Through The Grapevine

by Unknown Ficwriter

Rating: everyone
Tags: Alternate Universe, Anthology, Main 6, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Other, Equestria Girls, Random, Slice of Life
Length: 2789

Side stories from Equestria and beyond.

Hello, I am an Automatic Recorder of Information and Encrypted Storage or A.R.I.E.S for short. Twilight Sparkle, with tech from an alternate universe, created me to serve as a portable archive. My primary function is to preserve any and all information. Rest easy as numerous security measures both magic and technological safeguard your privacy.

Published 2019-05-27 04:20:01 UTC
Last updated 2021-10-28 19:32:37 UTC

Mindset

Author's Note

Mindset: Luna records a mantra of a personal nature.

Mindset

In a world of peace and happiness resides a deeper layer where monsters and shades roam freely. Screams of terror and cries of woe ring through the night. Countless pleas clamor for a hero's deliverance from the plentiful visions of horror. One mare rises to answer, born from shadow and just as fleeting.

With her arsenal at the ready, she rallies to their defense. A beacon of hope to the helpless, she vanquishes the disturbed and grotesque. With purity of heart, she serves up swift justice. As blade and shield, readying herself against the hordes that seek to rip their victims in twine. With moonlight as her guide, she patrols the dreamscape.

With Unfurled wings and horn aglow, she springs to action. Seeking neither glory nor gratification, The Guardian of Night vanishes in a poof of smoke. For whenever there's a cry in the night, she'll be there to help.

Musing Sun

Author's Note

Musing Sun: Celestia reflects upon an earlier time.

Musing Sun

As the sun rose into the sky, Celestia retreated into her room. After fluffing her circular pillow, she sat down to prepare her tea. Levitating the kettle, she filled her cup with boiling water. Replacing the kettle upon the table, she filled the diffuser with chamomile leaves. As the tea saturated the water she let out a low sigh.

How I long for the time when Luna and I were the guardians of Equestria. I know that every pony does their best especially Twilight and her friends. They've pulled some spectacular feats despite their young age. Meanwhile, I'm stuck here like a canary. Am I really making a difference cooped up in the castle?

Would it really matter If I slipped out for an adventure? To spar against invading beast instead of rabblerousing politicians. Noticing her tea was done, she placed the diffuser onto the napkin before taking a sip.

Silent Whimper

Author's Note

Silent Whimpers: Pinkie Pie reveals a deep-rooted fear.

Silent Whimper

Obsolete, a most devastating comparison to hear. Terror pales in comparison while despair kneels to its superior. Every being avoids this feeling but ultimately in vain. Even I, The Party Pony of Ponyville, struggle to maintain positivity when combating such an adversary. When all is silent and every pony slumbers, I toss in fear.

Bless Gummy for the comfort he confers but sometimes it's not enough. Every pony knows that comedy often uses anecdotes to ease the harshness of life. Yet, comedy is fickle and ever-changing. What will become of me when I too become outdated.

When both joke and prank fall to the blade of change. The signs are already there, pressuring me to escalate with each new shenanigan, lest I fall to obscurity. I fear not my friend’s dejection but the dulling efficiency I feel with each new dawn. How do I cope when I'm no longer uplifting.

Phase Two

Author's Note

Phase Two: Twilight updates Celestia and Luna about her pet project.

Phase Two

Due to the overall success of A.R.I.E.S. in Ponyville and Canterlot. We've decided to expand to other parts of Equestria. Along with the advice of my friends, I have dispatched several units to key locations. With the approval of Queen Novo, I've sent one to Mount Aris.

Several other locations include; The Crystal Empire, Cloudsdale, Fillydelphia, Las Pegasus, Saddle Arabia, and Appleloosa. I felt these locations covered most of Equestria as we know it. Not to mention the ability to monitor their efficiency in several different environments.

The ultimate goal of A.R.I.E.S. is to provide an effortless way to commune and teach others of their culture. The interlocking network is still in its infancy but its preliminary tests are more than we expected. Although there appears to have been a thief of Appleloosa's device. An additional one, along with several guards, will be dispatched the next day.

Princess Twilight Sparkle

Never To Late

Author's Note

Never Too Late: Making her way home, Moondancer prepares to greet an old friend.

Never To Late

Strolling down the streets of Canterlot, several books in tow. I spied our old university, Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, from the corner of my eye. In previous days, I'd feel a harsh sense of betrayal and unease when passing by. I looked up to you like an elder sister.

You were my friend, the epitome of studious determination. Even after "that day" I followed your example but remained jilted from then on. For five years, I avoided socializing with only the memories of the past for comfort. Although that blotch will never fade, it doesn't define me.

Diverting a portion of her magic, Moondancer, opened the door to a familiar tower. Making her way up the spiral staircase, books in tow, she opened the balcony doors. Spotting Twilight in the distance, she placed them on to the table. Unfolding two chairs, Moondancer sat and waited for her friend's arrival.

Moment of Neutrality Part 1

Author's Note

Moment of Neutrality Part 1: While attending Equestria's Centennial Celebration two unlikely equines have a conversation.

Moment of Neutrality Part 1

As the dusk approached, Chrysalis spotted Twilight along the shore. Normally, a hasty retreat would be her response to such a vulnerable predicament. However, that wasn't the case due to the day's marvelous uniquity. Despite the follies of equine diarchy, the anniversary of its establishment had remained untarnished.

So pure in fact that Chrysalis' inclusion warranted less than a raised brow. Perhaps it was due to the presence of the princesses at the celebration. Maybe her collective mentality was so strong that inclusion to any gathering overrode her aggressive behavior periodically.

Having caught Chrysalis staring, Twilight made her way through the crowd. It wasn't long til the rivals stood hoof to hoof. "Lovely evening isn't it," she uncharacteristically greeted.

"What are you doing here," Twilight deadpanned.

"I'm here to enjoy Equestria's Centennial Celebration" came her catty reply. Narrowing their eyes, they attempted to stare down the other.

Moment of Neutrality Part 2

A loud poof drew their attention as Princess Celestia materialized beside them. "I hope you two are getting along," she spoke happily.

"No disrespect but why is Chrysalis even here," Twilight objected.

"Why shouldn't she be this is, after all, a day of comradery," Celestia cheerfully reply. Taking her loss of words for a silent acceptance, Celestia bounded toward the beach.

"If Celestia vouches for you then I won't contest it. However, I do have a question," Twilight spoke through gritted teeth.

"Sure, what's on your mind," Chrysalis responded. Once again, her candor caught Twilight off guard.

"Are you aware of my invention called ARIES." With a nod from Chrysalis, she continued. "I'd like for you to return it," she asked kindly.

Leaning closer, Chrysalis informed Twilight it wasn't her who staged the heist. They spoke at length on the subject, ending with Chrysalis proposing a temporary partnership.

Bestiary-Timberwolf

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Spike The Righteous

Author's Note

Spike The Righteous: After collecting minerals from a cave in the Dragon Lands, Spike and Maud run into some trouble.

A revised version of the July 2019 "A Dragon's Heart" Flashfic contest.

***The original entry immediately follows the revision if you're interested in reading it.

Spike The Righteous

Putting down the satchel of minerals, Spike took an offensive posture. The obstructing drake bellowed a stream of fire as a show of dominance. "Hang back Maud," Spike said, while popping his knuckles, "I got this." A heavy thump and hoof against his arm returned his gaze to her.

"We've got this," Maud flatly replied. Flashing a smile, they charged. Unimpressed, it prepared another torrent of fire. A quick jab and uppercut put the kibosh on that as the drake stumbled back.

Dashing ahead, Maud delivered a flip kick to his jaw as Spike performed a leg sweep.

Spotting its flailing claws, Spike dove forward. Instead of Maud, his arm bore the attack. "Are you ok?"

"Am I alright? What about you?"

"This is nothing," he replied, "I'm just glad you're not hurt." With the battle won, they reclaimed their satchels and left the cave. As Spike unfurled his wings, Maud realized the carefree dragon was more than once thought. When push came to shove, he'd walk the line and bring forth the wrath of Tartarus if needed.

"Are you ready?" Spike called. Snapped from her musings, she quickly climbed onto his back and held on as he flew off.

***The original entry***

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\/ \/ \/

If not for the deep gash in her hindleg she might have kicked a few helpful boulders. Instead, she was relegated to a spectator while the teenage drakes fought. The disgust of her inability to help was masked by Spike's unexpected prowess in combat.

Unlike the other drake, Spike struck with nightmarish precision. It seemed as if the seraphim themselves were guiding him as he fluidly chained his attacks together. His former personality was replaced by a lone determination to win. Maud knew it wasn't for pride nor self-image but a genuine desire to protect his friends.

Being the analytical pony she was, Maud was able to see past the facade of others. There before her stood a drake who enjoyed a carefree life. However, when the chips were down Spike wasn't afraid to hold the line. For his friends, he'd bring the unyielding fury of Tartarus against any foe.

Hold Your Head High

Author's Note

Hold Your Head High: Even in the face of annihilation, Chrysalis wants a fight. Is it just her lust for violence or something deeper.

Entry for September 2019 "Bittersweet" Flashfic contest

Hold Your Head High

"Don't you dare ignore me," Chrysalis snarled as Twilight paid her no mind.

"The world is ending in less than a day, so why waste it fighting?" Twilight lamented. Teleporting in front of her, Chrysalis gripped her chest fur, bringing her face uncomfortably close to hers. Twilight's body was limp as they locked eyes.

"Your ilk has taken everything from me"—throws her to the ground—"you'll not deny me! I'll be the one to defeat you, not death nor armageddon," Chrysalis growled. On her side, Twilight begrudgingly considered her words. The encounter didn't make sense, yet a thought began to emerge.

Perhaps this fight was her way of coping. Maybe she meant to convey that one should strive, even in the face of annihilation. Still unsure, Twilight rose to a smiling Chrysalis.

Hidden Potential

Author's Note

Entry for March 2021 Flashfic contest "Accelerated Evolution"

Hidden Potential

"Finally, Equestria is mine!!!" Chrysalis triumphantly shouts. Spike, mourning over the defeat of his friends, didn't react as the swarm surrounded them.

Stopping behind Spike, Chrysalis admired her sadistic handiwork. "Twilight, you need to get up," Spike pleaded. His spirit plummeted with each unsuccessful attempt to rouse the unicorn. A sharp gasp soon escaped his lips as he noticed the weak twitching of her eye. Determined to buy her whatever time he could Spike stood to face their aggressor.

After having his arm telekinetically snapped by Chrysalis. Spike was lobbed several feet behind Twilight. Racked with pain, Spike could only watch as Chrysalis charged her horn. Despair, mixed with a familiar sensation, drowned his mind. What started as a meek plea morphed into a thundering roar.

The changelings scattered as an enormous claw swiped at them. "Leave my friends alone," Spike roared before expelling a plume of fire at Chrysalis.

One Way Trip

It had been several years since Fluttershy's death. Although caring for the animals kept Discord's mind occupied, the nights offer few distractions. Despite his resolve, sadness eventually ruined his disposition. Having paid for some herbs, Discord turned to leave Zecora's hut.

"While it's admirable to take the rein, there's no reason to harbor all the pain. Consume this potion and receive your deepest notion," Zecora finished while offering a small vial. Explaining how he only had enough money for herbs, Discord declined.

Hearing it was a gift, Discord took the vial. Having read the label, Discord's heart leaped with elation. After a hurried thanks, Discord uncorked the bottle. A whirlpool of pleasant thoughts filled his mind but quickly dissipated. "What is wrong..." Zecora began.

"To drink this potion would mean I'm not strong," Discord finished. While it's my heart's desire to see her again. Memories are better than selfish desires.

Author's Note

Entry for October 2021 Flashfic contest "The Potion"

Breakthrough

Author's Note

Breakthrough: Completing her invention, Twilight asks Applejack to come over and test it out.

Breakthrough

The library door opened to reveal Applejack who inquired about Twilight's insistent invitation. Motioning her closer, the fledgling alicorn spun to face her, "I'm glad you're here Applejack, please come it. I've just finished my latest experiment and I wanted you to be the first to try it," Twilight finished.

Fully aware of Twilight's "experiments" she cautiously stopped beside her. In a burst of showmareship she whipped her forelegs to the left to highlight the small egglike object. "What do you think," she enthusiastically asked.

"Wat is it," Applejack replied in equal befuddlement. With scrunched nose, she lowered her legs while explaining it was a recorder. One merely had to place their hoof on in and say their name. Applejack did as instructed, warmly greeted by it, she recited the recipe for Buttercup's Family Apple Pie.

Finished, she finally inquired to Twilight's diminutive stature. "It's a long story," she replied.

More Than Gems

Author's Note

More Than Gems: Looking for a different perspective, Twilight asks Discord for his honest opinion about The Elements of Harmony.

Entry for May 2019 "Black and White" Flashfic contest

More Than Gems

The Elements of Harmony, most claim they're the purest form of lawful or "good magic." While they are not wrong per se, these dainty gems do more than spew magic. Much like a certain draconequus, they conflict with and perforate the dreary black and white of lawful society.

By captivation and resurrection of wonderment, they stoke the flames of whimsical merriment. Much like the rainboom, they splatter color upon the animatic. Champions of abnormality, they bolster probably with each impossibility achieved.

Inticed, we bloom beyond the obscuring shades of life. Grayscale yields to chroma, mundane to chaos as the world redefines itself. My point is the Elements of Harmony are more chaotic than previously speculated.

Sincerely Discord

Disgruntled at his atrocious accusation Twilight crumbled the letter. While taking aim at the wastebasket, Discord's words sloshed through her mind. As segments gained clarity, she unfurled the letter despite the mental jab.

Excerpts of A Drifter

Author's Note

Excerpts of A Drifter: After observing how to utilize the A.R.I.E.S. A wondering changeling leaves more than hoof prints.

Excerpts of A Drifter

Life in Equestria is amazing: parties, friends, family, and docile animals galore. It's hard to be sad in such an overwhelmingly accepting society. However, when the sun goes down and everypony goes to sleep. That's the stretch of time that takes its toll. We fill the emptiness with routines and bedtime habits but we remain alone in the end.

I watch the shifting of celestial bodies and observe the slow change of atmosphere. In this regard, we are the same. Basking in the joyous marvel of the day and presence of ponies we've grown accustomed to. Yet suffer alone in the dark void of loneliness. Never being one to remain in one place, I set off down the road.

With fond memories and established friends in mind, I leave Ponyville. Desiring to discover everything the world offers and new friends to make. The bright green flash, my farewell for now.

Winter Fun

Author's Note

Winter Fun: Just a fun snow day in Equestria.

Entry for June 2019 "Ow! Where did that come from?" Flashfic contest

Winter Fun

Winter time, the last few months before the new year. Whether they were sledding, making snowponies, of snowball fighting, everypony was enjoying the weather. Deserving a rest from their recent adventure, Twilight, and her friends were currently engaging several colts and fillies in wintery warfare.

Without warning a snowball struck Twilight's shoulder, surprised she turn her head to see who'd thrown it. Unable to see anything but snow, she focused back on the game. Again a snowball struck the same spot, however, this time would be different. Having spotted the general direction from the corner of her eye, she teleported.

Reappearing several feet away she immediately spotted the familiar quadri-colored mane and tail poking from under the snow. The snowball fight came to a halt as Celestia and Twilight were heard wrestling. After a few minutes, with Celestia trumping Twilight, both mares searched their surroundings as another snowball struck Twilight.