Once again, Chrysalis found herself standing in darkness. Floating in front of her was the shadowy ruins of her once flourishing hive. It was in this isolated somnium1 that Chrysalis felt she could express her emotions if need be. Within a matter of moments, the darkness warped and twisted until molding into the hatchery of the hive.

An archway formed above Chrysalis while an illusion of herself and several clutches of eggs appeared ahead of her. After a few more steps, she stopped beside her doubleganger. They both stared at the eggs before them, seconds felt exhaustingly longer before the first egg began to crack. The doubleganger gave a loving sigh as the larvae within fought to free itself. What started as one soon multiplied into a symphony of crackling eggshells. Her projection let out a giggle of joy as they stood erect.

Despite her best effort to remain steadfast, Chrysalis could feel her emotions breaking through her stoic disposition. They observed as a larva slowly crawled toward them. “I’m sorry, I failed you all,” Chrysalis somberly whispered. “I did the best I…” was all she was able to get out before she was interrupted.

The closest larva had cooed the word, mama. Chrysalis knew that it couldn‘t see her and that its innocent coo wasn‘t for her. Yet this realization did nothing to prevent her heart from breaking, perfectly mimicking her projection, she reached for the larva. For a split second, it was within her grasp before being hoisted through her hooves.

The grim reality caused Chrysalis to pull her arms under her forehead and wail uncontrollably. Following their linear path, the projections shared a lovingly embrace, completely oblivious to Chrysalis‘ plight. Waking from her slumber with a jerk, Chrysalis discover that her pillow was drenched. Sitting upright in the bed, she levitated it into the air.

Her first thought was to ring it dry but after a moment of thought, she disintegrated it instead. Deciding to purchase another would be better than trying to salvage it. Chrysalis set about her morning routine, donning her disguise, making sure to retrieve the pouch of bits from the nightstand before leaving.

Sonorous instantly realized this was the earliest she had ever set out since arriving in Ponyville. With the sun only a fourth of the way in the sky, she decided to do a little shopping before searching for Vinyl's friend. Heading toward the market district, she reveled in the crisp morning air.

She was about to pass a convenience store but stopped as the open sign was flipped over. Noticing that the other stores were still closed, she entered. Inside, she was greeted by a dull colored butterscotch pegasus with sandstone colored hair. "Welcome to Acrum’s Emporium, if you need anything just ask," he called to her. Sonorous gave a small wave as she walked down a random aisle.

Scanning the shelves she noticed several rows of inkwells, each one displaying a different colored label. Across from them was that strange writing utensil that Vinyl wrote with, the label “pens” was taped below them. Sonorous nodded, now knowing what they were called, further down was a rack of saddle bags. This rack contained saddlebags of a wide variety, from your generic brown bag to several jeweled encrusted, over-the-top designs.

It didn’t take long for Sonorous to select a plain leather pack. Its only embellishment were three small topazes on each flap. Two gems adorn the lower corners while a slightly larger stone was perfectly centered in the middle. Levitating it off the rack, she placed it on her back and pulled the strap securely around her barrel. Trying it out, Sonorous continued down the aisle.

Reaching the end, she saw several larger items for sale against the wall. At the furthest end sat a bench, followed by a desk, lamps, dressers, a nightstand, among other miscellaneous items. The bench was a standard park bench with a plain metal frame and wooden planks that made up its seat and backrest. To its left was an elegantly crafted nightstand, the wood had a grayish color to it, two separate drawers, while the top was enclosed by its slightly raised edges.

Further down stood a variety of differently designed floor lamps, hanging lamps, and table lamps. From what she could tell, the lamps ranged from single fixed lamps, suspended lanterns, and even a lamp shaped candelabra. To her immediate right sat a very impressive writing desk. Intrigued, Sonorous walked closer to it. The design seemed to resemble a Late Victorian piece, each side of it contained a single drawer.

In the center cubby hole of the desk sat a chair with no armrests, its back rose two feet high, and the cushions were made from a sunset-colored terrycloth. The upper portion resembled a double door mini wardrobe. Under the doors was a painstakingly smooth desktop, on the inner right and left doors was a slightly protruding shelf. The bottom right door had a spice rack sort of design, an additional metal rod traced an inch above the shelf. Chrysalis surmised that this was where the inkwells went.

The bottom left door had an enclosed rectangular shelf with a hinged lid, upon inspection, it appeared to be a place to store spare quills. The entire desk and chair had been stained a red oak color. Beside the desk were several dressers of varied size, shape, and colors. Satisfied by how the saddlebag felt around her, Sonorous glanced at the signs hanging from the ceiling. Spotting the sign marked bedding, she made her way there and down the aisle.

This aisle contained quilts, sheets, blankets, comforters, and most importantly pillows. Not wanting to waste any more time, she chose a pillow that only cost three bits and made her way to the front counter. “Did you find everything you needed ma’am,” the cashier asked as Sonorous placed her pillow and tag for the saddlebag onto the counter.

Not waiting for an answer, the pegasus began to tally the cost of her purchases. “That’ll be thirteen bits,” he cheerfully stated in a deep tone. Sonorous withdrew the bits from her pouch and levitated it over to him. “Thank you, ma’am, hope you enjoy the rest of your day,” he replied.

“You wouldn’t happen to know where I could get something to drink?” Sonorous asked.

The cashier thought for a moment before answering, “I’d suggest The Pep 'n Ya Trot Café just down the street.”

“Thank you,” Sonorous replied as she made her way out the door. From the Emporium, Sonorous quickly spotted the sign for The café. It was an unimposing sign, its coffee cup shape was its only defining feature. It was only a couple of blocks away, Sonorous judged the time was eight forty-five in the morning via the position of her shadow.

By now shopkeepers could be seen switching or changing displays in their windows as they attempted to lure potential buyers. The bell above the door announced her entrance into the small café. As Sonorous walked to the counter, a certain pony partially hidden by an opened newspaper caused her to grin. “Welcome to The Pep 'n Ya Trot, what can I get you today,” spoke a radiant voice.

Behind the counter stood a pegasus mare staring at Sonorous with her adorable peacock colored eyes. Dark rosewood and almond comprised the mare’s swirled hair color. Her bangs, which were loosely braided together, was pulled to the right of her face. It trailed closely beside the front of her ear before looping under to merged back into the main body of her mane. The interwoven streaks of colored hair only added to its intriguing style. The rest of her mane wasn’t as elegant although its volume would suggest otherwise.

Her tail was just as copious except the occasional rouge lock disturbing its otherwise wavy pattern. A light mahogany color illustrated her head and face yet seemed to slowly shift into a shade of cerise as it ran the length of her body. “I’m looking for a drink that packs more than a mere wake up call, what would you suggest,” Sonorous replied.

The mare dipped her head below the counter and quickly reemerged with a menu clenched between her teeth. Placing it upon the counter, she began to point out drinks from the specialty section. However, it seemed that every drink she suggested, Sonorous rejected. As they reached the end of the list, she did take notice of a certain drink.

Although the barista did her best to skip it, Sonorous read its description, rekindle the blaze of consciousness. Intrigued, she pointed out the corresponding drink to her. “I wouldn’t suggest that one ma’am, only a few ponies have ordered that. Its called Pul Salèt2, I’ve never seen anypony purchase it myself but I hear it’s a sort of dare among patrons,” she finished.

Sonorous smirked as she confirmed that was what she wanted. The pegasus’ expression shifted to one of vacancy as she set about preparing the drink. This drink sounded like it had enough oomph to power through the day. She watched intently as the barista put a teaspoon of several powders into a wooden mug. Once finished, pulled a tall metal kettle from under the counter and placed it onto a stovetop grate.

Pulling back the attached lid, she poured water and two different scoops of an unknown powder into it before pressing a button on the counter. Sonorous’ question about not using the coffee machine was pushed aside as a rapid clicking noise sounded. A single flame of blue erupted from the hole below the kettle. The flame must have been scorching since steam began to rise shortly after. The barista snagged a pot holder between her teeth before grabbing the kettle’s handle.

The flame immediately extinguished as her hoof was removed from the embedded button. Closing the lid, which doubled as a strainer she poured the liquid into the mug. Placing the kettle into the sink, she stirred the drink, before placing the mug along with a glass of water on the counter. “That’ll be three bits please,” the barista stated.

Sonorous levitated her pouch from her bag and extracted the amount due. As she gave the bits to the barista, she inquiring to the addition of water to her order. “That’s customary since everypony who has tried that drink ended up spitting fire. So now we include a free glass of water with every purchase,” she finished. Sonorous merely nodded as she levitated her beverages and walked off.

The few customers that were present were too engaged in conversations or enjoying their beverage to pay her any mind. Reaching the left side of a table, Sonorous asked if she could join the mare reading the paper. The newspaper, encased in a moderate magenta aura, leisurely closed before folding over itself. Depositing the paper to the side, Vinyl’s smiling face was revealed. She courageously welcomed Sonorous to sit with her.

As Sonorous got comfortable, Vinyl levitated her drink to her lips. Drinking with a form similar to that of high society, she took a few sips. The formality seemed slightly odd when compared to her wild hairstyle. Lifting her drink up, Sonorous was surprised to discover that her tea wasn’t a typical brown, a variation of, or black. Instead, a beautiful hue which mimicked a dusky sky shone up at her.

Impressed, she stared into the scene as if expecting the red-orange colors to shift into dark blue. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg rose up to entice her sense of smell. The pleasant aroma began to shape Sonorous’ blank expression into one of contentment. From what she had saw and smelt, she was convinced that the barista was exaggerating about the drink. Bringing the mug to her lips, she took a few sips, unaware that she was being watched by Vinyl.

She quickly changed her opinion as soon as the liquid touched her tongue. Heat surged throughout her mouth, trailing down her esophagus, and pooled in her stomach. Having only consumed a small amount, the resulting heat reminded her of a cozy fire. Returning the mug to the table, Sonorous gave a leery stare at Vinyl’s new position and expression.

While drinking, Vinyl had placed her elbows on the table, her chin resting on her crossed hooves, staring at Sonorous with an almost expectant expression. Having heard what Sonorous had ordered, she waited for the inevitable reaction that everypony experienced. “I’m glad I ran into you Vinyl, Id like to ask you a question,” Sonorous began.

Vinyl didn’t reply but locked eyes with her, acknowledging that she was listening. “Do you know where that gray pony from a couple of days ago is?” Sonorous asked. Vinyl’s ears and expression instantly changed to disappointment. Retrieving her notepad and pen from beneath the folded paper, Vinyl scribbled no. With a sigh, she levitated the pad toward Sonorous.

The bluntness, crude writing, and her dejected display were quite peculiar. Having little patience for such trivial things, she replied in a rather gruff voice. “Why are you suddenly being so standoffish over a measly question.” Startled by the harshness of her voice, Vinyl turned to stare at Sonorous with glum filled eyes. Taking her pad back, she wrote a whole page before passing it back.

Sonorous snatched it off the table, read it, then placed it back down. Staring at Vinyl with an infuriated expression, she leaned closer and whispered in a reprimanding tone. “You are greatly mistaken in your assumptions, I do not favor your friend over you. The type of music I play doesn’t dictate who I associate with. Lastly, I had no idea that you even played an instrument, I’ve only known you for two days.”

“So before you go acting like a temperamental foal perhaps you should get your facts straight.” Sonorous returned to her side of the table, encased her mug, and downed the rest of the drink. Having chugged a larger quantity, Sonorous could definitely feel the burn. Yet, it paled to the scorching heat of the badlands. Being spoken to in such a forceful tone shocked Vinyl. Her temper began to rise but its agitator was divided between Sonorous’ crass reaction and her unsubstantiated jealousy.

She stared blankly at the notepad, while Sonorous waiting for her riposte. Again Vinyl wrote in her disheartened scribbles and pushed the pad toward her angered company. As she read the single sentence, Sonorous narrowed her eyes in disdain. Ripping the paper from the pad, she levitated it into the air. To the surprise of the entire café, Sonorous blew a stream of orange flames from her mouth.

The fire was brief yet did what was intended as the paper began to burn. The small fireball, safely encased in Sonorous’ magic, quickly reverted to ash before Sonorous replied in a more restrained tone. “You should have guessed from our first encounter that I don’t mince words. I’ve no need to oblige anypony with anything but the truth. So when your done wallowing in whatever this is, perhaps we can continue our discussion.”

Having finished talking, Sonorous dipped the ashes into the glass of water, levitated her belongings, and walked out of the café. Vinyl was torn between rushing after her and slamming her head against the table. She had allowed her anger to resurge again after years of containment. She hung her head in despair, her sunglasses fell to the table with a dull thud.

Crushed, Vinyl retreated within her mind, attempting to salvage the situation that her ill-fated outburst had wrought. For the longest time, she had felt adrift among a sea of interactions that she would never be able to join. Apparently fated to envy the simplicity of carrying on a conversation. After befriending her schoolmate Octavia, Vinyl had thought her jealousy would have subsided.

Unfortunately, it merely transformed into loathing for anypony that interacted with Octavia. She knew that it was nothing more than her fragile psyche unwilling to share their friendship. To her, Octavia was the single ray of sunshine among the otherwise dismal horizon of her life. The fear of having her friend taken was so overwhelming that Vinyl would experience occasional panic attacks.

Octavia was the first to offer her genuine friendship, first to overlook her handicap. The other fillies tried as well but soon gave up due to the difficulties of maintaining a conversation. As they progressed through school together, Octavia learned about Vinyl’s fear of abandonment. To her credit, Octavia tried to ease those fears that Vinyl held deep within.

It was during this time of internal stability that Vinyl was able to give the world more than just a passing glance. Vinyl’s thoughts were interrupted by a gentle hoof against her shoulder. Looking to her right Vinyl saw that it was Elara, the proprietor of the café. She quickly turned to wipe the tears from her eyes. Elara silently took a seat on the right side of the table and waited until she was done.

“Who was that and why do you look so disheartened,” she asked. Reluctantly, Vinyl shifted her gaze to lock eyes with her. The tear streaks down Vinyl’s face triggered a mixture of concern and anger. Elara asked if that unicorn had upset her. Vinyl shook her head yet the trail of fallen tears were less than convincing.

“What did she say that made you cry?” she asked anxiously. Stifling a sniffle, Vinyl began to carefully summarize the conversation through her slightly blurred vision. As she wrote, Elara could feel her anger rising toward the unicorn that had plunged Vinyl into such distraught. By the time Vinyl was finished, the barista was ready to storm out and give the unicorn a piece of her mind.

Flipping back to the beginning of her summarization, Vinyl laid the notepad in front of her, then placed her cheek against the table to brood some more. Elara’s heart sank at the sight of Vinyl before curiosity caused her to look at the notepad. The first page contained a single paragraph briefly explaining their first meeting.

Elara's temperament fluctuated like ripples on a pond as she read through Vinyl's explanation. Immediately recognized the first passage as what had just transpired moments ago. Her anger boiled as she read of Sonorous’ brutal honesty. Scanning the second passage, she immediately noticed two major differences.

The most prominent was the length of it was longer than the former. Secondly, it seemed to explain Vinyl’s current gloomy appearance. It briefly described how Vinyl, at the time, felt that Sonorous seemed to favor Octavia. Also included was the realization that it was only her tenuous fear that had started the argument. Vinyl just watched as she studiously read her words.

Finished, Elara’s gaze drifted to Vinyl’s slumped form upon the table, the glass of ashy water, then back to Vinyl. Clearing her throat, she began to speak, “honestly Vinyl, I think you’d be better off without her.” Vinyl’s head shot off the table, her waterlogged magenta eyes focused intently on Elara. Her sad expression contorted by a factor of ten.

The corners of her mouth threatened to plummet off her face. While her now inverted U-shaped mouth quivering uncontrollably. The notepad began to scoot towards her in sporadic spurts of telekinetic energy. Stopping abruptly as Vinyl laid her forehead on her now encircled arms, muffling her soft wails. “Vinyl,” Elara pleaded, “come on Vinyl don’t shut down now.”

Her words were in vain as Vinyl neither lifted her head or halted her sobbing. Witnessing a pony so energetic and optimistic as Vinyl consumed by sadness was like watching the death of hope. The tightening of her chest and misty eyes implored, what her mind already knew. By now a few ponies had taken notice of the unfolding scene.

Knowing her merely as DJ PON-3, they felt sorry but didn’t want to intrude on an obviously vulnerable moment for the disc jockey. Elara leaned closer to Vinyl’s drooping ear and spoke in a stern yet kind voice. “I stand by what I said earlier but it would seem that your set on remaining her friend. Go find her and if she refuses to be your friend after hearing your reasons for being upset, then it wasn’t meant to be.”

“Either way, sitting here and crying about it won’t resolve anything.” Having said her peace, Elara quietly waited for Vinyl to reply. Slowly, the sound of her sobbing began to subside. With a few remaining sniffles, Vinyl lifted her head to give Elara a weak smile. A spark of determination flickered to life in her eyes as she got up.

Levitating her glasses from where they had fallen, she put them back on the brim of her nose. Elara could barely react as Vinyl pulled her into a hug. The coffee house was soon filled with the soothing sound of the patron’s awwws at the warming display of comradely. She dashed out the door, making sure to gather her belongings before departing. Elara watched as Vinyl left, happy that she was no longer sad.

Yet, unsure if she should have encouraged the reconciliation with such an abrasive unicorn. Vinyl made a beeline toward the theater, she had a hunch that Sonorous would eventually make her way there. Skillfully bobbing and weaving through the crowd of leisurely strolling ponies. She shaved a good fifteen minutes off the normally half an hour trot.

Rounding a corner, she nearly ended up with a face full of dirt from skidding on the dirt. Despite that, she was soon standing at the base of the theater’s stairs. After a few deep breaths, Vinyl charged up the stairs. In her haste, she neglected to note the eerie stillness that had blanketed the area.

She trotted toward the entrance, gripped the door handle, but froze as a large shadow crept up behind her. Sonorous, who was halfway down the auditorium’s stairwell, stopped as her ears flipped backward. A horrific cry followed by a thunderous crash rang out behind her. Both Sonorous and Octavia looked up to spot a white pony streaking overhead.

Immediately recognizing Vinyl, Sonorous tried to lock on with her telekinesis. To no avail since Vinyl was moving to fast. Sonorous bolted as fast as she could toward the stage, focusing her magic on Octavia instead. Octavia felt a sudden pressure as if being yanked backward.

Soon finding herself staring at a singular point of multi-shifting colors, lost among a void of darkness. Any other time she would have panicked but the sight of Vinyl flying through the air caused her to go rigid with fear. Although the experience was terrifying, she was quickly yanked back into the theater before her mind could react.

However, Unlike before it was a forward momentum that dragged her through the shifting colors. Octavia, once again found herself in the theater yet she was too disoriented to deduce anything else. An unknown object slammed into her stomach, completely vacating any air that was in her lungs. Octavia doubled over to discover that a pony seemed to be huddled against her stomach.

While struggling to breathe, She felt as if her hair was fluttering in a vertical motion, which confused her even more. Their gentle descent wafted a familiar scent from the mysterious pony’s hair. After a few sniffs, Octavia recognized the smell as Vinyl’s conditioner. A gasped of relief and bewilderment escaped her lips. The immediate question was how did she end up in the air and why hadn’t they plummeted to the ground yet.

Slowly getting her bearings again, Octavia looked down to see Sonorous staring upward. Noticing that her horn was glowing, Octavia surmised that her unexpected flight was her doing. A murderous roar attracted Octavia’s gaze several feet behind Sonorous. There among the newly destroyed chairs and ripped carpeting laid an extremely large timber wolf.

If not for the teal colored net that was firmly holding it in place, Octavia would have screamed in terror. Not that she wasn’t afraid but the previous two events had suspended her disbelief pretty far already. Opting to watch her descent, she craned her head off to the side. It felt longer than it really was before her hooves touch the wooden floor again.

“There isn’t much time, take Vinyl to the hospital,” Sonorous yelled over the wolf's snarls. Octavia was about to retort but decided to refrain as the net disintegrated right in front of her. Regaining its footing, the timber wolf straightened itself before focusing on the three ponies. Now able to witness its towering frame, Octavia couldn’t help but stand paralyzed in fear.

It launched its right claw for a quick swipe, the speed of its attack was unbelievable for its size. Shutting her eyes tightly, she feared the worse. A few seconds passed before a sound reached her ears. Although, a dull thud wasn’t quite what she had expected. “Go now,” Sonorous shouted with a thunderous volume that seemed to rattle the very walls around her.

Opening her eyes, Octavia gulped as the tips of its claws were mere inches from her face. Tracing her sight down its paw, her gaze rested upon Sonorous. She had conjured what appeared to be a scimitar and was holding its attack at bay. Quick to regain control over her body, she carefully hoisted Vinyl upon her back.

Octavia bolted out the back way as if all of Tartarus was nipping at the back of her hocks. Finally able to fully focus on her adversary, Sonorous conjured a second sword and jammed it deep within the center of its paw. A deafening howl of pain filled the air as she dashed from the stage. Sword hovering above her, she raced towards its chest.

From the corner of her eye, she spotted its left claw sweeping low. Falling flat on her stomach, a loud “whoomph” was heard from overhead. As well as the clanking of chairs ripped from their bases. Once the noise settled down, Sonorous got to her hooves. Unfortunately, the timber wolf was prepared as she was soon knocked straight into a wall. The impact knocked the wind from her lungs and caused several cracking sounds.

With her concentration broken, her sword vanished into thin air. Her barrel also endured several small cuts, a few of which blood began to trickle from. Collapsing onto the floor, she drew several shallow breaths as the timber wolf approached her.
Its progress was slowed due to its injured paw and having to avoid several pieces of protruding metal. Sonorous forced herself back to her hooves and conjured a spear.

Needing a little more time to recuperate, she hastily launched it at the timber wolf. Its trajectory was a little wobbly but successfully embedded itself into its right shoulder. Although intending to pierce its face, the shoulder still provided an adequate distraction. The pain caused it to furiously clawed and nipped at the spear. Sonorous took the small reprieve to check for any broken ribs.

Upon contact, she winched as her hoof touched the midsection of the right side of her barrel. Unable to discern if it was just bruised or something more severe. She quickly changed tactics, not wanting to sustain any more damage, She began to gather copious amounts of magic within her horn. Distracted by the throbbing pain in its shoulder, it paid no heed to Sonorous‘ next attack.

Aiming slightly upward, she unleashed a beam of destructive energy that engulfed the front half of the timber wolf. The constant roaring sound that emitted from her blast drowned out any other noise. Although her attack was powerful, she couldn’t sustain it for long. In fact, it had already begun to wane mere seconds after its utilization.

Sonorous fell to the floor from exhaustion, a huge billowing shroud of smoke lingered in front of her. Her chest heaving, she was sure it was finished as well. Struggling, she used her front hooves to push herself into a sitting position. After a couple more deep breaths, she slowly began to rise from her haunches. Feeling quite pleased with herself, she slowly hobbled toward the exit that Octavia had previously used.

Her high spirits were brought low by the sudden sound of wood splintering. Turning to see behind her, the partially blackened paw of the timber wolf emerged from the smoke to slam against the floor ahead of it. Extending its claws into the floor, the sound of splintering wood was once again audible. Hurrying as fast as she could, Sonorous climbed upon the stage with some difficulty

Once again a loud slam followed by the cracking of the floor could be heard. The door was in sight now, gathering what little stamina she had left, she quickened her pace. Curiosity compelled her to look back, doing so filled her with a sense of admiration. It had lost its right leg, a good portion of its chest, and head. The remaining portions were charred and smoldering.

Its face was blackened, the timber wolf stared at her with its remaining eye. The left side of its lower jaw swung freely from its precariously attached joint. Despite all the damage it had sustained, it continued to pursue her. They might not be able to gauge their adversaries’ properly but they did seem to possess an unwavering tenacity, she thought.

Refocusing her attention, she slammed against the door, causing it to fling open. Unable to keep her balance, Sonorous slumped against the ground. Remembering the amount of time it took to stand up, she began to crawl away. She could have easily transformed into a snake and slither away. However, she felt that any magical exertion would completely drain the scant amount she still possessed.

A loud crash caused her to look back at the door she escaped through. Its paw was sticking out and flailing wildly along the grass. Eventually, its claws seemed to snag what could only be surmised as tree roots. Despite the Timber wolf's attempt, the wall proved sturdy enough to impede the beast’s advancement. Retracting its claws, it raised its massive arm and began to pound against it.

Knowing what would inevitably happen next, Sonorous continued to crawl as far away as she could. After hearing its paw slam several more times into the wall, a new sound joined the fray. Unlike the sound of crashing wood, this sound was a hollow, higher pitched sort of rumble. Having several of its bricks destroyed, the wall fell in on itself. Turning onto her side, she laid there and watched as the scene unfolded. The wall, along with a part of the roof, began to pummel the timber wolf below.

Its claws jolted out to dig into the ground but slowly retracted shortly afterward. Observing the now motionless paw a little while longer, Sonorous concluded that the beast was dead. Turning to lay on her back, she gave a ragged sigh of relief. Although her magic was still dwindling due to her disguise, it was a matter she’d attend to shortly. Right now she wanted to revel in the fact that she had vanquished a giant timber wolf.

Yet her internal celebration was cut short as voices could be heard in the distance. Craning her head to the right, she weakly groaned at the sight she beheld. The element bearers were approaching her, Sonorous assumed they were talking amongst themselves. What really grated her though was the sight of Starlight among their ranks. Exhausted, she laid her head back upon the ground while they approached the fallen wall and exposed paw.

Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy, upon the advice of Twilight, began to check the surrounding area for possible injured ponies. While the rest examined the scene that laid before them. A sharp gasp from Fluttershy drew her two compatriot’s attention. There in front of the yellow pegasus laid Sonorous, battered and bruised from her ordeal. “Hello,” Sonorous replied to Fluttershy’s gasp, she was about to speak again but was silenced by the pegasus.

Advising that Sonorous remain quiet, she asked Applejack and Rarity to help lift her. Although it proved rather tricky to lift a unicorn that was taller then they were onto their backs. The three of them accomplished the task and carefully made their way to their friends. Applejack and Fluttershy carrying Sonorous on their back, while Rarity used her telekinesis to help alleviate the pressure that her friends bore.

“I don’t understand any of this, why would timber wolves suddenly attack Ponyville,” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Your guess is as good as mine, usually they don’t venture out this far unless they were hunting. We need to get to the bottom of this mystery. Before that though, we need to make sure that nopony was trapped within.” Twilight stated as she pointed toward the dilapidated theater.

“There were no other ponies inside,” Sonorous spoke as loud as her weakened state would allow. Surprised by the unfamiliar voice, the four ponies turned from the rubble to confront the mysterious speaker. What they saw instead caused them to gallop toward the slow-moving group. They all came to a halt when they were a few inches apart. Spotting Sonorous’ bloodstained coat, Twilight calmly asked who they found and how badly they were hurt.

Fluttershy answered by informing them that her name was Sonorous. She also stated that Sonorous had sustained some injuries, none of them appeared to be life-threatening. Nodding her appreciation, Twilight walked past Applejack until she was beside Sonorous' head. Sonorous felt like a sack of potatoes flung across their backs. Although she imagined looking rather ridiculous, she had to admit she was surprisingly comfortable.

She laid on her left side, looking back at the spot she was laying moments before being hoisted onto their backs. The center of her neck rested slightly below Applejack’s withers. While her thigh seemed to be resting about the middle of Fluttershy’s back. A force, most likely telekinesis, seemed to be pushing upward against the left side of her barrel.

Sonorous curled her legs inward to prevent them from jarring around as they walked. Doing so caused them to rest gently upon the croups of both ponies. Twilight politely asked how she knew that no other pony was in the building. To which she explained that the two ponies, Vinyl and Octavia, escaped while she fought the timber wolf. Everypony, except Rainbow Dash, gasped upon hearing that a single unicorn had bested a timber wolf that was capable of demolishing an entire building.

Rainbow Dash, in her usual fashion, jabbed a hoof into the air and exclaimed how awesome it was to have beaten such a beast. “If you think its so awesome, go fight one yourself,” Sonorous replied in a snarky tone. Applejack stifled her laughter, resulting in a muffled chuckle. Pinkie Pie openly giggled at the remark which caused Rainbow Dash to blush in anger.

“I was trying to give you a compliment you stuck uphhf.” Rainbow Dash’s began. Twilight was quick to cut her rant short by shoving a hoof into her mouth.

“Calm yourself Rainbow, remember that not everypony will be able to handle your level of enthusiasm. Besides after the ordeal she’s been through, don’t you think she deserves a pass this time?” Twilight whispered into Rainbow Dash’s ear. After blowing a rather loud raspberry, Rainbow Dash flew a few feet into the air and fluttered in place.

Wanting to taunt the pegasus again, Sonorous bit her lip as she listened to Twilight’s hurried apology. “Could we please hurry this along,” Rarity complained as beads of sweat were now forming across her brow. As they began to walk toward the hospital, Sonorous was beginning to feel better partially due to her feeding upon the concern that radiated from Rarity, Applejack, and Fluttershy.

Concern although not as filling as love, its close relation to the emotion made it a quick snack for any changeling in a pinch. Although there was hardly any sustenance to be gain from it, the emotion could at least stave off a changeling’s appetite. After what felt like an hour, the Ponyville Hospital could finally be seen.

Noticing that Rarity was now visibly struggling to maintain her telekinetic presence. Starlight invoked her telekinesis to support Sonorous, allowing Rarity to recuperate herself. “Thank you Starlight,” Rarity spoke graciously to the lilac colored unicorn. Starlight just smiled back at Rarity as they approached the main entrance.

Once inside, both Starlight and Twilight carefully levitated Sonorous off the backs of Fluttershy and Applejack. Now free, Fluttershy approached the nurse's station and began to explain the situation. Meanwhile, the two unicorns gentle placed Sonorous onto a bench until an orderly arrived to escort her to an examination room.

Not wanting to associate with either Twilight or Starlight. Sonorous kept her eyes closed as if trying to catch a quick nap. Once Fluttershy rejoined the group, Twilight asked in a hushed tone, if any other pony had associated with Sonorous.
Applejack mentioned that she had a brief conversation with her a few days ago. Next, Fluttershy, with input from Rarity, revealed that they had spent a day with her. Once that was finished, Twilight spearheaded the next topic.

From what Sonorous could make out, Twilight had inquired about the mysterious beam they briefly saw. She continued by stating that Rainbow Dash had confirmed that the beam had originated from somewhere within the theater‘s vicinity.
Starlight suggested that given what they knew, Sonorous was most likely the caster.

Several murmurs of agreement could be heard until Rarity chimed in. “I know that I’m no expert in magic but that spell looked quite advanced. I realize that she appears to be a couple of hooves taller than us. However, are we just assuming that her height equates to the amount of magic she’s capable of?”

They immediately fell silent as they considered Rarity’s words. Until Twilight spoke up after some deep contemplation. “Rarity is right, we can’t just assume that Sonorous conjured that spell simply by her physique. As you all may recall during Tirek’s invasion, I was able to wield the power of three alicorns. However, that only leaves one other possibility, that spell was cast by somepony else.”

The automated double doors opened with a soft hiss of air, successfully halting their discussion. The seven companions turned to see a gurney, pushed by a pegasus orderly, approached them. Hearing the clacking of hooves against the tiled floor, Sonorous opened her eyes and assumed a sitting position. The orderly glanced at the seven ponies before resting his gaze upon the injured alabaster unicorn.

“Are you Sonorous,” he asked in a deep gravely voice. She simply nodded as she stepped off the bench onto the floor. The orderly applied the brakes before pressing a lever with his left forehoof. The gurney’s crisscrossed assortment of rods began to fold upon itself. Causing the mattress to lower as pressurized air escaped their cylindrical confines.

Only after the bed was level with Sonorous’ knees did he release the lever. She easily stepped onto the bed, folding her legs underneath her, and laid down. Once she was settled, the orderly flipped a peddle downward before using his rear hoof to constantly pump it. As he did so, the bed portion began to rise upward. After a few pumps, he flipped the peddle back into its upright position.

As he was releasing the brakes, Sonorous looked toward the group. “I appreciate the assistance,” she said with a soft demeanor. Although they assumed it was for helping her to the hospital. Sonorous was referring to the revitalization of her energy. The orderly began to push Sonorous to the next available examination room where a doctor and nurse were waiting.

Stopped next to the examination table, he applied the brakes and assisted Sonorous onto the table before leaving. “Now let’s have a look at you,” the doctor casually stated. With his stethoscope, he checked her heartbeat and breathing for any abnormities. After a few deep breaths, he was certain that she hadn’t sustained any damage to her heart and lungs.

Gently, he placed a hoof against her left side and delicately pressed inward several times. Sonorous didn’t react until he applied this process to her right side. The injury she had sustained earlier caused her to grimace. He continued to gently prod her legs, back, and neck. Placing his hoof back upon the floor when he was done. With a partial smile, he informed her that she didn’t appear to have sustained any broken bones.

Although, if she wanted, he would schedule an appointment for some X-rays. Sonorous fabricated a reason to decline, knowing that they would suggest staying overnight. Respectful of her choice, the doctor stated that they had to clean and bandage her lacerations. He bade the two ponies farewell before departing. The nurse immediately set about the room, collecting the disinfectant and bandages.

“You wouldn’t happen to know which room Vinyl Scratch is in would you,” Sonorous asked.

“Are you a friend of hers?” replied the nurse as she continued to gather supplies. Sonorous cringed, remembering all the dribble that Purple Pompous and her friends spouted on about friendship during their encounters.
“I merely wanted to check in on her,” Sonorous snapped back.

“Alright, you don’t have to get snippy,” the nurse playfully retorted. Sonorous was taken aback at such a mild reaction to her aggression. Perhaps the nurse wasn‘t taking her seriously or had misinterpreted the cause of her anger. Regardless of what it might have been, she revealed Vinyl’s room number as she finished bandaging Sonorous’ barrel. Thanking the nurse for treating her, She was about to exit when the nurse called after her.

“I won’t tell anypony that you have a friend, I know how you loner types like to appear detached,” she said with a smile. Sonorous returned a weak smile before setting out to find Vinyl’s room. As she searched for room two hundred and fifteen, her mind reeled at the absolute ignorance she had just witnessed. The dimwitted nurse had somehow confused anger with a loner complex.

Sonorous had started to think that Ponyville had achieved an everlasting contentment among the chaotic world. However, she was now convinced it was just blissful ignorance. Glancing at the room numbers above, Sonorous slowed until she reached Vinyl’s room. Knocked on the door and after Octavia’s invitation, she entered.

Author's Note

1. Somnium- Latin for dream
   
2. Annunciation: Pal sel eat