Memories of the Past

Chapters

A Royal Intrusion
Like Mother like Daughter
Oh what now...
How I met your Mother
A promise 500 years in the making
6 - My Mother Told Me

A Royal Intrusion

“... and I want the visit to Ponyville to be scheduled for this weekend.” Twilight told her royal assistant as they walked toward the throne room. “I want to make sure the reconstruction is going as planned. And why we haven't heard from the crews all week. Every other town and village that was invaded has been sending daily reports. So why not them?”

“I’m not sure princess,” Tidy Scrolls sighed as she jotted down the princess’s words. “It’s almost as if they dropped off the face of Equestria. But I’ll make sure everything is ready for your visit.” Looking up she smiled. “I heard your friends are also going to be joining you?”

“Yes, they wanted to go earlier but since so much has changed in these last few centuries I want to be there with them to help ease the transition.” Rubbing her bridge with a hoof the princess sighed. “Well get started on that and check back with me in the afternoon.”

“Yes Princess.” Tidy Scrolls bowed and walked away as Pearl came running up.

“Pearl, This is a pleasant surprise. I’m so sorry your scheduled classes have not resumed, but so much is needed for the rebuilding.” Twilight smiled down at her student.

“It’s no problem. I’ve just tried to keep myself busy. That Sunny Starscout girl is one cool pony. She’s been teaching me to rollerblade.”

“And how’s that going for you?” Twilight chuckled, lifting Pearl’s mane and noticed a few new bruises.

“Not bad. It took two days, but it’s finally taking me longer to fall down.” Pearl sighed and leaned up against a wall, her dragon scale jacket half crumpling. “I’m kinda worried for her though. Her old friend Sprout, the one that was leading the invasion with his mom. Well apparently he’s gone missing.”

“What?” Twilight’s eyes widened as she reared back a bit. “I thought he was under strict twenty four hour watch by the guards. How can he just up and vanish.”

Pearl shrugged and looked at the palace guards, each one having a mechanical centurion next to them. Pearl had to give it to that Sunset Shimmer. She knew her way around magical constructs. “I don’t know, and nor do Sunny and her friends. They did tell me that a few days ago he started to talk again. He would sit facing away from the statues and it seemed as if he was talking to his mother. Then two days ago, he just up and disappeared in the middle of the night.”

“Great, this is all I need right now. A half mad pony on the loose who’s mother nearly brought about the ruination of our civilization. What other headaches can the universe throw at me?” Twilight sighed as she pushed past her throne doors. Pearl just shrugged while following behind her.

Twilight and Pearl both stopped dead as they looked at the throne. A half dozen magazines were tossed about the base. The two guards who were stationed there looked up and gasped. With blushes on their faces, they quickly tossed aside what they were looking at and stood straight.

Twilight and Pearl barely noticed the guards as sitting on the throne was a nine tailed fox no larger than Pearl. His back pressed against one leg rest while his legs hung loose over the other. In one paw was an open copy of Playcolt. The other paw holding an open soda bottle.

“Seriously guys? You stallions like looking at these things?” Forestsong sighed as he flipped through the pages, pulling open the center folds he whistled. “Well I have to admit this one does have a nicely shaped flank, great curves. Oof, and look at that floof.” Looking over at Twilight he smiled. “I still don’t get it, but I do know what I like.”

Twilight’s eyes twitched as she watched him. Her wing swiftly covered Pearl’s eyes out of reflex, barely noticing that Pearl just rolled her eyes and walked around the wing and looked at Forestsong. “Forest… Kohaku. While I don’t mind you visiting. And while I’ll tolerate you sitting on my throne. I would ask you NOT read dirty magazines in my throne room.”

Smirking, he folded the pages back up and tossed the magazine on top of the pile. “Then why did you have them in the secret compartment under the cushion?”

Twilight felt all of her blood rush to her face as she stiffened. Twilight half eyed the windows in a half baked plan to escape.

Her two guards snickered as they got to work gathering up the paperbacks as Kohaku leaped off the throne and walked towards the pair.

Pearl looked up at her mentor and almost broke out laughing. “I always had my suspicions about that.” Shaking her head she walked up to her new friend. “Hey there. Is there anything you’re after or did you show up just to break our princess?”

Kohaku chuckled as he eyed Pearl a smile crossing his lips. “Well I did just show up to give you two something. An easier way to visit my home without having to resort to Discord.”

With a quick cough Twilight regained her composure. “I appreciate that. I know Pearl here has been wanting to visit. And I’d rather she not find herself in the same predicament I was in.”

“Oh fat chance of that happening. I told him in no uncertain terms, if he ever popped anything in my bedchambers again while me and my mate are… occupied. I’d not only shove his head back up where I did, but do it antler first. Needless to say he got the point.” Kohaku grinned as both mares giggled. Reaching into the inside pocket of his kimono he pulled out two very old silver necklaces. Both fashioned in the shape of Pearl and Twilight’s cutie marks.

Both Twilight and Pearl took them in their hooves and shivered as they felt the power emanating from them.

Pearl trembled as she stared at hers. A sense of deep seeded familiarity came over her. She didn’t know why but she felt as if she had held this pendent before. Slipping it over her neck, Pearl closed her eyes and bit down on her lower lip.

Twilight looked down at her student. She stepped forward one hoof, starting to say something but fell silent with one look from Kohaku.

“Just touch your hooves to the mark, and think of my home.” Holding up his paw he silenced their questions. “Yes I know you’ve never seen it from the outside, doesn't matter. The magic will bring you to the living quarters.”

“Thank you.” Pearl grinned as she felt like jumping up and down with glee. She loved how it looked against her small floof. For a moment she looked up and saw the quick flash of pain across Kohaku’s face. But it vanished so quickly she questioned if she had seen it at all. Running out she wrapped her front legs around Kohaku’s neck which he responded with an affectionate wrap of his front leg around her midsection.

Twilight sighed as she saw the look of affection that came over Kohaku’s face. His eyes closed with a smile almost ear to ear. “Pearl, why don’t you head on out for now. I’m sure you could use more time learning to rollerblade.

“That eager to get rid of me already? I just got here.” Pearl smirked as she looked over her shoulder at Twilight.

“No, it’s just I want a word with Kohaku alone.”

Shrugging Pearl just sighed. “Alright, later Forestsong. I’ll see you at my next class Twilight, assuming it’s actually in session.” Pearl shook her head as she walked out.

“I know you haven’t told her.” Kohaku’s face went serious as he moved up and sat next to Twilight who just shook her head.

“I’m on edge if I should tell her or not.” Twilight sighed deeply as she looked at her pendent. It was old. Far older than it looked. Her hoof tingled with how much magic was within this simple piece of silver. She doubted her entire body could have compared with it.

“I would appreciate it if you didn’t tell her.” Kohaku looked out the window at his forest. The tips of the trees swayed back and forth ever so slowly. Already he saw a flock of birds flying about and pictured a familiar red headed mare soaring high. “She’ll find out herself, she always does.”

“But wouldn’t it ease the transition if I tell her?”

“Perhaps, but you’ll never be able to answer all her questions.” Kohaku looked Twilight in the eyes. His own amber spheres shimmered.

“I know this is just the latest in a reincarnation cycle that has gone on for a while now…”

“Almost thirty thousand years.”

Twilight saw the pained look in his face and staggered backward and fell up against the wall, her eyes wide. “I n.. Never… never thought..”

“And that’s not including the time she was alive, while never once accepting an immortal life she did have an extended lifespan. Living long enough to make most ponies jealous, even by today’s standards.” Kohaku reached out with his tails and pulled Twilight back up onto her hooves. “Sorry, my mate always told me I have no tact. Come to think of it Pearl always reminded me of that a lot too. Small wonder why the two were destined to be soul sisters.”

“What!?” Twilight felt her mind overheat. Had it not been for Kohaku’s tails she might have fainted away.

“Oo, sorry about that… just thinking out loud. Any chance of you forgetting that?” Kohaku chuckled as Twilight’s head shook side to side. “Fair enough. I’ll explain that when I have more time.”

“You're immortal, what is time to you or me for that matter?” Twilight smirked as she heard him chuckle.

“Yes, but I promised my son I'd visit and spend the afternoon with him.”

“Your son?”

Kohaku quirked an eyebrow and smirked back at her. “Thirty three thousand years of marriage, did you not think I would have fathered children?”

“I…” Her voice was silenced by his raised paw.

“Forget it. I’ve had countless children, sons and daughters both. But this one lives closest to the Everfree.”

“How is that possible? You'd think a fox would stick out like a sore hoof.” Twilight stood up and walked over to her throne and shook her head.

“You never knew I existed until that little ‘war’, if that little spat could even be called that. And that’s to say nothing of my mate.” Kohaku scratched behind his neck for a moment with his hind leg. Emanating a loud purr. “If you must know, he lives life as a pony in this little hamlet town not too far from here.

“Ponyville!” Twilight spun her head around with an audible pop.

“Yeah that’s it. Now if you excuse me. I don’t want to be late.” Kohaku got up and walked toward the doors.

“Wait a moment. You by chance haven't heard anything about a pony named Sprout who was last seen near your forest have you?”

“Sprout… average sized stallion, Red coat. Blond mane. Has been crying for his mommy for the past week?” Kohaku looked over his shoulder.

“That’s him.”

“Haven't seen him.” Twilight reached out with a hoof but stood there silently. The tone in his voice told her that he would divulge nothing more. And that their audience together was at an end.

Sprout groaned as he followed behind his mother. His hooves hurt, having walked all night long and through the morning. The midday sun shimmering down through the canopy almost half blinded him.

Since entering the forest she hadn’t talked much appart from encouraging her son to keep moving forward. Sprout looked forward at his mom and sighed. How had things gone so wrong, it was supposed to be so easy. They were winning when that creature showed up. Looking up, Sprout found himself alone in the woods. Standing before a huge waterfall.

“Mommy?” Sprout whispered as he looked around. His mother remained silent. The sounds of leaves crunching and twigs breaking sent shivers down his spine. His mane started to stand up along the back of his neck.

“Oh Sprout, I’m so sorry. I know I told you earlier but I was wrong. I hope you can forgive me one day.” Phyllis Cloverleaf closed her eyes and bowed her head.

A sudden snap of a twig forced Sprout to turn around. Looking back a loud gasp escaped his lips. His mother had vanished. Trembling Sprout looked about. “Mommy?” a quivering voice escaped his lips as something soft touched his shoulder.

“Shhh. you’re going to be okay Sprout, mommy’s here to heal you.” Phyllis’s voice whispered lovingly in her son’s ear.

Sprout turned around and looked into the deep cerulean blue eyes of a twelve hoof high fox. Nine tails swirling around the young pony. Sprout’s eyes closed as he fell limp.

The fox’s nine tails wrapped tenderly around the young pony. Pulling him close before walking through the waterfall. Two nearby bunnies twitched their noses before hopping away.

From the shadows a ten hoof high dragoness smiled and nodded before leaping up and flying off toward the heart of Everfree.

Like Mother like Daughter

Tsunami Rose stretched out in her home’s gardens. The sound of a running waterfall flowing down hill past fields of flowers, filling her senses with the same passion her beloved fox had when creating this place. She enjoyed the scents and sounds even more as she kept her sunhat lowered over her eyes, keeping the sun’s rays out of her closed eyes as she sunned herself.

She smiled to herself until she heard a familiar pop and a sudden splash in the duck pond.

“A pond?! Why would this thing teleport me into a pond!!”

Tsumi smiled at hearing the familiar voice. Gee, I wonder who could be that mischievous. The dragoness giggled at her thoughts.

“Hello Pearl. I see you got Kohaku’s gift. Why not come over here and dry yourself off.”

“Ugh. Yeah, although I didn’t expect to fall into a duck pond.” Pearl smirked as she saw a few ducks the size of foals fly back and land into the waters. “Is everything here supersized?”

“Why do you think I smile so much,” the dragoness chuckled, lifting her hat up and looking at the young mare. Who was staring at her confused. “Nevermind, welcome to our home. Sorry you got deposited in a pond. The pendant just ports you to the nearest resident. And that just happens to be me.”

“What about Forestsong? Isn’t he here?” Pearl looked about before taking a towel that was from a stack on a nearby table.

“No. my mate has gone… out.” Tsumi sighed a little, taking a sip from a glass in her claw.

“Is everything between you two okay Summer?” Pearl quickly found a cushion nearby and sat down looking at the dragoness who just looked at her for a brief moment. Pearl blinked as for a moment she saw a sparkle in her eye that made her feel a little underdressed on the inside.

“OH yes, everything between us is just fine. It’s just. Today is sort of an anniversary.”

“Let me guess, he forgot your wedding day?” Pearl chuckled as she knew that was a problem for many stallions as she shook her head.

“OH heavens forbid. No. it’s the day we lost… her.”

Gasping, Pearl held her front hooves up to her mouth. Sure she swallowed her horseshoes. “I’m so sorry. Should I have not come today?”

“Oh no. You’re welcome to visit anytime you wish, Pearl. Kohaku and I enjoy your company. And I’m grateful for it today. As Kohaku spends today at her gravesite.”

“You sound worried about him?” Pearl sighed as she leaned back, resting on her front hooves.

“I am. You see…”

“MOTHER!! Your darling daughter has returned!!” Pearl’s eyes widened as she heard her own voice behind her. Whipping her head around she nearly fell over. There in the double doorway was the largest Alicorn she had ever laid eyes on.

Standing ten hooves high, this massive mare held herself with the same regal dignity that both Forestsong and Summer exhibited. Her blazing crimson mane was streaked with a line of midnight blue, all highlighted by tints of seafoam. Her lavender coat was highlighted with forest green and shimmered with a tint of amber, the same amber that lined the spirals of her large horn. Rubbing her eyes, Pearl looked in closer and saw that just under those folded up wings, was a rather bizarre cutie mark. A sleeping fox surrounded by sea green flames.

Taking a step back she made way as Summer gasped and dashed past her. Embracing the girl in the same way her own mother did when she came home after a long trip.

“Autumn dearest. I thought you were going to be spending a few more decades at your aunt Kade’s retreat.” Summer tenderly held onto her daughter, cupping the mare’s chin as if she was still just a child.

After breaking free with a playful giggle, Autumn returned the hug and sighed. “I was going too. It was amazing there. The sun, surf, and all those delicious stallions. Woof!” Autumn grinned after licking her lips. “But there was an… incident.”

“I see.” Summer smirked and quirked an eyebrow. “And how much is this going to cost you?”

“Only half a million bits. I mean it was just one lousy, and I do mean lousy, building. I doubt anypony there will miss it.”

Pearl blinked as she calculated the thought of shrugging off half a million bits like it was pocket change. Just how flipping rich are these creatures? Her family was rich but by no means would be able to laugh that much off.

“I see, Autumn..”

“I know mother, I know. Auntie chewed me out something fierce afterwards. But seriously it wasn’t all my fault.” Autumn sighed as she took a few steps toward Pearl. Not watching where she was stepping. “You think there would have been signs saying ‘highly flammable’ on an island with multiple volcanoes. But no they…” She meeped as Pearl almost yelled out at nearly being stepped on.

“OH I’m so sorry. I forget my height sometimes.” Autumn smiled with her eyes closed then looked over her shoulder. “I didn’t realize you had company. I didn’t even think you and father got company from little ponies.”

“Well this one is special. She’s…” Summer began but was cut off by Autumn again.

“So what’s so special about…” Autumn turned and looked Pearl directly in the eyes and fell dead silent. Her mouth fell open and took a few steps back.

Pearl blinked at seeing that reaction. Gulping she caught a glint of the light reflecting off the enlarged canines the mare in front of her had. Extending her hoof she opened her mouth to speak but was swiftly cut off.

Autumn turned around so fast, Pearl almost got whiplashed by the large bushy tail. “Again!!!” the alicorn’s voice reverberated all over the room.

Summer tried to speak but as soon as her mouth opened Autumn went into a raging rant.

“Seriously mother, you could have warned me. Sent me a message. I mean I don’t mind seeing her again but how many timers does this make now. Twenty six, twenty seven? I lost count.”

“Autumn.” Summer calmly tried to get her daughter’s attention as Pearl sat there with a curious look on her face.

“I mean my heart can only take so much. Seeing her again every few centuries and losing her all over again after a few decades.”

“Autumn!” Summer’s voice increased as she looked at Pearl nervously. Pearl quirked an eyebrow and looked Summer in the eyes.

“And what about Father? How is he taking this? You know it kills him every time he meets her again and I…”

“AUTUMN SPARKLE ROSE!!!” The manor shook with the roar Tsumi emitted. Beyond the door were the crashes of several trays and the sounds of escaping servants.

Pearl looked at Autumn who stood there like a foal about to be disciplined. Her whole body lowered to the ground as a low whimper escaped her lips. She didn’t think any creature that large could be cowed so easily by another.

Autumn looked over at Pearl and grimaced before looking back up at her mother. “I did it again didn’t I?” the alicorn mare moaned as Summer just nodded slowly. Starting to get up, Autumn sighed deeply. “You’d think by now I’d be used to the taste of my own designer horseshoes.”

“Of all the things to inherit from your mother. Your mouth is by far the worst. How many times have your father and I told you that..” Tsumi’s tight knitted tone held in the bulk of her annoyance as she folded her front legs across her chest.

“My mouth will get me into trouble.” Autumn finished as Pearl mouthed the words herself. The same words her own mother told her repeatedly.

“Right. Now…”

“I think I'll go visit little brother. Before I cause anymore damage.” Autumn let out a little chuckle as she backed out of the room. Once the doors were closed the resounding pop of a teleportation spell left the gardens in silence.

“That girl. Gods above I love her but she is without a doubt her mother’s child.” Tsumi sighed as she turned and looked at Pearl who seemed to have completely broken, her mouth slowly opening and closing as she had a vacant stare. “Somethings never change.'' The dragoness chuckled as she picked Pearl up and laid the girl on a lounge sofa by the waterfall.

Kohaku sighed as he strolled through a darkened part of his forest. Light had not shined here for centuries. He could have easily spread the canopy, but no. He didn’t want to disturb the slumber of its one resident.

This place was special to him and the glades resident. It was where they met. Only right that he let her slumber here. On reaching a moss covered Pegasus, he sighed. Reaching up he tenderly brushed off the light covering of moss.

Kohaku’s paw tenderly moved down over her body. Carefully separating the moss from the alabaster stone, working slowly and carefully with a touch only one other knew. Once he finished up his work, Kohaku stood back and sat down looking at her, her marble form a stark contrast to the crimson enamel of her mane. Even in the shadows he could make out the sleeping dragon on her flank.

“I’m sorry I’m a little late. I guess age has caught up to me.” Kohaku sighed, bowing his head. Already he could hear her reply which made him chuckle.

‘Just like you to keep a mare waiting. Sheesh when are you going to get things together Forestsong!’ His friend’s voice echoed in his head.

Putting a paw on the statue’s head he sighed. “It’s starting again. Another you. Another life to live.” Tears slowly forming on the side of his eyes, Kohaku leaned in and nuzzled his head under the statues. “I can’t take it Pearl. Why… How long can I keep doing this? Finding and losing you all over again.” Falling to his knees, Kohaku lost himself in his tears as the shadows surrounded the glade, leaving them alone.

Oh what now...

Twilight smiled as she stepped out of the carriage with her friends. Thanking the Pegasus guards for their hard work. Looking over at the hamlet she smiled. It was the one place that hadn’t changed much in the last five hundred years.

“This place don’t look much different.” Applejack smirked stepping up next to Twilight who frowned and looked about.

“Hey Egghead. You okay there?” Rainbow landed along with Fluttershy.

“No. Something’s wrong, This place is perfectly fine. Like no battle had ever taken place.”

“Isn’t that a good thing?” Fluttershy placed a wing on Twilight’s shoulder.

“It’s wonderful. But I had reports of their invasion. You could see the fires from Canterlot.” Twilight sighed and looked off to the side where her old castle stood, her Pegasi sight catching a rather large hill several miles out of Ponyville. Two large dark shaded wolves stared at her before vanishing into the forest dragging something between them.

“Greetings Princess.” A thick southern voice called out.

Applejack blinked and twirled around at hearing her old Granny’s voice. Surprised to see it come from a middle aged yellow mare with a silver mane.

“Mayor Sugarbee.” Twilight hugged the mayor for a moment and stepped back.

“Glad to see ya again Princess. I heard there was quite the party over in Canterlot.” The Mayor smiled wide.

Twilight shook her head for a moment, she couldn’t place it but something was off. “I’m not sure what you heard but it was no party. Speaking of that, how did Ponyville avoid invasion? I heard you all took heavy damage here. I even sent repair teams out to check up on you.”

Sugarbee tilted her head with a confused look. “Yeah I remember them folks mentioning somethin’ like that. And there was this little block party outside of Ponyville the night wolves threw. But outside of a few drunken brawls in front of The Barn, nothing really exciting happened.” Sugarbee looked off to the side and looked slightly confused for half a second before turning back to Twilight. “Anyway. We’re all glad your here. Mah daughter said you have a family member of ours who came back.”

Twilight opened her mouth when she saw that second long glance Sugarbee had before was swiftly sidewinded by her next statement. “Oh uh yes. Sugarbee, this. Is Applejack.” Stepping back. “Sorry the original Applejack. The Harmony Element of Honesty.” Applejack stepped forward and bowed. “Applejack, this is Sugarbee Apple. Current matriarch of the family and mayor of Ponyville. She’s actually descended from Applebloom. Making her your twenty great-grand niece.”

“Well Ah be. Applejack, our family’s greatest matriarch. Well poach me in cider and cover me in caramel sauce. It’s true.” Holding out her hoof Sugarbee grinned. “Welcome back mah dear. Ah can’t wait to show you just how well our family’s been doin.”

Pressing her hoof to Sugarbee, Applejack smiled. “Pleased to meet ya. I can’t wait to meet the rest of the family. I’m not here to take over, I’m only here to help and learn what’s new.”

“Well I’ll be glad to introduce you tonight at dinner. I’m sure you can show yourself back to the farm. It hasn’t moved. I’d go with you but I still have office matters to attend to. But i’ll call my Son AJ to let him know the originator of his name is coming.”

“OH I understand. And i’d appreciate it. I’d hate to just show up unannounced.”

“Oh, think nothing of it, your family. And we never turn away family.” Turning back to the Princess Sugarbee smile. “So where else are you heading today princess.”

“Well Rainbow, Pinkie and Rarity want to look through Ponyville and scout out places where the new Sugar Cube Corner is going to be. And see how Rarity’s Boutique has grown. Plus I think they want to visit the upgraded spa.” everyone giggled as Rainbow rolled her eyes. “As for Fluttershy, i’m taking her to her old sanctuary I assume Tender Paws is still there.”

“Only when he’s not making time with mah daughter Cinnamon.” Sugarbee sighed. “He’s a nice boy but a little scatterbrained at times. A little lazy too. All he does is lay about and watch the animals.”

“Well is that wrong? That’s all I did when I ran the Sanctuary. And I did hold group therapy.” Fluttershy smiled.

“Oh he does that too. Boy’s good with critters. Especially them Timberwolves. Always has a pair of them by his side.” Taking a step back Sugarbee smiled when she saw Fluttereshy’s worried expression. “Oh don’t worry, you’ll see when you get to the Sanctuary.”

“Indeed, i’ve met him. He’s actually the descendent of Soft Paws. the young stallion you left in charge the day you… retired.”

“Oh my. I can’t wait to meet him.” Fluttershy perked up with a smile.

“Well i’ll leave you all to your day. Please stop by house for dinner, all of you. We’ll make something special.”

“You have a deal Mayor.” Twilight and her five friends watched as the Mayor galloped away then turned to her friends. “Well. I say we split up here and meet back at the Apple family house tonight.”

“Right.” Everypony said together and left to their perspective ponyville business.

Turning to Fluttershy, Twilight smiled. “Come on, lets introduce you to the most interesting young stallion in Ponyville.”

As the pair slowly reached the location, Fluttershy smiled. Her sanctuary hadn’t changed one bit. It was still just as she had left it on her last day. Looking around she found it was quite busy. Animals everywhere recovering. Her heart almost stoped when she found a rather large wolf snarling and dashing after a small brown rabbit. Taking a step forward she found Twilight’s wing blocking her.

“Just wait.” Was all Twilight said with a smile. “Watch.”

Fluttershy bit down on her lower lip and turned back. The wolf had lunged forward, jaws open. Seconds before it reached the frightened rabbit the wolf was snagged from the air by a large Timberwolf. Holding the wolf like a cub in it’s wooden jaws. The wolf whimpered wiggled back and forth.

“Now what have I told you Silverfang.” A large black stallion came walking in shaking his head back and forth. The wolf bowed it’s head and whimpered louder. “I have no issue with you chasing rabbits. You know that. They need the exercise, but you are NOT allowed to eat them.'' The stallion’s eyes narrowed. The wolf bowing its head in shame. “What you do outside the sanctuary is your business. But while you are recovering here, you eat only what is provided for you. Understand?”

The wolf nodded slowly as the Timberwolf let go with a gesture from the stallion. “Good, now take the bunny back to her burrow. And don't’ let me catch you trying this again.”

“I see you have things all under control as usual Tender.” Twilight stepped forward and offered her hoof to the stallion.

The stallion smiled as he watched the wolf kneel down and the bunny bounce up on to it’s back. The pair ran off with the Timberwolf in tow. Turning about he smiled, taking the hoof he kissed it lightly, earning a blush from the princess. “Greetings princess. Sorry you had to witness that. But some animals just won’t learn. So whos your…”

Twilight blinked as she watched Tender get a very odd look on his face for half a second. “Oh excuse me. This is Fluttershy. She was the originator of the sanctuary.”

“Oh yeah, I heard she was back. It’s a pleasure to meet you Miss Fluttershy.” Tender smiled and bowed gracefully.

“Who told you she was back?” Twilight blinked as he lifted his head up.

“A little birdie told me.” Tender chuckled.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, I knew Soft Paws well. He was very dedicated to the safety and well being of my animals.” Fluttershy stepped forward and helped him up. “Please just call me Fluttershy.” Looking at the stallion she found the same light brown eyes were just as warm and inviting as his ancestor.

“Of course, I’m sorry. I was raised with some rather strict manners. It’s something that runs in my family. And I…” Tender chuckled till a loud teleport pop exploded behind Twilight and Fluttershy.

“Hey little bro, Ugh you would NOT believe what I just did.” Autumn sighed as she walked past both Twilight and Fluttershy with out so much as a look at them as her eyes were closed. A look of worry on her face.

Tender chuckled nervously as he saw the look of utter confusion on both Twilight and Fluttershy at the intrusion of the massive Alicorn. “Oh hey sis, didn’t know you were back.”

“Yeah, I arrived just this morning.” Autumn sighed sitting down in front of Tender and looked at him with a smile. “Still masquerading as a pony I see. How long as this been going on now? A thousand years or so?”

Twilight watched on, her head spinning. An unknown alicorn just pushing past her. One that was far larger then both her and Celestia. Watching everything unfold in front of her just raised more question.

“I guess so. Okay, I’ll bite. What has you so down now?” Tender sat in front of Autumn and placed a hoof on hers.

“I kinda found out the hard way that my old mother is alive, again.” Moaning a bit she lowered her head.

“Pearl, yeah I know. Father told me. Surely it can’t be that bad. She was bound to run into you eventually.” Tender shook his head slowly.

“Yeah but not before she knew who she was. I kinda let loose that she’s a reincarnation without even realizing it. Can you believe I’m so dense that I can’t even realize that I could do that?” Autumn looking down didn’t catch the fact that he looked directly at Twilight and raised an eyebrow. “I go to see mother, failed to realize she has company. And completely shove my horseshoes down my throat. Honestly can you believe that?”

“Is that a trick question?” Tender sighed.

“No, why would you think that? I’m being serious here. How can I completely not notice that mother had company I should be intensely careful around.”

“Look behind you then ask me that.” He chuckled shaking his head slowly.

Blinking she caught a reflection from a nearby source of water. “No… There is no way, I did this twice in ten minutes.” Slowly turning around the alicorn girl came eye to eye with Twilight Sparkle looking completely dumbfounded. “Oh sweet cheese and crackers not you. Great! I just exposed my existence to the one pony I promised myself to avoid.”

“So, they’ve been here this whole time?” Tender slowly nodded his head. “And did I do what I think I did?”

“You mean blow the cover I worked five hundred years to carefully establish? Yes. yes you did. But don’t sweat it too much, it was bound to come out eventually.”

“So what now?” Autumn felt her stomach tighten as she bowed her head. “Maybe I should visit father.”

“That would be a safe thing to do. You know how he gets on this day. And you were always his favorite. And don’t worry. I’m sure mother has already taken care of Pearl. No doubt you’ll just be a figment of her wild imagination until she sees you again.”

Turning toward Twilight and Fluttershy, Autumn sighed. “Am I ever not going to shove my horseshoes down my throat?”

Seeing the two ponies slowly back up a few steps, Tender placed a hoof on his sisters front leg. His pony form dissolving into a large black fox with a sea green swirl pattern about his fur that matched his fathers. “I have been asking myself that for ten thousand years now. Just like those stories of Auntie Pearl and Midnight, you seem to not only step in it, but dive in head first. Go to father, i’ll fix things here.”

Nodding, Autumn teleported out in a puff of sea foam smoke.

“What the hay was that? Who was that. And what have you done with the real Tender?” Twilight stood there shaking the cobwebs out of her mind. Book shelf after book shelf of questions littered her mind.

“Well, to answer your first question. That was a very absent minded alicorn. Who in is in fact my older sister.” The large kitsune chuckled as he sat comfortably on the grass, two large female Timberwolves came up and laid down next to him. One of his paws ideally stroking the soft wood of their bodies. “Well adopted sister I should say. After all my parents are her godparents.” Completely ignoring the fact that a pair of bunnies started to climb his back the young fox laid down and looked at the mares at a more even level. “As for Tender, well I am Tender. Always have been. As well as every caretaker going back five hundred years.” Turning his gaze to Fluttershy. “Ever sense the day you handed me the reigns Fluttershy.”

“That was you?” Fluttershy shook her head trying to put the two pisces together.

Twilight blinked as she looked at him. As her mind worked things out she groaned. “Oh my, your Kohaku’s son. He said you were living here in Ponyville.”

“This is Kohaku’s son?” Fluttershy blushed and looked at the fox who nodded slowly. “And you were also the pony I gave my sanctuary too?”

Nodding he bowed his head to the two of them. “Kazuya at your service my dears. I do apologize for my deception, especially to you Fluttershy. I hope your not angry with me. But we Kitsune do enjoy our secrecy.”

“Oh not at all. To know that the one individual I charged with taking care of my animals has been doing just that for five hundred years warms my heart.” Fluttershy smiled kindly toward him.

“That’s all good an all but are you also responsible for the fact that no one in Ponyville knowing about the war that went on?” Twilight quirked an eyebrow at Kazuya who only smiled.

“I only altered everyone’s memories of the days in question.” Picking up a bunny that slid down his face onto his mussel, he wiggled his nose up against it’s and set the little animal down with the rest of the pack. “I wanted to avoid mass panic. After all panic only leads to destruction and injury. I was not having that on my watch. I had my Night Wolfs engage them outside the town limits. The battle didn’t last much longer then ten minutes.”

Groaning Twilight shook her head. “Alright, so what happens now?”

“Well you finding out about my true form not withstanding, I’m going to have to do something I really shouldn’t.”

“Such as?” Twilight blinked as she saw the kitsune male leap forward faster then she could put her barriers up. Placing two of his paw fingers on her forehead, Twilight felt herself grow dizzy as she blacked out.

How I met your Mother

Kohaku sighed as he lay next to the statue of his old friend. His head resting on his front legs, eyes focused along a small river and a clearing. In his mind he watched as a young green three tail leaped about as small mice scattered everywhere. The same ol memories filled his mind

Kohaku chuckled as he leaped and pounced on his prey. A plump mouse which tripped and skidded away. Kohaku didn’t care much about catching these little critters, he loved the hunt. The thrill of chasing after something elusive. And these wild mice were just perfect for him. Providing hours of entertainment. It wasn’t until his stomach growled at him, that all his prey scattered and vanished.

“Aww man,” his childish moan half echoed as he folded his front legs across his chest. Letting out a sigh the young tod shook his head. “Oh well, time and fish wait for no one.” Turning on his paws he half skipped over to a near by river. Watching fish swim back and forth he spotted a large fat salmon. Licking his lips he already could taste the crispy flesh and juicy meat. Lowering himself down the young fox slowly shook his hips back and forth. Slightly parting his hind legs before putting all his strength into his limbs.

Leaping out, Kohaku stretched out his front paws to clasp his future meal. Seconds before his claws clutched the fish, something hard slammed into his back sending him under the water to the bottom of the deep river.

Slightly stunned, Kohaku shook his head and looked about. His eyes sharpened underwater quickly as he saw the faded outline of a pony as large as he was slowly sinking. With an internal groan he swam upwards and griped the pony with his front paws and with added waves from his tails, pulled the filly up to the shore.

Coughing hard Kohaku spat out a small minnow and turned to look at the filly. Her alabaster white coat clung to her small thin frame. A flaming red mane stuck out everywhere, not unlike his own hair. Reaching out he poked her a few times only to hear her cough and spit up water. Taking a few steps back Kohaku sat there and waited. He watched the filly lift her head up only for the eyes to roll back and she passed out.

“Kohaku! Lunch time! Did you catch yourself anything good?” A pleasant song like voice echoed through the valley. A large Midnight blue fox with markings identical to her son’s shimmered in the canopy light. “Oh my.” The nine tail vixen watched as her young son came out with a Pegasus on his back and a salmon between his teeth.

Kohaku looked up at his mother, spat out the fish and smiled. “I caught a pony, can I keep her?”

Kiyoko reached down and lifted the young mare's mane and felt her head. Chuckling she looked at her son lovingly. “Kohaku dear, they aren't pets.”

“Oh… I can keep her?” The seven year old waved the one tail not supporting the filly. Earning a laugh from his mom.

The sound of a cracking branch brought Kohaku’s head up. With a lazy gazed he saw a gazelle gallop out of the thicket and off into the distance. Sighing the worn out Kitsune rested his head back and and looked over at a small circle of stones, half covered over by vines. Another smile crossed his lips and the sound of a fire crackled in his ears.

The small Pegasus pony slowly opened her eyes and looked up. Only to see a set of large amber eyes looking directly at her, and a large toothy grin on it’s face. An echoing shriek came from the young girls mouth as she pushed herself back and fell backwards into a large set of crossed front legs. Looking up she looked up into the brilliant silver eyes of a large canine creature she had never seen before. Still screaming she tried to spread her wings but found that they were bound to her sides by silk.

After a few moments a paw finger covered her mouth.

“Well, someone has a healthy pair of lungs.” a set of laughter came from Kiyoko’s mouth as well as four other near equally large vixens.

The young girl shook and trembled. Her wings bound, her blood running cold, she felt her breathing and heart rate grow exponentially.

“Please don’t eat me… I’m too young to die.” Looking about she turned her head up to the sky “Daddy!!!! HELP ME!!!!” she shouted out hard, trying to run but a large paw held her in place. It wasn’t until a nose touched hers that she blinked and found herself looking back into a set of amber eyes.

“Your silly.” the voice of a young boy chuckled. Looking up Kohaku grinned. “Mom, can’t I keep her?”

“Kohaku dear. You know ponies aren't pets.” Kiyoko laughed as she watched her son huff and cross his front legs and turn his head away. Looking down the motherly kitsune smiled at the filly in her arms. “Are you hungry dear?”

Too confused to scream the young girl blinked. “Huh? Uh, are you fattening me up to eat me?” Again she was greeted by laughter. Looking around she saw every creature there had a very amused look on their face. In front of all of them she saw a bowl of steaming vegetables and rice. Feeling herself lifted, the girl was seated next to a large set of glistening stones.

“No dear. We don’t eat ponies.” Placing a small bowl of rice down. Kiyoko watched as her son reached out an started to paw at the girls tail which flipped back and forth. “What’s your name my dear?”

Looking behind her she saw the boy start to paw at her tail as it flipped back and forth. A low grumble escaped her lips as she turned back to the motherly creature. “Pearl. Pearl Rose.”

“A pleasure to meet you young Pearl. I am Kiyoko.” Kiyoko touched herself with her large dark blue paw. “My daughters, Kazumi, Mitsuko, Kade, and Riko.”

Pearl looked at each of the vixens in turn. Rubbing her eyes she finally shook the last of her shock out of her system and saw they were all in fact fox’s. Her father had taught her about the large creatures known as Kitsunes. Rulers and Teachers of all the sentient races on this continent. With her eye twitching she felt a set of teeth on her tail. Turning around she shouted.

“Quit it!!” her eyes narrowed as all the vixens around them laughed louder.

“Okay that’s enough.” Kiyoko spoke sternly. Her son quickly dropping the tail and moved up next to Pearl with a grin. “And this little troublemaker. Is my son, Kohaku.”

The sound of snapping leaves and twigs brought Kohaku’s attention up. Watching he saw the shadow of a mare walking toward him. With a deep sigh he nodded and felt himself grow a little weaker. “Its it time now? Can I finally join you?” a tear streaming down his cheek as the mare came into view.

“Hello daddy.” A familiar voice perkes his ears up. With a sigh he nodded. It wasn’t his time, or the visitor he sought, but a welcome one anyway.

“Hello Autumn dear.” Kohaku felt as his goddaughter moved up and rested beside him. Her head nuzzled on his shoulder. Instinctively, Kohaku brought his tails up and rested them across her body. A smile brought to his lips as he heard another set of hooves stomping down the path.

“Damit all Kohaku, who or what gave you the right!!” Pearl shouted as she stomped down the path to the one location in all the land only the two of them knew. The rest of his family not withstanding. Her chest heaving up and down as her eyes flamed almost as much as her hair. But stoped as she watched Kohaku softly rock the young newly born alicorn baby in his front arms.

The little one's head resting on his chest as he hummed tenderly looking down at the white baby. “Shhh, she just fell asleep.” Looking up at his friend, Kohaku smiled.

“With everything wrong she should still be in the healing temple.” Looking at her friend, Pearl heard the annoying chuckle she had grown accustom to. She hated that he looked the same now as he did when he was a teenager. The pair having long grown to adult hood. While she was growing older, time seemed to avoid him like he had the plague.

“Pearl, there’s nothing wrong with her. She’s perfect.” Kohaku rocked the young girl back and forth slowly. “Shouldn’t you still be in the healing temple, you only just gave birth yesterday. And you know how Riko is.”

Opening her mouth she quickly shut it and sucked in her breath. Blushing she turned her head. “I snuck out. After what you and that dragoness of yours did to my daughter.” her eyes narrowed. “You think after two thousand years you’d start listening to me, but no. You just have to do things with out so much as consulting me.” wincing a bit, Pearl felt a pain shoot up and down her legs. Her adrenaline fulled rage subsiding. Pearl watched as Kohaku patted the ground next to him and she just sighed.

Kohaku felt his best friend nuzzle up next to him. Her legs finally giving out as she rested her head on his shoulder. Kohaku softly rested his nine tails across Pearl’s body, Leaning in he kissed the top of her head. “I’m sorry, I didn’t have the time to talk to you about this. And I…” his voice choked up in his throat.

“Couldn’t let my daughter die.” Pearl sighed finishing his sentence as she closed her eyes. “I know, but how will this affect her?” Reaching out she lightly brushed her hoof across the newborn form of her daughter. Already she could see the amber shimmer across the tiny horn, and a cutie mark of a sleeping fox with sea-green flames.

“Does it really matter? No matter the change she’ll be just as loved.”

“I know. You really didn’t do this just to get out of buying a present did you? Or just to annoy me?” Smirking up at him she watched Kohaku look down at her.

“Oh shoot. My grand master plan has finally be revealed. How ever shall I recover from this.” his front paw loosely hanging against his chest as he looked up with both eyes closed. It wasn’t until he felt a wing slap up against his head that the two quickly lost themselves in laughter.

“I’ll never be able to pay you back for what you just did for me.” Pearl wiped the laughter tears from her eyes. When she felt a paw under her cheeks lifting her gaze up to his.

“And you will never have too.” leaning in Kohaku kissed her for head as the baby griped her mommy’s nose with both hooves.

“Daddy?” Autumn touched Kohaku’s shoulder as she looked at him as if he would fade from the world.

“I’m fine,” Kohaku sighed and looked over at the young Alicorn. No matter how old she was, how tall she got. All he ever saw was a young newborn Alicorn he held so tenderly that day. “Your home early. Did you get into trouble again?”

“Look who’s talking. Where do you think I got this from.” Autumn chuckled with her godfather. Together they sighed and looked up at the statue. “I saw her. She’s back again.”

“No let me guess, your mouth ran faster than your brain.”

Autumn just nodded. “And I kinda popped in front of Twilight.”

“Perhaps it’s time you talk to her. She does deserve that you know.” Kohaku rested a paw across his goddaughters body. “And she’s finally old enough to understand it. And perhaps come to terms with it.”

Nodding slowly, Autumn bit down on her lower lip. She knew she had to talk to Twilight. Their connection was too strong to not do so. But was now really the best time? “I heard a whisper about what ol Alex wants to do. What do you suppose will happen?”

“I have my suspicions. I’m not entirely sure I’m ready for it. But in a few days we’ll see.” Resting his head back down, Kohaku sighed deeper. “Personally I want…” his voice cut off by a pair of hooves.

“I know what you want. But think of mother. Or all my siblings, how would they feel. And what if it is true, what that pesky Life Bringer wants to do.” Autumn felt her hooves moved by her daddy’s large paw. She saw him smile.

“Don’t worry dear. Your ol dad still has some life in him yet. I just feel like butter, spread over too much bread.”

“Do you want me to leave you to your memories?” Autumn shifted a little only to feel those warm tails that comforted her even as a baby. Smiling she nodded and rested next to him. The pair sharing thoughts about the one mare they both loved.

A promise 500 years in the making

Autumn sighed as she sat there at the edge of the forest she teleported too. She had just watched her brother shift Twilight’s perspective of meeting the alicorn. Sitting there even from this distance she heard their conversation.

“What did you do?” Fluttershy frantically asked as Twilight sat there swaying back and forth. A dull blank look on the princess’s face.

“Oh don’t worry. I only shifted the memory of her meeting my sister. It’s temporary.” Kazuya shifted back into his pony persona. “She’ll be like this for a while. Why don’t I leave my wolves here and show you the improvements I made to your cabin.”

Autumn sighed and watched as the pair walked off. She watched as Twilight stood there before finally coming too and dashing off to meet her friends. No doubt as her brother instructed in her mind. A smile crossed her face as she watched the princess leave.

Turning around Autumn walked through the forest. Her head hung low as she thought about her life. She avoided talking to the princess, always making one excuse after another as her adopted parents constantly berated her for it. Family was family, and should never be avoided. As they reminded her ever since Twilight was made into an alicorn.

She had watched her sister’s family grow from one generation into the next. True she had kept up with them until the age of Grogar. It was then her father and grandfather decreed that the ponies should stand of fall on their own. She never violated that, she agreed that the ponies of three tribes should grow up. So she became a silent watchful guardian through the ages.

As she neared the one open grove her father frequented during this time, she stepped on through and heard her father’s voice. His words tore at her, she knew what he wanted. In truth, she wanted it herself. The constant cycle of rebirth had taken it’s toll on them all. It was fun at first, but the fun was gone and all that was left, was the pain it left on them.

“Hello daddy.” Autumn smiled as her eyes met his. She watched him smile, she could always bring a smile to his face. And like a foal ran into his open arms. Like always he wrapped his front legs around her and held her tight.

Kohaku and Autumn watched as the sun drifted through the sky. Slowly settling down on the western horizon.

“Have you finally made up your mind?”

Autumn felt the tone in his voice. He was upset that she still hadn’t mustered the courage to talk to the alicorn princess. She had mulled over this whole situation for a week since watching her reborn mother ascend as an alicorn. Nodding slowly she rested her head down on her forelegs

“Yes, I’m going to talk to her. With all of this happening, I can’t avoid her any longer. And I was a fool to wait this long.” She looked at her father who only nodded. “What about you? Are you going to tell her now?”

Kohaku sighed and lowered his gaze from the sunset. As the coolness of night drifted over him. His markings began to glow in the light of the full moon. “Not as if I have a choice any longer. Alex’s intervention has made my and your mother’s desires worthless.”

Smirking Autumn leaned up. “And what would that have accomplished? Yes it would have ended the cycle but…” Sucking her breath inward, Autumn felt her tears welling up. Looking at her godfather, she saw how heavily his shoulders were and how low he hung his head.

“Don’t worry about me Autumn, I’ll be fine. There’s still enough life left in these old bones.” Kohaku put a paw finger on his daughters lips, silencing any and all rebuttals she was about to say. “Who knows, it might be fun telling an alicorn version of your mother all about herself.” Keeping his eyes closed the old fox smiled. The fun and excitement of this had long since abandoned him. And not even her being an alicorn could rekindle it. “You go. Talk to Twilight. She needs to know her family history, to better understand Pearl.”

“But...” Autumn pushed her fathers paw away as he vanished into the shadow of the trees. Puffing up her lips she huffed and stamped her hooves hard. Much like her mothers, she hated when he did that. Taking a few deep breaths to calm herself. Autumn focused on where she wanted to go and teleported. Praying to not making a huge spectacle of herself.

Pearl sat at a lone table as she stared intently at a cube of wood. Her face getting puffy as she scrunched her face up. Her horn flickering slowly, magic creeping up all five colors to the tip. As it sparked.

“Teacup!” she shouted as magic sparkles exploded about the room. Falling back onto her rump she heard Twilight laughing. “Gahhh, did I do it this time?” She groaned as she struggled to get back up only to see a block of wood still. “Why can’t I do this. I can levitate things but this.. I’m never going to be a good spellcaster.”

“I said those same words, or something close, when I got my wings.” Twilight helped Pearl up and brushed her off. The two sharing a brief glimpse into each other’s eyes before quickly turning their heads. “Anyway, don’t worry. You’ll get this it just takes time.”

“If you say so,” Pearl sighed as she tried to forget just how beautiful Twilight’s eyes were. And the thoughts she had looking into them.

“So have you gone to show Kohaku your new form?” Twilight watched as Pearl shook her head.

“I haven't had the time. Mother and Father were so shocked it took me a week to convince them I was me and I hadn’t changed. After that I kinda dropped the bomb on them that i was a Dragon Princess of sorts. Even if I don’t want that title. Not after seeing how much work it is.” Pearl chuckled.

“And you know he was there. Who else would it have been snorting and growling from his woods?” Pearl smirked.

“That’s true.” Twilight smiled. “And being a Princess isn’t all that bad. There is some good to it all. Just think of all the perks. Even Spike had a go at experiencing them.”

“Yeah no, I don't want the responsibility. But I think I will go visit him. He seems to have been kinda down lately. I can’t put my hoof on it but something seems to be off about him.” Pearl looked out the window at the forest, her hoof fiddling with the pendant around her neck. “And just who was that mare with him?”

Twilight blinked. “What mare?”

“Oh common you saw her. The one sitting next to him at my transformation. I couldn’t see her all that well but she appeared to be a unicorn. And was tall. The rest was kinda hidden by shadows so I didn’t see the rest.”

Twilight blinked as she felt a stinging feeling in her head. Rubbing her temples she felt like she was forgetting something.

“Hey Twilight, you okay?” Pearl took a step forward and tilted her head.

“I’m fine. I’m just thinking back to everything Alexstraza said that day. I feel like i’m missing something but not sure what.”

“Well it might not be that important if you can’t remember.” Twilight nodded slowly in agreement. “I think I’ll go hang out with Summer. And Kohaku if he isn’t busy.”

“Well try and have some fun. We’ll start your magic lessons again later.” Twilight chuckled at the huffeed faced Pearl made before gripping her pendant.

“I swear, you drop me in another duck pond…” Twilight heard Pearl whisper just before popping away.

Taking her hoof she lifted up her own pendant and stared at it. It was impossibly old yet was in the same shape as her cutie mark. Yes the Tree of Harmony also bore it but this felt so much more ancient. Brushing her other hoof across the face she saw the tarnish lightly come off the gemstone and saw it glitter a dark purple. Far darker then her own coat, stars sparkling about it.

Staring intently, the sound of several heavy thuds outside her door broke her concentration. “Hello? What’s going on?”

Silence filled the room as not even her guards answered her. Getting up the room, not just the room but the whole castle felt eerily quiet. Moving toward the door she flung it open with her magic only to see two of her star guards fall flat on the ground unconscious. Leaning in she felt for their pulses only to hear one mumble about Pipp Petals latest album while the other started to snore loudly.

“Okay. what just happened?” Taking a breath, the princess galloped to the find her friends. Finding each one fast asleep. Shaking her head she called out and searched everywhere she could. But everywhere she went all she found were sleeping ponies. Upon reaching the princess’s rooms she opened the door. Celestia at her table face down in her afternoon cake. Luna snoring while flat on her back, having fallen out of her chair, a pot of tea spilled all over her floof.

“Luna, Celestia. Wake up. Something’s wrong.” Twilight shook the old princess’s but to no avail. Feeling her heartbeat up she looked outside. Ponies all over the courtyard were passed out. Closing her eyes she extended her aura and felt the presence of magic more powerful the she had ever felt before.

“Somepony is going to pay for this.” Following the presence of magic she halted at the doors to her throne room. “I swear if this is a joke from ether Kohaku or Discord I'm going to put both of them out of commission.” forcing the double doors wide open Twilight’s eyes widened and almost felt her heart stop.

Sitting at the foot of her throne was an Alicorn larger then any she had ever seen in her life. She was almost Kohaku’s size. The color of her coat was a light shade of violet but beneath that coat she saw shades of forest green littered with shades of autumn leaves. Her wings with their pure white feathers held close to her form. Her blazing crimson red hair with that one streak of dark midnight blue, highlighted by seafoam green, framing her sweet face. But it was those eyes that held her attention. Brilliant emerald and sparkling with years of knowledge and wide eyed innocence.

“I know you…” Twilight felt the pain in her head sharpen as she felt the soft touch of a hoof to her forehead. Looking up she saw the Alicorn standing in front of her now. She only experienced such swift silence from Kohaku. Especially on these marble floors.

“Give it a moment, it takes a time for memory spells to fade away and your true memories to come back.” Twilight gasped as she heard Pearl’s voice come from this massive mare. But the tone and certainty were so much like her own.

“You… YOU!” Twilight gasped as she took a step back. “You were there at the sanctuary.” The large mare nodded slowly.

“I’m Autumn, and I've been dreading this moment for five hundred years.”

“Uh, huh?” Twilight looked about, all the guards in the throne room were asleep, just like everyone else. Her friends were asleep, the princess’s were asleep. For all she knew the whole city of Canterlot was asleep. She was alone with this mare, this alicorn she never knew existed.

“Hello Twilight. I am Autumn Sparkle Rose. And I am your great aunt from thirty thousand years ago. We have to talk about our family history.” Autumn blinked as she saw Twilight faint dead away. “Well she took that better then I thought she would.”

6 - My Mother Told Me

Twilight moaned as she steaded herself. Looking around she found herself in the throne room of Canterlot. Sitting in front of her throne was the massive eight hoof tall Alicorn. Leaning back on one hoof, she taped against her crossed lower legs lightly in tune to the song she was singing.

Once the unfamiliar alicorn had finished she turned and smiled. “Well, look who finally woke up. Sorry, I didn’t mean to shock you so much. Would you be more comfortable if I wasn’t so imposing?”

Twilight blinked as the tall mare shifted until she was the same height as herself. “I sometimes forget that my height can be rather shocking for some to take in all at once. I try to keep to a regular pony size while out and about but around family… I like to stay as myself.”

“This isn’t making any sense, you can’t be an alicorn. The only alicorns in existence besides myself are the Princess’s Luna and Celestia, my sister in law Cadence and niece Flurry.” Twilight stood up and huffed. “And even if you are what you claim to be, how is it nobody has heard of you before?”

“Well your right that the only known alicorns are the ones you’ve mentioned. But your wrong in thinking i’m not one of you. Because I am. I was born an alicorn just like my two elder sisters, but this was long before your recorded history.” Autumn sighed. “How about something to eat. I found this wonderful pastry shop not far from here. They serve the most delectable cakes and pies.”

Taking a deep breath Twilight moved to her throne and sat down to get comfortable. Her mind was reeling from this. She looked at the alicorn before her. “Lets start this again. Will you answer my questions?” Twilight did her best to put on her royal persona but the shock of the situation continued to make her nervous.

“That’s why I’m here Twilight. So much as come to your attention. What with Father now being known to you. Mother as well.” Autumn sighed deeply as she popped a pastry into her mouth. “And then there’s Pearl. That stupid little annoying ‘war’ brought things out far ealier then they should have been. And her ascension to Alicorn by Tiamat has forced my hooves.” Autumn looked at Twilight who stared at her with a blank expression.

“We’ll get to that later, First of all who are you?”

“I am Autumn Sparkle Rose. As I mentioned to you before you passed out a half hour ago. I am the last born child of Pearl Rose and Midnight Sparkle”

Twilight’s eyes widened as she pushed back into her throne. “Your Pearl’s daughter?” Autumn nodded slowly. “And Midnight. That’s a rather common name in my family. Which one was it?”

“Well it is common, there have been twelve Midnight’s that you know of down your mother’s birth line. And one that you don’t. The Midnight i’m talking about is the original. Back in mom’s original life, well before her cycle of rebirth.” Twilight raised an eyebrow at the bitterness when the rebirth cycle had been brought up.

“Okay. I have to know another thing, why did you put my castle to sleep?”

“OH I thought that would be obvious. So we wouldn’t be disturbed.” Autumn smiled pleasantly.

“And for that you put this castle into slumber?”

Shaking her head Autumn giggled. “The castle? No I put all of Canterlot into a deep slumber. They’ll wake by tomorrow morning ready to start a fresh new day. I already set in motion your device for raising and lowering the sun and moon. So don’t worry about it.”

“That level of magic, even I can’t pull something like that off. How…” Autumn’s raised hoof silenced Twilight easily.

“My mana pool and knowledge of magic is far greater then your own. It should be after nearly thirty thousand years of study.”

Twilight looked at the stained glass window depicting her own ascension to alicorn.

“Relax, you’ll get to this level eventually. After all you do bear the talent of my elder sister Winter. She was quite gifted in magical abilities.”

“Your sister? Where is she now? Would it be possible to learn from her?” Twilight bit back her question the second she saw the shadowed look on Autumn’s face.

“She died a long time go. I’m the last of my siblings.”

Twilight’s ears fell as she looked at Autumn. “I’m sorry,”

“Don’t be, she lived a full life and had many daughters and a few son’s” Autumn smiled pleasantly. The thought of her nieces and nephews banishing the thoughts of loss. “I’ve kinda made it my hobby to keep track of my nieces and nephews through out history. From the first born of my big sister Summer, all the way down to you and little Flurry. Who by the way is just adorable. Her crystaling was just the most wonderful thing I saw.”

“You were there? How?”

“Like this.” And with smile, and the blink of an eye her wings shattered in a flurry of feathers, once they fell and vanished she was sportingly only a unicorn horn. “It’s a unique ability for Alicorns to take the form of one of the three tribes.”

“... huh?” Twilight felt her brain halt. What this mare was doing was beyond anything she thought possible. Once she shook her head a few times and rubbed her eyes, Twilight leaned forward. “I have so many questions, even more than before. How is it I don’t know about you, or your sisters. If you are family like you claim, why haven't I heard of you? Our family has kept impeccable records of our family tree. All the way back to the ancient unicorn kingdom, there was no mention, ever, of us being descended of princess’s.”

“Well first off Alicorns are not originally princess’s. We were sages and teachers. Ponies only assume we are because of when Celestia and Luna were born to the unicorn royal family. By then it became tradition. And until them we were not immortal. That’s something new, cruel but understandable.” Autumn shook her head slowly. “As for our family, your own family tree wasn’t written down until after the age of Grogar when all history was forbidden. We go back thousands on thousands of years prior to that.”

“I think i’m starting to understand a little. But how is it your alive if Alicorns from then arn’t immortal?”

“My Immortality comes from my godparents. Kohaku and his mate Tsunami Rose. you know them as Forestsong and Summer.” Twilight’s eyes widened as she was thankful she was seated. “There was something wrong with my birth, my mothers were distraught. But my godparents gave me apart of themselves, which changed me. And one of those changes was their own immortal lifespan.”

“As for why I’m here now.” Autumn sighed. “I’ve been dreading this moment. I never knew how to handel it. You see I never before showed myself to my nieces and nephews. But when you stepped into your bloodline heritage by becoming an alicorn, I just couldn’t.” Autumn moved over and placed a hoof on the mirror of Twilight becoming an alicorn.

“I was chastised several times by my mother Pearl five hundred years ago for not coming to you the day you became ruler of Equestria. I should have, but I was scared I guess.” Autumn continued. “But now I have no excuses. If I didn’t do this. Alexstrasza would. And it’s better to discuss family history with family.” Her eyes focused on Twilight tenderly.

“I am your aunt, so lets just use that. I’m not going to be adding greats to that as we would be here for the next few days. I miss my sisters so much, and I see so much of my mother Midnight and my big sister Winter in you.” Autumn turned and looked at Twilight.

Twilight gulped as she saw the deep tenderness in those watery eyes. The same eyes her mother looked at her with.

“I have watched you throughout your whole life. And I can say one thing above all others.” Autumn walked over and placed a hoof on Twilight’s. “I am very proud of you my niece.” Tears falling from Autumn's eyes as her body trembled. “I hope you can forgive me for not showing myself earlier.”

Twilight smiled as she looked into Autumn’s eyes. Before her head could comprehend why, Twilight hugged Autumn tight. A hug that was returned. “Of course I can Aunt Autumn.”

Once the two separated the mares sported slightly identical awkward looks but soon laughed about it.

“You wouldn’t by chance like to teach me about all the family history I don’t know?”

“You got a few thousand years?'' Both mares laughed together but Autumn stoped and lifted her head and looked up. “I think we should move. About ten feet to the left.”

Twilight quirked an eyebrow. “Why?”

“Because you have a visiter about to drop in.” Autumn griped her nieces hoof and pulled her away from the throne.

Moments later the sound of the canterlot roof collapsed as a massive red dragon crashed landed into Twilight’s throne. Twilight gasped as she saw it was Alexestraza, sporting many large bruises along her body.

Looking up Autumn sighed as she saw the shadowy visage of her mother floating in the sky. Her eyes shimmering like a tsunami in the light of the moon and knew it meant one thing.

“What is that?” Twilight looked up and saw the serpentine dot in the sky.

“It’s mom, she’s pissed.”