Birds of a Feather

by SunTwi06

Rating: everyone
Tags: Owlowiscious, Twilight Sparkle, Slice of Life, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Sad
Length: 5822

Twilight Sparkle must make a difficult choice involving a very close friend.

Since the night Owlowiscious came into Twilight's life, the little owl has been close to her like family. Even when Spike is not around to help around with the chores, Twilight can always count on Owlowiscious to help. But then one day, something terrible happens to the owl and Twilight finds herself at her wits end. And when she does all he can to bring her friend back to health, she comes to a very drastic conclusion. One of which will affect her life forever...

Edited by 13 Shades Of Sunset

Published 2024-11-08 16:40:00 UTC
Last updated 2024-11-08 16:40:00 UTC

Old Friend, Difficult Choice

A very quiet summer day takes place in Equestria, particularly in the castle of the Princess of Friendship herself, Twilight Sparkle. Currently, she is in the room that serves as both her library and study. The peaceful atmosphere of the ‘mostly’ empty library allows her a period to enjoy her work. Such as preparing for the next school year at the School of Friendship, which coincidentally enough is practically right next door.

Preparing the curriculum, the scroll on the desk and quill in her magical grip, Twilight puts much thought into what subjects to feature for the next year. Dipping the drying quill into the ink pot for a refresher, she lifts it up only to find the quill only got a tiny bit of ink. Twilight takes a closer look only to discover the pot itself is very nearly empty.

“Owlowiscious!” Twilight called out. “Could you please fetch some more ink?”

Her junior assistant and feathery companion, Owlowiscious, sitting along the perch next to the desk is ready to assist his owner with all her needs.

“Hoo! Hoo!” The owl responded quietly.

The owl flies off to where Twilight keeps the spare ink jars in the library. In a matter of seconds, Owlowiscious fetches some more ink as Twilight smiles with satisfaction. And yet, she is quick to notice the owl’s softer tone. She keeps watch over him as he makes his way back to his perch.

“Thanks Owlowiscious, so glad you’re here to help me,” Twilight told the owl. “What with Spike over in Canterlot, I appreciate you stepping up until he gets back.”

Ah yes… Spike, the baby dragon/number one assistant to Twilight himself. Currently, Spike is in Canterlot for a few days due to a diplomatic meeting between the royal sisters, Celestia and Luna, and Dragon Lord Ember. Since Spike is the ‘Official Equestrian Friendship Ambassador for the Dragon Lands’, it is vital he is there to make sure things go smoothly.

This leaves Twilight with her junior assistant, who is (as always) a great help and ready to attend to whatever Twilight needs of him. Though since Spike is at Canterlot, Twilight notices how Owlowiscious is slower, more tired and quiet than usual. Twilight did not complain or say anything, however deep down she worries slightly for him.

“Maybe I should add more notes on Mistmane’s adventures…” Twilight thought aloud, facing Owlowiscious. “Do you mind fetching the biography on Mistmane?”

“Hoot! Hoot!” The owl replied, flying off.

Twilight looks on as the owl scours the bookshelves for a couple minutes, eventually finding the title and carefully takes it from the shelf with his talons. But as soon as the book is free, Twilight sees Owlowiscious almost lose his grip and drop it. Somehow he manages to hold it tightly enough as he brings it to Twilight. The princess sees Owlowisicous is having a tough time, struggling to keep hold of the book but makes it far enough to position it carefully along the desk. The owl returns to his perch, seemingly out of breath as Twilight makes sure her owl is alright before getting back to work.

<>

After a lengthy day in the library, Twilight decides it’s time for dinner before heading off to bed. She makes sure Owlowiscious has a nice meal too before heading off to rest. With her owl perched along her back, Twilight trots to her bedroom yawning out of exhaustion from her workload. Entering the room, Twilight puts Owlowiscious on his perch and the owl’s eyes look heavy as if he too is pretty exhausted. Before snuggling herself beneath the covers, Twilight reaches up and gives her junior assistant a quick goodnight kiss.

“Good night Owlowiscious,” Twilight said softly. “Thank you for all your help today.”

“Hoot! Hoot!” The owl hooted back.

Twilight tucks herself beneath the sheets and falls asleep. But all during the night, her thoughts race over what is possibly wrong with Owlowiscious.

“He’s probably just tired,” Twilight thought. “Maybe he just needs a break… but what if it’s far more serious? Oh…”

<>

Morning arrives, the sun shines through the bedroom window and the princess Twilight rises from her bed. But it is perfectly clear she did not sleep well, spending a whole night thinking of her friend. Looking toward Owlowiscious on his perch, she can see the owl is now asleep. His head moves slightly up and down as he quietly snores. Twilight stays as quiet as she can, not wanting to wake him from his peaceful sleep. A chance for Twilight Sparkle to go about her day to settle her own affairs.

“You rest today my junior assistant,” Twilight whispered, smiling. “I’ll be right back.”

Twilight picks up her saddlebags with her magic before lowering it onto her back and making her way out of the castle, remembering to shut the front door before trotting through town.

<>

Later…

Twilight Sparkle finds herself in the marketplace to collect some stuff the castle is running low on. While there, she decides to purchase some of Owlowiscious’ favorite treats as thanks for all his hard work these past few days.

“Hello Princess Twilight,” The pet treat seller greeted merrily. “Here to pick up Owlowiscious’ usual treats?”

“Oh yes,” Twilight answered. “He’s been working hard lately, and I thought I’d reward him for his efforts.”

“Well good for the little guy,” The sales-pony smiled. “I wish I had an assistant like him. Ah well, do tell him I hope he enjoys his treats.”

“Will do!” Twilight replied.

Twilight pays for the treats before putting them in her bags and trots off. Just before returning to the castle, however, Twilight decides to make one detour: the Sweet Feather Sanctuary. Fortunately for her, it is just outside the town limits and Twilight knows one of her friends, Fluttershy, is likely there. No doubt taking care of all the animal residents of the sanctuary. Sure enough, Twilight spots Fluttershy, who waves toward the alicorn.

“Hello Twilight!” Fluttershy called.

“Hey Fluttershy!” Twilight replied back.

The princess enters the sanctuary, trotting through as Fluttershy takes a seat on the lawn. She pats a spot next to her for Twilight to sit down.

“Boy Fluttershy, I’m still amazed you run this place alone. It must be hard.”

“Oh yes, it is hard,” Fluttershy replied. “But it’s well worth it if it means caring for all the animals.”

It is then that Pegasus notices Twilight’s tone and looks at her face.

“Something tells me you’re not just here for a social visit. Is something wrong?”

“Well… since Spike left for Canterlot a few days ago, Owlowiscious has been helping me,” Twilight explained. “But I don’t know if he seems more exhausted than usual, but he had a hard time carrying over a book I asked him to grab for me.”

Fluttershy puts a hoof to her muzzle, slightly surprised to hear Twilight’s words.

“Maybe he’s just overworked,” Fluttershy implied, positively. “He most likely needs a day of rest, I’m sure he’s okay. So long as there’s nothing wrong with him.”

“I guess so,” Twilight nodded, brightening up. “I did pick up his favorite treats at the marketplace today. I’m sure he’ll feel better once I bring them to him.”

“Well, I’d love to keep chatting with Twilight, but I still have animals that need my attention,” Fluttershy informed.

“Of course, I won’t hold you up any longer.”

Twilight gets up and begins her trot out of the sanctuary when she stops and turns back.

“Thanks for your help Fluttershy. See you later.”

“Bye Twilight!” Fluttershy called out. “Tell Owlowiscious I hope he feels better!”

<>

With her day out done, Twilight trots back to her castle trying to remain positive as she opens her front door. She hopes to see Owlowiscious is waiting for her to come home. Only the halls are empty, of course Twilight is not concerned just yet…

“Owlowiscious!” Twilight called out. “I’m home! Got a few of your favorite treats for you to snake on. Call it a thanks for all your hard work.”

But the owl does not come flying to her. Now Twilight starts to get worried, checking every room in the castle: The library, kitchen, dining room, the bathrooms, even the map room. But no Owlowiscious so far. Of course, the only room remaining is her bedroom, where the owl often rests on his perch. Trotting to her bedroom door, Twilight sees the door is still open in case the owl wants to go out. Twilight can hear Owlowisicous’ silent hoots as she trots closer and closer…

“Owlowiscious…” Twilight called.

Slowly she opens her bedroom door with one hoof, then her eyes widen as her worst fears confirm.

“Owlowiscious!” Twilight screamed, at the top of her lungs. “What’s wrong?!”

There is Owlowiscious… now on the floor, rather than his perch. He shakes as if in a very nervous fit, wrapping his wings around himself. What little good it does as Twilight quickly picks him up with her magic and examines him for injuries, finding none. Grabbing a towel, she wraps it around Owlowiscious, which seems to work slightly. But still, the owl’s shaking does not stop, and Twilight knows it is time to run to Dr. Fauna to see what’s wrong with her feather companion.

“Don’t worry Owlowiscious, we’re going to see Dr. Fauna,” Twilight assured. “She’ll know what’s wrong with you.”

She gently snuggles him in her saddlebags, taking off quickly for the vet clinic. She gallops from her castle home, nearly bumping into several ponies as she rushes to the clinic. She nearly bumps into one of her friends, in which case Applejack.

“Hey Twilight!” Applejack called.

Twilight, of course, pays less attention to her and the alicorn zooms past the orange pony.

“What's the matter with her…?” Applejack wondered.

It is then Applejack just manages to notice Owlowiscious’ head poking out from one of Twilight’s saddlebags.

<>

Several minutes later…

Twilight reaches the vet clinic, taking a quick second to compose herself as she enters the building. Luckily, there are no other ponies but her companions sitting there… waiting…

“Darling, what are you doing here?” Rarity asked.

A familiar white cat sits next to her, Opalescence. They both can see the distraught look on Twilight’s face.

“Rarity…” Twilight blushed. “Something’s wrong with Owlowiscious. I just rushed here to see Dr. Fauna as soon as I can.”

“Oh poor dear…” Rarity expressed. “I was just here for Opal’s usual check-up.”

Just then, the door to Dr. Fauna’s office opens, as the yellow pony with light blue man in a vet’s coat approaches Rarity…

“Alright Rarity, I’m ready for Opal’s check…” Dr. Fauna began.

It is then she notices Twilight.

“Oh, Princess Twilight! What can I help you with?”

“Dr. Fauna, there’s something wrong with Owlowiscious!” Twilight began. “Oh, but I suppose since Rarity was here before me, she should go first…

“Oh darling, no reason to upset yourself,” Rarity cut her off. “You go first, Opal and I can wait.”

Twilight’s smiles slightly toward Rarity’s generosity, seeing Owlowiwsicious’s case far more important.

“Thank you Rarity, thank you so much!” Twilight nearly cried out.

Dr. Fauna leads Twilight and Owlowiscious, while Opal looks very relieved.

“But don’t think you’re excused from your checkup Opal dear…” Rarity informed her cat.

The cat hissed back; her hopes dashed…

<>

Meanwhile, Twilight takes Owlowiscious from her saddlebag, but leaves the towel wrapped around him. Dr. Fauna starts to get to work.

“Alright, let’s see what’s wrong with my favorite owl.”

Dr. Fauna slowly removes the towel, which in turn makes the owl shake much more.

“That’s so strange. Owlowiscious was perfectly fine during his last checkup. Princess Twilight, have you noticed any signs lately?”

“He has been more tired than usual lately,” Twilight expressed. “Spike left for Canterlot a few days ago, so Owlowiscious has been helping me. Bringing me more ink and books, stuff like that. But he’s done that before and was fine…”

“Strange…” Dr. Fauna pondered.

She feels around the owl’s body, which is rather cold, despite the office being at normal room temperature. The vet takes out her stethoscope and puts it against the owl’s heart, which beats more slowly.

“Well, his heart rate is not as regular as it should be…” Dr. Fauna observed. “But I don’t see any cuts. My guess is that Owlowiscious had a breakdown, simply a response to the difference from being a house owl. Owls are not your typical domesticated pet, like a dog or cat. They’re meant to live in the forest, and you did tell me he came to you.”

“What do you suggest for him, Dr. Fauna?” Twilight asked.

“I suggest he doesn’t help you for the time being,” Dr. Fauna suggested. “I’m sorry to tell you this, but you must watch over him. Make sure he’s comfortable and in a warm spot, preferably a fireplace. Then wait for a few days and if he shows no signs of improvement, return to me and I’ll see what I can do to help him.”

“Thank you Dr. Fauna, I’ll get right to it,” Twilight replied.

The princess puts a comforting hoof on her owl, as he turns his tired, sickly face to his owner.

“You’re welcome,” Dr. Fauna smiled.

Twilight wraps her owl back in the towel and carefully puts him in her saddlebags, as Dr. Fauna opens her office door allowing Twilight to trot out. And what Twilight sees puts a faint smile on her face. The remainder of her friends including Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie in the vet.

“Is Owlowiscious okay, Twilight…?” Fluttershy asked first.

At first, Twilight says not a word. It is obvious Applejack, and her other friends, are here for dropping their errands just to see her. And since Rarity is already in the vet, one less friend Applejack needs to get.

“No… he’s not Fluttershy,” Twilight answered sadly, hanging her head.

“What’s wrong?” Rainbow asked.

“He just needs some rest,” Twilight answered. “I have to take him back to the castle and make sure he’s warm and comfortable.”

She trots past her friends to go back home, as Pinkie turns around to join her.

“Then we’re coming with you Twilight,” Pinkie Pie addressed.

“But I’d hate to interrupt your plans—” Twilight began.

“Now, now Twilight,” Applejack cut her off. “Don’t y’all know we’re stickin’ by you no matter what? Besides, you’d do the same for us.”

“Thanks Applejack,” Twilight smiled. “Guess I can accept a little help right now.”

“I’ll join you shortly darlings,” Rarity spoke up. “Right now, Opal needs her checkup. I’ll come with a nice blanket for Owlowiscious to tuck him under.”

Rarity picks up her cat and the two enter Dr. Fauna’s office, with Opal not looking pleased…

<>

Meanwhile, the rest of the group trots back to the castle. Right away, they enter the cozy living room of the castle to the fireplace. With Twilight setting down her owl, Applejack (with Rainbow Dash’s help) gets the fire going, which very quickly fills the living room with a lovely warmness. While this goes on, Fluttershy watches over the owl while Twilight and Pinkie gather a big enough basket for Owlowiscious to lay in and rest. Owlowiscious tries to pick himself up.

“No, no Owlowiscious,” Fluttershy cooed. “You need to rest now.”

Twilight and Pinkie return with the basket. Twilight sees her owl trying to get up.

“She’s right, my junior assistant,” Twilight urged the sick owl. “You just rest. You’ve done enough.”

Eventually Owlowiscious gives up, as Twilight places him gently into the basket. With a fire going and Rarity coming in (after Opal’s checkup) with a nice soft blanket, the owl lays as close to the fire as possible. And for a moment, it seems to work. The owl stops shaking after a few minutes; soon enough, he is fast asleep. This finally gives Twilight a breather.

“Looks like some owl’s finally asleep…” Pinkie softly spoke.

“I hope he stays this way,” Fluttershy agreed.

“We better give him some space,” Applejack advised.

Twilight’s friends begin to leave, but not before reassuring Twilight that Owlowiscious will be okay.

“Don’t worry Twilight,” Rainbow Dash told her. “Remember when I was afraid when Tank was going to hibernate? If I get through this, you can too.”

The princess turns toward the sleeping owl, finally comfortable and safe for now.

“I hope so Rainbow…” Twilight replied. “I really hope so…”

<>

The next day…

It is early in the morning and the Friendship Express rolls into the Ponyville train station. Slowing to a stop, the car doors open releasing its passengers. Among them, a small purple dragon who looks very tired. But one deep breath gives him a sense of relief. It is none other than Twilight’s number one assistant, Spike.

“Home sweet home…” Spike commented.

He walks off the station platform and makes a steady return trip to Twilight’s castle.

“Boy… this must be how Twilight always feels after Canterlot affairs.”

These past few days, Spike busily attends the following errands, one of which is attending an important diplomatic meeting between the princess and Dragon Lord Ember. Princess Celestia specifically requests Spike’s help to ensure a flawless visit from Ember and Spike is more than happy doing so. It gives him a chance to see Ember again after all, one of his favorite dragon friends.

With Spike’s help, the visit goes smoothly and both parties are satisfied. Only Spike is slightly worried that he might slow down on Twilight’s end. Spike knows Twilight has Owlowiscious and of course she is in good… ‘claws’. But he looks forward to helping Twilight now that he’s home in Ponyville.

After a walk through the town, Twilight’s castle stands right in Spike’s sight. Once more, he takes a breath before climbing the stairs leading to the doors. He opens it and comes in, expecting a welcome back home from his dear friend. But for some strange reason… there is no pony in sight.

“Twilight!” Spike called. “I’m back home! I’m excited to tell you about the good job I did in Canterlot!”

But neither Twilight nor any pony arrives to greet him.

“Twilight?” Spike called softly.

The little dragon looks through all the rooms in the castle, wondering where the princess may be.

Eventually Spike finds Twilight, in a place he least expects her. In the living room, a fire roaring in the fireplace, Twilight is currently reading while keeping watch over something in a basket. Now Twilight reading is not out of the ordinary, but a fire is lit in the fireplace during the summer, especially when it’s nice and warm outside… that is. Even though Twilight's back is turned to him, Spike can already tell something’s wrong with his alicorn friend…

“Twilight?!” Spike called, softly. “Are you okay?”

“Oh… Spike…” Twilight replied.

She closes the book she is currently reading before facing Spike.

“You’re back already? Sorry I didn’t meet you at the train station.”

Spike enters the room, waking up beside Twilight.

“It’s all right, Twi. I’m a big boy. But what are you doing?”

“Well, you know how Owlowiscious has been helping me in your absence?” Twilight asked.

“Yes…” Spike nodded, curiously.

He steps up and takes a look in the basket next to Twilight, seeing the sleeping owl inside.

“Ah, poor guy… must’ve worked himself too hard.”

“It’s not that Spike,” Twilight spoke softly. “Owlowiscious has fallen ill. I went to see Dr. Fauna yesterday and she said he just had a breakdown. I’ve been constantly watching over him, making sure he’s warm and comfortable.”

“He seems better now,” Spike noted.

“Yes… but I want to make sure he gets all the rest he needs. Can’t take any chances.”

“Good thinking, Twi,” Spike commented. “You know, I’m glad you’re hanging on. I was worried you might not be too well.”

“Thanks Spike,” Twilight smiles. “I’m so glad you’re still my number one assistant.”

She wraps a wing over Spike and draws him close for a hug.

“You know me,” Spike replied modestly. “It’s what I do.”

Eventually, Spike breaks away from the hug and gently pats the sleeping owl.

“Hang in there buddy, you’re going to be just fine.”

Owlowiscious breaks one eye open and sees the dragon. He gets a soft ‘Hoot!’, acknowledging the dragon’s words.

<>

As Twilight lets Spike rest, seeing not much to do, the dragon sits nearby in the living room with his power ponies comic books. Twilight returns to her own book, occasionally checking on Owlowiscious, who just rests comfortably inside the basket.

*KNOCK! KNOCK!*

A knock on the living room door draws Twilight from her book.

“Come in!” Twilight called out softly.

The door opens revealing Dr. Fauna and Fluttershy.

“Hey Twilight!” Fluttershy greeted quietly. “Just coming over to bring some medicine for Owlowiscious. Bumped into Dr. Fauna on the way, and said she came to check up on him.”

“Thank you two,” Twilight replied.

Twilight leads the two visitors over to the owl.

“Owlowiscious seems to be doing just fine, actually he’s looking better already.”

“He certainly seems better,” Dr. Fauna nodded.

The mare holds out her stethoscope and gently presses it against the owl’s feathers.

“His heart rate is much better now. Everything checks out so far. I’d say give it a few more days or so and he should be back to normal princess.”

“Thank you Dr. Fauna,” Twilight thanked, as Fluttershy stepped up.

Fluttershy takes a bottle from her saddlebags with her wing.

“This is medicine I brought over from the sanctuary storage,” Fluttershy informed. “It’ll help him get better.”

“Would you mind if I give it to him myself?” Twilight asked.

“Not at all Twilight. Here you go.”

Fluttershy gives Twilight the bottle and spoon as the princess, with her magic, pours a small amount into the spoon carefully. She looks down into the basket carrying her owl.

“Owlowiscious…” Twilight softly called her feathered companion. “I got some medicine from Fluttershy to help you. Open your beak please.”

The owl slowly opens his beak as Twilight carefully pours the spoon’s content into Owlowiscious’ beak. Twilight gives the bottle back to Fluttershy, but she politely refuses.

“No… keep it with you Twilight,” Fluttershy insisted. “You’ll need it more than I do. Just give it to him once a day till he’s back to normal.”

“Thank you Fluttershy,” Twilight smiled. “I’ll be sure to return it once I’m done with it.”

The two visitors soon depart, leaving Twilight alone with her owl and Spike. They spend the rest of the day in silence. Yet Twilight, since bringing Owlowiscious to Dr. Fauna, starts to think about something. According to Dr. Fauna, that being stuck with her, an owl like Owlowiscious is not meant to be domesticated nor a creature to keep as a pet. Maybe him staying with her all these years in Ponyville is starting to have a negative effect on him.. but that can’t be. Can it? Or… can it?

<>

Night falls as Celestia lowers the sun, while Luna brings the moon over the horizon. Spike begins to yawn, tired and ready to climb into his bed to sleep.

“We should head off to bed, Twilight,” Spike informed the princess.

“You go ahead Spike,” Twilight replied. “I wish to stay with him a little longer.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah. I need to make sure he’s alright after all.”

“Okay… but don’t let me catch you in here in the morning,” Spike jokes, yawning again.

Once Spike heads off for bed, closing the door behind him, Twilight bends her head low over the basket Owlowiscious is sleeping in. The alicorn releases a soft sigh.

“Perhaps it is time for you to go Owlowiscious…” Twilight spoke softly. “I never thought I’d say it, but I need to think what’s best for you. And what’s best for you is to be free, to live the rest of your life out there…”

Twilight sheds a few tears just saying this…

<>

A week later

Owlowiscious is now back to his old self, flying circles around Twilight’s castle. Making sure he’s okay, Twilight, along with her friends and Dr. Fauna, keep watch to make sure he’s fit and strong from his long rest to refill his stamina. So far everything looks good as Twilight’s friends, who bring along their own pets, cheer for the speedy owl’s recovery. The little guy hardly seems tired at all.

“I must say Princess,” Dr. Fauna commented. “I’m glad Owlowiscious is back to normal. You took really good care of him.”

“Thank you Dr. Fauna,” Twilight replied. “But I can’t take all the credit.”

She watches the light brown owl flying by the group until he sits along one of the castle balconies.

“You know Twilight, I was going to suggest he stay over at my sanctuary where I could watch him,” Fluttershy added. “But I guess I don’t have to.”

“Oh Fluttershy, you have enough as it is,” Twilight replied. “Besides, you’ve been a big help with the medicine you brought for him… although, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about Owlowiscious and his future…”

“What do you mean Twilight?” Fluttershy asked quietly.

“Well…” Twilight began, drawing a breath. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to let him go…”

Fluttershy is slightly surprised but considering the past week it’s not shocking to hear. Even still, she finds it revealing for Twilight to be ready for something like this… no sense hiding it with all their friends standing close by.

“Twilight, I understand if you want to let him go,” Fluttershy replied softly. “Only you can make that decision.”

“I know…” Twilight sighed. “That’s what makes it… so hard.”

Owlowiscious, having enough flying, stretches out his wings and flaps downward to Twilight, who pouts out one of her front hooves. The owl lands as he and Twilight rub faces with each other, the owl’s feathers tickle Twilight slightly. Her friends and Dr. Fauna all go ‘Aww!’ or simply smile.

As Twilight’s friends and Dr. Fauna return to their homes, Twilight resumes her work in the library. Which is easier now with both assistants helping her. Except, Twilight has a nagging question to ask of Spike.

“Spike, can you get me another quill?” Twilight requested. “I think this one’s going to break pretty soon.”

“Coming right up, Twi…”

Spike starts for the cabinet but does not go far when Owlowiscious arrives and offers another of his feathers for Twilight to use.

“Oh… thank you Owlowiscious…” Twilight said slowly.

The owl hooted ‘You’re welcome’ back and Spike chuckled with a shake of his head.

“Yep… just like old times.”

<>

The rest of the day goes on with Spike barely having a chance to do anything. Even when Twilight requests something from the dragon, Owlowiscious is always first and much faster. Now Twilight does not wish to upset her feathery companion, but the reason for him falling ill is being overworked. He keeps this up, he’ll just go back to his previous condition again.

Another night’s sleep and Twilight decides to talk to her friends about it.

“Spike, could you keep Owlowiscious occupied for a few minutes?” Twilight informed Spike. “I need to have a word with my friends.”

“Can do Twi!” Spike answered.

Eventually, Twilight gathers her friends in the throne room and each member sits in their own thrones. Twilight makes certain to explain everything including her decision…

“I’m surprised, Twilight,” Rarity expressed her opinion. “I was certain Owlowiscious would stay with you forever. He’s practically part of the family.”

“Ya love Owlowiscious as much as I love Winona,” Applejack agreed.

“But we all need to let go of our pets sometime,” Rainbow Dash countered. “Remember when I had to let Tank hibernate?”

“Oh yeah…” Pinkie nodded. “That was quite a big event. You were so determined to stop winter from coming, but you made it come faster anyway.”

“Yeah… that was uncool especially for me…”

“If you want this Twilight, we’ll support your decision,” Fluttershy assured softly. “Right every pony?”

Suffice to say, the others are not quite as sure as Fluttershy.

“Look girls, I know you all feel I will be left out if I don’t have a pet anymore,” Twilight expressed her concern. “But I don’t want Owlowiscious to fall ill again. I feel like it’s finally time he returns to where he truly belongs. Out there… not here like a house pet.”

“Well, can’t say we are necessarily happy darling…” Rarity commented.

“But if this is what you really want,” Rainbow Dash added. “We’ll go along with it.”

“Thanks every pony,” Twilight smiled sadly. “You’re really good friends.”

As the group of friends sit up from their thrones, they approach Spike and Owlowiscious, who Spike keeps busy by making sure all the books are in their proper spots in the library. Of course, Spike messes up on purpose when Owlowiscious isn’t looking just to keep the owl in the library. And they are still there when Twilight and her friends arrive…

“Spike, it’s time,” Twilight said.

Spike needs no more instruction as Twilight puts out her hoof, which Owlowiscious flies to and lands on. With Owlowiscious on her hoof, Twilight’s friends (as well as Spike) trot to the castle balcony. The fresh, cool breeze blows by as Twilight stares out into the open skies where before her eyes is freedom for the owl upon her hoof. Twilight hears a confused hoot from Owlowiscious, as she looks down at him. Drawing a deep breath, Twilight prepares for one of the most painful things to do in her life…

“Owlowiscious, when you came to me that night in the Golden Oaks Library, I was amazed you brought my scroll back,” Twilight began. “I was sure I’d lost it… what made you do such a thing I will never know. But ever since then, you’ve been such a great help to me without asking for much. But now it’s finally time for me to repay you…”

Twilight looks soberly as the owl pays great attention to his owner.

“It’s time I let you go Owlowiscious. You need to be free, out there, spreading your wings and flying through the treetops.”

Twilight sets the owl along the balcony railing, so Owlowiscious can go. But instead, he just stares at Twilight.

“It’s okay Owlowiscious. Please go… it’s better for both of us if you do. Trust me…”

Twilight came closer to Owlowiscious, nuzzling his feathery head.

“I’m going to miss you very much, I love you… now go… please…”

Twilight feels a single tear escape her, as Owlowiscious hesitates still at first. But after a minute, he spreads his wings and flaps before taking off into the skies. Twilight stares after the owl but can’t take it anymore. She hangs her head low, feeling more tears fall down as she feels a claw softly touch her back.

“Twilight, are you going to be okay?” Spike asked, concerned.

“I don’t think so Spike,” Twilight sighed. “Not for a while…”

“Well, for what it’s worth, I think you made the right decision,” Spike smiled. “Don’t worry, Twi. I, your number one assistant, will never leave you.”

It is clear Spike is just trying to lighten the mood, to the best of his ability.

“Thanks Spike,” Twilight smiled lightly. “Thanks…”

Deep down, she knows her life is going to be very different. Especially when her feathery companion is not with her… not anymore…

<>

It is late evening in Canterlot, ponies closing up shop for the day or going home to their families for a good day’s meal and then retire to sleep for the night. High up one of the palace balconies, stands the present ruler of Equestria: Princess Twilight Sparkle, who is there to lower the sun and raise the moon using the magical amulet (a gift from Princess Celestia and Luna). As Twilight does so, she not only hears the residents of Canterlot preparing for the night, but the animals outside the capital’s limits, the howls of the wolves and especially the hooting of owls…

Twilight sighs, hanging her head low as the moon draws over the horizon. With every pony asleep, it is time she herself does the same and turns to start for her bedroom. Only in doing so, she hears a rather loud hooting coming from right behind her. A hooting that sounds… familiar…

“HOOT! HOOT!”

Once more, turning around slowly this time, Twilight sees not one, but ‘four’ owls perched neatly along the balcony railing. Two large owls and two small ones, one of which looks very familiar to the alicorn princess… and yet she can hardly believe her eyes as she trots closer.

“Owlowiscious?” Twilight asked slowly. “Is that really you?”

“Hoot! Hoot!” The owl hooted back.

It sounds positively like a ‘Yes’, much to Twilight’s slight disbelief. But there he is, smiling… well as owls do smile. Nonetheless, it more than confirms Twilight’s question.

“Owlowiscious… it is you!” Twilight shed a tear. “After all these years, you still remember me… you found me…”

Twilight gets close enough so he can nuzzle his feathery head against Twilight’s face, brushing his brown feathers against Twilight’s fur, tickling her slightly.

“I’ve missed you all these years Owlowiscious…” Twilight stated.

It is then she remembers Owlowiscious is not the only owl present on the balcony railing.

“But who are they? Are they your family?”

Owlowiscious hoots a happy answer as he puts a wing around the other large owl, who stands next to him. Obviously, it’s his mate and the two small ones are his children. Twilight is very happy, her owl finding something better, a family to take care of, and a family more meaningful for him.

“Well, it seems you’re doing very well for yourself, Owlowiscious,” Twilight smiled. “I’m proud and happy to see you living the life you’re meant to live.”

Deep down, it is a bittersweet reunion knowing that they did not come to stay with her.

“Well… I shouldn’t keep you here all night long. I’m sure your family needs you to spend time with them.”

The owl hoots back in agreement, but not before he shares one last nuzzle with his former owner.

“I love you too. I hope you continue visiting me every once in a while. I could always use the company.”

After giving their final goodbyes, Owlowiscious, his mate, and their kids, take off into the night sky, heading back to their home in the forest. Their dark forms grow smaller and smaller before disappearing into the treetops below. All the while, Twilight stays where she is until she can no longer see the owls. The moment they disappear, she sighs one last time before returning to her bedroom for a peaceful sleep. To rest for the new day tomorrow and look forward to another visit… from her feathery friend.