The Legend of Starlight-Book 2: Love at Second Sight

Chapters

All Good Things.....
Feathers and Friends
Changing Two Destinies
Shattering the Peace
Magical Meltdown
Laying a Plan
....Must Come to an End
Facing the Fact
A Bright Hope, A Dark Plot
And Now, A Word from our Author
The True Epilogue

All Good Things.....

Chapter 1-All Good Things....

I woke up on Twilight's rug with a big yawn. I looked around the room with a feeling of calm. I got up and started to get ready for the day. After taking a quick shower, changing my clothes, cleaning my sword and putting my crown on, I yelled to Twilight, “Hey, I'll see you a little later!”

The purple unicorn walked into the room, levitating a book. “You going to hang out with Rainbow all day again?” she asked with a smirk.

I tapped her on the head. “No, I'm helping Applebloom and her friends today. I've been putting it off for too long.”

Suddenly there was a slam at the front door. Scootaloo walked in, slightly dizzy. “Come on, Prince!” she yelled. “This is the day we get our cutie marks!!” I followed her out the door, waving goodbye to Twilight. Once outside, I stretched my wings and followed Scootaloo on her scooter.

Oh I'm sorry. I never introduced myself. I'm Starlight, Prince of Equestria. My sisters are Princess Luna and Princess Celestia. I'm a alicorn like they are, but half of my body is human. I still have the horn and wings of an alicorn, but the rest of my body is human. In fact, Celestia and I were talking about that when Luna left Canterlot.

“Starlight,” Celestia had said. “You do know that we alicorns are virtually immortal, correct?”

“Yes,” I had said. We were sitting outside, watching over the town.

“I was doing some research, and I realized that we need to step up our search to turn your body back to normal.” she told me.

“Why is that?” I asked.

“Because your body is cursed, it nullified the protective charm your body had when you were born.” Celestia had said. “You won't die as easily as others, but you still can.”

So that was a priority and I knew that Celly would work on that. But you might be wondering why I'm living in Ponyville instead of in Canterlot. About 2 and a half weeks after I was crowned prince, Celestia had walked up to me when I was in the castle's training yard, practicing with Stormtide and my cutie marks. “Stary? I was wondering if you had a problem living in Ponyville for a while.”

“No,” I said, taking a drink of water “I've been there pretty much all the time. What's up?”

“I need to stay in Canterlot, to keep order and Luna has things she needs to do. Plus, I thought it would be good for you to be with other ponies then just royalty all the time. My student Twilight agreed to house you.” And that's how I'm living in Ponyville now.

Few more things I should address. My sword was called the Blade of Equestria and was my proof of being a prince. Not to mention the fact it was a sweet weapon. The sword's magic was so strong, it had bonded to my soul, making it so I could summon and desummon the sword at will. I had decided to nickname my sword, “Stormtide.”

Last thing is about my cutie marks. Yes I said marks. On my right hand was a star with beams coming of it. Above it was a sun and below it was a moon. The beams of light wrapped around my arm up to my elbow. On my left had was the cutie mark of 6 of my special friends. It was a very rare ability called the “Cutie Stamp.” The basics about it was that whenever I bonded with a pony, their cutie mark would appear on my hand and give me special powers.

PHEW, that was a lot of words. Where was I? Oh yeah.

I was standing with the CMC(Cutie Marks Crusaders) at the top of a hill. The 3 fillies, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom, had hang gliders on their backs.

“You sure about this guys?” I yelled.

“Sure we are, Prince!” Sweetie Belle said. “This'll totally get us our cutie marks!”

“Okay, but I'll stopping this if it gets dangerous!” I stepped back from them and extended my wings to their full length. Then I gave a mighty flap and the air whooshed them off the hill. I leapt off after them.

“Alright!” Scootaloo yelled as they glided. “This is great!”

I soared with them, quietly thinking. Suddenly I felt weight on my back. I rolled over and saw Rainbow Dash standing on my stomach. “Oh thanks for the ride, Prince! My wings were getting sore.”

“I told you to call me by my name Rainbow.” I said, pushing her off. She flew up beside me.

The three fillies landed safely and Rainbow and I landed by them. The 3 of them checked their flanks then sighed. “Darn!” Applebloom said. “No cutie marks!”

Sweetie Belle walked over to me and gave me Bambi eyes. “Could we please do it again?”

I shook my head, “Sorry, but I'm going to fly a bit with Rainbow okay?” The three fillies nodded then ran off, shouting ideas to each other.'

Rainbow nudged me in the side. “Full of energy aren't they?” I nodded. “Let's fly!” We both took off into the air.

As we flew, Rainbow said, “So how is it going, living in Ponyville?”

“Little tiring.” I said. “Everypony wants to...be around me.”

“Well you are the prince.” she said. “Of course they all want to be around you.”

“Yeah....” As we flew I could tell that Rainbow was....looking me over. Whenever I looked at her, she would move her eyes away. We had done this a lot lately, fly together. And I'll admit that I well....I had feelings for her, not that I could ever tell her that. We finally rested on our cloud we had created it by her bunching clouds together and I colored it in.

As we sat, I decided to tell her. “Rainbow,” she looked at me. “I need to tell you something. I....” Suddenly something slammed into me and knocked me off the cloud.

Feathers and Friends

Chapter 2-Feathers and Friends

I slipped off of the cloud but I grabbed it and whipped myself up. “Wha...?” I said.

In front of me was Rainbow and a.....griffon? Rainbow was staring angrily at it and I summoned Stormtide. I stepped next to Rainbow and asked, “Who exactly are you?”

The griffon looked at me like she was going to attack, but she apparently realized what I was. “Oh I'm sorry Prince Starlight.” she said. “I'm Gilda.”

That name sounded weirdly familiar. Rainbow said, “I'm sorry Prince, but could we have some time alone? I need to talk to her.”

I could tell that they had past history, so I didn't argue the point. “Sure Rainbow, I'll go around and visit some of our friends.”

Rainbow nodded, still glaring at Gilda. I saw Gilda slightly bow to me as I jumped off the cloud.

…

Rainbow Dash glanced over as she saw Starlight jump off the cloud. Gilda said, “So that's the new prince? I really wished I could have been there to see him being crowned”

“Why are you back here, Gilda?” Rainbow said. “You said we were all “lame” remember?”

“Yes I did.” Gilda said. “I realized though that I was rather mean to your friends and I wanted a chance to make it up to you guys.”

Rainbow looked at her former friend. “It isn't up to me. You'll have to talk to my friends. Also, you'll need to ask the prince if it's okay that you stay in Ponyville.”

“You're close to him, aren’t you?” Gilda asked. “Could you ask him for me?”

“Well,” Rainbow said. “Maybe if you beat me in a race!” She leapt off the cloud and took off. Gilda looked in the direction and smiling to herself, followed Rainbow.

…

As I fell to Ponyville I kept a look out for Rarity's boutique. I had made it a point to myself that I would try to get closer to all of my friends. And I had another reason to visit Rarity. “There it is!” I said to myself as my eyes swept across it. I twisted my body upward and slammed into the ground, feet first. I wasn't hurt, but I left indents in front of the house. “Well,” I said, fixing the dents. “Good to know that I can survive falling to the ground from like 2000 feet.” I knocked on the door.

Sweetie Belle answered the door. “Oh, hi Prince Starlight!” Bowing her head she asked, “Were you here to see Rarity?”

I tapped her on the head. “Yeah, she here?”

“Yup!” the filly said. “Follow me!” I walked in, shutting the door behind me.

We walked into Rarity's design room, Sweetie Belle ran up behind her and exclaimed, “Sis, guess who's here?!”

Rarity sighed. “Sweetie Belle, I told you to not bother me when I'm...”, she turned around and saw us standing there. “Oh, Prince Starlight! I'm so sorry!”

Now the thing is about Rarity, she was in her element around royalty. It was a little tiring because ever since I was crowned prince, she INSISTED on being completely formal with me, even though I told all of my friends to treat me normally. I walked over to her and gave her a hug. “It's fine Rarity, I did need something though.”

She stepped back and said, “What do you need me to do?”

“Well, it's more of a favor.” I snapped my fingers and the shirt I was wearing when I landed on Equestria appeared in my hands. “I was wondering if you could fix this. Nightmare tore a nasty hole in it when I was fighting her, and since it's the only thing I have from Earth, I'd kinda...”

“Say no more, Prince.” Rarity said, magically whipping the shirt from my hand. “I'll fix it good as new. No, better then new! I'll be amazing!”

I smiled, “Thanks. I need to go talk to Pinkie. See ya.” Rarity bowed to me as Sweetie Belle walked me out. “See you later, Starlight!” Sweetie Belle yelled and shut the door.

I walked though Ponyville, talking to some of the ponies along the way. Suddenly I felt danger above me. I dashed out of the was as a big crate landed where I was. Stormtide appeared in my hand as I looked up...and saw my friend Derpy Hooves. “Sorry, Starlight!” she yelled as she flew over to me. “I was just so happy to see you, I forgot I was holding the box!”

I desummoned Stormtide and hugged Derpy. “It's fine. I was hoping to see you.” I magically repaired the crate and whatever was inside. “Where you heading? I'll help.”

“This mail crate goes to ummmmm.” Derpy checked the box. “Sugercube Corner!”

“Okay.” I said. Derpy and I walked over, talking. When we reached it I tapped Derpy and said.”We're gonna hang out soon, okay?”

Derpy gave me a big hug and said, “Yup!! Bai, Starlight!”

Walking inside, I went over to the counter. Pinkie popped her head up, slightly shocking me. “Hai, Prince!!!!” Immediately she ran in the back and came out with a tray of cookies. “Try some!!!”

I took one and asked Pinkie. “Hey, I'm planning a surprise for Rainbow tomorrow night. Any way you could save a table for us?”

“Oh yes!” Pinkie said. “Is it gonna be like a date, because I love dates! Oh you should totally go on a date with Rainbow! But I don't think she'd ask. Oh well maybe you two could be mare....”

I put my hand over Pinkie's mouth, “Yes, it's like a date. Rainbow asked me if we could go out tomorrow. So do you think that you could maybe help me out here?”

Pinkie nodded. “Don't you worry Starlight! I'll make sure it's special for you and Rainbow.”

I hugged her and said, “Thanks, I need to go talk to Fluttershy.”

Pinkie waved as I left the shop. Once outside I yelled Rainbow's name and tapped into the power of her cutie mark. My clothes were cyan once again and my pants were rainbow colored. One of the perks of Rainbow's mark was the ability to fly extremely fast. I jumped in the air and took off toward Fluttershy's house.

…

Rainbow and Gilda landed on Cloudsdale. “Still can't beat me!” Rainbow said, prancing around Gilda.

Gilda just panted. “Come on Dash...Please?”

Rainbow stopped jumping around, “Well, we're going out to hang tomorrow. Guess I'll try to bring it up.”

Gilda raised an eyebrow. “Going out on a date with the prince now, Dash?”

Rainbow blushed, “It isn't a date.”

“Then why are you blushing?” Gilda teased Rainbow.

Rainbow turned, “Race you to my house!” she disappeared in a flash of colors., Gilda following her.

…

I was at Fluttershy's talking to a bear. I know, but just go along with it. The bear, named Smokey, didn't want to eat any honey. “Come on Smokey, eat up!” The bear slowly started to eat some.

Fluttershy slowly walked up. “Thank you Prince, but it's getting late. Don't you want to go now?”

I hugged the shy pony. “Thanks, guess I lost track of time. I'll talk to you later k?”

I flew back to Twilight's just as dawn fell. Walking in I was assaulted by Twi's questions. “Did you have fun today?”

“Yes, Twi. Sorry but I'm rather tired, and I need my sleep for tomorrow. I'm hanging out with Rainbow tomorrow evening.”

“Like a date?” Twilight asked.

“If you want to think that.” Tired, I laid down and the spell on Twi's rug changed me into a pony form. Much more comfortable to sleep in.

Twilight put a blanket on me and walked upstairs. “Sleep well, Prince.” I nodded and slowly drifted off to sleep.

Changing Two Destinies

Chapter 3-Changing Two Destinies

I was pacing around downstairs as Twilight tried to calm me down.

“Starlight, please relax. You look great! Rainbow will be happy.”

“I guess.” I said. “I just want everything to go right.”

We heard a knock on the door. “It will Star, trust me.” She went to

answer the door.

Walking to the door I saw Rainbow and Twilight talking. “You sure you

aren't fully human, Prince?” Rainbow asked with a smirk, seeing me. “Because you are

SLOW.” I smacked her with my wing and said, “Ready to go, I take it?” She laughed

and flew out the door. I gave Twilight a quick hug and flew after her.

Rainbow followed me over to Sugercube Corner. We landed and walked in. I

walked up to Pinkie and said, “Hey Pinkie.”

Pinkie winked at me, “Take that table in the corner. The one with the

little pretty candles on it. Oh, this is so cool!!” I hugged Pinkie, then Rainbow

and I walked over to the table and sat.

Pinkie had thought of everything. When Rainbow and I were eating, I saw

Pinkie turn the sign on the door to “Closed”. Also, I think she did all the

cooking for us.

“So Rainbow?” I asked. “What are your dreams in life?”

“I've always wanted to join the Wonderbolts!” Rainbow said, a gleam in her

eye. “It would be so cool to go flying with them.” She looked at me. “What about

you, Star?”

“Not really sure.” I said. “I would like to find out more about my past.

What happened before Celestia had to send me to Earth.”

“Didn't you hang out with us before that happened?” Rainbow asked. “The

princess said that's how you stamped us.”

I nodded. “I still think there's something I'm missing about whatever

happened. Maybe it would help Celly figure out how to break my curse.”

Rainbow giggled at Celestia's nickname. “So are we done for tonight? It is

pretty late.”

“I had one more thing planned, if you aren't too tired.”

Rainbow scoffed. “Not tired at all.” She got up, walked over and hugged

Pinkie and left the store. Pinkie walked up to me. “I'll clean up here. Go have

fun.”

“Thank you.” I left the store, and flew off, Rainbow following me. As we

flew, I switched to Pinkie's mark. I had planted fireworks in the sky hours before

hand. As we passed them, I sparked each one. We flew past them and landed on our

cloud. “Look up.” I told Rainbow.

The fireworks were beautiful. I had picked the right ones I needed for the

night.

“Starlight....it's beautiful.” Rainbow whispered. She looked at me. “Thank

you for doing this.”

I looked Rainbow in the eyes. “Rainbow, I've been living in Equestria for

over a month now. And well....I don't really know how to say it...”

I was so nervous, the stars on my right hand started lighting up. Rainbow

gave a slight smile and sat in front of me. Then in one fluid movement, she hooked

her hoof behind my head, pulled me closer to her and kissed me.

My mind immediately went blank, then I realized that Rainbow must have the

same feelings I had for her. I pulled her closer to me and we continued kissing

for like 3 minutes....straight.

When we pulled away from each other, I said, “Well, I didn't know that.

Rainbow smiled and said, “I don't know if you believe me, but I love you,

Starlight.”

I said to her, “I love you too, Rainbow Dash.”

“I take it you want to be my coltfriend now?” Rainbow asked with a smirk.

“I'm not a very sensitive mare.”

I laughed and stroked her mane. “It doesn't matter Rainbow. I wanted to

tell you, but I was too nervous.”

Rainbow walked over and sat next to me. “Thank you, Starlight.”

We kissed again and didn't let up. Without going into too much data, let

me just tell you. It was one of the best night either of us had had in a long

time.

…

Gilda quietly flew above where Starlight and Rainbow was. She saw when the

two had confessed their love for each other, and what happened after. “Hmmm, so

little Dashie really did like the prince.” She thought for a bit. “Enjoy the time

you have with him, because soon, I'll be the object of his dreams.” She lifted off

and flew in the direction of Rainbow's house.

Shattering the Peace

Chapter 4-Shattering the Peace

Rainbow flew as fast as she could over to Sugercube Corner. Bursting in the front door she trotted over to Pinkie, who had just given some ponies a big cake. “Pinkie, you got a sec?” the panting Pegasus said.

“Sure!” Pinkie bounded over to the back room and Rainbow followed her. “Soooooooooooo, how was the date?!?!”

Rainbow blushed and told her friend, “I'll tell you but you can't tell anypony OK?”

“Okie-dokie!” Pinkie said, getting ingredients ready for another cake. “Pinkie Pie Swear on it!”

Rainbow sat down on a stool, “After Starlight and I left the hospital, he...he told me he loved me!”

Pinkie dropped the eggs she was carrying. “Wow! You know I always thought he liked you, Dash!”

Rainbow nodded, “We kissed and fell asleep on the cloud.” She sighed. “I woke up wrapped in his arms.”

Pinkie cleaned up her mess and got some more eggs. “Where is the prince now?”

“I remembered that he had told me earlier that he was going to Canterlot today to talk to the princess.” Rainbow said. “I woke up about dawn and took him back to Twilight's. She was awake, you know how she is. Then I cleared the clouds and I'm here now.”

Pinkie squealed and hugged her friend. “Yippie! I'm so happy for you Rainbow! We should totally have a party!”

“No!” Rainbow jumped. “We can't tell anypony yet!”

Pinkie settled down. “Ok Dash! But when we do, PARTY TIME!!!”

Rainbow smiled as Pinkie started hopping around the room, starting to make the cake. “Guess I could help you if you want.”

“Sure!” Pinkie said. They both started to work on the cake.

…

I woke up lying on the magic rug in Twilight's house. Last thing I remembered was lying on the cloud with Rainbow...

Twilight walked over. “Oh, good morning Prince!” she said. “Rainbow brought you back to my house at about dawn. Said she didn't want to wake you because you were going to Canterlot today.”

“Oh yeah!” I said. “Celly-I mean Celestia wanted to talk to me today.” I stood up and the spell wore off, turning me back in a human form. “Thanks Twi. I'm already late. Gotta go!”

Twi waved as I ran out the front door. Switching to Rainbow's form I shot into the air, on my way to Canterlot.

As I flew I had a bit of time to think, “Wonder what I did on Earth before I came here.” I had lost all of my memories prior to smashing though Twilight's roof when I came to Equestria. I could remember scattered memories, but they were very few and not much to go on. I saw Canterlot in the distance and dashed toward it.

I decided not to go directly to the castle, instead landing on the streets and walking around. Ponies would walk up and talk to me and it made me realize how much I needed to spend some time in Canterlot just as much as I was in Ponyville. As I was walking, I felt a strong magical energy coming at me. Turning, I saw Twilight's sister-in-law, Princess Cadence. Bowing to her, I said, “Hello, Princess.”

Cadence put a hoof on my shoulder. “You don't need to bow to me. And please call me Cadence.”

“Oh yeah,” I said. “You're Celesta’s niece, aren't you?”

She nodded, “Nice to meet you, Uncle?”

I smiled, “I'm younger then you are. Just call me Star.” I gave her a quick hug. “Walk with me?”

She nodded and we started off down the paths. “So you're married to Twilight's brother?” I asked

“Yes,” she said. “That was the best day of our lifes and almost was the worst.”

“How could a wedding be the worst?” I asked.

“I had been imprisoned by the changeling queen, Queen Chrysalis. She tried to use Shining Armor's love for me to take over Canterlot.”

“Hmmm,” I said. “Apparently it didn't work.”

“Yes, but I do wonder where she is now.” Cadence said. We saw Shining Armor walk up to us. He was a very well-built stallion.

“Hello, Prince Starlight.” He said, bowing to me. “Very sorry to interrupt but Cadence and I needed to check up on something.”

“Oh go do what you have to.” I said, hugging Candence and shaking Shining's hoof. “I'll see you guys later, kay?”

“Oh yes, Star!” Candence said. “We need to talk later!” Waving, I took off toward the castle.

…

Gilda landed on the roof of a house, watching the prince fly into the castle. “Apparently he doesn’t know that Celestia is going to busy all day. Perfect for me.” The tired griffin rested. “Time to make my move. Sorry, Dash, but I think he'll help me more then you.” She sat, watching the castle.

…

The guards escorted me into the main throne room where I saw Celestia, Cadence and even Luna. They were talking to some royal looking unicorns.

“Hey sisters!” I yelled, running over to them. The other unicorns took a step back as I hugged my siblings.

“Prince Lightning and Princess Firespark, this is our brother, Prince Starlight.” Celestia explained.

“Ahh, so you're the new prince of Equestria.” Lightning said. “We are from a different part of Equestria, but we report to your sister.”

“Uh-huh,” I said thinking. So we rule over the whole planet? That's food for thought. I saw that the other ponies in the room had moved away from us. I walked over to my throne, seeing that Celestia and Luna were sitting on theirs. Suddenly I sensed a blast of magic coming at my back. I whipped around and summoned Stormtide, deflecting the magic. “What the heck?” I said, glaring at Lightning.

“Awful sorry about that, Prince, but I asked your sisters if I could have a little battle with you. You don't have to worry about hurting me.”

“You sure about this?” I asked.

He nodded. Celestia cast a spell over him, ensuring that I couldn't kill him.

“What? I can't have that spell?” I yelled at her.

“You don't need it.” Luna said. I frowned, realizing her point.

I didn't have anymore time to think as Lightning ran up and bucked me in the chest, sending me flying into the wall. I jumped up and ran off as he shot the wall where I just was. I turned and saw him charging a pretty strong shot. Thinking quickly I yelled Fluttershy's name and my clothes changed into the colors of her mane and fur. I suddenly transformed into a elephant and took the bolt of magic in the side. Switching back to my human form, I switched to Rarity's form. I slammed a diamond the way of Lightning's next bolt, ricocheting it back to him. He dodged it, but I took the opportunity to run up and cut a deep gash in his side. Looking at me, his horn blazed with light sending me flying. I twisted around in the air and shot Lightning in the head with a magic blast. I created a rainbow ball and slammed him in the head with it, coating his face a bunch of different colors.

I ducked another lightning bolt. “I need to end this, now!” I focused on the sun on my right hand, and had an idea. I focused and yelled, “Celestia!” Suddenly my hand started glowing really bright. Pointing it at the prince, I shot a sunbeam at his eyes. He flinched and I dashed up and whacked his horn as hard as I could with the hilt of my sword. His magic disrupted and a magical explosion blasted us both in different directions.

Celestia and Firespark hurried over to us, Firespark checking on Lightning. Celestia said,”Are you two okay?”

I shook myself and desummoned Stormtide. “I'll be alright, but maybe we should talk later sis. I'm a little tired.” I looked at Lighting, “You okay over there?”

He nodded, I hugged Celestia and Luna and flew off.

“Quite the little fighter isn't he?” Lightning said.

“He'll need to be.” Luna said, watching.

As I flew, I ran into Gilda. She wanted to fly back to Canterlot with me, and I didn't have a problem with that.

“So, Starlight?” she asked, “How long did it take you to fit in to Ponyville, being a human and all?”

I decided not to correct her on that fact that my body was cursed. “Surprisingly, not a long time. Everypony adapted rather well.”

Gilda nodded, “I just hope that I can erase the mistakes I made when I was here last time.”

I flew over to a cloud and stood on it to rest my wings. “Sometimes that's all we can do.”

Gilda landed next to me. “Maybe we can do more..”

“Hmmm?” I said not really paying attention. I turned...just as Gilda kissed me on the mouth...hard.

My eyes widened. “Ahh!” I yelped, jumping backward. “Gilda! What the buck are you doing?!”

Gilda didn't look me in the eye. “I'm sorry, Prince, I..”

I was upset. “Gilda I don't really know what to say right now.” I looked off in the distance. “I'm not going to do anything about this Gilda, because I don't want to shatter the peace.” I stood up. “Let's pretend this didn't happen.” I jumped off the cloud and dashed off toward Twilight's house.

…

Gilda clawed the cloud in anger. She had been so close to winning the prince's heart. She knew the reason that the prince didn't want her.

Damn that Rainbow Dash! If it wasn’t for her, she would have the prince wrapped around her claw. “You don't want to shatter the peace, Prince? Consider it too late for that. I'll be the one to snap everypony here back to reality.” She stood up and flew in the direction of Ponyville.

Magical Meltdown

Chapter 5-Magical Meltdown

It had been a week since I had that little “incident” with Gilda, and I hadn't seen her after that. The only reason I knew she was still even in Ponyville was that other ponies I spoke to told me that they had seen her. Personally I didn't want to talk to her or really anypony, so I had spent the last 4 days in Canterlot. Celestia was worried about me, as I found out at breakfast.

“Starlight,” she said. “You haven't left the castle in days. Did something happen in Ponyville?”

“No. I guess I just needed sometime to myself.” I said. I realized that I did feel a lot better.

“Twilight sent me a letter telling me that she was going to cast a special celebration spell.” Celestia said. “She was wondering if you would like to attend it.”

“Sure.” I said. “Can't hurt to check it out.” I finished up and walked over to the window. “I'll see you later.” I opened the window and jumped out. Extending my wings, I flew in the direction of Ponyville.
…

Everypony had heard about the celebration spell Twilight was going to cast for Starlight, even a certain griffon. Gilda was at Twilight's helping her prepare for it.

“So, the prince is coming back today?” Gilda asked.

“Yep! Spike got a letter from Princess Celestia” Twilight said, bouncing around the room. “Everything's gotta be perfect!”

“So, why are we celebrating this?” The griffon asked, looking around the room.

“It's for beating Nightmare Moon, when he landed here.” Twilight explained. “She could have easily taken us over that day, but he fought her off.” Twilight looked at the spellbook. “Oh, I need to go grab something! Be right back!” The purple unicorn bounded upstairs.

Gilda smiled and walked over to the spellbook that Twilight was reading. “This should make this a fun celebration.” Now the book had been written in pencil, so Gilda erased some of the words and replaced them with other words. She moved away from the book as Twilight came back downstairs.

“Come on Gilda, the prince's almost here!” Twilight picked up the book with her horn and ran outside. Gilda followed, smiling.

…

As I broke the cloud barrier and flew into Ponyville, I saw that everypony was in the middle of town. Flying over there I saw that someponies had erected a stage and there was a drawing of me on it, holding my sword. As I flew over and landed next to the mayor, everypony let up a cheer for me. I slightly blushed as the mayor started to speak.

“Prince Starlight, we never properly thanked you for stopping Nightmare Moon when you first arrived here.” She said. “So, our very own Twilight Sparkle is going to start our celebration with a spell written for you!”

As everypony cheered, I just saw that all the town was set up like a giant party. “Pinkie Pie's doing” I thought. Looking down, I saw my mane 6 friends and Gilda standing together. I waved at them as Twilight stepped up to the stage.

Bowing she said, “Thank you, for stopping her. This is a spell I found just for you.” She turned around as all the ponies near that area moved back. Her horn glowed as she cast the spell. Tendrils of magic started to wrap together in the middle of the square. The spell was going well.

Suddenly my horn started to glow red and I sensed danger. “Twilight! Stop the spell!” I yelled.

“I can't!” She was struggling to keep her balance. I summoned Stormtide and jumped to the spell area, determined to absorb the magic with the sword. All of a sudden, Twi's horn gave a giant flash of light and the spell exploded.

I was sent flying into the stage. The ponies that were closest to the area were knocked over. Slightly stunned, I looked around. Fortunately there was little to no damage beside the middle of the square. I looked down and saw.....my sisters? “Celestia, Luna, what are you two doing here?” I asked, jumping next to them.

They both looked at me, then I saw that their eyes were glowing red. That can't be good. “Oh, nothing much, Prince of Darkness.”

And that's even worse! I summoned Stormtide and held it in front of me just as they both blasted me with magic. Hitting the ground I yelled, “Major, get everypony out of here! Now!” She started to move everypony in a direction that wasn't by me and my evil sisters. I saw that Twilight had passed out and my friends were trying to wake her up.

I turned just in time to deflect another magical blast. “What's wrong, brother? Why won't you join us?”

“Maybe because you aren't my sisters!” I yelled. I then yelled Rarity's name and tapped into the power of her cutie mark. Creating a big diamond, I slammed it into the side of the dark Celesta’s head, sending her careening into a wall. Dark Luna ran up and bucked Stormtide out of my hand. I rolled under her and covering my hand in a diamond, I punched her in the face, knocking her to the ground.

Dark Celesta shot a levitation spell at me, but I blocked it with a diamond, reflecting the spell toward Dark Luna. As it hit her, I ran by Dark Celestia and cut deep into her side with a dagger sized diamond. She yelled, turned and smacked me with her front hooves, knocking me down. She reared up to slam down on me. I rolled out of the way and jumped up, resummoning Stormtide and slashing her up the flank. A sparkly blue type of blood formed from the wound. I didn't have much time to look as I got blasted in the face with another type of magic.

Hitting the ground I looked at my hand. “This might work.” I thought, switching from Rarity's cutie mark to Pinkie's. I rolled and shot Dark Luna with a firework. It got caught in her mane and rose up in the sky, carrying her with it. “That'll be an interesting display,” I said, just as Dark Celestia picked me up with magic and slammed me into the stage.

I heard Rainbow yell, “I think Twilight's losing her color!” Then I understood. The dark versions of my sisters were pure magic, and they were living off of Twi's magical power. I needed to stop them before they drained Twi completely.

I picked myself up and stood in front of the evil alicorns. “Twilight!” I yelled. My clothes changed from pink to purple and I felt an intense rush of magical energy rush though me. Then I knew what Twilight's cutie mark gave me. Not having time to dwell on it, I summoned Stormtide and rushed at the dark magic. I slammed Dark Celestia in the head with my sword and stabbed Dark Luna in the head. “Go. Back!” I yelled, ripping the sword out. Luna screamed and dissolved into a sparkly substance, rising in the air. I held my arm out and created a shimmering golden spear in my left hand. As Dark Celestia flew up in the air, I pointed and shot the spear at her, hitting her directly in the stomach. She dissolved into the sparkly substance and it joined the other one. The substance suddenly flew toward Twilight and her horn absorbed it, giving her color back.

I ran toward my friends still holding my sword, but my clothes were normal now. Noticing that Gilda wasn't there, I said, “Is she OK?”

Applejack nodded. “She'll be fine, but I think she needs a rest.”

Rarity nodded, “Let's take her back to her house, the poor thing. We need to figure out who sabotaged her so bad!”

“Pinkie, can you tell everypony it's safe now?” I asked. “And tell them that we'll have the party after I find out who did this?”

“Okie-dokie!” Pinkie said, bounding off. I gently picked up Twilight and flew toward her house, the others not far behind.

Laying a Plan

Chapter 6-Laying a Plan

Rainbow Dash paced around Twilight's living room. Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy were talking about what had happened at the celebration, while Starlight was upstairs healing Twilight.

“I'm telling you, there's no way Twilight would have messed that up so bad!” Applejack said. “She's the strongest unicorn in all of Ponyville!”

“Yes, but maybe someone messed with the spell?” Rainbow said, flying by her. “Twilight probably sparked it wrong or...”

They all stopped talking as Starlight and Spike came downstairs, both looking equally tired. “How is the poor dear?” Rarity asked.

Starlight walked over and tiredly shook his head. “I removed all the dark magic from her horn.” he said. He sat down on the enchanted rug that turned him into a alicorn colt, how he would look if his body wasn't cursed. “Don't wake me up unless Nightmare Moon herself walked in here and asks for a cup of tea.” He laid down on the rug and fell asleep, the spell taking effect and transforming him.

Spike sat on the rug next to the prince. “What are we gonna do? Somepony really tried to hurt Twilight! We gotta do something!”

Rarity said, “Relax Spikey. We'll figure something out.”

Rainbow started pacing again. “I don't think that whoever did that was trying to hurt Twilight.”

“What are you getting at, Rainbow?” Applejack said.

“I asked Twilight what the spell was 2 days before today.” Rainbow said. “She said it was supposed to twist pure magic to create what Starlight really looked like. But the spell created the dark forms of his sisters. I think that the spell was supposed to hurt Starlight.”

Fluttershy slowly walked up with the spellbook that Twilight had used at the celebration. “Here. I think this is the book Twilight used.”

Rarity levitated the book from Fluttershy and started rifling though it. “Here's the spell that she was using.”

“Look!” Pinkie yelped. “There's marks like somepony erased words in here!”

“I wonder...” Rainbow said, then she started zipping though the library. “Thought so!” She returned to the room, holding the exact same book. “Twilight has two copies of that book!”

“Lets compare them.” Rarity said, taking the book from Rainbow. The white unicorn put the books side-by-side and looked at them carefully. “You're completly right, Rainbow. The words were changed!”

Rainbow's eyes flashed. “I thought so!” She landed on the ground. “I'm going to find who did this and tear them apart!”

“How do we know it wasn't an accident?” Fluttershy asked.

“This was a deliberate change, Shy.” Rainbow said. “Whoever did this knew what they were doing.”

“Well, we need a plan to figure out who did this!” Pinkie said, bouncing around.

“I know that things have been going wrong since Starlight left for a week,” Applejack said. “But this is the last straw! Let's go find out who did this!”

“I'll stay here and make sure Starlight and Twilight sleep well.” Rainbow said.

The other ponies made their way out the door, but Applejack stopped and shut the door.

“What's wrong, Dash? Usually, you'd be the first to go flying, trying to be the first to find out what's wrong. Spike can watch them.”

“Spike is asleep.” Rainbow said, pointing at the sleeping baby dragon. “And I'm a little tired.”

Applejack, being the Element of Honesty knew something else was up. “Come on now, spit it out!” she said.

Rainbow sighed, “I'll tell you Applejack, just not yet okay?”

Applejack nodded, “We'll talk after all this, Sugercube.” She galloped out the door.

Rainbow walked over to Starlight and kissed him on the cheek. “I promise to protect you, even if you think that you're supposed to protect me.” She then went upstairs to check on Twilight.

…

I was walking though the palace, but everypony seemed to be rushing in a panic. Confused, I ran up to the main hall, where my sisters were talking. “Celly! Lu-lu! What's happening?” I yelled, hugging my older sisters with my front legs.

Celestia rubbed my head. “He needs to leave, Luna. He's been here too long.”

Luna shook her head, “What if we can't find him again?” She looked at me. “You know the prophecy can't be completed if he isn't with us.”

“He isn't ready!” Celestia said. She knelt down, so we were at eye level. “Listen Star. You need to go on a trip for a little while. We will come get you when it's over.”

“But why?”I cried. “I don't want to leave you two!”

Luna rubbed my head, “I know, brother. But if we don't.....”

Suddenly the front door to the hall exploded, sending the door flying at us. The three of us sparked our horns and stopped the door. “Well, well. Isn't it polite to open the door for your guests?”

“You aren't our guest, Nightmare.” Celestia said, angrily.

Then the most evil alicorn I ever saw walked thought the doorway. Luna pushed me behind her, but I could still see what was happening.

“I've just come for the newborn prince.” Nightmare said, walking up closer. “Although he's 5 years of age today isn't he?”

My sisters didn't say a word, but Nightmare laughed. “That explains everything. Now give him to me and I'll be on my way.”

My sisters sparked up their horns. Nightmare said, “Fine, I can just take him also!” She pointed at us and a dark hand came toward me....

…

“No!!” I yelled, leaping off the rug and turning back into a human form. Stormtide appeared in my hand as I forced myself to calm down. “Phew, it was just a bad dream. Or was it?” I sat back on the rug, desummoning Stormtide as Rainbow walked in.

“Are you alright, Prince?” she asked. “I heard you screaming.”

I shook my head. “Just a bad dream, Rainbow.” Rainbow nodded and was about to leave the room when I said,”Would you come sit with me for a little bit? I've been rather lonely this past week.”

Rainbow came over and sat next to me. I pulled her closer and kissed her. “Sorry I was gone for so long.” I whispered.

She sighed and leaned into me. “How about you tell me next time your gonna just disappear. Everpony wondered why I was flying around like an idiot looking for you.” I just laughed and kissed her again.

We sat there for a little bit, not speaking but just enjoying being with each other. Then Rainbow asked, “Star, why did you leave Ponyville for a week?”

I sighed, having dreaded this conversation. “After I had met the unicorns from a different part of Equestria in Canterlot, I ran into Gilda on my way back. We flew and talked for a while, but when I stopped to rest for a bit, she tried to kiss me.”

I felt Rainbow go stiff in my arms. “What?!” She turned and looked at me. “Why didn't you tell me?”

“I didn't want you to think that I had lied to you.” I said. “I meant what I said when I told you I loved you Rainbow Dash. I still love you, and that's why I had to go for a while.”

Rainbow turned and was silent. “Gilda never liked it when things didn't go her way.” she said. “That's it!” I know why all this bad stuff has been happening to the town!”

We heard hoofsteps from upstairs and knew Twilight was awake. I also knew that our friends were coming back. Rainbow slipped out of my arms. "Still wanna keep your tough image?" I teased her.

She play-smacked me in the head. "Are you okay if we don't tell them just yet?"

"Sure, but they'll know when we confront Gilda." I said.

"Maybe not." Rainbow said. "I have a plan.

I nodded as Twilight slowly came downstairs and our friends ran in the door, extremely excited and all talking at once. “So I assume you know what's happening?” I asked.

Applejack nodded. “We checked the handwriting and it matched to Gilda. She musta been the one to sabotage the spell.”

Twilight came all the way downstairs,” I did leave her down here with the book. She could have easily changed some words around.”

Rainbow stood up and held her hoof up as Rarity started to ask a question. “We'll talk about that later, but right now I have a plan to stop her!” Everypony gathered around me as she started to explain her plan.

....Must Come to an End

Chapter 7-....Must Come to an End

Rainbow Dash was flying over to Sugercube Corner to talk to Pinkie Pie when all of a sudden she was pushed onto a passing cloud. “Hiya, Dash.” Gilda said, landing infront of her.

Rainbow stood up and flexed her wings. “Hey Gilda, where you been?” she asked.

“Oh here and there. I was helping ponies get to a safe place when the “accident” with Twilight's magic happened.” Gilda said.

Rainbow looked at her old friend. “Do you have any idea how that could have happened?” she asked.

“Nope, I went to the library in Canterlot after that happened, sorry I wasn't here to help you figure it out.” Gilda said.

Rainbow tapped her. “It's fine. I think that Prince Starlight is back in Ponyville now, might say hi to him later.”

Gilda nodded. “I got some stuff to do, I might swing by and say hi. Later Dash.” She leapt off and flew in the direction of Ponyville.

Rainbow smirked. “Hook, line and feathers.” She flew off in the direction of Canterlot as fast as she could.

…

I was sitting at Fluttershy's watching her with the animals. I could tell why she was the Element of Kindness. She was so patient with all of them, especially little Angel, who it seemed wouldn't listen to her if I was anywhere near him. He rather liked me though, so he'd mind. Fluttershy shyly walked up to me. “Prince, I think that she's on her way.”

“Thanks, Shy. If she asks, tell her I'm at Rarity's.” I jumped up and tapped into Rainbow's cutie mark. I rose in the air and zoomed away to the boutique.

I crossed from Rarity's to Sugercube Corner, then to Sweet Apple Acres to back to Twilight's. All of them were suppose to stall Gilda in some way. Fluttershy had asked for help with the animals, Rarity gave her a makeover, Pinkie had her bake treats with her and Applejack had asked for help with gathering apples. “Phew!” I said to Twi. “I think it's working. Gilda's been stalking me all day.”

“It's not enough.” The purple unicorn said. “We need more time for Rainbow to get what she needs.”

As we saw Gilda land outside the house I said to Twilight. “I'll handle this.”

“Careful Prince.” she said. “Remember, Gilda will apparently do anything to have you.”

“Just gotta make sure she doesn't have a chance.” I said, leaving though the front door. “Hey Gilda. You up for a little race?” I rose in the air.

Gilda nodded. “I've been flying all day, but I never miss a chance to destroy somepony in a race!”

“That's what I'm counting on.” I said to myself. “Race ends when you catch me!” I yelled to the griffon, then took off.

…

Rainbow wasn't allowed to fly really fast in the library, but after saying that she was on an official errand for the prince, she was allowed to fly at all. In the spells section of the library, she asked the librarian pony. “So, did a griffon come in here in the last few days?”

“Why, yes.” he said. “It was about 2 days ago. Before the party Ponyville tried to throw for the prince.”

“And did she check any books out specifically?”

The librarian thought for a second. “No, but she did spend a lot of time looking at these two books.” He left the aisle and returned with two books. Rainbow read the cover of one. “The Art of Spell Changing.”

“Thanks!” Rainbow said. “I'll bring these back later!” She glanced at the title of the second book and paled. “Sorry, gotta dash!” she said, zipping out the door.

Twilight had cast a special telepathic spell on herself and Rainbow before she left for the library, so it was no surprise when Rainbow heard in her head. "How's it going, Rainbow?"

"I think I found something." she said. "I might need to look more..."

"Don't know if that's a good idea, Dash." Twilight said. "Gilda's racing with Starlight now."

"Dang! I didn't know we would get this far in the plan yet!" Rainbow said. "Buck! Good thing I'm on my way back. See you in a bit!"

Rainbow quickly returned to Twilight's with the books. Bursting though the front door, she saw all of her friends there. “Oh Rainbow, you look absolutely tired!” Rarity said, walking over to her. “Come, sit down and rest for a while.”

Rainbow shook her head. “No time. Twilight, look at these!” She pulled the books out of her bag and set them on the table. Twilight came over to look at them.

“The Art of Spell Changing? Well, that would explain how the words she wrote actually worked. She must have been planning this for a while.” Twilight said.

“That isn't the worst part.” Rainbow said, pointing at the second book.

Applejack looked at it. “The Practices of Darkness? Now what kind of nonsense is that?”

Twilight started flipping though the book, stopping where a page had a claw mark. “She must have been planning to look at this part again....” She sat down, lost in the pages.

Pinkie started bouncing around. “You all have GOT to try the cake Gilda and I baked. It is YUMMY!”

“Pinkie.” Applejack said. “Ah don't think we have much time for that.”

“Oh you silly!” Pinkie said, laughing. “There's always time for sweets!” She stopped bouncing as they all heard Twilight gasp.

“We might have a problem.” Twilight said.

“Pardon me dear, but I thought we already did.” Rarity said.

“It's worse then we thought.” Twilight explained. “Gilda somehow cast a hex on herself that gave her the power of darkness.”

“If that's the case.” Rainbow said. “Why didn't she just use it against Starlight?”

“Because she needed to see darkness first.” Twilight said. “That's why she messed up the spell. It filled my horn with darkness. The book says that you have to witness true darkness before you can wield it. And when the prince drew all the dark magic from my horn, he made himself temporally weaker to it.”

Applejack gasped. “She's gonna blast him until he gives into her!”

“Not while I'm here!” Rainbow said. Suddenly they heard a loud crash outside the house. Running outside they saw Starlight lying on the ground half conscious with Gilda over him, trying to kiss him. Rainbow's eyes flashed and she flew at them, proceeding to buck Gilda straight off of Starlight. She landed infront of her, rage in her eyes.

“Don't do anything rash, Rainbow!” Twilight yelled.

…

I slowly stood up, rather tired. I had Gilda chasing me from Ponyville to Canterlot, twice. She had finally caught up to me around the area with me and Rainbow's cloud. I watched the pegasus and the griffon face each other, ready to jump in if needed.

“So you tried to steal him from me, Gilda!” Rainbow said, with barely suppressed anger. “Just like back in flight school.”

“Oh come on, Dash.” Gilda said, rolling her eyes. “You didn't need that stallion in the end anyway. Remember how you used to say, “I fly better alone?” Besides, he was a jerk anyway.”

“That's not the point!” Rainbow said. “I learned something from my time living in Ponyville. I don't need to keep living in a shell.” She looked at us and smiled. “These are my friends, Gilda. They helped me learn how to live, to REALLY live.”

“Oh yeah?” Gilda asked, narrowing her eyes. “And what is that human doing for you?”

I narrowed my eyes, but Applejack stood in front of me. “Not yet, Sugercube. This is Rainbow's part.”

“That “human” is the prince of Equestria as you very well know.” Rainbow said.

“Enough!” Gilda yelled, unfurling her wings. Rainbow stepped back and I saw an aura of darkness around the enraged griffon. “Guess what Dash, I think it's time to show you how I was always the best flyer!” The sky above us darkened and Gilda's feathers turned completely black.

Applejack moved from in front of me. “Now you can go.” I smiled and yelled, “Now, Fluttershy!” Gilda turned and flapped her wings extremely hard, blowing us all back. She then grabbed Rainbow in one of her claws and flew straight up. Fluttershy and I followed.

“I'm not sure I can do this, Prince.” She said, shy as ever.

“I believe in you, Fluttershy. Just remember the routine we went though.” I said. I used a spell and shot up.

Summoning Stormtide, I stabbed Gilda in the claw, forcing her to let go of Rainbow. Rainbow's wings had been pinned, so she couldn't fly yet. But right on schedule, Fluttershy swooped up and caught her. “House! Now!” I yelled. She nodded and flew back down.

Suddenly I felt a claw around my throat. “Fine then. I'll just beat you up until she gives you to me!” Gilda said softly.

“I'm not a birthday present!” I gasped. She then proceeded to throw me in the direction of Ponyville.

I slammed into the ground and rolled as Gilda almost crushed me. “Stop Gilda!” I yelled. “You really don't want to tick me off more than you already have!”

“Too late for that!” She said. “You could have had me, Starlight. ME! But you decide to chose some flight school dropout instead?”

“There's a difference between the two of you.” I said. “Rainbow actually loves me, whereas you just wanted to use me for my powers and my title.”

Gilda reeled back. “How would you...?”

“My magic isn't really under control, so I accidentally read your mind. Good thing, huh?” I said mockingly.

Gilda's eyes turned completely red. Not good. “Won't change a thing!”

She then picked up a piece of the ground and threw it at me. I sliced it in half and charged at her. She somehow grew her claws out so far that they were more like big daggers. She started slashing at me, I parried with my sword. Finding an opening, I slipped between her claws and sliced completely though them. I then back-stabbed her in the backside. She roared and fired a dark lazer beam from her mouth, hitting me in the chest.

“Ahhhh!” I yelled, flying into a applecart. Gilda rose in the air, gathering darkness and shaping in into a ball, then threw it at me. I shot myself out of there as she blew up the cart behind me. I tapped into Rarity's power and blocked a steady dark beam with a hastily summoned diamond. The diamond started to break from the sheer pressure of Gilda's attack.

“Getting tired, prince? Too bad!” She yelled, and redoubled the power. The beam broke though the diamond and slammed into me, sending me flying again. Gilda then flew behind me as I was flying and whacked me into the air. She then whipped above me and slammed me down, sending me into the ground. She then walked up to me. “You can always surrender yourself.”

“Not..gonna..happen.” I gasped. Gilda smiled and picked me up with her dark magic.

“Leave him alone!” We turned and saw my friends standing there. Twilight and Rarity had their horns sparking and they blasted Gilda, making her drop me. Rainbow landed infront of me. “You'll have to go though us first.”

“Fine by me.” Gilda said. "Let me just even the odds first." She pointed at my horn and it turned completly black. I felt drained and passed out.

...

"Starlight!" Rainbow yelled, flying to him. Gilda swooped over and rammed into Rainbow, the two of them sent flying.

Twilght took charge. "Applejack, help me move the prince to a safe spot! Pinkie, and Fluttershy, get every other pony somewhere safe! Rarity, run back to my house and grab my healing spellbook!" The other ponies ran to do what she said.

"Hurry, Applejack!" Twilight said. The two of them slowly pushed Starlight behind the applecart that Gilda had thrown him into eailer.

"Ah'm not gonna lie to you, Twilight." Applejack said. "I'm worried about Rainbow."

Twlight fliched as Rarity teleported back with the book. "We need to wake Starlight up, before Gilda does."

...

Rainbow slammed into the ground painfully as Gilda shot at her over and over. The cyan pegasus rolled and leapt to her hooves, dashing down the road.

"Give up now, Dashie!" Gilda yelled. "I don't want to have to kill you!"

"Oh don't worry about that!" Rainbow panted. "You won't get the chance!" She rose up in the air and back-hooved Gilda in the mouth.

Gilda recovered and slammed her wings together, creating a dark shockwave. Rainbow flew over it and brought her front hooves into the griffons face. She then turned and kicked her in the face, knocking her away. "How do you like that, you bucking jerk!"

"I'll send you back to Starlight in pieces!" Gilda's eyes turned completly black. Rainbow gasped in horror.

...

Twilight and Rarity, their horns glowing pure white, stood in front of Starlight. They pointed at the prince and covered him in the light. Starlight started to stir.

"I think it's working!" Twilight said.

"Good, we don't have much time!" Rarity said, looking at the darkening sky.

...

I slowly opened my eyes, regaining my strength. Twlight and Applejack helped me stand. "Are you ok, Prince?" Twilight asked.

"What happened?" I said. "I couldn't do anything at all."

"She tried to absorb your magic." Twilight said. "Apperently alicorns are immune to that."

"Still knocked me out." I said, flexing. We all flinched as we heard a thunderclap. "Come on! To the square!" I yelled, the other ponies close behind.

I looked up and saw Gilda and Rainbow fighting. I wasn't strong enough to fly yet, so I started to charge up some magic. "No, you might hit Rainbow!" Twilight said. The ponies stood around me, worried.

I could see the darkness rising off of the griffon. Gilda whipped around Rainbow and blasted her in the head with a ball of darkness, sending her to the ground. I ran forward and caught her. Gilda slammed on the ground so hard that I fell over and Rainbow flew out of my hands. Gilda levitated Rainbow and threw her at the other ponies, hitting them and knocking them over.

At seeing my friends hurt, something snapped within me. I remembered what I had told my sisters at my coronation, that I would protect Equestria.

And I wasn't about to fail now.

I looked up at Gilda, fire dancing in my eyes. “So that's how you want to play it then?” I held my right hand up and yelled, “Celesta! Grant me the power of the stars!” In a flash of light, my sword was glowing and so were my eyes. I saw that Gilda had fear in her eyes.

Without any warning I rushed at Gilda and upward slashed her into the air. I shot upward, continuing to slash her. I then turned and kicked her upward. I raised my hand and a thin white beam shot out and wrapped around her leg. I pulled her downward, and myself up. Rising above her, I yelled, “Falling Star!” A ball, not much bigger then a baseball grew in my hand. I threw it at the falling griffon. It struck her and caused a explosion, slamming her into the ground. I fell then, faster and faster...and drove my sword into the fallen griffon. The force of the impact cause a mini shock wave. I pulled the sword from her and flipped off her as my friends galloped up to us. Suddenly, Stormtide disappeared and I fell over, my eyes not glowing anymore. Rainbow supported me up.

Gilda was still clinging on to life. “Star....light. Thank you. I guess I never realized what I was doing to everypony around me.” She raised a claw to Rainbow. “Please, when you think about me, remember our good times.” Rainbow nodded, clearly upset.

She then turned to me, with a little anger. “Prince, do me a favor and wipe that lame-o Nightmare from Equestria.

“She's the one that put you up to this, isn't she?” I asked.

She nodded. “Tell her...tell her that I won alright?” We all nodded. Rainbow held Gilda's claw.

“Finally,” Gilda said. “Now for the ultimate race. Give me a decent head start this time Dash.” Then she laid her head back, and died.

I laid my hand on her and said, “Dwell with the stars, Gilda.” Above us, the sky turned blue again.

Facing the Fact

Chapter 8-Facing the Fact

We held the funeral for Gilda 3 days later. Celestia and Luna were both there as well as everypony from Ponyville and Canterlot. It was quite a big deal because nopony had died recently, as Celestia told me. I was at the funeral, but I couldn't say anything. I didn't feel as if I had a right to. We buried Gilda under the stars.

I woke up about 3 days after the funeral, seeing that I was in my room in Canterlot. Slowly, I got up and dressed myself, brushed my teeth and other morning stuff. I picked up my crown, but hung it on the side of my pants instead on putting it on.

I wandered around the castle for a while, not having any clear goal. I came across Luna in the banquet hall. “You're finally awake, brother.” she said.

“So I did pass out?” I asked.

Luna nodded. “Tia took care of you while I was helping the town. She barely left your side.”

“Thanks, Lu-lu.” I said, smirking. She narrowed her eyes and shot a small beam of magic at me. I dodged it and ran off, laughing. I didn't know that Luna was smiling behind me.

I walked along the ramparts and saw Celestia. As I approached her, she saw me and beckoned me closer, hugging me when I got to her. “I'm so glad you're awake.”

“Thanks sis.” I said. “Why did I pass out?”

“When I allowed you to use your true magic, it drained all of the energy from your body.” she explained. “Your body was running on nothing but pure magic for the last 3 days.”

I nodded but asked, “Let me use it?”

“Star.” Tia said, softly. “You are very strong for an alicorn your age. It's possible you might be stronger then me and your sister. But if you use too much of it at once, you could possibly drain all of your power and kill yourself. I was able to limit your power when you used it so you didn't die. I couldn't keep up so that's why your body ran on magic.”

“Will I ever be able to use all of my powers?” I asked.

My sister nodded. “You asked for my help, so that's why I could help you. I don't have natural control over you The reason you couldn't do it by yourself is because your body is still cursed.” I looked away, thinking.

“Starlight.” Celestia said, not looking me in the eyes. “I'm sorry we couldn't help you.” I looked at her, a questioning look on my face. “We knew that you needed to learn how to fight without us.”

“But I have!” I said. “Didn't I beat Nightmare twice?”

“She was letting you.” Celestia said. “It's a favorite trick of her's. She was testing your strength so she could use that against you.”

I looked away, starting to cry. “Why, what is wrong, Star?” Celestia asked.

“I-I didn't want to kill her.” I said. “I didn't know what to do and I....” I lost it then, crying like a baby.

Celestia drew me closer to her and wrapped me in a sisterly hug. “I know, brother.” We stayed like that until I stopped crying. “That fact that you can shed tears if prove enough that you have won.”

I looked at her. “What do you mean?”

“Nightmare wanted to turn you into a killer.” Celestia explained. “A killer without feeling. One who can slaughter thousands, and feel no regret afterward. I know, because she tried to do that to me.”

I stayed silent. I knew that I would stop anyone that tried to bring harm to Equestria. But what lengths would I have to go to?

“Killing wouldn't be your first choice, right Star?” Tia asked. I nodded. “I want you to know that even though many ponies will be confused for a while, Luna and I are proud of you. And you have beaten Nightmare, she just doesn't know it yet.”

Sitting up there with my big sister and hearing that she was proud of me, it made me feel a lot better.

…

I spent the next two days learning more about what Celestia and Luna did. Apparently Celestia raised the sun and Luna raised the moon. I was supposed to be the stars, but seeing as they were already up there I was at a loss with THAT. Luna told me just to work on becoming stronger with the Cutie Stamp for when Nightmare returned.

I was by the main door when I saw the guards stop somepony from entering. Walking up I saw that it was Derpy. “It's okay guys.” I said to the guards. “She can come in.” They let Derpy though, whereas she gave me a big hug.

“We've missed you, Starlight!” she said, clearly excited to see me. “Letter for ya!” She reached into her bag and pulled out a letter.

Taking it I said. “Thanks Derpy. Hold on a sec.” I flew into the kitchen and returned. “Here, It's a bag of muffins. Don't eat them all in one day alright?”

“THANK YOU!”, she yelled, then flew out of the castle.

I smiled and took the letter back to my room and opened it.

“Dear Prince Starlight,

We've missed you for a while and were wondering if you would like to come back to Ponyville and hang out with us. We are having a little party and just HAD to invite you. Come meet Pinkie at Sugercube Corner and she'll take you to the party. See you soon!

Twilight Sparkle”

I flew though the air, loving the feeling of the wind in my air. As I flew over Ponyville it seemed kind of.....deserted. I touched down in the square and walked around. “Hmm, what are they up to?” I said. Remembering what the letter had said, I walked over to Sugercube Corner. Going inside, I saw Pinkie asleep on the floor. What?

“Pinkie? Pinkie! Wake up!” I said, shaking her. She yawned and opened her eyes.

“Hey there, Prince.” She yawned, not at all like herself. “About time you got here. Follow me.” She slowly walked back to the square, I followed, worried.

We reached the square and I looked at the stage. “Did you guys ever fix this thing?” I turned around and suddenly there was an explosion of color.

“SURPRISE!!!!!” All of the ponies in Ponyville sprang out and yelled. Balloons were tied, confetti was flying everywhere. It was like the craziest party in the universe. And I was the center of it. My other five friends came up and I saw...two Pinkies?! “Wha...?”

The Pinkie standing by me turned into Twilight. “Phew, I practiced THAT spell for a while!” They all hugged me, and the party truly began.

…

The party lasted all day. I had so many treats, I think I lost my sweet tooth. Not to mention the all the games and general fun. I. was sitting at Sugercube Corner when dark fell. “Awesome party, Pinkie!”

She jumped up and down happily. “I know right?! This is my best party EVER!”

I hugged her and sat back down. “Party wore me out.” I told the hyper pony. “Totally one of your best parties.”

“Hope you aren't too tired to go for a little flight.” I heard. Turning I saw my cyan colored marefriend.

“Course not.” I hopped up and left the store. The two of us flew off into the sky. Looking down, I saw the town all lit up for the party. “I can't believe that this was all for me.” I said

Rainbow nodded. “We convinced the princess to keep you in Canterlot so we could get it all done. I think it worked out well though.”

I nodded, “It sure did.” We finished our flight by landing on our cloud. Rainbow had pushed it over the town.

I laid down on the cloud and Rainbow landed. Still standing she watched the town for a while. “Starlight, I don't want you to think that I hated you for killing Gilda.” She said. “You tried, we all tried to help her. She was just so corrupted by Nightmare that she let herself be used by her.” She stopped talking for a minute. “I don't want to push you away from me Starlight.”

“I didn't leave because I thought you were mad at me, Dash.” I said, turning over. “I passed out because I tried to infuse my body with stars.” Rainbow smiled at that.

She turned and looked at me. “I do love you, Starlight.” She sat down and nestled into me. “Promise to remember that?”

I gave her a long kiss. “I could never forget that. I promise.” We laid down and watched Pinkie's fireworks explode over the sky. It was a truly beautiful sight. “You do realize that we are going to explain to our friends about us?”

“Let's cross that bridge when when we come to it, kay?” She told me. I laughed and kissed her again, holding her and watching the stars.

A Bright Hope, A Dark Plot

Chapter 9-A Bright Hope, A Dark Plot

Karen shut the book she was reading and sighed. “I know you're out there Star, and you better be safe.” Her best friend had grown wings in the gym class and disappeared over a month ago. Because she had been closer to Starlight then anyone else, even his parents, she had been questioned repeatedly. Fortunately, after getting no answers because she didn't know anything, everyone had let up on her. A day didn't go by that she missed her friend.

Her brother, Tom was babysitting her, but he was upstairs on the phone. Karen wandered into the living room, not really sure what to do. Suddenly, she heard a knock at the door. “Good, I needed someone to talk to.” she thought. She opened the door....and almost had a heart attack. Standing in front of her was none other then Princess Celestia.

“Hello, Karen I believe?” The white alicorn said. “Might I come in? I don't want anypony to see me.” Karen nodded, speechless and quickly ushered her inside.

Celestia looked around the house. “This is a very nice place, young human. But I apologize because I do not have much time to talk.”

Karen led Celestia into the living room. “You-you're the real Princess Celestia? This isn't a joke or anything like that?”

Celestia smiled and nodded. “I am the real Celestia.” Karen walked over and the princess allowed her to touch her head and horn.

“Wow,” Karen said, falling into a chair. “This is intense.” She looked at Celestia for a minute, then suddenly stiffened. “Wait, that means Star really did go to Equestria! Is he okay?! Will I see him again?! How is he.....?”

Celestia held up a hoof, silencing the excited young girl. “I know you have many questions, but please only ask the ones you know are important. I do not have long.”

Karen asked, “How did you get here and find me?”

Celestia sat down. “When Starlight landed on Equestria, he lost almost all of his memories from this planet. However, any strong memories he had were preserved.”

“Strong memories?” Karen asked.

“Anything he refused to let go.” Celestia explained. “His strongest memory was of you, so I read his mind and learned your name and where you lived.”

Karen thought, “Does he truly remember me?”

“No, but he will.” Celestia explained. “That's why I'm here. You will have a crucial part in helping Starlight against his fight against Nightmare soon. I needed to know if you would help him. I must tell you that it probably will put you in danger.”

“How did you even get to Earth?” Karen asked.

“Starlight.” Celestia said. “He's sleeping now, but I am able to reproduce what his true magic can do. Starlight has the unique ability to cross over the dimensional barrier.”

“That would explain why you are ponies and we are humans.” Karen said. “A parallel dimension.”

Celestia nodded, “Yes. Luna and I decided to copy that and turn it into a spell so I could talk with you. Unfortunately, we are on a timer because I normally cannot come here. I teleported here and Luna is maintaining a spell that will keep me here.”

“What did you need me to do?” Karen said. “How can I help Starlight?”

Celestia created two books out of thin air. “Karen, these are Starlight's journals. They are created by magic, pure magic. They document the details of my brother's life ever since he knew who he was again.”

Karen reached for the books, but Celestia moved them from her. “I'm asking you to be the Keeper of his journals. If you accept and take these, Starlight's journals will magically appear to you whenever the magic starts to create them. But I warn you now, you will be a part of Equestria, if not literally. You cannot show any human these journals or explain about Starlight. And when the time comes, you will help Starlight. Please think carefully about this as this is a decision that you cannot turn back from.

Karen looked at the books. She knew all she needed to do was to shake her head and that Celestia would leave. She wouldn't be a part of this battle and she would just live her normal life. But as she looked at the books, she knew what she wanted to be a part of what her friend went though. Then she made a decision that would forever change her life.

She reached out and took the books from the princess.

Suddenly, she dropped them as her right hand started to burn. As it stopped, she was amazed to see that she had a image of a heart on her head. One half was red and the other half was blue. There also was an hourglass in the middle of the heart.

“Thank you, Karen.” Celestia said, gratefully. She stood up.

“So I just....wait now?” she said, in shock of her very own cutie mark.

“You will receive Starlight's next journal very soon I believe.” Celestia said. “For now, read his first two and learn.”

Hearing her brother start to come downstairs, Karen jumped up and escorted the princess to the front door. “One more thing, Karen.” Celestia said. “When you see my brother again, make sure he stamps you." She walked onto the front lawn and spread her wings. Rising into the air, she suddenly disappeared in a flash of light.

Karen walked inside and shut the door. “Looks like I have some reading to do.” she said, rubbing her hand. She sat down and picked up the first book. “It's not easy being a teenager in this world.....”

…

Nightmare Moon flew though the halls of the dark castle, coming up to the room where her father was. Walking in she said, “I am here.”

“Nightmare.” A dark voice said. “It appears your plan was a success.”

“But, how?!” Nightmare gasped. “The prince killed the griffon.”

“I know that.” The voice said. “I wanted to prove that the prince would kill to achieve his goals of “protecting” Ponyville. There is still hope that I can get him to kill without feeling or regret.”

Nightmare was silent. “You have a thought? Speak it.” the voice said.

“What if we attack the ponies he's closest too?” Nightmare said. “Make him think that we don't really need him.”

“That would work at another time.” The voice said, “We will attack the rainbow colored one.”

“But, why specificity her?” Nightmare asked.

“The prince has make a grave mistake. He has given his heart to the rainbow pony. Now all we need to do it destroy it.”

Nightmare asked," What do you mean?"

The dark voice was silent for just a moment. "The heart is the most fragile part of anypony. By so callously admitting to her that he loves her, he gave himself a weakness." The voice was quiet for just a moment. "She doesn't know it, but soon she'll learn that it was smarter for her to keep her feelings bottled in."

The voice grew stronger. “Leave me now, Nightmare. Dream of a way to use the rainbow pony against him.”

Nightmare left the room. “I will do that but first, lets make sure the prince stays “distracted” for a while.” she said to herself. She walked to an open window and flew out.

And Now, A Word from our Author

Hey, twow443 here. If you read though my whole story I just wanna extend a giant THANK YOU. If you liked anypart, please leave a like(or a dislike, I ain't judging.) And if you have any spare time, PLEASE leave a comment. It helps me know what I'm doing wrong or right! This is not a one-pony story,my pegasister is writing it with me. I write and she edits it, she isn't on this site though. I really do appreciate any type of criticism. I'm not going to drag this on anymore, next books on it's way very soon. Also, if you have any ideas for Starlight's next adventure or a pony that he should Cutie Stamp, PM me and I might use it in my next book!

Peace.

Brohoof /)

Twow443

The True Epilogue

Chapter 10-The True Epilogue

Celestia walked into her bedroom, tired from the day. She removed her crown and walked over to her mirror and looked at herself. She sighed and tapped on the mirror 4 times. The mirror shimmered and Celestia walked though the mirror.

She went down a dark hallway and into a large room. There was a giant mirror in front of her. It also shimmered and a silhouette appeared. “Hello there, Celestia. Tired from your long day?”

“Shut up.” She said wearily. “You know why I'm here. You sent the griffon here didn't you?”

“Maybe.” the voice said. “I just wanted to see how he would hold up in a real fight. You don't think Nightmare was actually trying when she fought him, do you?”

Celestia shook her head, “Just....leave him alone for a while. He's still trying to adjust.”

“No!” The voice boomed, making the princess flinch. “I've waited for over a thousand years when you sent him to that planet. You're weaker now then you were then. Raising the sun, moon AND keeping the stars lit is a hard task for one alicorn. Don't think that I won't come and reclaim my debt you owe.”

“And just what makes you think you can take it?” Celestia asked, hardning her voice. “My siblings and I would stop you.”

The voice laughed. “Oh sure. One tired alicorn, one alicorn that still struggles with her past, and one alicorn that has a cursed body and too much power to even know what to do with.”

“I just need to remove the curse and then...” Celestia started.

“Then what? You know that alicorns aren't immortal. Why have Starlight believe that?”

“I....” Celestia stopped.

“You don't even know.” The voice said. “Or maybe you do, and you're too ashamed to admit it. One more thing, princess. What will the prince do when you pass on from this world?”

Celestia looked up, looking worn out again. “He's stronger then me and Luna. She can help him learn how to raise the sun until I find a predecessor.”

The voice chuckled. “It's truly pathetic, how I have more control of you then you do yourself. I'll call you again when I want to talk, but remember this. I will collect my debt from you, and it will be soon.” The silhouette disappeared.

Celestia turned and walked back to her bedroom, ending the spell on the mirror. She walked onto her balcony overlooking Canterlot. “I'm so sorry, Starlight....”