Lunaverse: Galaxy Rangers - The Forbidden Symphony

Chapters

Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10

Chapter 1

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 1
by Rixizu

Octavia grasped her bow tight as she played her cello. Its music reverberated throughout the empty hall and Octavia absorbed every note, every beat. Music wasn’t just a profession or a love, but her entire being. It flowed through her very veins. Any less would not do. Yet, despite the beautiful music she played, something wasn’t right. Any audience would have found the melody spectacular and their applause would boom throughout the hall, and yet it wasn’t enough. It couldn’t be enough. Every note sounded hateful to her ears, a shadow of what it truly should be. Her face scrunched up in frustration and she loathed every note of the tune. She finally stopped and grabbed the music sheet and scrunched it up into a ball throwing it in the trash can.

Weeks of work and the piece was a complete failure. She’d have to start from scratch once again. The Symphony for Moon and Sun demanded no less than perfection. It didn’t surprise Octavia one bit that the piece rebelled against anypony that didn’t give it absolute perfection. Its curse gave the perpetrator exactly what they deserved. In the hundreds of years since its inception not one pony had ever created the perfect ending. It remained unfinished after all this time. Octavia would change that. She had to.

Octavia grimaced as her chest erupted in pain and she broke into another coughing fit. Blood splattered the stage. She wiped the blood off her muzzle when it stopped. Not yet, she couldn’t die until she left her mark on the world. The Grand Galloping Gala was her last chance to make history. She’d play the true ending of the Symphony for Moon and Sun before the Princesses and be forever immortalized. Nothing could truly kill her then. A true musician wanted nothing more.

If I can finish it. Despite twelve rewrites, none of them rang right to her ears. They didn’t come close to the true beauty of the original work. Worse, she barely had the energy anymore and knew she was fading away. This would never stop her though. She’d go on the Gala’s stage even if she could barely stand, refusing to miss this opportunity.

After several minutes of consideration, she took a break. Her favorite tea shop was nearby and would relax her mind. The Gala was only three weeks away and she couldn’t afford to burn out. After cleaning the stage, she put her cello away and headed out. The streets of Canterlot were busy as always though this time strange black creatures walked among the crowds. They were called changelings. She didn’t know much about the details, but the papers said they tried to invade Equestria using poisoned apples. A brave filly convinced them to turn on their evil queen and side with the ponies. It was a strange sight and she wondered what type of music they liked. Hopefully not that wretched Dubtrot nonsense or worse the Daughters of Discord. She’d need to research them later and introduce them to true music. No way she’d let their virgin culture get infected with Dubtrot or any other lesser music.

The door chimed as she entered the tea shop. The place was quiet as usual, just as Octavia preferred it. The waiter took her order of Jasmine tea and Octavia closed her eyes, centering her thoughts as she waited.

“Hey, isn’t that your teacher?” A high pitched nasally voice said throwing Octavia off balance. She opened her eyes to glare at the perpetrator.

Standing before her was Princess Luna’s student, Trixie Lulamoon. The most uncouth pony she’d ever met. Somehow in her over decade long apprenticeship, the princess hadn’t taught her even a speck of decorum. Octavia calmed when she saw her own favorite student Lyra Heartstrings.

“Octavia!” Lyra said beaming.

“Hello Lyra, it is good to see you again,” Octavia replied ignoring Trixie. For reasons that escaped her, Lyra was friends with Trixie. A relationship she disapproved of. It distracted Lyra from her true life’s purpose of music. How anypony could stand being near a pony so annoying, Octavia didn’t know. Lyra claimed they fought evil together and that was fine, but it still shouldn’t distract her from her art.

“So, uh, how is it going?” Lyra forced a smile. She still didn’t know about Octavia’s condition and she intended it to stay that way.

“Are you really planning to play the Symphony for Moon and Sun?” Trixie asked. “You know how crazy that is, right?”

Octavia fought back her irritation and ignored Trixie. hoping she’d get the hint and go away. “It’s going well enough. The challenge is invigorating and pushes me to greater heights. A musician could want nothing more. ”

“Yeah, but when you fail, aren’t you worried about losing your career?” Trixie said. Anger and hate blazed in Octavia, but she kept her tongue not even looking at the mare.

“Trixie!” Lyra glared in protest.

“There’s something wrong with that thing,” Trixie said defensively, “like how is it hundreds of composers still haven’t completed it? It makes no sense. It must involve weird magic.”

“Trixie, curses don’t exist.” Lyra turned to Octavia. “Ignore her, if anypony can complete the Symphony for Moon and Sun, it’s you. Maybe I could help.”

Octavia smiled fondly at her student. “I appreciate it, but this is a path I must cross alone.”

“If you say so.” Lyra sighed. “Just know I’m here for you. Call if you need me.”

Octavia nodded. Her student was so thoughtful. She remembered the times when Lyra brought fatty snacks so their late-night study sessions wouldn’t be so dour. Her student lived with her heart on her sleeve. Unfortunately, Octavia feared what would happen when reality came crashing down on her. Sure Lyra was gifted, but she didn’t have a mind for politics and the Night Court nobles would eat her flesh and tear her apart. Worse, Lyra was too stubborn to find a sponsor to aid her career and wanted to start from the ground up. Maybe Octavia could do something about that. She wasn’t a stranger to dirty dealings to achieve her aims and better yet Lyra would never know, keeping her pride intact. A project to work on later.

Their chat was a lovely one, though Trixie annoyingly tried to butt it. Octavia didn’t address her once, but that only encouraged the princess’s student to become even more annoying and shrill. Still, it raised Octavia’s spirit and she smiled as she trotted back to her apartment.

It was a fairly large thing, full of books on music and various musical instruments. Octavia liked to dabble. Her expertise was the cello, but she played most instruments competently. She spent the rest of the night cleaning. It relaxed her mind and helped her think. Already she had several new ideas and jotted them down on a notebook as she worked. The doorbell rang breaking her concentration. She sat down her duster and wondered who would bother her at so late an hour.

“Hello, Octavia,” Greengrass said with a polite bow, “may I come in?”

Octavia stared stunned. Of all the ponies she expected to appear at her door, the disgraced Duke Greengrass was not one of them. He’d disappeared months ago after a nasty scandal where he and several other Night Court nobles tried to usurp Trixie and the other Galaxy Rangers by becoming Rangers themselves. They framed the Rangers for various crimes including murder. Greengrass’s own secretary Notary did the deed. A court of law found her guilty and sentenced her to life in prison. The Duke disappeared soon later and nopony had seen him since.

She considered slamming the door in his face, but sighed and let him in. Greengrass gave her a thankful nod and entered. He walked with a cane and looked at least thirty years older. The rumors about the Nobles losing their youth after losing their Ranger powers were true it seemed. The once-powerful and sturdy earth pony seemed frail and weak now. Still, his eyes shone with an intellect not diminished an iota by losing his youth. He sat on her couch.

“Do you have some coffee?” Greengrass asked. “Or cocoa perhaps. I recall you being fond of the stuff.”

“What are you doing here Greengrass?” Octavia didn’t have time for pleasantries.

Greengrass shook his head remorseful unable to get the cocoa he wanted. “Very well. I’ve come for a favor.”

Octavia’s eyes narrowed. That could mean a million things and she cursed ever getting involved with the Duke. She’d used him to get ahead of her peers getting the best concerts and venues to propel her career. That deal with the devil was coming due it seemed. Still, what could possibly want with her? She was only a cello player and her information sources were limited. She won’t be much use to him. Then, it hit her. He wanted to use her to get at Trixie and Lyra. They were the reason his plan months ago failed. Her blood turned cold. He wanted her as a spy and if she didn’t comply, he would destroy her disgraced Duke or not.

“I’m not helping you hurt Lyra.” She didn’t care about Trixie, but nopony hurt her Lyra.

Greengrass raised an eyebrow. “What would I want with your student?”

“Revenge, obviously,” Octavia replied.

Greengrass was utterly ruthless. He’d sell out his own mother to get what he wanted. He was renowned for it. Still, no threat would change her mind. She smiled wryly. What used were threats to a dying mare? An idea struck her and everything came into place. It made perfect sense and fit Greengrass’s MO.

“You were behind the changeling invasion, weren’t you?” Octavia’s voice was quiet. There were rumors a Night Court noble was behind the plot and worse they tried to pin the blame on poor Princess Celestia. Nopony believed the princess’s involvement even a moment.

Greengrass gave her a blank look. Then, much to Octavia surprise, he made a frustrated sigh. She’d never seen that much emotion from him before. She caught herself. They were obvious lies.

“No, I wasn’t behind the changeling invasion. Why would I do that?” Greengrass lamented. “Why is it everypony assumes the worst of me?”

“Revenge, obviously.” Octavia snorted. “The changeling attack just happened to center on Ponyville, the town the Rangers happen to live in.”

Greengrass gave out another frustrated sigh. “I am many things, Octavia Philharmonica, but a traitor is not one of them. Besides, revenge, as they say, is a sucker’s game.”

“What? But your condition, your plans!”

Greengrass gave a self-deprecating smile. “Plans fail and my condition was my own fault. Power has a price and I did not read the small print. I suspect Fisher knew about the side effects and kept that little detail to himself. He played me like a fiddle and I respect that. Nevermind, it’s in the past. What matters is the future.”

“What do you want then?” Octavia tensed.

“I do need you as a spy, but not on the Rangers,” Greengrass replied, “I want you to watch Princess Luna.”

“Princess Luna?” Octavia starred not believing her ears.

“Yes, she’s been acting odd lately.” Greengrass put his hooves on his chin. “And I want to know why.”

“Odd?”

“She’s been acting irritable and erratic of late,” Greengrass said, “very unlike her and I fear something is affecting her mind. I suspect our famed Princess Celestia is behind it.”

Octavia blinked at that conclusion.

“Come on now.” Greengrass tisked in disapproval. “Luna acts strange soon after the fallen princess changes her ways around? How convenient.”

Of all Greengrass’s requests, this was the one she’d least suspect. His reason became clear. “And you want me because I have unfettered access to the palace due to the Gala and nopony would suspect me.”

“Correct. I’m sure your sharp hearing will learn something.” Greengrass smiled. “I’m afraid my movements and resources are restricted at the moment. You’re my best chance to learn what’s going on.”

“And if you expose Corona’s plan,” Octavia replied, “you’ll get back into Princess Luna’s good graces.”

“You wound me.” Greengrass grabbed his heart. “I can’t just be doing my civic duty? I promise to reward you well for your assistance.”

He pulled out a pair of books out of his saddlebag and placed them on the coffee table. Octavia drooled when she saw they were old manuscripts.

“I hear you’re trying to play the Symphony for Moon and Sun at the Gala.” Greengrass gave a mischievous smile. “Not bad for your final performance. I look forward to listening to it.”

Octavia started. “You know I’m dying?!”

“Not that hard to tell.” Greengrass snorted. “This whole ordeal sings of a final swansong. These books are by a famous composer called Moonshadow Whistle. He studied the Symphony for Moon and Sun 650 years ago. He didn’t play it himself, but he did do extensive research on the piece. This might prove helpful in your quest to finish the symphony. Do we have a deal?”

Octavia considered every aspect of the proposal. In reality, she didn’t have much to lose. Her spying duties wouldn’t distract too much from her practices and these books might give her the inspiration she needed. Still, it wasn’t enough. Greengrass gained more from this deal than she did. A brilliant idea struck her.

“One more stipulation,” Octavia said, “you help Lyra’s career and become her patron. You get her the best concerts and venues money can buy even if Princess Luna doesn’t reinstate you as a noble and protect her from other nobles. And Lyra never learns about this. Ever.”

“Deal,” Greengrass said automatically, “I’m a pony of my word.”

“And you won’t try to get revenge on her?”

“Revenge is a sucker’s game, Octavia Philharmonica.” Greengrass repeated smiling with humor.

“You have yourself a deal.”

Chapter 2

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 2
by Rixizu

“Finally!” Trixie did a little dance. “It’s about time she noticed us.” She pointed at the letter in her hooves.

“Yeah,” Lyra said disinterested and picked at her cupcake. Her weekend hadn’t been so great after her visit with her teacher. She’d thought a trip to Sugarcube corner with her friends would cheer her up, but not even a strawberry cupcake, her favorite, helped her mood.

“Have fun.” Carrot Top said.

“You’re not coming?” Trixie asked shocked. “Haven’t we all earned this honor? Dame Trixie Lulamoon. I loved how it rolls off the tongue!” She waved the latter in the carrot farmer’s face expecting this to change her mind.

Princess Luna had sent each of the Rangers an invitation to the Grand Galloping Gala. The letter contained a plus one for a guest and stated the Gala would end with a knighting ceremony bestowing them the title of Dame. Trixie was ecstatic as usual. Lyra wanted to be interested but worry for Octavia overrode everything else.

“No, those animals almost made me lose my farm and destroyed my house!” Carrot Top scowled. “I don’t even want to talk to those monsters!”

Trixie rolled her eyes. “Fine, don’t attend the Gala. At least attend the knighting ceremony and take the title of Dame!”

“No!” Carrot Top snarled. “For the millionth time, no! I’m fine being regular old common as dirt Carrot Top. I’m a farmer. I have no use for titles.”

“But!” Trixie tried to protest, but Cheerilee stopped her.

“Let her have her way,” Cheerilee said. “It’s her choice if she doesn’t want to go. Besides, being a knight is your dream, not hers.”

“I still think it’s insulting to Princess Luna to not even attend the Gala,” Trixie grumbled.

“The Gala sounds like it will be tons of fun!” Twilight said. “Oh, my gosh! There’s so much to prepare for! Why didn’t the Princess send her invitations sooner! I don’t even have a dress prepared. I must create a checklist!” She pulled out a scroll and wrote into it vigorously with a quill.

Talk of the Gala lifted Lyra’s spirits somewhat. She was one of its key musicians this year and she’d never taken such a big job before. The boost to her career would be astronomical. If she messed up, it would doom her to being a street musician for the rest of eternity. The risk both thrilled and scared her. She hoped they’d give her some free time so she could have a few dances with Bons. Her marefriend would be so beautiful under the moonlight. A cough broke her thoughts.

“Well, if you need a dress, I’ll be happy to help.” Rarity said. “Two weeks? Ha! A trivial challenge to a seamstress such as myself. And I’ll do it for no cost.”

“Alright, what do you want in return?” Trixie asked. Rarity skill with the needle was legendary, but she could be pricey, especially for such a short notice job.

“Oh, not much.” Rarity waved a dismissive hoof. “Just a chance to mingle with the highborn of Equestria and attend the most exclusive party of the year. Anypony who’s anypony will be there!”

“Fine.” Cheerilee rolled her eyes. “You can be my plus one. It’s not like I have anypony to go with, anyway.”

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Rarity grabbed Cheerilee’s hoof and shook it vigorously. “Finally, I’ll have to chance to meet him.”

“Him?” Trixie asked.

“Prince Blueblood, the most handsome and eligible bachelor in all of Equestria.” Rarity cooed. “A true prince and gentlecolt.”

“Prince Blueblood?” Trixie blinked.

“Oh, I don’t have time to waste here.” Rarity said. “So much to do and plan! Oh no! I need a dress too! I don’t know if I’ll make it time! No, Rarity, you must. True love depends on it!” She disappeared in a puff of smoke.

“Dresses for Gala? Check.” Twilight crossed something off her checklist.

“She is in for a rude awakening if she thinks Blueblood is gentlecolt.” Trixie shook her head.

“Oh?” Lyra asked.

“He’s a cad and a pervert.” Trixie shuttered in disgust. “He’s been pining over me for years and won’t take no for an answer. Or a punch to the jaw.”

“Poor Rarity,” Lyra said, “is he really a prince? Is he a relative of Princess Luna?”

“Sure, and I’m an alicorn princess.” Trixie rolled her eyes. “His parents just named him Prince to make him feel special. His family is nopony important. Only minor nobility.”

Lyra shook her head. “Nobles.”

Twilight wrote more stuff on her checklist, tongue extended with both thought and excitement. She loved nothing more than making lists. Lyra knew the gala details would be well in hoof. She could focus on her own practicing. Practicing for the same gala where her teacher Octavia would almost certainly have her career ruined. Depression filled Lyra again and she slumped against the table all the energy drained from her body.

Why! Why risk everything Octavia?! She lamented. Despite knowing curses weren’t real. In her heart, she realized Octavia’s quest would fail. Her teacher was good, but experts in their craft had tried completing the Symphony for Moon and Sun and failed. Doomed. Her teacher was doomed! Doomed!

No, I must help her! Her teacher had forbidden her help, but Lyra didn’t care. The Element of Loyalty chose her and she never abandoned a friend. Ever. Lyra would help if Octavia liked it or not! And she had just the supernerd to aid her.

“Say Twi, could you help me with a research project?” Lyra asked, immediately catching Twilight’s attention.

“What about?” Twilight stood to attention.

“I need help researching the Symphony for Moon and Sun.” Lyra knew Twilight had no musical talent whatsoever, but her library skills were second to none.

“I’d love to!” Twilight’s tail wagged like an excitable puppy. “Help Lyra research the Symphony for Moon and Sun.” She wrote on her checklist and scrutinized it. She erased something from the listed then added something else. She rumpled her head in frustration as she tried adding Lyra’s request to her busy schedule.

Lyra realized this would cut into her practice time, but she didn’t care. This was too important. She wouldn’t let Octy down!

Greengrass wiped his head with a handkerchief as he peered down into the dense jungle below. In the distance, he saw a stone temple. Deep inside it was the item he sought.

“Excellent, the temple is exactly where the map said it was,” Greengrass said.

“Correct, Duke.” Trail Blazer, their guide, eyed the temple nervously. He was a white-coated earth pony stallion with a red mane with a black streak through it. His cutie mark was a trail of hoofprints.

“Sweet!” Vinyl Scratch beamed. “This jungle has been, like, super annoying.”

“Oh my,” Fluttershy said and gasped when she saw the intimidating structure. It wasn’t a friendly looking place with statues with hate-filled eyes telling intruders what would happen to them if they intruded in their lair.

“It will be dark soon. I want to make good time.” The trip had been killer on his newly old bones, but he wouldn’t rest with his objective so near. His plans depended on his success.

“Are you are sure you want to go further Duke?” Trail Blazer trembled. “They say nopony has ever exited that place alive.” His fear infected Fluttershy and she trembled hiding under her hooves and mane.

Vinyl snorted. “Ph-lease, we can handle it. ‘Sides, I got this if any trouble comes our way!” She pulled out her crossbow and posed with it. The weapon was almost half her height, but she held it with ease despite her age. She too had lost her youth after the destruction of her Planetary Gem, but she treated old age as more of an annoyance and didn’t let it slow her down for a moment.

“My associate is correct, Mr. Trail Blazer,” Greengrass said, “I assembled this team for such a task. You all have my utmost confidence.” Fluttershy blushed at this and his self-confidence filled her with energy.

“This jungle contains some of the most dangerous animals in the world!” Trail Blazer argued.

Fluttershy brightened at this announcement and nodded. “Oh yes, like the Black Mamba. Its venom is the sixth most deadly in the world. Isn’t nature fascinating? They’re so cute! I wonder if one would like to come home with me?”

Trail Blazer stared at Fluttershy like she was crazy.

“Oh, don’t worry Mr. Trail Blazer sir,” Fluttershy said, “Black Mamba rarely bother ponies. If you leave them alone and don’t scare them, you’ll be just fine.”

Trail Blazer turned away deciding not to argue. Greengrass was glad he brought the mare along. Her animal expertise was invaluable. The way she handled the Ursa Major incident had impressed him. In his many years, Greengrass knew most ponies had a price and Ms. Fluttershy’s had been a pittance to pay. Especially considering the rewards if they were successful.

The jungle was deep and the trek through it was difficult, it seemed to fight against their attempts to cross it at every chance. Trail Blazer did his best to cut through the thick foliage, but it only seemed to get tougher and thicker the further they went on. Even Greengrass admitted this place made him uneasy, but that meant he was right on the mark. Their goal was here and he felt this truth in his bones. A furious leopard blocked their path, but a pat on the head and a snuggle from Fluttershy convinced it to leave. After several painstaking hours, they stood at the base of the temple. It loomed over them dark and foreboding.

“Sweet!” Vinyl said. “This place is so cool. It’s given me a great stage design idea for my next show!”

Fluttershy looked less than impressed with the structure and trembled. “Well, I’ve got you to the temple! I’m sure you’ll be just fine on your own! I’ll see you later!” She took to the air.

“Fluttershy.” One word from Greengrass froze the Pegasus in her tracks. “Remember our agreement. You promised to aid us until we procured the artifact inside. You aren’t reneging on our deal, are you? Remember what’s at stake.”

Fluttershy sighed and dropped to the ground. “You’re right Mr. Greengrass. I’ll be brave.”

Greengrass gave her a warm smile. “Wonderful. I know you will surpass my expectations.”

Fluttershy nodded and muttered encouraging words to herself which boosted her confidence somewhat.

Trail Blazer examined the structure carefully, but the temple had no obvious entrance. The walls were solid stone and Fluttershy confirmed no roof entrance either.

“Hmm. There must be a hidden switch somewhere.” Greengrass stroked his chin. It all appeared like solid rock to him, but appearances could be deceiving. The hidden door was somewhere.

“Oh, dear,” Fluttershy said forlornly, “our mission was doomed from the start.”

“No, it must have an entrance. We only need to discover it.” Greengrass said.

“And we aren’t leaving until we find it?” Trail Blazer sighed and kicked at a rock.

“Chin up Traily!” Vinyl said. “We’ll find it. Greengrass is the smartest pony in Equestria!”

Greengrass smiled and searched his mind for everything he knew about the temple. Info was sparse and the best reference he found came from a Daring Doo book. He shook his head finding nothing of use. Instead, he examined the stone walls for any clues or patterns. They might lead to the answer he wanted. The walls had paintings of ponies doing a tribal dance, but their pattern wasn’t clear to him and an hour of examination didn’t illuminate the problem. Fluttershy asked the nearby animals if they knew a path inside. According to them, nopony had ever entered the place.

Defeated, they set up camp for the night. One failure wouldn’t put off Greengrass, but his old bones protested and forced him to rest. Luckily, they found a nice clearing that made setting up their tents easy. Greengrass stared at the stars, his mind circling through the day’s events. He spotted the Big Dipper constellation and smiled and wondered what mischief Trixie Lulamoon was up to. He found it interesting that despite all the stars Corona had taken to create her Star Beasts, the Ranger constellations stayed intact. Those seven mares seemed like an immovable part of the universe. He smiled. Wouldn’t they be surprised when they saw what he had planned?

“Good work everypony.” Maestro said, “see you tomorrow.”

Octavia, like everypony else, put away her instrument. It was a lethargic motion much slower than usual. Thankfully, nopony noticed her weakness. Dear Luna, even practice sessions wore her out these days. No matter. In a few weeks, it would immortalize her in history and no amount of pain or tiredness would distract her from her goal. She looked over to Lyra’s spot and found it empty once again. Her student had called in sick and Octavia worried for her. The gala was too important for her career to mess up. Even getting sick was no excuse. After practice, she needed to check up on Lyra and chew her out for missing two days in a row. The sound of clapping interrupted her thoughts.

“Bravo!” Celestia said. “Well done. My sister has outdone herself this year. She’s certainly found the best and brightest musicians of this generation.”

Everypony tensed when they saw the fallen princess, unsure how to take her presence. Celestia’s bright smile and compliments, however, put everypony at ease. She shook everypony’s hoof and complimented them on their individual skills. The princess’s knowledge of the musical arts was impressive. She greeted everypony like they were old friends and they received her warmly in return.

“You must be Octavia Philharmonica,” Celestia said as she shook her hoof, “I’ve heard so much about you. Is it true you wish to play the Symphony for Moon and Sun? I’d done a little research on the piece. It is a daunting task for anypony.”

“Indeed, it is, princess,” Octavia replied, “I believe it would be a fitting tribute to the reunification of the royal sisters.”

“Just Celestia, please.” Celestia’s ears folded back. “I’ve given up my right to be princess long ago.”

This is the pony Greengrass is afraid of? Still, Celestia was famous for her cunning, but the former princess looked so sad and sorrowful that Octavia’s heart went out to her. Greengrass was panicking at nothing. Old age must have ruined his senses.

“Is that so?” A snide voice said and everypony froze as Princess Luna entered the hall. “Winning everypony with your charms as usual.”

“Lulu!” Celestia said brightening. “I didn’t see you come in. How are you? It’s been too long.”

Luna glared at everypony in the room. “Don’t you have somewhere else to be?”

Everypony got the clue and scrambled to get their things and leave. Octavia’s sharp hearing picked up something strange about the princess. While Celestia spoke in perfect harmony, Luna spoke with complete discord. Even her breathing and heartbeat were off. Much to her horror, she realized Greengrass was right about Princess Luna.

Luna scowled as everpony gave Celestia a polite bow and a warm goodbye. Octavia left, but hung outside to overhear the conversation between the two sisters.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Luna’s voice was full of accusations.

“Just checking up on the Gala’s preparations and you know how I love music so,” Celestia replied.

“More like you’re trying to steal my ponies!”

“I don’t know what you mean, sister. I’m only trying to be friendly.”

“Listen here, Celestia.” Luna used her sister’s name as a curse. “These are my ponies and they always will be. They love me and have for centuries. I am the center of their world! You don’t like that, do you? You’re always like this! Trying to steal my spotlight! Making ponies appreciate your sun over my moon and night!”

“Lulu, please.”

“Things have changed in the last thousand years!” Luna continued. “They love me now! Me! They’ve forgotten your sun and embraced the night! And that will never change! They know you’re a monster sister! They’ve grown up with stories of your evil!”

“Yes, the murals of my downfall in most government offices were a bit much,” Celestia replied with some humor, “your right. I did many terrible things. I want to repent and make amends.”

“They’ll see through your lies sister! You’re evil!” Princess Luna abruptly left the hall leaving a perturbed Celestia.

Octavia tensed and hide behind the open door. She let out of breath as Luna passed her unnoticed. Celestia sighed and shook her head. Octavia watched Princess Luna stomp away eyes wide. Greengrass wasn’t kidding. At the time, Octavia hadn’t taken him seriously and realized how wrong she’d been. Princess Luna was out of control. What happened to her grace and beauty? What happened to the voice that could bring a smile to anypony’s lips and bring joy to their hearts? Even without her promise to Greengrass, Octavia needed to find out what was wrong.

Chapter 3

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 3
by Rixizu

“There!” Twilight beamed proud of her work. She’d pinned countless pages to the board each grouped by year and in alphabetical order. The amount of information overwhelmed Lyra as she examined it.

“And this is everything?” Lyra asked with some hesitation. She feared Twi might pull out another board filled with even more pages. Twilight had gotten her hooves on every attempt to finish the Symphony for Moon and Sun over the millennia.

“It isn’t much on such short notice.” Twilight admitted ears drooping, “but it’s a good starting point!”

“Okay,” Lyra replied. She slapped her face and redoubled her efforts to understand everything before her. Hours passed as she worked. The compositions before her were beautiful even breathtaking. Yet they’d failed and Lyra couldn’t figure out why. No wonder ponies considered the symphony cursed. Each attempt had missed something vital, a small piece of the puzzle they’d failed to add. Still, her mind rushed with possibilities. She loved studying old music and she’d gained countless new ideas. Her mood dropped when she realized none of her inspirations helped Octavia. She’d slept badly the previous night due to a nightmare of ponies scorning her old teacher and laughing at her failure.

“Morning Lyra!” Bons waved as Lyra entered their dining room.

“Morning.” Lyra sipped her coffee her mane disheveled and black circles under her eyes.

“You’re staying the day again?” Bon-Bon served Lyra toast and eggs, her favorite. “What about practice for the Gala?”

“I know.” Lyra slumped against the table. “I can’t focus! Octavia’s about to ruin her career and it’s destroying me! I can’t stop worrying about it!” And even with Twi’s help, their research had produced nothing useful. She was a failure as a pony, and a student.

“I see,” Bon-Bon replied and they ate in silence. Lyra nibbled at her toast with little appetite.

“There must be an answer, darn it,” Lyra put a hoof on the board of papers. “I can’t fail this!”

“Lyra!” Twilight ran into Lyra’s basement. “I discovered something really interesting!” She held a book in her aura.

“What?”

“According to this source, this symphony was originally called the…”

“Lyra!” A voice cried out startling them both. They turned to find a fuming Octavia. “There you are.”

“Octy!” Lyra blocked the board of papers and gave a forced smile. “Fancy seeing you here. Shame I’ve been too sick to attend practice!” She made a fake cough.

“I bet,” Octavia said coldly and pushed Lyra aside examining the board herself, “been busy I see.”

“I thought it was an interesting research subject!” Lyra gave a nervous laugh. Dear Luna, I suck at lying.

Octavia fumed and threw the board to ground scattering papers everywhere. Twilight stared in horror. The musician didn’t stop and tore papers to pieces.

“I understand your concern, but I don’t need your help!” Octavia said. “I have gotten this matter well in hoof. You are my student and you will do as instructed. Don’t get involved anymore. This is my personal mission, and you have no place in it. Do you understand?”

Chastised, Lyra’s ears dropped and her head fell. “Yes, teacher.”

“Good. Now forget this nonsense.” Octavia said changing the subject. “I hear Ponyville has a great tea shop.”

Lyra fought back her pain and nodded. Twilight and Bons stayed behind to clean up. She tried engaging in conversation with her teacher. It was awkward at the beginning, but they talked like old friends again as tea arrived. A part of Lyra resented her teacher for rejecting her aid, but she hid it away. Octavia was right. Lyra would leave it alone.

She put all thoughts of the Symphony away and they discussed silly things like old times. They had a lovely chat and Raindrops even dropped in for a hello. Lyra returned to her normal self as her third cup of tea arrived.

“And Cloud Kicker has been bugging Trixie to let her attend the Gala,” Lyra said, “she says it would give her the opportunity to get drunk and bang all the nobles she wants.”

“And Trixie said no I hope. The Grand Galloping Gala isn’t that kind of party.” Octavia’s snout rankled. “We don’t need somepony so uncouth at the Gala.”

“No.” Lyra shook her head laughing. “Even Trixie sees it as a bad idea.”

“My opinion of her has gone up a notch.” Which Lyra knew was high praise coming from her teacher.“Ponyville certainly has its characters.”

“No kidding!” Lyra beamed. “The other day, I learned a pony I’d known for years was a robot. Or golem if you prefer. It’s a long story!”

Octavia blinked. “What?”

“Such is life in Ponyville.” Lyra waved a hoof.

“As exciting as Ponyville is, you will need to leave one day.”

Lyra’s good mood sunk like a ship with a broken hull. “I know.”

“Hero or not, ponies in high society don’t care for yokels from towns like Ponyvilla.” Octavia continued. “As I’ve always said, you must distance yourself from that image and show yourself as a pony of grace and class.”

Lyra stayed silent knowing Octavia was right. Ponies in Canterlot had laughed at her for being from Ponyville. Yet, she loved this silly little town. It was unimaginable leaving it and her friends. The mere thought of being miles from the other Rangers pained her. Still, she had her career to consider. She couldn’t take constant train trips from Ponyville to distant cities for jobs. The cost alone would be insane. Maybe if she used her Zord instead? Her giant robot could travel the globe in moments. Still, it would be a pain to park.

“I have a surprise for you.” Octavia brought Lyra out of her ponderings.

“What?”

“I found this nice little apartment in Manehattan for you and your marefriend. Bon-Bon, correct?” Octavia replied. “It’s the perfect location. A new revival of My Fair Filly is looking for a full-time lyre player and I’m a good friend of the director.”

“I don’t know Octy.”

“Think about it!” Octavia pressed. “It’s perfect. Think how exciting it would be part of a Bridleway play? It’s an excellent opportunity!”

Lyra closed her eyes and considered. With Corona reformed, supposedly, it had been quiet. With Twilight add to their team as the White Ranger, they had plenty of ponypower. And being part of a Bridleway play’s orchestra had been a minor dream of her. It would be loads of fun.

“Does this offer have a time limit?” Lyra asked. “I need to discuss this with Bons.”

“Not too long. I’d need to know before the Gala.” Octavia nodded in approval.

“I’ll consider it.” She needed to discuss this with the other Ranger too. They might have some good advice.

They talked more, Lyra only half listened. The offer distracted her. She considered every angle and opportunity mulling over everything. She waved Octavia goodbye as her teacher took an early train back to Canterlot. Lyra took the long way home. She liked walking. It gave her plenty of opportunities to think.

“Lyra!” Twilight waved and ran towards her.

“Oh Twi, what’s up.”

“Finally, I found you,” Twilight replied, “I wanted to tell you of my discovery about the Symphony for Moon and Sun.”

Lyra shook her head. “It doesn’t matter anymore. I’ve given up researching it. My teacher has the problem well in hoof.”

Twilight ears drooped like a kicked puppy. “If you’re sure. It’s an interesting problem.”

“I’m sure.” Lyra gave a sad smile. I have more pressing issues, anyway.

“Well, I thought you might find it interesting the Symphony for Moon and Sun was actually called the Symphony for Sun and Moon first.”

Lyra blinked. “What?”

“Yeah, the composer switched it around to appeal to Luna’s vanity,” Twilight said. It made sense. According to Trixie, the princess was vainer than she let on.

Twilight switched to lecture mode. “Before Celestia’s banishment, it was common to refer to the sun before the moon. After Princess Luna gained power, ponies switched around. That’s why the title used sun first out of automatic reflex.”

“Okay, that’s interesting, but I don’t see how that helps with finishing the composition,” Lyra replied though her mind chewed on this new tidbit.

Twilight shrugged. “I just thought it was interesting. Well, if you’re not interested in the Symphony, I’ll stop research it.”

Lyra wanted to agree, but something made her reconsider. Part of her screamed this tidbit was a vital clue. No way, it was only a name.

But names have power. No, I’m being stupid. Octavia ordered me to stop. Yet…

“Uh, see what else you can uncover,” Lyra said instead cursing that she’d broken her promise.

“Sure.” Twilight brightened.

Darn it, I can’t let this go. I can’t help myself. Well, I’m sure it won’t hurt anypony doing a little more digging. Symphony for Sun and Moon, huh? Maybe it means something.

Vinyl examined the murals on the temple walls stroking her chin and paced back and forth. She’d been working on this puzzle for an hour and Greengrass waited for his ward to solve the problem. It began apparent he couldn’t solve it on his own, so he let the music expert take a crack at it. The puzzle was music-based and he’d long learned to rely on experts where his skills lacked.

“Ha!” Vinyl pumped a hoof in victory. “I got it. No problem.”

“Really?!” Trail Blazer said glad to escape the dangerous forest.

“Oh, my!” Fluttershy said while petting a macaw.

“The boss pony was right about the puzzle being music based, no surprise there.” Vinyl pointed at a stone panel hidden by dirt and plants. “You must perform a certain dance there to open the door. A pretty awesome one too.”

“Dancing?” Trail Blazer starred at a loss for words.

“Interesting,” it pleased Greengrass his ward had discovered the secret so quickly.

“Argh, if only I was young still.” Vinyl whined. “Hey, Traily, you any good at dancing?”

Trail Blazer shook his head a little embarrassed. “No, in fact, the misses barred me from it after our wedding dance.” Everypony and the macaw looked to Fluttershy.

“Me?” Fluttershy’s voice cracked.

“Don’t worry, you got this.” Vinyl beamed. “Just leave it to me! I’ll teach you all the coolest steps ever!”

“Okay,” Fluttershy replied resigned and the macaw stroked her head in comfort.

“Okay Flutters, you can do this!” Fluttershy said to boost her confidence.

“Yo! You got this Fluts!” Vinyl yelled and the macaw on her head joined the cheering. Greengrass watch from a stump curious about what would happen next.

Fluttershy took in several deep breaths preparing herself for the task at hoof. Vinyl had trained her well and she didn’t want to let anypony down.

“Now!” Fluttershy jumped on the dance pad and jigged her body back and forth. She swung her hooves and waved her plot high in the air. After spinning around in a circle, she waved her plot again, stepped around in the circle, and finished with one hoof pointing to the sky. A stone door groaned open leading a path into utter blackness. Vinyl hooted and Greengrass and Trail Blazer clapped their hooves.

“I am never doing that again.” Fluttershy’s face turned beet red.

Trail Blazer lit a torch and carefully led the way wary of any traps. Vinyl followed behind her crossbow at the ready while Greengrass and Fluttershy took up the rear. The butter coloured mare paused for a moment to wave the macaw goodbye. Fluttershy couldn’t bear putting any animal in danger. She yelped as the door slammed behind them leaving no trace of its existence. They searched, but there was no switch or dance pad to reopen the door. With no other choice, they moved forward towards almost certain danger and death.

A figure watched from the safety of her treetop hiding place. After months of research, she’d never found a way inside this accused temple. Yet somehow, these thieves discovered the entrance in several hours. No matter, they’d given her the key inside. She needed to hurry. She couldn’t afford these thieves getting the treasure inside.

Daring Doo adjusted her hat and smirked. Head start or not, she’d get the Key of Bimini first. It was too dangerous to fall into anypony hooves especially an evil Night Court Noble like Duke Greengrass. Whatever his nefarious plan was, she planned to ruin it. She replayed the dance in her mind and counted for five minutes. She didn’t want them discovering her presence just yet. After the time limit ended, she flew down and landed on the dance platform.

“Duke Greengrass. Your evil plans are finished.” Daring looked around and sighed in relief. Nopony was there to watch her do that embarrassing, ridiculous dance.

“Argh!” Octavia threw another failure against the wall. She gritted her teeth. Greengrass’ book had given her some useful insights but no solutions. How could this be so hard? She was a genius and a master of her craft. Few in her generation matched her skill at the cello. Now only a week and a half remained until the Gala, and she was still no closer to her goal.

Maybe I should have taken Lyra up on her offer to help.

No, that was ridiculous. This was her mission and dream and her student didn’t have a part in it. She’d known from long experience a pony could only count on themselves. Poor Lyra was too young to realize this yet. Her chest erupted in pain and Octavia broke into a coughing fit spitting out blood.

No, I can’t fail. It’s impossible! My dream will become a reality.

Still, not everything had been a loss. Her spying on the Princess had gone well. She learned about Luna conducting secret meetings and overheard one would happen tonight. It surprised Octavia how easily she’d come across the information. Princess Luna was terrible at cloak and dagger and it amazed Octavia she’d lasted so long in the Night Court. The princess couldn’t keep a secret to save her life. Tonight Luna had a meeting with a pony only known as Lady Jewel. About what, Octavia couldn’t gleam.

Octavia sighed and put her Cello away too wound up to work, anyway. She might as well arrive at the secret meeting early. After dressing in a dark cloak, she slipped outside keeping to the shadows. It was well into the night as she arrived hiding herself on a rooftop her keen eyes and ears ready. She fought off another coughing fit as she waited. The princess had made the meeting point an alley behind some hayburger joint.

Princess Luna arrived alone. She wore a dark cloak blending in the night with ease. Octavia had heard the princess before seeing her. Much to Octavia’s confusion, Luna floated a greasy bag in her magic. Luna sat down and opened the bag pulling out a hayburger heavy with mayonnaise and ketchup eating with relish. Octavia’s face scrunched up disgusted. She’d never guessed the princess liked such uncouth food. Shouldn’t it be beneath her? And wasn’t this a secret meeting? The other pony arrived much later, thankfully without a bag of hayburgers. They wore a gray cloak.

“You’re late,” Luna said without preamble.

“Of course I am.” The other pony huffed. “It’s fashionable that way.”

Luna clenched her teeth in annoyance but ignored the comment. Octavia almost gasped when the mysterious pony drew back their hood. It was Vicereine Puissance! She gave the princess a polite bow.

“How goes the project?” Luna asked. “You know we have a tight timetable. My sister will act soon.”

“Patience princess.” Puissance waved a dismissive hoof. “It is going on schedule. Yesterday’s test run went well.”

“Good.” Luna sighed in relief. “I appreciate your tireless efforts.”

“I live to serve, your majesty.” Puissance bowed.

“Serve me well, and I’ll forgive your foalnapping of my student,” Luna said. “Still, the data from Trixie’s morpher has proven useful. No, vital to my battle against my sister.” Puissance and Octavia jumped when Princess Luna threw her head back breaking into uproarious laughter.

“Soon, my sister will pay for her sins. Crushed!” Luna crushed her empty paper bag for emphasis under her hoof. She broke out into laughter again.

“Soon, Project Ranger Killer will be complete!”

Chapter 4

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 4
by Rixizu

“And you say traps might lie anywhere?” Greengrass asked peering into the darkness. He held a portable lantern to light their path.

“Anywhere!” Trail Blazer replied. “Each step might become our last!” To emphasize his point, he picked up a stone and threw it into the empty corridor before them. When the stone landed on the floor, deadly poisoned tipped darts shot from the walls, razor-sharp pendulums appeared out of nowhere, and spikes flew from the ceiling and floor. They disappeared as soon as they appeared.

“Talk about overkill, how lame.” Vinyl said.

“How irritating.” Greengrass scanned the corridor.

“H-How can we get past that?” Fluttershy hid behind Greengrass trembling.

“Vinyl?” Greengrass turned towards his ward.

Vinyl stroked her chin than brightened. “I got it! See those little dashes on the walls? Those are musical notes! Each stone coordinates with that particular note. Step on the right stone and you’re safe.”

Greengrass looked down and scrutinized the floor and realized each row had 21 stone panels. One stone for each string on the instrument.

“Is it based on a guitar?” Greengrass asked.

“Yep, a Kora. It’s popular in this region.” Vinyl beamed. “Follow me. I think I’ve got the rhythm!”

“Um, I’ll fly across if that’s okay with you, sorry.” Fluttershy looked at the stone floor like it deadly poisoned.

“That wouldn’t work.” Trail Blazer picked up another rock and threw it across the corridor. Something sharp cut the stone into pieces midway. Fluttershy gulped and followed Vinyl’s lead instead.

It was slow going, but they somehow got across the deadly floor. Vinyl moved across without a hint of fear. Greengrass wasn’t so confident, but trusted his ward and took each step with care. The slightest slip or misstep meant instant death.

“Whoever made this place was a happening pony!” Vinyl said as they reached the end.

“I think that took years off my life,” Fluttershy tried to calm her beating heart and Greengrass agreed with her.

They walked for several minutes before coming across a fork that broke the corridor into three different paths. Greengrass found no distinguishing marks or clues. They each looked identical.

“We are not breaking into groups.” Trail Blazer’s voice was firm.

“Wasn’t planning to,” Greengrass replied, “well, Vinyl?”

“Beats me.” Vinyl peered into the three corridors finding nothing but darkness.

“Fine.” Greengrass pointed to the third corridor. “We’ll go that way.”

“Okay.” Trail Blazer led the way cautious of any incoming dangers.

“How does it feel, darling?” Rarity used her magic to adjust Lyra’s dress. One stipulation that she had laid down was that their dresses would allow easy movement in case something happened. If a monster came for her throat, Lyra didn’t want her dress to impede her.

“Wonderful.” Lyra tested her limbs and walked around Rarity’s boutique. She follows up with several kicks and punches and ended with a backflip.

“I’m glad you like it.” Rarity made some final adjustments with the frills. “Your dresses were a challenge, but I think I’ve risen to the occasion.”

“Are they all done?” Lyra asked.

“All except Trixie’s.” Rarity gave a theatrical sigh. “She’s a picky one and keeps changing her mind. But, I should have it done in a week’s time.”

I can’t believe only a week left until the Gala.

Time flew with the last several days with practice consuming most of her time. Twilight still helped her research the infamous symphony but with no results. It didn’t matter. Lyra had little doubt her teacher Octavia hadn’t already finished and mastered the piece by now. Still, Lyra enjoyed her time with Twilight despite not accomplishing much. They had spent little time together before. She learned Twi had an excellent singing voice. Trixie suggested they should start a band. Much to Lyra’s shock, Trixie was a skilled guitar player and proved it with some expertly played riffs.

A band sounded fun, but it wasn’t meant to be. She’d leave for Manehattan after the Gala. She hadn’t told her friends about her decision yet and hoped to relay the news at tonight’s Ranger meeting at Trixie’s house.

Bons says it okay. They’ll understand. Still, leaving her friends frightened her, but they always encouraged her to follow her dreams. They’d understand.

“Lyra, you’re crying.” Rarity said, her voice full of concern. “Is everything okay?”

Pull yourself together Lyra! She wiped away tears and nodded. She couldn’t afford to break down now.

“If you’re sure, darling.” Rarity put a comforting hoof on Lyra’s shoulder. “I’m here if you need to talk.”

“Thanks.”

When Lyra first met Rarity, she’d thought the fashionista was one of the most annoying and self-centered ponies she’d ever met. It reminded Lyra how shallow and judgmental she could be. Much changed when you met a pony for real and looked beyond surface impressions. She’d miss Rarity and everypony else when she left Ponyville. She’d even allow Pinkie to throw her a goodbye party!

The day passed slowly as Lyra explored around town enjoying Ponyville’s sights. She wanted to assimilate everything into her memory before she left.

Lyra paused before Trixie’s front door and took several deep breaths. She gave her best smile as she entered inside. Everypony was there sitting on various couches and loveseats. Trixie used her magic to levitate bowls of Cheetos to everypony and soda pop sat on a coffee table. These meetings weren’t only about Ranger business, but also gave them time to hang out and chat. Sometimes they played games, but it was mostly about having fun with friends. Lyra would miss these Friday meetings.

“Hey, Lyra.” Trixie waved to her. “Have a seat. We’re about to play a game of pinochle.” Trixie loved pinochle often contriving reasons to play it. She already had the game set up and used her magic to shuffle the cards.

“Uh, guys.” Lyra swallowed. “I have some news first.”

This caught everypony’s attention and they looked at her expectantly. Lyra bolstered her courage.

“You remember about that offer to play the lyre in My Fair Filly?” Lyra said. “I accepted it. I’ll be moving to Manehattan in a month’s time.”

“That’s wonderful Lyra!” Twilight said.

Carrot Top nodded. “It’s a good opportunity.”

“Make sure we get good discounts when we come to your shows.” Trixie beamed.

Cheerilee tapped her chin in thought. “We should have a yard sale. Your place is full of junk you don’t need.”

“My parents also have loads of old stuff they need to lose.” Raindrops said.

Cheerilee clapped her hooves together. “Great idea. We can all give something. It would be a nice little boost to Lyra’s income when she moves to the big city.”

“And I can do a magic show!” Trixie’s eyes glinted in excitement.

Everypony chatted about helping Lyra move and getting Bon-Bon’s new candy store set up in Manehattan. They were being very supportive of Lyra’s decision. Maybe a little too supportive?

“I’m surprised you’re all taking this so well.” Lyra ears drooped. “I’m certainly not.”

The room went quiet and Lyra’s melancholy mood infected the others. Lyra saw the other Rangers had forced their cheerful reactions and weren’t taking the change much better.

“I know.” Trixie sighed. “You were my first real friend.”

Lyra blinked. “I was.”

“Okay, you were a complete jerk to me on the train to Ponyville, but it was fun running around town trying to get the Longest Night preparations done on time.” Trixie laughed.

Lyra smiled. She remembered that day well. Somehow they’d overslept and found themselves on a train to Manehattan. They scrambled back to Ponyville with only a few scant hours remaining to get everything ready. The festival was almost a total disaster. It was a fun, but mad experience.

“You think we were friends?” Lyra asked. “I didn’t treat you very well.” Much to Lyra’s embarrassment, she’d been rude and dismissive to Trixie all day, thinking her only a spoiled and selfish student of Princess Luna. Boy did things change when Corona arrived on the scene.

Trixie waved a dismissive hoof. “It was a work in progress.”

“I don’t want you to leave either, but being a musician is who you are,” Cheerilee said, “it’s like asking a bird not to fly, or a fish not to swim.”

Carrot Top nodded. “I’ll miss you, but this is your dream. I can’t stop that.” She looked down.

“Guys.” Tears gathered at Lyra’s eyelids. Great, I’m crying again.

“Lyra!” Twilight broke into tears and hugged her. The rest of the Rangers joined her in one giant group hug. Even Trixie was crying now.

“Look.” Trixie whipped away her tears. “I just want you to know that whatever happens, you’re still my friend.”

“And we’ll come to all your show!” Cheerilee proclaimed.

Trixie nodded. “Naturally.”

“And write to you.” Raindrops added.

Twilight brightened. “I need a new pen pal with Fluttershy living in town.”

“Besides, you have your Zord,” Trixie said, “you can visit us whenever you want.”

The Rangers chatted for the next few hours about random subjects. Carrot Top gave her useful moving tips while Raindrops talked about various shows she’d always wanted to see in Manehattan. Though still melancholy, Lyra’s heart warmed having such supportive friends. Besides, they were only a Zord’s trip away. She could see them anytime she wanted. Twilight theorized ways to communicate with Lyra quickly if they ever needed her. Trixie convinced them to play a game of pinochle which Lyra won. She suspected everypony let her win.

Lyra was smiling as she departed Trixie’s house. It hadn’t gone as badly as she feared. It would hurt being away from her friends, but she could cope. She’d find new friends in Manehattan, and her old ones weren’t so far away. Her heart wasn’t as heavy anymore.

Fluttershy screamed as a trap door opened underneath her and she fell into the darkness below. Greengrass rushed to grab her hoof, but his hoof slipped past her.

“Fluttershy!” Greengrass peered into the dark void below and saw a vague outline of Fluttershy’s yellow form.

“Yeah, I’m okay,” Fluttershy winced in pain but seemed otherwise fine. “Oh, hello!”

“What is it?” Trail Blazer bit his hoof worried Fluttershy might have met some horrible monster.

“It’s only a scorpion pit. Hey, there are snakes down here too!” She giggled. “Stop that, you’re tickling me!”

“Could they help us navigate this place?” Greengrass asked.

“I’ll check,” Fluttershy muttered something. “Yes, yes, really? That’s perfect!” She raised her voice. “They can! They tell me there are secret tunnels under the temple. That’s how they get around. They’re just big enough for a pony to fit through!”

Greengrass smiled to himself. As usual, his instincts about ponies were correct. Fluttershy was a huge asset to their quest. Still, he didn’t look forward to crawling through small tunnels with his bad hip. No matter. His goal was close in hoof.

“We’re really going down there?” Trail Blazer asked in utter disbelief.

“Come on Traily.” Vinyl punched the stallion in the shoulder. “Would you rather explore the trap-filled maze? We almost got crushed by a giant boulder ten minutes ago. Sides, Fluttershy will tell her new friends not to bite or sting us!”

Trail Blazer sighed knowing Greengrass’s ward was right and pull a rope out of his pack. He tied it to a nearby statue, tested its stability, and lowered it into the scorpion pit. With some effort and help from Fluttershy, they stood inside the scorpion pit. It was damp and dark as expected and scorpions and snakes filled the room. Greengrass saw at least fifteen different species of snake including the infamous black mamba. The scene terrified Trail Blazer while Vinyl only yawned having the utmost confidence in Fluttershy’s ability to control these creatures.

“Can one of these tunnels lead us to the treasure room?” Vinyl asked.

“Yes, yes, I see. Okay.” Fluttershy said talking to a scorpion on her hoof. “Yes, it can! It isn’t far.”

“Thank Luna.” Greengrass didn’t know if his hip could withstand hours crawling. “Lead the way.”

Daring examined her hat finding it intact but seared black. It had been a close one. Even the great Daring Doo hadn’t expected a fire trap appearing out of nowhere from a random statue. This temple was one giant death trap. She’d escaped most of them unharmed, but there had been some close calls. So far, she had seen no sign of Duke Greengrass or his cronies. The poor foals had walked into a situation they weren’t prepared for. Once she got the artifact, she’d return to save their sorry hides if they still drew breath. She smirked when she spotted the Key of Bimini sitting neatly on a pedestal. It contained traps, no doubt, but this situation was her bread and butter. Voices made her jump and she hid behind a pillar instinctively out of sight.

“Oh my, is that it?” The yellow pegasus said. Much to Daring’s bafflement and amazement, she emerged from a hidden door behind the pedestal covered in deadly scorpions and snakes. Greengrass and his other two lackeys followed behind her.

They must have found a secret tunnel. How the heck did they survive? She gapped when the yellow pegasus patted a scorpion’s head and it jumped off and disappeared into a nearby hole with its fellows. Daring presumed it was a maintenance tunnel the temple’s builders created to get around and avoid traps. Afterward, they filled the passages with scorpions and snakes so ponies couldn’t use them.

No far. That’s just cheating!

“Yes, the Key of Bimini.” Greengrass said nodding.

The key was solid gold and the size of a pony’s head. It had intricate carvings with tribal ponies worshiping a heavenly figure. The creature shared similarities with a pony with a gold coat and flowing pink mane, but they floated in midair shining with brilliant light with sparkling wings. This shining figure appeared in every mural that sprawled across the walls. Daring’s research had discovered little about this god-like being these primitive ponies had worshiped.

“Hold on, a key?” The white mare asked tilting her head. “A key to what? This opens something, right?”

Greengrass smiled and nodded. “Astute observation. In a nearby cave, there’s a doorway containing a mysterious keyhole. It’s said that this door leads to the ultimate treasure. What, I can’t be certain, but I have heard hints and suggestions.”

“Wow.” The lone pegasi stared at the key with dumbstruck awe.

“Sweet!” The white unicorn’s eyes lit up with excitement.

Daring cursed. How did Greengrass come across such information? It took her years to discover even the portal’s existence. Whatever the treasure was, Daring couldn’t allow Duke Greengrass to get his greedy little hooves on it.

“About this treasure…” The other stallion’s voice trailed off.

“Don’t worry, I plan to share.” Greengrass chuckled. “I couldn’t get this far without your help. You deserve a bonus.”

The yellow mare’s eyes sparkled. “I could start so many animal shelters with that treasure.”

Animal shelters? What a bizarre thing for one of Greengrass’s goons to say.

“Let’s grab the key and find our little treasure, shall we?” Greengrass said. “I don’t know about you, but the anticipation is killing me.”

“Not if I have anything to say about it, Duke Greengrass!” Daring stepped into view whip at the ready.

“Daring Doo?” The yellow mare and the white-coated stallion said in utter astonishment. Daring smirked. She got that reaction from most ponies. Most believed the fiction she wasn’t real and only a creation from A.K. Yearling’s imagination. The older mare only looked annoyed and Greengrass looked perplexed but calm.

“She looks like she stepped right out of the covers.” The white stallion muttered.

“Make it easy for yourselves and step away from the pedestal.” Daring pointed her whip towards Duke Greengrass and showed she wasn’t afraid to use it.

“Really?” The old mare pulled out a giant crossbow and Daring wondered how the mare was even holding it up. It was almost bigger than she was.

“Please.” Greengrass held up a hoof. “There’s no need for unpleasantness. We are after the same thing. We should broker a deal instead. One that would be mutually beneficial for both parties.”

“As if.” Daring rolled her eyes.”I don’t barter with gutter trash like you.” She swung her whip and wrapped it around the key. With a single motion, the treasure flew towards her. It was a reckless move considering the traps, but time was short.

Daring moved to grab the key midair, but a crossbow bolt hit it before it reached her hoof and threw it off course. The artifact clanged as it impacted the ground landing behind a statue of the golden pony.

“Hey!” Daring glared at the white unicorn who smirked back.

“Sorry, but the boss pony needs that.” The mare said. “Fluttershy, grab the key while I keep her busy.”

“Uh, er, okay, Vinyl.” Fluttershy, the yellow pegasus, replied and flew towards the key while Vinyl shot several crossbow bolts at Daring who flew away to avoid getting hit.

“I’ll just stay here then.” The white stallion said not wanting to get involved in the fight. Greengrass watched the confrontation calmly not moving a muscle.

Daring dodged several more bolts from the oversized crossbow. Fluttershy slowly flew towards the key not being a quick flyer. She eeped when Daring grabbed the key with a hoof before the other mare could.

“Um, if you don’t mind, could you return that key?” Fluttershy stumbled over her words. “It’s, uh, very important to Greengrass.”

Darling rolled her eyes and flew towards the exit.

Fluttershy puffed out her chest. “How rude!”

“You aren’t getting away!” Vinyl shot more bolts at Daring, but she dodged them with ease. She was inches before the door before it slammed shut blocking the way out. Daring cursed.

The room rumbled as panels opened and water flowed out filling the room. Angry piranhas followed looking hungry and deadly. Darling jumped as one flew at her almost biting her flank. They rushed at her ready to reduce her to nothing but bones. Vinyl took advantage of the situation by pulling the key from Daring’s hooves with her magic giving the adventurer a mocking salute as she grabbed it.

Daring growled and flew at the mare throwing a punch at her face. Vinyl dodge with speed unusual for a mare her age and they exchanged blows. Daring blocked the older mare’s attacks while dodging hungry piranhas. After dodging a punch to the gut, Vinyl threw the key towards Fluttershy who awkwardly caught it.

“Get it to the boss pony!” Daring’s jaw exploded in pain as Vinyl broke through her defenses. Fluttershy nodded and flew away.

“No!” Daring pulled out her whip and knocked the key from Fluttershy’s hooves and the key landed in the water. Nopony would get the Key of Bimini now. Diving into the water would be suicidal with the hungry piranhas everywhere. She couldn’t allow it to fall into Greengrass’s grubby greedy hooves.

“Why are you fighting?!” The white stallion yelped as he dodged an incoming piranha. “What about escape?!”

“Quite right,” Greengrass said, “stop this nonsense, both of you.” The water level had risen to his head.

Daring was conflicted. She didn’t like helping Greengrass, but she couldn’t let him die either. “Fine, we have a truce for now.”

“Excellent,” Greengrass said, “Fluttershy, call off your piranha friends and get the key.”

“Uh, please stop trying to eat us.” Fluttershy faced the horde of piranhas coming towards her. “If you’re good, I’ll get you a treat.” Much to Daring’s amazement, the piranhas stopped.

She must have an animal talking talent. In her many years of adventuring, she’d never meant anypony with an animal talent this powerful.

The pegasus talked with the piranhas who responded to her words. One dove underwater and fetched the Key of Bimini giving it to Fluttershy. She gave it to Greengrass who put it in his pack.

“Hey!” Daring said in protest.

“We have a truce, remember?” Greengrass reminded her. “We after the same thing. Fighting would only stop both sides from achieving our goals.”

Daring wanted to give him a sharp rebuke, but the water had almost filled the entire room and it wouldn’t be long until it reached the ceiling.

“Fine.” Those words felt like acid on Darling’s tongue.

“Excellent,” Greengrass replied, “Fluttershy, ask if the piranhas know a way out of here.”

Daring sighed. It would be one of those days. She wondered if anypony would believe this situation if she wrote it into her next book. She’d have to think of a clever way to make it more believable to her readers. It would seem like a hacky deus ex machina otherwise.

Chapter 5

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 5
by Rixizu

Lyra sipped her drink,enjoying the dandelion tea she had ordered. Her teacher sat across from her sipping her jasmine tea. It was a late hour so few ponies were in the tea shop. Lyra noted how her teacher didn’t order coffee cake again, which was her mentor’s favorite. Octavia didn’t seem to have any appetite lately. Maybe she was on a diet? She was looking thinner at late. Still, it was nice to meet up with her mentor again. Moving and Gala practice didn’t leave Lyra with much free time. It was nice to relax for a few hours. She had a train to Ponyville to catch in an hour.

“And Trixie finally decided on a dress design?” Octavia asked.

“Yep.” Lyra rolled her eyes. “Poor Rarity ran herself ragged trying to appeal to Trixie’s picky tastes.” Only four days left until the Gala. It was about time.

“How about moving?”

Lyra made an indecisive sound. “It’s going okay. We have a lot to pack.”

Thankfully, her friends were helping. Cheerilee was right about them having a bunch of unneeded junk. Bons wanted to get rid of several pieces of candy making equipment she thought were too old. She’d buy newer models in Manehattan. They also needed to get rid of Bon’s old house. Ponyville’s housing market wasn’t the best.

Octavia smiled pleased with herself. “I’m glad you took the job. It’s time to grow up and leave Ponyville and other childish things behind. Now you can bloom into a full adult.”

Lyra’s eye twitched. Did her mentor just call her friends a foalish fantasy? She knew Octavia didn’t bother with friends, but what a horrible thing to say. She fought back a biting remark and forced a smile. Best not start a fight.

“Enough about me.” Lyra changed the subject. “How’s the Symphony going? Can I get a sneak preview? I’m eager to see your results. It’s a difficult piece, but you are a genius.”

Her mentor’s smile turned brittle. “It’s coming along. I’m afraid I can’t show you anything yet. I want it to be a surprise.” Lyra’s heart sank seeing the lie and realized her teacher still hadn’t finished the Symphony for Moon and Sun.

Oh no! Only four days remaining until the Gala. How could anypony finish it in such a short time? If her teacher failed… No, Lyra won’t allow it.

Lyra stood up. “Please, you told me you didn’t want help, but you can’t do this alone. Let me help you. Together, we can do it!” The power of friendship could overcome any obstacle.

Octavia’s eyes blazed with anger. Something ugly lurked behind her mentor’s expression. “Never.” She hissed. “This is my triumph and you have no part in it.”

“But! You can’t do this alone.” Lyra shot back. “I discovered some interesting things about the piece. Did you know the compossor originally called it the Symphony for Sun and Moon? I can be a big help!”

“Never!” Octavia’s voice was acid and hateful. “An amateur musician like you completing a masterpiece like the Symphony for Moon and Sun? Nay! Ludicrous. Small pieces of trivia your friends uncovered mean nothing. This requires a master of their craft, not ponies so out of their depth they don’t realize they’re drowning!”

Tears burned in Lyra’s eyes at her teacher’s hateful words. How could she say such things? Lyra only wanted to help and save her beloved mentor from destroying her career. Friends help each other, right? Octavia spat in her face and it hurt worse than any wound she’d received fighting monsters.

Octavia calmed her breathing and returned to a jovial smile. “Forget this nonsense and sit down. Tell me, do you like the apartment I picked out for you?”

Lyra turned her back to her teacher and walked out. Octavia called out after her, but Lyra ignored her too furious with her mentor to say a single word.

Lyra pulled out her morpher. “It’s morphing time! Cygnus!”

“Lyra!” Octavia said in astonishment and Canterlot snobs gapped at Lyra. Most had never seen a superhero before.

She ignored them and pressed a button on her morpher. In an instant, she was in her Zord flying down to Ponyville. She landed in a quarry and made her way to Twilight’s apartment. She slammed a hoof on the front door.

“Coming!” Moments later, Twi came to her door. “Lyra? You got home fast. Did you take an early train?”

“We’re finishing the symphony.” Lyra replied anger burning hot. She’d complete the Symphony for Sun and Moon regardless of whether her teacher like it. She refused to let that idiot ruin her career for nothing even if Octavia hated her until the end of eternity.

Unbeknownst to the two Rangers, a black figure watched Lyra enter Twilight’s apartment planning, judging, and waiting. Soon the trial run would begin. The Crimson Shade was ready to prove its might.

“The simple fact is something is missing!” Lyra said, sipping her fiftieth cup of coffee. Black circles were under her eyelids from lack of sleep. She hadn’t slept since she arrived at Twilight’s place.

Her friends watched her with growing concern, but they remained supportive. Screw Octavia and her telling her the other Rangers couldn’t help because of their lack of musical talent! She’d show her! Despite being busy getting ready for the Gala, everypony had dropped everything to help her.

“Why do you think they failed? Besides the piece being evil and cursed.” Trixie asked.

“I don’t know!” Lyra threw up her hooves. “It doesn’t sound right somehow?”

“Have you picked apart what works about the first half?” Twilight asked. She scribbled on some notes.

“Yes.” Lyra replied blandly.

“You talk about how great it is, but what do you like about it personally?” Raindrops asked. “I’m curious. Does it make you headbang?”

Handbang? Oh right, Raindrops like that loud stuff that makes ponies jump around like foals. Still, Lyra pondered the question. Should she give a more objective answer or state her own opinion? Art is subjective.

“I like how it uses music to depict the movement of the heavens. Each instrument stimulates your imagination making the moon and sun seem alive and real! They soar through the stars in both equilibrium and battle. Each fighting for supremacy of the sky, yet also knowing they can’t control it forever.” Raindrops’ eyes widened impressed by her answer.

Trixie snorted and rolled her eyes. “Sure. Princess Luna loves to talk about how her moon raising is art. Like there's an art to moving something in a simple arc around the planet.”

Lyra rubbed the bridge of her nose and glared at Trixie. A brick understood the art better than this mare. She was so wrong that a pony needed to create a new word for how wrong she was. How could Trixie not see beauty and majesty in the endless cycle of the moon and sun? It was a dance of the heavens!

“The princess better not overhear you say that.” Ditzy chidded.

“I’m sure she works very hard raising the moon and sun every day.” Cheerilee fought back her own annoyance at Trixie’s blasé attitude.

“Oh, she’s well aware of my opinions on the matter.” Trixie rolled her eyes again. “When Luna moves the moon into place, she’s half awake and barely aware of her surroundings. And the sun? Pfft. She makes it coast through the sky.”

“Are you saying Princess Luna pays more attention to raising the moon than the sun?” Cheerilee asked full of concern.

Trixie snorted. “The night sky is her canvas, or so she says. The day? She couldn’t care less.”

“She realizes we need the sun to live, right?” Cheerilee asked.

“Sometimes I wonder.” Trixie replied. “I haven’t seen it myself, but I’ve heard there have been times Princess Luna has accidently almost crashed the Sun into the Earth.”

“No!” The entire group gasped.

Trixie nodded. “She calculated the wrong angle leading the sun right towards the planet. To be fair, Luna is dead tired when she raises the sun and mistakes happen.” This news didn’t calm the other Ranger’s fears especially Twi.

“I’m sure things will improve when Celestia takes over control of the sun again.” Ditzy suggested.

Trixie snorted in amusement. “Unlikely, the princess feels both belong to her now even though she hates raising the Sun every day.”

Lyra pondered these revelations. She never realized how little Princess Luna took care of raising the sun. It was a shame Luna greedily kept the sun to herself. Seeing Celestia’s sun again would be a wondrous sight.

She envied the symphony’s creator. They’d gotten to see both princesses control their heavenly body in all its glory! Wait, no. Symphony for Sun and Moon? No, it can’t be that simple? Can it? No, it makes perfect sense. Stupid Lyra. You’ve been looking at this problem at the wrong angle!

“Trixie, you’ve given me the best idea!” Lyra stood up and raised a hoof in triumph.

“Have I?” Trixie puffed out her chest in pride.

Lyra turned towards Twilight her eyes lit with a feverous intensity and any sleepiness left her body turning into energy and determination. “Twilight, can you get any records of astronomical data before Celestia’s fall a thousand years ago?”

Twilight pondered the question. “I might, why?”

“This might sound crazy, but I have an idea.” Lyra said. “I believe attempts to finish the symphony have failed because they’re basing the music on the wrong information!”

“Okay?”

“The original composer lived before Celestia’s fall. He must have seen Celestia control the sun hundreds of times. But modern composers have only seen Luna’s sun.”

“Are you saying the modern versions fail because they don’t use the original sunrise and sunsets?” Cheerilee asked piecing together Lyra’s theory.

“So, they’ve failed because they aren’t using the original intent?” Trixie guessed.

“Yes! The final piece is missing the final sunset before the day gives way to night.” Lyra paced full of feverish energy. “If we use Celestia’s original sunset, I believe we can finish the symphony!”

“I suppose it makes sense.” Carrot Top said thoughtful. “It would be like drawing a carrot using orange, but ending with the color blue. It doesn’t mesh together.”

“Exactly!”

“One moment.” Twilight teleported away. Several minutes later, she reappeared with some old scrolls. “Sorry, there wasn’t much at the royal library. It’s over a thousand years ago. Not the easiest information to find.”

Twilight unraveled the scrolls and revealed some complicated math equations depicting the arc Celestia’s sunset had traveled. Lyra wondered how she might use this information, before Twilight drew a rough sketch of how the sun might have moved. Trixie’s face lit up with an idea and she created an illusion of Celestia’s sunset using her magic. As Lyra watched the sun’s brilliant red light fade into the horizon, everything clicked into place and she scribbled ideas onto a notebook. Trixe replayed the scene hundreds of times and Lyra watched with rapt attention sipping another cup of coffee Ditzy had given her.

After two hours, Lyra had many brilliant ideas. Somehow, Celestia’s original sunset had broken the barrier allowing her finally complete the symphony. She only needed to put her ideas together into a cohesive whole. Lyra shook her head trying to keep herself awake. She couldn’t go to sleep yet. There was still much to do!

“I think you’re done for the night.” Ditzy grabbed the notebook and placed it on a table. Lyra tried fighting back, but her traitorous hooves were too clumsy and slow. She was about to argue, but a yawn interrupted her.

“Darn it!” Lyra rubbed her tired eyes. “I can’t go to sleep now.”

“Come on.” Twilight led Lyra out of her living room into her bed. Trixie levitated the covers over Lyra and Carrot Top adjusted her pillow.

“You guys are too nice to me.” Lyra slurred before falling into a deep slumber. Somehow, it was the best night's sleep she’d had in many years. Her fears of the gala, symphony, and moving faded away into contentment. She and her friends had done the impossible. The sun and moon danced their endless dance through her dreams as she slept.

“Is this it?” Daring gazed at the mysterious door they’d gone to so much effort to discover. She’d only heard rumors, hints of its existence. Somehow the Duke had procured its exact pinpoint location.

The doorway appeared as a simple outline and a pony probably won’t even have noticed it if wasn’t pointed out to them. In its center was a large keyhole easy to confuse for a simple crack.

“I was expecting something cool Greeny, but I’m sure the magic will happen when we enter the key.” Vinyl picked at the keyhole with a hoof.

Daring scowled. Somehow Greengrass had convinced her to allow his group to tag along. He was a very persuasive pony. He swore on his mother’s honor he would let Daring take whatever magical artifacts she found and only wanted to see what lied behind the doorway. Daring had reluctantly agreed. Greengrass’s oath was so earnest that it forced Daring to believe him. Still, if Greengrass betrayed her, Daring was confident she could take all of them. She doubted Fluttershy would put up much of a fight.

“We shall see.” Greengrass said. “It’s possible this is a wild goose chase, but I’m confident my info is good.” He gave a winning smile. Something about that smile made you believe every word and boast it gave.

Greengrass extended a hoof towards Daring. “After you. This is your discovery Professor Doo.”

Daring sighed and Vinyl levitated the Key of Bimini towards her. She tentatively approached the keyhole and inserted the key. It fit snugger than Daring had expected as if the lock awaited this very moment. She turned the key and stepped back ready for anything. A bright light appeared, blinding Daring, and whole doorway shone with a rainbow-colored light. The stone disappeared revealing a black space, a void of nothingness. A road of rainbow appeared stretching out into the nothing. Where it ended, Daring couldn’t tell.

“Well, ready to depart into the unknown where nopony has gone before?” Greengrass trotted up to the rainbow colored bridge.

“You bet I am!” Vinyl beamed with excitement bouncing on her hooves.

“I guess.” Fluttershy said reluctantly.

Trail Blazer examined the bridge. “No hoofrails. Why is it these ancient civilizations never believe in basic safety measures?”

“No worz.” Vinyl replied. “I’ll catch you if you fall.” Fluttershy nodded her agreement to help anypony who got in trouble.

“Let’s get this over with.” Daring walked through the doorway and the others followed.

“It sure is pretty.” Fluttershy examined the rainbow road.

“Where we are?” Trail Blazer peered into the void.

“We are traveling through the void between dimensions.” Daring had discovered such magical wonders in her travels before. She once discovered a strange universe where everypony was a bizarre multi-color ape-like biped. That was an odd day.

“What, like to a different universe?” Vinyl asked.

“Maybe.” Daring examined the rainbow bridge. If she squinted, she saw a doorway not so different from the one they entered. “Or a pocket dimension. Don’t slip or you’ll fall for eternity.” She reflected how odd her life had become since she started archeology. College didn’t prepare you for dimension hopping.

“Eep!” Fluttershy shuttered and carefully avoided leaving the center of the bridge.

“Fascinating.” Greengrass looked at the void with clear appreciation.

The bridge twisted and twirled for no discernible reason first climbing up high then turning into a steep slope. Strangely, no matter what direction they faced they never fell off even if they stood upside down. Even telling which direction was originally up was impossible now. The light of the second doorway guided them shining with a brilliant glow. They stared in awe at what lied behind it. Only one word described it, paradise. They walked through the doorway in a haze of pure amazement.

Somehow the colors were more vibrant. The grass under their hooves was greener than any grass Daring had ever seen. Fields of flowers stretched into the distance. It appeared every type of flower ever was before them.

Fluttershy gasped and pointed towards a white, grey bird its neck tinted a light red. “Oh my! Is that the Réunion pink pigeon? But, they’re extinct!”

“Not in this place it seems.” Greengrass said.

Dear Luna, even the air was clearer and better than their world. Animals played with no fear of predators or hardship. Fluttershy ran towards them to join in their frolicking, but they ran in fear when she approached.

“Oh my, please don’t go!” Fluttershy said. “I’m a friend!” But the animals ignored her and disappeared.

“Do you think they’ve never seen ponies before?” Vinyl asked.

“I hope so.” Fluttershy looked down hurt by the rejection.

“What is this place you think?” Trail Blazer asked.

“How about we ask?” Greengrass pointed towards a village in the distance. They were simple primitive dwellings and none of them had smoke stacks. With no better options, they walked towards the village taking dirt path they discovered.

“Disappointed there isn’t any treasure, Duke?” Daring couldn’t hide her smug smile. Whatever he wanted, it wouldn’t be in this place.

“We shall see.” Greengrass said cryptically. “Oh, and I’m not a Duke anymore. Greengrass will do.”

Daring stared at Greengrass in astonishment. She’d been in the wilderness too long to miss such major news. Was this the reason he started this adventure? Treasure to bribe the princess into giving his title back?

Daring’s eyes widened when she got a good look at the creatures that lived in this village. They appeared like ponies, but they had wings like butterflies, delicate and beautiful. They floated through the air with a grace beyond anything she’d seen from a pegasus. Their features were otherworldly and Daring felt ugly just looking at them. She stared in utter disbelief. Flutter ponies! She’d always thought them just a legend, a fairy story for foals. Stories told they were the most perfect, good, and benevolent beings in creation. So this was the creature they’d seen in the murals! Why didn’t she put this together sooner? They gasped in astonishment when she group approached their village.

The flutter ponies spoke in an unknown language and she knew most ancient languages. They eyed the newcomers with curiosity and excitement. They rushed up and chattered to Daring shaking her hoof and asking questions in their musical language. Some broke into a cheerful song and they danced in the air swooping and twirling with delight.

“Now, now. Calm down my little flutter ponies.” A flutter pony said walking through the crowd speaking in Equish. They gave her deference and bows as she approached. She wore no crown or jewels showing her royal status, but she had a regal bearing and stood proud and strong. Being in her presence was like meeting Princess Luna. The mare’s mane and coat were the same colors as Fluttershy, but her cutie mark was three pink roses. Greengrass took the initiative and bowed and the rest of his group followed.

“My name is Rosedust, queen of the flutter ponies. I welcome you to our little village in Flutter Valley.” The mare said.

The sight of the mare took Daring’s breath away, her majesty was that spectacular. Her beauty stood above and beyond her subjects. Daring realized this must be the creature in the mural the ancient ponies had worshiped. Dear Luna, that would make her several thousand years old at least.

“My name is Greengrass. It is an honor to meet you.” Greengrass said. “And these are my associates Vinyl Scratch, Fluttershy, Trail Blazer, and Daring Doo.” Daring rankled at being named last, but ignored it.

“It is rare for you ponyfolk to come to our world.” Rosedust said. “Come, I will have refreshments brought to you. I see you have come far.”

Daring blushed when she realized how dirty and sweaty they all were and they seemed out of place in this perfect place. Everypony else, except Vinyl, noticed this too and shifted uncomfortably.

“Sweet! I can’t wait to see what kind of grub you flutter ponies have!” Daring winced at the informal tone Vinyl used towards a queen. Rosedust, however, didn’t even seem to notice.

“Come, my home is not far.” Rosedust lead them to a hut two stories tall. It was a simple structure, but beautifully constructed. Flutter ponies crowded outside eager to hear more from the newcomers.

The outside didn’t give justice to how richly ordained the inside was. Again, it was simple, but they made every piece of furniture with expert craftponyship. Paintings of flowers covered the walls done with an expert hoof. More flowers stood in vases and their rich aroma filled Daring’s nostrils. Daring sat at a simple table and a flutter pony servent poured tea out for them. Daring preferred coffee, but her mouth watered at its scent. She needed to drink this tea.

“Don’t drink the tea.” Greengrass whispered. “Remember the stories of Flutter ponies.”

Darling flinched and her senses returned to her. She’d be so blinded by this place she’d forgotten to think. She remembered stories about ponies entering the flutter pony’s world, only to never return or returning home centuries later. Legends told they were the most good creatures possible, but that didn’t necessarily make them nice. There were stories of the cruel pranks Flutter ponies liked playing on mortals for their own amusement. Again the tea called for her and she shook her head to clear it. She turned and found Fluttershy, Vinyl, and Trail Blazer passed out on the table a content smile on their faces.

“Is something the matter?” Rosedust tilted her head acting like several passed out ponies on her dining table wasn’t an unusual sight.

“I mean no disrespect, but I’ll pass.” Greengrass said keeping his calm.

Rosedust smiled at them. “I’m impressed. Most ponies can’t resist our magic and fall into our sway almost immediately. An impressive feat for a pony of your age.”

Greengrass shrugged. “What can I say? I don’t like my mind and emotions played with. Not again.”

Daring scrambled out of her chair and reach for her whip, only for a flutter pony to stop her with a hoof. She tried to fight back, but the flutter pony’s hoof was like iron. Rosedust extended her hooves a benevolent smile on her face.

“Do not fear, we have no wish to harm any of you.” Rosedust said. “You are our guests and we like you ponyfolk. One small detail, we must change your behavior a little. Ponies are often too selfish and greedy for their own good, and we can’t allow that if you’re living with us.”

“What do you mean?” Daring gasped as a flutter pony grabbed her by the neck immobilizing her. Any attempt to struggle was useless.

“Immortality. That’s why you’re here, isn’t it? Don’t worry, we’re happy to share.”

“As I suspected, the fountain of youth is here.” Greengrass’s voice was full of awe and amazement.

The fountain of youth? Duh! How could anypony miss something so obvious? He wants to regain his youth.

“Correct. It’s our sacred duty to protect it.” Rosedust gave Greengrass a look-over her expression turning to desire. “My my, I’m certain you were quite the looker when you were younger. It’s settled. You will become my new consort. It’s been awhile since I’ve taken a pony one.”

Greengrass gave the steely glare. “Sorry, but you’re not my type. I have my eyes set on another.”

Rosedust laughed. His defiance amused her. “You act as if you have a choice? Bring them. It’s time they tasted the fountain of eternal youth and joined our little community in absolute paradise.”

Chapter 6

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 6
by Rixizu

“Come come, it isn’t far.” Rosedust flew above them doing loops when she pleased. The other flutter followed close behind giving them no room to escape. Daring tried flying away, but a flutter pony used her magic to freeze the adventurer in place. They carried her frozen form in their hooves. Fluttershy, Trail Blazer, and Vinyl walked in a dreamy expression, dopey smiles on their faces.

“You must slow down.” Greengrass wheezed, out of breath. “I’m not as young as I once was.” He rested against a tree.

Rosedust flew down facing him upside down grinning ear to ear. “Not for much longer, my love. We’ll be together forever and ever.”

Greengrass snorted but remained silent. Rosedust pouted in response.

“Why so glum?” She asked. “You’re getting everything a pony could ever want! Living forever in a perfect paradise! Isn’t it wonderful?” She broke into a song proclaiming the wonders of eternal life in Flutter Valley. The other flutter ponies joined her in song and dance.

Wouldn't it be nice to live forever?
Then you wouldn't ever have to go
And wouldn't it be nice to live together?
In Flutter Valley where we all belong
You know it's gonna make it that much better
When you can never die so we stay here forever
Wouldn't it be nice if we could wake up
In the morning when the day is new
And after having spent the day together
Hold each other close the whole night through
Happy times together we've been spending
I wish that every pony was neverending
Wouldn't it be nice
Maybe if you drink from our pool of life it might come true
Ponies then there wouldn't be a single thing we couldn't do
We could be immortal
And then we'd be happy
Wouldn't it be nice
You know it seems the more we talk about it
It only makes it worse to live without it
But let's talk about it
Wouldn't it be nice

Greengrass was less than impressed. “It sounds boring if you ask me. I find struggle brings out the best in a pony. Ponies need hardship and pain to thrive and bloom.” He knew stagnation and idleness would kill him. The drive to achieve burned hot within him.

Rosedust and other flutter ponies stared at him in incomprehension. He might as well be speaking gibberish. The flutter ponies broke into uproarious laughter.

“You ponies have such strange ideas.” Rosedust wiped a tear from her eye. “Well, you’ll come to my way of thinking soon enough, my love.”

After thirty minutes at a backbreaking pace, they’d arrived at their destination. A waterfall roared above a tiny pond and the water was cleaner and bluer than Greengrass had ever seen. A simple stone walkway led towards the pond. On a pedestal was a metal cup made of copper. His earth pony instincts buzzed from the natural magic’s tremendous power. Life flowed from this pond in overwhelming abundance.

“Behold the fountain of youth!” Rosedust extended a hoof. “The lifeblood of Flutter Valley! In ancient times, naughty ponies fought bloody wars to obtain it. The temptation for eternal life is too powerful for mortals! We thought it best to create this pocket dimension with our magic to stop such foolishness.”

What power. This was magic well beyond any archmage unicorn or even the princesses. He’d need to be careful if he wanted to escape.

Rosedust laughed. “Not that it stopped some ponies. But come, it’s time to drink.” She pulled Greengrass towards the pond. Its fresh scent filled his nostrils. Something behind the waterfall caught his eye. It glinted in the sunlight a glossy black. If he squinted, he could see jewels depicting the planets on it.

“What is that?” Greengrass pointed toward the strange black device.

“Oh that? We call it the All Planet Driver.” Rosedust replied. “It’s our treasure. It helps us control this dimension. Holding it together is exhausting otherwise!”

Greengrass examined it assessing its worth. Something about the magical artifact called to him. He could sense its great power.

Rosedust grabbed Greengrass’s leg and snuggled in close. “Enough of that. Come, my love. I’m eager to see you young and virile again.”

Greengrass approached the spring and saw his reflection staring back. Fish unlike anything he’d ever seen swam around in it. Thiry scales shone in the sunlight with a brilliant rainbow color.

“Now, I’d be careful if I were you,” Rosedust said. “Drink too deeply, and you’ll deage yourself into a baby, or younger. A small sip only.”

Greengrass nodded fighting back his apprehension. He grunted, annoyed the mare hadn’t explained how much he should drink. He grabbed the cup and filled a third of it.

Here goes nothing. He drank deeply of it. A strange sensation filled him. It wasn’t painful, but it pulsed all over his body. He gasped as his hooves became young and pain left him. Greengrass’s back stood straighter and energy and youth filled him. The world became sharper and clearer as his senses were restored. His reflection revealed a pony fifty years younger, maybe a few years younger than he’d been before.

Excellent, it would be a hassle if I became a teenager.

Rosedust squealed. “I was so right, come here handsome.” She pulled him close and snuggled against him. “We’ll begin the wedding ceremony as soon as we’re home.” He tried pushing her away, but even his newfound youth failed him.

Vinyl was up next and thankfully Rosedust allowed Greengrass to draw Vinyl’s cup for her. He didn’t trust his ward’s current state of mind. He took great care to draw just enough water to return Vinyl to her true age. It warmed his heart to see his ward’s body regain its proper youth and she drank. His mission was finally complete. Vinyl stretched her hooves experimentally and broke into the widest grin.

“I’m back baby!” Vinyl spun around and did a little dance. Greengrass laughed as Vinyl threw herself into him with a big hug. Her joy was his and he joined her in her little dance. Daring watched them in bewilderment watching the infamous Duke Greengrass dance around like a fool, but he didn't care.

“Are you feeling better?” Greengrass said noting Vinyl was more like herself.

“Yeah, whatever weird magic mojo they used on me has vanished,” Vinyl whispered.

It must be the fountain’s magic. It gave him the foundations of a plan.

“Anypony else wish to try their luck?” Rosedust asked. “Darling Doo?”

“No, thanks,” Darling said backing away, “I’m fine the way I am.”

Rosedust smirked and shrugged. “You won’t feel that way in a few decades.” She examined Trail Blazer and Fluttershy. “I suppose you ponies don’t see too old yet. Very well. We’re done here.”

“To the wedding party!” The flutter ponies shouted.

Vinyl blinked. “Wedding Party?”

“Our fair Queen seems enchanted with the notion of marrying me,” Greengrass replied.

Vinyl snorted in amusement. “Come on. She’s not your type at all.”

“That’s what I said.”

Irritation filled Rosedust’s features. She turned red and her cheeks puffed out. “As if any mortal pony could match me. I am the fairest, most loving creature alive. Even Princess Luna looks like a toad compared to me. Could any stallion wish for anything greater?”

While Rosedust ranted, Greengrass crept up to Vinyl. “Could you hit that for me?” He pointed towards the All Planet Driver. The flutter ponies hadn’t bothered taking away her crossbow. A foalish mistake they would soon regret.

“Sure, why?”

“Forget the mortal world and its banal and boring trappings.” Rosedust roughly grabbed Greengrass’s leg. “This is your world now. We are your family. Trust me, you’ll love it. You’ll need nothing else. Come. There’s a wedding to attend.”

Greengrass winced as Rosedust pulled him away from the fountain. He waved to Vinyl with a hoof. Too distracted with the upcoming wedding, the flutter ponies paid her little attention. Vinyl saluted and nodded. With unbelievable quickness, she pulled out her crossbow and shot the All Planet Driver in a single motion. The flutter ponies cried out in surprise and some tried intervening, but it was too late and the bolt impacted the All Planet Driver breaking it off the wall. It fell collapsing into the pool below.

The world shifted around them spinning like a watercolor painting being splashed with water making the colors run. The wonderful, glorious blue sky melted before his eyes its vibrant colors turned dull and grey. Animals cried out in fear and worry.

“You foals, what have you done?!” Rosedust said. “You stupid hateful ponies. How dare you bring violence to our realm!” She winced with pain and sparkles flew from her wings. The other flutter ponies did the same faces twisting in exertion. He guessed they were using their powers to stop their pocket dimension from collapsing.

Not wasting any time, Greengrass grabbed the cup and filled it with water. He grabbed Fluttershy’s face and dripped a few drops into her mouth. Her eyes widened in surprise and crying out in fear as the dimension fell to pieces around them.

“What the hay is going on!” Fluttershy trembled behind her hooves. Thankfully, Greengrass was right about the spring’s water breaking the flutter pony’s control, and the small dose meant the mare was only a year or so younger. He threw the cup to Vinyl and she did the same to Trail Blazer.

“Fluttershy, what happened to you?!” Trail Blazer cried out when he got a good look at the mare.

“Um, what? Did something happen?” Fluttershy said in growing alarm.

“What’s happening?” Trail Blazer asked trembling with understandable terror.

“There’s no time. We need to escape.” Daring pulled out her whip and with a single crack grabbed the All Planet Driver from the Fountain of Youth.

“Good thinking,” Greengrass said, “that was my next suggestion.”

“Hey, you said I could have any treasure we found, right?”

“Hateful awful ponies, give that back!” Rosedust snarled. “Get them!” Some flutter ponies broke off to give chase. Most stayed trying to maintain their dimension. They strained from the effort.

“Let’s get out of here!” Trail Blazer said already running for his life.

“No!” With a bat of the flutter ponies’ wings they summoned a gale. Greengrass cried out in surprise as it blew him off his hooves and twenty hooves into the air.

I’ve bitten off more than I can chew this time. Greengrass’s heart rate quicken as the ground grew closer.

“I’ve got you!” Fluttershy rushed to his aid,grabbing him just before he hit the ground.

“You have my thanks.” Greengrass replied.

“No problem.” Fluttershy’s younger body huffed and strained to hold his weight.

“Phew, that was a close one.” Vinyl said. She rode on Daring’s back.

“I’m okay too!” Trail Blazer said on the ground. He had luckily avoided the gales.

“To the portal, quickly!” Greengrass pointed towards the portal. It wasn’t far only a half a mile away.

“I’ll try.” Fluttershy huffed, doing her best to fly them there. The rest followed behind.

“You’re not escaping!” Three flutter ponies flew above them summoning more gales.

Fluttershy screamed in terror as she swung herself away throwing Greengrass out of her hooves. He landed on some flowers crushing them to pieces. After rising back to his hooves, he darted towards the portal his youthful form giving more than enough strength to do so. He enjoyed the sensation of the wind beating against his face.

“Sorry!” Fluttershy said trying to regain her balance.

“Don’t worry about me, fly!” Greengrass jumped out of the way of another gale and he winced when a rock hit his head when the tremendous force tore up the flowers and dirt.

“Enough of that crap!” Vinyl shot her crossbow forcing the flutter ponies to interrupt their attack and dodge to safety. Daring used her whip and grabbed one by the hoof throwing it to the ground.

“I really need to work out more!” Fluttershy huffed as she flew next to Greengrass. She brightened as the portal came into view. The flutter ponies and Daring and Vinyl fought behind them. The gale wind tore apart the once wonderful garden and animals cried out in fear as it destroyed their homes.

“Oh no!” Fluttershy stopped and flew back helping some animals trapped by debris. They chattered their thanks and gave her a thankful hug.

“Fluttershy?” Greengrass pointed to the portal. They didn’t have time for heroics.

“Keeping going. I got this.” Fluttershy glared at the flutter ponies and fly towards them. A growl escaped her throat.

“Stop this right now!” Fluttershy’s voice interrupted the fight and both sides stared at her. “Look what you’re doing! You’ve terrified these poor little critters to death!” She pointed towards the animals in question. “You should be ashamed of yourself!”

“Look here pony, you…” One flutter pony said before Fluttershy interrupted her.

“No, you listen.” Fluttershy’s voice had an edge he’d never expected from the kindhearted mare and her eyes were terrifying. “I understand you have a problem with us, but that’s no reason these poor little guys should suffer for it!”

This must be how she subdued the Ursa Major. Fascinating.

The flutter ponies opened their mouths to argue, but Fluttershy’s glare stopped them in their tracks. They shrunk under her intense glare. “Sorry.”

“That’s better.” Fluttershy nodded like an approving parent satisfied their child had understood the lesson.”

“But, but, our All Planet Driver!” A flutter ponies spluttered. “We need it to stabilize our dimension.”

“Will you let us go if we return it?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yes.”

“Daring, return this pony’s property.”

“But, but!” Daring Doo shrank under Fluttershy’s glare. “Fine.” She pulled the device out of her pack and returned it. It was obvious from her expression this action tore at her treasure hunting soul.

Fluttershy nodded in approval. “That’s better. It’s not nice taking something that doesn’t belong to you. I’m glad we could settle this without violence.”

It’s a shame we lost the All Planet Driver, but escaping in one piece is an acceptable tradeoff. Still, he stared at the device and something in his soul pulled him towards it. He couldn’t fight back the feeling it was significant somehow.

“And don’t come back!” A flutter pony shook her hoof at them as they exited the portal.

“The queen will not be happy losing her new consort.” Another flutter pony said.

The first one shrugged. “Not my problem. We got the All Planet Driver back safely at least. She can find another good-looking mortal.”

“That was tons of fun.” The third added. “I’m living off this story for centuries!” The Flutter ponies voices trailed off as the mortals walk back on the rainbow bridge glad they were free from the flutter ponies’ clutches.

“Thank Luna!” Fluttershy gave out a sigh of relief as they exited back into the real world. The doorway vanished behind them and the key dropped out the keyhole landing with a loud clang.

Daring kicked away a stone in annoyance. “All for nothing. I doubt it would be wise to print this adventure too.”

“Well, I’ll make sure you’re handsomely compensated for your troubles, professor,” Greengrass said, “I might need your services at a later date.”

Daring snorted. “Keep your money. I’m never working for you, Greengrass.”

“Oh, well.” Greengrass sighed dramatically. He figured she might say that, but it was worth a try. Daring Doo’s skills were formidable. Still, he would put her talents to good use at a later date, she just wouldn’t know it.

“Um, so why was my appearance so shocking?” Fluttershy touched her face terrified of what she might find. “I’m not sure what happened. One minute I was enjoying the best tea I’ve ever had, next I was running for my life!”

“Eh, it’s not bad.” Vinyl pulled out a hoof mirror and gave it to Fluttershy.

“My face!” Fluttershy exclaimed in shock.

“See, it isn’t so bad!” Vinyl beamed. “Think of it as a second chance.”

“My apologies,” Greengrass said, “I took more of the fountain than I expected, still consider what might have happened, returning to your teenage years isn’t the worst-case scenario.”

“Oh my, oh my!” Fluttershy examined her teenage face with growing anxiety.

“What about me?” Trail Blazer tensed and sighed in relief when Fluttershy gave him the mirror. “Not too bad! Ten years off at least. The misses won’t mind this. Still, it’s a little awkward that I’m only a few years older than my son.”

“Well, I guess it isn’t too bad,” Fluttershy said warming to her newfound youth, “I’m sure my animal friends won’t mind. Still, how the hay will I explain this to my parents?”

Greengrass felt sorry for the mare for the trouble he’d inadvertently caused. He promised to invest twice the amount he previously agreed to the Manehattan animal shelter he’d offered to build. The old shelter had fallen into disrepair after years of neglect and lack of interest. Fluttershy had been petitioning for funding to little success. She’d almost given up hope until he came around. He’d ensure the facility got the best staff possible with ponies who truly love animals like his pegasus friend.

“I’d recommend not mentioning the fountain to anypony.” Greengrass’s voice was firm and gave no room for arguments. “That fountain is dangerous in the wrong hooves. And it caused wars as Queen Rosedust said.” Not until Greengrass found a proper use of it, at least.

“Darn right.” Daring picked up the Key of Bimini and put it into her pack. “Nopony should know of this. This baby is disappearing where nopony can find it.”

“So, uh, what should we tell ponies about what happened to us?” Trail Blazer asked. Fluttershy and the stallion gave Greengrass expectant looks.

Greengrass gave this some thought. “Tell them, nothing. Say you’ve been exercising and taking vitamins.”

“Will that work?” Trail Blazer asked mystified.

“Ponies will ignore your condition soon enough. It will only be an oddity.” Greengrass replied. “Don’t give them a reason to be curious.”

“Okay.” Trail Blazer didn’t look convinced but would do as instructed.

“Well, I’d say it’s been a pleasure, but I’d be lying.” Daring walked towards the cave exit. “Never seek me out again Greengrass. I mean it.” She flew away after a stern glare. Greengrass chuckled in amusement.

“We best get going too,” Greengrass said, “I have a Gala to catch.”

“Hey, this isn’t too shabby.” Lyra looked upon her accomplishment beaming with pride. It’d been an ordeal writing such a piece from scratch, but ideas flowed into her unbidden. Music filled her dreams played by countless instruments in an orchestra unlike any other. Lyra got the strange impression the symphony wanted to be completed. But, that was crazy, right?

“I hope so, the Gala is tomorrow.” Trixie’s voice was full of apprehension.

“Now all I need to do is convince my teacher to play it…” Lyra’s voice trailed off.

Her teacher was so stubborn, but, hey! She had a work of art in her hooves. One look would totally, one hundred perfect, not capable of failing whatsoever, convince her teacher. It’d been a smart idea taking the very first train of the day. It would take some doing to turn Octavia to her side.

She glanced over to the clock and noticed she only had ten minutes until the train left, more than enough time if she hurried. She grabbed her saddlebags and levitated her work into a folder. Her dress was already in Canterlot, so she didn’t need to bring much with her. She yawned. She’d pulled another all-nighter. Hopefully, she’d get a nice nap at a hotel.

“Bye Bons, love you!” Lyra grabbing a piece of toast after giving her marefriend a kiss.

“Good luck!” Bon-Bon gave a smile that boosted Lyra’s spirit.

“You got this.” Trixie gave Lyra a hoof bump.

“Thanks.” Lyra smiled only to frown when Trixie grabbed a carton of OJ and drank out of it. Both Lyra and Bon-Bon glared at her.

“What? I’m drinking the whole thing.” Trixie replied innocently. She grabbed a piece of toast and buttered it with a knife. She grabbed some raspberry jam next and slathered a generous portion onto her toast.

Ugh, why can’t Trixie ever eat her own food? Though I suppose I owe her for pulling an all-nighter with me. I’d never completed the symphony without her illusions.

Lyra almost choked on her toast as she ran out the door. Ponies waved at her as she passed and she paused long enough to wave back. Few ponies were awake at this hour, but the usual suspects of Applejack and Carrot Top were getting ready to sell their wares. A blurry-eyed Apple Bloom was with the apple farmer wishing she was back in bed.

She smiled in triumph as the train station came into view. Three more minutes until the train left. Plenty of time. Lyra skidded to a halt. Something wasn’t right and she readied herself for whatever might come next. A chill went down her spine as wind whooshed past her back and she jumped away high into the air.

It was a good thing she did so for the pavement she had once occupied shattered into a million pieces. A split-seconds hesitation would have ended her life. Lyra landed on her back two hooves on a streetlight. The spiked ball that impacted the ground retreated and she got a good look at what attacked her.

The creature was bipedal, standing an imposing six hooves tall wearing metal armor which glinted in the early day sun as black as the night. Spikes were across both arms and it wore a knight’s helmet its eyes glowing an eerie red through two tiny slits. Both of its arms had two large spiked metal balls attached to them.

“Who are you?” Lyra demanded and the creature replied by destroying the street light she stood upon with one of the spiked balls. She jumped off and landed on the street. Ponies panicked and ran for any hiding spot they could find. The creature threw its other weapon at Lyra as she turned around with unbelievable speed, but Lyra already had her morpher out.

“It’s morphing time, Cygnus!” The ball was inches away from Lyra’s chest as she shouted this. Luckily, it only took .075 seconds for her armor to form preventing her from getting splattered into bloody chunks. It still hurt though, and sparks flew from her armor and she hissed in pain as it threw her aside. The creature retracted both with weapons.

“It’s morphing time, Scorpio!” The creature staggered as Carrot Top threw a jump kick into its back, but it didn’t seem even bothered by the attack. Carrot Top screamed as it spun and a spiked ball impacted her chest throwing her back. Lyra caught her in midair.

“What is that thing?” Carrot Top asked getting back to her hooves. “It’s tough.”

“I don’t know.” Lyra summoned her bow. “Cover me.” Carrot Top nodded, summoned her shield and charged while Lyra readied an arrow.

Author's Note

Thanks to Talon and Thorn for the song. I seriously don't know what I would do without him. Based off of Wouldn't It Be Nice by the Beach Boys.

Chapter 7

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 7
by Rixizu

The flower ponies cried out in terror as Lyra split their flower selling cart in half. The three had been hiding behind it before Lyra had interrupted them. The Cygnus Ranger groaned and got back to her hooves.

“Sorry about your cart.” Lyra rubbed her chest. This new monster hit like a runaway train.

“It’s a total disaster! I just renewed my lease and my rent went up!” A flower pony replied. Lyra couldn’t remember which one. She’d never been able to get their names straight. The flower pony held a broken rose as tears gathering at her eyelids.

“Sorry.” Lyra hung her head. These monster fights always made life difficult for Ponyville citizenship. “I’ll buy some flowers to make up for it.” Bons always liked getting petunias and she was feeling peckish.

"It's fine." Another flower pony rolled her eyes. "It only went up 5 bits.”

“It’s still another day of lost sales!” The first flower pony shot back. The mares entered an intense glaring contest with neither side backing down.

“Guys, I’m pretty sure we can salvage most of these flowers!” The last flower pony said trying to mediate before more bickering happened.

“Watch out!”

Lyra pushed the three flower ponies aside as the monster jumped towards them spike fist raised and almost didn’t get them to safety in time. The flower ponies scattered as the monster sent its other spiked fist towards Lyra. She grimaced in pain as her whole body rattled when the blow connected throwing her off her hooves. The damn monster was so fast and Lyra couldn’t match it. Her eyes widened as it blurred and appeared right above her ready to smash her to pieces.

She grunted using her bow to block the spiked ball, but the creature’s tremendous strength pushed her back with ease. With a simple twist of its spiked ball, it threw her weapon aside leaving Lyra vulnerable.

“Nova Crasher!” Carrot Top charged and crashed her shield into the monster. The creature toppled over momentarily, only to rise and slapped the yellow ranger aside like she weighed nothing.

Can anything stop this thing? Lyra shot several arrows into the monster after retrieving her weapon. It barely seemed to notice her attacks. Lyra spewed several curses. What was this thing made of? None of their attacks did much damage.

“Don’t worry guys, I’m coming!” Twilight teleported into view already wearing her white armor.

She appeared behind the monster shooting her twin guns into its back. Much to Lyra’s surprise, the creature staggered in obvious pain. A twinge of jealousy hit Lyra’s heart. Why the hay was she the weakest, most useless member of their group? Even after hours of personal training, against bears no less, and still she trailed behind the others. Lyra shook her head. What was she thinking? There wasn't time for self-pity!

Twilight yelped as the creature spun smashing a spiky fist into her face at remarkable speed giving her no opportunity to react and teleport to safety. The White Ranger went flying, only to disappear and reappear next to Lyra.

“Ouch. What is that thing?” Twilight asked rubbing her sore head.

"No clue, it just jumped me," Lyra replied.

“We can hurt it.” Carrot Top joined them. “It can’t be invincible.”

“Let’s combine our powers!”

Carrot Top leaped shield ready and pounded the monster with the blunt end. The creature staggered and swung its spiked ball towards the Ranger. Lyra and Twilight shot into the creature and it stumbled before it got the chance to retaliate. The Scorpio Ranger kept on the offensive slamming her shield into the creature's face while Lyra and Twilight bombarded it from a distance. Despite its apparent invulnerability, they made some headway and did some damage. With a powerful strike to the leg from Carrot's shield, the creature fell to one knee and a small crack formed on its left leg.

In response to their overwhelming attack, the creature’s body glowed red, energy seeping from its armor. With unimaginable speed, the creature extended its chains and swung its spiked balls in an unpredictable pattern. The attacked connected so quickly they never even got the chance to cry out in surprise. Sparks flew as the attack connected throwing them off their hooves. They struggled to stand as the monster stomped towards them.

"It's too strong!" Lyra’s body refused to respond, too injured to fight.

Carrot Top pounded her shield into the ground in frustration creating a deep crack. “It’s not over yet!” She charged and threw aside a thrown spiked ball with her shield and knocked the monster back with an incredible body blow. It stumbled, but the Scorpio Ranger gave it no opportunity to recover and pressed a button on her morpher.

“Nova Crasher!” The attack smashed into the vulnerable crack in its leg shattering it to pieces. The monster fell unable to hold its weight and bulk with one leg. At first, Lyra thought the creature was bleeding as a dark red substance oozed from the wound. Instead of flowing like blood, it writhed and disappeared back inside burned by the light. The monster threw a spiked ball towards Carrot Top, but she jumped back and joined her friends.

“Let’s finish this!” Carrot Top pressed a button on her morpher. Twilight and Lyra did the same.

“Unyielding Judgment!”

“Omega Arrow Crusher!”

“Nova Crasher!”

Galaxy Finish: Omega Nova Destructor!

Time slowed down as they unleashed their ultimate attacks. Lyra and Twilight shot a giant burst of rainbow energy from their weapons. Carrot Top rode the energy propelling herself forward at unbelievable ferocity and speed. The mare held her shield forward and her entire body disappeared turning red hot with blue flames following behind her. The monster attempted rolling to safety, but it might as well be a statue. It exploded as Carrot Top collided with it and the mare spun her shield in a victory pose.

“What was that thing?” Carrot Top unmorphed. “It must be another one of Corona’s monsters!”

“I’m not so sure.” Twilight stroked her chin. “It didn’t seem like one hers somehow. Besides, isn’t she reformed?”

Carrot Top snorted. “You don’t really believe that, do you?”

“Hey, she seems sincere; you hang around Trixie too much.”

Lyra considered the facts as her two friends argued. Was it one of Corona's monsters? Corona's monsters were full of personality with random bizarre gimmicks and powers. This thing seemed more manufactured, robotic. It was single-minded in its goal for destruction. Besides, it shunned the light. A strange condition for something made by Celestia Princess of the Sun.

“Whatever the case, next time we need to be ready for anything.” Lyra rubbed her sore limbs. She’d taken a beating during that fight. Even the simple act of moving was difficult.

Octavia checked her pack making sure it contained everything necessary for tonight’s mission. Everything was in place and she pulled the black catsuit from her closet sitting it on her bed. It was a good thing the local spy store had one available in her size. The store had been useful in procuring equipment necessary for tonight’s mission. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach. She’d done more than enough spying in her time, but she’d attempted nothing this bold before. Despite the dangers, her professional pride wouldn’t allow her to report to Greengrass without discovering Crimson Shade’s identity. She’d found the name in one of Princess Luna’s letters which connected it to Project Ranger Killer. The princess had foalishly left her office unlocked giving her the perfect opportunity to snoop.

Speaking of the ex-duke, she’d found it strange he still hadn’t asked for a report on her progress. She hadn't seen hide nor hair of him since their first meeting. A knot formed in her stomach and she feared he might renege on their deal seeking retribution against her student. She didn't buy for a second he wasn't plotting against the Rangers. Greengrass was evil and cold-blooded as ponies came.

Nevermind, Greengrass will show himself eventually. She put the wretched stallion out of her thoughts and glanced out the window. It was approaching midday, almost time for lunch. Octavia remembered a new restaurant that just opened downtown. Rumor told it already received five hooves from Zesty Gourmand. With such a high rating, the food must be amazing. Zesty Gourmand was a pony of refined and cultured taste and always knew the best eating places in Canterlot. Her ears perked as the doorbell rang.

Octavia looked through the peephole and groaned finding Lyra at the other end. Octavia was still angry about her student running off on her at the tea shop the other day. Lyra could not get it through her thick head she couldn’t help her. Octavia was reasonably sure her ending to the Symphony was the most perfect possible. Her genius had outdone itself creating a true work of art far beyond anything attempted before. From Lyra’s expression, it was obvious the mare wanted to persuade her again into accepting help on finishing the symphony.

Indignant, she trotted back to her room and stuffed the catsuit into the pack and threw it over her back. The doorbell rang again, but she ignored it and walked out her backdoor slipping into the busy Canterlot crowds. The city was bustling with ponies from all over Equestria and beyond. This year’s Gala was attracting more ponies than usual because Princess Celestia attending this year. Everypony wanted to meet the redeemed princess. It’s been the talk of the town for months.

“Octavia!” Lyra cried out waving a hoof, but Octavia pretended not to hear her over the roar of the crowd. She slipped into a rush of ponies going about their day.

Lyra cried out her name again, but it was moving further away just as Octavia planned. Moments later, her student was nowhere in sight. Octavia took several twists and turns until she was sure nopony was following her. It was a pity she couldn’t eat at that new restaurant, but she was confident she knew a place Lyra didn't know about. Afterward, Octavia would find something to occupy her time until nightfall where she could begin her mission. With any luck, she wouldn’t see her annoying pestering student all day.

The day proved more stressful than Octavia had anticipated. Despite knowing many quiet places to lie low and relax in Canterlot, Lyra doggedly hunted her down. Octavia never realized how relentless her student could be. Why didn’t she put this energy towards more worthwhile tasks, like her music? It had taken hours, but Lyra finally relented and retreated to her hotel. This ridiculous cat-and-mouse game had driven Octavia into almost complete exhaustion, her condition meant that her stamina was limited.

Still, Octavia was more than happy to begin her mission and snuck through the shadows in her catsuit towards her destination. It was a place Princess Luna mentioned in one of her clandestine meetings, an old toy factory unused for almost a decade. Despite its inauspicious appearance, the sight of some rough-looking ponies caught the eye. They lingered outside ready to accost anypony who got too close.

Octavia snuck around trying to locate the best path inside. Ponies guarded every entrance. Sneaking in wouldn't be an easy task and she had no desire to fight her way in. Who was she, Trixie? She’d almost given up hope until a certain alicorn flew into view.

"Look at this. Has somepony walked into the wrong part of town?" The first stallion stood up straight trying to intimidate Princess Luna. He wore a leering expression on his face.

“You idiot! What are you doing? That’s the princess!” The other guard said.

“So what?” The first guard replied. “A pretty thing like her should realize she shouldn’t walk into the wrong neighborhood. You should have brought your guards, sweet pea. Bad things happen to ladies who walk at night alone.”

The princess, the other guard, and Octavia gave him incredulous looks, not sure they’d heard him right. Didn’t Princess Luna own the night, literally? The first guard continued leering at the princess and the second guard facehoofed.

"I'm sorry Princess, uh, he's don't represent the rest of us!" The second guard began to sweat and his voice squeaked. "Don't mind us; we're just milling about minding our own business. Nothing worth concerning the likes of you, princess!"

The princess opened her mouth to reply, but the first guard interrupted her. “Look, princess. This here is private property. Get lost, or it will get messy.”

“Great, now she knows we’re doing something illegal!” The second guard said. “You basically admitted it!”

The first guard drew a knife. "That’s if she gets back to the castle alive.”

“She’s the princess!” The second guard gave Luna several quick glances of worry. “She could crush you with her mind!”

The first guard snorted. “Whatever, her magic ain’t scaring me!”

“She raises the sun and moon!” The second guard waved his hooves frantically. This statement didn’t impress the other guard. From Luna’s expression, the princess had lost her patience with the situation.

“What’s going on here?” Vicereine Puissance’s sharp voice said. She walked out of the warehouse with a peeved expression.

“Boss, thank goodness!” The second guard almost broke into tears.

“A troublemaker showed up at our door.” The first guard said. “Want me to get rid of her?”

“Princess! She’s the Princess!” The second guard exclaimed.

"You guards seem unaware of who's truly in charge here." Luna glared at Puissance. "These, these foals are blocking my way."

Puissance rubbed at her temple. “Princess, I thought we agreed you wouldn’t show up here. Our alliance is of the utmost secrecy, remember? I’ve sent you the relevant data.”

“You’re telling me where I can, and cannot go?” Luna said, ice in her voice.

Puissance visibly began to sweat. “Of course not, princess. I only thought it would be best if as few ponies as possible knew about our alliance.”

Luna snorted. “It matters not what you think. I wish to see our creation with my own eyes. If that’s not a problem?” From the princess’s expression, it was clear refusal was not an option.

“Right this way.” Puissance gestured towards the door. The princess gave the guards disdainful glares before entering. The second guard bowed terrified Luna might do something to him.

“I still think I could have taken her.” The first guard mumbled.

“Give it a rest already.”

The first guard snarled and got into the second guard’s face. “Shut up! It’s your fault I looked bad before the boss!”

“You did that yourself.”

“Why you!” The first guard grabbed the second by the collar. While they bickered and fought amongst themselves, Octavia used the opportunity to sneak by them. She wasn’t sure how she’d leave, but she’d work that out later.

Where does Puissance hire these people?

Octavia found herself in a high tech lab full of equipment she had no name for. Whatever they did was beyond her. Ponies in lab coats milled about working with the equipment doing who knows what. Octavia slipped behind some machinery unseen, ears ready to pick up anything useful.

"You've failed me." Princess Luna said. "The Rangers defeated your ultimate weapon! I saw the whole fight on my crystal ball! I want an explanation."

While remaining confident, there was an edge to the Vicereine’s voice. “It’s a prototype princess, the finished model will be more powerful. Besides, it proved more than a match for the Galaxy Rangers. It took three of their powers combined to stop it.”

“Excuses!” Princess Luna stomped a hoof and the whole building shook almost giving Octavia a heart attack. Test tubes and samples crashed to the ground and scientist ponies scrambled to save their research.

“Don’t you understand?” Princess Luna passed around the room. “The Grand Galloping Gala is tomorrow! I can’t wait! I suspect that’s when my sister will enact her evil master plan! I can’t count on the Rangers. Already her lies have corrupted their hearts! Even my student! When I accused Celestia of being the mastermind behind the changeling invasion, she took Celestia’s side over mine! Mine! After all our years together! This proves my sister can tempt anypony to her side!”

“This was the reason I created the Ranger Killer project in the first place, so I don’t need the Rangers to protect Equestria again. I need an army loyal to me and me alone following my orders without question! I gave you my own DNA for this purpose, Vicereine Puissance!”

"And I will do just that Princess," Puissance said trying to placate the enraged alicorn, "I might not have time to perfect our Crimson Shade, but I have a compromise that will please you.”

“It better.” Princess Luna’s voice was cold enough to freeze the entire room. She had no patience for any foalishness.

“Right this way.” Puissance guided Princess Luna further into the facility with Octavia following close behind.

Octavia timed her movement avoiding detection. Nopony even glimpsed her and she found a nice hiding spot behind the staircase well out of sight of prying eyes. There were in a dark room full of strange equipment and more glass tubes than she could count. Inside each was a figure, but the dark liquid inside hid them from view. Puissance pressed a button on a console and every tube lit up to reveal a strange bipedal figure within.

“While we weren’t able to complete our ultimate creation, we could mass-produce it. Each one contains the same power as the prototype and loyal only to you, your majesty. I trust this will be satisfactory?” Puissance’s voice was equal parts pride and eagerness.

“You have done well.” Princess Luna said with unmediated glee. “An ultimate army will do nicely! Soon Equestria, no the world, will know its true master!” She threw her head back and laughed.

Well, blast.

Author's Note

Note: I am renaming Carrot Top's ultimate attack from Omega Crusher to Nova Crasher. I'd forgotten Lyra already had an attack with Omega in it. Silly me. No idea how that slipped my notice before...

Chapter 8

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 8
by Rixizu

“Stop fussing with your dress.” Bon-Bon chided as they were lead into the Gala. Hundreds of ponies surrounded them from all over Equestria along with several griffons from the Griffon Kingdom. Many were eager to meet the reformed Princess Celestia who greeted them like they were all old friends.

“I can’t help it.” Lyra adjudged her dress for the fifth time. She wore a white dress with golden trimming. On its center was a blue diamond-shaped sapphire gem that shone in the light. On her head was a golden circlet matching her gold shoes. She couldn’t help her nervousness. She’d done big concerts many times before thousands of ponies, but the Grand Galloping Gala was on a whole other level.

“It’ll be fine.” Bon-Bon grabbed her hoof and squeezed and Lyra returned the gesture with a faint smile. Bons outshone everypony in the room with her braided hair and simple blue and pink dress. It didn’t matter how plain it was when worn by a stunning mare such as her marefriend.

“You got this.” Trixie gave a confident smile. “Just smash it like you would a giant monster.” She wore a star-spangled red dress. For once, she dressed up her hair with a red star which made it end in a neat bob.

“Yeah!” Snowflake added. Nobles and other rich ponies jumped from the unexpected sound of his loud voice. He looked odd in the tiny black tux that almost didn’t fit him.

“You’ll do fabulously.” Rarity said.

“Thanks, guys,” Lyra replied. Her friends’ confidence gave her confidence. She could do this.

Ponies starred as they passed, no doubt because they looked so fabulous. Rarity had outdone herself this time. She’d get plenty of new business after ponies learned who made their dresses. The real reason they starred was that Carrot Top was the only pony in the Gala not wearing a dress or fancy getup. No matter how much they cajoled her, the carrot farmer refused to budge on the subject. She sighed. This would be one odd Gala, that’s for sure.

“Oh goody! We’re almost to the princess! Hi Princess!” Pinkie yelled and waved at Princess Luna standing in front of the line.

Lyra sighed. Yep, one odd Gala.

“Hello, my faithful student,” Luna said as they approached her, “who is this handsome stallion with you?”

“This is Snowflake, a good friend of mine,” Trixie said.

“Hi, Princess!” Snowflake said nervously. The other guest winced from his loud voice. A mare dropped her wine glass which fell on the clean tile floor. This caused a stallion waiter carrying a tray of drinks to slip. He crashed into a mare in a very expensive dress spilling drinks all over her.

“Sorry.” Snowflake said in a whisper still several octaves above a normal speaking voice.

“Trixie, you didn’t bring this stallion here to disrupt my Gala, did you?” Luna’s voice was tight.

“I would never do that,” Trixie replied, although she didn’t sound very convincing.

“I bet.” Luna’s eye twitched.

“He’s a very handsome stallion,” Celestia said. “Welcome to the Gala.” She gave them a bow and Snowflake flushed red.

“Moving on,” Luna said. The sun princess’s presence created a tense awkward pressure in the air. Luna made it obvious Celestia’s presence at the Gala wasn’t welcome.

“Lyra, Bon-Bon! How glad I am you came.” Luna greeted them warmly. “I am eager to hear you play tonight.”

“I’ve heard you play on the street,” Celestia said, “I can tell your music will make tonight magical.”

“Thanks.” Lyra also flushed.

“And Carrot Top.” Luna eyed the Orange Ranger confused and curious. “No date? And I see you didn’t bring a dress. Were you unable to procure a dress tonight?”

“Actually, I’m going with Raindrops as her plus one.” Carrot Top replied. “She couldn’t find anypony to go with her.”

Raindrops nodded her head. She shifted uncomfortably in her dress eyeing the crowd worried everypony might notice her discomfort. She wore a black dress with raindrops stitched on simulating a gentle rainstorm during the night sky.

Luna’s face scrunched up in confusion. “Didn’t I send you an invitation?”

“You did, I burned it.” Carrot Top’s voice held no shame. “I changed my mind about coming. I’m only here to root Lyra on as she plays tonight. I didn’t come to attend the Gala or the knighting ceremony. That’s why I didn’t bring a dress.”

“She’s still mad about the Night Court destroying her house,” Trixie whispered into the Princess’s ear.

“I see.” Luna’s voice was tight with anger and Lyra agreed. The carrot farmer was making a quiet mockery of her Gala! She glared at Celestia when the Sun Princess giggled into her hoof.

“It’s nice to have you,” Celestia said after she ceased her merriment.

“And this is?” Luna tilted her head towards Rarity and Cheerilee.

“Rarity.” Rarity made a polite bow. “I must say it is an honor to be in both your presence Your Majesties.”

“She seems like a nice mare, I’m glad you’ve found yourself a nice marefriend Miss Cheerilee,” Luna said.

“Actually, she is coming along as a favor for helping make our dresses,” Cheerilee replied. She wore a light green dress that ended in a purple skirt and a dark green bow around her waist. On her head was a green floppy hat.

“Yes, it was quite an undertaking, but they came out fabulously, don’t you agree?” Rarity beamed with pride. Ponies around them gave nods and smiles of appreciation. The mare soaked in their praise with glee.

“Yeah, I’m not dating anypony either.” Pinkie said. “I just like super cool parties!”

“She nagged me until I gave in,” Ditzy said. On her chest was a golden plate that ended with a pink shirt with bubbles erupting everywhere. In her hair were pearls that simulated a bubble’s appearance. Even her golden shoes had pearls. It seemed random and haphazard, but it suited her.

Luna seemed less than pleased with this news. “Trixie, I was hoping when I sent those invitations you and your friends would bring your special someponies for a special night out.”

Trixie rolled her eyes. “Come on princess, you know our dating lives are deader than a desert.”

“Yes, we know Trixie. You don’t have to spell it out.” Cheerilee said miffed.

“Leave them be, sister,” Celestia said butting in, “I think it is lovely they wish to bring friends to the Gala. What a colorful group of ponies too.”

“Stay out of this!” Luna growled showing teeth.

“Uh, it’s not that big of a deal,” Trixie said, “don’t worry about it.”

No kidding. Talk about touchy. Luna remained in a sour mood, while Celestia gave them each a serene warm smile.

“Sorry, we’re late!” Twilight rushed up to them followed by a white stallion dressed in formal ornamental armor. It was obvious he was part of the royal guard. “I was, uh, you know, nevermind don’t worry about it.” The mare wore a blue star-spangled dress with white stars the collar reached almost to the top of her head.

“She was studying and lost track of time, you mean.” The stallion said laughing.

“Shining!” Twilight said in protest.

“Who’s this?” Trixie asked. “You’re new coltfriend?”

Twilight snorted her muzzle twisting in disgust. “No, he’s my brother Shining Armor!”

“It’s nice to meet you all.” Shining Armor said. “Twilight’s told me all about you. It’s a pleasure to meet you again, princess. And you too as well, Princess Celestia.” He gave the sun princess an awkward smile.

“Please, Celestia will do,” Celestia said, “I remember you well. You bravely defended Canterlot during my madness. If it wasn’t for you, Canterlot would be a smoldering ruin right now. For that, I am forever grateful.”

“Well, I…” Shining Armor flushed at a loss for words.

“Hold on, since when do you have a brother?” Trixie peered at Shining with suspicious eyes.

“What do you mean?” Twilight asked in confusion.

“You’ve never mentioned him like ever,” Trixie replied, “in all the time I’ve known you.”

Lyra pondered this question and realized Trixie was right. Not once during all their hangouts had Twilight mentioned having a brother. How odd.

“I mention him all the time!” Twilight said defensively.

“No, you haven’t,” Trixie said, “are you, like, ashamed of him or something?”

“What, of course not! He’s my B.B.B.F.F.! Big Brother Best Friend Forever! He’s the best brother a pony could have!”

“Which is why you’ve never mentioned him before like he just came into existence right at this moment?” Trixie gave a Shining a distrustful glare.

“He’s not a changeling, if that’s what you think!” Twilight said stepping before her brother.

“No, the changelings are right there.” Trixie pointed towards Thorax and Cornicle, who waved back. They were enjoying the party although most of the noble ponies weren’t sure what to make of the insect ponies. They were managing to talk with a stallion with a monocle and were having an engaging conversation with him.

Twilight flushed before anger returned to her. “It’s still a stupid theory.”

“Now Twily, you can’t help it if you’ve never talked about me,” Shining said his tone jovial and teasing.

“I’m sure I have, many times!” Twilight fell into deep thought positive she was right.

Shining gave a rueful shake of our head. He walked up to Princess Luna. “It’s an honor to be here, your majesty.”

“You, as well captain.” Luna gave his hoof a shake.

“Oh right, you’re the captain of the guard.” Trixie slammed a hoof on her other one.

“You’re the princess’s student,” Lyra said, “how do you not know that?”

Trixie shrugged. “All the guards look the same. You don’t even notice them after a while” A hint of annoyance passed over Shining’s face, but it passed a split second later.

Luna bent down and whispered into Shining’s ear. “Captain, be ready for anything!” The stallion gave a confused nod.

“Uh, er, um, would you like to go dancing?” Snowflake gave Trixie a nervous smile.

“Sure! Let’s tear up the dance floor!” Trixie took the stallion’s hoof and dragged him towards the dancing area.

“Yeah!” Snowflake said in delight. He shrunk as other party goers glared at him.

Lyra made a deep sigh. “She knows this isn’t a club, right?”

“Oh let them.” Bons chided. “They’re having fun.”

“They make the cutest couple!” Pinkie added.

Yes, it’s… interesting. “See you guys later, I need to prepare my instrument.”

Her friends waved her goodbyes. Pinkie ran to the dinner table taking three of each item. Rarity moved around the social circles looking for her prince charming and made conversation with everypony. Cheerilee joined her trying to make new friends. Twilight and Shining milled about but didn’t find the conversations very interesting. Raindrops stood in a corner awkwardly with Carrot Top whose seething glares sent away any noble that got close. Despite everything, her friends were having fun. Not quite the Gala she wanted or expected, but being with her friends made it fun. She’d enjoy playing for them. She didn’t feel as nervous knowing her comrades were nearby.

Why can’t Octavia understand these feelings? She looked everywhere for the mare but found no sign of her. The idea her old teacher chickened out playing the Symphony didn’t even enter her head. She sighed. Octavia must be avoiding her even now. She ignored her glum mood and focused on preparing her lyre.

“Really? And they expect you, a mere mayor, to act as a baron of an entire providence?” Cheerilee asked the earth pony noble. Princess Luna had turned the town he lived in and the surrounding mountain into a new providence for Equestria called Nulpar.

Odd name. Did the Princess pick random syllables from the top of her head when naming it?

“It wasn’t my first choice, but I think it’s a good opportunity!” Barron Mounty Max said. “The night court might seem crooked, but with a guiding hoof, I believe we can turn it around.”

The new young noble had the unfortunate luck of joining when the Night Court was its least popular. Its approval rating had dropped to rock bottom. Maybe some genuine nice ponies might change it. Some might call it naïve, but Cheerilee called it being optimistic. Ponies can’t accomplish much if they refuse to believe change is possible.

“If you would excuse me, I have to hit the dinner table,” Max said, “I’ve been traveling all day and had a light breakfast.” Cheerilee let him go glad to have a nice chat with a nice noble. The rest were less than friendly. Many blamed the Rangers for their lack of popularity. The Galaxy Rangers had exposed some serious corruption and it damaged the Court’s reputation. It wasn’t their fault the Court was so bad at policing their own.

Cheerilee watched Trixie as she and her date did a swing dance. One might expect Trixie to get thrown around by the large stallion, but he was both careful and graceful. Not really a dance appropriate of a Gala, but they were having fun.

“The Princess’s student sure likes to make a show, right?” A voice said next to her. “The less socially appropriate, the better.” Cheerilee’s eyes widened and she whirled to find Duke Greengrass standing next to her.

“Greengrass,” Cheerilee said dumbfounded. He was the last pony she’d expected to see again. There he stood in a neat red tux. He beamed at her giving her a polite bow.

“It’s nice to see you again Cheerilee.”

“Hello, Greengrass.” Her voice was tight. After the Night Court Ranger incident, he was the absolute last pony she wanted to see again. “Why are you here? I doubt Princess Luna sent you an invitation after the stunt you pulled.”

Much to her confusion, his face was young. Didn’t he lose his youth after his Ranger powers got destroyed? Yet, here he was younger than ever. He must have reversed the curse somehow, an impressive feat if true.

“I have my ways,” Greengrass replied enigmatically, “this is the biggest social event of the year. How could I miss it? Besides, I came here to see you.”

“Me?” Cheerilee said surprised.

Greengrass extended a hoof. “A new song had started, would you like to dance?”

Again, he’d done something that threw her for a loop. Nopony had asked her to dance yet. Heck, she’d say no stallion had given her as much as a glace of appreciation. Despite herself, it flattered her. What the heck.

“Sure.” Cheerilee grabbed his hoof and he whisked her onto the dance floor. Thankfully Trixie was nowhere in sight to observe them. They moved with the music of the gentle waltz in perfect harmony. Greengrass was an excellent dancer and guided her with grace and skill despite her inexperience.

“Your dress is stunning,” Greengrass said, “the green suits you. Did the local dressmaker design it for you? Her stitching is impressive.”

“Thank you.” Cheerilee blushed from the compliment. “I’m surprised you’re even near me after I kicked your flank the last time we met.”

Greengrass laughed. It was a jolly one. “I like a mare that can kick my flank.”

“Really?”

“Oh yes, I like a mare that can push and challenge me.” Greengrass beamed.

He’s daring. I’ll give him that. They increased their pace with the song gliding across the dance floor. Everything drowned out leaving only Cheerilee and her dance partner.

“In fact, I owe you and your friends a great deal.”

“Oh?” Cheerilee raised a speculative eyebrow.

“Without defeat and hardship, how can a pony grow?” Greengrass replied. “I’d been too successful, too confident. I deserved to be taken down several pegs.”

“You’re not mad?” Cheerilee expected steel in his voice or at least anger. Instead, he seemed happy.

“I had it coming,” Greengrass replied, “you and your friends taught me a great deal, and for that, I am forever grateful. I’ve learned from my mistakes.”

“And now you’re back for revenge?”

“Never, I wouldn’t waste my time on such nonsense.” Greengrass shook his head. “Not when there are greater heights to reach, and brand new avenues to explore.”

Huh. She admired his determination and willingness to learn from his mistakes, yet not bound by them. If not revenge, what was he planning? Cheerilee couldn’t help but be excited to see what happened next. What would he use his new knowledge and humility for? Something good she hoped.

“Besides, why would I want revenge on the Rangers when they have a charming mare like yourself?”

“Oh stop it, flatterer.” Cheerilee gave him a gentle punch on the shoulder. She moved in close enjoying his warmth and the smell of his breath. She’d forgotten how handsome this stallion was. Their steps seemed to float into the air as they flowed around the dance floor.

What am I doing? Cheerilee a blush came to her cheeks. He’s the one who made our lives heck. Yet he’s stronger than ever. Despite everything, Cheerilee thought he was a decent pony at heart. She cursed her habit of always looking for the best in ponies. Still, she wouldn’t let him get away that easily.

“One warning.” Cheerilee’s voice became grave. “If you ever trying anything against my friends again, I will break every bone in your body.”

Greengrass chuckled amused. “If I do, then I deserve every punishment you give me. Is that a promise? I’ll hold you to it.” They exchanged a laugh. What would she do with this stallion? The dance stopped as the music ended.

“I’m sorry. I wish to do another dance, but I have other matters I need to attend to.” Greengrass gave her a gracious bow. “Maybe later tonight?”

“That’s fine.” Cheerilee felt a pang of disappointment. She wanted it to continue longer.

“And remember, if I try anything against your friends, you’ll break every bone in my body.” Greengrass gave her a wink. Cheerilee rolled her eyes but smiled. She watched as he disappeared into the crowd. What would she make of him? Whatever the case, she would be happy to see him again.

A scoff caught her attention and she turned to see a pegasus mare glaring at her. The mare’s appearance caught her off guard. Cheerilee had never seen a mare such as this one. She shared the same mane and coat colors as Fluttershy and her dress was pink with wreaths of colorful flowers all over it and she caught everypony’s attention. There was an inexplicable natural beauty about her. She made everypony who looked upon her lose their breath for her beauty outshone even Princess Luna. The only thing that disrupted the image was the hate-filled eyes aimed towards Cheerilee.

“Excuse me?” Cheerilee said regaining her composer. Who was this mare? She couldn’t recall hearing of a mare like her before. You’d think she’d heard of a noble this beautiful. She felt self-conscious and unsightly in comparison. Stallions and mare flooded her with attention, but she ignored them all focusing on stomping towards Cheerilee. The strange urge to flee flooded the Ranger.

“So you are the one Greengrass choose over me?” The mysterious mare said. “An ugly plain thing like you?”

Ugly?! Still, Cheerilee gave the mare a forced smile. “You know Greengrass?” Was this mare an old flame of the ex-duke? She gave the appearance of a mare scorned.

“I don’t know what he sees in you.” The mysterious mare circled Cheerilee like a predator moving in on her prey.

“I don’t know what you mean,” Cheerilee said trying to remain diplomatic.

“Understand this.” The mare’s words could remove paint from a wall. “I will haunt your foals and decedents for the rest of eternity. That’s a promise!”

“E-excuse me!” What was with this mare? What kind of relationship did she believe Cheerilee had with Greengrass? They barely knew each other. The mare didn’t reply and stomped off.

“Okay, that was weird.” She’d need to talk with Greengrass about getting a restraining order on whoever that was. She’d heard of scorned love, but this was ridiculous.

“Are you sure you want to go out there?” Octavia’s bandmate, Beauty Brass, said full of concern after Octavia had a nasty coughing fit.

Octavia waved him away hiding the blood-soaked handkerchief. “Never better. Best concern yourself with your own performance.”

“If you’re sure?” Beauty Brass took her saxophone out of its case. “I know this is an important night Octy, but musician shouldn’t neglect her health regardless of the reason.”

“I’m fine.” Octavia’s words contained steel and the mare wisely backed off.

Beauty Brass took her instrument outside the dressing room leaving Octavia alone. She kicked a chair over in frustration. She wanted to perform too, but Lyrica Lilac had rejected the idea. Lyrica noticed how serious Octavia’s condition was and refused to allow her to perform. Octavia had argued, but she had broken into a coughing fit and spit blood on the floor. Lyrica was sympathetic, but stern. She’d only allow Octavia to perform the Symphony of Moon and Sun. Octavia hated inaction and considered this a serious insult.

“They’re not allowing you to perform?” A voice said entering the dressing room. “Pity, your talent with the cello is without rival. They are still allowing you to perform the Symphony, yes?”

“Greengrass,” Octavia growled, “now you show your face.” She turned and gasped. The ex-noble had lost over thirty years since they last talked. Her mouth hung open in sheer disbelief. She shook her head. What was she thinking? This was obviously some illusion to hide the shame of his aged appearance.

“It’s a pleasure to see you again,” Greengrass replied, “I would have come sooner, but other matters tied me up.”

“I’m glad you’ve finally come,” Octavia said, “we have a situation.”

She explained everything she uncovered about Luna’s activities during her sneaking missions. She took some satisfaction at his surprised expression when she described the Ranger Killer project.

“I see. Princess Luna has acted sooner than I anticipated.” Greengrass stroked his chin in thought. He accepted the papers Octavia gave him detailing scientific aspects of the project and skimmed through them. She’d stolen them when exploring Puissance’s secret lab. It was all nonsense to Octavia, but the ex-noble understood it somehow.

“I hope that will satisfy the conditions of our arrangement.” Octavia was glad to rid herself of this stallion and his deals.

Greengrass gave a noncommittal nod too consumed by the papers to acknowledge her. He threw the papers into a briefcase and rushed towards the door.

“What about our deal?” Octavia said with more force. She hated being ignored.

Greengrass turned around and gave her a grave smile. “I will fulfill the conditions of our arrangement, do not fear that. But I have more pressing concerns to deal with. I must talk to Trixie.”

Octavia backed away so surprised by that statement. “What? Aren’t you enemies?”

“It doesn’t matter. The future of Equestria is at stake!” He left without another word.

Octavia regained her composure. Whatever. This battle didn’t concern her. Trixie would deal with it. Everything would work itself out. Octavia had done her part. She took out her composition of the Symphony and studied it. She had more important matters to concern her.

Author's Note

Snowflake is the Lunaverse's name for Bulk Biceps.

Chapter 9

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 9
by Rixizu

Trixie poured herself a glass of juice before adding a few drops of Tabasco sauce and enjoying the mix of tastes on her lips. Every Gala she’d attended had been dull as dirt, but at least the princess provided excellent food and drink every year. Several other mares had requested her friend Snowflake to dance and he’d been too shy to refuse. Other stallions had asked her to dance too, but she refused. A social taboo to be sure, but she never liked dancing with ponies she didn’t know. She didn’t bother being socially acceptable. That ship had long since sailed. She just couldn’t find the energy to care anymore. Besides, she enjoyed screwing with the nobles.

“Well, I never!” Rarity threw her drink into Prince Blueblood’s face and stomped off. It wasn’t the first time she’d seen a mare do that, and it wouldn’t be the last. She herself had done it on multiple occasions. Trixie enjoyed the shocked expression on his face as wine dripped down his mane. Classic.

A chuckle drew her attention. It was deep and vaguely familiar. In a flash, she realized its identity and discovered ex-duke Greengrass standing beside her. Much to her surprise, his face was youthful.

“And they say the Grand Galloping Gala is dull?” Greengrass said. “Blueblood provides neverending amusement to these events. His attempts at court politics never cease to entertain.”

“True enough.” Unlike Greengrass, Blueblood’s attempts to manipulate the court were obvious and clumsy. He had once secretly tried passing a bill requiring her to marry him for some convoluted reasons she couldn’t remember. Something about Luna’s student needing to pass her genes with a distant relative of Luna’s or something. He hid it amongst other political flotsam hoping nopony would notice it. Luna shot it down faster than a lightning bolt. Trixie downed her drink and stared at Greengrass’s youthful face. Somehow, he’d reversed what happened to him. This wasn’t an illusion. She should have guessed he wouldn’t be so easy to get rid of.

“Okay, what do you want?” Trixie asked wearily. “I’m sure you didn’t come to chat.”

“No.” Greengrass’s voice became graver than she’d ever seen from the stallion. “There’s an empty balcony over there. Shall we talk? It seems quiet enough and free from prying ears.”

A trap? Nah, it wasn’t his style. He wouldn’t do anything so blatant and obvious. Besides, she detected a real tension in his stance which worried her, nothing scared Greengrass. She let him direct her to the balcony and Greengrass closed the doors behind him.

“What’s this about?” Trixie didn’t bother engaging in the small talk which Greengrass was so fond of.

Her blunt words didn’t bother Greengrass instead he became serious. Trixie became more worried. “Here.”

He hoofed over some papers with some scientific gobbledygook written on it. Trixie skimmed each paper. There meaning became clearer as she read them over. There appeared to be some new weapon called the Crimson Shade. Trixie recognized the figure described in the papers from Lyra’s description.

This thing attacked her friends several days ago. Only a Night Court noble had the resources to conduct such a large project, but who? Obviously, Greengrass wasn’t behind it. For one, he was a politician, not an arms dealer. He didn’t have the bits to develop something on this scale even at the height of his power. Archduke Fisher was the only other possibility, but he’d lost his title along with Greengrass.

Trixie calmed her mind gathering her thoughts. “Where did you get this? Is some foreign government behind this?”
Greengrass shook his head. “No, a local one.”

Trixie blinked and considered the possibilities. Was a noble embezzling funds or something for their benefit? How did they get past the careful eye of Princess Luna and her team of skilled accountants? They were cracking down harder on government spending after the scandal involving Viceroy Night Light. Her mind raced attempting to place the puzzle pieces together into a cohesive whole. Greengrass waited letting her work out the problem herself.

She considered Corona, but cast aside the idea. Sure the sun alicorn was faking being reformed, but she also didn’t have the bits for something this big. Besides, Corona liked using magic over technology. The level of tech was well beyond Corona’s understanding. No, Trixie’s gut told her this wasn’t Corona. She suspected the sun alicorn wanted to play nice for the time being. A strange thought struck her giving her pause. Wasn’t Luna acting strange lately? It was bizarre. Corona was acting like a princess, while Luna behaved like a loon.

It couldn’t be! Princess Luna wouldn’t create something like this. She had the Rangers. Why would she need some superweapon? Still, Luna’s strange behavior nagged at her mind. Had the stress done something? If Celestia could fall… No, impossible! She’d never met anypony saner than Princess Luna. Her turning evil was beyond impossible!
“Who is behind this?” Trixie’s words had steel.

“I’m not sure you’d believe me if I told you,” Greengrass replied, “I see you already entertained the idea, but dismissed it off hoof because the concept is too painful.”

Rage boiled in Trixie’s heart. “Are you telling me Princess Luna is behind this? That she’s gone bad?”

Greengrass gave her a solemn forlorn look. He also wasn’t happy with this theory. Somepony might think this out of character, but Trixie remembered when the stallion risked his life to defend Princess Luna from a crazed Night Light. The ex-Duke was fond of his monarch despite their many differences and confrontations over the years. Besides, she doubted he would claim something like this without good reason. Still! Still!

“Okay, you have papers, so what? You better have more proof than idle speculation.”

“Page 12,” Greengrass replied, “they created this weapon from Princess Luna’s blood.”

Trixie wasted no time and pulled out the page in question. The report detailed using Princess Luna’s DNA to create a new species made from shadow. Had Greengrass suggested Luna donated her own blood to the project? Her mind raced for other explanations. The princess was hard to hurt because of her earth pony magic. It would take a serious injury to make her bleed, far more than a paper cut. Trixie doubted she’d allow her blood to lie around for anypony to steal. There had to be a logical explanation. Luna couldn’t go bad! Never! Impossible!

“We have a super high-tech facility with some serious financing and Luna’s blood,” Trixie said restraining her panic and worry. Freaking out would help nopony, “strange, but not impossible. Somepony might have snuck into Luna’s room and stolen her blood while she slept.”

“True enough.” Greengrass nodded his head like he’s expected this. “I wasn’t expecting you to believe this theory so easily. You care about your teacher too much. Fine, I have another suggestion. One that will convince you.”

Trixie crossed her legs. “I’m game. What?”

“We break into your teacher room and find the proof ourselves,” Greengrass replied, “I promise you, we will discover damning evidence.”

Trixie wanted to refuse, but Greengrass’ serious expression forestalled her. She wanted so bad to disbelieve everything the stallion told her, but the possibility of Greengrass being correct stopped her. Luna had been acting so strangely lately. In her many years with the alicorn, she’d seen nothing like it.

“Fine, one condition,” Trixie said, “if we find nothing, you will turn yourself in for the illegal trespass into the princess’s room.”

“Deal,” Greengrass replied without hesitation.

Great. He has a real conviction too. I hate this so much. Please, please don’t be right. “Let’s go.”

Without another word, she climbed a nearby vine into a window above. As she expected, the corridor stood empty of guards. They were all too preoccupied with Gala to keep all the hallways patrolled. As a foal, she had explored the castle countless times. Trixie knew every inch of it, knowing exactly how to sneak around without detection even without her magic. She had loved exploring, and got in a heap of trouble whenever the guards caught her in an area meant to be off-limits. She turned around and saw that Greengrass had followed her and closed the window behind him. It impressed her what little noise he made during the climb. The ex-duke wasn’t a useless dunce.

“Lead the way.” Greengrass extended a hoof. Trixie doubted anypony would notice her disappearance. They didn’t the last ten times. Years ago she discovered a nice bar nearby with the best beer nuts she’d ever had and even better bourbon. She’d returned two hours later and even Princess Luna hadn’t realized Trixie’s vanishing act.

Trixie snorted and crept through the castle. Each step forward filled her with dread, heading her towards a truth she wanted false. She couldn’t fight Princess Luna. How could she fight the pony who was like a second mother to her? The nobles hated and mocked her since she arrived in this castle. The only pony that believed in her was Luna. Some days, she wanted to give up and accept that the other ponies were right about her being a failure, but Luna’s love made her fight on and not give up. Trixie couldn’t imagine her life without the princess. She wouldn’t even be a third the pony she is today.

Please be wrong. Please…

Lyra watched the party-goers out of one eye as she played on the stage. She found it fascinating watching the partygoer’s mill about. She snorted in amusement as Rarity threw a drink into a prissy blond stallion’s face. Trixie’s date, Snowflake, was popular once they got over his loud voice and massive size. Trixie was nowhere in sight, and Lyra figured the Red Ranger had ditched him. They would have words when she saw the mare again. Even if Trixie didn’t take the Gala seriously, ditching her date to bar hop was unforgivable!

Still, no sign of her teacher Octavia and this worried her. Had something happened to her? Her eyes widened when she considered the possibilities. Had there been an accident? Was she dying in a hospital? Had somepony foalnapped her to get at Lyra? Did the Night Court ever cease with their dirty schemes and tricks?

“Is something the matter?” Beauty Brass asked from her sousaphone. It curled around her like a snake.

“I’m worried about Octavia,” Lyra replied, “it isn’t like her to disappear. Somepony might have foalnapped her!” She glared at the surrounding nobility. Any of them might be the culprit. Vicereine Puissance caught her eye. It must be her fault! Didn’t she once foalnap Dinky? Where was Twi’s brother? He needed to know about this.

“What are you talking about?” Beauty Brass blinked in obvious confusion. “She’s backstage.”

“Really? Why?” Lyra blushed for jumping to such wild conclusions. She’d hung around Trixie too much.

“Didn’t you know? She’s sick.” Beauty Brass replied. “It must be serious for Lyrica Lilac refused to allow her to play tonight.”

Lyra’s breath left her. Octavia was sick? Her past encounters with her teacher rushed through her mind. Hadn’t her teacher looked dire and weak lately? Worse, she’d barely eaten anything. How bad was her condition?

“Um…”

“Go on, I’ll cover you.” Beauty Brass said. “This next piece doesn’t need you, anyway. I’ll tell them you’re in the little filly’s room.”

“Thank you.” Lyra sat down her lyre and ran offstage.

She reached the dressing rooms moments later. Of the three dressing rooms, light poured from the second one. After taking a deep breath, Lyra knocked on the door. A grunt of acknowledgment came from inside and Lyra creaked open the door. She froze when she saw Octavia holding a handkerchief around her mouth soaked in blood, it felt like a dagger stabbing into her heart.

“What do you want?” Octavia asked annoyed.

“Octavia.” Why hadn’t she realized sooner? Octavia appeared deathlike barely holding on a thread. In her heart of hearts, she knew her teacher was dying.

“So, you’ve seen my secret shame.” Octavia turned away unable to bear looking at her old student.

“Are you… dying?” Lyra blurted and sniffled wiping away tears.

“What does it matter?” Octavia replied.

“It’s your life!” Lyra cried out in frustration. “There must be some treatment, right?”

“Well, there isn’t!” Octavia replied bitterness etched her in her voice. “The disease is incurable.”

Lyra’s heart broke. Her mentor was dying and she was powerless, helpless to do anything. Worse, Octavia had kept this bitter, horrible news to herself. Did her mentor mean to have Lyra learn of her death from the Canterlot Times obituaries?

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because it wasn’t your business,” Octavia replied.

“I’m your student.” Rage boiled over and Lyra had trouble controlling the volume of her voice. Why was her mentor always like this? Why couldn’t she understand ponies loved and cared about her? Was Octavia demanding to stay alone even on her deathbed?

“I can’t show weakness.” Octavia looked away unable to bear Lyra’s angry glare. “In this world, ponies will trample you if you show a hint of weakness. They’re like sharks sniffing out blood from a small cut. It’s the Night Court’s way. Why do you think I told you dating Bon-Bon was a mistake?”

“Horseapples!” Lyra shot back. “You’re just scared of getting close to ponies. That’s just a stupid excuse to hide your fear!”

“Think what you like.” Octavia glared her eyes flaring with heat. “I live the way I like! Dying alone suits me just fine. If you will excuse me, I have a symphony to perform!” She stomped outside taking her Cello with her.

“Fine, perform your stupid symphony! It will suck terribly!” Lyra yelled at her teacher’s retreating back.

“Idiot!” Lyra felt the temptation to kick away a nearby chair but resisted the urge. Lyra wasn’t a little filly and restrained her temper. She went back to the party trying her hardest to hide her tears.

“Have you been crying?” Bon-Bon asked in alarm as Lyra passed.

“My stupid teacher is being stupid, as usual,” Lyra replied.

“Did you have another fight?”

“She’s dying Bons, and she never told me!” Anger flared again. It felt like a betrayal. Why couldn’t Octavia understand how much Lyra cared about her?

“Oh, dear.” Bon-Bon wrapped Lyra into a hug who sobbed into her marefriend’s shoulder. Lyra collapsed and Bons stroked her head. An eternity seemed to pass, but Lyra didn’t care. She didn’t deserve a marefriend as wonderful as Bon-Bon.

“Lyra, are you okay?” Carrot Top asked in alarm. “What happened?”

“Lyra had a nasty fight with her old teacher Octavia,” Bon-Bon replied.

“What!” Carrot Top’s temper flared her eyes blazing. “What did she say?”

“No, it’s fine.” Lyra grabbed her friend’s leg before Carrot attempted anything rash. “Let her be.”

Carrot Top wanted to argue but closed her mouth giving her friend a hug instead. “Your teacher’s an idiot.”

“Yeah.” It hurt being the Element of Loyalty sometimes. She was so loyal that it hurt ten times more when somepony betrayed her. Octavia entered the stage her head held high and proud. Ponies gathered eager to hear a master of her craft play the infamous Symphony for Moon and Sun. Celestia watched in eager anticipation. This was her first time experiencing the infamous piece dedicated to her millennia ago. Even Princess Luna looked excited despite her foul mode all night.

She will fail. A voice inside her said. You should show her up and play the real symphony. Was it a betrayal of her own? Maybe, but her mentor needed to learn a lesson. Then she’d see why Lyra was better with her herd of friends than Octavia ever was alone. Lyra took a sick satisfaction when her mentor proved incapable of playing the piece.

To her credit, her mentor played the piece well, but it missed a vital spark despite Octavia’s mastery of the musical arts. Even ponies without a musical gift noticed it missed something. The piece rebelled against Octavia for not playing it correctly. Lyra stood up without a word with her lyre in her aura. Her friends watched with puzzled confusion, but let her pass. She wiped away any signs she’d been crying and watched in silence as her mentor finished playing.

Ponies gave a polite clap after Octavia finished. The performance saddened Celestia and Princess Luna sighed once again disappointed. Her mentor bit her lip in frustration so hard it drew blood. She shuffled off the stage drained her mood dark and melancholy. Her hooves shook unable to hold her cello straight.

Everypony watched in puzzlement as Lyra approached the stage with her instrument in hoof. She gave a quick glare towards Octavia before continuing towards her destination. Her friends gave her an encouraging smile and wave. A slight smile tugged on her lips. She felt her body move on its own. It was like the symphony was guiding her steps eager for somepony to release it into the world. Nopony was sure what Lyra was doing wondering if there was another special performance nopony had told them about. Lyrica Lilac approached to ask what Lyra was doing and froze as Lyra began playing.

Everypony started at her absorbed by the music she was playing. It wasn’t well played as Octavia’s performance. Not every note was perfect and Lyra had trouble playing the complicated piece, but it didn’t matter. Lyra put her whole heart into the song. The song began with a sunrise and ponies rose to begin their day. The moon left the sky giving way to the sun in their eternal dance. Plants and flowers rose as the sun’s beams hit them and they eagerly soaked in the sun’s life-giving rays. Ponies played and worked. They built, they danced, they farmed, and they learned. Ponies enjoying all the life offered. However, like all things, it couldn’t last forever.

The sun reluctantly gave the moon back the sky knowing it was time to rest. Ponies enjoyed the night sky and its beauty. The moon shone with a shimmering blue light glowing like a bulb in the sky. Despite the beauty of the night, ponies were getting sleepy, exhausted by their play and work and laid their heads down on their beds falling into a deep sleep. They dreamed of wonders beyond anything they might experience in life and rested their bodies so they might begin again tomorrow. The moon watched over the little ponies protectively so nothing would disrupt their slumber. A full cycle had passed once again in the never-ending cycle known as life.

Lyra hadn’t played the piece perfectly, but it didn’t matter. Because life wasn’t perfect. Full of joys and pains. Births and deaths. Friends and enemies. Light and dark. Day and night. This wonderful contrast created the wonder known as life. A chaotic jumble that wasn’t perfect, but it didn’t need to be.

Moments passed as everypony absorbed what they’d just heard then everypony broke into applause. Lyra’s friends jumped on the stage eager to share in her joy and accomplishment. It was because of them she succeeded where everypony else had failed. They were her inspiration and her life. Together they made a whole far more powerful whole than any alone. She kissed Bons and laughed as her marefriend hugged her tightly nuzzling against her. A delighted Celestia clapped louder than everypony else in the room. Princess Luna yelled Brava ecstatic stomping her hooves with enthusiasm. In her many years, she’d thought the completion of the symphony impossible.

“No.” The voice startled Lyra. Broken and hollow equal parts of anger and disbelief. She turned to find Octavia slumped on the floor. Her cello fell off the stage and broke in two by the impact. Lyra disentangled herself from her friends and checked on her mentor.

“Are you okay Octy?” Lyra asked.

“No,” Octavia said again. She hadn’t heard a word Lyra had said.

“Octy!” Lyra cried out alarmed as her teacher crumpled to the stage floor.

Chapter 10

The Forbidden Symphony
Chapter 10
by Rixizu

“How is she, doc?” Lyra fidgeted as the doctor entered the waiting room. The rest of her friends, save Trixie who had vanished, sat with her. After Octavia had collapsed, Lyra had ridden on the ambulance to the hospital. A sickness bubbled in her chest worried this might be her mentor’s last night living.

“She’ll recover.” Doctor Bleeding Heart said. “Miss Octavia pushed her body too hard and didn’t eat and sleep properly. We want to keep overnight for observation, but she’ll be strong enough to leave tomorrow morning.”

“That’s a relief,” Cheerilee said, “she looked worse than she was.”

“And her condition?” Lyra asked.

The doctor’s face fell. “I’m afraid there’s nothing we can do about that. There are experimental treatments, but the odds of them succeeding are slim. Not helped by the fact that your friend has refused to try them.”

Lyra blinked. “What?” Even if there was a remote chance, why would her mentor waste it? Octavia was barely in her thirties. Didn’t she want to live?

The doctor shook his head. “She’s told me it isn’t worth the effort. Maybe you can talk some sense into her?”

Lyra’s body sagged. Octavia was impossible to convince of anything. Her stubbornness would get her killed. “How long does she have?”

“A year at most.” The doctor replied. The knot in her heart twisted harder. Bons gave her a comforting hug, but thankfully Lyra didn’t start crying again.

“Can I go see her?” Lyra asked.

Doctor Bleeding Heart nodded. “She’ll need her rest, but you can speak with her for a couple of minutes.”

Lyra waved her friends goodbye and followed the doctor into the small clean hospital room. Her mentor had tubes connected to her everywhere. She still looked weak, but stronger, thank Luna. The doctor shut the door behind him giving them some privacy.

“Hey,” Lyra kept her voice gentle.

“Oh, it’s you,” Octavia said and Lyra winced from her mentor’s tone.

“Just here seeing how you’re doing!” Lyra said with forced cheerfulness.

“Get out.”

“I was really worried about you after you collapsed.” Lyra pretended she hadn’t heard her friend’s objections. “I super glad to see you’re okay. And hey, you're looking better! In a mo, you’ll be in tip-top shape!”

“Get out, Lyra!”

“No, I’m here to see you!”

“What, so you can spit in my face?!” Octavia glared, the hate in her gaze made Lyra take a step back. “Laugh about how you stole my glory! My moment of triumph that…” Her words cut off too angry to speak.

“I…” Lyra didn’t know how to respond and she sagged into a nearby chair. Why had she done it? Upstage what was meant to be her teacher’s last great performance? Had she wanted to do the impossible and show up everypony by playing the ultimate unfinished piece?

“Yeah, I messed up,” Lyra said honestly, “I’m sorry. I was a foal and didn’t realize what you were trying to do. I was just so angry at you for not telling me about your condition. I wasn’t thinking straight. I just wanted to show you what I could do. It was like the symphony was pushing for me to play it. No, that makes no sense. Nevermind. That’s stupid.”

Her mentor stayed silent for so long Lyra was been certain Octavia had fallen asleep. “It was lovely,” she eventually whispered.

Lyra started surprised by such a frank admission. Octavia stared out the window towards the night sky. There weren’t any stars because of the light pollution, but the moon shone vivid amongst the blackness.

“I loved the part about the moon watching over dreaming ponies.” Octavia continued. “I trained you well. I can take some comfort that I’m being replaced with a pony better than myself.”

“Or, you could take those treatments and teach other ponies,” Lyra suggested fighting back the urge to shake her mentor into seeing sense.

Octavia scowled. “The doctor told you about that? It doesn’t matter. I don’t fight for impossible causes. I’m finished and I might as well admit it. I was foolish even attempting the Symphony for Moon and Sun. I’ve already long run my course.” It shocked Lyra how fragile and defeated her teacher looked. A stiff breeze might break her.

“No! Fight on, please!” Lyra grabbed her mentor’s hoof and looked right into Octavia’s eyes. “I need you!”

Octavia turned away. “I’m not you Lyra. I can’t fight monsters or defeat evil. I’m not that strong. No, I am a coward. You were right. I’m afraid of getting close to ponies. I once had a mentor who had his life destroyed because he fell in love with the wrong mare. She deceived, used, and discarded him destroying his career in the process for her schemes. You know how the Night Court is.”

“But what stunned me was what my mentor told me afterward, he didn’t regret it. Despite everything, he still loved her. He told me to continue loving even if ponies hurt me. I thought him a foal at the time, I swore to learn from his mistake.”

“When I see you with Bon-Bon, I… wondered if I was wrong. Then I told myself I was being stupid and you’re the foolish one. Instead, I focused on the only thing I love, music. I believed it would carry me forever, but as you can see, it betrayed me also.”

Lyra didn’t know how to respond. Instead, she held her mentor’s hoof harder hoping it would convey her love. She was the Element of Loyalty, but Lyra figured it went well beyond that. She was also the Element of Love. Didn’t Love and Loyalty go hoof and hoof? They couldn’t exist without the other.

“You’re my only friend Lyra, I want you to know that. I’m still angry at you for showing me up, but I can’t begrudge you when you played something so magnificent.”

Tears welled in Lyra’s eyes. “I’m here for you. Know that, okay? Whatever happens!”

Tears welled in Octavia’s eyes too. She didn’t speak and only nodded holding on tight. The doctor arrived minutes later taking her outside. Lyra swore she’d stay until Octavia left the hospital. Much to her surprise, Princess Luna was in the waiting lobby.

“Is your mentor doing well?” Luna asked.

“She’ll make a full recovery. She was just tired.” Lyra chose keeping her mentor’s condition a secret. It wasn’t her secret to tell.

“Good, the knighting ceremony will begin soon,” Luna said.

Lyra blinked confused. She looked at her dress which wasn’t in the best shape after all the hubbub. “You’re not canceling?”

Luna shook her head. “Trust me. It is vital. Equestria needs to know it has protectors in this dire hour!”

Dire hour? Everything seemed fine to her. Celestia had, supposedly, reformed and they’d beaten every foe they’d faced. Except for that weird evil oceanographer Cheerilee fought, but was she that great a threat? Did it have something to do with that monster that attacked her several days ago? She reluctantly left with the princess to return to the Gala. It was clear from Luna's expression, she wouldn't take no for an answer. She didn’t see any of her friends. There were most likely sent ahead. Lyra gave Octavia’s room another glance before joining the Princess. It took all her willpower to not ditch the princess and run back to her mentor. She told herself Octavia was sleeping anyway and she’d be right back. The princess better have a good reason dragging her away.

The corridors were dead silent as they snuck around. Trixie had already ditched her dress storing it in an ornamental vase for later. She didn’t want any obstacles barring her movement. The sound of laughter and music echoed through the empty halls. They came across some bored guards, but Trixie doubted they would notice the intruder even if they stood right before them. She caught one sleeping behind a statue. Trixie sighed. She supposed being an immortal almost unkillable alicorn made Luna a little too overconfident. Sometimes she wondered if the princess hired hopeless cases for her guard because she felt sorry for them.

They soon approached her teacher’s door finding it guarded by one board stallion. To his credit, he stood straight and alert, but it was obvious he’d rather be elsewhere. He yawned and scratched his stomach.

One guard, perfect. Sounded simple enough. If she was Twilight, she’d use a simple sleeping spell, but since Trixie was terrible using that type of magic she needed other means to bypass the guard. Greengrass watched her, interested in her next move.

Sorry, princess. Trixie spotted a vase on a table down another corridor and used her magic to push it over. The guard jumped in fright at the unexpected crashing sound. He rushed to investigate leaving the door free for a split second. They found it locked, but Trixie’s trusty lockpick made quick work of it and it opened with a satisfying click.

“And how will we escape when the guard comes back?” Greengrass asked an eyebrow raised.

“Let me worry about that,” Trixie replied entering the room. After Greengrass followed, she relocked the door.

“Okay, where is this evidence you promised?” Trixie kept her voice low, though she knew the thick door would drown out most noises.

“Let’s check her desk.” Greengrass pointed to a mahogany desk.

They made their way through Luna’s room. It was clean but had various knick-knacks scattered everywhere. The princess liked technology and gimmicky devices. On one wall was one of those singing basses that warbled various silly pop songs in a terrible tinny voice. Trixie knew Luna loved stupid things like that. She always marveled at the wonders of technology regardless of its banality. The tackier the better. Trixie held out a hoof and stopped Greengrass from tripping the singing fish’s sensor. They moved around it.

“She keeps it on?” Greengrass asked.

Trixie sighs. “Yes. She loves Don’t Worry, Be Happy. Says it helps brighten her night.” She recalls the times she caught her teacher singing the song along with the bass while doing her paperwork.

“Huh.”

Trixie made quick work of the desk’s locks and searched through the random assortment of papers. Luna really needed to do a better job sorting her papers. Trixie kept a lookout for financial papers and soon found an invoice transferring several million bits to Vicereine Puissance for some unspecified reason. Each had Luna’s signature and seal and they were genuine to Trixie’s skilled eye.

“What’s this about?” Trixie gestured at the paper. A pit formed in her stomach. Why would Princess Luna associate with somepony like that mare? She found more papers authorizing personnel and equipment to the Vicereine. Whatever was happening, it was huge and expensive.

“You’d think she’d do a better job hiding her illicit activities.” Greengrass gestured to a missive from Puissance about the progress of a secret project.

Trixie groaned. “Luna is terrible at this cloak and dagger stuff. She’s too honest.”

They found more evidence linking the princess to sketchy business with Puissance. Heck, Luna had set aside more important paperwork for whatever dealings she had with the mare. An important road funding bill laid untouched for giving Puissance some new experimental technology called CRISPR. It made no sense. What was so important that Luna put her focus on this secret project?

The twist in her gut turned harder as the evidence mounted. No mention of donating blood, but she couldn’t deny this collaborated the paperwork Greengrass showed her earlier. Trixie couldn’t deny the ex-duke’s accusations no matter how hard she tried. She wanted to scream and tear apart these papers. It was unthinkable her beloved mother figure could turn so wrong. She wondered if Celestia also had a student a millennium ago. Did they feel the same way when their mentor turned evil?

“Whatever’s happening, I’m ending it!” Trixie declared. “It’s morphing time! Usra!” She transformed into her armor and pressed a button on her morpher teleporting her to her Zord. It left a surprised Greengrass trapped in Luna’s room with no way to escape. Served him right.

She landed her Zord on the outskirts of Canterlot rushing towards the Gala with the evidence clutched in her hooves. She would demand answers from her mentor not caring what type of fuss it would cause. Luna would give answers and Trixie wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Ponies bustled as Lyra entered the Gala making way for the princess and her escort. Much to Lyra’s irritation, nopony seemed to care that Octavia had collapsed and an ambulance had taken her to the hospital. They talked and drank like nothing happened.

The Night Court is the worse. Octavia gave her blood and sweat for them and they didn’t even look upset. She waved as her friends approached.

“Can you believe we’re still doing this?” Lyra complained. It physically hurt not being by her mentor’s side.

“The princess just wants to honor us in front of everypony,” Cheerilee said, “no harm in that.”
Bon-Bon nodded. “It’s well deserved if you ask me.”

Carrot Top rolled her eyes. “I guess we have saved the world countless times. Not like the Night Court cares.”

“I’m a little giddy,” Ditzy said, “I’ve never been knighted before.”

“Do we need to go on stage?” Raindrops looked uncomfortable going before so many staring ponies.

“You’ll do fine,” Lyra replied giving her friend an encouraging smile.

Everypony started as Twilight teleported next to them. “Have you seen Trixie? I can’t find her anywhere.”

“In a bar, no doubt,” Lyra said not hiding her irritation at her friend. Trixie hadn’t even seen her perform the Symphony.

Twilight nodded. “I looked in the closest ones, but…”

“I’m here,” Trixie said, appearing from nowhere, “are they beginning the knighting ceremony already? I thought it wasn’t for another hour? Have you seen the princess? I need to talk with her right away.”

Lyra stomped over to the Red Ranger getting into her face. “Where have you been?” Scandalously, Trixie wasn’t wearing her Gala dress which earned her some glares from the other party-goers.

Trixie backed away surprised by the vitriol her friend spewed at her. “Did something happen?”

“Yes, a lot actually,” Lyra replied, “while you were off bar-hopping my mentor Octavia got sent to the hospital!”

“Oh dear, is she alright?” Trixie asked, voice full of concern. Her eyes widened in surprise when she got a closer examination of her friend. “Lyra, have you been crying?”

“Yes, I have!” Lyra spat. “Octavia is dying!” Trixie opened her mouth and closed it several times unsure how to appease her livid friend.

“She didn’t know.” Cheerilee put a comforting hoof on Lyra’s shoulder. “She’s just as concerned as everypony else.”

It still doesn’t give her the right to ditch her date. Lyra opened her mouth to tell Trixie this, but the Red Ranger interrupted her.

“I wasn’t bar-hopping if that’s what you think. I was doing Ranger business! And I’ve uncovered something terrible!” Trixie waved some papers in the air.

“Really?” Lyra said voice doubtful.

Carrot Top perked up. “What is it, another Night Court plot?” She looked around the Gala expecting to find enemies everywhere.

“Kinda,” Trixie replied. She froze mid-conversation as the princess entered.

“There you are!” Luna said. “Good. I feared you ditch the Gala, again. Now we can begin the knighting ceremony and make history!”

“History?” Lyra blinked. What the hay did that mean?

“Hold on-” Whatever Trixie was about to say was interrupted as the princess used her magic to push them on to the stage. She dropped her papers and they flew away forgotten. Even Carrot Top found herself on stage and tried and failed to free herself from the princess’s powerful telekinesis. The Rangers awkwardly waved to the staring ponies below.

“These ponies have time and time again protected Equestria from its greatest threats with unmatched bravery and courage,” Luna said to the crowd, “which is why I am honoring them with the title of Dame and all the rights and privileges that come with such a title.”

Carrot gave an angry cough, but Luna ignored it. The princess drew a sword. Its design was intricate with symbols depicting all which stood in her domain. The princess only gave honors with this sword once every few centuries. Despite the strangeness of the situation, all the Rangers, except Carrot, kneeled to receive the blessing. Luna used her magic to force the farmer into a kneeling position. After some struggling, Carrot gave up and complied. It didn’t stop her from searching for some opportunity to escape however and her eyes darted like a wild trapped animal.

Geez Carrot, is it that bad to become a knight? It was a wonder the Scorpio Ranger didn’t transform to escape. Much to Lyra’s confusion, Trixie wasn’t beaming with smug satisfaction despite wanting this very thing her entire life. Instead, she had a subdued and pained expression. She wondered if someone had switched Trixie with an imposter. It was the only way to explain the Red Ranger’s strange behavior.

One by one Luna gave each Ranger her blessing with a tap on each shoulder and Lyra’s heart soared. Never in her wildest dreams had she expected such an honor. Her exhilaration dampened when she realized how much she wanted Octavia to be here to watch the ceremony. She’d be so proud. Why hadn’t she convince the princess to hold off the ceremony until her mentor was feeling better? It felt like another terrible betrayal.

“And now, all know the protectors of our land,” Luna said, “they know our heroes and should tremble.”

Er, what now? The Rangers exchanged a look. The crowd’s enthusiasm had damped at this strange comment, but they put on eager faces to hide their confusion. Best not argue with the princess and her strange fancies.

“Stand heroes.” Luna floated her sword into a salute and the Rangers did so to the applause of the crowd. Pinkie shot streamers into the air and Rarity hooted. Shining beamed proudly of his sister. Tears were in Lyra’s marefriend’s eyes. Bons had never been so proud.

“Yeah!” Snowflake bellowed.

“Congratulations!” Celestia broke into applause.

“Now, before I conclude this ceremony, I have an important announcement.” Luna sheathed her sword into a scabbard on her side. Everypony calmed down and watched with a curious interest. Tonight would prove an entertaining night. This announcement was unexpected news.

“I am formally dissolving the entire Night Court and removing the titles of all its members,” Luna raised her voice so even the most distant corners heard her decree.

Ponies gapped not sure they’d heard their princess right. They opened and closed their mouths several times before daring to raise an objection. Trixie’s eyes were wide as dinner plates unable to move or even speak.

“Surely, you can’t be serious, princess.” Prince Blueblood said.

“I am quite serious,” Luna replied, “you shame the Night Court I formed millennia ago. You don’t deserve the power I have granted you.”

“S-she can’t do this, right?” One noble shouted. “It’s against the law!”

“I am the law.” Princess Luna stood strong and proud. “You only have power because I granted it to you.”

“Lulu,” Celestia said her voice gentle but firm, “you can’t just uproot the entire foundation of your government on a whim. What would you replace it with?”

Luna gave her a sister an evil smile. “I’m glad you asked, sister. From this day forth, the people will decide their leaders. Instead of a duke or baron ruining a providence, it will be an elected governor instead. Elections will begin in one month. I expect candidates to come forward for candidacy by the end of the week. To be fair, I will not bar former Night Court members from running in the election. Ponies will decide if you are worthy of leading them. Each term will last for eight years.”

“You can’t do this!” One noble shouted and the entire crowd broke into angry protests. The nobles were becoming an angry mob. Lyra could only stare overwhelmed by the rush of new information. Much to her surprise, instead of being devastated, Trixie wore a firm frown her eyes filled with determination as she stomped towards her teacher.

“Princess, I must protest also,” Trixie said, “I understand wanting to fix the Night Court, but...”

“Silence!” Luna shouted amplifying her voice with magic. Its might threw everypony off their hooves. Lyra cried out in surprise as the powerful force threw her off the stage and she landed face first onto the marble floor. “I am the law. The Equestria you know is gone, finished, over. Reborn into something greater! From now on it shall be known as the Lunar Republic!”

Ponies screamed as dark figures broke through the windows. Much to Lyra’s horror, she recognized them. Their heavy armored boots stomped over the broken glass and ponies departed in terror as they approached. It was the monster that attacked Lyra days ago, only now there were hundreds of them looming above ponies in their glimmering dark armor and ponies cowered before them.

“I too shall be reborn!” Black mist surrounded the princess, engulfing her with crackling magic and energy. Cackling laughter came from the darkness and a sudden gust blew it away revealing Luna’s new terrible form. Her coat was pitch black and her mane flowed wildly sharing the beautiful starry blackness of space. She wore a light blue armor with a crescent moon on her crest.

“You shall now refer to me as, Nightmare Moon! Queen of the Lunar Republic!” Luna threw her head back and laughed with unrestrained laughter that brought a chill to the ponies in the room.

Lyra took a step back as Nightmare Moon sent a cold stare their way. “I offer you a choice Rangers, my knights, and heroes. Join me and bring my Republic into a bright new era, or get crushed like all that dare oppose me!” The armored monstrosities closed in on the Rangers ready to crush them to death if they dare resist their new queen.

End of Part 1