Chapters My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
For breakfast today, did you choose to have ceral or pancakes? It matters not which choice you made, for while you made one choice here today, there exists another universe where you chose the other choice
Even if you don't believe in the many worlds interpretation of quantum physics, one cannot deny that this quote would not ring more truer on this day. This day is but three weeks after Twilight Sparkle had joined Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns and had even become the princess's own personal student.
And it's on this day, a change will occur...one that will redirect the course of what we all know and love about "My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic".
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Twilight Sparkle was currently reading a book before all of a sudden...
"HI THERE!" A cream unicorn suddenly showed up and startled her.
"Gah!" Twilight exclaimed before being forced to drop the book she was reading.
"Your the newest student right. My name is Moondancer. I couldn't help but noticed you seem pretty interested in reading." Moondancer said.
"Yes; now if you don't mind I would..." Twilight began.
"See, I'm an avid book reader too. And I've always wanted to read the book you've been reading. So, I was thinking, maybe possibly you'd like to read together..." Moondancer said.
"You startled me in the middle of my reading..." Twilight said.
"I'm sorry for doing that." Moondancer said.
"Well you could've asked a bit better then startling me." Twilight said.
"I know. But I'm growing bored of all the books I do have. I've read every single one I own at least seventy times over. At this point, I have them memorized so they aren't as enjoyable for me to read. I swear I keep wanting to go back to Starswirl the Bearded's Book of Basic Magic even though I have the whole thing memorized like the back of my hoof." Moondancer said. Twilight's eyes went wide.
"Y-you own Starswirl the Bearded's Book of Basic Magic?!" Twilight exclaimed.
"Why yes...yes I do." Moondancer said.
"I'VE BEEN LOOKING FOR THAT BOOK FOR FOREVER! YOU SIMPLY MUST LET ME READ IT!" Twilight exclaimed.
"How about this, you let me read this book with you, and I'll read that one with you another time. Sound fair enough?" Moondancer asked. Twilight gulped. On one hand, she really didn't want to read with this unicorn, but on the other hoof, she did have that book she wanted to read. Noticing Twilight's hesitation, Moondancer decided to act. "Well...I suppose if you don't want to read with me, that's fine. But good luck trying to find some other unicorn with..." Moondancer asked, turning to leave when...
"Wait!" Twilight shot out. "I'll…I'll read this book with you. Just promise me you'll let me read that book with you as soon as possible afterwards." Twilight said. Moondancer smiled.
"Sure thing. I never got your name though." Moondancer said.
"It's Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said.
"Mind if I just call you Twilight? I've never really met another book nerd before so..." Moondancer said.
"It's fine I guess..." Twilight said.
So the two unicorns proceeded to read the book Twilight had together. As they did so, Twilight's unease around Moondancer began to drop. In fact, the more they read this one book together, the more Twilight felt more comfortable around her. Just like Moondancer, Twilight had never really met another book nerd before, even if Twilight refers to the term as book worm.
Even still, when Twilight saw Moondancer’s home a few days later, to say the purple unicorn was floored by the number of books would be an understatement.
"So many books. There's some that I know for sure I don't have." Twilight said. "I would love to read them too..." She added.
"Well I'm sure there's some other books of yours I may want to read too. What do you say: We read them all together? If you ask me, it's a fair deal." Moondancer said.
"That's not fair enough." Twilight said before suddenly dragging Moondancer into a bit of a hug. "I think we're going to be reading buddies from now on!" Twilight said. Moondancer smiled.
"I think I'll like that." Moondancer said.
And so whenever the two unicorns were able to, the two would read together. They would even study together as well. The two unicorns were clicking fast and there was no slowing down. Soon a big test was coming up, and the two pulled out all the stops to ace it. Sure Twilight got the higher score, but Moondancer didn't care. It was at that point Twilight considered Moondancer as more then a simple reading buddy.
The two unicorns were friends now. And Moondancer had others too. Even if Twilight was her newest friend, the purple unicorn didn't feel the least bit out of place. All of Moondancer's friends were so nice, and given that they were friends with Moondancer allowed Twilight to have an easier time connecting to them. It wasn't long until Twilight was accepted as just another part of Moondancer's friend circle.
All in all, Moondancer and Twilight were now quite close, one would assume they were sisters with how much they were alike. At one point, Moondancer even changed her entire mane and tail to look more like Twilight just to humor those who said they were so much alike. Twilight got a kick out of that as did their friends too. By the time the next test came along, the group was very close and studied together. Twilight still got the highest score, but none of her friends cared, least of all Moondancer.
Little known to either unicorn, the Princess of the sun herself Celestia had been watching them grow closer and closer together. Mostly focusing on Twilight and Moondancer.
"So I was wrong about who I thought would inherit that strange element of harmony known as Encouragement. I thought for sure it would've been someone else." Celestia said to herself. "Seems my guess was far off the mark." She added.
However, not everything was sunshine and rainbows after that test...
"Your being kicked out?" Moondancer asked her friend, Lyra Harpstrings.
"Not so much kicked out, I'm dropping out. I got a C on that test Moondancer. And I'm scared; if my parents find out I got a C on that test, they'll disown me." Lyra said. "I've never gotten anything less then a B on anything before now. And my parents will most likely disown me after it." She said before sighing. "But I'm sure we'll see each other again someday. Of that much I'm sure. See ya then." Lyra said and then headed out to the train station. Twilight put a hoof around Moondancer.
"It'll be alright Moondancer." Twilight said. "We'll see her again, I'm certain of it." She added.
"Your right Twilgiht. I can't let this keep me down." Moondancer said. "By the way, I heard your Celestia's personal student." She added.
"Oh; you found that out huh?" Twilight asked, worried.
"That's awesome! I didn't think Celestia's personal student would be such a book nerd. Or book worm as you like to call us." Moondancer said, smiling. Twilight then smiled.
"There's a lot you don't know about me for instance I have a brother..." Twilight began.
To say Moondancer's spirit was far from broken that day was an understatement. Because it was barely even touched.
All thanks to a certain purple unicorn she had become friends with...
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My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 1 - Moondancer's Birthday Gift
Months have passed since Lyra left Canterlot.
And while Moondancer and Twilight have yet to see her again, Twilight continues to have faith they will see her again.
It's currently five days until the next summer sun celebration, something Twilight wants to go to.
It was on this very day though, Moondancer soon arrived at Twilight's place.
"HEY TWILIGHT!" Moondancer shouted out. Twilight smiled and turned to her friend.
"Hey Moondancer. Did you know the summer sun celebration is going to be in Ponyville this year?" Twilight asked.
"Yeah. You've told me. Kind of bad timing though. My birthday is the day before. But I have a solution." Moondancer said. "In two days, I plan on celebrating my birthday early, and because your Celestia's student, I was thinking that maybe you can convince her to let us go down to Ponyville and oversee the preperations down there. Who knows, we might even make a few friends down there too." Moondancer said.
"Really? You want to go to the Summer Sun Celebration too?" Twilight asked.
"Of course! That would be the best birthday gift ever! I've never been able to go to any of the summer sun celebrations so being able to go just once would be the best!" Moondancer said.
"Then your coming with me right after the party!" Twilight announced. Moondancer gasped.
"Twilight, you don't have to do it if you don't want to." Moondancer said.
"I want to. Because your my best friend outside of my brother. And it's your birthday. So as your best friend, it's up to me to give you the present that you want most." Twilight said.
"Gee Twilight, thanks so much." Moondancer said.
"Well after all the time we've spent together, I think you deserve this." Twilight said.
"Your the best Twilight!" Moondancer said and then hugged Twilight before running off to prepare.
A few days later, all of Moondancer's friends minus Lyra showed up for the cream unicorn's early birthday party so that they would all have one thing before Moondancer went with Twilight to oversee the summer sun celebration in Ponyville. After the party, Twilight and Moondancer were in audience with Princess Celestia herself. Twilight had let her mentor know about Moondancer's want to go to Ponyville so she could see the summer sun celebration.
"So you are Moondancer." Princess Celestia said.
"It's such an honor to be speaking with you, your highness. I'm sure your well aware of what it is I want." Moondancer said.
"Yes. I had plans on sending Twilight down there to oversee the preperations to the Summer Sun Celebration as well as make friends while doing so. I'm just not sure if I should really send you along just because you want to see it." Princess Celestia said. Moondancer gulped. But then she had an idea.
"Wait! If you let me go with Twilight, I'll make certain of it that she makes friends as she handles the preparations to the Summer Sun Celebrations. I'm her best friend so having me along for the ride will help her. Please Princess, you can trust me. I will make sure Twilight makes friends in Ponyville, honest!" Moondancer said.
"Please Princess, it would mean so much to me if Moondancer could go with me." Twilight said. "And if she can't go to the summer sun celebration with me then I don't want to go to ponyville without her." She said. She suddenly looked up with her eyes closed and took a defiant stance. "And that's final! Either we both go, or neither of us." Twilight said. Celestia couldn't help but smile.
"You certainly are determined to make sure your friend is able to go with you. I suppose I have little choice then. You can join Twilight in Ponyville on one condition Moondancer: She has to make at least five new friends while she's there, or this is the last time I'm showing any special treatment." Princess Celestia said.
"Princess, I would easily double that!" Moondancer said. "So rest assured, I will make sure Twilight makes five new friends while we're down there at the very least. Even though I can easily get her ten." She said.
"Moondancer..." Twilight said. Celestia chuckled.
"We shall see." Celestia said.
That night, the two ponies were heading home.
"I can't believe your putting everything on helping me make at least five friends in Ponyville." Twilight said. "Are you certain you can do it?" She asked.
"I'm positive! I have faith in you Twilight. You have faith in me and I have faith in you." Moondancer said.
"I guess you've got a point. Still, I guess it would be nice to see what the ponies are like down there. I hope they are friendly." Twilight said.
"I expect that they may seem crazy to us at first, but I say we roll with the punches as we go. I have faith that by the time the celebration is over, you'll have at least five new friends and then some." Moondancer said. "After all, I'm coming with." She added.
"And I know you'll make sure I make those friends. And with you there, I think I'll feel more confident about making those friends. So let's really hit it off with those locals. I won't let anything ruin your birthday gift. That's a promise." Twilight said.
"Thanks Twilight. That means a lot." Moondancer said and left. Twilight smiled but then looked at the night sky.
"...Absolutely nothing. Mare's tale or not, I won't even let the thought of Nightmare Moon ruin my best friend's birthday." Twilight said and went home.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 2 - Making Friends Part 1
The day came for Moondancer and Twilight to go to Ponyville; with Princess Celestia's permission, the two were taken there via chariot. As soon as they touched down, Twilight thanked the two royal guards but then suddenly...
"Twilight?! Moondancer?!" A very familiar voice to the two called out. Very soon, Lyra Harpstrings and a cream earth pony ran up to them.
"Lyra? This is where you moved to?" Moondancer asked.
"So your Moondancer, we're well met." The cream earth pony said and extended a hoof out. "I'm Bon Bon, it's nice to meet you." She said.
"It's nice to meet you too." Moondancer said, giving Bon Bon a hoofshake. Twilight went over.
"And I'm Twilight Sparkle, but you can just call me Twilight. I assume you and Lyra are friends?" Twilight asked.
"Well when I was looking for a place to stay, Bon Bon here gladly let me stay with her. I'm still looking but Bon Bon says it's no trouble if I choose to live with her full-time." Lyra said. "Even if she does disappear for long periods of time, I don't let it effect my friendship with her." She said.
"Well that's great to hear your so well taken care of." Twilight said. "Well it was very nice to meet you Bon Bon. I think we'll make great friends if your willing to go so out of your way to provide Lyra with a place to stay like this." She said.
"Wow, Lyra was right, you two are friendly. I can tell we're going to be great friends indeed. See you later." Bon Bon said.
"Bye you two; we'll catch up later." Lyra said and left with Bon Bon.
"Wow we've barely even begun our list and already you've made one new friend here. Lyra doesn't count since we knew her already, but Bon Bon sure does." Moondancer said.
"Well that's one down, four to go right? We best get a move on." Twilight said.
"Geez and here you two forget about me." A dragon on Twilight's back said. His name was Spike, and he was Twilight's assistant.
"Spike's here? Your really going to have a plan for this whole thing? What about making friends?" Moondancer asked.
"Already taken care of. Spike?" Twilight asked.
"Right, very important item: Make at least five friends in Ponyville before the Summer Sun Celebration starts." Spike said. Moondancer couldn't help but chuckle.
"You actually put that on your list; you really want this to be great for me." Moondancer said.
"But of course. I made you a promise, and I intend to keep it no matter what." Twilight said. Suddenly she spotted a pink pony. "Oh! Here's another pony we can be friends with. Hi there I'm..." Twilight began but then the pink mare gasped upon looking at the two unicorns and then sped off.
"...Wonder where SHE'S going? Talk about rude much." Moondancer said.
"Be that as it may, I'm certain we'll see her later. We can try again then." Twilight said. The trio headed off towards Sweet Apple Acres.
Twilight and Moondancer soon arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, and Twilight noticed the farm pony.
"Oh! Here's someone else." Twilight said. "Hi, I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight introduced herself and extended a hoof which the Farm pony took and shook Twilight like crazy.
"Well howdy there Twilight. Ma name's Applejack, and we here at Sweet Apple Acres sure do like making new friends." Applejack stated.
"That's some strength you got there..." Moondancer said. Suddenly Applejack blinked and looked back and forth between the two.
"Wait; are the two of you sisters?" Applejack asked.
"We're not, but your not the first pony to make that mistake." Moondancer said, and giggled. "My name's Moondancer, I'm Twilight Sparkle's best friend." Moondancer said. "I hope we can all be best friends." She added.
"Well isn't that just dandy, you two are as tight as a chicken in a pen house. But if your two are offering so openly, ah can't right pass that up." Applejack said.
"We're also here to check up on the food..." Twilight said. "So do you have that covered?" She asked.
"Why ya can bet our newly formed friendship that we certainly have it covered and then some. Would you like to try some? I think we got a few leftovers from the apple family reunion." Applejack asked.
"That would be a good way for us to cement our newly formed friendship if anything else. Besides, I am feeling rather peckish." Moondancer said. "I may have forgotten to eat breakfast before I left the house." She added sheepishly.
"Moondancer, you know that's the most important meal of the day!" Twilight exclaimed.
"I know I know, but I was so excited to get here that I just forgot okay?" Moondancer asked.
"Rightly understandable there sugercube. Let's not waste any time then." Applejack said.
"Thank you for providing us food then. I'm certain we'll be great friends from here on out." Twilight said.
Two new friends already Twilight is on fire. Not really on fire, but she is making new friends left and right. I told Celestia we'd have ten friends easy by the summer sun celebration, and I think we just might break that and make it fifteen... Moondancer thought to herself.
Two friends down, four more to go, and I think I'm actually enjoying making so many new friends. Perhaps making ten new friends isn't 100% out of the realm of possibility. Twilight thought to herself.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 2 - Making Friends Part 2
"I am stuffed!" Moondancer said as she and Twilight headed out back into Ponyville.
"I ate too much pie..." Twilight complained.
"And that food was really good." Spike said. "Next up is weather, a pony named Rainbow Dash is supposed to take care of it." He added.
"Really? The weather called for a sunny day so why is it..." Twilight said before being knocked into mud by a cyan pegasus.
"Heh, excuse me..." The pegasus said before proceeding to wash Twilight with Rain and then dry her off with some sort of speed maneuver. It made Twilight's mane get messed up though.
"You have to be Rainbow Dash, right?" Moondancer asked. Rainbow Dash looked at her and back to Twilight.
"...Huh; if it wasn't for the fact that your obviously best friends, I'd mistake you for sisters in a heartbeat. But Yeah, I'm Rainbow Dash." Rainbow Dash said.
"Never thought I'd see the day when someone actually doesn't assume we're sisters right off the bat." Twilight said.
"Don't get me wrong, you two could totally pull of the sister thing. You seem that alike." Rainbow Dash said.
"Well then, what were you doing if you weren't clearing the sky?" Moondancer asked.
"I was practicing for the wonderbolts. They're going to show up at the Summer Sun Celebration after all." Rainbow Dash said.
"Huh interesting. Say, I wanna see how fast you can clear this sky then. I'll time you." Moondancer said and got her magic to make a stop watch.
"Wow, a timed sky clearing? SIGN ME UP!" Rainbow Dash said.
"Ready; GO!" Moondancer said and started the timer. Rainbow Dash quickly cleared away the clouds in record time: 8.57 seconds.
"Damn that's fast!" Twilight said.
"I know! That's amazing! Your amazing!" Moondancer said. "Forgive us for not introducing ourselves, I'm Moondancer." Moondancer said.
"And I'm Twilight Sparkle. So, you want to get into the Wonderbolts huh?" Twilight asked.
"You know it!" Rainbow Dash said.
"Well, I think you'll get in no problem. In fact I know you will, just keep at it. In fact, I think the two of us would like to be there for you every step of the way." Moondancer said.
"Really? You'd both do that for me?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"But of course. That is, if you want." Twilight said.
"Are you kidding? That'd be super awesome. You two are defiantly my friends from here on out. I can't wait to hang out more. I'm going to go practice more, later!" Rainbow Dash said and sped off.
"Three friends already, I think we're getting the hand of this." Moondancer said.
"I think so too. Let's go to Town Hall and then ask whoever's there for advice on who can fix my mane." Twilight said.
"I agree one hundred percent." Moondancer said.
The trio made it into Town Hall and noticed a white unicorn decorating the place.
"Wow, this pony has quite the unique charm to her but..." Spike said. "I for some reason feel like she's out of my league." He added.
"She's too old for you for starters." Twilight said. "Good day miss." Twilight said.
"Not now, in the zone!" The white unicorn said before making some finishing touches. "And done. A little glitter goes a long way. Now then how can I--EEK!" The Unicorn said.
"Yeah. I know. Seems the decorations are in order here. So, if you would be so kind as to direct us to somepony who can fix my mane that'd be great thanks." Twilight said.
"Well look no further darling! I; Rarity Belle; will gladly fix your mane without any charge!" Rarity said.
"Really? That's great. Thank you so much Ms. Belle." Moondancer said. This caused Rarity to look between the two.
"...They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery but this?" Rarity motioned to the two. "If it wasn't for the fact that your mane was messed up, I could've easily passed you both off as sisters." She said.
"So if my mane was fixed, you'd easily mistake us for sisters; great..." Twilight said. "Your not the first pony to make that assumption." She added.
"Actually, as a designer, even if your mane wasn't messed up, I can tell you two apart enough to know your not real sisters." Rarity said and then lead the trio into her boutique where she proceeded to fix Twilight's mane. "There, that should do it." Rarity said. But Twilight's mane had a bun in it.
"Uh..." Twilight said. "I'd rather not have this bun in my mane, if you don't mind." She said.
"Don't you want to look different?" Rarity said. "I get the whole imitation thing but..." She said.
"Actually that was my idea. Even before I changed my mane to look the way it does, people were STILL confusing us for sisters, so I did this just to spite those people." Moondancer said.
"Oh. I see." Rarity said and made sure to undo Twilight's bun. "My apologies then." Rarity said.
"It's fine Rarity. I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said.
"And I'm Moondancer. And I have to say, your dresses here have quite the charm to them. What I wouldn't give to have this quality up in Canterlot." Moondancer said.
"Your from canterlot?!" Rarity exclaimed.
"Yep. And don't start." Moondancer said.
"Don't worry, I won't. It's just wow..." Rarity said. "Oh we are going to be good friends us three. When next we meet, you must tell me all about how Canterlot was while you were there." She said.
"Sounds like a plan. See you then." Twilight said.
"And that makes four. Man this is easier then I thought." Moondancer said. "Everyone here is just so friendly. But now it's getting pretty close to evening. We best hurry and find that fifth friend." She said.
"Good idea. Last is music, and we should be careful not to disturb them too much." Twilight said.
The trio soon came across a yellow peaguses who was making birds sing quite well. Twilight couldn't help but smile.
"Careful..." Twilight said. She then tapped the pegasus gently. Very gently.
"Oh?" The pegasus noticed the trio. "Oh hi there. Wow, is that a baby dragon?" She asked.
"Yes. His name's Spike. I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said.
"And I'm Moondancer." Moondancer said.
"Those are nice names. My name's Fluttershy. I'm normally a little shy but you were so nice in approuching me. I've never had anyone approach me so gently before." Fluttershy said.
"Well we didn't want to disturb you with the music which is very nice I might add. You can teach animals how to do things like that?" Twilight asked.
"Oh yes! I can understand all animals quite well." Fluttershy said.
"I wonder just how many animals you have taught things like this. How about the next time we meet you show us your animals?" Moondancer said.
"Oh! That would be great of you to take an interest. I do hope we can be friends." Fluttershy said.
"Are you kidding? We're going to be great friends!" Twilight said with a cheery smile.
"Your so nice. I can't wait." Fluttershy said.
"Hey Fluttershy!" Rainbow Dash soon popped out of nowhere. "I need you to; oh..." Rainbow Dash said. "Hi there. I'm just here to grab my friend here. You've met already?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Yes." Moondancer said.
"Cool. Still, gotta grab her for something. Later." Rainbow Dash grabbed Fluttershy.
"Um bye..." Fluttershy said before being flown off with Rainbow Dash carrying the pegasus.
"...She does realize her friend's a pegasus right?" Spike asked.
"I think Fluttershy may not be that strong of a flier." Twilight said. "Also, that makes five. We have enough. But we might be able to make more after the summer sun celebration." She added.
"I agree. We could ask Celestia to stay around for a few days after." Moondancer said. The trio headed for the library.
But when they entered the lights were off, but when they came back on...
"SURPRISE!" A whole bunch of ponies said at once.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 3 - Nightmare Moon
Previously, Twilight and Moondancer alongside Twilight's assistant Spike had gone around Ponyville and had managed to get Twilight five new friends in Ponyville. Upon arriving at the Gold Oaks Library to take a break, the trio discovered the lights were off and when they were turned on...
"SURPRISE!" A bunch of ponies said the moment the lights were on. One pony in particular, the Pink Pony that ran from the trio came up to them.
"So were you surprised, were you, were you?" The Pink Pony asked.
"Yes. We were. You managed to get a party of this magnitude ready while we were running around?" Moondancer asked.
"Yep! Don't you remember when I saw you, I went like..." The Pink Pony gasped. "Well that's because I never saw you before, and if I never saw you before, that must mean your new here, and if your new here that must mean you may not know a lot of folk here, but turns out the ones I really wanted you to become friends with you did so on your own which only makes me super duper happy." The Pink Pony explained.
"Right...So, let's get introduced. I'm Moondancer." Moondancer said.
"And I'm Twilight Sparkle." Twilight said.
"And I'm Pinkie Pie. Better get used to me, new friends, because I plan on becoming great friends with you two as the party progresses. What say you to that?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"That sounds like the perfect idea. Especially considering today was my actual birthday from before we left Ponyville." Moondancer said. Suddenly Pinkie Pie did a spit take with a water glass she got out of her mane.
"TODAY IS YOUR BIRTHDAY?! OH MY GOODNESS THEN I NEED TO GET OUT A SECOND PARTY CANNON!" Pinkie Pie said before suddenly taking a cannon out of her mane.
"What the..." Twilight said.
"Trust me here Twilight..." Rainbow Dash said besides the two unicorns. "It's best if you don't question it." Rainbow Dash added before Pinkie Pie fired the cannon putting some birthday decorations up.
"Wow...what are you, some sort of party expert?" Moondancer asked. Pinkie Pie gasped.
"You were able to guess that I'm a party expert just from this alone?! You and I are going to be BEST friends!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Twilight rolled her eyes.
"You'll be great friends with me too though. You can't expect to be Moondancer's friend without being mine as well. We're kind of stuck like glue like that." Twilight said.
"Oh I know! I could tell the moment I saw you. And I think it must have gotten frustrating being confused for sisters all the time." Pinkie Pie said.
"I beg your parden?" Moondancer asked.
"Well I figured that wherever you came from you must have gotten confused as sisters all the time, and as a result, Moondancer here restyled her mane to look more like Twilight's mane just to spite all those people, and the only two ponies outside of me who were able to tell your not really sisters are Rainbow Dash and Rarity." Pinkie Pie said.
"That's...right...how did you know?" Moondancer asked.
"Just a hunch." Pinkie Pie said.
"That...raises so many questions. Still, you don't seem like a bad pony by any means. I'm sure we'll be great friends, Pinkie Pie." Twilight said.
"Same to you, Twilight. You can just call me Pinkie by the way. Everyone else does." Pinkie Pie said. "Now, let's enjoy this party!" She added.
"You know what? I think we will." Twilight said. "And I promise, nothing is going to stop us from enjoying ourselves tonight." Twilight said.
"You said it." Moondancer said. The trio began to join the party but Twilight looked up to the sky briefly.
"...Absolutely nothing..." Twilight said and joined the party. She was spotted by Rainbow Dash looking up.
"...Wonder what's she's looking at the night sky for? It's probably nothing." Rainbow Dash said.
Later, the everyone was gathering in Town Hall.
"Hey Twilight..." Moondancer spoke up. "You've been worrying about something this whole time, haven't you?" She asked.
"Yes Moondancer. But it's not something that can wait until after the summer sun celebration. Getting you to enjoy the summer sun celebration for once in your life...that was the gift I wanted to give you. And what I've been worried is probably nothing anyways. I know you usually worry about the things I worry about, but just this one time...forget about what I'm worried about, and just enjoy your gift from me." Twilight said.
"I'm glad you are putting it at the back of your mind so I can enjoy my special day. I'll never forget this birthday, ever. Because I got to spend it with you, Twilight Sparkle." Moondancer said.
"Moondancer..." Twilight said.
"Shh!" Pinkie Pie showed up next to them. "It's starting!" Pinkie Pie said. But suddenly Celestia turned up missing and then...well an evil alicorn showed up. Twilight gasped.
"No...please no..." Twilight said. "Not Nightmare Moon..." She added.
TO BE CONTINUED
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 4 - Honesty & Kindness
Twilight quickly rushed to the library with Moondancer close behind.
“Twilight, what the heck? What’s going on?” Moondancer asked.
“That’s what I want to know. Twilight, you had some inkling that Nightmare Moon was gonna show up, didn’t you?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Is she right Twilight?” Moondancer asked.
“I made you a promise Moondancer; I promised you I wouldn’t let anything get in the way of your time here. This whole trip was meant to be your birthday gift remember?” Twilight asked.
“Talk about one Tartarus of a birthday gift...” Applejack said.
“So...you put the fact you knew about Nightmare Moon’s return on the back burner because of me?” Moondancer asked. Twilight’s nod confirmed this. “Twilight...you didn’t have to do that. You should’ve told me.” Moondancer said.
“And what? Make you worry about an old mare’s tale that may or may not be real? What if I was wrong and Nightmare Moon didn’t show up? I’d make you worry over nothing.” Twilight said.
“When she puts it that way...” Rarity said.
“Well...I suppose we can’t change the past now. Thank you for thinking of me first though. That means the world to me.” Moondancer said before giving Twilight a hug who returned it.
“This was so sweet of Twilight. I’m glad we can call ourselves her friends.” Fluttershy said.
“So...how do we take care of Nightmare Moon?” Moondancer asked.
“Before reading about nightmare moon, I read about the Elements of Harmony and how they are the only thing that can defeat her.” Twilight said.
“Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide.” Pinkie Pie said, bringing forth the book in question.
“How did you find that so quickly?” Moondancer asked.
“It was under ‘E’.” Pinkie Pie said while bouncing around the room. Twilight rolled her eyes.
“The Elements of Harmony consist of seven mystical artifacts but only six are known. The known six are Encouragement, Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, and Loyalty. The seventh one is a complete mystery. It’s said the current location of the elements is the castle of the two sisters located in...” Twilight Read.
“THE EVERFREE FOREST?!” Everyone yelled out at once. Soon the group was outside said woods.
"This looks like it's going to be dangerous." Moondancer said.
"Well c'mon, let's get going." Pinkie Pie said.
"If you girls are sure you want to come, I won't stop you." Twilight said. "Everyone stick close though." She added.
"Twilight, are you sure they should come along?" Moondancer asked.
"I doubt they'll listen to us to stay back so why bother?" Twilight asked.
"Good point." Moondancer said. The group soon entered the forest itself.
"...So none of you have been here before?" Twilight asked.
"Just look at this place, it ain't natural." Applejack said.
"I'll admit, this place would make a good research project." Moondancer said.
"Moondancer, you can worry about research stuff later; we have to find that old castle." Rarity said.
"I suppose your right. I can worry about studying this place later." Moondancer said with a smile.
"You and Twilight both seem to have a knack for learnin' things." Applejack said.
"Everyone gets that about both of us. It's part of the reason why everyone confuses us for sisters." Moondancer said.
"And I am telling you the honest truth: When we first met, I really did think you two were sisters, and not just because yer mane looked the same as hers, Moondancer." Applejack said. "Ya just look like someone who could pass herself off as Twilight's sister to the unknowing eye." She added.
"I don't think I've ever heard anyone ever say that about us before." Moondancer said.
Everyone continued through the forest. With Moondancer humming some sort of cheery tune.
“What’s that yer humming?” Applejack asked.
“Just something I thought could encourage everyone to keep their spirits up.” Moondancer said.
“I think it’s a lovely tune.” Fluttershy said. Suddenly the group encountered a manticore that was enraged.
“Ah got this.” Applejack said.
“Wait...” Fluttershy said.
“Something up Fluttershy?” Moondancer asked.
“Yes...um...could you get everyone to not attack while I do my thing?” Fluttershy asked.
“Sure.” Moondancer said. “Everyone, Fluttershy is gonna try something.” She said.
“Well...okay.” Rainbow Dash said. Fluttershy proceeded to head up to the manticore and remove a thorn from it’s paw which miraculously calmed it down.
“How did you know about the thorn?” Twilight Asked Fluttershy.
“I didn’t; sometimes we all just need to be shown a little kindness.” Fluttershy said.
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My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 5 - Laughter, Genorosity, Loyalty, and Encouragement
The group of seven ponies continued through the Everfree Forest, when suddenly they got to a part of the forest that was dark.
"Hold up everyone, I got this." Moondancer said and casted a spell that created some light. "There we go." She added.
"Moondancer, we could end up fighting Nightmare Moon you know that right?" Rarity asked.
"Of course I know that. But there's nothing to worry about; a basic spell like this won't put that much of a dent on my magic reserves." Moondancer said.
"AAAAAAAAAH!" Fluttershy yelled.
"...What's her proble--" Moondancer said before Applejack turned her head to look behind her. "...Oh. AAAAAAAAAAAH!" Moondancer screamed followed by everyone else. Everyone besides Pinkie Pie that is who was making funny faces at the trees which had scary faces on them. After Twilight asked what Pinkie Pie was doing, this lead into a song that ended with the group in laughter.
MLP Pinkie Pie's Laughter Song (No Watermarks)(w/Lyrics in Description) - YouTube
After that was over, the group came to a raging river.
“Well, Fluttershy could hover over with help from Rainbow Dash, while me and Twilight could teleport over, the two earth Ponies might need to topple a tree to cross.” Moondancer said.
“Not a good idea; unnatural as a place like this might be, we can’t just desolate it Willy nilly.” Twilight said.
“Your unicorn friend has a point they make, and quickly you must calm the river before it becomes a lake.” A female voice said. It belong to a Zebra.
“Who are you?” Moondancer asked.
“I will tell you once you have the time, and you better hurry or the sun will Forever be a mime.” The Zebra said and left.
“What’s that about mimes?” Applejack asked.
“She means the sun will be silent forever.” Twilight said.
“How did you get that?” Moondancer asked.
“She was speaking in rhyme.” Twilight stated.
“Oh right. Always sucked with those at Celestia’s school.” Moondancer said.
The group soon came across a crying serpent.
“Suffice to say, I think we’ve found the cause of our raging river.” Rainbow Dash said.
"I'm hidious...my glorious mustache is ruined!" The serpent said.
"You've got to be joking." Rainbow Dash said.
“Rainbow Dash, bite your tongue.” Rarity said. “Just look at him. His luxurious scales…” She added.
“Oh I know…” The serpant said.
“His carefully combed mane…” Rarity continued.
“Oh I know I know…” The serpant said.
“All ruined without his wondrous mustache!” Rarity said.
“It’s true! I’m hideous!” The serpant said.
“Well I simply will not stand for this!” Rarity said before she suddenly cut her own tail and used it to fix the serpent’s mustache,
“Oh why thank you; thank you so much.” The serpant said.
"Rarity, your tail." Moondancer said.
"It's alright darling; short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back." Rarity said.
"So would the mustache." Rainbow Dash muttered to Moondancer who rolled her eyes.
"Hey look, the river's calmed down now; we can get across." Twilight said before trying to only for the sea serpant to give her a lift.
"Allow me." The Sea Serpent said and gave the group hopping points to get across using his body.
The group managed to locate the Everfree castle, but found the bridge was out.
"Now how are we supposed to get across?" Twilight asked.
"Uh...duh!" Rainbow Dash said, and flew over to rescure the bridge. On the otherside, some sort of figures that looked like dark versions of the Wonderbolts called Shadowbolts tried to convince Rainbow Dash to betray her friends and join them but Rainbow Dash chose her friends over them.
"Woo! Way to go Rainbow Dash!" Moondancer said.
"We're almost to the castle and the elements of Harmony." Twilight said.
"Then what are we waiting for? We're so close to the finish line at this point that we can taste it." Moondancer said.
"Wait really? We can?" Pinkie Pie asked, trying to lick the air around her.
"It's a figure of speech Pinkie Pie." Moondancer said.
"Oh. Well why didn't you just say so?" Pinkie Pie said.
"Guess I got so enthusiastic about the way I like to encourage people that I forgot to mention it was just a figure of speech." Moondancer said.
"Gotta admit Moondancer, your encouragement has been something else." Applejack said.
"Everyone who knows me says that." Moondancer said, smiling. The group began to enter the ruined castle of the two sisters.
Author's Note
Decided to put links to any songs that would be basically copy and past from the show. Also, early Zecora for the win. And a bit on the short side I know, but the entire Nightmare Moon encounter and the element talk would've pushed this chapter to 2,000 words and I always try to keep chapters to a 1500 word limit with very few exceptions.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 6 - Friendship is Magic
"The elements of Harmony, I believe we've finally found them." Twilight said, as the group lowered the orbs they found in the castle of the two sisters.
"Well there's only six here. Where is the seventh?" Fluttershy asked.
"Remember what the passage said: The seventh element will only appear when a spark links the other six." Moondancer said.
"Why...do I have the sinking feeling though...that it's not talking about a spell?" Twilight asked.
"Huh? What's that supposed to mean?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"It's just...even though it's only been such a short time, I've really come to enjoy your company. Each and every one of you." Twilight said.
"Yeah, I can safely say that after this, the seven of us are going to be best friends forever!" Pinkie Pie said.
"Ah couldn't agree more sugarcube." Applejack said.
"That is an accurate statement darling." Rarity said.
"Count me in on that." Rainbow Dash said.
"I can't help but feel less shy around you all so, I'm in too." Fluttershy said.
"I also feel the same way as the rest of you, so I'm in as well." Moondancer said. Twilight smiled. Suddenly, Nightmare Moon appeared.
"Give me those elements!" Nightmare Moon said. Suddenly Twilight realized something.
"I'm afraid, we can't do that." Twilight said. "We can't give you the elements, because the ponies who best represent those those elements are right here!" She said.
"What?!" Nightmare Moon exclaimed before the orbs broke into shards which soon began to circle around everyone but Twilight.
"Applejack who opened up to Moondancer by telling her that she could pass herself off as my sister represents the element of honesty. Fluttershy who tamed the Manticore with an act of compassion represents the element of Kindness. Pinkie Pie whose antics helped us drive away our fears represents the element of Laughter. Rarity whose selfless act calmed a raging sea serpent represents the element of Generosity. Rainbow Dash who decided to put her friends above her own personal desires represents the element of Loyalty. And Moondancer, whose constant enthusiasm kept everyone in high spirits on our journey represents the element of Encouragement." Twilight explained.
"But you don't have the seventh element. What are you driving at?" Nightmare Moon asked.
"That's because a spark has united us. Not a spark that comes from magic, but a different kind of spark. The adventure we went on to get the elements has only made us realize how well we are together as friends!" Twilight announced. Suddenly a seventh orb appeared. "When the elements are united by this special spark, one that comes from true friendship and companionship, it creates the seventh element: THE ELEMENT OF MAGIC!" Twilight said. Suddenly the elements formed into necklaces around the group but for Twilight, the element of magic was fashioned onto a crown. Suddenly a rainbow laser shot forth and cleansed nightmare moon.
"We...we did it." Rainbow Dash said.
"Hey look, these necklaces look just like our cutie marks." Moondancer said.
"Your quite right darling." Rarity observed. "It was also nice for what just happened to restore my tail back to normal too." She added.
"Gee Twilight, I suppose we really do represent the elements." Applejack said.
"Indeed you do." A female voice said. Suddenly Celestia appeared from a rising sun.
"Princess Celestia! Your okay!" Twilight said.
"I was certain Nightmare Moon would return soon, but I never expected you to want to go to ponyville to help your friend Moondancer out so much." Celestia said.
"I just wanted her to have a great birthday. It's just...it's just a bit disappointing that my gift to her was almost ruined by Nightmare Moon's returned. I should've been more honest with her." Twilight said.
"I think that your determination to see Moondancer's gift not go to waste was what allowed you to gain some new friends." Celestia said.
"She's got a point you know. Besides, even though nightmare moon did show up, this has been the best birthday ever!" Moondancer said, practically jumping up and down in glee before she hugged Twilight.
"Um...birthday?" Applejack asked.
"Oh...I suppose...we never did mention it...huh?" Twilight asked Moondancer.
"Yeah. We didn't. But hey, that only made today even better!" Moondancer exclaimed.
"Wait what's this about a birthday?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"That was the whole reason we were here: I wanted to see the summer sun celebration, and this year, that festival was on my birthday!" Moondancer Said. The jaws of the other elements dropped in astonishment.
"That...is some birthday..." Rainbow Dash admitted.
"Now, if only someone would accept my friendship." Celestia said, turning to the remains of nightmare moon, where a single young alicorn mare now rest. "Luna, my sister, it has been a thousand years since I've seen you like this. Please, set aside your hate and accept my friendship. We were meant to rule together after all." Celestia said.
"Wait sister?!" Moondancer exclaimed.
"That does explain the whole thing about the story I read that caused me to find out information about Nightmare Moon in the first place." Twilight said.
"You are so showing me that book later." Moondancer said.
"Consider it done." Twilight said.
"Oh my, they even get along like sisters too~" Fluttershy said.
"But...now I'm worried." Twilight said.
"Huh?" Moondancer asked.
"We just met our new friends, and come later today, we'll have to say goodbye to them for a while..." Twilight said.
"Twilight, are you telling me you don't want to be seperated from your new friends?" Celestia asked.
"I am Princess." Twilight said. Celestia smiled.
"And you Moondancer?" Celestia asked.
"I don't want to leave Twilight most of all." Moondancer said.
"Then from here on out, I'll let you reside in Ponyville. So long as you keep me updated through letters on the lessons you learn regarding friendship. Moondancer, I'm personally assigning you to Twilight's side to make sure she only writes when and only when she actually learns about friendship." Celestia said.
"Thank you...thank you so much Princess." Twilight said.
"This sounds like a whole new adventure huh?" Moondancer asked Twilight.
"I couldn't agree more." Twilight said.
"I think this calls for a party when we get back! I'll make sure to make up for the fact that I didn't even know it was your birthday!" Pinkie Pie said.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 7 - Zecora
"Well we're all moved in." Twilight said.
"That's great. So we'll see you two around right?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Hold up just one moment. That Zebra mare that we encountered in Everfree forest...I think we should go look for her." Moondancer said.
"Well she was rather nice. I would've liked it if she gave us a name or something." Rarity said.
"Well ah suppose she ain't all bad." Applejack said.
Sometime later, the elements began searching Everfree forest when they spotted a cottage of some kind.
"I wonder who lives here." Twilight asked and opened the door. Inside was the Zebra mare they spotted before.
"Ah I see that you have returned here after your mission; seems like you were successful in your session." The Zebra said.
"So I have to know: Why do you live out here?" Moondancer asked.
"I live here to help others get through the woods; there are beasts here that would not be best for goods." The zebra said.
"What's she talking about?" Applejack asked.
"She means that the forest would not be great for merchants so she helps act as a guide. And considering the manticore, this place is home to all sort of creatures." Twilight said.
"The manticore I assure you is quite alright; but there is a particular beast that likes a bite." The Zebra said before going to a carving nearby. "Though one may look like a wooden dog, a wolf of this shape is more then just a log." She added.
"A timber wolf..." Applejack said.
"You know what that is?" Moondancer asked.
"I'll never forget their looks. They killed mah parents when my little sis was just one." Applejack said.
"Oof...sorry for bringing up a touchy subject then." Moondancer said.
"While ah don't really like talking about it, ah suppose it wouldn't hurt..." Applejack said.
"It seems tragedy befall two that came here before me; if only I was here so that they could be..." the Zebra said.
"Ya look about the same age as me, so there's nothing ya could've done back then." Applejack said.
"Maybe so, but I could've helped them live at least; my life would've been enough for a beast." The Zebra said.
"I hate rhymes..." Moondancer said.
"She means that she would've gladly sacrificed herself to save Applejack's parents." Twilight said.
"Thanks for the sentiment. Ah don't believe we got yer name." Applejack said.
"You may call me Zecora and I am a Shaman; in these woods I stay so that none become wolf chowman." The zebra said.
"...Zecora? But from what Mr. and Mrs. cake tell me your more of a witch then a shaman." Pinkie Pie said.
"I believe they simply aren't aware of Zecora's true nature. It's nice to meet you." Twilight said. "If we're ever in need of something, we'll come to you." She added.
"Hey what are these?" Moondancer said, noticing some blue flowers nearby.
"I advise you stay away from those you pony folk; for those flowers will cause a joke." Zecora advised.
"Cause a joke? I'm afraid I don't quite get it." Twilight said.
"Those plants act like poison oak, but those simple plants only want a joke." Zecora said.
"Oh. I see." Twilight said. "Your saying that if we touch them, it'll play some sort of joke on us." She added.
"How can a plant play jokes on ponies?" Moondancer asked.
"There are things we all care about in the light; and that plant will make it not right." Zecora said.
"Your saying that the plant will mess things up that we tend to take for granted. Like for instance, my horn or Rainbow Dash's flying skills." Twilight said. Zecora nodded.
"Your...really good at this, aren't you Twilight?" Moondancer asked.
"There is a path that comes by my house that I quite like; down it you I'd advise a hike." Zecora said.
"That path is an easy way to and from Ponyville isn't it?" Twilight asked. "Thanks for the tip Zecora." She added.
"Zecora was nice admittedly. I'm glad we went." Pinkie Pie said.
"I suppose we'll have to get Ponyville to open up to her. After all, it's thanks to her that merchants are able to get through Everfree forest if murderus wolves made of wood live in there." Twilight said.
"Admittedly that is something we can't overlook. A good deed should not be going unrewarded." Moondancer said. She noticed Applejack looking back to the forest. "...Your thinking about what she said in regards to your parents, huh?" Moondancer said.
"Admittedly yes. She said she'd would've willingly give up her own life for theirs even if she was just a filly. That means more to me then ya'll could realize." Applejack said. Moondancer gave Applejack a comforting hug.
"I'm sure you miss your parents. But if you ask me, no pony is really ever gone. Their bodies may have long since decayed, but I'm sure their souls are still well enough." Moondancer said.
"Heh...yer an odd duck Moondancer. But yer right; ah have to believe their still watching over me in their own way." Applejack said.
"You'll see them again eventually. When the time is right I mean." Moondancer said.
"You believe there is life after death?" Twilight asked.
"I gotta believe in something." Moondancer said.
"Ain't that true for everyone." Applejack said.
My Little Pony: Enthusiastic Encouragement
Season 1: Episode 6 Extra - Moving Day
"This is going to take a while, isn't it?" Moondancer asked as she, Twilight, and the rest of the elements began to help Twiilght and Moondancer move out of their respective residences that they were staying in at Canterlot.
"Let's not take every from both places with us, Moondancer. It'll be easier." Twilight said. "Besides, we can always come back for the rest later." She added.
"Good point." Moondancer said.
"Seriously, THIS TOWER is where you staying Twi? I've got to admit that this tower has got a lot of room." Rainbow Dash said as she put a few things into boxes.
"You can say that again dear Rainbow; though I have to wonder about the upkeep." Rarity said.
"Ah'm sure Celestia wouldn't let a place like this get all dusty and what-not; her own personal student was living here after all." Applejack said.
"Ah here it is!" Twilight announced, taking out a specific book with her magic. "This is the book I read that mentioned Nightmare Moon." Twilight added.
"'Legends of Equestria, a beginner's guide'." Pinkie Pie said, reading the title. "So that's where you learned about Nightmare Moon and the fact that Princess Celestia had a sister." She added.
"The story may not have mentioned the sister by name, just that the sister became Nightmare Moon." Twilight said.
"But you knew that it would only make sense for Nightmare Moon to be the corrupted form of Princess Luna even if Princess Luna herself was never mentioned by name." Fluttershy pointed out.
"Twilight has always been quite the smart one." Moondancer said. "Always getting the highest grades of our study group." She added.
"Well it was your idea to include me in your circle of friends." Twilight said. "So don't be so modest." She added.
"Well, ah think we've got just about everything that's necessary." Applejack said.
"Plus a box of books. The Golden Oaks Library could use a few new books." Moondancer said. She noticed Twilight was looking up at the cealing of her place. "Your gonna miss the place huh? Me too. But we'll be sure to come by every now and again." Moondancer said.
"Thanks Moondancer." Twilight said. "Alright, let's get going!" She added.
Author's Note
Was planning on making a much longer chapter upload today, but I found that there wasn't much I could add on before the adventures in Ponyville began. So enjoy an mini-sode chapter instead.