Aftermath

by TheKing2001

Rating: mature
Tags: Spike, Tragedy, Shining Armor, Sad, Main 6, Lyra, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Colgate, Dark
Length: 29291

Twilight Sparkle was assassinated. Betrayed by those closest to her.

Having returned from the human world, Twilight had so many ideas to make Equestria a better place for everypony in the years that followed. Some nobles despired her ideas. Going so far as to do the unthinkable. The chapters here are how her friends reacted and coped.

Published 2023-02-27 03:30:00 UTC
Last updated 2023-03-21 22:47:54 UTC

Trixie

When I got the news, I was with Starlight on a tour. It was summer neither of us had our responsibilities at the school to take care of. Just me, my marefriend and impressing hundreds of ponies with our magic. Obviously those plans were cut short, because well, everypony already knows why. Twilight was killed. I remember that day like it was yesterday.

"Are you absolutely certain this is a good idea?" Starlight inquired.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie has never been more certain about anything in her life. This trick will impress everypony", I replied pacing around my wagon.

"It looks well kinda dangerous".

"Oh please. We've done more dangerous tricks than this. Remember, Manehatten?"

Starlight visibly shivered. "Don't remind me. I'm still surprised the police ponies didn't arrest us for accidentally blowing the roof off that building".

I waved my hoof around. "It was an honest mistake. Granted, we did have to run out of town for a few days but the town needed some more excitement".

I gazed fondly out the window. "Trixie loves this. Being on tour once more, with you. The school just gets so hectic during the year. But I wouldn't miss being there for the world, seeing you everyday is the best part".

I waited for a response and got nothing. Turning around, I looked at Starlight.
"Did you hear-" I stopped instantly taking in her look. She was pale, tears forming in her eyes. She was reading a scroll that I'm assuming that the Phoenix dropped off just now. Or I'm assuming the Phoenix was responsible because we don't own one, yet one was sitting on my hat.

"Shoo, get off that! The Great and Powerful Trixies hat is not a birdstand".

Turning back to my partner, I barely had time to prepare as she pounced on me, hugging me, tears flowing freely onto my mane and shoulder. "What in Equestria is going on, Starlight? Is it Sunburst or something?"

Starlight, sobbing, muffled some words into my mane I didn't hear.

"What was that, you're currently speaking into my mane and Trixie has bad hearing, remember?"

I still didn't get a response, so I just nuzzled her cheek, rubbing her mane as she cried for what seemed like an eternity. Finally the crying slowed down and I could figure out what the hay was going on.

"Are you okay?" I gently prodded receiving a stare. "What happened?"

Staring into my eyes, Starlight gave me my answer. "Twilight is dead".

My hooves fell out from under me in shock. Hours later, I felt something cool on my head. I opened my eyes and found Starlight standing over me, gently placing a wash cloth on my head.

"What happened to me?" I inquired.

"You fainted. For about three hours or so". Starlight replied, starting to cry again. "We've been ordered to return to Ponyville. Luna and Cadence are awaiting us at the castle."

Barely nodding, I stood up shakily. "Well, we must get a move on then. Celestia forbid what happens if we refuse. Probably making us scrub her castle floors and throne."

"You're still tired, I'll pull the wagon you can walk alongside us."

I really hated to put Starry in that position but I had to admit she was right. Getting hurt would do neither of us good.

I'll never forget how different Ponyville was when we arrived. We made damn good time considering how far the two towns are from each other. Stepping into Ponyville, Royal guards were everywhere. Standing guard at the castle, pushing ponies into their homes. Twilight's own guards played a prominent role in establishing order. Not many ponies knew that Twilight had her own royal guard. Because there was so few of them. Rainbow Dash and Applejack personally hired the guards. Applejack did the interviews, Rainbow did the trainings. The guards looked pretty impressive I must admit, purple armor with Twilights cutie mark emblazoned on the front of the chest plate and a purple plume on the helmet. Everypony in town stared in wonder at them, of course before trouble started.

"Why the hay can't we be out in our own town!?" A pony I vaguely recognized as Caramel trotted up to a guard and shoved him. The guard narrowed his eyes at the gathering crowd. I could recognize Lyra, Bon Bon, Flitter and Cheerilee in the crowd looking equally confused.

"What princess even do you even protect?" Caramel continued his rant at the guard, getting more and more physical.

The lead guard finally spoke up. "We are Princess Twilights royal guard now step back and get into your house. Now."

"You mean the princess who wants to ruin our fair country with her insane plans?" Caramel scoffed. "She isn't fit to lead, down with the princess!"

The crowd shuffled nervously. Mostly all of town knew the Princess and loved her. Lyra, Bon Bon and Flitters eyes turned cold and angry at Caramel. Suddenly, Caramel screamed out in pain. The crowd gasped and I looked back at Caramel. He was lying on the ground, blood pouring out of a broken leg as a guard stood above him, a nightstick held in his magic as he swung it down again on the fallen earth pony. The nightstick made a loud cracking sound as it connected with Caramels back, who cried out again as he was repeatedly beaten by the guard.

"You do not dare insult the princess, on today of all days. Is this understood?" The guard glared down at the barely conscious pony below him. Caramel managed a weak nod. Looking back up, I could see the crowd backing away as a guard with a medical symbol on her flanks approached. Looking closer, I could see Lyra smirking at Caramel. I forget Lyra knew Twilight personally as a filly.

"Does anypony else have any concerns they'd like to make us aware of?" The same guard questioned the crowd, swinging his nightstick nonchalantly.
The crowd shook their heads no simultaneously.

"Can we at least know why there's so many guards swarming town?" A pony with a rose cutie mark asked. The crowd made various sounds of agreement, looking at the guards.

"I will answer that, Sergeant". Standing beside him was Luna and Cadence. The crowd all slowly bowed before them. The guard nodded before joining his fellow guards at his post nearby.

"It is with a heavy heart", Cadence began holding back her own tears, "to announce Princess Twilight was murdered earlier this morning in Canterlot." The crowd made an audible gasp. Loud sobbing came from Lyra, who was being held by a stunned Bon Bon. Flitter collapsed and Cheerilee just sat down.

Forgetting Starlight was standing next to me, I felt a pony holding onto me screaming into my mane again. Glancing behind me, I saw Starlight holding on to me again. I instantly just hugged her as the sounds of screaming and crying came from half the crowd and my marefriend.

I'll never forget that day or the days that followed. The investigations. The shock as names came out of ponies who were involved. The public executions in Canterlot of all involved. And most of all, I certainly wouldn't forget Twilight. Sure, we had our differences, but we both loved Starlight. Twilight always told me I was welcome in her castle wherever I wanted and had access to all her libraries to study new spells with her. A permanent addition to my wagon was a framed picture of Twilight on her coronation day. And in all my shows, I made sure to have a moment of silence for my fallen friend and thanked her silently at the end of each show, by laying a rose I got at the end of each show at the framed picture of her. I vow to never let Twilight's memory be forgotten until the day I die.

Spike

Eight months, ten days, thirty minutes and fifteen seconds ago I lost my mother figure. My only real family I ever had. Don't ask why or how I have it memorized down to the last second because i honestly don't have an answer. Ponies always ask me what the hardest part is after living through something like this. I just look at them and say, "Trying to get through the day without breaking down crying".

Waking up each day in this empty castle is so hard. Everyday I walk into Twilights room or the library or the room with the map expecting her to be rambling about something exciting she learned or a new book she discovered. Everyday it's the same thing. The loneliness. The memories. The anger I feel. I hate to admit it, but some of that anger is at Twilight. If she hadn't agreed to go to Canterlot that day, maybe she wouldn't have left me alone. And a little anger toward myself, maybe if I had been there I could have done something to protect my mom.

"SPIKE!"

Okay maybe not all alone, I must admit.
Looking up from my musing stood my wife, Cloudchaser. Yes Cloudchaser, not Rarity or anything but a Pegasus. Nobody has seen Rarity since we were told what happened. Besides I knew Rarity would never love me back, not in the way I wanted at least.

"Sorry CC, I was thinking. What's up?", I said forcing a smile at my wife.

"I brought you food I made", she replied walking up and nuzzling me.

"Oh thanks", I say looking at the lunch my wife brought. Cloudchaser wasn't the best cook in all Equestria, but she tried her hardest and I wasn't gonna tell her the truth. I started eating what she had brought.

Sitting down next to me, draping a wing over my back, she gave me a knowing look. "Were you thinking about Twilight?" She questioned me.

I choked a bit on my pasta, looking up at her. "Was it that obvious?"

"Spike", she sighed, "you always get a look on your face when you're thinking about her. It's a distant look in your eyes and you stare at the general direction where her room was".

I nodded sadly, "yeah I was thinking about mom. I just can't say what I feel right now".

Nodding sadly, she looked at me. "I understand. It's not your fault, Spike"

Startled, I looked up her. "How the hell isn't it" she flinched and I immediately felt terrible, i knew she hated when I got this way and cussed. "If I didn't agree to stay home like she suggested, maybe she would still be alive today. She absolutely loved you. I just wish she could be here to see all that she's missing. The Pies kids growing up, the statue of her downtown where the library used to be. We even have a Twilight Day now". I finished my rant, starting to cry a bit. I felt Cloudchaser slow wipe them away as she lifted my chin up and kissed me hard. For a few seconds, everything disappeared. All my worries were gone as I closed my eyes and kissed back.

"Do you remember the day we met?" Cloudchaser questioned smiling at me.

"Of course I do", I replied. "It was one of the best days of my life".

"SPIKE!" Twilight yelled, running into my room. I rolled over, covering my head with a pillow.

"Mom, what time is it?" I mumbled from under the pillow.

"It's eight am Spike. I need you to go downtown and get me all the quills and parchment before it's all sold. I have lots of writing to do today".

I moaned and snuggled deeper into my bed. "Just five more minutes please" I begged.

"No Spike!", Twilight said yanking my blankets off with her magic and I instantly sat up glaring at her. "This is an emergency! I'm all out of my supplies. Even my back up emergency stash that I created as a back up for the first emergency stash is empty!"

"Sweet Celestia", I mumbled.

"What was that Spike?"

"Nothing I said I'll be right down", I answered, rubbing my eyes.

Twilight just beamed at me. "You're the greatest Spike, I wouldn't know what to do without you".

Twenty minutes later, I was rushing around Ponyville. I got the quills first because the store was closest to the castle. I was so focused at staring down at my list, I never saw the pony in front of me until I was lying down on the ground.

"Watch it!" I heard a voice yell. Looking up, I saw a stunning sight. A purple colored Pegasus with blueish white mane staring down at me. "Oh shit, sorry Spike", she picked me up with a wing and all the stuff with her mouth, dropping them into a bag. "I didn't realize it was you".

"Oh, it's all okay, I really should have paid more attention", I said.

"I'm sorry as well, I shouldn't have snapped at you" the Pegasus smiled down at me. "Twilight having you do some errands for her?"

I nodded. "Yep. She woke me up at eight in the morning. Too early for this". I gave an exaggerated yawn.

"Well", the mare in front of me began to speak, "I'm free all day if you want some company"

I thought about it and said, "Sure why not? Might be fun".

The purple Pegasus in front of me blushed ever so slightly. "Well lead the way!"

"And if I remember correctly, that wasn't even the best part of your day" Cloudchaser smirked at the dragon sitting next to her cuddled under her wing.

I grinned back because I knew she was right.

For hours we wandered around Ponyville, even after I got my errands for Twilight done. She asked me what it was like living in a castle, i asked how it was like to fly. As we approached Roselucks flower stand, I told Cloudchaser to wait here. "What, why?" She questioned me confused.

"Hey Spike" Roseluck greeted me happily, leaning over and rubbing my head with a hoof. "How's my favorite dragon?"

"Roseluck, I'm the only dragon you know", I pointed out.

"Exactly why you're my favorite dragon"- she replied laughing. "What can I get ya?"

"Do you have any dwarf iris?" I questioned the cream mare.

"Oh but of course", the mare nodded reaching over and picking up one with her mouth. "This for Rarity, i assume?"

I shook my head and pointed at a blushing Cloudchaser. "It's for her".

Roseluck grinned widely,"I see I see. You two are adorable".

I turned a bright shade of red. "W-we're only friends" I stammered out.

Roseluck did what I thought impossible and her grin only got bigger. "If you say so", she teased. "Flower is on the house".

Walking back to Cloudchaser, I blushed the whole way.

"And whatever is that Spike?" Cloudchaser teased, blushing herself.

"I uh got you this", I said shyly.

Smiling, Cloudchaser knelt down as I put the flower in her mane.

"You're gorgeous", I blurted out and immediately covered my mouth.

"You think so?" Cloudchaser asked in surprise.

"Yes. I do. Why are you surprised?", I questioned.

Making a circle with her hoof in the dirt, she finally said,"Nopony has ever called me that before. Hot and pretty yes, but never gorgeous".

"Well, they're missing out", I replied.

Cloudchaser looked to be fighting internally with her self and suddenly leaned down and kissed me. I was blown away. I'd never been kissed before like this. It was incredible.

After a few moments, she pulled away both of us panting slightly.

"Spike there you are", I heard a familiar voice shout out and Twilight trotted up. "I've been searching everywhere-" she suddenly stopped, noticing me and Cloudchaser blushing, a thin strand of saliva connecting us.

Twilight grinned and started clapping her hooves excitedly. "Oh my stars. I'm so happyyyyy!" She squeeled.

A few months later, Twilight agreed to help me introduce my marefriend to the others. Walking into the room, I took in the sight: Rainbow laying on her chair napping lazily, Pinkie floating on a balloon, Applejack eating an apple, Fluttershy talking to a small spider (evil damn things) and Rarity sewing.

"Hey uh guys", I stammer.

"Howdy Spike", Applejack grinned.

"Hello darling".

"Hi", Fluttershy whispered.

"HI SPIKE", Pinke screamed from her balloon.

A snore came from Rainbow. Rolling her eyes, Applejack chucked her eaten apple at Rainbows head.

Shooting up to the ceiling, Rainbow yelped.

"Spike has an announcement, now get down here".

I nodded gratefully at Applejack. "I uhm have somepony special I want you all to meet".

"Ooh ooh who is it?", Pinkie yelled.

"You can come in" i called out and Cloudchaser floated in, flapping her wings.

"Cloudchaser?" Rainbow looked confused, "why are you here?"

Taking a deep breath, I spoke. "She's my marefriend". Silence filled the room till Applejack said "well I'll be darned. Little ol Spike growing up".

Rainbow flew over and hoofbumped Cloudchaser grinning.

Pinke and Fluttershy hugged me excitedly. Rarity gave a slightly forced smile.

"You know what I loved about Twilight?", Cloudchaser questioned Spike.

"What?"

"On our wedding day, she put the fear of Luna into me if I ever hurt you. She was so caring about you and I felt honored she trusted me to marry you".

"Oh god what if I fall?" Cloudchaser panicked.

Rainbow and Twilight sighed and rolled their eyes. "For the last bucking time, you are gonna do fine. You're gonna walk down the aisle, say 'I do' and marry Spike. Simple", Rainbow said sternly.

"I'm so scared. What if he doesn't like my dress or what if he gets bored of me?"

Twilight facehoofed,"You two have been dating for 10 months. If he was gonna leave, wouldn't he have done it by now?"

Cloudchaser nodded slowly. "I suppose that makes sense".

"I gotten get in position",Rainbow said. "You're gonna do great", she added throwing me a reassuring smile and flew out the room.

"Well looks like you're all ready", Twilight said.

I nodded, anxiety calmed and grinned and we started to walk to the main part of the castle.

"Oh and Cloudchaser", Twilight called out to me,"If you ever hurt him, so help me Celestia ill bury you".

I gulped and nodded.

"The wedding went off perfectly. We exchanged our vows, Rainbow did a sonic rainboom when I kissed Cloudy and that was that", Spike said closing the portrait book.

Years had gone by and Spike had a white beard and a cane. On his lap sat a dragon and a Pegasus filly.

"Wasn't mommy a Wonderbolt reservist?", the filly asked.

I laughed and said, "Yes Snow Storm, she was".

Cloudchasers kids snuggled up into me, slowly falling asleep and I carried them to bed.

I never forgot Twilight after that horrible year. I was there for all of her friends funerals: Rainbows, Applejacks, Lyra's, Bon Bon and Fluttershy. The hardest one of all was my wife's. Losing Cloudchaser, I lost another part of me. She was without a doubt the best thing to ever happen to me.

I always told our kids about their grandmother and their mom. I always made them know Twilight would have loved them like her own kids. And that Cloudy would be so proud of the filly (and dragon) they'd become. I knew I was.

Spike died ten years later, his kids buried him in between Twilight and Cloudchaser, his beloved wife. As he requested. He and Cloudchasers kids passed down Twilights story to their kids and so on as he also wanted. Twilight's acts and memory was never forgotten. If you look closely in the castle, you can see Twilight, her friend's, Spike and Cloudchaser and hear laughing and conversations if you listen close enough.

Lemon Hearts

After the incident, the days went by so fast. I honestly don't know where time went. All I really remember is seeing a bunch of running guards at the castle, a medic guard running towards the princesses rooms and the castle going into lockdown. Nothing really could prepare you for this kind news, after all how do you truly prepare to learn your fillyhood friend and princess was killed all at the same time? I was the first of my friends to find out. Only on accident, I overheard two guards talking who walked past the kitchen.

"Did you go in the room at all?"one guard asked his partner.

"Nah, but Fastlane told me about it. The room was a bloody mess he said". The other guard replied.

"Thank God I wasn't assigned to guard the scene. I'd prefer to not throw up my breakfast, thanks".

"You said it. I don't know who would hate Princess Twilight enough to straight up murder her".

Hearing that, I dropped the plates I was holding in my magic. Both guards glanced in the kitchen and said,"shit" simultaneously. The few cooks and boss in the kitchen stared at guards in shock. I remember running out the room and almost getting to the exit of the castle before I ran into Princess Celestia. Literally. I slammed into her chest hard and laid on the ground in a daze for a few seconds to see her staring down at me.

"You should be a bit more careful", the princess said, helping me up.

I bowed and got a good look at her. She looked exhausted and angry but not at me surprisingly. I worked up my nerve.

"Princess, can I ask you a question?", I asked nervously looking down.

"You just did", she replied.

I blinked before shaking my head. "No uhm I meant about Twilight". Staring straight into my soul it felt for eternity before she answered me. "How did you find out?"

"I overheard two guards talking about it when they walked past the kitchen".

Celestia sighed. "Yes, it's true". I breathed in fast as millions of thoughts ran through my mind.

"Did you know her?" I was shaken out of my thoughts and nodded.

"We were friends growing up. We went to your school together. We still go out and get donuts with all our friends".

Celestia brightened up a bit and looked over me again. "You must be Lemon Hearts. Twilight spoke quite fondly of you all. This is your loss just as much as mine. You should go home. You need to process".

I nodded softly," and tell my friends".

Celestia shook her head, "I'll send some guards to do it. Who do you have to tell?"

I told her the names except Minuette and Twinkleshine. Knowing how Minnie felt about Twilight, it'd be best hearing it came from a friend, not a royal guard. I'd much rather have her hit me than a guard and get tossed in jail. I practically kicked her door down when I got to her house.

She stumbled down the stairs, half asleep. I forgot it was one in the afternoon and Minuette liked her sleep on her days off.

"What in the everloving hell is going on? You have a key, did you really have to destroy my door?" She glared at me.

"Sorry", I rubbed the back of my neck sheepishly. "We need to talk".

"And it couldn't wait till a reasonable hour?"

"Minnie, it's one in the afternoon. You've slept all morning", I commented rolling my eyes.

"Exactly!" She said, "an unreasonable hour. Anyway, I'll make some coffee and tea for us both and I'll meet you on the couch". I gave a quick nod and worked my way to the couch.

A few short minutes later, she trotted in carrying her coffee and my tea. "Lots of guards out today, I see a bunch flying around out my kitchen window. Wonder why there's such a heavy presence".

I took a deep breath as I prepared to shatter my innocent blue friends world.

"One of the princesses was killed, sometime late last night".

Minuette spit some of her coffee out in surprise before bursting out laughing. "That's a good joke. Bit dark for you, I expected something like that from Moondancer". She punched me lightly on the shoulder.

"I'm not joking", I replied as seriously as i could. Minuette had such a contagious laugh, it was always hard to not laugh when she did.

"It was Twilight, wasn't it?" A voice at the stairs startled us. Looking up, I saw Twinkleshine standing there. I forgot she lived here too.

Taking another deep breath, I sighed and said, "yes. I overheard two guards talking about it and Princess Celestia confirmed it. How did you guess so quickly?"

Twinkleshine looked away before commenting, "lucky guess I suppose. Not so lucky though". She joined us on the couch as we looked over to Minuette who sat there with an expressionless face.

"Oh" was all we got as she slumped deeper into the couch. I knew inside she was heartbroken. I knew she had loved Twilight more than friends would. I was still surprised she trusted me to randomly tell me out of the blue one day but I supported it.

After that, everything went by fast. And then it was execution day for all involved. It was going to be the first time I saw all our friends together. I saw Twinkleshine and Minuette daily, Moondancer became a drunk after finding and spent most her time in the drunk tank. Lyra never left her house. The only person who spoke to Lyra and saw her was Bon Bon and thats because they live together.

I remember all us sitting down close to Celestia. After we talked that day, we became very close and considered each other friends. She pulled strings to get us the safest(and highest) seats next to her with a bunch of guards. The executions went on for about three hours till the last one was brought out.

Seeing one of the guards playing a part in the murder shocked us all. The guard had a slightly pink mane and white coat. The arena was quiet as he got chained to the post. He stared up at the crowd and smiled. At that, the crowd started booing and throwing items at him. It took Celestia a few moments to get everyone quiet.

She nodded at a guard down at the post, who nodded back and brought out a torch. She pushed the flames towards the chained up guard and all we could hear were screams as he was burnt alive. I'll never get those screams out of my mind nor the smell. It was gross and I vomited into my bag we all got given at the entrance. I think the guards knew some ponies might need them.

Years passed and I still think about that day. What could have been different. Maybe if I found Twilight before her fateful night and invited her to sleep over, maybe she'd still be alive today. I know it's unhealthy to push blame onto myself but there's a lot of that going around. None of us ever truly moved on. As depressing as this sounds, I look forward to the day I die. To be reunited with my friend. She's probably up there right now, badgering God about how to make it easier for ponies to get into heaven and driving him absolutely nuts. I can't help but chuckle at the thought.

Minuette

I wonder if this feeling ever goes away, I thought to myself as I made to walk up to the Royal Cemetery. Ever time I walk up here, it still feels fresh even though it's been four months. Lemon Hearts practically kicking my door down to tell me about our childhood friend being killed off like she was nothing. Like all she did for Equestria meant nothing. After all the times she saved us, it couldn't save her.

Lemon Hearts was one of the first of my friends to find out, since she worked at the castle and all. Makes me mad honestly, knowing someone could hurt someone as beautiful as Twilight and not even feel bad. And yes, I said beautiful. Nobody except Lemon Hearts knew my true feelings. That I was in love with Twilight. But enough reminiscing, today's a busy day.

My day started as they all do now: wake up, look at the picture of Twilight and I Spike took after Twi came to visit, kiss said picture, go downstairs and eat breakfast. In the middle of breakfast, Twinkleshine came down from our shared house. And let me tell ya, she looked pretty damn awful. Not that I looked better.

"There's some more food on the stove ", I say nodding to it.

She doesn't say anything, she never does anymore. Just nods a quick thank you at me and gets her breakfast. Remember when I said today started off as any other day? Yeah, not for much longer.

I zoned out over my oatmeal with honey and caramel chips that I almost Twinkleshine speak. It was so quiet, I thought I imagined it.

"When do we have to leave?", she asked quietly.

I did a doubletake, staring at her.

"It's good to hear your voice, I missed it." I said. "We have to leave in forty minutes. Lyra and Bon Bon are coming from Ponyville to watch. Moondancer and Lemon Hearts will join us also".

"You think it's kinda gross how many ponies are willingly coming to watch a bunch of other ponies get executed?" Twinkleshine asked.

I shrugged, "I guess. I don't think many would if it happened on a daily basis, but these are extraordinary times".

My friend nodded, half heartedly stirring her oat meal. She suddenly looked up at me.

"You loved her, didn't you?"

I choked on my oatmeal but did a good job at hiding it. I had to do damage control.

"Of course I loved her, she was one of my best friends. We all loved her", I said trying hard to hide my nervousness in my voice.

"That's not what I meant. I saw how you looked at her. We are your friends, you could have trusted us with this. Hell, Lyra is marrying Bon Bon next month. Nopony would have judged you".

I sighed and finally made eye contact with her. "I wasn't afraid of that. I was afraid of how others would have reacted. That they would hurt her". I laughed bitterly. "So much for that, right?"

Twinkleshine remained quiet, watching me pour my heart out to her. While Lemon Hearts was my favorite friend out of our group, Twinkleshine had been a close second. Twilight didn't count of course, she was a love interest not a friend friend, if you get me.

I felt something wipe my tears away that I wasn't even aware I had cried. Twinkleshine set down a washcloth next to her and hugged me. "You can always tell her"

"Telling her grave won't be the same".

"But it might help", Twinkleshine pressured.

We sat there, hugging until it was time to go.

When we arrived at the arena, it was a mess. Royal Guards standing watch for rowdy ponies or ponies who were gonna show open support for the ones who killed Twilight. I glanced into the guard house nearby and saw a blue Pegasus with rainbow hair beating a earth pony inside. I guess the guards found a troublemaker and were punished him. I can't shake the feeling that blue Pegasus looked so familiar.

"You ready to go inside?"

I didn't even notice Lyra had appeared next to me. I gave her a hug which she returned, squeezing the hell out of me. She was always a strong hugger. I nodded.

All of us walked in. No amount of preparing could have got us ready for what we saw.

Princess Celestia was sitting on her throne, overlooking the arena. Sitting next to her was Luna, Cadence, a unfamiliar orange unicorn with fiery hair and a grey Pegasus with a bubble cutie mark. I didn't realize until Bon Bon pointed out days later, there was another one of her and Lyra over there too. Strange, but not the weirdest thing to happen I suppose.

I almost lost my breakfast multiple times, though I'll never admit it to the others. I never thought I'd see so many fellow ponies get killed in front of me, let alone hear ponies cheering as it happened. An earth pony died by a thousand cuts. A Pegasus had her wings taken off and bleed out. Horrific stuff. Probably the worst (and most shocking) was when a member of Celestia's own Royal Guards was marched out there. He looked pretty beat up, black eye cuts all over. The worst injury tho, was a broken horn. I fought the urge to touch my own horn. For unicorns, getting your horn broken is the most painful thing ever.

I didn't realize how quiet it was in the arena when the guard was escorted in. What i did notice, was how creepily his coat almost matched Twinkleshine. Glancing back, I noticed Bon Bon studying Twinkleshine hard, who was just sitting tense staring ahead. Why, I have no idea. After the executions were done, we went out ways. Lyra and Bon Bon had a hotel to get to downtown near me and Twinkleshines shared home. Lemon Hearts went to sleep and Moondancer went out drinking. For the tenth time this week.

Stepping into the home, I sighed.

"Pretty horrific stuff." I heard Twinkleshine comment. I nodded.

"Did you notice that Royal Guard? I don't think I'll ever look at them the same again." I said idly. I noticed Twinkleshine get slightly tense but I was too tired to ask why. I started to head upstairs.

"Wait".

I slowly came back down and stared at Twinkleshine. Unexpectedly, she kissed me and stared at me with half lidded eyes. I didn't know what to but my body took over and kissed back. After a eternity, she pulled back.

"What was that for?" I questioned.

"Something I wanted to do for a long time", she said. "Please don't hate me".

I thought about this and then kissed her. We slowly worked our way upstairs and fell onto a bed. Who's I don't remember, I think mine. I don't really remember much after, all I remember was my moans, her screams and us both panting in unison afterwards. Twinkleshine was cuddled up next to me, her head laying on my stomach as she slept quietly. I never really thought about her this way but tonight changed things.

Please don't hate me Twilight, I thought to myself.

I could never hate you, a voice suddenly appeared in my mind.

I shot open my eyes, thinking she was in my room.

Why didn't you tell me, I heard the voice again. Closing my eyes, I saw Twilight standing there in my mind.

I was afraid, I thought. Twilight sighed softly and walked up to me and rested her head on mine. I'm bi you know, I heard her say in my head. I loved you too. She pulled away and smiled.

Will you stay here with me, I asked in my thoughts. Twilight stood for a moment and nodded. For hour long, I asked.

For however long you want, she promised.

Please stay forever I begged in my mind. Please don't leave me.

Twilight smiled sadly, I won't leave you ever again I heard echo in my head.

I smiled happily and hummed.

I want you and Twinkleshine to be happy. For me, she said. I stared and after a moment nodded. If I have your permission, I will I said. And she nodded, kissing my forehead.

Tell Twinkleshine I don't blame her, I heard echoing in my head which confused me.

Blame her for what, I asked.

It's up to her to tell, not me was the response I got. Twilight sighed and said, now sleep Minnie. Remember I will always love you and watch over you.

I smiled and nodded, opened my eyes, rubbed Twinkleshines mane, pulled a blanket over us and fell asleep.

The next morning, in bed I told Twinkleshine, "Twilight doesn't blame you for what happened" and she burst into tears.

Everytime I fell asleep, Twilight was in my mind talking to me.

I finished the long walk up to Twilights grave. I touched it with a hoof, gave it a gentle kiss and said, "Twilight I love you".

Rarity

I sighed and threw myself onto my couch. It was rather chilly in the boutique. Empty too. Nopony came to get dresses or suits anymore. Partially because I boarded the place up. Hell, nopony even knew I still lived here. I cut myself off entirely from civilization. The power company had long since cut power off, so I only had the few magic spells I knew for light.

I had never felt so alone in all my life. The only time I had came out, was to go watch the ponies involved get their punishments. I didn't bother to stick around after, I just went home to continue my own forced punishment and isolation. Because think about it, I grew up with Applejack and right after we met, her parents died. I met Twilight and years later she dies. I'm cursed. So if I stay away from everypony, no one else will get hurt and die. Everypony stays safe.

At times, I did wonder what was going on outside. I did miss Sweetie Belle but this is for her good as well. I even missed her friend's absolutely destroying the place at times. I know Twilight would tell me I'm insane for thinking shutting myself in is an appropriate response to her death, but she can't say anything anymore unfortunately.

I wonder if Pinkie is still throwing parties. Probably not. Is the apple farm still in business? Does Fluttershy still live in Ponyville? What happened to Rainbow? I'll never know. I remember everything that happened during the day the guards came to Ponyville after the crime.

"Applejack, hold still", I said sternly. "If you move wrong, you'll rip the dress and get hurt yourself. That'll be unproductive for the two of us, dear".

"Fine, but Ahm getting pretty fed up of this", she complained. "Ah love ya like family Rares, but Ah got my own work cut out for me back at the farm".

"And if you get hurt here, you can't do the work at the farm, no matter how stubborn you are".

She sighed and stood still for the rest of the time.

"And we're done, darling", I announced happily.

"Thank the maker", Applejack muttered.

Right at that moment, Sweetie, Applebloom and Scootaloo came crashing into the room.

Applejack jumped and fell, accidentally ripping the dress. I spun around and glared at the fillies.

"Whatever was that for?" I snapped. "You ruined my work!"

"Heh, sorry sis", Sweetie rubbed her head nervously.

"Yall gotta come with us", Applebloom shouted.

"Why?" Applejack questioned her sister.

"There's a bunch of guards flying into Ponyville!" Scootaloo shouted jumping up and down.

"Like a lot", Sweetie cut in.

Me and Applejack looked at each worriedly. Maybe some new threat appeared, that was so dangerous the guards were here to assist us.

At that thought, all of us made our way downtown. After I used my magic to help Applejack out of my ruined dress of course.

By the time we got there, a crowd was dispersing and a pony I didn't know was getting taken away on a stretcher by two paramedic guards. I could see Bon Bon walking carrying a green unicorn on her back into their home and Cheerilee trotting home with a blank expression on her face. And standing in the middle of town, was Cadence and Luna, conversating with a guard. We trotted up and Applejack instantly greeted them and tipped her hat.

"Well, howdy princesses. What brings yall here?"

Both of them looked at us sadly and I had a sinking feeling something was horribly wrong. I hate when I'm right.

"You all should follow us", Luna said solemnly as she headed to the castle. As soon as we entered, we noticed more guards standing with Pinkie, Fluttershy, Spike and Cloudchaser. I really hated that she was here. Because she got my little Spikey. I secretly did love him, but I was too late to tell him. I wonder if he stayed behind with her here in town or if they ran away together. I'll never know.

I know I shouldn't hate her because it was my fault I never confessed my feelings. Hopefully she can make him happy, more so than I ever would have. Out of all of us, Fluttershy surprisingly took the news best. She later told me because she was used to having animals in her care die. Pinkie just deflated like a balloon, Applejack covered her face and me well, I just stood there. I didn't know what to say. My sister and her friends didn't find out till later. We left them to hang out with a new guard who promised to keep them entertained while the princesses talked to us.

A year has a passed or at least I believe it's a year. My calendar is outdated and I've run out of food. I can't go to the market and get more because I'm certain the market ponies will die just because I'm in their vicinity. Looking in my mirror, I take in my look. My once beautiful mane is matted. My eyes have sunken in and I got bags under my eyes. I walk back to my bed and fall backwards. I hope if anyone reads this, they'll knew everything I did to keep ponies safe. From isolating myself to being an Element of Harmony. I believe it's February now? Either way it's very cold in my boutique and there's a bunch of snow piled on the windows and the boards. I honestly don't know if I can keep going on like this. Pulling the blanket over me, I somehow manage to drift to sleep.

Waking up a few days later, I felt different. Refreshed is the only way I could describe it. I finally decided to go out into the world, yanking the boards off. I found the letter i wrote and shredded it up and threw it away. Stepping outside, I could see the snow being cleared away by earth ponies. Instantly, I had a pony jump in my face.

"Rarity!" Pinkie screamed.

I jumped back and fell over, startled.

"Hello darling", I stammer out.

"Come with me!" she screamed and dragged me along despite my protests to Sweet Apple Acres. Within the hour, all my friends Spike and his wife were there.

"Where have ya been sugarcube?" Applejack demanded.

Sighing, I decided to answer all their questions and told my story.

Applejack, looking angry and depressed, just hugged me. "That's the dumbest thing Ahve ever heard. Shutting yourself in ain't the best course of action".

I nodded tearfully and leaned into the embrace.

"All that matters is that you're back now and are safe", Cloudchaser remarked, looking down.

""Enough sad talk! Time for the 'Welcome Back To Society Party, Rarity!" Pinkie screamed. After the party, Cloudchaser pulled me aside.

"I know you don't like me much for marrying Spike", she began. "I'm truly sorry for that. I didn't mean for that to happen".

I sighed. "While I do adore Spike, you two have my full support".

She smiles softly, "thank you. Friends?" She asked hopefully.

I thought for a second and smiled back. "Friends".

She hugged me and I returned the gesture. "Let's get some cake into you, girl", she laughed. "You look like you could use it". I laughed with her and we trotted off to join our friends.

Author's Note

So originally I was gonna kill Rarity off for a bigger plan in a later chapter. But I decided I could keep her alive and still do what I planned.

Bon Bon

I'll admit, I wasn't that close to Twilight. The only real interactions I've had with her was borrowing cookbooks, helping Spike cook and when she came to the shop looking for Lyra to hang out. But I knew Lyra was close to her and if Lyra trusted and cared about her, then I did too. I always did admire her for her leadership skills. We all could learn something from a pony like she was.

I didn't even hesitate to agree when Lyra said she wanted her to officiate our wedding. As soon as she brought up to me, I was all in. But plans quickly changed. I don't remember much when I was told. I remember watching Caramel get beaten by that guard, and then Lyra just crying on me. I also vaguely remember Lyra smirking at Caramel getting hurt by the guard which really shocked me too at the time because Lyra never enjoyed seeing others suffer. When the crowd slowly started to disperse, Lyra couldn't move. I had to resort to carrying her. Never will I admit this to her face, but she was heavier than she looked. Lyra was inconsolable after and didn't leave our bedroom except to use the bathroom. Not even to eat. I had to bring food to her and watch to ensure she ate. Even then, she only ate half of everything I brought but at least she got some food.

I still remember when I met Twilight at her party when she first came to Ponyville. That was also the day I first met Lyra. Probably the second best day of my life. The first, of course, was being married to Lyra and later adopting a orange flightless Pegasus that Lyra had adored.

I walked up to the table while the sounds of a party were going on in the background. This purple pony ran screaming up to her room. I chuckled at that, it reminded me of myself when Pinkie threw a party for when I first moved here. I picked up a glass and poured some punch into it. As soon as I turned around, a green unicorn accidentally backed into me, spilling my punch all over my coat.

Spinning around, i could see her beautiful gold eyes widen in shock.

"Oh my heavens" she yelped. "Fuck, I'm so sorry". I was taken aback, that language wasn't so casually said in my house growing up. I quickly got over my shock to look down at myself.

"It's fine, really". It wasn't but I wasn't gonna be rude. I was busy thinking how it'd take forever to get the punch stain out of my fur.

"Here, let me help clean you up. Yo, Minuette!" She yelled. "Come here". A blue unicorn came trotting up, smiling.

"Whats up?" She asked and I could tell by her slightly slurred speech she a bit too much of the alcoholic beverages on the other side of the room. The green unicorn rolled her eyes.

"I thought you quit drinking?" The green pony in front of me asked.

The blue unicorn nodded. "I was gonna but look at all the ponies and pretty lights. I couldn't turn down this opportunity", she slurred out. "Anyway, whatchaa need bestie?", throwing her hoof around the unicorn.

"Can you use that one spell to clean the punch off of-", turning back to me, she looked at me. "Whats your name again?"

"Bon Bon".

"Anyway as i was saying, can you clean the punch of Bon Bons coat please?" The unicorn asked.

"Woah now", I interjected. "She's intoxicated. I don't want her accidentally teleporting me or turning me into a fly".

"Trust me", Minuette said while swaying,"I went to Celestia's school as a filly. This spell ain't nothin". I looked at her in surprise. This drunk off her hooves unicorn went to Celestia's school? Glancing at her friend, she only nodded.

"Alright", I said cautiously, "but if I end up on top of Mount Neighalaya or become anything other than Bon Bon, I'll come for you".

Drunkenly, she swayed and nodded before using her magic. Blue light was swirling around me before it just disappeared. "Tadaaaa", she said. Looking down, I could see my coat perfectly clean. I was so certain something was gonna go wrong. I gave a sigh of relief.
"Thanks", i said. Nodding, Minuette looked to her friend.

"Seee yaaaa around Lyra, Twinkleshine wants to dance again it looks like" she said. Looking further back, I could see a white unicorn with a pink mane waving drunkenly at the three of us.

Lyra laughed. "Have fun Minnie", as the blue unicorn nodded and stumbled over to her friend.

"So", Lyra looked at me, "are you having fun?"

"I suppose", I replied. Now that I could think, I was finally able to get a good luck at Lyra. She had a light green mane with a white streak and a mane matching her hair and a harp, I think it is for a cutie mark. Later she corrected me and said it was a lyre.

"Where are you from?" Lyra inquired, blushing slightly and looking down.

"Uhhh, I'm from a super small town. You wouldn't know it" I said.

"Try me", she challenged looking determined up at me.

"I'm from St Mareland", i said. There's no way she knew it, it was a small country town where everypony knew everypony. To my surprise, she lit up like a Hearths Warming Eve tree.

"I've performed there once", she exclaimed.

To say I was surprised was putting it mildly.

"What? When? Nothing happens in that town without everypony knowing", I questioned.

"Oh about three or four years ago", she commented, levitating a punch into my hoof. That would explain it, three years ago I was doing one of my uh jobs. Let's just say I had to move around at lot for my work before I became a candy maker.

"I'm from Canterlot", Lyra said. "Me and a few friends are here for the Celebration. We try to go every year to the next town it's held in. Wanna hang out with us?"

I thought about her offer. I was here alone and shrugged. "Sure why not?" I remarked.

I was shaken out of my thoughts by a mint green hoof poking me gently. Glancing over, I was greeted by Lyra's smiling face. I was surprised to see her smiling.

I nuzzled her, which she returned.

"Hello, love", I greeted.

"Hi" she replied, still smiling. "Scootaloo wanted some pancakes. I tried to make them for her but it didn't go well. I would have got you sooner but you seemed busy", she said looking down nervously, playing with her mane.

I sighed. It was no secret my wife wasn't the best cook, but I did love the effort and dedication for everything she did.

"I'll be right in".

"Thanks. You're the best", she looked back up at me.

I grinned, "sorry I didn't hear you. Say that again?"

"I said, you're the best", she replied.

"Nope, say it again just for extra measures", I teased.

"I said you're-" she stopped speaking and finally understood I was teasing her. She rolled her eyes.

"You know what I don't get?"

"What?" I replied.

"Why didn't Rainbow Dash adopt Scootaloo? Isn't she her honorary big sister?"

"Remember, Derpy has two kids already. Rainbow said she didn't want to put the stress on Derpy, especially with their money problems. It's why she came to us", I said. "Because she trusted us enough, especially because of your friendship you had with Twilight".

Lyra nodded slowly. "Makes sense".

I went and made breakfast for the three of us and quickly went back to my thinking.

A few weeks later, Lyra came out of our room and found me in the living room reading. I was surprised.

"Well, look who came out of her cave", I teased.

"Haha", she said sarcastically. "I want to go to Canterlot. To watch those involved get their punishments. Minuette, Twinkleshine and Lemonhearts are going".

I was even more surprised and a little concerned at this. "You want to watch ponies get killed?"

She nodded. "It's justice". I personally had zero interest in watching but I wasn't about to let her go alone. I sighed.

"Fine. But I don't feel comfortable with this".

"You don't have to come if you don't want to", she told me.

I shook my head. "If you're going, I'm going".

After we got to Canterlot and meet with her friends I couldn't help but notice Twinkleshine was super tense. I assumed she was as uncomfortable with this as I was.

I asked her about it later and she just shrugged and told me it was nothing. There's something more going on with that mare than what she's telling.

As the last pony was brought to meet his fate, I accidentally looked at Twinkleshine and what I saw made me do a double take. She looked like she was about to cry, but why? She noticed me looking and quickly composed herself into a look I know well. See, I used to work for a super secret agency here in Canterlot. Only Lyra nows. I'm very accustomed to the look of hiding a secret. And that face Twinkleshine has been putting on all day is the exact same one I used to put on.

That mare is hiding something. And I'm gonna get to the bottom of it.

Twenty five years later, I lost Lyra. Definitely the hardest thing I ever went through. The whole town showed up and said good words. Everypony loved her music. I think what I will miss about her the most was her weird sitting positions and her obsession over the mythological humans. I can still hear her music if I listen hard enough in our house. It sounds lovely. In a way, I'm glad she died before me so that way I didn't have to worry about leaving her alone. We both made an agreement to each other whoever died first would wait for the other in heaven till the other got there. I bet she's sitting on that bench outside the gates right now, playing her lyre for everypony. I remember finding out what Twinkleshine was hiding. I knew it would break Lyra and everypony else so I kept it a secret, I regret that.

Bon Bon died shortly after. Her daughter, Scootaloo, buried her two moms next to each other on a field overlooking Ponyville.

As soon as I realized what was happening and I was in heaven, I looked around and there was Lyra, playing her lyre on a bench surrounded by ponies. As soon as she noticed me, she jumped up and hugged me crying.

"I waited for so long, I thought you'd never come", she joked.

I laughed and wiped her tears away. With that, we both walked through the gates together.

Lyra

I've never really been good at talking about my feelings or what makes me mad. So believe me when I tell you just talking about Twilight and everything makes me uncomfortable, hell i can barely think about her somedays. My throat consists, it's hard to breath and I can barely see. It's like my body doesn't want me to let the feelings out. I'm still mad at everyone involved and rightfully so.

I woke up to the smell of pancakes in the air and I immediately knew Bon Bon must be making her signature chocolate chip pancakes. That's honestly the best way for anybody to start the day. Add some blueberry syrup and a glass of milk, practically nothing can go wrong at all during the day.

And then I remembered about what happened and I instantly just pushed myself deeper into our bed. I had forgotten for a second that I wanted to hide away from the public. I hated seeing anyone except my marefriend. I could always make an exception for Minnie or Lemon Hearts i suppose but they lived in Canterlot.

Our bedroom door opened and Bon Bon trotted in carrying a plate of pancakes on her back and a bottle of blueberry syrup with a glass of milk. How she always knew exactly what I'm thinking I'll never know.

"Wake up sleepy head", Bon Bon said as she put the plate and syrup down on a tray next to our bed. "It's one pm, you've slept all day".

I gave a groan as a response and shoved a pillow over my face. Bon Bon rolled her eyes and walked over to the curtains and yanked them open, causing the sunlight to come spilling into the room, casting a magnificent yellow light across it.

I shot up and glared at her while trying to keep the sun out of my eyes.

"What the hell was that for? I was up". I demanded.

"You didn't get up quick enough", Bon Bon teased. "I brought you food. I made your favorite".

I'll admit, I was hungry but I just didn't have the energy to deal with anything these past few weeks. I was more than happy to lay in bed alone. Sometimes Bon Bon would join me and we'd just relax together.

"I'm not hungry, thanks for the thought though Bonnie".

Bon Bon narrowed her eyes.

"You have to eat. You haven't ate in two days. Remember when I said I'd tie you down and shove it down your throat?"

I couldn't help myself at that. I gave a small smile. "Kinky" I teased. Bon Bon sighed and I got a washcloth to the face.

"Kinda reminds me of our honeymoon in Manehatten", I continued to tease Bon Bon.

Bon Bon only turned a bright shade of red and turned around to leave.
"If you eat your breakfast, maybe you can get dessert". She flicked her tail up at that and walked out as I stared and immediately ate my food faster than I've ever done and immediately jumped up to follow her. Now that was something I could get behind. Heh, literally.

I grumbled as i helped stir the chocolate in the pot on the stove

"Whats wrong love?" Bon Bon asked as she walked up next to me and peered into the pot on the stove.

"You tricked me into coming downstairs", I playfully glared at her.

"Whatever are you talking about?" Bon Bon asked, putting on her innocent face.

"I thought we were gonna have sex, not bake. You even flicked your tail upwards", I complained.

Bon Bon leaned in close. "That's for later, after Scootaloo goes to her sleepover with Applebloom and Twist".

Fuck I forgot about that. Bon Bon always was a damn good tease.

"Fine. But you better make it worth it", I teased. Bon Bon gave me a very mischievous smile.

Shaking that out of my mind, I continued to help Bon Bon prepare candies for our store. After awhile, my mind wandered off to my least favorite and most depressing topic. Twilight. She was my first friend. The first one I ever felt comfortable to include in my family. I've never hated anybody before in my life except the ones who took her. And I especially despised Caramel. Waste of oxygen.

I'd be lying if I said cheering at the executions and stuff as each individual died didn't scare me. I've never thought about anybody that way, it's like something in me died with Twilight. No, not died. If I say that word, then it becomes real and I can't keep acting like she's just on a long vacation. What's wrong with me? I wasn't this depressed and angry after my own parents passed away.

I was shaken out of my musing by Bon Bon shaking me and giving me a nervous look.

"Are you okay?"

I just nodded and looked down. In my thinking, I'd accidentally broken the peppermint candies I'd be making.

"Sorry", I said sheepishly.

Later that night Twilight once again occupied my mind. I've been trying to focus on the good things I remember about her. Like when she found out I was obsessed with humans, she took me to the other world as a early wedding gift. I got to meet a honest to God human. I even meet myself and we learned so much. We played pranks on other people, on their version of Bon Bon. It was great. I was so excited. It was one of the greatest days of my life. Or how she was so excited to find out me and Bon Bon wanted her to officiate our wedding. At our wedding, we had a small spot for her set next to me at me and Bon Bons table reserved strictly for Twilight. A paper was set there in front of it and everything. I wouldn't have had it any other way. And then when she helped us adopt Scootaloo. Or the pre wedding paid vacation cruise for me and Bon Bon. I never really did thank her enough.

It's been twenty five years now. I'm dying. I know I am. When unicorns die, our horns start releasing our magic. Kinda like how humans release their bodily fluids and such. I don't know if Bon Bon saw the magic releasing but I did. While I'm scared to die, I'm oddly at peace. I can't help but think if this is how Twilight felt. If she knew what was about to happen. I like to imagine she was asleep when it happened and felt nothing. I'm scared to leave Bon Bon behind. We both agreed if one of us went before the other, to sit outside the gates for the other. No matter how long it takes. We're in bed now and I rest my head on Bon Bons chest and she strokes my mane and I fall asleep.

Lyra died in her sleep that night. The whole town showed up for her funeral. Minuette, Twinkleshine, Lemonhearts and Moondancer all spoke at her funeral. She was buried on a field overlooking Ponyville with her favorite flowers and a spot reserved for Bon Bon and Scootaloo.

As soon as I opened my eyes, I was greeted by a bunch of white. I mean white everything. Pillows, benches, robed ponies. I looked around and there she was. There was Twilight. She smiled at me and I took off galloping at her and hugged her.

I broke down crying. "I missed you so much", I said. She returned the hug.

"I missed you too Lyra", she laughed. "I was allowed to come out here and meet you. Are you ready to come inside?"

I almost said yes then remembered my agreement with my wife. I shook my head.

"I gotta wait for Bon Bon. We agreed to wait for each other". I explained.

Twilight smiled sadly. "I understand. I'll be waiting for you both inside". She gave me another hug. "I love you always", she said.

Eternity past it felt while we embraced.

"I don't wanna let go", I sniffled out. She stroked my back and nodded.

"I know but I must get back and you have a wife to wait for. I'll be there inside for both of you".

I let go and watched Twilight back away and walk to the gates. She looked over her shoulder, smiled and waved a hoof and disappeared. I waved back and worked my way to a bench where my lyre surprised me. Sitting down and picking it up, I started to play.

A life time seemed to pass before I saw a familiar blue and pink maned earth pony. As soon as she saw me, we galloped to each other and embraced.

"You took forever", I joked.

Bon Bon only laughed as she nuzzled me.

"I had two ponies to live for", she laughed again. "I missed you".

"I missed you also. I got to see Twilight. She was waiting out here for me", I said excitedly.

Bon Bon only grinned.

"She's waiting inside for us"

"Well, I never like to keep royalty waiting", Bon Bon teased. Together we made our way to the gates, laughing and talking the entire way. After we went through the gates, Twilight greeted us both. After that, we all went running through the fields and made new heavenly memories. I lived a good life and I'm proud to have known these two ponies by my side. They definitely made me a better pony and a friend. I'm eternally grateful.

Celestia

A lot of ponies asked me why i was okay with Twilights assassination. In reality, I wasn't. I hid it well under the guise that I had pupils die before. In all honesty, I cried myself to sleep for years after she died. She was so young, had such a bright mind. She was going to take Equestria into truly a golden age.

I despised how ponies talked about her. I despised what they did to her. I made them pay. I for justice for Twilight. Yet why do I still feel empty inside? I thought getting revenge would have made me feel better. For making them suffer. I know she cried often at night to her brother about how ponies talked about her. It broke her heart. To see the citizens she saved countless times just throw her ideas aside and stomp on her heart like it was nothing. I'd honestly never been so disgusted in all my life. The only thing I'm grateful for, is she never saw it coming. She was asleep when it happened. She didn't suffer. She didn't feel a thing. I would have burnt this world to the ground if it was otherwise. And trust me, being in control of the sun makes burning this world very possible. The only thing that stopped me was Luna.

When I even mentioned burning this world down in one of my drunken rages, she threatened to banish me to the sun. Just like I had banished her to the moon so many years ago. It made me get my act together and be the leader my country needed. Even though nobles hated it, I implemented all the ideas Twilight had. Me and Luna were the last Princesses. Cadence willingly relinquished her authority. Equestria became a democracy as Twilight had wanted to change. Ponies could vote who they wanted in charge.

A bunch of ponies said, "it'll never work" or "our country will fall into ruin and fail this way". It never did. In fact, Equestria prospered. We made peace with new lands, established new trade routes.

Me and Luna proved that Twilight was correct. That it was possible. That it could be done. It was my final act in tribute to her. I'm grateful for nobles like Fancy Pants or Fleur De Lis who supported Twilight unquestioningly from the start. Whenever she needed a vote or an opinion, even if it was one saying it couldn't work, they were her advice and counsel. I know they were equally as disgusted as I was with their fellow nobles.

Most ponies assume alicorns are immortal. That is technically true in a way. While we don't succumb to age, we can be killed if hurt enough in a fight or if ponies just stop believing in us. We literally fade away from existence. It happened to one ruler eons before me and Luna were born. She stopped showing herself to the public, became greedy and selfish and they just all stopped believing she still existed after a while. All the ponies combined doubt willed her out of existence, unknowingly to them of course.

Twilight was like the daughter I never had. I absolutely adored that mare from the day I met her. All the birthdays, all the Hearths Warming Eves I spent with her and her parents were the greatest times of my life. I wouldn't change any of that for a second.

A small part of me wonders if this is my fault. Maybe if i had kept walking past her class room that day, none of this would have even happened. When my sister found out I thought this way, she was quick to put down such thoughts. I owe Twilight so much, for reuniting me with my sister from just showing me how to be a better ruler each day. I'll regret I'll never be able to say that to her. We all suffered her loss.

Discord even quit being chaotic for a while there until he slowly started to fade from existence. Discord is like us in a way, if he quits being even a tiny bit chaotic, he'll die and fade away. It took Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie to get him to act how he used to. Even then, he never truly was the same. I think Twilights death broke him more than he was willing to admit.

I know he didn't feel like they were truly his friends, but they really did love him. In their own way. Some ponies need tough love and I'm sad I didn't intervene when it went a bit too far. I'll have to add that to my list of regrets. I took another sip of my wine and laid down in my bed. My head was spinning from the alcohol. My eyes locked onto a picture of Twilight as a filly when she first became my student and the tears came out. I didn't notice Luna entering the room until I felt her wing wrapping around me and her snuggling up close to me.

"You know, not a day goes by that I don't thank her".

Taken aback, I stared at her.

"Why?"

Luna gave a heavy sigh. "She saved me. From being that evil being. She gave me a chance, she saw the good in me. She truly was an extraordinary mare. All of Equestria could learn from her".

I feel a bit guilty that I never thought about how Luna felt about this. My sister always was a bit more reserved than I. She was just as emotional as i was some days. I sometimes forget how much her and I are alike in that way, among many others. I pulled her in close for a hug till she fell asleep. I used my magic to pull a blanket over us both. I gazed out the window towards Ponyville. Towards where my beloved student lay resting.

I closed my eyes and sighed, a faint smile crossing my lips.

"Goodnight my dear Twilight" I managed to say before I fell asleep. It was my routine, to always say goodnight to her now before I fell asleep.

A purple cloud formed in the room and formed a ponies body. Twilight gazed down lovingly at the two former princesses. She tried to stroke their mane with a hoof but her hoof went right through.

"Right", she giggled. "I'll never get used to that. Goodnight, my mentors". She disappeared out the room from a open window as a purple cloud just as a guard cautiously entered the room who had heard voices. He quickly left when he realized the former princesses were asleep and assumed they were talking in their sleep. Luna was incrediblely notorious for sleep talking and even sleep walking.

Celestia and Luna ensured Twilights memory was never forgotten and her ideas were fully implemented in Equestrian society and culture. Twilight Day was a somber yet favorite national holiday throughout Twilights beloved country. Luna and Celestia hid their selves from their former subjects till they were forgotten about. That way they could both move onto the afterlife and be reunited with their beloved friend and student.

Moondancer

I groaned and lifted my face off the cold floor. Where the hay am, I wondered. As I took in my surroundings, I knew where I was after being here so many times. Sitting on the bench was a passed out unicorn and I could smell the alcohol on his breath. On the other side of the cell was a vomiting Pegasus. I sighed and shakily stood up.

"Ayo, Safe Space!" I called out. "Let me out of here".

A few moments later a guard came around the corner sighing.

"You're lucky you were put here for only twenty four hours and not your typical forty eight. You gotta stop drinking. And fighting ponies who say anything you disagree with". She opened the cell and stepped back, gesturing for me to follow her.

What even happened last night? I wondered. Then it slowly came back to me. Me getting passed out wasted at a small bar near my house and me getting into a bar fight with another equally drunk patron who suggested they should use Twilights photo for the dart board.

Before you lecture me on my drinking, don't. Everypony else has. It's my body and I can put in whatever I want in it. We all have our coping mechanisms. Even if mine ends up with me being in a guard stations drunk tank and throwing up all morning.

I didn't always use to be this way. I remember being a semi happy mare who loved spending time with her friends and studying. Now I can't go near Joe's donut shop. I don't go to that side of Canterlot anymore. Too many memories. Of her. The whole friend group. I used to drink socially with friends back then now I just get drunk everywhere: bar, my house, public. I have countless arrests on my record for public intoxication but I always only get stuck in jail for a week at most. I remember the one time me and Minuette got Twilight drunk. Now that was a show. Never forget the Drunk Twilight Incident of Canterlot. Where she stumbled all over town looking for her stuffed animal, grabbing a random cardboard cutout of Fleetfoot and stumble running down the street. Good times.

Probably the last good time we had. After Twilight introduced her ideas to get a feel for them, I wasn't a big fan. I'm not a fan of change, I like things to stay the same. Part of my anxiety. Me and Twilight always got into debates about it. What surprised me is she actually took what I said in our often heated debates and tweaked her ideas. I didn't anticipate that. Just made me appreciate her so much more.

I never wanted her to get hurt. Even though we disagreed politically sometimes, we were still really good friends. The fact that some that jumping to violence was a good decision still baffles me. Then again, I suppose I'm no better than they were, with me getting in bar fights and all.

I still kinda wonder what the other world is like. What the other me is like. Is the other Twilight there dead too? A small, awful part of me hopes that worlds Twilight is dead too. Why should it be fair ours is dead and theirs isn't?

Wow, Moondancer, I thought to myself as I trotted home. That was dark, even for you. I pushed open my door and gazed at the mess. Beer and whiskey bottles scattered across the floor, empty pizza boxes on the coffee table. The broken picture of my friends and i shattered on the floor. A random hole in the wall and a bunch of bloody bandages on the floor.

What in Equestria happened here? I wondered. Oh yeah that's right. When those two guards ponies told me the news, I got really drunk after they left, ordered a bunch of pizzas, threw the picture off the wall and punched a hole in the wall in a drunken depressed rage snd cut my hoof on some shattered and tried to bandage myself up. A noise upstairs startled me and I instantly started to head up them. I'd be the first to die in a horror movie I decided. Everypony else would run away and I'd just walk up to the killer and be like "whats up".

The hallway looked surprisingly cleaner than I last remembered. I caught a flash of blue along with a white and pink flash and then a yellow one. I rubbed my eyes with my hoof. Maybe I am going crazy holy shit.

"I got a knife and I ain't afraid to use it", I called out. Yeah, I'd definitely be the first to die in a horror movie. What the hell am I thinking? Maybe I'm still slightly intoxicated. I pushed the door open and rolled my eyes. Huddled in a corner with trash bags was Minuette, Lemonhearts and Twinkleshine.

"What is going on in here?" I demanded.

Lemonhearts looked at her hooves nervously. "Well, we're worried about you. We haven't seen you in months".

"Where were you at?" Minuette piped in.

I rolled my eyes again. "I was at the local guard station".

"Uh why?"

"I got detained for twenty four hours for public intoxication and disorderly conduct. I was just hanging out in the drunk tank. Great fun time, you three should really try it sometime". I sat down on my haunches.

"Why the fuck do you think thats fun?" Twinkleshine demanded and I blinked in surprise. I wasn't expecting her of all ponies to be cussing at me. It wasn't her nature. I'd expect that from Lyra or Minuette. Judging from the looks on my other two friends, they were just as shocked as I was.

"I don't know. Waking up surrounded by a bunch of other drunk ponies vomiting their guts up is such a lovely experience". I replied sarcastically. "My favorite is when you wake up on the bench and you're in the middle of two drunk mares smelling like a fine Las Pegasus wine".

Twinkleshine looked like she was about to explode. I internally chuckled at that. And then prayed to Celestia that didn't happen. Cleaning up Twinkleshine off my walls didn't sound like a fun afternoon.

Thankfully, Minuette saved her and put a hoof on her shoulder. She seemed to calm down a lot at that.

"Thanks Minuette", I said as I collapsed on my bed and stretched out. "She looked like she was gonna explode and cleaning her off my walls would be a pretty shitty way of spending the afternoon".

Lemon Hearts rolled her eyes and cleared a spot on the bed and sat next to me.

"You need help girl. We cleaned up your entire upstairs. Twenty trash bags of alcohol bottles alone. How you're not dead is beyond me honestly", she said. "We haven't even got to the downstairs yet. We were gonna head down there next when you came in. Since you're here, you can help us".

I sighed loudly. "I quite honestly don't have enough energy to. At least I didn't spend my usual forty hours in the tank".

"Seriously? You've spent that long in there before?" Twinkleshine glared at me.

"How many times have you been there?" Minuette asked sharing the same frustrated look.

I waved a hoof casually in the air. "About half a dozen times. No biggie".

"Uh, yes biggie. You need some help. Cleaning up this house and getting fresh light in here will help you a lot". Lemon Hearts scrunched up her nose. "It smells like moldy pizza, beer and aftersmell of sex in this house".

I saw a perfect opportunity to tease her. "And how do you know what that last one smells like?"

She turned a bright shade of red. "Don't ask. Well be downstairs, you need to make a decision. Keep getting drunk and pushing everypony away or let your friends help you". She stood up off the bed and walked downstairs. After a second my two other friends followed her.

I let the words sink in for a few moments while I mulled them over. Maybe it was time to quit drinking and open myself up. Maybe a little, I hate talking about my emotions. You never know if ponies are gonna use the secrets you tell them against you. I made up my mind as I got up and walked downstairs. Lemon Hearts was using her magic to levitate a few old pizza boxes into a trash bag and smiled when she saw me.

"Glad to see you made a right choice. Here's a trashbag". She levitated one over to me and I internally groaned. I was gonna be here for awhile but at least things were starting to look up.

Cloudchaser

I really don't know with to begin talking about Twilight to be honest. For the longest time, I always knew of her as the purple unicorn who lived in a library on the edge of town who had a freak out problem about well everything I guess. Lists, books, everything. It wasn't until I married Spike that I truly met the real Twilight Sparkle.

She was without a doubt the most caring pony I've ever met, other than my sister of course. She dropped everything for me. Hell, she even let me and Spike have a part of the castle for us to live in. I told her she didn't have to do that but she was adamant about it. I've learned pretty quickly that when a pony makes up her mind, there's no fighting to change their mind. I was honestly surprised she was so accepting of me when she found out I accepted Spikes proposal and us dating. Granted, she did threaten to get rid of me on our wedding day if I ever hurt him but that was acceptable.

I'm honestly just glad she was here for a few years of me and Spikes marriage. I only wish she could have been their for our kids. I remember the look on her face when she caught me and Spikes first kiss. Now that was embarrassing. I can only imagine the look on our faces after that. Hell, Roseluck happened to be right across from us and let me tell ya, she was even more excited than Twilight based on her and her sisters screaming. Either that or a daffodil had a broken stem. A daffodil is a flower, right? I'm not big into plants to be honest. Not like Flitter is. She literally decorated our house with the most random, spur of the moment plants she bought. From cacti all the way to a whole sunflower growing up out her window.

I honestly expected her to cut a hole in her ceiling for that plant. I remember where I was and everything that day.

I was preparing to take Spike out to a surprise dinner when Flitter came flying looking for me and Spike. She somehow managed to find me in my room in this big castle I was impressed.

"Hey sis", I greeted smiling at her in the mirror. "Does this dress make me look too tiny or no?" When she didn't offer a response or smell back, just fly around the room searching I knew something was up.

I turned around and faced her nervously.

"Sis? Are you good?"

"Where's Spike?", she asked while landing in front of me.

"Uh, last I checked he was cleaning our side of the castle. Why?"

She nervously pawed at the ground in front of me and didn't make eye contact.

"Somethings going on downtown right now", she finally answered me.

I rolled my eyes. It was common knowledge Ponyville was a fairly common monster attack place. Monster capital of Equestria or something I bet.

"Is there another random monster attacking? I'm sure Twilight and her friends can handle it", I commented. At that, Flitter finally made eye contact with me and I immediately stopped walking.

She looked awful. Red eyes, smeared makeup, the whole nine yards. I stepped forward and gave her a hug.

"Whats going on?"

She pulled me down onto the floor and leaned into the hug. After a moment, she finally spoke.

"There's guards downtown. Luna and Cadence too. Guards are downstairs too. Cadence has said that Twilight-", she choked up a bit at that before continuing. "That Twilight died sometime late last night, early this morning".

At that, my grip slightly relaxed on her as the news worked through my body. I didn't believe it at first. I had just saw her yesterday morning. She seemed so...alive. I had told her I wanted to take Spike out for dinner tonight so that was partially why she made him stay behind. A breaking sound at the door made us look over.

Spike was standing there, staring at us. There was a broken flower vase at his feet.

He didn't say anything, he just stared at us. Thinking about his eyes made me shudder to think about it. He just looked so dead inside. We instantly got up and pulled him into our hug. He just stayed quiet. I'd honestly much rather he burst out crying instead of staying quiet.

A few years have passed. Equestria has changed a lot. I'm impressed with how far it's come. There's a statue and memorial of Twilight where the Golden Oak Library was, a school in Ponyville named after her. A relative of Fluttershys is in charge of Equestria at the moment. Thank Celestia it was her cousin and not her brother. I shudder to think of where we would be today if Zephyr was leading the country.

I have a beautiful Pegasus filly and a baby dragon. Snuggled in my lap asleep was a snow white foal with a blue mane. I stroked her mane while I glanced in the mirror. I was looking a bit older, my mane had a few grey streaks but Spike still said I was as beautiful as ever.

I was broken out of my musing when the door opened and my sister trotted in. She looked a bit like me, a few grey streaks in her mane. She still had her trademarked bow in her mane. Behind her was a unicorn filly trotting shakily.

I smiled up warmly at them both.

"Hey Flits, hey Sunny. How's it going?"

"Hey sis". my sister stepped up and gave me and my sleeping filly a gentle nuzzle.

"Hi Aunt Cloudchaser", Sunny smiled at me.

I reached up with a free hoof and ruffled her mane and grinned at her.

"How's my favorite niece hanging?"

She giggled, "I'm your only niece silly".

My smile grew wider. "And you'd still be my favorite if you weren't the only one".

"Watch what I can do", she said excitedly as she closed her eyes and scrunched her face up in concentration as she started to shakily levitate a book to me.

I quietly stomped my free hoof on the floor. "I'm proud of you, great job kid".

"Where's Spike?" Flitter had been standing by the side smiling proudly at her daughter.

I waved my hoof in the air. "He's out with Burst teaching him how to control his fire breath and to fly".

Flitter nodded before sitting down next to me and placing her head on my shoulder.

"Life has been pretty crazy these last few years. Crazy to think about it all".

I nodded my agreement.

"What do you the future will be like? With all the new changes?" Flitter asked me.

I shrugged at that.

"I honestly don't know sis, but things can only be getting better from here".

We gazed out the window together.

Monster attacks were on the uprise after Twilight died. Ponyville changed a lot. A curfew, a permanent guard post.

Flitter died a few years later protecting Sunny Skies from a Timberwolf. I was heart broken. Me and Flitter were twins, we were practically joined at the hip. To walk downtown without her with me is something I never got used to. We buried her in Twilights family plot next to where my spot was. It was a small ceremony. Me, Spike, Sunny, Burst and Snow Storm. A few of Flitters friends: Blossomforth, Cloudkicker, Rainbow Dash, Raindrops and Derpy.

I missed my sister but I knew she wouldn't want me to mope around. I took custody of Sunny after. I may not know what the future holds, but things will look up. They have to. All I know is that I look forward to reunite with my dear sister that I loved.

Author's Note

I was going to end this chapter with Cloudchaser commiting suicide after raising Sunny to adult hood. I hate that I decided to kill Flitter off, I love her character. It was a spur of the moment thing. I'm thinking of taking it out. Cloudchaser and Spike already suffered enough.

Twinkleshine

I woke up in my bed being held by a pair of blue forelegs. I didn't really remember much about yesterday till I glanced over and saw Minuettes smiling sleeping face. And then it all hit me. The wildly good sex, the arena executions earlier in the day. I gave a sigh and tried to think of a way to slip into the shower without waking my partner up. Hearing her tell me that Twilight didn't blame me made burst into tears all over again.

As nice as last night was, I felt very sweaty and dirty still. Not that I regret what happened last night. A warm shower always did help me figure stuff out and make decisions. As I stepped into the shower and turned the water on and felt it start rushing down my back, I instantly felt better.

I don't know why I had sex with Minuette last night. Maybe I subconsciously loved her all along and my mind was just going crazy. Maybe I slept with her to feel something other than sadness. I do suppose it was a good thing my first time was with a very close friend. I closed my eyes as I started to wash my mane.

Two guards knocked on the door. Minuette was out getting groceries so I was thankful for that. I knew why they were here, they were here to inform me about him being there to be executed. I opened the door.

"Hello", I said trying to sound normal as I could.

One of the guards nodded at me.

"We're here to ask you how you would like the body to be returned after the execution".

I visibly trembled at that.

"I would like him returned to me. For a burial".

"I understand. Would you like us to bring you discretely or no?" The same guard asked.

"Discretely please".

"Yes maam", at that both guards walked away just as Minuette was bring the groceries up the walkway. She eyed them as they passed her before coming up to me.

"What was that about?" She questioned me.

"They were here to tell us we were invited to the executions and had a private seating next to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna", I lied.

She frowned. "I thought they did that last week?"

Fuck, I forgot about that. "They were just double checking we knew". I quickly lied again. After a minute of her examining me closely, she must have determined I wasn't lying and trotted into our mutual home.

I gave a internal sigh of relief.

A few days passed and it was time to go to the executions. We were meeting Lyra, Bon Bon, Moondancer and Lemon Hearts before hand. As me and Minuette walked there, I couldn't help but notice how nice she looked from behind or how well her coat matched her mane. She did look beautiful, how did I never notice this?

I quickly shook those thoughts out of my mind. After meeting up with our friends and getting our vomit bags, we settled down into our seats. The first few hours went by fine or as fine as I could based on the circumstances. Then they brought him out. I quickly looked away and almost cried again. I felt somepony watching me and I noticed Bon Bon studying me closely with narrowed eyes. I quickly composed myself somehow and forced my attention forward.

The guard smiled up at the crowd and it felt like his eyes were focused on me. As close as we used to be, I couldn't help but feel disgusted. Before he died, I cast a spell around me so I heard none of it and was able to look down so I couldn't watch. I knew he was up to something after catching him talking to another pony at family dinner.

"She will ruin Equestria, we must do something".

I stood outside the door of the bedroom and listened.

"Yes, but what? We can't just kick her out".

"There's something else we can do".

I pushed the door open and the two ponies jumped and pushed some papers onto the floor.

"Mom sent me to get you for dinner". I quickly explained.

The two nodded.

"Did you hear anything?" One asked me suspiciously.

I raised an eyebrow and acted confused. "Hear what?"

"Nothing. Let's not keep mom waiting".

The two moved past me out the door and once I made sure they were gone, I levitated one of the papers to me and gasped after reading it. My families company was a very famous import/export company. One of Twilights reforms was to tax rich companies heavily to make up for poor companies being ran out of business and bullied by bigger corporations. I guess someponies hated her for that.

The days after, I went to the Royal Guard daily and tried telling them about the plot I uncovered. They always sent me away and said I was lying and that nopony would get past them to even get close to a princess. Guess they found out the hard way they were wrong.

Afterwards, Bon Bon cornered me and forced me into telling her my secret after I got her to Pinkie Promise not to tell.

Her eyes widened in shock and she just hugged me.

Me and Minuette walked home after my confrontation with Bon Bon and once again my mind strayed into how good Minuette looked. When we got inside, I did the stupidest thing ever and kissed her hard. After a few seconds, she kissed back. We separated a few moments later and she confirmed I wanted this. We started kissing again as we made our way into my room and into the bed.

It was the most amazing night I've had in a weeks. I'm pretty sure I kept the whole neighborhood up with my screams.

A knock on the bathroom door broke me out of my thoughts.

A second later, a blue head poked in

"Can I use the bathroom while you shower or is that a bit awkward?" Minnie nervously asked me.

I gave a quick laugh at that. "We had sex last night, you using the bathroom with me in it isn't a problem". I quickly made up my mind about how I felt about her. "And plus I love you". I held my breath.

"I love you too", came the response and I let out my breath in relief.

"After I'm done, maybe I can join you in the shower", she teased me.

"I'd like that". And for the second time in two days, I was sure everypony on the street heard me screaming.

A few days later, I received the body. No funeral home wanted involvement after Twilight's death. It was up to me to bury him. I quietly dug a grave in my families burial grounds and put the coffin in. I had to make my own grave stone and gently placed it above where I buried him. I just stared at it and started to cry again. He made some mistakes, but I loved him. He wasn't always this way.

I wasn't one for keeping secrets but I had to keep this one. If my friends found out, they'd abandon me. Me and Minuette were just working out our relationship. She'd leave me so quick if she found out.

If she found out that my own father had murdered my best friend.

Fluttershy

Author's Note

You don't gotta listen to the songs but it'd bring out the chapters sadness better. Plus I searched my cds of sad country songs for hours

Fluttershy

It's not really any surprise I handled the news of Twilights death the best out of everypony. That's not to say I didn't cry or was heartbroken, I was just used to death and accepted that it was life. I had countless pets of mine die. Angel, Harry, a few birds. I was a little bit more focused on talking my friends through the loss.

They weren't really as used to death as me. Well Applejack was a bit so she handled it pretty decent too. She just went crazy overworking herself like she always does when something bothers her.

Rainbow just got really angry and yelling, Pinkie quit throwing parties until Sweetie Belle came into her life. That filly helped her more than she knows. I was still shocked that Sweetie Belles parents gave her up after Rarity disappeared. They said Sweetie Belle reminded them too much of Rarity. After that, it became fairly evident that Rarity was their favorite of the two. Absolutely awful, poor filly. And then Pinkie found out, adopted her in a heartbeat. They worked through their problems together. Pinkies was Twilight dying and Sweetie Belles was being pushed out practically.

Rarity just disappeared and hid from the world but I didn't know until a few months later when she came out. She looked so malnourished, it was heartbreaking honestly. When she found out what her parents did to Sweetie, she went ballistic. Cut off all ties to them. As for me, I just helped the friends I could.

Helped Applejack get apples, helped Lyra and Bon Bon with Scootaloo. You get the idea.

When the funeral came around, Twilight had never looked so beautiful. She sat in a purple coffin wearing a white dress and a small smile. Rarity refused to let her not wear any clothes. Spike, Cloudchaser, Flitter and Shining Armor practiced all of Twilights favorite songs from the other world that other worlds Applejack had put on a record for her.

None of us ever heard Cloudchaser or Flitter sing before. Cloudchaser always said she was awful but it was far from awful. It was beautiful. Spike and Cloudchaser sang together first.

https://youtu.be/55GAUgjpDQA

All talking had ceased at that point and focus was on the two. Cloudchaser and Spike complimented each other so well. Cloudchasers voice was absolutely beautiful.

After they were done, Shining Armor sang next with Cadence.

https://youtu.be/8zNf4sOO_mg

Everypony knew Twilight and Shining Armor were so much more than siblings, he was her best friend for so long. I cried at this song. He did say he was slightly uncomfortable with the making love line but nopony actually focused on that. They just focused on the meaning of the song.

Once Spikes voice was back after singing with his wife, he went back up.

https://youtu.be/55GAUgjpDQA

There wasn't a dry eye in the funeral home. I saw Lyra crying on Bon Bon, even Cloudkicker was crying and she hated crying in public.

Flitter was standing next to me and after Spike finished, she walked up alone.

https://youtu.be/vTnWFT3DvVA

I wasn't particularly surprised to find our Applejack singing along quietly to these songs. After all, they were her type of music. I should really get more country songs and records for my record player in the house. Very beautiful vocals. It helped me take my mind off Twilight being gone for a bit. Now I just listen to them in memory.

Discord sometimes joins me to listen. I was very surprised to find him sad after Twilights death, especially after when he told me the reason he betrayed us so easily for Tirek.

"Why did you do it Tirek?" I begged him crying.

My other element bearers stood by with various angry facial expressions.

Rainbow snorted. "I bet he has no reason. He probably helped him escape".

"Now Rainbow Dash, we know he didn't help", I said calmly.

"I had a reason for betraying you", Discord spoke up softly.

Rainbow instantly flew into face and yelled, "Well what is it? It better be good!"

"Ah agree", Applejack snapped.

Discord sighed. "Only Fluttershy is my true friend. None of you. Like the time I was sick, Rainbow willingly betrayed her element of loyalty by leaving me, Applejack lied about being busy, Rarity wasn't generous by offering to help. Only Pinkie Pie was half true to her element and Twilight acted like I was a chore. I don't remember what Fluttershy was doing but she was unavailable. You made it easier for me to betray you. After all, when I have only one friend, what's it matter to stay loyal to Equestria?"

He snapped his fingers and disappeared while the others sat quietly letting the words sink in.

"He's right, ah reckon", Applejack spoke up. "We haven't treated him as a true friend, that's on us".

"I never knew he felt that way", Twilight said softly. "Some princess of friendship I am. I'm gonna make this right".

She teleported and found Discord in his crazy dimension.

"Discord, wait", Twilight called out. She flapped her wings to catch up with him.

"What?" He said coldly, turning around.

"You were right, about it all. We haven't been acting like tour friend. I want to change that, starting with me. To set an example", Twilight panted out in exhaustion.

Discord studied her for a good while.

"Fine. Apology accepted". She jumped up and hugged him.

"Thank you. I'm sorry".

Discord held up his hand and she fell silent. "I'm not so sure about trusting the others yet but I'll come to you when I'm ready. Not a moment before".

"Sounds good", she said as she nuzzled him.

I wasn't surprised when he told us that. I had a feeling he was left out but everytime i talked to him about it, he just shut down. Her dying made him so depressed HE almost died. He stopped being chaotic and almost disappeared. It took me and Pinkie months to persuade him to come back. I'm glad we did.

Me and Discord got married in the coming months. Twilight was saved a seat. I wish she could see our foal or have been there but that's life. I know one day we will meet again.

I pressed a hoof gently against the head stone on Twilights grave. I passed Minuette on the way here.

"Till we meet again", I said standing up and leaving.

If Fluttershy had stayed behind, she would have seen Twilights ghost.

"Till we meet again", she said sadly and disappeared.

Pinkie Pie

I tossed the party hat into the trash.

"You've done it, Pinkie. Another successful party". I grinned at my reflection.

"You really did mom", Sweetie Belle trotted up and leaned against me smiling. "It was the best ever adoption party I ever got". She looked down for a second and then looked back up at me.

"It's gonna be the only one, right?" She asked me in a quiet voice.

I let out a loud gasp. "Of course, silly filly. You're stuck with me now. Foreverrrr". I added a hint of evil into my voice before laughing.

"But yes, you'll never have to worry about another one again. I'm not going anywhere". I said as I nuzzled her and she happily returned it.

"Thanks mom", Sweetie said tiredly.

I always felt bubbly and happy inside when she called me that. I loved it. I glanced at the clock and saw it was nine at night.

"It's time for bed, silly. Tomorrow's a school day".

Sweetie groaned but trotted to her room with me. She jumped into her bed and used her magic to cover up.

"Do you want me to read to you?" I asked and she eagerly nodded. She levitated a book into my hooves.

"The cupcake that could" I read out loud. "Good choice". I rubbed her mane with my hoof and giggled.

After we got done reading, I went to my own room and slipped in bed. I had a long day tomorrow of baking for the Cakes and filling out paper work for Sweetie. Thirty minutes later, my door creaked open.

"Are you awake?" Sweetie asked softly.

"Mhm. What's up?" I asked.

Sweetie played with her hooves for a bit. "I had a nightmare", she confessed. "Can I sleep with you tonight?"

I gave another loud gasp. "Of course silly filly! Get in here".

I tossed the blanket open and Sweetie quickly clambered in next to me. I wrapped my forelegs around her and kissed her forehead while she used her magic to cover us up.

"Feel better?" I asked and Sweetie nodded before falling asleep. "Goodnight my sweet cupcake", I said before joining her.

That night I dreamed of Twilight. It was so real.

"So many cupcakes. Oh my Celestia cake!" I screamed. I trotted around one and ran right through Twilight.

I fell backwards and tried to get away.

"T-Twilight? But how, you're dead?" I asked shock.

She looked down sadly as she offered me a hoof up. "I am, yes. I miss you".

"We all miss you. Especially Minuette". I commented. We sat in silence for a bit.

"What's heaven like?" I asked suddenly.

Twilight chuckled. "It's interesting to say the least, lots of traffic getting inside. It's kinda sad really seeing how many people have died and waiting for entrance. There's not just ponies there either, there's a cat species from another planet and humans. Apparently this pony named 'god' can change form to whatever race sees him as. We see him as a pony but the humans see him as a person. Fascinating really".

"Are the cats sentient and just like us? Can you pet them?"

Twilight laughed and held up a hoof.

"I don't have long but yes they are and they love being pet. I just wanted to visit and see how you are. I heard you adopted Sweetie Belle. I'm proud of you for that".

I kicked a muffin along the ground. Hopefully Derpy doesn't find out.

"I would have done it for anypony. Nopony deserved that. She's a good filly, she's asleep next to me right now. She even calls me mom". I said excitedly. "I've always wanted to be a mom".

"And you're a great one", Twilight said confidently. "I have to go now but I'll be back to talk more in other dreams. It takes a lot of energy to appear in dreams and in person. How Luna does it, I will never know".

I chuckled. "Goodbye Twilight". I paused.

"I love you".

"Love you too Pinks. Take care of Sweetie" Twilight said as she faded. I could only nod in wonder as I watched.

I woke up with a start and glanced out the window. The sun was shining through, casting a warm glow in the room. Looking down, Sweetie was asleep still in my forehooves. I shook her softly.

"Time to get up kid". I slipped out the room to make breakfast.

Ten minutes later, Sweetie stumbled downstairs rubbing her eyes.

"Morning silly, I made pancakes along with hay bacon and orange juice", I grinned greeting my daughter.

She smiled tiredly and propped her hooves next to me watching me cook.

"Aren't you doing it wrong? There's nothing on fire, whenever I cook there's always something burning".

I laughed hard at that. "Nah, burning the food isn't really a part of cooking". After that, we settled into a comfortable silence. I slid a plate to her and she eagerly started eating. I smiled faintly while remembering my dream from last night. Sweetie got ready for school and gave me a quick nuzzle before taking off to her classroom.

I trotted off to the Sugar Cube Corner and spent my eight hour shift baking and decorating idly while thinking. After my shift ended, I quickly trotted off to town hall to meet Wildfire and just sign off some more paperwork to finalize the adoption. I still can't believe I'm a mom now. It was my biggest dream, to adopt somepony and just share happy feelings. Or share good vibes as Fluttershys friend Tree Hugger would say. I trotted through the front door of my house. It wasn't much but it was a modest two bedroom place, more than enough for me and Sweetie. If I had more rooms, I'd rent one out for extra income. To be honest, if Sweetie didn't need her own room I'd rent hers out. She sleeps with me every night because of her nightmares.

I heard the front door open and I looked up to see Sweetie Belle rush up to her room crying. I was immediately disheartened and trotted to her room and knocked. When nopony answered, I trotted in cautiously and sat at the end of the bed where Sweetie was curled up. I stroked her mane.

"Whats wrong?" I asked after a while of silence. She sniffled before speaking.

"You wouldn't understand".

"Try me", I replied confidently.

She sighed and looked at me.

"Diamond Tiara was bullying me again and brought up Rarity leaving because I'm annoying and nopony truly likes me".

I felt red hot anger rush through me, which was very unlike me. Nopony talks about Sweetie like that and especially not about Rarity.

"I like you. Scratch that, I love you. You wouldn't be here if I didn't love you kiddo. My favorite part is hearing you call me mom or snuggling me when you can't sleep", I confessed.

Sweetie just smiled weakly at me. "Now follow me", I directed.

"Uhm where are we going?" Sweetie asked nervously as we trotted downstairs and out the door.

"You're going to Amethyst where she can ponysit you for a bit. I have to go take care of some adult business", I explained.

After dropping Sweetie off at Derpys house for her daughter to watch Sweetie, I stormed over to Cheerilees and pounded a hoof on the door. Repeatedly. The door swung open and a frustrated Cheerilee opened the door.

"What in Celestias name is so important you can't wait five seconds for me to get to the door?" She demanded. I shoved my way past her to her shock and trotted to the living room.

"Pinkie Pie! What do you think you're doing?" She exclaimed.

I patted the seat next to me.

"Sit. We are gonna talk". Cheerilee visibly gulped as she joined me.

"Talk about what, dearie?" She nervously ventured.

I got right up in her face. "About how my daughter was getting bullied by Diamond and even Rarity got brought up and you did nothing, according to Sweetie Belle".

Cheerilee started playing with her hooves nervously. "I didn't hear it, honest".

"But you know Diamonds reputation, you should have believed her when Sweetie came to you", I pressed. "So what are you gonna do about it?" I sat back and folded my forelegs.

"I-I'll get started on the expulsion paperwork", Cheerilee stammered out.

"Good", I stood up and trotted to the door before pausing. "Don't make me come back here". I threw the door open and left. Inside Cheerilee sat sweating when a pony came from the kitchen.

"What the hell was that about, I heard yelling?" Berry Punch demanded.

"I have no idea little sis, I have no idea".

Fourteen years later, I got to see my daughter graduate highschool. Probably the greatest thing I ever did with my life was adopting Sweetie. Twilight continues to visit me in my dreams, I don't know if it's really her or not but she reassured me it was really her. Dreams can be a tricky thing. I can't think about that now, I have a massive graduation party to throw.

Applejack

I slammed my hooves into the tree and heard the satisfying sound of apples filling a basket. I sighed as I moved to the next tree and did the process over again. For the next few hours, it's all I did. I always did my best thinking when I was working. Just me alone with my thoughts. I stood on the hill and wiped my brow, looking down at my work. I heard the sound of trotting and glanced behind me. Apple Bloom stood looking at me curiously.

"Couldn't sleep?" She asked in a knowing tone. Guess I've fallen into the habit of working when I couldn't sleep. I gave a sigh and watched as she rubbed the sleep out of her eyes.

"Yeah", I admitted. "Ah've been having trouble sleeping recently".

Apple Bloom plopped down sighing.

"Ah can't either. Ah get nightmares now", she confessed. I leaned over and rubbed her mane. "It gets better, it just takes time".

Apple Bloom fixed a flat look at me. "Is anypony even really gonna remember her when we're gone? Is anypony gonna remember me or you or Babs when we die?" I was taken back by those questions, it was never really something I concerned myself with. With death, I always knew it was something that would happen and accepted it. I just focused on living my life and working with my kin. I stood back up.

"Follow me", I instructed. Apple Bloom warily stood up and followed me. After walking for thirty minutes, we came upon an open area. In front of us stood the pear apple tree combination our parent's made. I pointed a hoof at it.

"You see that?" I asked.

Apple Bloom rolled her eyes and deployed her recently acquired favorite weapon-sarcasm. "No, not at all. Ah totally don't see the combined tree in front of us". Fillies were stressful I decided and I gave her a look. She surprisingly matched my look and didn't back away like she used to.

"Ya know, ah miss the filly who didn't use sarcasm twenty four seven or act all grown up now. You're only fourteen". I kicked a hoof at the ground.

"Yah well, Ah've kinda had to grow up fast recently". I never thought about how Twilights death might affect Bloom. She was super close to Twi, so it did make sense she'd be growing up faster than before to cope. She wasn't old enough when our parents died so she didn't have to deal with the fallout. Now that she's older and dealing with death for the first time made me realize some things. I've been too focused on working, that I've been missing out on my family. I never thought I'd let anything distract me that much.

Shaking off that thought for now, I directed my attention back to the tree. "Remember how Ma and Pa planted those seeds years ago?" I questioned.

Apple Bloom nodded and frowned slightly. "Well yes, but what does that gotta do with being remembered?"

"The actions we do is what makes us remembered. Along with what we leave behind. Ma and Pa left that tree behind as a symbol. Sure at first it was because of their marriage and a symbol of their union but now it's something to remember them by", I explained smiling. "Equestria is changing. Ponies will remember Twilight by the changes she helped implement, not by what happened to her. Make sense?"

Apple Bloom looked to be in thought before nodding and smiling. "Ah reckon you're right". She got quiet for a bit, staring at the tree.

"Are you gonna keep working yourself to the bone and never spending time with us?" Apple Bloom suddenly asked.

I stared down for a moment. "Ahll try. We all cope and move on in our own ways. Rainbow working to make everything perfect and Twilights memory stays honored, Moondancer is an alcoholic, Rares is isolating herself or something ah reckon. Prolly in Canterlot or Manehatten. Fluttershy is being her nurturing self and that's how she's coping. Pinkie is just depressed and don't even get me started on Twinkleshine. That mare is messed up right now".

"Eeyup".

Me and Apple Bloom jumped at the sound of another voice. Big Mac walked up slowly to our side and gazed at us.

"Big Mac, how in Equestria did ya know we were here?" I demanded.

He gave a soft shrug. "Your rooms were empty and this place makes us more connected and grounded to our parents. Easy guess".

That did make some sense I suppose. It was unexplainable, whenever us three were at this tree, we just felt connected to it is the best way to put it. Almost like it's a part of us.

"How long were ya sitting there anyway?" Apple Bloom demanded.

"Not long", Big Mac stated and pulled his sisters in for a hug. All three of us gazed at the tree before I pulled away. "We should head home ah reckon".

"Eeyup".

I cuddled up next to Apple Bloom and wrapped my forelegs around her. After Twilights death, she refused to sleep alone. I can't tell ya how many mornings I have to change the sheets because she accidentally wet them from her nightmares. I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a tad bit frustrating but I can understand things happen.

The next four years went by fast. Apple Bloom no longer slept with me every night. She was a full grown mare now and worked with me, the other girls, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo Starlight and Trixie at Twilights school. Granny Smith died the fourth year. Right as Apple Bloom got out of that depression state she was in, she surprised me by not getting back in it. I was proud of that mare and who she's become. Hay, she even got in a relationship with Diamond Tiara after DT changed into a nicer pony. Sweetie and Button Mash were dating and Scootaloo was seeing Rumble. Those three have really changed these past years.

Twilights death affected us all. Some more than us. Some who were fillies grew up faster than they should have because of it. If Granny Smith and Goldie Delicious were here, I reckon they'd be telling Apple Bloom how proud they were of her. It's truly crazy how time can fly. Apple Bloom married Diamond Tiara, Sweetie Belle and Button Mash didn't work out nor did Rumble and Scootaloo. Big Mac finally proposed to Sugar Belle and they got a couple fillies. I feel too old to be an aunt but hay I'm gonna spoil them little fillies just like Granny Smith woulda. I've lived a good, long life. I credit most of those good years to my friendship with Twi. She showed me there was a side of me I never even knew existed. I owe her for everything I've accomplished since we met.

Sunset Shimmer

"You all ready?" I asked the three other girls in front of the statue. There was my girlfriend Derpy and our mutual friends Lyra and Bon Bon. The four of us had gone through the portal before but never for this. We were all looking forward to hanging out with Twilight. Me and her planned it last month.

Lyra was practically making a hole in fhe concrete with how much she was vibrating up and down. Just like everytime when we went to Equestria.

"Alright I'm going first", I warned. "I don't want to end up in a ponypile everytime we go to Equestria".

Bon Bon chuckled at that. "I agree. At least it isn't the time Raindrops, Cloudkicker, Octavia, Vinyl and Lightning Dust came with. That pony pile was damn near impossible to get out of".

Derpy groaned. "Don't even remind me. I still remember Lyra's hoof in my stomach".

"I apologized!" Lyra exclaimed.

Derpy waved her hand in the air.

"I know, it's just fun to tease you about it".

I coughed into my hand. "We should get a move on". I walked through the portal and closed my eyes. After a few short seconds, I was back in Equestria standing on my hind legs. I immediately fell onto all four and stepped away from the portal. A few moments later, the portal spat out three other ponies on top of each other.

"Could someone please get their hoof out of my bits, that'd be great", Bon Bon grumbled.

"Sorry", Lyra squeaked.

"I think I'm gonna vomit", Derpy groaned. The other two ponies froze at that and then immediately started trying to untangle frantically.

"Derpy, I swear to God. You better not", Lyra warned as she struggled to untangle her tail from Derpys.

Finally they got separated and Bon Bon rolled away. Derpy shakily got to her hooves and pressed one to her mouth.

"I'm good now". The green in her face disappeared. At that moment three pegasi flew in.

"Who are you four?" one asked.

The purple one looked over them. "Lyra? Bon Bon? Derpy? I just saw you all outside, how did you guys get here?"

I walked forward. "Hi I'm Sunset Shimmer. We came through the portal, I'm sure Twilight told you about it". Hearing Twilights name made two out of the group wince but I didn't know why. Bon Bon and Lyra looked at each other. The pegasi landed.

"I'm Cloudchaser, Spikes wife", the purple one introduced herself.

"And I'm Blossomforth", the other said.

"Cloudkicker", the third said pressing a hoof to her chest.

"Spike got married?" Lyra exclaimed. "We fucking missed it, wow. They never told us".

I looked around. "Where is Twilight by the way? We planned out this vacation for a bit now".

Cloudkicker pawed at the ground nervously.

"Sorry but that won't be happening. There's been some uh complications".

Bon Bon raised an eyebrow. "What kind of complications?"

Blossomforth and Cloudkicker looked to each other and seemed to have an silent argument before Blossomforth sighed.

"Princess Twilight is dead". Bon Bon let out a gasping sound and I fainted.

An hour later, I woke up in a bed with a wash cloth on my head.

"Ah you're awake, good".

I glanced over and Blossomforth was sitting in a chair reading while my friends talked quietly in a corner. Starlight was standing there at the door talking to Cloudchaser.

"Hey Starlight" I greeted. She tossed me a tired smile.

"Hey Sunset", she replied. "How's it going?"

"Been better".

"You heard from Blossom here I assume", she said looking down.

I nodded. "How did it happen? Was it like natural in her sleep?"

"It wasn't", Cloudkicker floated to me and landed. My friends got closer.

"How did it happen?" Lyra asked quietly. It was unusual for the usually hyper girl to be this calm.

Cloudkicker, Blossom and Starlight looked to each other and another silent argument happened.

Cloudkicker must have lost because she sighed and made eye contact.

"She was assassinated. A guard left a door unlocked and allowed some angry ponies entrance into the princesses quarters and stabbed her to death. She was asleep and didn't feel anything or that's what we think at least". Cloudkicker explained and kicked the floor.

"Who would assassinate a princess?" Derpy asked.

"One who wanted to change Equestrian society from the ground up. Voting for political leaders, electricity, something called a phone". Starlight explained.

"So they are going to jail or something?" Bon Bon asked.

"Not quite", Blossom shook her head.

"Then what?" Derpy asked.

"Public execution", Cloudkicker stated.

Bon Bon made a gagging sound while Lyras eyes widened.

"Wow a public execution". I said and got off the bed.

"You say that like it's a normal thing", Bon Bon exclaimed.

"They aren't", I admitted. "I don't even know when the last one was".

"Three hundred years ago", Blossom said helpfully.

"You're three hundred years old?" Lyra asked looking her up and down. Blossom raised an eyebrow while Bon Bon smacked Lyra in the back of the head. Cloudchaser snickered.

"Ow!" Lyra exclaimed and rubbed the back of her head and shot Bon Bon a glare.

Blossom snickered. "No, I'm not three hundred years old. I'm twenty. It was in the book I was reading while Sunset was asleep".

Lyra nodded. "I'm gonna get you for that later, Bonnie".

Bon Bon stuck her tongue out and Starlight giggled.

"I should let Spike know you're here", Cloudchaser stated and flew towards the door.

"I'll bring some food", Starlight nodded our direction.

Blossom settled back into her chair and continued reading.

"Hey Blossom".

"Mhm", she said without looking up.

"When are the executions?" I asked.

Cloudkicker looked thoughtfully.

"Two days from now", she said.

Bon Bon shot me a look. "You can't actually be thinking about going".

"I am", I admitted. "Plus, I want to see if I recognize the guard responsible".

Cloudkicker settled down next to Blossom and snuggled up to her. "His name was Shimmer Shine, Dimmer Shine something like that". She gave a shrug.

"Rain Shine, kinda a weird name for a unicorn", Blossom interjected helpfully again. I rubbed a hoof under my chin.

"Name doesn't sound familiar", I said calmly.

"How did you guys find the people responsible so fast?" Derpy questioned.

She got some weird looks. "Don't you mean pony? What's a person?" Blossom asked.

"In our world, we aren't ponies. We walk on two legs yadda yadda", Lyra explained idly. "Maybe you can come back after this."

Blossom and Cloudkicker looked to each other and had a silent debate before both nodded.

"After our responsibilities to Spike. Cloudchaser is a very close personal friend to us both from our few years in the weather team." Kicker spoke up. "Loyalty is important."

Blossom nodded her agreement but smiled. "I'd love to visit your world after this whole mess. It's been messy."

"An absolute shit show would be a better description." Cloudkicker grumbled. "Ow!"

She yelped out as Blossom whapped her with a wing.

"Careful, Cloudy. With all that grouchiness, you're gonna turn into Raindrops." Blossom teased smirking.

"Shuddup" Cloudkicker rolled her eyes smiling as she kissed Blossom quickly. Lyra and Bon Bon shared a look and grinned.

The door quietly opened and Spike stepped in. "Hey Bon Bon, Lyra, Derpy and Sunset." He gave us a tired smile.

Lyra immediately pulled him into a hug which he returned.

"It'll be alright", she whispered softly.

Spike just nodded. "You four can share this room or we can split you up. Whatever you feel comfortable with."

"I'll stay with Sunny", Derpy announced.

"I'll just get a room with Lyra", Bon Bon stated.

A few days later, Cloudkicker and Blossom accompanied us to Canterlot. Cloudchaser, Spike and Starlight were already there.

When we sat down, Lyra pointed out her doubles sitting near us and Princess Celestia. When the second pony was brought out, I started stomping my hooves along with every other pony in the arena.

Bon Bon gawked at me. "You can't seriously be enjoying this, Sunset!"

"I'm not." I admitted. "It's just, I don't know. Crowd mentality I suppose."

Bon Bon seemed to accept that answer and nodded.

Three weeks later, me and my friends were at the portal. We waved goodbye to Spike and Cloudchaser and gave hugs to both. We really got to know Cloudchaser and deemed her a good person. She quickly became a part of our little group.

One by one, we stepped through the portal.

Lyra stood up shakily. "As much as I love magic world, I always miss walking on two legs."

Derpy chuckled. "Agreed." We quickly stepped aside.

"Waaaah!" Blossom screamed as she was spat out and Cloudkicker quickly was spat out on top of her.

"If i wasn't so fucking confused about what just happened, I'd be making dirty jokes about this position we are in." Cloudkicker muttered. Blossom crawled to the grass and started puking. I walked over and pulled her hair gently so it was out of the way and helped her up after she finished. She shot me a greatful look. Behind me, Bon Bon and Derpy helped Cloudkicker up.

The two stared at us. "So that's what you two look like normally." Kicker said.

"I have so many experiments to do", Blossom chattered excitedly.

"Just so you two know", I began. "We have our own version of Twilight here so just be openminded."

The two looked uncomfortable with that but nodded.

Cloudkicker wrapped an arm awkwardly around Blossom and grinned wickedly at her.

"I have a few ideas about what physical activities we could get up to in these bodies", she said.

Blossom only gulped.

The next day, the entire school knew what happened. All of us gathered around the statue quietly and covered it with flowers.

Mystery Mint and Watermelody knelt down together putting black roses on it. I never really knew Watermelody was close to the princess to be honest.

I felt a tap on the back and turned around. Standing there was Fluttershy along with the other rainbooms. They looked awful. After a hesitation, i gave each a hug.

Bonus Chapter: Twilight Sparkle

"You sure you want me to stay behind Twilight?" Spike questioned.

I rolled my eyes. This was the tenth time he had asked me.

"Yes Spike, I'm sure. I can handle myself for a week. Besides, it's not like you gotta send any letters to Celestia, I'll be a few hallways away." I leaned in close and smirked. "I'm not supposed to tell you this, but Cloudchaser has plans for a very special week with you. Act surprised please."

"Fine." Spike conceded. "But be careful, ponies have been acting weird recently not sure why. Especially Spoiled Rich, she's been asking when you're going to Canterlot."

I waved a hoof nonchalantly. "She only asked because she wants me to bring back some special paintings for her house. Apparently they're rare. She gave me bits for them and everything."

Spike nodded. "I never took her for a mare who liked art. I suppose art is made for stuck up ponies."

I gave him a disapproving look. "Now Spike, not all ponies who like art are stuck up. Is Pinkie Pie or Starlight stuck up?"

"Well no." Spike shook his head, then looked confused. "Wait, Pinkie likes art? I get Starlight loves it but not Pinkie."

I waved a hoof around again. "Yeah, she loves art. Apparently it gives her inspiration or something. I'm not entirely sure. That mare is an enigma."

"What's an enigma?" Spike asked.

I rolled my eyes. "Nothing, don't worry. I'll tell you when I return. If you don't look it up yet."

Cloudchaser fluttered in. "Hey Twi, ready for you train?"

"Actually i was gonna fly, still not the best flier. Only get better by doing", I explained smiling.

Cloudchaser smirked. "You could always get Cloudkicker to help you. If you can put up with constant sex jokes and playful flirting she can get up to."

I felt my cheeks burning. "That won't be necessary." I smiled and hugged them both. "I really should be going now, Luna, Cadence and Celestia are probably waiting for me."

Cloudchaser smiled again. "Fly safe, Twilight. There's a massive storm set for tonight. Gonna be a wild one."

Spike nodded and he hugged my leg. I rubbed his head and hugged back. "I'll be back before you guys know I'm gone." I shrugged into my saddlebags and took off flying into the sky, I glanced behind me and saw them waving goodbye.

The trip to Canterlot was well uh, the less said about my flying the better. Almost got zapped by lightning from that storm Cloudchaser mentioned. I also may or may not have crash landed in front of Celestia in her throne room.

"Well hello there Twilight", she said hiding a laugh behind her hoof.

"Hi Princess", I shakily got to my hooves and smiled.

"Please, you don't have to call me Princess, you know this." She said offhandly.

A few days later and dealing with delegates was driving me up the wall. I just got done with my last political meeting. Celestia trotted alongside me and smiled.

"Great job handling that, Twilight. You sold them on supporting your bill to regulate import and export companies."

I blushed. "Thanks Celestia. I'm pretty tired now, I'm gonna head to bed."

Celestia smiled and nodded. "Very well. I'll see you tomorrow morning for breakfast, my little pony." She turned to a guard nearby. "Sergeant Rain Shine." The guard snapped to attention and saluted. "Princess."

"Kindly escort Princess Twilight to her room please sir." Celestia requested.

The guard nodded. "It will be done, Princess."

"That's hardly necessary, Princess. I know how to get around the castle." I argued

Celestia smirked. "If you want to get used to your own personal guard following you around, you might as well let him. He's my most trustworthy guard. He's been here for twenty years. I trust him with my life."

The guard stepped to me. "This way, Princess. Once we get to your room, I'll be down the hall doing my rounds."

I sighed knowing there was no way out of this fight. We walked to my room and he opened my door for me. "Thank you, sir." I nodded respectfully.

He nodded back and saluted me. He trotted down the hall and I shut my door. Rain Shine looked around and stepped to a door leading to the outside. He unlocked it and four ponies entered quickly.

"She's heading to bed. First door on the left, wait a few hours. Her door most likely will be unlocked. If not, here's a key." He levitated a key into the lead ponies saddle bag. The pony nodded.

A bright white light blinded me and I opened my eyes cautiously.

"What in Equestria?" I muttered.

"Hello there". A deep booming voice spoke. Standing before me was a white pony with a long grey beard and mane. He smiled down sadly at me.

"Where am i?" I asked looking around. Standing all over in rows of security lines were cats, ponies and humans.

"Unfortunately, you're dead. You're in heaven." The pony explained.

I gasped. "Dead? I just went to sleep. How the hay could I be dead?"

The pony shrugged. "Sorry, guideline four. I'm not allowed to disclose how someone died. It prevents you harming from the grave."

"Who the hay even are you?" I demanded.

"The humans call me God, the cats call me the Ancient One and you ponies call me The All Knowing One." The pony stated.

I rubbed my chin. "I heard that story as a filly. Heaven doesn't look like I expected, honestly. With all these security machines."

God waved a hoof. "We really advanced our security these past few decades. Now instead of me asking the questions, the machine searches their memories and decides if they are allowed entry. Makes my life easier."

"Why do the cats look so mad?" I asked.

God chuckled. "They always look mad. I dropped the ball creating them accidentally. The cats of Cattopia do love having their heads scratched. Only when they come up to you of course."

That idea excited me. "How many worlds are there then?"

God thought for a moment. "Hundreds. There's a world where metal robots are fighting an endless war. They call me Primus."

I shivered at the thought of endless war. "That's awful."

God nodded sagely. "As much as I enjoy your questions, I have other people to speak to. Go through those gates and you'll be in heaven. Your ancestors eagerly are awaiting you."

"Wait, I don't gotta go through those machines?" I pointed a hoof.

God shook his head. "No. I've been watching you for a long, long time. You've done many great things with your short life. You've impressed me greatly. Which is why I'm giving you a great honor. You can visit your friends in dreams and in person. Just takes practice and energy. I've appointed a pony to assist you."

I bowed. "Thank you, sir." God waved his hoof and stared at me.

"Do not bow to me. I'm not better than anybody."

I hastily stood up. "Sorry sir."

"God is fine. You don't gotta call me sir."

I nodded and walked through the gates. I spent the rest of my friends lives visiting their dreams or in person. I was shocked to find out Minuette was in love with me. What hurts the most is I loved her back. I was too afraid to ask her out.

Finding out Twinkleshine felt guilty for her father assisting in my murder hurt my soul. She did everything right and tried to prevent it. I watched over all of them and kept them safe. I did enjoy playing pranks on Rainbow and moved her stuff around. That was always funny.

Seeing how Moondancer fell so far made me depressed honestly. Never expected that. I oddly feel guilty even tho I couldn't have prevented what happened. I remember meeting Lyra and Bon Bon in heaven. I was sad they died, but happy to have my friends here. I was so proud of them when they adopted Scootaloo.

Don't even get me started when Pinkie adopted Sweetie Belle. That was a beautiful moment and I'm so proud of that mare. All in all, I'm proud of what I accomplished and did with my life. I lived a good life helping others and I'd do it all over again.

Till we meet again, as I told Pinkie Pie.

Caramel (Canon Ending)

You're probably wondering why I hate Princess Twilight so much. That's an easy question to answer: she's a bitch, simple as that. All her so called great changes would have ruined not only my life but my family's legacy that my father and his father before him fought so hard to build. You see, my fathers company was complicated. We were traders, worked with outside countries to import and export stuff into the country but we also worked in a bit of shady business. Nothing like kidnappings or sex trafficking. Just drugs and illegal weapons discreetly on the side. The cargo comes in on the boat, the weapons and drugs are placed in a false bottom of the crate, the guard does a quick sweep to make sure no ones in it and passes it off to our company to collect. We made a killing. And then came Twilight.

She wanted to regulate what companies like us brought into Equestria and give us very heavy taxes for getting caught bringing in illegal items. Somepony had given her and the guards a tip that illegal contraband was coming into the ports. So naturally, they stepped up their searches. It only got worse when a friend of my fathers got busted for sneaking in black tar heroin from Griffonia and a prototype weapon that would disable a unicorns magic. He was stupid for having them out so blatantly. He got lazy and assumed the guard he'd paid off wouldn't just go along with the searches and would bail him out of it.

The next day, my dad's friend just disappeared. Out of the blue. Nopony knows where he went, some say he booked it before the guards came and arrested him. Some say he committed suicide to avoid jail time and well others say he got killed by his dealer for being caught. Either way, his body was never discovered. He just vanished. Kinda hard for a earth pony to do that. We can't teleport or fly away.

We were smarter though. As soon as the guards started getting more thorough(and successful) in their searches, we temporarily halted our illegal dealings. Not many ponies knew about that side for obvious reasons. Not even my wife had known. My heart stings at thinking of my wife, Sassaflash. When she found out all that I'd said about the princess after her death, she threw me out. And then she had the nerve to keep my daughter from me. And then she started dating some unicorn named Sea Swirl. I tried to go to the courts but they all ruled in her favor. Rigged bullshit in my opinion but I went to the highest courts in Equestria and they all sided with her. It was right after that, I'd been thrown out of town. I spent the following weeks homeless on a bench. Not even Golden Harvest or Berry Punch would see me and they were my oldest friends. Bon Bon refused to sell to me at the market, Golden Harvest actually slapped me when I came close to her to try to buy carrots. Losing my friends hurt the most of all.

And don't even get me started on the beatdown Rainbow gave me in front of her fellow guards. Even White Lightning gave me a kick and she's usually the kindest pony. Redheart reluctantly fixed me up because of some oath she took to preserve life when she became a nurse then coldly told me to get out. I was surprised when she agreed to part time work for Twilights guard as a medic for them. She wasn't the violent or best pony I'd have used but meh. The only pony who somewhat talked to me was Spoiled Rich and that's because we used to have an affair. We only really got into it because she helped plan Twilight's death. Her families company did have a shady side like ours, except her father had less ethics and did everything: kidnappings, murder for hire, prostitution rings. I could go on but you get the point. I still am shocked she tricked the guards that she wasn't involved. She got an innocent pony killed for what she did. Put all the evidence in his house for all to see and let the guards loose with a tip about it. She always did have a special talent for manipulation. Not even the best could see through it somehow. I only know it happened because she told me.

I guess I could understand why ponies hate me with everything they have. If Twilight had agreed to back down and just let the families work their illegal dealings, she'd still be alive. But no, she had to be all moral and bullshit. I wish I wasn't so ethical some days. I'd never killed before except the occasional spider but it can't be that different to killing a pony. Except for maybe the blood, final words and gasping for air but eh. Hopefully my father will find me soon and take me away to a new city. I'm ready to join his side at the family business like he meant for me. I'll be damned if my cousin Cherry Fizzy takes my spot. I'm not sure if Cherry Berry knows about our family business, she always was too caring about other ponies. Pathetic. She spends almost all her bits making drug rehab facilities and homes for addicts.

Or that's my cover story at least. The truth is I'm a member of Luna's Royal Guard. I'm in deep undercover work right now. This mission is classified above top secret. My wife didn't even know. She confronted me about it after my first beating. Not even Rainbow Dash was allowed to know about mission. My dad actually did have a import export company but we didn't import anything illegal in. The best thing to do under cover is to keep a vague truth to your cover story.

The front door burst open. "Caramel! Tell me you actually aren't happy Twilight is dead!" Sassaflash demanded.
"Please tell me this is just a mission for the guard." She lowered her before she said that. "Please."

I thought about the conversation I had with Luna and the commanding officer.

"This is above top secret. We're sending you in to find all responsible for who killed Twilight. We may have been too late to save her, but we can at least prevent the war is coming. Especially since the changelings are responsible, and some nobles. We just need to find out who." My commanding officer, Night Wind ordered. "Cadences intelligence agency found papers on a changeling courier they killed after being involved in a fight with him confirming their involvement to destabilize the Equestrian government. The new queen wants vengeance."

I saluted. "Yes sir. But I thought all the changelings sided with us after Chrysalis was kicked out. What about Thorax?"

Night Wind held up his hoof. "We thought that too. And Thorax was killed in a fight for the throne."

"Not even your wife is allowed to know. We can't risk her or any civilians getting killed for you telling her." Princess Luna cut in.

I nodded. "Yes, Princess."

"If you complete this mission, there's a good promotion in your future and a decent command for you." Night Wind added.

"It's true. I'm against Twilight and happy she's dead." I shook my head.

"Get out." Sassaflash said quietly.

"What?" I asked, feigning shock.

"Get out!" She screamed.

A trotting sound came from the front of the cave. Me and my changeling contact agreed to meet here. I stood up.

"Hello Caramel."

"Hello, Shadow." I replied.

"Time to get to work. Twilight's murder was the beginning. If friendship leaves Equestria and pits pony against pony, we have an easier opportunity to win the coming war. There'll be plenty of bits and power in it for you."

"Power and money is good enough encouragement for me." I agreed.

Rain Shine

Author's Note

Requested by Mpony1 and Agent Korpsman

Rain Shine

I trotted down the castle halls, looking back and forth with a magic spell to help me see down the dark corridors. It was the same hall I'd walked down ten times already, but the night shifts were boring. Typically I only work in the day, but I needed the extra bits.

I saw a flash in the darkness.

"Show yourself. Now!" I ordered.

The dark shadow stopped and I let out an exasperated sigh.

"You do realize right that by just stopping, it doesn't do anything? I can still see you."

The shape started walking to me and I prepared to pull out my sword.

"Hello Sergeant." I froze.

"Shadow."

"In the flesh." The changeling smirked. I narrowed my eyes and gritted my teeth, my magical grip holding my sword once more. Shadow had convinced me to let him escape after the initial invasion of Canterlot when Chrysalis captured Cadence because he was injured in the fighting.

"Why are you even here?" I demanded.

"Scouting the area out." He said simply.

"And what for?" I demanded.

He shrugged. "If I tell you, then I'll have to kill you. But don't worry, you're not the target."

"And which princess is?" I asked.

"And how do you know it's a princess?" Shadow asked me amused.

I snorted. "Please, nopony breaks into a castle and scouts it out just to kill a maid or a guard."

Shadow smiled. "Smart stallion. You know, you could always help us."

I drew my sword and held it against his neck. "Tell me why I shouldn't kill you now. You are technically trespassing and hinting at killing a princess."

Shadow rolled his eyes. "Because I came here for a purpose. Firstly, to find you and hopefully recruit you. Secondly, you brought up killing a princess, not me."

I kept my sword at his throat. "And why would I even join you?"

He smiled. "I know you're getting tired of this job. Walking the beat, being the same rank for ten years. No raise or any bonus for your hard work. Hell, you hardly even get any time off for your family. I know you're a family stallion. Serve my new queen and she can give you everything you want and more. Bits, power, a high command in the military. And time for your family whenever you want."

I pulled the sword away warily. "That....does sound convincing. Being the same rank for as long as I have. Hell, I've been here longer than Shining Armor and he gets promoted before me." I scoffed. "Ridiculous."

Shadow got closer and looked me in the eyes. "War is coming. Do you want to be on the wrong side, where you're underappreciated or be on the winning team where your skills and expertise will be valued? My queen will treat you way better than Celestia or Luna could ever hope."

I looked at my reflection in the mirror and stared at my gold armor. I turned back to Shadow who waited for my response. "I'm in."

"Excellent decision." He grinned. "I'd hate to have to kill you if you said no, being old friends and all."

I scoffed. "Please, we all know I could kill you first."

Shadow rolled his eyes. "Keep telling yourself that."

I trotted into the guard station and looked both ways before approaching the two new guards sitting bored at the station.

"Has there been any new reports about any crimes?" I asked.

One shook his head and I internally sighed in relief. My position in the Guard allowed me to keep updated on anypony uncovering our plans.

"Wait." One said. "There was that one pony who came in the other day, something about a plot to murder a princess."

I froze and turned to the two. "Who was it?"

He shrugged. "You know the rules, when it's an anonymous report we aren't allowed to ask for names or addresses. Confidentiality."

"Did you file the report properly?" I asked calmly.

The other nodded. "Yeah the reports right here. Do you want it?"

These guards are so gullible, I thought to myself. They just gave me the perfect excuse to cover up any other reports. "Yeah, I'll look into it. And give me any reports about this in the future, so I can properly investigate it."

The guard hesitated and looked to his partner before he slid it over the desk.

"Thank you Cadet. I'll put in a good word for you two with your commanding officer." I promised and walked out to home.

The two guards looked to each other. "Did that seem a bit weird to you? We aren't really supposed to give out files to anypony like that?" The second asked.

The first rolled his eyes and waved his hoof. "That's Rain Shine. He is Celestia's go to guard for anything. He lead the investigation into Flurry Hearts ransom ponynapping that one time. The princess probably sent him down to collect the file to investigate. Besides, he's the poster boy for loyalty in the guard alongside the Captain. I wouldn't worry about it too much, but I will agree it seemed a bit off."

The second looked where Rain Shine had went. "If you say so. It just doesn't feel right, something feels off." The first rolled his eyes and went back to his book.

I grunted in pain as the hoof was rammed into my stomach again. "Who else helped?" A white pegasus in Twilight's guard armor demanded. She slapped me. I was in a cell under Canterlot Castle. A dripping sound came behind me. It was driving me crazy.

"You have to talk sometime. Everypony has a breaking point." She said coldly.

"Give it up, White Lightning. You've been at it for hours. He ain't gonna talk." The yellow pegasus at the door said. She was slumped in a chair reading a book, her helmet laying next to her chair.

"We aren't pushing hard enough." White Lightning protested. "Rainbow wants answer, no matter the cost. Remember Raindrops? Do you want a turn?"

Raindrops turned a page in her book. "Nah, I'm busy reading. Besides, you seem to be having fun."

She held up the book in our direction. "Look at this, did you know Cadence and Shining Armors favorite date night spot is MareDonalds?"

"Everypony knows that." I scoffed and then grunted again. A white hoof rammed into my stomach again.

"Shut the hell up unless you're spoken to." White Lightning growled.

Raindrops rolled her eyes and continued reading.

Two hours later, White Lightning stopped hitting me.

"Why won't you talk? Everypony does!"

I lifted my head and looked her in the eyes. "I'm not everypony."

A snore at the door distracted us. Raindrops was sleeping in her chair.

"Are you seriously asleep right now?" White Lightning demanded and threw a coffee cup at her partners head.

"I was till I was rudely awoken." Raindrops grunted.

"Who hired you?" White Lightning focused back on me.

"You don't need to know that." I replied.

She slapped me again. "We do actually. You betrayed the princesses and your oath. You've been here longer than anypony. It just doesn't make sense that you did this."

I decided to give her a bone, mainly because of her devotion to getting answers. I respected that.

"All I do is in service to my new queen."

Raindrops ears perked up at that and she looked at me.

"What queen?" Lightning demanded and prepared to punch me.

"You know, physical torture is effective and all, but mental torturing is more fun. Plus the sense of satisfaction after breaking down a pony mentally is so good. It's harder to do than physically harm them but it's worth it. Plus, he's a unicorn you can always break his horn.

The two guards turned and gave their new arrival incredulous looks.

"Didn't hear you come in Cadet Silverspeed." White Lightning stated.

She shrugged. "I'm quiet."

"Clearly." White grumbled.

"How do you even know about mental torturing?" Raindrops demanded.

Silverspeed shrugged. "What, I studied psychological warfare before I graduated West Hoof. It's very effective." She turned and left at that.

A moment of stunned silence before Raindrops spoke. "Huh, guess it's always the quiet ones."

White Lightning nodded and turned back to me.

Hours later, the door swung open. "Celestia's coming!" Silverspeed said to her two guards.

White Lightning froze mid swing. "Shit!"

She looked me over at my multiple bruises.

"We don't have time to put makeup on him." She swore again.

"Relax, Whitey." Raindrops scoffed. "We already got told his punishment, it doesn't matter if he gets roughed up."

The door opened and I looked up. Celestia stood there glaring down at me coldly.

"Leave us." She ordered the guards. The three saluted and exited the room, shutting the door behind them.

"So, your turn to interrogate me I suppose." I said coldly.

"Why did you do it?" She said softly. "I trusted you. Twilight trusted you. And you betrayed her." She spun around to me and I could see the tears at her eyes.

"You really think you're the only pony out there who rules a county. My new queen has offered me a better position in the military, more money and most importantly, time with my family." I snarled out, showing my teeth.

"You did it for power? Seriously? You took my daughter figure from me. And you could have requested family time off." Celestia snapped.

I rolled my eyes and growled. "Oh, pleaseeee. Everytime I requested it, you denied it. Personally! Loyalty can only be given if it's given back."

She shook her head sadly. "There's no arguing with you. You made your bed, now lie in it. You're being sentenced to death. Execution is tomorrow morning." I sat in stunned silence. We haven't done executions in centuries. She left the room.

Celestia stopped outside the door. "Oh and White Lightning?"

White Lightning snapped to attention and saluted. "Princess."

"Don't beat him too hard, we need him alive for tomorrow." She walked off, leaving the guards stunned.

Morning came too soon for me. I watched as my fellow conspirators died. I was lead out and I held my head high and proud.

When they chained me to the post and I stood on bloodstained ground, I searched the crowd and smiled up at them. I saw my daughter sitting among her friends and she looked away. I regret nothing.

Rainbow Dash

I never really thought I'd be in such a position like this, to be honest. Stuck standing guard over Twilights casket. I sighed as I watched ponies walking up to pay their respects. Starlight, Trixie, a drunk Moondancer. After the first hour, faces started blending together. I vaguely remember a green unicorn hugging the casket and getting removed carefully by a cream colored earth pony with blue candies on her flanks. After everypony left the viewing, I was finally able to head home. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a blonde haired Pegasus jumping on me.

"Hey Derpy", I spoke.

"Hi, Rainbow Dash", the mare in question grinned eagerly. Standing behind her was her two daughters, Dinky and Amethyst Star.

Rolling her eyes, Amethyst walked up and pried her mom off me. "Let her take her uniform off, she just got home".

Derpy nodded and rubbed the back of her head. "Sorry".

"It's fine", I replied. "Long day".

I walked into me and Derpys room and started to take my helmet off, tossing it on the bed. Next came my chest plate. I smiled sadly down at it and pressed my hoof against the star cutie mark emblazoned on the front, next to the words captain on the front.

I was still super surprised when Twilight asked me to be the captain of her personal guard. There certainly had to be more qualified ponies than me but I didn't complain and jumped at the offer.

"You want me? As your captain?" I repeated in surprise.

Twilight nodded eagerly, "I can't think of anypony better. You're brave, would be great at training other guards. Need i continue?"

"I don't know Twilight, seems like a lot of work"

"Well it is. Unless of course you're not up for the challenge", Twilight remarked walking to her bookshelf.

"Woah now, i never said that. I never back down from a challenge", I leaped up and said.

Twilight only grinned.

I was still standing there when I noticed something holding onto me. Glancing down, there was Dinky, grinning up at me with wide eyes.

"Hi!"

"Hey squirt", I said affectionately, tussling her mane.

"Mommy sent me to get you for dinner"

"Thanks kid", I said smiling. "How long was I standing here?"

"Oh about an hour", the little unicorn replied. "Me and Sparkler were placing bets on how much longer you'd be standing here before you fell over. I guess I owe her five bits now".

Wow, an hour. Didn't notice that. Me and Dinky started walking to the dinning room. Derpy and Amethyst were already there waiting. On the table sat my favorite food: Lasagna. I guess the two other grown ups knew I had a rough day and wanted to surprise me. It worked, I'll admit.

"Are you ready for tomorrow?" Derpy asked as we sat down.

Tomorrow? What was she even talking about? Then it hit me. I completely forgot I was pulling guard duty at the arena entrance. I was kinda surprised at how fast the Guards found all those responsible for the crime. It only took them two weeks. Granted, they probably used force to get confessions but no matter. I knew all my friends would be there, minus Rarity. She just disappeared after the viewing. Something about going home.

I nodded. "Yeah I'm ready".

"Do I get to come? Do you two have a date?" Dinky started popping off questions at only the speed she could do.

"Absolutely not". Derpy said firmly. "You're too young for where we are going. Sparkler is gonna stay here with you and watch over you till we get back".

The mare in question rolled her eyes. "Seriously mom, I wanna be called Amethyst now. Sparkler was a childhood nickname".

Derpy smiled and apologized. "I'm sorry, I keep forgetting".

Amethyst smiled and hugged her mom. "I know, it's okay".

We ate the rest of dinner in silence and all fell asleep in our beds.

Waking up early, I started putting my armor one again. Chest plate, helmet and the nightstick on the side of my armor.

Derpy somehow snuck up behind me and hugged me. "Purple really does match your eyes". She said smirking.

I rolled my eyes. "I suppose so. It is a pretty nice color".

Leaving Dinky behind was an ordeal. She grabbed onto us and hugged us for eternity it felt. She hugged even stronger than her mom, and that was saying something. Amethyst somehow freed us and we waved goodbye.

As soon as we got to the guard station, I could already tell it was a whole mess. Derpy went to go be with Octavia and Vinyl in the stands while I worked my through the crowd of guards. A flash of brown caught my eye and I immediately recognized the pony. I narrowed my eyes and looked at the nearest guard.

"Flash! Grab that pony". I pointed my hoof at the one in question.

Flash flew over and shoved the pony to the ground and stood with a hoof on his back. "Don't move". He growled out.

I flew over and joined him. "Bring him into the guard station. We're gonna have a conversation".
Flash nodded and we both dragged him to the station as the crowd of people cleared a path. Finally getting inside, I shut the door and turned around looking at the pony.

"You have balls, I'll give you that Caramel". I started to walk to him. "Coming here, after what happened in Ponyville. Yes, I know what you said about Twilight. You were banned from coming here. You knew this, I had White Lightning and Raindrops deliver the letter personally to you. And yet you still showed up".

He shakily got to his hooves and looked at me. I continued talking. "Why exactly are you here?"

"To watch, is all", he replied.

At that moment the door opened and Flash flew back in, carrying two saddlebags. "He dropped these. Inside is spray paint and a banner that says and I quote, 'Fuck Twilight Sparkle'".

I nodded my thanks and turned around, smiling.
"Flash, lock the door".

"Yes ma'am", he nodded and locked it.

As soon as he did so, I swung a hoof at Caramels face. He gave a cry and fell over.

"That was for Twilight", I snarled.
I kicked him in the side, being able to release all the anger I didn't know I had inside me.

"You can't do this", Caramel whimpered. "It's illegal, I'm in your custody and you're assaulting me. You'll get arrested, just like the guards in Ponyville will".

I gave a humorless laugh. "Wanna know what the guards said? They all said they never saw you until that day and you were already injured".

He widened his eyes. "There was a crowd of ponies there. They will tell the truth".

I leaned in close and grinned, "That's the best part. They all corroborated what the guards said. Roseluck, Lily and Daisy said you accidentally fell into their roses and that's how you got all the scratches. Cheerilee said you broke a leg by having a bookcase falling on it after you offered to help move it. Redheart said she helped fix it up at your house. Lyra said you got a black eye by running into her house. All of Ponyville loved Twilight. Nopony will believe you"

"Uh, boss", a voice spoke up. I glanced up and saw White Lightning accompanied by Raindrops. "We love the show, don't get us wrong", Raindrops piped in, "but there's a pony watching the window". She pointed a hoof and sure enough, there was a blue unicorn with an hourglass cutie mark watching.

Fuck, I thought. "Flash close the blinds and get her". I ordered.

Flash closed the curtain and smiled. "That's Minuette, she was a friend of Twilights growing up. I trust her, she won't say anything".

I nodded and looked back at the other Guards in the room. "Lock Caramel up in the cell, we'll let him out after the executions are over". Raindrops and White Lightning nodded and grabbed Caramel and flew him to cell. When her partner opened the door, Raindrops shoved Caramel inside and glared at him, smiling coldly.

White Lightning locked the cell and turned around and nodded at me.

"Let's get a move on. We got some evil ponies to put down". I moved to the door and flew out, accompanied by my four fellow guards.

The day finally ended and I got to be alone in my thoughts while I showered. Thinking about all me and the other mane six accomplished. In a way, I was honored to have been a part of it all. Not the investigations or anything, but being a part of mane six. Knowing Twilight. Saving Equestria multiple times. It was without a doubt, the best thing I've ever done with my life. I looked over at Derpy sleeping peacefully, then to my left and gently straightened a photo of all of us and Twilight on my nightstand.

"Night Twilight", I said before passing out.

A purple cloud formed next to her bed and took the form of a pony. It smiled down at her.

"Goodnight Rainbow", Twilight said before disappearing just as quick as she had appeared.

Caramel (Alternate Ending)

Author's Note

Alright last chapter, here we go. Caramels reason for hating Twilight is gonna be revealed.

Caramel (Alternate Ending)

I sat in the cave shivering. I wrapped myself up in the torn and tattered blanket i managed to grab from home before I was kicked out of Ponyville. Thinking about home stung. Brought up bad memories. About that bitch, about getting violently tossed out of town by an angry mob into the Everfree forest. I managed an empty abandoned cave. I was allowed a few saddlebags of food and that was it. The Everfree gets cold at night. I hope I can find a village to live in but I have no map and I'm just wandering around, probably in circles.

You're probably wondering why I hate Princess Twilight so much. That's an easy question to answer: she's a bitch, simple as that. All her so called great changes would have ruined not only my life but my family's legacy that my father and his father before him fought so hard to build. You see, my fathers company was complicated. We were traders, worked with outside countries to import and export stuff into the country but we also worked in a bit of shady business. Nothing like kidnappings or sex trafficking. Just drugs and illegal weapons discreetly on the side. The cargo comes in on the boat, the weapons and drugs are placed in a false bottom of the crate, the guard does a quick sweep to make sure no ones in it and passes it off to our company to collect. We made a killing. And then came Twilight.

She wanted to regulate what companies like us brought into Equestria and give us very heavy taxes for getting caught bringing in illegal items. Somepony had given her and the guards a tip that illegal contraband was coming into the ports. So naturally, they stepped up their searches. It only got worse when a friend of my fathers got busted for sneaking in black tar heroin from Griffonia and a prototype weapon that would disable a unicorns magic. He was stupid for having them out so blatantly. He got lazy and assumed the guard he'd paid off wouldn't just go along with the searches and would bail him out of it.

The next day, my dad's friend just disappeared. Out of the blue. Nopony knows where he went, some say he booked it before the guards came and arrested him. Some say he committed suicide to avoid jail time and well others say he got killed by his dealer for being caught. Either way, his body was never discovered. He just vanished. Kinda hard for a earth pony to do that. We can't teleport or fly away.

We were smarter though. As soon as the guards started getting more thorough(and successful) in their searches, we temporarily halted our illegal dealings. Not many ponies knew about that side for obvious reasons. Not even my wife had known. My heart stings at thinking of my wife, Sassaflash. When she found out all that I'd said about the princess after her death, she threw me out. And then she had the nerve to keep my daughter from me. And then she started dating some unicorn named Sea Swirl. I tried to go to the courts but they all ruled in her favor. Rigged bullshit in my opinion but I went to the highest courts in Equestria and they all sided with her. It was right after that, I'd been thrown out of town. I spent the following weeks homeless on a bench. Not even Golden Harvest or Berry Punch would see me and they were my oldest friends. Bon Bon refused to sell to me at the market, Golden Harvest actually slapped me when I came close to her to try to buy carrots. Losing my friends hurt the most of all.

And don't even get me started on the beatdown Rainbow gave me in front of her fellow guards. Even White Lightning gave me a kick and she's usually the kindest pony. Redheart reluctantly fixed me up because of some oath she took to preserve life when she became a nurse then coldly told me to get out. I was surprised when she agreed to part time work for Twilights guard as a medic for them. She wasn't the violent or best pony I'd have used but meh. The only pony who somewhat talked to me was Spoiled Rich and that's because we used to have an affair. We only really got into it because she helped plan Twilight's death. Her families company did have a shady side like ours, except her father had less ethics and did everything: kidnappings, murder for hire, prostitution rings. I could go on but you get the point. I still am shocked she tricked the guards that she wasn't involved. She got an innocent pony killed for what she did. Put all the evidence in his house for all to see and let the guards loose with a tip about it. She always did have a special talent for manipulation. Not even the best could see through it somehow. I only know it happened because she told me.

Most ponies are shocked to find out that some ponies have drug addictions here. Idiots, Equestria isn't always just sun and rainbows. There's a market for everything, no matter what the country is. The smart ones just take advantage of said addictions. Everypony has one, from drugs to random killing. My family saw such opportunity, took it and made us the strongest family in the underground market. I could go through everypony who has gotten drugs from me. Hell even Shoeshine has gotten some coke from me.

I guess I could understand why ponies hate me with everything they have. If Twilight had agreed to back down and just let the families work their illegal dealings, she'd still be alive. But no, she had to be all moral and bullshit. I wish I wasn't so ethical some days. I'd never killed before except the occasional spider but it can't be that different to killing a pony. Except for maybe the blood, final words and gasping for air but eh. Hopefully my father will find me soon and take me away to a new city. I'm ready to join his side at the family business like he meant for me. I'll be damned if my cousin Cherry Fizzy takes my spot. I'm not sure if Cherry Berry knows about our family business, she always was too caring about other ponies. Pathetic. She spends almost all her bits making drug rehab facilities and homes for addicts.

I pulled a carrot to me and half-heartedly nibbled at it. I grimaced at my plight. Somedays I wish I had a different family, I wouldn't be in this situation if it wasn't for my ancestry. I heard what sounded like trotting. I instantly got nervous, what if it's a guard who found me. I pressed my body against the wall as it got louder and louder. It stopped in front of me.

"Open your damn eyes". A cold voice snapped. I cracked them open and saw Spoiled Rich standing in front of me.

I stood up shakily. "Hey Spoiled."

She curtly nodded. "Caramel. It's been a while, I've been looking for you."

I gave a sigh of relief. "You're here to rescue me then I take it. Thank Luna."

To my confusion, she shook her head and gave me a cold smile. I nervously stepped back.

"Then why are you here? To rub in my face how far I've fallen? Go ahead, I have lost everything already." I snapped. She stepped towards me.

"You've hurt a lot of ponies in your life. Indirectly perhaps, but you've still caused suffering. The pony who hired me paid me handsomely to see you pay."

"Pay how? I have no bits", I stammered out.

A green fire erupted around Spoiled Rich and I shrank back in fear. In front of me was a changeling, grinning at me.

"Spoiled Rich already paid for the suffering she caused. It's your turn too." The changeling lunged at me and sank her teeth into my leg.

I immediately tried hitting her with my good leg and gritted my teeth in pain. She knocked it aside and let go of my leg.

"Where is Spoiled Rich?" I demanded.

The changeling waved a hoof nonchalantly. "Oh, she's dead. I started a riot at a music concert in Canterlot and she got trampled. Simple really, just scream "monster!" and you ponies freak out. Quite interesting really."

I shivered at the thought. "Who hired you?" I demanded nervously.

The changeling rubbed her chin. "Since you're gonna die anyway, I suppose it doesn't hurt to tell you." She leaned in close and smirked. "It was your wife. Or should I say ex wife, now that she and her unicorn tied the knot. Cute couple, really. Anyway she found some letters from your father about your families side business. She's quite disgusted honestly. You were stupid, leaving those letters intact. Me personally, I'd have destroyed them after reading but you are a vain bitch. You never thought anypony would find out about it."

I felt dizzy. No way Sassaflash would hire a hitpony. It wasn't her nature. And she definitely wouldn't marry Sea Swirl. She loved me damn it.

"You're lying. About it all and especially the wedding." I croaked out.

"Am I? Here's a photo". She pulled a picture out and I only stared in shock. Sassaflash was standing in a wedding dress with Sea Swirl. Another had Sea Swirl with my daughter. White hot rage filled me.

"That bitch betrayed me." I snarled out.

The changeling shrugged. "Now where we were?" She grinned. "Oh yeah, killing you." She pounced on me and bit my neck. His screams echoed throughout the cave. Shame nopony was there to hear it.