Daughters of Dusk

Chapters

Prologue
A Ruined Castle
The Everfree Looms
Friendships Forged
The Nightmare's Return
Loyalty, Forgiveness, and Kindness

Prologue

Author's Note

This is a teaser for the rest because I am terrible at descriptions

Prologue

Zecora shuddered as she felt her coat bristle. A sudden gust of icy cold wind passed over her, carrying with it wild chaotic magics most foul. Instinctually She scanned her surroundings, the quiet and calm of the Everfree remained absolute. As She was about to return to the east and to her home, some part of her whispered of incoming danger and dark magic. However, just as suddenly as the sensation came, it faded. The Zebra found herself unable to stop herself from shuddering in dread. In all her years living in the dark and chaotic everfree forest, she had never felt anything like that.

Barely a half-hour walk from the lone zebra lay the castle of the two sisters. The vast ruin practically hidden in the heart of the Everfree forest. The former bastion of Equestrian royalty's great walls long since crumbled to rubble. Despite that, in some twist of fate, all that remained standing was the first section to face annihilation. The central palace of Equestria, former home to Princess Celestia and her long-forgotten sister Princess Luna. The once-grand throne room had long since been abandoned, the battle between the sisters resulting in great holes punched through its lavishly decorated arched ceiling. At the room's peak, partially built into the wall, lay the remains of two thrones. One of the purest marble, scorched and blacked. The entire upper portion of the throne and the wall behind it were destroyed during the great battle that had unfolded. Beside it, carved of granite as dark as the night sky, lay another throne of equal size and grandeur. It had not suffered the violent fate of its sibling. Instead, it remained intact, defiant against the passage of time.

This throne room had been untouched for decades since the last intrepid explorer braved the Everfree to gaze upon the site of one of Equestria's darkest moments. However, it was not to be unoccupied for long. The air inside the room shivered and rippled, as magic gathered in the air before two swirling vortexes burst to life. The twin maelstrom of wild magic grew in size and severity until out of them burst two shapes. With simultaneous cries of pain, the shapes impacted the hard stone, bouncing and hurtling in opposite directions.

One shape, light blue in colour, crashed into the rotted remains of a once beautiful tapestry, both collapsing to the floor in a heap. Meanwhile, the black shape impacted a wall with a sickening snap before coming to rest on the floor. With its chest rising and falling rapidly as it inhaled. For the first time in one thousand years, the Royal Canterlot Voice had been used within the castle of the two sisters. As a pained wail echoed throughout the Everfree forest, sending flocks of birds fleeing from their tree branches.

Having now returned to her cabin, Zecora's ears pressed to her head in pain as the glass of her windows rattled. The wail stopped almost as soon as it had started, leaving the crushing silence of the forest to settle in once more. In the sudden quiet, Zecora rose to her hooves. Her eyes were drawn out of the window, towards the centre of the forest.

A Ruined Castle

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

The Everfree Looms

"We just need to cross the forest, right?" Star's voice rang out in the silence as she looked up at her sister. Their pace had slowed to a crawl as they exited the castle, having to take great care to cross what remained of the castle bridge. The only thing left of the original bridge was four stone pillars linked by a rickety rope bridge. Having already conquered that challenge. All that lay between them and the pillars of smoke in the distance was a vast forest. Hazy maintained her brave face; it wouldn't be that bad, she was sure of it.

"Mhm, we'll be fine, don't worry. If anything jumps out at us, just get behind me, and I'll protect you." Hazy answered her sister with a grin before she leaned down to nuzzle the top of her sister's head. She took care to be mindful of her sister's horn. Hazy had made the mistake of not being wary of its slightly pointed tip before. Ahead of them lay a sea of green and brown, the dark wooden trunks giving way to almost sickly green looking foliage. The earth pony side of her could feel something was definitely wrong with the entire forest. Some lurking taint was twisting the land. Once they were safely in ponyville, she resolved to make sure Star washed her hooves just in case whatever it was contagious.

Hazy lifted her head away, stifling a giggle at the mess she'd made of her sister's mane. Before she could attempt to fix that, Star turned her gaze to the heavens. The filly's green eyes darted across the sky, her brow furrowed in concentration.

The sight reminded Hazy of home, the two of them resting on the balcony to their room as Star pointed out the constellations from underneath her sister's wing. The cloying grasp of homesickness threatened to crack the mask of confidence she had raised for Star's sake. Hazy forced back down the memories of home with a soft shudder and examined the path ahead of them.

If she had to describe it with one word, ancient would be a firm second behind overgrown. Ancient cracked paving stones marked out a route farther into the forest. A slight gap in the trees suggested that it reached all the way to the edge of the forest, from what Hazy had seen when they were in the castle. "They're all wrong…."

When all Star was given for a response was a confused head tilt from Hazy, she took it as a sign to continue. Gesturing to the stars with a hoof as a cartographer would to a map. "We should be able to make out constellations, but there just aren't any. It's like somepony who doesn't understand astronomy made them, look at that."

As she spoke, the blue filly pointed to a specific cluster of stars. If Hazy squinted, she could almost make out a constellation, but it certainly wasn't any that she knew of. Following her sister's hoof as Star pointed out cluster after cluster. "They're all too small... it's like the stars are mourning…."

The pair continued to trot down the worn path, Star's attention firmly fixed on the heavens as she remained silent. All the while, Hazy pulled together what she knew from her mother's stories and history lessons. The mare in the moon was Princess Luna..or was possessing her, that never was really clear in the story. If the elements were still there, then Hazy's mom and her friends must not have gotten to them yet…

Before she could get lost in her thoughts, Hazy's ears twitched at the sound of a branch crunching under hoof. In one fluid motion, she pulled Star behind her, igniting her horn and summoning a small purple shield around them both. Star's yelp of protest was swiftly silenced as a hooded figure emerged from the trees, a black-tipped muzzle protruded from its hood. Hazy glared at the figure, the light of her shield casting long shadows behind it.

"What would bring you here? Into this dark forest that ponies fear." A melodic voice inquired from beneath the hood, prompting a little gasp from Star.

"Zecora!" The blue filly cried as she launched herself at the hooded Zebra, latching herself around one of the Zebra's forelegs. Zecora recoiled in shock. Her hood fell back to reveal her mane and face. Her golden earrings and neck rings shone in the moonlight as she looked down at the blue filly on her leg with utter confusion.

"I do not believe we have met, little one, I surely would remember having done." The Zebra said as she raised her leg, dangling the filly from it. Hazy let out a small sigh of relief that their stolen cloaks hid Star's wings from discovery. When she received no response from Star, Zecora levelled her gaze on Hazy. "Perhaps you can explain what you are doing in the forest on this most dreadful of nights? Please tell me you are not just searching for easy frights."

"No, Ms. Zecora, we were just trying to find our way into town." Hazy replied, recalling her tutor's advice on manners and etiquette. Across from her, the Zebra's eyes narrowed, lowering the blue filly to the ground as she examined Hazy.

"I never stated my name, yet you know it all the same." Zecora stalked closer to Hazy with each word. Star, realising the sudden shift in mood, scrambled back to her sister's side, taking shelter behind her older sister. "You would do well not to try to deceive me, I ask you once again, how do you know of me?"

The sisters backed up as Zecora loomed over them. The look in her eyes made Hazy's blood run cold. Before she could speak, Star's voice came from beside her. "P-please, you're one of our mother's friends. We're not from around here."

Hazy stretched a wing out to pull Star closer, placing herself between the Zebra and Star. Inhaling as she recalled as much of her mother's friendship lessons as she could. "My name is Hazy Sparkle, 6th in line to the Equestrian Throne, Daughter of Princess Twilight Sparkle. My sister is Stargazer Sparkle. Please, we don't want to hurt anypony. We just want to find our mom."

Hazy's words stopped the Zebra from advancing further, leaving her visibly digesting the information. As the fillies watched, Zecora's expression softened, and the cold hate in her eyes faded. "I must apologise, tonight I fear I may be rather uneasy until sunrise."

Wordlessly the Zebra turned to journey through the forest, followed closely by the two fillies as they travelled into the darkness. The silence of the woods pressed in all around them. Any sounds that would usually fill the forest at night was somehow more concerning to Hazy than if she could hear timberwolves rustling in the bushes. Hazy tried to keep listening for some sign of life in the forest with a wing protectively over her sister's back. Beneath their hooves, the cracked paving stones finally began to become more well used. Long broken stones gave way to a well-trodden dirt path that split off at seemingly random intervals. With each offshoot they passed, Star glanced down them, peering into the darkness out of curiosity for what may live there.

Eventually, their group halted as Zecora had stopped. Ahead of them, the forest became thinner. Hazy could even make out the sounds of a party raging in ponyville, complete with distant music filtering out into the still night air. "I wish you luck on your trip. You should reach the town quickly at a good clip."

Having said her piece, Zecora turned to leave. Her last glance towards the fillies finished with a flourish to lift her hood once more. Almost melting into the forest, the darkness of her coat and cloak allowed her to vanish from the two alicorn's eyesight. Star hmm'd as she looked at the forest that their guide had just disappeared into. Whatever profound thought she had in mind was dismissed as in the sky above ponyville a blast rung out. Wheeling around, their ears flattened to their head in fright, the fillies were greeted by streaks of coloured light flying into the night sky before detonating. A gasp of excitement from Star was closely followed by a cry of joy. "Fireworks!"

From that moment, it was practically a race between the two down the path. The soft sound of their hooves was utterly drowned out by thundering fireworks and cheers of Celebration from the ponies in town. In her mind, Hazy started to piece together what she knew of Nightmare Moon's return. She had appeared when Celestia was supposed to take the stage, so she hadn't made that entrance yet. If Nightmare Moon hadn't returned yet, all they needed to do was find their mom and warn her of the impending danger. Then everything would sort itself out; she was sure of it.

As they neared the town, Hazy couldn't help but take in the scene ahead of them. Lit by intermittent bursts of colour, the entire town of Ponyville stretched out before them. Landmarks they recognised like Sugarcube corner, the town hall, and in the distance, Sweet Apple Acres were there but not quite how they remembered them. Hazy tore her gaze away from the places she recognised, looking at the small throngs of ponies outside houses and shops. The music was coming from a massive tree in the centre of town; from what she could tell, other songs filtered into the noise, but none really competed with the tree.

A pink blur seemed to bolt from house to house, drawing the sister's gaze as they slowed down to watch. The blur slowed once it reached the tree, revealing itself to be a pony instead of the smear of colour it had been before. Silhouetted in the doorway to the tree, they saw dozens of ponies but had no clue where to start the search for their mother.

Star trailed behind Hazy, still enjoying the fireworks whilst her sister looked at the various parties. Hazy wasn't sure what time it was or how long they had, she knew nightmare moon came back soon, but she wasn't sure when. She hoped that if they just checked the parties, they'd find their mother, the first house they passed was packed with ponies. The front porch was occupied by a green unicorn mare slow dancing with an earth pony mare, whilst behind them, various ponies seemed to be drinking punch.

"Sis!" Hazy turned at Stars exclamation only to feel herself tumble to the ground. She heard a yelp which she swore wasn't her's. With a groan, Hazy blinked and tried to figure out what happened, her vision filled with soft yellow. She heard another cry and felt something trying to move as a hoof pressed against her horn, eliciting a yelp of pain from the alicorn filly.

"S-sorry, I wasn't paying attention to where I was going!" Hazy protested, trying to wriggle free as she tried to figure out what was on her head.

"Nah, it's okay. Ah was distracted by the fireworks." The yellow object spoke as Hazy felt a set of hooves press against her head and the weight on her head lifted. With her head free, Hazy got a clear look at the pony she'd walked into. A filly maybe a hoof shorter than her, her yellow coat was slightly messy from their fall whilst her red mane was held back in a bow. The filly took a step back before offering a hoof to help Hazy up.

"Ahm Applebloom! Ah haven't seen y'all around before. Are you new?" Applebloom beamed widely as she spoke, not phased in the slightest when both Hazy and Star looked first to her forehead before at her flanks.

"Nice to meet you Applebloom, I'm Stargazer, and this is my big sister Hazy…." A yelp of surprise escaped the blue filly as Applebloom took her hoof and shook it hard enough Star swore her foreleg was going to come off. With a glow of purple magic, Hazy separated her sister's foreleg prompting a giggle from Applebloom.

"Sorry, Mah shake is a little strong for unicorns." Offering an awkward smile, the yellow filly was cut off by Hazy before she could speak again.

"It's nothing to worry about Applebloom, we're just looking for our mom," The dark filly noticed a flicker of emotion across Applebloom's face before her smile reasserted itself almost immediately. "She should have come in from Canterlot to arrange the celebration...we think."

Recognition twinkled in the yellow filly's eyes as her smile widened. Unleashing a burst of words before galloping off, looking back at the two fillies over her shoulder. "Ah know where she should be! Mah sis is at a lil party for her! Follow me!"

Author's Note

Well, that took longer than anticipated, Sorry about the delay to get this written. If all goes well the next chapter should be a bit longer as a certain moon queen returns, a few more fillies shows up and shit goes down.

On a different note! I've opened a Deviantart page for myself to post non-pony related writing Find it here!

What do you all think of this chapter? hope you enjoyed it!

Friendships Forged

Hazy and Star chased Apple Bloom through the streets of Ponyville. Above them the sky was awash with fireworks, cheering ponies gathered around as unicorns launched their magic into the sky. Despite the merriment all around them, Hazy's worry only grew. She and Star were keeping pace with the friendly farm filly as they gradually headed towards the huge tree they'd seen before.

Only as they neared it could they begin to make out windows carved into the tree, the inside lit up with a welcoming yellow glow. Silhouettes of ponies moved to and fro behind the glass, swaying to music that the fillies couldn't hear thanks to the multitude of other parties going on all around them.

"Ah think she's supposed ta be here." Apple Bloom said, not even tired after having led the group at a full gallop all the way from the outskirts of town. Star rushed for the door, breezing past Hazy and flinging the wooden barrier open with her golden magic. A flood of yellow light and noise exploded out the now open door, before the party fell to a hush.

Inside Hazy could see five mares she recognised as her mother's friends. Hovering above the crowd, she recognised the wonderbolt captain, Rainbow Dash. However, she looked different from how Hazy had seen her. The slicked back mane style she usually had was gone, replaced by a much more low maintenance tomcoltish manedo. Also absent was her uniform or any of the marks of her office… Leaving the filly to wonder was she even a wonderbolt yet?

Ahead of her, Star was frozen in place. Hazy could see the telltale sign of Star teetering on the edge of a meltdown, the blue filly's ears twitched and flicked, whilst her tail refused to remain still. Movement drew Hazy's eye as she closed the gap between her and her sister. The source of the movement was revealed to be Applejack. Unlike Rainbow Dash, Hazy couldn't tell if anything was different with the farm mare. Admittedly she never knew her mother's friends very well, but they'd always attended hearth's warming up in Canterlot.

A quick glance around the room revealed more vaguely familiar faces. Fluttershy, who had seemingly overcome her surprise at Star's entrance and was working up the courage to approach the fillies. Rarity off to the right, had been in a discussion with a white and green unicorn Hazy didn't know.

"M-mom?" Star muttered into the silence, prompting a wave of murmuring to ripple across the room. Everywhere the sister's looked, mares and stallions looked back at them with pity. Some of the older party goers had horrified expressions, the sudden arrival of two seemingly orphaned fillies evoking unpleasant memories.

Hazy was painfully aware of the silence as it lingered. Seconds ticked by until a sniffle from her sister broke it. With the spell broken, Rarity stepped forward from the crowd, followed by the unfamiliar unicorn. Star pressed herself against Hazy, trying to hide behind her older sister as the weight of a building full of ponies staring at her weighed down on them both.

“Dear, can you tell us your mother’s name?” Rarity asked, leaning down to be at eye level with the two fillies. Hazy felt Star nudge her, clearly wanting her older sister to handle the conversation.

“D-dusk Shimmer...” The dark filly said, thinking on her hooves to come up with a name that wouldn’t get them into trouble. She realised that if they did tell the truth and Twilight was found, only to say she did not recognise the fillies it would be all kinds of suspicious. Hazy was yanked from her thoughts by a rush of wind and a pink blur materialising beside her.

“Ooo! New ponies! I’ve not seen you two before! I don’t think I’ve met Dusk Shimmer either!” The pink mare giggled as she spoke, bouncing up and down on her hooves. Plunging a hoof into her mane to yank out a book that was almost as big as Hazy. Flipping the vast tome open, Hazy craned her neck to see pages of profiles cataloguing all kinds of information about what must have been everypony Pinkie had ever met. “Let’s have a looksee! D...d...Du”

A frown formed on the pink mare's face before she flipped to the other end of the book, revealing the index. Sprawling detailed hoofwriting listed names and pages, occasionally scratched out with updated page numbers. The mare’s mane deflated as she read through the several pages of names beginning with D, a saddened sigh escaping her mouth. “N-no Dusk Shimmer… I don’t think I’ve met your mom yet…”

Before anypony could even react, the pink mare’s mane re-inflated followed by a squee of excitement. “That’s great! A super special party as ordered by the princess and I get to make four new friends tonight! How could the night get any better!”

“Pinkie, Darling, there’s two of them and their mother. That’s three.” Hazy heard Rarity whisper loud enough that practically anypony near them could hear it. Dismissing her comment with a hoof, Pinkie advanced on Hazy and Star. The mare’s eyes looked over them like a predator eyeing their next meal before her grin widened and she shot off towards the back of the room.

“W-what?” Was all that Star could say, meanwhile Hazy was at an utter loss for words. She couldn’t feel any magic at work outside of normal earth pony magic, yet somehow this mare was moving faster than it seemed a pegasus could fly.

“That’s Pinkie Pie for you, She’s our resident party pony.” Rarity stated, sighing before returning her gaze to the fillies. “I must apologize, where are my manners? My name is Rarity, purveyor of the finest fashion this side of canterlot. If you need somewhere to stay until we find your mother, I’d be happy to volunteer my guest room. Sweetie would probably enjoy the company.”

The return of Pinkie was heralded by her pink blur racing across the room before she reformed beside Rarity, two plates with slices of cake resting on her back. “Tada! I figured you two could use a treat, We’ll find your mom don’t worry!”

Edging her way out from beside Hazy, Star lit her horn and claimed a slice of cake for herself. Hazy saw the mystery mare start to cross towards them out of the corner of her eye. Star however, was thoroughly engrossed in the confectionery before her, eyes closed in joy as she devoured the cake at a speed that even Pinkie couldn't match. The blue filly looked up at Hazy with a smile, not even having to ask her sister. Hazy simply floated her slice onto Star's now empty plate, nuzzling her little sister's cheek.

"Did I hear correctly, that these two fillies are here looking for their mother?" The mystery mare asked, looking at Hazy and Star with thinly veiled suspicion. Hazy instinctively moved to place herself between Star and the mare, a small knot of fear building in her stomach.

It wasn't hard to guess what this mare was thinking. Hazy could practically feel the sheer amount of magical power the unicorn before her had. Paired with the fact she was here on the night that Nightmare Moon was supposed to return. The filly guessed that whoever this mare was, she'd been sent by Princess Celestia to potentially protect the town from Nightmare Moon. So for two fillies of unknown origin, wearing cloaks with a moon motif, to arrive and claim to be looking for their mother. Hazy shuddered at the realisation of just how bad their situation sounded when she actually thought it through. Not that the mare's gaze was helping either.

"Yes Darling, these two are apparently looking for their mother. A mare named Dusk Shimmer." Rarity picked up, skimming across the building tension with all the grace one would expect of a socialite. "It's gotten Pinkie Pie rather excited, she couldn't find this Dusk Shimmer in her party book."

The mare nodded, eyeing Hazy and Star before sighing. "My name's Four Leaf Clover, it's a pleasure to meet you both. Sorry about being a little rude, planning for tonight's festivities has me a little on edge."

"Rarity, we still have to finalise the decorations if I recall correctly." Four Leaf said as she turned to head back over to the table she'd occupied before. Hazy could only just make out a stack of papers on the table as well as what looked like fabric draped over it.

"Of course! Those patterns you have are tricky but I can manage them I think." Rarity said as she turned, the two white unicorn mares' conversation rapidly fading into the general noise of the party. Behind them, Hazy heard Apple Bloom clear her throat. The sister’s turned to look at Apple Bloom, distracted momentarily by the fireworks blooming in the sky behind her.

“Ah have some snacks that mah Sister made if you’d like ta share?” She offered, beaming happily at the two sisters. In unison, Hazy and Star nodded and returned the smile, Hazy was eager to get away from Four Leaf. Just being near her was starting to worry the filly, concerned for where her mother was mingling with fear of what the unknown unicorn would assume about the fillies.

As they walked away from the tree, Hazy caught a look at the sign out front of it. The golden text momentarily lit by a burst of green light from the sky. “Golden Oaks Library” gleamed back at Hazy as she looked to the sky, her heart in her chest. The filly’s eyes raised to the heavens, looking for any sign they were too late. The flash of fireworks obscured the stars, but she was certain they were slowly growing brighter as the night progressed.

“Come on Sis!” Star’s voice called out, shaking Hazy from her thoughts. The dark filly galloped across the short distance to catch up with her sister and new friend. A welcoming scent drifted over to her from the small hamper that Apple Bloom had opened. Chasing the smell Hazy couldn’t help but drool, her mouth watering at the sight of an expertly made pastry floating out of the hamper. Soon enough the three fillies had settled, resting on a large blanket from the hamper.

A comfortable silence had fallen over the trio, soft humms of contentment escaping from the two that had not experienced apple family cooking yet. Hazy’s tongue still danced with the delicate balance of sweet apples, slight tart hints of lemon and the buttery flakey pastry. The simple snack had utterly trounced anything the castle chef’s had ever cooked for the sisters, leaving Star sleepily leaning against Hazy teetering on the verge of a food coma.

“What’s yer mom like? If ya don’t mind ma askin’ that is.” Apple Bloom’s voice shook slightly as her nerves rang clear. As Hazy glanced, she could see a slight glassiness to Apple Bloom’s eyes. The filly remained silent, trying to collect her thoughts.

“Mom is...Mom is special, She always seemed to know what to say or what to do to bring out the best in somepony. I wish she was here because she’d know what to do.” Hazy’s voice trailed off momentarily. “She makes me feel safe as well I suppose. Might be a unicorn thing but I can almost always tell where she is, it’s just comforting to know.”

“Why can’t ya find her now?” the earth filly questioned, visibly thinking over the possibilities. A wave of horror visibly traveled through Apple Bloom as her ears pressed to the side of her head.“W-wait yer not sayin’ that she could be…”

Before Hazy could reply, Star shook her head. Flashing a grin of pure confidence, in what Hazy could guess was an attempt to brighten the mood. “She isn’t, nothing could hurt our mom!”

“She’s pretty skilled with magic, before we….got separated she taught us everything we know about magic.” Hazy chuckled softly before nuzzling her sister’s cheek. The filly smiled at fond memories of learning magic with their mom, leaving out how both of the fillies’ parents had been excited to teach them to fly...or more accurately, glide.

Time passed quickly, Hazy and Star telling stories about their parents. Their situation was forgotten momentarily as they relayed the story of their parents disastrous first date. Having to rework the tale slightly to remove mentions of the Crystal empire, instead the sister’s worked to spin a story of how their parents' date had been derailed by an immense snowstorm instead of a dark tyrant. Hazy didn’t like lying to their new friend, trying to keep the story as truthful as possible without bringing up Sombra. Even the name made her shudder, stories of what he had done to her cousin had given both sisters nightmares for weeks after they’d finally been told what the tyrant had done.

“No way! Yer ma met the Princess! Ah’ve never heard of anypony who got to meet her one on one unless they were nobility!” The farm filly complained, pointing out how a lowly librarian would never get a chance to meet Princess Celestia without some exceptional newsworthy circumstances. As Hazy scrambled to think of an explanation, Star cut her off, swooping in with a save, quickly climbing atop her sister’s head with a small hop.

“Mom studied in Canterlot, The Princess occasionally goes to the Canterlot city library if she wants a more modern book. We saw her once when we were waiting for mom, she’s super tall!” Star explained, raising a hoof as high as she could to try and illustrate how tall the princess was. Hazy giggled before shifting slightly, prompting Star to tumble backwards with a yelp of surprise. As the Trio descended into a fit of laughter, another set of hooves approached them. The gentle sound of hoofsteps on cobblestones ringing out into the night air.

“E-excuse me, you’re the new fillies right?” A voice called out from behind them. The sister’s turned, revealing the voice to belong to a unicorn filly sporting a two toned mane styled in curls. “My sister mentioned new fillies in town, so I was…”

“Wanting to join us?” Star suggested as she shuffled over to make space for the newcomer. As soon as the space was opened, the new filly swiftly filled it, sitting down between the sisters.

“Thank you! I’m Sweetie Belle. I wanted to say hi back at the library but well...I didn’t get a chance before you left.” Sweetie Belle admitted, rubbing the side of her neck with a hoof. “So what’re your names?”

The trio gave a short introduction, Star and Hazy introducing themselves only to pause awkwardly where they were used to having to fill in their titles. Apple Bloom frowned when Sweetie Belle looked at her, seemingly expecting Apple Bloom to introduce herself. “Ya kiddin’ right? We’re in the same class...”

Sweetie Belle paused, opening her mouth to reply only to have the fillies beside her burst into laughter. The white filly’s cheeks burned crimson as she sputtered out an apology only to have Apple Bloom wave her hoof. “Ain’t a problem Sweetie, we don’t talk much, you’re with that pegasus filly...Scoodle? Ah think.”

“Oh Scootaloo! She’s with her aunts at a party I think, Twist mentioned it…” Sweetie trailed off, looking into the middle distance as she thought. The group fell into silence as they waited for Sweetie to continue. A distant boom of fireworks causing them to jump, snapping Sweetie out of her silence. “Y-yeah so I should introduce you all to her at the Celebration later.”

“How long is it until that Celebration?” Hazy asked, trying to work out how long in her head. The Stars were definitely brighter than they had been before, but she still wasn’t sure how long they had. In the moments it took for her to receive an answer, the thought occurred to Hazy that they didn’t actually have a plan for what to do. With her mom missing then...maybe they’d have to harness the elements themselves? Off the top of her head she knew there were Six Elements. The numbers didn’t work out based on the fillies she and Star had met...maybe they’d be able to find another? Even then she didn’t understand how the magic of friendship actually worked, Twilight had taught them about her studies but never went into detail. Her mother's words practically echoed in Hazy's head "Friendship can't be learned in a classroom, it blossoms naturally and with a little effort it's the most powerful force for good in the world."

“Sis? You okay?” Star’s voice cut through Hazy’s rapidly swirling thoughts, followed by the feeling of her sister’s head nuzzling Hazy’s cheek. The two fillies watched as Hazy blinked, looking almost confused about where she was for the moment before returning the nuzzle to her sister. “Apple Bloom just said it was about seven hours from now.”

“Yeah, Ah was gonna say you could come back with me and have a sleepover, Granny wanted me to come home before the end of the party for Mrs. Leaf.” Apple Bloom offered, beaming at the prospect of a sleepover. Hazy and Star paused, looking at each other in a mixture of shock and confusion. Neither had considered where they’d have to sleep, now bringing a brief moment of horror.

“T-thank you Apple Bloom, We didn’t really have anywhere to go tonight...you think your granny will mind?” As Hazy spoke, Apple Bloom just giggled before shaking her head.

“Nah, Granny always says how caring fer yer fellow ponies is the right thing ta do, So ah figure this is just doin’ that! Plus friends help out friends. You wanna come too Sweetie?” Applebloom asked, looking at the unicorn filly with pleading eyes. Sweetie slowly shook her head, sighing.

“Sorry, Rarity wants me home tonight. Our parents are coming to town after the Celebration so I need to be there.” Her sigh continued, the unicorn filly’s ears drooping only to be pulled into a hug by Star. The blue filly hugged her new friend tightly, pressing her side to Sweetie Belle. Hazy swore she saw a flicker of surprise cross Sweetie’s face, only for it to be replaced a moment later by an earnest smile.

The fillies exchanged their good-byes, sharing a brief group hug before Sweetie galloped back towards the library, her path lit by the bloom of fireworks overhead. Once again reduced to a trio, Apple Bloom looked to her companions before setting off down the hill. Weaving a path away from the town, the fillies followed the cobbled streets of ponyville as they walked past more parties. Singing filtered out of one house as they passed it, the chaotic looking building split down the middle as sounds of a string instrument filtered out into the night air. Deep stallionly voices joined music as a mare sang about Princess Celestia.

Hazy’s ears swiveled to listen to the music as they walked on, picking up the melody as she began to hum along happily to the tune. Despite the upbeat tune, as she listened to the lyrics, Hazy began to realise what the song was about. Beside her, Apple Bloom remained oblivious to the meaning of the song, the farm filly having joined in humming as the path underneath them turned from cobbles to a well worn dirt path.

“Ah heard that song was about Princess Celestia’s special somepony, must have been so sad for her to lose them.” Apple Bloom commented as the group stopped, the farm filly gently kicking a fence gate to swing it open. Ahead of them just beyond a small hill, they could see the farmhouse of Sweet Apple Acres. Windows lit by candles, and a tall stream of smoke billowing from it’s chimney. Star sniffed at the air, practically swooning at the scent of baking apples and cinnamon as it drifted across the farm.

“Granny must be nearly done cookin’ dinner, come on!” The farm filly cried before galloping towards the farmhouse at full tilt, closely followed by the two sisters. Their hoofsteps punctuated by the rumble of hungry stomachs. Hazy hadn’t realised how hungry she was, the warm smell of home cooking only further reminding her of her hunger.

“Granny! Ahm home!” Apple Bloom called out, as they trotted up to the front door of the farm house, an unintelligible reply followed as they heard wood and metal creaking from inside the building. Moments later the door swung open to reveal an ancient Mare, her white mane tied back in a bun as she looked at the three fillies on her doorstep with confusion.

“Eh, Apple Bloom? Who are yer friends?” The aged mare asked, squinting as she examined the sisters. Star squirmed under Granny Smith’s gaze, the old mare’s eyes pausing as she examined the filly’s cloaks. “Well I’ll be. Apple Bloom, ya didn’t mention they were nobility.”

Hazy and Star froze, a rushed explanation forming in Hazy’s throat dying as Apple Bloom voiced her confusion. “W-what? Yer nobility?”

“Them cloaks are made from Canterlot silk, Only fancy canterlot types can afford it” Granny explained, before turning to head into the house. “As long as they behave, t’would be an honour to have nobility join us for dinner.”

The trio remained still as Granny disappeared round a corner into the kitchen. Silence filled the space between them as Hazy’s brain tried to catch up. Canterlot Silk had been made far easier to produce for almost sixty years from what she remembered, had that not happened here?

“Sorry about granny, She’s a little behind the times, Ah saw some cloaks like that last nightmare night for Vampony costumes.” Apple Bloom paused, sniffing the air and sighing happily. “Let’s go get somethin’ ta eat before it goes cold.”

In the seconds it took for the fillies to enter the kitchen, Granny Smith had three bowls already laid out onto the table. Apple Bloom hopped onto her seat with practiced ease, turning to see Hazy float Star onto a seat before climbing up herself. The farm filly suppressed a giggle as her guests looked at their meals with shock.

“Is it really all made from apples?” Star asked, looking at the toasted bread beside their bowls of stew. Across the table Apple Bloom beamed in reply, practically bouncing in her seat as she gestured at the meal before them.

“Eeyup, bread made usin’ our famous cider alongside great granny’s apple n’ potato stew!” As Apple Bloom spoke, Hazy ignited her horn. Sampling some of the cider bread dunked in her stew the filly’s eyes went wide. The sweetness of apples melted on her tongue, supported by the potatoes as well as fresh chives and sage. Hazy’s lips curled into a happy smile prompting Star to dig in. Before much time had passed the trio of fillies had finished their meals, having dragged themselves into the sitting room.

With a brief promise by Granny Smith to wake them up in time for the festival, Star was the first to succumb to the mounting food coma. The blue filly cuddled up against her sister, using their cloaks as a blanket to cover her. Outside the sounds of fireworks had finally died down, ponies all across town seemingly heading to bed to get up in time for the Summer Sun Celebration. Apple Bloom was the next to fall asleep, her snoring soon filling the silence left by the lack of fireworks.

Hazy yawned, looking out one of the farmhouse windows into the night sky. The edges of her vision blurred as she fought off sleep, using Star as a blanket left the elder sister comfortably warm. Outsite, the night sky had faded to a dark blue, pinpricks of light growing slowly. Rubbing her eyes with her forelegs, Hazy shuddered. The Stars were moving, she could actually see them as they gradually inched closer towards the Mare in the Moon’s silhouette. As she finally succumbed to sleep, the filly nuzzled back against her sister, closing her eyes and swiftly falling asleep.

Author's Note

For those who don't read my monthly updates, surprise! I'm not dead

This has been a long time coming so in the end I sliced this chapter in two, allowing me to release this section early and spend more time for Nightmare Moon's return, the ponies reactions and everything leading up to the reveal of this fics elements of harmony.

Expect that (hopefully) sometime next week but for sure before the end of the month.

Furthermore I'm going to UKPonyCon, so 8-10th next month may have some delays on writing

The Nightmare's Return

“Sis”

A soft hoof poked at Hazy’s side, prompting a groan from the filly. Batting away the proding limb with her own hoof, the dark filly just tightened the hug around her sister. Her ears twitched at the sound of something knocking, causing an almost crystalline ring to fill the air. “Five more minutes”

Despite Hazy’s truly herculean efforts, the hoof poked her again, succeeding in forcing the filly out of the comforting embrace of sleep. The blurry image of Star lying on top of her, with her hoof ready to prod Hazy again. “We need to get going, Sis, Apple Bloom and her family are waiting for us.”

Any murkiness of sleep fell away as Hazy scrambled to her hooves, looking out of the window to find the moon lurking in the sky right where it was supposed to be. Her blood ran cold as Star joined her looking out the window. The surface of the moon still had craters, although the face of the mare in the moon was gone. Stars ringed the moon, travelling away from it at a steady speed as they could already feel a wave of powerful alicorn magic traveling towards Equestria.

“Yer comin’ right?” A voice called from outside, yanking the fillies from their building panic. Star led the way, weaving out of the house and into the cool night air. The scent of apple trees filled hazy’s nostrils as they spotted the members of the Apple family waiting by the gate to their farm.

Star adjusted her cloak as the two galloped for the gate, fear of what was coming mixed with a sense of nervous excitement. Hazy pulled Apple Bloom into a hug as the sisters trotted up to the Apple family. Applejack turned to start heading for the gate, the large red stallion following behind, pausing only to gesture for the others to follow.

The group of ponies kept a steady pace, following the winding path down towards town. Hazy could see other groups filtering into the road, some larger groups pouring out of their houses. Apple Bloom yawned as they continued into town, her ears sagging down before raising up to listen for something.

Hazy and Star pricked their ears up, searching for whatever it was Applebloom had heard. Almost instantly they heard a familiar voice from earlier yelling. The white coated filly they'd talked to earlier emerged from behind another white mare the two immediately knew as their mother's friend Rarity.

"Hey!" Sweetie Belle yelled, galloping over with a wide grin. behind her trailed an orange and purple Pegasus filly, a slight strut to her walk as if she was trying to look nonchalant. Her mouth moving as a mile a minute, the verbal barrage nearly indecipherable to the two barely awake alicorns. Focusing, Hazy just caught the end of Sweetie Belle's opening salvo. "I wanted you two to meet Scootaloo! These are the fillies I told you about, Scoots!"

With a flick of her mane, the orange Pegasus filly joined the group. Her cool façade faltered immediately as Sweetie pulled her into a hug. The brief moment of quiet was broken as Sweetie unleashed another volley at the assembled fillies. "Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, we're all in Miss Cheerilee's class together. These are Star and...H-Haze?"

"Oh, it's Hazy. Don't worry, I've had my name mispronounced and all sorts before," Hazy returned, having to wait for almost a minute as Sweetie's verbal barrage descended into a staccato of apologies. With a soft push from Big Mac the fillies got moving again, following the flow of ponies. Ahead of them, over the river of ponies, Hazy could just about see the roof of the town hall.

A golden glow spilled from its windows, the flickering light illuminating Ponyville's streets with aid by the sparse streetlamps. The group of fillies following close behind Applejack, using her wake to avoid being seperated by the crowd. As she guided them along, Applejack gave the group a brief head count before addressing them in a tone that offered no compromise. "Y'all stick together, Ah'll make sure ta find ya after the celebration. Try not ta go runnin' off."

Amidst the soft murmurs of the excited crowd, Hazy’s sense of dread only built. High above she could see the stars nearly touching the moon now. Whereas earlier that day she’d been able to feel Princess Celestia and who she guessed must have been Cadence in Canterlot. A new presence was building, Hazy could feel it pulling on the magic in the air. As they finally neared the town hall, she caught a glimpse of the white and green mare from before. Four Leaf wore a look of deep concern, a large book floating in her green magic as she scanned across its pages. Ignoring the risk, Hazy lit her horn, softly pulling Star to her side before placing a wing on her back beneath their cloaks. Hazy’s purple eyes met Four Leaf’s as the older mare looked up at the pulse of magic.

The town hall was decorated with lavish banners bearing Celestia’s cutiemark. The expertly designed banners and arrangements drew all eyes in the room towards the Town Hall’s centre stage. To the side, Hazy could see a row of brightly coloured birds, along with a pink and yellow pegasus she recognised as Fluttershy seemingly whispering to them. Flanking the stage, adorned in golden armour, two guardsponies gleamed and shone in the light, spears held at their side. Despite the crowd filling the room, a small gap was left in front of the stage, leaving about a pony length between the crowd and the guards. Before the group of fillies could squeeze their way further into the crowd a cough drew their attention. Hazy turned to see two fillies, one pink and the other grey.

“I see you’re new to town, nopony wearing a genuine Canterlot silk cloak would want to,” The pink filly giggled into a hoof before leveling her gaze on Applebloom, despite their similar height, the newcomer managed to look down her muzzle at Hazy and Star’s companions. “degrade themselves by hanging around with these...blankflanks. My daddy has a private box for the celebration, you two would be welcome to join Silver Spoon and I.”

Before anypony could get a word in, the pink filly took a step towards Hazy, her smug smile only growing more predatory. “Where are my manners? I’m Diamond Tiara, if you’re from Canterlot you’ll have heard of my daddy. Filthy Rich was one of the sponsors for last year's Grand Canterlot Fashion show. Now, come on, you don’t want these losers to ruin your family reputation, I’m sure.”

Crossing the short distance before Diamond Tiara could blink, the pink filly found herself bearing the brunt of a filly alicorn’s ire. Star’s glare alone shattered the smug aura of control Diamond was giving off. All of the fillies saw a shudder of panic run down the bully's spine as she took a step back. “L-let’s get to Daddy’s b-box, Silver”

Silence fell over the group as they watched the two fillies retreat into the crowd, only to be mirrored as a hush fell over the crowd. Hazy turned as the sound of birdsong filled the air, conducted by Fluttershy. The curtain parted to reveal a light brown and grey mare emerging and waving to the gathered crowd as the birds suddenly stopped. Confusion flickered across the mare’s face before her smile returned. “Fillies and gentlecolts, as mayor of Ponyville, it is my great pleasure to announce the beginning of the Summer Sun Celebration!”

A wave of cheers erupted from the crowd, including a shrill whistle from Applebloom. Before the two sisters could join the cheer, Hazy had to suppress a yelp of pain as her horn felt like it froze. Star’s cry of pain shattered the cheerful mood, drawing the eyes of the crowd to the strange fillies clutching their horns as tears rolled down their cheeks. Almost instantly Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were at the sister’s sides, helping them keep standing. Whilst on stage, the mayor cleared her through before attempting to regain the crowd’s attention.

“In just a few moments, our town will witness the magic of the sunrise, and celebrate the longest day of the year! And now, it is my great honor to introduce to you the ruler of our land, the very pony who gives us the sun and the moon each and every day, the good, the wise, the bringer of harmony to all of Equestr-” Her words were cut off by a rumbling boom of thunder closely followed by a burst of panicked whispers. Hazy fought to open her eyes, despite the icy grip around her horn only to realise what was happening. As she tried to speak, a loud echoing laughter filled the room.

All around the fillies, ponies were beginning to panic. Hazy spotted Rainbow Dash standing over Fluttershy as the yellow mare cowered. The guards stormed onto the stage, throwing back the curtain to reveal a dark grew fog where Princess Celestia should have been. A chaotic mixture of yells blended into the cacophony.

“Applebloom, Ah’m comin’!”

"Sweetie Belle!”

“Everypony Please remain calm!”

Another boom of thunder ushered in silence across the room as the darkness on the stage began to rise. Two piercing slitted eyes formed from within as the outline of a massive alicorn emerged out of the darkness. As she rose it felt as if all the warmth in the room was being drained away. Her coat blended into the shadows, as what looked like the night sky alive with galaxies spilled from her head and rear. The moment her mouth formed she began to laugh. Her cruel, almost psychotic, laugh filled the air and brought the room into perfect silence, leaving the dark alicorn as the sole source of sound. Her body was clad in gleaming silver and blue armour, glowing softly with a turquoise hue as Hazy could feel the enchantments practically oozing out of it.

As her laughter stopped, the dark alicorn’s gaze swept over the crowd, lingering on Hazy and Star before moving across the rest of the gathered ponies. Her attention was taken away from the crowd as the two guards charged her, their shining spear tips pointed at her throat. Seizing the opportunity, Star and Hazy began to back up towards the door, their friends following behind them almost on instinct to keep their small herd together.

“Halt!” Cried the pegasus guard as he launched into the air and dove for the dark alicorn. On her other side, the earth pony guard remained silent. The alicorn didn’t even seem phased as her horn ignited and plucked the pegasus out of the air, moments later a bone shattering crunch echoed through the air as the golden armoured body slammed into the wall before dropping to the ground. The crowd of ponies backed up, gasps of shock mingled with shrieks of horror. Having witnessed their comrade swatted aside like a fly from the air, the earth pony guard faltered, dropping her spear to the floor before she turned to flee.

Hazy felt the dark alicorn’s horn charge a spell until it unleashed a spear of ice at the earth pony’s helmeted head. As it hurtled towards its target, the guard glanced over her shoulder and froze just as it would have impacted. Only, instead of slaying the stallion, the spear of ice dissolved into an icy mist as it crashed into a hastily erected, glowing green shield.

Silence fell over the packed room as the ponies parted to reveal Four Leaf, her horn lit as she advanced on the dark alicorn. The mare didn’t even flinch when face to face with the full force of the dark alicorn’s ire.

“Well, well, well, I see the two brats here have a guard worth something then. Why not joi-” The dark alicorn began to speak, only to be cut off by a yell from Four Leaf.

“Nightmare Moon! By Her Majesty Princess Celestia’s authority as Princess of Equestria. I, Archmage Four Leaf Clover, descendant of Equestria’s first Archmage, Clover the Clever, offer you one chance to surrender and face trial for your crimes.” Four Leaf yelled as she advanced, the green light from her horn illuminating the room, casting eerie, shifting shadows against the walls. At the mention of Clover the Clever, Nightmare Moon’s aloof expression changed, her eyes beginning to narrow as Four Leaf closed in on the stage.

“You dare speak her name in my presence? You impudent little mare, I shall enjoy making you suffer and then secure my throne by eliminating those bastards that Celestia has sired in my absence!” Nightmare Moon practically roared, the building shaking as she spoke, sending a shower of plaster and dust down on the ponies. The mass of bodies pressing away from the stage threatened to sweep the group of fillies along with the tide or crush them underhoof.

“We need to leave...follow me!” Star hissed at the group before she started to work her way towards the side entrance of the Townhall. One by one, the fillies filtered through the crowd, ducking and weaving through gaps between fully grown ponies’ legs as they closed in towards the exit. Star could see their way out, a side door next to the staircase leading up to the box seats was just ahead of them as she galloped past a brown stallion with a slicked back mane. The five fillies bolted past the startled stallion as they emerged from beneath a pink mare who let out a shriek of panic as Hazy emerged from beneath her. Sparing a glance back over her shoulder, Hazy saw Nightmare Moon rear up before bringing her hooves down on Four Leaf’s shield. Screams of panic erupted as green sparks erupted from the shield, whilst beneath it, Hazy could clearly make out the resolute silhouette of Four Leaf.

Turning her back on the battle, Hazy galloped out the door and quickly regrouped with her friends, bringing up the rear as Star led them away from the town hall. The sounds of a frightened stampede of ponies mingled with the duel as it raged inside the town hall, disturbing the previously calm evening air. Five sets of hoof tracks would easily be hidden by the stampede that was about to burst out of the building, at least Hazy hoped it would be enough.

The group galloped as fast as they could, racing back down the path they’d followed into town. All around them Pponyville was empty, seemingly everypony had gone to the Summer Sun Celebration. Star steeled her jaw as she led the group onwards, her nerves built, fueled by the desolate down mixed with sounds of battle from behind them. The taste of blood in her mouth finally caused the filly to slow, panting for breath as she looked back at her companions.

Hazy and Applebloom were breathing heavily, their earth pony magic helping them to keep galloping. Hazy spared a moment to shoot a worried look to her sister, receiving a tired smile in response. Star glanced at Sscootaloo and Sweetie Belle, and had to suppress a wince. The orange filly’s coat clung to her, dripping sweat as she panted for breath, her small wings buzzing in an attempt to cool her down. Sweetie Belle somehow looked worse off, the make up she’d had on was running, resulting in long dark smears across her pristine white coat along with smears of muck where they’d have to squeeze along the floor.

“Star, take Applebloom and Scootaloo and go on ahead. I’ll stay with Sweetie.” Hazy spoke, the older filly’s voice mirroring a tone they both knew well from hearing their father give orders. Almost immediately the two other filly’s stiffened, they could tell there was no room for argument. Before Star could say anything, an ear piercing screech rang out from across the town, accompanied by a roaring boom, the night sky was briefly lit up by an immense burst of green magic. Taking the explosion as a hint to start running, the three fillies took off at a gallop, leaving Hazy and Sweetie alone.

The dark filly inhaled through her nostrils, pausing a few seconds before exhaling slowly. Practically all she could hear was the thundering of her heart in her ears, threatening to break the mask of calm she had hastily erected. Slowly, the thundering grew quieter, freeing Hazy’s ears to listen to the sounds of utter chaos coming from further into the town. “...we need to get moving before Nightmare Moon catches us…”

“P-please,” Sweetie panted, fighting for breath,” just t-trot for now...we can catch up...once I can gallop.”

Hazy’s ears flicked and twitched as she watched the path behind her, still devoid of ponies despite the seconds that had ticked by. Resisting the urge to stretch her wings to relieve the tension in her back, Hazy’s eye was drawn back to Sweetie Belle. The white filly’s eyes slowly traced over the outline of Hazy’s back before a slight smile formed.

“...So when are you gonna tell us?” Sweetie asked as she started to trot up the path again, prompting Hazy to follow beside her after a moment.

“Tell you what?” Hazy muttered, unable to hide the suspicion in her voice.

“Your wings, silly, I thought I saw something move under your sister’s cloak but you’ve just confirmed it for me. Scootaloo has the same little twitch when she wants to stretch her wings.”

Hazy stopped dead in her tracks, her jaw meekly flapping up and down as she struggled to find words. The dam she’d constructed to hold her emotions in check was rapidly starting to collapse, panic rising to the surface as Hazy’s mind. Her mind conjured up fears of imprisonment, banishment or worse banishment then imprisonment, only further amping up her panic with her breaths coming in short heavy bursts. Amidst her spiralling panic attack a hoof found itself placed on Hazy’s shoulder. “It’s okay...I won’t tell anypony, but friendships can’t be built on a lie. I learned that the hard way.”

Before Hazy could muster a response she was pulled into a soft hug, Sweetie belle’s hooves wrapped around her neck. It felt like the warmth of the filly’s coat was flowing into her, silencing the worry and panic that had been building. With a renewed strength Hazy took a breath, and offered a smile to Sweetie. “Right, I promise I’ll tell the other’s when we catch up.”

The duo took off at a gallop, charging down the path, unaware of three sets of eyes watching them. Two sets from behind a nearby house, whilst the final pair of eyes floated above them all. The cold cyan eyes stared down at the various fillies, a slight pang of regret mingled within Nightmare Moon, only to be quashed by rage as she felt a pulse of magic from canterlot. The little brats can wait, it seems the pink one has escaped.

Hazy and Sweetie almost spotted the cloud of darkness as it floated over the everfree forest, launching a small section of itself down into the mass of trees before angling off towards Canterlot.

Loyalty, Forgiveness, and Kindness

Star panted as she slumped down onto the ground, her breath coming in heavy bursts as she fought for air. Across from her, Scootaloo's wings buzzed frantically, fanning the orange filly's sides to cool her.

"You two need ta exercise more." Came Applebloom, controlling her breathing with a practiced ease. The farm filly shook her head, remaining a little distance away from the fillies on the ground. As the only one of the trio left standing, she was on lookout duty for Sweetie Belle and Hazy. "Ah swear, we only galloped from halfway back home. You sure ya know the route from here, Star?"

Offering a tired nod in reply, Star rose shakily to her hooves. The faint taste of iron on her tongue reminded her just how bad she was at galloping. Trying to ignore the nagging sense of regret at not following her dad's advice and going on a morning run with him, Star reached out with her magic.

The dark, malignant presence of Nightmare Moon seemed to be in Canterlot, along with the source of Alicorn magic Star knew must be Princess Cadence. With a small pulse of her golden magic, Star felt out for her sister, trying to guess how long they'd have to wait. Dread kept building about what would happen when Nightmare Moon's attention returned to the sisters.

A moment passed before a pulse of magic reached Star, the comforting feeling of Hazy's slightly tingly magic washed over her for a second before the sensation passed. Star's horn dimmed as she strode over to stand beside Applebloom, keeping an eye out for Sweetie's white coat. "They're close, I don't think we'll be able to spot Hazy with how dark it is though…"

"Look for the mini marshmallow." Scootaloo chuckled before joining the trio. From their vantage point on the edge of the forest they could see all the way down into town. Star's heart sank as she spotted a group of brightly coloured mares galloping through the town. Even if she couldn't make out their individual colours, the rainbow trail being left behind by one of them was enough of a clue. The trio's ears drooped in unison. They could all see the white and green form being carried towards Ponyville General Hospital, albeit none of them wanted to comment on it.

A flicker of white closer to them drew the fillies attention, a small cheer erupting from them as Sweetie Belle emerged from behind a treeline. Following closely behind her was Hazy, her cloak torn on one side as the tear flapped behind her. Star and Scootaloo staggered to the side as Applebloom let out a bellow that would put the Royal Canterlot Voice to shame.

"Come on! Y'all nearly made it!" As Applebloom's yell rolled over Sweetie Belle and Hazy, the two visibly sped up. With the pair crossing the short distance remaining in barely a minute only to slow to a trot before stopping as they arrived.

"T-told you we'd catch up." Hazy muttered in between large gulps of air, a nervous smile on her muzzle. Although Star reckoned she was the only one who could see behind the smile to notice how worried her sister was. "Before we get going again, though...we should talk."

"Talk?" Scootaloo asked, voicing what was on all three fillies' minds. Hazy simply nodded, her eyebrows furrowing as she visibly considered her words. In the moment of silence that ensued, Sweetie edged away from the dark-coated filly, taking up a place beside Applebloom.

"Sis? What's going on?" Star questioned, the look in Hazy's eyes deeply concerned her. She'd never seen this potent mixture of guilt, worry, and stress in her sister before. The smaller filly gently nuzzled her sister's neck, trying to reassure her older sister.

In response Hazy sighed, steeling her nerves before looking up at her new found friends. "Star and I haven't been honest with you…"

"Your name's not Hazy! I knew it!" Scootaloo blurted out, a grin on her lips. The confident smile faded rapidly as the other four fillies looked at Scootaloo in utter confusion.

"What? No. I mean we aren't from around here... Ugh, how do I say this?" the dark filly continued, trying to find the right words as Star's eyes widened in realisation. "My name is Princess Hazy Sparkle, eldest daughter of Twilight Sparkle, Stargazer is my little sister."

With a slight flourish, Hazy's purple tipped wings snapped open from beneath the cloak. Admittedly, her wings weren't that large but the effect was instant. Scootaloo's jaw dropped, nearly hitting the floor, whilst Applebloom seemed to freeze. "Lying was my idea, I was scared of what others might do to us. It took a word of advice from somepony important for me to realise that I need to trust my friends more."

"Our friends…" Star muttered before unfolding her wings and letting out a small happy groan as she stretched. Three sets of eyes followed her every motion, Scootaloo tracing every line and contour of Star's wings with a keen interest before turning to examine her own.

"Yer an Alicorn. Well shoot, that explains the cloaks, ah guess. Who is Twilight Sparkle, though? Ah haven't heard a her before." The innocent question made both sisters flinch as if the words had physically struck them.

"...we thought mom would be in town based on when we are…" Star practically whispered, her words causing Sweetie's ears to prick up.

"When you are? You're from the future!?! Oh Celestia, can you tell me what the future is like? Are we still friends? Do I get my cutiemark? Oh! What's Equestria like?" The mini marshmallow bounced on her hooves excitedly as she unleashed a torrent of words on the two Alicorn fillies.

As the duo battled against the raging stream of questions directed at them, Star was the only one able to get a word in. "Our mom rules Equestria alongside Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna, we don't actually know you in the future ‘cause...well you're older than us…"

Sweetie Belle stopped talking to digest Star's response, her face flickering through various emotions as she thought. Star was partially surprised that she wasn't trailing steam out her ears or boring a hole in the ground with the intensity of her thoughtful stare. Seizing on the opportunity, Hazy took a step forward to enter the Everfree Forest.

"I understand if you don't want to come with us anymore, I abused your trust, but... we think we know how to defeat Nightmare Moon and we'll need all the help we can get." Hazy offered, her heart pounding as she looked from Sweetie Belle, who was still deep in thought, to Scootaloo's excited smile before settling on Applebloom's frown.

Silence hung in the air between the fillies, broken only by the distant sounds of panic and Star shuffling over to be at Hazy's side. "You lied ta us, but you did it to protect yer sister. Ah know Big Mac would’ve done the same fer me, even if he wouldn't admit to lying like that. You need me to help defeat that... monster... from back in town? Ah’m with ya."

Once she'd finished, Applebloom crossed the small gap to stand with the sisters. Almost immediately followed by Scootaloo, her excitement was almost infectious. "I'm in, always wanted more friends with wings."

The four fillies glanced at Sweetie, only for her to burst out laughing. "What? You thought I wasn't with you? Come on! We've got a world to save!"

As she spoke, Sweetie launched into a gallop, charging into the Everfree Forest. Behind her, the other four followed quickly, keeping pace with the unicorn filly as they let loose a series of cheers. The sound of their cheering rang out across the otherwise silent forest.

The thunder of hooves preceded the fillies as they charged down the shadowed dirt paths. Leading the group, Star raced down the path, her horn's golden light banishing the darkness around them. Glancing over her shoulder, the blue filly swore she saw something moving in the shadows behind them. Before she could comment about it, her attention was yanked forward as she felt her hoof smack into a root coming out of the forest’s uneven ground.

The floor raced up to meet her face, only for something to yank on Star's cloak. As soon as she found her stride, Star looked back to find a smiling Applebloom. "Ah’m not just gonna let ya trip."

"Thanks, Applebloom," Star beamed back at her new friend, the group's pace slowing down momentarily as they came to a fork in the path. Her brow furrowed as she tried to remember the right direction, mentally retracing the route Zecora had shown them. "Uh...Hazy, any clue which way we need to go?"

"So, if we came onto this path from the right walking towards the town, then it should be on the left, I think?" Came Hazy's reply as she craned her neck to see over Scootaloo's head. A murmur of agreement rose from the other fillies, prompting Star to turn around and lead them further into the forest. The twisted and gnarled trees surrounding the path bent and curved unlike any kind of tree the fillies had seen before. Some were barren of any leaves whilst others had long dangling strands of moss rustling through the cold breeze in the forest.

Carrying on in unflinching silence, the path they followed gradually began to lose its definition. Star could see the trail of hoof prints they’d left earlier, a sigh of relief escaping her only to form a small white cloud in front of her. Behind her, Sweetie Belle wasn’t handling the path as well as they did, squirming in disgust as her white hooves were sinking into the muddy path with every step. Despite the tracks they made having long-since faded into a muddy trail, the group of fillies managed to forge onward, only for Star to stop. Before the rest could complain, though, the two Alicorn fillies shushed them while Star’s ears kept flicking around as she carefully observed their surroundings.

Hazy turned to look at the path behind them, trying to hear what Star had. Scootaloo shuffled beside Hazy, listening to the rustling leaves and occasional bird call. As the three strained to hear, their eyes shot open in sync as a high pitched scream pierced the silence. Without hesitating, Scootaloo launched into a full gallop towards the scream, followed closely by Hazy.

“Where ya going!” Applebloom called out only to feel a pair of hooves connect with her flanks and shove from behind as Star urged the other two into motion.

“Somepony is screaming, come on!” Was all the blue filly said as she bolted past the confused earth pony and unicorn. The two followed behind Star as she raced to catch up to Scootaloo and Hazy.

As they raced through the forest, following the purple beacon of Hazy’s magic, the screaming grew louder. Mixed with the frightened sound, Hazy could hear animalistic snarls, spurring her on to try and speed up further. Her heart pounded in her ears as the realisation she could be too late began to set in, only for those thoughts to be banished as Scootaloo managed to overtake her. The two fillies moved like mares possessed, easily avoiding branches and jumping over roots until they heard another scream rip through the night air. Growing ever closer, Hazy found herself practically yelling as she charged toward a practical wall of green before her.

Preceded by a burst of purple magic, Hazy and Scootaloo erupted through the dense foliage, their hooves clattering on the stone path they found themselves on. Hazy moved before Scootaloo had even found her hoofing. She sprung into action to protect the two fillies she saw, one was standing over the other one on the floor. Her dad’s words rang clearly in her head, the first action had to be to protect the wounded and then assess the situation. She flinched momentarily, a bolt of pain sliding down her horn as she forced more magic through her horn.

Immediately, a bright purple shield burst to life between what Hazy realised was a, comparatively massive, timberwolf, and the fillies on the ground. With her barrel heaving, Hazy found herself blocking the vicious strikes of the plant-like predator not only with her own body but also with the pulsing barrier as well. Ignoring her size disadvantage, Hazy flared her wings and reared up, the glow of her horn and shield illuminating the entire clearing. Scootaloo skidded to a halt beside Hazy, sparing a glance at the two injured fillies before turning to face the wolf with a grim determination.

“W-what?! You’re an alicorn?” One of the fillies behind them muttered, pulling Hazy’s attention towards them properly. By the light of her horn, she saw a grey filly wearing a pair of glasses, one lens cracked as she stood over the filly that had spoken. Despite her tiara being broken in two pieces on the floor beside her, and the mixture of mud and small amounts of blood dirtying her coat, the filly on the floor was immediately recognisable as Diamond Tiara. Hazy could recognise the filly that had attempted to intimidate her. As if she was more frightened of the alicorn filly than the timberwolf, Diamond Tiara shuffled further back, practically hiding behind Silver Spoon.

“What happened?” Was the first question that Hazy could think of, feeling the wolf's paw prod at her shield. The other filly, who she guessed must be Silver Spoon, opened her mouth to answer only to fall silent, a look of utter shame forming on her face.

“We...we were following you. Diamond thought it would be a good idea ‘cause you ran off when that monster attacked the Town Hall… We thought you were with her, but we got lost and that!" Silver spoon practically cried as she pointed at the snarling predator with a hoof. "That thing... it c-chased us almost as s-soon as we lost your trail...”

Silver Spoon’s voice shook even harder as she spoke her next words, her body trembling despite remaining resolutely in place over her wounded friend. “Tiara’s leg caught a root and it m-managed to g-grab her leg...i-is she g-gonna be okay?”

Before Hazy could reply, Sweetie Belle, Star, and Applebloom emerged through the gap in the trees. A small scream escaped Sweetie as she laid eyes on the snarling wooden monster. Hazy’s heart sank as the wolf turned, having lost interest in prey it couldn’t reach, in favour of the one that it definitely could.

Seizing the opportunity, the timberwolf lept towards the newcomers, its wooden maw stretched wide open as it pounced. In a fluid motion, Star strode out in front of the other two fillies, her horn bursting into life with a golden glow. Much to the wolf’s surprise, instead of its fangs finding flesh, they clamped down on a solid glowing block of magic. It's two glowing green eyes glared at the blue filly, pure hatred finding only pity and sympathy looking back at it.

“Sis, something’s wrong with it.” Star called out to Hazy, her eyebrows furrowing as she concentrated. As soon as Star spoke, six heads turned to look at her, all equally confused about what could possibly be wrong with the pony-eating magical wooden construct. In response to suddenly being the centre of attention for six fillies as well as one hungry timberwolf, Star let out a small squeak before coughing and mustering a look of calm focus. “There’s some other magic affecting the timberwolf. It’s….a cold, almost angry, feeling. Can nopony else feel that?”

As Hazy opened her mouth to reply, the wolf wriggled free of Star's magical grip, lunging for the blue filly. Both sisters reacted, a dinner plate-sized golden shield bursting to life in order to block the wolf’s attack. Only for the wolf to never make it that far, in the first place, a purple tendril of magic coiled around its throat, tearing the wooden creature away from the blue alicorn filly. Two yelps of pain echoed out, one belonging to the wolf as pieces of its wooden neck snapped and were crushed by the force, whilst Hazy raised a hoof to her overstrained horn.

“N-No, don’t hurt it! I have an idea.” Star called out, the golden glow of her magic fading from existence. Ignoring the whimper of fear from Diamond and the yelled protests from her friends, Star moved towards the large timberwolf. The golden glow of her horn intensified, only to unleash a pulse of magic towards the wolf.

Breaking over the timberwolf's form like a wave against the coastline, the golden light took on a brilliant emerald green. Moments passed as the wolf seemed confused, lifting its head to watch the swirling vapours emanating from its body. Hazy swore she could even see a look of wonder on the predator's mahogany muzzle. The silence didn't last as Sweetie Belle realized what Star’s spell had done. The white filly’s hoof pointed at the now emerald vapours wafting off the wolf. “That's a tracing spell! Wait... what’s that black stuff?”

Following her hoof, all eyes were drawn to a line of black magic that was almost hidden amongst the emerald. Roiling, bubbling and sickly looking magic, just a shade above black leaked from the back of the wolf. Without hesitation, Star closed on the timberwolf. Ignoring the risk, instead she gently stroked a hoof along the creature’s bark. A snarl built in the creature's throat only to fade immediately as Star lowered her horn to its head, sending a wash of golden magic through its body. The timberwolf’s green eyes briefly dimmed before returning to their previous state, the black trail wafting from the creature halted and left the magic flowing from it a pure emerald once more.

With a joyful grin on her face, Star let the timberwolf stand only for it to shuffle away from the blue filly. Its legs wobbled as it stood, staggering away from the fillies as it headed for the treeline. All eyes returned to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon as the timberwolf disappeared from sight.

Silver Spoon nervously stepped aside, allowing the group to finally get a clear look at Diamond's foreleg. The pink limb was stained a deep red as it hung limply beyond the knee. "I-is it gonna be okay?"

Hazy's horn glowed as the star patterned cloak from her back floated up, tearing itself into long strips. Hissing in pain, Diamond Tiara didn't try to resist as she watched the strips of fabric wrap around the bite wound. All six pairs of eyes settled on Hazy as she sighed. "I think it'll heal, but we need to get you to a doctor."

"What about Nightmare Moon?" Scootaloo asked, trotting over to stand beside Hazy. "You said we could stop her! If we have to take her back, won't it be too late?"

"Wait, you think you can stop that monster?!?" Silver Spoon squeaked, backing up in panic. Only to rush forward to try and support Diamond as she fought to stand. Leaning against Silver Spoon for support, the pink filly's barrel heaved with each shuddering breath.

"I-I'm in. That monster has done something to Princess Celestia and tried to hurt my daddy." Diamond spoke, her tone carrying no room for argument in it. A cold rage simmering beneath the surface of the pink filly's otherwise aloof exterior.

Shocked silence descended over the fillies as Diamond Tiara looked at Silver Spoon. Both of their eyes met before Silver Spoon looked away. A sigh escaped Diamond's muzzle as she looked at her saviours. "Thank you, I-I was horrible to you back at the Summer Sun Celebration and I hope you can forgive me for that, Your Highnesses."

A brief silence developed as Hazy tried to find the right words. Only to be cut off by an unsubtle whisper from Star, loud enough that anypony with ears could have heard it even on the other side of the clearing. The group's attention swiveled to the slightly flustered filly. "Sis, do we still count as princesses? Mom's not here, and... well... we don't exist yet....What? I know somepony else was thinking about it!"

The other fillies' expressions quickly showed varying levels of confusion as Star continued. A smile on her muzzle as she pulled Applebloom into a hug. "Then again, I wouldn't wanna just be a princess to all of you. We're friends right? Regardless of the princess thing."

Star was given an answer in the form of Sweetie and Scootaloo rolling their eyes before hugging the alicorn. Scootaloo giggling a little before smiling as she spoke, "Of course we're still friends… Princess."

"We need to get moving. If we can get to the old castle we should be able to stop Nightmare Moon, but not if she makes it there first." Hazy announced to the filles, ignoring her sister’s deadpan look at Scootaloo as she broke up the rapidly growing group hug. Igniting her horn, the dark coated filly took in a deep breath of the cool night air before heading back into the forest. Immediately, the group followed behind, a blob of colour amidst the dark forest all around them.

The darkness around them sent shivers up the fillies' backs as they trotted onwards. Up above them, the silhouette of the ruined Castle of the Two Sisters was backlit by a full moon. Lit only by sparse moonlight and the purple glow of Hazy's horn, Sweetie found herself falling back gradually until she was trotting alongside Silver Spoon and the injured Diamond.

Minding their hooves against the poorly lit ground, the fillies tried to avoid stepping on exposed branches for fear of tripping. Lamenting her inability to properly control her magic, Sweetie found her vision drifting across to the two earth ponies. "I could help carry Diamond for a little while if you want, Silver?"

"You'd do that?" The two fillies said in unison, their jaws hanging open in shock at Sweetie Belle's offer.

"Mhmm, you didn't have to come with us… it's the least I could do." Sweetie said as she carefully pressed her side against Diamond, allowing the filly to drape her injured foreleg around Sweetie Belle's neck instead, freeing Silver Spoon.

"I didn't have to come with you, but I'm not abandoning Tiara." Silver Spoon shot back, a defensive glare adorning her face as she ducked under a dangling strand of moss. "But… thank you, it's hard to see in this forest."

As she spoke, Silver Spoon tilted her head, letting the moonlight glint off her single intact lens. A small distance ahead of them, a golden glow ignited to join the purple light. Almost immediately, Silver Spoon sped up slightly, eager to actually see where she was walking now that she didn't risk hurting Diamond by speeding up.

The two fillies brought up the rear, their seven legged rhythm forming an odd percussive backing to the ambient sound of the forest around them. Neither spoke as they trotted along, both unsure what words to use or if they should even speak.

"I'm sorry." The white filly spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I shouldn't have treated you like I did... like I do." Came a response from her injured companion. Their distance from the group served to provide a modicum of privacy.

"And I shouldn't have lied about... everything." Diamond felt her forelegs growing wet as a small sniffle escaped Sweetie.

"Apology accepted...friends?"

"I'd like that."

With their surroundings beginning to look increasingly familiar, it only took the group of fillies minutes to find the path once more. The way ahead was illuminated by Star's magic, whilst Hazy brought up the rear. Beneath their hooves the worn stone path gradually gave way to a well paved road that Hazy recognised.

"We're nearly there, last push everypony! We can do this!" Came Scootaloo's cheer as she pointed a hoof at the large ruined castle they could see far more clearly now. One of the broken towers silhouetted by the vast moon in the sky, casting a long shadow over the fillies.

Reaching out with her magic, Hazy shuddered as she realised that in the time it had taken them to save Diamond and Silver, the pink beacon that was Cadence...had been extinguished. The dread she had felt earlier returned in full as Hazy realised that she couldn't feel Nightmare Moon's presence either.

"Do those windows look weird to anypony else?" Silver Spoon asked, squinting to try and see the ruined tower more clearly. With the added benefit of a Pegasus' eyes, Hazy could make out the windows in question.

Moonlight spilled through the strangely shaped windows. The horizontal oval shaped window frames were almost entirely empty. Except for what appeared to be the remaining skeleton of a stained glass window in the middle. As she watched, Hazy felt her stomach drop.

"Looks kinda like eyes ta me." Applebloom answered Silver Spoon as she cocked her head to the side. Almost perfectly on cue, the centre of the windows burst to life, the blueish moonlight was joined by a darker glowing blue iris as a pair of pupils opened.

"There you are."

Author's Note

Well, this took longer than I'd planned originally I'm afraid. I ended up reworking my plans for this chapter and splitting them in half, so I hope you enjoy the next chapter + accompanying artwork