What the Future May Hold

Chapters

Starshines' Story Time-An Inner Conflict
Starshine's Story Time- Trixie's Apology
Starshine's Story Time- "I'm So Proud Of You, Starlight"
Bubblegum's Story Time- A Night Mare's Tale
Bubblegum's Story Time- "I'm Here To Make You Smile"
Bubblegum's Story Time- "Everyone Deserves to Smile, Princess"
Claire and Skyflare's Storytime-"I'm Just That Awesome!"
Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- Nopony Left Behind
Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- "Letting Go Can Be Hard"
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime-Celestial Distress
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- Unbalanced Harmony
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- Apple Pie
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- "Her Fate Is In Your Hooves"
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime -When A Lie Becomes The Truth- Part One
Applespice and Bolt's Storytime - When A Lie Becomes The Truth-Part Two
The Final Storytime- The Princess of Redemption
Starshine's Story Time- "Her Name Was Twilight Sparkle"
Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- "Aren't They Pretty, Princess?"

Starshines' Story Time-An Inner Conflict

"The world has been consumed by chaos. Princess Twilight along with her inseparable friends had hurried to the source of the discord. We tailed them in the hopes of chronicling the events. The celestial princesses; Luna and Celestia were already at the scene fiercely trading blows with a monstrosity bearing an alicorn's resemblance but shrouded in a monochrome glow. Trees in the forest nearby were awash in an ocean of flames, while the ground was cracked and fissured. The sky was a strange mix of crimson and ebony in which the moon hung, shattered into pieces while the sun had collapsed in upon itself ready to go nova at any second. the wind howled as shards of ice fell from above as a chocolate colored cloud cascaded lava onto the nearby wildlife. The scene looked hopeless as the harmony bearers surveyed that which lay before them...."

Princess Luna paused, glancing up from narrating the book between her hooves to the teary-eyed bawling of the 6 young creatures before her.

"Oh, my!" She said and promptly set about in an attempt to cheer them up. "Oh please don't cry!"

At that moment Princess Celestia poked her head into the chambers. "How is story time coming along my sis...", her voice faltered upon seeing the sobbing children.

"Oh, sister!", Luna cried out. "Please help me!"

"Don't worry!" Celestia called out as she could be seen slowly starting out of the doorway. "I'll send Twilight to..." her voice cracked and a single tear made its way down her cheek.

Two thousand years had come and gone since that day since that battle and still, she could recall her faithful student and her friends as if it was just that morning when that young alicorn had smiled up at her. She bit her lower lip stubbornly in an attempt so as not to allow the presence of tears on her muzzle to be noticed. Slowly turning around and looking hopelessly at her sister, her efforts had been in vain as tears cascaded down silently.

"Who wants some cake?" Luna shouted frantically upon seeing her older sister's distress. "I believe I heard the kitchen staff say that they were making a chocolate one for a special after lunch treat!"

The young fillies and colts moved towards the kitchen, eagerly hoping for a piece of the almost legendary cake the kitchen staff was known for. Luna watched them go and turned towards Celestia.

"Sister you do know there was no choice. What they did", Luna said softly as she brushed the tears of her sister away with her hoof, "they did for the good of everyone. It wasn't your fault you shouldn't blame yourself."

"I miss her so much Luna." Celestia's voice was tinged with melancholy and Luna was at a loss as to how she should approach her sister. She remembered that day as well and just how hard watching Celestia's once best friend alongside her most cherished of companions being laid to rest beneath that loamy soil had taken its toll on her sister. Just then a sugary almost honey-filled voice cut through the gloom surrounding the alicorns. "Mommy, what is wrong?"

Turning her head swiftly Celestia saw the form of a tiny unicorn poking her head in through the door. The filly stood in the doorway, her purple mane tinged with crimson, with just a hint of pink highlights scattered throughout. Her fur though Light Purple glistened with just the faintest hint of aquamarine. Her flank sported a very familiar star pattern, while her eyes were a rich aqua. She stood about one-third of Celestia's own height.

Celestia forced a smile, as was her long-established habit of denial and said: "Oh Starshine, there isn't anything wrong sweetie."

"Mommy was crying though", the young Starshine exclaimed.

Celestia opened her mouth to say that wasn't true, but the words would not come. Luna, upon seeing her sister falter, interjected. "Your mommy needs some time to herself sweetie, I know, how about we go and visit the library? I have heard that the new books will be delivered today."

Quick as a flash, the young filly began jumping up and down excitedly. "Squeee! What do you think they are about Auntie? Do you think that..." The adorable unicorn began launching a hundred questions about the contents of the books, who the author was and if her Aunt Luna would read them to her as well. Luna did her best to answer them: "spells and sorcerers, dragons and griffons. Written by the Cutie Mark Chroniclers themselves and finally brought into production..."

their voices could be heard echoing down the hallway and Celestia turning towards a most treasured portrait on the wall began to speak as if to an old friend. "She is adorable. Hmph, she takes after you, you know. From her appearance to her insatiable want to read and understand all. Heh, she even has your aptitude for magic. She calls me mommy and all worries vanish, but I wonder how she would react if she knew she was your heir. How would they all react if they knew the Legends regarding you seven were not mere fiction? That each one of them was related to you and the others. I still think back on those days when you, Starlight, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbowdash and Pinkie Pie graced these halls. I remember the joy of when your children were born. The time when Discord and Fluttershy got married or how about the shock of when Trixie and Starlight came to you to receive your blessing, the look on your face was priceless! Do you remember when Pinkie Pie threw that insane party and invited the dragons? Who knew just how much that was needed..."

her voice once again fell as she said sadly, "you did, you always were brilliant. Twilight what should I do? I miss you so much." She drooped her head in desperation, her mane draped, limp and lifeless as the colors became muted. Just then a flash of light appeared before her eyes, and seven voices wise with age but soft with warmth began to echo around her: "Princess never forget, if you truly love and cherish our memory, you can always pass down our lessons and our stories to the next generation so they too can remember those that came before, whenever you are sad always recall we are not gone we live on through the legends of hope and the love passed down."

Celestia smiled and walked over to the nearby intercom pausing for just a moment to breathe before announcing: "I request the following pony to my chamber; Starshine."

A squeal was heard throughout the castle and the sound of tiny, thundering hooves could be heard coming closer as the tiny pony galloped into the room. Princess Celestia looked at the curious face and said "I wish to tell you a story, but not just any story, this story shall be special. I shall tell you the story of your ancestor and how her deeds saved Equestria time and time again many, many years ago."

Starshine's Story Time- Trixie's Apology

Looking at her, Twilight replied: "This is about Trixie; I suppose." Starlight laughed and said, "No, no I just wished to share some delicious milk I got from Sugarcube Corners while we discussed today's lesson."

Twilight accepted the sweet, creamy delicacy and took a small sip. It truly was delicious. She smiled and said with satisfaction: "it seems Pinkie Pie has finally perfected that recipe of hers." She then used her magical horn to place the chalice on a nearby end table.

"Isn't it, though?" Starlight took a dainty sip before remarking almost casually: "who would have thought Trixie would be able to inspire Pinkie Pie in such a way?" Glancing up she witnessed Twilight looking at her and sputtering "w-what?! How in the name of Celestia's heavenly mane could Trixie possibly have helped Pinkie Pie?"

"Why not take a closer look at the milk?" Starlight suggested. "What milk? What are you-" Twilight began before noticing the chalice had completely refilled with ice cold, creamy and sweet milk. "How?" she demanded.

"it all happened three nights ago", Starlight began."we had gone to Sugarcube Corners at my request for our date." Upon seeing Twilight's stern look, Starlight rushed out, "a-anyway we were sitting there eating some cupcakes and chatting when we heard a loud clatter and a rather distraught Pinkie Pie then exiting the kitchen. I looked at Trixie, and I suggested she should attempt to help Pinkie."

Twilight's eyebrow raised, showing her interest. Starlight continued, "You see, I had been sharing the magic of your amazing lessons with her and I thought it might be a good way to see what she had learned. Trixie then approached Pinkie and asked her what was wrong. Pinkie responded to her the milk was delicious! When Trixie asked her what was wrong with that, Pinkie let out a sob stating how boring it was."

Starlight glanced up at her beloved mentor. Twilight was resting her chin on both of her hooves. She was clearly focused on the topic at hand, Starlight continued:"Trixie asked Pinkie why not make it pop with some magic? When Pinkie asked how Trixie showed her an interesting illusion in which she vanished her cupcake but, upon turning over the box she had used, the cupcake reappeared on the table. Pinkie was very excited about this possibility, after all, nothing is more her signature than a crazy effect. I then suggested she went to discuss the idea with Zecora.

This morning we decided to check up on her and we found that she had indeed made such a fun idea possible. Not only that but she also declared that Trixie had truly given her a spark of inspiration. As a result, the milk before you is quite awesome as Rainbowdash would say. Each time it empties it refills itself with one of seven colors until the last color is drunk. Pinkie calls it 'The Sweet Rainbow of Friendship' and it is actually being called on par for apple cider levels of popularity, by the food critics. I managed to get a fresh gallon this morning, and I saw a reporter interviewing Pinkie for the Equestrian Gazette."

At that moment as if signaled by some timing cue only known to her, Pinkie Pie flung open the castle door and zoomed up to Twilight. She then shoved a paper in her face and exclaimed in typical Pinkie fashion: "Twilight! Did you see? Did you? I got in the paper! Look, look!"

Twilight took the paper from Pinkie and began to read: "Local earth pony makes a delicious new treat. When asked about her creation Pinkie Pie, Ponyville's resident professional party planner replied with the following: 'Trixie gave me the idea from one of her magic tricks and Zecora helped me create a special type of sugar crystal that embodied the rainbow my friends and I are! The milk cycles through the entire spectrum...' Sadly the interview got cut off here because the adorable pink partier screamed about hosting a party and being late before rushing away at breakneck speeds."

Twilight and Starlight both offered their most sincere congratulations and after promising to attend the party being thrown tomorrow, watched Pinkie leave before continuing their conversation. Starlight grinned at her beloved mentor, "maybe there is some hope for Trixie after all, wouldn't you agree?" Twilight responded: "that may be so, but-."

Starlight interrupted Twilight: "Twilight I beg of you to hear me out. You are an amazing teacher. You went through the end of the world itself, just to help a wayward unicorn understand how friendship matters. You refused to give up on that pony, even though she outright refused your hoof in friendship. It truly is thanks to your teachings I am here right now; the proud Counselor of your school. Every day, I help other ponies and spread the knowledge you, yourself have given me."

Twilight sat quietly for a moment and spoke up: "yes, I never gave up on you because you were in need of my help. What kind of Princess of Friendship would I be if I hadn't done my best to help you when you needed me most?" Starlight's face flushed with sadness before replying:"If that's the case then why would you give up on Trixie?"
Twilight began: "what are you-" Starlight interjected; "do you realize how hard it was for her to be humble in your presence? How much of her own pride she had to swallow in order to ask your forgiveness? Can you recall another time when she ever humbled herself in such a manner?"

Realization began to appear on Twilight's face. Her eyes went wide as the entire situation dawned on her. "What have I done?", she exclaimed in horror. "I have to fix this! I need to find Trixie!" Seeing the grin on her pupil's face, she understood and said graciously:"You were right, this lesson truly did need a review. Thank you Starlight for reminding me what is really important." Starlight replied:"sometimes we all could use a review of what we have learned."

Upon hearing those words, Twilight rushed out the door to find Trixie. Starlight was in rather high spirits and very satisfied with the way the conversation had ended. She went back upstairs and drew a well deserved and sorely needed bubble bath to relax in.

Twilight raced through Ponyville, as the stars twinkled overhead until she arrived at Trixie's wagon. She knocked on the oak door and spoke: "Trixie we need to talk." Trixie could be heard on the other side replying in a sobbing manner: "C-come in, Pr-Princess."

Starshine's Story Time- "I'm So Proud Of You, Starlight"

Upon pushing open the creaky, wooden front door, Twilight surveyed the area within. It was complete disarray. While the outside of the wagon looked clean and well cared for, the inside did not. Dishes were piled high in the sink. Bags of alfalfa chips were crumbled and strewn about the floor, lying next to smashed steins of what once held Sweet Apple Acres cider. The smell was horrendous, an odor of Limburger cheese and eggs wafted through the air to Twilight's nose.

Ignoring the alarm bells her obsessiveness to clean was setting off, Twilight turned her attention towards the bed. Trixie lay in the bed. Her clothing was disorganized, her hair a mess, and she held a huge half-eaten tub of ice cream purchased from Mooela's Local Creamery. The thing that caught Twilight's eye the most, however, were the twin trails of tears streaming down the mare's face.

"Welcome to *hic* the worthless and powerless Trixie's ugly wagon!", Trixie greeted Twilight in a broken English accented with a few distraught hiccups. Twilight's mind began to replay a past conversation she once had with Starlight: "You do realize the only reason Trixie refers to herself as a 'Great and Powerful' being is because she is trying to boost her own confidence, right? Sometimes, it can come off as cocky but she actually suffers from an extreme sadness of who she is and where she is in her life."

Twilight stood there pondering what to do as her mind raced considering the facts at hoof. She raised her foreleg to stroke her chin with her hoof in thought, when she thought of it. Working quickly Twilight began to use a nearby pot to brew a special clarity potion that Zecora once made her. She poured the warm dark brownish liquid into a teacup and turned towards Trixie with a warm smile. She spoke: "Trixie, please drink this, it will help."

Using her magically imbued unicorn horn to hold it for her, Trixie gingerly sniffed the strange aromatic mixture. It had a pleasant smell of some exotic beans having been roasted. She took a sip and discovered that though the taste was extremely strong and semi-bitter, it really was quite palatable. With each sip, she calmed down more and more. Her thoughts originally muddied, became quiet and more tolerable.

Twilight saw the shaking in her form slow down and could see that Trixie had relaxed considerably. She smiled and spoke in a gentle manner; "Trixie, you are not powerless. Nor are you worthless. You are a wonderful magician and what you did tonight truly proves how courageous you are when a friend is in need. You were determined to put aside our feud just so Starlight and you could have a future together."

Trixie's eyes were glued to her and so she continued: "You risked everything. You know how I felt, yet you still attempted to reach out a hoof and bury the hatchet. I may be the princess of friendship but even I am not a perfect example. Tonight I almost let my own pettiness and unwillingness to let go of the past, almost destroy any hope I had of calling you, my friend. You have every right to refuse my words after that display, however, I came here to apologize for my mannerisms. I am sorry Trixie."

Trixie stayed quiet and took another sip of the wonderful liquid. Taking a deep breath she finally responded, looking Twilight in the eye: "I accept your apology Twilight, we have been at odds far too long. There was a time when me being stronger meant something to me. Starlight showed me, using your own lessons actually," Trixie let out a tiny laugh before continuing; "that maybe me relying on other ponies isn't so bad. The reason I came to get your blessing wasn't at Starlight's request, however, I felt it would show you just how serious I was in putting the past behind me. I want to be your friend, not your rival. This may sound strange but I have always felt a certain connection with you. By the way, this tonic tastes amazing."

Twilight's face filled with complete relief as she responded with a knowing laugh, "Zecora made it for me after I drank a tad too much cider last gala. I like it too! Especially when I wake up in the morning after one of Pinkie Pie's parties. As for being friends, Trixie, I would love to put all of our past history with each other under the bridge. I would very much like to be your friend."

With that, Trixie sat there for hours upon hours, just talking with Twilight. Twilight listened and responded while tidying up Trixie's haphazard wagon. At last, it came time to say goodnight. The wagon sparkled inside and out, Trixie was very impressed: "the Great and Powerful Trixie is amazed at your cleaning skills!" Twilight looked at her and both broke out into loud laughter.

As she was leaving, Twilight heard Trixie say her name and slowly turned around. "Yes?" she asked. Trixie scuffed her hoof and looked up at Twilight as she asked; "would you be my bridesmare?" Twilight was caught off-guard. "Y-you want me to be your bridesmare?" Seeing Trixie standing there with intense determination, she then said softly, "It would be my honor."

------6 Months Later------

"I now pronounce you Mares for Life, you may kiss the bride", the voice of the Mayor was heard throughout the court square, amidst the loud cheering and hoof-stamping for applause. Twilight stood on the second step of the courtroom stairs watching proudly as Trixie embraced Starlight. After a loving kiss on her partner, Trixie turned to Twilight and said, "You have no idea how happy you made me being here today Twilight, thank you."

Twilight said, "sometimes everypony needs a helping hoof, and every lesson needs a review." She ended the statement with a small knowing wink to Starlight who then giggled. Twilight continued: "You are one of my best friends Trixie, I wouldn't have missed it for the world."

Celestia glanced at the young unicorn beside her. The small filly was looking at her. "Is there something you wish to say, Starshine?", she asked. Starshine had the look of somepony who was very deep in thought. After a few moments, Starshine spoke: "mommy this is amazing. Who knew that Twilight was so down-to-Equestria? You say this actually happened, but how would you know?"

Her muzzle shook as she let out a laugh; "Oh Starshine, how else? I was there at the wedding. Twilight may have been Trixie's bridesmare but I had the honor of being Starlight's. If you are referring to the other parts, the authors asked the ponies themselves for their first-hand accounts."

"Did you know them too?", inquired the curious unicorn.

"Yes, I did indeed. Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetiebell. The Cutiemark Crusaders, they originally called themselves in their youth. Upon achieving their cutiemarks they vowed to help everypony learn of what made them special. Once they reached marehood, they decided to undertake a huge project and together they learned of and documented the entire history of Ponyville's heroines. From their efforts seven books were created, each one detailing a different pony's life like the one I read to you from tonight. Sadly through time, the books have been misplaced, though your Aunt Luna and I have recovered three of them currently, aside from Twilight's; Pinkie Pie's, Rainbow Dash's and Rarity's."

Starshine pondered this for a moment before asking the one question Celestia feared to answer the most: "Mommy, you said Princess Twilight was my ancestor. If I truly am the descendant of the Princess of Friendship herself, if she truly did exist and you knew her over two millennia ago, how is it you are my mommy?"

Celestia's mane had dulled considerably and her face took on a slightly somber tone as she heard the unicorn ask her that question. Her mind raced, should she tell her? what if Starshine resented her? What if-

Once again she heard those familiar voices, "be brave, be honest, smile, be generous, be daring, be true to yourself and tell her." Celestia took a deep breath, steeling her will and spoke once more: "It is time you knew Starshine, who you are, where you came from and -", she paused to wipe a tear away, "who your mother truly was."

Elsewhere in Ponyville, a small blue earth pony was tossing and turning in his bed as the midnight hour tolled in the nearby clock tower. His dreams were turning rather sour fast and as a lover of sweets, he was not enjoying them. He ran but could not escape, the wind howled as the creatures closed in. Lightning flashed and the rain came down. "Help me!", he screamed, terrified and all alone.

Suddenly the nightmare vanished. He was in a starlit room under the wing of a tall black alicorn whose mane flowed with the stars in the midnight sky. She smiled warmly and said, "don't worry young colt, I'll protect you."

"Princess Luna! I don't know what happened! I was throwing a party and I guess it didn't go over so well with those monsters." Luna stared at him, amused at his antics and was reminded of a certain pink earth pony and how that particular pony had made a certain nightmare smile as well. "I know what will cheer you up, would you like to hear a story about one of the greatest party ponies ever to grace this town?"

Bubblegum's Story Time- A Night Mare's Tale

The small blue earth pony looked at the night sky reflected in Luna's mane and sighed, sounding rather disappointed. "Not the reaction I was expecting young colt", Luna said, "do you perhaps feel that I, the royal sister of Princess Celestia, am not qualified with my knowledge of the land to tell a tale of days long past?"

"Oh, no-no-no! It isn't th-" He began but immediately faltered upon seeing Luna's very serious face. The princess looked quite fearsome as her body conveyed her annoyance. Her anger was legendary in the annals of Ponyville's history. Would he be sent to Tartarus, would she yell at him? Oh, how he wished he was some other pony at this moment. However, instead of the expected rage, Luna took a slow breath and smiled at the form before her. His mane had gone from a bubbly hairdo to a deflated straight line. his fur was a light blue and on his rump was a scene of confetti exploding for a cutie mark. There can be no mistaking it, she thought, he is definitely her heir. The resemblance to her long lost friend was so uncanny; from mannerisms to appearance.

"what is your name, young one?" She inquired with a smile. "Bubblegum", the tiny earth pony muttered, feeling even tinier in the presence of the majestic mare of the night. Thinking quickly after noticing the somber tone, Luna spoke once more, her tone a jovial one: "Well Mister Bubblegum, tell me, how would you liven up the idea of storytelling?"

The darkness of the dreamscape was immediately lifted and the tone shift was obvious as the little colt started talking, spitballing ideas in rapid succession as his mane once more adopted the bubbly habit; "well it's a dream, right? why not bring the story to life? like there could be a projection screen right here." He said this as he pulled a movie screen out of nowhere to stretch from the sky to the clouds they were standing on and continued, "oh and don't forget cupcakes and punch! Oh and we also should have comfy recliners to watch it!" Luna burst into laughter for the first time in a long time, as every word the young colt spoke seemed to cause the items to materialize. She found herself in a recliner with 3-D glasses on as he finished his thoughts with, "it has to be in 3-D too!" With that, he divebombed into his own easy-chair his own eyes shrouded by the 3-D glasses to prepare for the show.

Luna grinned, unable to stop her own excitement from showing. "Then let us relive the tale of Pinkie's party nature and how her efforts caused a nightmare to smile." Upon proclaiming this, she materialized a bag of popcorn and sat back, letting her memories filter to the screen ahead through her alicorn magic.

The Book of Pinkie Pie - Chapter 623: A Friendship to Transcend Dimensions in 3-D

Produced by the Cutie Mark Chroniclers

The words blazed through the suddenly darkened dreamscape in a fiery 3-D. Text appeared slowly scrawling upwards that read:

It is a time of great sadness in an alicorn princess's life. Princess Luna stands on the precipice of the abyss. It's the eve of her birth. The astral mare now sits at an empty table eating a meal she herself cooked; in other words, it was quite a normal night. She sighed in sadness. Nightmare Moon has been defeated thanks to the elements of harmony. Still, she feels far from welcome, though the ponies all forgave her for past transgressions. Unbeknownst to her, her melancholy is about to get an abrupt jump start.

Rustling indicated to her the young colt was getting comfy and she did the same. Popcorn in hoof, and a drink that seemed to appear at her side in a cupholder, Luna and Bubblegum embarked on their epic theatric journey into the history between the once outcast alicorn that was Luna and the energetic, pink, smile machine known as Pinkie Pie.

Meanwhile in Canterlot

Celestia's young charge; Starshine was busy packing a saddlebag. While she packed the supplies on a list in front of her she pondered on what the Princess had said to her: "Starshine, a mere explanation won't suffice, you and I must journey to the place where it all ended for 7 brave mares and one stalwart dragon. Once we have arrived at that location, I promise you, I will explain everything."

In went, her notepad, inkwell, quill and other things she had decided would be useful. "Are you ready to go, my daughter?" Looking up the young filly's eyes widened. Celestia stood there not in her normal royal ensemble, but rather in battle armor. Her hooves were decorated in iron horseshoes. Around her midriff was a suit of iron chainmail. Atop her crest where normally was, a golden tiara was an iron helm. The suit glittered in a sparkly golden color. Truly it was a sight to behold, though what captured the filly's eye most was the small satchel hanging by Celestia's side, on it was a rather familiar symbol of a falling star.

"M-mom?", Starshine stammered taken aback by this fierce appearance. Celestia lifted her visor and smiled, "I felt it would be best to dress appropriately for our destination, sweetie." Starshine saw what looked like a single tear dripping down her mom's cheek. Why is mom crying, why is she sad? She thought. What could make the most regal of Equestrians, lose her calm demeanor? Surely it can't be that bad?

Her thoughts were interrupted by Celestia calling out, "We must get going Starshine, we have quite a lot of ground to cover." Swinging her saddlebag over her side, Starshine nodded and replied, "ready when you are Mom!" The two then left the castle and began their journey north.

Bubblegum's Story Time- "I'm Here To Make You Smile"

The clock in her room ticked away. Tick, tock, tick, tock There Luna sat, alone at the royal table. Her dinner of collard greens with tomatoes sat upon it. She stared at it, at the meal she herself had cooked. It was dull and lifeless, just like her mood. Tonight was the eve of her 2000-year birthday. What a cause for celebration! Two millennia upon this world! Surely somepony would congratulate her...but alas, there she was alone once again. Slowly she replayed a flashback of recent events in her mind. The demonic entity that was known as Nightmare Moon no longer possessed her. Holding the daylight...no, her own sister hostage! How could she have been so driven by vengeance? How could anypony forgive her for her misgivings? What right did she have to hope for a new beginning?

"Princess Celestia told me tonight is your birthday! I came soon as I was prepared," said a rather hyperactive voice beside her. Princess Luna looked up in shock. "How did you-I-what?" The princess was at a loss for words. Somehow before her in her private dreamscape realm bounced a rather cheerful looking earth pony with a set of three balloons as a cutie mark.

"I think we may need some more balloons and confetti! The other guests will be here shortl-," the familiar pink one began before Luna cut her off. "What are you doing in my realm, earth pony? Furthermore, who are you?" Luna's voice shook the dreamscape. Ever undaunted the hyperactive pink one responded: "Oh right we met back when you were Dark Snooty, I forgot! My name is Pinkie Pie, and I am here to celebrate your birthday! I heard from Princess Celestia that you were feeling down about tonight and being alone made you really sad. So I came here to help you!"

Completely taken aback and still unconvinced, Luna scuffed a hoof upon the darkened clouds they stood upon. "Why in the name of my sister would you wish to cheer me up? Do you even realize who I am," Luna sighed, darkness slowly clouding her eyes once more. "What I did?" Without missing a beat or stopping for even a second Pinkie Pie responded with a definitive, "nope."

"Then you should know! I committed trea-BANG," began the astral alicorn before being cut off by a loud Bang from Pinkie's handy-dandy party cannon. Looking the princess in the eye, Pinkie Pie said, "You don't understand your majesty, I know all about the taking over Equestria shtick you attempted one thousand years ago, Celestia knows Twilight has told me the tale many many times. In all seriousness" her voice dropped to a sinister silkiness, "I simply don't care." Pinkie punctuated that last remark by running around placing balloons that seemed to appear out of nowhere. Luna stood shocked, could this all be a trick? A cruel joke by her sister perhaps? Pinkie Pie suddenly appeared beside her and admired her handiwork. Balloons, streamers, and a glorious chocolate cake on a wooden table all were set up.

She turned her head towards Luna and spoke softly in a very uncharacteristic manner, "Nopony is perfect, princess. We all have our flaws, our blemishes. We all mess things up from time to time. Be it from jealousy, rage, clumsiness, or simply not paying attention. What you did was indeed horrible, but as far as I personally can tell, your sister and Ponyville are willing to give you that second chance. Dashie, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack may not be truly on board just yet, but here is the thing: I am."

Luna noticed the dark colors before her eyes slowly begin to brighten as the Element of Laughter continued, "If it wasn't for my friends I would...not be here. I suffer from my own sadness and during those times I have come close to simply wanting it to end. My friends were all there for me so I never feel sad and alone. Everyone needs a friend princess. Given what you've been through; your isolation and the desolation you have found yourself in, it is easy to understand why you feel the way you do."

The mare of the night opened her mouth to speak, but one uncharacteristically deadpan glance from Pinkie Pie caused her to close her maw. Pinkie Pie slowly broke into the same smile she always seemed to have as she exclaimed, "and that is why I am here to celebrate your birthday. I came to make you smile, I came to be your friend."

Once more Luna opened her mouth to speak, only to be interrupted and startled by a loud door buzzer. "Wha-," she began. Pinkie Pie was standing in front of a door that had appeared seemingly out of nowhere, talking to a bunch of ponies from all trots of life. The startled alicorn saw pegasi, unicorns, and even earth ponies enter the door. Among those she recognized were, the Wonderbolts led by Spitfire and those strange ponies from nightmare night; Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, and Rarity.

As the dreamscape filled, it appeared as if all of Ponyville and Canterlot was there. These random guests after placing their gifts on the table Pinkie had set up, proceeded towards games that had been set up in the main area. The music got underway as Vinyl Scratch began rocking her epic dubstep groove and the dance floor...wait...dance floor, Luna thought, where did that come from? It was true, an enormous barn-sized dancefloor had appeared and was flashing so many spectrums of the rainbows as the squares lit up to the beat vinyl was blasting.

Luna found her head bobbing to the beat and her front hooves tapping unbidden by her. Before she knew it she had found herself out in the middle of the floor dancing the night away. Wha-how did-, her thoughts were a jumble of shock and uncertainty. Out of nowhere, Pinkie Pie appeared before her and was shouting, "Didn't I tell you? You needed a party for your birthday!"

The princess of the night let out a small chortle, "perhaps you were right pink one. Maybe I just needed to -BANG" Once again, the epic sound of the handy-dandy party cannon filled the air as confetti rained down upon all the party-goers. Luna couldn't help it, she began laughing; not a forced laugh but a natural laugh of joy, alongside all of those at her party. Suddenly, that laughter died and fear clouded her eyes once more, as Luna's eyes beheld her sister, Princess Celestia enter in through the door to her dreamscape.

Bubblegum's Story Time- "Everyone Deserves to Smile, Princess"

Celestia walked towards her, the sound of her hooves thundering in Luna's mind. Her thoughts were going crazy; no what have I done? Celestia, no! How could I..my own sister? Her eyes grew wide with terror as that night played out once more before her, completely unable to prevent the events of that night. Tears slowly dripped down her muzzle, she was about to scream when a soft white wing enveloped her. "Happy birthday my dear sister," came the warm voice of Celestia. "Sister I am so sorry! I couldn't-", Luna started in complete terror.

Luna sniffed as the solar mare embraced her in a warm but firm hug whispering, "let it be my dear sister, the past is just that. I am as much to blame as you were, let us celebrate the present and look forward to the coming years, together."

-in the theater-

Luna heard the sounds of sobbing beside her and turned to see Bubblegum blubbering into a bag of popcorn, "it's so beautiful *MUNCH*. Shaking her head in amusement she noticed tears streamed down her own face as well, though not for the same reason as in her memories.

Meanwhile up north

Starshine shivered. Not from the cold but from the sight before her eyes. Bones littered a desolate landscape. Winds swept through it and the smell of sulfur emanated from cracks in the dry, ash-covered ground. This isn't right she thought, isn't this where the mountain of fire where the dragons lived was? She could have sworn her studies had said just that. Turning to ask her mom, she noticed Celestia had trotted over to a small stone and had lowered her head, whispering "You protected her, you were loyal to the end...thank you, Spike."

Spike, Starshine thought, who is Spike? Wait, could it be General Spike? The mate of Dragonlord Ember? Her mind flashed back to her studies. General Spike was originally the Ambassador for Ponyville. Under directions from Twilight herself, Spike had gone to the Dragonlands to help foster the comradery between the equines and the dragons. Wait but, wasn't that all just a legend? Sure her mom had stated Twilight was real but if that was true then why was there nothing here now but ash and bones? She was pretty sure she had read about an enormous mountain, after all. "we must get moving Starshine. We've much ground to cover and...much to see," Celestia's voice cut through Starshine's thoughts. Shaking her head she spoke, "okay mom!" The two once again began their journey northward.

-back in the dreamscape theatre-
Luna watched as the scene played out on the giant screen, tears silently drifting down her muzzle. Pinkie Pie had pushed Princess Celestia and herself onto the dance floor. As the spotlight fell upon the two, they stared at each other in shock for but a moment. "It is a party, after all, dear sister." Celestia's warm calm voice carried over to Luna, across the now silent dancefloor. Then without warning, she shouted, "So let's dance!"

That night, Luna observed not Princess Celestia but her sister Tia as Celestia let drop the regality of her title and let her mane down. Unceremoniously raising a hoof towards Vinyl Scratch, Luna shouted, "LET US KICK IT!" As the record needle fell once more, the dance floor pulsed with lights of many colors as the two alicorns danced with laughter. Celestia giggled, "this is so exhilarating Luna!"

"Indeed my sister it is the most delightful to let the mane drop and enjoy the festivities," Luna spoke in her royal Canterlot dialect. Celestia smiled and said softly, "It is, however, I was referring to seeing you smile again." Luna stopped dancing as her eyes widened, out of the corner of her eye she spied Pinkie Pie laughing by the punch bowl."We-I need some of the refreshing fruit drink," Luna shouted and ran towards the punch bowl and the fluffy pink earth pony.

Pinkie Pie watched as the lunar princess galloped towards her and giggled. "YOU-I mean-you why did you...do this for me?" Luna nearly roared in her face. Ever undaunted, Pinkie smiled up at the shocked alicorn. She spoke, though not in her usual hyperactive manner, "I told you, everyone needs a smile, princess. Your past, your actions, the only pony who still holds those against you, is you. The ponies of Ponyville, the residents of Canterlot, and even your own sister, none of them, none of us are holding a grudge for what you did. You are the royal princess of the night, your gift of dream walking, your control of the nighttime, they can be a blessing. Your gift doesn't have to be a curse. Please stop torturing yourself, enjoy life for what it is."

Luna stood there for a moment and thought about what the pink one had said. It really was that simple, wasn't it? All the pain and torment she felt, it truly was her being hard on herself. It is time I just let it go, though never forget the lessons learned from it. As she smiled at this thought she leaned down and giving Pinkie a warm hug and whispered, "thank you, my pink friend."

-in the dreamscape-

The dreamscape brightened as the film ended. Tears fell like rain down Luna's face. Oh, how she missed her pink friend. It was inevitable that time would separate them but why did she have to go at such a young age? It was then she heard a familiar giggling and a familiar female voice say with a laugh, "I remember that wasn't that an amazing night?"

Luna's eyes widened as she turned her head and saw not Bubblegum who had been there, but none other than Pinkie Pie. "Pinkie, but aren't you-," she began before being interrupted."I may be gone, but you should know better than to assume I would ever miss a fun party, princess," Pinkie responded with a wink. Luna laughed at the ridiculousness of it all. She had watched her friend being laid to rest two thousand years ago. Yet, here she sat face to face with her long lost friend. "I know that look, Dark Snooty," Pinkie Pie's laughter at the joking nickname was loud, but then dropped to a serious tone, "what is on your mind?"

Luna shouted, anger in her voice, "why did you leave me?" Pinkie's hair deflated to indicate the seriousness of her words before she said quietly, "it was bigger than you or I, princess. Had there been any other solution any possible way the seven of us could have come home that night, believe me, we would have done that. You and Princess Celestia may be immortal but for the good of Ponyville and Equestria; we did what had to be done."
Luna's eyes softened, "I know, I've always known you had no choice, I just miss you" Pinkie Pie booped her on the nose, "Oh don't you dare get all weepy on me during my only chance to talk to you, do me a favor."
Luna said, "what could I possibly -" she began before a now fluffy maned Pinkie Pie interjected, "smile for me. Not just now, but every day. Whatever you are doing, where ever you find yourself, smile. Your smile keeps my memory alive and spreads joy to the tiny fillies and colts. That is all I ask and all I ever wanted for you. Haven't you cried long enough? Grieving is fine, but if you truly ever considered me a friend, smile."

Luna couldn't believe this was happening! However, ridiculous as it was; a spectral form of her best friend trying to get her smile, it was truly just like Pinkie Pie. She smiled as the tears stopped flowing and she spoke closing her eyes, "you are right, after all, Pinkie, you always had a way of making ponies smile."

"Um, Princess Luna?" Luna's eyes snapped open as not Pinkie Pie but a young colt's voice reached her ears. Bubblegum sat in the seat once more, Pinkie Pie nowhere in sight. "are you okay? Who were you talking to?" Luna grinned sheepishly as she mentally thanked her friend. "An old friend, Bubblegum, an old friend."

Bubblegum smiled up at her, "that's awesome! Oh and thanks for the story, it really cheered me up! Pinkie Pie sure was amazing wasn't she?" With that, the blue colt started towards the dreamscape door saying, "it's time for me to wake up, thanks for keeping me company." As he opened the door and stepped through, Luna swore she heard a familiar voice say, "I had a blast, princess."

Now alone in the dreamscape, Luna grinned with a genuine smile muttering, "still the best party pony." She slowly rose from the theatre chair and headed towards the exit, looking forward to the morning sun for the first time in many years.

Claire and Skyflare's Storytime-"I'm Just That Awesome!"

The show was spectacular. Sitting in that seat under the astral expanse of the heavens, watching the special glow-in-the-dark coated Wonderbolts perform tricks, simply gave Luna exhilaration. She was delighted at the way the newest recruits followed orders under the command of Captain Skyflare. Truly he had whipped them into shape. She would be proud to be sure, Luna thought. Looking at the orange winged pegasus soaring side by side with the other pegasi, griffins and dragons, Luna smiled. If only she could be here, to see the changes she had caused, no doubt her response would be-

"YOU TAKE THAT BACK!" The sound of Claire's rage-induced shout shattered Luna's thought process, and she started towards the sound of the commotion. Another voice, a rather taunting male, replied: "She never existed and if she never existed then there is no way you could ever be related to her, you freak!"

Rounding the corner, Luna surveyed the scene. Claire was backed against a wall and was surrounded by three pegasi colts. They were making her feel bad and teasing her about her wings. Luna stamped her hoof and in the rarely used Canterlot voice, she bellowed, "QUIET!" the sound from her voice shook the entirety of Cloudsdale, and you could have heard a pin drop. She glared angrily at the colts, who stood there cowering, before turning to look at Claire with a softened look in her eyes.

"Are you alright?"Luna asked gently. Claire opened her mouth but instead of sounding hurt, she sounded angry at Luna! "Hmmph! I thank you, Princess Luna, but I don't need your pity! I could have handled it myself!" With that remark, Claire angrily pushed past Luna and began to trot away, much to the princess's dismay.
What an ungrateful-, her thoughts were interrupted by a familiar raspy voice chortling, "Ha! She really is just like me, isn't she?" Luna's eyes widened, for there in front of her hovering in the air, was none other than Rainbowdash herself. The rainbow-maned pegasus saluted her, "863rd Commander of the Wonderbolts, Rainbow Dash, reporting for duty ma'am!" Luna couldn't believe this!"I-how did-what?"

Rainbow Dash laughed and said, "I'm just that awesome!" However, upon seeing Luna raise a rather skeptical eyebrow, Rainbow Dash took on a more apologetic tone as she explained, "Okay, okay, what actually happened was this: Pinkie Pie told me how she ran into you and her future descendant and how they seemed to be just like her. So, I asked her if she could do me a favor and use her weird abilities to allow me to see mine. I'm glad I did, too! She is awesome! Though a tad brash, and rather hotheaded, oh and - what?"

Rainbow Dash was staring at Luna who seemed about to speak. She then went completely slack-jawed as Luna responded with a grin, "Oh I see the resemblance for sure now." Looking very indignant Rainbow replied, "Oh, haha, very funny, I believe I mellowed out a tiny bit in my later years. Anyway, want to go follow her?"

Luna's mind was racing. Rainbow Dash had been laid to rest two thousand years ago. She had personally seen and lowered her beneath the soil that day. Yet here she was, hovering before her. A scene flashed in her eyes. The still body of Rainbow Dash lay before her as Luna's tears fell. Her cyan blue wings had been shorn clean off and nothing remained but red stumps where they had been connected. A scream tore itself from Luna's throat. Then just like that, the scene faded and Luna faced her once more. She then spoke, a playful grin on her muzzle, "yes let's follow her I am a bit worried if she truly is just like you."

Rainbow Dash looked about to speak, but it was if the words wouldn't come. Blinking and blushing bright red, she spoke to Luna, in a rather flustered tone, "let's go then." Together they started off after the young pegasus but not before Luna turned and said with a caring smile, "It's wonderful to see you flying again Rainbow."

Meanwhile, at the lifeless plateau

"Twilight, Don't leave me!"

Starshine awoke with a start at the scream Celestia had given and now looked at her mom. She was crying again, though still asleep and tossing and turning something fierce. Starshine examined her position. It seemed as if her mom was desperately trying to wrap her hooves around something, to pull it closer. She wasn't sure what to do. Should she wake her up? Or would waking her up just cause her mom to be distressed even further?

Outside the tent, thunder could be heard, heralding the coming of a storm. Inside the tent, Starshine had sat upon her haunches and pondered what to do, drawing her forehoof up to her chin in deep thought. Time passed ever so slowly as she sat there thinking and soon a torrential downpour announced the storm had arrived.

Sighing heavily, Starshine focused her mind to perform a spell her mom had taught her in order to prevent the rain from penetrating the tent, protecting those within. As the bubble of purple light surrounded the tent, Starshine turned to look at her mother. Celestia was still writhing in terror, unable to wake up from the terror she was facing.

It was then Starshine decided what she would do. She trotted over to her mother and wrapping Celestia in a warm hug, settled in next to her one thought and only one thought in her mind: when her mom was ready, she would listen, the alicorn may claim not to be her true mother but, she had raised her. Caring for her, teaching her life's lessons and just because she may not have been born to the Princess's bloodline Celestia would always be her mother.

Back in Cloudsdale

Claire was sitting beneath a rainbow waterfall, watching as Princess Luna approached from down the hill. Who is she talking to? Claire could hear Luna chatting as if to a close friend, but no one was in sight. "Rainbow, wait up, you know I am not as fast as you!" Luna's voice carried to Claire, whose ears were perked up in intrigue at the sight.

Rainbow? Who was Rainbow...more importantly, where was this Rainbow? Claire sat there pondering this until Princess Luna stood before her, panting and wheezing heavily. The night mare was completely out of breath but looked a tad more cheerful than when they had met. "Looks like you won the race, again, Rainbow," Luna spoke with a smile of pure admiration on her face. What exactly was going on?

Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- Nopony Left Behind

Claire sat there seeing a rather peculiar sight. Princess Luna stood before her and seemed to be talking with somepony named Rainbow. The problem was, Claire couldn't tell where this Rainbow was supposed to be. She watched as Luna's normally serious face was alight with pure joy, though the small pegasus had no idea who she was talking to, it was crystal clear whoever it was, must've been somepony very important to the lunar princess.

"I have missed watching you in action Rainbow!"
(Pause)
"Your speed certainly hasn't slowed."
(Pause)
"Remember that night you helped me play that prank on Tia?HA! When she woke up with a full on rainbow colored mane? Priceless!"
(Pause)
"I remember that! The entire audience standing there dumbfounded when you announced Spike would be flying by your side in the friendship games along with Gilda. I thought for sure Spitfire was going to go into shock!"

Claire was a young filly. Only twelve years old and flightless. She could be hot-headed and big-headed about things. The one thing she was not, however, was stupid. She sat there quietly analyzing the situation. It was clear Luna thought an old friend was by her side. She watched as for the next two minutes Luna held a conversation with no one.As much as Claire wanted to inform her of this, she also took note of the smile on Luna's lips. That smile spoke a story of a prayer answered and hope renewed. Claire made her choice. She was physically handicapped, and she may never be able to fly, but this she knew, was something far worse. All thoughts of anger towards their first run-in vanished, suddenly noticing her handicap seemed rather inconsequential. Luna needed her and she would never turn her back on somepony in need.

She rose off her haunches and approached Princess Luna and vowing mentally to support her in her time of need, put a smile on her face and asked, "forgive the interruption Princess Luna but please may I know who your friend here is?" Luna gestured a hoof towards the emptiness beside her, the positioning indicating a winged pony.

"Claire, this pegasus is the reason for the Wonderbolts allowing dragons and griffins. This is the pony who fought on the front lines alongside Twilight and her friends. She was also my bodyguard on the Nightwatch during the Chrysalis Reformation. Most importantly of all, she was one of my best friends, I give you Commander Rainbow Danger Dash of the 863rd Equestrian Wonderbolts."

Claire stood there open-mouthed, not sure how exactly to respond. Luna looked at Rainbow Dash and laughed, "Ha, she is so speechless to see you!" Rainbow Dash's eyes flashed with pity as she stared back but, only for a second before smiling and suggesting to Luna,"why don't you tell her about the party? Remember when Pinkie Pie invited the dragons and the griffins were enraged over at Griffinstone? I bet she would love to hear that."

Luna said,"why don't you tell her?" Once again, for just the briefest instant, Rainbow's eyes flashed with sorrow."Well, because last time we talked I just finished my shift, went to bed and I just woke up. Besides, you know I love when you tell my stories." Luna knew that arguing with her stubborn mare friend was useless so she said, "alright, I will."

Luna's horn glowed with a light blue magical energy as she focused on the satchel bag at her side. Claire watched in awe as the bag flap opened and out rose a colorful hardbound book. On the front, Claire noticed the design of a cloud with a multicolored lightning bolt striking from it. As the book hovered before the mighty alicorn princess, Luna spoke, "this is the Book of Rainbow Dash. It chronicles everything about her, from her birth to her...Ahem...anyway if you are interested, I could regale you with tales of her daring and loyal nature."

Claire was interested. That was an understatement. Rainbow Dash was a legend amongst every household in Cloudsdale. Her feats in flight and speed still stood on the academy wall of fame for the Wonderbolts. The problem was nopony actually knew anything about her. Claire's brother was related to Scootaloo, believed to be Rainbow's sister, she knew that much. However, all traces of the legendary rainbow-maned, winged-mare had vanished aside from a rather colorful chalk message on the board in the Wonderbolts record hall which stated:

Rainbow Dash - 1.5 minutes, Cloudsdale to Griffinstone, Current Record
Recorded by:Commander Spitfire

Every pegasus aspired to be like her. The Wonderbolts had even made a contest out of it. Anypony, who could break the legendary record, would receive a bit pool jackpot. The cost to try was two bits. The current jackpot was at forty-two million, and the jackpot itself had become legendary. Only full-grown mares and stallions were allowed. Many historians and mathematicians have claimed the record was a fake that it was impossible to fly over three thousand miles in a minute and a half. Still, pegasi went after that goal with a fervor and Claire was no different in her aspirations.

"Yes please!", she practically screamed with excitement. "I particularly would love to hear about her flight from Cloudsdale to Griffinstone!" Luna laughed, the young filly's excitement was as bright as the colors in Rainbow's mane. Turning to look at her friend she could have sworn something was off...did those color's hues get duller?She shook her head and thought, surely not, it was just her imagination. After all, Rainbow was smiling and hovering there intent on listening to her epic tale of awesomeness. Yes, she thought, just a trick of the dim light from the moon. Completely failing to see the look of genuine pain Rainbow gave her before smiling again, Luna glanced once more at the treasured novel. She was about to start reading when a loud voice called out, "there you are sis! I have been looking everywhere for you!"

Commander Skyflare slowly descended to land beside his sister, now out of uniform since the show was over. He nudged his sister after glancing at Princess Luna and whispered, "what's going on? It's past your bedtime we need to get you home or mom will get angry." Giving a formal salute to Luna, Skyflare said directly, "beg your pardon ma'am but it's past her bedtime."

Luna's face took on a crestfallen appearance, before Claire said suddenly, "I can't leave her just yet!" Her brother glanced at her, having immediately noticed the tone of urgency in her voice. He stood there silent as she continued, "Princess Luna and her friend Rainbow Dash, were just about to read tales of her awesome deeds." Skyflare noticed the intense emphasis of the name Rainbow Dash and looked around. He saw nopony, though he knew his sister would not be acting this way without a reason. He decided he should play along until he knew the entire story.

"Oh forgive me, Princess in this light I failed to notice your friend" Skyflare was no stranger to putting on airs. Many events had occurred where the orange pegasus had to be charismatic and deliver speeches. Without missing a beat, he watched Claire for cues and pointed at the air beside the royal princess. "Rainbow Dash it truly is an honor to meet you!"

Luna smiled and said, "please say hello Rainbow!" Skyflare shot a covert glance towards Claire and saw her slight nod and smile. He had figured it out. He smiled as he thought, never one to leave a pony behind were you, sis? Luna spoke up after a brief silence, "without further ado; the night isn't getting any younger. This is the tale of an awesome pegasus, a pair of friends in peril, and the desire to help them, no matter the cost. This is the story of Rainbow Dash and the Rainbow Seen Around the World."

As the brother and sister sat there next to the rainbow falls glistening in the moonlight, Luna began to read. Glancing off to her side for a moment, she noticed Rainbow Dash grabbing a nearby cloud. Then in typical fashion, she lay on it, hooves under her chin, intent to hear one of her greatest friends retell her story.

Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- "Letting Go Can Be Hard"

Chapter 734 of the Book of Rainbow Dash- The Rainbow Seen 'Round the World

Rainbow Dash was laying on a cloud falling asleep. She had been forbidden from flying, by command of Commander Spitfire. She thought back to the conversation earlier:

Spitfire had approached her on the runway and said calmly, "we need to talk."

"But -", Dash began before being sharply cut off.

"MY OFFICE NOW!" roared Spitfire in her no-nonsense-you-will-listen-or-else voice. She then lifted her hoof to point to the building on her right. Rainbow Dash had been a Squadron Captain for over 30 years, she had known Spitfire for much, much longer. She lowered her head in defeat and with a squeaky submissive "yes, ma'am", she trotted into the building. She knew full well that arguing would only make it worse. She sat down in the chair in front of Spitfire's desk and waited, as she had hundreds of times before.

Spitfire didn't keep her waiting long and soon trotted through the door, closing it swiftly behind her. Slowly turning towards Dash, she spoke uncharacteristically softly to her longtime pegasus wingmate, "Rainbow Dash, you have gotten sloppy. Your actions lately have been out of sync and one pony ended up in the hospital due to your being distracted.Dash what's going on? I know you, and this isn't like you."

She looked at her friend in great concern. Dash's eyes were hooded with very pronounced dark circles around them. Her mane was frayed all throughout. What caught her eye most was the fact that Rainbow's fur color itself seemed to have dulled from its usual bright cyan to a more opaque turquoise. Rainbow Dash lifted her head let out a low energy chuckle saying, "It's nothing, Spit, I'm just so tired."

Spitfire ignored the informal use of her name, she was more than used to it after so many years flying alongside Rainbow. She trotted over to a nearby machine and started it crushing some beans gotten from Zecora. She then sat down in her chair and said, "why aren't you sleeping? I would have thought out of all the lazy flanks under my command your rainbowed one would be able to grab some zs with ease."

Through her slightly blurred vision, Rainbow saw the rogueish wink Spitfire had given as she said: "lazy flanks" and this made Rainbow grin widely before slumping back as if trying to recline while sitting."You know me far too well, Spit! The reason though is Scootaloo's girl. The little squirt cries and whines quite a bit."

The machine began to beep, indicating the beans had been liquefied. Spitfire stood up and walked over to the device. Smelling the bitter brown liquid with a satisfied look, she turned and looked over at the depleted form of her friend. She spoke softly, "bless that friend of yours Dashie. Ever since Princess Twilight created this portable device. I've developed a fondness for this homemade clarity potion. It really makes the workday bearable."

Taking great care picking up the bubbling pot full of liquid using her hooves, she poured them both a steaming mug of the rather aromatic beverage. She walked over and handed one of the mugs to Rainbow Dash, who graciously accepted. She then sat down and took a nice long slow slurp, before continuing: "that's what foals do, after all, Dash."

Rainbow Dash did not for a second miss the sad tone in her voice and started, "Spit...I..."

Spitfire raised an eyebrow, "this isn't about her Rainbow...my daughter was a Wonderbolt, she knew the risks. This is about you and your lack of sleep. I know your sister has asked you to watch after her daughter while she attends Bootcamp, and I respect your resolve. However, you need sleep so I am going to make this simple for you. I, Commander Spitfire hereby forbid you to fly for the next week. Go home and get some rest."

Rainbow Dash opened her mouth to protest, but before a single word was uttered Spitfire said simply, "we need you back in top shape ASAP, we will be limited without our best flyer. You look about to drop Dash...do this for me, please. I can't lose you too. You are the closest thing I have to true family. Please go get some rest."

She smiled when she heard Dash respond with a proud salute "Yes ma'am, sorry for worrying you." After a warm hug, Rainbow whispered, "thank you, mom."

Now she was here, grounded by her commander and snoring rather happily. She really did need the rest, anymore exertion could very well spell her end. She was out of energy and so she lay there lost in peaceful slumber. Sadly that was not to last. She opened her eyes slowly when she heard a loud pop next to her.

A scroll lay beside the curled up Rainbow. She slowly grabbed it and as the words came into focus, she read them. Without hesitation or thought of anything else, she stood up and leapt from the cloud flourishing her wings. She flapped them once, twice as she took off towards griffnstone, one thought on her mind; I must help them.

As she flew, she felt no exhaustion only the pain of pushing past her limits. I must help them. I have to go faster! The letter in her mind: Rainbow we need you. Party went wrong. Dragons. Gilda is angry. Help! the letter had been hastily scrawled, with no grammatical or punctuational awareness, which meant only one thing: Twilight was frantic. They need me now! I have to go faster...or I won't make it!

Rainbow dug deep, she had zero energy but strong resolve. She would make it; she would save them. As these thoughts coursed through her mind, Rainbow Dash's speed increased. Slowly at first but more and even more still. Her body was wracked by agony as she went past her own record, going faster still. Her body felt ready to rip at the joints, yet faster she went. A huge spectrum of color gathered around her as across the sky she flew racing to save her...

Teardrops stained the page as Luna who had been reading began to cry. She whispered almost silently, "I can't do this anymore."

Claire saw the emotional princess's breakdown and ran to her side in an attempt to console her saying, "Princess Luna, are you alright?"

Skyflare rushed up and gave her a hug saying, "it's okay, we know how much she means to you, you don't have to read this if you don't..."

Luna shook her head violently, "that isn't what I meant!" she turned to look at Rainbow Dash and said, "I...you were willing to risk everything for those you cared about, no matter the cost...yet all I have done is be selfish towards you, demanding you stay by my side like that will help. Some friend I have been. Besmirching your memory with my tears."

Rainbow Dash gave her a warm smile and said, "it's fine, enough with all the mushy stuff, I don't mind staying here with you."

Luna looked Rainbow in the eye and stated firmly, "no, it isn't fine" She then lowered her voice and said with a misty-eyed smile,"do you remember that night, Rainbow? How we confided in each other our deepest of thoughts."

Rainbow Dash's eyes widened, "oh you mean the poems we wrote?"

The astral mare grinned and nodded, "I have a prose, just for you."

Rainbow said with a smile, "do tell, mare of the night."

Luna smirked and said in a sorrowful yet resolute voice:

I tread the dark,
The truth before my eyes,
Yet here I stand blinded,
By my all self-told lies,

I tell myself you are here,
Though I know you aren't,
A night mare though I am,
I still fear the dark.

That day you were laid to rest,
Before my very sight,
Your wings torn to shreds,
Just to protect me in that fight.

You gave your all,
To protect everyone,
And even though you're gone,
I remain in anguish,
I simply can't move on.

I now am reading your tale of awesomeness,
To a young pegasus who bears a resemblance,
To a spry upstart, I used to know so true,
The tears are in my eyes,
The pain, it burns when I think of you.

You were the fearless guard,
Who protected me that night,
Your squadron's bodies lying still,
You told me we'd survive.

You said you would protect me,
That together home we'd fly,
I wanted desperately to believe you,
But sadly it was a lie.

That blow was meant for me,
But you shoved me to the side,
Your loyalty was endless,
But because of me, you died.

As I watched in horror,
Your wings fell on the ground,
You then fell beside them,
My screams echoed all around.

Even though you lost your wings,
In my mind, you still soar,
With that goofy smile,
And confidence galore.
Yet here I am,
Seeing you once more.

I know that this isn't right,
And even knowing that,
I won't let you take flight.

I know you left long ago,
This is just delusion,
And honestly, the time has come,
To face true resolution.

You need to go,
I understand this now,

There is one thing left to say,
And though it kills me so,
If I don't do this now,
I fear I never will.

Believe me, when I say this,
Your memory will always be in my heart,
Giving you some life,
Though time keeps us apart

If only for this moon,
You were back by my side,
For you an amazing pegasus,
My friend, the time has come to say goodbye.

The tears flowed down her muzzle as she smiled at her long lost friend. Rainbow hovered there for a moment as she listened to the words of her friend's heart. She then was silent for a moment before responding in a poem of her own:

I know you never got to say goodbye,
But the sad truth of the matter is neither did I,

You see, I loved you princess.

No not in physical ways or romance,
But as my sister in arms,
As against the blades,we danced.

The ground was red,
The outlook bleak,
And so we all sat down.

In that circle round that fire,
Writing our thoughts down.
But you and I,
Preferred our prose to such boring letters.

And so we did converse,
Not by simple word of mouth,
But poetry and verse.

A single word was never said,
And yet the paper showed,
The bond we shared it was true,
The result we both had known.

The ambush came in the night,
The firelight it glowed,
And there simply was no choice,
I knew you had to make it home.

I did my best to soothe your nerves,
That loud and frightful night.

I have no regrets,
You were worth giving up my life,
I would gladly do it again,
I would willingly pay that price.

To serve a princess with a heart so true,
For what you have done this night,
I am truly proud of you.

You were my friend, your majesty,
Also something more.
That bond we shared as sisters,
Shall blaze forevermore.

I may be gone,
But never forget this one, simple truth.
If you carry me in your heart,
I am always with you.

Before Luna's eyes after these soft, caring words had been spoken Rainbow's form vanished and her vision cleared. Before her, stood both Claire and Skyflare, she reached up and brushed away the last of her tears before smiling with genuine joy. She spoke to them both while looking at Claire, "thank you for being here, who knew even after all these years...there was still something I could learn about loyalty."

Claire smiled and Luna saw her echo her ancestor, "no pony ever gets left behind, sometimes all a pony needs is support from another. Letting go can be hard."

Luna laughed and Skyflare said softly, "what was she like?"

Luna, instead of showing sadness, grinned and said, "she was awesome! Why don't we finish that story now?"
"Oh yes, please!" Skyflare and Claire both shouted. With that statement and a new light in her heart, Luna continued the tale of the one the only, awesome Commander Rainbow Danger Dash, as the stars twinkled overhead.

As the sun slowly rose, Princess Luna closed the treasured volume, having spent all night reading it. She bid farewell to the two pegasi after escorting them home to explain what happened to their mother, who had been worrying.

"Forgive me, ma'am they were with me...they were helping me with a rather important endeavor." She said with a wink to the other two. As she turned away she saw a rainbow glint in the sky but only for a moment. She smiled. You will be with me forever Rainbow, she thought as she began her flight home, no longer grieving over her lost friend.

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime-Celestial Distress

As Luna dwelled in Cloudsdale that night,

"Princess Celestia, why do you do this?"

Celestia listened to these words as she knelt on bended knees before a figure, who to her was larger than life. I am so sorry, she thought frantically as tears streamed down her muzzle and dripped down onto the stone floor she rested on. The room was cloaked in shadows. The only light was that from a flickering, slowly dying candle. The small candle flickered and sputtered as her thoughts grew grim and even grimmer still. I was such a fool! I gave that order, and you paid the price! Why couldn't it have been me?

The figure stood almost as tall as Celestia herself. Its wings outstretched to their full extent as it looked down at the sniveling form of the once proud solar princess. Slowly it folded its wings to reach towards Celestia. I accept my fate, and your wrath thought the white alicorn as she closed her eyes and braced herself. Instead of anger, however, Celestia found herself wrapped within in a warm hug as the wings pulled her close to the figure. A soft female voice whispered to her, "it wasn't your fault, I've said this many times. Sadly these words have fallen on deaf ears. Every night you appear here. Every time I try to reach you, try to let you know I forgive you. Since that isn't working, I've decided to try a different method."

Celestia raised her muzzle to look the figure in the eyes. She saw the amethyst eyes of her former student and the Princess of Friendship staring back with a warmth of patience and love. In the glow of that gaze, Celestia's tear stopped flowing. As Twilight wiped away her remaining tears, Celestia saw not her student but her friend who had been in charge of the Friendship School. The pony who had used all her power to unite the Dragons, Griffins and even Yaks of Yakyakistan to gather under the same banner in peace and friendship. She knew she couldn't argue, nor would she, not with her of all ponies. Celestia bowed her head submissively and whispered softly, "What would you have me do?"

Twilight's voice reached her ears, "you need to go back, back to where Ponyville began. You have forgotten one of the most important values one can hold in one's heart. Your view on Starshine is very flawed, and to learn the truth I want you to visit the once well-trodden home of one of my closest friends. Princess Celestia, you must visit Sweet Apple Acres."

Celestia was non-plussed. In a rather confused voice, she asked her former protegee, "that place has been abandoned for years, though. What could possibly be learned from visiting a run-down orchard, that hasn't been tended for centuries, Twilight?"

Twilight laughed, "your despair has blinded you far too long, princess."

It was then that Twilight's voice went from warm and caring to a no-nonsense, yet extremely firm voice. Much like that of a parent lecturing a child. "You will go to that farm and you will stay there until you understand why I sent you there! I don't want to hear another peep about it, nor do I want to see you set one hoof outside that farm until you have done so."

Celestia cringed slightly at the way Twilight spoke feeling almost ashamed of herself for her actions, though she had no idea why.

"Am I clear, your highness?", the disciplinary voice was gone replaced by the warmth and care once more. Celestia nodded, tears slowly falling down her face. Twilight's purple hoof came into Celestia's sight as she felt her chin lifted slowly until she was looking into the eye's of the Princess of Friendship. Those amethyst hued eyes stared into hers with care and concern as she began to speak.

"I am not mad at you, Celestia, I am concerned for you. Your pain and despair have consumed you. It is time to break you out of this shell of woe. Trust me, you need this. Now do as I have asked and open your eyes, it is time to say goodbye for now and you have a sun to rise."

Celestia slowly blinked and looked around as her surroundings came into view. She was on her side in the tent still, it was very dark. Beside her she could hear the snoring of a small pony; her daughter. She smiled softly and gently, yet elegantly rose onto her hooves. Leaning down she nuzzled the sleeping unicorn until her eyes opened. With her horn aglow with the light of the heavens themselves, Celestia whispered, "time to awaken sweetie, it is time for me to raise the sun, would you like to bear witness?"

At once, Starshine went from a sleepy filly to an energetic purple unicorn. "Yes, mommy!"Shouted the superexcited pony before her. Starshine was always thrilled and extremely anxious whenever the chance to witness magic was available.

Celestia laughed and opened the tent flap, revealing the glowing purple orb Starshine had made. Celestia looked at her, "Starshine, what is this?"

Starshine looked nervous and scuffed a hoof at the ground. She knew she wasn't supposed to do magic without supervision from either her mom or Princess Luna; her Aunt. "It was raining" she began under the gaze of her mom, "and I was worried you would get wet..you were already having such a horrible dream and-."

Celestia spoke, "you cast a shield spell all by yourself?"

Starshine nodded. Celestia smiled warmly, "oh, sweetie that is wonderful! This is the first time you have ever cast a spell without help! Oh, I am so proud of you. "
Starshined grinned in relief as her mom gave her a huge warm hug, "thanks, mom!"

Celestia continued slowly starting out of the tent, "such a wonderful construction as well, good quality. Now let's raise the sun and start a new adventure."

Starshine watched in awe as Celestia's horn glowed with a golden hue and prepared herself for the majestic sight of the sun rising into the sky. However, as Celestia slowly raised her head, the sun didn't rise. Starshine thought maybe being watched made her mom nervous and so she tried to cheer for her. "Mommy you can do it!"

On the outside her poise and grace were elegant, but inside her mind, Celestia was drowning in miserable thoughts, one after the other. She calls me mommy. I'm not her mom! I don't have any right to think of myself that way. These thoughts changed into sheer panic when she saw the sun fail to rise. What's going on? Why isn't it obeying my summons?

Behind her Starshine who had been cheering slowly trotted up and tugged on Celestia's mane, "mommy? Where is the sun?"

Celestia looked at her and her eyes wide whispered, "I don't know Starshine."

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- Unbalanced Harmony

Meanwhile in Cloudsdale

Luna's horn glowed a steady blue as the moon sank back into slumber. She stood before Claire and Skyflare, having just made her peace with Rainbow's passing. Glancing at the strangely blacker night that hung in the sky, she realized something. This isn't right, the night should have ended by now, what is my sister doing? The moon is down, where is her blasted sun?

"Princess Luna, are you okay?"

Claire had approached her and asked her with concern in her eyes. Luna placed a smile on her face and said, "who wants to finish that story?"

That's right, Luna thought. I'll just distract them, no need to cause a panic. Besides, I am rather enjoying this time together. My sister should be able to handle this, maybe she just slept in. She had been looking a little worse for wear lately. Maybe some extra rest would fix it. The sun can wait. Upon raising the moon back into position, Luna opened the book once more and began to read to the two pegasi, as the night continued to drone on.

Back in the desolate plateau

Celestia was in a mental panic. Why wasn't it working? The sun had always heeded her summons. Even as a filly the sun did as she bade. Yet try as she might the sun would not show. Upon hearing her daughter ask where the sun was, Celestia turned to face her replying, "I don't know Starshine."

However, her daughter wasn't there. Standing in her place wings flared and disappointment stamped upon her features was none other than Princess Twilight Sparkle. "Why are you still here, Celestia?"

"I - the sun, why won't it rise? What is going on?"

Twilight shook her head slowly side to side and lowered her wings. In a soft voice, one almost wracked with pain, she replied: "I told you, Princess, your despair, it has consumed you."

Celestia sounded confused as she responded, "My despair? This is bigger than my pain. This is important Twilight! Why isn't the sun rising?"

Twilight's wings flared full spread, as she spoke with the one and only Canterlot Voice, "LISTEN TO ME!"

Celestia cowered and fell to her knees as Twilight's voice returned to normal. Folding her wings once more she said, "Sorry for the yelling princess, but there simply no other way to reach you in that state. Your despair has brought this upon you, upon Equestria. The magic that you, Luna, Cadence and even that which I once wielded all are gifted by the Elements of Harmony. No, not the tree or the symbols of stone we wielded, but rather the different aspects of harmony itself. The pegasi are gifted with the ability to direct and control the weather. The unicorns are gifted with the magic of discovery, engineering new and improved ways of life. Earth ponies are connected to the land itself allowing nature and life to thrive even in most inhospitable of locales as they grow food and tend the woods. However, we are something more. Our magic was gifted to us, with a higher purpose than most ponies. "

Celestia listened intently as Twilight continued. "We, the alicorns, guard the balance between chaos and nature of Equestria. Princess Luna, with her abilities to call forth the night and raise the moon as well as guard the dreams of those in Equestria. Cadence with her ability to understand the very essence of love and help others realize the magic of hope, though that gift, has been passed onto her daughter. Myself with what was the power to unite and lead as true friends, though now my gift has been received by another as well. "

Twilight paused and seeing she had the princess's undivided attention continued. "Then we have you, Celestia. The power of the heavens themselves, to raise the sun and see the truth of what must be as well as what can be. Together these four gifts, four unique powers, control the balance of light and dark in Equestria. Unfortunately, this magic only reacts to the balance within our hearts, when you are in balance with yourself Celestia. What you see in the sky currently is the reflection of your heart as it currently is. Your current state of mind is so oblivious to all the things going on around you that you have lost touch with Equestria, and as a result, of the magic that you embody. Until you regain balance within your own heart, your magic will not work."

Celestia was wide-eyed in horror after hearing this. For countless eons, she had wielded this power, yet had never realized the truth behind it. Trembling on her knees before Twilight, she stammered. "W-what should I do?"

Twilight leaned down and gently gave a comforting nuzzle. "The answer," she whispered gently, "can be found in Sweet Apple Acres."

Upon whispering these words, Twilight stood up and as Celestia lifted her head to gaze in awe, her horn glowed a bright magenta. The glow from her horn enshrouded her body. Her wings flared open and from her lips came just two words. "Now go."

Then in a brilliant flash of light, she was gone. In her place was Starshine once more. Starshine was looking rather concerned. From Starshine's perspective, her mom had been frozen in place stiff as a statue this entire time after answering her question. "Mom, are you alright?"

Starshine breathed a sigh of relief as her mom after five minutes finally moved. Turning her head once more to glance up at the darkest night she personally had ever witnessed, Celestia spoke to the young unicorn before her. In a strangely resolute voice full of determination, Celestia stated: "Starshine, we need to go back to Ponyville, or rather we need to visit some old friends of mine."

An hour later

Celestia pointed a hoof at a small pair of grey rocks under the only known Appear tree in Equestria.She and Starshine stood before them in the backwoods of the rundown, once a thriving orchard, of Sweet Apple Acres. On the stones, Starshine could make out the following words:

"Here lies Applejack, A proud sister, an amazing Applebucker, my hero"

"Here lies Applebloom. An amazing pony, A proud mother, A loving wife, An inspiration to ponies everywhere."

Starshine turned to ask her mom who they were, only to be stopped by a single tear falling down Celestia's muzzle. Looking at her daughter, she said softly, "I knew them Starshine, I was here when they were sent to that final Apple Family Reunion on the other side. I remember when Applebloom carved this inscription. Then sixty years later, she fell ill and went to join her big sis. I'll never forget that smile on her face or her last words."

"Do ya think mah sis will need help bucking those apples up there, princess?"

Starshine opened her mouth to respond when suddenly a voice behind them sounded. "Beg yer pardon marm, but this hill is off-limits to non-family."

At once another more feminine voice sounded, "Oh, Dar-ling what is going on?"

Celestia stiffened, it couldn't be! Those voices were unmistakable, though. It had to be them. As she turned to face them, she shouted, "Applejack, Rarity how-."

The ponies before her may have sounded like Applejack and Rarity. A single glance at them, however, made it clear they were not. One was a mare and the other a stallion. Celestia took a moment to look at them. On the stallion's head sat a rather coifed, blonde mane. He stood roughly one half her own height,. Though aside having a what looked like a bolt of cloth for a cutie mark, was the exact spitting image of the famous family oriented pony. Even his freckles on that orange colored face were the same.

Turning her attention to the alabaster-colored mare, she noticed a spice bottle on top of a half apple as her cutiemark. on her head sat none other than the Apple family hat. Passed down from generation to generation, ever since Applejack gave it to Applebloom, it was considered one of their most treasured family heirlooms.

The white mare spoke again, "Ah'll be a pig's auntie, it's Princess Celestia!"

Taking the hat off her head, she revealed her messy purple mane and a unicorn's horn. As she held the hat to her chest, she spoke softly, as her eyes watered. "Mah ma always told me you would come to visit us here."

Beside her the stallion was looking at the princess as well, but for a different reason. In fact, he appeared to be analyzing her armor. "Oh, Dar-ling that design is not befitting of such a regal such as yourself, come! I shall have to fix you up proper!"

The mare laughed suddenly, noticing the shocked look on Celestia's face. "Oh, where are mah manners? Fergot to introduce mahself, ma woulda tanned mah hide fer sure. Mah name is Applespice, an this is mah husband, Bolt. Ah got dinner on th' table but there is always enough fer more!"

Starshine looked to her mom and back to the two ponies before her as her mom spoke in a warm voice."You know who I am, and this is my daughter, Starshine. We would be honored to join you for dinner."

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- Apple Pie

Princess Celestia and Starshine were led down a path through the orchard towards what looked like a rotted old wooden barn. The roof had a hole near the top. The sides were pitted and dotted throughout with cracks and dents. Time has not been kind to this place, Celestia thought darkly. As she noticed the rotting and decaying corpses of the once proud apple trees as they had trotted slowly down the path.

The sign to the farm hung on a single hinge and clattered against the wooden arch as the wind blew a listless, chilly gust upon it. Sweet Apple Acres it stated in the dull fading paint. A relic of days far more cheerful. Celestia's mind flashed back to a very proud orange earth pony giving her the tour of the orchard and her little sister eagerly offering her a cup of delicious cider. Those were indeed brighter times, Celestia thought bitterly as they passed a small worn down metalwork statue.

Starshine was trailing behind her mother, when the sound of sniffling reached her ears. Turning towards the sound she saw a small filly staring at her, the face of the young pony showed a great sadness.Blinking, Starshine opened her mouth to greet the strange silent filly, only to notice it was gone. Looking all around her in confusion Starshine saw no pony but her mother, who had turned once more to gesture with her head. "Starshine,come."

The purple unicorn shook her head as if to clear her thoughts and once more began to follow her mother towards the rundown barn. The elder mare and her aged husband were waiting there patiently for the princess and her daughter. "Coming mommy!"

Soon, she stood in front of the rotted wooden door. The barn itself looked as bleak and intimidating as the property on which it stood. Starshine noticed the slats that made the side were slowly deteriorating and dirt and debris had dulled the once brilliant red paint. Unsure of what lay ahead, she looked to Celestia for guidance. Her mom smiled warmly at her and gave a small comforting push with her wings, letting her daughter know she was safe. Taking a deep breath as the chill in her bones seemed to vanish, Starshine pushed open the oaken door. With a loud protesting squeak of the rusted hinges it swung inward to reveal a most curious scene.

The interior of the wooden structure was in a single word, homely. Glass mason jars held small fireflies, which gave off a gentle orange glow. The table was a beautiful and detailed craft of metalwork. It gleamed and glistened of polished copper welded together using iron accents. Around it sat four matching chairs. The smell of smoked apples wafted through the air, supplied by the applewood flooring and a small pan of freshly baked apple fritters, cooling on a wood stove top.

"Ah hope y'all don' mind apple fritters fer dinner."

Starshine heard Applespice, and her soothing down home accent as her mouth watered in anticipation. Turning to look at her mom, she saw her nod in approval. "That sounds wonderful..."

Applespice winked at the solar mare and exclaimed, "an of course what would a visit to an Apple be without tryin' some of mah homemade Applespice Cake?"

Celestia immediately dropped her royal demeanor and swiftly rushed to the table, drooling in anticipation upon hearing the words 'cake'. Every creature in Equestria had long since been aware of the royal princess and her love of cakes.Starshine trotted over to the table before taking a seat, silent laughter causing her eyes to water at the amusing sight.
Sitting at the table, she witnessed Applespice opening the oven and pulling out the perfectly cooked form of a large double layer cake. From it, wafted the most calming fragrance of Golden Delicious apples and a hint of cinnamon as well as roasted...pears? Sniffing to make sure she wasn't mistaken, Starshine confirmed that the layers of cake were connected with pear jam!

Off to the side, while his wife served the dinner, Bolt trotted over to a nearby metal contraption and pulled a lever. Starshine's eyes went wide with wonder as a flame appeared and silent burned inside the device warming the area considerably.

Once the strange contraption had been fired up, Bolt came over and sat down at the table next to his wife. The poor stallion was then bombarded by questions from the ever curious Starshine. "What is that? How does it work? Did you make it? Does it run on magic? If so how did you use it, being an Earthpony?"

Bolt cast a bemused eye in Celestia's direction. The princess gave a small laugh as she sipped a rosehip and apple tea that Applespice had just poured her. "I would answer her. She won't stop otherwise."

Bolt smiled and shook his head in amusement before turning to Starshine and giving his response. "Oh dah-ling. That device is what we call a forge. Yes i did indeed make it myself, with these very hooves many years ago. You are quite observant dear, as it does in fact harness magic. The magic is supplied by my lovely wife, and it was also her design. By pulling that lever there, I can create a spark by compressing the magic within, when the pressure around it builds high enough a spark is created from combustion. Inside the machine is a special shell to contain and regulate the magic."
The conversation carried on with both of them going back and forth, while Celestia and Applespice held their own little counsel. "She is adorable, yer highness. Ya should be very proud."

Celestia smiled and replied, "raising her has been my proudest achievement to be sure."

Noticing the slightly off toned response, Applespice attempted to ask Celestia a question, though she was interrupted by Starshine. "Ah noticed ya both sport different coats, is she ado-"

"Excuse me, but why didn't that filly I saw join us for dinner?"

Everypony in the room stared at the young unicorn in disbelief. Celestia traded nervous glances with the other two before asking her daughter, "Starshine, sweetie, what filly?"

"The one that was standing in the center of the yard! She looked so sad, did she do something wrong?"

Applespice's eyes were wide with shock, swallowing hard she asked, "Sugarcube, what did this filly look like?"

"Oh, she was about as tall as me, with freckles, and I believe she had a light red coat with an orange mane and tail."

Upon hearing this, Applespice began to cry. Worried she had done something wrong, Starshine began to apologize. "I'm so sorry I didn't mean to be nosey. I'm sure there is a reason for it."

Celestia whispered, "Starshine, did this filly have a cutiemark?"

"Yes mommy! It was plain as day, an apple pie!"

The color drained from Celestia's face. "C-can you show us exactly where you saw this filly, sweetie?"

Unsure of what was going on, Starshine felt she had upset the adults somehow. I have to fix this, she thought. Starshine nodded. "yes mommy! Follow me!"
Racing from the barn with the others hot on her flank, Starshine ran up to the little statue that they had passed earlier. "I saw her right here!"

Starshine felt an ominous chill crawl up her spine and spoke in a slightly anxious panic "W-what's going on? Mom-my why is it so c-c-cold all of a sudden? Why is everypony so worried?"

Bolt pointed at the statue and spoke in a toneless voice, "take a look at the statue beside you."

Starshine turned to examine the worn out metal figure beside her. The statue was made from welded iron. Time and exposure to the elements had corroded it. The details appeared to be carved with amazing precision. The waves and curves indicated a mane, hooves, and a small hat. The tail was almost completely gone, but what was left was very well styled. On the side of what looked like a flank was a small symbol of an apple pie. Below the statue, in a barely visible etching were some words. Starshine squinted to make them out:

Apple Pie

Here lies our daughter, taken from us before her time. May we meet again at that final Apple Family Reunion one day. Ah couldn't protect...

The scratchings below indicated it continued, but were far too faded to be read. Starshine eyes widened as she understood.Princess Celestia looked at Applespice and gave a small encouraging nod. Applespice stepped forward and taking a heavy breath, said "Sugarcube, that filly you saw were none other than the daughter of Applejack, herself."

Applejack? Starshine knew that name just couldn't quite place it and so she put her hoof up to her chin to ponder it, when it struck her. "The Applejack? The General of the Earthpony Division? That Applejack, the Mythical Mare of Honesty?"

Applespice smiled, "the one an' the same, Sugarcube! Ah reckon ya've heard all about her in yer fancy Canterlot classes."

Starshine thought back to her classes before the summer vacation had rolled around. "Princess Flurryheart once taught me about how Applejack was famous for her strength enough to rival even Rockhoof, and was honest as the day is long as well as very family oriented. On the battlefield she was known as the "den mother" by all those under her command. Legend has it she would refer to them as family, never as soldiers."

Applespice grinned. "Aye that were Applejack, indeed!"

Her voice sunk low with a serious tone. "However, there is a tale about her known by few, an told by none. Yer see, it isn't widely known but, she had herself a daughter. A beautiful little filly by the name of Apple Pie. An' one day, while her ma were on the frontlines handling a dispute between the dragons and griffins, her daughter met with an 'orrible fate."

Starshine shivered as her vision blurred. Shaking her head, she attempted to clear her sight, only to be greeted with the filly from before staring back into her eyes. Feeling frantic she looked around for the adults, but they were gone. Turning back to look at the small earth pony before her, Starshine spoke. "Are you Apple Pie?"

The filly answered calmly at first before becoming startled. "Aye ahm Apple Pie, wait, ya' can see meh?"

Starshine wasn't sure what to say. Pondering how to answer for a moment, she began to recall a lesson taught to her by her Aunt Luna back when she got her cutiemark:

"Your magic is a very special variety Starshine. It comes not from the elements of harmony themselves but from the spiritual energy you feel surrounding you. The emotions felt by others, by channeling your desire to help them, you draw forth the ability to cast your magic. You may not possess the ability to raise the sun or the moon, Like your mother and myself. However, you do have the ability to soothe the restless, to grant peace to those who are off balanced. When you are older, I promise I will explain more. Until then, please do not use magic unless your mother or I are present."

Starshine's horn glowed as glanced at Apple Pie. The air around the young filly's form shimmered and swirled with red, blue and green energy. As she observed this phenomenon, she gave her answer. "I can. I can also see you have a bit of a tale to tell, don't you? Why don't you tell me, why are you so sad?"

The red in Apple Pie's coat seemed to darken around her muzzle, indicating a blush. "Ya' can see right through meh can't ya? Mah tale is not one Ah enjoy tellin'."

"I want to help you.Please tell me."

Apple Pie stared at Starshine. The fiercely determined look on the purple unicorn's face told Apple Pie she had no choice. The small spectral pony, sat down on her haunches and as Starshine watched her with her horn aglow, she began her tale of days long past.

-five minutes ago-

Celestia had seen her daughter's horn glow and had tried to snap her out of it. Now she stood beside her daughter, sobbing, for Starshine had stopped breathing. The only sign to indicate what was happening, was the small glow of bluish violet surrounding the tiny unicorn's horn.

Applespice turned to her and began to speak. "Yer majesty what's goin' on?"

As her tears subsided, Celestia turned to look them in the eyes. Wrapping a wing around her daughter, she spoke softly. "She has gone to bring peace to a fallen Apple."

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime- "Her Fate Is In Your Hooves"

Starshine stood in the strange emptiness staring at the young filly before her. Apple Pie sat on her haunches staring right back at her. The little spectral pony spoke in an almost wanting-to-please voice. "erm...should ah begin, marm?"
Starshine wasn't sure what to do or say, she opened her mouth to speak. The words that came out however, seemed to come from nowhere. She was pretty sure she didn't intend to speak them. Yet, as she said them, they felt instinctively right. "Do you truly wish for another chance? Do you truly wish me to learn of your past?"

Apple Pie could tell something had changed about the unicorn in front of her. She seemed strangely more mature, almost as if wisdom gathered from eons of existence had suddenly filled her. She had no desire to attempt to deceive this strange pony. She could see from the blue fire blazing in her eyes, that Starshine would not tolerate it. She felt afraid. For the first time since her end, she genuinely felt fear. She was completely at Starshine's mercy, and she knew it.

Staring into those merciless eyes, Apple Pie saw a small twinkle. That twinkle suddenly filled the spectral pony with an immense surge of hope, like perhaps she had a chance. She spoke directly to Starshine in a firm voice, "Ah want nothin' more, marm. Please hear of mah tale an' learn of mah regrets."

With a nod of approval from Starshine, Apple Pie began her tale of woe. "It all started when mah ma got appointed ta the position of head o' th' Earthpony Division of th' Friendship Guard of Equestria..."

Starshine's eyes went wide as Apple Pie's words slowly lessened in volume until she could no longer be heard. Instead, as her mouth moved images began to appear all around her. The pictures depicted a young filly watching as an orange pony in a cowboy hat was given news of her promotion. The tiny filly suddenly grew angry and filled with jealousy. Starshine could tell because the tiny filly was suddenly engulfed in the green glow she noticed earlier as well as red. It was strange. Somehow it felt natural for her to observe this. She watched as the orange pony glowed with a soft pink light while hugging the small filly followed by a blue glow as she left the barn.

What am I seeing? Why am I seeing it? These thoughts flooded her mind at once. A voice she had never noticed before told her to focus, to observe, to understand. "Pay attention, observe her emotions, see the truth, set her free."

That voice was calm, yet affirmative. Just as calm waters contain deep secrets, Starshine could tell this strange voice was the calmest amidst the stream of fastpaced thoughts she had been having. Who are you? Thought the purple unicorn. The voice responded with a warm determination, "I am that which you had stolen, I am you."

Starshine was non-plussed. Me? She thought. The endlessly patient tone replied. "Yes, I am you. Now focus on the matter at hand, her fate is in your hooves."

That voice sounded warm, safe, and inspirational. Starshine wasn't sure what was going on, however she felt she could trust it and so she determinedly began to focus on the spectral pony before her once more. What am I looking for, though? No sooner had this thought popped into her mind, then the voice claiming to be "herself" responded. "Do you see the colors around her?"

Yes, she thought. Ever calm the voice responded. "Those colors represent a spectrum of emotions she is harboring in her heart of hearts. These emotions cannot be seen by others. What I mean is, you are analyzing her soul."

Alright but, why? She asked. "Right now she is on trial. You are the judge, the jury, and quite possibly her executioner. You are searching her life, her very existence, to learn why she strayed from the Path of Harmony."

Path of Harmony? What is that? Starshine still was attempting to process this as the colors flowed.She was still mentally noting each and every one. That is when she saw it. Apple pie lowered her head in shame, as she confessed her deepest regret. In that moment Starshine saw a large glow of gold surround her. She feels remorse, Starshine thought. She didn't know how or why she knew what it meant. The only thing she knew was it was genuine regret and remorse for her actions.

A slew of thoughts popped into her mind. You say I am her judge, jury maybe even her executioner? What does that mean? Also, why do I have this ability? Also, what is this Path of Harmony? The voice responded with a tone of absolute certainty, leaving Starshine no cause to doubt it. "The young filly before you was sentenced to a horrible fate after she had met her end. What she did, was thought to be unforgivable by those at her trial. As penance she was forced to wander the ethereal plane until now. She is neither amongst those of Equestria nor amongst those of the Otherside. Before you she has bared her soul, everything she has thought about from then until now. Your part in this is to decide if she has learned her lesson, does she deserve a second chance? If so, she may yet again see her mother on the Otherside."

Starshine interrupted the voice with her thought. What happens if she doesn't? The voice though calm was filled with sorrow. "Then she will be sent to Tartarus, with no chance of redemption. There will be no other trial, no other chance for her salvation. You hold the final verdict. You must decide what becomes of her."

You still haven't answered my other questions. "Everypony in life walks a path. This path is known as the Path of Harmony. Remaining balanced with morals and choices of good will keeps one on this path. Should they stay on this path; their road leads them to the Otherside. However, should a pony lose the light within they then become consumed by darkness. The choices they make continue to lead them further and further astray. They become lost, also known as Fallen. The destination for those who have fallen is a fate worse than any living creature could ever imagine enduring."

Why me though why do I possess this ability? There was a small silence, then she heard the words that made her blood run cold. "You can thank your birthmare as well as her six friends for this ability, though I do not believe the time is right for me to explain further."

What? Birthmare? You mean mom? Her mind was racing. "No, but that is neither here nor there, you must focus Starshine. In time you will understand. Right now however, you have a role to play, a job to do. You have seen the evidence. You have witnessed the dastardly acts committed, and you have seen the heart of the one before you. You must decide, what shall become of her?"

While Apple Pie sat waiting in anxiety, she saw the unicorn before her deep in thought. Who is she, why did I feel so willing to share my story? Apple Pie couldn't answer any of these questions in her mind. That tiny filly before her seemed like a mare of untold wisdom and stature. She couldn't help but feel like she was being scrutinized not by a filly but by a full-grown pony of true regality. It was as if the highest authority was before her and she was slowly being crushed by the gravity of a power she could never comprehend. Why am I feeling this way? Apple Pie continued to sit still, afraid of offending the tiny purple unicorn and waited for what was to come.

One more question, Starshine thought. The voice responded with a patient, "yes?"

What right do i have to choose the fate of another? There was another silence and then, "you were chosen by the elements to do so."

After a few nerve-wracking moments, Starshine opened her mouth and gave her verdict. Her voice gave no hint of emotion, though it carried with it a strange sense of authority and age beyond her years.

"Apple Pie when you left Equestria you were convicted of your past regrets.At that time you showed no emotion, no feelings for those whom you inflicted with misery and pain. You were convicted to wander the ethereal neither above nor below in order to gather insight as to what occurred and to see if you could ever be redeemed. You have presented your case, baring your soul before myself. I have weighed all relevant facts and have reached my verdict. in the name of the ponies who have suffered. For all those you caused to leave before their own time, I hereby judge you to be ..."

Five hours ago in Sweet Apple Acres
Princess Celestia stood with her wing draped over her daughter's still body. Applespice and Bolt stood slack-jawed. "Erm beg yer pardin yer Majesty. What didja just say?"

The princess thought carefully about how to respond. She did not want to cause a panic, yet she could not deny her daughter was not breathing.The fact of Starshine's glowing horn made explaining even more tricky. what to say...

"Starshine will be fine, she accidently cast a sleep spell upon herself. The poor filly, still trying to get a hold on her magic. We should probably get inside before the rain starts. Please help me carry her to the barn."

The solarmare was lying through her teeth. The truth of the matter was she had no clue what had happened to her daughter. One moment she was breathing, the next her body was stone cold. She knew Starshine possessed a unique form of magic, though how it worked or even what it did, was a mystery to her. Her mind was running rampant with terror. I can't lose her again! In her state of panic, she had defaulted to a very old habit, denial. Nothing is wrong, she is simply sleeping. Surely it will work out, like it always does.

The problem was, Applespice saw right through the veil. However, she could also see the fear in Celestia's eyes. A simple country pony, Applespice always believed there was nothing hospitality couldn't solve. This situation was no different. Deciding to play along, she turned to her husband and spoke. "Th' princess is right Bolt. Ah reckon we should get the young'un tucked in fer the night. Tomorrow she'll be right as rain."

Unlike his lovely wife, Bolt was a very well-educated pony. Back in his youth, he had graduated from Canterlot Academy having earned a full degree in Engineering. He saw the situation, and like the engineer he was, analyzed the different variables involved. Starshine was still. Celestia was scared. His wife knew this and she had a plan. "Oh dah-ling" he said with a flourish of his mane, "I do believe you are right, besides this humidity is atrocious for my mane."

Bolt carefully draped the still form of Starshine across his wife's back. Applespice then led the way as the three of them headed back towards the barn. Once they were back in the barn, Applespice made her way up to the loft, to tuck in the still unicorn she carried. Bolt had sat Celestia down at the table once more and proceeded to serve her a slice of cake. I don't know what my wife plans to do, he thought to himself I can bet though whatever it is will brighten your mood princess.

Picking up a nearby war hammer, Bolt proceeded over to the forge and began the process of forging a new set of armor. Celestia watched him, spellbound. All thoughts in her mind vanished, replaced by wonder. This effect continued as she watched the artistic almost poetic way Bolt smelted, shaped, and formed the metal to his will. It was as if the earthpony possessed a special magical connection to the metal itself, as it bent and molded according to the stallions desires. Completely distracted by the enchanting display, Celestia failed to see Applespice had joined her at the table. "Yer daughters all tucked in fer the night. It's a mervolous sight ain't it, yer majesty?"

Celestia momentarily startled, turned to face the country unicorn who was speaking to her. "I really appreciate your help with that. I didn't see you there. I was just watching the way your husband bends the metal, and seems to communicate with it. It truly is a wonderous sight to behold. Quite a strange aptitude for one having been born an earthpony of Apple Heritage."

Upon saying this, a thought struck Celestia. "Then again, it is quite odd to see a unicorn wearing the hat of the Apples, and living life as a earthpony would."

Applespice's eyes widened. Celestia was acting a bit nonchalant compared to earlier. Did she simply not care, or could it be her unwillingness to believe what had happened? Either way she needed somepony to lean on during this time of need. Smiling with delight at the inquiry of the princess, she realized this was a great way to get the princess's mind off her daughter. "Very many moons ago, two little fillies, a colt and a mare, went ta the royal castle in Canterlot. A tradition had been started makin' it common fer fillies, before them were to go to classes fer th' first time, to attend a storytime with two royal sisters. Th' storytimes involved legendary heroes and heroines of the past performin' heroic deeds not since witnessed. Th' two little fillies were completely in awe, ov'r the stories of two particular ponies. Their names were Applejack an' Rarity. Th' tiny colt were enthralled by th' stories of the amazin'ly generous and fierce, yet delicate nature o' the Mythical Mare of Generosity; Rarity. The young unicorn mare was delighted an' enchanted hearing about th' rough and rugged nature of th' strong yet family oriented earthpony known as Applejack, the Mythical Mare of Honesty."

Celestia's eyes showed great interest in this tale. Applespice continued and as the light from the forge glowed to the rhythmic pounding of the war hammer, Celestia listened as Applespice began to tell her story. The black of the night sky, slowly becoming brighter with each and every word spoken.

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime -When A Lie Becomes The Truth- Part One

The interior of the kitchen faded from Celestia's sight as the words of Applespice painted a scene in her mind. A tiny unicorn was looking at her mom, Topaz Veneer. Topaz Veneer was touted as the best of the best, the top of the fashion designing elite in the whole of Canterlot. The small filly was begging her mom to let her become a farmer. Her mother was quite outraged at the thought. "Ruby Rayon, you are a descendant of one of the most prominent ponies in all forms of fashion. Why would you ever choose to do the job of some common, mud-wallowing earthpony?"

"Mom! They are not 'mud-wallowing'! They are amazingly strong and resilient! Being an applebucker sounds like so much fun! Using your own four hooves to harvest giant rocksolid trees of their bounty."

Topaz was aghast. "No daughter of mine is going to do sweaty, manual labor like some filthy commoner. You are going to go attend the Rarity college of Fashionistas, and you will then open that bridal store you dreamed of, just like we planned."

Ruby looked at her mother angrily. "That is your dream mom, not mine!"

Mrs. Veneer looked at her daughter with a look of pure disgust. "Don't you dare backtalk me you ungrateful filly. Do you know how much work I put into planning your future, so you can be sucessful? Applebucking? Just think of what reputation a daughter of mine having such a worthless and pathetic profession would give me! You will be a fashionista. This conversation is over!"

The tiny alabaster unicorn filly looked pleadingly at her mom. "But mom-"

"This topic is over, it has ended! I am your mother and I know best! End of story! Go to your room!"

With a heavy heart the tiny blanked-flank unicorn trudged upstairs to her room. She stood by the window, staring out into the Canterlot Marketplace, as she stood on her hindquarters so she could peer out. That is when she saw him. A tiny orange colt in a stetson hat. He possessed a mane that was a deep blonde in color and seemed to be running a tiny, homemade wooden stand selling apple juice. What caught her attention most, however, was the fact he was an earthpony. She wasn't sure why looking at him made her heart race, but she grabbed her piggy bank and threw it into one of the many purses her mom had forcibly picked out for her. She then flung open the window and began using her own four hooves to climb down.

A unicorn though she was, she preferred using her own physique over what she called, an elitest snob's magic. It wasn't easy climbing down the rocky exterior of the boutique. Gritting her teeth, she slowly moved hoof over hoof exploiting the tiniest of crevices and finally made it, thirty meters down to the street below. The tiny rough and tough alabaster unicorn known as Ruby Rayon then began to make her way over to the stand of the orange earthpony.

Ruby finally made it to the stall, she found herself extremely upset by the sight before her. The orange colt was gaunt, almost malnourished. His limbs were shaking from weakness, and his eyes, were dulled from lack of sleep. Ruby watched as the grownups just ignored the small earthpony's state. She stamped up to the colt and pointed a very manicured hoof at him in clear annoyance. "You there!"

The earthpony's eyes widened. Before him stood an angel. He noticed her purple mane was perfectly styled and those eyes! He felt he could get lost in such pools of deep color. The orange colt couldn't hear a single word being said, though he sure noticed her ruby red lips. The creamy white of her alabaster colored coat. He stood there captivated by the sight of her. He was shaken from this entrancement by her stamping her foot in frustration. "I am talking to you! Don't you dare ignore me!"

The gaunt pony looked at her and blinking opened his mouth to respond. however, to Ruby's horror, his eyes rolled up and he fell to the ground. It was quite apparent he had not eaten anything for days. Worried, she rushed to his side and lay her head against his chest. His heart was still beating, but barely, as if it was struggling to keep the pony alive. Lifting her head, Ruby screamed out for somepony, anypony to help her and the poor earth pony. "Help! Please help me!"

Ruby's eyes went wide as she noticed the unicorns, though having heard her quite clearly, simply turned up their snouts as they eyed the fallen earthpony and walked past. Ruby's eyes narrowed. She turned her head back towards the fallen colt. There was no other way. She would carry him herself. Her horn began to glow and a small red glow surrounded the colt. Using her magic, she carefully levitated the prone form to drape across her back. Once he was on, she galloped to the nearby horsepital, in hopes of revitalizing the poor earthpony.

The colt whimpered, his ears having picked up quite a bit of yelling. He slowly opened his eyes and painfully lifted his head to observe the scene before him. The angelic unicorn from before was shouting at a terrified mare in a nurses outfit at his side. "If he doesn't wake up, I promise you. You will know my wrath."

Sitting at the kitchen table, Celestia sat. Hooves under her chin she was completely drawn in by the narrative. The cake in front of her forgotten as she listened. Suddenly a thought caused her to dart her eyes to the forge once more. A blue glow emanated from it. Wait a blue glow? Wasn't Ruby Rayon also known as Applespice's magic red in the story? How strange. Glancing from the forge to Bolt, she noticed a red tinged aura enveloping the hammer though only just. Very curious indeed, thought the celestial princess. Once more she turned her attention back towards Applespice. "what happened next?"
Meanwhile in the ethereal plane

Starshine stood watching as the tiny filly known as Apple Pie ascended towards the Otherside. The earthpony no longer showed a look of torment or sorrow. Instead on her face was the biggest grin. As she vanished from sight, Starshine heard her say with genuine emotion, "Ma, I'm home."

The eyes of Starshine went wide with shock as she saw the same orange colored pony from the story and heard her sweet, southern voice respond. "Ya made it just in time sugarcube, the whole family was just about to take the family photo!"

Before the orange pony turned to leave, she looked at Starshine and in a broken voice, spoke to her. "Thank you, Starshine. I honestly thought it wasn't possible, but you brought my daughter back to me. That filly means the world to me. I never thought I would see my daughter again. Your mom was right, our time maybe long past but our values are still alive in those we left behind. Then again, I guess she always knew best. That's Twi for you, anyway, take care sugarcube."

Starshine smiled and turned to walk away feeling rather proud of herself, when she found herself face to face with a rather strange creature. Before her stood a clearly female creature bearing the resemblance of a Pegasus but also the physical attributes of the long lost draquonicus race. Her eyes were a rich emerald, given to her by her late mother as were her yellow feathered wings. Her tail was a gift from her dad, almost seadragon-like in appearance. The horns on her head resembled that of a goat though twisted in an odd way, as had been her fathers. Her coat was a pale yellow, and on her flank was a strange design; almost resembling a butterfly but with a lightning bolt forked in two slashing through it.

She Ignored the fact she had just been bumped into. The female hybrid of a creature spoke in a soft voice full of contempt yet compassion, in a strange way Starshine could not explain. "That was touching. Now there is a vacancy in MY lovely Tartarus and a new resident on the Otherside, how annoying. You must be the one she told me about. Finally, after two millennia we meet face to face once more, Starshine Sparkle."

Applespice and Bolt's Storytime - When A Lie Becomes The Truth-Part Two

Starshine stared at the rather intimidating creature before her. Who was this strange looking creature? How did she get here? Most important of all, have we met before? Starshine was quite sure they had never met before, surely she would recognize such a strange creature in a heartbeat. It seemed rather odd that the creature had used the words 'once again' putting such emphasis on it, especially if they had never met before.

It stared back at her, those emerald green eyes staring fiercely into her own. After a moment of silence, it spoke in a taunting yet amused voice. "Oh, I guess I do look rather peculiar, don't I? It makes sense you wouldn't recognize me in this form, after all what has it been...two thousand years since we last talked? I noticed you didn't recognize Apple Pie. I surely shouldn't have been surprised you've forgotten me as well."

Starshine's mind was a whirl with activity. Did she just read my mind? Surely not, it was just a coincidence...right? The feminine beast before her laughed playfully. "Heh, absolutely impossible! I couldn't possibly be reading your mind. After all no pony possesses that magical ability...right Starshine?"

Staring into those emerald eyes, Starshine felt a strange warm feeling. It was almost as if... No, it can't be, how could I possibly know her? The creature spoke once more. This time her voice contained the tone of sorrow and misery. "Starshine...have you forgotten us all? Do you truly not remember Apple Pie?"

Starshine shook her head. The creature continued her words becoming more and more frantic with each name given. "Claire! You know Rainbow Dash's daughter! She used to let us visit her at the Rainbow Factory every Tuesday!"
"Bubblegum! Pinkie Pie's son? He threw parties on our birthday!"

As Starshine continued to shake her head, the creature finally screamed at her almost as if in desperation. "Do you remember Fluttershy's and Discord's daughter? Do you remember your best friend forever? Do you remember your marefriend? DO YOU REMEMBER ME?"

Starshine was completely bewildered. "I-I'm sorry, I think you may have me confused with some other pony. I'm only eight years old, not two thousand. I am sure I would remember meeting you as well. Especially if we were as good of friends as you say. I don't even know your name."

Those emerald eyes flashed momentarily to a shade of a golden hue but only for a moment before the daughter of Fluttershy and Discord began laughing in a maniacal way. "Oh how rude of me! Nice to meet you once again Starshine, my name is Scr-"

She stopped and looked almost confused. Starshine noticed the hesitation and unsure of what was going on she asked about it. "Is something wrong?"

Those emerald eyes took on a tearful appearance. Her face was that of someone who was lost and scared. "It's not important! My name doesn't matter."

Starshine recognized that haughty tone and her mind flashed back to constellation class with Aunt Luna. The Astral Princess stood there before her pointing a hoof towards a particular patch of stars in the night sky. "Starshine, do you know which star is the leader in the constellation of the Ursa Minor?"

"Of course I do! It's erm...uh...hmm..."

"I am waiting young filly."

"Why does knowing the star's name even matter?"

Luna sighed and patiently explained. "The name matters, young filly, because the name is a representation of existence. Knowing the name of anything is proof of its worth and the fact that it matters, even if only minutely such as the stars in the night. Having a name means someone, somewhere cared about it enough to name it and share that knowledge with Equestria. Never forget the importance of a name. Also for future reference the star is named Polaris, it is known as the leader since ..."

The scene faded away, and Starshine looked at the poor creature before her. The pain was clearly written on her face, and the tone gave it away. Starshine ran up to her and wrapped her hooves around her in a warm, comforting hug while whispering softly, "you don't know do you?"

The indignant creature huffed. Pushing Starshine away she replied. "Of course, I do! My name just doesn't mean anything to a silly filly of a unicorn who can't be bothered to remember it! After all who could forget their own...name?"

Starshine heard it. The tremble in her voice on that last word was as clear as the crystalline formation that made up the Crystal Empire's royal castle. Starshine stared at her with her eyelashes raised. "You aren't fooling anyone missy. Now stop with this charade."

Those emerald eyes began to tear up as the creature lifted her only pony hoofed foreleg to her muzzle to stifle a sob. "I-it's just been so long. So long since another pony said my name. So long since I said it..."

Starshine stared at her for a moment, unsure what to say or do next. That's when that voice she had heard earlier whispered to her with a soft yet sorrowful tone. "It is time young one, ask her about the incident two millennia ago. Learn the past and who you truly are, How this all came to be and most importantly, get back what was stolen from you."

Meanwhile Back in the Kitchen

Celestia was frustrated. Having listened to the tale of Bolt and Applespice, she somehow felt as if something about that story was off. Bolt had been saved by Applespice and together they ran off to make their own way in Equestria. However, the descriptive way Applespice described Bolt's encounter was odd, to say the least. The story seemed to be focusing on the beauty of Ruby Rayon, the unicorn from the story and who would later become Applespice, the pony in front of Celestia telling the tale. Why did it feel like it was being told from another's perspective, though not directly? It's almost as if... Celestia's eyes widened as she finally realized what was going on. She held up her hoof to silence Applespice and turned to face Bolt who was still thudding away with that war hammer. Her next words caused the warm atmospheric glow of that wooden building to suddenly feel as chilling as the surrounding orchard. "Ruby, why did you perform such a ritual, one that is considered taboo even amongst the princesses?"

Standing in the Ethereal Plane

"What did you just say?"

Those emerald eyes took on a slight glint of shame and guilt as Starshine asked her question once more. "I asked can you tell me what happened two thousand years ago?"

Starshine saw the creature before her bowed her head in sorrow as she stated. "Two thousand years ago, Equestria was ravaged by an uncontrollable chaos. It made the purest of ponies turn darker than the night in the sky right now. The hearts of those we cherished most, were corrupted. Your mother, my mother...our parents were nothing before it's might. One by one, the shadow engulfed them. The legendary heroines of Equestria, became the heralds of its untimely destruction."

Starshine's eyes were widened in pure shock. Seeing the disbelief in her eyes, the creature continued. "The Celestial Princesses along with the children of those seven, confronted them, determined to stop the madness as fires razed the fields and the ground cracked and fissured..."

Starshine heard her voice trail off, she knew it must hurt to revisit the past. Still she had to know, though she was terrified of what she might learn and yet she asked anyway. "What happened after that?"

Those green eyes began to tear up as she tried to choke back a sob. "They were too far gone. Nothing the children of the Mares of Harmony did could break through. The princesses were cast aside, wounded horribly...and the screams of the soldiers filled the air. Everything was lost...but then as her best friend watched, a unicorn mare stood back up. Before the might of her mom, she was helpless, but she kept standing back up as her wounds grew greater in number and the ground she stood on was soon dyed red. Finally, she too fell, unable to rise again."

Starshine was completely enchanted by the tale, seeing the battle almost materialize in her mind as if she was there. She practically startled the hybrid before her as she screamed the following. "WHAT HAPPENED NEXT?"

"She was a special mare. Having long since achieved marehood, the daughter of Twilight Sparkle was rather unique. You see, from filly to adult; she had never received her cutiemark. Having never shown an aptitude for anything but fostering harmony with others, she then stood before the seven mares, a blank flank.

She begged her mom to stop, to just listen to her heart. Sadly it was not to be. As her mom stood before her, horn glowing over her daughters fallen, bruised and beaten body it happened. The horn of the blank-flanked unicorn began to glow an unearthly blue. It took on the appearance of ghostly fire as the glow encased her own body.

As everypony present lay, still and unmoving the cutiemark of the mare appeared upon her lilac flank. I will never forget it. A star, similar to the one her mom possessed, only it showed five small firey flares around it. The star itself was the same color as the magical glow emanating from her horn. The star had chains within wrapping around it and stretching out and connecting to those five firey flares. "

Her voice broke. Tears began to fall down the creature's muzzle. Starshine saw the pain and the aura surrounding her. It was lavender tinged with blue. she was in love Starshine thought. She opened her muzzle, speaking softly and offering a hug to the miserable creature before her. "You don't have to continue if it hurts too-"

Lightning flashed as the creatures eyes became yellow in anger. "Be quiet! I...this needs to be said. My feelings on this matter have lain dormant far too long! Let me speak!"

Starshine noticed she didn't refuse the hug and gently clung to her, whispering just one word softly. "Continue."
The creatures yellow eyes shifted back to emerald and she smiled almost brokenly, enjoying the warmth of that hug. She slowly closed her eyes and recalled that horrible night.

"The glow encompassed the battlefield, bathing all present in its glow. Everypony's eyes were opened, the pain that had been felt slowly dissappeared. All were amazed! It was a miracle, the wounds of each pony and creature present had slowly vanished! We were healed! Then, that mare's friend saw why. It was true that all the pain had faded, that the wounds and scars healed on those in the area, however they didn't just heal.

No, those wounds had been transferred to the brave mare. As her friend watched, as everyone stared wide-eyed, the mare's flank and skin erupted in red, it dripped slowly down her hide as she gasped in uncontrollable pain. She gasped as her vision clouded over slowly. No pony moved, the air on that scorched earth was chilling.

Twilight Sparkle screamed in horror. She, like the other six had been bathed in the light as well. Like all others present her friends and her's wounds had vanished and their eyes had been cleared to the truth. She rushed to her daughter's side, begging her to hold on. As that mare's friend stared in shock she saw that unicorn smile at her mom. "You al..ways said that *cough* y-you would sacrifice everything for...Equestria, mom. I-I lo- *cough* love y-y..."

With those final words, her daughter stopped breathing with a warm smile on her face. Twilight held her daughter's head to her chest and cried. As all watched on, the Princess of Friendship then was pulled forcibly from her daughter's body, the tears coursing down her muzzle as she screamed in protest. "My baby! No! STARSHIIIINE!"

She was cuffed in anti-magic binders and dragged over to where her friends waited under the gaze of the armed guard of Canterlot. A trial was held a few moons later. The event was projected to the entire realm of Equestria. The seven mares didn't bother defending themselves. Each pleaded guilty and acceptance of any outcome. Shortly later an announcement by Twilight was said in her normal soft voice. "Loyal subjects, we swore to protect the balance of Harmony, to protect those in need. Yet here I stand, guilty of the greatest crime a princess can commit. By my hooves, Equestria has crumbled. We the mares whom you sought guidance from stand guilty of far too many crimes to be accounted for."

That mare's friend watched the announcement, her heart broken into many pieces. Then it happened, the event that no pony could have forseen. Twilight continued as a strange smile showed upon her face, all while gesturing to the six beside her. "We however, refuse to step down, without righting at least one of our greatest follies. We love everypony and these are our final words."

Rainbow Dash, former Captain of the Wonderbolts was then heard. "Remember to be daring!

AppleJack's Earthpony accent was heard. "Always be honest, show hospitality to everypony. Remember we're all family."

Fluttershy's timid, compassionate tone was next. "Never forget to show acts of kindness.

Pinkie Pie was heard snatching the mic. "Everypony don't forget to smile and have fun..what is this a funer..oh...yeah, well don't stop smiling!

Rarity's sultry unicorn voice caused a few stallions and mares to quiver where they stood. "Always be generous dah-lings! Also remember, tomorrow is mare's day and only a fool would wear brown and red in the bedroo-"

Starlight's counselor voice was heard. "Don't let your past, prevent your bright future."
Finally, Twilight could be seen. She spoke softly. "It was my honor serving you all, but the time has come for another to step up. Farewell. Celestia please, forgive me but we will not be going to Tartarus as planned."

Everypony watched in shock as the seven formed a circle and smiling lovingly at the crowd through the now projected scene. There was a glow around their bodies and then a flash. Her mare friend couldn't believe it. When the flash cleared, Starshine stood there, looking rather confused amidst the seven still forms of the mares of Harmony."

The creature seemed to have finished her story, but Starshine was confused. She stated simply. "I don't understand. You claim that a chaotic power took control of the Mares of Friendship back then? If that is so where exactly did this power come from?"

The creature's eyes flashed yellow once more and she smiled maliciously. "For that answer, we will need the testimony of the ponies that started the whole mess. The ponies, who changed our destinies. The sisters who cast a spell so forbidden it altered our very reality to what we see today. We need to talk to her highness, Princess Celestia and her sister, Princess Luna."

The Final Storytime- The Princess of Redemption

"Haven't you ever done anything stupid, for somepony you cared about?"

Simple words. Eleven simple words to answer one potentially important question. Celestia sat upon her throne with a slight frown upon her muzzle. Starshine and her had returned home an hour ago, the sun still refusing to bend unto her will. The answer Bolt, no, Ruby Rayon had given her still had her flustered. The words had annoyed her, so much so that she had draped Starshine's still form over her flank and flown back in a huff.

"How dare she? How dare she presume to speak to me in such a manner? She swapped bodies with her stallion simply for the fact she loved him? So what if Apple Pie's conviction caused him to not want to be an Apple? How dare she defy the laws of the heavens in such a manner?"

Celestia slowly rose while shouting out these words, her tone indignant and conveying much annoyance through her body language. She smashed a hoof down onto the tiled floor, slightly cracking it as she roared to the heavens in anger. "I don't care if it is for love. There is never a just reason to perform such forbidden magic!"

Suddenly the royal princess of the sun shivered as a chilling voice called out behind her. "Tell me your...highness, which pony was it exactly who turned back time? All because a certain pony she cared for deeply perished one day as Equestrians everywhere watched, I wonder."

Whirling around Celestia found herself face to face with...Discord, no wait that's impossible, she thought. Looking closer, she noticed only some resemblance to the legendary chaotic being. What was before her, was an amalgamation of draquonicus and pegasus. "Who...or what are you? How did you get in my castle? You can't fool me; you aren't Discord."

The sad tone in the voice of Celestia was more than noticeable to the creature and so it replied in a familiar, soft-spoken voice. One that Celestia had known quite well. "I am not, you are correct. I am his daughter and I was there, your majesty. I saw what you did that day."
"What are you talking about?"

The hybrid mare before Celestia began to huff in frustration, becoming angrier in tone with each word spoken. "We had the perfect life. Apple Pie was poised to take second in command of the royal guard, your royal guard I might add. Bubblegum had just been promoted to manager of Sugarcube Corners. His mom even threw a party to celebrate! Claire had just surpassed her mother's flight record. Even Commander Dash and retired legend Spitfire herself publicly announced she would be Dash's successor. Ruby and her husband Apple Bolt were proud to run Rarity's Boutique."

Celestia was looking around wildly, as if afraid, as the clearly angry creature before her started towards her. The creature continued. "My mother and father were so proud of their daughter. I had finally awakened my ability to control chaos. Finally my best friend, Starshine had given birth to two beautiful foals. That wasn't good enough for you, was it princess? All because Princess Twilight decided to atone for her crimes and perished. All because she sacrificed everything she had to bring her daughter back."

Celestia was taken aback. "What in the royal lands of Equestria are you saying Daughter of Discord?"

Now mere inches away from Celestia's muzzle, the creature roared at her. "YOU RUINED EVERYTHING, JUST SO YOUR PRECIOUS PRINCESS WOULDN'T PERISH! STOP PRETENDING YOU HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT WHAT YOU DID!"

The royal sun mare shook her head and looked strangely confused as she replied in a patient tone. "I have done no such thing. I haven't the faintest about what you are referring to. However, please take a moment and compose yourself before my patience with you wanes too thin, young one."
The creature's tone lessened seeing the apparently genuine confusion on the princess's face. "I was there in the crowd. I saw the projection, and I watched as twilight saved her daughter. I saw your horn glow, I saw the flash surrounding Starshine. Don't you dare deny you cast a spell to attempt a time reversal...your highness."

Celestia's eyes narrowed in anger, still she kept her calm tone, though her frame was shaking in rage. "You would dare to accuse me of casting such a forbidden spell? Do you truly realize with whom you are speaking to? I am Celestia the Eldest of the two sisters to rule Equestria. I have been in charge of this land for countless eons. I was gifted with the power to move and listen to the heavens themselves, and you dare accuse me of going against their wishes? Young one, I believe the time has come for you to leave my sight, if you wish to leave at all. I would never go against the law of the heavens, even to save one I love or cared about. Now please, go."

"But I saw-"

"THAT IS ENOUGH."

A booming voice echoed from the doorway and shook the walls of the very room in which they stood. Turning their heads towards the doorway, both beings saw Princess Luna slowly trotting towards them with the now conscious Starshine by her side.

"Young creature, I know not why you are accusing my sister of such crimes but thou would be most wise to curb thy tongue."

Starshine's eyes widened. Her Aunt Luna was angry, that slip into her Ancient Canterlot dialect had been very apparent. Unlike her sister, Luna had no qualms about being upfront with her anger. Luna shot a sideways glance towards her sister. My sister may be forced to remain poised and disciplined she thought as her wings flared wide I have no such obligations. The lights on the wall went out, one by one, as she passed.

Starshine's mind flashed back to a conversation with Celestia one night. "Starshine, many herald me as the ruler of Equestria, many sing my praises for many deeds throughout the ages. The truth is, however, few know the truth of those moments. You see, I sit upon my throne and govern Equestria now and though i commanded my troops, your Aunt Luna led them into combat. Fiercer than the soldiers, she would approach the foe unarmed with swords, bows or spears. Instead, Luna would harness the darkness within the night and would use it to truly terrifying effect. Her viciousness and the fact she never backed down, earned her the nickname of "Nightmare." Before Twilight, her friends, or even the elements themselves, she helped Equestria settle it's disputes. Her strength was legendary. As was her loyalty to my designs for Equestria back in the warring days, when we sought to overthrow a chaotic tyrant. It was thanks to her, that my rule was established. It was thanks to her Equestria was brought into an Era of peace against the chaos. As sisters, we both took the titles of 'Princess' rather than making me a 'Queen' or 'Empress' as a promise to each other that we would rule side by side."

Starshine's mind snapped back to the situation at hand, as she heard a whimper from the creature as Luna approached, her anger very apparent. "Thou are treading very unstable waters young one, now apologize."

These words were emphasized by Luna's eyes glowing a rather luminescent shade of sea green. The creature however either failed to see these signs or maybe she simply did not care. Instead of lowering her tone she began to yell at Luna. "You stay out of this, your highness! You are just as guilty as she is!"

Luna's horn began to glow as she stood there rather offended. "What did thou just say, whelp?"

The tone was soft, silky, and very dangerous. Starshine opened her muzzle to speak. "Au-"

Celestia stormed forward, placing herself between the two. her wings flared shoving the two even farther apart. Her voice was that of a mother; patient yet very clearly dissapointed. "That is enough Luna and you as well. Both of you calm down and think for a moment."

Celestia had been observing the conversation, watching the subtle signs. The slip in dialect, The eye color change it was clear as crystal what Luna was thinking. Celestia had acted quickly in order to prevent any further losses. She would not allow her sister to become that again. "Luna, no more."

Luna rounded on Celestia her words clearly portrayed her emotion. "That creature has accosted my pride sister, as well as your-"

Celestia glared and spoke, slowly lowering her wings once more. "I do not care, it is not worth the risk of losing yourself again. As for this one, I sense she has true belief in her own words. Now then, let's for a moment at least, entertain this notion of hers. Do we not possess a spell for displaying one's memories?"

The lunar princess stood there slack-jawed. Did she stop us from fighting because of that? "Sister, you know I won't-"

Celestia gazed into Luna's eyes and spoke firmly. Her voice had a you-will-listen tone in it. "Luna, answer my question."

The legendary nightmare herself began to shake as she felt the words of her sister. She was strong, vicious, and merciless. However, before that gaze she was truly outclassed and knew from experience what defying her sister would bring her. Lowering her gaze, her voice took on a timid tone. "Yes sister, third shelf, second row, under the Twilight section in the royal library."

The solarmare's gaze softened. She turned to the creature and spoke gently. "If what you say is true, you should have no issues with proving it to all present."
Without awaiting a reply she glanced at Starshine. "Please go fetch the spell scroll, sweetie."

Starshine ran off, galloping at tremendous speed until she reached the royal library. She thought about how she had spent hours upon hours and even days, reading the stories written by the Cutiemark Chroniclers. Though as she looked through the rows of books, a thought caused her to be confused. What scroll? She had never seen a section of the library containing scrolls before. She was quite sure she had ventured into every possible nook and cranny in the one acre wide room. She still marveled at the fact that a spell her Aunt cast eons ago, could make a room bigger on the inside than the outside.

She was so lost in thought she didn't even notice when she bumped into something solid, knocking her onto her hindquarters. Gazing up dazedly at what she had bumped into, she saw the lilac color of a very familiar face peering down at her with a sad smile.

"Hello, Starshine, my daughter."

Seconds turned to minutes and finally an hour had passed. Princess Luna grew annoyed and stamped her hoof impatiently. "Where is she?"

Celestia's face looked slightly worried. "I...am not sure, do you think she got lost?"

At that moment Starshine stampeded into the throne room, completely out of breath. "I...got it."
Using her own magic to levitate the scroll out of a pack on her back, she passed it to Princess Celestia, before sitting on her haunches, breathing rather heavily. The princess of the sun gingerly wrapped a warm white wing around Starshine to show her gratitude. She then spoke to Luna. "Alright, according to this we need to-"

Working together, the Celestial Princesses each went to one side of the hybrid, and horns glowing cast the spell on the scroll. The scroll shot twin beams of light, landing square upon the hybrid's forehead. A large projection screen appeared, linked to those beams, in the middle of the throne room and so the memories began to play.

Starshine watched the screen, unblinking. She focused so hard the room itself seemed to vanish from sight. The trial played out. Before her eyes, Princess Twilight and the other six fell to the ground, still and unmoving. There she stood! The Starshine in the memory looked around her and screamed. Starshine heard Celestia yell, "Luna bind her, quick!"

Both of the celestial princesses stood there, tears streaming down, horns aglow. Suddenly, there was a flash of light, as a glow surrounding the mare on the screen exploded outward.

The image changed, they were in a deserted landscape. A creature stepped into view, a long serpent like body and the screen began to pan upwards. A strange head appeared complete with horns twisted in a chaotic fashion. "Serenity, my darling Screwy, are you all right?"

Celestia nodded to Luna and both alicorns lowered their horns causing the projection to fade. Everycreature present stood silent as Starshine stood there in shock. It wasn't them...it was me. She opened her mouth to speak, her eyes orbs of watery sorrow as she remembered the conversation she just had in the library.

"Princess Twilight?"

"Yes, I suppose so, though another time, another world you once called me mom."

"How are you here?"

"You need to focus. I do not have much time to talk."

"what's going on?"

"In another world, at a later time, a pony cast a spell to reverse her sorrow. The spell was corrupted by interfering magic, and this world was born as a result. Time was reversed, that event never occurred, but time itself is succumbing to the corruption."

It was me. Starshine's heart pounded. Ba-Bump. The guilt began to show on her face as she recalled those words spoken. Why hadn't she realized?

"I-I don't understand, can't it be dispelled?"

"The spell cast was of my own creation. To dispel it requires a special type of magic. Only the caster can dispell it."

It was me; it's my fault Ba-Bump-Ba-Bump, her heartbeat seemed to ring in her ears as she stood there dumbfounded as the realization of what that conversation had meant dawned on her. How could she have been so clueless?

"Please tell me how!

Her flashback faded as she heard the words of Twilight Sparkle, the legendary Princess of Friendship. "They must admit it to the ones who it affected most and show genuine remorse."

The tears coursed down her muzzle as she spoke in a cracked, hollow voice. "Everypony! It was me! I cast the spell; I caused all this! I am so sorry..."
Princess Celestia and Luna looked at each other in confusion. "Young filly what are you saying? Quit talking nonsense Starshine!"

Serenity, the daughter of Fluttershy and Discord, stood there staring at her, mouthing softly, "no it, it can't be true. It was them! They did this!"

The three before her began arguing once more. Nopony was listening to her. It was then amidst the arguing that it happened. Starshine heard the voice once more. "do you finally understand Starshine? Do you know what you had stolen from you? Do you know the name of the one who took it upon herself to steal it as well? Do you finally know who you are?"

I do. Starshine thought to herself. Starshine, opened her mouth and as she spoke the room grew quiet. Her voice was mature, her mind had finally been unlocked. She remembered who she was and what she did. It was time to declare the truth.

"SILENCE!

The princesses and Serenity stood there shocked, as from the tiny filly's muzzle erupted the legendary Canterlot Voice. Starshine continued pouring out her heart and bearing her soul before them, as her cutimark began to glow."My name is Starshine Starlight Sparkle. I am the daughter of Twilight Sparkle, the Goddaughter of Starlight."

A chain on her cutiemark blinked and was gone leaving behind four more. Celestia saw it happen and secretly nudged Luna, whispering in her ear. "Look at her cutiemark, sister. I've never seen anything like it."

Starshine's head was still down though her cracked voice was gone. It was replaced by a slightly timid tone." I can't believe I did such a thing. I wanted to reverse it all. To rewind the events, to save my mother, to prevent the battle, to go back to the days of peace and harmony. I cast a spell that should never have been cast, and in the process I took something that wasn't my right. "

Two more chains blinked out of existence, leaving just three on her cutiemark. The lunar princess felt her heart skip a beat. What just...Did I imagine it? .
Starshine slowly raised her head staring Serenity in the eyes. Her voice had grown more assertive though filling rapidly with conviction. "I stole the pasts of everyone present, as well as your future! I am responsible for what occured; Apple Pie going down the dark path she did, the dragons who no longer exist except in memory, the reason for Serenity's transformation. It was my fault."

Another two chains were there one second, gone the next. Celestia and Luna were wide-eyed as they watched the scene unfold before them.

Starshine raised her muzzle to the sky and as the tears endlessly coursed down her muzzle, she shouted a heartfelt apology to the very heavens itself it seemed. Her voice was firm and full or remorse and tinged with the want to fix everything. "I STOLE THE EXISTENCE OF EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE IN EQUESTRIA. I AM TO BLAME PLEASE FORGIVE ME!"

Everycreature across the land from the muddy swamps of the Everfree to the heights of Cloudsdale, to those all the way in Las Pegasus heard the plea of the tiny unicorn. The room itself seemed to shake with her conviction as the words were shouted. The final chain, wrapped around the star, flickered and slowly faded from her flank. her cutiemark began to glow brightly, as did Starshine.

The glow filled Starshine's vision causing her to blink. She heard the celestial princesses calling her name and then silence. She slowly opened her eyes and looked around in confusion. Where am I? What's going on? Starshine's heartbeat quickened in fear. She was surrounded by stars, from where she stood she could see Equestria below her. She whipped her head to the side as a voice beside her began to speak in a proud tone. "You have made me proud, daughter of Twilight Sparkle."

Looking around Starshine saw no being and called out in a nervous voice that sounded nothing like her own. "W-who's there? Show yourself! What do you want of me?"

The voice echoed all around her, it's gender, very feminine. "I am the beginning and I am the end. I speak and what I want appears."

The being before her eyes slowly started coming into view before her eyes. She saw a body of an alicorn mare, colored a pure creamy white, as pure as ivory slowly shimmer into view.

"I made the sun and the moon. The celestial princesses know me as mom."

Starshine saw the most amazing mane of a rich burgundy, as pure as a rose adorn the head of the alicorn. From the hindquarters a matching tail without a hair out of place appeared.

"I am the one that made the elements, I am the reason you have your abilities. I made the trees the earthponies tend, I made the winds that blow through the sky on a hot summer's day. I made the sky in which the pegasi move the clouds. The magic in which unicorns delight...I gave it to them."

Starshine watched in amazement as a pair of seven-foot wings flared majestically opened, completely at a loss for words.

"The ponies of Equestria, the gryphons in the mountains, the dragons and their treasure hoards, and even the brutish yaks of Yakyakistan are all my children, I made them all."

The alicorn mare lowered her head to look at Starshine, eye to eye. Those opaque teal eyes removed all fear and sorrow from Starshine's heart as she stared into them and saw the warmth and love reflecting from within.

"If you look inside Starshine, you will find, you already know my name, child."

At that moment on the alicorn's flank appeared a cutiemark of a quill in an inkwell. Starshine opened her muzzle and spoke, somehow perfectly calm and at ease in this mare's presence. "Faust."

"Very good, young one. Now then, you asked of me what do I want with you? It's quite simple. There are those who ponies in Equestria would seal away. Those who seem beyond my reach, beyond forgiveness. "

As she spoke a scene appeared in Starshine's mind of cages and a cavern of red, crumbling rock. Creatures from all walks of life shouted in anguish, as a sign above twin iron doors stated the words: Tartarus.

"I have monitored your progress from birth to mare, and even now."

Suddenly Starshine found herself in the horsepital as Twilight gently rocked her back and forth. The scene shifted to show her graduation, her marriage and finally to that very tragic fight.

"Nothing escapes my gaze. You have shown quite a bit of promise. Selflessly you have sacrificed for the well being of others, time and again. "

Her greatest sacrifice appeared before her eyes, a graphic scene as those who had fallen on the battlefield, rose again as her fur turned from lilac to a very bright red as the wounds grew in number more and more. The scene faded, and she was back in front of Faust.

"Though you stumbled shortly after."

The time spell being cast once more replayed before her eyes. Starshine lowered her head in shame.

"Yet I still saw the potential within you."

Starshine raised in her head in surprise and saw a strange new scene. As the spell had been cast, she watched as Faust had approached her and whispered in her ear. "You have cast a forbidden spell, young one. I sense a pure heart within. You can still change this fate. You will be tested. I will send those you cherish most to guide you through this test. If you succeed, we will meet again. Should you fail, all knowledge of your existence will fade from Equestria."

The scene was gone once more. Starshine looked in shock at Faust. The divine alicorn beamed at Starshine. "You overcame your weakness, you admitted your faults and awakened the power sealed within. You have truly proven yourself worthy of my task."

Starshine watched in awe as the being's horn began to glow. Starshine raised her wings as the glow grew to blinding brilliance. Wait... She stared at the lilac colored wings in shock. Are those mine? Her mind raced faster than even Rainbow Dash had ever flown. Maybe I should try moving it? Slowly she attempted to move it, the wing before her eyes moved. Her eyes grew as wide as a dinner plate. It moved! I have wings? What? Why? How? A warm, cheerful giggle snapped her back to reality.

"Magnificent aren't they? Every Alicorn princess needs a pair, after all. I do believe those are some of my finest work."

Starshine noticed something else. As the wing moved, she found herself staring evenly into the face of Faust, whereas before she had been glancing upwards. She spoke her concerns, but her voice sounded sweeter and a tiny bit lower than normal. "My Queen, I-I don't understand, what's going on?"

That same cheerful laugh greeted her as a mirror suddenly appeared before her. "I returned you back to how you were, with some added features. Do let me know what you think, don't be shy."

She was older, taller, more majestic, she stood as tall as Luna. Her wings were gorgeous. Five feet in width fully flared open, the feathers on them shimmered and shined, accented by pink edges, causing them to glisten as the light hit them. "Wow, they are...wow."

"Oh, I am so happy to hear that.I have been designing them for quite a while, you see."

Starshine looked at her and asked a question in a very curious tone. "You mentioned something about a princess?

"Oh yes, you will be the Princess of Redemption. You will be my messenger. You will bring the light of harmony to those who have been lost in the dark. You will remind them of the truth, help them seek me, and help bring my children back home to me."

Starshine folded her wings and spoke, her voice full of concern. "What of my family, my friends, the lives in Equestria I ruined?"

Faust smiled playfully as she wrapped her white wings around Starshine in a warm embrace. "Ruined? Oh child of mine, I do not believe such an event has ever happened. Now then, it is time for you to carry out your mission, my daughter and never forget I am always with you."

"Wait, What-"

Starshine looked around her. The room was filled with very familiar faces. Applejack and her daughter Apple Pie were hoof wrestling in the corner. Bubblegum and Pinkie Pie were handing out cupcakes to a table of nearby fillies. Rarity and her daughter Ruby Rayon were talking to Rainbow Dash and her Daughter, Claire, about the flight record in Cloudsdale having been beaten. "Are you alright, Starshine?"

Her mother, Twilight Sparkle sat on the side next to Fluttershy, Discord and the owner of the voice, Serenity; their daughter. Starshine had been looking around tears flowing down her muzzle. "I-I'm fine, Serenity. I've just never been so happy."

Twilight looked at her and spoke in a very motherly voice. "Well tone down the happy then dear, you are scaring the baby!"

Starshine looked down in her hooves and saw two small, little silver eyes staring back at her. She smiled and kissed the foal's forehead whispering, "it's alright, mommy is here."

The tiny pony giggled and closed it's eyes sleeping once more. Starshine looked beside her. To her left sat Celestia and to the right sat Luna. As she sat upon a throne in between them, she suddenly gestured to her mom, silently calling her over. She whispered to her, "Mom, I have something I need to do. You see-"

Twilight smiled knowingly as her daughter told her of her mission. She replied in a voice audible only to Starshine. "I am proud of you, Princess Starshine."

The next day, Starshine, the Princess of Redemption set forth from the castle in Canterlot and headed for the depths of Tartarus. Twilight stood at the gates, carrying the adorable filly, Shimmerstar Sparkle on her back. The foal waved goodbye with Twilight as her mom left their sight.

The sun was slowly being lowered as Starshine arrived at her destination. She breathed a heavy sigh. Her eyes were set on the giant iron doors as she determinedly turned the lock with her magic and set hoof inside, ready to get to work.

Starshine's Story Time- "Her Name Was Twilight Sparkle"

"My ancestor, mommy?" questioned the filly. Celestia smiled and patted the bed on which she had herself sat down on. As the tiny unicorn lay back onto the soft comforter in an attempt to get comfortable, Celestia used her horn to cast a spell calling forth a book from behind the portrait on the wall depicting an artist's rendition of the 7 most famous ponies in all of Equestria; the mythical Mares of Friendship.

Celestia began to explain as the unicorn watched wide-eyed: "she was a regal mare, standing just a hoofs length short of my height. An alicorn like myself, she graced those around her with an impressive display of her wings unfolding. Unfurled they reached an impressive six hooves-length in diameter while her rich purple feathers truly were a sight to behold. Her fur was a light shade of purple" She paused to smile bitterly at the memory before continuing: "just like her horn I might add. Actually, you remind me of her at that moment when she first came to the castle. From your fur to your mane and even your tiny horn, you are the spitting image of her."

A tiny hoof shot up into her line of sight and Starshine asked, "but who was she, mommy?", To which Celestia replied: "her name was Twilight Sparkle."

Upon hearing this the young filly sat bolt upright and exclaimed in disbelief, " the Twilight Sparkle? Are you saying I am related to the Princess of Friendship? As in the pony who is considered instrumental in leading the Mares of Friendship in order to stop the destruction of Equestria whenever disaster loomed or a villain had appeared? That Twilight Sparkle? That's just an old mare's tale, isn't it?"

Celestia's muzzle shook with soft laughter at this statement. "She was very much real Starshine and she was my closest friend. Alongside myself and Luna, she stood as royalty helping us to govern Equestria. Though while Luna and I surveyed the kingdoms for the distress that may be lurking, she was a more...hands-on princess. At the drop of a pin, she would rush to seek answers to solve any problem. No matter the issue she would find a way to resolve it and would charge courageously into combat, calm, serene with grace, and as wise as the ancients. It wasn't always like that of course. When she first set hoof in this castle as a unicorn she had been very one-track minded. Always focused on a single matter at hoof but not the big picture. This naturally resulted in all sorts of fumbles and follies on her behalf."

Ever curious Starshine inquired, "how so mommy, I thought to focus on something is supposed to be a great way to accomplish a goal?" Celestia nodded thoughtfully and began to explain:"Focusing on a goal is indeed very important, but as Twilight had to learn, narrowing your thoughts to that one thing can lead to being blind to the entire truth. Listen as I read to you from the 'Book of Twilight' written by none other than the original Cutie Mark Chroniclers. This book has the details of Twilights entire life from her getting her cutie mark to her fiercest battles. Since you've already heard of those, however, how about I share with you the struggles she endured? How she then rose to become one of the greatest princesses in all Equestria. Her battles were indeed fierce, but sometimes the hardest thing a pony can do is not fight but truly forgive. Sometimes that requires more than just one point of view. That is what occurred when one of her most vexing rivals sought her blessing for the hoof of one of her most promising students."

Chapter 293 from the Book of Twilight, "Twilights Blessing: A Rivalry Put to Rest"

"May I please have a moment of your time?" Twilight stood in the doorway of her glistening castle, completely slack-jawed not at what she had just been asked but rather by whom was asking it. The pony before her stood trembling, almost humble, far from her usual bravado of being great and powerful. In fact, she seemed to be downright cowering in fear standing there, well aware of what the stakes were in doing this. Twilight glared at her for a moment and gestured with her hoof: "come in Trixie."

"The great and...I mean I thank you, princess", Trixie hastily fixed her words even throwing in an uncharacteristically courteous bow in respect, before stumbling into the room. Twilight meanwhile had turned her back on Trixie and walked farther in, gesturing to a nearby couch and taking stock of every movement made by the blue unicorn not trusting her for a second. Trixie had not rested her haunches down on the soft feathery down for so much as a second before Twilight questioned her as to why she was here: "Trixie what do you want? Another duel? Another chance to insult and attempt to humiliate me?"

Trixie opened her mouth but immediately closed it as she wilted under twilight's glare. Twilight continued, "every time you show up at my door it's to prove how 'great and powerful' you are and how weak and powerless you think I am. Tell me what the flippin' competition is this time so we can get it over with and I can get back to my life!" With that, she rested upon a nearby easy chair clearly angry.

Trixie's horn glowed, and she removed her magician's hat resting it in her hooves as she bowed her head before replying in a shaky voice: "Twilight I came here to make amends. I came here not to be great or powerful but to be truly humble and ask for your forgiveness."

Twilight's eyes went wide. Trixie, humble? This must be some kind of trick just like before. Her eyes narrowed: "oh right, the Trixie who refused any kindness I ever showed her. The Trixie who humiliated me and brushed aside any form of generosity or kindness I or my friends gave her, is seeking friendship?"

Trixie's face scrunched in rage. Here it comes, Twilight thought. Her usually selfish, angry and boisterous attitude. Much to her surprise, however, Trixie took a deep breath and once her face relaxed, she stated: "you are right. What I did to you and the others was wrong of me and for that, I deserve anything you wish to inflict upon me. You always forgave me and I took it for granted. Treated it like nothing more than a right, that you had to forgive me because I was the Great and Powerful Trixie; I was selfish, rude and disrespectful of anyone and anything I came across. I am truly sorry."

Twilight couldn't believe her ears. Did Trixie just apologize in a sincere manner? Before she could respond Trixie continued, "I was always jealous of your power; it's true. Contests to prove my strength in magic, trying to prove my intellect over yours, it was all out of jealousy. About 40 moons ago, however, something happened to make me think that perhaps I shouldn't be Jealous of you but rather improve on what makes me special."

Twilight rolled her eyes and inquired: "and what exactly was that?" Trixie gulped and putting on her bravest face replied, "I met your apprentice in the ways of friendship.", Seeing the look of surprise on Twilight's face Trixie continued:"Starlight and I shared a kind of empathy, we began to get along great and eventually we began hanging out. She told me of her past and how you never gave up on helping her overcome it. She even began lecturing me on the ways of being friendly towards others. I realized something, though accepting it took a bit of effort afterward."

Twilight's raised eyebrow seemed to bid her continue, so she did. "I realized that for her to be such a good friend she had to have learned it from you, the ways and ideas to do so. I never had many friends and still, she reached a hoof out to me, me of all ponies! However, if not for you that truly never would have happened."

Twilight though not completely buying it, said graciously: "that is very kind of you to say, however, why now? Trixie, why exactly are you here?" Trixie replied:"Twilight you know Starlight and I have been together for a while now, right?"
"Yes and all of your shenanigans have kept her out past the curfew I assigned," Twilight retorted, "so is that what this is all about? Have you come here to beg for yet another pass for your actions? Perhaps related to last weeks party where somepony replaced my shampoo with rainbow color dye?" Twilight squinted at Trixie accusingly.

"Er, no. I mean yes, I did that, no I am not here to ask for a pass on it. After this talk, I will gladly accept whatever punishment you feel is necessary for my actions." Trixie was shaking as she said this, Twilight noticed. How very unlike her, what could she be up to?

"Then why exactly have you sought a personal audience with me, Trixie? What are you after?" Twilight asked, after coming up with no answers of her own. Trixie knew she could no longer beat around the bush she had to go for it. "I have come here tonight for two reasons." Twilight leaned slightly forward a bit more attentive, her wings having been outstretched now folding slowly around herself as if to indicate her interest.

"One was to ask" Trixie gulped and took a visibly deep breath before continuing, "for your blessing in taking Starlight's hoof as my somepony. The second -" Twilight interrupted at that point: "You've come here tonight after many years of chaos to ask me for such a favor? You; the pony who demeaned, humiliated, abused and embarrassed me on top of shunning any kindness or compassion I attempted to give? Do you dare to approach me for a personal favor? Why do you want my blessing anyway? Starlight is a grown mare! Do what you want! You have never cared for my opinion before and frankly, I am tired of trying and failing to offer it to you. Get out, now!"

Trixie saw the look on Twilights face as the wings flared wide open and realized she had no chance. She rose and tears streaming from her eyes bolted from the crystalline castle. As she did, a voice behind Twilight said softly: "are you alright? Twilight, I heard shouting."Turning her head, the princess relaxed her wings as her face took on a warm expression."I am fine, my faithful student," she replied tonelessly. It was obvious she was hiding the truth. Starlight stepped from the shadows and sat down next to her greatest idol on the couch, offering her a chalice of Sweetmilk from Sugarcube Corners before speaking up. "Would you mind if I talked to you, Princess?"

Claire and Skyflare's Storytime- "Aren't They Pretty, Princess?"

Princess Luna stood on the fluffy clouds of Cloudsdale, home of the Pegasus ponies. The sun had just been lowered and tonight a special show performed by none other than the Wonderbolts was being performed. Luna had always enjoyed watching the Wonderbolts and their aerial displays of daring tricks; Loop-de-loops, corkscrews, aileron rolls, barrel rolls and sky somersaults.

Before the show began, she had decided to get some refreshments. Upon approaching a nearby vendor for a steamed carrot on a bun, she noticed Cloudsdale's signature treat: rainbow cloud candy. Staring at it, she laughed, no matter where you went in Equestria it seemed you would always find one of Pinkie Pie's confectionary creations. Opting for the candy over the carrot, Luna happily chomped on the sweet, sugary treat as she made her way down the paved road in the clouds towards the stadium. With her eyes closed, she savored the taste, failing to notice and ended up tripping over a young pegasus.

"Oof," grunted the filly, landing on her side. Luna lifted her head, dazed and confused. What just happened? One moment she was trotting along and suddenly she tripped. It was then she noticed the tiny pegasus by her side. Rising painfully to her hooves, Luna spoke to her: "Are you okay, young one?"
"Yeah, this ain't nothing," came the raspy-voiced reply. Luna noticed the "nothing" which she spoke of and quickly objected, "young filly, that certainly isn't nothing! Your wing is broken!" The tiny filly's wing looked to have snapped in half, causing Luna to panic. The tiny pegasus gave a small giggle and said, "it's not broken just bruised!"
Standing up the cobalt blue pegasus filly stretched her wings. It was then Luna realized the truth; she was handicapped.

One wing was a fully formed pegasus wing...the other was half the length. What if I offended her, Luna thought darkly. Way to go, me. Seeing the look on the princess's face, the tiny pegasus laughed and said wryly, "aren't they pretty, princess?"
Worried that she had offended the young one, Luna decided to swiftly change the subject. "What is your name?" The pegasus's eyes dimmed for a moment in sorrow but brightened up again and spoke up, "my name is Claire, your majesty." Upon uttering these words the filly turned bolted towards the giant stadium in the distance, tears streaming down her cheeks.

"Oh no, I hope she will be alright," Luna said to no one in particular as she watched the fleeing figure. Looking down, she spotted her now mangled sweet at her hooves and sighed. Picking up the spoiled treat off the street, she deposited her dropped cloud candy into a nearby waste bin as a thought crossed her mind. Was she crying?
She thought about it for a moment and then shook her head. There was nothing she could do about Claire at the moment, she decided. With this in mind, she went back to the vendor and repurchased a new one before once more starting towards the giant stadium.

Earlier that day, on a scorched desert plateau to the north

Celestia stood stock still, as her horn glowed with a golden hue. Starshine watched in awe as her mom guided the sun slowly down over the horizon. This was something that not many ponies, or herself personally, had ever have the chance to witness. The elegance and grace as the veritable eons of experience were put to work which caused the sun to gently nestle down for the night in Equestria.

"Isn't it beautiful, Starshine," Celestia spoke to her daughter in a soft, yet sorrowful tone. She continued, seeing Starshine's reaction of wide-eyed admiration. "Soon your Aunt Luna will be raising the moon, though for me the golden glow of the sun has always brought such wonder and joy. Or at least it did..."

"Dear Princess Celestia," began a gentle voice surrounding her, "today I learned as long as I have my friends, I will never be alone even when we are separated." Celestia bit her lip until a small band of red appeared. A single teardrop fell to the parched soil below. I don't have my friends, she thought bitterly. They left me. You left me. Her mane began to lose it's color once more and stopped flowing. That same voice called out, "please don't give up! I am always with you. After all, am I not your most faithful of students?"

Starshine's face fell, she wasn't sure what to say. Her mom sounded hurt but, why? Was it something she did? Perhaps it had something to do with earlier. Suddenly a strange thought took root in her mind, wasn't there a forest here? She could have sworn she had read about a winter forest on a vast mountain range right where they were standing. Something isn't right, she thought. The ground was clearly scorched and lifeless...just like the Dragonlands. It was flat and desolate even the air seemed heavier than normal.

Celestia saw her daughter's reaction and immediately pasted a fake smile on her face as she had for the past two millennia. Curse me, she thought to herself, I shouldn't be scaring her like that! Stay calm and remember, she needs to know...and you need the closure. Still, a nagging thought tugged at her heart as she stood there smiling, will she forgive me for this?

Starshine saw the familiar smile of her mom and though she couldn't help feeling something was wrong, she too smiled. That smile had always filled her with warmth when she was scared or hurt. Her mom was there for her, no need to be afraid, come what may. The two then trotted back to a tent they had set up and nestling in under a warm blanket, drifted off to a peaceful dreamscape for the evening.

Back in Cloudsdale

Luna had made it to the stadium and as she entered she heard two voices off to her left. One belonged to Claire, the pegasus from earlier. The other was a deep male voice. Though Luna couldn't place it, she was sure she had heard it somewhere before. It was...so familiar.

"Even the princess pities me, bro, why is it whenever a pony looks at me...all they see is this?"

"Don't worry about it squirt! One day your wings will grow in and you'll take to the sky."

"Just like she did?"

"Yeah, just like she did. Remember, our great grandmare had a similar condition once. She overcame it, and I know you will soar too! Remember how mom told us about how she flew alongside the Rainbow Dash in the Wonderbolts. One day you will fly alongside me just like Rainbow Dash did with her sister, Scootaloo."

"Ha, you're right! Anyway good luck out there big bro! I'll be rooting for you!"

Luna quietly trotted to find a seat, pondering what she had overheard. Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo...those were two names she hadn't heard for many centuries. One was known for her fierce loyalty and speed, while the other was instrumental in chronicling the entire history of Ponyville; many of her books had ended up at the royal library. Both were ponies of which Luna had known personally as her friends. Those two ponies were apparently related to the two mares as well.

Interesting, Luna thought to herself as she took her seat, how very interesting. The lights in the stadium began to dim which indicated the nighttime aerial show was about to begin. Putting her thoughts aside for a moment, Luna happily munched on her treat and watched in awe as the death-defying acts of the Wonderbolts began in full display in the airspace over Dashie Stadium.