The Anthow-logy

by StarSpangler50

Rating: teen
Tags: Princess Celestia, Slice of Life, Anthology, Anthro, Main 6, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Other, Spike
Length: 32398

Twilight Sparkle, losing her ability to continue her projects, travels to Kinstown under the suggestion of Queen Celestia. In such a place, she discovers more to her life than eternal devotion to science and research.

Twilight Sparkle – the prized acolyte of Queen Celestia. Bright and brilliant, the young maren has but one goal in mind: to advance the Harmonic sciences of Equestria to levels accomplished only once before by Starswirl himself.

But despite her years of study and devotion, the world itself seemed to be against such a goal. At every turn, something blocked each plan and stomped out each project before they could even get in motion.

With her time running out before the dreaded age of child birthing, Twilight focused on nothing but her life goal. Each failure grew her desperation, pushing her further into isolation and forcing wilder ideas regardless of consequences.

Until the Queen brought a final stop to it all, gently ordering Twilight to take a moment to breathe and live outside of papers. Unable to contain her obsession, Twilight follows the Queen’s command. She heads to an insignificant backwater town in the hopes of resuming her projects, out from the ever-watchful eye of her mentor.

Unbeknownst to herself, this single, simple action sets into motion a series of events that lead her closer to her goals, serving to spark the journey needed to solve her past roadblocks.

All she needs to do is make some friends.

For information regarding new words for races, locations, and cultures, here is a Google Doc that compiles the more important words.

Cover Art made by Traupa. Adapted in Photoshop to include title.

Published 2022-04-27 23:30:00 UTC
Last updated 2022-05-11 20:04:28 UTC

1: The Elements of Harmony

20th of Nature’s Blossom, 2366

“Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria; there were two regal sisters who ruled together and created harmony for all the land. To do this, the eldest used her unicorn powers to raise the sun at dawn. The younger brought out the moon to begin the night.

Thus, the two sisters maintained balance for their kingdom and their subjects – all the different types of ponies. But as time went on, the younger sister became resentful. The ponies relished and played in the day her elder sister brought forth, but shunned and slept through her beautiful night.

One fateful day, the younger unicorn refused to lower the moon to make way for the dawn. The elder sister tried to reason with her, but the bitterness in the young one’s heart had transformed her into a wicked mare of darkness. Nightmare Moon. She vowed that she would shroud the land in eternal night.

Reluctantly, the elder sister harnessed the most powerful magic known to ponydom: The Elements of Harmony.

Using the Elements of Harmony, she defeated her younger sister, and banished her permanently in the moon. The elder sister took on responsibility for both sun and moon, and harmony has been maintained in Equestria for generations since.”

Twilight blinked, reading the passage over again.

“My expectations were low, and yet I’m still disappointed.”

She shut the book, dismissing it into her book bag. Releasing a hearty sigh, she pressed a hand onto her face.

“What did I expect of a foal’s book?” She muttered. “Of course, it wouldn’t contain any useful information. ‘Ponies.’ What a ridiculous work of fantasy.”

Fantasy… which can also be known as legends, myths, or folklore—traditional stories concerning history or explaining a phenomenon that usually contain supernatural events…

A minor twist of the definition to better fit the situation, but still accurate.

Rarely do they hold any legitimacy, but… they are not always complete fabrications.

“…Because legends are always based on a twisted truth.”

Twilight stood, scooping up her book bag. She speed-walked out from the library onto the bustling afternoon streets of Canterlot, swiftly turning left on a route towards Canterlot Castle and by extension her home.

“The Elements have been lost for so long,” she said. “Of course they would have legend status by now. Rrg, this is why I shouldn’t judge books by their titles!”

She paused at a crosswalk, allowing a carriage to pass before crossing.

“Do I even have any books about Equestrian myths and legends?”

The prospect had potential, especially with the amount of book auctions she had attended in recent years. Most of what she had obtained throughout the times had been poorly written, fictional novels or incorrect historical books, but all were saved and shelved somewhere in her home.

I need to write my critiques to those authors about their sources. How can one be so confident about a topic that is so clearly false? Wait, I’m getting off-track…

If she remembered right, the last auction from a month ago yielded some mythological tomes. Perhaps the information she desired would reside within one of them? Spike should know.

At least, he better.

The thought alone served enough purpose to hasten Twilight’s walk home. She passed a small park, hosting several attendees sitting underneath trees or strolling along the paths.

How nice it must be to frivolously spend one’s time doing nothing of importance.

Twilight resumed her speed walking, trailing the outskirts of the park. Upon the other side rested a foot bridge, crossing over one of the several mountain streams through the city. She paused, her ears catching cackling voices from across the way.

Oh, great.

Cresting the gentle slope came three of her classmates at the Canterlot Gifted School of Essence. They seemed to be unaware of her presence, focused on talking and joking amongst each other. Twilight stepped back, fruitlessly glancing around for a form of escape from the inevitable interaction.

Unfortunately, there were none; the closest crossing was nearly a kilometer to the west.

Okay, just… act normal.

Twilight pulled out the foal’s book, burying her face into it.

Stay hidden… Don’t crash into them…

Using the rail as a guide, Twilight passed her classmates. She breathed a sigh of relief.

“Wait a minute. Twilight?”

Defeat swelled in Twilight’s chest.

“Twilight! There you are!”

So close…

Twilight spun, setting an exaggerated grin upon her face. “Hey Lemon… Twinkle… Minuette…”

“We were just looking for you!” Twinkle Shine exclaimed. “Moondancer’s having a little get-together. You know, a small party for her birthday. Just for her friends in the courtyard outside her dormitory. You want to come?”

“She would really appreciate it,” Lemon Shine added. “Especially since you’ve been absent from our parties the last few times.”

“Take a break from your projects and spend some time with us,” Minuette finished. “What do you say?”

All three leaned forward, staring expectantly at Twilight like a pack of tangeneeras waiting to pounce on their wounded prey. She froze, eyes flicking between the intense gazes.

“Oh… Um…”

Come on! Think of an excuse! Thinkthinkthink… Ah-HA!”

“That sounds like… fun, but I’m… going to have to pass. You see, my studies are extremely overbearing as of late, with Her Majesty giving me so many assignments and whatnot. I would love to attend, but duty calls. Maybe I’ll be free next time.”

Each of their faces showed a different form of disappointment. Twilight grinned apologetically, spinning on her heel to continue her run back towards her home.

If looks could maim… I would be a corpse.

The grin fell away. Sure, it had been some time since she had interacted with her classmates beyond the occasional passing by. It had been even longer since all six of them were together.

“I’ve never noticed them getting after Lyra for studying abroad,” Twilight huffed. “Oh, but she gets a pass because she’s in another city!”

Double standards much?

Just because she remained at the Castle did not entitle them to harass her over parties and other time wasters. Youthful life is too short for such foolishness.

I’ve already lived 36 years and done next to nothing! Only 67 more until I’m forced to have offspring and lose any chance to better Equestria! Ooh, I hate just the thought of it.

No matter what anyone said, this period of life was not meant for goofing off.

Granted, this research project on the Elements of Harmony was nothing more than one of her own, ‘personal’ pursuits. And… Celestia no longer gave assignments.

Maybe I could have stopped by briefly…

The moment had passed, though. She had ruined her chance. They would be upset.

Twilight shook her head.

The opinions of a few anthow matters not in the face of scientific progress.

She looked further down the path. Not far stood Canterlot Castle, the spires silhouetted under their shadows. A grand sight indeed. One of inspiration and strength that summed up Celestia’s own majesty.

Twilight’s spirit lifted at the sight. The Castle stood as a reminder; of everything she had given to reach this point. At one time, this path was the closest she stood to the Castle. Now…

Now I live there.

Her home was not far from her position. A simple walk to the walls, through the gate check-in, and a left. Right at the front of the ten-residence community stood the place she called home.

Amongst homes of high-standing officials and diplomats, it reached higher into the sky as well. If anything, the place acted more as a tower than a traditional house. Once serving as the stead for one of Equestria’s greatest minds, it had been built up rather than out. A grand telescope sat atop. It no longer functioned, losing its purpose centuries ago once the study of astronomy fell away.

Regardless, it worked well enough for her, Spike, and all the books.

Twilight climbed the steps, intending to open the door and step inside in one fluid stride. Instead of opening, however, the white and gold door blocked her from entering, punishing her mistake with a swift impact against her face.

“Gah!” Twilight stepped back, clutching her muzzle. “What the… Why in Celestia’s name is my door locked?! I didn’t lock it!”

She paused.

“Did I?”

I don’t remember doing so. But, why else would it be locked? Spike better not have…

Twilight fumbled out her key, swiftly unlocking the door. She flung it open. It collided with an obstacle, creating a dull thud and a yelp, but allowed entry into her house.

Immediately, she was greeted with the two-story-high ceilings of white intermingled with borders of gold.

“Spike? Spike!” Twilight peered throughout the foyer and the living space on the first floor.

“Uuhh,” A groan called from the floor behind the open door.

“Spike?”

The young dragon whelping, lanky arms and legs sprawled like a dead frog, laid upon the marble flooring.

“Why did you lock the door?”

“Ouch,” Spike crawled to his feet, whipping around to give Twilight a hard glare and a bared snarl.

“Oh please,” Twilight said, waving a hand at him. “You’re a dragon.”

“Yeah? That doesn’t mean I can’t feel pain. Also, locking your home is a good practice… You should try it.”

“We’re in the safest place on the planet. There’s no point.” Twilight spotted a crushed mess in Spike’s hands. “What’s that for?”

Spike clutched a box—or at least the remnant of a box—wrapped in red paper. A gold ribbon finished the design, now flattened and broken. Spike sighed, dropping the package to the ground.

“Aw man… Well, it was a gift for Moondancer. Y’know, because it’s her birthday.”

“Ah, that’s right. I heard about that from Minuette and the others. Anyway, I need you to help me find a book. I think I got it from the last auction I was at. ‘Predictions and Prophecies’ or something of the like.”

“You’re not going to her party?”

“Spike, you know we don’t have time for that sort of thing.”

“What do you mean, ‘we?’ I’m not the one obsessing over another project doomed to fail.”

Twilight growled. “Be as it may, you’re under my care. And I’m not going to allow you to walk there alone.”

“What happened to the ‘safest place on the planet?’”

“…That’s different.”

“It is literally on the castle grounds, not 300 meters from this very house! And you’re on break! Celestia banned you from that Changeling project, didn’t she?” Spike crossed his arms. “Don’t tell me you have another project at that scale again.”

“Yes! I have another project ‘of that scale!’ And she did not ban me! She requested I put in on an indefinite hiatus.”

“So banned.”

“Not, banned! I chose to pause!”

“After two years of trying to continue it underneath Celestia’s nose. Which failed.”

Twilight pressed a hand to her head. “Spike… I swear…”

“Even costing our brother a gunship wasn’t enough to stop you.”

Twilight whipped around. “And how do you know about that?!”

“Shining Armor told me all about it last Hearth’s Warming.”

“Oh he did, did he?”

Next time I see him, that dork is getting an earful about leaking confidential information…

Twilight inhaled, calming her heartbeat. She focused within, bringing her Harmonic Essence to the surface. The hum grew from her horn, flooding through her body to her hands, where pools of pink Essence formed. In an instant, she adjusted the personal tones in her mind, igniting the Spell of Telekinesis. With a wave of her hands, she cast the pink aura upon several tomes from the closest, ground-floor bookshelf. One by one, she whipped them down to her face.

“No. No. No. No, no, no! Spike!”

You useless—

“It’s right here! ‘Predictions and Prophecies.’”

Ah!

Twilight stretched her arm out towards Spike. She grabbed onto the book in his claws, pulling it from his grasp and about pulling him with it, although he caught himself upon the bookshelf with his lanky arms. Once the tome reached her hand, she spun and marched up the steps to her study.

“Elements…” She muttered, setting the book upon a desk and flipping through the pages. “E, E, E. Aha! Elements, of Harmony…”

“See… ‘Maren in the Moon?’”

Maren in the Moon? That’s… that’s just some old… phony tale.

“’Maren… Maren… Aha! The Maren in the Moon – Myth from old times. A powerful anthow who wanted to rule Equestria. Defeated by the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned in the moon, Legend has it that on the longest day of the 1,000th year, the stars will aid in her escape, and she will bring about nighttime eternal.’”

Twilight stared at the book. She glanced back as Spike joined her. “…Spike, do you know what this means?”

“You’re out of your mind?”

“It means… this book is absolutely useless!” Twilight slammed it shut, pressing a hand to her face. “’Predictions and Prophecies.’ What a joke! This! This is why I judge books by their covers!!”

“And, why is this book so pointless? Oh wait, it didn’t tell you about an obscure item that has been lost to time, did it?”

“It just redirected me! And even if it were accurate—which I doubt it is—This so called’ Maren in the Moon’ legend sparked from Princess Luna’s banishment!”

“Okay…”

“It’s quite obvious that this is some fool’s attempt to become relevant by spitting out an arbitrary date and a twist without data! That’s not even including the wonderful little detail that the only information on the Elements is a redirection to a pointless folktale!”

She took a breath.

“Princess Luna isn’t even capable of returning, especially if her soul is locked in the moon like this legend claims!” Twilight sat upon the chair next to the lectern. “Rrg! So far, nothing public I could find has had anything remotely useful regarding these ‘Elements of Harmony.’ Or even the situation regarding Princess Luna’s banishment, that isn’t embellished! It’s like it’s all been erased.”

…

“Or kept private. Hmm.”

Who do I know that would have the knowledge regarding lost princesses and ancient artifacts…?

The answer struck her on the nose. “Celestia! She must have something in that private library of hers!”

Hmm, perhaps it isn’t the best idea to ask her of this… She didn’t give me her approval…

But, Celestia says science doesn’t wait for permission. And I think this matter calls for such action!” Twilight tittered, rubbing her hands together. “Spike! Take a note! To Her Majesty.”

Spike groaned, throwing back his head. “Really? You can’t just send a message to her with your harmon-emitter?”

“She doesn’t respond to that fast enough. This way, she doesn’t have a choice! Now come on!”

Spike sighed, digging out a sheet of parchment and a pen from a drawer. He stared heavily at Twilight; a scowl etched upon his face.

“My dearest teacher,” Twilight began. “My… continuing studies regarding the fascinating and rather unknown Creation spells have been extremely fruitful, bringing forth more and more undiscovered information. Although, I cannot take all the credit. Your teachings are what allowed such to be accomplished. Without you, I never would have achieved so much. I graciously look forward to the next briefing.”

“Sucking up much?”

Twilight coughed into her hand. “Perhaps I might be overdoing it, but I need to throw her off somehow! And who doesn’t like compliments?”

Spike rolled his eyes.

“Along with these tremendous discoveries,” she continued. “I have become aware of many enchanted artifacts lost to time. One which stands above the rest are ‘the Elements of Harmony.’ These were used to banish Nightmare Moon and save Equestria from her wrath, wielded by you if I recall correctly based on the records. However, I cannot find any form of information that can be proven factual, beyond a general statement of their use. The legends all claim that her soul is trapped within the moon. And while I am skeptical of the legends surrounding the Elements…”

“That’s putting it lightly.”

“…I do believe in science. They were used to trap Nightmare Moon. And if they were used to trap her, what is to say they could not be used to free her? Such power is out in the world, unchecked and unsafe. It is anyone’s guess as to who might wish to utilize such power to bring her back. If it were to fall into the wrong hands… Something must be done to make sure this never comes to fruition. Considering I cannot find any publicly available information, I humbly request brief access to your private collection. I know you must have some form of tome that could help guide me to choose the most appropriate course of action regarding the Elements of Harmony. I wait for your response and thank you in advance. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.”

“Got it,” Spike rolled up the parchment.

“Great. Now send it.”

“Now?”

“Of course, now!”

“Eh, I don’t know about this, Twilight. With the Sun Celebration and all that going on, I really don’t think Celestia needs this bothering her as well.”

Twilight paced across her study. “Think of it this way: If someone had the Elements and if they wanted to bring back Nightmare Moon, what better time than the Sun Celebration? It would be poetic, to say the least. A perfect opportunity! It’s imperative I notify the Queen right away! For safety reasons.”

“Ugh, whatever…”

Spike dropped the rolled letter, watching it bounce once and roll to a stop. He loudly coughed, releasing a burst of green fire onto the parchment. The flames licked the page, burning the letter into a stream of Harmonic Essence that traveled out of the house and towards the Queen.

“There. It’s on its way. Can I go to Moondancer’s party now?”

“Wait until she responds.”

“…I wouldn’t hold your breath.”

“Oh, I’m not worried, Spike. Her Majesty trusts me completely.”

Spike snorted. “Yeah. That’s why she banned 23 of your projects before you could finish them.”

Twilight glared at him. “In all the years she’s been my mentor, she’s never once doubted me!”

“You’re delusional. But, don’t say I didn’t warn you when this becomes number 24.”

Spike’s eyes bulged. He retched, spewing out fire and a rolled letter bearing the crest of the Crown.

“Ugh. I hate that feeling.”

“See?” Twilight said, unable to hide the smugness. “I knew she’d want to take immediate action.”

“Uh huh. I’m going to get some water.”

She grabbed the letter, unrolling it. “Although, that’s the fastest she’s ever responded…”

‘My dearest, most faithful student. I greatly value your diligence and devotion to expanding Harmonic sciences, as well as your concern for my well-being. However, heed my words: Forget this pursuit. Beyond the notion that you did not ask for my approval regarding this project, allow me to settle your curiosity. Nightmare Moon is nothing more than a fictional title given to an event of which few have the full picture. It is the manifestation brought forth by centuries of embellished stories. I will not hear them from you.’

“What?!” Twilight cried.

“Wow, let me guess,” Spike called out. “She’s telling you that you’re a moron. But regally.”

“Quiet!”

‘Leading to your second point: The Elements have little to no public information on them for a reason. I will not elaborate, as I do not wish to spark more interest. I am also denying your request to my private library. You cannot hide your true desires from me, Twilight. I know for a fact that you will take the first opportunity to try to obtain the Elements for your studies. How gullible do you think I am?’

“Darn it…”

‘You have spent far too much time pursuing theories and performing fruitless experiments. While the work that you have successfully completed has been tremendous towards the advancement of Spellcasting and Harmonic Sciences, progressing too fast often turns good intentions into ill fate. I have seen it before, and I fear you are also heading down this path. You have not taken any sort of rest or relaxation since I made you my personal protégé. As such, I am no longer supporting or funding any scientific project of yours, Harmonic-based or otherwise. Instead, what I ask of you is simple: Take a break, enjoy life, spend time with your friends, or even try to make new ones if they are not available. And, if you must remain active regarding the completion of assignments, I could use your keen eye to look over final preparations for the Sun Celebration. Inquire with Secretary Inkwell if you wish to proceed with that. You have a good heart, Twilight. I promise, I am doing this for your own good. Your mentor, Celestia.’

“Too… too much progress?! No longer funding?! Enjoy life!?! What ev…” Twilight croaked, her words dying within her throat. The only sound made aloud was Spike’s abhorrent laughter grinding against her ears.

“Oh, that is spectacular!” he cackled. “I totally called it!”

Twilight seethed. She crushed the paper, burning it into oblivion with a rush of Harmonic Essence.

“Ahh… So, does that mean we can go to the party? Since you’re ‘free?’”

Twilight dropped her head onto her desk with a dull thump.

“…I’m just saying, what would’ve been the harm in stopping by for just ten minutes? We literally could’ve done it on our way to Secretary Inkwell!”

“Uh-huh,” Twilight said.

She stared harder at the same sentence of the book she had clutched in her hand, desperately trying to finish it before Spike started complaining again.

“I’m sure Moondancer would’ve absolutely loved to see you again.”

“Let it go, Spike. It’s not the end of the world.”

“Not yours…”

She looked up from the book, focusing onto Spike. “Moondancer will be totally fine. It’s no different from when Lyra left.”

“Didn’t she move to Kinstown?”

“Maybe? I didn’t keep track of that.” Twilight returned her attention to the book. “What a place, this ‘Kinstown.’ Apparently, it was originally just an apple farm. As it grew more popular due to Zapp Apple Jam, more and more anthow were drawn until a town started to form. That farm still stands today, being one of the most successful apple farms in the country. Sweet Apple Acres.”

“That’s one of the places we’re checking out. Maybe you can make a backwater friend, eh?”

Twilight groaned.

“Look on the bright side,” Spike continued. “Her Majesty arranged for you to stay in a library. Doesn’t that fill you with joy?”

Spike’s tone couldn’t be snarkier.

I won’t take this from him!

“Yes! Yes, it does!” Twilight snapped. “And you know why? Because I can continue to research everything I want! This changes absolutely nothing!”

Twilight tensed at the sound of a throat clearing. She glanced to her left, spotting the only other passenger in the car with her, an unamused expression across his face.

“Sorry,” Twilight croaked.

She watched until he returned his attention to the paper.

“Look, I’ll check on the preparations as fast as I can,” Twilight continued in a hushed tone. “Then I’ll spend the rest of my time looking through this library and seeing what it has to offer. Maybe it has what Canterlot doesn’t.”

“I doubt it.”

“It’s a private collection; therefore it isn't regulated. Which means Celestia couldn’t have cleared out any potential knowledge that would be considered ‘forbidden’ in her eyes. Who knows what information could be sitting there?”

Perhaps something about the Elements?

“Wonderful. Now figure out a way to slot some friend-making into your schedule.”

“Celestia asked me to take a break, she merely suggested the idea of me making friends. Now, she is my Queen, and I am her student. I will do as she asks regarding the Celebration, but I don’t have the time nor the patience to make friends.”

Twilight’s ear flicked to a click overhead.

“Attention all travelers, Attention all travelers, we are approaching Kinstown Station. We are on time with arrival occurring in five minutes. Time is 1800 hours. Weather sits with partly cloudy skies and a temperature of 76 degrees, Faren. Perfect conditions for this late morning time. We thank you for choosing to ride with us today. How was that? Good enough? What? Still on? Oh! Fa—”

Another click.

These conductors…

“Might as well get on with it,” Twilight sighed, standing from her seat. “Spike, could you go and get our luggage?”

Spike groaned, slinking past Twilight towards the carriage compartment. She continued past, heading further forward to the doors. Leaning against the wall, she watched the passing of trees and deep forest life.

The vision of nature changed as the H-LEV crawled closer to its destination. It became more artificial. The forest turned into buildings; a mingling of browns and grays overtaking the green. Even further, the brief distance of buildings became just one as the H-LEV pulled to a stop.

“Attention travelers, we have arrived at Kinstown Station,” the conductor’s voice cracked back to life. “Again, I would like to thank all of you for—”

“Gee, thanks for helping,” Spike whined, appearing behind Twilight with the three bags in tow.

Twilight said nothing, stepping out onto the platform of Kinstown’s station. The building itself appeared to be no different from Canterlot’s. It held the same modern designs and styles, boasting a raised platform compared to the capital’s ground-level. Although this place had only two H-LEV tracks.

Hmm. At least this station isn’t old. Hopefully, the rest of the place matches.

Spike joined her, carrying the three bags in a stack.

“Took you long enough,” Twilight muttered. “Let’s go.”

She led the way into the upper level of the station. Inside, the relatively small interior took the appearance of an older place. It reminded Twilight of the pictures she had seen in some historical texts speaking of times when steam-powered trains served as passenger transportation.

They found the escalators to the lower level, riding down with a few other anthow travelers. The ground level of the station shared the same aesthetics as the second floor, albeit with more ticket stations and Sentients. Twilight hustled past, heading outside.

With the town of Kinstown not far off, the path leading from the station took them across a river directly into the outskirts. Even from the small portion of the city-town being seen, the designs were decades behind that of Canterlot’s.

“I can’t believe Celestia’s hosting the Sun Celebration here,” Twilight said. “This place looks like a trip back to the 2000s.”

“Well, maybe the anthow are more up to your speed.”

“I’m not going to waste time making friends. Why would I? It’s not like I’m moving here.”

An exaggerated and rather prolonged gasp drew Twilight’s gaze. An Ere’du Kiin maren sporting a violet sweater on top of her bright pink fur leapt an unnatural amount into the air. Twilight raised a hand in the maren’s direction. In an instant, the stranger darted deeper into the city, leaving an impressive trail of dust despite the paved road.

“Well, that was certainly interesting,” Spike said.

“Insane, you mean. Ugh. This place probably harbors tons of deranged anthow. Come on, we’ve lingered long enough. What’s the address for the library?”

“What am I, a servant? My hands are full, look at it yourself.”

Growling, Twilight whipped out her harmon-emitter, searching up the message sent from Secretary Inkwell.

“It’s just a few blocks away. Let’s move quickly. I want to reduce my chances of interacting with another potentially psychotic individual.”

“Aw, she wasn’t fun enough for you?”

“Fun is not the word I would use.”

Twilight briskly traversed the streets, trying her best to appear inconspicuous. Such seemed to be hard as every single anthow stared at Spike as they passed.

If anyone tries to talk to me or him…

Thankfully, the library was easy enough to find, considering how different it appeared compared to the rest of the town. Being that it was an oversized oak tree and all.

Twilight sighed at the sight, the tension in her chest lightly leaving.

“Golden Oak Library,” Spike read the sign outside. “Hm. Fitting.”

“A bit on the nose, in my opinion,” Twilight said. “I’m just glad this isn’t a public library anymore.”

She pulled out the key, also provided by Secretary Inkwell, and swiftly opened the door.

The interior appeared cozy enough. The wide ‘trunk’ allowed for several rows of book-filled shelves carved into the walls of the living room. Another room off to the left teased more books and such, with a third open room on the right sporting a kitchenette. Straight through the lobby, a rail-less staircase led to a second level where another, open-walled bedroom connected to the main area. A balcony sat outside the bedroom, containing another staircase to a third floor.

“Well, it isn’t home,” Twilight said. “But it’s better than a room at an inn.”

Spike dumped the three bags in the center of the bedroom.

“Wonderful,” he yawned. “Can we go ahead and get this done?”

“I agree. There’s much more I would rather be doing. Do you have the list?”

Spike pulled out a crumbled sheet of parchment. “Yep.”

“Have you no professionalism?!” Twilight gasped, grabbing the sheet. “By Celestia, how long have you helped me with projects?! You should know better by now!”

“Too long, which is why I don’t care.”

Twilight dug into her personal suitcase, removing a clipboard. She flattened the list, setting it properly into the clipboard.

“Hmph. Whether you care or not, if you’re helping me with my projects you’ll do it my way,” Twilight passed the clipboard to Spike.

He swiped it. “Your method isn’t my method.”

“Your method is a mess!”

“In your eyes, Ms. Control Freak.”

“Just, go over the list…”

Spike cleared his throat. “Let’s see… Catering, weather clearance, decorations for the town hall, and secondary musical entertainment.”

“Weather clearance? I thought the megacities were the only places that incorporated weather control.”

Spike shrugged.

“Whatever. Let’s start at the top.”

“Catering would be first, then. According to this, it’s just a… ‘brief quality check in terms of completed delicacies and total quantity.’ I’m just summarizing the list, by the way.”

“Yeah, I figured. Let’s get it done with.”

“Why you gotta drag me along?”

“You’re not here to be lazy! Now move!”

“This says you’re titled as the ‘Sun Celebration Secondary Overseer,’” Spike said. “How does that make you feel?”

“Literally no different from before I knew that.”

“It doesn’t bother you that you’re second?”

“Not over something this arbitrary. That list isn’t the same as the actual overseer’s.”

“And yet, here we are, walking six kilometers,” Spike gestured to the natural surroundings. “In one direction, not including the wandering it took you before you asked for directions.”

“And how would I look as an overseer if I didn’t know where I was going?!”

“Literally no one knew you were an overseer! At worst, they thought you were an ignorant tourist!”

Twilight paused, grabbing the hood of Spike’s sweater.

“What?! Why are we stopping?” The dragon lurched back, sending Twilight a venomous glare. “Sweet Apple Acres is this way.”

“Look where we’re heading!” Twilight pointed down the road.

The path continued onward for another hundred or so meters before curving subtly to the left. Such was not the problem, rather the thick forest encompassing it. The sudden wall of gnarled trees reeked with unnatural darkness, setting an ominous warning to all that approached.

Why in Celestia’s name does a main road cut into the forest?

“I thought the Everfree was further east,” Twilight said.

“Okay, and? The road doesn’t seem to go that deep into it. Don’t tell me you’re afraid of a little spookiness?”

“When it can cause harm, yes! You aren’t?”

“Heh, me? I don’t get spooked.”

“Talk to me after you have a near-death experience.”

“Yeah? What’s the worst that can happen? Some timber wolves?”

“…Oh, there’s much worse…”

Spike chortled. “I think you’re just a coward.”

He strode forth, continuing until he fell under the abnormal darkness. “Oh nooo, I’m soo scared! It’s… it’s too spooky for me!”

“Keep it up, Spike,” Twilight followed him, her magic at the ready. “One day, this attitude will come back to bite you.”

Spike remained in the lead, walking as though he had no cares in the world. Twilight followed him closely, keeping the simple Elemental Spell of Flames active. Her eyes darted out deeper into the forests, keeping watch for anything.

He thinks Timber Wolves are the worst, huh? If anything, they’re the least dangerous unless you’re the most unaware individual alive!

She glanced at Spike.

Okay, I can see how he thinks such. An Ursa could be in front of him, and he wouldn’t know until it stepped on him.

Sooner than expected, the other side of the perpetual walk showed its face at the end of the curve. As the road straightened to head back to the west, the overgrowth of the Everfree faded back.

“See?” Spike said once they left the darkness and returned to the bright daylight. “No more dangerous than any other forest.”

Don’t argue with him don’t argue with him don’t argue with him…

The road headed forth about half a kilometer, marking the start of the property based on the white fence and iron gate. Twilight stopped at the closed bars.

“’If gates are closed, so is business,’” She read from a sign posted upon the gate. “’Trespassers will be treated as such.’ How welcoming.”

“Oh well. We tried,” Spike said, turning around.

“Oh no! We came this far! I’m not going to forfeit this task just because a sign suggested so!”

“Twilight! You’ve been complaining this whole time about how you’d rather be doing anything else!”

“And as true as that is, I refuse to do a poor job of any task Celestia gives me, no matter if I think it’s a waste of time.”

“…We’re gonna get shot…”

“No we’re not,” Twilight waved away his concern. “I guarantee that sign’s only there to keep out ruffians. If we explain our business, then they’ll let it slide.”

“Do these anthow even know what a secondary overseer is?!”

“Probably not, but they will,” Twilight flipped open the latch upon the gate. “See? It isn’t even locked.”

“Don’t blame me when I use you as a shield.”

The road followed the fence line for a good while, taking a sharp right turn to the north until it passed a field. It took a left then another right, cutting around the corners of two more fields. It went over a gentle slope, revealing the farm at last.

From a set of silos and a stable to the left, a large shed in the middle, and a quaint house on the right, it was a picturesque example of a farm if Twilight had ever seen one.

“I’ve never seen a farm look more like a farm before,” Spike said. “I can almost hear a banjo strumming in the wind now.”

“Hopefully there’s someone nearby that I can catch. I’d rather not walk up to the front door.”

“Because you’ll get shot?”

Twilight rubbed her eyes. “Spike, please…”

“Why are you not more concerned about this?”

“Why do you think they have firearms?”

“What rural, Ere’du farm wouldn’t?”

“Alright, you have a point.”

A flash of orange caught Twilight’s eye. On the right of the road leading to the homestead stood an anthow—an Ere’du Kiin maren to be specific. She wore a red and white plaid shirt combined with blue denim trousers. A brown ranching hat sat proudly upon her head, covering most of a blonde mane that flowed down her back, tied at the end.

The maren stood in front of a fallen tree, moving her outstretched hands circularly.

“Bingo. Come on, let’s see if she’s willing to talk.”

Spike only groaned.

“He-juh!”

The maren rapidly drew back and threw forth her fist. It collided into the tree. It did not crack or splinter, instead it split lengthwise into equal halves.

“Great, they can cast Spells as well,” Spike groaned. “It just gets better and better.”

“It was only Kinetic Dispersion. That Spell isn’t that uncommon.”

“So?! It was still an Ere’du Kiin! Do you know how strong their hits are?!?

“Yes, actually. Don’t tell me you’re fearless in the face of the Everfree, but a single Ere’du Kiin scares you?”

“An Ere’du Kiin could actually kill me.”

Twilight rolled her eyes.

The maren grabbed one half of the log, pulling it with ease towards the house. The pure, muscular definition the farmer bore became clear the closer Twilight became.

Wow. Spike isn’t wrong… I’ve never seen an Ere’du with such… visible might, especially on a maren.

Twilight swallowed.

Here goes nothing. Hopefully Spike’s fears are not legitimate…

Twilight cleared her throat louder than necessary. She straightened her posture, putting on an exaggerated, public relations smile.

“Hi there, my name is Twilight Sparkle. I…”

Twilight’s sentence fell off as the maren slowly released the trunk and turned to stare at Spike and her, eyes narrowed.

“I… I’m here to… uh… perform a final check upon, um…” She leaned over to Spike. “What were the things I’m checking again?”

“Quality check of delicacies and quantity count,” Spike poked his head out from around Twilight briefly.

“What he said!” Twilight fumbled out a badge bearing Celestia’s crest.

The maren squinted at it, looking between Twilight and the badge.

“So’s this a ‘permission to trespass’ badge?”

That is one thick, Appleoosan accent…

“Ah, no, I suppose not.”

“So, if I were to shoot you both right now for trespassin,’ it would legally be self-defense.”

“Uh, only if I’m a threat to your life or your property. Which I am neither.”

“That ain’t for you to decide,” The maren looked Twilight up and down. “Whaddya want?”

“Well, like I said, I’m here to perform a final check over the delicacies and the quantity of said delicacies.”

The maren sighed, pushing the brim of her hat up more. “Didn’t I already go through this ‘bout a week ago?”

“Yes, with the first overseer. But Her Majesty is very thorough in such matters, and expects the highest quality products to be present at this event.”

“I already told the last official here,” the maren planted her hands on her hips, “we just provide the food. If you want to ‘quality check’ it, or whatever, then go back to town and speak to Pinkie Pie at Sugarcube Corner. This is not the place to do this.”

“I… wasn’t notified of this. Spike, write that down.”

“Well now you are. Come on, I’ll escort you to the gate.”

The maren walked past Twilight, muttering under her breath.

“If I may, what’s your name?” Twilight caught up, matching pace.

“It’s Applejack. I would say it’s a pleasure to meet you, but that would be lyin.’”

That makes two of us.

They all walked in silence, with Applejack leading them back down the road.

“So, the Everfree Forest,” Twilight said. “It’s covering your road.”

“Yup. Been like that for about a decade. It’ll get worse as long as the forest keeps movin’ west.”

“You mean grow?”

“I mean move. The Everfree doesn’t grow. Gee, for some researcher of Harmonic Essence, you sure don’t know much about the forest’s properties…”

“How do you know I’m a researcher?”

Applejack chuckled. “Seen your name in the papers enough times. Good idea, by the way, to steal the corpse of a Changeling. Amazed that no one else thought of doin’ it.”

She’s mocking me, isn’t she?

“Hey, that Changeling would’ve provided me with all the answers I needed!”

“Would’ve? You didn’t actually get it?”

Twilight’s cheeks grew hot as Applejack fell into a state of deep laughter.

“That… that’s even better than what I imagined! Ahh…”

“It’s not funny! It was a waste of equipment, time, and bits!”

“Serves you right. Hopefully you know not to mess with those beasts or other similar things again.”

“She doesn’t,” Spike said, a smug smirk on his face.

“Huh. You rich folk never do.”

“What is that supposed to—”

Applejack stopped at the fence line. “I honestly don’t care what you think it means. Now, with all due respect, get.”

Applejack opened the gate, gesturing for them to leave.

Twilight huffed, marching from the property to the other side. “This is a great way to treat guests!”

“I could’ve thrown you out, but I didn’t. Besides, it’s what you deserve for thinkin’ signs don’t apply to you just ‘cause you have a fancy badge and a horn. Good day to you and your overgrown salamander.”

With those stinging words, Applejack spun on her heel and walked back down the road.

Twilight’s chest burned with anger. Fuming, she pressed her muzzle into the crook of her arm and released a muffled scream.

“Salamander? Really? She thinks I look like a salamander?!” Spike huffed. “That is the most offensive thing I’ve been compared to.”

“AAH-lright! This journey was an absolute waste!”

“At least compare me to an iguana or something!”

“Did you miss something on the list?”

“Nope. You’d think there would be a clause or something indicating that Sweet Apple Acres is just the provider and not the host,” Spike said, reviewing the list.

“I blame the first overseer,” Twilight seethed. “Whatever their name is…”

Spike sighed and scratched the pen against the parchment. “Suppose we’re going to this Sugarcube Corner?”

“Without a moment to waste!”

“Will you just let it go already?” Spike paused, looking back at Twilight as she joined him on the bridge.

“I will not!” Twilight exclaimed. “Sure, we “trespassed,” but she overreacted completely!”

“She overreacted?”

“Don’t give me your sass, Spike! I could easily report her to Celestia!”

“For getting upset, that we were trespassing, on her land.”

Twilight squinted. “Darn it…”

“Are you finally done throwing a tantrum?”

Twilight curled her lip.

“Great.” Spike pressed a claw into the list. “Now then, I suppose as we make our way to Sugarcube Corner, we can discuss the next order of business: Weather. The individual we’re looking for is a ‘Rainbow Dash.’ She’s the team manager in charge of this event. Supposed to be keeping the skies of all clouds and weather alike until tomorrow evening.”

Twilight glanced around the sky. Since their journey from the H-LEVE station until now, the sky had become spotted with pockets of white clouds.

“Well, she’s not doing a good job, is she?”

Twilight’s ear caught a faint roaring, almost like the high-speed jets the Wonderbolts flew. “Am I the only one hearing that?”

“No, I hear it too.”

The noise grew louder with each passing second, notably coming from the direction of Sweet Apple Acres. Twilight looked at the sky in the direction of the farm. A rainbow streak cut through the air, traveling at brisk speeds in her direction.

“What in the name—”

The rainbow arced downward. It roared a terrible, thundering rumble, dropping right before Twilight. It happened so fast, Twilight only managed to throw up her hands as a form of protection. Thankfully, the impact caused no detonation beyond a thick cloud of dust. It layered itself upon Twilight’s coat and clothes, choking her lungs. She coughed, waving a hand to clear it from her face.

“What—ahck—in Celestia’s name?!”

A raspy, feminine voice chuckled from within the cloud.

“Oops, sorry,” it said in between snickers, not sounding sorry in the slightest. “Must've not noticed you. Here, let me get you cleaned up.”

A whooshing of wings blew up more dust.

“Ahck! Stop that! Fareking Nen’yos! Spike, did you see what she looked like?! Spike?!”

Twilight spotted the whelping, covered head to claw in dirt. He released a sigh, drooping.

“Are you okay?” She asked.

He released a snort of smoke. Taking it as a ‘yes,’ she focused upon the surprising layer of dust on her shirt.

The road isn’t even that dusty.

A sudden strike of freezing cold water against her head and back interrupted her task.

“Wha?!” Twilight shrieked.

The downpour vanished as soon as it began, leaving Twilight soaked to the bone. More laughter reached her ears, this time from above. Slowly raising her glare upward, Twilight spotted a face peering over a low-hanging cloud.

“Guess I overdid it!” The face gave a wide grin.

Twilight only stared, shivering lightly.

How much trouble would I get in if I accidentally set her on fire?

“Um, uh, how about this?”

The Nen’yos flipped off the cloud. She landed smoothly on her feet in front of Twilight, wings bared in an impressive display of colors.

Her wings in question sported near every color in a mismatched gradient from one end of a feather to the other. They shimmered in the light, creating even more brilliance. Her mane was similar, if not more basic. Each color separated into an individual section, resting underneath an odd pair of flight goggles. The bright, flashy colors all were contrasted by the simplistic blacks and grays of a jacket and crop top combined with form-fitting leggings, all resting atop cyan fur.

Wow. What a mess. Typical Nen’yos.

The maren spread her wings wider. With a flap, she sent a strong gust of wind to Twilight.

Instantly, Twilight put up a shield, catching the strike.

“Enough!” With her free hand, Twilight cast Telekinesis upon the Nen’yos’s wings, binding them in place.

“Woah woah woah! Let me go, you fareking Monok!” The maren flailed about, trying to grab at Twilight’s aura.

“Then stop attacking me with your wings!”

“I was only trying to dry you off!”

“I can do that myself!”

“Fine, whatever! Let me go!”

Twilight released the Nen'yos' wings, keeping the shield in place. Using her free hand again, she cast the Spell Fire Cloak around herself. In an instant, the heat evaporated the water upon her clothing, fur, and mane.

“You gotta lot of nerve touching my wings with your Essence!” The Nen’yos stepped up to Twilight.

She stood several inches taller than Twilight, leering down in an act of aggression. Although it would’ve been more intimidating if done by someone less colorful. And if the shield was not present.

I could easily take out her eye with my horn, but what do I expect from a brash Nen’yos?

“Are you Rainbow Dash?” Twilight asked.

The Nen’yos glanced up. Her anger subsided, being replaced with a wave of hysterical laughter.

I don’t even want to know.

Well, she did know. How could she not? But addressing it would only spur more of a reaction. And with how fast this maniac swapped emotions…

I wouldn’t want to risk it.

“Are you Rainbow Dash?!” Twilight said again, dropping the shield.

“Heh… The one and only,” Rainbow sputtered in between laughs.

“What was going through your mind, pulling a stunt like that?! You could have seriously hurt me!”

“Or me,” Spike added.

“Oh darn!” Rainbow paused her laughter, focusing on Spike. “I thought he was a giant salamander! You can talk?”

“Giant salamander? Can a giant salamander do this?” Spike released a torrent of fire at Rainbow’s feet.

“Hey, watch it!” Rainbow fluttered back.

“Why did you attack us?!” Twilight demanded.

“Oh, so you’re fine trespassing on someone else’s space, but don’t like it when it’s done to you, eh?”

“What does…” Twilight paused. “Oh, I see. That apple farmer sent you after me as revenge, huh?”

“Nah. Applejack doesn’t hold grudges. She’s a push-over like that. I just don’t like Monoks that think they can do whatever they want just 'cause they got that fancy Essence.”

“So that gives you the right to—illegally I might add—dust-bomb random anthow at speeds like that?!”

“Firstly, a crime isn’t illegal if there aren’t any witnesses. Secondly, I’m surprised a bonehead like you knows what dust-bombing is.”

“Hey, that’s offensive! And just because I grew up in Canterlot, doesn’t mean I’m ignorant.”

Rainbow’s face lit up. “Oh, I was just referring to the fact that you’re a bonehead, but being a pampered, rich bonehead makes even more sense!”

This smug, little…

“Okay,” Twilight rubbed a hand down her face. “Yes, my family is upper class, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t gotten dirty before!”

“Little too much info there,” Rainbow winked, her demeanor breaking immediately.

Twilight growled, rolling her eyes.

“Why isn’t the sky clear?”

“Why does it matter?”

“Because Her Majesty ordered the team under your supervision to clear the skies for the Sun Celebration?!”

Rainbow Dash released a raspberry. “And it will be, when the Sun Celebration arrives.”

“Can you not do it now?”

“You understand I’m not the only Nen’yos on this team, right?”

“You’re the supervisor…”

“Wow, you can do some research. I’m impressed.”

Twilight clenched her fists, almost snarling.

“Alright alright,” Rainbow’s wings fluttered. “Don’t get your horn in a twist. It’ll be done before nightfall. Later, chump!”

Rainbow set the goggles over her eyes. With a flick of her jacket, she leapt into the air and bolted towards Kinstown.

“Good riddance…”

“You need to lighten up.”

“And you need to clean yourself. You’re filthier than I.”

“Eh,” Spike shrugged. He dropped the clipboard.

“Hey! What did I tell you about this?!” Twilight snatched it up, spinning to face the dragon. She watched him leap over the railing of the bridge. “Spike!”

A brilliant splash sent a wave of water into the air. Twilight cast Telekinesis upon the dragon, bringing him back onto the bridge. “What in the name of Celestia did you do that for?!”

“You wanted me to clean up, so I did. Now then, want to do decorations or finish the catering stuff?”

Twilight facepalmed.

Why me?

“Let’s just do decorations…” Twilight sunk into herself as she continued to walk back into town. Agitation itched at her mind.

Annoying and arrogant. That Rainbow Dash is a prime example of why Nen’yos are the worst of the three anthow in my opinion.

Twilight checked that Spike was still with her.

He isn’t any better! Rrg! Why did I agree to this?! It literally benefited me in no way whatsoever! This is the last time I take an optional assignment from Celestia unless it provides a clear reward…

She paused on a bridge in the middle of the town, staring down at the water below.

This is all some ruse, isn’t it? All this trouble… all these different locations… She’s desperately trying to get me to be more social, isn’t she?

Come to think of it, both Applejack and Rainbow did not look much older than herself.

Ugh, as if I would become friends with an Ere’du Kiin! And a Nen’yos is completely out of the question!

She continued, reaching the other side. The town hall stood not far along. A wide road and a grand, stone clearing separated the bridge from the building. It stood as a towering cylinder, bearing several shoots of rooms at the bottom level.

It looks like a lighthouse. A really squished lighthouse.

The town hall appeared bigger inside than it seemed outside. From the entrance and lobby, it opened into a three-story, open structure with walkways along every floor. Decorative banners bearing Celestia’s insignia hung all about. Crescent moons and shining suns rested amongst ribbons and curtains.

It all was quite impressive, even with the weight of the previous encounters souring her mood.

“At least something is done right,” Twilight did a look-around. “This ought to be quick.”

They entered the main lobby, finding it devoid of life beyond a single anthow maren. A Monok’ehpos, she had alabaster fur and a styled purple mane spilling down her back. Her outfit matched the fanciness of her mane; a pale-yellow skirt combined with a light blue blouse. She faced away from the entrance, humming an unrecognizable tune.

No one else encountered upon the journey thus far had worn anything remotely like this maren. Her outfit seemed closer to the common attire worn on Canterlot’s streets.

Unusual to see someone of such fashion in a town like this.

She watched the maren flutter over a collection of bows and ribbons with Telekinesis. Each strand moved on its own, fitting around individual poles and beams.

Interesting. Her apparent dexterity with Telekinesis is quite exceptional.

Even Twilight herself could not perform so many individual movements. More strength than flexibility in her casting.

“Wow, she looks… delectable,” Spike said, a disturbing amount of suggestiveness in his voice.

“That’s a strange compliment to—” Twilight looked down at Spike, catching him lick his lips.

Wait.

She followed his gaze, matching it with the maren.

“Really?!” She hissed. “Of all the anthow in this town?”

“I’m hungry… What do you want from me?”

“You best watch yourself, Spike. And if you mutter a single word that would suggest your intentions, I will remove your teeth! In fact, wait for me by the door.”

Spike huffed, stalking back to the entrance. Twilight rolled her eyes, sighing.

“Hello there,” Twilight said. “I—”

“Just a moment, please,” the maren hummed, fixing a set of ribbon to a railing with Telekinesis. “I am in the zone, as it were.”

Twilight pressed her lips, crossing her arms as she watched.

“Now then, what can I help—Wo-o-o-o-ah!” The maren dramatically cried out, pressing a hand to her chest.

“Oh… my stars! Darling, whatever happened to your mane?!”

Right. Forgot about that.

“A rain shower provided by an obnoxious, rainbow Nen’yos, that’s what.”

“Rainbow Dash did this to you?! Rrrg!” The maren clenched her fists. “I’m going to have a word with that heathen!”

“Ah, don’t worry about it. I’m just here to make sure check the decoration progress, then I’ll be out of your hair.”

“Out of my hair?! What about your hair?!”

“Well, like I said—”

The maren physically leapt over to Twilight, forcefully guiding her towards and onto a chair. “Sit, please, and allow me to fix this—pardon my language—absolute atrocity!”

Twilight stood. “As generous as your offer is, I have more important things to—”

“They can wait!” Rarity pinned Twilight down. “I absolutely refuse to let you be seen like this in public! Curse that Rainbow Dash… I’d tear her feathers out if they weren’t so lovely!”

“But—”

“No buts! You must accept this, whether you like it or not!”

Oh, really?

Twilight’s eye twinged. A powerful temptation to tase this… boundary-invading drama queen itched the back of her mind.

Remember your vow: Don’t hurt another through Essence unless in self-defense… Don’t hurt another through Essence unless in self-defense.

Twilight bit her tongue, relaxing her stance in the chair.

“I apologize, I only keep a brush and comb on me,” The maren said, “But it would haunt me until death to allow others to see you this way!”

“Well, I’ve already been all over town so…”

“Please tell me you’re joking.”

“Ah, no.”

“Oh, you poor thing. You must be devastated!”

Not in the slightest. I’m not a dramatic diva.

“Are you a professional stylist?” Twilight asked.

Get this conversation away from me!

“Far from it, although I’ve developed quite the system for my own mane. My true passion is for fashion! Ooh! that rhymed!”

Twilight’s rolled her eyes as the maren giggled.

“Heh, I must say, I don’t recall learning your name,” The maren set a comb loose onto Twilight’s mane.

“Ow! It’s Twilight. Twilight Sparkle.”

“Rarity Belle, at your service. It’s a pleasure, dear!”

I can’t say the same…

“And what brings you to Kinstown? You mentioned you were checking the décor?”

“That, amongst other things. You see, Queen Celestia asked—”

“Queen Celestia?!” Rarity gasped. “You’ve met the Queen?! You’re from Canterlot?!”

“Well, I study under her, so—”

Twilight’s eardrums about burst under the scream of delight.

Oh, dear.

“Oh, I am so envious! The glamour, the sophistication. I’ve always dreamed of living there! I cannot wait to hear all about it! You and I will be the best of friends! I guarantee it!”

“Wonderful…”

Maybe I will let Spike eat her.

“Are you sure you wouldn’t want something more… fashionable? Curls are in style this season,” Rarity pouted, bouncing a curl of her own.

“Yes, I’m sure. A straight mane works better for, uh, science projects.”

Twilight ran her fingers through her straight mane, devoid of knots or split ends. “I’ll admit, I was skeptical about your abilities, but you’ve done a better job than I usually do. Thanks.”

“You're welcome…? It was nothing, darling.”

“Here.” Twilight pulled out her coin purse and removed several bits. “A token of my appreciation.”

“Oh, I couldn’t possibly,” Rarity shook her hands. “It was of my own volition! To see you satisfied is payment enough!”

“Well, if you insist.”

Your loss.

“If you excuse me, I really need to get going.”

“Of course, darling! I do hope we can speak again sometime!”

Twilight smiled, walking back to the reception. “Spike? Sorry I took so long. That maren was insane.”

Loud slurping emanated from under a desk.

What the? Oh no, he better not be eating someone!

Twilight found the whelping curled up, his back to her.

“Spike?”

He whipped around, a large slab of white meat half-eaten in his claws.

“Where did you get that?!”

“Market,” He uttered, chomping down upon the breast.

“And… how did you pay for it?”

Spike responded by chewing faster.

Twilight growled. “Don’t tell me you stole that!”

“I didn’t steal it. I found it.”

“Spike…”

“It got loose from its cage and something had got to it before me.”

Twilight’s eyes narrowed.

He’s lying. I know he’s lying.

“You aren’t gonna take it from me, are you?”

”…No, I won’t.”

He crawled out from under the desk, clutching the meat as though it would vanish into thin air. “I didn’t steal it, mostly.”

“Whatever…”

It will if he keeps inhaling it at that rate.

“Here,” Twilight held out the library’s key to Spike. “Take this and head back to the library. Unpack my research and get my teas ready for my return. I want to get through this as fast as I can. And leave it unlocked. It’s the only set I have to this place.”

Spike belched, trading the key for the clipboard. He stalked from the hall. Twilight followed him outside, heading back across the bridge.

Alright, gotta go to… Sugarcube Corner and speak with a ‘Pinkie Pie.’ Then I look at this entertainment and boom! I’m done. Thank Celestia.

Twilight paused across the road from an outside marketplace.

Darn it! I completely forgot to ask about the progress of the town hall! That maren—Rarity distracted me… I suppose since she was only doing the finishing details it isn’t that much of a problem.

She glanced at the shoppers.

I should ask where Sugarcube Corner is.

“Ah, excuse me,” Twilight lightly waved at a passing Ere’du Kiin maren.

She paused, brushing a lock of blue and pink mane behind her ear and staring expectantly at Twilight.

“Would you be willing to point me in the direction of Sugarcube Corner? I’m, uh, new in town.”

“Oh, no problem,” the maren said, pointing further up the road. “It’s down that way about a block, on the left. You can’t miss it!”

“Thanks.”

“Real quick,” the maren added. “You didn’t happen to see a loose chicken wandering around, did you?”

Mostly my flank!

“Ah… Nope. Sorry,” Twilight walked past, quickly clearing the block.

As the maren had said, a building fashioned after a loaf of bread stood out amongst the rest of the older structures. A scent of baked goods streamed from the open door. Next to the entrance stood a wide wooden sign bearing bold, golden letters that read ‘Sugarcube Corner.’

The smell alone caused an erupting growl to emit from Twilight’s stomach. She clutched it, crossing the road to the building. Inside, anthow occupied near all the tables, all chatting and consuming goods ranging from simple sandwiches to cupcakes and doughnuts.

The line to the front stood empty, however, giving Twilight access to an unmanned counter. A table bell and a sign reading ‘ring for service’ sat upon the glass display.

Curious.

Twilight dinged the bell once.

In an instant, a pink upon pink maren rose from behind the counter, bearing an uncomfortably wide smile. Twilight flinched back.

What the?! How did I not see her behind the counter?!

“Hi there!” The maren chimed, her voice high-pitched and cheerful. “What can I do for…"

She trailed off, staring intently at Twilight with a hand on her muzzle.

“Wait!” a sudden gasp and a pointed finger. “It’s you! The new arrival!”

“Wait a minute,” Twilight studied the maren.

That sweater under the apron…

“You’re that stranger who gasped and ran off when she saw me!”

“Yep! That was me! The name’s Pinkamena Diane of the Pie family! But you can call me Pinkie!”

Pinkie leaned over the counter and wildly shook Twilight’s hand. “I suppose you’re curious as to why I fled so suddenly! I promise it wasn’t because I found you or your giant salamander repulsive!”

“…What? Why do you all keep calling Spike a salamander? He’s a dragon.”

“Really? ‘Cause he looks like the Green-frilled Fire Salamanders that live around the town!”

Pinkie whipped out a printed picture of… well, a salamander. It bore an uncanny similarity to Spike in color and general appearance, down to the same horns and spines.

“Wow, I can sort of understand the confusion,” Twilight said. “On a… weird level. I didn’t know those existed.”

“That’s surprising, since you live in Canterlot! They’re all over the Everfree Forest.”

Twilight did a double take. “How…”

“Anyways, back to my original question that you were thinking of,” Pinkie began to set up a package of goods. “I know absolutely everyone that lives, or resides—there’s a difference—in Kinstown, and I mean everyone! And moving to a new place can be scary for some folks, especially when that move is sudden and they don’t have any clue about the area, so I make it a point to properly introduce myself so they have at least one friend they can count on for whatever help they might need! Anyways again, I was just doing my job here at Sugarcube Corner, manning the register and welcoming hungry customers when I got a Pinkie Feeling that told me to head to the train station that instant! So I did! I got distracted talking to another friend though—her name’s Bon Bon, she’s really sweet, just like the candies she makes and sells at her stall in the market. They’re so good, you should… oh wait—and I missed the 22’o clock H-LEVE arrival. But my sense still told me to go to the station, so I did. But! Before I could reach it, I saw you and your dragon-salamander thing! Instantly I knew it was you, so I darted back to my room to get you a welcoming gift, but when I returned to the spot I saw you at, you were gone! Since the sense had vanished and I didn’t know where you were staying, I came back here and thought over how I could find you once my shift ended! But it looks like you found me instead!”

Pinkie shined a bright smile.

Twilight blinked.

Pinkie slid the box to Twilight. “You’ll get used to it.”

“What’s this for?”

“You wanted to make a brief quality check in terms of completed delicacies as well as check the total goods quantity, right?”

“I never…”

“—Told me? I read your checklist thing and put two and two together to make four!”

“Ah-hah…”

She scares me.

Twilight looked over the display box. A wide assortment of twelve different pastries ranging from small pies to mini cakes to doughnuts. All appeared delectable and packed to the brim with edible decorations.

“You’re providing… pastries?”

“Well, not just pastries. We have all sorts of things! But who wants to look at spreads of vegetables?”

“You have a point.”

Twilight picked out a rolled sponge cake, carefully taking a bite from it.

An explosion of flavor unlike any other pastry she had before. A strike of chocolate, marzipan, almonds, and ricotta played upon her tongue, intermingled without flaw.

“Sweet Celestia…”

“Oh no, that’s a Rollo! Sweet Celestias are in the back!”

“That… was absolutely… amazing. I… I can’t even describe it.”

“Aww, you’re too kind!”

“Did you make this?”

“You bet I made it! But, the recipe belongs to Mrs. Cake! She’s one of the owners of this place! She and Mr. Cake bought it waaay back when from some stallus who tried to open his own baked goods store but got sabotaged by his partner—business partner that is—and had to sell it to make up for the loss but it turns out he was only using it as a front for—”

“Thank you!” Twilight interrupted. “Thank you, but I don’t need to know all that.”

Pinkie clicked her tongue. “Gotcha. Is there anything else you’d like to see? I have access to everything!”

“Ah, I think I can leave it to you. You seem capable enough.”

“Okie Dokie! By the way,” Pinkie summoned a stapled booklet of papers. “Here’s the full inventory of every single item we’re providing for the Celebration!”

“Great. I’ll make sure to look this over. Now, if you excuse me, I need to get going. More things to oversee!”

Twilight stepped away. “Ah, a quick question: with your extensive knowledge of anthow in this town, could you tell me where a ‘Fluttershy’ is?”

“Aww, you actually listened to my rambling! Of course! Her cottage is on the east outskirts of town, right along the Everfree! She’s probably still rehearsing for the performance, so she’d be in the grove just past the bridge! Take the road outside to the north until you reach said bridge, then head north again from there and you’ll find the grove!”

“Thank you.”

“See ya later!”

Twilight left Sugarcube Corner, following the road north per Pinkie’s directions.

Wait, this is just the road back towards Sweet Apple Acres… Great.

She walked all the way to the bridge, taking a swift turn to the left and into the woods. Such were much more pleasant than the Everfree, with the trees glowing underneath the late afternoon, early evening sun.

A sweet song of bird call echoed from up ahead. A grove revealed itself, opening into a small nook next to a quiet portion of the P’raar River.

Twilight listened to the musical tune.

It’s… harmonic? Interesting, since I can make out four… no. Seven different songbirds at least. How…

An off-putting note ruined the serenading.

“Oh… oh dear. Uh, stop, please. Everyone, stop.”

Twilight looked around a wall of brush to find a Nen’yos in front of an audience of birds. Her yellow fur and pink mane stood out against the teal collared shirt, contrasted further by the matching teal feathers she bore. Even from this distance, Twilight could tell a clear height difference.

Wow, she’s even taller than Rainbow…

“Excuse me, and I mean no offense,” the Nen’yos continued. “but, your rhythm is off by a teeny bit.”

Is she… talking to the birds?

Twilight blinked, watching the Nen’yos sing a set of chords.

Okay, she’s teaching the bird chords… I was right. Literally everyone in this town is insane.

“Do you think you can do that for me?”

Twilight stepped around the brush. “Excuse me, may I have a moment of your time?”

The Nen’yos gasped, leaping into the air. The birds scattered, taking refuge in the surrounding trees.

“Ooh, my apologies,” Twilight said. “I had no intention of frightening your… uh, birds. I’m simply here to check on the progress of your assignment.”

“Oh, alright,” The Nen’yos whispered, rubbing an arm. She looked away, seeming to avoid meeting Twilight's gaze at all costs.

Okay… She’s an introvert. Guess that explains why she talks to birds.

“Ah, I’m Twilight. Sparkle,” Twilight greeted, putting on a uncomfortable smile.

“I… I’m… Fluttershy…”

“I’m sorry, could you repeat that?”

She cleared her throat. “I’m Fluttershy. Sorry. I’m… nervous around new people.”

“That’s understandable. No need to apologize, though.”

“Oh, sorry.”

“No—” Twilight groaned.

Get on with it, get on with it, get on with it…

“I, just need to make sure you've prepared your entertainment properly. For tomorrow.”

“Alright.”

“…So is it?”

“Yes. At least, I hope it is.”

Twilight withheld the urge to facepalm.

Why did this anthow get put in charge of ‘entertainment?’

“Alright. I will… take your word for it.”

“Okay.”

“I… will leave you to your work, then.”

“…That would be great. Thank you.”

Twilight turned, slowly walking away.

“Why, me,” She muttered once she had reached the road. “This is all so… pointless.”

At least it was done. With it all behind her, Twilight could spend the rest of the evening speed reading the books at the Golden Oak Library.

“She thought she could stop me?! Well, think again!” Twilight took off in a jog, tittering all the way.

The moment she entered back into town, chaos seemed to set in. Anthow were everywhere. More than had been when she left Sugarcube Corner not long ago. Such crowds slowed her jog, forcing a calculated path to be made as she ran.

It can’t be that late yet! The festivities don’t start until midnight!

Regardless, Twilight pushed through the growing throngs, taking the memorized roads back to the Golden Oak Library. Thankfully, the majority of the excitement was around market and Sugarcube Corner.

Twilight leaned against the sign, catching her breath. She glanced down at her watch.

“26:30 already?!” Twilight shook her watch, glancing up at the sun. It had lowered tremendously, casting a wave of orange light upon the walls of the buildings.

No wonder the crowd! Geez, it took me nearly seven and a half hours to do all that?! Rrrhg!!

Twilight twisted the door, quickly stepping into the dark interior.

“Surpriiiise!!!”

An ever familiar, bright pink anthow jumped from behind a table, throwing confetti across the floor. Twilight froze in place, her soul transcending to another dimension for a brief second.

As the shock wore off, Twilight summoned an orb of Illumination into the air, casting white light upon Pinkie and a folding table bearing an arrangement of wrapped gifts.

“How did you get in here?!” Twilight exclaimed, gesturing to Pinkie, then to the table. “And what is this?!”

“Pbth,” Pinkie raspberried. “That’s my little secret, silly!” She tiptoed up to Twilight, dropping her voice into a whisper. “The door was unlocked.”

“…Right.”

“And this, this is your ‘Welcome to Kinstown’ package!”

“Wha—Why?”

“Well, remember the conversation we had earlier about my Pinkie Sense and knowing you were arriving and wanting to give you a gift but you disappeared before I could—”

“Yes! I remember! Get on with it!”

“This is it!”

Twilight stuttered, unable to form a word.

“That surprised, huh? No need to give a thanks! I’m happy to do it!”

“Surprised is the nice way of putting it! Pinkie, I’m not staying here!”

“Uh, I’m pretty sure you are.”

“This is an overnight stay! I’m going back home—to Canterlot—tomorrow! I have no way to transport this!”

“Huh. I could’ve sworn…”

“What even brought you to this conclusion?!”

Pinkie pressed a hand under her chin. “Hmm, perhaps I read too far into it…”

Twilight’s face scrunched. “More like you misread entirely!”

“No no, I didn’t misread. Just a bit ahead.”

“You—”

“Anyways, I need to get back to Sugarcube Corner! I bet the Cakes are getting flooded right now! I’ll be back later to accompany you to the Queen’s speech. It was good to meet you I hope we can be friends okay byeee!”

Just like that, with Twilight’s sanity in tow, Pinkie vanished. Twilight walked to her creaking front door, shutting it, and twisting the lock for good measure.

“That delusional maren. In what world would I want to stay in this place longer than I need to?! Sweet Celestia, everyone here is crazy!”

It mattered not, though. The time had arrived: the time to delve into a mysterious library’s-worth of books. Some of which might contain the information for which she was searching.

Or it wouldn’t contain anything. A situation in which Twilight gradually had been leaning towards the latter.

Best to remain positive. Especially after such a long day. Which reminds me.

“Spike?”

Twilight turned on a lamp, replacing her white light in a calming orange. “Spike! Did you do as I asked?”

She passed the table, heading upstairs. One of the beds held a familiar, whelping-sized lump under the blankets.

“Lazy lizard…” Twilight muttered. “I’ll brew my own tea.”

She stalked to the kitchen.

Twilight jolted awake, her body entering Fight or Flight mode.

…zzhuh…? Where am…

She glanced around the space. “Right. In Kinshtown…” She looked up at the window.

“Wah!” Twilight jumped out of the chair, finding Pinkie Pie peering in from outside.

“Wake up, silly! The Sun Celebration is about to begin! You don’t want to miss Her Majesty’s speech do ya??”

Twilight yawned, looking at the table she sat at.

Oh, right. Reading.

“Must’ve fallen sleep,” She grumbled, yawning into her hand. “Ohh…”

My tea… It’s cold…

Grumbling, Twilight stumbled to the door. Upon the other side stood Pinkie, smiling bright.

“Riise and shine!!”

“The sun isn’t even up.”

“To heck with the semantics! Now come on!”

Twilight blinked and found herself amongst her peers in front of the town hall, wedged between Pinkie and a hundred other Anthow.

“Urrhg… so many anthow,” Twilight grumbled. “I could be with Celestia right now.”

“Of course there’s so many anthow! This is the biggest event of the Sun Season! Anthow for all over Equestria are here to watch the Queen raise the sun!”

Yes, I know how the Sun Celebration works…

“Gentients!” A voice called from the town hall’s second story balcony. An Ere’du Kiin maren stood at the edge. She wore a brown suit that was contrasted by the pale gray of her mane, but complimented by the tan of her fur.

“I am Ly’an Mayre, the mayor of Kinstown!” Her voiced carried across the crowd. “Allow me to welcome you all to the opening ceremony of the 485th annual Sun Celebration!”

The crowd replied with a bout of applause.

“Before Her Majesty gives her opening speech, there are a few announcements I must make.”

Twilight grumbled, flattening her ears against her head.

Incessant rambling. Pointless announcements. What a waste of breath. Just get on with Celestia’s opening.

That’s what everyone was here for. Not some… government official giving a notification about times of events for the following day that were clearly stated on the brochure.

Twilight looked to her left at Pinkie. Seemingly enthralled, the maren stared up at the balcony.

‘Try to make new friends.’ Pah!

Celestia was wrong. She did not need friends. Friends only got in the way. They only caused problems and created guilt if she did not spend time with them. And now Celestia was forcing her to make some.

Technically not, but if she didn’t want me to, she wouldn’t have suggested it.

Twilight glanced at Pinkie again.

Well… She’s an option for sure…

This… eccentric, psychotic maren could be an option if Celestia really did want Twilight to fulfill that part of the assignment. If Pinkie was telling the truth about being friendly with everyone, it would serve as a good alibi. Whether Twilight meant it or not, this maren certainly would.

There’s that fashionista. Rarity, I think?

She was also a choice. Her interests were bland, though. And her desires were even blander.

Wants to be a part of the Canterlot Elite. How boring.

Regardless of those misguided wants, she seemed to be nice enough. It certainly helped that she was a Monok’ehpos. A rich wannabe, sure, but the underlying qualities would be enough to persuade Celestia.

Rrg… Why can’t things return to how they were before?! Everything worked to a tee! I had ‘friends’ that left me alone, and Celestia didn’t question my every action!

But no. She was aboard one gunship that crashed, and suddenly everything had to be monitored.

It wasn’t even my fault! If those guards were more competent, they wouldn’t’ve been replaced by Changelings!

“Thank you for your patience. Now, without further ado: Allow me the honor to introduce Her Majesty, Queen Celestia!”

Twilight lifted her gaze to the balcony in time to watch the Ere’du Kiin disappear behind the curtain.

Finally.

Even the faint hum of the crowd halted in suspense for a first sighting.

In a sudden, faint flash from beyond the curtains, a soft glow emanated. It grew brighter, growing strong enough to emit beams of orange through the crack.

Twilight perked up, unable to keep the giddy sensation away.

No matter the number of times I witness this, it never gets old.

With all the grace the world could offer came the Queen, bearing her glory and majesty. Her aurora mane---flowing gently in a non-existent breeze—rippled in colors of blues, greens, pinks, and purples, all shimmering under a light of their own. Her outfit of a simple, pearl white gown combined with gold-gilded regalia enhanced the rest of her beauty, giving all while taking none.

But her wings. Unlike any Nen’yos upon the planet, they were unlike anything else. Spread out to their maximum, each feather radiated pure Sunlight, appearing as beams.

The crowd remained frozen at the sight until a ripple brought them all to a knee. Twilight joined, bowing her head as well.

“Please rise,” Celestia’s gentle, yet powerful voice easily rang across the lot.

Twilight brought her eyes back to the Queen but for a moment. Above the town hall, sparkling in front of the Canterhorn, shone a light. Colored a burning white that faded into a brilliant blue, the star-like glow gently arced upward.

“That… wasn’t there before…”

“Hmm?” Pinkie hummed.

The light flickered, growing ever so slightly in size.

“Today marks the—”

“What in Equestria is that?!” A proclamation cut off Celestia’s words.

An armored guard joined Celestia on the balcony, drawing the Queen’s attention.

“Wowie,” Pinkie said. “I’ve never seen a firework like that before!”

“That… that isn’t a firework.”

It couldn’t be. It’s… too high. Too far. And where’s the trail?

The glowing orb—less of a glow now. More-so a miniature star—moved faster, a dull roar cutting through the air that grew in decibels each passing second.

Twilight’s eyes widened. “That’s going to impact here!”

The crowd’s murmurs of curiosity turned into wails of fear. They all began to disperse.

“What? How can you know that?”

“It’s basic mathematics, Pinkie!”

Grabbing the maren, Twilight shoved her way through the crowd. With some effort, she forged a path away from the panicked anthow and onto a small knoll that overlooked the lot. Twilight turned to watch the star, only to catch it crashing directly into the roof of the town hall opposite of the Queen.

“Oh svist!” Twilight swore, clutching her head.

The star gave no detonation, nor did it crash through the hall into the grounds below. Instead, it cut straight across its impact, bursting out from the room Celestia had disappeared into.

Twilight’s breath hitched.

Meteors don’t redirect themselves.

The ‘comet’ brought Celestia from the building out into the air. A brief pause gave way to the Queen sending the star hurling into the pavement below with an audible crack.

“Twilight! Fly you fool!” Pinkie grasped Twilight’s arm.

“Go yourself, Pinkie!” Twilight ripped her arm away. “I need to see this!”

Twilight left Pinkie behind, bolting back towards the dueling Queen and unknown entity.

“Silence, betrayer!!”

A voice unlike any other shook Twilight’s soul, freezing her jaunt. The words roared with unholy vengeance, overpowering the screams of the still fleeing crowd.

Twilight could only watch, witnessing a wall of sunlight block a sudden attack from, well…

A maren, at least perceived as a maren, of navy blue struck the wall. Her mane writhed furiously in shades of crimson. Such a striking color made her wings of white light stand out, such shimmering as violently as her mane.

“It, it can’t be…” Twilight stammered, watching the two crash.

“What can’t be?!” Pinkie’s voice broke Twilight’s frozen state.

“That’s… Nightmare Moon! Celestia’s fighting Nightmare Moon!”

“What?! I thought Nightmare Moon had a purple mane! Not a—”

“I command silence, worm! Your silvered tongue will not change my conviction!”

A black hole formed in the space, soaking up the barrier of light. A burst of sunlight exploded upon Nightmare Moon. Moments later they took to the sky, Celestia followed by the monster.

Twilight merely watched; a bystander between two ancient beings fighting like ferocious lions.

They rose higher, only Celestia’s aurora and Nightmare Moon’s crimson storm could be seen.

“SILENCE! Do not pretend you are a pacifist, wretch!”

Nightmare Moon’s thundering, angered voice boomed across the sky.

“You will listen to me!” Celestia’s matched, the gentleness gone. “I will not tolerate this behavior here! Either stop this attack or evoke my anger!”

The pair grappled once again. Upon contact, they vanished, blinking from the space with a yellow flash. The clashing of Essence and the raging voices faded, leaving the cries of the dispersed crowd to reign dominant.

Nightmare Moon… She… she’s real!

The legends were not false. Somehow, such a prophecy slipped through the cracks of historical legitimacy. Not completely surprising, since everyone had been believing that Nightmare Moon would appear as a spawn of Tartarus; a demoness whose escape would be aided by the stars themselves.

In a sense, such had come true.

The ball of light. The mane of fire and crimson.

Twilight understood. Everything she read had been true. It all validated her claims. She had been right. It almost gave a sense of pride, if not for the fact that the literal ruler and supposed sister of Nightmare Moon had ignored the prophecy.

How could she be so foolish?!

Now, Celestia could be in mortal danger. The thought jumpstarted Twilight’s legs. She broke into a sprint, ignoring the cry from Pinkie. As fast as she could manage, Twilight returned to the library, nearly breaking down the door. She locked it, scrambling up the stairs.

“Spike! Spike, wake up!”

The dragon flipped away the blankets, glaring draconically at Twilight.

“What do you want?”

“Nightmare Moon! She’s real! Like, physically real!”

He sat up. “…What?”

“She—it, I… whatever! It attacked Celestia! They fought, then vanished! I—Celestia is in danger!”

“Celestia? In trouble?”

“Yes! Mortally!”

“But, she’s an Alicorn.”

“So is Nightmare Moon! Or she was, at least! Alicorns can kill other Alicorns!”

“That… has always been up for debate.”

“How is this not alarming you?!”

“Celestia’s pretty durable. She can handle herself.”

Twilight growled. “You—In Celestia’s—I don’t have time for this! Help me try to find something, anything, on the Elements in this blasted library!”

“Alright, calm down.”

Spike leapt from the bed, following Twilight down into the main room. “How are these going to help, if I may ask?”

“They’re connected! If Celestia used them to trap Nightmare Moon, then maybe they can be used to find her! It!”

Elements, Elements, Elements…

Twilight scoured a shelf, then a second. “Ugh! How can I stop Nightmare Moon without the Elements?!”

“And just what are the Elements?!”

Twilight snapped her head towards the raspy voice, charging up the Inferno Spell. None other than Rainbow Dash leapt over the balcony, gracefully landing at the front door. She undid the lock, poking her head through the door.

“Pinkie! It’s open!”

“Good work, Dashie!”

“How did you get in here?!” Twilight pointed her Spell-charged hand at Rainbow. “Why are you in here?!”

“Your balcony door’s unlocked,” Rainbow crossed her arms. “Now, answer my question! What are the Elements, and how do you know so much about Nightmare Moon? Are you a cultist?”

The accusatory tone drew Twilight’s unbridled attention. She stalked up to the Nen’yos, stretching herself to meet her height.

“The Elements,” Twilight sized herself up to Rainbow. “are mostly unknown! All I can say is that they’re a set of enchanted artifacts that were used by Celestia to seal Nightmare Moon away! But any further information regarding them is unknown and I can’t find anything to tell me more!!”

“The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide.”

Twilight did a 180 turn to Pinkie. “What?! How did you find that?!”

“It was under ‘T’ for ‘The,’” Pinkie sang.

‘Give it here!” Twilight dropped Inferno and brought the book to herself with Telekinesis.

She glanced over the cover, flipping through the pages as fast as she could.

“Well?” Rainbow demanded.

“Quiet!”

Twilight read through the rather small book, skimming through most.

“Okay, the Elements of Harmony are a set of six gems, each taking a different color and shape based on the bearer. They represent the six types of Harmonic Essence: Elemental, Manipulation, Illusion, Life, Protection, and Conjuration. They can be used individually, or as one, in which True Magic can be harnessed.”

Rainbow Dash scoffed. “Magic isn’t real.”

Twilight glared at the Nen’yos. “It’s more real than you realize. Do you think Celestia simply uses Essence? She… and I suppose Nightmare Moon, are the only two known Sentients that know its secrets and how to utilize it. Anyways, the Elements require an individual who can either already cast True Magic, or six individuals that have a strong mental bond to share the sheer load of power.”

“And what does this have to do with Nightmare Moon attacking the Queen?”

“These are what were used to bind her away! If done once, it can be done again.”

Rainbow laughed. “And who’s going to do that? You?”

“Well of course! Who else?!”

“Five others, based on your own words. Unless you can cast True Magic.”

Twilight froze.

Darn, she’s right. I can’t do this alone…

It couldn’t be done without others. But there wasn’t anyone else. Twilight stood alone.

“I’ll… figure something out. I always do.”

“Way ahead of you!” Pinkie said. “Dashie and I are gonna help you get a team together!”

“We are?”

“Of course! Now you go get Applejack and Fluttershy and convince them to meet us at Fluttershy’s cottage! They’re probably still around town!”

“But—”

“Come on, Dashie! It’s for Queen and country!”

“Fine… You’ll owe me for this, bookworm!” Rainbow snapped.

She walked from the library, taking to the sky outside.

“I’m… going back to sleep,” Spike muttered.

“Pinkie! We need anthow that share a bond! I don’t even know Applejack, and I barely learned Fluttershy’s name! There isn’t a single anthow in this town I share a bond with!”

“How do you know?”

Twilight sputtered. “Wha—Because I’ve known you all for less than twenty hours!”

“Fate works in mysterious ways.”

“What does that even mean?”

“I have a feeling! And my feelings are never wrong!”

“Pinkie—”

“Never!! Besides, what do you have to lose?”

Twilight held up a finger, ready to present a counterargument. However, there were none she could reasonably make.

There’s a lot I could lose, but even more would be lost if I did nothing.

“Fluttershy also knows the way to the castle so, ya know…”

“Be as it may, that’s only five. We need six.”

“I know that, silly! You and I’ll search for Rarity and pick her up!”

“Rarity. The decorator…”

“She prefers fashionista, but yep!”

“Okay… Why do I get the feeling this is going to fail miserably?”

“Have a little faith! Imagine if this sparks a set of friendships that last for the rest of your life!”

“I doubt it.”

“You don’t get a choice.”

“What was that?”

“Alright! Let’s go! Who knows what adventure awaits! Onwards to Rarity’s!”

“Let’s focus on finding Queen Celestia first. Adventure second. ‘Friends’ third, if at all.”

“Right right. Gotta get through the introduction before establishing the rest! I understand.”

I’m going to lose my mind.

“Wait,” Twilight waved a hand at the bouncing Pinkie. “I need to find some sort of map or blueprint of the castle. That way, we don’t walk in blind.”

“Ooh! I know an anthow! The cartographer Crisp Crunch! He might have a map of the castle!”

“Crisp Crunch?”

“Onward to Crisp Crunch’s, then to Rarity’s!!”

Author's Note

Finally made something that is satisfactory to myself. Here's to the long journey of actually finishing it. Hope you all enjoy. Feel free to leave any questions or comments, I'll try to answer them all.

Below are some definitions to some new words I introduce. They'll remain in the Author's Note for the time being until I can set up a Google Doc.

Thanks to HoneyBacho for assisting with editing and for his grand devotion to my lore.

Appendix

Alheere –– The name of the continent that Equestria – and most other civilized nations – resides.

Anthow –– The shortened, scientific name of the Equestrian race. It is derived from Anthow’pi-ena, which means ‘Split from One’ in the Algonic language.

Ere’du Kiin –– The Algonic word referring to the strongest and most common subrace of Anthow, translating to ‘Earth Kin’ in Ponish.

Nen’yos –– The Algonic word referring to the rarest and winged subrace of Anthow, translating to ‘Winged’ or ‘The Winged’ in Ponish.

Monok’ehpos –– The Algonic word referring to the spellcasting subrace of Anthow, translating to ‘Magic-keeper’ in Ponish (While the Monok’ehpos are not mentioned in the story I thought it wise to include this definition regardless).

Maren –– The Ponish word referring to the female sex of the Anthow.

Stallus –– The Ponish word referring to the male sex of the Anthow.

2: Return of the Night

21st of Nature’s Blossom, Year 2366

“Your Majesty?” A knock preceded the face of Amethyst Star peering into the room. “I apologize for the interruption. Everything is ready to go. Mayor Mayre will begin her announcements in five minutes.”

“Thank you, Ms. Star,” Celestia replied. “I will be awaiting your return.”

The violet-furred planner nodded, ducking out. Celestia released a sigh, her contained appearance dropping. Fatigue laced her body; tireless in form, yet weighing upon her mind like a sickness. She strode across the small waiting room, looking out the window.

Below, the crowds mingled. They covered the lot below, filling the grounds with every color imaginable. Some spoke with others, some simply stood still in eager anticipation. All awaited her appearance and her words of comfort. A way for them to feel safe from a threat that no longer existed, that corrupted the original meaning of the day to come.

“Four-hundred, eighty-five years with you gone,” Celestia murmured. “And they still act as though you vanished today.”

Oh, Luna… How I wish you could still be here with me.

This day had been meant for the both of them. To celebrate the Sun Season, not the Sun itself. To shine upon the light of not just the day, but also the night.

Such times had long passed. It only represented the terrible event so long ago.

Celestia breathed deeply. Today—well, tomorrow—could not be spent grieving. The time had come and gone for such moments.

It is through my own arrogance things are this way.

It no longer mattered. No one remembered, and no one cared. The true memories of Luna were lost to all but herself and Luna’s loyal Noct Ther’enus.

Celestia faced the door. On its left stood a single Grand Knight, remaining at a perfect attention, a Monok’ehpos by the name of Sector Heart. She glanced at his face, meeting his eye for but a moment before he broke it.

Something is upon his mind.

“What vexes you, Grand Knight?”

He made eye contact again for another fleeting moment. “I… I apologize, Your Majesty. It is not my place to pry.”

Celestia kept herself from blurting aloud.

Please pry. Ask all you wish. If there had been more who cared, perhaps things would have been different.

“You may speak freely at this time. All you say remains between yourself and me. No words of yours could offend me.”

His gazed flicked between Celestia’s and the rest of the room. Three times he opened his mouth to speak. Three times he closed it.

“I… You appeared to be disheartened. I was… merely concerned, that is all.”

Celestia smiled. “You have keen senses.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“You are correct in your observation. I am disheartened. Today is not a day I enjoy.”

She paused, glancing towards Sector Heart. He remained still, staring forward.

I cannot give up on this, not now. Oh, why must you torment me like this?

“Is that all?” Celestia pushed.

“It… it is not my place, Your Majesty.”

And whose is, then?

“You are more worthy than most. None other still existing has willingly shared more time at my side.”

“I do this because it is my duty.”

“And not because you wish to?”

Heart shifted to his left, his eyes flicking between Celestia and the wall behind her.

Even an untrained eye could see his nervousness. I will not push this topic.

“Do you recall Princess Luna before her loss?”

“I do not, Your Majesty. I… was a newborn when she disappeared.”

‘Disappeared.’ How polite.

“And I assume you know the purpose of today?”

Heart did not answer, only fidgeting more.

He does not wish to say.

“Your answer will not offend me, Grand Knight. I had been there when it happened.”

“I apologize, Your Majesty. I meant no offense by my silence.”

“You have not given any. Only answer if you feel comfortable doing so.”

“It… represents the defeat of Nightmare Moon.”

Celestia sighed, taking a seat. “You are partly correct, although it is not her defeat the day represents. It serves as a reminder… a reminder of my own failure.”

“But, how could the events of that day be your fault?”

Celestia met his eye again. He snapped to attention, gripping his halberd ever tighter. “Your Majesty, please forgive me. I have spoken out of turn.”

No! This is wonderful!

“A conversation is not one-sided. There is no need to apologize. Please, continue.”

“I read on that day, the Princess attacked those that guarded her chambers, slaughtering them before turning her attention to the castle grounds. You fought her, the battle ravaging the castle until she was subdued.”

He looked at her. She nodded lightly.

“Then, with the Elements of Harmony, you trapped her upon another plane of reality.”

“And I alone did this?”

“There could be no other. At least, not outside the stories.”

Hmm. It seems she has truly become a myth.

“You are well versed in your history.”

“I thought it would be best to learn of whom I was protecting.”

Celestia stood. “And you are wise in doing so. To know history is to know life. If more followed in your steps, then we all would be better off as a nation.”

Three knocks rapped against the door.

“Your Majesty,” Amethyst Star showed her head again. “The mayor is beginning her announcements.”

“Thank you, Ms. Star. Allow me a moment, then I will be ready.”

Once Amethyst Star shut the door, Celestia walked to Sector Heart. She placed a hand upon his pauldron, looking down upon him.

“You have a strong heart, Grand Knight. It is a shame you hide so much of it behind your position.”

“Your… Majesty?”

“Rarely do I gain an opportunity to have a real conversation like this. Even rarer it is with someone of great intellect.”

“I merely did my job.”

“Your job is to protect me. Tonight, you have gone beyond that. You do not understand how grateful I am for you doing so. For that, I thank you.”

Sector Heart bowed his head, pressing a fist to his chest.

“Another conversation would be most pleasant in the future, if you are willing.”

“As you wish, Your Majesty.”

Celestia smiled, exiting the room. Her smile faded, falling from her face.

‘As you wish.’ Does that mean he only will do so because I ask? Not because he wishes to?

Perhaps. He had been rather uncomfortable with the sudden question, losing the composure that would tarnish a Grand Knight if caught in public. She had put him in a corner, risking his career for her own desires.

I could have destroyed his livelihood.

This wish to be normal, to have others see her as something beyond the Queen, it would never become a reality. Not from a mortal. She fought back the disheartened wallow growing in her throat.

This is the position I chose. I must live with its consequences.

She followed the hall, traveling the building's curve. It brought her to a closed door. Another Guard—Royal in specifics—opened it for her. She ducked in, finding Amethyst Star awaiting her in the room, alongside other staff and guards.

“Her Majesty has arrived,” Amethyst Star said into a headset. “Your Majesty? You may take your place. The mayor will be finished shortly.”

Celestia stood in the center of the small room, facing towards the partition between herself and the balcony. From beyond the veil, a voice could be heard speaking to the crowds below. Celestia looked to Amethyst Star. The maren glanced about, directing her staff and whispering into her headset.

How stressed she must be.

Setting up this event took a commendable amount of work, even more for a town that had never held it before. Everything seemed to be performing optimally, even if the Sun Celebration had barely entered its earliest stages.

I will personally commend her once this is over. No one deserves to experience so much stress for my name.

An applause brought Celestia’s attention back to the present. She watched the mayor dip through the curtain.

“Your Majesty, the stage is yours.”

“Thank you, Mayor Mayre.”

Celestia straightened herself, stepping up to the partition. With but a thought, she sent a flow of orange light cascading from her form. A heartbeat after, the entire room illuminated in the glow.

Fluttering her wings open, she ignited her feathers next. Their color shifted from a stagnant white into a shimmering orange like the Sun itself.

And so, another Celebration spent alone.

Celestia put a smile upon her face. She strode through the curtain, unfurling her wings to their fullest. Their glow radiated from the balcony and illuminated the night air. The crowd unanimously fell onto a knee, bowing their heads. Celestia looked out upon the crowd. Just left of the crowd’s center kneeled Twilight, her mane’s pink stripe giving her away. Celestia’s smile grew lightly.

At least she took the time to be here instead of hiding herself in that library.

“Please rise,” Celestia called out.

Her voice easily carried across the space, elevated by the microphone in front of her. The crowd followed her command.

Once their attention had returned, Celestia inhaled. “Today marks the—”

“What in Equestria is that?!”

Celestia withdrew her words, looking over the crowd for the voice.

Quite a bold exclamation. What could have caused—

“Your Majesty,” Sector Heart drew her attention. “It seems we have a situation. An unidentified glow has formed near Canterlot. Patrols report it appeared instantaneously, right next to the castle. We—”

Celestia held up a hand, her ears perking. A low rumbling caught her sense. The sound grew rapidly, enough to start rattling the town hall.

“Get everyone out, Grand Knight. This is not a simple glow.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” Sector Heart turned away. “Everyone out of the building this instant!”

Wails rose from the crowd. Celestia looked up towards the Canterhorn. A bright hue of blue light blocked the mountain from her sight, flickering and growing in scale.

“Brace for impact!” Celestia strode past the curtain, her Magic at the ready.

She heard no reply. Instead, a blue sphere of energy burst through the walls across from Celestia. In a heartbeat, she Magically pulled the staff members to either side of the room, removing them from the path of the strike.

However, in doing so, Celestia left herself vulnerable. The energy adjusted its path, bringing itself right to her instead of following gravity’s pull. She brought up a shield, narrowly catching the sphere. The force remained powerful enough to eject both herself and it out into the night.

This is no simple source of energy.

Celestia grasped the sphere, which itself seemed to be constructed of Harmonic Essence. The entity within adjusted course again, swiftly descending. Celestia extended her wings. She spun herself atop of the entity, sending it hurling into the pavement below. It crashed, splintering the concrete. Celestia landed a good distance away from it.

“You cannot hide within my domain! Reveal yourself!” Celestia pulled the glow away from the attacker. It vanished with no effort.

Celestia’s breath caught in her chest. “L… Luna?!”

None other than the Keeper of Stars herself rose from the wreckage. No different from when she had been sent to the Void so long ago.

She found a way to escape! I can’t believe it!

It seemed that Luna was not too excited about such achievements. Contrary to Celestia’s own excitement, Luna’s stance alone—never mind her appearance—told of only one emotion she felt: pure rage. Her mane, usually a vibrant mix of purples and teals, burned with a furious writhing of crimson shades. Her face bore a snarl and her hands clenched into fists.

I must handle this with absolute poise.

“Luna,” Celestia said with all the self-restraint she could. “I thought you would be lost—”

“Silence, betrayer!!” Luna roared; Her voice resonated with the heavenly might of her Stars.

Faster than any mortal’s sight, Luna bounded forward. Celestia threw up a shield of Light. Luna’s haymaker slowed from the barrier. She hissed, withdrawing her fist. Celestia released a Sun Flare, forcing Luna backwards.

“Luna! Please calm yourself! This is not the time nor the place—”

“I command silence, worm! Your silver tongue will not change my conviction!” A collapsed star swirled into existence, pulling the wall of Light into its maw.

Celestia grit her teeth, the defensive barrier falling.

I cannot sustain a magical fight with her. This must be taken elsewhere.

The black hole hurled towards her. Celestia leapt into the air, avoiding the attack.

But if she will not listen to reason, I will need to take more drastic measures.

Several objects surrounding the space lit up in a blue aura. Luna lowered her arms, her face contorted with fury. Celestia released a bright flash of pure sunlight in Luna’s face. Whether or not the blinding attack worked, Celestia flew up higher in the sky.

She knows well enough to not invoke this form of argument within a crowd. I suppose it’s understandable, however.

She watched Luna give pursuit. Blinking higher still, Celestia looked down upon her Sister. “Why fight this way when words could be more impactful?!”

“SILENCE! Do not pretend you are a pacifist, wretch!”

Alright, enough of this.

“You will listen to me!” Celestia responded in kind, adding the roar of the Sun to her voice. “I will not tolerate this behavior here! Either stop this attack or evoke my anger!”

Celestia paused her ascent. Luna continued her approach.

As you wish.

Arms outstretched, Luna clawed for Celestia. Flashing forward, Celestia rolled around Luna’s reach. She wrapped one arm around Luna’s neck and the other around Luna’s right arm.

If she refuses to speak here, then perhaps an explanation can be earned where it all happened.

One place swirled in Celestia’s mind: a castle, long abandoned since the night of Luna’s banishment. Once a cherished retreat, now a wasteland crumbled under time.

Ignoring the struggling cries of anger from Luna, she teleported them both.

Twilight sat upon a fallen log; her face pressed firmly in her palm.

This is my punishment for letting Pinkie be the ringleader. Why did I ever think this would work?

She lifted her head, eyes flicking between the two Nen’yos and their ridiculous argument.

“At least the Everfree makes a good background to this nonsense,” she muttered sarcastically. Her head went back into her palms.

“Fluttershy, you have literally gone into the Everfree a million times!” Rainbow’s voice rasped from her right. “Why are you backing out now?! You’re making us look bad!”

“And every single time had been during the day!” Fluttershy cried from the left. “I thought this was a joke! A terrible, twisted joke!”

Only twenty minutes after leaving Fluttershy’s yard and the whole thing was falling apart. Of all the anthow to choose, why these four?

A prissy Canterlot wannabe, a deranged pink hairball, an airhead, a cranky farmer, and a coward. What a team.

She should have figured this would go south the moment Pinkie mentioned their names.

Waste of my time!

Twilight rose from the log, grabbing her backpack. She marched over to Pinkie. The maren stood off to the side, watching the two Nen’yos argue.

“Pinkie,” Twilight hissed, grabbing the Ere’du Kiin’s arm. “You told me Fluttershy was an expert tracker! You told me she could maneuver the Everfree with her eyes closed! This—” Twilight wildly gestured to the Nen’yos. “—is the opposite of your description!”

“Heh, I may have stretched her skills a little bit. But I… I… I promise I wasn’t lying when I said she goes into the Everfree! She really does all the time! It… she just… isn’t used to doing it in a group, that’s all!”

“That’s all?! I—it… Gah!” Twilight marched over to the two Nen’yos. “Will you two cut it out?!”

“Can’t we just wait until morning,” Fluttershy groaned, a look of agony falling onto her face.

“There isn’t going to be a morning!” Twilight tried to push her way in-between Fluttershy and Rainbow.

“Back off, bonehead!” Rainbow shoved Twilight back, flaring out her wings. “Let me handle this!”

“Oh, like you’re doing such a great job!”

Rainbow stepped over. Twilight remained in place, glaring up as Rainbow towered over her.

“Keep talking,” Rainbow growled, her voice taut. “See what happens when I lose my cool.”

“Rainbow Dash!” Rarity snapped. “This sort of aggression is not helping the situation!”

“Thank you!” Twilight said, exasperated.

“You’re not much better, darling!”

Alright, sure. It’s my fault.

“Celestia could be in a dire situation and you’re wasting time bickering!”

Twilight shouldered past Rainbow, focusing on Fluttershy. “Listen to me! If what Pinkie says about you is true, then you should know that the Everfree is a horrendous place filled with supernatural creatures and dangerous monsters!”

Fluttershy shrunk into herself.

“But think on this: If Celestia is injured—or at worst—killed, the Sun will cease to exist! Nightmare Moon is one of few who could achieve this! We could be the only ones that could possibly rescue her!”

“And how do you intend to do that, huh?”

Twilight turned to Applejack, glaring at the Ere’du Kiin. “Once we get the Elements, we can find her!”

“You only found out about these Elements an hour ago!” Rainbow snapped. “You didn’t have a clue how they worked before! What says you even know what you’re talking about!”

“I’ve studied them! I—”

“You think your high-class book smarts are gonna win this fight?” Applejack scoffed. “Books’ll only get you so far. What actual experience do you have in this sorta thing? Or have you just sat around imaginin’ yourself as the hero?”

“Applejack,” Rarity said. “Please calm down. Don’t bring yourself to their level.”

“I’m not gonna let this go, Rarity! She thinks she can boss us around just ‘cause she comes from Canterlot! I’ll bet she only picked us ‘cause we were the only one’s willin’ to give her the time of day!”

“Everyone stop it!!”

All heads turned to Pinkie. The maren breathed heavily, standing on a rock that barely gave her two inches of height. “I’m the one who chose you! Not Twilight!”

No one responded. Twilight crossed her arms, pursing her lips in a frown.

“To be honest, she wasn’t even on board with it! But I had faith you all would be the best for the jobs not based not just on your abilities, but on your friendships!”

“Pinkie, I can’t stand Rarity!” Rainbow Dash gestured her way. “Or Applejack! Or Twilight!”

“Okay, forget the friendship thing, but my point still stands! You may not like each other, but you’re all friends with me!”

Not even close to the truth.

“—And I trust Twilight with this plan of hers, even though it sounds insane! Just—if you won’t have faith in her, have faith in my faith in her!”

Again, no one responded. Twilight walked over to Pinkie and looked over the four.

…What a bunch of—

Applejack sighed, stepping forward. “Look, I’ll admit that I don’t have much faith in this whole thing. Fluttershy’s right about the forest bein’ a deathtrap, especially at night. But Twilight’s also right about the Queen not havin’ until mornin.’ While I still stand behind my opinion of her faulty plan, I trust Pinkie’s judgement more. I’ll go with you, even if no one else will.”

Applejack stood next to Pinkie, joining the stare at those still indecisive.

“Well,” Rarity piped up. “This is a journey of madness, but… I would rather attempt to help Her Majesty than do nothing. Besides, I would like to think Twilight is a friend of sorts. Even if she doesn’t feel the same.”

A twinge pricked Twilight’s stomach. She looked down for a moment.

“Rrg! I can’t let a Monok one-up me!” Rainbow snarled. She took a single bound, landing next to Applejack. “If she’s in, I’m in! Fluttershy?”

The Nen’yos whimpered, wringing her hands. “I… I don’t want any of you to get hurt… And… the likelihood of that happening… is… is really high.”

“Ah, come on,” Rainbow said. “You got this! I’ve got your back and you’ve got ours!”

I seriously doubt that…

Twilight kept her mouth shut.

Fluttershy swallowed hard. “Okay. Okay, I’ll… I’ll come with. But that castle is cursed. Something haunts it…”

Rainbow excitedly shook her fist. “Don’t worry about a thing Flutters! If anything happens, we can just fly away!”

Fluttershy groaned, nervousness lacing the sound.

“Great, we’re all in this still,” Twilight snipped. “How far is the castle from us?”

“Um, I think around twenty-five kilometers? Give or take a few. I don’t know the specifics.

Twilight deadpanned.

Amazing tracker indeed…

“Great. Let’s get going,” Twilight marched up to the forest’s border. She turned to face their intrepid guide.

Fluttershy edged her way to the edge. She peered up to the blackened greenery of the looming trees. The remainder of the group joined her.

“I can do this… I can do this…” Fluttershy muttered. She stepped into the wooded wall.

“And so, our heroes’ journey begins!” Pinkie exclaimed, the first to bounce after Fluttershy.

From a white burst to pitch black, the brief period of Teleportation concluded. Within moments of the return to the normal world, Celestia drove Luna into the stone floor. Pressing a knee heavily onto her Sister’s back, she cast Light along the area’s ceiling. The glow easily flooded the corridor, removing shadow from every corner.

Heavy scents of greenery and must permeated the air. Dust fluttered in the air under the Light. They were within the walls of the castle. The same that had served as the grounds of Luna’s banishment from long ago. Faint chirping called from beyond the broken windows lining the corridor.

I have not seen this place since—

The dullest of pain sparked in Celestia’s side, pushing her to the left.

Her fire has not burned out. Hm. How little has changed.

Luna pushed upward, her arms bulging as she threw Celestia off her back. With a grimace, Celestia stepped away, in turn letting Luna fully recovered onto her feet. Her Sister snorted, bolting forward like a Wizeri berserker amid combat.

Perhaps a different approach.

“Gah’dehias, stop this!” Celestia ducked under another Star-charged haymaker. “Fighting like this has never solved our disputes! It is childish!”

Luna pulled back, black energy licking her arms. “Call me by that name again, and I will smite us with star fall!”

Wrong approach. I should have known.

“My apologies, Luna,” Celestia summoned a magical shield in time to catch a wave a stones and debris hurled at Mach 1. “Regardless, my declaration remains firm.”

“It is rightful justice!” Luna took flight, hovering along the ceiling.

“Justice for what?”

“Do not play coy!”

Fine. If she will not talk willingly, I will take the actions I should have at the start of this.

Celestia backed further down the corridor. She brought the shield with her, keeping it across the entire width of the chamber. Further flurries of stones and debris pelted the shield, no different from rain upon a rooftop.

Come on… Come on…

Luna flashed from her place, the onslaught of stone ceasing. Celestia’s ears caught a burst of Magic behind her.

Excellent.

She turned, bracing herself. Luna’s fist drove itself into her chest, right between the collar bones. The hit forced Celestia backward. It hurt, more than expected.

But… she loses.

Celestia winced, standing straight. Luna’s eyes rose, then narrowed. She leapt forward.

Then promptly fell to the ground in a heap of limbs, her face pressing into the stone.

“What… what is this?!” Luna roared past the floor. She grunted, twitching in her attempts to fight the Spells.

“I’m surprised you fell for it, to be honest,” Celestia said, walking around the paralyzed Luna.

“What did you do?!”

“A simple dash of Paralysis, Harmonic Disruption, and Kinetic Dispersion to leave you in a state of inactivity, all done through a simple touch. Thank you for helping me with that, by the way.”

Luna growled. Celestia rolled her onto her back, placing her Sister’s arms at her side. Luna continued to struggle, this time managing to arch her back.

“This will not contain me!”

“It will last long enough for you to calm down, and hear me out. Tell me, are you willing to listen now that you have no choice?”

“You are undeserving of the decency!”

I underestimated her stubbornness.

Celestia shook her head, exasperation filling her mind. “I recognize you would be upset, but attacking me in public? I do not believe I deserved the humiliation, considering the events.”

Luna yelled, her ethereal echo shaking the castle. “Wrong! You deserved every action!!”

“And why is that?”

“Do not act so dense! You cast me into the endless Void!! I was punished with purgatory for no reason!” Luna spat, releasing sparks of starlight into the air.

Here we go.

Celestia tilted her head. “You did much more than nothing.”

“Do not sully my character with lies!”

“You attacked the anthow we both swore to protect. You attacked Nae’tewvas and I.”

“I did nothing of the sort,” Luna’s words died, losing the vengeance they harbored.

Now we are getting somewhere.

“Let us parley. I would rather discuss and find common ground than fight endlessly, with no outcome.”

Luna stared at the ceiling. “Free me.”

“And can I trust that you will not attack the moment I release the Spells?”

Luna’s jaw twitched.

“Answer me.”

“…Yes.”

A tingling of relief washed through Celestia.

She is not powering her voice anymore. This is good.

Celestia released the spells binding Luna. As expected, her Sister leapt to her feet the instant she could. She glared at Celestia, flexing her hands.

Well. At least she honored her word.

Luna’s mane continued to writhe under the crimson glow.

Now, if only I could calm her down.

“Explain to me your actions, or I will take mine,” Luna snarled.

“And are you going to listen to my words? Or are you simply waiting for any sign that would allow you to instigate further fighting?”

Luna gave no response, standing in place with her arms crossed. Celestia shrugged. She levitated a chunk of stone debris to herself. Further, she sat upon it, sitting like she would upon her throne in Canterlot.

Luna took a less graceful approach. Her Sister reached out a hand and tore her own chunk of debris from the already fractured ceiling. Thankfully, Luna chose not to tear down the building. With the accuracy supplied from her centuries of manipulating celestial objects, she pulled down something that properly resembled a chair.

“Now then,” Luna snapped, leaning forward in her seat. “Explain.”

“On the 20th of Nature’s Blossom,” Celestia began after a brief wait. “the Year 1881… How long it has been. How… time passes.” A wave of fatigue flooded Celestia’s mind.

I have not felt this way since… since Sunset.

“I remember it clearly,” Celestia continued. “You never enjoyed the Sun Celebration. ‘It always forgot three-fourths of the whole,’ by your words. This Celebration in particular left you worse for wear. The reason I cannot recall, but it had been enough for you to retire to your chambers. I saw no issue with it, neither did Nae’tewvas.”

Luna leaned back and crossed her arms, her wings fluttering. “This is meaningless banter. Get to the point.”

“We continued the preparations without interruption throughout the evening, all of us doing so at our castle in the Everfree. Then unexpectedly, without warning or fanfare, one of the Noct Ther’enus came to us. Telling us of his position outside your chambers, he claimed you were tearing them apart. The amount of fear and concern in his voice led us to swiftly follow his lead. We rushed to assist, finding his words had merit.”

“I did nothing of—”

Celestia held up a hand. “Let me finish. Your chambers were an abysmal mess, the opposite of your usual self. The most surprising change was the fresh hole in your wall, and the sounds of Spells combined with screams echoing from the courtyard below. Again, we rushed to determine the cause, only to discover that you were the reason. At least, a form of you.”

“A form? What do you mean.”

“What we saw was not you, and yet I knew in my heart it was. It… appeared as a sinister phantom, like the one you would parade as during the Nightmare Nights. I thought it a terrible prank at first. It was far from it.”

“…I see.” Luna’s fiery mane lost its tone, slowly returning to the purples and blues Celestia once knew. “So it was right…”

“It?”

“Finish.”

Ask questions later. I cannot mess this up.

“Nae’tewvas and I attempted to calm you, or even communicate. Our words were met with unbridled anger and rage,” Celestia swallowed the building lump in her throat.

Oh, Creators… I… I haven’t thought over this in… so long.

“I… I did not wish to harm you. I… had planned to preserve you like Dei’xovia. Once you were cast in the stone, we could figure out the cause of this anger. Would such actions have been the better path to take I will never know. However, you never allowed us to prepare the Spell. It was like… you knew our tactics before we did. In the end, we managed to trick you into the Void.”

“Hrm,” Luna rose, stalking to the windowed wall.

“Those are the events as I saw them,” Celestia rose as well. “They have tormented me ever since.”

“Well, forgive me if my side does not align with your, ‘torment,’” Luna snapped. “The reality is much less extravagant! That day, I did withdraw to my chambers—the ignorance our ‘dear’ nation excreted was enough to drive me insane!” Luna drove her fist into the windowsill, sending cracks along the already shattered stonework.

“In my sleep, I was shown a dream! The world crumbled, burning as a comet three times the size of Utaios collided, destroying all the Creators entrusted us with! Upon awaking from the vision, all I found was a sea of gray sand upon gray skies.”

A dream?

Oveiro… he had sent a vision. Why? What could this…

No, do not dwell. Focus on the present.

“That… is it?”

Luna’s eye twitched. “That is it. Do you understand my anger now, Sister?”

“I… We never—”

“To what? Harm me?” Luna’s voice dripped with venom. “To send me into an endless torment in the form of infinite nothingness?!”

“I… I understand your anger—”

“NO!” Luna flared her wings, her mane writhing with crimson once again. “You could never understand my torment! Near 500 years with the Shadow Demon never leaving my presence! No matter what I could not escape him! If I had remained any longer, enduring his endless prattling and deceitful lies, I would have fallen into insanity!”

“And if you and I had our places switched? What would you have done?”

“Sending you to the Void would not be my first choice!”

“You believe it was mine? Nae’tewvas was against it as well! We wanted nothing more than to help you!”

Luna yelled. She clutched onto the rumble used for civil conversation and hurled it through the windows with Telekinesis. The stone whipped through the air into the rooms across the courtyard. It smashed through the walls, leaving a sizable hole. Luna stalked over to the fresh damage, pressing her hands onto the remaining windowsill.

Celestia watched, not daring to move lest it furthered Luna’s anger.

Oh Luna… This never should have happened to you.

“When I awoke in the Void,” Luna hissed. “I thought the world had been lost. We do not dream unless Oveiro wills it. Why else would he show me such a sight if not as a warning?”

Luna’s arms buckled, crumbling her ridged stance. Her wings recoiled. Her mane lost its vengeful hue of crimson, giving way to the sorrowful colors of blues and teals. “I… I thought I stood as the last, living thing existing. That… I failed the role given to me. The world had been lost, all because I allowed the opinions of mortals to sway my judgement.”

A sniffle escaped from Luna. She turned away, hiding her face. Celestia approached, taking a place at the windowsill beside her Sister.

I see now.

“I… regret it.”

“Regret what?”

“Allowing emotions to influence me. If I were apathetic and stagnant in my decisions, this all could have been avoided.”

“Emotions are not forgiving,” Celestia said. She picked at crumbs of rubble and glass, rubbing the shards between her fingers. “I know you do not believe it, but I understand your plight. Truly, I do. While I have not experienced the tragedy you did, emotions have caused more of my mistakes than anything else, even those that still haunt me to this day. But, despite it all, I would open myself to them all over again. As they have hindered, they have also helped.”

“How can you say that?!” Luna flipped around, streaks of tears against her fur. “Those ‘feelings’ are behind every foolish decision! Behind every war fought! Behind every act of hatred! Behind these fareking tears! We took on this plight to relate with them, and look where that has taken us,” Luna rubbed her face. “Nothing but pain.”

“The truth is far from such, Luna. If not for these emotions, I never would have realized what our relationship truly was. I never would have mourned your disappearance. I would not love you as I do now.”

Luna wiped her face. She fell forward, resting against Celestia’s chest. Celestia wrapped her arms around Luna.

“I… I wished for death to take me. While I was there. I… I… could not bear it.”

“I ask that you forgive me, Luna. I understand now that there were no wrongdoings of your own desire. What happened remained out of your control, or even your knowledge. You suffered greatly, but it is over now.”

Luna returned the hug. “I… I love you too, Sister.”

Celestia rested her head upon Luna’s, simply relishing the embrace. Tears of her own were fought back, although a smile grew upon her face, unable to be quelled.

After all this time, after impossible odds, I have her back. My dear Luna.

All the trials and pain brought by that day. It had all been worth it for this moment.

“Understand, I will not be forgetting these events, nor will I allow you to forget,” Luna said, breaking the hug.

“Believe me, nothing could remove those memories.”

Wiping her eyes again, Luna looked around the corridor. “What are we to do now?”

“Now? Things can return to how they were meant to be from the beginning.”

“I… do not believe myself to be in a position to rule. Not for some time, at least.”

“I did not expect such. I also suppose you want minimal contact with the public for the time being?”

“That would be best. The less contact with others the better.” Luna’s eyes widened. “Uh, I may have committed a mistake most foul. There is a chance I have committed murder on this night.”

Celestia stared. “May? Would you care to explain further?”

“I… searched your office before I found you in that town. I intended to unleash my anger upon you there in a more private place. However, in your place stood a Nen’yos of monochromatic physique. He faced my wrath to its fullest. I would not be surprised if he lay dead in the corner.”

Well then… Of all the anthow, of course it was him.

“Pray tell, you’re only joking.”

“Well…”

“Luna…”

“Yes, I am overexaggerating. He is not dead. I think.”

“Ah, Luna,” Celestia pressed a hand upon Luna’s shoulder.

“Should I return and console him?”

“I do not believe such would benefit his well-being. I can notify my staff to aid. Instead, there is something else we should do.”

Luna tilted her head.

“We will head back to Kinstown and the Sun Celebration. Even with your desire for minimal contact, your return should be brought to light before rumors can spread.”

Luna, wrung her hands. “Ah, I am not privy to such an idea. That town’s first perception of me is of my wrath. I doubt they would take kindly to my face so soon.”

“What better way to clear your name than to show you meant no harm?”

“From what I remember, anthow are not so forgiving.”

“You’d be surprised how mortals can change.”

“I’ll believe that when I see it,” Luna looked out the window. “To be truthful, I would rather remain here with you. Once the public knows the truth, our time alone will be scarce. A few hours alone will not hurt anyone.”

“Allow me to alert the castle that I am not in any danger and solve your victim of fright.”

Luna smiled. “So be it. Afterwards, I wish to know everything that has happened in my absence. How has Nae’tewvas been faring? What of the world? There is much to discuss.”

“To explain it all, I fear would take more than a few hours.”

“I only jest. That much could not have possibly happened in 500 years.”

“Like I said, you will be surprised how much mortals can change.”

“Wait wait! Everyone, stop! I… need a break.”

Twilight looked towards the whining Nen’yos, her eye twitching. “Rainbow, we’ve only been at this for two hours. Just two! On relatively flat ground. You’ve stopped us five times now! This cannot be that difficult for you!”

“Easy for you,” Rainbow gasped, collapsing against a tree. “Easy for you to say… I… geez, how do you wingless anthow manage to walk everywhere. It’s exhausting!”

Twilight’s eyes narrowed. “Oh yeah? How is it that you can fly everywhere?”

“Uh, it’s my main mode of transportation?”

“Well then, stop complaining.”

“Why don’t you stick it up your—”

“Rainbow,” Applejack interrupted. “How about you don’t escalate the situation further and be quiet.”

Rainbow lifted a hand, keeping her middle finger up.

“Real mature,” Rarity huffed.

Rainbow moved her hand towards Rarity.

“Can we keep moving?” Twilight snapped. “You’ve rested long enough—too long in my opinion—and we’re wasting time over something that is time critical!”

“Oh relax, princess. Give me another minute at least. How much further is it anyway?”

Everyone looked to their guide. Fluttershy stood at the side of the road, her flashlight following the movement of a creature or the sort as it ran deeper into the forest.

“Fluttershy?”

The yellow Nen’yos squeaked, jolting into the air. “Uh, well, despite… Rainbow’s… ah, breaks, we’ve made good time. A few more kilometers to go, that’s all.”

Twilight rolled her eyes. She stalked away from the group, stepping off the path into the forest.

This is what I get for trusting someone I just met.

She kicked a branch.

An incoherent group of fools! Each of them flawed to the core!

Twilight pressed her arm against a tree, banging her head against her arm.

Stupid, stupid, stupid…

Sure, they would be helpful with the whole, ‘six Sentients required to use’ shtick. The problem was getting there in one piece.

She looked up to the Everfree’s canopy. The black trees covered most of the night sky, making the forest darker than it would be. This on top of the unnatural darkness it already possessed turned the entire place into a void.

Wait. Which way did I come from?

She had not gone far, and yet…

The lights from her companions were nowhere. Twilight spun around.

It all looks the same. How could I be so stupid?

The paths were safe from the confusion of the forest. She was safe on them. Now…

Oh farek… I didn’t go that far, did I? I can’t hear their voices…

Her head snapped to a sound that echoed from off in the woods. She froze, her heart rate rising.

What was that…

Her ears flicked about, straining to catch a sound again.

“Twilight.”

“Aaah!” A shield appeared between herself and the apparition’s voice.

“Calm down, Sugarcube. It’s just Applejack. I ain’t that scary.”

Twilight clutched her chest, her heart pounding. “Don’t come up on me like that!”

“You were just… ah, whatever. Don’t wander into the forest blindly. With your brains, I thought you’d know better.”

Twilight did not respond, her gaze still peering off into the woods. The uneasiness still racked her mind, even as Applejack led her back to the road.

“Here,” Applejack said. “Take this.”

She held out a flashlight.

“I have Essence. I don’t need that.”

“Really? You ain’t been usin’ it.”

Twilight scowled, snatching the flashlight.

Stupid Ere’du. Like she knows about Essence conservation.

“Wow,” Rainbow sneered as Twilight returned to the group. “So, you’re the only one that can wander off of task, then?”

“I was taking time to think,” Twilight paused at the edge of the road. “Such a concept seems to elude you.”

“Well, I think next time you step in the forest, don’t come back.”

“What a snap back. How ever do you come up with them?”

“Go and… and…” Rainbow’s charged glint slid off her face, changing into an alarmed stare.

The rest of the group gained the expression.

“…What?”

The fur on Twilight’s neck rose. A sinking feeling floated in her stomach.

“Twilight,” Fluttershy stated, her voice dangerously calm. “Do not move.”

A soft, low growling came from behind her.

Twilight opened her mouth. Her heart raced. She wanted to scream, to flee. No sound came. No one made a move.

“If you move,” Fluttershy’s voice hardened further. “You will die. So, please don’t.”

Oh Celestia…

Applejack caught Twilight’s eye. The Ere’du clutched her rifle, slowly lowering the lever to cock back the weapon’s hammer. The click itself sounded like a gunshot.

The growl grew in volume.

“What… what is… behind me…? Twilight could barely utter more than a squeak.

“Manticore,” Fluttershy stated, stepping forward.

As though it were aware of its name, the creature roared. The tremoring sound deafened Twilight, rattling her whole self. The sound sent her body into overdrive. It moved on its own, Twilight being nothing more than a witness. She cut right and ran back into the deep dark of the Everfree. Three echoing bangs sounded behind her.

Oh svist oh svist oh svist…

Her legs pumped and her arms flailed, strobing her light source across the forest floor. Twilight crashed into a tree and risked a glance to her pursuer. She only saw a flash of orange fur and gnashing teeth. Fear drilled into her mind.

She rolled out of the way, stumbling through a layer of brush. The beast broke through the green wall with ease, rearing onto its hind legs with claws outstretched. The rest of the world fell away, leaving only Twilight and the beast.

I will not die at the claws of this abomination!

Twilight extended her hand, pulling Essence into her palm. She cast Telekinesis, wrapping the paws of the manticore in her aura. A swift wrist flick to the left sent the beast careening through the saplings and out of view. Twilight bolted back the way she came, finding the road and the group.

“Twilight! Are you alright?!” Applejack shouted, her rifle aimed in Twilight’s general direction.

“Behind me!” Twilight joined the others.

“Stay in a group!” Applejack stood in front of everyone else. “If it’s like other predatory cats, it ain’t gonna attack us if we stay together!”

“Oh Celestia,” Rarity whimpered. “We’re all going to be eaten by a lion with a tail!”

“Lions normally have tails, Rarity!” Pinkie shrieked.

“You get what I mean!”

The manticore burst from the brush, leaping to the road with a furious roar. It stood taller than any member of the group, its leather wings expanded out to their fullest. A segmented, chitinous tail bearing a sharp stinger curled around its back, dripping with venom.

Applejack aimed her rifle at it.

“No!” Fluttershy pulled the barrel down. “Don’t hurt it!”

“Are you insane?!”

“It’s only aggressive because we’re in its territory! Just back off and let me handle this!”

“Let her go, Applejack,” Pinkie cried. “Her voice is louder than a whisper, so you know she’s serious!”

Applejack growled, stepping back.

“Come on, Flutters,” Rainbow muttered, barely audible over the snarling.

Fluttershy stepped up to the beast, edging closer with her hands extended. The manticore squared itself up to Fluttershy, towering over her at twice the height.

“Sshhh,” Fluttershy hushed. “It’s okay. We don’t want to harm you.”

The manticore’s eyes flicked from Fluttershy to the group.

“They’re just scared. You understand, right?”

“Is… is she talking… to the manticore…?” Twilight asked.

“Yep,” Rainbow answered.

No further explanation… Great.

Fluttershy’s words grew quiet, as did the manticore’s snarls. Twilight could only watch with bated breath.

Alright… she can talk to animals… The chances of such a phenomenon are extremely rare, especially from a Nen’yos. Their Essence is so low, and their ability to wield it even lower. I wonder… is it hereditary. Is that even possible? Not that I’ve heard of. Heck, it can’t be. She’s… well, a Nen’yos! The only Nen’yos I know of that could cast anything substantial was Somnambula!

Twilight looked over her companions. Applejack fidgeted with her rifle. Rainbow watched the exchange intently. Pinkie and Rarity watched as well, whispering to each other about something or other.

The manticore lurched back. Twilight jumped, again, her heart rate shooting through the roof. The creature spun around, bolting deeper into the forest. Fluttershy returned to the group.

“You guys go ahead,” The Nen’yos mumbled. “Keep following the road another four kilometers—”

“Wait, where are you going?” Twilight interjected.

Fluttershy stared at Twilight. “With the manticore. Anyway, then take right and travel straight east. If you find a hollow tree trunk twice the width of any surrounding trees, you’re on the right path.”

“…And why are you going with the manticore?”

“It has injured cubs and I want to help it.”

“Okay,” Twilight said, exasperated. “Ignoring the whole, ‘talking with animals’ because that just happened, we have more important issues at hand than hurt creatures!”

“This won’t get in the way. I’ll meet you all there.”

“I… what…” Twilight looked at the rest of the party, begging for any one of them to back her up.

“Fluttershy,” Applejack carefully said. “Besides this ability to speak with animals… it’s still a manticore. Findin’ its young might not be the best idea…”

“I appreciate your concern, but I’ve dealt with worse.”

“I’ll go with her,” Rainbow said, leaping to Fluttershy’s side. “There’s nothing to worry about!”

Yes!! Wait, no!!

“But—” Twilight stammered. “We, we need—”

“Don’t get your horn in a twist,” Rainbow brushed Twilight off. “We’ll meet you at the front gates. Or door, or whatever.”

Without another word, both Nen’yos ran off into the darkness.

“Stop saying that!!” Twilight reached out a hand towards the direction they went, clenching it into a fist. “Leave it to the Nen’yos to care more about themselves! The Queen’s life could be in jeopardy, but nooo… Our ‘guide’ cares more about some feral animals!”

“Darling, please, take a breath,” Rarity said. “I promise you that they care as much as you do. But… Fluttershy has always felt more comfortable around animals, regardless of their… stature. If she has any opportunity to help them, she will.”

“And she can apparently speak to them?!”

“At least we know which way to go!” Pinkie chimed in.

“Just gonna gloss over the talking to animals again… Okay.”

“A hollow tree trunk twice the width of the rest,” Applejack quoted. “Not exactly the soundest marker.”

“Actually, it’s very sound!” Pinkie exclaimed. “See, since we know the exact distance to travel, we can’t possibly miss it or mistake it!”

“I don’t suppose you’re keeping track?” Twilight snarked.

“We’ve moved 34, no, 35 meters since Fluttershy and Rainbow left! Only 3,995–3,994 more meters to go!” Pinkie skipped ahead.

“Everyone here is insane,” Twilight muttered.

“Perhaps from your perspective,” Applejack fell in stride next to her. “You upper-class types all see us small-town folk with the same lens.”

“Don’t make claims of subjects you know nothing about.”

“Actually, considerin’ I spent a few years of my childhood in such a position, I’d like to think I’m well entitled to make such claims. I know exactly how it goes.”

“Well think again! I’m not one of those stuck-up, rich anthow! I don’t look down on others.”

“Really? Every interaction I’ve seen from you says otherwise.”

Twilight’s lip twitched.

“Pinkie likes to see the positives in things. It helps keep everyone focused. You’re actin’ like it’s an insult.”

No. I’m not! I’m… I…

“Okay, fine. I don’t like her jovial attitude. But can you blame me? This is a serious situation and she’s acting like it’s a stroll in the park! Not to mention the two Nen’yos think an animal is more worth their time! What about you? You’ve proven your disdain for me!”

“Yep, and I still have it. You ain’t worth my time, and neither is this half-baked plan.”

“Then why are you here?”

“’Cause I trust Pinkie’s judgement. She sees somethin’ in you that the rest of us don’t. Besides, she asked for our help, and I don’t turn down the requests of friends.”

Twilight grumbled.

“You see all of us as incompetent, but have some faith,” Applejack adjusted the rifle’s position on her shoulder. “Not just in us, but in Her Majesty as well.”

“Wha— I have faith in her!”

“Really? ‘Cause you’re actin’ like a 2,000-year-old Alicorn with enough Essence to nuke the continent couldn’t handle herself. What’re you gonna do if these Elements aren’t at the castle?”

“They’re going to be.”

Applejack sighed. “Fine. Believe in that. But relax a little bit. There ain’t nothin’ wrong with bein’ lighthearted, especially in times like this. Actin’ all stressed in only gonna make matters worse. We ain’t your enemies. At least give us that much.”

“Fffine.”

“Well, I guess that’s the best I’m gonna get,” Applejack paused. “Rarity! Get rid of those heels!”

“I will not abandon them!” Rarity’s voice dripped with pure indignance. “I expect a heartfelt thank you in the form of a full session at the spa!”

“Put on the boots and you have a deal.”

Twilight watched Applejack join Rarity, their arguing falling away.

Darn it. Loosen up, she says. Relax she says. I can’t! Relaxing is only going to delay what needs to be done now!

“Don’t worry Twilight!”

Twilight soul almost left her body for the second time in the last hour as Pinkie’s high-pitched voice rang in her ear.

“Gah! What is—” Twilight clamped her mouth shut.

Be positive, be positive, be positive.

“I’m… not worried.”

“Yeah you are, about Her Majesty. But don’t be!”

“…What makes you say that?”

“Well, you should know! She’s the greatest being to walk upon the face of Equestria! Nothing can beat her, not even Nightmare Moon! Like Applejack said, have faith!”

Twilight sighed. “I tried to warn her about this before I came to Kinstown. She didn’t believe me. Now, I just hope she isn’t paying the price for it.”

“…Cadence has been working hard to restore Nayghce. Based on her reports, the progress is going well. She expects to be back home by next year,” Celestia leaned back against the stone chair. “Despite her absence only lasting two decades, I have missed her greatly. I cannot wait for her return.”

“It seems she had an excellent mentor,” Luna said. “How did the general populace respond to you adopting a child?”

“They reacted as though I had an affair and was covering it up. Regardless, I did not pay their comments any mind. Cadence is my daughter, end of the story.”

“I never thought you would be a mother. What forced this decision?”

“Oh… well…” Celestia’s words left her mind.

“’Well?’ It cannot be this hard to recall.”

Oh dear…

“To be honest, it hurt my soul to see that poor child—orphaned as the only survivor from the attack on her town. I could not bear to leave her to fend for herself.”

“Hmm.”

“You do not believe me?”

“No. Not entirely.”

Celestia’s face fell neutral. “I swear, there isn’t anything more, Luna.”

“Do you not trust me?”

“There is nothing to entrust. What has made you so sure of this?”

“Call it intuition from my time on this planet,” Luna growled, rising from her chair. She walked to the window, staring out into the courtyard. “Or maybe paranoia from my imprisonment, but no one does anything based on the goodness of their heart. Each has their motive.”

“Your insights are cold-hearted, Sister. The world is not so cruel.”

“Then tell me to my face that you are speaking the unbridled truth,” Luna looked back.

Her Sister’s teal eyes pierced into Celestia’s soul. They gave a cold and calculating glint that demanded nothing but absolute honesty.

And such I cannot give to her.

Celestia looked down. She heard Luna snort.

”I knew it.”

Celestia deeply inhaled, calming the rise in her heart’s beat.

Relax. She will not wrench this from me.

“It seems we have visitors.”

“Visitors?” Celestia joined Luna, looking down into the front courtyard. An anthow had passed through the open gate, one of familiar pink fur and mane.

She was with Twilight.

“How unexpected,” Celestia said. “I would have not expected to see an explorer here at this time.”

“Those who seek adventure do it in the strangest ways. What is it you think she seeks?”

“The latest rumor is of evil entities lurking the halls.”

“Hm. With the amount of wild Essence from the Everfree, I would not doubt such rumors to be true in some sense.”

Two more anthow stepped through the gate, one orange and one…

Twilight…

“Interesting,” Celestia murmured.

“Do you know them?”

“The Monok’ehpos of purple fur and blue attire is my pupil. The rest are a pleasant surprise, to say the least.”

“Twilight Sparkle?”

“Correct,” Celestia smiled. “If all goes according to my plan, she will follow in Cadence’s footsteps and become just as extraordinary. She will be elevated to her highest potential.”

“…And is she aware of this plan?”

“She will be, when the time is right.”

“Just like your first protégé?”

“No. My mistake with Sunset Shimmer was revealing her future to her before I could begin it. It gave way to arrogance and led to her downfall.”

“Well,” Luna stepped away from the windows. “It is not my place to determine how to handle your… apprentice. Do as you see fit.”

“Twilight is not like Sunset. I promise, she will not follow the same footsteps.”

“Do not promise me this. Do so to yourself.”

Celestia returned her gaze to Twilight. She watched the Monok’ehpos step further into the courtyard, wandering the abandoned space.

No doubt she is searching for me. At least, I hope so.

The chances of her knowing of the Element’s location should be miniscule. But, Twilight was never one to listen to the odds.

“Are you going to reveal yourself to her?” Luna asked. “Or are you simply going to skulk?”

“I wish to see if she can find the Elements.”

“And if she does?”

“She will be one step closer to her future, even if I did not plan for this to happen so soon.”

“And is this future hers or yours?”

“They are the same.”

“Hmm…”

This is what Twilight wants. What else would she be striving for?

She had no doubt. Even at a young age, from the moment Celestia selected her, Twilight had researched Essence and hoped to advance the science. ‘To improve Equestria and the world,’ were the words used. All this was for Twilight to be in the ultimate position to do just that.

Luna is right. I cannot make any mistakes. She is already leaning towards the path Sunset took. If I cannot guide her back gently, I will do so with force.

How tactless. She treated this like an experiment. The phase had passed. With two failures already, a third should not be possible.

Soon. Soon I will show her the destiny she desires.

It was for Twilight. It is for Twilight.

“Will both of you relax?” Applejack called out as Twilight joined Pinkie in the courtyard.

“They’re taking too long,” Twilight replied. “Besides, I’m only looking around the courtyard.”

“Taking too—We just got here ourselves!”

“I’m just looking around! You know, getting an idea for the best form of entry?”

“…The front door?”

Twilight stared. “If you want to wait for them, go for it. I’m not stopping you.”

“Remember when we talked about gainin’ some patience? A few minutes ain’t gonna kill anyone.”

“In this situation, a few minutes could lead to any possibility. Besides, they could still be hours out.”

Applejack sighed. “Whatever. Just don’t go any farther until we’re all here, m-kay?”

Twilight waved her hand flippantly, following Pinkie’s footsteps deeper into the wide courtyard. The towering walls of the castle itself formed the other three sides of the square space, looking to be in terrible shape.

At least this place is still standing.

A minor overstatement. It stood, but barely. From this standpoint, the only damage to the courtyard seemed to be thick overgrowth and general wear. The higher levels of the castle had suffered worse. Holes, half-standing towers, and cracks visible even under the direct moonlight all proudly displayed themselves. A reminder of the danger that Nightmare Moon presented.

“Hey Twilight! Look!” Pinkie called from the front doors. She pointed up at a wide banner, half tattered. Twilight shone her light upon it, revealing the crest of both Celestia and Luna embroidered upon the tapestry.

“What about it?”

“I wonder if this place is as haunted as the stories say!” Pinkie skipped her way to Twilight.

What does that have to do with… Oh whatever…

“Goodness, I hope not,” Rarity said from behind Twilight. “The last thing we need is ghosts on this journey.”

“Well, your hopes have come true,” Twilight stated. “Ghosts aren’t real. The soul can’t remain within this plane of existence once the body that hosts it ceases to function. Without a harness, it simply dissipates.”

“So, you’re saying when we die we go poof?!” Pinkie faked an explosion with her arms.

Twilight shrugged. “I haven’t died, so I can’t tell you that one.”

Her eye caught a flash of yellow at the gate. Fluttershy stepped through with Applejack behind her. The Nen’yos froze under the stare from Twilight and the others.

“Um, hi.”

“Where’s Dashie?” Pinkie exclaimed.

Fluttershy pointed up towards the moonlight sky. At that moment, a roaring whoosh identical to the noise made when Twilight first met Rainbow caught her ear. She threw up a shield around herself, watching a streak cut through the air. A few meters before hitting the ground, Rainbow spread her wings and slowed her descent. She landed with a delicate drop.

“Ahh, that felt good,” Rainbow sighed, a euphoric grin on her face. Her eyes flashed to Twilight, the grin becoming more devious. “It’s good to see you adapting.”

Twilight rolled her eyes, dropping the shield. “Come on.” She led the way to the main gates.

They remained wholly untouched.

“Hmm,” Twilight hummed. “Fascinating. These seem to be made from simple wood, but the passage of time hasn’t affected them in the slightest…” She ran a hand over the wood. “They must be enchanted.”

“Wonderful observation, professor,” Rainbow snarked. “How are you gonna get them open?”

Twilight tugged on the iron handles. Not even the dust shifted.

“Seems to be stuck,” Applejack said.

“Great observation,” Rainbow snickered.

“Quiet. I need to concentrate,” Twilight stepped back, setting her flashlight into her backpack. She ignited her Essence, casting Telekinesis upon the door’s handles. Drawing her hands to her chest, she pulled her aura towards herself. The doors creaked, but otherwise refused to budge.

“Come… on…” Twilight strained. She focused intently, spreading her hold upon a wider portion of the oversized handles.

“Maybe try pushing?” Pinkie said.

Twilight growled, adjusting her pull into a push. The left door lurched inward. All her Essence shifted to that side, drawing it open enough for an anthow to just fit through.

“Uugh…” Twilight brought a hand to her head.

“Are you alright,” Fluttershy murmured.

“I’m fine. That door was heavier than it looked. Took a bit more Essence,” Twilight rubbed her forehead.

Here goes nothing.

Twilight retrieved the flashlight and squeezed through the gap. Pure silence upon the other side. She shone her flashlight across the space, a sense of dread pricking at the back of her mind. The hall appeared to match the size of Canterlot’s throne room at a length of 50 meters. Stone and foliage had taken to the floors, giving an ancient feeling and cluttering the space.

Worst of all had to be the pure silence. The Everfree had little to offer in the case of natural sounds. Such paled in comparison to the stillness within the grand hall. Only her footsteps echoed about.

It's abandoned. There’s nothing here but rodents and scavengers. Ghosts don’t exist.

Twilight hung by the door.

Why don’t I believe myself?

Rainbow squeezed in, followed by Pinkie and Rarity.

“Wow,” Rainbow whispered. “This place is fareking creepy.”

“Yeah, spooky!” Pinkie said, immediately slamming her hands over her muzzle. Her voice bounced about, growing quieter with each echo.

“Ssshhh!” Rainbow and Rarity both hissed.

At least I know it isn’t just me that’s super unnerved.

Applejack and Fluttershy completed the group within the castle walls. Fluttershy glanced around the space and promptly reached for the doors. “No,” She shook her head. “No way. I’m not doing this.”

“Fluttershy! You can’t back out now!” Rainbow said in a panicked whisper.

“I told you all, this place is cursed! Every single cell in my body is telling me to run!”

Rainbow pulled Fluttershy back into the castle, looping their arms together. “I’ll… I’ll stay by your side. Just… don’t let go.”

Fluttershy squeaked, pressing herself against Rainbow.

“Fluttershy’s right, Twilight,” Applejack breathed. “Every bone in my body is tellin’ me to leave. These Elements better not be that hard to find. The less time we spend here the better.”

“Well,” Twilight croaked. “The Elements were kept at the lowest level of the castle, which is two floors beneath ground level. I would assume they’re still resting there.”

The silence from everyone spoke louder than any words ever could.

“No point in delayin,’” Applejack muttered, racking the lever on her rifle.

“Rarity,” Pinkie muffled through her hands. “Hold me.”

“Yes, darling…”

Twilight shone her flashlight along the walls, the white light contrasting against the dark stone. She dragged it across the walls, searching the passages and exits for…

A staircase? Or perhaps something that resembles a staircase?

Twilight swallowed. The blueprint the cartographer had provided didn’t look similar in the slightest. She trailed her light over two potential options, one on the left of the thrones at the far end of the wall and one closer, again on the left.

It’s hard enough to think about it as is.

She half-expected a face of some horrid entity to be in one of the pitch-black halls, peering back as the light hit it. The horrific sensation given by the castle only pushed to confirm her fears.

There’s no way we’re alone.

But ghosts aren’t real. She just had to keep telling herself that.

“If… If I remember, a stairway is past the thrones.” Twilight took the lead, walking through the space.

Despite it being so, she treaded with caution. Even though the openness only had various rubble dotting the ground, horrible claustrophobia wreaked her soul.

I hate this I hate this I hate this…

She reached the dual thrones at the end of the room. While both shared a similar design, each seat had been stylized with the Sisters’ personal flairs.

‘One formed like the golden sun, and another a galaxy of shimmering stars; Each matching a ruler of the Land.’

Perhaps elegant in their prime, the thrones sat in dust and subtle decay. Neither showed any sign of being as the poem claimed.

To the right of Celestia’s throne lied a dark passage. Twilight’s light revealed the tunnel to be barren, leading several meters to another room. To be expected, the room had no source of light. Twilight brushed aside a wide cobweb with Telekinesis, leading her companions into the chamber.

While barely a tenth the size of the throne room, the ceiling reached just as high.

So exposed yet so claustrophobic.

Two paths left the room, not including the way she had come from. Twilight took the left. It led to a more reasonable-sized corridor, itself revealing a wide staircase.

More dark and eerie than the grand hall, her light revealed the stairs ascending and descending several flights each.

Good so far.

Twilight swallowed. “Down we go.”

“This can’t be it,” Applejack whispered. “If these artifacts are as powerful as you say, then why ain’t the access point to them more hidden?”

“The castle was meant for research. Non-official occupants weren’t allowed within most of the time,” Twilight explained as she descended.

“I wonder if we’re the first to explore this place since it was abandoned,” Rarity mumbled.

“Who… who would be dumb enough to explore this cursed place…” Fluttershy whimpered.

A loud sneeze erupted from the group, sending echoes throughout the staircase. Twilight’s heart stopped, her soul leaving her body and briefly vanishing. It returned, of course, allowing her to spin and face the culprit. Pinkie clutched her muzzle, eyes flashing between the rest of the group.

“What?!” She whined. “I couldn’t help it!”

“You could have sneezed like a proper maren,” Rarity quipped.

“Like you can talk!”

“Well,” Twilight sighed. “If something is stalking this place, it would certainly know we’re here. Let’s try to remain quiet from now on, yes?”

Twilight’s request earned a few mumbles, but no substantial complaints. She descended two floors, finding the end of the stairs.

“Do you feel that,” Fluttershy squeaked.

“That horrific dread? It’s probably nothing,” Twilight said.

“Or it’s a monster stalking us,” Rainbow suggested.

“I think I would rather believe it’s my own paranoia.”

If a monster is with us, we just trapped ourselves on the lowest level with one exit. Best to not think about it.

The end of the stairwell gave way to a wide hall. Dark gray architecture of carved stone walls and floors stood in contrast to the beautiful designs of the ground level. It made it all much more industrial and… dystopian.

Much like one of those cheap YA novels…

The initial hall reached a crossroad, leaving the option of three spooky paths to take. Twilight paused, shining her light down all three choices. No signs or direction marked the proper path.

“Well?” Rainbow hissed.

“Shh! I’m thinking!”

Okay, okay, okay. This place is an absolute maze… But the Element chamber isn’t too far away. Um…

“This way,” Twilight took the left path. It made a sharp, left corner turn, leading to a T-section. She went right, taking the path all the way to the end. “Okay, this should be it.”

“What makes you so sure? It’s no different than the other rooms we passed,” Rainbow asked.

“I’m positive this is it!” Twilight snapped. “If you want to waste time checking them, be my guest!”

“Maybe I will!”

Applejack blocked Rainbow. “Stop arguin’ and follow her lead.”

“And if she’s wrong?!” Rainbow snarled.

“Then she’s wrong,” Applejack replied coolly. “and we’ll search the other rooms. For now though…”

Rainbow growled, falling back into line.

Twilight subtly inched the door open. A fresh set of stairs greeted her, providing a tight descent. Taking a breath, Twilight took the stairs. A single room sat at the bottom. Carved from the same stone as the halls, the 5-meter cube of space stood barren like the rest of the below-ground floor.

An old desk—plain and simple in make—sat against the wall on the left. Two sheets of blank parchment rested upon it. To the right, the room opened further to reveal a machine made of metal and glass. It appeared much like an alchemy station, although much larger in scale and missing many of the components.

What did she use this for? Ooh, if only I had time! Maybe afterwards…

Twilight peeled her eyes away from the station. Her companions had spread about the room. Pinkie dug through the desk, Rainbow and Fluttershy hung by the stairs, and Applejack and Rarity stood in front of the far wall.

An engraving sat carved into its surface, of which the pair seemed to be staring at. It presented a tree, complex in design. The branches twisted and spread outward, gnarled vines hanging from each. At the apex of the trunk rested a six-pointed star with the points asymmetrical.

Annoying.

Twilight joined the farmer and clothier.

“…A strange place regardless,” Twilight caught Rarity say.

“It can’t be for nothin,’” Applejack responded. “Else it would be a waste of effort for such a nice piece.”

Hmm…

Twilight brushed past them, pressing a hand against the stone. She felt the divots and depressions of the carving, running her fingers over the star.

Hmm…

“Step back,” Twilight said, herself doing so.

“What’s goin’ on?”

“I have something I’d like to try.”

Twilight cast Telekinesis upon the star, twisting her wrist counterclockwise. Nothing. She applied more force. A slow build of stone grinding against stone filled the chamber.

Ah!

Slowly, the star rotated 90 degrees, coming to a halt. She shifted her Telekinesis to the entire carving, pushing forward. Air hissed through the split. A current of once-stagnant air billowed against Twilight. She grimaced, continuing to shove the heavy doors apart.

A long hall sat behind the blockage, extending forth around twenty meters. She cast Illumination, creating orbs of white light every two meters down the passage. A chamber rested at the end. Within it sat a statue—made of white marble, crafted similar to the carving upon the doors—brought to life. This tree’s branches each held a bowl, each bowl bearing a large, stone orb.

Twilight gasped. “I… They’re…”

I was right! I did it!

Pure elation.

“Yes yes yes yes yes! I found them!” She stepped forth, only for an arm to block her. “Hey!”

“Wait a moment, Twilight,” Applejack said.

“Waiting doesn’t—”

“Yes! Waitin’ in this case it does help! Take a moment and just think this through!”

Twilight growled, looking at the statue. “And… why am I waiting, exactly?!”

“You don’t feel it? That tree—” Applejack gestured to the statue. “—is the reason we’ve been feelin’ the way we’ve been feelin!’”

“Eh, gotta agree with Applejack on this one,” Rainbow said.

“Yeah!” Pinkie interjected. “It could be a trap!”

“Pbth,” Twilight scoffed. “There’s no way. This isn’t a dungeon from a Daring Do book. It is quite literally a castle of Queen Celestia and Princess Luna. They built it themselves! Or at least oversaw every aspect of it. Why in Equestria would they trap it?”

“Besides the fact that, as you said, Princess Luna was involved with it considering she’s become a demon from another realm,” Fluttershy whimpered, barely audible.

“And to keep out intruders!”

“No one in their right mind would try to steal from them. There aren’t any traps.”

A nervousness crept its way into Twilight’s stomach. No, perhaps there were no traps in the stereotypical sense. More realistically, a magical alarm would trip the moment anything touched the floor.

And probably alert the ones who put it there. Which would have been Celestia… and Luna…

With quick steps, Twilight walked down the corridor to the tree. She halted before the statue. It stood nearly twice her seven and three-quarters height. The five orbs held were smaller, roughly the size of healthy melons.

Twilight gulped. Overwhelming fear pulsed through her body. Her heart thumped heavily. A voice screamed for her to turn and flee.

I can’t… leave. This… this is it.

A twinge of doubt flickered in her mind. The stones could be nothing more than a swapped falsity; a fake-out done by the Rulers from the start. But, whether that was the case or not, she had found it, against all odds. Even if they were not here, this had been their resting place at one point, long since lost. The fact remained that a project determined by herself, without Celestia’s guidance, had been successful. The giddiness of discovering threatened to take over the fear.

If only…

“I thought you said the Elements would be on the tree?” Rarity called from behind.

“The… stones are… the Elements.”

“You’re kidding, darling. Those… rocks?”

“Where’s the sixth?!” Pinkie yelled.

Be quiet, be quiet!

Twilight ignited Harmonic Beam. She cast a pink laser of Essence from her palm, drawing it in a circle through the star. The stone cut easy enough through the white marble, revealing a sixth orb.

Ta-da…

Twilight released her caught breath, stepping back from the tree. The dread died ever-so slightly, at least enough to allow proper breathing. She sighed, relieved.

“Darling, I appreciate your intuition,” Rarity said. “but is it the best idea to destroy something that belongs to the ruler of Equestria and an angry, ah, monster?”

“Ignoring the semantics of grave robbing versus archeology, I’m certain that Celestia wouldn’t mind me taking these in such a time. Luna… well, she’ll be thankful if worse comes to worst and we use these to free her.”

“Or we might make her angrier…”

“She—”

A detached, ghostly breath released from the tree.

Oh svist!!!

Everything in Twilight’s mind screamed danger. Her legs refused to move, leaving her stranded in the center of the corridor.

“Get back you three!” Applejack yelled from down the corridor.

A purple haze began to ooze from around the chamber. It filled the space, appearing less as a poisonous cloud and more like a star-filled void.

Voices yelled her name. She remained still.

The dread… This… This is it. The source. It was here the whole time.

Low, sinister laughter—a deep, horror-filled sound—sent chills up Twilight’s spine. The dread spiked, filling her with a desire to empty her stomach onto the floor.

Breathe… Br… Brea…

“Impressive… The mouse found its cheese.”

That… that voice…

So similar to Celestia’s attacker, and yet so different. Deeper. More dangerous. Toting amusement and yet threatening at the same time.

“Nightmare Moon,” Twilight uttered.

“…That is the title given to us?” The rasping voice stagnated; a strange occurrence from a demoness of the stars. The mass of starry void flickered, becoming red for a split second. “It matters not. Call us as you wish, for your demise is already set in stone.”

A hand grabbed Twilight’s shoulder. She snapped from the stupor, again stumbling back to join her companions at the corridor’s entrance.

“Coward!” Rainbow flared her wings, stepping forward. “Stop hiding and show yourself!”

The mass flashed red again. It writhed, crawling into a pile and shaping itself into a loose cylinder that stood over ten feet tall. The writhing ceased, leaving only the soft flow of the star-filled entity.

Rainbow, you fool…

A long, black arm slid from the pile. Another followed opposite of the first. Together, they peeled away the cylindrical goop.

Revealed underneath stood a creature of pitch blackness outlined in a hazy violet, with storms of stars and raging nebulas across its body leered towards the group. It extended its wings like a drape of shadowed night, blocking much of the tree behind it. The androgynous form extended spindles of uncanny arms, each hand growing fingers that bared claws, all aspects too long to be Sentient-like.

Perhaps the worst was its face, or the lack of one. It only had a horrific grin of gnarled, pure white teeth to show.

“Any more wise words you wish to spout, chromatic one?”

Faint whispers in the ancient Algonic language hissed in Twilight’s ears, cursing the air with the lost tongue.

“You’re…” Applejack stuttered. “You’re… really…”

“Really what? Real?!” Nightmare Moon shrieked, crashing a fist into the wall. It flashed red. “Did the world forget us in our absence?! Were our contributions before so miniscule?! We held power over the stars! The Moon! We created the constellations that are still used to traverse the known world!”

The grin twisted into a snarl, the invisible eyes peering into Twilight’s soul.

“But, now we see. We are only remembered as a monster, our legacy tainted by falsehoods. So be it. If that is all you want to see, then it is what shall become true. We are no longer the Princess Luna. We are… Nightmare Moon.”

Nightmare Moon took a step forward, snarling softly.

“Nope,” Rainbow bolted up the stairs. By extension, Fluttershy, who had all but wrapped herself around Rainbow’s arm, took off with her. One by one, the rest fled until only Applejack remained with Twilight.

“Twilight, this is suicide. Let’s go!” Applejack urged.

“I can’t leave without the Elements.”

“…We’ll wait at the main doors,” Applejack said, taking her leave.

Twilight tensed herself, facing off against the monster. It lurched forward, slowly closing the gap. “You think us as fools? We know why you are here.”

“Well, that’s for me to know and you to find out.”

“We already know, prodigy of Celestia,” It spat.

Twilight’s breath hitched. “How, how do you know that? What have you done with her?!”

“So you do care for her, how sweet.”

“What have you done?!”

“The same thing we are going to do with you…”

Nightmare Moon lowered itself like an animal ready to pounce.

Twilight snorted, preparing herself.

Gotta get the stones. Didn’t look too heavy. I hope they all fit in my bag. Svist! Why didn’t I do that first?!

Nightmare Moon lunged forward, crawling on all fours like an animal. Twilight’s heart jumped, nearly forcing her to run. She held her ground, extending an arm out.

Here we go…

Twilight cast Blink, running forward at the same time. Nightmare Moon’s vicious charge fell to stillness. With a quick breath, Twilight ran at the monster. She leapt over it and ran to the tree.

UUhhh…

The spell ended, returning time to normal. Twilight groaned.

I hate that feeling…

A heavy thud echoed from behind. Not risking a glance, Twilight cast Telekinesis over the stones, levitating them into her backpack and zipping it shut.

Step one complete.

Twilight spun around. She dropped to the ground, barely avoiding a snap of teeth at her head. She cast Blink again, crawling to her feet and running towards the stairs. The duration ended before she reached them. Her stomach clenched.

“Urrh, once more…”

For a third time, she cast Blink, climbing the steps to the primary level. She ended the spell early, dropping to her knees. Retching, her bowels emptied onto the ground.

I can only imagine how bad teleporting is.

Twilight groaned, stumbling to her feet and breaking into a sprint. Nightmare Moon’s shriek echoed down the halls, heavy scurrying rapidly closing the gap between the two. Twilight took the first turn, her heart racing.

“May Celestia’s light guide me!” Twilight cast Illumination, sending a cone of white light from her head. She retreated through the path the whole group had taken mere minutes ago, finding herself at the bottom of the last stairs.

Two flights’ worth.

She bolted up them, leaping three at a time. The pursuing sound of Nightmare Moon never ceased. Each clawing strike against the stone floors sent a chill through Twilight’s heart.

The run to the throne room passed as a blur. Twilight found herself in the massive hall, spotting a light shine in her direction. It dipped away, revealing Applejack and Rainbow standing near the gap.

Almost… there…

“Twilight! Duck!”

Huh?

A hard blow glanced off her backpack, the force shoving her forward. Her feet lost their footing, throwing her to the ground in a sloppy roll.

“Ow…” Pain emanated from her knee and right forearm. Twilight looked back towards the thrones.

Nightmare Moon towered above her, illuminated by Illumination, and featuring a total of four arms. It snarled, reaching out towards Twilight.

Twilight backed away, silently screaming.

A loud crack rang throughout the chamber. Nightmare Moon flinched back. “Did you attempt to injure us with a conventional weapon?!”

Another crack echoed. Nightmare Moon flinched again, a reasonable hole tearing in its arm. The hole filled back in. “This is nonsensical!”

Twilight crawled away and ducked behind a large chunk of rubble as more shots fired.

“We are a being comprised of pure Essence! You cannot harm me with your projectiles!”

“Who says I’m tryin’ to harm ya,” Applejack yelled.

“…Very clever, for a mortal!”

Twilight peeked over the stone to see Nightmare Moon lunge at her. Her eyes went wide.

A sudden flash of blue dropped onto Nightmare Moon. Rainbow landed onto Nightmare Moon, driving her heels into the monster’s head. It crumpled under the Nen’yos, falling into a pile of black space.

“Wow! I can’t believe that worked!” Rainbow drew a sidearm. “Now let’s get you—ACK!”

A black arm snapped up, wrapping its fingers around Rainbow’s neck. Nightmare Moon rose to its original height, bringing its face to Rainbow’s.

“Big mistake…”

“Twilight… run!” Rainbow choked out.

Twilight spun on her heel and bolted for the front doors.

Rainbow cried out behind her. Twilight glanced up, watching the Nen’yos spiral through the air and out a hole above the doors.

Oh svist. She better not be dead!

“Mortals never learn!”

Something latched onto Twilight’s bag, lifting her off the ground.

“What the?!”

“You cannot escape us, prodigy,” the dark voice hissed into her ear.

Twilight slipped the backpack off her shoulders, falling a few feet to the ground.

No no no!

She spun to face Nightmare Moon. The monster held her bag in its claws, grinning wider than ever. It extended a claw, sending Twilight back with a concussive blast.

Twilight grunted, falling back to the ground. “Uhhh…”

Nightmare Moon cackled, dumping the contents upon the ground. The Elements. More shots rang out from behind Twilight. Spots upon Nightmare Moon’s chest flared and reformed. It ignored the attacks, growing another pair of arms and picking up the stones one by one.

“Twilight! My rifle’s not doin’ anything!”

Twilight snapped from her stupor. “Go and make sure Rainbow’s not dead! I got this!”

She climbed to her feet and ignited the Harmonic Beam Spell in her palm, releasing a stream of pure Essence directly into Nightmare Moon’s throat. The place of impact sunk, suffering the same effect as Applejack’s attempts.

A grimace replaced the laughter. The beast seemingly stared, unaffected by the attack.

Darn it! Okay, this is fine.

Twilight dropped the spell.

“Your simple Spells cannot harm me, weakling!”

Oh yeah?

Twilight thrust her hand towards Nightmare Moon, setting her Harmonic Frequency to Flashfire. A burst of white flames exploded in the monster’s face.

“RAAHG!!” Nightmare Moon clawed at her perceived eyes, two stones dropping to the floor.

Yes!

Twilight reached towards one of the stone orbs. She grabbed it with Telekinesis, sliding it in her direction.

“Insolent whelp!!”

A flash of sickly purple drew Twilight’s eye to Nightmare Moon’s ‘face.’ Realization struck her like a brick.

Oh…

Nightmare Moon fired a beam at Twilight. It pierced her shoulder, forcing her to drop Telekinesis.

“Gah!” Pain surged through her entire form, originating from the point of impact. Her forearm spasmed, losing concentration upon Telekinesis. Twilight scrambled behind some rubble, grasping her shoulder.

“You are quite brilliant, like the Sun you follow, but you cannot win.”

Through tearing eyes, she watched Nightmare Moon crack the five clutched Elements, splitting them open. Large gems of magenta, pink, blue, red, and orange fell out. They shimmered with arcane might, emitting a light hum.

“No…” Twilight whined, reaching out to the last intact Element.

“Try as you might,” Nightmare Moon stalked up to the orb. “We win.”

A teal aura grasped the orb. Nightmare Moon’s head twisted, watching it roll off to the beast’s right—Twilight’s left. It lifted into the hands of Rarity.

“I believe this is ours.”

Nightmare Moon snarled, causing the brief glint of bravery in the Monok’ehpos’ eyes to fade. “It never was!”

“As if!” Pinkie yelled, throwing a stone. It passed through Nightmare Moon’s torso.

The monster snorted. “You—”

Pinkie threw another stone. It hit the orange Element, forcing it from Nightmare Moon’s palm. “Ha!”

“Excellent work, Pinkie!” Rarity reached out, pulling that Element to herself as well.

“No!”

“Pinkie! Catch!” Rarity levitated it to Pinkie.

“Got it!” Pinkie caught it with both hands. “Gah! Ow! It… hah! Burns!!”

Pinkie juggled the Element, running off as Nightmare Moon gave chase.

“Twilight, dear, are you alright?!” Rarity said, joining at her side.

“Ah, my hand,” Twilight winced. “It got hit pretty bad.”

“Can you still cast Spells?” Applejack asked, running over.

“I don’t know! But it won’t matter if we can’t get hold of the Elements!”

“At least we have one,” Applejack took the stone from Rarity, dropping it onto the ground. She brought her heel onto the orb. It split upon the second strike, revealing a purple Element within.

The Element of Manipulation.

“Where’s Fluttershy and Rainbow?” Twilight asked, a detonation of Harmonic energy followed by a roar sounding off in the chamber.

“Rainbow took a good hit,” Applejack looked towards the sound. “Fluttershy’s stabilizin’ her. They’ll be here soon.”

“Ya aah!” Pinkie’s yell drew Twilight’s attention. The maren soared through the air, falling heavily onto the ground next to the three. “Oww…”

“Rarity, go and get them,” Twilight said, scooping up the purple gem. “Now we jus… just… need…”

Her words slurred.

Whuh…

A horrible, draining sensation struck her chest. Her vision shifted from focused to unfocused. “Uuhh…”

“Twilight? Twilight! What’s happenin?!’” The words surrounded Twilight’s head as a hand pressed onto her shoulder.

From the moment of the contact, the draining lessened.

“Gah! What in the Creator’s name?!” The hand vanished, bringing the soul-sucking emptiness back to its original might.

Twilight released the Element onto the ground. Instantly, the horrific feeling left. She shook her head roughly. “Ugh… The Elements must have a negative effect!”

“Is that why holding the red one felt like fire?”

Grating laughter cut through the air. “Fool! You cannot even bear a single Element! How do you plan to defeat me?!”

Twilight ignored it. “It lessened when someone touched me! We need to share the load!”

“That thing felt like it was tryin’ to steal my soul! It can’t be good long term!”

“We just need to use it long enough to get the rest of the Elements.”

Twilight looked up, seeing Rarity return. Fluttershy and Rainbow followed as well, the latter hanging from the former.

“Rarity told us you have a plan,” Fluttershy murmured, her eyes wide.

“When I grab the Element, all of you make a chain! I can’t wield this alone!”

“We’re here for you, Twilight!” Pinkie wrapped a hand around Twilight’s ankle. Hit it!”

A fireball streaked overhead, slamming into the wall behind Twilight.

You believe you can wield these stones against us?! You are too weak to wield one, let alone six! Our victory is inevitable! You will never see Celestia, the Sun, or their light ever again!”

Nightmare Moon fell into another stream of hideous laughter. Twilight steeled herself, picking up the Element. The drain returned, albeit slightly more tolerable.

“Gahhhh….” Pinkie moaned.

Twilight looked to her companions. “Pl—please… I—I can’t do this… alone…”

Applejack stretched out a hand and set in on Twilight’s shoulder. Rarity followed, as did Fluttershy and Rainbow.

Thrice more, the pain fell away until it no longer sapped her soul. In a turn of events, it shocked her systems. The dull thumping in her horn and arm disappeared. Power surged within.

Twilight inhaled, standing to her feet. On her left stood Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Rainbow. On her left sat Pinkie, a hand clutching Twilight’s ankle. In a hand-to-shoulder chain they stood, sharing the taxing load.

Too weak you say?!

“You’re wrong!” Twilight’s voice cracked with energy. Perhaps not at Nightmare Moon’s level, but enough to grab the monster’s attention. “I’m not alone!”

Casting Telekinesis, Twilight tore the other Elements from Nightmare Moon’s clutches, bringing them to herself. Effortlessly, she passed them out to her companions, keeping the magenta gem.

The Element of Conjuration. Hmm.

As they received their gems, the power flowing through Twilight’s—and probably her companions’ veins—multiplied fivefold.

“You see, unlike you, I have… I have…”

Twilight paused.

Are they really? Do I actually see them as… Ah, screw it. For Celestia!

“I have acquaintances!”

“We’re acquaintances?!” Pinkie’s etherealized voice nearly split Twilight’s eardrums. “Yes!!!”

Twilight’s feet lifted from the ground. She glared down at Nightmare Moon, the monster’s face of utter shock looking back.

“All of you, release the gem and open yourself up to it!” Twilight threw her gem out in front of her. It hovered a foot away, spinning.

Let’s hope this works!

As her friends followed suit, the gems glowed brighter and rotated faster. Streams of Harmonic Essence identical in color streamed from her body to the gem, forming an outline around it. The others transformed into golden necklaces, while hers became a crown, the indistinguishable stone shaped into a magenta star.

Yes! It worked!!

Twilight took the crown, firmly setting it upon her head. “Let’s do this!”

She threw out her hand once again.

Return this creature of darkness to its rightful form: The Night Princess Luna!

A collection of Harmonic Essence spiraled above her, throwing every shade of a rainbow around the chamber. It all collected at the ceiling, releasing a single beam directly to Nightmare Moon.

“Noooo…” Nightmare Moon yelled, the beam colliding with it.

The pure glow from the strike blocked Twilight’s view, hiding whatever process behind a shimmering whiteness. The light grew brighter until it was all Twilight could see; the humming of Essence filling her ears.

As the flashbang of light faded, Twilight found herself upon the ground. All forms of Harmonic Essence had disappeared, replaced by a deathly headache.

“Uuhhghh…”

The chamber had returned to darkness, no longer lit by Illumination or the onslaught of the Elements. Twilight tried to cast Illumination again. Instantly, her mind shrieked with absolute agony.

Oohhh… Essence Exhaustion… I… I can’t be… Not with… Nightmare Moon…

“Is… everyone alright?” Applejack’s voice called out as a beam of light emitted in Twilight’s left peripheral.

The farmer in question stood close to the door. She shone her light over everyone, highlighting Rainbow on the ground with Fluttershy next to her clutching her head, Rarity resting against some debris, and Pinkie happily bouncing around.

“Eehhh…” Rarity groaned. “Oooh… My head…”

“I feel just fine!” Pinkie exclaimed.

Twilight cringed, pressing her ears firmly against her head. “Pinkie… I mean this with the right amount of insult… keep your voice at its lowest volume. It sounds like nails upon a chalkboard.”

“I apologize in advance, dear, but I must concur with Twilight,” Rarity added.

“You got it, ladies!”

“Yo! Check out this necklace!” Rainbow said, holding up a golden band with a red gem in the center. “It got a lightning bolt on—ow! Fluttershy!”

“If you would sit still,” Fluttershy berated. “It wouldn’t hurt.”

“Hey! You got one too, Pinkie!”

Pinkie paused, looking down at her own golden amulet. It had the same golden band as Rainbow’s, instead with a turquoise, balloon-shaped gem.

“I have an… apple? Is this thing patronizin’ me?”

Twilight sat up, trying to subdue the room into a state of stillness. “The Elements… take the form of something related to the bearer. That’s why… ughh… why you all have objects connected to you personally… Now, please be quiet…”

“Well, anyways,” Applejack continued. “I thought this whole plan would be an absolute mess. And it was. But, it worked. Looks like we got some sorta connection after all.”

Yep. Keep talking. Who cares if I want to stab myself in the head because of all this noise?

“Twilight? Twilight, are you here?” a voice called from further within the castle.

Wait… It, it can’t be.

The light from Applejack’s flashlight grew in strength. A warmth coated Twilight’s fur like the sun on a Sun Season day. “C…Celestia?”

The Queen revealed herself in Twilight’s vision, wearing the same attire from the Sun Celebration.

Oh, thank the Creators.

“Twilight!” Celestia strode to Twilight’s side, kneeling next to her. The Queen pressed her hand upon Twilight’s forehead, blinding her with a shimmer of yellow aura. Relaxation overtook the headache. The fatigue and the pain disappeared.

Twilight sighed, relieved. “Thank you so much.”

Celestia stood, smile ever present. “I should be the one thanking you, my dear Twilight.” She moved over to Rarity, pressing her hand to the Monok’s head as well.

Twilight stood, rubbing her head. All her companions had fallen to their knees except for Rainbow. The Nen’yos propped herself up with her arms, a bloodied bandage wrapped around her left shin.

“I had no doubts in your abilities, Twilight,” Celestia walked back to Twilight, wrapping her in a hug.

“Wait, you knew I would do this? But, you told me to forget it.”

“I did say such. However, when has my word alone stopped you from chasing your goals?”

A wave of heat flowed to Twilight’s face.

“While I had requested you not pursue the Elements or the idea of Nightmare Moon, I had asked you to give yourself a break. And to find yourself some proper friends. Regardless of such, I am grateful you took it upon yourself to help. I am even more pleased to know you did not do it alone.”

Celestia broke the hug. “Now, if only another could have the same change of heart… Princess Luna.”

Princess Luna—presumably—lied supine among the rubble. She appeared with sparkling navy-blue fur and a mane resembling a nebula of blues and purples.

She’s exactly like the history books described. Now that I think about it… this form resembles the one that attacked Celestia in Kinstown… not the monster of Nightmare Moon.

Strangely, and thankfully, the Alicorn had a sapphire dress bearing black and white accents wrapped around herself.

“Luna,” Celestia said, kneeling next to her sister. “It has been near 500 years since we saw each other. Both of us are at fault for the events of the past, but neither of us should bear the grief.” She reached out her hand. “We were meant to share the throne, my Sister.”

Luna stiffly rose into a sitting position, her face like stone.

“Please, put aside your pride and accept my hand. I offer you my forgiveness and a place at my side once again if you are willing to do the same.”

“Your offer…” The Night Princess’s voice had lost its ethereal might, now speaking simple words of a normal Sentient. “…is acceptable. In taking your hand, I accept your forgiveness and give you my own.”

Luna gave Celestia her hand. The Elder pulled the Younger to her feet, wrapping her into a hug. “I have missed you, dear Luna.”

A loud sniff came from Pinkie. “Oh, my, gosh,” She sobbed. “This… is so beautiful!” She wiped away the tears, immediately changing from a sad, sobbing, pink sight to her standard ball of excitement. “You know what this calls for?! A celebration!!”

“Uh, Your Majesty?” Twilight barely caught Fluttershy’s soft voice over Pinkie’s caterwauling.

Celestia seemed to hear it just fine. She turned towards the Nen’yos, smiling lightly. “Yes, my dear?”

“Uhm… I don’t wish to demand anything from my Queen…”

“Fluttershy!” Rainbow grasped Fluttershy’s pant leg. “I said I’ll be—ouch—fine!”

“I see. Do not worry, Fluttershy. I am indebted to you for returning my Sister. Healing any injuries is the least I can do.”

The Queen knelt, pressing a hand onto the bandage. Rainbow winced. The white and red-stained cloth became hidden under yellow. Rainbow winced again, flinching away.

“Gah… why does it hurt… so… oh? That feels… better.”

Celestia stood. “All is healed.”

“I am forever grateful, Your Majesty,” Fluttershy knelt.

“Yeah, thanks,” Rainbow said, rising to her feet.

Fluttershy elbowed her. Rainbow sighed, falling into a bow.

That arrogant Nen’yos! She can’t even kneel, especially after…

Celestia nodded, gesturing for them to rise.

Fine. If she isn’t upset, then I’ll let it slide. For now.

“Now, I do not wish to be hasty, but may we leave,” Fluttershy said, the question sounding more like a statement. As such, she immediately sped for the doors, not waiting for a response.

“Right with you, darling!”

Rainbow and Rarity followed Fluttershy.

“You coming, Twilight?!” Pinkie waved from the door.

Applejack pushed her out. “For goodness’ sake! Leave her alone for a moment!”

They left as well, leaving Twilight alone with Celestia and Luna. Twilight glanced between the two.

How different they are.

Seeing Luna properly revealed how deep the contrast really ran. The younger Alicorn appeared hardened, visibly bulkier, and larger than Celestia. A warrior princess, to say the least. All the brawn and the beauty.

“I am impressed, Twilight. You managed to find not one, but five friends.”

“Ah, let’s not be… that hasty. They’re… acquaintances. For now.”

“I see,” Celestia laughed. “And how do you feel? Using Magic can be taxing.”

Magic. I used, actual Magic… Honestly, it didn’t feel much difference from Essence. Perhaps less draining… At least until the end.

“I feel… fine.”

“You will not be feeling such in the morning,” Luna murmured.

“What is the plan now?” Twilight asked.

“We return to the Sun Celebration. Then, if you desire, you may return to Canterlot with Luna and myself.”

“Will you start funding my projects again?”

Celestia’s smile dropped. She raised a brow.

“Ah-ha… Kidding! I’m kidding! Well… if that’s the case… Uh, I would like to request a transfer to Kinstown. Temporarily of course! For a short period of time! To relax!

And maybe squeeze some… not-so-open projects out… heh-heh-heh….

“…I find that to be an excellent idea.”

“And, what of these?” Twilight held out the Element crown.

“These artifacts have been hidden for centuries,” Celestia took it, examining the gem. “Long before Luna’s disappearance even. It has been nearly a millennium since they were wielded, longer since they were wielded by mortal Sentients. It would be in Equestria’s best interest to keep them safe in Canterlot.”

Celestia gave the crown back. “However, considering your friends have already taken their Elements with them, I see no harm in allowing you a few days to review them.”

Giddiness flooded Twilight’s chest.

Yesyesyesyesyesyesyes…

“As you wish,” Twilight said, barely containing the excitement in her chest. “Thank you, my Queen.”

“You are welcome, my student. Go and join your ‘acquaintances.’ I will see you soon.”

The two shared another hug.

Celestia watched Twilight exit the castle, her smile still upon her face.

Luna groaned, cracking her neck. “It has been some time since my form has felt pain. This is among my top ten. Thank you for subduing the effect, by the way. And for blinding me.”

“To cover your transformation, a little blindness is a meager payment. And I did subdue the effects, more than you could imagine. In my opinion, you deserved to take the full blast.”

“And what leads you to such a claim? I merely did as you and I planned, despite my feelings towards it all.”

“You could have harmed Twilight and her friends.”

“I did, actually. And what of it? It was nothing serious.”

“One broke their leg. Twilight could have been seriously injured from your attack.”

“I thought you wished it to be ‘realistic.’ What I showed barely scratched the surface of my frustrations. I would have gone farther if not for your constant vigilance.”

“I wanted to make sure you did not get carried away.”

Luna sighed. “It was your idea I utilize my pent-up anger. Then you go and prevent me from doing such. You cannot have the cake and eat it, too.”

“I suppose… What blame could I give? You were living up to the legend of Nightmare Moon, as I asked.”

“Not to my full potential.”

“It worked well enough. She suspects nothing.”

“Which surprises me. By our… performance… I would think anyone reasonable would realize the foolishness of it all. If I had been a true monster, I would have simply ended their lives and taken the Elements!”

“I’m glad you didn’t.”

“You tell me much has changed in the world, but so far, I’ve seen no difference. What could even surprise me at this point?”

“Hmm. I bet ten bits you will be surprised before the Sun Celebration ends.”

“Hah! Make it twenty!”

Foolish as always, Sister.

Celestia took to the stairwell, ascending the steps. Luna followed, grumbling.

“What vexes you, Luna?”

“They truly believed my greatest threat as a demoness was ‘refusing to lower the moon?’ The Sun and the Moon move on different cycles. Me freezing the moon would only affect the tides!”

“What they chose has been set in stone. You cannot change it now.”

“It is still foolish! Besides, now that I have returned to this plane, I can twist the story to my favor, starting with a name change. Daybreaker would suit me better, do you not think?”

“Unfortunately, such is my name, should I ever turn.”

“…What?”

“Relax. It has only happened within the stories written. Some, might I say, are rather well written.”

“Wonderful. You get stories written about your downfall. I get fearmongering and bad legends.”

“You did cause more of an uprising. Plus, yours happened. This reminds me, I would like you to make amends with the citizens of Kinstown. Their town hall is quite a mess.”

“Why? They think a deranged monster did it.”

“And we both know you were under no influences.”

“…Fine. I will apologize.”

Celestia reached the final level, taking to a long hall.

“Whatever happened to my Noct Ther’enus? Are they gone?”

“They are thriving. Unfortunately, I had to hide them away, but they exist and await your return.”

“Why did you hide them? What did the anthow do?!”

“Do not grow angry, Luna. The anthow were distraught at your disappearance and lashed out against anyone they thought was at fault.”

“…Were any hurt?”

“…”

“Phoe’tioe, were any of my Children hurt.”

“None were killed, if that is what you wonder.”

“Good.”

Celestia paused at a T-section in the hall.

“You brought me to the moment where this all started.”

“Yes, but I really came here to procure my… personal belongings. I never had a moment to do so before. Knowing Twilight, she will undoubtedly return to scour the place for any sort of tome. I would suggest you do the same.”

“You pick the most interesting students,” Luna said, heading to the right.

Celestia watched Luna walk to her chambers.

My dear Luna, my dear Gah’dehias. To have you back is a wish I never imagined would come true.

Formed through arrogance, an empty hole had been filled.

If only I could repair all the damage I have dealt.

Celestia breathed deeply. This moment could not be spent grieving events that would never change. The time would be spent in celebration for what had been found.

Perhaps, in the future, I could reconcile with her as well.

For now, though, one fault of Celestia’s had been redeemed. Luna had returned. At this moment, everything had been made right.

Author's Note

Hope you all enjoy. Feel free to leave any questions or comments, I'll try to answer them all.

If you all are curious or confused by some strange words/names, here's a Google Doc that explains what each word means.

As always, thanks to HoneyBacho for assisting with editing and for his grand devotion to my lore. As a thanks, he is permitted one Fun Facttm to share with you all about the chapter, whether it is about the process of editing or about lore surrounding an aspect the chapter introduces/discusses. These Facts can be serious, or not-so-serious. Take them as you will.

HoneyBacho's Fun Facttm:
During the fight with Nightmare Moon, as Twilight lengthily explained her plan of wielding the Elements to her companions, Pinkie played several games of Tic-Tac-Toe with their adversary. Pinkie smoked her in every game. In a rage, Nightmare Moon returned Pinkie to her place at Twilight’s feet and chucked a fireball to smite them all. Celestia diverted the attack, giving Nightmare Moon a thumbs down for her attempt. Twilight remained none the wiser.