Sombra is back... Sombrero, actually.

Chapters

Chapter 2: The First Step To The Princess's Heart
Chapter 3: Today Is The Best Day Of My Life!
Chapter 4: Preparing For The Holiday
Chapter 5: Grand Galloping Gala
Chapter 6: Nightmare
Chapter 7: Escape
Chapter 8: Liberation
Chapter 9: The Wedding
Chapter 1: Let Me Introduce Myself: Mr. Sombrero.

Chapter 2: The First Step To The Princess's Heart

"All right," Twilight said. "Since the Sombrero needs to go to the Palace, we'll go. We need somepony to escort our guest."

"Yes, you're always right. Escort me to the chambers of the beautiful Princess!"

"Wait, actually, the Princess 'quarters are the Princess' private space. And I don't think anyone can go in there at all."

"You think so... Well, okay." I followed my companions. If I can't go to the Princess, then I'll write her letters. I think she'll find time to meet me. Very soon we were in the throne room. There was only Celestia.

"Greetings, Guardians. I see you brought Sombra here. Tell me, what's the reason?"

"Actually, he wanted to come here to meet... Ahem... Someone," Twilight said, a little embarrassed.

I couldn't see how they were taking the rap for me, so I decided to take it all in my hooves. I stepped forward and shouted:

"I have come to confess my love to Princess Luna! And by the way, my name is Sombrero."

Was it me, or was Celestia surprised? Moreover, so strong that she was silent for about five minutes.

"Mr. Sombrero?! But how is that possible? After all, Sombra killed you a thousand years ago and took your throne."

"What?! He told you?! Haha, it wasn't like that at all. Actually, he was just in my body. Then he took over my mind, too. Now I'm back."

"This is so unexpected. Okay, you can stay at the Palace tonight. And, Sombrero, I will deliver your message to the Luna."

"Thank you very much, Princess Celestia."

The guards escorted us to our rooms. I lay down in my bed, but I couldn't sleep. Here it is. I'll see her soon. Ah, Princess Luna, how I love you. But you can't show up on a first date with empty hooves. We should get her some flowers. I remember she likes roses. Then I'll give them to you. But this is not enough. I need to get you something special. Some jewelry. Precisely! So, flowers, jewelry. I think that's enough for a first date. After a while, I, finally fell asleep.

"Luna, let me come in."

"A, Tia, come in of course. Did something happen? You look so strange."

"What happened? No, that's all right. Twilight and her friends and Sombra returned to Canterlot."

"With Sombra?! Is he in the Palace? But he could kill us all!"

"She can't. Maybe I was wrong. Actually, his name is Sombrero. It is quite different, the complete opposite of Sombra. And... He came for a reason. He... Wants to give you something important. I think you should find out what it is."

"Something important? Okay, I'll ask him tomorrow morning. Good night, sister."

"Good night."

Celestia left the room, and the Luna sank into thought.

Something familiar... Uh, Sombrero. I've heard that name before. But where?

Luna fell asleep without thinking.

Ah, what a beautiful morning. However, there is no time to lose. I jumped out of bed and galloped into the street in search of a flower shop and a jewelry store. Fortunately, I had enough money. Is enough. All right, so where do I find the right stores?

"Hey, what's the hurry?"

I turned my head and saw Pinkie.

"Oh, welcome. What are you doing here?"

"Well, I woke up first, looked out the window, and then I heard footsteps. Turns out it was you. So where to?"

"I need to buy something for our first date with Princess Luna. Can you help?"

"Of course! I've only been to Canterlot a few times, but I already know every stone. What can I help you?"

"Well, first you need to buy flowers. And I wanted to buy some jewelry for her."

"All clear. I'll help you with that. By the way, here it is, the flower shop." She pointed across the street.

"Oh, thank you very much."

"Go on, then, romantic."

I approached the salespony.

"Hello, may I ask how much this beautiful bouquet of roses?"

"This one? Only twenty bits."

"Then I'll take it. Thank you!"

"Come again."

"So, where do we go now?"

"Come on, it's not far."

We walked really close: about ten minutes. I went to the store and began to choose a suitable decoration. What to surprise her, what to please? Still, I decided to buy a necklace made of precious stones.

"Hello, I'd like to buy this necklace."

"Wow, it's very expensive. Worth a thousand bits."

"Bad luck, I only have a hundred. Maybe we can make a deal. For example, I'll play you something on the banjo, and you'll sell the necklace for a hundred bits."

"Hmm, well, I don't mind. However, I will only lower the price if your music is beautiful. If not, I can't help you."

"All right, I agree. So what would you like to play?"

I took out the banjo, picking a tune in my head. Here it is! I remembered my first tune I played on this banjo. I remember every pony was thrilled. I decided to play it. Gradually, the sounds of my instrument again began to meet the crowd of ponies. They listened to the melody with bated breath. She was calm, peaceful and, at the same time, a little sad.

When I finished playing, the ponies began to applaud.

"Bravo! Bravo! Absolutely delectable!" different voices were heard.

Then the salespony came up to me and, wiping a tear with his hoof, said:

"It's... Just great. For such a game, I can sell this necklace for free."

"Not worth. Not paying for this beautiful necklace would be a crime. A hundred bits, and not a bit less."

"Well, as you know."

I paid, took the necklace and went outside. Pinkie looked at me fondly.

"Uh, what?!"

"You're such a good player! It's the best music I've ever heard."

"Yeah, me and the banjo are one. Going back?"

She just nodded. We returned to the Palace, and I went straight to the throne room. And Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were already there.

I greet you, Princess. Princess Moon, I want to tell you something. Princess Celestia…

"Okay, I'll leave you alone." She left the throne room.

"Alone? What's the meaning of that?"

"Princess Luna, as soon as I was here in Canterlot, I wanted to tell you something. I'm in love with you, Princess."

I didn't know how she reacted. She just stared at me like I was her worst nightmare. Then she said:

"In love?!"

"Yes, and I thought. Perhaps we should meet?"

"Well, I don't know... it's a little harsh... I need to think about it."

"Well, I'll give you as much time as you need."

I decided to go to my bedroom. Pinky Pie was waiting for me there.

"What meeting? And again I ask: what are you doing here?"

"I just wanted to see how it went. Well, did she agree? Wedding soon?"

"No, she asked me to think. Apparently, we had to start from afar, but not so soon. However, this step has already been taken, and there is no turning back."

"So you'll wait for an answer?"

"Of course! I'll wait every day. I'll send her letters every day."

"You're an optimist, I see. If you want, I can give you some advice on how to please your beloved."

"Yeah, I'm gonna need some advice. What can you advise me?"

"Tip one: buy gifts. We love it. Advice the second: pay it much attention. If you don't, she might forget about you. Although you are unlikely to forget. And the third Council: do not hurry. We have to start small, and finally finish the wedding. That's all."

"Thank you, Pinkie Pie, I'll remember those tips."

I sat by the window and began to compose new music.

"So you'll come up with your own tunes? You're doing great."

"Really? Thank. I want to create this melody in honor of the Princess of the Luna."

I wrote the melody until the evening. All this time Pinkie was sitting close to me.

"Oh, your music is beautiful, no doubt. But I have to go." Pinkie stood up and left the room.

Celestia moved down the corridor. She was making her way to her sister's bedroom.

"Luna, can come in?'

"Yes, come in, of course," her voice was a little worried.

"Well, how did it go? I mean... With a Sombrero."

"I don't know what to do."

"Yes, I know it's a little rushed, just a Declaration of love. But you can give him a chance."

"No, it's not like that. It's just... I've met him before."

"What?! When?!"

"About a thousand years ago. Before he became a Sombra. I recognized him when he entered the throne room."

"So you've met him?"

"That's it."

"So what's the problem? If you love each other, I don't see any obstacles.…"

"There is one obstacle: I fell out of love with him. And I'm not sure if I can love him again."

"Just give him a chance. I'm sure you'll like him. I'm telling you this as a big sister."

"Oh, thanks for the support." Luna sighed. "You're right, I'll give him a chance."

"That's good."

Celestia walked out of the bedroom.

I want what's best for you, sister. I hope you'll be happy to love a Sombrero.

Chapter 3: Today Is The Best Day Of My Life!

New day! I wonder if Princess Luna has made her choice or not. At that moment, there was a knock at my door. I opened the door and saw a guard wearing dark-colored armor. He handed me the letter.

"It from Princess Luna."

"Thank You."

He left, and I opened the letter. It had the following:

Okay, I'll go out with you. Meet me tonight at eight o'clock in Canterlot garden. Don't be late.

Princess Luna.

My heart was ready to beat a thousand times harder. Today is the best day of my life! Okay, we need to get everything ready by tonight. Oh, I never gave her the flowers and the necklace. Well, I'll give them to her tonight. However, the flowers need water, so they don't dry out. Good thing there was a pitcher of water. I put the bouquet in the jug. Great, now I have a whole day ahead of me. Which means there's nothing stopping me from taking a walk around Canterlot.

I left the Palace in good spirits and went for a walk. This city was magnificent. To tell you the truth, I've only seen him once when I was in touch with Equestria. That's when I met Princess Luna. And so, mostly, I lived in the Crystal Empire. My castle inside and out, houses and even roads were made of crystals. Of course, they are beautiful, but when they surround you for almost all your life, it starts to bother. However, the residents were somehow gloomy. I do not understand how they can not please such a beautiful weather in such a beautiful town.

"There you are! I'm looking for you everywhere." That voice was easy for me to recognize.

"Pinkie Pie? Why are you looking for me?"

"To give you this. You're invited to the Grand Galloping Gala next week. Oh, boy, you better run."

"Why?"

"Because runs Rarity. She will take you to her boutique and will sew you a costume for the holiday. And that takes a veeery long time. Anyway, run and I'll distract her."

"Well, thanks for the advice."

I decided to listen to Pinkie and run. If she's right, and Rarity makes me sit in her boutique all day, I won't make it to my date. Well, that was a little weird. And what is the Grand Galloping Gala?

I looked at the Golden ticket with the odd-shaped corners. Okay, I'll ask th Princess Luna, she'll tell me. But the walk is not canceled. I have to see the whole city. Or almost. Depends how far I get.

After a while I went back to the Palace. Oops, looks like I made a circle. Well, I'll go to my room and get some rest. Going into the room, I saw that the time was already 18:30. Wow, I've been walking! Well, we can leave early. What if the Princess comes out early too?

I took the necklace and the flowers and went to the Canterlot Garden. Too bad she didn't specify where the meeting would be. I walked around the garden and saw a beautiful lake, from which I could not look away. It was so crystal clear that I could see my reflection like in a mirror. Then I took my eyes off the lake and waited for Princess Luna. She arrived half an hour later.

"Hey, how long you been here?" she asked.

"All the waiting time for me is just a moment."

"Haha, you haven't changed a bit in a thousand years."

"Who – a thousand years, and who – a few seconds. Oddly enough, there's no time in the Darkness, did you know?"

"You're funny. Let's make a deal: since we're Dating, let's go for speak on a first-name."

"Okay, Luna."

She sat down next to me.

"This lake is so beautiful, isn't it?"

"That's right. I come here every night and look at the starry sky. You know, it's even more beautiful at night when the lake reflects the moonlight."

"It would be interesting to see that."

"Of course, soon I will raise the moon. Well, how do you like our city?"

"It's quite interesting. Such beautiful buildings, I'm conquered. It is a pity that the pony do not see this beauty."

"They've probably seen enough of her to get tired of her."

"Maybe that's the way it is. Well, let's not bring it up. By the way, I have something for you."

I hid the flowers and the necklace under the poncho when I first came to the lake, and now I took them out and handed them to the Luna.

"Oh, what beautiful flowers. Do you still remember that I like roses? Wow, what a beautiful necklace! Isn't that too much for a first date?"

"I do not feel sorry for any money, just to see this joyful and sincere smile. Besides, I got a discount for my tunes. You want me to show you?"

"Wait a bit, I need to raise the moon. I promise it will be an unforgettable sight."

I had no doubt about it. Luna stood on hooves, her horn lit up, and the sun began to sink slowly, giving way to the night luminary. Luna was right: it is an unforgettable sight.

"What do you say?" she asked slyly.

"That's... incredible. I've never seen anything like it."

"If you want, you can watch it every night. So, you wanted to show me something?"

"Certainly."

And I decided to play the Luna a melody that I dedicated to her. She was thrilled with it.

"I don't understand how you can play the banjo so well."

"I don't understand how you managed to create such a beautiful night sky."

"Well you're a romantic."

"By the way, Luna, I wanted to ask: what is the Grand Galloping Gala?"

"Is such a ball, where people come to all sorts of aristocrats, and begin to speak nonsense. One day, I remember, Celestia invited Twilight Sparkle and her friends to the Gala. So they almost destroyed the whole building."

We laughed loudly.

"Ah, everything is clear. The ponies of high society. Never try to find a way to have fun. And as they only live?"

"Hard to say. Personally, I like fun."

"I couldn't agree more. And what should we do in this situation?"

"What are you up to?"

"Well, I haven't thought of it yet, but I thought we could take it in our hooves and make the party more fun. And Twilight and her friends will help us."

"I don't know. We princesses have so much to do. I could take a week off, though. Celestia had ruled Equestria for a thousand years, and she would last a week.

"So it's settled then? And this operation will be called 'Fun for the holiday.'"

"Ha, that's a good name. Well, Sombrero, I have to go. I still have to watch other pony's dreams."

"Okay, I'm going to bed. Maybe I'll have a nightmare and you'll throw it away for me."

"Never mind. Everypony will have good dreams tonight."

"I'm sure. Good night, Luna."

"Good night."

I went into the bedroom. I was tired for the day, but I was very glad that the Luna reciprocated me.

I went to bed and closed my eyes. Luna was right: I had only good dreams.

The next morning somepony was knocking on my door. I opened the door and saw Rarity.

"Oh, Hello, señora. What can I do for you?"

"Save your pleasantries for Princess Luna, because now you're coming with me to take measurements of your new suit."

"What about GGG? Can you postpone? The thing is, I need your help. Yours, Twilight, and the others. Help please."

"Yes? How are we supposed to help you?"

"Let's call the others and I'll tell them."

"Well."

We got through to the other ponies and called them into my room.

"So, ladies, thank you for coming. Here's the thing: I found out what your GGG is, and I can safely say that it's very boring. You know that, don't you?"

They nodded.

"Perfectly. Because this ball should be more fun than the others. We called this operation 'Fun for the holiday'. Well, will you help us?"

"Of course!" they answered in unison.

Luna walked between the dreams of other ponies. Everything was quiet, which meant she could visit her sister's dream to talk to her.

Here it is.

Luna went into her sister's dream. In fact, he was no different from reality. Just that no one was on the streets. Absolutely no one.

Her strange dreams. once again noticed Luna.

"Tia, where are you?"

"Luna, hi. Well, how did it go with you? You're here to discuss this, right?"

"Yeah, that's what I came for. You know, he hasn't changed a bit. We had such a nice talk today. I think he might be my boyfriend again."

'I'm glad everything happened so and not otherwise."

"Yes, and we also decided that this Grand Galloping Gala should be more fun than the others. And that's why I want to take a week off to do operation 'Fun for the holiday'. You let me?"

"Of course. You're old enough not to ask permission."

"Thanks, sis!" Luna gave a jump faced Celestia and hugged her.

"Please, sis." Tia replied softly.

Chapter 4: Preparing For The Holiday

"Sooo... Remind me again, what are we waiting for?"

"Pinkie, how many times do I have to tell you? We're waiting for Princess Luna. Since this ball is held in the evening, she must also participate in this operation. Besides, it was Sombrero and Luna who first came up with the idea," Twilight said.

"Oh, right. I just can't wait to get on with our plan."

"Yeah, just don't make a mess like last time," Rainbow said.

"Yes, but we wanted to make our dreams come true at this party, not make it more fun," Applejack said.

I don't know how long this conversation would have lasted, but at that moment the Luna entered the room.

"Hello. I hope I'm not late."

"Of course not," I said. "We have a whole week ahead of us. So now we can start. What do you need to make the holiday fun?"

"Well, Pinkie's pretty good at that."

"It's true! For a fun holiday need balls, music, fun games, delicious food and drinks. Kind of all. However, the last time I tried to arrange a merry holiday, I did not succeed. These aristocrats always so gloomy."

"Yes, we already know that. But I'm sure if we try, this will be the best night ever. Let's begin."

I took out paper, pen and ink and began to write down the items in the list for the holiday. The first thing we need is jewelry. After all, it's a holiday. Second, it's treats. We need a great cook who can cook wonderful dishes. Third: music. No, not like that. Cheerful music. I stopped there.

"I've made a short list of what we need. Tell me, senoritas, do we need anything besides food, music and jewelry?"

"What about the weather?" Twilight said. "She should be perfect tonight."

"Good," I added another item to the list. "Is that all?"

"Of course. Only now our plan from 'add some fun to the party' turned into 'organize the party ourselves'," Pinkie said.

I scratched my head.

"You know, it's better that way! So, we will not have problems with other organizers. Just need to warn Princess Celestia about it, so she hired other organizers."

"I'll warn her," Luna said. "Excellent! The layout is finished, now it remains to implement everything. Really, I think we should start tomorrow, don't you mind?"

In General, we all decided that we can start preparing the holiday tomorrow. When everypony started to leave, I stopped the Luna.

"Luna, would you like to meet me at the same place tonight?"

"Did you like that lake so much? All right, I'll come. But don't be late."

"Of course I won't even think about being late. I'm going for a walk."

I left the Palace and walked down the street. And suddenly I thought: having appeared in this world after a thousand years, I need to find a job. After all, I'm not immortal, and I need money. Well, I'll settle that after the ball.

***

"Luna, there you are! Where were you? I couldn't find you."

"I was in the Sombrero room. We were just thinking about improving the holiday and... well, it just so happened that we decided to organize the Grand Galloping Gala ourselves. And I came to warn you about it. I hope you haven't hired the organizers yet."

"No, I was gonna do it today. But I see you'll do quite well yourself. I charge you and your friends with organizing the Grand Galloping Gala."

"Thank you, sister."

*In the evening, in Canterlot garden.*

"Luna, are you here yet? I hope you're not waiting too long."

"Don't worry, I just got here. I made arrangements with Celestia, and she personally commissioned us to organize this celebration. Do you think we can handle it?"

"Well, of course, it's not that hard. In addition, we help friends, and this is a big plus.

"Yes, you're right. I have to raise the moon."

The sight, as in the evening, was incredible. And this lake is so pleasant shone the glow of the moon. It made me want to play the banjo. This time the music was more cheerful.

Then we just sat and talked. Then she asked:

"Do you ever wish you could dream other people's dreams?"

"Other pony's dreams? Honestly, I never thought about it.…"

"I'll show you something."

She stood up, her horn glowing, and we were both surrounded by a white veil. When she disappeared, I found myself in a strange place. Everywhere in the air were balls, in each of which was something shown.

"What is it? Where are we?"

"We're at my workplace. Here I guard the pony's dreams and prevent their nightmares. These balls and have dreams of ponies. Do you like it?"

"Like it? Wrong word! This is the most incredible thing I've ever seen!

"That's not all. Go."

Luna and I were moving through this mysterious place. Soon we came to a ball that was different from the others: it was a gray shade.

"Guess whose dream is inside?"

"I don't know. You can't see anything because of this gray shroud."

"The veil means that ponies now awake. And you're not sleeping, by the way.
"So... these are my dreams?"

"Well certainly. And now we can watch your old dreams. If you don't mind, of course."

"I don't mind," I said.

Luna touched the globe with its horn, and the place of pony's dreams was replaced by a Canterlot.

"Let's see what you dreamed last night."

"Didn't you see that yesterday?"

"Of course not. You didn't have nightmares."

"That's right."

The last thing I wanted was for her to have a dream last night. It's just a dream, though.

"Sombrero... So you dreamt IT yesterday."

"Yeah. What's wrong with a... wedding?

"So you were dreaming about our wedding?" judging by the tone, Luna was surprised.

"But it's only a dream."

"Yes, indeed. Time to go."

We were again surrounded by a shroud, and we were back in Canterlot garden.

"It's time for me to guard other people's dreams. I hope you enjoyed this little excursion."

"I liked it very much."

Luna smiled and disappeared into the world of dreams.

***

Throughout the week we were preparing for the holiday. Like I said, it wasn't that hard. Rainbow cleared the clouds, Applejack cooked, Rarity decorated the Palace, and Pinkie hung balloons and flags. By the way, she even brought some pony named Vinyl Scratch, or as she calls herself, DJ PON-3. She'll be in charge of the music. By the way, after hearing my music, Vinyl asked me to come up with a couple of tunes. She said she was gonna do some kind of Remix. What the hell is that? And Twilight and the Moon, as the most important, make sure that everything was perfect.

And now, at last, the evening came. However, what happened changed my life.

Chapter 5: Grand Galloping Gala

Here is and it is a timely this evening! I don't know how, but Rarity managed to make us all dresses for the holiday. I was embarrassed to say no, so I put on a suit. It resembled a tailcoat in some respects, but in some details it differed. And so we stand before the gates of the Palace and meet the guests. After all, we are the organizers. Except for Luna, of course, she must greet the guests with Princess Celestia. I hope she has a minute to "surprise." I didn't tell anyone, but toward the end of the celebration, Luna would recreate the real Northern lights in the sky. I'm sure everyone will like it.

There were more and more guests, and some of them admired seeing the Palace closer. Still, this is the first year when the Palace is so beautiful: everywhere were balloons, various decorations; on the table there were many dishes that could not wait to try our guests, judging by the expressions on their faces. However, there have been those, who change is not liked. They'll change their minds.

Soon after, when all the guests arrived, I signaled to vinyl Scratch and She turned on the music. It was similar to the tunes I played on the banjo, though it sounds different. Ah, now I know what a Remix is.

"Time to party!" Pinky exclaimed and fired confetti from her party cannon, which she pulled from her mane... Yeah.

Then a white unicorn in evening dress and with a monocle came up to us.

"Hello, what brings you here?" I asked.

"Hello. Let me introduce myself: my name is Fancy Pants. And you, then, are the organizers of the ball?"

"That's right. How do you rate the idea of turning a boring ball, excuse my bluntness, into a fun holiday?"

"I think it's a great idea!" he smiled. "And you are right, what was before, indeed can be called 'dull'. After all, the holiday is needed in order to relax, unwind and, in the end, have fun.

"I completely agree with you. By the way, my name is Sombrero."

"Nice to meet you. Well, would you like a punch to this wonderful evening?"

"Not refuse."

Fancy Pants and I walked over to the refreshment table, and half an hour later we were deep in conversation with our new friend.

"You're quite interesting to talk to. And these aristocrats, knowing that I am a powerful pony in Canterlot, always agree with me. There is nothing to talk about with such a society."

"I understand. Nowadays ponies are even willing to suck up to get privileges."

"You're right, of course. Well, let's not talk about sad, after all, we are on holiday."

"Yes, we've been sitting up too long. I think I'll go dance."

"Well, thank you for keeping me company. Thank you."

I walked away from him. But I wasn't going to dance; I had other plans.

"Hey, Sombrero!"

I turned around and was happy to see her right there.

"Hi, Luna. You got out so fast!"

"Yeah, I barely made it out of there. Greeting everyone is not a pleasant experience. More precisely, it is very boring. How did you spend your time?"

"Not bad. Spent time with Fancy Pants. He is a very interesting person."

"I'm glad someone's having fun."

"Luna. I need to tell you something. But not here. Go."

I led the way.

"Where are you taking me? What is it?" she asked with a note of surprise.

"Wait till you see. Here we are."

We were near Moon lake, which hosted our meeting.

"So, what did you want to tell me?"

And suddenly I remembered Pinkie's words: 'Take your time!'. Really, isn't it too soon?

"N-nothing. I just wanted to talk to you. In private."

"Is this like a date? Okay, but we'll be back later. I don't want to miss out on all the fun."

"I didn't say we'd miss it. Just a little chat, look at the lake and come back.

Then we talked on any topic. And suddenly, during the conversation, Luna stood up and walked towards the Palace.

"Luna, wait, where are you going?" Ah, I see, eager to have some fun. Then I will."

But she didn't even turn to me.

"Luna, you're scaring me. Is something wrong?"

Again no answer. She kept walking toward the Palace. I went to the Palace with her, and when I went inside, I was in shock.

"Well, Hello, Sombrero!"

"How... did You... Get here?" I have never been so shocked as I am now, for I was more than familiar with the person before me. It was... king Sombra.

"How? Oh, glad you asked. It was very difficult. The thing is, I used black magic to separate you and me. It took me a year to get you out of my body. And here is the fruit of my labors. Incidentally, for this well was would and 'thank you' say."

"What?! You were in Equestria for a year?"

"You think I'm an idiot? Of course, I was not in Equestria, but in my cave. There I studied dark magic in more detail. But I suddenly felt that I was slowly but surely losing control of my body. I knew it was you, and I decided that nothing could stop me, especially a weakling like you. And so, I succeeded. But before that, I had captured the minds of many crystal ponies. But not all. But now that I have conquered the Crystal Empire, Canterlot, the Bearer of Harmony, and even the princesses, I will be the ruler of Equestria. And then I'll start conquering other lands. And you can go all four ways. Although ... There is no, perhaps, torture you will more interesting.

Dark purple smoke appeared around its horn. After that I lost consciousness…

I woke up, strangely enough, in my room, in the Palace. By the light, it was morning. I decided to go outside and see what was going on. I was very surprised that there was not a soul at the entrance, and from the holiday there was not a trace. And no one was hypnotized. What's going on here? I decided to ask the princesses. I entered the throne room, bowed, and began:

"Princess Celestia, may I ask..." but the aforementioned Princess interrupted me:

"How dare you come here, despicable one, after all you've done?"

"I'm sorry, but what did I do?"

I also noticed that there was no moon. And Princess Celestia flew into a rage at my words and was already screaming:

"Do you realize how much you hurt my sister's feelings?! Now she doesn't leave her room. I thought you loved each other, but you didn't. Get out of Canterlot... No, get out of Equestria. If you don't disappear immediately, the elements of Harmony will imprison you back into Darkness."

I decided not to push my luck and left very quickly. Or rather, ran away at all pores. Okay, now I don't get it at all. Did I hurt Luna's feelings? I wonder how? How am I supposed to know anything? It is useless to address Twilight and her friends: they "hate"me for sure. Although, still not fact. Something is definitely wrong here. Okay, it's worth a shot.

I went to a door and knocked. Pinkie opened the door for me. She started to say something, but I interrupted her:

"Before you say anything, let me come in and ask you something."

She waved me into the room and I continued:

"What's going on?"

"Er... what do you mean?"

"Oh... have You heard anything about my relationship with Luna?"

"Oh, sure. The whole Palace knows about it. All Canterlot will know soon enough."

"I don't understand. What is happening? How did I hurt Luna's feelings?"

"You don't know how you hurt the Princess? What is it?" she asked blankly. "All right, I'll tell you. You were on a date last night. And then, just before Princess Luna wanted to leave, you said it was over. I mean, you've fallen out of love with her and you don't want to see her anymore. Well, she's in tears, of course, and she doesn't leave her room after that."

I was shocked by that.

"Pinkie Pie, can I stay in your room for a while?"

"Nope," she said.

"Are you angry with me, too?"

"First, go to the "you", we're still friends. Second, no, I'm not mad at you. Third, since Celestia has officially kicked you out of Equestria, our mission is over and we're on our way back to Ponyville.

"Alright. Well, I have no other choice. I have to leave Equestria... Forever.…"

I walked out of the Palace with my head down. Arriving at the station, I bought a ticket to the Crystal Empire. As the train started I wondered what I should do next. How am I supposed to live with this? Knowing that you hurt someone you loved very much without remembering a single moment of it. Above all, why is the pony no longer under Sombra's control? Twilight and her friends managed to break out of hypnosis and imprison him? It may be. There is one good news. When I finally arrived in the crystal Empire, I wandered aimlessly through the streets of The city. Suddenly I heard a familiar voice:

"Oh, Sombrero, is that you?"

I looked up and saw Sunburst, the same pony I had seen when I awoke.

"Hello, Sunburst. How's life?"

"Good! I see you're upset about something. Something happened?"

"What difference does it make to you? In any case, nothing can help me.

"Don't say that," Sunburst said positively. "There is always a way out of this situation, even when it seems that all is lost."

"You think so? Maybe, but not in my case."

"What happened?"

"I-I don't want to talk about it. Leave me."

I wandered on, confused. How could this happen? I do not understand. And now, perhaps, never will understand…

Chapter 6: Nightmare

I've been sitting under a tree for a long time. I was deep in thought when someone called to me.

"Sir! Sir, what's the matter with you, why are you sitting under a tree?"

I raised my head and saw before me a gray-colored earth pony with a black mane and tail.

"I guess I'm tired," I said reluctantly.

"Yeah? Then why don't you go home?"

"I don't have one. It's a long story... Go ahead, don't worry about me."

I started to go somewhere, but the pony stopped me:

"Wait, where are you going if you don't have a home? You'd better come and live with me."

"No, I can't do that.…"

"No, not at all." he said confidently. "I can't have you sleeping on the street. Believe me, I can beg you for a long time."

Why would he do that? Okay, I see he's giving me no choice.

"All right, I'll come with you," I said reluctantly. "What's your name?"

The pony hesitated for a moment, then said:

"Hard Hoof... Yes, Hard Hoof. But you can just Hard."

"Hmm, what an odd name you have. So, where is your home?"

"Not far. Here it is."

He pointed with his hoof to a house about twenty yards away. As we approached, Hard opened the door and invited me inside. I went in and looked around first. This room I entered appeared to be a living room, judging by the coffee table in the center of the room and the two sofas surrounding the table. This room had two doorways, one on the left and one on the right.

"I see you're already looking around." Hard said. "Well, sit down and I'll get the coffee."

And he went into the room on the right. I looked around the room. There were many photographs on the wall opposite. And if you look closely at the background, you can see that they are made in different places. It turns out that the Hard traveler? He had just entered the room, and I ventured to speak of it:

"I see you have many photographs. Are you traveling on Equestria?"

"Oh, and not just Equestria, my friend. I was in the Yak-Akistan and Empire Griffons. In General, where I only not was. Well, tell me, what happened to you? - he shifted the subject.

"In what way?"

"In the literal. I when you sitting under tree saw, understood, that you have something happened. And if you don't know, I'm considered the best psychologist even for dragons! he said solemnly. And you can tell me your problem, and I'll help in any way I can."

"Well. The thing is... I broke up with my pony."

"How did it happen?"

"I-I don't know. When I woke up yesterday morning, I said I didn't want to see her. However, I don't remember saying it, and I'm not sure if it's true at all."

"Hmmm... That's what it means," said Hurd thoughtfully. "And how did She react to that?"

"She's ... Locked in her room and sad. And he probably despises me."

"All clear. Of course, this is my first time. Tell me, do you love her?"

"Of course!"

"And how is it that you are the instigator of the quarrel?"

This question has me stumped. I didn't even think about it.

"Well, what happened up to the time you quarreled?"

"Well, I remember before that day there was a festival – the Grand Galloping Gala. Then I talked to Fancy Pants, then I talked to L... her at the lake. But suddenly we were attacked by Sombra. I don't remember anything after that. And Sombra why it is not visible. Looks like the guardians of Harmony's Elements were able to stop him.

"That's it? After Sombra's attack, do you remember anything?"

"I don't remember. Looks like he knocked me out somehow.…"

"Tell me, how did Sombra attack you that night? Did he raise an army and turn against Canterlot or something?

"No, he just got mesmerized by all the ponies in the city…"

"All of them? Or even Guardians?"

I strained my memory to remember if the Keepers had been hypnotized. Yes, I remember Pinkie Pie looking at me with green eyes.

"Y-Yes... it was..."

"And they stopped Sombra under hypnosis?"

"Hard, what do you mean?"

"What if there was no attack? Suddenly you seemed, that is happening so, not otherwise, and on fact in that evening was not celebration, and as times your spat?"

"Hard, I don't understand. No, I remember exactly what it was. In fact, it certainly was."

"Well, let's look at it this way. What if I don't exist? There's no such thing as our conversation, or this house?"

"But how can it not exist if it's happening now?" my head was a mess.

"Well, sleep happens when we sleep, too, but it's only a dream."

"So, you want to say that I'm not dreaming now? But then why don't I Wake up?"

"Because this is no ordinary dream. To Wake up, you need to get rid of nightmares."

"Nightmares? What's the meaning of that?"

"You will answer these questions yourself. I can only wish you good luck."

At the same moment Hard Hoof and his house disappeared, and I found myself in the street. The only thought in my head was: "What was that just now?'. This Hard... How did he disappear? Were they hallucinations? Or was it a dream? Then I should take his advice and get rid of the nightmares. But I have only one nightmare here: parting with the Luna. So I need to make up with her to wake up. But how can I do that if I'm banished from Equestria forever? My sleep will last forever if I am locked in Darkness. I only have one shot at this. I wonder if I can make money appear in my pocket? I pictured it in my head and reached into my pocket. No, the money wasn't there. It couldn't help but upset me.

So, think about how to make peace with the Luna. If I were to be seen by Celestia, or by anyone who knew of my banishment, I would suffer the most terrible fate. So it's not a Sombrero coming to Equestria. I smiled slyly and went to look for a clothing store. I may not have any money, but I can steal clothes. It's still just a dream. When I reached the store I went inside and began to choose an outfit that would not give away my identity. Yes, and character need to change, to me accurately not learned. Oh, this will do! I slipped my black jacket and top hat off the rack and put them on so that the top hat completely covered my mane, throwing away my sombrero and poncho. And when I got to the exit, someone yelled:

"Hey, sir, you haven't paid for the goods!"

Oops, it seems this me! I gotta run! So I did-ran as fast as I could. And, of course, the guards ran after me. I have to lose them. But how to do it? Wait, I'm sleeping. So I can't get tired and I can run forever! Ha, as all simply…

The guards have been chasing me for two hours and don't think to get tired. Well, then I'll have to run all the way to Ponyville on my four legs. I reached the station and began to run along the rails. Then I saw that the chase had finally ceased. An hour later I heard the train behind me. Then he braked slightly, and the driver shouted:

"Hey, why are you running? You think walking is faster?"

"I don't have any money." I shouted back.

"Yes sit down, then you'll pay!"

Someone in the car opened the door on the run,and I jumped into the train. Wow, what a day.

I drove the rest of the way to the astonished stares of the passengers, who stared straight at me. When we got to Ponyville, I went out and looked for Pinkie pie's house.

"Excuse me," I said. "Can you tell me where Pinkie Pie lives?"

"Sugar Corner. Go straight, then turn left and a couple of houses will see. Where are you from?"

"Me? From The Crystal Empire. It's important. Thanks for your help."

Following the directions of a passerby, I managed to find this Sugar Corner pretty quickly. It looked like gingerbread. I knocked on the door. Opened me Pinkie Pie.

"Hello, who do you want?"

"I need you. May I come in?"

"Certainly. My name is Pinkie Pie."

I closed the door and took off my top hat.

"Sombrero."

"Sombrero? Why did you come back?"

"We're friends, Pinkie. I need help." I put the top hat back on, hiding my hair under it. "I want to make peace with Luna."

"So... why did you come here? How am I supposed to help you?"

"I don't know yet. I have to sneak into Canterlot. And I came to you because you're the only one I can trust."

"Well. I already know how to help you."

She pulled a huge cake from under the counter.

"How's that supposed to help us?" I asked in amazement.

"Keep your questions to yourself and trust me.…"

"Wait, who's coming?"

"Special order for Princess Luna." Pinkie said seriously. "They say something's happened to her."

"Yes, there is such... Okay, pass."

The gates opened and Pinkie with an air of importance walked to the throne room.

"Hello, Princess Celestia. I have something for the Princess of the moon. Could you…"

"For the Luna?" Celestia looked startled at the name, but quickly calmed down. "Okay, I'll give her this. Thanks for the gift, Pinkie Pie. You can go."

All, now I remained one. After a while, the cake cart stopped, and I heard Princess Celestia's soft voice:

"I don't think that's going to help her."

Then there was silence. An hour passed, then another, but the Luna made no sound. Was she asleep? Of course it was evening when we arrived at Canterlot. But I can't sit here at night. We need to talk now.

I picked up the cake and got out. When I turned back to her bed, all my hair stood on end. It wasn't Princess Luna lying on the bed. I was afraid to move when I saw her, but the wretched board creaked beneath me, and Nightmare Moon opened her dragon eyes.

"Hey, who's there? What is it?" she asked in an eerie voice. And when she saw me, she continued:

"Oh, is that you, Sombrero? I recognized you: your disguise didn't work well. Do you think I want to kill you or something like that? No, on the contrary, I should thank you. If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be able to get out."

"What did you do to the Luna?"

"Nothing. She's asleep. Deep inside of you. Don't worry, you'll never see her again. You hate her, don't you?"

"No, it's not!" I began to shout. "I love her!"

"Yeah? Then why did you tell her otherwise?"

"I... I don't know... how this could have happened, but I have to fix it now."

"Ha, how do you do that?"

But I didn't hear her.

"Luna, listen, I know you can hear me.…"

"There's no Luna, you fool!"

"... Luna, I remember, a week ago I said I wanted to date you? Remember when you said Yes and we sat by the lake last night? I gave you a necklace and your favorite flowers, remember?.."

"What are you doing?! Stop it!"

"... And then you showed me the world of dreams, and I loved it. And that night, at the Grand Galloping Gala by the lake ... I called you for a reason. I wanted to make you an offer. But I thought I'd take my time, and I said I just wanted to talk.

"You... wanted... Ah, despicable one, you leave me no choice! I will destroy you!"

"No, Luna, don't do that! Please fight. I need you, Luna!"

After the last sentence, I hugged Luna to me and kissed her passionately. I didn't want to stop because I believed it was the Luna and not Nightmare Moon. When she pushed me away, she said:

"Why haven't you kissed me before?"

She said it before I could open my eyes, but I recognized the angelic voice.

"Luna, is that you?"

"Yes, Sombrero, it's me. I knew you couldn't tell me that, I'm so glad."

She hugged me tenderly, then whispered softly:

"Time to wake up."

"No, I don't want to." I whispered.

"You need. It's not your dream, Sombrero. Awake."

A moment later, I saw the world around me begin to fade. Darkness slowly filled the space. The last of my sleep has disappeared Luna, which smiled at me one last time.

I woke up in a cage. Its bars were made of black crystals. Black crystals? So, I managed to wake up! Looking through the crack in the room, I realized that I was in the throne room and completely alone. And suddenly like out of nowhere came a familiar voice:

"Well, hello, Sombrero! I'm glad you're awake. So my help was welcome."

"Who are you? Where are you?"

"It's hard to say where I am. I Can say that I'm not where you are. Who am I? Don't you remember Hard Hoof?"

"So you're Hard Hoof?"

"Hahaha, well, almost... actually my name is Discord. I had to put on a little show to wake you up.

"But why? And how do you talk to me when you were imprisoned in stone a thousand years ago?"

"It's a Long story, and we don't have much time. You need to get out of Canterlot and run into the Everfree Forest. We'll meet there. Bye."

"Wait, but how do I get out?"

He did not answer. Okay, I'll try to break the cage. He stood with his back to one wall and began to pound on it with his hind hooves. Through some I saw a small fissure on crystal. Great! I continued to break the cage. With each blow the crack grew larger, and the crystal was about to crack with one blow, when Sombra entered the room. Oh, he's just not here.

"Oh, Sombrero, I see you're awake. What are you doing? Trying to escape? Honestly, I didn't expect this from you. Well, I'll have to reinforce the cage."

Suddenly from under the ground came out the crystals that surrounded my cell. And they were much thicker and stronger than those that formed the lattice. Now I don't think I will be able to get out of here…

Chapter 7: Escape

Sitting in this cage, I remembered all my acquaintances: relatives, friends... Luna... Now they are all under the control of Sombra. And despite the fact that my mind is free, I still can not help them... So, stop! Why is my mind free? How am I different from the others, especially since the Sombra has captured the minds of even the alicorns? I began to think. So, what can be a factor in my freedom? I'm a Sombrero, a regular unicorn. I love to play the banjo, I love Luna. I am the first person of myself, and Sombra is the second…»

As much as I have not reasoned on this score, nothing practical has come out. And what's the point? I'm in a cage.

"I see you didn't take 'hurry, we don't have much time' very seriously!" a familiar voice protested.

"Discord, is that you again?"

"Who else? I said, are you even going to get out of the cage?"

"I wonder how I'll do it. You can see that Sombra has summoned a bunch of crystals around the cage. Even if I break it, I'll still be locked up."

"So what? You know, you'd be good if you even tried…"

"I've tried! Do you see what this has led to? It just got worse."

"That's not an argument. No, just think: you have a small chance to save all those who are dear to you, but instead you sit on croup, hope for a miracle. And what are your plans for the future, Sombrero? Sit on until you're old. If so, I have nothing to talk to you about."

The voice faded, and I began to consider his words. Little chance. I wonder why he thought I had that chance. He's right, though. I have to get out. Perhaps Discord and I are the only ones who can stop Sombra. And the pony needs my help now! No, I will not sit idle hooves, and I will act! I began to pound the bars again with my hind hooves. I soon succeeded in gouging one crystal out of the cage. But the most difficult thing remained – a wall of crystals. I went over to her and started hammering, but she didn't even flinch. I struck again – not a scratch. So, clearly, I need to come up with something else. I'll play the banjo, which usually helps me think.

I took out my banjo and began to play my favorite tune. And suddenly I noticed that the wall began to tremble slightly, and the cage trembled more. I was surprised by this and continued to play. With every note the cage behind me was covered with cracks until they completely crumbled to dust. But the wall still stood before me intact. Then I decided to play a different tune, in higher tones. And it worked! The crystals began to tremble noticeably more, and after a while a crack appeared on one of them. I began to play harder, making the music even louder. If only no one heard. - flashed through my head. The crack began to grow larger along the crystal. Finally, she reached the peak of the crystal, and it split in half, opening a passage for me. I climbed over it and looked around: the throne room was empty. Now it was necessary to leave the city unnoticed. One thing remained a mystery: how? Okay, I will be able to get out of the Palace, but the city is standing on the mountain. Was it to be hoped that there was a cave in the mountain leading down? Okay, it's worth a shot.

I wasted no time in running out of the throne room. But there was another problem: this corridor leads only to the exit. And if I meet the guards, I'll either have to fight my way forward or run back. Neither the one nor the other option does not suit me, so I turned back. There I opened the window and looked out – just below the wall was a small patch of earth. I turned my head to the right and saw that the narrow strip ended at the normal surface of the earth. However, there was a risk that I might fall.

Ah, well, the risk, as they say, is a noble thing, I said, and cautiously descended the wall to the ground.

It remains only to go a hundred meters. I walked with my back to the wall, holding it with my hind hooves, and slowly moved my hind hooves, moving toward the ground. Fifty meters to go. The main thing is not to look down, otherwise my head will spin, and I will definitely fall. Twenty-five meters. Here the strip began to narrow, so I began to move more slowly. Ten meters. As luck would have it, here the ground became exactly under the wall. What the hell was to be done? Although, there is only one way out: to jump. However, the chances of jumping when you stand on your hind hooves on a very narrow strip are very small. But I have to do it. I bent my knees, jumped, spun in the air, and closed my eyes, hoping for a better outcome…
A moment later I felt the grass beneath me, but I was afraid to open my eyes, thinking it was a phantom sensation. Soon, as I continued to feel the ground beneath me, I opened my eyes. It turned out, the abyss was behind.

I got up and walked toward the mountain.

There I must find a cave that will lead me down. I hope I can do it. I figured it was about half a kilometer from here to the mountain, which meant I'd be there in about five minutes. If, of course, no one gets in my way. But I was lucky: there was no one on the streets at all. I wonder what Sombra is going to do with all this.

I reached the mountain and saw the entrance to the cave. I immediately went there. Torches hung and still burned on the walls of the cave. I took one with me. The cave began to go down a little, and I thought I was on the right track. Soon the cave divided into two roads. Now we need to decide where to go. Left or right? Without thinking twice, I decided to go left. If there's a dead end, I'll go back to the right aisle. After walking a little along the corridor of the cave, I noticed that the air here smells damp. After a while the passage went sharply down. I went to the edge and saw the lake below. And to go further, I have to swim. The main thing is not to wet the torch, otherwise I will remain in the dark. I stepped carefully into the water, which was not just cold but icy, and swam forward, holding the torch above the water. Soon the shore came in sight, and I came out of the water all wet and cold.

"Who said it would be easy?" I said aloud, and walked on.

After a while, the corridor began to descend steeper. I seem to have chosen the right path. A little later I saw a light ahead. Did I get out? I quickened my pace and drew nearer to the light. Finally, I stepped out of the corridor and into the fresh air. Looking up, I saw a huge stone ledge in the mountain. So that's what it looks like from below. Okay, no time to admire. Discord arranged to meet me in the Everfree Forest. But it was still half a day's walk, and my stomach was clamoring for food. Ah, that do about it, will have go.

Strange, I always thought that the Everfree Forest is closer to the mountain, and here is how it turns out. In General, in the evening I was already on the outskirts of the forest. I began to walk around it, looking for a path. Soon I found her. It led from Ponyville to the Everfree Forest. I entered the depths of the forest. It was dark here because of the dense trees that blocked the sky. Soon the path led me to a strange hut. It was a tree, but someone had made a house out of it. I thought Discord might be there and went inside.

"Wow, I didn't think you'd be back so soon." Discord appeared at the door. There was a Zebra in the house besides him. "Her name is Zecora. She had protected her hut from the influence of the Sombra, and I thought she might help us, too."

"Ok. Hello, Zecora."

"Greetings, solitary traveller. I see you're tired from the road. Do not be shy, come into the house, I will be glad to you in it."

"Wow, you speak in verse?!" I was surprised.

"Yes, she does," said Discord for her. "Now to the point: Sombra has captured Equestria, and we must stop him."

"We know that. And how are you going to do that?"

"You'd better tell our tabby girlfriend how you got out of the cage."

"Tell me what?" I decided to play my banjo, but it turned out that they can destroy black Sombra crystals.

"Give me your instrument!" I handed her the banjo. She examined him and continued:

"I see a strange element in him. It seems, he not only for music created, and also magic he is full…"

"I don't think the last line rhymed," Discord said.

"What difference does it make? Zecora, you say, my banjo has a magic?"

"That's right, I'm talking about it. To find out more, I'll take a look at him."

"How long will it take?"

"About an hour, at least."

"Did you-did you hear that?" Discord asked. "She rhymed your question! Does she have a rhyme dictionary in her head?"

"Is there a dictionary?"

"Believe me, Twilight has every dictionary in the library."

While Zecora was inspecting my banjo, I decided to inspect her hut. On the walls were many shelves, on which stood prevents potions and grass, and in the center of the room stood enormous cauldron with simmering within green liquid. A little way off was another room, which was a bedroom. That, in fact, is the whole hut. Then Discord called me out of the hut. We went out and he started:

"Look, I wanted to tell you something, but not in front of her. She can't be distracted right now. In short, Sombra wants to conquer something more than all of Equestria."

I caught his thought.

"You mean he's going to declare war on other nations?"

No, it's much worse. He wants to use the alicorns to increase the influence of his hypnosis.

"Use the alicorns? How?!" I surprised.

"I don't know, I'm only saying what I know. And he wants to start his global plan tomorrow."

"That's why you asked me to hurry. Understood. Anyway, we need to wait to see what Zecora has to say about my banjo."

"You're right about that. All right, let's go inside. It's getting dark."

We entered the hut. Zecora was still examining my instrument. My hooves were aching from the long ride, and I was exhausted from the day, so I decided to take a nap.

Soon someone began to push me in the side. I opened my eyes and saw that Discord was pushing me.

"How long did I sleep?" I asked him.

"Two hours. I wanted to Wake you up earlier, but Zecora ... well, we have news. It turns out that your banjo has magic, who sharply contrasted with the magic Sombra. You understand? I mean, you can change what Sombra did. For example, to lift hypnosis or, as you already did, destroy his black crystals."

"Wow! I didn't know my instrument had such abilities!"

"Good, with banjo figured out!" Discord exclaimed. "And now I've come up with a plan to save Equestria. It's simple: I will send you to the foot of the mountain, so you do not stomp for a long time, and I will watch, so that if anything, warn you of the danger. And you must return to Canterlot and free the princesses from Sombra's spell. Then do the same with Twilight's friends. Then, when you're done, I'll give you the Elements of Harmony. Oh, and then it remains for the guardians of the Elements."

"I see, I understand... Almost. Why can't you send me straight to Canterlot? Like you're going to do with the Elements?"

He slapped his face with his paw.

"Because you're a living thing. And it's not gonna work with you. Besides, God forbid you get caught in the eyes of someone immediately after teleportation. So we'd better not take any chances."

"Okay, I get it. And when do we start?"

"In the morning, of course. Where are you going tonight? All, all sleep."

He conjured a bed under him and the lights went out in the hut. Tomorrow we have a hard day... Very hard.

Chapter 8: Liberation

Morning came. Sunlight barely filtered through the trees. Discord and Zecora were also awake. We had a quick Breakfast, and Discord prepared to teleport me.

"Don't forget to stay out of sight," Discord reminded me. "Free the princesses and the Guardians and run for cover. You only have one shot at this. Well, good luck."

With that parting word, he snapped his fingers, and I was standing right in front of the mountain. I remembered the way, and boldly walked forward. This time I had to grope my way without the torch, for the one I had left under the mountain had already gone out. But soon my eyes became accustomed to the darkness, so I could make out the walls and ceiling of the cave. Soon I swam across that icy lake again and ran on. About half an hour later I came out of the cave. It was found in the same place I was yesterday.

So, now we need to sneak into the Palace. Looking back, I immediately ran into one of the houses, as I saw the Royal guards in the street. They searched every house, apparently hoping to find something. Or someone. We have to get out of here.

I opened the window opposite the door, and suddenly there was a heavy knock on the door. I quickly got out and ran toward the Palace without looking back, trying to avoid meeting anyone. At first everything was fine, but as I approached the Palace, Discord's voice came into my head:

'Stop! There are two guards at the gate, you can't go through them!'

'And what do you suggest?' I asked the question in my head.

'You know, I was thinking, why don't you use the banjo now, break the spell on these two so they can let you through?'

'Hmm, why not? Can try.'

I walked calmly to the guards at the gate. They immediately drew their spears and slowly began to approach me.

"Look, this is the fugitive all Canterlot is looking for."

"Gentlemen, please, let's talk. No one's looking for me, by the way. I came from the city of... Baltimare to play Sombra at his coronation. Just listen to what I have invented a tune in honor of the Great and Mighty Sombra."

I began to play the first tune I remembered. The effect was not long in coming: the guards stopped abruptly, then their eyes slowly began to take on a natural color. First the eye itself became white, then the iris and pupils returned. After this process, the ponies clutched their heads.

"Oh, what happened?!" one of them asked.

"Gentlemen, we don't have much time! Equestria is in danger, and I need to get to the Palace now!"

"In danger?! What happened?!"

"It's a long time to explain. Please let me through."

"Of course, pass..." uncertainly responded the second.

"Thank you infinitely, gentlemen," I told them, and ran inside, leaving the guards puzzled. It remains to find the princesses and Guardians. But here's the problem: where are they?

'Discord, do you know where they are?'

'Of course I know! The keepers are in the dungeon, on the lower level. And the princesses are in the tower.'

'In the tower?!' I was surprised.

'Well, you know, from there, the range of the hypnotic aura is much greater.'

'Clearly. Lead the way.'

'Of course.'

The first thing I did was to find my way to the tower. At least I'll thwart Sombra's plan. The discord guided me to every meter and warned me of approaching guards. I avoided them by running into the first rooms I saw. They, for some reason, nobody was there. None of them. After ten minutes of the corridor, the Discord led me to a spiral staircase leading high up. I put one hoof on the first step, but it gave me a painful shock that made me have to pull it back.

We didn't anticipate this problem, - I said aloud.

'Yeah, I didn't see it coming. And now what?'

'I don't know yet, but... We have to try.'

I took the banjo in my hooves and played it. After a while I took another step forward: the same effect. Hmm, how strange. Why didn't it work? And suddenly I thought:

What if the action of my banjo depends on the melody I'm playing? I decided to check it out right away and started playing a different tune. But again it didn't work. Something's wrong here. But what? If I can remove Sombra's sorcery, and this one can't, then Sombra didn't do it. Then who?

"Sombrero, turn around!" Discord said anxiously. I did just that.

"Twilight Sparkle?! What are you doing here?"

But she was not alone; in a moment the other princesses were all around me. And they seemed unfriendly. I immediately grabbed the banjo and started playing it. However, none of the princesses were going to come out of their trance.

"What is it?! Why doesn't it work?!" I continued to play, while the princesses surrounded me and were about to shoot a beam at me. I still have time while they accumulate mana. But what if I don't make it? I pushed that sad thought aside and continued to play. But nothing happened, and the magical energy of the princesses grew stronger. All, now accurately the end of the. I turned to my beloved.

"Luna, forgive me for not being able to save you," I whispered.

And I started playing the tune I dedicated to her. I played her on our first date. My eyes were already closed, but I knew this was the last minute of my life.

"Sombrero, damn it, get out of there!" Discord yelled. But I did not listen to him, for I was lost in my memories. Our first date. Our preparation for the holiday. The holiday itself. I didn't dare propose to Luna, and I never will now. Through closed eyes I sensed vivid light. Ah, here is and all…

I could see nothing, for it was pitch black. I couldn't feel my body. Is this really death? I wonder why I can still think.

"Because you're not dead yet, you idiot!"
I know that voice.

"Discord, is that you?" I shouted into the darkness.

"Well, who else? No," he said indignantly. "Oh, how unlucky I am with you. And that trouble on its groats attract? First you were in a cage, then the princesses almost killed you."

"Wait, what do you mean 'almost killed'?"

But he did not have time to answer, because I woke up (apparently it was a dream) in a strange place. No, I recognize this place. This is ... Luna's Bedroom.

"Oh, you're awake at last. Now try to explain what's going on."

That voice ... I was ready to jump up to the ceiling and punch through it. It was the Luna! I turned and saw her: for some reason her mane was disheveled. But I didn't care what she looked like, I just leapt up beside her and hugged her really tight.

"Luna, you have no idea how glad I am to see you unharmed."

"Hey, easy, you're going to strangle me!" croaked Luna. I loosened my grip a little, but I wasn't about to let go.

"So... are you going to explain what's going on?!"

I let her go.

"Here's the thing…"

And I told her everything that had happened in Equestria in the last few days.

"... And then you four showed up and wanted to kill me. But ... So my banjo worked?"

"Looks like it. I woke up just as the beam hit you. The first thing I had to do was to teleport us here, but you somehow lost consciousness."

"How long did I sleep?"

"A little, only ten minutes."

"Alright. But I don't understand why I couldn't free you right away."

"I can guess," came a voice from the air. Of course it was a Discord. "Sombra magic seems to be stronger than Sombrero magic. That explains why it took him so long to break the crystals."

"What do we do now? We need to free the others!"

"I know what to do," Luna said. "Of course, I'm not sure it will work, but... I can try to pass my magic on to you."

"What?! Luna, What about you?!"

"You know, Luna, it would be more effective if you transferred the magic not to sombrero himself, but to His banjo. And so it will be more likely that everything will go well.

"How do you know that?" I asked.

"Not me, but Zecora. That's what she asked me to say."

"Ok. So I'll pass the magic right now."

At that moment Luna pointed her horn at my instrument, and it lit up. Soon, from the horn of the moon to the banjo began to float a blue stream of smoke. When that smoke cleared, the Luna's mane changed: it was no longer the cosmic mane it had been, but a regular blue mane; and its eyes also lost color. Right after she passed the magic, she fell to the floor.

I ran to her:

"Luna, are you all right? Luna!" I asked.

"Yes, everything is normal with her! It wouldn't be normal for you to just sit here. The absence of one Princess is unlikely to stop Sombra."

"But what about Luna? I can't leave her!"

"Then say goodbye to normal life on the planet. But you will be together... and Sombra will be the ruler of the world.

"Oh, well, I'm coming," I shouted. And Luna ear whispered:

"I'll be back, I promise."

Then I left the bedroom and went back to the tower. Instead of princesses there were already a bunch of guards. They all began to attack when they saw me, but I had already armed myself with my banjo. After playing the tune, I made sure that all the guards were now in good condition, and said:

"Respected the guards, am asking a moment attention. I'll put it in a nutshell: you need to leave this place immediately. And don't ask why, just do it."

Strangely, they listened to me. As it turns out, I was hypnotized? Even better, though. I went back to the unlucky staircase and played the tune again. The strings are making my hooves hurt, but I'll have to endure it. Finally, I stepped on the first step. And this time successfully!

I ran quickly up the stairs. At the top of the tower stood three princesses. When they saw me, they began to approach slowly and menacingly.

"Well, the second attempt," with passion I said. The notes of my music loudly spread around the room. Finally, my music magic worked: the princesses stopped and began to recover. Twilight woke first.

"Where... are we? Sombrero, what are you doing here?"

"Let me explain later. Twilight, can you teleport me to the dungeon?"

"Why is that?" she asked, surprised.

"Come on, you'll see."

She closed her eyes for a moment, and we were in Canterlot's dungeon.

"What did you want to show me?"

"Go."

I moved forward along the corridor, examining each cell.

'How long, Discord?'

'Patience, my friend... You are there.'

There was a wall in front of us and a few more cells ahead. And here were Twilight's girlfriends.

"Ah ... What?!" Twilight was at a loss.

"Quietly." I took out my banjo and continued as I played:

"We were attacked by a Sombra at the Grand Galloping Gala."

"What?! But how, you...?!"

"We're separated now. And he hypnotized all of you, controlling your mind. But my banjo... here, look."

Twilight's friends began to recover. Eyes, mind... More than once I had to watch it. I didn't notice how Twilight instantly teleported her friends into the hallway.

"So now we have to wait for Discord to transfer the Elements to us."

"Oh, I'd love to, but the Tree won't give them to me. What to do, I'm the spirit of Chaos," it is guilty he said.

"That's bad."

"My friends and I will get to them in no time," Twilight said. A moment later they were gone.

"By the way, where's the Sombrero?" I asked Discord.

"He's in the throne room, where the coronation is taking place. It was after her that he wanted to conquer the world…"

He paused as Twilight and her friends reappeared in the hallway. The first asked me:

"Where is he now?"

"In the throne room. Run there."

We quickly ran to the throne room. Twilight quickly opened the door. Sombra sat on Celestia's throne, and from the fact that He wore no crown, the coronation was just beginning. But when we ran into the throne room, all eyes were on us.

"What?! How did you get out of hypnosis?! Sombrero, what are you doing here?!"

Sombra was stunned by our visit, so Twilight and her friends did not waste time and used elements of Harmony. First, the Elements themselves lit up, then the Guardians lifted off the ground a couple of meters, forming a kind of circle, in the center of which was Twilight. Then a rainbow beam formed around them and shot straight at Sombra. At that moment, a bright flash lit up the room. When she disappeared, my vision returned. But Sombra sat on his throne, grinning maliciously.

"Ha, ha, ha, you didn't think those trinkets would stop me. Nothing in this life is perfect, and I have discovered the weaknesses of your pathetic elements of Harmony. And now they are not a hindrance to me! And that means you too!"

With these words he attacked Twilight and its friends their beam, but Twilight on time has put protection. However, the impact was so strong that she was thrown back a couple of meters. Friends immediately ran up to it. She rose to her hooves and raised her shield again as the Sombra began to attack again. I have to do something, Twilight won't last long. Precisely! I knew what I had to do.

Sombra struck a third blow with his beam, and Twilight and the others could not have survived it. Fortunately, I timely appeared in front of Twilight and put banjo as a defense. He, in turn, absorbed the magic of the Sombra.

"What?! So your strength is in this pathetic instrument?!"

"You dare call him pathetic? You'll regret it."

I picked up the banjo in a normal way and began to play a new tune, which I began to invent as I went along.

"What are you doing?!"

"That's what!"

With that, a yellow beam shot out of the banjo and aimed directly at Sombra. And, you could say, I hit very well.

Ah! Well, all of a Sombrero, you're done! - he began to create black crystals from the ground, intending to kill me. But, unfortunately for him and fortunately for me, the crystals were instantly shattered by my music. Meanwhile, all present already woke up.

"No! You wouldn't dare…"

"Already! What did you say? 'Found the weakness of the Elements of Harmony'? What happens, if block your magic?"

I came closer to him; light crystals appeared on his horn.

"No! Yes I'll skin you alive!" he yelled.

"I'm afraid, you now not benefits scatter such utterances," quietly I observed. All, magic Sombra blocked, and we both know, that this a desperate situation for him.

"Well, Sombra, it was very unpleasant to meet you. And now... the last chord."

I began to play the last notes of my improvised music, and at that time my banjo began to glow. Then, as the last note was played, a yellow beam shot out of the banjo again, four times the diameter of the first. After blinding us all a second time, the flash disappeared. But this time it was different: the Sombra was gone.

"Sombrero... that was amazing!" Pinkie Pie shouted.

"Is Twilight okay?" I asked as I approached them.

"Yes, I'm all right. But... it was incredible."

"Indeed, Sombrero, I agree with my former pupil," Celestia said from behind. "I think we should thank you for saving us."

"Oh, don't…"

"And don't even think about being modest!" something knocked me down like lightning. It turned out it was Luna. "You're our hero!"

"Luna, it's good to see you... Again. I think I should give you back your magic now."

Can you imagine how I did it? That's right, I started playing a tune. When the process ended, the mane of Luna was the same. I stood in front of her for a moment, debating whether to tell her or not, and finally made up my mind.

"Luna, I owe you something. I wanted to say it back at the lake, but something made me say nothing. So... Luna, will you... will you marry me?"

My heart began to pound. Even all the ponies that were there were silent, waiting for Luna's answer. But he did not immediately follow. Luna stared at me, stunned, and then said:

"Yes, I agree!"

The audience began to exult, and at that moment our lips closed in a passionate kiss. My heart began to pound. I closed my eyes and hugged her. She hugged me back. That sweet kiss seemed to last forever. But it cannot be eternal. When I let go of Luna, my mind was still in the clouds. It was an unforgettable experience.

Chapter 9: The Wedding

The day after my proposal, we began to prepare for the wedding. And the Keepers even offered their help. Pinkie Pie began to prepare various contests and games, Applejack-treats, Rarity-outfits, Fluttershy-music, and Twilight made sure that everything was perfect. They say rainbow has a surprise in store for us. Interesting... Luna and I decided to choose Discord as our best man. After all, he was a great help in saving Equestria. That, of course, were shocked by this offer, but to refuse he couldn't. And how strange: the closer the wedding day, the more I worry. I wonder why that is?

The day of the wedding, Canterlot's Palace.

This is the happiest moment of my life! Our wedding will take place this afternoon. But I'm still worried. Something might go wrong.

"Relax, buddy," Discord said. "It's a wedding, after all. You should be happy that this day happened in your life!"

Discord looked more solemn than ever: black and white coat and bow tie and top hat on his head. I was wearing a standard wedding suit.

"Yes, I know... But suddenly something goes wrong. Suddenly treats will not be tasty enough... Or the games aren't interesting enough..." I said anxiously.

"Hmm, let me see. Treats engaged Applejack. She has the best pastries in all of Ponyville, as far as I know. And Pinkie Pie is the best party planner, and fun is her Element. And I don't recall that in all the time you've been saving Equestria you haven't thought something was going to go wrong. And now you're scared of a simple wedding?!"

"Yeah, you're probably right... But what if..."

"Oh, I hope Luna's doing better," he said, ignoring my words.

And in the meantime

While Sombrero worried about the upcoming wedding, and Discord calmed him (or rather, tried to), Luna was hysterical.

"Are we ready?! What's with the music?! With treats?! What if it wasn't perfect enough?! What if he changes his mind and doesn't want to marry me?!"

Celestia, who was also trying to calm her sister, was already listening to her hysterics without interest. Suddenly Cadence came into the room.

"Hello, Celestia... Oh, God." she was horrified when she saw Luna.

"That's what I mean. Could you give me a little help with her? I as only its not calmed down – no effect. Maybe you can do it."

"All right, I'll try."

Cadence moved closer to Luna, who continued to list what might happen at the wedding.

"Luna. Luna! Look at me! Look at me. Quietly. Take a deep breath. Now exhale. Like this. What's bothering you?"

"Nothing. I'm just worried about our wedding."

"I see. You know, I've had it before. If you omit the part where Chrysalis was In Canterlot instead of me, the preparations for my wedding to Shining Armor were the same. And I was also needlessly worried that something might derail our wedding. However, I realized that all these worries are in vain. Believe me, everything will be fine."

Her voice was so calm that Luna finally calmed down.

"You're right, Cadence, thank you. And thank you, Celestia."

She nodded in response.

"It's just that the wedding is such an important moment in my life. And in the life of a Sombrero too. And this gives cause for concern."

"I understand you, Luna. Just don't worry."

"Yes, I know."

As Luna cleaned herself up, Twilight came into the room.

"Sorry, it's time to start..."

***

I stood at the altar, next to Celestia and Discord. Thanks to him, I still calmed down and now waited for my betrothed to rise to the altar. Finally, the music began to play (a bird chorus), and Luna entered the hall. Oh, how beautiful she was in that dress. I could have admired her forever.

She came gracefully to the altar, and we stood facing Celestia, and she said solemnly:

"Ladies and gentlemen, we are here to witness the Union of Princess Luna and the Sombrero. Their love is truly limitless. Together, they were able to save Equestria from the tyranny of the cruel king Sombra. Princess Luna, will you marry a Sombrero?"

"I agree." she exclaimed.

"Sombrero, will you marry Princess Luna?"

"I agree."

"Ring, please," both turned to Discord. He came up to us, and Celestia put the rings on us. "I pronounce you husband and wife."

The crowd cheered.

"Bridegroom, you may kiss the bride!"

Our lips immediately locked in a long kiss as the ponies screamed:

"One! Two! Three!.."

"... Thirty-five! Thirty-six!.." the voices thinned considerably.

"Sixty-one! Sixty-two!" only Pinkie was shouting. We finished at seventy.

Then we danced in the square in front of the Palace. First there was music for a slow dance, and Luna and I danced, moving smoothly. But then the music stopped abruptly and there was the sound of a microphone, then Discord's voice:

"On behalf of all those present, I congratulate our dear newlyweds and give this beautiful song. Twilight, can you help me?"

"But... I don't know what you're going to sing."

He snapped his fingers.

"Now know. So, let's go." (Author's note: should play the song owl city-good time)

Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time

Woke up on the right side of the bed
What's up with this Prince song inside my head?
Hands up if you're down to get down tonight
'Cause it's always a good time

Slept in all my clothes like I didn't care
Hopped into a cab, take me anywhere
I'm in if you're down to get down tonight
'Cause it's always a good time

Good morning and good night
I wake up at twilight
It's gonna be alright
We don't even have to try
It's always a good time

Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
We don't even have to try,
It's always a good time.

Freaked out, dropped my phone in the pool again
Checked out of my room, hit the ATM
Let's hang out
If you're down to get down tonight
'Cause it's always a good time

Good morning and good night
I wake up at twilight
It's gonna be alright
We don't even have to try
It's always a good time.

Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
We don't even have to try,
It's always a good time.

Doesn't matter when
It's always a good time
Doesn't matter where
It's always a good time

Doesn't matter when,
It's always a good time

"Now sing alone with us!" Discord shouted.

The chorus was pretty easy to remember, so most of us started singing along:

It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
We don't even have to try,
It's always a good time

Woah-oh-oh-oh
Woah-oh-oh-oh
It's always a good time
Woah-oh-oh-oh
We don't even have to try,
It's always a good time.

After this song Discord ostentatiously bowed.

"Sombrero and Luna! Be happy together!"

Then he was gone. Just walked away. Yeah, that's the Discord. Then we had a great time at the wedding. This day will be remembered to me for a long time...

After five years

"Daddy, Wake up! Let's play!"

"Oh, Star, daddy had a hard day yesterday. Let me sleep."

"No! I want to play!"

"What am I going to do with you? Okay, I'm getting up."

Reluctantly, I got out of bed and followed My little daughter, Star Sky the unicorn. And she's five. Also have us with Luna there is a small Pegasus Sakura and a boy-unicorn Fire Light. They are four years old. I became a member of the local band 'Equatravels' four years ago. I still don't understand why it was called that, but we make good money at concerts. Yesterday we performed on stage for the hundredth time, so we had to give it our all. And we succeeded.

Now I'm going to play with my daughter. She has blond hair and a tail like mine,and light hair. Have Fire Light mane and tail red, and grey wool. And have Sakura mane light pink color of, and light blue wool. Sakura we called her just after the colour of her mane.

I'm A Sombrero. And I can say with all confidence: I have the best family in the world! Best wife, best kids. And I am happy that I have such a life!

Chapter 1: Let Me Introduce Myself: Mr. Sombrero.

"Princess Celestia, we came as fast as we could!" Twilight shouted. "Something wrong? Is somepony threatening Equestria again?"

"We... Don't know yet... How to say this? King Sombra is back…"

"What?! We have to stop him before he takes over the Crystal Empire."

"The problem is, he's not going to take her. And he had a significant change in appearance. Anyway, we don't know what to expect from him, so Luna and I would like you to follow him. And take with you the Elements of Harmony. If he becomes the same, do what needs to be done.

"All right, Princess, we won't let you down. Come, girls.

The six ponies left Canterlot's Palace and went to the station. They were to meet be someone they considered their enemy...

***

Where am I? Wait, what?! I can't believe my eyes, I'm in the Crystal Empire. She was cursed by my other identity. Oh, what memories came flooding back. I remember how I once ruled this country. Ah, but my split personality didn't let me live in peace.

Well, stop remembering the past, let's see what happens in the present. Ah, my poncho hasn't changed at all. Banjo, my old friend, it's been a long time since I took you in my hooves... And, of course, my symbol is my sombrero. I don't know why they named me after the hat. But I'm not complaining, I like my name.

The first thing I decided to talk to the locals.

"Excuse me, sir, can I ask you a few questions?"

The red-haired pony with the Stargazer Cape turned around.

"Hello, what do you want to know?"

"You know, it sounds silly, but... Tell me about the Crystal Empire. I haven't been here in so long. I didn't even know she was back."

"I don't quite understand you. Okay, I'll tell you what I know. But I haven't been here long. And I don't think we should talk outside. Come to my house."

"Go."

We walked a short time. During this time I looked around every house. Soon we came to the house of my interlocutor. There were books inside.

"So, are you interested in anything in particular?"

"Not obligatory. You can tell me everything you know."

"Ok."

And he told me a story about how the Crystal Empire actually came back quite recently. And guess who tried to take over? Of course, my other self. And six brave men were able to stop him... Me... no matter. He also said that now the Crystal Empire is ruled by Princess Mi amore Cadenza. Or, more simply — Cadance.

"Honestly, that's all I know."

"Nothing, me and this enough. What about Princess Celestia? Not retired yet?"

"Only Princess Celestia?! Oh, really? She doesn't rule alone. Haven't you heard that Princess Luna has returned from her captivity?"

At that moment, my heart was about to jump out of my chest. Princess Luna, my love. A ray of light in the darkness of my sleepless nights.

"And in Equestria appeared the fourth alicorn – Twilight Sparkle. However, I'm surprised you don't know anything at all. Let me get your name."

"Well, it may surprise you a little, since it bears a resemblance to another name. Well, my name is... Sombrero!"

"Well, the name is really unusual. But what did you mean when you said resemblance?"

"I take it you know a pony like Sombra."

"Of course, who doesn't know him. Wait, so you're... His brother? But why?…"

"I'm not his brother. I'm his other person. You see, we have a... Split personality. One person is me, the other is Sombra. More than that. I am the first ruler of the Crystal Empire."

"What?! This can't be happening! But history says that Sombra was the first!"

"Not exactly. The thing is, the split didn't happen at the Sombra, it happened at me. I'm a born version of this body. And Sombra is a second person. However, he was stronger than me. First he took control of the body, then the mind. After my mind, I completely disconnected from this world. But I managed to find out that he ordered to destroy any mention of me, and then cleared the memory of the pony to forget about me completely. I see he's done it. And so, after a thousand years, I came back. And I'm sorry, but I have to go. My beloved is waiting for me."

"Well, I dare not detain you. By the way, my name is Sunburst."

"Nice to meet you. Adios, amigo."

"I went to the station and got a ticket to Canterlot. Surprisingly, I still have the money. While waiting for my train, I decided to play the banjo. The sound of my instrument brought the ponies together and surrounded me, enjoying the music. Then somepony came out of the crowd and said:

"Sir, you play so well. But... Why haven't we seen you before? It feels like you came out of nowhere."

"Well, my dears, it's time for all of you to know the truth about me. My name is Sombrero. You don't remember me, but that's okay."

I told the whole story I told Sunburst.

"Oh, what an interesting story, — came from the side. It turned out that the train had already arrived, and all the passengers also heard this story.

"You see, Twilight. I told you we had nothing to fear."

"Sorry," I said to the pink pony. "What do you mean, 'afraid'?"

"Situation is such," she said. "Princess Celestia called us in and said Sombra was back. And she warned us that he, that is, you, behaved strangely and ordered us to follow you, and if something bad happens, to lock you in the Darkness with the elements of Harmony. But as I said, it's hardly necessary."

"You're right. Sombra's gone. There are only a Sombrero. And since you're following me, I'll get you tickets. I want to go to Canterlot.

"Oh, but we just came from there. I've already been did time on this couch all my ass", cried blue Pegasi.

"Ah, that's the thing. Sir, please give me six more business class tickets. Thanks."

I paid and handed the tickets to the six ponies.

"Here, I think, now you will be more comfortable."

"Wow, thanks."

"Sombrero, I think you shouldn't have..."

I wanted to argue with Twilight, but I interrupted her:

"I don't want to hear it. You're taking custody of me, and I can't thank you enough for that. In the end, if you are so uncomfortable, you can pay with the story of Equestria."

"Of course we'll tell you," said the pink pony. "Oh, we didn't even introduce ourselves. My name's Pinkie Pie and these are my friends: Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, and Twilight Sparkle."

"Very nice to meet you."

"So, where do we start?"

When we wanted to start talking, the train started.

"Wait, why do you have to go to Canterlot?"

"Looks like you need to tell another story," I got a banjo and began to play a tune. "Love story. Once, when I was still ruler of the Crystal Empire, I fell in love with a señorita. The brilliance of her eyes blinded me, it was comparable to the starry sky. And her beauty just captivated my heart. Every night I didn't sleep, thinking only of her, until my place was taken by Sombra.

"And... What's that pony's name?"

"Her name is... Princess Luna"

All six gasped in surprise.

"What?! You want to say that I love Princess Luna?!"

"That's right. I loved her at first sight. And now I want to tell her I love her."

"Oh, how romantic that is! But, darling, you're not going to see the Princess like that, are you?"

"Why not? I've been wearing this poncho and sombrero my whole life. I won't take them off even if I die. Well, only if I wear a jacket to the wedding, because it's not proper for the groom to dress like a peasant."

"W-wedding?"

"Yeah. I don't think I'm going to have any trouble winning the heart of the pony of my dreams. Now, you promised to tell me about Equestria."

"Yeah, right. So..."

On the way I listened to the story of Equestria. It turns out that a lot has changed here. The new alicorn, the Guardians of the Elements of Harmony, the very Elements of Harmony – all this was new and surprising to me. And finally, we arrived. Now I'll see her again. Princess Luna, Princess Luna... Ah, I'm ready to repeat your name many times...