing to lend you a hoof and any book you may need!”

Zecora strolled up beside her. “Your skill will continue to grow from here,” she said. “It will grow greater, should you decide to lend Twilight your ear.” Gently, she cupped the head of the sapling in her hoof. “You've done very well, my dear.”

Apple Bloom stuck out her chest in pride. “Darn tootin'!”

Twilight snickered. “Well, good luck with the rest of your lessons. I need to get myself back to the library.”

“Wait, what about the party?”

“Huh? What party?”

The filly tilted her head. “Pinkie's throwin' a bash for the new feller who just moved into town. Now that I think about it, I remember my sister and the others askin' where you were. How long have you been out here, anyway?”

Zecora raised a brow at Twilight, who recoiled slightly at the look, then immediately returned her attention to her apprentice. “If you would be so kind, Apple Bloom, a book I need you to find.” She gestured to one of her shelves—one at the far end of the room. “It's the only one with a green and battered spine, so you'll find it just fine.”

“Got it!”

As Apple Bloom left them in peace, Zecora walked Twilight to the door. “It was good to see you, my friend,” she said. “It's a shame our time together is at its end.”

Swallowing, Twilight mustered enough energy to smile. “Same here, but if everyone's looking for me, then I shouldn't worry them.”

The other mare nodded. “Though nothing's wrong, you've been away for far too long.”

“Yeah...” Truth be told, Twilight felt guilty about her lack of knowledge regarding one of Pinkie Pie's parties, especially if it was being thrown for someone new to the community. But, it wasn't as though she meant to be absent. She had a good reason—not that she could tell anypony the reason.

She came to the quick conclusion that the only way to rectify the situation was to get to Sugarcube Corner as quickly as possible.

“Thank you for your time, Zecora, but I have to get myself to a party!”

Zecora smiled. “Enjoy yourself, Twilight!” She shielded her eyes in time to avoid the bright light of Twilight's teleportation spell. She then stood there, silent for a moment, before she turned her attention elsewhere. When the time is right, perhaps you'll speak to me of your plight.

Chapter Six : About Time!

While convenient, Twilight was soon reminded of the consequences of teleporting farther than one was comfortably acclimated. Spots flooded her vision once her hooves touched solid ground. Her head swam, though she heard the distinct sound of gasps go off around her. “I'm here,” she grumbled, rubbing at her eyes with the back of a foreleg. “I'm here.”

She tried to take a step, but she stumbled. Fortunately, somepony was quick enough to catch her. “Good gravy, girl!” exclaimed Applejack. “Where the hay have you been?”

Plucking a leaf out of Twilight's mane, Rarity mused, “Well, she's obviously been someplace dreadful.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. “I was in the middle of some research into the Everfree's flora,” she fibbed. She plucked the leaf out of Rarity's magic with her own, then promptly stuffed it into her saddlebags. “I wouldn't have stayed out so long if I had known there was a party going on. I'm sorry about that.”

“Oh, who told you?”

“I ran into Apple Bloom.”

Applejack bit down on her lip. “Did she make it to Zecora's place all right?”

“Yeah, she's fine. She really knows her way around.”

She sighed in relief. “Good.” Her head turned to face Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Spike, who approached them with smiles on their faces. “Look, y'all, Twilight's finally here!”

“About time!” shouted Pinkie. The pink earth mare threw her forelegs around Twilight's neck in a hug. “Now we're missing only one friend!”

“Wait, what?” asked Twilight.

Rarity rolled her hoof in the air. “Oh, Rainbow Dash is busy getting tomorrow's thunderstorm ready.”

Worry welled up in the unicorn's barrel. “T-thunderstorm?”

“We're due for the rain,” said Applejack. Displeasure twisted her mouth into a frown. “It was supposed t'be a nice little sun shower, but somepony at the weather factory messed up and they got a shipment of unruly thunderclouds in from Vanhoover.” Her scowl deepened, her voice lowered in volume. “Guess it's just easier to unleash the lot of 'em an' risk property damage than to sent 'em back there they came from...”

The mares (and, of course, Spike) looked at each other in discomfort. “Anyway,” coughed Rarity, “you really need to say hello to our new neighbor, Twilight. He's a lovely individual.” She pointed to the far corner, where a lone stallion sat staring into a half-empty glass.

Twilight squinted. “He looks familiar.”

“Well, he should,” commented Spike. “That's Flash Sentry. We met him at the Crystal Empire, remember?”

Well, now she remembered. Flash was the lieutenant of the reinforcements Princess Celestia sent—the same stallion who walked them to breakfast on one of their first mornings spent in the palace. “Yes. I guess I didn't recognized him without the armor.”

As a pony who was born and raised in Canterlot, the golden armor of the Royal Guard was everywhere and discerning individuals was rather difficult when one was desensitized to their presence.

“Come on, Spike, let's say hello.”

With her number-one assistant by her side, Twilight nudged her way past the herd of familiar party-goers. It was easier said than done, as her presence hadn't gone unnoticed. “Hey, book-girl!” shouted a voice from the crowd.

Twilight spared a glance. “Hey, Colgate!”

Another voice rang out, “What's up, Twilight?”

“Nothing much, Derpy.”

More and more ponies were vocal with their greetings as she walked, which made her wonder when she became so popular. Though it was nowhere near as frenzied, the last time she had so many eyes on her was during the Gala ticket fiasco. She, admittedly, knew very few names, and that was only because of Pinkie's abundance of parties. But, it was better than nothing to a mare who aimed to take greater strides in the name of friendship.

She tapped her hoof on the table to get the occupant's attention. Flash looked up immediately, only for his eyes to bulge out of his head as he yelped and fell out of his chair. “Uh...” She glanced at Spike, who merely shrugged. “Flash? Hello? Are you all right?”

Scrambling, the stallion righted himself. “Yes, yes, I'm fine!” he retorted a little too loud for his liking. “It's just... I-I didn't think you were coming.”

“I would've been here sooner, had I known this was going on, but I was in the middle of something.” She tilted her head. “I mean, you live here now. Even if I didn't show, we would've run into each other eventually.”

A crimson tinge spread across Flash's cheeks. “W-well, yes, but... It's, uh, really good to see you again, Miss Twilight.”

“It's good to see you, too. So, which house is yours now? The one on Pastern, or Dapple?” They were the only vacancies to Twilight's knowledge, as the owners there moved out before their trip to the Crystal Empire (and Rarity, as always, kept her ears open for potential gossip—despite her claims otherwise).

“No, it's on Hames.”

Her brow knitted together in confusion. “I'm afraid I'm not familiar with that one.”

Pinkie Pie slid into her peripheral vision. “That was Berry Punch's place!” she whispered. Well, it wasn't so much a whisper as it was a poor attempt at one.

“Berry moved?”

“Only in with her sister a few doors down. You know, because she needs help with her drinking prob—”

“Thank you, Pinkie.”

“Don't mention it!”

Twilight raised a hoof to her forehead and sighed as the pink mare bounced away. “Sorry about that,” she muttered, smiling at Flash.

The stallion shrugged. “It's fine. It sounds like you still have a few empty houses around. What happened?”

She frowned. “Ponies are always coming and going, I'm afraid. It can get rather... hectic around here when you least expect it. I guess it's only a matter of time before someone realizes they're better off someplace else.” She didn't have the heart, given her company, to inform him the couple in the house on Pastern were driven off by Spike's birthday rampage (and she intended for Spike to never find out), or that the family on Dapple moved to Baltimare after the “Gabby Gums” incident.

Fortunately, Flash didn't seem to want to press further. “Well, you don't have to worry about me leaving,” he said. He grinned. “After that whole debacle in the Crystal Empire, I'm pretty sure I can tough out anything this town throws at me.”

Spike crossed his arms. “Good luck with that.”

Twilight shushed him, then returned her attention to the pegasus. “Well, I wish you all the best. Excuse me.”

Before she could turn to leave, Flash reached out. “Wait!”

She started. “What?”

“Where, uh... May I ask where your place is?”

“Oh, Spike and I both live at the Golden Oaks Library.”

“It's a giant tree with windows in it,” added Spike. “You can't miss it.”

Flash nodded. “Okay, got it.”

Twilight offered him one last wave. “See you around, Flash!”

“See you...”

As they walked away, Spike rubbed his hands together. “Well, now that that's over, let's get back to the grub!”

She glanced at him. “Hmm?”

“Food! You haven't eaten yet, have you?”

“Oh, yeah, I took a few sandwiches with me this morning.” Still, she looked over a table stocked high with colorful pastries. Lunch or not, she found herself drawn, and she took a pink-frosted cupcake from the variety. “Eh, I guess one little cupcake won't hurt.”

Chapter Eight : Storm

Rainbow Dash, ever the speedy pegasus, found Twilight before nightfall. The thunderstorm was isolated only to Ponyville, she said. The relief was immediate, and Twilight slept easy. When morning came, she abandoned her recent habit of lazing about in bed and she awakened Spike with an abundance of apologies. And the promise of a big breakfast as soon as their work was done.

There was much to do before they were bombarded with rain and thunder. Even though the sun had yet to fully emerge beyond the horizon, the pegasi were already herding in the moisture-bloated black clouds. Their time was limited.

Together, they checked the library for loose branches, set up the lightning rod, and made sure every window was closed. They weren't the only ones, of course. While they didn't stray far from the library, they saw plenty of activity around them. Twilight caught bits and pieces of information from passing ponies, like how both the market and schoolhouse were closed for the day. Most businesses would be closed, she surmised. Nopony with a straight head on their shoulders would dare brave the oncoming storm.

When the first drops of rain fell from the darkened sky, Twilight ushered her assistant back inside. She huffed, wiping her hooves clean on the rug. Her ear flicked at the ominous rumble of thunder. “I think we timed that perfectly,” she commented with a smile.

Spike yawned. “Looks like it.”

“C'mon, breakfast is on me this morning.”

His eyes lit up. “Pancakes?”

“Sure!”

“With hot chocolate?”

Her smile grew as she nearly leaped towards the kitchen. “That sounds like a wonderful idea, Spike!”

Despite what anypony thought, she wasn't completely inept when it came to cooking. Her assistant had his fair share of chores, but he wasn't in charge of every meal. Like any scientific concoction, it was a matter of paying close attention to the recipe and the directions. Unlike her experiments, and like most foods, pancakes and hot chocolate were easy.

Spike watched her every move while he took care of their beverages. She pretended, of course, not to notice while she toiled at the stove. As such, he didn't notice when she rolled her eyes.

Soon enough, she flipped the final hot cake onto the stack in the center of the table. “Ah-ha!” she cried triumphantly. “Breakfast is served!”

Smirking, the baby dragon clapped slowly. “Congrats,” he snickered. “You managed not to burn anything!”

She shot him a playful glare as she placed two of the pancakes on his plate. “Hey, now, when was the last time that actually happened?”

He paused, then shrugged and drove a fork into his breakfast. “Alright, fair 'nough.”

She passed him the syrup bottle. “That's what I thought.”

He swallowed a mouthful, then chased it with a gulp from his hot chocolate. “So, what are we going to do today?”

Twilight mulled over the question for a few seconds. “Well, we can't do much,” she mused aloud. The storm was meant to last well into the night. “When's the last time we cleaned?”

“Saturday.”

“So, that's out.” Not much grime could accumulate in three days, so she moved it to the bottom of her mental list. “We could test out some of those new spells Princess Celestia sent me before... you know?”

He raised a brow. “What kind of spells?”

“I'm... not quite sure. Illusory spells, I think?”

Before Spike could ask, she immediately added, “Nothing that will give you a permanent mustache!”

His shoulders slumped. “Dang...”

Twilight chuckled softly. She then relished the calm, comforting silence as they ate, with the heavy rain and thunder in the background. When a frantic knocking suddenly disturbed the peace they, understandably, jumped out of their seats.

“What in the world?” gasped Twilight. In a flash, she teleported to the door and opened it. She was bewildered to see Flash Sentry on the other side—clad in a simple police uniform and soaking wet. “Flash? What are you doing out in the rain?!”

The stallion opened his mouth to answer, but it came out as a yelp as Twilight dragged him inside with her magic. “Whoa!” he exclaimed. “Hold on, I was just—”

“Hold that thought.”

Another spell later, Flash was dry. He looked over himself in wonder. “Hey, thanks!”

“No problem! Now, again, why were you outside? In case you haven't noticed, there's a storm.”

Adjusting his hat, he grimaced. “Yeah, well, being the new guy on the force...” He coughed. “Chief wants to see what I'm really made of, so I'm on checkup duty. I'm going around to make sure folks are all right, then I'll have some time to myself before I make another round this evening.”

“That's terrible!”

“Well, no offense, but I've been through worse. Besides, you and your dragon are the last ones on my list.”

Twilight smiled. “Well, in that case, would you like to stay for breakfast? I made pancakes. Spike made hot chocolate.”

Flash looked down at the floor. “Ah, thank you for the offer, but I don't want to impose.”

“Nonsense! Spike and I are just fine, which means your duty is done for now, right?”

A hopeful gleam twinkled in his eyes. “I did say that, didn't I?”

“C'mon, then!” She led him into the kitchen. Fortunately, Spike already set up an extra chair and plate at the table for their guest.

“This place is nice,” said Flash as he took a seat. Twilight and Spike followed suit, and the former levitated a few flapjacks onto his plate. “I've never met somepony who lived in a library before.”

“It was originally a last-minute, temporary arrangement,” Twilight explained. She took a moment to eat a little more of her food. “It was for the Summer Sun Celebration two years ago. The last librarian retired and left town. So, with the local inn completely booked, this was the next best thing.”

“Then Nightmare Moon happened,” added Spike.

“I met the girls, recovered the Elements of Harmony, and I just couldn't leave Ponyville—leave them—behind. I didn't have any friends—”

Spike cleared his throat.

“—other than Spike, before I met them. Princess Celestia encouraged me to stay here, to study the magic of friendship, and Mayor Mare was generous to let us live here in the library, as long as we took on the role of Ponyville's librarians.”

Pouring syrup over his meal, the pegasus whistled. “That's really something!” he exclaimed. “Other than playing librarian, though, what else do you do? Or, rather, what do you like to do?”

Twilight blinked. “Huh?”

“Surely, you're not always out and about saving Equestria. Didn't you say you liked to read?”

“Uh, yes.” When did I say that?

Odd. Still, she divulged her love of literature: science, history, magic. It was a subject not meant to last, however, since Flash himself wasn't much of a reader. “Just didn't have the time for it as a Royal Guard,” he said. Twilight felt a little dejected, until her guest moved the conversation forward by asking about her cutie mark. She didn't see a reason not to tell the story.

She was rewarded, in turn, with the story behind his. He was watching over some of his young cousins at a family reunion in Cloudsdale. He was only a colt, but he was the oldest, and he apparently had many young ones to supervise. He didn't notice one of them was missing until he heard her cries for help. When he rushed to investigate, he discovered his cousin in the grips of a crazed and disheveled old mare. He acted on instinct and charged the stranger—freeing his cousin when he tackled her to the ground. The commotion attracted the attention of his parents and the other adults.

After all was said and done, the bizarre mare (who was, sadly, senile and believed the little filly to be her granddaughter) was returned to the home from which she escaped and Flash was free to proudly show off his cutie mark to his elated family. His talent for protecting others was what put him on the path to becoming a Royal Guard.

Twilight somewhat wished it ended there, yet the stallion continued to bombard her with personal questions. He was eager and he seemed to want to know everything, like her favorite color, favorite food, if she liked music, etc. They were things she never contemplated before that moment. She tried her best to answer them. It was almost overwhelming.

Thankfully, Spike noticed her distress. “Oh, wow, Twilight,” he said, his voice loud with a false sense of alarm, “look at the time!” He pointed at the clock, to which both ponies looked. It was almost eleven o'clock. “Don't you have some new spells to practice for the Princess?”

Hiding a smile, Twilight joined him in feigning dismay. “Goodness gracious, you're absolutely right!”

Flash's ears flattened. “Uh-oh... Should I leave? I don't want to get in the way.”

“I'm so sorry about this, but I think it's for the best. I should have been paying attention to the time.”

“No, no, no!” He stood. “I'm sorry! I should have been back at the station hours ago!” He stretched his wings. “Thank you for the breakfast, though, it was delicious.”

Twilight waved him off. “It was no problem at all!” She glanced at the nearest window. The rain continued to come down. “Before you go, though...” She got up from her seat and made her way into the main library. In the corner was a wooden bucket, which was home to a few spare umbrellas. She picked one out at random. “Take this,” she said, handing it to Flash. “The last thing you need is a cold.”

He tipped his hat. “Thank you kindly.”

“Stay safe out there.” She opened the door for him. As he trotted out of the library, they exchanged quick farewells and Twilight had to stop herself from shutting the door as soon as his tail crossed the threshold. She instead pushed it closed. Then, sighing, she leaned against it. “Wow,” she groaned.

“He's a talker, isn't he?” grumbled Spike.

“No kidding! I thought he'd never leave.”

The baby dragon crossed his arms. “I thought he was asking way too many questions about you.”

“Yeah, that was... uncomfortable.” She glanced at the door. “He seems to have Pinkie Pie's level of friendliness.” At least, that was her rationalization, though Pinkie Pie would have known the answers to his questions without even asking—such were the party pony's mysterious abilities.

Again, she sighed, before she smiled at her assistant. “Let's get the kitchen cleaned up, shall we?”

He grinned and stuck up his thumb. “Sounds good to me!”

Chapter Nine : Checking In

It was well into the afternoon when Twilight began to feel antsy. She tried before to distract her tapping hooves with some light reading. Yet, if it wasn't due to the sudden boom of thunder every now and again, her thoughts were troubled with her friend in the Everfree. It was preposterous, she knew. The vast forest was spared from the storm blanketed over town, and Sombra was a grown stallion capable of looking after himself.

But, what kind of friend would she be if she didn't make sure?

“Spike!” she called, closing her book. A thought struck, and she snatched three more from off the shelf.

“Yeah?” came the reply from downstairs.

She teleported to her assistant. The little dragon was in the middle of making a sandwich. “Can you watch the library for an hour or two?” she asked.

“Well, of course I can, but why—”

“I'm going into the Everfree.” She donned her saddlebags, into which went the books. Before Spike protested, she gave him a reassuring nuzzle. “I'll teleport,” she chuckled, “and I'll be fine. This weather is contained to Ponyville, remember?”

He eyed her warily. “Yeah, yeah... May I ask why you're going?”

She swallowed the urge to tell him the truth. It made her feel a little wretched, though it was made better by the thought that the lie was for a good cause. “Well, I'm delving into a bit of research about the Everfree's flora,” she said. Her magic swirled across the top of the counter—gathering the items Spike got out into a few sandwiches of her own. “Also, and I know this is silly, but I'm starting to go stir-crazy in here.”

To her relief, Spike shrugged. “Okay, but I'm reading comics while you're gone.”

She hugged him. “Deal!”

In a flash of magenta light, she traded the library for the stretch of a familiar rope bridge. She frowned; she had hoped to get herself into the ancient castle. She remedied the situation with another teleport, which took her to the front doors. As a precaution, she knocked three times.

She was surprised as the doors slowly swung open, but she was curious to see Sombra wasn't awaiting her on the other side. The entrance was well lit, however, and so she went inside. The doors then closed of their own accord. A simple enchantment, she mused with a small smile. She moved forward.

Much had changed since the previous day. The main hall was tidier, with the holes in the ceiling patched and the chunks of debris cleaned from the floor. Gone, too, were the sun and moon banners, however, as well as the fabric tatters from the walls.

Curious, she recalled the route to the library and she retraced the path in a light trot. She passed through hallway after hallway. Her steps were muffled on the dirty rugs that lined each stretch of marble floor.

One rounded corner later, she nearly collided with Sombra. Startled, she yelped, and the stallion recoiled with a wince. “By the stars, Twilight,” he sighed. He set the box he carried on the floor. “It's only me.”

“I know!” she squeaked.

He smirked. “Alright, then. What brings you here, my friend?”

“I brought you some stuff—some food and a few books.” She glanced at the box. “But, if you're busy...”

“Nonsense. I was just doing a little cleaning, is all.” The greenish color of his magic enveloped the box again. “Come with me to the library.”

She followed without hesitation, and she was amazed by the chamber's transformation. Here, too, the ceiling was restored, the floor cleared of rubble and mangled books. The tables had been returned to their upright positions. Many were already piled high with stacks of ancient tomes.

Sombra led her to one that was bare. He set the box aside as he removed his cloak. “So, tell me, what have you brought?” he asked, draping the cloak over the back of a chair.

“Some sandwiches.” Twilight placed them on the table. “I threw them together at the last minute. I hope they're okay.” Her eyes widened. “Unless you're not hungry, of course! Or, if you're tired of sandwiches already I can always go back and make you something—”

Magic gently wrapped around her muzzle. “Easy, Twilight!” her friend chided. “I'm grateful, truly. I was too busy tidying up around here to eat before, so I'm thankful you came.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really.” His smile fell a tidbit. “However, you don't have to go out of your way to bring me food.”

She looked away. “I know, but you don't have a lot of options out here, you know?” Her ears folded flat. “You'll go hungry.”

“Don't worry about me.” His hoof came to rest on her shoulder. “I'm a capable stallion, and I have more options than you believe.” He patted the same shoulder. “This forest provides plenty of scavenging opportunities. If it's not enough, I'm sure Pitch will easily find employment in Ponyville.”

Twilight deadpanned. “You named your disguise?”

He beamed. “Of course! Better to have it and not need it, you know?”

Her bottom lip trembled as she attempted to not smile. It was futile. A grin spread across her face as she failed to hold back a laugh. “Alright, fine! I'll give you that one!” She reached into her saddlebags. “I'll also give you these.” With a flourish, she pulled out the books. “I brought 'The History of Equestria', 'The Complete Guide to Equestria', and 'Everfree Beasts and How to Avoid Them'!” She tapped the second title. “This one is a little outdated, though, due to the Crystal Empire and all.”

“Oh, I don't mind. Thank you for these. I'll treat them with great care.”

As he silently inspected the tomes, Twilight's eyes wandered. They first wandered over the obvious changes in the library. There were no drafts, no chance for rain to find its way inside with the roof repaired. Wall sconces and candlesticks gave the chamber a warm glow. It was so much cozier. She wandered why Sombra even bothered wearing a cloak indoors.

Except, at that moment, he wasn't wearing it.

Frowning, her eyes fell upon the stallion. She never questioned it before, as she had no reason to question it when they were sheltered in a damp cave in the middle of the north's frozen wasteland. However, it occurred to her only then it was the first time she saw him without it.

He wasn't as muscular as, for reference, her brother, but he was far from thin. His coat was a solid charcoal color, except it shimmered ever so slightly in the dim light. The hair of his tail was, like his mane, black with a single stripe of blue.

More importantly, his cutie mark was no longer concealed. It depicted a red crystal, ensnared in the familiar green and purple swirls of dark magic. As excited as Twilight was to finally see what it looked like, her curiosity cut through the excitement. His cutie mark was split diagonally by two jagged scars. They were parallel to each other; the bottom scar was shorter.

They weren't newer injuries. Clearly, they had healed long ago. It was also obvious how bad they'd been, for no hair had grown back over the knotted skin.

It must've been painful...

However long she stared, it was long enough for Sombra to notice. He cleared his throat. “Twilight?”

She jolted. “Yes?”

His emerald eyes glanced at his own mark.

The realization hit like a train. An alarming amount of heat rose into Twilight's cheeks. “Sorry!” she squeaked. “I-I didn't mean to stare! I-I-I just—”

Once again, she was magically silenced.

“It's all right,” Sombra assured her.

They stood in silence for a few moments. Eventually, Twilight rubbed the back of her neck and muttered, “I really am sorry, though. I never saw your cutie mark before.” She paused. “And the... scars caught me off guard, too.”

“They're old wounds,” he replied—his voice just above a whisper. “Not from my childhood, but from before... my time as a tyrant. I got into a scrap and I was forced to defend myself.” He chuckled. “As you can see, I didn't make it out unscathed.”

“Who attacked you?”

“Someone I made the mistake of trusting.” He took a deep breath. “That's all I have to say about that, for the moment. It's not something on which I like to dwell. I hope you understand.”

She smiled. “Don't worry, I get it.” She got it the moment Sombra began being vague with his explanation, and she knew better than to pry. Instead, she decided to backtrack. “Well, on a lighter note, if you ever want to get out of the castle, I'm all for you introducing yourself around Ponyville.”

When Sombra's eyes widened, she quickly added, “As Pitch!” They were far from revealing him as.... well, himself.

“Ah...” He slowly nodded his head. “Thank you. I'd very much like to take stock of my surroundings first. We'll see what happens then.”

“Understandable.” She smiled. “Don't be afraid to come to the library if you need anything. It's the only house in Ponyville that's a literal oak tree, so you can't miss it.” She lifted her saddlebags off the table and promptly placed them on her back. “I'll see you later?”

He smiled. “Of course, my friend.”

The tip of her horn glowed, and then she was gone.

Running a hoof through his mane, Sombra sighed. He made a mental note to remember the location of the books, before he returned his attention to the box on the floor. There wasn't much within, only some small paintings and a banner he managed to fold enough to fit inside. He picked it up, and he left the library with it. He didn't venture far, for the nearest storage closet was only two corridors away. That was where he left it.

Out of sight, out of mind.

Nothing was truly garbage, so storage awaited nearly everything the stallion removed from the walls. The castle was no longer theirs, after all. It hadn't been theirs for a long, long, long time. It was his now, and making it more into a personal home seemed like a step in the right direction.

But, when his steps brought him to the vacant throne room, he hesitated. With the castle came countless memories—all of which he ignored as he slowly approached the back of the chamber, where twin thrones set. They were nearly identical in make and model. However, one was golden-hued, while the other sported blue hues.

Above each throne was a celestial banner: the moon and stars above the blue throne, the sun and sky above the gold throne. Sombra tore those down first. They were already in tatters. He honestly didn't care if he added to them.

He rolled them up and set them aside, then he turned his attention to the thrones. He picked up both in his magic and he pulled them closer. Time had eaten away at them, too. They were dull and chipped. Fragile.

He threw them against the wall—watching impassively as the impact caused them fall into countless pieces.

Out of sight, out of mind.

Chapter Ten : Helping Hooves

A white-hot bolt of lightning tore across the darkened sky, casting silver light upon the bloated clouds before fading into nothingness. As was the nature of thunderstorms, similar streaks followed to continue the cycle from there on out, albeit in different locations all over Ponyville. Thunder boomed after each faded light—startling ponies and animals alike.

Rainbow Dash was no such pony. Electricity showed mercy to no one, but she was a pro. Zooming, twirling, and twisting out of the reach of every stray bolt that dared attempt to touch her, she fought her way through the heavy downpour. When she finally spotted the Golden Oaks Library, she swooped down and landed dead-center on the “Welcome” mat.

“Yo!” she called as she let herself inside. “Spike! Twilight!”

A voice from upstairs, clearly Spike's, answered, “Rainbow, is that you?”

“Yeah!” She shook the rain from her wings. “Get down here, would ya? I have to talk to you and—”

A burst of magic popped nearby, which revealed the other friend she sought.

“—Twilight!”

The unicorn automatically looked at her. “Rainbow?” She looked down at the pegasus's hooves, where a puddle of water grew with every drop fallen from Rainbow's fur and feathers. She sighed. The water was gone as soon as she lit up her horn. It was, after all, easier to teleport the water outside where it belonged than it was to expect any sort of courtesy from Rainbow.

Not taking her eyes off her friend, Twilight set her saddlebags aside. “So, what's up?” she questioned. Out of the corner of her eye, she watched Spike descend the stairs.

Rainbow eyed the saddlebags for a moment. “I just came here from the Boutique,” she said. “I'm spreading the word we need to gather at Sweet Apple Acres tomorrow.”

“Oh, no, did something happen?”

“Nah, but the storm's done a good number on the orchards. I can't imagine what they'll look like in the morning, so Applejack will need the extra hooves to help her and her family clean 'em up.”

Twilight nodded. “We'll be there. Right, Spike?”

“Yup!”

Rainbow pumped a hoof. “All right!” She spun around to face the door, which she threw open without care. “See you tomorrow, then! Gotta dash—” Her nose squished against something soft. Another nose, she guessed. A quick glance forward confirmed it, and revealed its owner at the same time. She leaped away from the stallion. “Uh, what are you doing here?” she asked.

Flash hesitantly entered. “Oh, hello.” He tipped his hat. “Officer Flash Sentry at your service. I'm just checking in on Twilight Sparkle and Spike.”

She looked back at her friends. The unicorn gave her a self-conscious smile, while her assistant merely shrugged. It was fine. Of course, Rainbow already knew everything was one the up-and-up. Having lived in Ponyville a good chunk of her life, as well as the sole bearer of the “pesky and reckless daredevil” label (which totally wasn't her fault, by the way), she knew the local law enforcement almost as well as she knew the weather factory.

She stepped aside—allowing the other pegasus to pass. “A'ight, I'm out,” she announced one last time. She flashed a grin and a salute before she jumped into the storm. She was on a personal race against the clock to reach Fluttershy's cottage before the sunset. She knew darn well if night fell while she was there, she wasn't leaving, as per Fluttershy's protective nature.

Rainbow wouldn't have minded it at all, if not for that rascally rabbit of hers.

As promised, the unruly weather dissipated halfway through the night. Applejack, kept awake by both worry and the thunderous commotion, grasped a nuance of respite once the night was finally silent. But, without the rain, the mare was left alone with her plaguing concerns.

She somehow managed to fall asleep, though she didn't know when. It didn't feel like a long slumber, however, as the next thing she knew was the blaring ring of her alarm clock. Plucked her from a rather pleasant, albeit short dream, she groaned and shot a glare at the lock before she promptly silenced it with a single stern hit from her hoof.

She ruffled her mane, yawning. She could already smell breakfast waiting for her. Of course, the warm scent of pancakes and hashbrowns gave her all the motivation she needed to hop out of bed. After she took a minute to tidy herself up, she donned her hat and she made her way down to the kitchen. “Mornin', y'all!” she sang.

“Mornin'!” echoed Applebloom and Big Macintosh.

Granny Smith waved towards the empty chair at the opposite end of the table. “Sit down and eat up, girl,” she said. “Y'all got a long day ahead of ya.”

Applejack did as ordered, despite the anxiety creeping up on her. As she piled her plate high with pancakes, she asked, “Did ya get a chance to look outside, Mac?”

The stallion glanced at her—chewing a mouthful of food. He swallowed. “Yup.”

She inhaled. “Is the barn still standin'?”

“Yup.”

She exhaled, relieved. “Good, good.” She reached for the syrup. “Did ya see any downed trees?”

“Nope.”

“Couldn't see any from the front porch, at least,” chimed Granny Smith, shaking her head.

Applebloom frowned. “There's a bunch'a branches down, though. I saw 'em.”

“Better branches than whole trees,” Applejack quickly retorted. Although, as a quick afterthought, she had little to fear when it came to the younger trees. They more durable in that regard. They had the magic to take a beating and they tended to bounce back from damage fairly quickly.

It was the older trees, some of which dated back to the founding of Ponyville, for which Applejack feared.

The northern stretch of the orchard was full of them, and their apples were used to make the family's best batch of cider: Sweet Apple Acres Premium Cider. It raked in almost as many bits as their treasured zap apple jam. They never had to fear for the zap apple trees, however. Those trees were almost pure magic and they were as close to indestructible as a tree could get. However, the zap apples themselves were unpredictable and infrequent—appearing only when heralded by a specific series of events.

The old trees' fruit came around only once a year, but it was consistent. Their apples ripened near the end of summer, so there was plenty of time to make them into Premium before Cider Season demanded their full attention. But, Premium wasn't made for Cider Season. It was left in the cellar to ferment—normally until Hearths Warming. They had a list of buyers, which included what few eateries existed in town and, of course, whatever was left was claimed by Filthy and Spoiled Rich.

Applejack sighed as she carried her plate to the kitchen sink. If the storm saw fit to take one or two of them, there was nothing anypony could do about it. It was, after all, an unfortunate truth frailty accompanied age. They had only the magic to continue bearing fruit, but that was all. They weren't saplings anymore, and they hadn't been in decades. They just didn't have the magic in them to survive the wounds that were mere inconveniences to their younger brothers and sisters.

Not even Twilight could breathe magic back into a doomed tree.

A shout from outside drew Applejack's attention to the front door. It sounded like Rainbow Dash. That means the girls are here!

Granny Smith followed her gaze, then she looked at her grandchildren with a smile. “Y'all go on ahead,” she said. “I'll take care of the dishes.”

The Apple siblings voiced their gratitude on their way out the door. To Applejack's joy, all her friends had arrived. “Oh, thank Celestia,” she breathed. “Y'all have no idea how happy I am to see y'all!”

“Yup,” hummed Big Mac.

Rainbow Dash, who hovered in the air above the others, crossed her front legs as a prideful smile blossomed on her face. “Like we'd ever leave you hanging,” she said.

Rarity chuckled. “Agreed. We weren't about to let you three clean up this horrid mess by yourselves.”

Fluttershy interjected, “No offense to Granny Smith, of course!”

“It's a 'help the Apples clean up their farm' kind of day!” sang Pinkie Pie. She proceeded to bounce cheerfully among the group, until purple-colored magic stopped her.

“Just tell us where you need us,” said Twilight, earning an agreeing nod from Spike.

Applejack already felt her stress melt away—replaced with a glowing appreciation and determination. “Thank ya, girls. Really.” Smiling, she puffed out her chest. “Alrighty, then! Here's how we're gonna go about this...”

She kept her instructions simple as she led everypony to the northern orchard. Twilight and Rarity were to repair loose branches, while the rest of them gathered fallen apples and debris. They had compost barrels for the former, and Applejack was confident she and Big Mac could find a use for whatever limbs were too far gone to reattach to the trees.

They would take it one orchard at a time and, hopefully, it would take no more than an hour or two!

No wonder Applejack needed our help...

Rarity hummed softly to herself as she realigned a severely-bent branch. Their mission through the orchards was a fruitful endeavor. That brutish storm roughed up the trees, yet it didn't break them. Still, even though she was no farmer, even she empathized with Applejack's frustration in how many apples were lost. Even now, in the final stretch of trees on the southern end of the farm, Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie were gathering pile after pile of the spoiled red fruits.

Out of the corner of her eye, Rarity observed Applejack's displeased scowl. “Goodness gracious!” she snapped. She looked ready to tear off her hat and throw it to the ground. “Look at 'em all! Hundreds of apples, gone to waste!”

Big Macintosh gently patted her shoulder. “Now, now... It ain't all bad.”

Rarity seized her chance to say, “He's right, Applejack. You'll be all right. This certainly isn't the first setback you and your family have encountered.”

The cowpony steadied herself with a few deep breaths. “Yeah, yeah... I know.” She bit down on her lip. “It just stinks, is all.”

“I know, darling, I know.” Rarity pulled her friend in for a quick hug. “But, silver linings and all that, it could've been a lot worse.” She glanced up at the sky. “Plus, after this mess, I highly doubt the weather factory will allow this to happen again.”

“They better not!” exclaimed Rainbow Dash. She zoomed over their heads, her front legs circled around a heap of spoiled fruit.

Rarity grimaced as a mushy chunk fell from the air and landed too close to one of her hooves. “Careful!” she urged, throwing a protective arm over her head.

“Sorry!”

She huffed. But, as was often the case with Rainbow, she let it go. Instead, she returned her attention to the task at hoof. Only... Her eyes slightly widened. “Oh,” she whispered to herself, “I seem to be finished.” She appeared to be finished, at least. She smiled, turning to regard her friends. “Pardon me, Twilight,” she called, “but have you finished—?”

She snapped her mouth shut. Twilight was only a few yards away. Her brow was furrowed and her eyes were narrowed at a tree subject to her absolute concentration. Branches of various sizes floated around her, encased in arcane violet. With precision and speed to rival Rarity's, Twilight reattached them one after the other until the tree was finally whole.

The task before her finished, the other unicorn blinked and, sighing contently, rubbed her eyes. “Sorry, Rarity,” she said. “What were you saying?”

“Are you done with your section of the orchard?”

Her head swiveled as she took a brief look at her surroundings. “Yep! Looks like it!”

As if on cue, Pinkie Pie poked her head out from behind the same tree—unapologetic-ally startling Twilight and causing Rarity to stifle a laugh. “Me and Dashie got all those nasty apples piled up!” the party pony sang. Her cheerful demeanor suddenly dropped into a sheepish grin. “No offense, Applejack!”

The reply came in a nonchalant, “None taken.” Applejack looked up at the sky, then at her brother. “I reckon it's all done, then.”

A content smile tugged a corner of Big Mac's mouth. “Eyup.”

“Alright, just in time for lunch!”

Rarity took it as her cue to take three of the apple piles into her magic. “Well, then, shall we return to the barn?”

“You bet'cha!”

While Twilight encased the remaining waste in her magic, Rarity moved to follow closely behind Applejack on their way back to the humble homestead. Words could not describe how relieved she was they were done. She was no stranger to manual labor, of course, but she was uncomfortable with the sweat upon her brow and neck. The dirt caked on the bottom of her hooves didn't help, either. Easy, Rarity, she told herself. Just grin and bear it for a little longer.

Of course, it was worth it, not only to help Applejack in her time of need but to also enjoy the company of her friends again. Time flew by as she engrossed herself in Pinkie's excitement over a letter from Cheese Sandwich and Fluttershy's adoration over Elizabeak's newly-hatched chicks. Rarity spoke briefly of her own goings-on, though she was proud of the work she completed over the past week. She was almost finished filling personal orders (and, thankfully, her clients were either reluctantly understanding or lenient when she had the chance to properly explain the reason behind the delay), which meant she could soon begin working on her summer fashion line.

Her lips pursed. A nagging on the edge of her mind whispered of something forgotten. No, that wasn't right. Applejack knew her farm better than anypony, which meant nothing was left undone. Did I forget something at the Boutique, perhaps...?

As soon as they reached the barn, their fruity haul joined the massive heap against one of the outside walls. “Well, hay,” huffed Applejack. “Looks like we'll have to bust out the ol' compost barrels.”

“Eyup,” agreed Big Mac.

“And whatever doesn't fit in those will go to the pigs!”

“Eyup!”

Smiling, Applejack adjusted her hat. “Alright! Easy-peasy!” The loss was unnerving, and would remain so for a while, but at least nothing would truly go to waste. “Hey, Applebloom, would you mind...?” Her voice failed her, for her little sister was nowhere to be seen. “Applebloom?”

The absence of the filly sparked Rarity's memory. “Wait!” she exclaimed. “Fluttershy and Spike aren't here, either!”

A voice came from the treeline, “Oh, sorry! We're right here!”

The group turned in time to see the missing trio emerge from the orchard. Rainbow Dash flew to them—hovering overhead as they reunited with their friends. “Geez, Shy,” she said. “I'm so sorry! I totally didn't mean to leave you behind! Honest!”

The other pegasus's eyes widened as she frantically shook her head. “Oh, don't say that!” she exclaimed, her voice pleading. “You didn't leave me behind. I promise.”

Spike waved his arms to gain attention. “We found a bird's nest that was destroyed by the storm,” he explained. “We stayed behind to put it back together.”

Fluttershy nodded. “The poor little thing was so upset.”

Applebloom, with a beaming smile on her face, puffed out her chest. “But we helped make it all better!”

“Good on ya, little sis!” Applejack ruffled the filly's mane. “Well, now that everypony's present and accounted for, how about some grub?”

“Yeah!”

The group of friends exchanged excited looks. “I know I'm famished,” commented Rarity. She carefully lifted Spike onto Twilight's back; she chuckled at the twinge of red in his cheeks as she did so. “Celestia knows I'm looking forward to washing my hooves, then indulging in a heavenly slice or two of apple pie.”

The former was more important, it went without saying, but Applejack knew Rarity well enough to pick up on her discomfort. “Alright, y'all, let's head in,” she announced, swinging a foreleg towards the farmhouse. “Pick up the pace! The sooner we get there, the sooner we can dig in!”

Despite her age, Granny Smith was an efficient chef. The gang was welcomed with a buffet of sandwiches, applesauce, and warm pastries and pies. They broke out extra chairs to fit everyone at the table before they were able to properly enjoy lunch (with many thanks made to the Apple matron, of course).

And what a wonderful lunch it was, which was why Applejack was slightly annoyed by the sudden knock at the front door when she was only three bites into her apple-daisy sandwich. Granny Smith moved to answer it, but Applejack stopped her. “Don't worry about it, Granny,” she said. “I'll get it.”

Her grandmother smiled. “Thank ya, young'in.”

Applejack trotted to her destination. “Hang on,” she called. “I'm comin'.”

The visitor was a green-eyed stallion, which was the first thing to catch her eye as soon as she opened the door. The second thing was that he was a unicorn, clad in a black hooded cloak. His coat was gray; his mane was a shade darker than his fur, with a single streak of blue.

There was something... familiar about him. As good as she was with faces, she was unable to pinpoint where she had before seen his. “How may I help you?” she asked.

The stallion bowed his head. “Apologies for my intrusion, miss, but I was hoping to purchase some apples. If it's not too much trouble, of course.”

She perked up. “Nah, it's no trouble at all! How many d'you need, Mister...?”

“Pitch Pebble.” His hoof met hers for a single shake.

“Applejack.”

“It's nice to meet you, Applejack. I need only a dozen apples, please.”

“You got it!” She whirled around. “Granny!”

“What?”

“We got a customer! I'm headin' out for a minute!”

“Alright!”

Rainbow Dash's head suddenly appeared in the kitchen's doorway. “Do you need any help?”

Applejack shook her head. “Naw, I got it.” She returned her attention to Pitch. “C'mon, fella, let's get ya what ya need.” She led him to the barn first, where she grabbed a large paper bag, before she made a beeline for the nearest tree. She set the bag beneath the branches—placing it just so as to catch the fruit she planned to buck free.

“Oh, there's no need for that,” Pitch said. “I can use my magic, if it's not too imposing.”

Applejack paused mid-buck. “Ah...” She looked up at the tree. “Yeah, I suppose that will save us a good bit of time, huh?”

Smiling, the unicorn magically plucked the apples off their branches. One at a time, he placed them in the bag. “How much do I owe you?” he asked, producing a small sack of bits from beneath his cloak.

“Twelve bits.” She removed her hat and, holding it upside-down, held it out in front of her.

Pitch took the hint. He levitated the payment into the garment.

“Thank ya kindly!” Returning the hat to its rightful place, she grinned. “Is there anything else I can help ya with?”

He shook his head. “No, thank you. This is plenty.”

She accompanied him back to the road. “I hate to pry, Pitch, but are you just travelin' through or...?”

“I'm new to these parts, yes, but...” He turned his head. “I don't have a home within town. I'm located on the outskirts.”

She nodded, after she decided not to comment on his hesitation. “Well, despite what that nasty storm did to our produce, we'll still be sellin' 'em, so feel free to stop by if you need more apples,” she said instead. “We also have a stall in the marketplace every so often.”

“I'll keep that in mind.” Once more, he bowed his head. “Again, thank you, and have a nice day.”

“Later!” She waved him goodbye—making sure he was properly on his way before she returned to the house. Right away, she saw a blue muzzle pressed against one of the front windows, as well as narrowed maroon eyes staring in the direction of Pitch's departure. Applejack's eyebrow raised. “Dash?” she called. “What the hay are you doin'?”

Rainbow flew out the door. “Who was that guy you were talking to?”

“Fella's name is Pitch Pebble. He's new around these parts.” She waved her hoof. “He wanted some apples, is all. Why?”

“I've seen him somewhere before...” The pegasus rubbed her chin. A few seconds passed as she pondered. Then, the epiphany hit her. “Oh, he's the guy who boarded the train before we left the Crystal Empire!”

Applejack blinked. Her memories from the train ride back to Ponyville were fuzzy at best (as she was asleep for the majority of it), but she knew Rainbow wasn't wrong. “Huh, how about that,” she muttered.

Rainbow grinned. “Just don't tell Pinkie. She'll have a cow if she finds out her Pinkie Sense missed out on somepony to throw a party for!”

Applejack laughed. “Alright, I'll give ya that one!” She nodded her head towards the house. “C'mon, let's get back to the table before the grub's gone.” While she wasn't too keen on being prematurely torn from the breakfast table, the businessmare in her shone with delight at having made a sale. The day started off grim, but perhaps things weren't so bad after all.

Chapter Eleven : Tuned In

It was with a full belly and a smile on her face Twilight happily made her way back home. Settled on her back was a content baby dragon, who yawned and stretched until a few of his joints popped. “So,” he started, “what else do we have to do today?”

Thinking, Twilight looked to the sky. “I was hoping to send letters to my brother and the Princesses.” Shining Armor expected another one already, and she was positive Princess Celestia and Princess Luna wanted to hear how she and her friends fared. “Did you have anything else in mind?”

Spike looked contemplative for a moment. He then held up a hand to count his claws. “Well, it's been a while since we've gotten groceries,” he muttered, his voice loud enough for the unicorn to hear. “And I think we're down to our last two or three inkwells.”

Ah, so there were chores to be done. In her mind, a crude map of Ponyville materialized. They were close to Sugarcube Corner, which meant the marketplace was only a few yards from where they currently stood. If they chose to get their groceries first, however, they would have to haul them all the way over to Barnyard Bargains, then back to the library.

She supposed she could rely on her teleportation to save some time, but her aim was far from precise. The last time she willed herself into the marketplace she startled Roseluck and her sisters so badly they leaped into Carrot Top's stall. In a simply unwanted outcome, said stall promptly collapsed.

Twilight found herself fixing the mess she made and attempting to calm the hyperventilating mares.

Such was life in a town majorly populated by earth ponies. This included Filthy Rich, who was not startled by Twilight's last appearance in his store. Rather, at the sight of her embarrassment when the aftershock of her spell caused a nearby shelf of canned goods to fall, he stifled his laughter and aided her in cleaning up the mess; despite the stallion's repeated reassurances, her string of apologies didn't stop until the task was completed.

So, with those examples still fresh in her mind, she decided against relying on her magic. She groaned and hung her head in defeat. Oh, if only Quills and Sofas sold more than two things!

“Okay,” she began, “so we'll start at Barnyard Bargains, then we'll swing by the marketplace for groceries on the way back.” She looked back and smiled. “How does that sound?”

“It would sound better if you magicked up a paper and quill so I can whip us up a list.”

She laughed. “Alright!” In a flash, she summoned the requested items (and by “summoned”, she simply teleported them from home) and she levitated them into Spike's waiting hands. “Better?”

He grinned. “Better! Thanks, Twi.”

“No problem, Spike.” Besides, the dragon knew the kitchen and its contents as well as she knew every book, nook, and cranny of the library. Rightfully so, he was the best fit for the organization of a grocery list.

She honestly couldn't have asked for a better assistant.

“Miss Twilight!” suddenly called a voice.

She paused, looking around. “Huh?”

“Over there, Twi,” said Spike as he pointed the quill.

Twilight's eyes followed the invisible line pointed out to her, until they landed on a familiar orange pegasus. “Flash?” she called. “What are you doing?”

With a single flap of his wings, Flash Sentry hopped across the distance between them—planting his hooves directly on the spot in front of them. He adjusted his hat as he flashed the unicorn a large smile. “I'm on my lunch break,” he explained, “and I thought I'd say hello!”

More focused on his list than anything else, Spike gave a lackluster wave. “Hi.”

“Yes, hello Flash,” chuckled Twilight. “Was that all you wanted to say?”

The stallion's smile faltered. Instead, his body language wilted into self-consciousness as he averted his gaze. “W-w-well, no, n-not really,” he stuttered. “I was heading over t-to Cremello for a bite to eat and I-I was wondering if...” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I-I-I was wondering if, um, would you like to join me, Miss Twilight?”

Twilight wasn't sure she heard him right. “I beg your pardon?”

“Lunch!” he exclaimed. Startled by the volume of his own voice, he winced and cleared his throat. “I-I mean... Would you like to have lunch with me?”

Oh, so she did hear him correctly. She and Spike shared an uncomfortable glance. “Well,” she sighed, “I would, Flash, but we just ate.”

Disappointment came again, though this time Flash had a hard time hiding it. His body appeared to deflate a little as he turned away from the duo. “Oh,” he whispered. “Okay...”

“But!” called Twilight. Though she was well aware it wasn't her fault, she felt a little guilty—too guilty to let Flash walk away. “What about tomorrow?” she asked.

Bewildered, the stallion spun to face her. “Huh?”

She repeated, “What about tomorrow? I don't have anything planned for then.” She looked to her assistant. “Right?”

Spike nodded. “Right.”

Smiling, she returned her attention to Flash. “So, how about it?”

The pegasus's eyes widened. “That... That sounds great,” he breathed. “Where should we meet up?”

“How about Hayburger?”

“Yeah, sounds great.”

“Alright! I'll see you then! Now, if you don't mind, Spike and I have some errands to run. Bye!”

Flash merely waved as they left. “Bye...” His heart continued to pound away in his chest—now more out of excitement than nervousness. He... He did it. He actually did it!

He just scored lunch with Miss Twilight!

Fighting the urge to leap in absolute joy, he took to the air. High above Ponyville, he floated (and, admittedly, he did a little loop-d-loop) towards his chosen restaurant. On this day, he was destined to dine alone, but tomorrow... He laughed. I can't wait for tomorrow!

In a town where it was common to see the occasional monster or Equestria-ending threat, one excited pegasus officer easily slipped into the background of Ponyville's bustling activity. Rarity, however, was in no way, shape, or form a staple of the background. It wasn't her fault her simple trip back to the Boutique just so happened to coincide with the enrapturing interaction between Flash Sentry and one of her closest friends. It certainly wasn't her fault she was close enough to hear their exchange, and she was certainly not at fault she had a clear view of Flash as he excitedly took off afterwards.

With the coast finally clear, Rarity emerged from her hiding place—a perfectly placed, and utterly convenient, tree. “Oh, Fluttershy!” she exclaimed. “Did you see what I saw?!”

Fluttershy, who was hidden within the same tree, poked her head out of a tuft of leaves. “Uh, Twilight and Flash were talking?” she retorted, puzzled. When Rarity yelled, “Hide!” earlier, it was the pegasus's own flight-response that caused her to leap up into the safety of the branches; she thought there was yet another monster rampaging through the streets. She didn't know she was about to partake in eavesdropping.

Huffing, Rarity motioned for her friend to join her on the ground. “But, did you see the way Flash talked to her?” she questioned. Before Fluttershy could answer, the unicorn's posture became tense and her eyes, alert with a sudden suspicion, scanned their surroundings. “Quickly!” she whispered harshly. “We must take this conversation inside at once!”

“But...!” Fluttershy squeaked, but it was no use, as Rarity spun and cantered towards the Boutique without another word. She didn't understand why the seamstress was so giddy. Whatever it was, it was obviously of great value in Rarity's eyes, and so the pegasus relinquished her complaints and followed suit.

Of course, it didn't help Rarity deemed it necessary to rush her. “Hurry, darling, please hurry!” she urged.

Fluttershy's anxiety soared. A bead of sweat trailed down her brow as she threw herself into the Boutique. She landed on her belly, with her limbs splayed out on the floor. She took a deep breath, gradually pushing herself back up onto her hooves. She hoped for answers as she circled around to watch Rarity, who had a look of glee on her face.

“Oh, Fluttershy, do forgive me,” she said, closing the door. “I know it's selfish to ask for another moment, but allow me to get you settled before I explain myself.” At a much more reasonable pace, she led her guest to the nearest couch. She then set about getting them freshly-brewed tea.

Celestia knew she needed an outlet for her newfound energy.

When it was all ready, Rarity poured Fluttershy's cup, naturally, before her own. “Now then,” she began, “allow me to apologize. I let my excitement get the better of me, and I'm so incredibly sorry about that.”

Carefully, Fluttershy took her cup between her hooves. She smiled. “It's all right. Though, I must admit, I am a little curious. The last time you were this excited since... Well, it's been a while.”

Rarity took a delicate sip of her tea, before her mouth widened into a toothy grin. “Yes, I suppose so, but this...!” Her eyes sparkled. “I'm not excited for me, dear Fluttershy, but for Twilight!”

“Huh?”

She leaned forward. “You saw Flash Sentry speaking with her, yes?”

“Uh, yes.”

“Well, I heard them. He sought her out specifically to ask her to lunch. Not only that, but the way he looked at her was filled with nothing less than admiration!” She squealed. “Our Twilight has a suitor!”

The pegasus's brow furrowed. “A-are you certain—”

Rarity waved her hoof. “Of course I'm certain! A disinterested stallion doesn't look at a mare like that, let alone perform exuberant aerials when she agrees to have lunch with him!”

“I guess Flash did look pretty happy.”

She clapped her hooves together. “See? This is a cause for celebration! When is the last time anypony showed such interest in our dear Twilight?” She threw her hooves up in the air. “It's never happened, Fluttershy! Never!”

“Yes, it's wonderful, but it's a little too soon to be celebrating, don't you think?” Fluttershy looked down into her tea. “I mean, just because he has a crush on Twilight... doesn't mean she feels the same way.”

“Well, not yet!”

“What?”

“We may not know much about Flash, but it's clear he's a good, hardworking stallion. I mean, he was a lieutenant in the Royal Guard! That's not a position they just give away to anypony! Not only that, but he was born and bred in Canterlot—same as Twilight!” Rarity stood and struck a dramatic pose. “Imagine it! Twilight Sparkle, beloved pupil of Princess Celestia, the bearer of the Element of Magic, and a hero of both Equestria and the Crystal Empire! Flash Sentry, former lieutenant of the Royal Guard and a current officer of the modest Ponyville Police Department!” She beamed. “Two Canterlot-born ponies with hearts of valor, who once served under the Crown, dedicated to the protection of Equestria and its citizens!”

Fluttershy couldn't help but chuckle; Rarity's dramatics, as always, were a sight to behold. “You make it sound like one of those romance novels you love so much,” she commented, smiling.

The unicorn laughed. “Precisely! It's a beautiful love story in the making!” Her expression turned serious. “As Twilight's friends, we have to make sure her lunch tomorrow with Flash goes perfectly!”

Once more, Fluttershy was at a loss. “... Why?”

“Because, as brilliant as our Twilight is, she's... naive when it comes to matters of the heart.”

Fluttershy hummed in agreement. Twilight was a mare of science and magic, and had been since she was a filly—choosing the logic of non-fiction over the often irrational and complicated journey of friendship. Even now, there was still so much for her, and not to mention for everypony, to learn regarding the latter.

Romance, however, was in a totally different category.

“I don't recall Twilight ever taking an interest in romance,” Fluttershy said softly.

“That's why she needs our help,” retorted Rarity. “But, first, she needs a little time alone with Flash. And, when she sees what a wonderful gentlecolt he is, the rest will fall into place!”

“But what if she doesn't, Rarity? It doesn't seem fair to—”

“This could be her only chance at love, Fluttershy!”

The pegasus recoiled as Rarity, eyes wide with dread, latched onto her shoulders—their noses a mere centimeter apart. “Ask yourself, how does Twilight spend her free-time when she's not with us, and when we're not out battling the forces of wickedness?” the unicorn questioned. “She stays inside the library, with Spike and her books and her experiments, that's how!” She then put space between them to begin pacing before the table. “She's made quite the reputation around Ponyville. Everypony knows her name, knows her face, but what other friends does she have?”

“Rarity...”

“Sure, she has her family, Spike, Princess Cadance and us, but who else is there?”

“Rarity.”

“Certainly, there are no other stallions in her life other than her father and brother.”

Now, there were very few instances where Fluttershy found it necessary to raise her voice. This was definitely one of them. “Rarity!” she snapped, which finally caused the seamstress to cease her movements. With a sigh, Fluttershy set her cup down. “I'm sorry about that,” she said, her tone returned to it's natural softness. “I understand your worry, but is this wise?”

Rarity smoothed a wayward frazzle out on her mane. “Oh, not to worry, our meddling will be minimal,” she replied. She returned to her spot across from her guest. “A helpful push here and there, and nothing more! But, as I said, we first have to ensure Twilight and Flash's lunch goes perfectly. Other than the food, nothing and nopony must distract them from one another.” She shuddered. “I only wish they were to dine someplace with much more class, rather than Hayburger...”

Fluttershy chuckled. “They're having lunch, not a date.”

“Well, dear Fluttershy, as long as we simply nurture the seeds of their affection, they're guaranteed to sprout!” Rarity grinned. “Trust me, Twilight will be in love with Flash before she even realizes it!”

Chapter Seven : Correspondence

The party dwindled in numbers throughout the passing hour. For each pony who made his or her way out the door, Pinkie Pie grew more and more aware she, once again, overdid it with the food. She knew nopony matched her sweet-tooth, but she couldn't eat the leftovers by herself!

The last time she tried, she got a tummy-ache and a few not-angry, but definitely not-happy words from the Cakes.

She made up doggy-bags in a last-ditch effort to unload the abundance. After a microphone-aided announcement, she then left them on a table by the door. She was delighted to see the brown paper bags snatched up as ponies filed out of Sugarcube Corner.

After she made sure Flash Sentry was accompanied by a complete baker's dozen of cupcakes on his way out, only she and her friends remained.

Rarity let out a content sigh. “Another lovely party, Pinkie, as always.”

Pinkie beamed, twirling a broom around in her hoof. “Thank you very much!”

“Do you want us to help you clean up?” asked Fluttershy, who was eyed the nearby closet.

“Nah. I got it. A little sweeping here and there, and this place will be hunky-dory again!”

Compared to some of her other shenanigans, her “Welcome to Ponyville” parties were on the tame end of the scale. It was more about the friendly atmosphere, rather than the decorations. She used only the bare minimum of the adornments: a “Welcome” banner, some balloons and, of course, the food.

Despite her protest, Twilight magically lowered the banner and rolled it up into a scroll, while Applejack gathered the balloons. “Where you do want these, Pinkie?” asked the latter.

She shrugged. “Just deflate them and set them somewhere for now. I'll take them upstairs later. I have a trunk in my room for all my party stuff.”

Fluttershy blinked. “Just... one trunk?”

“Must be some trunk,” grumbled Applejack.

Pinkie merely laughed. They weren't ready. The Secret Party-Planning Cave was to, for now, remain just that—secret.

Applejack dropped the last deflated balloon onto the little pile she had created. “I better head on out,” she huffed. “I gotta make sure Apple Bloom made it home safe 'n sound.”

“I wouldn't worry,” said Twilight. “If she made it to Zecora's without trouble, then she'd have no problem finding her way home.”

“Yeah, but she's my little sister, ya know?” She adjusted her hat. “But, I can guarantee it won't last long.”

“What won't last long?” asked Spike.

Twilight replied, “Apple Bloom is taking alchemy lessons from Zecora.”

“Hey, that's cool!”

Applejack dismissively waved her hoof. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, but if she doesn't get her cutie mark as soon as she wants it, she'll get bored and move onto the next silly idea.”

Twilight frowned. “Alchemy isn't silly,” she grumbled, too low to be heard.

The bell above the entryway jingled. “We're back!” called Mr. Cake. He held the door open for his wife, who entered with the twins in two. “How'd the party go?”

Pinkie tossed a hoof-full of confetti into the air. “Super-successful-tastically!”

“That's good,” commented Mrs. Cake. “How are the rest of your girls doing?”

A myriad of positive replies came in unison, which made the older mare smile. “Good, good,” she chuckled. “Now, if you'll excuse me, Pound and Pumpkin are due for a nap.” The little ponies on her back both yawned.

As Mrs. Cake made her way upstairs, Applejack headed for the door. “It's good to see y'all again, Cakes, but I need to get myself back to the farm. So long!”

They bid her farewell, though Fluttershy was the next to announce her departure. When Rarity volunteered to walk her home, that left only Pinkie, Twilight, Spike, and Mr. Cake. “So, what's the new guy like?” the stallion asked.

“He's really nice,” Pinkie replied. “He's our new officer, too.”

“Wait, officer?” inquired Twilight. “Ponyville has a police force?”

Mr. Cake shrugged. “A small one, but yes.”

“Wow. Flash didn't mention that. I wonder why he left the Royal Guard.”

“I dunno,” Spike commented, “but it definitely seems like a downgrade.”

“Now, Spike, be nice.”

“Sorry.”

Twilight shook her head, Then, with a sigh, she nodded towards the door. “Let's head back to the library. Oh, and Pinkie?”

The other mare's ears perked. “Yeah?”

“If you see Rainbow, could you send her my way? I want to ask her about the storm.”

“Okie-dokie!”

“Thanks a bunch.”

Now alone with Mr. Cake, Pinkie moved behind the counter to gather the deflated balloons. It wasn't long before Cupcake descended the stairs to join them. “Pound and Pumpkin are sound asleep,” she announced in a soft voice, a relieved smile on her face. “How's our schedule, dear?”

“Free and clear, Cupcake.”

His beloved sighed. “Then, if you don't mind, I'm going to—” She stopped—her eyes widening as a thought suddenly occurred to her. “Oh, Carrot, the mail!”

Mr. Cake's face scrunched in confusion, before the same realization hit him. “Right, right.” He reached into the pocket of his apron. His hoof emerged with a neatly-sealed envelope. “You got a letter, Pinkie!” he exclaimed, holding it out to the pink pony. “It doesn't say who it's from, but it's clearly addressed to you.”

Pinkie released a delighted squeal as she snatched the envelope out of his grasp. “He kept his promise!” she cried cheerfully. She tore the top edge with her teeth and she delved into the letter immediately. The Cakes stood silent in anticipation, for whatever the missive held it had Pinkie grinning from ear to ear—a grin that grew the more she read. She finished the letter with a fit of giggles and she held it against her chest in a careful manner, as not to wrinkle it.

“Well?” pressed Mrs. Cake. “What is it, Pinkie?”

“A letter from my new friend, Cheese Sandwich!” Her eyes sparkled. “He's a party pony, like me!”

The Cakes exchanged a bewildered glance.

“He Pinkie Promised he'd write to me every now and again, just to fill me in on where he is and how he's doing, and he did!”

Both Carrot and Cupcake took a seat in front of the young mare. “Tell us more,” urged the latter. “It sounds like you've taken quite a liking to him.”

Smoothing the letter out on the counter, Pinkie wracked her brain for a starting point. “Well, he's a lot like me. Except, you know, he's a stallion. And he likes to wear a poncho and cowpony hat when he's not in party-mode. Oh, but that's not really what you asked, is it?” She gave them a sheepish smile. “I met him in the Crystal Empire. He's the one who helped me with Trixie's party.”

Given the Cakes already knew about that particular event, she immediately moved the topic forward. “I wasn't super sure how to feel about him at first. He looked a little too serious to be a party pony.” She clapped her hooves together in glee. “But, wow, did he prove me wrong! He really knows how to throw a party! A big party, though, not a small one. That's the only difference between our parties. I mean, I nailed that masquerade ball, but I think it will be a long, long, long, long time before I can do that again!”

Her gaze moved to the letter once more. “He's in Manehattan right now, hosting a celebration for the newly-renovated city hall. He's off to Tall Tale after that.”

Chuckling, Mrs. Cake made her way into the kitchen. “He sounds like a busy stallion.”

“He is! He travels all over Equestria, just to make ponies smile!”

“So, when are we going to meet him?” questioned Carrot. “I'm sure he can find time to stop by Ponyville.”

“I'll have to ask him!”

His brow furrowed. “But, how do you know where to send the letter? Pinkie Sense?”

“Yup!”

Mrs. Cake emerged with a plate of sandwiches, which she set between Carrot and Pinkie. “Well, let's hope he visits soon.” Yet, though she would never say it aloud, the thought of a second Pinkie Pie was somewhat exhausting. “I want to thank him personally for helping you and the others.”

Pinkie reached for one of the sandwiches. As much as she loved the confections offered by the Corner, it was unwise to overindulge. “Too much of a good thing,” and all that.

A bizarre twinge in her hoof stopped her outreach. “Huh?” she whispered. She rolled the appendage lightly, but the sensation spread up her limb like wildfire. It spasmed—knocking the platter to the floor.

Mr. Cake flinched away from the scene. Cupcake ran to his side. They watched in growing concern as Pinkie's body was overwhelmed by tremors. It was like the mare was experiencing an earthquake only she felt. Even when they slowed, her mane and tail seemed to inflate. As they slowed to a complete stop, the pink tufts popped and sagged.

Eyes wide, Pinkie clung to the floor to steady herself. There was a sudden sense of something—something that felt as though a dark cloud had latched onto her. “D-d-doozy!” she gasped. “It's a doozy!”

Cautiously, Mrs. Cake approached her. When it became apparent there would be no more quaking, she ran a comforting hoof over Pinkie's mane. “Was... Was that your Pinkie Sense?”

“Y-y-yeah.” Her legs wobbled as she tried to stand. In the end, she ended up leaning against the older mare for support. The cold weight in her chest was somewhat alleviated by the contact. “I-I'm fine.”

Except, she wasn't entirely sure.

“Oh, you poor dear, you look terrible,” mused Cupcake.

Carrot spoke up. “Why did your Pinkie Sense go off?”

Pinkie glanced at him. “Hold on... I-I need to think.”

“It's not another ancient evil, is it?”

Cupcake glared at him.

Pinkie shook her head. “No. Nothing like that. Nothing... that bad.”

“Oh, you poor thing.” Cupcake nudged her. “If there's no big baddie coming to Ponyville, or there's no world-ending cataclysm, the least you can do is rest for a bit.”

“Okay...”

“Do you want to talk about it first?”

Allowing a little more of her weight to be supported by Mrs. Cake, Pinkie attempted to sort through her feelings. But, it wasn't easy. If they weren't positive she didn't know what to do with them—what to make of them. It definitely wasn't sadness. She and sadness were, unfortunately, old friends.

It was something a little darker and more alarming. It left her insides jittery. It wasn't a good jittery, like when she was baking a magnificent birthday cake or when it was her turn to watch the twins.

“It's dread, I think,” she said. She spoke slowly. “Nothing bad is coming, but...” Her eyes wandered randomly over the room. “Somepony is coming, and it's not Cheese.” The stallion wouldn't be paying them a visit for quite some time, she knew. “I don't know who it is, but they're important. Not important like Princess Celestia or Sapphire Shores or Fancy Pants or—”

Mrs. Cake gently pressed her hoof against the young mare's mouth to silence her. “Enough,” she scolded, though her voice was far from harsh. “Don't stress yourself out over this. It's time for rest. We'll talk later, okay?”

Pinkie hung her head low. Then, after a second or two, she nodded. She didn't have the energy to argue and, silently, she allowed herself to be led upstairs.