The Lost Secret of Twilightby Dark Rose 777ChaptersPrologueChapter 1: A Day of FirstsChapter 2: Into the Land of DreamsChapter 3: EOH: BackstoryChapter 4: Dreams v. RealityThe Other SidesThe Other Sides (Part 2)The Other Sides (Part 3)The Other Sides (Part 4)The Other Sides (Part 5)PrologueLong before the Two Sisters ever came to vanquish the God of Chaos and Disharmony, nor before the time of the Three Tribes, there lived Six Spirits. Before ponykind was created, these six spirits reveled in the harmony and beauty of their world. They lived in different parts of Equus; one flew with the never-ending Sky, one lay upon the mighty Ground, one in the emerald forests of green, one in deep waters, one in the depths of the earth, and one dwelled within core of Equus. Nay, they never grew tired of the world they created together, but they wished for a creature unlike the rest, something that could think, and hopefully grow with them, in friendship and harmony. So, they created pony-kind, in their own image, and gave him a mind, speech, and free will to do as he pleased. The Ponies grew in vast numbers, and spread wide over the land. The spirits were indeed pleased with their new creation, and spirit and pony lived alike in kind. Time passed, and slowly, ponies had need for knowledge and power, and began to fight one other to achieve it. Some considered themselves more important and higher than other. Tensions rose and fell like a wave. Wars raged and ravaged to earth, ticking on and off like a clock. With each passing day, Equus weakened in magic, and began shrink and wither. Evil brewed within hearts of those most powerful and it slowly began infect the Spirits. They too began fighting among themselves. The youngest could only stand back and watch, as the their pride and joy became their biggest mistake. She began undertake the biggest task yet, and tried with all her might to save her people, but found she couldn't do it alone. She pleaded with others for their help, but was turned away. The Sky and Land Spirits were enraged at what had become of their world and decided to destroy it and start over. This idea was proposed to the others. The others agreed, somewhat reluctantly, but the youngest refused. She was adamant on giving their people a second chance, however small it may be. Her siblings refused and all left their places, breaking the magic ties within the Core, killing the very essence of magic and banishing the youngest into the very depths of eternity. This movement unleashed a great evil, and with it, the spirits of the light and darkness. These two spirits saw what was left of the war-ravaged planet and resolved to save it. They succeeded, in doing so, and became King and Queen of the land. They managed to get the little ponies to stop fighting for the top, but they weren't successful in getting the three species to get along. Despite the king and queen's plea, the three species decided to split and stick with their own kind. After some years of this, the King and Queen left in charge three high-upstanding leaders, and unbeknownst to them, very much enemies: Commander Hurricane of Pegasopolis, Princess Platinum of Unicornia, and Commander Pudding-head of Earth-born. Queen Sunshine and King Darkness-" "My parents. . . Little one, where did you find this?" "In the library," came the immediate reply. "So wait, they're your parents!? What are they like? Can you tell me how-" "Hush now. The questions shall come later," the response was gentle, yet firm. "But I have so many!" Twilight complained. "Like, you told me, for example, the your parents created Equestria, but this says the these spirits, whatever they are-" "Twily, c'mon, give it a rest. The Princess said you can ask questions later." Her brother, Shining Amour stepped in. "But Shiny-" "Your brother is right, Twilight. Now, instead if this, don't you have lessons to continue?" Princess Celestia's niece, Candance inquired. "Nope! Got them all done! Then I got bored and found this in the library!" "Twilight Sparkle," Princess Celestia addressed. She arose and walked around the little filly seated on the floor. "I understand, and as much as I would love to answer questions and finish this story, I, regretfully, have duties to attend to. You certainly wouldn't like it if the sun was up while you slept, would you?" "No." Twilight looked down at the scroll, disappointed. "Shining Amour, Cadenza, I trust you will see Twilight to the Library to return the scroll?" "Of course, Princess!" Shining Amour snapped to attention. Princess Celestia smiled and stepped over to her niece. "He'll make a fine royal guard one day," she whispered. Candance blushed and nodded. Twilight, still sitting on the floor, glared at the Princess's retreating figure. She didn't even let me finish! She thought darkly. Shining Amour noticed his little sister's face and scowled at her. "Stop that, and c'mon. The faster we can get to the library, the faster we'll get home." Twilight stuck out her tongue. "I don't need your help! I know the way!" she snapped and flounced off. "Put that fictional scroll back where you found it!" her brother called after her. "I will!" she responded, intending to the exact opposite. Once she reached the library, she ducked in to the corner, and opened it back up. There's a lot more than I realized, she thought, looking up and the clerk, to see if the mare was watching. I'll just finish it and put it back. . . . left and now reside in a place called heaven, where, one day, in would be possible to live forever with friends and family. Of course, no such thing exists. "No such thing exists? wondered Twilight. If the princess is real, surly heaven is real too, right? "Something wrong, filly?' asked old librarian, gazing concernedly at her. "Nope! Just reading a confusing book!" "Very well." Twilight sighed with relief and eagerly continued: . . . It take an immense amount of magic to create, I myself would know. But then again, perhaps not, for I have been trapped here for so long. Until my paper prison is read, I shall never be free. . . Twilight gazed at the ceiling in silence, wondering what it would be like to be trapped within the pages of her favorite books. She supposed it wouldn't be so bad. Actually, the idea appealed to her quite nicely. looked back down and screamed aloud in fright. The words that were previously there had vanished, and in it's place were the words: "Thank you, Twilight Sparkle, for setting me free. Now I am able to fix my mistake, through you. The Librarian rushed over just as the little filly fell over in a heap, having collapsed. The distraught mare called for help and she frantically looked over the girl for and sign of injuries. Amidst the chaos, nopony noticed the six-sided star on Twilight's flank glow a deep, bright magenta pink. Author's Note Hey, guys. This is my first story, so I hope you enjoy. I took inspiration from Gboyd - check her out! Also, check out Cartoonapoolis Adventures and CrimsonWalker. I edit for the both of them as well. I'm not gonna away any spoilers, so. See ya next chapter! Chapter 1: A Day of Firsts"Hey, little sis?" Her brother entered the room, his face depicting a picture of curiousness. "Yes?" Twilight looked up at him. "Do you remember that old scroll you found? You know, the one that spoke of Celestia's parents and stuff?" He asked. "Yeah, why?" "Whatever happened to the old thing? You were so obsessed with it." he laughed. "You slept like you used with Smarty-pants!" Twilight blushed and she angrily stood to face her brother, pushing her chair back. "I was NOT obsessed! That's what you think!" "Whatever. Hey, I'm headed out, so uh, take care, kay'? MOM! I'm out!" he winked at her and walked out, closing the door gently behind him. Twilight rolled her eyes and sighed, a frown etched on her forehead. I wasn't obsessed, she thought.I just wanted answers. The scroll she'd found was hidden deep in her memory, she had it memorized to the letter. She had never quite forgiven Spike after he'd burned it up. It was a total accident of course, and it was partially her fault, but still. She had found something that not even Princess Celestia didn't know, and Princess Celestia knew everything! She still wondered what she had set free. Wether it was good or bad, it had yet to effect her, or anyone else. She thought maybe it was a prank someone had planted, but the excitement had faded. She still thought about it from time to time. "Twilight sweetie! Come here, please!" Her mother called from the other room. With another sigh, Twilight made her way around the table and entered the next room. Her mother looked at her with concern. "Are you all right, dear? You're awful pale." "I'm fine, just bored is all. I hate summer!" Her mother raised an eyebrow. "That's something I can add to the list of things I'd never thought I'd hear. Go outside, enjoy your summer! Staying in the dark house is making you into a vampire." Twilight inwardly rolled her eyes. Her mother just didn't get it! She didn't have any friends to play with, except for Spike and he was at daycare. Her backyard had already been thoroughly explored a million times, she doubted she'd find something new. She would go out like Shining Amor, but. . . he had friends. She didn't. She sighed again and slowly trudged outside. The sun was really bright. Too bright for her taste. She growled under her breath and, squinting, walked slowly to a shady spot provided by some trees. She plopped down and looked up at the blue sky. Guessing what shapes the clouds could turn into wasn't even an option. She closed her eyes, listening to the quiet breeze. "Bored?" Her eyes shot open in surprise. She was quite certain she hadn't spoken and she was the only one in the yard. Thinking quickly, Twilight ready to face her, uh. . . Who ever was there! "Who's there!?" "Whoa, slow your roll, girl! I'm not gonna hurt you. And please don't try looking for me-" "Where are you?!" "Quick on the draw, arentcha?" Twilight lowered her hackles, eyes narrowed. She was still alert but sensed no danger. "You wanna do something fun?" "Fun? With you? I don't think so," she retorted, taking a small step forward. "Hey, I'm not gonna be the ONLY one there. Besides, you might learn something." The response had a musical note to it, and high-pitch that was rather pretty to listen to. "Learn?" Twilight was excited. She loved learning! Maybe Voice might be able to her teach new magic- "Come closer! Closer, closer!" Twilight did as asked, taking a small tentative step. She looking directly at her fence, which had nothing interesting about it, but there was obviously something there. "CLLOOOOSSERRRR. . ." The voice dropped to a playful whisper, followed contagious laughter. In spite of herself, a small smile tugged at the corners of Twilight's mouth. "Where am I going? Are we playing a different version of Green light-red light?" "Huh? Never heard of that game!" A sprinkle of laughter was heard and Voice continued. "Take three steps forward!" Twilight did so and stopped, looking up at the trees, fully ready for what might happen next. Voice was right, this was fun. But she wasn't learning anything. "Take us to the land of dreams, a land that no one else has seen!" Voice recited. Before Twilight could ask what she'd said, A small round ball of pure energy from in the little clearing, brilliant, rainbow-y colors swirling. Twilight's eyes widened with wonder. "Woah, what it this? it's beautiful!" "Thanks! I've been working on it for a million years!" "A million years? Wait, how old-" "Touch it!" Twilight was dumbfounded. Was Voice dumb? Every filly knew you couldn't touch pure energy. It was the same thing as lightening, and besides her hand would just go right through it- "Your hand's not gonna right through it, silly! You're not gonna get zapped, and I made it solid so it's touchable!" Voice explained. Twilight was now speechless. Had Voice read her mind?! "Nope! You haven't given me permission to! I wouldn't do it anyway, even if I could! It's mean and intrusive! Your expressions are so easy to read, that's all." Twilight shrugged. Everything was too complicated right now. She touched the ball with a shaky finger. She felt nothing different, yet she knew something about her was different. "What did you do to me?!" "You did something, not me, silly! You didn't have to touch it, I simply asked you too, it was optional. And I'm glad you did! If I'm right, you're the one! The absence of conscience is not conscience of absence, ya know!" That doesn't make any sense, thought Twilight. Am I going crazy? Am I dreaming? "Hey, that's where we're going!" "Huh?" "Dreamscape, a wondrous land of dreams, memes, and everything in between! Now c'mon, we're wasting moonlight!" Twilight looked at her surroundings incredulously. It was day time. Noon, in fact. The sun was at it zenith. "Wait!" Twilight took her finger back and steeped back wards, now fearful. "Voice?" "Hmm, not my name, but I'll go with it! Yes?" "Where we're going, will I be able to return home?" Twilight asked. "I don't know! Let's find out!" Voice responded. The floating ball glowed brightly, causing Twilight to shut her eyes. * * * When she opened them again, she was in completely different place, and it was pitch black. She couldn't even see her hand in front of her face. She was standing on something solid at least. That was a plus. She tried looked behind her but she still couldn't see Voice."Voice? Where are you? Are you going to be invisible forever?" "No. I'm just not visible to the pony eye!" Voice was now behind her. She started and whirled around. "You're not a pony?!" "Neither are you! Now plug your ears. Things are about to get looouuudd up in here!" Twilight chose not to, and waited. She then heard the biggest, loudest inhale in the world and- "GUUUUUUYYYYYSSSS!! I FOUND HER!!!" "Why are you so loud? Can't you do it a different way!?" Twilight shouted, her ears ringing. She vowed to listen to Voice from now on. "I told you to plug your ears, Twi-twi! besides, it's the only way they'll hear me!" "Who? Who will hear you? " "Good things come to those who wait!" Voice responded. "Can you call me Lilac Jump instead of Voice? As much as I like it. . I just, no." "Ok." Twilight and Voic- Lilac jump sat there in the darkness in semi-comfortable silence. Twilight sat down. "You bored now?" Lilac asked. Twilight giggled. "No," she answered softly. "Can I ask you a question?" "Yepperonie!" Shaking her heard in confusion at the strange response, she continued. "How did you know my name? And how do you know I'm "The One'? "You set me free, that's how I know! Not every day you come across your long-lost sister!" Twilight stared. Author's Note Hey guys. More mystery to come, I promise. hope you enjoy. Chapter 2: Into the Land of DreamsTwilight stared into complete darkness, stunned speechless at what Lilac had revealed. Sisters? Impossible! She had only just met Lilac Jump minutes ago; they certainly weren't blood-related! She was pretty sure her parents would have said something, and besides, if they really were sisters, why had Lilac come out now? Why now? Why not sooner? . . .You set me free, that's how I know. . . the thought looped in her head. Twilight blinked and shook her head to clear it. "So," She started and her voice broke. "S-so, I set y-you free-e? What does that mean?!" "Yes, you've set me free, which is a dream come true, and it means everything to me." Lilac's response was soft, her voice reflecting a fond tone. "You're safe with me! I pllomise! There's nothing at all to worry about!" She stated cheerfully. "Lilac?" Twilight started again, her eyes wide. "Mm?" Lilac turned to her little charge. Despite the darkness, Lilac could see her. Before Twilight could respond, and unbeknownst to her, a another voice spoke: "Little one, reassured that thee and thy friends shall join ye in due time. . ." "Lilac, welcome home, sister. We've missed you dearly! Is this her?" Twilight heard another voice, crisp and airy, laced with the northern Manehattan accents, and a hint Canterlot. "Gentle Wave! Yepperonie, this is her!" Once again, before Twilight could open her mouth to speak, the darkness began to fade, replaced by different shades of blue and purple. Sapphire, cyan, and soft baby blues surrounded her on all sides, encasing her in pure beauty. the colors began to cull and thicken mixing together. Purple was dotted here and there. Hints of pinks and indigo glowed brightly, and white shining lights, some brighter and bigger that others, were scattered everywhere and as far as the eye could see. The whole scene seemed like something out of a watercolor painting. Twilight slowly spun in a circle, her mouth open in pure awe as she drank in the pulsing sight. "Wha. . what is this place?" she breathed. "It's all so very beautiful!" "This is beauty of the night. We are in the dimension of Dreamscape, a land of dreams-" "MEMES AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN!!" Lilac interrupted. "Lilac, darling, please collect yourself before you have an aneurysm! But yes, this is the lands of dreams, Miss Sparkle." Gentle Wave frowned at Lilac's behavior, and shook her head. Twilight looked beneath her feet. She was standing on the glowing, pulsing white lights. There were thousands of them. "You are standing on stars, dearest," Gentle Wave explained. "Now come, time is of the essence!" "STARS!? But how is that even remotely possible??" Twilight exclaimed, aghast at what she just heard. Feeling rather nervous about what she was standing on, she jumped about, testing the star-made floor's durability. Gentle Wave giggled and shook her head, amused at the young girl's naivety. "It isn't," Lilac deadpanned, her face dark and stormy. Then the sun broke through. "But that's half the fun!" "Lilac! Don't be ridiculous!" Gentle Wave chided, glaring at her sister. Lilac giggled and stuck her tougue at gentle Wave, who reclined in disgust. "Aww, but I'm so good at it!" She whined. "What is? What's half the fun?!" Twilight frantically asked, looking between the two,breathless after making sure the "floor" was completely solid. "Nevermind that, Twilight-" "But where's the other half? You need two halves to make a whole," Twilight stated, matter-of-factually, cutting Gentle Wave off. "You need two eyes to make a face, and I don't have one!" Lilac chirped. She grabbed Twilight and held her hand loosely, raising her other hand to the midnight sky. "You're thinking about it too hard, darling. Come now, let's go meet the others." Gentle Wave also raising her hand up and joining it with Lilac's. She peered at Lilac until Lilac made eye contact. Are you positive you know this is her? We've been locked away for thousands of years, and you don't believe me?! I know Pinkie sense is telling me, and you and I both KNOW that my Pinkie sense has NEVER failed me before! She may not be NOW but if we teach teach her, maybe LATER on. . . I trust you but. . . This is new. . . Well duh! It is a new millennia! "There's more of you?!" Twilight was incredulous a big smile on her adorable little face. "Uh huh! So c'mon!" Lilac giggled and jumped up and down The three joined hands. As they did, Twilight gazed at her, aliebit older, newfound friends and realized, like before, both were translucent, yet solid... She wondered how that was possible. The hands she was holding felt solid, but see-through. . . Were they spirits? If so, are they revengeful? Why her? Despite Lilac's earlier answer, Twilight didn't believe her. Who else was she going to meet and why? Then a thought entered her mind and her tracks spiraled downward into chaos. Was she being kidnapped!? What could she possibly have that they wanted? Would she be able to retun home? Why? Why her? Twilight had so many questions, but she was tight-lipped. If she asked, would she even get a straight-forward answer? What would the others be like? While her brain was spinning a million miles an hour, the trio gently levitated into the air, rising into nether-realms beyond the mortals' imagination. Questions and worries forgotten, Twilight looked around at her surroundings in awe as her feet rose higher and higher. "Um. .. L-Lilac? Where exactly are we going?" She asked, her question struggling between tones of firm and desperation, kicking her feet helplessly. How high had they risen? How were they even accomplishing this feat? "Home. My home," came the simple reply. It wasn't enough, but Twilight let it go, thinking it best it she kept her mouth shut. The reply was simple yes, but it almost ominous, and Twilight knew both girls. . . Spirits? Entities? Whatever-she knew both of them were hiding something. A surprise maybe? She certainly hoped so. Her parents and especially her brother had drilled her about "Mr. Stranger Danger", and these girls. . . Well, they certainly didn't seem dangerous. . . but you never knew, and there was something off about them. They began walking along a solid surface and Twilight was so immersed in her thoughts, she didn't realize it until they had stopped and colors of twilight and dusk began fading. It got darker and darker. Twilight blinked as the light completely went out. She frantically searched for assurance from Lilac and Gentle, who were still holding her. Then Gentle released her grip on Twilight and snapped her fingers. A sapphire-blue aura surrounded her hand, glowing softly. She touched one hand to the other and began waving and shifting her hand in a delicate sequence, her eyes closed. Twilight's eyes widened as she realized that Gentle was summoning something. The blue aura surrounded 4 objects and brought them close. Gentle lightly tapped each one of them. "Arise my sisters," she spoke. "We have a visitor." The four objects began glowing of their own accord: red, orange, and soft yellow, and royal magenta. They began swiftly circle Twilight, who squeaked in fright, put up a guard, and shut her eyes. Faster and faster they spun, twinkling like little bells and wind-chimes, the colors merging together and glowing brighter. Gentle and Lilac smiled at each other and once again joined hands. Hot pink and sapphire blue joined the fray. The sound of ringing bells grew steadily louder. Twilight opened one eye and gasped in wonder as the full rainbow circled and waved around her, encasing her in pure energy and light. She timidly reached out touched the swirling light with one finger. The rainbow glowed brighter and turned to a snow- blinding white. Twilight screamed and hugged herself. Silence. Then- "Well, I'll be darned! Lilac, you're pure genius!" A voice, and one with an accent from the southern reaches of Equestrian. It was to her left. "Hi, Twilight, we been waiting for you for a long time," Another voice, one soft and timid, sounded to her right. Twilight opened her eyes and gasped again. Standing in a semicircle, with Gentle and Lilac behind them, were three girls. One was standing off a little ways from her right, her back arched. Her hands were intertwined and she had her eyes closed. She had a muscular, fit look about her, her pure white dress swirled around as the it was being blown by wind. She was pretty, to say the least, but the most striking feature about her was her hair: It made a full color change, a bright spectrum of brilliant colors, the style choppy in places, yet smooth. She stopped and turned to Twilight, a small, playful smirk on her face. Her eyes were a piecing magenta. Twilight froze in place. The girl lowered herself at eye level and smiled. "Hey, there kiddo." Her voice was hard and raspy. The girl next to her had soft, long lavender hair, that was completely straight, but ended in large half-curls. Her eyes were tear-drop shape, and a sweet teal color, fringed by long lashes. Her arms were hidden behind her back and she looked down at Twilight with kind eyes, an small smile on her face. She was also wearing a white dress.Twilight assumed she was the one with the soft voice. The girl to her left long golden locks secured by a scarlet ribbon. Her eyes were a sharp, emerald green, and white freckles dotted her face. A orange, green, and tan bandanna hung loosely about her neck, and another ribbon cinched her waist. She was brushing her hair back, her other hand cradling an old, worn, and weathered Stetson hat. Twilight looked beyond the three, to Gentle and Lilac. What she saw confirmed it. All five of them were wearing pure white. And so was she. Twilight held her breath, trying not to freak out. The golden -hair girl stepped towards and held out her hand. "The only thing ye can wear up in this here joint is white. This place is pure, and so white," she explained. Twilight forced herself to breath and took a step forward, gripping golden-hair's hand and shaking it. The grip was light, yet strong and the hand was rough from years of outdoor work. Gentle Wave stepped up and placed her hand on Twilight's shoulder. "Twilight Sparkle, let me introduce you to my dear sisters," she gestured at the others. "Blazing Light, Kind Breeze, and Steady Truth. And of course, you already know Lilac and me." "You all are sisters?" Twilight asked. Having the names made it a lot easier to tell who was who. The five glanced at her then at each other, smiling. "That's right, sugar." "But-but how!" Twilight burst out. "You look nothing alike!" She could barely feel it, but there was a very subtle tension in the air around them, and it was so thick, she could have cut it with a knife. "You don't have to be related by blood to be related by love," Kind Breeze stated. Lilac giggled and joined in, giving Kind Breeze a tight squeeze. "Besides, we've been friends for sooo long, we might as well be sisters!" "Only you would say that, Lilac," Blazing Light said with a smirk, glancing at her sister. Lilac stuck out her tongue, releasing Kind Breeze. "Twilight Sparkle, huh?" Steady Truth gazed at her thoughtfully. "Suits ya." "Um, thanks? Gentle Wave?" Twilight turned to face Gentle, blinking in surprise at Blazing Light and Lilac, who were wrestling on the ground. She hadn't heard anything. "Yes?" "You touched four objects, and three of them turned out to be girls, I guess, but where is the fourth?" she asked. Blazing and Lilac stopped and looked at Twilight in surprise. Steady gave a long whistle and Kind Breeze stared at her with wide eyes. Twilight stayed silent. Had she done the wrong thing? Finally, Blazing Light broke the awkward silence. Twilight flinched as she did. "Wow, you're inquisitive, Lilac was right." Twilight looked at her curiously. She was about to speak, but Blazing cut her off: "Look, you're right, there were-there ARE four objects, it's just. . ." She trailed. "We're really sensitive about it-you didn't do anything wrong, it's just, it wasn't something meant for your eyes," Kind finished. "Butnowthatyouhave,andit'stoolate,wemightaswellshowittoyouandgiveittoyou,aswell,consideringit'syours!" Lilac rambled off, very fast, a resolved determination alighting in her eyes. The other looked at her in horror. "LILAC!" they shouted in sync. "You can't! It'll kill her!" Blazing shouted. "Have you forgotten she's mortal!?" Gentle demanded. Lilac raised an eyebrow and jerked her head at Twilight, who was slowly backing away in fright at the sudden yelling. "Ahem, it won't if she's the one, right?" Twilight's eyes darted at each and everyone, nervous at the response. The five girls again made eye contact. Steady sighed, resigned. "She's right." "Steady, you can't be serious-" "I AM. Do we have any other option-" "Can we please not fight? In FRONT OF HER?" Kind asked, glaring at them. The others hung their heads, but Lilac bounced forward, surprising Twilight with her sudden cheerful attitude. "Don't worry, Twily-bird! friends fight sometimes, but that doesn't mean we're mad at you!" "Friends? I thought you were sisters," Twilight deadpanned, frowning. Blazing burst out laughing. "You got us there, kid, I wasn't kidding when I said you were smart, but friends, especially best friends or sisters, does it make a difference?" "I guess not," Twilight replied. "Now,"Gentle clapped her hands sharply, and stepped forward. "Back to the matter at hand: We have something we believe belongs to you." She snapped her fingers again, a baby-sapphire color encasing her fingers. As Kind gently guided Twilight forward, her eyes widened in the realization; the aura around Gentle's hand was one of the colors that had appeared to the rainbow! The blue aura grew brighter until it adopted a ice-blue color. Twilight squinted against the bright light. A shape with six sharp points emerged from the blue light. It was a star, royal purple in the center, fading out towards a magenta hue towards the edges. It was glowing and fizzing slightly, levitating of it's own accord. The others smiled fondly at it, watching it fizzle and pop, sparks flying. Twilight recognized the gem, and she was certain Tartarus had just frozen over. "Is. . . is that the ELEMENT OF MAGIC!!?" Author's Note Hello, For those of you who don't know what cull means: To thin out, strip off, layer by layer. Anyway, this chapter took forever, thank you all for your encouragement. I hope to have the next one out, but I'm nearing the end-of-the-year exams, so I can't make any promises. Hope you all enjoy. if you have question or predictions of what might happen next, please comment them. I would love to hear your thoughts. Chapter 3: EOH: Backstory". . . And the elements of harmony? Elements? Where have I heard that before?" Tucking the book in her saddlebags, the little filly raced to the castle, ignoring anyone and anything that got in her way. The Princess would know, of that she sure. The Princess knew everything! Twilight darted through the halls, evading guards and servants alike as she did so. Arriving at the throne room, the girl screeched to stop, her flying feet ripping the velvety fluff from the red carpet that lined the halls. Twilight looked at the damage she'd caused to the thousand bit rug. She shrugged with indifference. Her question held much more importance that an old rug. Besides, the servants would fix it. They always did. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and raised a fist to knock on the twin doors that towered above. She slammed her fist against the marble twice, wincing as her efforts were barely audible. She hoped the Princess had heard her. Otherwise, there no seeing the her. 20 seconds passed, and Twilight took a step backwards. The massive doors swung inward, guards straining to keep them open. Warm, golden, sparkling magic engulfed the little girl and swept her inside, right as the guards' strength gave out. "Thank you," Princess Celestia nodded at the guards. "Twilight, this is a surprise. What is it?" The Princess rose and walked to meet her little protégé' halfway. Twilight dashed up to her, coming to a stop about five feet away. "What are the Elements of Harmony?" came the breathless response. Celestia started in surprise, her eyes wide. Twilight took that as an invitation. She scrambled pas the princess and jumped on the throne and settled down to hear the answer. She was sure there was going to be a story involved. There always was. Celestia looked at her little charge and smiled. She turned and joined her, scooting Twilight over to the side.. "Why do you want to know?" "Because I read about them in this book!" Twilight replied, eagerly holding up spoken book. Celestia eyed the book and paused. According to the title, it was a guide to the Elements. Only one person had written that book, and copies were incredibly rare. "Where did you get that book, Twilight?" Celestia's tone touched on wary, and the guards standing by entrance looked her with concern, spears tightening in their grip. "From the library! It's written by the best author ever!" Twilight cheered, her magic spazzing in her excitement. Twilight looked at the cover. The Elements of Harmony: a guide on how to weld Them, by Starswirl the Bearded the Great Twilight looked back at her mentor, a happy smile on her face. Celestia looked her student. Such eagerness shown in those eyes. Eagerness to prove the impossible. It was a harmless question. And her answer would harmless, right? There was no way her student, so young and loving of knowledge, would go frolicking off on useless adventure to find six objects of legend that didn't even exist! So many bright minds had lost themselves to this legend. Including the author. Starswirl was so enthralled with these fabled objects, he'd lost his mind when he wrote that book. Celestia shook her head. She had to do something before Twilight- "Princess, are you alright?" came the little voice. Too late. Celestia sighed, and forced a smile on her face. "I'm fine. Let's see, the Elements of Harmony were six objects of unimaginable power. Each held a force of nature, and whoever bears them was only to use them for good, lest they be banished from the world. It is also said that the Elements were sentient, and could tell the difference between right and wrong." "Wow." Twilight gazed at her mentor in awe. Celestia smiled again. "In order for the power to be welded, the Elements need hosts for manifestation. However, no such hosts worthy have ever been found." "What can they do?" "They?" "Yes! What can the elements do?" "Well, according to legend, one controls the sky, one over the waters, forests, ground, spells, and so on." "But that's only five," Twilight interjected, frowning. "You said there were six!" Celestia chuckled. "So I did. The sixth element not only had the power of the previous five, but it had the power of life and death. The Elements could create, destroy, banish, and redeem." "WOW!" "Wow indeed. But Twilight, do you believe any of I've said is real?" "Um. . . Should I?" "No." "But you always say that every legend has a kernel of truth to them?" "Yes, but this one has no more evidence of existance than book about colorful ponies learning lessons and going on adventures together. So please, don't believe everything you read in the library. Can you do that?" "Yes, Princess." Twilight looked dejected, but Celestia knew that the cold, hard truth was the best option right now. She refused to let Twilight subject herself to the same fate of so many others. "But why would Starswirl write a book about something that doesn't exist?" Twilight asked. "We may never know the answer to that, my student." Twilight frowned. Then a question pricked at her mind "The Elements don't exsist, right?" Celestia gazed down at her student. What is on your mind, little one? "Yes," she answered slowly. "Because something like that is impossible?" She asked again. "I think so. I know this might surprise you, little one, but not even I know everting. When I heard tales of these powerful jewels, I grew lost in the lore and went out countless times in search of them, but i was fruitless. When I quit looking for them, so many others took my place, and many never returned. Starswirl was one of them." "Is that why he disappeared?" "Yes, Twilight." "But that doesn't make any sense! Why write a book on something that's considered impossible and then go out searching for it?" Silence. Then. . . "He wrote it because he believed in the impossible," the princess finally answered. "And i believe, he wrote it as he traveled in search of them. There are so many things we will never know, little one." Author's Note Hello, Sorry for the wait. I hope you all enjoy. Chapter 4: Dreams v. RealityThe five girls smiled at each other at the little girl's excitement and disbelief. "Yes, Twilight, that's the element of Magic," Gentle responded. "And its YOURS for the taking!" Lilac proclaimed, her smile grower wider by the minute. Twilight could scarcely believe it-the ELEMENT OF MAGIC was HERS. Magic, the most powerful tool known to Equestria- scratch that, Equus- was hers. "B-but. . . How?!" Blazing Light bent to her knees, making eye contact with Twilight. "Because you are the only soul for millennia even close enough to represent all that Magic is for. All of us," She stood and gestured to all of them, "represent something. But Magic represents all the element of harmony, and you have piece of each in your soul, making you the perfect candidate for a Bearer." Bearer. As in Starswirl, a bearer. "Like Starswirl?" Kind Breeze flinched at the child-like question. Wow, I forgot she was only six! This might be harder than I previously thought! She looked Gentle, who nodded in response. "Yeah, sugar. An' besides, the element chose you personally! Who are we to say no?" Steady Truth said. "Wow. . ." Twilight murmured. Then she realized. "Wait, the Element of Magic is pure magic, right?" she asked excitedly. "Magic is magic is magic!"Lilac chirped. Her sisters stared at her blankly. "Uh, yeah, okay, sure. . ." Blazing looked at Steady. What the hay? Twilight completely dismissed Lilac's comment. "So how do I use it!?" "Use it?" her new friends asked simultaneously. Twilight gave them a deadpanned look. "OH!" Lilac caught on. "No, no, no! Hehe! The element of magic is sentient, silly! You can't use it willy-nilly! It DECIDES whether you GET to use the magic it has. Which means no magic lessons, sorry. Using the Element of Magic has to be earned, not taught." "But if I didn't earn it, how is it mine?" Twilight asked. The question took the girls aback, and their faces clearly showed it. Gentle and Kind stepped back, stunned. Blazing was mentally smacking herself. How had they not thought of that? Twilight looked at the glistening jewel in her hands, looking for answers. She found none, just a shiny, hard surface that stared back at her. "We don't know. But I'm sure Magic knows, and the answer should be explained in due time," Kind said. "So enough of the statistics! We got a ton of answers and not a lot of questions! Let's do something else!" Lilac suggested, bouncing a little ways away from the group, the starry surface beneath her feet flickering as she did so. "Uh, you mean, a ton of questions, and not a lot of answers?" Blazing corrected. "Yeah, that! Now c'mon!" Lilac appeared behind them, grabbing Twilight's hand. "Let's go explore!" The group lifted off, floated through layers of stars. twilight marveled at the sight, the brilliant colors swirling and intertwining with one another, stars fighting each other for the spotlight. Her father, Night Light, had once told her that each star was a galaxy, a a whole unexplored universe with planets, a sun, and ever more stars. There were more stars in the universe than grains of sands on beaches, leaves in trees. Twilight had never believed those statements until now. Stars were virtually uncountable. Twilight also knew that she probably the first equestrian mortal to see this sight. The thought made her smile. Discoveries in indeed. The group sang and played together as they danced among the celestial entities, laughter echoing everywhere. The girls' white dresses shone brightly like shooting stars. It was such a happy place, and Twilight never wanted to leave. the last thing she saw was a happy smile in her reflection. ~ "Morning, sis." The deep voice woke her. Twilight sat up quickly, her eyes quickly focusing on her older brother. He was siting on her bed. Her bed. She was here, at home. She wasn't in dreamscape. It was a dream. Of course! Twilight groaned, closed her eyes, and flopped back down. She wanted to go back. "Go away!" "Well, what do you expect, Twily? It's really late and you need to get up. It's noon. " Her older brother stated firmly. Twilight Sparkle turned groggy eyes to her brother, who leaning casually on her door frame. Then it hit her. "Wait, its NOON!?" She couldn't believe it! She had never in her life slept this late! It was a crime against her precious study time! She scrambled around her room, books, papers, and clothes flying about as she tore through her room. By the time she found something suitable to wear, and was presentable for school, her room was a royal mess. Her brother was now cowering underneath his shield of pure energy. Twilight giggled at the sight. "I'm done!" she announced. Shining Amour slowly lowered his shield. After making sure the coast was clear, he got a good look at his little sister's room, and his mouth fell open, shocked. "Your room. . . Oh, Celestia! Twily! Mom's gonna be so mad!" "Well, she's gonna be madder if I'm not in school," Twilight countered, frowning. "You don't have school today." "I don't?" "No. . ." "Oh." Twilight looked around at her room. Well, this is a problem, she thought. Then she noticed what her brother was wearing. "What are you wearing?" "Nothing! Clean your room, before mom finds out!" His face flushed and he quickly left, leaving Twilight to her own devices. His footsteps thundered down the ornate stairs. Twilight heard him converse with her parents for the whole of five seconds, before the front doors slammed. Twilight smiled. Of course. Shiny never left the house this quickly unless it was to see Princess Cadance. She began picking up her things slowly, mulling over the past few hours. That was some dream she'd had! She thought it was real; she never imagined she'd come up with something like. She smiled, remembering the flight tricks Blazing Light had preformed, jokes Lilac Jump had said, Kind Breeze's touch, Steady Truth's advice, and the way Gentle Wave crafted Twilight's style. She'd had so much fun in the stars with all of them, she was sad it was just a dream. How she wished it was real. She touched her hair, and jerked her hand back in surprise. Gentle Wave had braided her straight hair and folded the braid over her head, leaving small curls to brush against her cheeks. Twilight remembered how much Gentle had raved over her new look. And it was still there! The braid was messy, but still wrapped over her head! Twilight looked around frantically, and then pinched her self, wincing. She wasn't dreaming! The braid on her head was a s real as the bed frame in front of her. Then a rose-colored glint of light caught her attention. Twilight made her way slowly over to her nightstand. An opened letter lay half-folded on the dark wood. Twilight didn't recall seeing the letter before, so she picked it up and opened it. A a dark, indigo-colored velvety pouch slipped out and lightly bounced on her bed. Twilight glanced at it, then looked at the letter. It was a short message. It read: "Dear Bearer, you dropped this on your way back. Count on seeing us again!" ~ EOH In a trance-like state, Twilight dazedly picked up the pouch and shook it, the object inside falling into her hand. It was a magenta-colored, six-sided star. The Element of Magic. There was no doubt in Twilight's mind, that that was what this was. It hadn't been a dream. It was real! She whirled around, and headed downstairs; she couldn't wait to tell her parents all she had learned and seen. Should I tell them, she wonder as her little legs pumped down the stairs. They never said no. . . "MOM!! DAD! You'll never guess what I've . .. Found? Where'd everyone go?" The place was completely empty. "Huh? Mom? Dad? BBBFF? Hello?" Let her go! As long as she is in my grasp, she shall never be free~ She's just a little girl, she knows nothing! And neither do they! Oh? LAUGHTER!! Sorry! They? Oh please, do divulge more. I created you, remember? It's least you can do. . . Voices. And some of them sounded familiar. "Hello? W-who's there- Memf!" Something slammed into her mouth, and her body stilled, completely stiff. A warm sensation settled around her, the air around her growing steadily thick and sticky. Twilight tried to scream for help, to move, anything. But she was frozen still. Twilight couldn't breath-She couldn't even move! LET HER GO!!!! "Help. . . me. . . !" The Other Sides"To write a story, you must know the beginning, the end, and the morals. Without these things, a story is just what it is: a story."- Doyle "Welcome to the official Cloudsdale flight training ground, a place where Sky-Bornes learn to live in the sky!" The speaker gestured wildly around, waving in parents, fillies, and random bystanders into the slowly forming crowd. The clouds beneath grew dark with the weight. The murmuring and chatter of the crowd grew so loud it was almost impossible to hear the present speaker. Above the crowd, three pegasi in matching yellow and sky-blue suits stood perfectly still on on a wayward cloud, surveying the crowd with analytical eyes. A stallion, a dusty tangerine with an windblown fire-red mane stepped forward slightly. "See anything, girls?" The mares behind him shook their heads in sync. One was slightly smaller than the other, with light blue eyes, and a long, creamy white mane. The other mare had fiery yellow, and bright tangerine eyes. "This is stupid!" one of the mares suddenly spoke. "I don't how he expects us to spot any talent when we've barely adjusted to the team ourselves!" "Flashwind," the stallion said, turning to her. "We were given this job, and by all means, I intend on find someone." "If we don't spot anyone, we've failed!" Flash whined. "Hey, cool it, we've just started. If we don't spot anyone , we don't spot anyone. If we don't by the time our shift is over, it doesn't means we've failed, it simply means no one here has any talent." "Flash, shh! I think I see something!" The stallion took an eager step forward and hunched down. "Where?" "In the middle of that crowd of fillies, rainbow hair? You can't miss it!" "Nioce hair." The smaller mare, Flametrail, hunched down beside the stallion. "She looks like she might have some talent. I certainly like her spunky attitude so far." "Yeah, well, attitude isn't everything." The other mare replied. The filly in question was flitting her small wings excitedly. Waiting for announcements, it seemed. "Anyone spot her parents?" The stallion asked. "Nope, looks like she's alone." Below, a trumpet rang out, silencing everyone. A mare with a coat as white as snow and a sliver mane, stepped out onto the makeshift stage. He tested it, and then spoke. "Alright! I like what I see so for. First of all, we want to thank every Pegasus for joining us and trusting us to not kill your kids. A chuckle drizzled through the crowd. "I'm Misted Feather, and I'm going to be telling you kids all the happenings here at flight camp. Now don't be nervous, be excited! This is a really big step, and the fact that you guys are here, shows courage! Which is exactly what we need. You parents have have been through this, so now's the time. We'll gather here again when the school year starts. But you better think hard and fast about this, and if you aren't sure you want your kids here after all, now's your chance to walk away." The three pegasi atop the cloud watched, bemused, as goodbyes were said and parents slowly took off. Flashwind noted that several fillies left with their parents, in tears. Ah well, too bad. They'd be back. "OKAY! Eyes forward! LISTEN UP!! This is where I get serious. Although flight is natural for us, we do take this very, very seriously. So, Imma let a friend of mine take the floor. Mind him, or he will set you straight, and trust me, you don't want that. Commander?" she steeped aside. Another stallion joined her. He had a mane as black as night, and coat with sliver and white streaks decorated his back. "You kids had better prepared your little wings. We're headed up to the cloudasseum, where i'm gonna have nice long chat with each and every one of you. Watch your back, there are enemies everywhere! But first, there are a few thing we need to cover. Never, EVER, underestimate yourself, unless you know EXACTLY what you're capable of. IF you THINK you can get away with being lackadaisical in my class, I'm sorry to burst your flimsy little bubbles, but YOU'RE WRONG!! Every single pegasus in this entire class is capable of being a amazing flyer, but it takes courage, heart, and inner strength, to FACE your fears, and learning to lift off. Ice Winds knows I don't mean, lifting a couple inches above wisps- I mean eleven thousand feet above ground, if you're lucky enough to even get that high. And you currently are. My name is Razor Wings, and I plan on turning you kids into lean, mean, flying machines. Some of you might even become Wonderbolts." Excitement rippled through the nervous crowd. He rolled his eyes, exasperated. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. WoNderBOlTs! Feh! However, IF you don't meet my expectations, we are going to have a problem. Every single thing you will say will start and end with the word: 'sir'. AM I CLEAR!?" "Sir, yes sir!" came the unified response. He smiled slightly. "Alright. Let's go! Let's go! No dilly-dallying! I want your wings up and flapping!" Up on the cloud, Flametrail spoke."Hey, Blaze, we'd better skedaddle if we wanna be there before them." "Okay, let's go." They took off. The stallion lingered, his eyes on the rainbow filly. Hmm, he thought. She just might be it. But why does she have my attention? He wondered. "Hey, Blaze! C'mon!" Flametrail called back to him. He shook his head and took off after the mares. Below, a pair of rose-colored eyes beneath rainbow hair watched them leave, glittering in excitement. Those were the Wonderbolts! But why were they looking at me? Author's Note Hey ya'll, been a while. Here's an update. Enjoy. The Other Sides (Part 2)Sweat poured down her face. She shook her head vigorously to get her hair out of her eyes. Then she turned around, her back to the tree. She leaped forward, away from the tree, and landed on her hands, swinging her legs up. They hit the trunk with tremendous force, sending golden-red apples raining down. She grabbed a basket and darted around the tree, catching, dodging, and picking fallen apples. She spotted her older a few trees up father than she was on her row. She growled in frustration, and, letting competition get to her, moved on without a second thought. The filly's name was Applejack, first daughter of Bright Mac and Pear Butter, with emerald eyes and golden locks, separated into loose pigtails that draped over her shoulders and down the front. It had been two years since her return from Manehattan, and she almost missed the city life. . .just a little bit. To be clear, the one thing she'd actually liked about that place was the fact that there was no work to be done. Like, ever! Home is home, she thought, an' even if I have chores. I wouldn't have any other way. "Applejack, I done!" Her little sister, Apple Bloom, bounced around the trees Applejack had finished, the basket on her head wobbling, scattering apples everywhere. Applejack smiled. Since she'd returned, her sister had begged and begged to help out on the orchard. She had, apparently "convinced" Granny Smith that she was old enough, but Applejack hadn't bought it. At that at age, she hadn't been old enough. Even though she wasn't much help, she was still a lot of fun to be around. "Focus, AB. Look around you. Pick up those apples ya dropped!" "Oh, sorry!" She bounced away, picking up her fallen apples. Applejack turned around at the sound of footsteps. Her older brother lumbered over to her, a strand of wheat dangling from his mouth. He glanced and Apple Bloom, frowned, and turned to her. "AJ, remind me why she's out here again?" "Aw, Mac, she's makin' the time passed faster. An' don it do ya heart good ta see her so happy?" "Hmm," was all he said. He watched his baby sister jump around and fall over herself in excitement over the fallen apples. A smile broke the corners of his mouth and his eyes softened. "Just keep 'er safe, will ya?" He shook his head before quietly returning where he left off. Applejack smirked. Although he disliked it, he hadn't made a move to stop her or refute her decision. The big softy. "I aim ta please," she muttered. Her mood suddenly turning dark, she glared at the tree before her and swiftly twirled, her leg rising up to give the trunk a swift kick. Her sandal slammed against the bark, a few pieces breaking off and falling. The movement sent apples tumbling down. Applejack circled the tree while bright green leaves drifted around her, gathering apples and putting them into stick-woven baskets; before moving on to the next tree. A few rows away, Big Macintosh watched her with a calm and careful eye. He frowned as he watched his little sister kick the trees with awful ferocity. Her eyes were dark, and he knew she was just barely holding in the tears. He shook his head again. 6 years. 6 years had passed and she'd never gotten over it. He, of course hadn't either, but she was so bipolar. A temper like no other. One would think Apple Bloom would be more angry, seeing as how she'd never met them. But what's done is done, and there wasn't any changing it. ~ The sun hung lazily over the horizon, revealing a light yellow and deep orange beneath it. Clouds drifted overhead, tinted with a faded pink. The leaves slowly changed from green to yellow and red, as they stretch beyond the farm. The birds chirped here and there, and Applejack could just barely make out the spring peepers. She sighed in contentment and stretched out comfortably on the red and white checkered picnic blanket. Her chores were done. All she had to do now was wait for the dinner bell. Macintosh was inside, helping Granny, she supposed. Her little sister was still gathering the apples she'd dropped. Applejack was a little bummed it had taken her this long, and she had complained to Big Mac, but he'd assured her that'd it had taken her just as long when she was about that age. Oh, well. The day was nearly over. She could finally relax for the evening. "Applejack! I done!" Apple Bloom walked carefully towards her older sister, two small baskets cradled in each arm, and three apples nestled in her hair. Applejack burst laughing when she saw the sight. "Wha?" Her little sister sat down beside her, losing a couple apples in the process. "Oh nuthin'," came the response. "Aw, c'mon, tell me, what's so funny?" Apple Bloom asked, her eyes bright. "You." "What about me?" "Ya lookin' like an apple princess," Applejack replied, smiling. Apple Bloom smiled uncertainly for a second, then frowned. "I don't get it." Applejack waved it off. "Aw, never mind." "Alright." "Ya did good taday, AB." "Thanks!" "Why don't you go put them apples where they belong?" "Okay!" She scampered off. The smile faded off Applejack face as she thought back to earlier. She frowned. She had messed up, of that she was sure, but she was just so. . .ANGRY all the time! She just wished she had someone to talk to. Someone who would understand. Someone her own age. Sure, she could talk to her own folks, but Granny would give her advice a century old, Macintosh wouldn't say much of anything, (And why would he, he wasn't a boy!) and Apple Bloom would ask question upon question, if she confided. But they would have. They would have totally understand- They had been in the same situation. And no matter what, they'd always made her feel better. But ever since. . . then, she'd told them to leave. To her shame, they had. She wished she could start over to that fateful day. She was sure she could've done something differently. But what's done is done, and there wasn't any changing it. . . Unless you when back in time. Back in time. . . Such wishful thinking, my little one. . . Author's Note Hey guys! The Other Sides (Part 3)"It's a dream come true," She murmured softly, her voice caught up in the zephyr, and carried it over the land stretched before her. Long, soft pink hair swept against her arms, as she started forward, her footsteps barely making a sound as she plodded forward, the long grass waving hypnotizingly back and forth. "It's everything I've ever wanted!" Her mustard yellow wings spread and caught the breeze, lifting her a few feet in the air. She angled toward, leveling with the horizon, her white sandals brushing the tallest stalks. "It was hard, but I did it! I'm here! I'm home!" she sang, hugging herself. One of her wings closed while the other tipped downward, causing her to go into a sideways spin. She landed again, and dance forward on tiptoe, her arms and hair playing with the wind in a nameless dance of joy. A dance without music. Minutes turned to hours, and before long she found herself laying contently in the grass, almost invisible. She smiled, he teal eyes closed. She had her own place, in a town far away from home. She was on her own. The sun shown brightly down on her, warming her pale skin. ~ The chittering sound of birds and a very insistent rabbit, prodded a soundly sleeping Fluttershy from slumber. She blearily opened her eyes to the sun sinking low in the horizon, It's yellow and orange hues blossoming out to dark indigo colors. "Oh, my, I better get back before it gets dark! Thank you, my friends!" She called out. She began skipping, and with her wings partly spread, not a dent in the stalks was made. The wind played with her hair and feathers as she made her way to a large shadow in the near distance. Birds flocked and flew alongside her, singing in harmony with the wind. She spread her wings fully, and flew the rest of the distance, closing it quickly. "Good night, friends!" She called once more, before lading softly on her doorstep, closing and locking the door behind her. Birds outside trilled in response, before carrying on with previous conversations. She slumped against the wooden door, and closed her eyes, sighing in contentment. Finally. A place of her own. Long and hard had she worked for this. Unpacking and settling in, would be a breeze. "Sis!" She picked up a good-sized box, hefting it to her hip, before turning a surveying the room before her. She knew what what was inside the box. Problem was, where would she put it? "Fluttershy! Please! Wake up! She's coming!" the voice shouted, breaking Fluttershy's focus. "Eep!"Teal eyes snapped open and she sat up. Spotting a boy at her bedside with a panicked look on his face, she whipped the threadbare covers aside, and swung her feet down on the icy floor, standing ramrod straight. The boy darted behind her, and towards the other side of the room. She quickly smoothed her dress. Jus the door opened with a bang, and a woman, her sliver wings opening slightly. stood there, her sharp, gray eyes scanning every inch of the vicinity. "Well," She drawled, "it appears some of you thought it was okay to wake up late, I suppose?!" "No, Ms. Whitewing," Fluttershy instantly responded, her voice meshing with a chorus of many others. "Hmph!" Fluttershy swallowed, incredibly nervous. She had been dreaming, and a wonderful dream it had been, but thank Ice Wind one of her roommates had woke her. Otherwise, she might not be. "Did you know why I'm up here, with you useless excuses for pegasi?" She snapped, striding forward. Pegasus after pegasus quickly moved aside, letting the woman pass. "No, Ms. Whitewing," the voices chorused again. They closed in behind her. She came to an abrupt halt. In front of Fluttershy. Fluttershy instantly looked down, and took a step back. This was it. Today was the day. "Today's your lucky day, Miss Shy! I expect good things from you! And I'd better not see you here again, or Ice Wind help me, I will strip you! Are we clear?!" "Y-yes, Ms. Whitewing, crystal," she mewled. "Good! Pack your stuff, if you even have anything, and get out!" Fluttershy squeaked and darted away from the intimidating woman. She raced towards the bathroom, was quickly out of sight. Whiitewing scoffed and turned on her heels, striding out of the room, as pegasi scrambled to get off of her way. A collective sigh of pure relief was heard as the heels clunked down the marble stairs. Inside the bathroom, Fluttershy was plastered against the wall. She followed their example, slumping against the wall. She grabbed a toothbrush, and quickly walked back through the room, making her way to her bed and snatched the the flour bag from underneath her pillow. She then darted towards the door where Whitewing had exited, and tiptoed down the stairs, her feet brushing the white marble. A few murmurs trailed in her wake. There were no goodbyes, no tears, and no friends. There never was. She'd seen and heard it too many times. And she knew that once she was on the outside of the building she was completely and utterly on her end. The only good thing about the outcome facing her: No more Whitewing. "Good, you're here. Finally! Out you go! Scoot!" Ms. White wing clasped her thin, left shoulder and shoved her unceremoniously out the door. " AND DON'T COME BACK!!" The door slammed shut. Fluttershy quickly stood up and raced around the building to the back, where she wouldn't be seen, inside or out, by anyfeather. The back was where many of the children had hung out for several days, before they disappeared for good. She'd seen it before. Way too many times. She also knew that if she stayed here for long, she'd freeze, especially with Blue Eyes White drawing near. She quickly dusted off her measly nightgown and stripped, her dirty mustard-yellow wings hiding her from sight. When they parted, Fluttershy stood there with a white tee, two-sizes too small, and a pair of black leggings. She clutched the ratty flour sac tighter and squeezed her eyes shut, feeling the first tears pricking the corners of her eyes. No crying, tears will freeze to you, and everyfeather will know you're weak! She silently chastised herself. Opeing them, she took a few timid steps forward in the direction she'd just come, ears pricked for for an sort of noise. Hearing nothing, she spread her wings and took to the sky. She pumped her wings raising herself higher and higher above her previous home. Home for Little feathers, it was called, an orphanage built several to house the young homeless in Pegasopolis, another reminder of just how hard life was here. Flutttershy was 17 as of today, and at 17, you were considered an adult, and responsible to be on your own. But she didn't feel like it. The only adult role she'd ever known was Whitwing, and although she was grateful to her for food and a roof, it just wasn't enough. It was a well-known fact the that Whitewing had had the entire estate remodeled into a mansion of incredible majesty. The richest of the rich. She belongs with the magic-grounders, thought Fluttershy, almost bitterly. She'd fit right in! The building had three floor and two wings, with a tiny little attic above where she and the other children stayed. When Whitewing had bought the orphanage, the fledglings there thought she was going to help. But they were wrong. Ms. Whitewing was paid pretty bit every day to collect more orphans from the street. Where they disappeared, nofeather knew. They didn't question it either. To be fair, more orphans meant less space, and Pegasopolis was going smaller. It was to help the cause, the flock needed to be stronger in order to win this fight. So, 'Praise the damn flock!' as they say. Fluttershy settled on a small cloud and thought it over. Objective: Grow out, get out. Status: Complete. Second objective: Join the Flock. Status: Almost impossible, and she had nary a friend. "Hey there, fledgling," a voice drawled. Fluttershy froze at the voice and the sound of flapping wings. "You lost?" "No." "Need help?" Fluttershy paused at that, and stared at the outstretched hand. It's owner was a pale-faced man, with white wings and pink eyes. Albino. Fluttershy gasped in surprise, stood, and jutted her wings out threateningly. "No! I don't!" She said very quickly. "You can go, now!" "Hey now-" "I don't need anything!" She turned away from him and shut her eyes tight. Please go away, please go away, please go aw- "You sure, sugah?" A white hand landed on her thin shoulder. "No!" She squeaked, and thrusted her wings against him, pushing him back. He yelled in anger. She gasped and took off again. He gave chase. Albino pegasi were dangerous, very dangerous. Young fledgings, whether male or female, were in equal danger. Albinos were fast and speedy, and their pink eyes gave them an unnatural ability to see things a lot better. . . like how many layers of cloths you were wearing. They also tended to blend in, REALLY well. Fluttershy squeaked again, and flew faster, pushing her limits. She sneaked a look behind her. Bad move. He was gaining on her. "HEY!" A hand blocked her vision. She screamed, flailing and kicking, as she felt her wings get locked into place via rope. "Hey. . ." "Lay off her, airhead!" Fluttershy fainted. The Other Sides (Part 4)". . . I never realized just how difficult this is! This is absurd! You're saying I must chose?! No, no, no! Absolutely not! I refuse! This is-!" "Impossible? Unthinkable? Why would you do this? Dare you do this? How on earth can you be expected to make such a choice because it something nopony should ever have to make and yet, here you are? Indeed. I've been there. I've done what you're doing and trust me, It does not get any easier. Now be sensible, dear! Time is of the essence!" "Wait, wait, wait, please! Hang on! I have just one question, and I believe you owe me an answer! After everything I've just gone through to prove my self-worth, it is the very least you can do!" "Very well." "Why me?" A pair of eyes blinked gently at her, snow white pupils framed by swirling rainbow irises. "Tis' your fate, dearest," came the answer. Her fate. Her fate? She knew her fate, and this was certainly not it! "And what happens, should I chose not to make this choice that is such a matter of life and death? What happens?" "YOU SHALL NOT ENTERTAIN SUCH THOUGHTS!!!" How? How? There is no way she should be able to resist. . ."You have a day to think about it. . ." The voice, so rich and crisp, faded into the haunting darkness, taking all light and love with it. She awoke in a cold sweat, gasping for breath. Her hair was atrocious, and she was wrapped in a chrysalis of sheets. A day to think about it? Think about what? Why was this thing so important? Why was the "choice" she was "making" so difficult? Mother always said 'Too many questions, too little time.' Hmm. . . Well, I do have a day to think about it! Her sapphire blue eyes snapped open, taking in her surroundings. She was in her room, in her high canopy bed. The sun was just starting to show it's rays, the sky above a kaleidoscope of melting pinks, blues and yellows. She stared at the picture-pretty scene, the cogs in her head spinning faster and faster. Such a cheery sight compared to her life right now. She yawned, and, like a refined lady, wrestled the sheets for dominance, whipped them aside, and got out of her bed, as graceful as could be. She slinked over to her bathroom, toe to heel, her feet making nary a sound on the beautifully black-and-white tiled floor. She pushed open the French doors, and disappeared inside. She sighed. In a life like this, having an arranged marriage had it's perks, but sometimes, she wished it was more simple. She was always going somewhere, always preparing, it got really tiresome, despite how dull her life had previously been. She hardly ever got time to spend with her husband, and she literally never had time to herself. She missed her simple life. She missed. . . them. "Mistress, the prince wishes thy presence, post-haste!" She screamed, her feet slipping. The damned servants ALWAYs had bad timing! "Mistress! Are you alright?! Shall I send for-" "NO! No, BlueCloud! That won't be necessary!" She frantically replied, scrambling to get her bearings amidst the rushing water and slick ceramic. "Well-" "BLUECLOUD!! I'M. . .! I'm fine. I'll tap the bell when I'm ready for you, alright darling? Just please-Oh!" "Mistress?!" "Leave, please!" came the response. BlueCloud frowned. Mistress's voice was always cool and composed, but she sounded as though she were o the verge of tears! Nevertheless, an order had been given, and she had to oblige. she walked a away, closing the door behind her. *** Another long, exhausting day come and gone. She sighed, reclining into the cushions. "Dearest, a package came in the sending for you." "Oh? Why, thank you, Blue Blood. Who's it from? Prince Blue Blood, High Tier Ruler of Unicornia, and her husband, clicked his tongue with disdain, and glared at her. She winced, composed herself, and tried again. "Dearest, sweetie, I thank you with upmost sincerity. Pray, from who is the package from?" "That's better!" he snapped. "A lady as lucky as you should know better that to talk to me like I'm some common rabble!" he chided, carelessly tossing a small, purple and white box threw the air. Scoffing, he turned on his heel, and stalked out, the doors slamming behind him with a resounding thud. She leapt up, hands fumbling for the little box arcing through the air towards her. "GOTCHA!!" she declared. Nearby handmaids stared down at her incredulously. She blushed, and quickly scrambled to her feet, dusting herself off. "Ahem, that's enough cleaning for now, thank you! Dismissed!" her chin tiled towards the ceiling, and she watched through slitted eyes as the women dropped what they were doing and left her in peace, the double doors closing with a quiet click. She sighed with relief and plunked down, soft blue magic picking at the box's purple ribbon impatiently. The was a black, triangle tag attached, but she paid it no mind. The box opened, revealing a large, perfectly cut, sapphire. Her eyes widened in in joy and disbelief. She looked around quickly, and ever so gently, scooped the large jewel into her hands. A high-pitched, yet quiet squealed bounced throughout the room, as she danced through the room in pure joy. She spun to a stop, hugging the gem to her bosom, and gazed at it adoringly. She simply could not wait to get it fitted! Her albino-white hand passed over the reflecting surface. her mind began t wonder. She looked at the remains of the little box laying on the teal couch. Why would give this to her? Why? She looked down at the jewel again, her hand rubbing the surface again. She blinked. . . and apparently missed it. "Wha. . . What?! Where am I?!" Pure darkness. Everywhere. It was just her. Her and her gem. No, surely not! Not again! "Rarity!!!! The voice faded in and out. "What!? Yes!? Who's there?!!" "Rarityy. . .! You. . .must. . .accept!! "Accept!? Accept what?! "Your destiny. . .! What do you want most in this life. . .?" The voice grew steadily clearer and closer. Her destiny? What she wanted most. . .? "I. . . want. . ." Tears pricked at her eyes, and she squeezed them shut. Emotion bubbled over and she lost all rhythm and reason. A warm sensation swirled up her legs, slowly spinning her counter-clock-wise. Rarity's eyes opened wide, blinding light pouring from her eyes and mouth, as her previous life flashed before her. The sensation encased, and she lost all sense of touch, utterly weightless. Her arms spread outward, and her back arched in the snow-angle position. The jewel began glow softly, sapphire rings of pure energy pulsing towards the young girl. "I want to help my people. . . I accept. . ." She disappeared in a flash of brilliant and azure light, leaving the darkness to take over, once again. "Good choice, my precious, dark diamond. I shall retrieve you, one day. . ." The doors slammed open, revealing a beet-faced Prince. "RARITY!! THIS IS NOT THE .. . .time for. . ." The room was empty. There was no sign she existed, save for the little purple and white box, it's triangular, black tag flutter helplessly in the slight breeze from the opened windows. ". . . Your games?" Blue Blood gaped. Where had she gone? Author's Note Hello, Please enjoy. Imma hit the sack before my eyes closed and I wake up on the stairs in the dreaded morning. Goodnight. The Other Sides (Part 5)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
PrologueLong before the Two Sisters ever came to vanquish the God of Chaos and Disharmony, nor before the time of the Three Tribes, there lived Six Spirits. Before ponykind was created, these six spirits reveled in the harmony and beauty of their world. They lived in different parts of Equus; one flew with the never-ending Sky, one lay upon the mighty Ground, one in the emerald forests of green, one in deep waters, one in the depths of the earth, and one dwelled within core of Equus. Nay, they never grew tired of the world they created together, but they wished for a creature unlike the rest, something that could think, and hopefully grow with them, in friendship and harmony. So, they created pony-kind, in their own image, and gave him a mind, speech, and free will to do as he pleased. The Ponies grew in vast numbers, and spread wide over the land. The spirits were indeed pleased with their new creation, and spirit and pony lived alike in kind. Time passed, and slowly, ponies had need for knowledge and power, and began to fight one other to achieve it. Some considered themselves more important and higher than other. Tensions rose and fell like a wave. Wars raged and ravaged to earth, ticking on and off like a clock. With each passing day, Equus weakened in magic, and began shrink and wither. Evil brewed within hearts of those most powerful and it slowly began infect the Spirits. They too began fighting among themselves. The youngest could only stand back and watch, as the their pride and joy became their biggest mistake. She began undertake the biggest task yet, and tried with all her might to save her people, but found she couldn't do it alone. She pleaded with others for their help, but was turned away. The Sky and Land Spirits were enraged at what had become of their world and decided to destroy it and start over. This idea was proposed to the others. The others agreed, somewhat reluctantly, but the youngest refused. She was adamant on giving their people a second chance, however small it may be. Her siblings refused and all left their places, breaking the magic ties within the Core, killing the very essence of magic and banishing the youngest into the very depths of eternity. This movement unleashed a great evil, and with it, the spirits of the light and darkness. These two spirits saw what was left of the war-ravaged planet and resolved to save it. They succeeded, in doing so, and became King and Queen of the land. They managed to get the little ponies to stop fighting for the top, but they weren't successful in getting the three species to get along. Despite the king and queen's plea, the three species decided to split and stick with their own kind. After some years of this, the King and Queen left in charge three high-upstanding leaders, and unbeknownst to them, very much enemies: Commander Hurricane of Pegasopolis, Princess Platinum of Unicornia, and Commander Pudding-head of Earth-born. Queen Sunshine and King Darkness-" "My parents. . . Little one, where did you find this?" "In the library," came the immediate reply. "So wait, they're your parents!? What are they like? Can you tell me how-" "Hush now. The questions shall come later," the response was gentle, yet firm. "But I have so many!" Twilight complained. "Like, you told me, for example, the your parents created Equestria, but this says the these spirits, whatever they are-" "Twily, c'mon, give it a rest. The Princess said you can ask questions later." Her brother, Shining Amour stepped in. "But Shiny-" "Your brother is right, Twilight. Now, instead if this, don't you have lessons to continue?" Princess Celestia's niece, Candance inquired. "Nope! Got them all done! Then I got bored and found this in the library!" "Twilight Sparkle," Princess Celestia addressed. She arose and walked around the little filly seated on the floor. "I understand, and as much as I would love to answer questions and finish this story, I, regretfully, have duties to attend to. You certainly wouldn't like it if the sun was up while you slept, would you?" "No." Twilight looked down at the scroll, disappointed. "Shining Amour, Cadenza, I trust you will see Twilight to the Library to return the scroll?" "Of course, Princess!" Shining Amour snapped to attention. Princess Celestia smiled and stepped over to her niece. "He'll make a fine royal guard one day," she whispered. Candance blushed and nodded. Twilight, still sitting on the floor, glared at the Princess's retreating figure. She didn't even let me finish! She thought darkly. Shining Amour noticed his little sister's face and scowled at her. "Stop that, and c'mon. The faster we can get to the library, the faster we'll get home." Twilight stuck out her tongue. "I don't need your help! I know the way!" she snapped and flounced off. "Put that fictional scroll back where you found it!" her brother called after her. "I will!" she responded, intending to the exact opposite. Once she reached the library, she ducked in to the corner, and opened it back up. There's a lot more than I realized, she thought, looking up and the clerk, to see if the mare was watching. I'll just finish it and put it back. . . . left and now reside in a place called heaven, where, one day, in would be possible to live forever with friends and family. Of course, no such thing exists. "No such thing exists? wondered Twilight. If the princess is real, surly heaven is real too, right? "Something wrong, filly?' asked old librarian, gazing concernedly at her. "Nope! Just reading a confusing book!" "Very well." Twilight sighed with relief and eagerly continued: . . . It take an immense amount of magic to create, I myself would know. But then again, perhaps not, for I have been trapped here for so long. Until my paper prison is read, I shall never be free. . . Twilight gazed at the ceiling in silence, wondering what it would be like to be trapped within the pages of her favorite books. She supposed it wouldn't be so bad. Actually, the idea appealed to her quite nicely. looked back down and screamed aloud in fright. The words that were previously there had vanished, and in it's place were the words: "Thank you, Twilight Sparkle, for setting me free. Now I am able to fix my mistake, through you. The Librarian rushed over just as the little filly fell over in a heap, having collapsed. The distraught mare called for help and she frantically looked over the girl for and sign of injuries. Amidst the chaos, nopony noticed the six-sided star on Twilight's flank glow a deep, bright magenta pink. Author's Note Hey, guys. This is my first story, so I hope you enjoy. I took inspiration from Gboyd - check her out! Also, check out Cartoonapoolis Adventures and CrimsonWalker. I edit for the both of them as well. I'm not gonna away any spoilers, so. See ya next chapter!
Chapter 1: A Day of Firsts"Hey, little sis?" Her brother entered the room, his face depicting a picture of curiousness. "Yes?" Twilight looked up at him. "Do you remember that old scroll you found? You know, the one that spoke of Celestia's parents and stuff?" He asked. "Yeah, why?" "Whatever happened to the old thing? You were so obsessed with it." he laughed. "You slept like you used with Smarty-pants!" Twilight blushed and she angrily stood to face her brother, pushing her chair back. "I was NOT obsessed! That's what you think!" "Whatever. Hey, I'm headed out, so uh, take care, kay'? MOM! I'm out!" he winked at her and walked out, closing the door gently behind him. Twilight rolled her eyes and sighed, a frown etched on her forehead. I wasn't obsessed, she thought.I just wanted answers. The scroll she'd found was hidden deep in her memory, she had it memorized to the letter. She had never quite forgiven Spike after he'd burned it up. It was a total accident of course, and it was partially her fault, but still. She had found something that not even Princess Celestia didn't know, and Princess Celestia knew everything! She still wondered what she had set free. Wether it was good or bad, it had yet to effect her, or anyone else. She thought maybe it was a prank someone had planted, but the excitement had faded. She still thought about it from time to time. "Twilight sweetie! Come here, please!" Her mother called from the other room. With another sigh, Twilight made her way around the table and entered the next room. Her mother looked at her with concern. "Are you all right, dear? You're awful pale." "I'm fine, just bored is all. I hate summer!" Her mother raised an eyebrow. "That's something I can add to the list of things I'd never thought I'd hear. Go outside, enjoy your summer! Staying in the dark house is making you into a vampire." Twilight inwardly rolled her eyes. Her mother just didn't get it! She didn't have any friends to play with, except for Spike and he was at daycare. Her backyard had already been thoroughly explored a million times, she doubted she'd find something new. She would go out like Shining Amor, but. . . he had friends. She didn't. She sighed again and slowly trudged outside. The sun was really bright. Too bright for her taste. She growled under her breath and, squinting, walked slowly to a shady spot provided by some trees. She plopped down and looked up at the blue sky. Guessing what shapes the clouds could turn into wasn't even an option. She closed her eyes, listening to the quiet breeze. "Bored?" Her eyes shot open in surprise. She was quite certain she hadn't spoken and she was the only one in the yard. Thinking quickly, Twilight ready to face her, uh. . . Who ever was there! "Who's there!?" "Whoa, slow your roll, girl! I'm not gonna hurt you. And please don't try looking for me-" "Where are you?!" "Quick on the draw, arentcha?" Twilight lowered her hackles, eyes narrowed. She was still alert but sensed no danger. "You wanna do something fun?" "Fun? With you? I don't think so," she retorted, taking a small step forward. "Hey, I'm not gonna be the ONLY one there. Besides, you might learn something." The response had a musical note to it, and high-pitch that was rather pretty to listen to. "Learn?" Twilight was excited. She loved learning! Maybe Voice might be able to her teach new magic- "Come closer! Closer, closer!" Twilight did as asked, taking a small tentative step. She looking directly at her fence, which had nothing interesting about it, but there was obviously something there. "CLLOOOOSSERRRR. . ." The voice dropped to a playful whisper, followed contagious laughter. In spite of herself, a small smile tugged at the corners of Twilight's mouth. "Where am I going? Are we playing a different version of Green light-red light?" "Huh? Never heard of that game!" A sprinkle of laughter was heard and Voice continued. "Take three steps forward!" Twilight did so and stopped, looking up at the trees, fully ready for what might happen next. Voice was right, this was fun. But she wasn't learning anything. "Take us to the land of dreams, a land that no one else has seen!" Voice recited. Before Twilight could ask what she'd said, A small round ball of pure energy from in the little clearing, brilliant, rainbow-y colors swirling. Twilight's eyes widened with wonder. "Woah, what it this? it's beautiful!" "Thanks! I've been working on it for a million years!" "A million years? Wait, how old-" "Touch it!" Twilight was dumbfounded. Was Voice dumb? Every filly knew you couldn't touch pure energy. It was the same thing as lightening, and besides her hand would just go right through it- "Your hand's not gonna right through it, silly! You're not gonna get zapped, and I made it solid so it's touchable!" Voice explained. Twilight was now speechless. Had Voice read her mind?! "Nope! You haven't given me permission to! I wouldn't do it anyway, even if I could! It's mean and intrusive! Your expressions are so easy to read, that's all." Twilight shrugged. Everything was too complicated right now. She touched the ball with a shaky finger. She felt nothing different, yet she knew something about her was different. "What did you do to me?!" "You did something, not me, silly! You didn't have to touch it, I simply asked you too, it was optional. And I'm glad you did! If I'm right, you're the one! The absence of conscience is not conscience of absence, ya know!" That doesn't make any sense, thought Twilight. Am I going crazy? Am I dreaming? "Hey, that's where we're going!" "Huh?" "Dreamscape, a wondrous land of dreams, memes, and everything in between! Now c'mon, we're wasting moonlight!" Twilight looked at her surroundings incredulously. It was day time. Noon, in fact. The sun was at it zenith. "Wait!" Twilight took her finger back and steeped back wards, now fearful. "Voice?" "Hmm, not my name, but I'll go with it! Yes?" "Where we're going, will I be able to return home?" Twilight asked. "I don't know! Let's find out!" Voice responded. The floating ball glowed brightly, causing Twilight to shut her eyes. * * * When she opened them again, she was in completely different place, and it was pitch black. She couldn't even see her hand in front of her face. She was standing on something solid at least. That was a plus. She tried looked behind her but she still couldn't see Voice."Voice? Where are you? Are you going to be invisible forever?" "No. I'm just not visible to the pony eye!" Voice was now behind her. She started and whirled around. "You're not a pony?!" "Neither are you! Now plug your ears. Things are about to get looouuudd up in here!" Twilight chose not to, and waited. She then heard the biggest, loudest inhale in the world and- "GUUUUUUYYYYYSSSS!! I FOUND HER!!!" "Why are you so loud? Can't you do it a different way!?" Twilight shouted, her ears ringing. She vowed to listen to Voice from now on. "I told you to plug your ears, Twi-twi! besides, it's the only way they'll hear me!" "Who? Who will hear you? " "Good things come to those who wait!" Voice responded. "Can you call me Lilac Jump instead of Voice? As much as I like it. . I just, no." "Ok." Twilight and Voic- Lilac jump sat there in the darkness in semi-comfortable silence. Twilight sat down. "You bored now?" Lilac asked. Twilight giggled. "No," she answered softly. "Can I ask you a question?" "Yepperonie!" Shaking her heard in confusion at the strange response, she continued. "How did you know my name? And how do you know I'm "The One'? "You set me free, that's how I know! Not every day you come across your long-lost sister!" Twilight stared. Author's Note Hey guys. More mystery to come, I promise. hope you enjoy.
Chapter 2: Into the Land of DreamsTwilight stared into complete darkness, stunned speechless at what Lilac had revealed. Sisters? Impossible! She had only just met Lilac Jump minutes ago; they certainly weren't blood-related! She was pretty sure her parents would have said something, and besides, if they really were sisters, why had Lilac come out now? Why now? Why not sooner? . . .You set me free, that's how I know. . . the thought looped in her head. Twilight blinked and shook her head to clear it. "So," She started and her voice broke. "S-so, I set y-you free-e? What does that mean?!" "Yes, you've set me free, which is a dream come true, and it means everything to me." Lilac's response was soft, her voice reflecting a fond tone. "You're safe with me! I pllomise! There's nothing at all to worry about!" She stated cheerfully. "Lilac?" Twilight started again, her eyes wide. "Mm?" Lilac turned to her little charge. Despite the darkness, Lilac could see her. Before Twilight could respond, and unbeknownst to her, a another voice spoke: "Little one, reassured that thee and thy friends shall join ye in due time. . ." "Lilac, welcome home, sister. We've missed you dearly! Is this her?" Twilight heard another voice, crisp and airy, laced with the northern Manehattan accents, and a hint Canterlot. "Gentle Wave! Yepperonie, this is her!" Once again, before Twilight could open her mouth to speak, the darkness began to fade, replaced by different shades of blue and purple. Sapphire, cyan, and soft baby blues surrounded her on all sides, encasing her in pure beauty. the colors began to cull and thicken mixing together. Purple was dotted here and there. Hints of pinks and indigo glowed brightly, and white shining lights, some brighter and bigger that others, were scattered everywhere and as far as the eye could see. The whole scene seemed like something out of a watercolor painting. Twilight slowly spun in a circle, her mouth open in pure awe as she drank in the pulsing sight. "Wha. . what is this place?" she breathed. "It's all so very beautiful!" "This is beauty of the night. We are in the dimension of Dreamscape, a land of dreams-" "MEMES AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN!!" Lilac interrupted. "Lilac, darling, please collect yourself before you have an aneurysm! But yes, this is the lands of dreams, Miss Sparkle." Gentle Wave frowned at Lilac's behavior, and shook her head. Twilight looked beneath her feet. She was standing on the glowing, pulsing white lights. There were thousands of them. "You are standing on stars, dearest," Gentle Wave explained. "Now come, time is of the essence!" "STARS!? But how is that even remotely possible??" Twilight exclaimed, aghast at what she just heard. Feeling rather nervous about what she was standing on, she jumped about, testing the star-made floor's durability. Gentle Wave giggled and shook her head, amused at the young girl's naivety. "It isn't," Lilac deadpanned, her face dark and stormy. Then the sun broke through. "But that's half the fun!" "Lilac! Don't be ridiculous!" Gentle Wave chided, glaring at her sister. Lilac giggled and stuck her tougue at gentle Wave, who reclined in disgust. "Aww, but I'm so good at it!" She whined. "What is? What's half the fun?!" Twilight frantically asked, looking between the two,breathless after making sure the "floor" was completely solid. "Nevermind that, Twilight-" "But where's the other half? You need two halves to make a whole," Twilight stated, matter-of-factually, cutting Gentle Wave off. "You need two eyes to make a face, and I don't have one!" Lilac chirped. She grabbed Twilight and held her hand loosely, raising her other hand to the midnight sky. "You're thinking about it too hard, darling. Come now, let's go meet the others." Gentle Wave also raising her hand up and joining it with Lilac's. She peered at Lilac until Lilac made eye contact. Are you positive you know this is her? We've been locked away for thousands of years, and you don't believe me?! I know Pinkie sense is telling me, and you and I both KNOW that my Pinkie sense has NEVER failed me before! She may not be NOW but if we teach teach her, maybe LATER on. . . I trust you but. . . This is new. . . Well duh! It is a new millennia! "There's more of you?!" Twilight was incredulous a big smile on her adorable little face. "Uh huh! So c'mon!" Lilac giggled and jumped up and down The three joined hands. As they did, Twilight gazed at her, aliebit older, newfound friends and realized, like before, both were translucent, yet solid... She wondered how that was possible. The hands she was holding felt solid, but see-through. . . Were they spirits? If so, are they revengeful? Why her? Despite Lilac's earlier answer, Twilight didn't believe her. Who else was she going to meet and why? Then a thought entered her mind and her tracks spiraled downward into chaos. Was she being kidnapped!? What could she possibly have that they wanted? Would she be able to retun home? Why? Why her? Twilight had so many questions, but she was tight-lipped. If she asked, would she even get a straight-forward answer? What would the others be like? While her brain was spinning a million miles an hour, the trio gently levitated into the air, rising into nether-realms beyond the mortals' imagination. Questions and worries forgotten, Twilight looked around at her surroundings in awe as her feet rose higher and higher. "Um. .. L-Lilac? Where exactly are we going?" She asked, her question struggling between tones of firm and desperation, kicking her feet helplessly. How high had they risen? How were they even accomplishing this feat? "Home. My home," came the simple reply. It wasn't enough, but Twilight let it go, thinking it best it she kept her mouth shut. The reply was simple yes, but it almost ominous, and Twilight knew both girls. . . Spirits? Entities? Whatever-she knew both of them were hiding something. A surprise maybe? She certainly hoped so. Her parents and especially her brother had drilled her about "Mr. Stranger Danger", and these girls. . . Well, they certainly didn't seem dangerous. . . but you never knew, and there was something off about them. They began walking along a solid surface and Twilight was so immersed in her thoughts, she didn't realize it until they had stopped and colors of twilight and dusk began fading. It got darker and darker. Twilight blinked as the light completely went out. She frantically searched for assurance from Lilac and Gentle, who were still holding her. Then Gentle released her grip on Twilight and snapped her fingers. A sapphire-blue aura surrounded her hand, glowing softly. She touched one hand to the other and began waving and shifting her hand in a delicate sequence, her eyes closed. Twilight's eyes widened as she realized that Gentle was summoning something. The blue aura surrounded 4 objects and brought them close. Gentle lightly tapped each one of them. "Arise my sisters," she spoke. "We have a visitor." The four objects began glowing of their own accord: red, orange, and soft yellow, and royal magenta. They began swiftly circle Twilight, who squeaked in fright, put up a guard, and shut her eyes. Faster and faster they spun, twinkling like little bells and wind-chimes, the colors merging together and glowing brighter. Gentle and Lilac smiled at each other and once again joined hands. Hot pink and sapphire blue joined the fray. The sound of ringing bells grew steadily louder. Twilight opened one eye and gasped in wonder as the full rainbow circled and waved around her, encasing her in pure energy and light. She timidly reached out touched the swirling light with one finger. The rainbow glowed brighter and turned to a snow- blinding white. Twilight screamed and hugged herself. Silence. Then- "Well, I'll be darned! Lilac, you're pure genius!" A voice, and one with an accent from the southern reaches of Equestrian. It was to her left. "Hi, Twilight, we been waiting for you for a long time," Another voice, one soft and timid, sounded to her right. Twilight opened her eyes and gasped again. Standing in a semicircle, with Gentle and Lilac behind them, were three girls. One was standing off a little ways from her right, her back arched. Her hands were intertwined and she had her eyes closed. She had a muscular, fit look about her, her pure white dress swirled around as the it was being blown by wind. She was pretty, to say the least, but the most striking feature about her was her hair: It made a full color change, a bright spectrum of brilliant colors, the style choppy in places, yet smooth. She stopped and turned to Twilight, a small, playful smirk on her face. Her eyes were a piecing magenta. Twilight froze in place. The girl lowered herself at eye level and smiled. "Hey, there kiddo." Her voice was hard and raspy. The girl next to her had soft, long lavender hair, that was completely straight, but ended in large half-curls. Her eyes were tear-drop shape, and a sweet teal color, fringed by long lashes. Her arms were hidden behind her back and she looked down at Twilight with kind eyes, an small smile on her face. She was also wearing a white dress.Twilight assumed she was the one with the soft voice. The girl to her left long golden locks secured by a scarlet ribbon. Her eyes were a sharp, emerald green, and white freckles dotted her face. A orange, green, and tan bandanna hung loosely about her neck, and another ribbon cinched her waist. She was brushing her hair back, her other hand cradling an old, worn, and weathered Stetson hat. Twilight looked beyond the three, to Gentle and Lilac. What she saw confirmed it. All five of them were wearing pure white. And so was she. Twilight held her breath, trying not to freak out. The golden -hair girl stepped towards and held out her hand. "The only thing ye can wear up in this here joint is white. This place is pure, and so white," she explained. Twilight forced herself to breath and took a step forward, gripping golden-hair's hand and shaking it. The grip was light, yet strong and the hand was rough from years of outdoor work. Gentle Wave stepped up and placed her hand on Twilight's shoulder. "Twilight Sparkle, let me introduce you to my dear sisters," she gestured at the others. "Blazing Light, Kind Breeze, and Steady Truth. And of course, you already know Lilac and me." "You all are sisters?" Twilight asked. Having the names made it a lot easier to tell who was who. The five glanced at her then at each other, smiling. "That's right, sugar." "But-but how!" Twilight burst out. "You look nothing alike!" She could barely feel it, but there was a very subtle tension in the air around them, and it was so thick, she could have cut it with a knife. "You don't have to be related by blood to be related by love," Kind Breeze stated. Lilac giggled and joined in, giving Kind Breeze a tight squeeze. "Besides, we've been friends for sooo long, we might as well be sisters!" "Only you would say that, Lilac," Blazing Light said with a smirk, glancing at her sister. Lilac stuck out her tongue, releasing Kind Breeze. "Twilight Sparkle, huh?" Steady Truth gazed at her thoughtfully. "Suits ya." "Um, thanks? Gentle Wave?" Twilight turned to face Gentle, blinking in surprise at Blazing Light and Lilac, who were wrestling on the ground. She hadn't heard anything. "Yes?" "You touched four objects, and three of them turned out to be girls, I guess, but where is the fourth?" she asked. Blazing and Lilac stopped and looked at Twilight in surprise. Steady gave a long whistle and Kind Breeze stared at her with wide eyes. Twilight stayed silent. Had she done the wrong thing? Finally, Blazing Light broke the awkward silence. Twilight flinched as she did. "Wow, you're inquisitive, Lilac was right." Twilight looked at her curiously. She was about to speak, but Blazing cut her off: "Look, you're right, there were-there ARE four objects, it's just. . ." She trailed. "We're really sensitive about it-you didn't do anything wrong, it's just, it wasn't something meant for your eyes," Kind finished. "Butnowthatyouhave,andit'stoolate,wemightaswellshowittoyouandgiveittoyou,aswell,consideringit'syours!" Lilac rambled off, very fast, a resolved determination alighting in her eyes. The other looked at her in horror. "LILAC!" they shouted in sync. "You can't! It'll kill her!" Blazing shouted. "Have you forgotten she's mortal!?" Gentle demanded. Lilac raised an eyebrow and jerked her head at Twilight, who was slowly backing away in fright at the sudden yelling. "Ahem, it won't if she's the one, right?" Twilight's eyes darted at each and everyone, nervous at the response. The five girls again made eye contact. Steady sighed, resigned. "She's right." "Steady, you can't be serious-" "I AM. Do we have any other option-" "Can we please not fight? In FRONT OF HER?" Kind asked, glaring at them. The others hung their heads, but Lilac bounced forward, surprising Twilight with her sudden cheerful attitude. "Don't worry, Twily-bird! friends fight sometimes, but that doesn't mean we're mad at you!" "Friends? I thought you were sisters," Twilight deadpanned, frowning. Blazing burst out laughing. "You got us there, kid, I wasn't kidding when I said you were smart, but friends, especially best friends or sisters, does it make a difference?" "I guess not," Twilight replied. "Now,"Gentle clapped her hands sharply, and stepped forward. "Back to the matter at hand: We have something we believe belongs to you." She snapped her fingers again, a baby-sapphire color encasing her fingers. As Kind gently guided Twilight forward, her eyes widened in the realization; the aura around Gentle's hand was one of the colors that had appeared to the rainbow! The blue aura grew brighter until it adopted a ice-blue color. Twilight squinted against the bright light. A shape with six sharp points emerged from the blue light. It was a star, royal purple in the center, fading out towards a magenta hue towards the edges. It was glowing and fizzing slightly, levitating of it's own accord. The others smiled fondly at it, watching it fizzle and pop, sparks flying. Twilight recognized the gem, and she was certain Tartarus had just frozen over. "Is. . . is that the ELEMENT OF MAGIC!!?" Author's Note Hello, For those of you who don't know what cull means: To thin out, strip off, layer by layer. Anyway, this chapter took forever, thank you all for your encouragement. I hope to have the next one out, but I'm nearing the end-of-the-year exams, so I can't make any promises. Hope you all enjoy. if you have question or predictions of what might happen next, please comment them. I would love to hear your thoughts.
Chapter 3: EOH: Backstory". . . And the elements of harmony? Elements? Where have I heard that before?" Tucking the book in her saddlebags, the little filly raced to the castle, ignoring anyone and anything that got in her way. The Princess would know, of that she sure. The Princess knew everything! Twilight darted through the halls, evading guards and servants alike as she did so. Arriving at the throne room, the girl screeched to stop, her flying feet ripping the velvety fluff from the red carpet that lined the halls. Twilight looked at the damage she'd caused to the thousand bit rug. She shrugged with indifference. Her question held much more importance that an old rug. Besides, the servants would fix it. They always did. She took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and raised a fist to knock on the twin doors that towered above. She slammed her fist against the marble twice, wincing as her efforts were barely audible. She hoped the Princess had heard her. Otherwise, there no seeing the her. 20 seconds passed, and Twilight took a step backwards. The massive doors swung inward, guards straining to keep them open. Warm, golden, sparkling magic engulfed the little girl and swept her inside, right as the guards' strength gave out. "Thank you," Princess Celestia nodded at the guards. "Twilight, this is a surprise. What is it?" The Princess rose and walked to meet her little protégé' halfway. Twilight dashed up to her, coming to a stop about five feet away. "What are the Elements of Harmony?" came the breathless response. Celestia started in surprise, her eyes wide. Twilight took that as an invitation. She scrambled pas the princess and jumped on the throne and settled down to hear the answer. She was sure there was going to be a story involved. There always was. Celestia looked at her little charge and smiled. She turned and joined her, scooting Twilight over to the side.. "Why do you want to know?" "Because I read about them in this book!" Twilight replied, eagerly holding up spoken book. Celestia eyed the book and paused. According to the title, it was a guide to the Elements. Only one person had written that book, and copies were incredibly rare. "Where did you get that book, Twilight?" Celestia's tone touched on wary, and the guards standing by entrance looked her with concern, spears tightening in their grip. "From the library! It's written by the best author ever!" Twilight cheered, her magic spazzing in her excitement. Twilight looked at the cover. The Elements of Harmony: a guide on how to weld Them, by Starswirl the Bearded the Great Twilight looked back at her mentor, a happy smile on her face. Celestia looked her student. Such eagerness shown in those eyes. Eagerness to prove the impossible. It was a harmless question. And her answer would harmless, right? There was no way her student, so young and loving of knowledge, would go frolicking off on useless adventure to find six objects of legend that didn't even exist! So many bright minds had lost themselves to this legend. Including the author. Starswirl was so enthralled with these fabled objects, he'd lost his mind when he wrote that book. Celestia shook her head. She had to do something before Twilight- "Princess, are you alright?" came the little voice. Too late. Celestia sighed, and forced a smile on her face. "I'm fine. Let's see, the Elements of Harmony were six objects of unimaginable power. Each held a force of nature, and whoever bears them was only to use them for good, lest they be banished from the world. It is also said that the Elements were sentient, and could tell the difference between right and wrong." "Wow." Twilight gazed at her mentor in awe. Celestia smiled again. "In order for the power to be welded, the Elements need hosts for manifestation. However, no such hosts worthy have ever been found." "What can they do?" "They?" "Yes! What can the elements do?" "Well, according to legend, one controls the sky, one over the waters, forests, ground, spells, and so on." "But that's only five," Twilight interjected, frowning. "You said there were six!" Celestia chuckled. "So I did. The sixth element not only had the power of the previous five, but it had the power of life and death. The Elements could create, destroy, banish, and redeem." "WOW!" "Wow indeed. But Twilight, do you believe any of I've said is real?" "Um. . . Should I?" "No." "But you always say that every legend has a kernel of truth to them?" "Yes, but this one has no more evidence of existance than book about colorful ponies learning lessons and going on adventures together. So please, don't believe everything you read in the library. Can you do that?" "Yes, Princess." Twilight looked dejected, but Celestia knew that the cold, hard truth was the best option right now. She refused to let Twilight subject herself to the same fate of so many others. "But why would Starswirl write a book about something that doesn't exist?" Twilight asked. "We may never know the answer to that, my student." Twilight frowned. Then a question pricked at her mind "The Elements don't exsist, right?" Celestia gazed down at her student. What is on your mind, little one? "Yes," she answered slowly. "Because something like that is impossible?" She asked again. "I think so. I know this might surprise you, little one, but not even I know everting. When I heard tales of these powerful jewels, I grew lost in the lore and went out countless times in search of them, but i was fruitless. When I quit looking for them, so many others took my place, and many never returned. Starswirl was one of them." "Is that why he disappeared?" "Yes, Twilight." "But that doesn't make any sense! Why write a book on something that's considered impossible and then go out searching for it?" Silence. Then. . . "He wrote it because he believed in the impossible," the princess finally answered. "And i believe, he wrote it as he traveled in search of them. There are so many things we will never know, little one." Author's Note Hello, Sorry for the wait. I hope you all enjoy.
Chapter 4: Dreams v. RealityThe five girls smiled at each other at the little girl's excitement and disbelief. "Yes, Twilight, that's the element of Magic," Gentle responded. "And its YOURS for the taking!" Lilac proclaimed, her smile grower wider by the minute. Twilight could scarcely believe it-the ELEMENT OF MAGIC was HERS. Magic, the most powerful tool known to Equestria- scratch that, Equus- was hers. "B-but. . . How?!" Blazing Light bent to her knees, making eye contact with Twilight. "Because you are the only soul for millennia even close enough to represent all that Magic is for. All of us," She stood and gestured to all of them, "represent something. But Magic represents all the element of harmony, and you have piece of each in your soul, making you the perfect candidate for a Bearer." Bearer. As in Starswirl, a bearer. "Like Starswirl?" Kind Breeze flinched at the child-like question. Wow, I forgot she was only six! This might be harder than I previously thought! She looked Gentle, who nodded in response. "Yeah, sugar. An' besides, the element chose you personally! Who are we to say no?" Steady Truth said. "Wow. . ." Twilight murmured. Then she realized. "Wait, the Element of Magic is pure magic, right?" she asked excitedly. "Magic is magic is magic!"Lilac chirped. Her sisters stared at her blankly. "Uh, yeah, okay, sure. . ." Blazing looked at Steady. What the hay? Twilight completely dismissed Lilac's comment. "So how do I use it!?" "Use it?" her new friends asked simultaneously. Twilight gave them a deadpanned look. "OH!" Lilac caught on. "No, no, no! Hehe! The element of magic is sentient, silly! You can't use it willy-nilly! It DECIDES whether you GET to use the magic it has. Which means no magic lessons, sorry. Using the Element of Magic has to be earned, not taught." "But if I didn't earn it, how is it mine?" Twilight asked. The question took the girls aback, and their faces clearly showed it. Gentle and Kind stepped back, stunned. Blazing was mentally smacking herself. How had they not thought of that? Twilight looked at the glistening jewel in her hands, looking for answers. She found none, just a shiny, hard surface that stared back at her. "We don't know. But I'm sure Magic knows, and the answer should be explained in due time," Kind said. "So enough of the statistics! We got a ton of answers and not a lot of questions! Let's do something else!" Lilac suggested, bouncing a little ways away from the group, the starry surface beneath her feet flickering as she did so. "Uh, you mean, a ton of questions, and not a lot of answers?" Blazing corrected. "Yeah, that! Now c'mon!" Lilac appeared behind them, grabbing Twilight's hand. "Let's go explore!" The group lifted off, floated through layers of stars. twilight marveled at the sight, the brilliant colors swirling and intertwining with one another, stars fighting each other for the spotlight. Her father, Night Light, had once told her that each star was a galaxy, a a whole unexplored universe with planets, a sun, and ever more stars. There were more stars in the universe than grains of sands on beaches, leaves in trees. Twilight had never believed those statements until now. Stars were virtually uncountable. Twilight also knew that she probably the first equestrian mortal to see this sight. The thought made her smile. Discoveries in indeed. The group sang and played together as they danced among the celestial entities, laughter echoing everywhere. The girls' white dresses shone brightly like shooting stars. It was such a happy place, and Twilight never wanted to leave. the last thing she saw was a happy smile in her reflection. ~ "Morning, sis." The deep voice woke her. Twilight sat up quickly, her eyes quickly focusing on her older brother. He was siting on her bed. Her bed. She was here, at home. She wasn't in dreamscape. It was a dream. Of course! Twilight groaned, closed her eyes, and flopped back down. She wanted to go back. "Go away!" "Well, what do you expect, Twily? It's really late and you need to get up. It's noon. " Her older brother stated firmly. Twilight Sparkle turned groggy eyes to her brother, who leaning casually on her door frame. Then it hit her. "Wait, its NOON!?" She couldn't believe it! She had never in her life slept this late! It was a crime against her precious study time! She scrambled around her room, books, papers, and clothes flying about as she tore through her room. By the time she found something suitable to wear, and was presentable for school, her room was a royal mess. Her brother was now cowering underneath his shield of pure energy. Twilight giggled at the sight. "I'm done!" she announced. Shining Amour slowly lowered his shield. After making sure the coast was clear, he got a good look at his little sister's room, and his mouth fell open, shocked. "Your room. . . Oh, Celestia! Twily! Mom's gonna be so mad!" "Well, she's gonna be madder if I'm not in school," Twilight countered, frowning. "You don't have school today." "I don't?" "No. . ." "Oh." Twilight looked around at her room. Well, this is a problem, she thought. Then she noticed what her brother was wearing. "What are you wearing?" "Nothing! Clean your room, before mom finds out!" His face flushed and he quickly left, leaving Twilight to her own devices. His footsteps thundered down the ornate stairs. Twilight heard him converse with her parents for the whole of five seconds, before the front doors slammed. Twilight smiled. Of course. Shiny never left the house this quickly unless it was to see Princess Cadance. She began picking up her things slowly, mulling over the past few hours. That was some dream she'd had! She thought it was real; she never imagined she'd come up with something like. She smiled, remembering the flight tricks Blazing Light had preformed, jokes Lilac Jump had said, Kind Breeze's touch, Steady Truth's advice, and the way Gentle Wave crafted Twilight's style. She'd had so much fun in the stars with all of them, she was sad it was just a dream. How she wished it was real. She touched her hair, and jerked her hand back in surprise. Gentle Wave had braided her straight hair and folded the braid over her head, leaving small curls to brush against her cheeks. Twilight remembered how much Gentle had raved over her new look. And it was still there! The braid was messy, but still wrapped over her head! Twilight looked around frantically, and then pinched her self, wincing. She wasn't dreaming! The braid on her head was a s real as the bed frame in front of her. Then a rose-colored glint of light caught her attention. Twilight made her way slowly over to her nightstand. An opened letter lay half-folded on the dark wood. Twilight didn't recall seeing the letter before, so she picked it up and opened it. A a dark, indigo-colored velvety pouch slipped out and lightly bounced on her bed. Twilight glanced at it, then looked at the letter. It was a short message. It read: "Dear Bearer, you dropped this on your way back. Count on seeing us again!" ~ EOH In a trance-like state, Twilight dazedly picked up the pouch and shook it, the object inside falling into her hand. It was a magenta-colored, six-sided star. The Element of Magic. There was no doubt in Twilight's mind, that that was what this was. It hadn't been a dream. It was real! She whirled around, and headed downstairs; she couldn't wait to tell her parents all she had learned and seen. Should I tell them, she wonder as her little legs pumped down the stairs. They never said no. . . "MOM!! DAD! You'll never guess what I've . .. Found? Where'd everyone go?" The place was completely empty. "Huh? Mom? Dad? BBBFF? Hello?" Let her go! As long as she is in my grasp, she shall never be free~ She's just a little girl, she knows nothing! And neither do they! Oh? LAUGHTER!! Sorry! They? Oh please, do divulge more. I created you, remember? It's least you can do. . . Voices. And some of them sounded familiar. "Hello? W-who's there- Memf!" Something slammed into her mouth, and her body stilled, completely stiff. A warm sensation settled around her, the air around her growing steadily thick and sticky. Twilight tried to scream for help, to move, anything. But she was frozen still. Twilight couldn't breath-She couldn't even move! LET HER GO!!!! "Help. . . me. . . !"
The Other Sides"To write a story, you must know the beginning, the end, and the morals. Without these things, a story is just what it is: a story."- Doyle "Welcome to the official Cloudsdale flight training ground, a place where Sky-Bornes learn to live in the sky!" The speaker gestured wildly around, waving in parents, fillies, and random bystanders into the slowly forming crowd. The clouds beneath grew dark with the weight. The murmuring and chatter of the crowd grew so loud it was almost impossible to hear the present speaker. Above the crowd, three pegasi in matching yellow and sky-blue suits stood perfectly still on on a wayward cloud, surveying the crowd with analytical eyes. A stallion, a dusty tangerine with an windblown fire-red mane stepped forward slightly. "See anything, girls?" The mares behind him shook their heads in sync. One was slightly smaller than the other, with light blue eyes, and a long, creamy white mane. The other mare had fiery yellow, and bright tangerine eyes. "This is stupid!" one of the mares suddenly spoke. "I don't how he expects us to spot any talent when we've barely adjusted to the team ourselves!" "Flashwind," the stallion said, turning to her. "We were given this job, and by all means, I intend on find someone." "If we don't spot anyone, we've failed!" Flash whined. "Hey, cool it, we've just started. If we don't spot anyone , we don't spot anyone. If we don't by the time our shift is over, it doesn't means we've failed, it simply means no one here has any talent." "Flash, shh! I think I see something!" The stallion took an eager step forward and hunched down. "Where?" "In the middle of that crowd of fillies, rainbow hair? You can't miss it!" "Nioce hair." The smaller mare, Flametrail, hunched down beside the stallion. "She looks like she might have some talent. I certainly like her spunky attitude so far." "Yeah, well, attitude isn't everything." The other mare replied. The filly in question was flitting her small wings excitedly. Waiting for announcements, it seemed. "Anyone spot her parents?" The stallion asked. "Nope, looks like she's alone." Below, a trumpet rang out, silencing everyone. A mare with a coat as white as snow and a sliver mane, stepped out onto the makeshift stage. He tested it, and then spoke. "Alright! I like what I see so for. First of all, we want to thank every Pegasus for joining us and trusting us to not kill your kids. A chuckle drizzled through the crowd. "I'm Misted Feather, and I'm going to be telling you kids all the happenings here at flight camp. Now don't be nervous, be excited! This is a really big step, and the fact that you guys are here, shows courage! Which is exactly what we need. You parents have have been through this, so now's the time. We'll gather here again when the school year starts. But you better think hard and fast about this, and if you aren't sure you want your kids here after all, now's your chance to walk away." The three pegasi atop the cloud watched, bemused, as goodbyes were said and parents slowly took off. Flashwind noted that several fillies left with their parents, in tears. Ah well, too bad. They'd be back. "OKAY! Eyes forward! LISTEN UP!! This is where I get serious. Although flight is natural for us, we do take this very, very seriously. So, Imma let a friend of mine take the floor. Mind him, or he will set you straight, and trust me, you don't want that. Commander?" she steeped aside. Another stallion joined her. He had a mane as black as night, and coat with sliver and white streaks decorated his back. "You kids had better prepared your little wings. We're headed up to the cloudasseum, where i'm gonna have nice long chat with each and every one of you. Watch your back, there are enemies everywhere! But first, there are a few thing we need to cover. Never, EVER, underestimate yourself, unless you know EXACTLY what you're capable of. IF you THINK you can get away with being lackadaisical in my class, I'm sorry to burst your flimsy little bubbles, but YOU'RE WRONG!! Every single pegasus in this entire class is capable of being a amazing flyer, but it takes courage, heart, and inner strength, to FACE your fears, and learning to lift off. Ice Winds knows I don't mean, lifting a couple inches above wisps- I mean eleven thousand feet above ground, if you're lucky enough to even get that high. And you currently are. My name is Razor Wings, and I plan on turning you kids into lean, mean, flying machines. Some of you might even become Wonderbolts." Excitement rippled through the nervous crowd. He rolled his eyes, exasperated. "Yeah, yeah, yeah. WoNderBOlTs! Feh! However, IF you don't meet my expectations, we are going to have a problem. Every single thing you will say will start and end with the word: 'sir'. AM I CLEAR!?" "Sir, yes sir!" came the unified response. He smiled slightly. "Alright. Let's go! Let's go! No dilly-dallying! I want your wings up and flapping!" Up on the cloud, Flametrail spoke."Hey, Blaze, we'd better skedaddle if we wanna be there before them." "Okay, let's go." They took off. The stallion lingered, his eyes on the rainbow filly. Hmm, he thought. She just might be it. But why does she have my attention? He wondered. "Hey, Blaze! C'mon!" Flametrail called back to him. He shook his head and took off after the mares. Below, a pair of rose-colored eyes beneath rainbow hair watched them leave, glittering in excitement. Those were the Wonderbolts! But why were they looking at me? Author's Note Hey ya'll, been a while. Here's an update. Enjoy.
The Other Sides (Part 2)Sweat poured down her face. She shook her head vigorously to get her hair out of her eyes. Then she turned around, her back to the tree. She leaped forward, away from the tree, and landed on her hands, swinging her legs up. They hit the trunk with tremendous force, sending golden-red apples raining down. She grabbed a basket and darted around the tree, catching, dodging, and picking fallen apples. She spotted her older a few trees up father than she was on her row. She growled in frustration, and, letting competition get to her, moved on without a second thought. The filly's name was Applejack, first daughter of Bright Mac and Pear Butter, with emerald eyes and golden locks, separated into loose pigtails that draped over her shoulders and down the front. It had been two years since her return from Manehattan, and she almost missed the city life. . .just a little bit. To be clear, the one thing she'd actually liked about that place was the fact that there was no work to be done. Like, ever! Home is home, she thought, an' even if I have chores. I wouldn't have any other way. "Applejack, I done!" Her little sister, Apple Bloom, bounced around the trees Applejack had finished, the basket on her head wobbling, scattering apples everywhere. Applejack smiled. Since she'd returned, her sister had begged and begged to help out on the orchard. She had, apparently "convinced" Granny Smith that she was old enough, but Applejack hadn't bought it. At that at age, she hadn't been old enough. Even though she wasn't much help, she was still a lot of fun to be around. "Focus, AB. Look around you. Pick up those apples ya dropped!" "Oh, sorry!" She bounced away, picking up her fallen apples. Applejack turned around at the sound of footsteps. Her older brother lumbered over to her, a strand of wheat dangling from his mouth. He glanced and Apple Bloom, frowned, and turned to her. "AJ, remind me why she's out here again?" "Aw, Mac, she's makin' the time passed faster. An' don it do ya heart good ta see her so happy?" "Hmm," was all he said. He watched his baby sister jump around and fall over herself in excitement over the fallen apples. A smile broke the corners of his mouth and his eyes softened. "Just keep 'er safe, will ya?" He shook his head before quietly returning where he left off. Applejack smirked. Although he disliked it, he hadn't made a move to stop her or refute her decision. The big softy. "I aim ta please," she muttered. Her mood suddenly turning dark, she glared at the tree before her and swiftly twirled, her leg rising up to give the trunk a swift kick. Her sandal slammed against the bark, a few pieces breaking off and falling. The movement sent apples tumbling down. Applejack circled the tree while bright green leaves drifted around her, gathering apples and putting them into stick-woven baskets; before moving on to the next tree. A few rows away, Big Macintosh watched her with a calm and careful eye. He frowned as he watched his little sister kick the trees with awful ferocity. Her eyes were dark, and he knew she was just barely holding in the tears. He shook his head again. 6 years. 6 years had passed and she'd never gotten over it. He, of course hadn't either, but she was so bipolar. A temper like no other. One would think Apple Bloom would be more angry, seeing as how she'd never met them. But what's done is done, and there wasn't any changing it. ~ The sun hung lazily over the horizon, revealing a light yellow and deep orange beneath it. Clouds drifted overhead, tinted with a faded pink. The leaves slowly changed from green to yellow and red, as they stretch beyond the farm. The birds chirped here and there, and Applejack could just barely make out the spring peepers. She sighed in contentment and stretched out comfortably on the red and white checkered picnic blanket. Her chores were done. All she had to do now was wait for the dinner bell. Macintosh was inside, helping Granny, she supposed. Her little sister was still gathering the apples she'd dropped. Applejack was a little bummed it had taken her this long, and she had complained to Big Mac, but he'd assured her that'd it had taken her just as long when she was about that age. Oh, well. The day was nearly over. She could finally relax for the evening. "Applejack! I done!" Apple Bloom walked carefully towards her older sister, two small baskets cradled in each arm, and three apples nestled in her hair. Applejack burst laughing when she saw the sight. "Wha?" Her little sister sat down beside her, losing a couple apples in the process. "Oh nuthin'," came the response. "Aw, c'mon, tell me, what's so funny?" Apple Bloom asked, her eyes bright. "You." "What about me?" "Ya lookin' like an apple princess," Applejack replied, smiling. Apple Bloom smiled uncertainly for a second, then frowned. "I don't get it." Applejack waved it off. "Aw, never mind." "Alright." "Ya did good taday, AB." "Thanks!" "Why don't you go put them apples where they belong?" "Okay!" She scampered off. The smile faded off Applejack face as she thought back to earlier. She frowned. She had messed up, of that she was sure, but she was just so. . .ANGRY all the time! She just wished she had someone to talk to. Someone who would understand. Someone her own age. Sure, she could talk to her own folks, but Granny would give her advice a century old, Macintosh wouldn't say much of anything, (And why would he, he wasn't a boy!) and Apple Bloom would ask question upon question, if she confided. But they would have. They would have totally understand- They had been in the same situation. And no matter what, they'd always made her feel better. But ever since. . . then, she'd told them to leave. To her shame, they had. She wished she could start over to that fateful day. She was sure she could've done something differently. But what's done is done, and there wasn't any changing it. . . Unless you when back in time. Back in time. . . Such wishful thinking, my little one. . . Author's Note Hey guys!
The Other Sides (Part 3)"It's a dream come true," She murmured softly, her voice caught up in the zephyr, and carried it over the land stretched before her. Long, soft pink hair swept against her arms, as she started forward, her footsteps barely making a sound as she plodded forward, the long grass waving hypnotizingly back and forth. "It's everything I've ever wanted!" Her mustard yellow wings spread and caught the breeze, lifting her a few feet in the air. She angled toward, leveling with the horizon, her white sandals brushing the tallest stalks. "It was hard, but I did it! I'm here! I'm home!" she sang, hugging herself. One of her wings closed while the other tipped downward, causing her to go into a sideways spin. She landed again, and dance forward on tiptoe, her arms and hair playing with the wind in a nameless dance of joy. A dance without music. Minutes turned to hours, and before long she found herself laying contently in the grass, almost invisible. She smiled, he teal eyes closed. She had her own place, in a town far away from home. She was on her own. The sun shown brightly down on her, warming her pale skin. ~ The chittering sound of birds and a very insistent rabbit, prodded a soundly sleeping Fluttershy from slumber. She blearily opened her eyes to the sun sinking low in the horizon, It's yellow and orange hues blossoming out to dark indigo colors. "Oh, my, I better get back before it gets dark! Thank you, my friends!" She called out. She began skipping, and with her wings partly spread, not a dent in the stalks was made. The wind played with her hair and feathers as she made her way to a large shadow in the near distance. Birds flocked and flew alongside her, singing in harmony with the wind. She spread her wings fully, and flew the rest of the distance, closing it quickly. "Good night, friends!" She called once more, before lading softly on her doorstep, closing and locking the door behind her. Birds outside trilled in response, before carrying on with previous conversations. She slumped against the wooden door, and closed her eyes, sighing in contentment. Finally. A place of her own. Long and hard had she worked for this. Unpacking and settling in, would be a breeze. "Sis!" She picked up a good-sized box, hefting it to her hip, before turning a surveying the room before her. She knew what what was inside the box. Problem was, where would she put it? "Fluttershy! Please! Wake up! She's coming!" the voice shouted, breaking Fluttershy's focus. "Eep!"Teal eyes snapped open and she sat up. Spotting a boy at her bedside with a panicked look on his face, she whipped the threadbare covers aside, and swung her feet down on the icy floor, standing ramrod straight. The boy darted behind her, and towards the other side of the room. She quickly smoothed her dress. Jus the door opened with a bang, and a woman, her sliver wings opening slightly. stood there, her sharp, gray eyes scanning every inch of the vicinity. "Well," She drawled, "it appears some of you thought it was okay to wake up late, I suppose?!" "No, Ms. Whitewing," Fluttershy instantly responded, her voice meshing with a chorus of many others. "Hmph!" Fluttershy swallowed, incredibly nervous. She had been dreaming, and a wonderful dream it had been, but thank Ice Wind one of her roommates had woke her. Otherwise, she might not be. "Did you know why I'm up here, with you useless excuses for pegasi?" She snapped, striding forward. Pegasus after pegasus quickly moved aside, letting the woman pass. "No, Ms. Whitewing," the voices chorused again. They closed in behind her. She came to an abrupt halt. In front of Fluttershy. Fluttershy instantly looked down, and took a step back. This was it. Today was the day. "Today's your lucky day, Miss Shy! I expect good things from you! And I'd better not see you here again, or Ice Wind help me, I will strip you! Are we clear?!" "Y-yes, Ms. Whitewing, crystal," she mewled. "Good! Pack your stuff, if you even have anything, and get out!" Fluttershy squeaked and darted away from the intimidating woman. She raced towards the bathroom, was quickly out of sight. Whiitewing scoffed and turned on her heels, striding out of the room, as pegasi scrambled to get off of her way. A collective sigh of pure relief was heard as the heels clunked down the marble stairs. Inside the bathroom, Fluttershy was plastered against the wall. She followed their example, slumping against the wall. She grabbed a toothbrush, and quickly walked back through the room, making her way to her bed and snatched the the flour bag from underneath her pillow. She then darted towards the door where Whitewing had exited, and tiptoed down the stairs, her feet brushing the white marble. A few murmurs trailed in her wake. There were no goodbyes, no tears, and no friends. There never was. She'd seen and heard it too many times. And she knew that once she was on the outside of the building she was completely and utterly on her end. The only good thing about the outcome facing her: No more Whitewing. "Good, you're here. Finally! Out you go! Scoot!" Ms. White wing clasped her thin, left shoulder and shoved her unceremoniously out the door. " AND DON'T COME BACK!!" The door slammed shut. Fluttershy quickly stood up and raced around the building to the back, where she wouldn't be seen, inside or out, by anyfeather. The back was where many of the children had hung out for several days, before they disappeared for good. She'd seen it before. Way too many times. She also knew that if she stayed here for long, she'd freeze, especially with Blue Eyes White drawing near. She quickly dusted off her measly nightgown and stripped, her dirty mustard-yellow wings hiding her from sight. When they parted, Fluttershy stood there with a white tee, two-sizes too small, and a pair of black leggings. She clutched the ratty flour sac tighter and squeezed her eyes shut, feeling the first tears pricking the corners of her eyes. No crying, tears will freeze to you, and everyfeather will know you're weak! She silently chastised herself. Opeing them, she took a few timid steps forward in the direction she'd just come, ears pricked for for an sort of noise. Hearing nothing, she spread her wings and took to the sky. She pumped her wings raising herself higher and higher above her previous home. Home for Little feathers, it was called, an orphanage built several to house the young homeless in Pegasopolis, another reminder of just how hard life was here. Flutttershy was 17 as of today, and at 17, you were considered an adult, and responsible to be on your own. But she didn't feel like it. The only adult role she'd ever known was Whitwing, and although she was grateful to her for food and a roof, it just wasn't enough. It was a well-known fact the that Whitewing had had the entire estate remodeled into a mansion of incredible majesty. The richest of the rich. She belongs with the magic-grounders, thought Fluttershy, almost bitterly. She'd fit right in! The building had three floor and two wings, with a tiny little attic above where she and the other children stayed. When Whitewing had bought the orphanage, the fledglings there thought she was going to help. But they were wrong. Ms. Whitewing was paid pretty bit every day to collect more orphans from the street. Where they disappeared, nofeather knew. They didn't question it either. To be fair, more orphans meant less space, and Pegasopolis was going smaller. It was to help the cause, the flock needed to be stronger in order to win this fight. So, 'Praise the damn flock!' as they say. Fluttershy settled on a small cloud and thought it over. Objective: Grow out, get out. Status: Complete. Second objective: Join the Flock. Status: Almost impossible, and she had nary a friend. "Hey there, fledgling," a voice drawled. Fluttershy froze at the voice and the sound of flapping wings. "You lost?" "No." "Need help?" Fluttershy paused at that, and stared at the outstretched hand. It's owner was a pale-faced man, with white wings and pink eyes. Albino. Fluttershy gasped in surprise, stood, and jutted her wings out threateningly. "No! I don't!" She said very quickly. "You can go, now!" "Hey now-" "I don't need anything!" She turned away from him and shut her eyes tight. Please go away, please go away, please go aw- "You sure, sugah?" A white hand landed on her thin shoulder. "No!" She squeaked, and thrusted her wings against him, pushing him back. He yelled in anger. She gasped and took off again. He gave chase. Albino pegasi were dangerous, very dangerous. Young fledgings, whether male or female, were in equal danger. Albinos were fast and speedy, and their pink eyes gave them an unnatural ability to see things a lot better. . . like how many layers of cloths you were wearing. They also tended to blend in, REALLY well. Fluttershy squeaked again, and flew faster, pushing her limits. She sneaked a look behind her. Bad move. He was gaining on her. "HEY!" A hand blocked her vision. She screamed, flailing and kicking, as she felt her wings get locked into place via rope. "Hey. . ." "Lay off her, airhead!" Fluttershy fainted.
The Other Sides (Part 4)". . . I never realized just how difficult this is! This is absurd! You're saying I must chose?! No, no, no! Absolutely not! I refuse! This is-!" "Impossible? Unthinkable? Why would you do this? Dare you do this? How on earth can you be expected to make such a choice because it something nopony should ever have to make and yet, here you are? Indeed. I've been there. I've done what you're doing and trust me, It does not get any easier. Now be sensible, dear! Time is of the essence!" "Wait, wait, wait, please! Hang on! I have just one question, and I believe you owe me an answer! After everything I've just gone through to prove my self-worth, it is the very least you can do!" "Very well." "Why me?" A pair of eyes blinked gently at her, snow white pupils framed by swirling rainbow irises. "Tis' your fate, dearest," came the answer. Her fate. Her fate? She knew her fate, and this was certainly not it! "And what happens, should I chose not to make this choice that is such a matter of life and death? What happens?" "YOU SHALL NOT ENTERTAIN SUCH THOUGHTS!!!" How? How? There is no way she should be able to resist. . ."You have a day to think about it. . ." The voice, so rich and crisp, faded into the haunting darkness, taking all light and love with it. She awoke in a cold sweat, gasping for breath. Her hair was atrocious, and she was wrapped in a chrysalis of sheets. A day to think about it? Think about what? Why was this thing so important? Why was the "choice" she was "making" so difficult? Mother always said 'Too many questions, too little time.' Hmm. . . Well, I do have a day to think about it! Her sapphire blue eyes snapped open, taking in her surroundings. She was in her room, in her high canopy bed. The sun was just starting to show it's rays, the sky above a kaleidoscope of melting pinks, blues and yellows. She stared at the picture-pretty scene, the cogs in her head spinning faster and faster. Such a cheery sight compared to her life right now. She yawned, and, like a refined lady, wrestled the sheets for dominance, whipped them aside, and got out of her bed, as graceful as could be. She slinked over to her bathroom, toe to heel, her feet making nary a sound on the beautifully black-and-white tiled floor. She pushed open the French doors, and disappeared inside. She sighed. In a life like this, having an arranged marriage had it's perks, but sometimes, she wished it was more simple. She was always going somewhere, always preparing, it got really tiresome, despite how dull her life had previously been. She hardly ever got time to spend with her husband, and she literally never had time to herself. She missed her simple life. She missed. . . them. "Mistress, the prince wishes thy presence, post-haste!" She screamed, her feet slipping. The damned servants ALWAYs had bad timing! "Mistress! Are you alright?! Shall I send for-" "NO! No, BlueCloud! That won't be necessary!" She frantically replied, scrambling to get her bearings amidst the rushing water and slick ceramic. "Well-" "BLUECLOUD!! I'M. . .! I'm fine. I'll tap the bell when I'm ready for you, alright darling? Just please-Oh!" "Mistress?!" "Leave, please!" came the response. BlueCloud frowned. Mistress's voice was always cool and composed, but she sounded as though she were o the verge of tears! Nevertheless, an order had been given, and she had to oblige. she walked a away, closing the door behind her. *** Another long, exhausting day come and gone. She sighed, reclining into the cushions. "Dearest, a package came in the sending for you." "Oh? Why, thank you, Blue Blood. Who's it from? Prince Blue Blood, High Tier Ruler of Unicornia, and her husband, clicked his tongue with disdain, and glared at her. She winced, composed herself, and tried again. "Dearest, sweetie, I thank you with upmost sincerity. Pray, from who is the package from?" "That's better!" he snapped. "A lady as lucky as you should know better that to talk to me like I'm some common rabble!" he chided, carelessly tossing a small, purple and white box threw the air. Scoffing, he turned on his heel, and stalked out, the doors slamming behind him with a resounding thud. She leapt up, hands fumbling for the little box arcing through the air towards her. "GOTCHA!!" she declared. Nearby handmaids stared down at her incredulously. She blushed, and quickly scrambled to her feet, dusting herself off. "Ahem, that's enough cleaning for now, thank you! Dismissed!" her chin tiled towards the ceiling, and she watched through slitted eyes as the women dropped what they were doing and left her in peace, the double doors closing with a quiet click. She sighed with relief and plunked down, soft blue magic picking at the box's purple ribbon impatiently. The was a black, triangle tag attached, but she paid it no mind. The box opened, revealing a large, perfectly cut, sapphire. Her eyes widened in in joy and disbelief. She looked around quickly, and ever so gently, scooped the large jewel into her hands. A high-pitched, yet quiet squealed bounced throughout the room, as she danced through the room in pure joy. She spun to a stop, hugging the gem to her bosom, and gazed at it adoringly. She simply could not wait to get it fitted! Her albino-white hand passed over the reflecting surface. her mind began t wonder. She looked at the remains of the little box laying on the teal couch. Why would give this to her? Why? She looked down at the jewel again, her hand rubbing the surface again. She blinked. . . and apparently missed it. "Wha. . . What?! Where am I?!" Pure darkness. Everywhere. It was just her. Her and her gem. No, surely not! Not again! "Rarity!!!! The voice faded in and out. "What!? Yes!? Who's there?!!" "Rarityy. . .! You. . .must. . .accept!! "Accept!? Accept what?! "Your destiny. . .! What do you want most in this life. . .?" The voice grew steadily clearer and closer. Her destiny? What she wanted most. . .? "I. . . want. . ." Tears pricked at her eyes, and she squeezed them shut. Emotion bubbled over and she lost all rhythm and reason. A warm sensation swirled up her legs, slowly spinning her counter-clock-wise. Rarity's eyes opened wide, blinding light pouring from her eyes and mouth, as her previous life flashed before her. The sensation encased, and she lost all sense of touch, utterly weightless. Her arms spread outward, and her back arched in the snow-angle position. The jewel began glow softly, sapphire rings of pure energy pulsing towards the young girl. "I want to help my people. . . I accept. . ." She disappeared in a flash of brilliant and azure light, leaving the darkness to take over, once again. "Good choice, my precious, dark diamond. I shall retrieve you, one day. . ." The doors slammed open, revealing a beet-faced Prince. "RARITY!! THIS IS NOT THE .. . .time for. . ." The room was empty. There was no sign she existed, save for the little purple and white box, it's triangular, black tag flutter helplessly in the slight breeze from the opened windows. ". . . Your games?" Blue Blood gaped. Where had she gone? Author's Note Hello, Please enjoy. Imma hit the sack before my eyes closed and I wake up on the stairs in the dreaded morning. Goodnight.
The Other Sides (Part 5)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
