Rise of Ruinous

by OmegaMew2

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Sad, Romance, Comedy, Adventure
Length: 95618

When an ancient evil threatens Equestria, even old foes return to stand with the light.

This is an idea for a "Kingdom Hearts"-style RPG based on the characters of MLP:FiM. Comments, suggestions, constructive criticisms and ideas are VERY much encouraged! also, if anypony CAN PLEASE make this story into a format more acceptable, I'd appreciate it!

Despite how few character tags there are, this story has almost all the characters from the series in it!

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2013-12-12 02:45:40 UTC

Chapter 2 - New Moon Rising

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 2: New Moon Rising

The time: One week after "Virtuna Reality".

Virtuna hums as she's closing her arcade for the night.  She looks towards the Everfree Forest and spots an unusual shape.

Virtuna: *blink* Zecora?

She follows the fleeing eidolon, calling Zecora's name and imploring it to slow down or wait.  It wasn't until she came to the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters that Virtuna realized who she was chasing - and it wasn't Zecora.....

Virtuna: *gasp* whoa.....

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Twilight Sparkle trots through Ponyville to the arcade, which Virtuna opens as Verdescale is on her back.

T.Sparkle: Good morning, Virtuna.  Good morning, Verdescale.

Virtuna: Good morning, Twilight.  Nice day as always.

T.Sparkle: Yep, thanks to Rainbow Dash.

Verdescale: *nod* She's faster than the jet fighters in "Cloud Kings III".

T.Sparkle: *laugh* Oh, yeah.

All three laugh.

Virtuna: I went into the Everfree Forest yesterday night.  I saw this weird pony.....

T.Sparkle: Ah, so you met Zecora.  She's not a pony, she's a zebra.  And she's an herbalist, using natural remedies for everything from colds to poison joke.

As Twilight Sparkle talked about Zecora, Virtuna looked at the purple unicorn curiously.

T.Sparkle: Well, I'm sure she'd like to see you again.

Virtuna: *smiles* Sure, Twilight.  I'll drop by later, K?

T.Sparkle: OK.

The two brohoof, then Twilight Sparkle trots on towards Fluttershy's cottage.

Virtuna: That pony I met last night..... That wasn't a zebra.....

The Manehattanite shrugs, then greets the day's customers.  That night, Virtuna returned to the ruins, spotting the strange pony, an alicorn the size of Princess Celestia.  Virtuna smiles as she approaches the shadowy form.

Virtuna: Hewwo.

The figure looks at her, but doesn't talk.

Virtuna: Can we talk?

Still nothing.

Virtuna (with 5secs. between her sentences, as if giving the stranger a chance to respond, which it doesn't take advantage of): So, nice night, ain't it?  *smiles*  I think we have you to thank for it, eh?  *The figure looks at her*  Aw, don't gimme that, you're too modest.  Look, I think I know who you are, and I think I can help you, but you gotta not do the old bad stuff anymore, K?

Finally, the figure talks.

?????: What makes you think you can help me?

Virtuna: *BIG smile* Aw, WOW!  Finally gotcha to talk!  *giggle*  I got a LOT of experience in helping others see eye-to-eye.  Trust me, and I can make you friends with all MY new friends, Pinkie Pie and Rarity, Applejack and Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle.....

As soon as Virtuna mentions Twilight Sparkle, the figure appears, not as a shadowy form, but as.....

Virtuna: *blink* you're..... you-are-nightmare-moon.....

N.Moon: *cringes ashamedly* Y-y-yes, little one, I'm..... sorry for..... for-lying-to-you, I.....

Virtuna: *smirk* I read the legend, I KNOW why you wanted to hide.  If I was in your horseshoes, I'd feel a bit bad myself.

N.Moon: .....................You are..... too nice to me.....

Virtuna: Aw, no WAY!  There's no such thing as "too nice", Nightmare Moon.  Everypony - yes, even you - deserves a friend, and you don't have to be scared of what happened last time, just learn not to do it again.

Nightmare Moon looks down at the ground a bit, then gasps, falling apart and on all four knees as she brings Virtuna to her for a hug, sobbing.

Virtuna: *hugs back as well as she can* Aw, there-there, let it go, K?, all the bad, just let it go.....

Zecora happened to spot this scene as she was looking for herbs, totally in shock at seeing the renowned Mare in the Moon fall apart this completely.  Zecora dashed back to her house as Virtuna looked in Nightmare Moon's eyes.

Virtuna: Look, I got this, OK?  I help others a lot seeing things the other pony's way all the time, and I've always met with success.  You're in good hooves.

N.Moon: I do hope you're right.....  I'll talk to them... on one condition.

Virtuna: Name it.

*Possible spot for a "To Be Continued"*

*Recap - Intro Sequence*

The Mane 6 are gathered at Virtuna's arcade per orders sent out by the little pony.  She peeks outside and spots them, smiling.

Fluttershy: Hello, Virtuna.

Applejack: Friend of ya'll wanted ta see us?

Virtuna: *nod* Yeah.  Follow me, please.

The seven ponies head over to a bridge near Fluttershy's cottage.

R.Dash: So, who is this pony you've been seeing?

Virtuna: She's kinda wild-looking, but she's so nervous.  I mentioned all of ya, it's like a shiver went down her spine or something.

Fluttershy: W-w-why would she be nervous of US?

Virtuna: When ya see her, ya might understand.

Twilight Sparkle and Fluttershy exchange shrugs as the group got to the bridge.  Virtuna heads onto the bridge. As Twilight Sparkle was about to step on.....

Virtuna: NO!

Twilight Sparkle startled back into Rainbow Dash and Rarity.

Virtuna: The only way she'll talk to you is if you are all on that side.  I am the only one she'll allow to cross this bridge, K?

The Mane 6 nod, then Virtuna walks across the bridge and to the edge of the forest.

Virtuna: OK, come out.

The Mane 6 hold their collective breath, then gasp in shock as they spot who Virtuna was talking about.....

Fluttershy: N-N-Night... mare..... Moon?

She was half-concealed in the woods, but it was indeed Nightmare Moon.  Twilight Sparkle noticed something else a bit off about the former harbinger of endless night.

T.Sparkle: Not to be rude, Nightmare Moon, but..... Where's-your-hair?

N.Moon: That's the reason why Equestria isn't under nighttime everlasting right now.....  When you blasted me with the Elements of Harmony, you sealed my powers and freed Princess Luna.  With Luna back helping Princess Celestia, my powers are sealed off forever.

Applejack: Then why are ya'll back here?

Virtuna: She keeps saying she's here for something higher, that-she-could-be-better-than-she-was-before.

Rarity: Well, ANYthing would be better than she was before.

N.Moon: I know..... and-I'm-sorry.

The Mane 6 let out a collective loud, shocked gasp.

Applejack: Did..... did I just..... hear right?

Virtuna nods.

T.Sparkle: Well, it's nice that you've learned from your mistakes, but.....

N.Moon: *nod* I understand.  I just wanted to talk.

Virtuna: Ya feel better, Nightmare Moon?

N.Moon: A bit.

Fluttershy: Well, it's nice to know you changed.

Fluttershy heads off to tend to her animals.

P.Pie: Makes sure it sticks, K?  Pinkie Promise?

N.Moon: *chuckle* Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.

All the ponies laugh, Pinkie Pie most of all.

T.Sparkle: Mind if I tell the Princess about this?

N.Moon: Uh, start with Luna first, K?

Twilight Sparkle nods, then heads off.  Applejack startles up all of a sudden.

N.Moon: Hmm?

Applejack: Uh, sorry, bumper crop.

N.Moon: *chuckle*  I understand.

Applejack nods, then heads back to her farm almost Rainbow-Dash-fast.

Rarity: How long have you been back?

N.Moon: About two months.

Rarity: *nod* And the sun's been rising.  *smiles*  That'll help you.

Nightmare Moon nods as Rarity heads back to her boutique.

P.Pie: I wonder what'll make black look good on a cake.

Nightmare Moon blushes as Pinkie Pie heads back to her cake shop, humming.

R.Dash: Well, I think you're cooler now that you don't have the ability to shut the sun off.  Besides, *lifts off* I can't do my Wonderbolts stunts at night.

All three laugh as Rainbow Dash flies off.  That night, everypony was hit with a nightmare.  Not even Princess Celestia was immune as pony after pony shiver in their sleep.  This got Nightmare Moon's attention.

N.Moon: ........No........ Not now......... Not this.

The Mare in the Moon takes flight and lands in the middle of Ponyville's Town Square.  She spreads her wings, closes her eyes and concentrates, silver light outlining her.  The nightmares the ponyfolk were having were pulled out of their sleep and carried on waves of shadow to be dispelled by Nightmare Moon!  Even Princess Celestia's nightmare was swept away by her former antagonist.  The sun goddess woke up with a flash and bolted to the balcony.  Princess Luna was instantly at her side, watching her formerly dark half seeming to redeem herself right in front of them.  The shock they felt was incredible, which was also the same as the Mane 6 as they watch Nightmare Moon absorb nightmare after nightmare.  Everypony in Ponyville was shocked - well, all but a squealing-with-delight Virtuna.

Virtuna: HAHA!  What'd I say, eh?!

Despite Virtuna's squealing, Nightmare Moon keeps working until everypony's nightmare was erased.  As soon as she finished, Nightmare Moon, exhausted, collapsed - or started to, until she was held up by magic.  Nightmare Moon couldn't believe who caught her.....

N.Moon: Princess..... Celestia?

Everypony bows in the traditional way - excpet Virtuna, who bowed her head.  Princess Celestia cocked her head.

Virtuna: *gazes up* I would bow, except I.....

P.Celestia and Virtuna: .....don't have a right front leg.

P.Celestia: Right.  I was meaning to meet you anyway, Virtuna.  Your arrival in Ponyville was already big-enough news, but..... *looks at N.Moon* .....Seeing as you've converted one of our old enemies.....

P.Luna: I frankly cannot believe that the harbinger of eternal night was capable of such an amazing act of power.  To have absorbed the bad dreams of all ponies in Equestria must've taken considerable power.

Nightmare Moon, huffing, puffing and clearly exhausted as she was, still managed a smile as.....

Virtuna: You're a night watchpony.

N.Moon and Mane 6: What?

Virtuna: OK, when I grew up near Manehattan - *looks at the princesses*  across the Hoofson River, right by the tunnel entrance - *looks back at Nightmare Moon and the Mane 6* I lived in this small apartment complex.  Brick wall, three buildings, only one way in.  There was this gatehouse right by the entrance and every night - I can set my clock to this - 8pm sharp, rain, sleet, snow, hail, storm, night, day, whatever, there was this old watchpony who would trot into the gatehouse, sit on his rump and *gets forehead-to-forehead with Twilight Sparkle* glare-at-this-little-screen-for-14-hours-straight.  *2 sec. pause*  All night.  *2sec. pause*  Every night.  *2 sec pause*  Without fail.  And EVERYpony slept through the night.  Personally, I'd rather know about him once and that's all.

P.Luna: Child!  Art thou saying you don't liketh to know about this watchpony?

Virtuna: Not ex-actly.....  I mean I don't wanna watch him doin' his job.  Think: If you saw this watchpony in action - calling the cops, apprehending a criminal, etc. - it meant something bad happened to somepony - Somepony got hurt, or robbed, or their things smashed, or their house set on fire, something like that.

Everypony, including the princesses, nodded understandingly, but then.....

N.Moon: OK, then how do I resemble a night watchpony?

Just as Verdescale heads out to see what's going on, Virtuna gives Nightmare Moon a cross between a smirk and a smile.

Verdescale: -Uh, oh, here she goes.-

Virtuna: You did EXACTLY what you needed to do to be OUR night watchpony, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: *blink* Come again?

Virtuna: You fixed it so everypony can sleep well.  Look, I know you find it insulting that everypony sleeps through the night, but you sucking everypony's nightmares was something you do to ensure that we DO sleep well.  And that's what a watchpony does: Keeps... everypony... safe-at-night.  But you, you did MUCH more than just keep a little apartment complex sleeping soundly.  You kept an entire town sleeping soundly, and maybe - *looks at Princess Celestia* if you allow it - *looks back at Nightmare Moon* you could keep ALL OF EQUESTRIA... sleeping soundly.  Think about it.....

Nightmare Moon and both princesses came to the same realization at the same time, and the three nod to each other in acknowledgement.

P.Celestia: If you can keep doing what you did tonight.....

N.Moon: It's somewhat exhausting, but I think I can pull it off.

P.Luna: I can give you all the power you need, K?

N.Moon: *looks at Princess Luna* You'd do that for me?

P.Luna: *nod* Yeah.  I can sense your powers now..... and they're the same as mine.

The two night goddesses nuzzle up as Nightmare Moon's mane and tail return, much to the delight of everypony as.....

Verdescale: Virtuna strikes again!

Everypony looks at the emerging dragon.

T.Sparkle: Strikes again?

Verdescale: Everytime we meet somepony, Virtuna always helps them through arguments and disagreements, like, well, that for one.  Although patching things between the Mare in the Moon and the Two Sisters is undoubtedly the single biggest disagreement Virtuna's ever patched, this is par for the course with this one.

Virtuna: *laugh and blush* He's right.  No matter what the circumstances, I have this amazing knack for helping each side see where the other's coming from.  Guess it was something I was born with, along with one missing leg.

N.Moon: Well, I think you're amazing to have done this.

P.Luna: So are you, Nightmare Moon.

P.Celestia: Well, this would make quite a letter.

A couple chuckles from Princess Celestia soon evolved into a full-on laughing fit from all ponies.

T.Sparkle (voice-over as the princesses lead Nightmare Moon into the castle):

Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes when a problem arises, it's easy to find a solution, but other times it can be quite hard.  And sometimes, it takes a fresh perspective to approach the situation.  No matter how difficult, patience, understanding and communication are the keys to solving any issue between friends, even friends you never knew you had.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

P.Celestia: Here we are!

N.Moon: Wow.....

P.Luna: MUCH better than sleeping in the ruins, don't'cha think?

N.Moon: Oh, indeed, Princess Luna. *sweeping bow* Thank you.

Both princesses blush and smile, then Nightmare Moon rises, wearing a serious expression.

N.Moon: I sensed something while I was in the ruins.....  I felt more Elements of Harmony.

P.Celestia: How many more?

N.Moon: I..... don't know.....  All I know is there were more below the room where they..... defeated me.  If I'm right, we'll need all the help we can get.

Nightmare Moon heads to the library, still doing her nightmare-absorption ability.

P.Luna: What could it be?

P.Celestia: ......I-dunno.  If it's got Nightmare Moon scared.....

The younger goddess winces a bit, nodding.  In the library, Nightmare Moon looks through a few books before finding the right passage.  What she reads puts a panicked, almost terrified expression on her face.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 3 - Walking the Trail of Harmony

My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 3 - Walking the Trail of Harmony

The time: The day after Nightmare Moon's redemption.

The Mare in the Moon has the princesses looking at the passage that scared her so at the end of the last chapter.  Princess Luna was rendered speechless, but Princess Celestia had a lot to say.

P.Celestia: If you are right, this is a crisis unlike any ever encountered before.  If there ARE more Elements of Harmony, we HAVE to get our hooves on them before it's too late.  We can NOT let these elements fall into evil hooves.

N.Moon: I WISH I didn't have to alert you of this, Princess.....

Nightmare Moon lowers her head as Princess Celestia looks at her.  The sun goddess trots to Nightmare Moon and lifts her head back up.

P.Celestia: *reassuring smile* Sentinel of the Stars, remember?  You may not WANT to, but you did the right thing.  I understand you're worried, we are, too. *P.Luna nods*  And we'll do all we can to stop this, OK?

N.Moon: *slowly smiles* Right.

Meanwhile, ponies laugh and cheer as Twilight Sparkle faces Rainbow Dash in a dancing game similar to "Dance Dance Revolution".  Spike cheers on Twilight near the two mares, then begins choking.  Virtuna notices and heads to him, concerned, before shrieking as a jet of flame erupts over her head, a scroll appearing.  Twilight Sparkle stops dancing to read the note, the rest of the Mane 6 looking on.

T.Sparkle: *reads* ......!  It's from Nightmare Moon!  She wants us to meet with her and the princesses ASAP!

Virtuna nods, setting up the game to record a draw in the dance-off, then she follows the Mane 6 to Canterlot.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

In Canterlot, Twilight Sparkle and the rest of the Mane 6 got the news from Nightmare Moon and the two princesses.

T.Sparkle: Hang-on, MORE.. Elements.. of-Harmony?

R.Dash: How MANY more?

N.Moon: I couldn't tell from where I was in the ruins.

P.Luna: There are mention of just six in the Canterlotian texts, and they are the six you all possess.  If nothing has been written about any others, then there can be only two reasons why: Either those elements and their legend have been lost to the advance of time..... or those wielders were.

Everypony knew what the moon goddess meant by that.

Virtuna: OK, so, where are they?

P.Celestia: If the whereabouts of the original Elements of Harmony are any indication, they'd be in the Ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.

Fluttershy: W-we know the way there.

Applejack: We'll find 'em.

N.Moon: I have a feeling you'll need some help..... I'll-go-with-you.

P.Luna: Luck be with you all.

T.Sparkle: Thanks, Princess.

The Mane 6, Virtuna and Nightmare Moon head off to the Everfree Forest.  As they journeyed along the path to the ruins, Nightmare Moon shudders a bit.

Virtuna: What is it, Nightmare Moon?

N.Moon: I remember.....

T.Sparkle: It was when she tried stopping us from getting OUR Elements of Harmony when we journeyed to stop her.  She made it hard for us, but each of my friends showed their spirit and we eventually made it through.

Virtuna: WAY before ya met me, right?

R.Dash: Indeed, Virtuna.

Virtuna: *smiles at Nightmare Moon* No one's mad at you for that, your trial made everything better.

Nightmare Moon smiles, then the ponies arrive at the cliff that broke away.  Applejack nodded, remembering this place.

Applejack: This is where I showed my spirit, Nightmare Moon, the spirit of Honesty.

T.Sparkle: That's right.  I was sliding off the side of this cliff when Applejack told me to let go and I'd be OK.  I let go and sure enough, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy caught me.

Nightmare Moon nodded, then.....

Applejack: !!! *The cliff gave out from under her!* AH!

N.Moon: I'm coming!

Nightmare Moon turns into her purple-cloud-form and zips under the flailing earth pony, turning back to her alicorn form with wings fully spread and catching her on her back!

Rest of Mane 6 and Virtuna: APPLEJACK!

The ponies smiled as Nightmare Moon flies back up with Applejack on her back.

Applejack: Phew.....

Nightmare Moon lands and kneels down far from the cliffside, letting Applejack jump off.

Applejack: Man, that..... I owe ya one, Moon.

N.Moon: Aw.  Thanks, AJ.

Applejack chuckles, then the two brohoof.

Fluttershy: That cliff's still a bit unstable.....

Zecora (running into the clearing): STOP!  Ponies, I must warn!  That cliff has been unstable since the storm!

The zebra gasps as she sees Nightmare Moon, the alicorn slowly standing up.

N.Moon: So..... *smiles* You're the one who tells those delightful ghost stories on Nightmare Night!  You are an amazing storyteller!

Zecora: Not to sound overly wary, but I thought *points to N.Moon* she was big and scary.

Twilight Sparkle explains what Virtuna did for her, the little filly smiling.

Zecora: Wow! *looks at Virtuna* You are new, who are you?

Virtuna: My name's Virtuna, Ma'am.  YOU must be Zecora.

Zecora: *laugh* Indeed I am, and this is my home.  But why have you chosen this place to roam?

N.Moon: Are you familiar with the Elements of Harmony?

Zecora: I've heard those legends, it is true, but what do they have to do with you?

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon says there are more Elements of Harmony hidden at the ruins.

An alarmed Zecora gasps, dashing into her house and emerging with a black book with gold bindings.

Zecora: This is my greatest fear, the legend of the beast is written here.

N.Moon: *nod* I know.....

Rarity: The Princess doesn't have that book in the library.

Zecora nods, putting the book in one of her herb pouches.

Zecora: Let me lend a hand, or hoof, in saving this land.

R.Dash: I think we could use all the help we can get.

The group continued on until they met a manticore!

N.Moon: GAH!  What-the?!

Fluttershy: Oh, calm down, Nightmare Moon.

The manticore scoops up Fluttershy..... and licks her cheek!

N.Moon: You know this manticore?

Fluttershy: Oh, yes.  When I helped this manticore, I showed MY spirit, Kindness.

N.Moon: Wow!

The manticore swipes Nightmare Moon to it with its tail, giving her a hug, making the alicorn laugh out loud.

Virtuna: Aw-CUTE!

N.Moon: *blush* Aw!

The manticore purrs, nuzzling both Nightmare Moon and Fluttershy before showing them the way further along the trail.  Some time later, the ponies come across the trees Nightmare Moon enchanted.  Pinkie Pie giggles as she remembers them.

P.Pie: Laughing at these trees is how I got my spirit, Laughter.

N.Moon: *chuckle* I see you in town making everypony happy, Pinkie Pie.  Trust me, it works.

R.Dash: *laugh*  You have no idea how well, Nightmare Moon.

P.Pie: Oh, yeah.  I LOVE spreading laughter!

Virtuna: *giggle* You ponies sound like you're pretty special.

N.Moon: Oh, they are.  These ponies are the heroes of Equestria.

The Mane 6 blush.

Virtuna: WOW!  No wonder you all travel like a family of ducks!

That got everypony laughing their heads off, even Zecora.  Some time later, the ponies arrive at the stream where they found the serpent.

Rarity: *smiles* THIS is where I found MY spirit, Generosity.  We came across this serpent who had half his mustache cut off.

N.Moon: *slight nod* Y-yeah, and I just hope he's as quick to accept my apology as you girls are.

Just then, Nightmare Moon gets doused with a huge wave from the stream.  The Mare in the Moon gasps as the water almost knocks her off her hooves!  And the reason why is a long purple serpent with a half-orange, half-purple mustache.  Virtuna noticed a striking resemblance between the purple part of the serpent's mustache and Rarity's tail.

Serpent: *roars as he surfaces* Rarity! How ARE you?

Rarity: Aw, I'm fine. How are YOU?

Serpent: Just FABULOUS!  And I thank you SO MUCH for helping me!

Virtuna: *blink*  I WONDERED why it looked like your tail's on him!

T.Sparkle: *laugh*  Yeah!

A quick round of introductions follows, the serpent locking on Nightmare Moon.

Serpent: I see you've turned a new leaf over, miss.

N.Moon: *nod* Indeed.  We're looking for the new Elements of Harmony I sensed in the ruins.

Serpent: Sounds major.

Virtuna: You have no idea.

The serpent nods, then helps all the ponies cross the stream, even Nightmare Moon.  A while later, they come across a chasm spanned by a suspension footbridge - or hoofbridge.  Rainbow Dash flew over the bridge, smiling proudly.

R.Dash: And HERE is where I showed MY spirit, Nightmare Moon, the spirit of Loyalty.  By choosing to bridge this gap instead of going with the Shadowbolts, I showed that my friendships are more important to me than even my dreams.

T.Sparkle: In fact, her friendships are the ONLY thing more important than her dreams.

Nightmare Moon laughs.

N.Moon: Boy, you girls really bonded well with each other.  The fact that you beat me the last time we all were here proves it.

The Mane 6 smile at their former foe.  Once inside the castle, Nightmare Moon looks around, then she spots the holder where the original Elements of Harmony were.

N.Moon: So, you found them here..... *looks to a room at the top of a spiral staircase* .....and you kicked my flank up there.

Virtuna: Where did YOU live?

N.Moon: Over *points to a side room that only had a rope connecting it to the rest of the ruins* there.

As the other ponies and Zecora look for a hidden passage, Virtuna - to Zecora's shock - begins tightrope-walking to the hidden room!

Zecora: NO!  Pony with legs of three, back up and return to me!

N.Moon: Virtuna!

The Mare in the Moon turns into her purple cloud form, making a bridge under the rope.  However, Virtuna seems to be in total control as the two pegasi fly flanking her.  When she spots where the rope is tied off, she sees it's under a window.  With a smile, Virtuna hops off and into the tower, Rainbow Dash smiling as the others sigh in relief.

N.Moon: Single file.

The other ponies and Zecora slowly cross the bridge Nightmare Moon magically made, single file and one at a time.  Applejack, then Rarity, then Twilight Sparkle, then Pinkie Pie, then finally Zecora cross the gap and hop into the window, descending the stairs.  When all have entered, Nightmare Moon wafts through the window and down the stairs to the bottom, reappearing as an alicorn with a number of bruises, but smiling.

R.Dash: Hey, not bad.

The two brohoof, Nightmare Moon wincing a bit, then the ponies look at an antechamber similar to the one in Canterlot with the original elements in it.  Without even thinking, Nightmare Moon used her horn to unlock it.  Inside was a similar stand to the one at the entrance, but this had seven rocks on it - and they were all black!

T.Sparkle: *GASP!* NO!  We're too late!

N.Moon: No, Twilight.  We're not too late.....  These Elements of Harmony are dormant.

Fluttershy: Dor-dormant?

Virtuna: Ya mean shut off?

N.Moon: *nod* Inactive, shut off, whatever.  The reason why can be one of three: 1, You haven't met these ponies yet.  2, You HAVE met these ponies, but they didn't show their spirit.  3, You HAVE met these ponies and they DID show their spirit, but they don't have their cutie mark yet.

Virtuna blinks, then checks her flank.

Virtuna: Hmm.

N.Moon: If you ARE an Element of Harmony, Virtuna, you'll get it when you get your cutie mark.

Virtuna nods, smiling as Twilight Sparkle sighs.

T.Sparkle: If ACTIVE Elements of Harmony are a target, then INACTIVE Elements.....

N.Moon: Say.. no. more.  We HAVE to get these to Canterlot.

Twilight Sparkle nods at Nightmare Moon, then Nightmare Moon shimmers silver, teleporting herself, the Mane 6, Virtuna, Zecora and the inactive elements right into Princess Celestia's throne room.  All ponies as well as Zecora bow at the two goddesses.

P.Celestia: *rises* Well?

N.Moon: I have good news... and bad news.

P.Luna: Go on.

T.Sparkle: The good news is we found the new Elements of Harmony.

P.Celestia: And the BAD news?

Virtuna: They're switched off.

P.Luna: Switched off, child?

R.Dash: Yeah, they're..... *looks at N.Moon*   What-was-the-word?

N.Moon: Dormant.

P.Celestia: Then it means whatever it is is a long while from happening.

Zecora: In my house, I found this book; *She takes the black-with-gold-bindings book from her herb pouch and Twilight Sparkle floats it to the princesses* I think it is worth a look.

Princess Celestia uses her magic to open the book, turning to a page about halfway through it.

P.Celestia: I found the new elements.  They are Empathy, Sincerity, Humility, Tolerance, Respect, Love and Surprise.

P.Pie: Surprise?  Seems odd for an Element of Harmony.

P.Luna: This is a 10,000-year-old legend, Pinkie Pie.

P.Celestia: *bow* I thank you, Zecora, for bringing this book to us.

Zecora: *bow* Kind Princess, I thank you, I only wish to do what I can do.

P.Luna: *chuckle* You're well on your way, Zecora.

With a final bow, the ponies and Zecora head out, Nightmare Moon staying with the princesses and Zecora heading back to her home - but not before doing one thing.....

Spike: Ready?

Zecora: *clears throat* Dear Princess Celestia.

Though I am of different race,

my heart is true and in the right place.

I've seen Nightmare Moon's true self,

and put my old feelings for her on the shelf.

She may be scary, she may be rough,

but her heart is pure, her spirit tough.

So her book of evil I close tonight,

and a new chapter, we all shall write.

Yours truly,

Zecora

Spike: *sniff* No rhyme that time, Zecora?

Zecora: Little friend, you know my game, but what in Equestria rhymes with my name?

Both laugh as Zecora heads home, Spike sending the note to Princess Celestia.  When she reads it, a proud smile and a tear of happiness appear on her face as she watches Nightmare Moon carry on her night-time duty of absorbing nightmares.

TO BE CONTINUED.....

Chapter 4 - Rainbow's Rival

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 4 - Rainbow's Rival

The time: A week after finding the inactive Elements of Harmony.

Rainbow Dash was soaring through the air, much as she was during the dream she had in "May The Best Pet Win."  Instead of a hybrid of the other ponies' pets whizzing by her, however, a multi-colored streak did.

R.Dash: What the?!

The weather pony growls, turning on the afterburners in an attempt to catch up to whatever pony it was.  But to her utter shock, no matter what she did, not only could she not catch whoever it was, she ended up crashing into Twilight Sparkle's tree!

T.Sparkle: *dashes outside, looks around in front of her, then behind her over her left shoulder with a gasp* Rainbow?!

R.Dash: What the..... Who WAS that?

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Rainbow Dash walks through Ponyville to Sugar Cube Corner.

R.Dash (to herself, louder than she thinks she is): What pony WAS that?  She MUST be from WAY out of town, NOpony here is THAT fast.  Nopony in Cloudsdale is that fast!  It-seems-as-if-she-can-do-a-Sonic-Rainboom ON-COMMAND!

Virtuna (off-camera): WHO-can-do-a-Sonic-Rainboom-on-command-Rainbow-Dash?

R.Dash: HUH!? *looks up* Oh, sorry, V.  I was just out on a fly-around and I saw this streak zoom past.  I tried catching up to it and - this is a first - I COULDN'T!

Virtuna: Wha-at?!  You?!  Out-sped!?  You're Rainbow-freakin'-Dash, for Celestia's sake!  NOPONY can out-speed YOU!

R.Dash: I thought that was true.....

Sighing, Rainbow Dash walked slowly into Sugar Cube Corner.  Just two seconds later, a Wonderbolt-blue pegasus with red, yellow, green, white, black and checkered stripes in her mane and tail lands in front of the arcade.  Virtuna murrs at the new arrival, somewhat impressed.

Virtuna: Whoa, baby!  *heads outside*  So you're the pony that's been makin' all the noise!  Who you?

????? (British-Irish accent): Name's Pitstop McGowan, luv.  Who are YOU?

Virtuna: I'm Virtuna.  Pleased to meet you - although I doubt if Rainbow Dash would.....

Pitstop: Hold-the-phone-luv.  You know Rainbow Dash?

Virtuna: *enthusiastic nod* Uh-HUH!  She's one of my best pals!  She's.....

R.Dash (off-camera): YOU!

A VERY miffed Rainbow Dash glares at Pitstop from the door of Sugar Cube Corner.

R.Dash: Do you HAP-PEN to know who... you... FLEW-PAST-UP-THERE?!

Pitstop: *looks at Virtuna somewhat uneasily* Is-this-how-she-usually-is, luv?

Virtuna shrugs and groans a bit.

R.lDash: You just SPED BY ME without as much as a "Hello."!  Do you REALIZE that I... WON... the Best-Young-FLIERS'-Competition?!  That I... AM... the BEST... FLIER in-CLOUDSDALE?

Pitstop: You came from CLOUDSDALE, luv?  I come from Trottingham, and I-!

R.Dash: I-DON'T-CARE-IF-YOU-COME-FROM-LE-MANES!!! (Le Mans) NO!  PONY!  OUT-SPEEDS!  ME!!!

Rainbow Dash speeds off, leaving a dumbstruck Pitstop and a shell-shocked Virtuna.

Virtuna: Uh........  What in Equestria just happened?

Later that day, Rainbow Dash was on her couch, her pet tortoise Tank nearby.

R.Dash: I just can't believe it!  Was she REALLY that much faster than me?  I'm the best in Cloudsdale!

Tank blinks at Rainbow Dash, the cyan pegasus sighing.

R.Dash: Maybe I'm just taking this too personally.  I'm sure she didn't mean to upstage me..... Right?

Now not knowing what to think, Rainbow Dash sighs, her front legs behind her head and looking straight up.

R.Dash: *SIGH*  I NEVER had this happen before, Tank, even in Flight Camp.  Who IS that pony?

Meanwhile, Pitstop is being welcomed to Ponyville by an authentic Pinkie Pie party, having a good time despite the verbal barrage from Rainbow Dash earlier.  Fluttershy understood totally.

Fluttershy: Well, she's always been very proud of her status as the fastest pony in all of Ponyville, and sometimes, she feels somewhat threatened by somepony else having as much if not more speed than she does.

T.Sparkle: You should've been here for when we all dressed up as The Mysterious Mare-Do-Well to give her a lesson on humility.  Trust me, she'll warm up to you, Pitstop.

Pitstop: I hope so, luv, she right about blew up when she saw me.  All I was doing was me fly-around, I didn't mean to intrude on her.

T.Sparkle: "Me" fly-around?

Pitstop: *chuckle* I'm from Trottingham, luv.

T.Sparkle: Oh, I see.

Both ponies laugh, then Fluttershy shyly joins in.  The next day, Rainbow Dash checks her mail and finds something that strikes her fancy - an invitation to exhibit her skills for her life-long heroes, the Wonderbolts!

R.Dash: *girlish squeal* YES!!!

Rainbow Dash takes off and flies around excitedly, not knowing that across town, over Fluttershy's cottage, Pitstop got the same letter!

Pitstop and R.Dash: This is MY chance to prove that I can cut it!  I'M GONNA BE A WONDERBOLT!!!

The two pegasi fly to Cloudsdale, to the arena where Rainbow Dash won the Best Young Fliers competiton.  When Rainbow Dash spots Pitstop, she snorts a bit, still peeved over their last meeting.  Pitstop gives Rainbow Dash a slight smile.  Outside in the seating area, ponies from all corners of Equestria filed in to watch not only the Wonderbolt hopefuls, but the Wonderbolts themselves.

Announcer: Everypony please rise and welcome our beloved princesses.  First, Princess Celestia!

Princess Celestia enters the arena as she did during the Young Fliers Competition.  As she waves to the crowd, night falls instantly, the sun goddess smirking a bit.

Announcer: And next, Princess Luna and..... NIGHT.. MARE... MOON!!

The crowd is stunned to see the Mare in the Moon arriving with the moon goddess.  As soon as the two black alicorns land, the sky lightens back up, Princess Celestia smirking a bit at Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: *blush* Now THAT is an entrance.

All three laugh as Virtuna smiles from her box.  The rest of the Mane 6 are seated by her as she watches the attendants set up an obstacle course.

Announcer: And now..... please welcome..... THE WONDERBOLTS!!!

A loud whoosh heralds the arrival of Equestria's top air-stunt team.  Virtuna gasps, seeing them live for the first time.

Fluttershy: Quite a sight, huh?

Virtuna nods, seeing the Wonderbolts take their spot, near Nightmare Moon.  Spitfire notices the former foe, her eyes popping.

Spitfire: So she DID change.

Soarin: *nod* VERY impressive.

Spitfire nods, then they begin watching and judging the hopefuls.  Backstage, Rainbow Dash was wearing number 4 while Pitstop had number 8.  Rainbow Dash smirks as she looks at Pitstop.

Pitstop: May the best pegasus win, luv.

R.Dash: Why, thank you for the vote of confidence in me.

The pegasus wearing number 3 trots out to the arena.

R.Dash: *smirks at Pitstop* Stand back and watch me work.

When it came time for her routine, Rainbow Dash was completely on-point with everything.  Loops, twirls, swoops, dives, she even did high-speed figure-eight that she then did in a circle!  Backstage, Pitstop was fairly amazed.

Pitstop: -OK, luv, that is impressive.....-

Rainbow Dash then broke out of the pattern, rainbow-colored stripes still circling around in the air.  She flies way over the arena, then turns downward, gathering speed.

Virtuna and Pitstop: -What's she doin'?-

Rainbow Dash continues going faster and faster until a wall appears in front of her.  Virtuna, Pitstop and Nightmare Moon were mesmerized as the wall bent over the plummeting pegasus.  As soon as she touched the streaks left by her figure-eight-circle, BANG!!!

Crowd: OOOOO!!!!!

Virtuna: WHOA, BABY!!

T.Sparkle: That..... is a Sonic Rainboom.

Virtuna: *BLINK!*  OHMISTARS!  THAT is what she was talkin' 'bout yesterday?!

Twilight Sparkle nods as Rainbow Dash flies over the arena, painting a rainbow in the sky overhead.  Nightmare Moon was as impressed as Virtuna at Rainbow Dash's performance.

N.Moon: This is.....

P.Celestia: *nod* Uh-huh.

N.Moon: Awesome.

Rainbow Dash lands and receives the loudest round of applause - so far - of the exhibition.  Most humbling was when she spotted the Wonderbolts applauding her performance.

Spitfire: Wow.  Once again, your skills are on display.

Soarin: *nod* Indeed.  That reminds me of the performance I had when I got into the Wonderbolts.  Awesome performance.

R.Dash: *blush* Aw, thanks, guys.

The Wonderbolts clap again as Rainbow Dash bows to the princesses and Nightmare Moon before returning to the backstage area to well-deserved congratulations from her fellow competitors.  When it came time for Pitstop to perform, she heads out and flies to the center of the arena.  When her music starts up, she takes off, using the skies in and around the arena to do her high-speed routine.  Even the Wonderbolts had a hard time keeping an eye on the high-speed pegasus.  But that was nothing compared to her grand finale: A massive figure-eight that crossed in the middle of the arena and surrounded the royal box in one loop and the Mane 6's in the other.  Gathering speed, the same wall appeared in front of Pitstop, bending over the pegasus.....

T.Sparkle: Oh.....

P.Celestia: .....my.....

R.Dash: ......................No way.

BOOM!!!  The crowd is shocked and in sheer disbelief as Pitstop reels off Sonic Rainboom after Sonic Rainboom everytime she flies through the hole in the bottom of the arena!  Rainbow Dash nearly faints in disbelief as she sees her rival upstage her - again!  A pegasus that already went gets a couch and lays the shell-shocked cyan mare onto it.  Outside, Pitstop's finale ends to the raucous cheering of the crowd.  Just as before, during the Young Fliers Competition, Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie and Applejack were stunned into silence - but this time, Virtuna, Rarity and Fluttershy joined them.

N.Moon: Rainbow-Dash..... did-only..... ONE... of-those..... big... BOOM!-things, right?

The princesses nod in total shock.

N.Moon: Then..... how in Equestria.....

Pitstop lands in front of the shocked Wonderbolts, smiling proudly.

Spitfire: *looks at Soarin* And you said Rainbow Dash was awesome.  *The crowd turns a bit*  Not to say Rainbow's wasn't good, this pony's was incredible!

Pitstop: *embarassed giggle* Aw, shucks.  Me routine may be impressive, but I'm not gonna toot me own horn over it.

N.Moon: *head cock* Well-now.  I never thought of you as the humble type.

Pitstop: It's how I was brung up.  Me parents told me to always be thankful of your talents and to NEVER talk yourself superior to others.

T.Sparkle: Well, those are amazing traits to have, Pitstop.

Pitstop: Aw, thanks, Twilight.  I only wish Rainbow Dash could see that, luv.

Everypony applauds by either clapping their front hooves or stomping them on the floor.  Pitstop takes a bow as the crowd shows their admiration.  Later that day, the contestants are all gathered in front of the Wonderbolts, the princesses and Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: First of all, I must say, all of you were impressive.

Spitfire: Nightmare's right, you all did very well today.  But there were two standouts..... Contestant number 4, RAINBOW DASH!

Everypony cheers as the cyan mare trots forward.

Spitfire: The OTHER stand-out is..... Contestant number 8, PITSTOP!

Everypony cheers as the dark blue mare trots up.  Pitstop smiles at Rainbow Dash as soon as the weather pony sees her.

Pitstop (mouthing words): Good luck, luv.

Rainbow Dash blinks a bit in shock, then both pegasi turned their attention to the Wonderbolts.

Spitfire: *looks at Rainbow Dash* Rainbow, there is no question you are VERY highly skilled.  The fact that you used that amazing Sonic Rainboom of yours so well is just an example of how well you can control yourself in the air.  There are Wonderbolts who've done this for longer than we have that haven't exhibited such mid-air mastery of their bodies.  This is incredibly important in our group as we're almost wingtip-to-wingtip during some formations.  But, of course, you already knew that since you've watched all our acts since you were a filly.

Both Spitfire and Rainbow Dash laugh, then Spitfire turns her attention to Pitstop.

Spitfire: And YOU!  GEEZ!!  Where in Equestria did you get that SPEED?!  No wonder you needed to fly out of the stadium for some of your tricks!  But you've also possessed the confidence to push yourself to that limit.  You aren't afraid to push yourself to the extreme, and we look for THAT as well.  *sighs and paces a bit* (while pacing): This is a tough, tough call..... *stops pacing and looks at Rainbow Dash*  Do we go with the pony who exhibits amazing body control in mid-air, has incredible speed and whose skill has been proven over time..... *looks at Pitstop* .....or the pony whose speed and fearlessness has taken everypony in this arena by storm, but is humbled and almost honored to receive even the slightest compliment?

Everypony is silent as Spitfire pulls out a single Wonderbolts costume.  The rest of the Mane 6 and Virtuna look at Rainbow Dash, hoping Spitfire tosses her the costume..... Then.....

N.Moon: Hang on!

Everypony looks at the Mare of the Moon as she rises.

N.Moon: The true test of a new Wonderbolt is how well they perform with the existing group, right?  I mean, ANYpony in here could've blown you all away with speed, control, tricks, appeal, etc., but if they can't function well with the rest of the team, it's a waste of talent, right?

Spitfire: Yeeeeeeeeeah?

N.Moon: I propose a fly-off between Rainbow Dash and Pitstop.  Rainbow Dash will be performing with Spitfire and Pitstop will be performing with Soarin, and the crowd will determine who wins!

The crowd gasps in shock as the two Wonderbolts agree on it.

P.Celestia: *looks at Nightmare Moon increasingly-impressedly* You're good.

N.Moon: Each brings something good to the table that even the best Wonderbolts can't teach.  The only way to truly test their talents is by seeing them in action the way they would be if they were Wonderbolts.

P.Luna: Oh, man, did we make a good move with you!

Both moon goddesses laugh as Virtuna smiles from her box.  Some time later, the fly-off is set up.  A pegasus with a coin with a sun and a moon on it flies in.

Pegasus M: OK, *shows the sun side* This is heads, *shows the moon side* and this is tails.  Dash, call it.

The pegasus flips the coin.

R.Dash: (while the coin flips): Heads.

Sure enough, it's heads!

Pegasus M: OK, Dash, you and Spitfire go first.

Spitfire: ok, dash, we're gonna do the routine we did for princess celestia's 10,000th birthday.

R.Dash: aw, my favorite!

Spitfire chuckles low, then the two take their spots, Soarin and Pitstop watching from the Wonderbolts' box.  The music starts up, a classical theme - almost like a baroque classic - and Spitfire and Rainbow Dash launch into a graceful display of air tricks, including backflips, loops and twists, ending with Spitfire spelling out "Happy 10,000th Birthday" and Rainbow Dash spelling out "Princess Celestia" in cursive!  Nightmare Moon gasps as she sees this display.

N.Moon: Oh, wow.....

P.Celestia: I know.....  VERY cool.

Pitstop looks at Rainbow Dash, visibly impressed at how well the cyan pegasus performed with Spitfire.  The two pegasi land to a storm of applause from the crowd, exchanging a brohoof.  After a while, it was Soarin and Pitstop's turn as Spitfire and Rainbow Dash sit in the Wonderbolts' box.

Spitfire: ok, dash, where did you get THAT?

R.Dash: guess it happened when i was sharpening my skills after the young fliers competition.

Spitfire nods in acknowledgement.

Soarin: ok, pitstop, what WE'RE gonna do is the routine we did to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the most recent defeat of discord.

Pitstop: i heard of that one, that was huge.

Soarin nods, then they take their places, Pitstop on the far end of the stadium.  A more pop-rock-style theme began and the two pegasi launched into a routine that had them tracing the Elements of Harmony in the sky.  Even Rainbow Dash was impressed as Pitstop traced her element's symbol in the air near the Wonderbolts' box.  The rest of the Mane 6 were blushing a bit, seeing their elements on full display, the presentation ending with a tracing of the star-like seal of the Elements of Harmony!  The crowd cheered about as loudly for Pitstop and Soarin as they did for Rainbow Dash and Spitfire!

P.Celestia: *looks at Nightmare Moon*  Sounds about dead even.

N.Moon: *nod* Indeed.

Everypony begins casting their vote, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop anxiously awaiting the results.  It certainly didn't help that the scores were about dead even.  Fluttershy was more than her usual fidgetty self as she saw her best friend and the newcomer trade the lead in the vote back-and-forth.

T.Sparkle: My gosh, this is tense.

Applejack: *nod* Yeah..... Rainbow's been waitin' fer this her whole life.  I don't even wanna know how bad she'd take fallin' short here.

P.Pie: Yeah.....

P.Celestia: The results are in!

Everypony, Virtuna, the Mane 6 and Nightmare Moon especially, look at Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: It was the closest audience vote in the history of the Wonderbolts, but we do have a winner.....

Rainbow Dash and Pitstop begin sweating like ice in a furnace, everypony seemed to hold their breath.....

P.Celestia: The vote went..... *sigh* to-Pitstop.....

The Mane 6 and Nightmare Moon, Rainbow Dash especially, were shocked!  Spitfire dashed to Rainbow Dash as the cyan mare broke down and cried.

Spitfire: *looks at Rainbow Dash face-to-face* Look-at-me.  You did an amazing job.  You should be proud of yourself, especially that fly-off performance.  It really could've gone either way, OK?

R.Dash: *sniff and nod* ok.

Rainbow Dash flew back to her friends, immediately hugged by them all.

T.Sparkle: Well, how-are-you-feeling?

R.Dash: *sniff* Still kinda bummed, but..... I-gotta-give-her-her-due, she's-an-amazing-pony.

Virtuna: That's nice to hear after you kinda flew offa the handle earlier.

R.Dash: It's because she was the first pony to just zip right by me like I wasn't there, Virtuna.

T.Sparkle: Yeah, she's fiercely proud of her skills as a flier, Virtuna.

Virtuna: *chuckle* I've seen ponies like you in my arcade.  Some talk a better game than they play.  YOU seem to be the other way.

R.Dash: Aw, *nuzzles Virtuna* thanks, V.

Everypony watches a VERY humble Pitstop accept her membership into the Wonderbolts. the Mane 6 and Virtuna applauding.  Pitstop notices a smiling Rainbow Dash and smiles back.

Pitstop: This is quite an honor, and I feel proud to be included amoungst some of the greatest names in Equestria.  I do, however, have one humble request: *She turns back to the Mane 6's box and points directly at Rainbow Dash* Please, let-her-in, too.

Rainbow Dash could not believe her ears!

R.Dash: Did she just..... I mean.....

Rainbow Dash lets out an overjoyed girlish squeal before flying to Pitstop as if shot out of a cannon!

R.Dash: I can't believe this!

Pitstop: Look, Dash, can I level with ya?  *Rainbow Dash nods*  I really wanna apologize for rubbin' ya the wrong way before.  I was just talking with Twi and I found out how proud ya are of being as good as you are, and frankly, I didn't realize it 'til I saw ya close-up.  *Rainbow Dash smiles at Pitstop*  I really hated the thought that I may've accidentally lost ye as a friend before I even met ya.

R.Dash: Naw, Pitstop, it was me.  I let my pride in my abilities cloud my judgement of you.  I should've realized that it doesn't matter if you can do something better than I can.  Besides, you really impressed me with how you traced my Element of Harmony symbol in the air like that.  *extends a hoof*  Friends?

PItstop smiles, then hugs Rainbow Dash, the weather pony hugging back as the crowd cheers.  Then, the two newly-minted Wonderbolts launch into a spontaneous routine!

Soarin: Whoa.....

Spitfire: Wow.

[A/N: For this letter, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop are reciting it as a voiceover to their routine, which combines both their fly-offs into one long show!]

R.Dash and Pitstop: Dear Princess Celestia,

R.Dash: YOU go first.

Pitstop: Thanks, luv.  *clears throat*  Today I learned an important lesson about friendship.  I learned that there is a time for puttin' yourself out there and a time when you have to keep it to yourself.

R.Dash: And I learned that it's not important if someone you just met is better at something you love than you are, it's all about the pony they are inside.  Your loyal.....

Pitstop: .....and humble subjects, Miss Rainbow Dash.....

R.Dash: *laughs* and Miss Pitstop.

As Pitstop flew around during the routine, she ended up getting her cutie mark under her Wonderbolts costume, a green flag crossed over a checkered flag at the flagpoles about halfway up.  In the Canterlot antechamber, one of the dormant Elements of Harmony started turning from coal black to chalk white, then it began glowing.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 5 - Return of the Great and Powerful

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 5 - Return of the Great and Powerful

The time: One month after the Wonderbolts exhibition.

Twilight Sparkle's studying in her library when she hears a triple-loud WHOOSH! outside her window.  The window rattles but doesn't break, but the window could've shattered into a million pieces and Twilight Sparkle wouldn't've moved a muscle.

T.Sparkle: Those three.....

Twilight Sparkle hums Rainbow Dash's section of "At the Gala" as she moves to a quieter reading spot, making Spike chuckle.  Outside, Spitfire, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop fly around in formation - that is, until Rainbow Dash stops and spots something she never expected to see.....

R.Dash: No way in Equestria.....

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Later that afternoon, Rainbow Dash, Spitfire and Pitstop were seated around a table eating.  The seasoned Wonderbolt looked at the weather pony.

Spitfire: So, what'cha see that made you look down?

R.Dash: *gulp* Ever have any ponies that blow their skills up WAAAAAAAAY more than they are?

Spitfire: All the time, Rainbow Dash.  That's why we hold the tryouts.

R.Dash: Well, not long after Twilight arrived in Ponyville, there was this rather bragadacious unicorn that showed up.  Her name was Trixie and she CLAIMED to have fought off an Ursa MAJOR, but an Ursa MINOR almost scared her cutie mark off her flank.

All three pegasi chuckle a bit.

R.Dash: So, when Trixie came in, EVERYpony thought she was just ridiculously overpromoting herself.....

Spitfire: *nod* Yeah.

R.Dash: .....And they ALL turned to Twilight to shut her up, and she did.  She..... Well, I wouldn't say CONQUERED the Ursa Minor, but she sure SOOTHED the thing.  After that, Trixie ran off and was never seen again - well, until this afternoon when I just happened to look down and I saw her just walking into town with nothing she had before.

Spitfire: Sounds kinda sad.

Pitstop: Yeah, luv.  She need cheerin' up?

R.Dash: Maybe, but I dunno who'd give it to her other than Virtuna.

The little mare herself was humming as she got some of the machines ready for the day's customers.  Without thinking, she began putting lyrics to her melody.

Virtuna: (singing):

When a problem seems to much to solve,

and it's really puzzling you

sometimes it takes a fresh approach

to see the whole thing through

And sometimes when you need a friend

it seems like no one cares,

But if your down you can count on me

'cuz I'll always be (holding note): there

When conflict raises its ugly head

and you need a new point-of-view

just call my name and I'll be there

my heart will see you through

Just come to my place in Ponyville

you will be glad you came

your problems will be a thing of the past

and that's the object of my game!

You can rely on me to be that voice

of reason on which to depend

there is no case too big or small,

your bridges I will mend.

It's all-right to ask for my help,

there really is no shame

I can handle anything

and that's the object of my game

Whether your conflict spreads a million years

or it just happened last week,

I can help iron it out

with my sought-after technique

So whoever the pony, whatever the problem

My goal's always the same

I make enemies friends and friends even more so

and that's the object of my game!

As the music ends, Virtuna spots Trixie standing in her arcade, without her hat or cape.

Virtuna: *smiles* Hi!

Trixie screeches and runs outside, leaving a stunned Virtuna.

Virtuna: *cocks her head* Was-it-somethin'-I-sang?

Later on, Twilight Sparkle and Rarity stop by Virtuna's arcade.

Virtuna: Heya, girls!

Rarity: Hello, Virtuna.

T.Sparkle: How's business?

Virtuna: Oh, it's GREAT!  Everypony's so nice, well.....

Rarity: Go on.

Virtuna: There was this blue unicorn that stopped by.  Dunno if she was nice or not, but she sure was jumpy.

T.Sparkle: *blink* could it be.....?

Virtuna: Could it be who, Twilight?

T.Sparkle: Uh, n-nopony.....

Twilight Sparkle heads back to her library.  When she gets there, she opens a chest near her bed and removes a purple cape and hat with stars emblazoned on it, sighing.

T.Sparkle: Could it possibly be.....  No, Twilight, you're imagining things, that pony Virtuna saw couldn't POSSIBLY be.....

Twilight Sparkle looks outside with a loud gasp.  Walking through the center of town was Trixie!  The purple mare flew to the door and opened it.

T.Sparkle: Trixie!

Despite the fact that Twilight Sparkle was smiling, all Trixie had to do was see her and she was scared enough to run again!

T.Sparkle: Trixie, WAIT!

Twilight Sparkle chased Trixie all over Ponyville, but between Trixie's magic and a few wild twists and turns, she was unable to catch up to the fleeing showpony.  Twilight Sparkle soon found herself out of breath and surprised.

T.Sparkle: Trixie, I.....

Twilight Sparkle sighs, then heads back to her library.  Meanwhile, Trixie bolted out of Ponyville and into the Everfree Forest with no sense of mind to where she was going, so without knowing it, she collided with Nightmare Moon, who was trotting back with some teas from Zecora's place!

N.Moon: AH!

Trixie: UGH!

Both mares flew backwards, landing hard on the ground.  Trixie moans as she slowly gets to her hooves, gasping at the alicorn before her as she checked on her saddlebags.

N.Moon: *mumbles and hums* Good, all still there.  *She looks up at Trixie and cocks her head*  Where are YOU off to in such a hurry?

Trixie: .....

N.Moon: Oh, calm DOWN!  I'm not gonna nail you with your worst nightmare due to an accident!

Trixie: Well, it's something..... I've-done.....

N.Moon: *blink* Oh?

Trixie: *nod* You see, Trixie was a showpony and an excellent one.  Trixie was the top act in Fillydelphia.  *N.Moon nods a bit, her horn shimmering slightly*  Trixie REALLY thought Trixie could take her act all over Equestria, and be the greatest magician that ever lived!  But-when-Trixie-came-to-Ponyville.....  *sigh*  Trixie failed.....  *Twilight Sparkle emerged from behind a bush, holding Trixie's hat and cape aloft with her magic*  Trixie made herself up to be... *sniff*  ...the greatest that ever lived, like Trixie did SO many times before and..... no-pony believed Trixie and... nopony came to see Trixie's show.  It was all due to... that Ursa Minor and..... how-Trixie-was-so-scared-to-face-it, thank Celestia for Twilight Sparkle, Trixie.....  *Twilight Sparkle had to smile a bit at that*  Trixie really thought she was going someplace and-Trixie.....

Trixie broke down and cried, Nightmare Moon whimpering a bit.  Twilight Sparkle also felt bad for the bawiling unicorn and she decided to help her former rival.  First order of business to her was giving Trixie back her hat and cape, which she did slowly.  As soon as the hat and cape touched her, Trixie gasped.

Trixie: what the..... My hat?  My cape?  How.. did.....

Trixie turned and saw Twilight Sparkle standing there.

Trixie: How much of that... did you hear?

T.Sparkle: Enough.  Listen, *walks slowly to Trixie* EVERYpony has that dream to be the best, but the best thing about a dream like that is having friends to share the laughter and the tears along the way.  You can't just make yourself out to be larger-than-life, otherwise ponies aren't gonna take you seriously.  Everypony has a special talent, an ability that set them apart from others.  The important thing is to learn to respect those differences, and not make fun of those ponies that don't share your passion for magic.

Trixie looked down at the ground, as if thinking about what Twilight Sparkle just said.  After a short while, Trixie ran into the embrace of the purple mare.

Trixie: Trixie-is-so-sorry, Twilight.  Trixie didn't think Trixie came across as somepony like THAT.

T.Sparkle: I understand, Trixie.  Coming from a big city like Fillydelphia, you had to really put yourself out there.  C'mon, let's go back to Ponyville.

Trixie: ...........*nod* ok.

As the trio walked to Ponyville,.....

Trixie: So, how'd'ya handle that Ursa Minor?

T.Sparkle: *chuckle* Just something I threw together.  I kinda hate to brag, but *both unicorns giggle* it WAS kinda easy - seeing-as-I-DO-have-Princess-Celestia-for-a-teacher.

Trixie gasps, glaring at Twilight Sparkle in disbelief.

Trixie: You..... are-taking-lessons..... from PRINCESS.. CELESTIA?!

T.Sparkle: Yeah?

Trixie: WOW!  Trixie is impressed!  You MUST be really special, Twilight!

T.Sparkle: *blush* Aw, shucks.

All three mares laugh.  The first pony to spot the trio as they walk back to town is Virtuna.

Virtuna: !!!  Hello.

Trixie: H-Hi.  Sorry about before, Trixie was just nervous.

Virtuna: Nervous?  Haystacks!  WHY would you be nervous around me?

Trixie: *points a hoof at Virtuna's artifical leg*  That, for one.  Trixie has never met a pony like you before.

Virtuna: *laugh*  Few have, but I help them see past it.

Trixie: *smile*  Ya know, you're something special, as well.

Virtuna: Aw, thanks.

The four mares hear that same triple-whoosh again, this time, Spitfire, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop land nearby.

Trixie: WHOA!  So you FINALLY got in, eh?

R.Dash: *chuckle* Yeah.

Pitstop: Bit of a tale, luv.

Trixie: Luv?

Spitfire: She's from Trottingham.

Trixie: Gotcha.

R.Dash: So, learned your lesson about bragging to everypony about how you're the best in the world?

Trixie: *nod*  Indeed, and Trixie is grateful to Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: *smile*  You know, you're kinda cool once you drop the superiority act.

Trixie and Rainbow Dash laugh.

Trixie: So, Trixie wonders if she could try putting on a magic show again.

R.Dash: You promise not to hog-tie Applejack.

Trixie: *laughing fit*  Trixie can't believe you still remember that!

R.Dash: So does Applejack!

Everypony laughs it up.  That night, a stage was set up for a magic show.  The Mane 6 ended up in the front row as Trixie comes out.

Applejack: *blink* OK?

N.Moon: Hey, AJ, calm down, she's changed.

Applejack: I'm still kinda skeptical, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: Oh, come ON!  You're acting like she wanted to bring eternal night to Equestria!

Applejack smirked at Nightmare Moon as.....

Trixie: Welcome one and all!  Are you ready to be mystified?

The crowd responds favorably.

Trixie: Then be ready to be amazed by the Great and Powerful Trixie!

T.Sparkle: Her stage name has ALWAYS been that?

Nightmare Moon nods.

Trixie: *looks at Twilight Sparkle* Besides, in a big city, Trixie can't just call herself "Trixie".

Twilight Sparkle nods understandingly, then Trixie goes into her routine.  Everypony was struck by not only Trixie's magic, but how toned-down her self-bravado seemed to be.  Right near the halfway point.....

Trixie: Now, Trixie need a volunteer.  *points a hoof at Applejack*  You.

Applejack slowly gets on stage.

Trixie: *blush* Trixie hopes you brought your rope.

Applejack: I did, indeed, show-off.

Both mares laugh, then Trixie clears her throat and her mind, concentrating.  The rope lifts off the stage and slowly takes the shape of Applejack's Element of Harmony!

Applejack: Land sakes!

The audience was in awe as Trixie bows a bit, then makes the rope take the shape of the other Elements of Harmony, first Fluttershy's, then Rarity's, Pinkie Pie's, Rainbow Dash's and finally Twilight Sparkle's.  Everypony applauded and Trixie took a well-deserved bow, then her horn's glow intensified!

Trixie: AH! *Nightmare Moon blinks as she watches this* This-isn't-part-of-my-act!

Trixie screeches as the rope soon makes other symbols, slowly picking its way through.  Nightmare Moon teleports the princesses over just as they're about to have tea.  As the Mare in the Moon points to the stage and the princesses look, the rope makes a picture of a controller with a red heart, a yellow star, a green apple and a purple six-pointed star as buttons, then two flags crossed at the flagpoles, then a sun design similar to Zecora's, then a crystal, then a wand similar to the one that makes up part of her own cutie mark - which makes her audibly gasp, then a crescent moon with a star, then an open present!  All three alicorns were shocked!

Applejack: whoa..... nellie.....

Trixie's gasping and panting like she ran a marathon full-speed, not even noticing Princess Celestia or Princess Luna until they were onstage in front of her.

P.Celestia: Meet us in Twilight's library.

Trixie: y-yes, your highness.....

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna walk to the library, passing bowing ponies the whole way.  The Mane 6 follow them, followed by their new friends and Nightmare Moon.  When Trixie walked into the library, she was magically brought in front of the other ponies, seeing Princess Luna levitating the book on the original Elements of Harmony and Princess Celestia levitating the book Zecora had.

P.Celestia: Do you know what these texts are, Trixie?

Trixie: Trixie knows *looks at Princess Luna* THAT one, Princess, that is the book on the original Elements of Harmony: Honesty, Generousity, Kindness, Loyalty, Laughter and Magic.

P.Luna: Correct.  We are refering to the book my sister has, though.

P.Celestia: This book..... chronicles-a-cataclysmic-event.  It talks about an ancient foe that brought about the end of the world at one point.....

T.Sparkle and P.Celestia: Ruinous.

T.Sparkle: I've-read-about-him.....  That-volume-is.....  It's the end of the world.. right?

P.Celestia: *slow nod* Essentially.

Rainbow Dash looked at Nightmare Moon.

R.Dash: I figured that walk in the Everfree Forest wasn't a field trip, but.....  I never realized it was because of... THAT.

N.Moon: *nod* I'd rather this DIDN'T happen, tell you the truth.  Ruinous is absolute evil.

P.Celestia: Right..... and it was VERY important that the new Elements are safeguarded.

Trixie: *GASP!*  Are you saying my trick..... FORETOLD THE END OF THE WORLD?!

T.Sparkle: Trixie, don't panic!!  We'll beat him.

P.Celestia: It'll take more than just you six to beat Ruinous.

T.Sparkle: We'll just have to find more then.  I don't care if it takes 100, we HAVE to do something.

Princess Celestia looked in the eyes of her student.  She saw how unwilling Twilight Sparkle was to even the thought of giving up..... and she was most impressed as she smiled.

P.Celestia: And THAT is why you're my prize pupil.

Teacher and student hug up - well, as well as they could - then Trixie spoke up.

Trixie: Uh, s-s-sorry, Princess, but..... When-can-Trixie-be-a-prize-pupil?

Princess Celestia blushes a bit, heading for the showpony.

P.Celestia: Follow me, Trixie.

Trixie nods as Twilight Sparkle hugs her.

T.Sparkle: You'll do just fine, Trixie.

Trixie: Trixie hopes so.  *The princesses and Nightmare Moon head for the door, Princess Luna carrying the black book, Trixie following, then she stops in the doorway*  Oh, and Twilight?  *smiles*  Thanks.

The two unicorns rear up and smile, then Trixie heads to the royals' chariot and gets in.

P.Celestia: Next stop, Canterlot!

The chariot flies up to the castle.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 6 - Rise Above the Rest

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 6 - Rise Above the Rest

The time: One month after Trixie enrolled in Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.

Trixie: Now, let's see.....

The showpony concentrates as she tries lifting up a water tower, in the way Twilight Sparkle did when she soothed the Ursa Minor.

Trixie: UMPH!  Darn thing's so heavy.....

As she strains, Princess Celestia watches, then spots an eidolon (aka image or illusion) of an Ursa Minor walking right towards her!  Trixie spots it and screeches!

P.Celestia: LUNA!!!

P.Luna: *laughing*  Aw, c'mon, sis, she's gotta learn to stay on her hooves!

Trixie smirks, using her magic to tie up the moon goddess like a rodeo calf and puts an apple in her mouth.  Princess Luna's glare was met with Trixie's confident smirk.

Trixie: Point taken, princess.

Princess Celestia laughs a bit as Princess Luna sighs.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Nightmare Moon is heading for Sugar Cube Corner.  Along the way, several ponies thank her for helping them sleep, the night mare thanking them back.  When she arrives at Sugar Cube Corner, Pinkie Pie is working the register.

P.Pie: Hello, Nightmare Moon.  What brings YOU here?

N.Moon: Just checking in on Princess Celestia's cake.  *She spots the Cake Twins*  Aw!  *She gets her head down low enough to see them eye-to-eye, which involves her chin almost hitting the floor*  Aren't you two the cutest foals in all of Equestria?  *Pound Cake laughs, then lightly "pounds" Nightmare Moon right on her helmet*  (while melodramatically "fainting"): OH! You got me!  *She ends up on her back, then the toddlers tickle her, the former enemy of Equestria laughing and having fun, much to Pinkie Pie's delight, then she gets up in a knelt position and spots a shape outside.....* Huh?

P.Pie: *Nightmare Moon gets up* What is it?

N.Moon: I thought I saw something outside.

The Mare in the Moon zips outside, looking around fast.  Then she takes to the air, again seeing nothing..... until she looks to the Everfree Forest and spots a shadowy form with a long neck!

N.Moon: H-HEY!  *runs full speed*  Hang-on!

Despite the fact that the form had to be taller than even Princess Celestia, it was able to evade Nightmare Moon.  After a while, the Mare in the Moon skids to a halt, gasping for breath.

N.Moon: Whoa.....  Who WAS that?

She teleports back to Sugar Cube Corner, spotting Pinkie Pie and the twins.

P.Pie: Well?

N.Moon: She ran before..... I could talk to her.  *shrug*  Maybe she knows about who I was, but.....

P.Pie: Or maybe, she's.....!

N.Moon: *She stops Pinkie Pie with a hoof to her mouth* Remember what happened with Zecora?

The party pony nods, then Nightmare Moon takes her hoof off Pinkie Pie's mouth.  The twins begin playing hide-and-seek with Nightmare Moon's tail, the dark mare chuckling a bit.  Later that day, Nightmare Moon stopped off at Twilight Sparkle's library and tells her about what happened at Sugar Cube Corner.

N.Moon: So, I saw a giraffe?

T.Sparkle: *nod* Possibly.  If a zebra lives in the Everfree Forest, it's not that farfetched that a giraffe would live there, too.

N.Moon: But from what I heard about Zecora, this giraffe's kinda the reverse - she's more scared of us than we are of her.

T.Sparkle: Really?

N.Moon: *nod* I was just playing with the twins when I spotted her out the window.  I tried to talk to her, but she just bolted.

T.Sparkle: Poor thing.....  Well, maybe she just needs some time to get used to other ponies.

N.Moon: Perhaps.  I just hope she realizes how nice you all are.

T.Sparkle: She will.

Nightmare Moon nods, smiling and feeling a bit better.  Later that day, the princesses are in Ponyville as the townsponies celebrate Princess Celestia's birthday.  Nightmare Moon looks around a bit, especially near the Everfree Forest.

P.Celestia: You OK, Moon?

N.Moon: Uh, yeah.....

The festivities start as the princesses have a ball.  The shadowy form watches from just inside the forest, sighing nervously.  It retreats into the darkness, pawing at the ground along the way.  Later that week, Fluttershy shrieks out!

Fluttershy: Angel Bunny, what's wrong?!

T.Sparkle: *rushes into Fluttershy's cottage* What-is-it?

Fluttershy: It's-Angel-Bunny!  He-must've-gotten-hold-of-something-bad-and-it's.....

Twilight Sparkle looked at Angel Bunny.  He was breathing wide-open-mouthedly and running a fever.  Twilight Sparkle finds a baby stroller and puts the stricken bunny into it.  Nightmare Moon gallops up, ready to grab the stroller for a high-speed trip to Zecora's..... when out of the forest leaps.....

N.Moon, T.Sparkle and Fluttershy: *GASP!*

Standing before the flabbergasted trio was a giraffe 1-1/2 times as tall as Nightmare Moon, her spots deep red and the spaces between them Miles-"Tails"-Prower-orange.  She approaches the stroller and looks at the bunny, putting a hoof on its head.  Suddenly, she spots Rarity's latest dress creation, decorated with emeralds and heads towards it, plucking three off!

Rarity: H-HEY!  What-the-?!

The giraffe races back to the stroller and - carefully for such a large animal - touches the gems to the rabbit's head.  Fluttershy gasps as she sees the rabbit seem to recover right before her eyes!

Fluttershy: whoa.....

Twilight Sparkle doesn't know what to think about this display as Angel Bunny seems to get completely better just from having three gemstones put to its forehead!  As the ponies make a huge fuss over Angel's recovery, the giraffe seems to disappear back into the forest.

N.Moon: Aw, no!  Not-after-that!

Nightmare Moon takes off after the giraffe, matching the massive equid's speed.  The two zip around trees, over rivers and up-and-down hills before Nightmare Moon spots the giraffe's goal - an abandoned Ursa Major cave.  Nightmare Moon growls and turns into her purple cloud form, reappearing as an alicorn right in front of the cave.  The giraffe gasps, skidding to a halt!

N.Moon: HOLD-IT!  *The giraffe slowly stands up*  What's... wrong?!

Giraffe F: ........*sigh* I just.....

N.Moon: You just what?

Giraffe F: I just don't look like everypony else, I.....

N.Moon: *snort*  Is THAT all?  Look-at-me, do I look like everypony else?  I used to be the Mare in the Moon, sent to the moon as punishment only to be freed every millenium to banish Princess Celestia to the sun and bring about night-time everlasting until I got rebanished to the moon by the Elements of Harmony.  Do I sound like I'm normal to you?

Giraffe F: *bows her head, then looks semi-up* I just don't know if they'd like me.

N.Moon: Oh, PLEASE!  They got me, a zebra and a buffalo herd on their friends lists.  Now, come on.  Please.

The giraffe sighs, then nods slowly.  Nightmare Moon smiles and leads the giraffe back to the town, then the giraffe stops.  Nightmare Moon only needed to see the bridge and she understood, nodding at the giraffe.

N.Moon: *chuckle* OK.

Nightmare Moon emerges from the forest with a sigh.

N.Moon: Stop me if you heard this one.

Virtuna: The only way she'll talk to us is if we stay over here.

N.Moon: *laugh*  Yeah.

P.Celestia: *lands nearby, everypony bowing*  Where is this newcomer?

Nervously, slowly, the giraffe walked out of the forest.

P.Celestia: *gasp* oh.

R.Dash: Wow.....

The giraffe starts to back up until Nightmare Moon put her mane on her back reassuringly.

N.Moon: calm down, k?

The giraffe nods as Rarity smirks at it.

Rarity: You know, I HAD spares.

Giraffe F: S-s-sorry, it was an emergency.

T.Sparkle: How'd'ya know what to use to help Angel Bunny?

Giraffe F: I-I-I'm a crystal healer.

Fluttershy: I see.  Thanks for saving Angel Bunny.

Giraffe F: Y-y-you're welcome, miss.

Virtuna: My cousin's like ya, Miss Giraffe.  He can't stop himself from stuttering, either.

Giraffe F: R-r-really?  A-a-and nopony m-m-minds?

Virtuna smile-smirks and dashes to the front, showing the giraffe her artificial leg.  The giraffe jaw-drops in shock.

Giraffe F: I did n-n-not see that.....

Virtuna: *nod*  And I think I am more different than you.  All you do is stutter a bit, I was BORN with only three legs near the biggest city in Equestria.  I think I'd have just a TIIIIIIIIIIIINY bit more of a problem fitting in.

Virtuna and the giraffe laugh.

Giraffe F: M-m-my name's Corinne.

P.Celestia: *nod* Nice to meet you.

Corinne spots Princess Celestia and bows just like the other ponies do.

P.Celestia: !! Very impressive.

Corinne: Y-y-yeah, I've been p-p-practicing.

P.Celestia: It shows.

Zecora: I wondered who was in that cave, looking for the gems it gave.

Rarity: Gems?

Corinne: *nod* I u-u-use them for h-h-healing.

T.Sparkle: Sounds VERY interesting, Corinne.  Would you want to tell me about it?

Corinne: *looks at Twilight Sparkle..... and smiles* I'd l-l-love to!

P.Pie: Well, we know what to do here, don't we?

N.Moon: *chuckle* Party time?

Some time later, a party welcoming Corinne is in full swing, the giraffe having fun with her new friends.

T.Sparkle (voice-over): Dear Princess Celestia,

Today, one of our newest friends found out the real secret to friendship: Being a friend means seeing past others' differences to find the special pony they are inside.  Once you open your heart, anyone can be a friend to count on.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

That night, Twilight Sparkle and Corinne walk to the library.

T.Sparkle: WOO!

Corinne: P-P-Pinkie Pie sure knows how to th-th-throw a party!

T.Sparkle: *chuckle* That she does.

Corinne: Th-th-thank you so much f-f-for letting me stay with you.

T.Sparkle: You're welcome, Corinne, although I can't see.....

Corinne smiles at Twilight Sparkle, then opens the doors wide.  She then tilts her head into the door and almost army crawls forward until her whole front legs are inside.  She then stands her front half up and drags her back legs inside.  Twilight Sparkle walked in with her jaw on the floor.

T.Sparkle: VERY flexible.

Corinne: Aw, shucks!

Both laugh, then Twilight Sparkle helps Corinne get set up in the main room.  That night, Corinne got her cutie mark, a large crystal shard surrounded by smaller ones, which prompted another of the dormant Elements of Harmony to turn white and glow.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 7 - Order From Chaos

My Little Pony: Friends hip is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 7 - Order From Chaos

The time: About a week after meeting Corinne.

The giraffe murrs as she heads through the mountains, her nose close to the ground as she sways her head side-to-side, like a metal detector.  Spotting a cache of gems, she slams her front hooves on the ground, revealing a veritable treasure trove below.  She puts the gems in two baskets, one with her cutie mark on it, one with Rarity's.  After a while, she heads to Carousel Boutique and knocks on the door.

Rarity: (from inside): Coming.  *She opens the top half of the door*  Oh, hello, Corinne.  Doing some gem-hunting, I see.

Corinne: *nod* Y-y-yeah.  *She sets the basket with Rarity's cutie mark inside*  Th-th-these are for you.

Rarity: *blink* These gems aren't for healing?

Corinne: N-n-not really.  About the o-o-only gem we b-b-both use is the emerald.

Rarity: *nod* I see.  Well, thanks for the gems, Corinne.

Corinne: Y-y-you're welcome, Rarity.

The giraffe heads to Twilight Sparkle's library.  She heads into the door and sets her gems in her space, writing several recipes.

Corinne: L-l-lessee.....

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

That afternoon, the newest Wonderbolts were criss-crossing the skies over Ponyville.  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop were practicing some moves for the next airshow when a gust of wind caught Rainbow Dash off-angled and sent her towards the ground!

Pitstop: LUV!

Pitstop zips after Rainbow Dash as she tries to air-save herself.  Just seconds before the weather pony hit the ground, SPLAT!  Rainbow Dash found herself stuck in a pink cloud!

R.Dash: You..... have GOT..... to-be-kidding-me..........

The Mane 6 were stunned as the cloud floats down with the cyan pegasus in it.  Pitstop touches down, blinking quizzically at the cloud.

T.Sparkle: Oh, my!  Oh, bad!  Oh, my, this-is-BAD!!

Virtuna: Bad?  This pink cloud saved Rainbow Dash, how can it be bad?

T.Sparkle: Pink cotton-candy rainclouds are the herald of Discord, the Spirit of Chaos and Disharmony.  According to legend, Discord's magic sent all of Equestria into chaos, making life miserable for earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns alike.  If he's back, *whines* I-dunno-WHAT'LL-happen!

Virtuna: Look, Twi.  I read on this Discord guy, his appearance is marked by MUL-TI-PLE clouds like *points to Rainbow Dash* this, right?  *Twilight Sparkle nods*  Other than the one that saved Rainbow, is there any?

Everypony looks up and around, especially Pitstop with the pegasus' eye view.  Slowly, it hit pony after pony:

T.Sparkle: N-n-no, Virtuna.

Virtuna: *smile-smirk*  It tells me one of two things: Either he can control his powers, or his powers were cut when ya rocked him with the Elements.

T.Sparkle: He MAY have saved Rainbow, but if he shows up..... we'll rock him again!  He stole the Elements of Harmony and tricked us into looking for them in the royal labyrinth.  There he tricked us further into going A-GAINST our Elements.  *points a hoof at Applejack*  SHE was a liar.  *Fluttershy*  SHE was a brute.  *Rarity*  SHE was a miser, *Pinkie Pie* SHE was a grump and *Rainbow Dash* SHE was a traitor!  I almost lost hope in our ability to beat him myself, Virtuna.  If not for Princess Celestia bringing me back, we'd've never beaten Discord.

Virtuna: *blink*  But what about Nightmare Moon?  Ya didn't blast HER with the Elements of Harmony when ya re-met her, right?

T.Sparkle: *sigh*  I didn't because I felt Princess Luna's powers in Nightmare Moon.  I don't know of ANYpony who could POSSIBLY emulate something as wild and zany as Discord.

Virtuna and Twilight Sparkle look at Pinkie Pie.  The little filly pointed her natural front hoof at the party pony.

T.Sparkle: Oooooooooohhhhhhhhhhh, NO! No-no-no!  PINKIE PIE's version of "zany" is fun, DISCORD'S is..... Well, hope you don't find out.

Virtuna: If ya ask me, I think you're a bit paranoid.  Look, Twi, ya smacked him good upside the head, do you REALLY think he'd do it all again?

R.Dash (while attempting to break out of the cotton candy as the CMCs try eating the cloud to help, freeing a leg on each capitalized word): Yeah, Twilight, There's just ONE cloud in the sky that's made of candy: THIS one.  And it just HAPPENS to be the cloud that caught me.  *She grunts as she lifts off, attached by her right rear leg until Scootaloo frees her with a chomp!*  *The weather pony flies around a bit to check to make sure she's in flying-fit condition, then lands near Corinne*  And besides, thanks to Nightmare Moon, I haven't had a bad dream in weeks!

T.Sparkle: Maybe you're right, Rainbow, but.....

Other Ponies: But what?

T.Sparkle: I just..... don't know if I wanna take that chance.

Virtuna whimpers as Twilight Sparkle returns to her library.  In the shadows, Discord was watching, wearing a frown.  Rainbow Dash senses him and looks, giving a small grin before flying back up with Pitstop to work on the routine they were working on.  Discord grins back as he sees the two pegasi, then he turns into a butterfly and flies off.  Later that week, Fluttershy was running some errands when a eagle cry splits the calm.  The Bearer of Kindness looks up and humphs, continuing on her business.

Fluttershy: Stupid griffon..... shrieking like that like she owns the sky, just who does she think she is.....

As she rants a bit, she passes by an unusual flower..... which turns to look at her, then up in the sky.....  As Fluttershy finishes her errands, Gilda lands right in front of her!

Fluttershy (doing her best to be assertive): Well?!  What do YOU want?!

Gilda: *unimpressed smirk*  Nice try, Lamershy!

As Gilda laughs at her, Fluttershy seems to lose her confidence - that is until a cotton-candy-cloud splats on top of the boisterous griffon!

Gilda: HEY! *grunts as she tries to free herself*  What gives?!

As Gilda struggles to rescue herself, Fluttershy trots back home right past that flower.

Fluttershy (whispered): Thanks, Discord.

Fluttershy hums as she gets back to her cottage.  The flower watches her go, seeming to sprout a bit more before teleporting off.  In Sugar Cube Corner, Pinkie Pie is trying to make a cake when she realizes one BIG problem:

P.Pie: WHERE'S THE MILK!?

As the party pony panics, a small cotton-candy-raincloud floats into the kitchen.  Pinkie Pie whirls, spotting the cloud dump exactly what she needs into a measuring cup before incorporating itself into the batter.

P.Pie: Huh?

Pinkie Pie looks around a bit before smirking.

P.Pie: You're STILL gonna have to take things up with Twilight, Discord.

Discord (disembodied): *chuckle* Might've guessed that the PARTY pony would call me out first.

P.Pie: *nod*  All I'm saying is "Good luck."

Discord: I have a feeling I'm gonna need ALL the luck I can get.....

At Carousel Boutique, Rarity grunts as she's working on a dress, not able to match the gems up properly.

Rarity: I do NOT know where Corinne got these gems, but I'll HAVE to ask her to stop.  I've never seen gems so hard to color-match to..... *small clink* What-the?

Rarity rushes back and sees her dress made, the gems seemingly crushed together and recut, making a kaleidoscopic effect!

Rarity: Huh?!  *She heads over to check it out*  And I thought your powers were for zany desserts, Discord.

Discord (disembodied): Oh, I dunno..... Could just be abstract thinking, is all.

Rarity: Well, you CERTAINLY got me out of a bind, although Twilight's a bit, well, apprehensive?

Discord: But she WILL come around, right?

Rarity: M-maybe.

Discord feels genuinely bad as Rarity sniffles a bit, appearing and petting the white unicorn with his lion paw, making her purr a bit.

Discord: Nightmare Moon.  Zecora.  Trixie.  She'll come around someday.

Rarity: Hopefully.

Discord nods and teleports off.  At Sweet Apple Acres, Applejack was having an epic struggle bucking the apples out of the trees.  It looked like it was going to be "Applebuck Season" all over again..... until a stampede of bunnies with giraffe-like legs thundered through the orchard!  As they ran around back-and-forth, the vibrations knocked all the apples out of the trees, the fruit then rolling into the barn as if being funneled there.

Applejack: Huh!

Applejack shut the barn door as soon as the last apple rolled in, spotting Discord on top of a tractor nearby eating one apple and passing her another.  She caught it and sat near the tractor's right back wheel.

Applejack: Now THIS Discord I can deal with.  *smirks at the draconequus*  Ya'll sure ya'll ain't just doin' this to get Twilight's good graces?

Discord: I'd be lying if I said her words did NOT affect me.

Applejack: *GULP!* Ya'll HEARD Twilight and Virtuna?!

Discord: *nod* Every-word.  *He gets off the tractor and crouches by Applejack*  I knew coming back here so quick I'd be distrusted by a number of ponies.  I just had no idea my trickery would cause her to go off on me like that, especially since she and Virtuna almost fell out.  Plus, Virtuna hit the nail right on the head: The Elements of Harmony disrupted my powers to the point where that bunny stampede was the strongest act of chaos I could commit.  And I can't hold more than two acts of chaos at the same time, so I can't do anything near what I did to Ponyville the last time I surfaced.

Applejack: *nod*  Well, keep it that way even when ya'll DO have the power to do what'cha did here last time, and you MAY get good with Twi, ya hear?

Discord nods, then flies off to the Canterlot Royal Garden, where Nightmare Moon was waiting.

N.Moon: Well?

Discord: Five-out-of-six.  Apparently, Twilight Sparkle took what I did a bit too personally.

N.Moon: If I were in her horseshoes, I'd've done the same, I think.....

Discord sighs almost rejectedly.

N.Moon: Well, hey!  If they accepted me, they can accept you, right?

Discord: I REALLY hope so.....

Princess Celestia blinks, seeing the two biggest enemies in Equestrian history talking about friendship.  Nightmare Moon gave a small smile to the sun goddess.

P.Celestia: You, too, Discord?  *Discord nods*  Elements of Harmony must be stronger than I thought.

The ivory alicorn trots back into the castle.  The next day, the ponies were at Sugar Cube Corner, enjoying Pinkie Pie's treats and discussing what Discord did yesterday.  Even Twilight Sparkle's appearance in the bakery didn't halt the conversations.

T.Sparkle: *sigh*  Discord.....

R.Dash: Say what you will about him, but I'd be a pegasus pancake if not for that cloud he made.

Fluttershy: Oh, yes, and Gilda would've sent me scampering off to my cottage crying again.

P.Pie: I NEVER would've made these treats without him putting chocolate rain AND a cotton-candy-cloud in the bowl.

Rarity: AND my latest dress would've been a color disaster!

Applejack: And it would've taken me 1,000 years to get all those apples bucked.

T.Sparkle: *SIGH* I know he's trying to do good by using his chaotic powers to be helpful, but for some reason..... I-dunno, I just.....

A knock at the door makes everypony look.

N.Moon: Can I speak with the Bearer of Magic for a bit?

Everypony nods, letting Nightmare Moon walk up to, and sit by, Twilight Sparkle.

N.Moon: Now, Twilight, do you remember when I redeemed myself?  I used my powers to benefit Equestria, too.

T.Sparkle: True, but YOU didn't try to drive a wedge between me and my five best friends, all you did was turn off the sun.

N.Moon: True, but now, I'm helping Princess Luna raise the moon, I'm in charge of spreading the stars around in the sky, and I'm BOTH princesses' assistant in addition to being the pony responsible for sucking the nightmares out of everypony's slumber.  YOU trusted me.  The princesses trusted me.  Your friends trusted me.  And all of Equestria trusts me.  *lifts Twilight Sparkle's face and looks at her eye-to-eye*  And now, I need you to trust me on THIS.

T.Sparkle: You didn't see it, Nightmare Moon.....  My friends acting like total strangers.....  Everypony basically throwing their hearts away.....  And to top it off, Discord acting like it was the greatest day in Equestrian history.

N.Moon: Hang on.  *She sprints out of the bakery, emerging sometime later with a purple book with black bindings, a ribbon sticking out of it*  Read where I marked it.

Twilight takes the book and reads from where the ribbon is.

T.Sparkle (reading from the book): Nightmare Moon, the Mare in the Moon, the Harbinger of Eternal Night, *closes her eyes* and the dark side of Princess Luna.  *sigh*  I see what you're doing.  This book is the past, not the future.  Every word in this book was written based on somepony's observations.  You changing from bad to good is not covered..... because who wrote this never saw it.  All they saw was a jealous, dark pony who was trying to rule all of Equestria.  If whomever wrote this book saw THIS Nightmare Moon, this book would be much different.

N.Moon: *nod*  Now, I think you have to talk to Discord, OK?

T.Sparkle: *nod*  OK.

The purple unicorn heads out of Sugar Cube Corner and looks around for the draconequus.  She finds him leaning against her library-treehouse.

T.Sparkle: Discord?

Discord: Yes.  You OK with this?  I just wanna make sure.....

T.Sparkle: Y-yeah.  Listen, I.....  I.....

Discord: I get it.  After sending you and your friends through that, you were completely justified in hating me.  But-back-then, I just didn't think straight.

T.Sparkle: You're the Spirit of Chaos, you CAN'T think straight!

Both laugh.

Discord: I mean, I never understood the true power of what you all shared, nor did I think about what your friends mean to you.

T.Sparkle: And you taking that hit from the Elements of Harmony did THAT?  *Discord nods*  Wow.....

Discord: Thinking about somepony else?

T.Sparkle: Maybe somegriffon.

Both laugh again, longer this time.

Discord: Well, being a meanie isn't threatening enough to the well-being of Equestria to warrant the six-color attitude adjustment.

T.Sparkle: *nod* I know, but it DID warrant a cotton-candy facial.

Discord: Ya got THAT right!  That birdbrain cornered poor little Fluttershy.

Twilight Sparkle blinks a bit.

T.Sparkle: You really.....

Discord nods, then pets Twilight Sparkle a bit with the lion paw.  She murrs a bit, blushing.

T.Sparkle: OK, OK, you've moved from "total hatred" past "not particularly likeable" and up to just north of "tolerable".

Discord: *nod*  I'll take it.  I know it's gonna take more to get into the circle of friends you have.

T.Sparkle: Oh, yeah.

Both chuckle a bit as Twilight Sparkle heads into her library.  Discord snaps his eagle claws as he flies back to the Everfree Forest.  Corinne leads the other ponies into the library.

Corinne: Well?

T.Sparkle: It went smooth - for once when talking about Discord.

R.Dash: So you buy the fact that he's changed due to the Elements of Harmony?

T.Sparkle: Well.....  Yeah.....  But I wonder how his chaotic powers would benefit somepony like me.

Spike: Huh.....  Ah, well.

Rainbow Dash trots in and flies up to get the next "Daring Do" book..... only to have it float off the shelf to her chair all by itself!

T.Sparkle: !!!  *laugh*  Oh, my!

Everypony laughs.

T.Sparkle: Dear Princess Celestia,

Today I learned that one's past does not shape one's future.  No matter how much somepony hurt you in the past, there is always room to forgive.  And once you open your mind, who knows?, you may just find a friend in the wildest places.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

Princess Celestia watches Discord as she reads Twilight Sparkle's latest letter.  The sun goddess smirks, then teleports Discord into the castle with her magic!

Discord: OK, how did-?

P.Celestia: Hey, I can bend things, too.

The two former enemies chuckle, then Discord heads into a spare room to rest up.

P.Luna: Are you SURE about this, sister?

P.Celestia: *nod* I-am.

P.Luna: I hope this doesn't backfire.

P.Celestia: If Twilight trusts him, *shows Princess Luna the letter* then-so-do-I.

P.Luna: *reads it, then nods*  OK.

The moon goddess heads out to raise the moon, prompting Nightmare Moon to do her jobs.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 8 - Genesis: EMPATHY

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 8 - Genesis: EMPATHY

The time: A month after Discord's purification.

The Wonderbolts split the sky as they practice their routine, Pitstop and Rainbow Dash flying alongside Soarin and Spitfire.  Loops, weaves, flips, twirls, they did it all - until they collided with a BIG cotton-candy-raincloud!

R.Dash: *gasp, pant*  Maybe Discord has a point - we ARE working hard.

Soarin: *nod* I agree, we SHOULD take a break.

The pegasi pull out of the cloud and land near Sugar Cube Corner.  Virtuna sees them landing and smiles, Spitfire spotting her.

Spitfire: Hey!  You're the little pony who runs the arcade.

Virtuna: Y-yeah, Miss Spitfire.  Name's Virtuna.

Spitfire: Well, pleased to meet *Virtuna extends her artificial limb by mistake for a hoofshake* you.....

Both mares laugh, then Rainbow Dash, Pitstop and Soarin also laugh.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

As the four Wonderbolts play, Twilight Sparkle heads into the arcade with the CMCs.

Scootaloo: What up, V?

Virtuna: Heya, Scootaloo.

The two fillies exchange a complex series of high, middle and low brohoofs that makes Twilight Sparkle chuckle.

Virtuna: How are ya?

Scootaloo: Not bad!  You?

Virtuna: I am amazingly good.  Look!

Virtuna points to the flight simulator and Scootaloo gasps, seeing the Wonderbolts!

Scootaloo: WOW!!  *She dashes to them*  You're the-!  You're the-!

Spitfire: *laugh*  Starstruck, eh?

The little pegasus filly nods, then Spitfire lets Scootaloo take a turn on the simulator.  Virtuna smiles at the scene.

T.Sparkle: This happen a lot, Virtuna?

Virtuna: Uh-huh!  That's why I LOVE video games, they bring EVERYpony together!

Twilight Sparkle chuckles, then Virtuna starts glowing!  The CMCs look at the grey filly as she gets her cutie mark, the same as the mark the rope made during Trixie's magic show!

A.Bloom: Tarnation.....

When the light fades, Virtuna shrieks in delight, jumping around the room like Twilight Sparkle did when she got her cutie mark, bringing a happy smile to the face of the purple unicorn.  The CMCs murr as they smile at Virtuna's happiness, Verdescale giving her a big hug.

Verdescale: Finally!

Virtuna: I know!

Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle head to and hug Virtuna.  In Canterlot, Trixie hums as she walks by the Elements of Harmony antechamber when she notices a glowing coming from inside!

Trixie: PRINCESS!!  NIGHTMARE!!

All three alicorns rush into the room.

P.Celestia: What is it?

The sun goddess lets out a mighty gasp when she sees the glowing, Nightmare Moon using her horn to unlock the door.  One of the formerly-dormant Elements rolls out into the room, bouncing itself on the floor like a basketball.

N.Moon: Oh!  This is how Twilight and her friends absorbed their elements!

Nightmare Moon taps the bouncing rock with her right-front hoof before slamming her front hooves on the floor.  This time, the rock didn't shatter.....

P.Celestia: Guess you're not strong enough.

N.Moon: Or her spirit's not strong enough.

P.Luna: We shall have to keep an eye on that one.....

All three alicorns and Trixie nod.  Back at the arcade, Pinkie Pie is throwing a party celebrating Virtuna getting her cutie mark.  Discord chuckles as he's serving up desserts with Pinkie Pie - desserts with a hidden surprise in them!

R.Dash: Not bad!  *She checks out one of the cupcakes, a lemon with a lime center*  WOW!  Not bad!

P.Pie: *blush* Well, for once, I can't take ALL the credit.

Rainbow Dash looks up at a blushing Discord.

R.Dash: OK, OK, a little bit of chaos I can deal with.  Just don't split us apart again, K?

Discord: I promise, Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash smiles, then goes back to the party as Princess Celestia lands.  Discord smiles at her as he serves her a vanilla-with-chocolate-inside cupcake.

P.Celestia: WOW!

P.Pie and Discord: Thank you.

All three laugh as Virtuna trots up, smiling.

Virtuna: Ya see what I see in Discord, Your Highness?  Life should be unpredictable, random.  It may feel safe to know everything goes according to plan all the time, but that gets boring after a while.  Life should be a highway, not a train track.  And what happened at the Wonderbolts tryout was one example.

Discord: Wonderbolts?

Discord looks and spots Pitstop and Rainbow Dash.  He points between the two alternatingly a few times before the two pegasi look at each other and nod at Discord.

Discord: Both?

Virtuna, R.Dash and Pitstop: Yup!

Discord: Nice.

Virtuna: Look, I'm not asking for buffalo ballerinas or giraffe-legged bunnies to overrun Equestria.  I'm just thinking that life, even here, needs to be a chain of surprises, kinda like these yummy cupcakes.

P.Celestia: *chuckle* I agree with that!

The sun goddess looks at Discord.

Discord: If we only had *points at Virtuna* her acting as a mediator the last time I surfaced.

P.Celestia: *nod*  Maybe then we'd be able to live with each other.  Look, I know you haven't got the power to spread chaos all over Equestria like before, and you won't be that underpowered forever, so..... *sigh*  This-is-what-I-propose.

Discord: Yes?

P.Celestia: We already have Nightmare Night, where we go around getting candy to offer to Nightmare Moon - even if she IS converted.  I am willing to put a "Day of Discord" on the calendar, where ponies play pranks on each other, if you promise to fix ALL the chaos you create at the end of the day.  Capisce?

Discord: *purr* Capisce, Princess.

Everypony cheers as Princess Celestia and Discord shake on it.  In Canterlot, the Element bounces higher and higher, as if made of rubber, not stone.  Nightmare Moon then attempts to shatter it by slamming her hooves down again.  This time, it works, and the bits go sailing through the main room out the door, the Mare in the Moon in hot pursuit!  Trixie and Princess Luna were in the main room, watching the former antagonist race through.

N.Moon (as she chases the bits through the main room): FOLLOW THAT ELEMENT!!!

Trixie and Princess Luna exchanged glances before following Nightmare Moon, Luna using her own wingpower while Trixie rode in Luna's chariot.  The trio followed the pieces down to the Ponyville Town Square!

N.Moon: INCOMING!!!!!

Everypony and Discord look up as the small shards encircle Virtuna!

Verdescale: You have got to be.....

Just as when the Mane 6 NOT named Twilight Sparkle got their Elements of Harmony, the shards whipped around Virtuna in a double-orbit before combining to form a necklace with the rocker-switch with the buttons on it making up the gemstone!  Twilight Sparkle's jaw was on the ground in shock and Princess Celestia had her right-front hoof over her mouth in disbelief.  Even Discord seemed affected by this turn of events, the CMCs cheering loudly.

Virtuna: ..........Whoa.  I-mean........ You....... Me?

T.Sparkle: *nods* Uh-huh!

For the second time that day, Virtuna begins running around screaming in delight!

Virtuna: WOWOW!!!!!  I KNEW movin' here would be best for me, but I didn't think it would be THIS GOOD!

Princess Luna and Trixie land, the moon goddess huffing and puffing in exhaustion.

Trixie: WHOA!

Virtuna: Amazin', eh?!

P.Luna: I know what your spirit is, Virtuna.  Twilight wrote to us about your ability to help others understand, and your summits with Nightmare Moon and Discord cemented it, you are Empathy.

Verdescale: !!!  WOW!  I KNEW she was good at it, but I didn't think she was THAT good!

The Mane 6 minus Twilight Sparkle surround Verdescale.

Applejack: C'mere, ya'll.  Let's tell ya about how we got OUR Elements of Harmony.

As the five ponies lead the dragon to Virtuna's arcade, Nightmare Moon looks at Princess Celestia.

N.Moon: Bit for your thoughts, Princess?

P.Celestia: While I SHOULD be overjoyed that we have a 7th Element, I'm..... worried.

P.Luna: WORRIED, sister?

P.Celestia: *nod*  This is the first step to Ruinous' revival..... And it WON'T be the last.

N.Moon: Well, Twilight DID say we needed more allies.

P.Luna: And she DID say we HAVE to beat him.

P.Celestia: I know that.  I just hope we CAN beat him.....

The night ponies nod, then join the celebration.  Meanwhile, in a far-off place, a vortex of the darkest darkness one can imagine swirls viciously.  Then, in the center of the vortex, two red glowing eyes open, an evil laugh coming from the swirling mass of nothingness.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 9 - Genesis: SINCERITY

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 9 - Genesis: SINCERITY

The time: A week after Virtuna got her Element of Harmony.

The combination of Virtuna getting her cutie mark and being recognized as a Bearer of Harmony has resulted in a sharp increase in patrons at her arcade.  Trixie smiles as she walks past it.

Trixie: Wow, V!  There's almost enough coming in to justify an expansion!

Virtuna: Yeah, Trixie, ain't it great?!

Both mares laugh, then.....

Pony 1 - pale orange with red-blue mane/tail: Ex-CUSE me!

Pony 2 - deep plum with grey-white-grey mane/tail: *snort*

Pony 1: When somepony tries to block, SHOW THEM THAT YOU ROCK!

Trixie and Virtuna exchange "WTH?" looks before seeing the orange pony chomp on the plum pony's tail, swing him around like a bola and hurl him halfway to Baltimare!

Virtuna: ............

When that pony gets to the front of the line,.....

Virtuna: *puts her natural front hoof up* Excuse me, sir, ya can't come in with that attitude.

Pony 1: Ex-CUSE ME?!

Trixie: HEY!  *points to Virtuna* HER arcade, *Virtuna* HER rules, now *behind the orange pony* LEAVE!

The pony walks off, shocked at having been out-played by Trixie.  Virtuna looks at the showpony.

Trixie: *giggle and blush* Where'd THAT come from?

The rest of the day went off without a hitch, Verdescale bringing in the mail, which contained a pamphlet for Iron Will's assertiveness training program.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

The next day, Trixie and Virtuna head to Sugar Cube Corner, where Pitstop, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Fluttershy are.  The two are talking about the pony that caused the disturbance.

Trixie: That guy was MILES out of line.

Virtuna: And what a cheesy line!  "When somepony tries to block....."

Fluttershy: *gasp!* Show-'em-that-you-rock! EEP!

Fluttershy runs around, boarding up windows and battening down hatches like Hurricane Katrina was arriving in 30 seconds!  She was so frantic, multiple attempts by Virtuna, Trixie and Pitstop to talk to her fell on deaf ears until Trixie immobilized Fluttershy with her magic.

Virtuna, Trixie and Pitstop: FLUTTERSHY!!!

Fluttershy blinks at the trio.

Pitstop: Put it in neutral and tell us what happened, luv.

Fluttershy: Well, I was only looking for tips on how to be more assertive, and this minotaur Iron Will molded me into - how-can-I-put-this..... A total monster.

Trixie: Whaaaaaat?  *sets her down*  You?  *Fluttershy nods*  A-monster?  *Fluttershy nods again*  HOW?

Fluttershy: Well, he gave me all sorts of one-liners to say whenever somepony needed to be "put back in line".

Trixie: And that line about showing that you rock was one of them?

Fluttershy: *nod* There was "You make me lose, I blow my fuse", "You laugh at me, I wrath at you", he filled me with so much rage, I was hulking like a monster.

Fluttershy breaks down and cries a bit.  Something in the kind pegasus made Trixie mad and she walked to Verdescale as he was about to throw out the pamphlet.  She takes it and reads it.

Trixie: Lessee..... "Assertiveness training, don't be a doormat..... Hedge Maze Center."  Typical.  *looks at Fluttershy*  Mind taking a walk with me?  Trixie wants to give Mr. Cow-Boy a taste of his own medicine!

Trixie stomps out of the bakery, the other ponies following her.  The unicorn seemed to walk with a purpose as she headed to the hedge maze.  When they got there, they could see a fresh batch of ponies willing to take Iron Will's advice.  Trixie growled and - using her magic - sent the ponies to either side, like parting the Red Sea, until there was a lane for her and the others, the showpony glaring directly at Iron Will!

I.Will: *blink* Well-now!  YOU sure don't need training!

Trixie: Trixie's sorry, did Trixie forget to say, what-was-it, "When somepony tries to block, SHOW THEM THAT YOU ROCK!"?

I.Will: How'd'ya know that?

Then, Iron Will noticed Fluttershy.

I.Will: Oh.  Hey there, Fluttershy.....  How are ya?

Fluttershy: Fine.  I see you didn't put "No means no." in your repertoire yet.

Trixie: Trixie a-grees.  Just as abrasive and intimidating as usual.

I.Will: I call it "assertive".

Trixie: Assertive?  You mean that pony we saw in line yesterday?

I.Will: Ah, one of my star pupils!

Trixie: Star pupil?  THAT pushy pony?  THAT pony who sent somepony else flying almost over the whole Everfree Forest for being one spot ahead of him?  You're PROUD of that?  Trixie wouldn't be proud of that.  In fact, Trixie would be ashamed of herself for galavanting around like Trixie's better than everypony else, for one thing, and furthermore, you're just in this to squeeze money out of ponies.

I.Will: *chuckle* Heavily opinionated, aren't'cha?

Trixie: YOU can call it opinionated, Trixie call it speaking her mind.  You only help ponies become BIG bullies like YOU!

Goat 1: HEY!  You don't speak to Iron Will like that!

Trixie: And another thing: You got those two goat-things so brainwashed, they think you're as flawless as Princess Celestia herself.  If THEY REALLY knew how you operated, this "assertiveness" thing would be a solo project, as in your fan base AND operation would be "solo" you'd be out of business!

Fluttershy had to at least crack a grin at Trixie's one-liner.

Trixie: As far as Trixie goes, you are nothing but a big bully.  You don't know what it means to be assertive, just mean.  Not only that, you almost lost Fluttershy two of her best friends since you turned her into a hulking monster!  Satisfied?!  You thought she was SATISFIED!?  Not only would the Great and Powerful Trixie NOT be satisfied, she'd've had you written up!  NO PONY SHOULD EVER TRUST YOU!

The showpony storms out of the hedge maze center, followed by the others.  Several ponies that were waiting to participate in Iron Will's seminar also left.

I.Will: HEY!!  Who are you gonna trust, me or the (whiny): wittle sissy pony?

That cleared the whole center as the entire herd walked out.  Later that day, in Twilight's library, the ponies discuss.

Fluttershy: That was amazing, Trixie.

Trixie: *blush* Daw, Fluttershy, he needed a stern talking-to.

T.Sparkle: I never knew this about you the first time you came here, Trixie.

Trixie: Well, the Great and Powerful Trixie has ALWAYS been honest with her feelings to others.

Rarity: HOW honest?

Just then,.....

N.Moon: *teleports into the room* INCOMING!

Trixie looks at Nightmare Moon, then outside as small crystals encircled her in the same way they did Virtuna.  The others were shocked as the showpony was surrounded by the shards of stone, a necklace appearing on her with a charm that looks like the wand of her cutie mark!

Virtuna: Oh-my.....

T.Sparkle: Trixie?

Trixie: Y-yes?

T.Sparkle: You're-a.....

Trixie: *looks up with a happy tear in her eye* Trixie knows.

Former rivals, Trixie and Twilight Sparkle embrace, laughing as they all celebrate another Bearer of Harmony found.  Not long after, the two princesses land nearby and Princess Celestia gasps.

P.Celestia: I KNEW you were special, Trixie, but this exceeded my expectations.

P.Luna: I agree, I saw your little tirade at Iron Will, especially how you were honest with your feelings.  That means you, Trixie, are the Element of Sincerity.

Trixie: *blush* Daw, shucks, thanks, Princess.

T.Sparkle: What? You're not gonna say something like, *whips her blanket around her, like Trixie's cape* *Trixie laughs* "Did you expect anything less from the Great and Powerful TRIXIE!"?

Twilight Sparkle's impersonation got everypony laughing.

Trixie: Trixie only speaks like that on stage.

T.Sparkle: Oh.

Both unicorns laugh again as Spike tries to get a parchment and quill out.  Trixie smiles at the little dragon.

Trixie: *clears throat* Dear Princess Celestia,

Today Trixie learned that it's important to speak your mind and not to hide your feelings.  When others see your view on a situation, you may find something else you have in common, and that can help make your friendships stronger.

Sincerly yours,

The-Great-and-Powerful-Trixie.

As Trixie dashes out of Twilight's library,.....

T.Sparkle: HEY! *chases her* You said on stage!

The two unicorns laugh as they run around chasing each other.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 10: Genesis - HUMILITY

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 10: Genesis - HUMILITY

The time: A week after Trixie gets her Element of Harmony.

Rarity's running around more frantically than usual, her sewing burden doubled for the Grand Galloping Gala.

Rarity (while running around): Virtuna! Corinne! Trixie! Pitstop! *screeches to a halt in front of a pony-shaped mannequin* To say nothing about Nightmare Moon! *She looks to her right with a sigh, spotting the dresses she made for her friends, in the same condition they were in at the end of "The Best Night Ever"* And the repairs that have to be made to THESE! *groan* SO MUCH TO DO!

The fashionista unicorn grunts, then knuckles down and gets to work.  It took all night, but Rarity finally got the dresses for the new ponies done and the old dresses mended.  After sleeping it off, she called the ponies to her boutique.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

All the ponies are marvelling at the repair job Rarity did on their dresses.

Rarity: Now, PLEASE don't ruin them again.

All ponies except Rainbow Dash blush as all five of them nod.  Then, Virtuna trots in.

Virtuna: Ya wanted ta see me, Rarity?

Rarity: I did, indeed!

Rarity steps aside and shows Virtuna a very flashy dress reflecting her love of video games.

Rarity: It was not easy, but I DO think I pulled it off, right?

Virtuna: I concur!

Rarity: You like it?

Virtuna: I CAN'T like it, I'm too busy lovin' it!

Both mares laugh as they hug up, Trixie entering next.

Trixie: You called, Rarity?

Rarity: Yes, I did.  As you know, the Grand Galloping Gala's approaching.

Trixie: Trixie knows, she performs there every year.

T.Sparkle: *nod* More reason to call yourself "The Great and Powerful Trixie", performing at the Grand Galloping Gala's a big deal.

R.Dash: Yeah, I've been working on my routine for this year's Gala with Pitstop.

Trixie: Ah, the Wonderbolts perform there, too. The Great and Powerful Trixie was wondering why.....

Trixie gasps as she's seeing a dress for her as well, emblazoned with stars and sparkling all over.  The showpony was in shock as she looked at the smiling unicorn.

Trixie: You.....

Rarity: Yeah.

Trixie hugs Rarity, thoroughly touched by her generosity.  Pitstop was next to arrive.

Pitstop: Hey, luv.

T.Sparkle: Heya, Pitstop.

Rarity: How are ya?

Pitstop: Not bad, luv.  Just wonderin' what all the news is.

P.Pie: The Grand Galloping Gala is this week!

Pitstop: Soarin told me about that, luv. Wonderbolts do a show at that every.....

Pitstop's jaw about hits the floor as she's gazing upon a dress made by Rarity, just for her!

Pitstop: Am I seeing things, or is that.....?

Rarity: Uh-HUH!

Pitstop: I must say, HOW didja make the racetrack flags so fashionable?

Rarity: Trade secret.

Both mares laugh, then.....

Corinne: R-R-Rarity!  Where are ya?

Rarity: Coming, Corinne!

The ponies rush down the stairs to meet the giraffe in the foyer.

Corinne: I just b-b-barely got under that d-d-door.

Rarity: Well, nopony thought something so tall lived in the Everfree Forest.

Corinne blushes as Rarity laughs nervously.

Rarity: Now, your size DID make this a challenge, but I THINK I nailed it.

Corinne: *cocks her head* N-n-nailed what?

Corinne gasps as she sees a dress made for her, with her love of crystals displayed on it!

Corinne: Whoa!  This is for me?

Rarity: Yes, do you like it?

Corinne: It's beautiful!  Thank you SO much!

As Corinne nuzzles Rarity, in comes Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: *blink* Nice!  THIS is where you work?

Rarity: It is indeed, Nightmare Moon.  I have something for you.

N.Moon: Wh-what?

Rarity chuckles, then reveals a beautiful dress, adorned with stars and a crescent moon tiara.  Nightmare Moon's face read total shock as she beheld the garment one of her former enemies made for her.

Rarity: Do you like it? *blinks* Nightmare-Moon?

Rarity approaches the black alicorn, only to get scooped up in a big hug!

Rarity: Oh, MY!

Rarity giggles and blushes as she's hugged by Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: You do this for EVERYpony?

Rarity: I do, but most of all for my friends.

N.Moon: You think of me as a..... friend?

Rarity: Of course.

The two mares hug up, the emotion even getting to Rainbow Dash.

Rarity: C'mon, let's see if it fits right.

Nightmare Moon nods, then the two head to a dressing room.  After making sure Nightmare Moon's dress fit right, she did the same thing with Virtuna, Pitstop, Trixie and Corinne.  As soon as Rarity finished fitting Corinne's dress, Spike walked in and gasped.

Spike: WHOA!  Rarity, you've outdone yourself!

Rarity: Hold your applause, Spikey-wikey, I still have to make something for Zecora.

N.Moon: *giggle* Cute nickname.

Rarity: *giggle* Yeah.

Nightmare Moon, Rarity and Spike laugh as the fashionista decides on what to make for the herbalist zebra.  Later that week, heading to the Gala, Spike drives the coach he drove in "The Best Night Ever".  The ponies inside discuss the last Grand Galloping Gala they attended, Zecora wearing a dress inspired by her love of herbs and her culture.

N.Moon: *giggle* Sounds like four of you scored a one-way train ride to Disasterville.

Rarity: *smirk* That day, I WISH you'd've plunged Equestria into eternal night so that I *chuckles from a few ponies* *chuckle* so that I wouldn't have to see that royal jerk.....

Fluttershy: And I thought I was an animal thanks to Iron Will?  *clears her throat*  (directly from "The Best Night Ever"): You're going to LOVE ME!

Nightmare Moon blinks in shock.

Corinne: Th-th-that is ver-r-ry unusual for you.

Fluttershy: Well, I WAS a bit frustrated, since every animal OUTside of Canterlot seemed to gravitate towards me.

N.Moon: Uh-huh, you speak English, they speak Russian.

R.Dash: Que pasa?

N.Moon: Those animals seem to be different from what Fluttershy usually communicates with, I've seen her in action, hissing with snakes, squeaking with mice, even playing ball with Cerberus!

Every new pony looks at a blushing Fluttershy, thoroughly impressed.

Applejack: Well, MY experience was a total flop in sellin' my treats there.  Prince Blueblood said it was "common carnival fare".....

Nightmare Moon and Rarity make disgusted faces at the mention of Prince Blueblood for different reasons.

N.Moon: *snort* Prince Blueblood is just being an overly-regal pain-in-the-flank.  Your treats are delicious!

Applejack: *She gives Nightmare Moon a slight smile* Well, other than Soarin of the Wonderbolts and Rarity and Prince Snottyblood, *Rarity winces a bit* I made NO sales at all.

P.Pie: At least you HAD ponies receptive to your treats.  Every effort I made to liven up the Gala was shut down BIG-TIME!

N.Moon: I'd've thought you'd've been one to liven up ANYthing, Pinkie Pie.

P.Pie: As long as it's got NOTHING to do with ANYthing fancy-schmancy.  Even my efforts to get every pony to do the Pony Pokey couldn't get them to shake, rattle and rock like I usually have everypony doing.

N.Moon: That's VERY unusual.

Pinkie Pie nods, then the coach arrives in Canterlot.  All the ponies outside, recognizing Spike, start talking about who could possibly be in such a large and regal carriage.  As pony after pony exit the carriage, the ponies gathered nod slowly - until Nightmare Moon steps out.  Every pony looks at the black mare in shock.

N.Moon: What?  Can't I step out at the Gala?

Nightmare Moon and Rarity chuckle as they enter the ballroom.  Princess Celestia and Princess Luna await the ponies as they walk in, Pitstop gasping as she spots a familiar face - or rather, cutie mark.  It was of a meteor in full descent with a yellow-on-red explosion behind it and it was on the flank of a Big-Macintosh-sized brown pegasus male with gray hair.  Rainbow Dash looked at the pegasus quizzically.

Pitstop: PLEASE tell me ya heard of him, luv?

R.Dash: I've never seen that pony perform in my life.

Pitstop: Must've started watchin' after he retired, luv.  That's Meteor Strike, one of the original Wonderbolts.  He was the originator of many of the tricks the Wonderbolts use these days.  *Meteor Strike hears Pitstop talking about him and slowly nears*  They say his tricks were the hardest to master, and to pull off one of HIS feats of aerobatic skill was considered grounds for instant induction into the Wonderbolts.  Gosh, luv, ya should've seen him in action, he had it ALL!  Style, grace, elegance.....

R.Dash: Stealth?

Pitstop: Stealth?  Whatever do you mean?

Rainbow Dash pointed behind Pitstop, and the dark blue mare turned, gazing right at Meteor Strike!

Pitstop: Oy!  How much of that didja hear, sir?!

M.Strike: *laugh*  Almost all of it.  You two must be the ponies I heard so much about.

R.Dash: Y-yes, sir.  I'm Rainbow Dash.

Pitstop: And my name's Pitstop, luv.  It's an absolute honor meetin' ya.

M.Strike: Ah, the two that stood out at the Wonderbolts tryout.  I watched the whole thing, great tricks, both of you.

R.Dash: *blush* Aw, shucks, thanks, sir.

Pitstop: *bow* Coming from ye, that's a high honor, sir.

Meteor Strike chuckles, then the three Wonderbolts - past and present - head off to mingle as Nightmare Moon smiles at Pitstop.

N.Moon: -*blush* I'm making such nice friends..... Friends..... Never thought I'd ever make any.-

Nightmare Moon hums as she mingles with the guests.  Applejack sighs as she sets her apple cart back up.

Applejack: Now then, AJ, don't over-pressure yourself.  If ya sell, ya sell.  If ya don't, ya don't.

Just as before, a Wonderbolt was responsible for Applejack's first sale, this time it was Spitfire.

Spitfire: Not bad, Applejack.

Applejack: Just..... not-bad?

Spitfire: Well, I'd've thought with Discord whipping up treats, you'd've taken some lessons from him.

Applejack: He and I haven't combined on anything yet.  He's busy workin' with Pinkie Pie.

Spitfire: *nod* OK.  Just keep the faith, OK?

Applejack: OK, Spitfire.

Spitfire pays her bits for the treats and heads off.  Applejack sighs a bit, somewhat disappointed as Nightmare Moon enters.  The former enemy felt bad for Applejack and decided she HAD to do something.  Nightmare Moon trotted up to Applejack's cart.

Applejack: Hey there, Nightmare.

N.Moon: Hey.  Business slow?

Applejack: Business is SO slow, it's goin' backwards.....

N.Moon: Mind if I try to help speed things up?

Applejack: Be my guest.

The black alicorn hums as she floats a platter over to Applejack's cart, loading it with a few treats, which she then magically cuts up and skewers with toothpicks.

N.Moon: I'll be right back.

As Nightmare Moon trots away with the platter,.....

Applejack: Hey!  *Nightmare Moon turns to look at her*  That there's 24 bits!

N.Moon: *reassuring smile* You'll get them.

Nightmare Moon winks at Applejack, then mingles with the guests as Fluttershy walks up to the cart.

Fluttershy: What's she doing?

Applejack: I dunno, but she said something about me gittin'.....

Applejack gasps as she sees ponies trotting to her cart.

Fluttershy: Well now.....

Applejack sighs, then hunkers down and starts selling.  Nightmare Moon smiles as she sets the now-empty platter on a nearby buffet table.

N.Moon: *smiles* One down.

The alicorn trots outside, humming.  She murrs, spotting the garden with the exotic animals in it and heads in.  Some time later, Fluttershy hears the meadow lark tweeting the tune from "The Best Night Ever."

Fluttershy: Huh?

Instinctively, Fluttershy responded to the tune with her own line.  The sound eventually took her to the garden, where she was met with a shocking sight.  There was Nightmare Moon, kneeling in the garden with all the animals near her.  She flaps a wing, sending that same meadow lark off towards Fluttershy, the bird landing on her head and singing.

Fluttershy: Wow!

The two ponies murr, the animals gathering around both of them.  Rarity started to get mad at the duo for kneeling in the dirt in their gala dresses, but couldn't due to how touching this scene was.

???: Well!  What a pony, eh?

Rarity blinks and turns.  There standing behind her was Prince Blueblood.  The fashionista unicorn snorts at him and turns her head quick, letting out a small huff.

P.Blueblood: *blink* Hello?

Rarity (snappy): Yes?

P.Blueblood: You were at last year's Gala, right?

Rarity: What's it to you, you royal pain?

P.Blueblood: *smirk* Still as stuck-up as ever, eh?

N.Moon: Hmm?

As the Mare in the Moon rises, the animals turn to look at Fluttershy.  Fluttershy waves at them, then spots a wallaroo walking around with a slight gimp in its leg.  As Fluttershy treats the wallaroo, Nightmare Moon smiles.

N.Moon: Two down..... and soon to be three.....

As Rarity stomped off from a shell-shocked Prince Blueblood, Nightmare Moon walked up.

P.Blueblood: What the.....?

N.Moon: Surprised?  Don't be.

P.Blueblood: *turns to look*  What the?!

N.Moon: What's the matter?  Didn't expect to see ME here?  Stand in line, LOTS of ponies didn't expect me here.  But-my-appearance-isn't-important, what IS important is your deplorable behavior towards Rarity the last time she attended the Gala.  She waited her whole life to meet you, she thought you were her knight in shining armor, and you became a total chauvinistic jerk.  You should be completely ashamed of yourself and how you treated a GREAT friend of mine.  You have a LOT to think about, buster.  HUMPH!

Nightmare Moon trots off, leaving a shell-shocked Prince Blueblood.  As she heads to the royal ballroom, Corinne and Princess Celestia watch her, having heard everything exchanged outside.

Corinne: Now sh-sh-she is impressing me.

P.Celestia: What-do-you-mean?

Corinne: I have n-n-never seen a p-p-pony work so h-h-hard for others in my l-l-life.

P.Celestia: Well, she's just trying to be nice, right?

Corinne: I r-r-read the book on N-N-Nightmare Moon in Twi-Twi-Twilight's library and I unders-s-stand the legend of how sh-sh-she turned off the sun f-f-for eternity.  I think she's t-t-trying to bury her p-p-past evils.

P.Celestia: Sounds deep.

Corinne: *nod*  YOU forgave her, L-L-LUNA forgave her, Twilight and her f-f-friends forgave her, but SHE.....

Corinne and P.Celestia: .....DIDN'T forgive her.

The two sigh, then their ears perk up as music is heard from the main ballroom - music a bit too jovial for such a high-strung party.

Corinne: Y-y-you're kidding..... you're k-k-kidding, right?

P.Celestia: C'mon!

The two dash towards the ballroom and gasp in shock.  There was a dance circle of ponies, clapping and stomping.  And in the middle, doing steps never before seen by Grand Galloping Gala patrons, were Pinkie Pie and Nightmare Moon!

P.Celestia: OK, Corinne, you were right, she's working to bury her past.

Corinne: W-w-wonder if she'll e-e-ever have the cour-r-rage to just t-t-talk.....

Princess Celestia nods, then heads for the circle of ponies.

P.Celestia: *smirk* OK, you!  *Nightmare Moon blushes, still keeping in rhythm*  HOW did you learn THESE moves?

N.Moon: Being trapped on the moon for 1000 years with no friends leaves one pl-enty of free time.....

The two alicorns laugh, then Princess Celestia starts copying Nightmare Moon's moves - or trying to.

N.Moon: *chuckle* Here, princess.

Nightmare Moon waits for a count, then starts teaching Princess Celestia her dance moves.  Soon, the Equestrian monarch was in synch with her country's former threat, much to everypony's surprise and Pinkie Pie's delight.

T.Sparkle: *laugh* WOW!

P.Celestia: Quite the dancer, eh?

T.Sparkle: Indeed.

N.Moon: *chuckle and blush* Aw, thanks.

Soon, Nightmare Moon taught all her new friends the dance she created.  After a while, everypony applauds as Nightmare Moon smiles.

Trixie: *laugh* Now, how is the Great and Powerful Trixie going to follow that? By amazing you all with the greatest feats of magic ever seen by pony eyes!

Everypony applauds as Trixie begins her show.  Her tricks impressed all the ponies at the Gala, bringing a smile to the powder blue unicorn's face.  Her grand finale was the most impressive act, Trixie using her powers to freeze water into an ice sculpture depicting the Elements of Harmony.  Nightmare Moon gazed upon the statue and smiled.

N.Moon: -I can sense it..... Someday..... You'll forgive me..... and you will count me amoung you.....-

A whoosh snapped Nightmare Moon out of her personal solilquoy.  The black alicorn looked up and saw the Wonderbolts performing their air show, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop's wakes clearly visible.  Pitstop smiled down at Meteor Strike as the legendary pegasus watches her.  Their grand finale was a high-speed criss-cross during which they sent up fireworks everytime they intersected.  The display filled all the ponies with awe.  After the show, Meteor Strike spotted Pitstop as she's in the middle of cleaning up.

M.Strike: Bravo, Pitstop!  Quite a display of aerobatic skill!

Pitstop: Aw, shucks, sir.  I was just happy to perform for ye.

M.Strike: And such humility!  More young pegasi can learn from this.

Something Meteor Strike said made Rainbow Dash startle up.

R.Dash: Sir?  *Meteor Strike looks at her*  What did you call it?

Before anypony can do anything, crystalline dust surrounded Pitstop.  Just as the other Elements, it wrapped around her neck, a picture of a green flag waving as the charm.  As the rest of the Wonderbolts - past and present - congratulated Pitstop.....

N.Moon: *trots in* I THOUGHT I saw one of the Elements go in here.  *She looks at Pitstop with a knowing chuckle*  Figured.  With how you acted at the Wonderbolts tryout in answering everypony's compliments with grace and poise like you did, and being honored just to perform for a legend like Meteor Strike as well as humbled by his mere prescence, you'd've been a shoo-in for the Element of Humility, hooves down.

Pitstop: *bow* Mere words cannot describe how lucky I feel just being here.  Who'd've thought a simple pegasus like me could have alla this happen?

Rainbow Dash smiles, then hugs Pitstop, the Trottinghamian crying happy tears.  She is eventually lead out to the rest of the Gala and greeted by the other Elements.  Even with all the happiness, Nightmare Moon can't help but notice Princess Celestia's edginess.

N.Moon: Princess?

P.Celestia: *sigh* This could be the event that signals the end of the world.

N.Moon: Even if it is, we aren't gonna lay down and die.  We.. are.. fighting-this and we are bringing EVERYthing.  Am-I-clear?

P.Celestia: You seem bent on this, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: After the Bearers of Harmony defeated me, I was sent to the moon as legend says.  While there, I saw how hard they fought everything thrown at them, Discord, the Changeling Queen, everything.  I can't help but admire that kind of courage.  And then, when Virtuna touched me and helped me see the error of my ways, I took it upon myself to right the wrongs of my past.  I saw how hard all those ponies worked to keep this land whole against all threats, the least I can do is offer something, support, guidance, my powers, anything.

Princess Celestia smiled admiringly at Nightmare Moon.

P.Celestia: This is NOT the same jealous pony who sealed me in the sun and brought upon Equestria nighttime everlasting.  You are seriously impressing me, Nightmare Moon.  Look, Corinne and I were just discussing why you're doing all you're doing.  Is it because you can't forgive yourself for what you did before?

N.Moon: Maybe..... Maybe we each need to forgive each other AND ourselves.

P.Celestia: Perhaps.  When will we know when that time comes?

N.Moon: We'll know, trust me.  I have a feeling... we'll know.

The two smile at each other, mingling with the guests as the Gala winds down.  Discord watches the party with an uncharacteristically serious expression.

Discord: -I HAVE to tell them sooner or later..... I was hoping it'd be MUCH later than this, but I didn't expect Virtuna, Trixie and Pitstop to show their spirits THIS quickly.....-

The draconequus floats back to Twilight's library and writes a note, leaving it on her door.  Then, he retreats to his quarters.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 11 - The Threat Revealed

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 11 - The Threat Revealed

The time: The day after the Grand Galloping Gala.

The princesses and Nightmare Moon are in the throne room when the Mane 6, Pitstop, Virtuna, Trixie and Corinne rush in, Twilight Sparkle carrying the note on her door.

T.Sparkle: Princess Celestia!

P.Celestia: *looks* Twilight?

T.Sparkle: You wanted to see us?  You left this note for us?

P.Luna: Note, child?

T.Sparkle: *clears throat*

To the Bearers of Harmony,

Due to the fact that three new Elements of Harmony were found, it is imperative to the well-being of Equestria that I speak with you immediately.

The two princesses exchange a quizzical glance.

Trixie: If YOU two did not write this, who in Equestria did?

A shadow lurks in an adjacent doorway, making Fluttershy shriek.  All ponies look to the doorway with an incredulous look on their faces.....

T.Sparkle: You?

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

T.Sparkle: You?

Standing in the doorway was none other than Discord, wearing an uncharacteristically serious expression.

Discord: Everypony, and I mean EVERY PONY, follow-me.

Slowly, everypony follows Discord to his chambers, the chaotic draconequus clearing a spot on the wall.

Discord: I was going to tell you eventually, but Virtuna, Trixie and Pitstop getting their elements as fast as they did sort of..... accelerated my timetable.

P.Celestia: Oh?  You've been reading up on Ruinous?

Discord: You could say that..... *clears throat*  But nevermind that now.  I have some information that WILL prove immensly helpful.

N.Moon: What kind of information?

Discord: Ruinous..... doesn't act alone, he has six..... lieutenants.

Fluttershy: Lieutenants?

Discord: Yes.  And each of them are powerful enough to take over Equestria.

Discord snaps his fingers and a picture of a sick-green earth pony with a dark-sick-green mane and tail and a green skull-and-crossbones as his cutie mark appears on the wall.

Rarity: EW!  What is HIS power, spreading fashion disaster?

Discord: *smirk* No, he poisons everything.  His name is Toxion, and he spreads toxins all around.  Every step he takes is deadly to flora and fauna alike.  He does have a weakness, however.  He can't stand Kindness.

N.Moon: Can't stand it?  You mean like how ice melts when you put it in the sun?

Discord: Yes.  In order to win these battles, you have to use your Elements of Harmony much like Twilight Sparkle uses her magic.

P.Celestia: Sounds somewhat unconventional.

Discord: These ponies are unconventional..... and very powerful.

Another claw-snap produces a picture of a pale-white pegasus with a white mane and tail, a Scream-mask-like face as her cutie mark.

Fluttershy: She looks scary.....

Discord: That's the point.  Her name is Fryght, a pegasus who scares the emotions out of everypony.  She flies in the night, much like Nightmare Moon, but instead of TAKING nightmares, she gives them.  And that's just the start of it.  She can also appear in the DAYtime to make you see things for what you fear they are.  She is weak to Laughter.

Discord sighs, then snaps his claws again.  On the wall was a cobalt pegasus with light-blue hair and a snake as a cutie mark.

Applejack: What kinda pony is that?  Looks like it's got a sidewinder on its flank.

Discord: This is Fyb, a pegasus that flies around spreading lies.  It is said that anyone who hears his lies can't stop lying, kinda like the Pied Piper or a siren's song.  His weakness is Honesty.

The ponies nod, then the draconequus snaps his fingers again.  On the wall appeared a picture of a red earth pony with black hair and a dragon's hoard as a cutie mark.

P.Pie: Weird cutie mark.

Discord: She is the spirit of selfishness, her name is Styngee.  She goes around making everypony keep everything they have and not give anything to anypony else.  Her weakness is Generosity.

The chaotic beast snapped his claws.  On the wall was a picture of a grey unicorn with black hair and a dark star as a cutie mark.

Trixie: What is that, a dark version of Twilight?

Discord: Judges?  Yes, they WILL accept that answer.  THIS is DarkSparkle, the evil version of TWILIGHT Sparkle, she will challenge Twilight to a unicorn's duel.  Only by winning the duel will you beat her and Twilight's Element of Magic is the only Element of Harmony that can do anything to her - until Twilight beats her.

With a sigh, Discord snapped his claws.  Even Princess Celestia was awestruck at what she saw - for the wrong reason.  On the wall was a picture of a dark grey unicorn with dark colors in his mane and tail and two red eyes in a hateful glare as his cutie mark.

P.Luna: WHOA!

Discord: I know, not a pleasant picture.  THIS is Hatetrol, a wicked unicorn who spreads around hate.  Remember how you girls were due to my trickery? *The Mane 6 nod* Picture it bad enough that not even Twilight's memory spell could break it.

P.Celestia: Sounds hardcore.

Discord: He is.  It'll take considerable power to beat him, and for what it's worth, Loyalty is his weak point.

R.Dash: And then..... There's Ruinous himself?

Discord nods, then snaps his claws once more.  A black alicorn with black dragon wings, a crooked horn and black smoke as his mane and tail and around his hooves appears on the wall.  A crumbling planet served as his cutie mark and his glowing red eyes conveyed nothing short of pure evil.

Virtuna: geez.....

Discord: *nod* Yeah..... Rare is the time Ruinous himself has to intervene, but when he does, nothing survives.  He represents the sheer power... of oblivion.

P.Celestia: As in nothing returns?

Discord: Not a thing, Princess.  He has no weaknesses and he has massive power.  If you ever find yourselves facing him, I HOPE you have everything, and I mean EVERYthing, prepared to the zenith.

R.Dash: Whoa-whoa-whoa!  Hang on.  How do you know all this, Discord?

Discord: *gulp, sigh*  *He turns his back on the ponies*  Because I used to be a lieutenant.  When I was first defeated by the Bearers of Harmony, he severed all ties with me.  When he finds out I'm HELPING you ponies, he's gonna be furious.

Nopony knew what to say, nopony could even move - that is, until Princess Celestia walked across to Discord and put her head on his shoulder.

P.Celestia: I'd rather hear it from you than not at all.  Besides, something in me figured that all that chaos was just a set-up for something bigger.  *Discord looks at Princess Celestia with a sniffle*  Aw, calm down, it's OK.  You said so yourself: "Used to be".  If I am to forgive you, I have to forgive EVERYthing in your past, right?  Besides, thanks to you, we now have a plan, an idea, a strategy to beat Ruinous AND his henchponies.

R.Dash: That's right.  To know your enemy is to win half the battle.  *Rainbow Dash looks at Twilight Sparkle, blinking as she sees the lavender mare standing there shell-shocked!*  What?!

T.Sparkle: I thought you were reading Daring-Do!

R.Dash: OK, OK, I MAY have accidentally took down "Think, Fight, Win" by Solar Sway instead of "Daring-Do and the Treasure of the Dragon of the Sun".

Discord laughs his tail off, prompting the others to join in.  Nightmare Moon had everything Discord said written down and she was studying the scroll, sighing.  But Discord had one more revelation:

Discord: *floats the book about the new Elements to him*  There is one small issue: This book is outdated.

Twilight Sparkle cocks her head, then gasps horrifiedly as Discord burns it up, only to blink as it seems to have suffered no damage!

Discord: Read where I marked it.

A red ribbon appears about halfway through the text.  Twilight Sparkle opens the book to that point and reads.

T.Sparkle: New Elements of Harmony: Empathy, Sincerity, Humility, Tolerance, Respect, Surprise..... Hope-Love-and-Faith?

Trixie: Our task is not concluded?

Discord: *nods* Hope, Love and Faith are the three Master Elements.  They're the only reason why there IS an Equestria after Ruinous' last attack.

P.Luna: LAST attack?  I was unaware of such occurance.

Discord: It happened about 2,000 years ago.  Ruinous' evil would've destroyed this world utterly if not for the Master Elements sealing him away.  But he's undid the seal and now he's back to threaten Equestria once again.  I HAVE to warn you of one thing: These ponies are so evil, simply purifying them as you've done me and Nightmare Moon won't work.  These ponies HAVE to be destroyed.

P.Celestia: Destroyed?

Discord nods, a solemn look on his face.

Virtuna: Well, get them before they get us, right?

T.Sparkle: Oh?

Virtuna: If what Discord says is true, we can't risk this happening again 2,000 years later.  I KNOW the Elements of Harmony aren't meant to be used as weapons of mass destruction, and I KNOW Equestrian magic usually doesn't work in the manner we need it to to defend against Ruinous, but if they're coming here to try to kill us in four ways.....

A loud stomp halts all conversation, everypony looking at the expression on Princess Celestia's face.

P.Celestia: There IS a way to make the Elements into weapons capable of defeating Ruinous and his henchponies once and for all.  The only way is for all of your hearts to beat in synch with the Heart of Equestria.  That will amplify the power of the Elements of Harmony to the point where they're powerful enough to destroy Ruinous' henchponies.  Ruinous himself will require more Elements AND the Master Elements.  With those, we can destroy Ruinous.  *looks at Discord*  Discord, do you know who weilded the Master Elements?

All eyes locked on the draconequus as he tries to think.

Discord: .........Those three took ponies of considerable power.  Outside of the princesses and MAYBE Nightmare Moon, I don't know who we can call on now.  The Elements of Hope, Faith and Love aren't just..... revealed to a pony like the other Elements are, one's spirit has to be strong enough to handle them.

T.Sparkle: I see......

P.Celestia: This is important information.  Thank you for sharing it.

N.Moon: *passes the scroll* Here, Princess.

Princess Celestia takes it and reads it, nodding satifiedly after a while.  One by one, ponies file out of Discord's chambers until only Twilight Sparkle was left with the draconequus.

T.Sparkle: Why the change?

Discord: *looks at Twilight Sparkle*  Hmm?

T.Sparkle: Why warn us about Ruinous?

Discord: Because I saw how Ruinous works, how he destroys ponies - to varying degrees of the expression.  NO pony deserves HIS wrath.....  I just..... didn't want that to happen to you girls.

Twilight Sparkle smiles and nuzzles Discord's dragon leg.  Discord looks down at her.

T.Sparkle: We got this, OK?  We will NOT fail.  We beat Nightmare Moon, we beat you and we overcame every obstacle with friendship, love and trust.  We WILL beat Ruinous AND his henchponies.  Now, come on.  THIS is not MY "Discord".

Twilight Sparkle trots out of the castle and smirks as she sees a HUGE cotton-candy raincloud!

T.Sparkle: MUCH better.

The lavender unicorn laughs as she returns home, gasping as she slips on a soapy dirt path.  She laughs and cheers as she slides all the way back to the library.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 12 - Enemies Into Friends

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 12 - Enemies Into Friends

The time: Two months after Discord revealed the threat to Equestria.

Despite the direness of Discord's warning, this is a time for celebration, for this day marks the one-year anniversary of Princess Cadence and Shining Armor and the two chose this day to renew their vows.  Twilight Sparkle murrs as she and the rest of the ponies ride up to the castle on the train.

N.Moon: So, tell me about this Cadence again.

T.Sparkle: Cadence was my favorite sitter while I was growing up in Canterlot.  She and I had fun every day!  She's kind, she's sweet, she's the best friend I ever had growing up!

N.Moon: Sounds like she was a blast a minute.

T.Sparkle: You have no idea, Nightmare Moon.  And Shining Armor, my BBBFF!

Nightmare Moon cocks her head quizzically.

T.Sparkle: Big Brother Best Friend Forever.

N.Moon: *smile* Aw.

T.Sparkle: *nod* He is an amazing pony, and the Captain of the Royal Guard.

N.Moon: Sounds like a real pony power couple.

Both mares laugh as the train crosses into Canterlot.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

As the train pulls up to Canterlot, Princess Cadence is there to meet it - and is almost tackled to the floor by Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: Cadence!

P.Cadence: Twilight!

The two mares hug, then.....

P.Cadence and T.Sparkle (while doing their special dance):

Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake,

*Twilight's non-Mane 6 friends minus Nightmare Moon walk off the train single-file*

Clop your hooves and do a little shake!

The two mares laugh as they hug each other, then Princess Cadence spots Virtuna.

P.Cadence: *GASP*  You poor thing!

In Fluttershy-ian style, Princess Cadence scoops up a dumbstruck Virtuna.

P.Cadence: How long have you gone with this?!

Virtuna: *blink* My whole life, miss?

P.Cadence: Is there ANYthing that could be DONE for you?

Virtuna: Not really.  I've gotten used to it, miss.

Corinne: She should get a l-l-load of MY fault.

As soon as Corinne starts stuttering, Princess Cadence locks eyes on the giraffe.

Corinne: Yes?

P.Cadence: You, too?!  *She looks at Twilight Sparkle incredulously*  You have two new friends and they.....

T.Sparkle: *laugh* Cadence, they're fine, they just have..... quirks.  (As each pony is introduced, they wave or bow at Princess Cadence) This is Virtuna, Pitstop, Trixie, Zecora and Corinne.

N.Moon (from inside the train): Corinne, how'd'ya get outta here?

Corinne: I-I-It's the doors near the f-f-front.

N.Moon (from inside the train): OK, I see it, thanks.

As the Mare in the Moon emerges, Princess Cadence shrieks in shock!

P.Cadence: WOW!  I knew you had unique friends since the last time we met, but I had NO idea one of them was the legendary Mare in the Moon!

N.Moon: *blush* *chuckle* Well-hey, I knew ponies thought of me, but I never thought they'd put THAT label on me.

P.Cadence: Really, you're a legend.  I must say, you've done a lot of good lately, though.

N.Moon: *nod* Just trying to help everypony.

P.Cadence: I've heard.

S.Armor: Twiley!

In comes Shining Armor, the unicorn hugging Twilight Sparkle.

S.Armor: SO glad you made it.

T.Sparkle: I wouldn't miss this for the world, big brother.

Shining Armor smiles, then notices Twilight Sparkle's new friends, most notably Nightmare Moon.

S.Armor: WHOA!  You're..... You're.....

N.Moon: *sweeping bow* Nightmare Moon, Version 2 and at your service.

Virtuna laughs her head off, making the black alicorn blush.

S.Armor: *chuckle* Interesting friends you met since our wedding, Twiley.

Trixie: *clears throat* The Great and Powerful Trixie chooses the word "unique".

That got both bride and groom laughing, then the two give the new arrivals a tour of the grounds where the party is to take place.  That night, the ponies go over their steps as Rarity unpacks their Gala dresses with Nightmare Moon playing the part of Princess Cadence and Trixie playing the part of Shining Armor.  The two mares are standing near a makeshift gazebo made of two mattresses and a bed.

N.Moon: OK, once more.

Trixie nods, then.....

N.Moon and Trixie (while doing it): Step, two, three, four, in, stop, *Nightmare Moon moves to the side to her right while Trixie goes to her left* one, two, turn and face.

When Nightmare Moon and Trixie are looking at each other, Fluttershy, then Rainbow Dash, then Rarity line up beside Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle, then Applejack, then Pinkie Pie line up beside Trixie.

N.Moon: Looks like we've got it.

???: I'll say!

Everypony looks and bows.  There standing in the doorway, trying to stifle a laugh, was Princess Celestia.

N.Moon: *blush* Just trying to lend a hoof.  Besides, Luna's out watching for Ruinous and his henchponies.

P.Celestia: I know, we had to beef up security even more than when we got that threat from the Changeling Queen.

Teacher and student nod at each other, remembering that.

N.Moon: Oh?

T.Sparkle: She's referring to when Shining Armor and Princess Cadence got married in the first place.  A changeling armada attacked Equestria, led by their leader, Queen Chrysalis, who was posing as Princess Cadence at the time.  I was the ONLY pony who picked up on it and nopony believed me at first.  It was only when I brought the REAL Cadence back from the Canterlot Caverns that the truth came out.

P.Celestia: I'd've thought I'd've been able to trust her instincts by then, but the Changeling Queen was such a master of deception.....

N.Moon: *hoof up*  Trust me, I know the feeling.  I was once a master of deception myself, remember?

P.Celestia: *nod* Yeah, you probably could've caught her, as well.  I just hope we NEVER have to deal with THAT again.

T.Sparkle: Hear here.  I thought I lost your respect.

P.Celestia: You got it back when you returned Princess Cadence to Shining Armor.

Twilight Sparkle smiles at Princess Celestia.  Then, the sun goddess leaves the room with a yawn.

T.Sparkle: *yawn* I guess we all need to turn in.

N.Moon: *nod* We got a LONG day ahead.

The ponies redo the beds they took apart to make the stand-in gazebo.  That night, Nightmare Moon ended up sleeping alone - until Twilight Sparkle nuzzled up to her.  The Mare in the Moon looked at the lavender mare and smiled.  The next day, the ponies went over their routine for the renewal of vows one more time, this time in their Gala dresses.  They hit it perfectly as Princess Cadence trots up, snickering a bit.

P.Cadence: Way to tutor, Nightmare Moon.  You SURE you don't do this when you're not busy watching over everypony's sleep?

N.Moon: *giggle and blush* Twi needed a stand-in for you so the others could practice their steps for when you and Shining Armor make it official - again.

P.Cadence: *smile* Still VERY nice of you.

N.Moon: *blush* Aw, thanks, Princess.

Princess Cadence walks on and passes by a tray of drinks.  One of the guards walks by the tray, it's horn glowing green for a second as one of the drinks also glows green.  Both glows last for a second, then die down slowly.  Princess Celestia walks by, picking up the glass that previously glowed and taking a swig.

P.Celestia: Everything all set?

Everypony nods and smiles at the ruler of Equestria.  Wedding music starts up as Shining Armor and Princess Cadence walk up, the bride on the left side and the groom on the right.  Just as Nightmare Moon and Trixie played out, they stepped into the gazebo, took one stride apart from each other, then turned to face each other as Princess Celestia stepped up to act as the priest.  Just as they rehearsed, Fluttershy, then Rainbow Dash, then Rarity line up in profile by Princess Cadence as Twilight Sparkle, then Applejack, then Pinkie Pie line up in profile by Shining Armor.  Nightmare Moon smiled proudly.

P.Celestia: VERY well done, Moon.

N.Moon: Thanks, Princess.

P.Celestia: Fillies and gentlecolts, we are gathered here to witness the renewal of the bond of love between Princess Cadence and Shining Armor.  Their love is unbreakable, their bond is undeniable and their devotion is unmistakable.  On this day, all will bear witness as these two renew their lifelong vow of commitment to each other.  *She turns to look at Princess Cadence*  Do you, Princess Cadence, take Shining Armor as your lawfully-married husband, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, forever and ever, as long as you both shall live?

P.Cadence: I do.

P.Celestia: *looks at Shining Armor* Do you, Shining Armor, take Princess Cadence as your lawfully-married wife, to have and to hold, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, in good times and bad, forever and ever, as long as you both shall live?

S.Armor: I do.

P.Celestia: Then with the power vested in me as the ruler of Equestria, I hereby re-pronounce you stallion and wife.  You may now kiss the bride.

Once again, the two kiss, Nightmare Moon touched to tears at the moment.  Princess Celestia chuckles as she catches her.

P.Celestia: No shame.

That got everypony laughing, bride and groom nuzzling Nightmare Moon.  Soon after, the reception is in full swing, the Mane 6 and Nightmare Moon enjoying themselves.

T.Sparkle: *blush* It was a moving moment the first time, too.

N.Moon: I know, but I didn't think they'd be that perfect for each other.

R.Dash: I usually stray from emotional stuff, but I'll admit it: It got me, too.

N.Moon: *nod* Yes.  *She blinks*  Hmm.

P.Pie: What?

N.Moon: Gotta get more punch.  I'll be right back.

T.Sparkle: OK, Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon magically lifts the punch bowl and trots off as the same guard from before heads for Princess Celestia.

Guard: Princess!  I must speak with you.

P.Celestia: Oh. OK?

The two head off to the side, a line of light being made as soon as the two clear the party grounds.

P.Celestia: What is-!!!

Princess Celestia gets whipped in the side by a glowing green lash from the guardpony!

P.Celestia: What is the meaning of this?!

The guardpony snickers as he transforms into the Changeling Queen from the wedding!

P.Celestia: YOU!

The white alicorn tries to use her magic, but to her horror, she can't!

Q.Chrysalis - Changeling Queen: Was THIS what you were trying to DO?!

Queen Chrysalis laughs as she whips Princess Celestia over and over, on her back, in her face and at her legs.  Ponies panicked as the Mane 6 and their new friends tried to intervene - only to smack against a barrier and get flung back so hard and so far that upon landing, Virtuna's artificial leg snaps in half!

T.Sparkle: Princess Celestia!

Nightmare Moon was still getting more punch when the hullabaloo started.

N.Moon: What the haybale?

She gets out of the line after setting the bowl down and heads back to the reception.  Along the way, she runs into Prince Blueblood.

N.Moon: What's going on?

P.Blueblood: Oh it's HORRID!  It's attacking the Princess!

N.Moon: What's-attacking-the-Princess? *angry hiss*

P.Blueblod: I dunno, it looks like an insect!

With a disgusted groan, Prince Blueblood runs off, Nightmare Moon running back to the grounds.  When she gets there, she sees Queen Chrysalis standing over Princess Celestia, the ruler of Equestria on the ground, wincing in pain and criss-crossed with whip marks.  Something snapped in the Mare in the Moon and she galloped full-speed at the Changeling Queen, silver light enveloping her as she burst out of the gazebo, taking wing over the other ponies as she flew faster and faster.....

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon?!

R.Dash: What's she doing?!

Nightmare Moon growls as she slams into the barrier put up by Queen Chrysalis - only to feel it break!  The breaking of the barrier distracted the Changeling Queen just enough for her to cease her assault on Princess Celestia, turning just in time to catch Nightmare Moon in the whole frontside, the Mare in the Moon resembling a comet!  The Changeling Queen hurtled skyward from the impact, Nightmare Moon in hot pursuit as she smacked the black monarch again and again.  After a while, Nightmare Moon smashes Queen Chrysalis WAY up in the air, flying up fast and surrounding herself with a big orb of silver light!

N.Moon: NOT TODAY, YOU!! METEOR CRUSH!!!

When the ball of silver light struck Queen Chrysalis, it explodes, sending the changeling flying straight up, Nightmare Moon following her up.  When the changeling started falling back down, Nightmare Moon flew up a bit more, turned in a double loop and started flying downwards, barrel-rolling all the way.

N.Moon: -WOW!  Rainbow Dash.....  THIS is why you LOVE flying fast!  This feels AMAZING!-

As Nightmare Moon spirals down after the changeling, a barrier appeared in front of her.  Rainbow Dash, Pitstop and the Wonderbolts gawk in amazement as the barrier shimmers silver and surrounds her.  As soon as she's within striking distance of Queen Chrysalis, BOOM!!  Nightmare Moon ends up not only doing two Sonic-Rainboom-like sonic booms almost instantaneously, she appears to go THROUGH the Changeling Queen!  Even Princess Celestia - through the pain - had her eyes on her former foe, mouth open in shock.  Queen Chrysalis slams to the ground by Princess Celestia, her crown flying off her head and landing next to Twilight Sparkle.  Nightmare Moon pulls out of her dive, soaring just over the ground.  She slams her hooves into the ground and flares her wings, skidding to a stop right in front of the gazebo.  Nightmare Moon's eyes are focused on Queen Chrysalis, as if she's trying to burn a hole through the changeling.  But that wasn't the most shocking thing about Nightmare Moon.  In place of her starry mane and tail was a nebula and her wings were outlined in silver light.  Her choker seemed to cover her from her neck down to where her wings joined her body and her helmet was more elaborate and covered with silver as well.  Nightmare Moon cocks her head at everypony looking amazedly at her.

N.Moon: What, do I have something in my teeth?

As Nightmare Moon licks her teeth with her mouth shut to check, Princess Cadence produces a mirror.  When Nightmare Moon saw her own reflection, the Mare in the Moon was shocked!

N.Moon: Holy..... By the silvery moon, this is.....

T.Sparkle: Wow!  And what power!  I mean.....

Twilight Sparkle gasps as she sees Princess Celestia struggling to get up and she rushes to the side of her beloved teacher.  Nightmare Moon follows her as the rest of the Mane 6 gather near her.

T.Sparkle: Princess Celestia!  Oh, my GOSH!

N.Moon: Everypony, MOVE.

The Mane 6 back away from the princess, Nightmare Moon laying by her.

N.Moon: Princess, up on my back.

Princess Celestia nods and slowly hugs Nightmare Moon from behind, her front hooves crossed around Nightmare Moon's chest, right in front of the crescent moon on her choker and her back legs hugging Nightmare Moon's waist, just in front of her cutie mark.  Giving herself a count of three, Nightmare Moon rises to her hooves, a bit off balance due to Princess Celestia's weight, but she soon catches herself, carrying Princess Celestia back to the reception area.  Shining Armor and Princess Cadence get a lounge-style sofa to the princess as Nightmare Moon puts her on it with her magic, dropping to the ground beside her as she returns to normal.  The two alicorns slowly turn to face each other.

N.Moon: You've GOT to lay off those oat smoothies, Princess.

Both alicorns laugh.

P.Celestia: I know, *tosses her mane* but the ones by the stadium are just so GOOD!

N.Moon: Indeed!  Especially the raspberry ones.

P.Celestia: *GASP!* *laugh* I like strawberry myself.

As both alicorns laugh again, two more guardponies emerge.  Spotting Queen Chrysails' motionless body and her crown, they turn into two younger changelings resembling her, one male and one female, bearing big grins.

P.Celestia: *blink* More?

Nightmare Moon slowly rises from the ground, ready to fight again, then.....

Changeling M: You did THAT to Mother?

N.Moon: I did.

Changeling M: THANK YOU!!

P.Celestia: *groans as she looks at the two younger changelings* "Thank you"?

Changeling F: Yes, thank you!

Changeling M: You don't know what this means!

P.Celestia: Then tell us.

The two changelings whimper as they see Princess Celestia in her condition.  They fly up and throw a green fireball at the white alicorn, healing her and restoring her powers!  The two alicorns gasp in shock as Princess Celestia slowly gets back up, bearing no evidence of the beating she took from Queen Chrysalis.

P.Celestia: OK, that's impressive.

Changeling M: Thank you!  *giggles*  Where are *lands* my manners?  My name is Prince Shiftshape and this is *The female changeling lands* my sister, Princess Morphina.

P.Morphina: *bow*  How do you do?

N.Moon: Not bad.  Your mother sorta..... made a mess of our party.

P.Shiftshape: *nod and blush* Yeah, she's not a fan of Equestria.

P.Celestia: Oh?

P.Morphina: She wanted to destroy Equestria just to destroy Equestria.  Feeding on love was just an excuse, see, we're trying to vary our diets a bit.

Applejack: Well, that's mighty big of ya'll.

P.Shiftshape: *nod* We thought so, too.  Anyway, we have something else that our mother hated.  *He looks in a saddlebag*  SHOULD be in here..... *Princess Luna walks up*  Don't tell me she.....

Princess Morphina helps her brother look, then.....

Virtuna: HEY!

Both changelings look at the struggling pony trying to carry a black scroll with a green ribbon and gold seal wrapping it up.

Virtuna: What the hay-hoo is this thing?!

P.Shiftshape: *GASP!* My scroll!  *pulls it to him with his magic*  Thank you, little pony!

Virtuna: You're welcome?

Prince Shiftshape floats the scroll towards Princess Celestia.

P.Shiftshape: Here.  This'll explain everything.

N.Moon: *intercepts the scroll and undoes the ribbon* I'LL read it.

Nightmare Moon trots off to a side as she reads, then slowly stops.

T.Sparkle: What?  *walks to Nightmare Moon a bit*  What is it?

N.Moon: "On this 25th day of.....", "the soverign nation of Transforma and the nation of Equestria..... shall enter into civic union.....", *She turns slowly to look at Twilight Sparkle* this is a peace treaty.

Twilight Sparkle gasps.

T.Sparkle: *floats over an invitation* And it's dated the day AFTER the wedding.

P.Celestia: Really?

Princess Celestia walks to Nightmare Moon and looks over the treaty.  After both alicorns nod in agreement, Princess Celestia signs it.

P.Celestia: Fillies and gentlecolts, you are all witness to a peaceful union between two nations.  The crimes of the mother shall not be handed down to the next generation.  Prince Shiftshape, Princess Morphina, welcome to Equestria!

Everypony cheers as Prince Shiftshape nuzzles Princess Celestia.

P.Luna: Aw!

Princess Celestia blushes as she smiles at Prince Shiftshape.  Two guards take Queen Chrysalis into custody, her powers sealed forever by the power of Nightmare Moon's attack.  Twilight Sparkle finds Queen Chrysalis' crown and floats it to Princess Morphina.

P.Morphina: *takes it* Thanks, Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: I'm sure you'd bring honor to that crown, Princess Morphina.

P.Morphina: *bow* I will, Twilight.

Princess Cadence smiles at Princess Morphina.

P.Cadence: You're certainly an interesting one, Princess Morphina.

P.Morphina: *smile* We're gonna have fun teaching each other.

T.Sparkle: I'm sure of that!

All three mares laugh as the Wonderbolts smirk at Nightmare Moon.

Spitfire: OK, you!  *Nightmare Moon giggles*  Have you been watching Rainbow Dash flying?

Soarin: That was remarkable!

N.Moon: *blush* Well, that FELT remarkable!  I understand why you fly so fast, that was the greatest feeling I ever had!  *The Wonderbolts smile*  And those tricks you do!  All I did was a pair of loops and an extended barrel-roll and WOO!!

Spitfire: Actually, I was referring to what happened during that long barrel-roll.  Did you know you made what appeared to be a DOUBLE "Rainboom" while you were attacking the Changeling Queen?

N.Moon: Seriously?  I was just thinking about "How DARE she attack the Princess like that?!", I didn't pay much attention to anything peripheral.

Soarin: That was an amazing trick, and you say you weren't trying?  *Nightmare Moon shakes her head*  Wonder what you can do when you DO try.

All three laugh as Princess Celestia walks up.

P.Celestia: I concur, Nightmare Moon.  I have to ask you, where did you get that power?

N.Moon: Not sure.....  I saw Queen Chrysalis beating you and just..... felt something deep in me just..... snap.

P.Celestia: *nod* I'd keep an eye on that.  If you did that to Queen Chrysalis and the rest of the Bearers of Harmony inherit that power.....

N.Moon: Then we have nothing to worry about when it comes to facing Ruinous.

P.Celestia: Oh?

N.Moon: *smile* If each of those ponies can self-amplify their Elements of Harmony, then their collective hearts already beat in synch with the Heart of Equestria.  And you said we can beat Ruinous when that happens, right?  Trust me, Princess, the seeds of our victory have been planted, and with *she returns to the form she had after beating Queen Chrysalis* ME on the team, we... will..... win.

P.Celestia: You seem so sure, Nightmare Moon.  *She smiles at the black alicorn*  Good.

Nightmare Moon smiles as she sees Princess Celestia walk off.

N.Moon: -From enemy to hero..... This'll be a story for my memoirs.-

Nightmare Moon laughs as Virtuna trots up to her as best she can.  The black mare flips the three-legged filly on her back with a smile.

Virtuna: Thanks, Moon.

N.Moon: You're welcome, Virtuna.

As the reception restarts, Princess Luna smiles at her former dark side.

P.Luna (voice-over to all the ponies having fun):

Dear Princess Celestia,

Usually, one can count on friends to be there when times are good.  But the true measure of friendship is when times are bad.  A friend that will help you out of your darkest times is a friend to truly call on.  And even the worse enemies can eventually be the greatest friends ever, good times OR bad.

Your loving sister,

Princess Luna.

Princess Celestia heads to her bedroom after the party to see the letter Luna wrote.  Reading it, she laughed and murred with a proud smile on her face.

P.Celestia: Just like my Twilight Sparkle.

Finishing the letter, Princess Celestia heads to bed.  After she lays in bed and puts the covers on, she hears a whump by her.  She turns and smiles warmly.  There, sleeping on top of the covers, was Nightmare Moon.

P.Celestia: rest well, my protector.

With a chuckle, she lays back down and sleeps.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 14 - Hiding in the Shadows

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 14 - Hiding in the Shadows

The time: A month after Zecora gets her Element of Harmony.

Nightmare Moon stretches and rises, off to do her duties for the night.  Princess Luna meets her in the throne room, shivering a bit.

N.Moon: Luna?

P.Luna: Nightmare Moon!  There's been a rash of crazy nightmares around lately, I'm not sure if you can clear these.

N.Moon: *smirk* I got it, Luna.

The larger alicorn murrs as she takes wing and flies around.  She flies by Twilight Sparkle's library, seeing Spike having a bad nightmare.  She glows silver in an attempt to pull the nightmare out, but it was MUCH harder to this time.....

N.Moon: Hmm?

After MUCH effort, she finally got Spike's nightmare out of his sleep, the black mare gasping and panting a bit.

N.Moon: -This can only be.....-

Nightmare Moon growls, flying off to see if any other ponies needed her help.  She'd find no shortage tonight.....

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

The next morning, everypony was talking about the crazy dreams they had before Nightmare Moon took them away, the mare herself trotting in.

N.Moon: *gasp, pant*  Sleep well?

The Mane 6 smirk at Nightmare Moon.

T.Sparkle: Bit out-of-practice?

N.Moon: I know what you ponies are thinking, and I THINK I know what happened.

Spike: What?  Us having the WORST nightmares since you started taking them away?

N.Moon: I saw that, Spike.  I was referring to WHY you had the worst nightmares since I started taking them away.

R.Dash: Oh?

N.Moon: *nod*  You remember Philomena?

Fluttershy: Princess Celestia's pet phoenix?

N.Moon: *nod*  I have my own version, and he's a bit more..... mischevious.  Problem is, he zips from pony to pony, causing nightmares.  He was my right hoof when I was a jealous evil mare bent on causing nighttime everlasting, and apparently he didn't get the memo that I'm not that jealous evil mare anymore.

T.Sparkle: Why can't'cha just talk to him?

N.Moon: Since I haven't seen him for 200 years.  We usually work without the other's intervention.

R.Dash: That's stupid.  You two should be a team, right?

N.Moon: We ARE, we just work independent of each other.

The Mane 6 nod, satisfied - for now.

N.Moon: For now, I implore you, write down what you dream before you see me pull your nightmares out.  I NEED to see where he is so I can give him a wake-up call, OK?

Virtuna: Hey, no prob, Moon.

P.Pie: We'll certainly help out.

Rarity: Sure.

Nightmare Moon smiles and heads out, sighing.

Applejack: She's a bit frazzled 'bout this, I can tell.  She's been workin' harder than I do during harvest season tryin' ta change her image, and this pet of hers is undoin' it.

Fluttershy: Poor Nightmare Moon.....  *blink!*  Oh, my.....

The Mane 6 chuckle as Virtuna heads for Fluttershy.

Virtuna: Never thought you'd say THAT, eh?

That got all seven ponies laughing.  That night, several ponies had bad dreams, Nightmare Moon having to work overtime to collect them.  The ponies then wake up and hand over their reports.

N.Moon: Really, he's not that bad - or he won't be once I tell him I've changed.

A.Bloom: I hope so, this is getting ridiculous.

N.Moon: *smirk* Let's change places, THEN you'll know what's ridiculous.

The two chuckle a bit, then Apple Bloom hands over her report.

N.Moon: Good night.

A.Bloom: I hope.....

Nightmare Moon sighs, feeling bad for the little filly.  She flies off collecting more nightmares and reports.  Nightmare Moon goes over the reports as she flies around.

N.Moon: *flies over Twilight's library*  1.....  *Sugar Cube Corner*  2.....  *Sweet Apple Acres*  3.....  *Rainbow Dash's house*  4.....  *Carousel Boutique*  5..... *She turns her head quickly and discovers one house left, Fluttershy's cottage!*  NO!

The Mare in the Moon takes off fast for Fluttershy's cottage, just in time to see the poor pegasus shivering in bed.  She growls, slamming her front hooves, silver light surrounding the cottage and waking up Fluttershy, who was still shaking in terror.

N.Moon: Hang on, Fluttershy!

Nightmare Moon smiles reassuringly at Fluttershy as the rest of the ponies gallop in.  Fluttershy returns the smile, then Nightmare Moon glares angrily.

N.Moon: Get out here, NOW!

Rainbow Dash was about to gallop up until Applejack bit her tail to stop her.  Then, a large black bird about twice Philomena's size flew out of Fluttershy's shadow!

Mane 6: WHOA!

Applejack: LANDS SAKES!  What IS that?!

N.Moon: *looks at Applejack* It's a shadowhawk, my pet, Malphorious.  *She glares up at the shadowhawk*  GET DOWN HERE!

The bird looks down at the Mare in the Moon, but doesn't move.  Fluttershy watches the large beast as it hovers over its master.

N.Moon: RIGHT NOW, MISTER!

Fluttershy: HEY!  Get down here!

The bird coos a bit as it lands on Fluttershy's footboard.

Fluttershy (with Nightmare Moon and the rest of the Mane 6 looking on in shock): Look here you!  Who do you think you are?!  Giving Nightmare Moon's friends nightmares and trying to undo her hard work?!  She's NOT the jealous "Mare in the Moon" anymore!!  She's the "Sentinel of the Stars"!!  She's trying to PRO-TECT us!!  Or did you not see what she did at the Royal Anniversary!?

The shadowhawk coos nervously.

Fluttershy: Don't'cha coo like that at ME, PAL!  SHE is YOUR MASTER, and SHE is NOT EVIL ANYMORE!!!  Now *hoof on the bird's chest* YOU apologize to *points at Nightmare Moon* HER, AND DO IT RIGHT NOW!!!!!

The bird coos ashamedly, head down at Nightmare Moon.  It then lands on Nightmare Moon's back.

N.Moon: Uh........... What-the-hay-and-oats-just-happened?!  Malphorious here was spreading terror in the night and Fluttershy.....

The Mane 6 except for a hotly-blushing Fluttershy laugh.

R.Dash: Yeah, she..... gets that way sometimes.

N.Moon: Oh?

T.Sparkle: Yeah.  One time there was a dragon who was threatening to blanket Equestria under heavy smoke.  When we got up to the top of the mountain where he was sleeping, Fluttershy told us she was scared of dragons - until it cornered all of us and then, well, Fluttershy just.....

N.Moon: Gave that dragon the stern talking-to she just did to Malphorious.

Nightmare Moon looks at Fluttershy.

N.Moon: I gotta say this: You *lays near Fluttershy* are amazing when it's time to get tough, you're tougher than I thought.

Fluttershy: Aw.

Fluttershy nervously chuckles then blushes as Nightmare Moon nuzzles her.  Then, with a coo, Malphorious nuzzles Fluttershy, making all the ponies laugh.

N.Moon: Dear Princess Celestia,

Today - well, toNIGHT - I learned that one must not underestimate anypony in any situation.  No matter what obstacle is in the way, friends can help anypony find a way around or through.  And no matter what kind of pony one is, they can always find inspiration from the strength of another.

Your former enemy,

Nightmare Moon.

P.Luna: What is that, sister?

P.Celestia: *floats the scroll over* You won't believe it.

P.Luna: *reads, then gasps* A letter about FRIENDSHIP?  From NIGHTMARE MOON?!

P.Celstia: *smile* Indeed.

Discord walks in and the princesses look at him.

Discord: Hmm?

P.Celestia: *holds up the scroll* Your turn.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 15 - Making the Connection

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 15 - Making the Connection

The time: One month after Malphorious got an attitude adjustment from Fluttershy.

Nightmare Moon trots past Princess Luna with Malphorious on her back.  The shadowhawk regards the princess of the night with a coo.

P.Luna: WOW!

N.Moon: He's cool when he behaves.  *Malphorious screeches*  Don't you screech at me, birdbrain.  YOU know what you did.  You behave or we're going to see Fluttershy again, comprende?

Malphorious cowers a bit and Princess Luna blinks.

P.Luna: Fluttershy?

N.Moon: Long story.

The Mare in the Moon sighs, trotting to her quarters.

N.Moon: WHY didn't I just get a dog like Applejack has?

Princess Luna laughs.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Business is booming at Sugar Cube Corner as cupcakes and muffins are piling up.  Nightmare Moon heads in, sniffing the air.

N.Moon: SOMEthing smells GOOD!

P.Pie: All these cupcakes and muffins are for the picnic we're planning!

Just then.....

?????: MUFFINS!

Pinkie Pie swipes a tray of muffins away just before a gray pegasus fem with blond hair and bubbles for a cutie mark crashes down where it was.

P.Pie: Sorry, Derpy, THESE are for the picnic.

N.Moon: Pinkie Pie, that's not a nice name to call her.

D.Hooves: No, miss, that IS my name, I'm Derpy Hooves, I'm the mailpony.

N.Moon: Oh!  I see.  My name's Nightmare Moon.

D.Hooves: Pleased to meet you, Miss Moon.

N.Moon: *chuckle* Likewise, Derpy.

P.Pie: Daw!

D.Hooves: MUFFINS!

Derpy Hooves tries to dive at the plate again - only to hit a force field put there by Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: We'll invite you to the picnic if you want, Derpy.

D.Hooves: OK, Twilight.

The mailmare flies out of the bakery.  That afternoon, the picnic is underway, the princesses and changelings joining them.  Prince Shiftshape has some exciting news.

P.Shiftshape: I just found out something.

T.Sparkle: What is it, Prince Shiftshape?

P.Shiftshape: Our castles are on opposite sides of the same mountain.

P.Morphina: It's how our mother was able to attack during the wedding.

T.Sparkle: Oh?

P.Celestia: Indeed.  Prince Shiftshape wants to build a tunnel between our castles, so each can keep an eye on the other and respond quickly to the others' problems.

R.Dash: Sounds like a big job!

P.Shiftshape: It is, but it'll be worth it.

Applejack: That's the right thinkin', Your Highness.

The changeling murrs happily, enjoying himself with his new friends.  Later on, in Transforma's capital city of Shiftopolis, Prince Shiftshape outlines the plan for the tunnel to Canterlot to a crew.

P.Shiftshape: OK, men.  Here's what we need to do: We have to make this link with my throne room and Celestia's.  That's the best way to contact her should we need help from her or the Bearers of Harmony.

Changeling M Near the Back: Either that or you love Princess Celestia.

A wave of laughter spreads through the crew as both royals blush.

P.Shiftshape: Can you blame me?  I mean, have you HEARD of her kindness?

P.Morphina: And how she forgave us after Nightmare Moon socked our mother around.

P.Shiftshape: I REALLY want to help them how she helped us, and this is one way to ensure we CAN.  Shall we begin?

Crew: YEAH!

The prince and princess oversee the building of the tunnel.  Meanwhile, in Canterlot, another crew is assembled to build a tunnel in the opposite direction.

P.Celestia: This tunnel will ensure that our friends in Transforma can contact us whenever needed.

Crew Member M: Plus, you can visit Prince Shiftshape.

P.Celestia: *nervous laugh and blush* OR he can visit us.

Crew Member M: Gotta watch YOU two around Hearts and Hooves Day.

Laughter ripples through the pony crew, even after Princess Celestia playfully douses the pony with water.

P.Celestia: OK, OK, my feelings aside, this tunnel is further proof of the partnership between our two lands.  From now on, we will have nothing to fear from or about the Changelings.

Ponies cheer as they get to work.  Large, burly earth ponies kick at the wall of rock while unicorns carry the rock dislodged away with magic.  On the Transforma side, the changelings are using magic to both dislodge the rock and carry it out of the tunnel, tiles for walls and a floor being prepared nearby.  Prince Shiftshape was overseeing construction on his side.

P.Shiftshape: Our mother would NEVER do this.

Up walks a changeling about 1-1/2 times his size, it was Captain of the Guard Imitato.

CotG Imitato: She WOULD, but not for the reason you're doing it.

P.Shiftshape: *nod* I know.  If Nightmare Moon HADN'T smashed my mother how she did.....

CotG Imitato: *nod* Say no more, I understand.  Equestria probably would've been over-run.

P.Shiftshape: Fortunately, our mother's command over the army was terminated before she attacked during the anniversary.

CotG Imitato: Frankly, I dunno which was the bigger head-shakingly bad move: Trying again to invade Equestria, or trying again to invade Equestria without the army.

???: Neither.

Both changelings look to see Princess Luna, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash and Rarity walk up.

R.Dash: Invading Equestria without the army and WITH Nightmare Moon acting as Princess Celestia's protector - THAT was the dumbest move of all!

CotG Imitato: *chuckle* So I've heard.  Is this Nightmare Moon REALLY that powerful?

P.Luna: She WAS responsible for Equestria constantly being under darkness eternal.  Since her latest run-in with the Elements of Harmony, she's been working her hooves to the bone trying to make things right.

CotG Imitato: VERY commendable.

P.Pie: EVERYpony thinks so, Captain.

R.Dash: So, YOU'RE Imitato, eh?

CotG Imitato: *chuckle* Yeah.  YOU must be Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: Indeed I am!

Rarity: We were sent here to monitor the construction of the tunnel from this end.  *She blinks as she notices the tiles*  What're these?

P.Shiftshape: They're sis' idea.  She didn't think everyone using the tunnel would appreciate just going through a plain tunnel carved in the mountain.

Rarity: Well, let me see if you have the colors right.

The fashionista trots over to the tile workers.  Back in Equestria, Princess Celestia, Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy and Applejack look over the tunnel to Shiftopolis.

Applejack: Good work, ya'll!  Keep it up!

Drinks are passed out as the ponies work hard.  Several hours later, progress is on schedule as the workers on both ends take a break.  The next day, tunnel construction kicks up as the two keep digging through the mountain, but there was one small hitch:

R.Dash: Why in the wide world of Equestria have we not met the other team yet?

CotG Imitato: Beats me.  Maybe the mountain's wider that we thought at this point.

Rarity: Well, we seem to have enough tiles to cover all this dreadful dirt.

P.Shiftshape: *chuckle* Real appearance-conscious, eh?

Rarity: *nod* I ALWAYS try to help my friends look their absolute best, no matter what or where.

P.Shiftshape: Can't wait to see what you have planned for US.

Rarity: It'll be a challenge, but I'm always up to it.

P.Shiftshape: *smile* That's the spirit!

The two brohoof as they continue digging.  Checking back with the other team, Applejack has the same concern as Rainbow Dash.

Applejack: C'mon, we HAVE to be more than halfway through this mountain.

T.Sparkle: Hmm..... *takes out a map of the mountain*  .....This IS odd.  How in the world are we not meeting up with the other tunnelers?

Fluttershy: I can't even hear them digging.....

P.Celestia: It must just be because the rock here is dense or something.

The ponies shrug as they continue on, a cross-section showing the two tunnels as the teams dig parallel to each other, passing each other without knowing it!  Back with Prince Shiftshape's team, humming is heard as Rarity keeps helping lay tiles.

CotG Imitato: How wide IS this mountain?

P.Shiftshape: I'm not sure.  No one's ever dug into this thing before - from EITHER end.

The Captain of the Changeling Guard shrugs as work continues.  Some time later, Princess Morphina notices a tapping coming from..... the barracks?

P.Morphina: What the?

Princess Morphina puts the lights on in the barracks just in time to see Applejack kicking her way through the wall!

P.Morphina: Applejack!

Applejack: YEE-HAW!!  We made it!  *looks around*  Hang on, this don't look right.

P.Morphina: Where were you supposed to emerge?

Applejack: I thought we were ta hook up in the middle of the courtyard.  *looks around*  This-isn't-the-courtyard?

P.Morphina: NO!  This is the No.8 barracks!

Applejack: *blush*  I guess we were a bit mis-aligned, Princess.....!  Hold a minute.  If OUR tunnel came out in the barracks, where'd'ya'll's tunnel end up?

Nightmare Moon walks through the hallway near the royal bedroom when she hears a tapping on the wall.

N.Moon: What the?

The Mare in the Moon heads in to investigate.  She is shocked to see bits of the wall crumbling.....

N.Moon: You're kidding.  You're kidding, right?

P.Luna (through the wall): Moon!  *Nightmare Moon startles up straight*  Is that you?

N.Moon: Yeah!

P.Luna: Can you see where the tunnel's gonna end up?!

N.Moon: *looks around*  I'm right by it!  C-Come through and look for yourselves, *camera shifts to inside the tunnel* I promise you, you won't believe it!

P.Luna: OK!

Rainbow Dash kicks the rest of the way through as Prince Shiftshape and Captain Imitato exchange curious glances.  The wall crumbled to the floor and Princess Luna stepped out into the room, squealing like a pig in a full-on laughing fit when she realized where in Canterlot she was!  In fact, the moon goddess was laughing so much, she couldn't complete a full sentence!

R.Dash: Lemme guess: This ISN'T the courtyard?

N.Moon: No!  You dug a tunnel into.....  You wound up in.....

The Mare in the Moon ends up on the floor with Princess Luna as Prince Shiftshape emerges, blushing.

CotG Imitato: So, who's gonna tell Celestia?

That got everyone laughing.  Not long after, the two royals met in the royal ballroom for a gala party celebrating the completion of the tunnel to exchange experiences.  There was, as predicted, a lot of laughter.

P.Shiftshape: Hold on, the No.8 barracks!?

Applejack: *blush* Uh, yeah, Your Highness.  Apparently our castles were kinda off-kelter of each other.

P.Morphina: I heard a tapping coming from the wall and came in just in time to see Applejack kicking out the rear wall.  She had the most adorable look on her face, "This ISN'T the courtyard?"!

Applejack and Princess Morphina laugh, Princess Celestia joining in.

P.Celestia: Well, what about YOUR team, Prince Shiftshape?  Where did YOU end up?

P.Luna: You won't believe it, sis.

P.Celestia: Try me.

P.Shiftshape: Your bedroom?

The ruler of Equestria laughed out loud.

P.Celestia: You're-kidding?  *looks at Nightmare Moon*  Is he kidding?

N.Moon: He's not kidding.

That got the white alicorn laughing more.

P.Shiftshape: No WONDER nobody ever tried digging through the mountain.

P.Celestia: Well, look at it like this: You have a tunnel heading to my room *blush* that you can use whenever you need me, right?

P.Morphina: True, but YOU don't have a tunnel to OUR room.

Discord: *clears throat* Let ME take care of that.....

Discord flies out and smirks as he spots the two tunnels.  He murrs, using his magic to fuse them into one, Princess Celestia's throne room connected with Prince Shiftshape's.  The changeling murrs as he monitors Discord's work.

P.Shiftshape: Why didn't we think of him?

P.Celestia: Good question.

Both rulers laugh as Discord floats back in.

Discord: There we go.

P.Morphina: Thanks, Discord.

Discord: Aw, no problem, princess.

The next day, there was a huge ceremony on both ends as the new tunnel was opened to the public of both countries.  From then on, Transforma and Equestria would help each other and look after each other..... and it was a good thing, too, as seven dark silhouettes were watching the proceedings.  Six small shadows and a larger one glare with red eyes at the partnership between the ponies and changelings.

????? - male 1: So..... When do we attack?

????? - male 2: They seem to be getting stronger faster than we thought.

????? - female: With our powers, their partnerships won't matter.

????? - male 3 - deeper voice: Even so, we cannot take any chances..... We must annihilate them completely..... Elements or no Elements.

Male 1: What do we do, then?

Female: We get stronger.....

Male 2: We ALL get stronger.....

Male 3: MUCH stronger.....

The sinister shapes dissipate into the shadows.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 16 - Genesis: RESPECT

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 16 - Genesis: RESPECT

The time: One month after the completion of the tunnel between Equestria and Transforma.

Prince Shiftshape flies into the Canterlot courtyard as Nightmare Moon is flying around, trying to see if she can be as fast as when she battled Queen Chrysalis.

P.Shiftshape: Hello, Nightmare Moon!

N.Moon: *POINK!*  *looks down*  *laugh*  Heya, Prince!  *lands by him*  What brings you here?

P.Shiftshape: I wanna invite the Wonderbolts to perform at a special ceremony at my castle.

N.Moon: *smile*  You guys are so nice once Queen Chrysalis was overthrown.

P.Shiftshape: We were ALWAYS nice, Mother just wanted to rule with an iron hoof.  Changelings are more mischevious than malicious.

N.Moon: You play pranks instead of break up celebrations, eh?

P.Shiftshape: *nod*  We can actually survive on what YOU eat, Mother just had it in our heads that love was a sort of super-fuel.

N.Moon: Well, your mother's not gonna be a problem anymore.

P.Shiftshape: *nod*  And we couldn't be more grateful.

The two nuzzle up, then.....

P.Celestia: AW!

N.Moon and P.Shiftshape: CELESTIA!

Princess Celestia laughs as Nightmare Moon and Prince Shiftshape chase her around a bit.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

The sky above Shiftopolis resonates with cheering as changelings and ponies await the appearance of Equestria's top flying team, the Wonderbolts.  The patrons pack a stadium similar to Canterlot's stadium.  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop put on their uniforms in the dressing room as Soarin and Spitfire walk in.

Soarin: Heya, girls.

R.Dash: Heya, Soarin, Spitfire.

Pitstop: What's up, luv?

Spitfire: This is going to be a bit wild, seeing as Transforma has their own version of the Wonderbolts.

R.Dash: MORE Wonderbolts?!

Soarin: *chuckle* Such enthusiasm..... They're called the ChangeWings.  They'll be performing by themselves and alongside us.

Pitstop: Should we meet them, luv?

The veteran Wonderbolts step aside and three changelings their size trot in, soon accompanied by a fourth the size of Big Macintosh.

R.Dash: Wow!

Spitfire: This is JetStream, he's said to be the fastest flier in Transforma.

JetStream - Big-Macintosh-sized Changeling M: Pleasure to meet you.

R.Dash: Likewise, sir.

JetStream: You must be Rainbow Dash.  I have heard about you.

R.Dash: Oh?

JetStream: Yes, how you're the Element of Loyalty, about your bravery and about your speed and confidence in flight.  If your skill is half as good as the tales of your abilities, this should be a great show.

Spitfire: *chuckle* This WILL be a great show, I've seen first-hoof how amazing Rainbow is as a flier.

JetStream: *nod* I'm looking forward to it.

As JetStream leaves, Pitstop and Rainbow Dash and the other three ChangeWings exchange bows.  Then, the ChangeWings follow their leader out of the room, heading to their dressing room to change.  Meanwhile, their friends sit down in a box next to the royal box.

P.Shiftshape: This oughta be exciting!

Corinne: In-n-ndeed, Your Highness.  Shiftopolis is am-m-mazing!

P.Morphina: That's why our city has a reputation for never being the same place twice.

Applejack: Nice slogan.

Princess Morphina and Applejack laugh.  Then, the sound of a loud whoosh caused everyone in the stadium to look up as the Wonderbolts performed the first set of stunts.  The changelings were amazed at the display of loops, flips and spirals performed by Princess Celestia's elite air-stunt team.

P.Shiftshape: Wow.....

The changeling prince gasps as he spots Rainbow Dash flying around with her heroes.  Rainbow Dash seemed to wink right at Prince Shiftshape as she climbs way up in the sky with Pitstop.  The two pegasi wink at each other, then do opposing loops before going into a spiral together, hurtling down towards the ground!

P.Morphina: What the.....?

P.Celestia: Oh, my.....

The two pegasi flew down, building up speed.  A wall began forming in front of them, eventually bending around them as they flew faster, faster, faster.....  BOOM!!!  Gasps and cheers break out as Rainbow Dash and Pitstop perform a Double Sonic Rainboom, their Sonic Rainbooms making an X-shape in mid-air!  Even the Wonderbolts were impressed and JetStream was rendered speechless!  The two pegasi fly out of their corkscrew dive and upwards, crossing over the stadium with their respective "rainbow" trails behind them.  The two exchange a high-hoof over the stadium, a spark and a small blast echoing from the connection.  The royals and Nightmare Moon were speechless as Rainbow Dash and Pitstop landed.

JetStream: OK, where.....  I mean, HOW..... That was incredible!

P.Celestia: When I saw you two at the Wonderbolts tryout, I wondered what would've happened if you performed together, but THAT superseded ALL my expectations!

R.Dash: We were working on that stunt just for this occasion.

P.Shiftshape: Time well spent, you two are absolutely amazing together.

Pitstop: Thanks, Your Highness.

The two mares bow at the royals, the royals bowing back as the crowd cheers their display.  A short while later, the ChangeWings take to the air.  JetStream and his crew amaze the ponies with a thrilling aerobatics display, his team's finale being an attempt at a Sonic Rainboom.  He does manage to pull one off, but it wasn't as spectacular as Rainbow Dash's.  Nevertheless, it still impressed everypony in attendance, the royals applauding the ChangeWings' effort.

JetStream: *blush* Well, what can I do?  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop had the entire stadium going bananas.

The royals chuckle a bit.

R.Dash: I can give you a few pointers on that if ya'd like, JetStream.

JetStream: *smile* Sounds good, Rainbow.

Corinne: Still, i-i-it was a great t-t-try.  A-A-Actually, this place is a nice k-k-kingdom.

P.Shiftshape: We're working on cleaning up our mother's damages.

Corinne: So f-f-far, you're doing am am-m-mazing job.

P.Morphina: Aw, thanks.

Nightmare Moon smiles at the giraffe as Rainbow Dash works a bit with JetStream.

R.Dash: Now, watch carefully.

Rainbow Dash takes off, JetStream following.  The ChangeWing watches how the Wonderbolt flies, taking notes and trying a few of her tricks.  Before long, the two were flying just under fast enough to make a Sonic Rainboom.

R.Dash: Got it?

JetStream: *nod* Indeed, thanks a lot, Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: Aw, you're welcome, JetStream.

The two hug up and return to the stadium.  JetStream rejoins the ChangeWings as Rainbow Dash lands next to the Wonderbolts.

Spitfire: *smile* You are truly incredible, Rainbow.

R.Dash: Aw, thanks.

The two pegasi hug up and take to the air over the crowd with the ChangeWings.

JetStream: Ponies and changelings, we've been honored and priviledged to entertain you all today.  Our friends, the Wonderbolts, have also been amazing so far today.  We have a special surprise for you all today.  Coming out of retirement for one day only, please welcome, from the Wonderbolts, Meteor Strike and from the ChangeWings, Illusion!

The crowd goes nuts as the two legends take to the air.  Illusion rises next to JetStream, the Nightmare-Moon-sized changeling bowing at the Wonderbolts.  Likewise, Meteor Strike bowed at the ChangeWings.

Corinne: W-W-WOW!  Now we'll see something R-R-REALLY special!

T.Sparkle: That we will, Corinne.

The two teams did not disappoint, flying with grace and speed all around, amazing all in attendance.  Illusion and Meteor Strike were especially outstanding, showing why they're legendary figures in their respective teams.  But the grand finale was especially amazing: JetStream and Rainbow Dash giving a team Sonic Rainboom a go.

R.Dash: Ya remember everything?

JetStream: *nod* Indeed.

The two smile at each other, then they fly up and pull opposing loops before diving in a team corkscrew.  Pitstop smirks as she see where this is going, then she smiles at one of the ChangeWings, flying up with him.  Soon after, five pairs fly up and start their own Tandem Rainbooms.  As the walls bend over the five tandems, they seem to be flying right at each other.  They flew in a star-shape pattern towards each other..... BOOM!  The crowd goes nuts as they see a massive Sonic Rainboom fly out from the center of the star.  Ponies and changelings flew around in wide arcs, trails of light following them.

P.Shiftshape: WOW!

Corinne: Unbelievable!

The aerialists land and bow to the heavily-admiring crowd.  The two legends step forward and take a bow.  Corinne seems to be most impressed.

Corinne: Th-th-that was incre-e-edible, Meteor S-S-Strike.  Pitstop w-w-was talking a l-l-lot about you during the Ga-a-ala, and now I see wh-wh-why!

M.Strike: *smile* Thanks, Corinne.

Corinne: And y-y-you, Illusion!  I s-s-see where you got your n-n-name!  I c-c-can't believe how l-l-like us you all are.  Thanks s-s-so much for allowing me here.

Illusion: Aw, shucks.  We're all just lucky to know someone as respectful *Nightmare Moon perks up* as you are.

Before even Nightmare Moon could say anything, a bright flash shone out from Canterlot and crystals flew on the breeze towards Corinne!

P.Shiftshape: Is-this?

P.Celestia: Oh, my.....

Corinne murrs as she receives a necklace with the larger crystal from her cutie mark as the charm.  Illusion chuckles as he sees the giraffe bowing at Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: Nice gesture, but this is all you.  Your incredible respect for others of stature has been recognized by the Elements of Harmony.  You, Corinne, represent the spirit of Respect.

Corinne: Aw. *nuzzles Princess Celestia* I'm h-h-honored, Princess.

Princess Celestia chuckles as Corinne nuzzles her, the crowd cheering the completion of the new Elements of Harmony.  Back in Canterlot, watching this, Discord sighed.

Discord: And so the circle is complete.....  I hope they are strong enough to deal with the threat to come.....

Discord had reason to worry, for out in the Everfree Forest, trees, animals and even bugs seemed to mysteriously get sickened by a mysterious toxin.  The sickeneing spread like wildfire until a large section of the forest was affected.  And in the middle of the contaminated area was a shadow of an earth pony with glowing red eyes.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 17 - The Spirit of Corruption, Toxion

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 17 - The Spirit of Corruption, Toxion

The time: Right after the Wonderbolts/ChangeWings air show in Shiftopolis.

Princess Celestia leads all the Bearers of Harmony and the other royals into the main room, where Discord awaits.

P.Celestia: You wrote to us?

Discord: I did.

Corinne: Wh-wh-what's up?

Discord points outside.  Twilight Sparkle looked out the window and gasped in horrified shock.  Growing ever faster in all directions from the middle of the Everfree Forest was a spot of nothingness, as if there was no life to be found.  The lavender unicorn snaps her head at the somber draconequus.

T.Sparkle: Toxion?

Discord: It can only be..... Remember, his weakness is.....

Fluttershy: Kindness.  *blinks curiously*  But why MY element against TOXION?  Wouldn't I be more suited against Hatetrol?

Discord: It's because you bust your flank helping every critter you come across.  Toxion's the polar opposite.

T.Sparkle: Well, let's go battle him then.

Princess Celestia nods, getting the Elements of Harmony out of the antechamber.  All the ponies put them on and rush to the scene of the corruption, Nightmare Moon flying overhead.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

As guards cordoned the area off, Twilight Sparkle and her friends galloped into the area being corroded by Toxion.  Twilight Sparkle made a shield for the other ponies, to protect them from the toxins in the air and land.

Fluttershy: This is awful!

N.Moon: Welcome to the first leg of our fight against Ruinous.

T.Sparkle: Let's send him back where he came from!

All Ponies: YEAH!

Following the path of destruction, they were eventually able to locate Toxion.  Twilight Sparkle gasped, Toxion looked far scarier than Discord's description said he did.  Green toxic mist surrounded his hooves and his hair and coat were colored the most nauseating shade of green ever seen by pony eyes.  His skull-and-crossbones cutie mark glared out from his flanks with eyes that conveyed a sense of terror.  He regarded the Bearers of Harmony with a growl and a snort of toxic smoke that made several fish in the nearby pond go belly-up, the sight making Fluttershy gasp.

T.Sparkle: You ARE toxically evil.

Toxion: So you've noticed..... Or was it that traitorous scumbag, Discord, who told you about us?

R.Dash: He's NOT a traitorous scumbag!  He's our friend!

Toxion: You little FOAL!  Do you REALLY think he's your FRIEND?!

N.Moon: He told us ALL about you, your leader and your mission.....  And WE are here to put an END TO YOUR EVIL PLANS!

All Ponies: YEAH!!

Toxion: SHOW ME WHAT YOU'VE GOT!  TOXIC STORM!

Toxion conjures up a huge raincloud - but this cloud rained poison on everything under it.  The ponies scattered around to avoid getting caught, only to find the larger raincloud splitting up and chasing them all over the skies.

Toxion: There is NOWHERE to hide!

Fluttershy seems to be most adept at dodging the highly-poisonous clouds and rain, using all the trees - contaminated or not - to outmaneuver them.  Even Rainbow Dash and Pitstop were impressed.  As the clouds chased and rained on the other ponies, they wore away at Twilight's shield - but not fast enough for the poisonous pony.

Toxion: ENOUGH!

Toxion slams his front hooves down, a wave of poisonous water speeding towards the ponies.  Even Nightmare Moon was socked hard, Twilight's shield dispelling almost instantly!  The ponies grunted as the poison seized hold over them, some finding it a mammoth chore to even stand up!

Toxion: One more should-! WHAT?!

As the wave sped on through the forest, one pony was virtually unscathed, even by the wave - a VERY ticked-off Fluttershy!

Fluttershy: YOU..... BIG..... DUMB..... MEANIE!!!!!

Fluttershy pulled a loop and screamed out, her Element of Harmony glowing so bright, Toxion was backing off.  The charm appeared under her like a symbol, then the yellow pegasus glowed bright white.  When she emerged from the bright light, she was in a full suit of armor that reflected her element to a "T".  Her cutie mark was rendered in jewels and her necklace made up a jeweled chestplate.  She wore a Spartan-like helmet emblazoned with her Element of Harmony and her hooves were in yellow-gold boots.  She floated in between her friends and Toxion and growled.

Fluttershy: So, you wanted to see what I GOT?!

Fluttershy soared up in the air and dove at Toxion, picking up speed and surrounded by light.  Even taking several direct hits from toxic balls of sludge didn't stop the hurtling pegasus.  Everypony was amazed at this display as Fluttershy leveled off just above the poisoned ground as it seemed to purify right under her!

Fluttershy: BEGONE, YOU MENACE!!!  NATURE'S WRATH!

As Fluttershy flew at Toxion, the poisonous pony was held in place by roots around his hooves.  Toxion's efforts to get out of this predicament were futile as the roots gripped him hard and spread up his body to his back.  By the time the roots stopped growing on him, all but his neck was held down by them, making him a perfect target for a hard-charging Fluttershy, who executed a "Sonic Rainboom" of her own, butterflies of light erupting out of the explosion!

Toxion: NO!  THIS CAN'T HAPPEN!  NOT LIKE THIS!

Fluttershy: How's THIS grab you then?!

The "Rainboom" also healed the other ponies and they got into formation.  The Elements of Harmony pulsed along with Fluttershy's Element of Kindness for a few seconds before ALL the ponies - new and old - sent their harmony powers into the air, a 11-color rainbow crashing down on a wailing Toxion!  The spirit of corruption felt his body dissolve like sugar in water as the full-power of the Elements of Harmony permeated him!

Toxion: You may..... have-won-this-battle..... but our master..... WILL WIN THE WAR!!!

With a final scream, Toxion was no more, but the area of the Everfree Forest he corrupted still remained toxic.  Wiped out from exertion and the poisonous atmosphere, some ponies grunted as Twilight Sparkle started re-shielding everypony.

Fluttershy: *flies up*  That won't be necessary.....

The yellow pegasus closes her eyes as the butterflies on her armor glow.  As they glow, each beat of her wings sent out a pulse of light that purified the forest where Toxion's poisons destroyed everything!  Even Nightmare Moon was struck with a sense of pride as she witnessed Fluttershy single-hoofedly undo all of Toxion's corruption!  After a while, the Everfree Forest showed no sign of Toxion's arrival, the Element of Kindness doing a full side turn as she landed by her friends and reared up on her hind legs as her armor shrank back into her necklace.

Fluttershy: One down, six to go.

The ponies were amazed as they congratulated Fluttershy and expressed their happy shock at how powerful she was.  Later, at Sugar Cube Corner, a party was underway celebrating the ponies' victory over Toxion, butterflies the main focus of the decor as Fluttershy was the honored pony, the typically-excruciatingly-shy pony taking in the admiration.  After a while, everypony in attendance bowed as the princesses joined the Bearers of Harmony.

P.Celestia: I KNEW from Discord's briefing that Toxion was weak against Fluttershy's element, but from what you told me, all of us put together stand more of a chance against Ruinous' forces than I figured.

N.Moon: Ya see?!  The spirit of these ponies is stronger than even Ruinous' ambition to destroy everything.  We will win.

P.Luna: Ya know something, sis?  *Princess Celestia looks at Princess Luna*  It may be because she was me at one point, but I'm with *points to Nightmare Moon* her.

P.Celestia: Really?

N.Moon: Luna.....

P.Luna: The Elements of Harmony picked Applejack due to her honesty, Fluttershy due to her kindness, Pinkie Pie due to her penchant for making other ponies laugh, Rarity due to her generousity, Rainbow Dash due to her loyalty, Virtuna due to her empathy, Trixie due to her sincerity, Pitstop due to her humility, Zecora due to her tolerance of others and Corinne due to her respect for others.  Such relics of awesome power can only be passed on to those with incredible spirit..... and I believe in that spirit, sister, just like Nightmare Moon.  If the other ponies can replicate what Fluttershy did today, it's RUINOUS who won't stand a chance against US.

Princess Luna punctuated that with a nod of her head, the celebration continuing into the night.  In the Everfree Forest, the tangled mass of roots that previously encased Toxion fell away to reveal a handsome stallion with green hair and a light green coat with no cutie mark.  He wordlessly looked around that area of the forest, taking in its natural beauty.  A meadowlark landed on his head and sang a line, the stallion humming the next part as he holds up a leg, letting the little bird land on it.  He murrs as he nuzzles it, the meadowlark responding with a coo before flying back to its home.  The stallion then heads out of the clearing, humming to itself.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 18 - Picture THIS!

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 18 - Picture THIS!

The time: Two months after the defeat of Toxion.

Photo Finish hums as she walks through Canterlot.  She walks by two female ponies having a snack at a café.

Pony 1 - aqua with hot orange hair: Boy, Fluttershy really gave that Toxion what for, didn't she?

P.Finish: Hmm?

Pony 2 - hot orange with aqua hair: I know, wasn't she fantastic!

Pony 1: And her armor!  It's said that her heart must beat with the Heart of Equestria.

P.Finish: Flootershy?!  She did ZAT?!

Pony 2: You haven't heard?!  Fluttershy almost completely took out this ugly Toxion freak that was destroying everything.

P.Finish: Flootershy..... I MUST go see her!  I go!

Photo Finish jets off to Ponyville.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Rarity hums as she puts together a dress.  She hears the bell ring, indicating the opening of her front door, and heads to the front room.

Rarity: Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique and magnifique!

Rarity gasps as she spots the last pony she expected to see, Photo Finish!

P.Finish: Vere is Flootershy?

Rarity: Why, need her to help you make... THE MAGICKS again?  Wanna help HER shine all over Equestria?

P.Finish: I vas not prepared for such a rebootal from you, Rarity.  Nevertheless, I MUST talk to Flootershy about her achievement.

Rarity: Are you talking about her beating Toxion?  *smirk*  So you FINALLY got out from behind your camera long enough to read up on the world?

P.Finish: Rarity, please, I told you before, I thought your clothes vere too frilly and sparkly for a serious photo shoot.  Flootershy pulled zat dress you had her vear off masterfully.

Rarity: Zip it!  You should know that your line of work involves TWO elements, the model AND the clothes.  Without the model, even the best clothes would just be a crumpled mess on the floor, but without the CLOTHES, your PER-FECT MODEL would be standing there naked!  HUMPH!

Rarity stomps back upstairs to her studio, slamming the door just as Fluttershy walked in.

Fluttershy: Did I come at a bad time?  *gasp*  Photo Finish?

P.Finish: FLOOTERSHY!

Photo Finish dashes to the yellow pegasus.

P.Finish: Are you OK?

Fluttershy: We won the fight against Toxion, why WOULDN'T I be OK?

P.Finish: I just heard it vas a terrible trial and, oh, I'm just glad you made it.

Fluttershy: Well, I saw how Toxion was hurting my friends and it set me off.  How he was polluting the forest and all the things that lived in it, that REALLY got me upset, and according to Twilight Sparkle and the princesses, it lead to me being attuned with the Heart of Equestria.

P.Finish: Zis is AMAZING!  Flootershy, vould you PLEASE allow me to make a special issue about you?  Your heroism is an inspiration to all ponies!

Fluttershy: Well, sure, if you would like.

P.Finish: Aw, Flootershy, sank you, SANK YOU!

Rarity sighs as she listens in on Fluttershy and Photo Finish's conversation.  She heads to her dress and finishes it.

Rarity: Aw, well, it's just for one issue, right, Opal?

Opalescense, Rarity's cat, meows curiously at her master.  Later that day, Fluttershy is getting readied for a photo shoot in the area of the Everfree Forest where the battle against Toxion occurred.  Photo Finish looks over a few outfits for her to wear.

Fluttershy: Are you SURE the outfit is necessary, Photo Finish?

P.Finish: Mmm, jah.  I need you to be in ZUMthing UTHER zan your naturale beauty, I DO hav a FASHION magazine, you know.

Fluttershy nods, understanding as in flies Nightmare Moon.  Fluttershy smiles at the black alicorn as she descends.

N.Moon: Heya, Fluttershy.  *poink!*  Is that?

P.Finish: Are you?!

Fluttershy: Nightmare Moon, this is Photo Finish.  Photo Finish, this is Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: Ah, Rarity told me about you.

P.Finish: Rarity?

N.Moon: Ya know, white unicorn, purple hair, three diamonds as a cutie mark, fashionista, maker of beautiful dresses?

P.Finish: *head cock* Hmm, you left out overly jealous pony and owner of a somevhat snappy temper.

Nightmare Moon and Fluttershy exchange increduolous glances.

Fluttershy: THAT doesn't sound like the Rarity I know.

P.Finish: I dropped by zee Carousel Boutique to see if Rarity knew vere Flootershy vas.  She about ripped my head off!

N.Moon: Huh..... Let ME see if I can talk to her, OK?

P.Finish: VOULD you?

N.Moon: *nod* Yeah.

Nightmare Moon flies to the Carousel Boutique as Fluttershy is fitted for several outfits for the interview.  The black mare touches down outside and raps on the front door with her front right hoof.

N.Moon: *knock-knock-knock*  Rarity?  Can I come in?

Rarity: It's unlocked, Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon blinks as she notices how downtrodden Rarity sounded.  The alicorn heads into the store and looks around the ground floor, then she noticed the door to Rarity's room shut.  Worried, the Mare in the Moon ascends the stairs and heads into Rarity's room, gasping as she saw the fashionista wearing a black cloak and hood.

N.Moon: What in the wide world of Equestria are you wearing?

Rarity: *sigh*  I know, not my most flattering ensemble, huh?

N.Moon: I just noticed Photo Finish *Hearing Photo Finish's name makes Rarity cringe a bit* and Fluttershy setting up in the forest where we fought Toxion.  Is something the matter, Rarity?

Rarity sighs.

Rarity: This isn't the first time Photo Finish came here.  She commented on my hat and wanted to do a photo shoot with some of my clothes.  When she arrived to do the photo shoot, she thought my clothes were too flashy and she wanted Fluttershy to model other ponies' clothes.  She basically kicked me to the curb!

N.Moon: Too flashy?  I happen to know for a fact that those dresses you made for the Grand Galloping Gala were amazing!  You nailed everypony's personality spot-on, even me!

Rarity: Photo Finish said she wanted Fluttershy to wear clothes inspired by nature.

N.Moon: Well then!  I think WE oughta give Photo Finish a show she'll NEVER forget!  She wants "THE MAGICKS", WE... will give her... the sorcery!

Rarity: We?

Nightmare Moon nodded, then took off for her quarters.  Later that day, Fluttershy's interview was conducted without a hitch, the photographer packing up to leave.

P.Finish: You sure you don't vant a job?

Fluttershy: I am, Photo Finish.  Thank you for inviting me to this, but I don't want to have to deal with that stress again.

P.Finish: I get it.  It's not for everyvone.

Just then, the sun seemed to turn off, making Fluttershy gasp in shock!

P.Finish: Vat... has just happened?

Fluttershy gasps as the sun seemed to throw a single beam of light - right down on Rainbow Dash as she wears her Grand Galloping Gala dress!  Photo Finish sets her camera back up and shoots several pictures.  She did the same thing with Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Trixie, Virtuna, Pitstop, Zecora, Corinne, even Nightmare Moon!

P.Finish: Zis is brilliant, BRILLIANT!  Now THIS is ZEE MAGICKS!!!

Fluttershy giggles a bit, then.....

?????: NOW you like my clothes, eh, Photo Finish?

P.Finish: Vaaaaaaaaat?!

Wearing her Grand Galloping Gala dress and a smirk was Rarity as she strides up to the dumbstruck photographer.  The sun shone again in its full glory, Princess Celestia winking at Nightmare Moon and flying back to Canterlot.

N.Moon: Now, Photo Finish, I THINK you owe me a SLIGHT explanation - as in why you didn't tell me that you overlooked Rarity completely the last time you were here, as in why you left her feeling so rejected she sewed up this Grim Reaper pony cloak, and why you were oblivious to the fact that her pretty eyes were turning green.

P.Finish: I didn't sink her clothes vere vhat I was looking for, or my readers.  Zee readers of my magazine vant somesing simple, something zat brings out zee naturale beauty of zee pony vearing it.

Rarity: WHY oh, WHY!, didn't'cha say so SOONER, Photo Finish?  YOU saw Fluttershy's dress at the Grand Galloping Gala, I could've easily made another lickety-split!

T.Sparkle: I saw Rarity after you sent her away.  She was so sad.

P.Finish: Jah, vell, a funny sing happened between zen and now: My readers' interests shifted.

Fluttershy: Shifted how?

P.Finish: Zose clothes I had you in zee last time I vas here in Ponyville vere around the same level of glamour as zee clothes Rarity made for zee vedding.  Vonce my readers found out zee gala dresses vere ALSO made by Rarity, everyvone started asking me to take pictures of HER fashions.  Not only zat, zee models for my shoots started showing up in Rarity's dresses.  *sighs as she looks at Rarity*  I am so sorry, Rarity.  I should've realized zat you had zee magicks in zee first place.

Rarity: Well, everypony makes mistakes.  Some just do a better job *She hugs Nightmare Moon and Trixie to her side-by-side* learning from them.

P.Finish: Do you mind if I take pictures of your clothing every so often?

Rarity: Only on one condition: *She looks around* That my friends are wearing them.

P.Finish: *smile* I vas hopinq you'd say zat.

Later that day, everypony is gathered at the Carousel Boutique for an impromptu photo shoot for Photo Finish's magazine.

P.Finish: *This letter is a voice-over to Photo Finish taking snapshots of every pony wearing Rarity's clothing*

Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes ven you meet a pony for zee first time, you may vind up vith an impression zat is inaccurate.  Zee key to discoverinq vhat kind of pony somevone iz iz an ability to see past such things and look at all zee facts, even vhen zay speak for zemselves.

Your faithful subject,

Photo Finish

Spike sends the letter and an advanced copy of the Elements of Harmony Special Issue of Photo Finish's magazine to Princess Celestia.  The white alicorn murrs as she looks through it.

P.Celestia: Nightmare Moon, you've done it again.

As Princess Celestia reads on, Discord keeps an eye on the skies for Ruinous' next henchpony, Fryght.  Princess Luna looks at the draconequus as he scans the skies.

P.Luna: Looking for the fear pony, eh?

Discord: Yeah.....  Ruinous may be laying low after what Fluttershy did to Toxion.  I told you that Toxion was weak against Fluttershy's Element of Harmony, my guess is Ruinous underestimated HOW weak.

P.Luna: OR Ruinous underestimated how angry Fluttershy would get at the destruction of the Everfree Forest and the harming of the wildlife Toxion did.

Discord: OR Ruinous underestimated how much of a fighter Fluttershy was.

P.Luna: A trio of considerable possibilities, and the next one is weakened by Laughter.  I am unsure about Pinkie Pie's fighting ability.

Discord: *nod* Indeed.

Princess Luna trots up to Discord as he yawns.

P.Luna: *taps Discord's leg with her tail* Tag, I'm in, you get some rest.

Discord: *hugs Princess Luna* Thanks, you.

Discord leaves Princess Luna to scan for Fryght, heading to his chambers to sleep.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 19 - Party Under the Stars

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 19 - Party Under the Stars

The time: One month after Photo Finish's visit.

Rarity hums as she's setting up shop, several dresses for sale featured in Photo Finish's latest article.

Rarity: My dress sales have gone up SO high since Photo Finish saw the error of her ways.

Corinne: *enters the shop* A-a-and with those D-D-Diamond Dogs helping out, there's TOOOOOONS of gemstones to use!

Rarity: Really?

The giraffe nods.

Corinne: So, h-h-how else has it been?

Rarity: It's been amazing!  All this publicity has increased my sales higher than I ever thought!  But I'm never gonna leave here, since I want to be around my friends.

Corinne: Aw.

The two nuzzle up, then.....

Corinne: You've b-b-been working on dr-dr-dresses for Nightmare Moon's p-p-party?

Rarity: Indeed.  I just hope no one told Nightmare Moon, this is to be a surprise.

Corinne: She doesn't know.

Rarity: Good.

The giraffe murrs as she heads back out of the boutique.  Rarity hums as she completes the ensembles.

Rarity: Perfect!

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

That night, the royal courtyard was set up for Nightmare Moon's party, Princess Luna looking down at the festivities between scans of the skies for Fryght.  Princess Celestia was overseeing the festivities as Prince Shiftshape flutters in.

P.Celestia: Glad you could make it, Prince Shiftshape.

P.Shiftshape: Glad you could have me, Princess Celestia.

As the two nuzzled up, Nightmare Moon approached the two monarchs.

N.Moon: *laugh* Who set THIS up?

P.Celestia: *laugh* You won't believe it.

N.Moon: ???

Prince Shiftshape points behind Nightmare Moon and the black alicorn looked.  She broke out in a laughing fit when she realized what her friends were wearing.  Although they had their cutie marks on their clothing, there WAS one thing in common: They all looked EXACTLY like Nightmare Moon!

N.Moon: You girls are so funny!

The ponies gathered around Nightmare Moon for a group hug.  Then, the party started.  Princess Morphina flew up to the telescope and relieved Princess Luna so she can join the festivities.

P.Morphina: What am I looking for?

P.Luna: A ghost-white pegasus.

The changeling princess nods as the moon goddess flies down, landing next to her former dark side.  She squeals out in laughter when she notices what Twilight Sparkle and the other ponies were wearing.

T.Sparkle: Hello, Luna.

P.Luna: Hello, Nightmare Sparkle.

Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle laugh at Princess Luna's joke.  Discord purrs as he hears them.

Discord: -Even now, during this time of emerging turmoil, we find a time to celebrate.-

Discord hums as he continues serving up sweets with Pinkie Pie.  Prince Blueblood looks down from his bedroom, notices Nightmare Moon and shakes his head.

P.Blueblood: *scoff*  What kind of friends does the princess have?  Ragamuffins?

????: MUFFINS!

A loud crash, followed by a series of thuds brings the festivities to a standstill.  As the thuds descend, everypony snickers when they realized what just happened.  Prince Blueblood was on his stomach at the bottom of the stairs, his eyes rotating in wild, opposing directions.  On top of him, smiling in a goofy manner, was Derpy Hooves.

D.Hooves: Where's the muffins?

Everypony laughed as Derpy climbed to her hooves, Nightmare Moon tossing a muffin to the mailpony with her magic.

T.Sparkle: Glad you could drop in, Derpy.

D.Hooves: Thanks, Twilight.

N.Moon: You must have super-powerful muffin radar, Derpy.

Derpy Hooves and Nightmare Moon share a laugh.  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop soon take off and put on a mini-airshow.

N.Moon: Pulling out all the stops.

P.Celestia: Of course.  You've gone from being hated to being loved, Discord as well.  The two of you should be proud of yourselves.

Discord: Believe me, we are.

Discord hugs Princess Celestia and Nightmare Moon to him, all three laughing.  Virtuna smiles widely as she watches.

Trixie: Those two turned out how you expected?

Virtuna: No. *sniff* *Virtuna smiles at Trixie* They turned out better.

Trixie smiles back, then hugs the little earth pony.  Nightmare Moon heads up to and lays down near her two newest friends.

N.Moon: You know, Virtuna, I actually have *hugs Virtuna to her* YOU to thank for all I am now.

Virtuna: Really?

N.Moon: If not for you helping me get over my apprehensions, I wouldn't have grown to be the mare I am now.  And the proof is all this.  All these ponies here celebrating my birthday.  Before I met you, everypony would've feared me, hated me and wanted me gone, but now, I'm loved almost as much as Princess Celestia.

Virtuna: Aw.

The two hug up, smiling.

Trixie: You know, the Great and Powerful Trixie owes her success in making up with Twilight Sparkle to you.  If I had not ran into you, I never would have had the chance to just... talk.

N.Moon: Even if I kinda tricked you a bit?

Trixie: Trixie is grateful that you brought Twilight Sparkle to Trixie.  There are some teachers in the school who say that Trixie has as much skill as Twilight Sparkle.  Trixie would've never learned that if not for you.

N.Moon: *smile* Glad I could help you, Trixie.

Nightmare Moon gasped as Corinne hugged her from behind.

Corinne: Y-y-you really helped m-m-me as well.  *She gets off Nightmare Moon and lays by her*  I'd've never kn-kn-known that all these p-p-ponies were so nice if n-n-not for you introducing me to them.

N.Moon: *chuckle* Glad I could help.

Corinne murrs as she nuzzles Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: You girls are the best friends ever!

T.Sparkle: Well, I could've told ya that!

Twilight Sparkle and Nightmare Moon laugh, hugging up.  Princess Celestia smiles as she sees her former enemy and her star pupil bond tighter than she ever thought they could.  Meanwhile, Princess Morphina had called two guards up to act as messengers and extra eyes on the skies when she sees what looks like a white mass splitting the night sky.  Barreling out was a streak of white, a loud wailing heralding the arrival of Fryght.

P.Morphina: Notify the princess.

The two guards nod and fly down to tell Princess Celestia.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 20 - The Spirit of Fear, Fryght

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 20 - The Spirit of Fear, Fryght

The time: During Nightmare Moon's party.

The two changeling guards helping Princess Morphina fly down and notify Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: Really?!  NOW!?

N.Moon: Boy, Ruinous isn't letting us breathe easy.

Discord: I TOLD you it'd be tough, but THIS is ridiculous.

Pinkie Pie gets volcanically angry.

P.Pie: How DARE she interrupt one of my BEST PARTIES!  C'mon, ponies, let's stomp that Fryght!

The ponies go get their Elements of Harmony.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Fryght's mournful cry echoes through the air as she scares everypony within earshot.

Fryght: RUUUUUUN! RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUN!

Fryght laughs sinisterly as the Bearers of Harmony approach.

Fryght (mournful, wailing voice): What have we here?

T.Sparkle: Your worst nightmare.

P.Pie: HOW DARE YOU INTERRUPT NIGHTMARE MOON'S PARTY!!

Fryght: Oh, pshaw, I do my best work at night.

N.Moon: *glares at Fryght* So... do... I!

The two night mares growl at each other, Nightmare Moon taking the same form she did while fighting Queen Chrysalis.

Fryght: COLD FEAR!

The ghostly-white pony sends a flurry of white flakes off her wings at the ponies.  Pinkie Pie and Nightmare Moon were the only two unaffected as the others ran in fear.  Pinkie Pie growled at Fryght, then screeched loudly.  Just as when the ponies fought Toxion, a suit of armor burst from Pinkie Pie's Element of Harmony, the same as Fluttershy's, only with balloons instead of butterflies.  The balloons on the sides floated Pinkie Pie up to Fryght's level.

P.Pie: MY TURN! CUPCAKE CANNON!

To the amazement of all, a gatling gun sprouted out of Pinkie Pie's armor, firing cupcakes at Fryght like a machine gun!  The spirit of fear did dodge them - until one caught her wing, sending her smashing to the ground.  Pinkie Pie's next salvo struck her square as she tried to get back up, dispelling her fear-fueled grip on the other ponies.  As Pinkie Pie came in for a landing, Fluttershy armored up, their two elements appearing on the ground under their hooves.  This made the resulting blast with the Elements of Harmony that much stronger, Fryght wailing out as she was dissolved!

Fryght: Savor this victory, for you will not WIIIIIIIIIIIIIN!!!!!!!!!!!!

P.Pie: Aw, *Cupcake Cannon!* EAT IT!

Just as Toxion before her, Fryght ended up meeting her end buried, this time under a mountain of cupcakes!

R.Dash: I've-said-it-before..... I'm-gonna-say-it-again.....

All Ponies Except Pinkie Pie: Pinkie Pie, you are so random!

Everypony laughs, then congratulates Pinkie Pie.  When the ponies returned to Princess Celestia and told her what happened, the ruler of Equestria nodded.

P.Celestia: The Elements of Harmony only act like this when Equestria is in dire straits.  It gives the Bearers of Harmony extra power.

Virtuna: *raises her natural front leg* Question from the audience? *The Equestrain princesses look at her* Do *points to her own necklace* WE gotta do *points to Pinkie Pie* that?

P.Celestia: I'm not sure.  I don't think Equestria's threatened enough for your elements to react like that.

Corinne: M-M-Maybe Ruinous is t-t-trying to s-s-s-stop us from s-s-s-s-synchroni-i-izing with the Heart of Equ-qu-qu-questria.

T.Sparkle: And if we DON'T do that, we can't stop him.

Discord: Good guess, but there's one other thing: Me.  After being beaten by you girls, especially most recently, Ruinous has to think about the possibility of me telling you about his plans and his henchponies.

P.Celestia: Whatever the reason behind Ruinous' attacks, we MUST be extra vigilant.  If he is willing to attack during a birthday party, he's willing to attack during ANYthing.  Prince Shiftshape, now is the time for you and I to work together.  Princess Morphina is the only reason why we got such a jump on Fryght.  I'm going to need guards from your country to help with security.

P.Shiftshape: You can count on us, Princess.

Ponies cheer as the two shake on it.

P.Pie: Now we have a LOT to celebrate!  *Vinyl Scratch takes her place at the DJ booth*  C'mon, everypony!  Let's dance!

As everypony dances and celebrates, the pile of cupcakes in the Ponyville Town Square moves.  Out emerges a white pegasus with white hair and no cutie mark.  She picks up a cupcake and takes a bite.  She murrs as she enjoys it, trotting off with the small pastry.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 21 - Return of the Swarm

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 21 - Return of the Swarm

The time: One month after the defeat of Fryght.

Pinkie Pie hums as she sets up her cakes and muffins.  The Cake Twins gurgle and coo as they play nearby.

P.Pie: Nice to know I'm still the same ol' Pinkie Pie!

Mr. Cake: Even BETTER than the same ol' Pinkie Pie.  Fryght never knew what hit her.

P.Pie: All to save Equestria from Ruinous, Mr. Cake.

Mr. Cake nods as he helps set treats up, the pegasus formerly known as Fryght walking in.  Neither pony knows what to think as the pale-white pony gets some cookies and pays for them, trotting out.

P.Pie and Mr. Cake: OK?

The Cake Twins look at the two ponies and shrug.

Mr. Cake: They're right, a sale is a sale.

P.Pie: Tru-ue!

The two resume setting up their treats as a parasprite churrs while watching.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Virtuna hums as she trots to her arcade.  Along the way, she spots a single grey parasprite.

Virtuna: Aw!  What're you, ya little cutie?

The parasprite lands on Virtuna's head with a churr.

Virtuna: *giggle* Absolutely adorable!

Virtuna hums as she enters her arcade, passing by Twilight Sparkle, who reacts to the little parasprite.

T.Sparkle: Virtuna, where'd'ya find that thing?!

Virtuna: Right by the bridge, why?

T.Sparkle: Virtuna, that's a parasprite!  A swarm of those can eat everypony out of house and home!

Virtuna: What, *points her natural front hoof at the parasprite on her head* THIS little thing?

Virtuna scoffs and heads for her kitchen, Twilight Sparkle in pursuit.  She spots the two having a snack, the parasprite seemingly having far less of an appetite than before.  Twilight Sparkle was shocked!

T.Sparkle: OK?

Virtuna: *laugh* Gonna eat me outta house and home, eh?

Virtuna and the parasprite laugh, Twilight Sparkle shaking her head.

T.Sparkle: Just be careful.  If it eats enough, it'll multiply rapidly and then we'll ALL be in trouble.

Virtuna: *smirk* I've read on them, it'll be OK, OK?

Twilight Sparkle shrugs, then heads out.  Later that night, several pods of parasprites murr as they fly over Ponyville, eating everything in sight in a swath.  Virtuna's parasprite didn't join in, though.  The next morning, Virtuna and her parasprite were horrified at what they saw, the little insect hiding in Virtuna's mane.

Virtuna: Whoa.....  *Twilight Sparkle approaches*  Was THIS what you were warnin' me about?

T.Sparkle: Yeah, but..... At night?  Why didn't the moon princesses see anything?

R.Dash: GEEZ!  This is worse than before!

P.Pie: *sigh* I'll get the instuments.

Pinkie Pie trots back to Sugar Cube Corner, only to find it infested with parasprites!  What's worse, she can't find ANY of the instruments she used to curtail the first infestation!

P.Pie: Oh, NO!!  *runs back outside*  My instruments!  They ate them!

Applejack: Oh, NO!  *She runs back to Sweet Apple Acres, only to see all her trees rendered bare by the parasprites*  Land sakes!

Discord: Ravenous little things, aren't they?!

The poor draconequus was hurriedly trying to keep them off Applejack's apples by using his cotton-candy rainclouds, but to no avail as the parasprites just had both of them!  Virtuna's parasprite churred sadly, feeling bad, then growls a bit and flies out of her mane.

Virtuna: What is it?

The parasprite flew to Virtuna's arcade and turned on a puzzle game, turning off the clock and setting the music to maximum volume.  Outside, the parasprites heard the music and set themselves in a 15x15 array, the remainder floating overhead.

Virtuna: What the..... Is this.....

Virtuna flicked her natural hoof, three pink parasprites lining up and flying back into the forest.  Rainbow Dash chuckles, lining up three blue parasprites, seeing them fly back.  After a long while playing the Bejweled-like game, all the parasprites flew back into the Everfree Forest.

T.Sparkle: PHEW!

R.Dash: Well, THAT was a bit unconventional.

Virtuna: But what a blast, eh?!

All ponies agreed, then they turn their eyes to the town - or what was left of it.

Applejack: *sigh* Well, all hooves on deck.

All ponies worked to try to fix the town, Virtuna sighing unhappily.

Virtuna: I wanna help, but..... *buzzing*  Wha?

That gray parasprite from before buzzed near her, holding up a big log.

Virtuna: You're serious?

The parasprite nods, then flies the log to Applejack so she can have some lumberjack ponies cut it.  Virtuna smiles as that parasprite became VERY helpful to the ponies, handling tools and bringing over refreshments.  By the end of the day, Ponyville was back to its past glory, ponies congratulating each other.

Virtuna: HAH!  What a game, eh?

Applejack: Oh, yeah, that was a tough game, too.

Virtuna: Perfect.  Tougher the game, better the player, I always say.  *The grey parasprite lands on her head again*  Hey!  *giggle*  Welcome back!

Rarity: We wouldn't've gotten this done if it wasn't for that parasprite.

Applejack: And the other parasprites would've been here eating everything if not for that one parasprite turning up..... *looks at Virtuna* What-game-was-that?

Virtuna: It's an old one, it's called Jewel Raid.  Trouble is, I dunno what to..... Oh-oh-oh-OH! I-DE-AH!

Virtuna zips back to her arcade and gets on the phone.

Virtuna (into phone): Cyber, I got an idea!

The next day, a thin white alicorn flies in, carrying a box with his magic.  Sporting red hair, thick glasses and a Commodore-64-like computer cutie mark, the stallion heads to Virtuna's arcade, the Mane 6 gathered there.

Virtuna: Heya, Cyber!

Cyber: 'Sup, cuz?

The two embrace, then Virtuna introduces her new friends.

T.Sparkle: Nice to meet you, Cyber.

Cyber: Aw, shucks, nice to meet YOU, Twilight.

R.Dash: Heard of her?

Cyber: Aw, she's my IDOL.

T.Sparkle: *blush* Aw, thanks for the recognition, Cyber.

Cyber murrs as he sets up the new machine, a parasprite-Bejeweled-like game, per Virtuna's specifications.  The ponies murr at the new machine, then the stallion that used to be Toxion walks in and gives it a go.  After finishing with a smile, he walks out, smiling at Fluttershy as he heads out.  Fluttershy watches him go with an incredulous look on her face.

Fluttershy: no way.....

The buzzing of Virtuna's parasprite snapped Fluttershy out of it.  Fluttershy giggles at the little insect.

Fluttershy: Who found who?

Virtuna: He found me.  I think he wants to live with me.

Fluttershy: Just don't overfeed him.

Virtuna: Aw, he's a light eater.  He doesn't eat a whole bucket of apples, he just eats a couple slices.

Fluttershy: Cute little fella.

The parasprite churrs as it nuzzles Fluttershy, then lands on the new videogame as the ponies play a few games.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 22 - Spice Things Up!

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 22 - Spice Things Up!

The time: One month after the recent parasprite infestation.

Virtuna hums as she dusts her game machines with her tail, the screens being dusted by her new pet, the grey parasprite from the last chapter.

Virtuna: Thanks a ton, Pixel.  You're a big help for a little parasprite.

Pixel chirps in delight as Virtuna tosses him an apple half.  He catches it in his mouth, spitting the seeds out the window.  Virtuna laughs, then hears a knock at the door.

Virtuna: Huh?

Virtuna answers the door and find Derpy Hooves standing there.

D.Hooves: Mail call!

Virtuna: *giggle* OK!

Derpy Hooves hands Virtuna her mail, Pixel lending a hand.  Virtuna murrs as she looks it over, then.....

Virtuna: This one's for Sweet Apple Acres.

D.Hooves: *checks* Oh.....

Pixel chirps and murrs at Derpy Hooves.

D.Hooves: *smile* Aw, thanks, fella.

Pixel chirps as he nuzzles Derpy Hooves.  As the mailmare heads to Sweet Apple Acres, Virtuna smirks at Pixel.

Virtuna: Show-off.

Pixel chirps loudly, making Virtuna laugh.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Applejack is hard at work, bucking apple trees and storing apples.  She hums as she heads to a tree to buck it, only for the apples to fall off.  Applejack looks up with a chuckle.

Applejack: Heya, Derpy.

Derpy Hooves lands on the ground with a thud, letters falling down around the cross-eyed pegasus.  One of them was the letter for Applejack she accidentally delivered to Virtuna.  Applejack picks this letter up and opens it, reading.

Applejack: ...............It's from my cousin, Jalapeno.  She's coming for a visit tomorrow!

D.Hooves: Sounds good, right?

Applejack: Not really.  Jalapeno was gonna help us work the orchard here in exchange fer some land fer her peppers.  Couple weeks before she was ta start, however, she upped and left.  Never spoke to her since.

D.Hooves: Well, what if she's here to apologize?

Applejack: I ain't sure, Derp.  Alls I know is... this is a total shock.

Applejack takes the letter and the rest of her mail and heads back to the farmhouse.  The rest of her family is gathered there.

A.Bloom: What's up, sis?

Applejack: Cousin Jalapeno's coming over for a visit.

B.MacIntosh:  Jalapeno?  I reckon I haven't heard that name for a long time.

G.Smith: That pepper-plantin' pony was gonna give us a hoof with this place, but she left without explanation.

A.Bloom: Aw, c'mon, Granny Smith, there's gotta be SOME explanation, right?

Applejack: If there is, I'd love ta hear it.  She ain't called or wrote or came over since she left.

B.MacIntosh: She's got a lot of nerve coming back.

Applejack: Indeed.  Tomorrow's gonna be interesting.....

Nods all around as the Apples eat up.  The next day, a train arrives at the Ponyville Train Depot and out steps a dark green earth pony with fiery red hair and two crossed jalapeno peppers as a cutie mark, one red and the other green.  She steps out wearing a sombrero and a smile, carrying a suitcase and two saddlebags.  She looks around for a bit, then trots off into the town, running into Pinkie Pie.

P.Pie: *GASP!* New pony!

???: *laugh* Hola.

P.Pie: Hola?

???: *chuckle* It means "Hello."  My name's Jalapeno, I'm looking for my prima (cousin, female), Applejack.

P.Pie: Didja try Sweet Apple Acres?

Jalapeno: Where?

P.Pie: C'mon, I'll take you there.

Jalapeno nods and follows Pinkie Pie to Sweet Apple Acres, the two mares running into Trixie.

Trixie: Hello, Pinkie Pie.  Who's your new friend?

P.Pie: Her name's Jalapeno.  She's talking in some new language I've never heard.

Trixie: Well, with a name like Jalapeno, the Great and Powerful Trixie can probably deduce that she's speaking Spanish.

Jalapeno: Clever deducción (deduction), Trixie.  How did you figure it out?

Trixie: Trixie has a cousin that comes from Los Pegasus.  He's always teaching Trixie Spanish words.

Jalapeno: Sounds like you two have a close relationship.

Trixie: Indeed.  He's my number-one fan.  That's why Trixie used to over-blow herself on stage.

P.Pie: Well, THAT'S a good reason.  It's so good that you have a cousin that looks up to you, Trixie.

Trixie: *nod* Outside of Ponyville, Trixie's family are the most important ponies Trixie knows.

P.Pie: Aw.

The two mares hug up, then Pinkie Pie continues on to Sweet Apple Acres with Jalapeno.  Along the way, WHOOSH!!

Jalapeno: Ay carumba!

Rainbow Dash and Pitstop hurtle through the air side-by-side.  The two spiral around each other, braiding their trails as they punch holes in clouds.  The two finish by sucking all the clouds into a tornado and spinning them out over the Everfree Forest.  The two exchange a high-hoof, then fly down, spotting Pinkie Pie, but more importantly Jalapeno.

Jalapeno: *whistle* Muy rápido!

R.Dash and Pitstop: *They exchange a quizzical glance, then look back at Jalapeno* Thanks?

Jalapeno: *chuckle* It means "very fast".

R.Dash and Pitstop: Oh! *chuckle*

R.Dash: Sorry about that.

Pitstop: We never heard that language here before, luv.

Jalapeno: Aw, it's no problema (problem).

P.Pie: This is Jalapeno, she knows Applejack.

Jalapeno: Si, Applejack's mi prima.

The pegasi exchange another curious glance.

Jalapeno: She's my cousin.

R.Dash, P.Pie and Pitstop: Oh!

All four ponies laugh.

Pitstop: You sure seem nice, luv.

Japaleno: Si.  I learned how to be friendly by living with mi prima.

R.Dash: When was this?

The quartet walk on towards Sweet Apple Acres.

Jalapeno: A while ago.  We were the best of compadres and we were gonna be partners on the land of Sweet Apple Acres.  She'd have her apples and I'd have my jalapeno peppers.  But then, an emergencia (emergency) happened and I had to go home.  Mi familia's farm was gonna go under and they needed me to go back and help.  If not for me going home, mi familia would've been bankrupt and homeless.

R.Dash: Wow.

Pitstop: You really care about your (slowly): familia, (normal speed): don't'cha, luv?

Jalapeno: *laugh* Si, my family's the most important thing to me, and that's why I came back, to talk to mi prima.

As the four talked, they arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, only to hear.....

Scootaloo: HALT, NEW PONY!

All four look up at the sound of the voice.

S.Belle: You are trespassing on the land of.....

A.Bloom, S.Belle and Scootaloo: THE CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!

Jalapeno: *laugh* You three remind me of when I was a potra (filly).

Scootaloo: What kinda language is that?

Pitstop: It's Spanish, Scootaloo.

Jalapeno: Si, I come from Los Pegasus, name's Jalapeno.

A.Bloom: So YOU'RE Jalapeno.  Sis has been talking about you.

Jalapeno: Sis?  Oh, you mean mi prima, Applejack.

A.Bloom: Mi-what-now?

P.Pie: "Prima" means "cousin" in Spanish.

A.Bloom: Well, you'd better hope sis'll forgive your flank.

Pitstop: Apple Bloom, what happened wasn't her fault.  Jalapeno had-!

A.Bloom: NO!  There's no excuse for her just leavin'!

Apple Bloom stomps off back into the clubhouse, slamming the door and leaving six stunned ponies.  That night, Pinkie Pie threw a party celebrating Jalapeno's arrival.  Everypony was there - everypony except Applejack.

P.Pie: It's just not the same without Applejack.

Jalapeno: *nod* I wonder what's taking mi prima so long.

?????: YOU!!!

Jalapeno whirled.  Standing by the DJ booth was a ticked-off Applejack.

Jalapeno: *laugh* HEY!  *rears up happily*  Hola, mi prima, how are you?!

Applejack just stood there.

Jalapeno: Haven't seen ya in a while, what's shakin'?!

Still nothing.

Jalapeno: O.....K?  So, heard ya beat Nightmare Moon, wanna talk to me about that?  *10sec. pause*  What about Discord?  *10sec. pause*  The wedding?  *10sec. pause*  ANYthing?

Applejack: Let me tell ya'll something, you turncoat pony.  Ya'll left for Celestia-knows-where and left me and my family in the lurch!  We were gonna be partners and you balked at how hard the work was!  AND NOW YA'LL HAVE THE NERVE TO COME BACK HERE?!

Jalapeno: Mi prima, please listen to me.....

Applejack: AND STOP USIN' YOUR FANCY SPANISH ON ME!! I have no idea what the haybale ya'll're sayin'!

Applejack stomps off, leaving a shell-shocked and close-to-tears Jalapeno.  Trixie's eyes narrow a bit and she follows Applejack.  After walking off for a bit, Applejack found she could go no further.  She looks around and realizes she's floating over the ground.  She looks around fast and spots Trixie, horn glowing.

Applejack: What do ya'll want, Trix?

Trixie: Applejack, you can't forgive her, can you?

Applejack: She left!  She saw how hard it would be to work on my farm and she left.

Trixie: But you MUST have had a close relationship, otherwise you wouldn't've gotten so mad.  *she sets Applejack down*  Look, Trixie understands what you're going through.  Trixie has a cousin in Los Pegasus, too.  And Trixie keeps in touch with her cousin.  From what Rainbow told me, she had a good reason to go.  Family is important to Jalapeno and Trixie.  So, please, go talk to her, *sniff* before you lose something truly important.

Trixie walks off back to the party, Applejack watching the showpony leave.  Applejack sighs, feeling ashamed of herself.  Meanwhile, Jalapeno tries to enjoy herself, Discord's antics helping a lot.  Trixie trots back to Jalapeno and sits by her.

Jalapeno: Well?

Trixie: I dunno.  Trixie has never seen Applejack like this.

T.Sparkle: *sits by Jalapeno on the other side* Nor have I.  She really let you have it.

Jalapeno: *sigh* Yeah.  I dunno if I deserve it, but.....

Applejack: *clears throat*

Everypony looks in shock.

Applejack: Listen, Jalapeno, you really walked out on us when ya'll just took off the way ya did.  It broke all of our hearts, ya know?

Jalapeno: Mi prima, listen, mi familia was in trouble.  They were gonna lose their house if I didn't go back to Los Pegasus.

Applejack looked at Jalapeno dumbstruck.

Applejack: What'cha'll talkin' about?!  I didn't hear a thing about your family bein' homeless!

Jalapeno: Because I made it back with no time to spare!  Didn't'cha get my letter?

Applejack: What letter?

Fluttershy: *holds up a letter* This one.  Derpy Hooves must've mis-delivered it.

Applejack snatches the letter from a gasping Fluttershy and reads it.

Applejack: To Mi Prima Applejack,

I'm sorry to have to leave you and your farm, but I received some horrible news from mi familia.  Their house is in foreclosure and they're six weeks from being thrown out on the street.  I cannot let that happen, so I must return to Los Pegasus.  I do hope you understand.

Your loving cousin,

Jalapeno

*She lowers the letter*  Jalapeno, I.....  I had no idea.....  I just thought you.....

Jalapeno: Mi prima, listen, *approaches Applejack* I wouldn't've left if it wasn't muy importante (very important), YOU know that.  So, can we move on, please?

Applejack hugs Jalapeno tight.

Applejack: I'm so sorry, Jalapeno.

Jalapeno: Aw, *hugs back* no problema, mi prima.

Trixie smiles as she witnesses the cousins making up and the party continues on without a further hitch.

Applejack (letter is a voice-over to Applejack and Jalapeno having fun at the party): Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes a misunderstanding happens between two ponies and it's easy to get roped inta thinkin' the wrong thing.  You MUST be willin' ta hear the other pony out, or you may lose somethin' mighty special.  No matter how many miles or how many years, any conflict can be resolved with some good ol' fashioned communication.

Your faithful servant,

Applejack.

Applejack walks to and hugs a dumbstruck Trixie.  After Applejack breaks the hug, Trixie smiles at her.

Trixie: Wh-what was that for, AJ?

Applejack: Fer showin' me what a fool I was ta let my assumption cloud my thinkin'.

Trixie: Aw, it's no problema.

Applejack and Trixie laugh, then Jalapeno joins in.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 23 - The Spirit of Dishonesty, Fyb

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 23 - The Spirit of Dishonesty, Fyb

The time: One month after Jalapeno's visit.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders hum their theme song as they plan how to get their cutie marks today.

Scootaloo: Boy, Jalapeno's sure a nice pony once you get to know her.

A.Bloom: It's a good thing sis figured that out before it was too late.

S.Belle: And such tasty treats!  I didn't think I'd like anything spicy, but Jalapeno sure changed MY mind!

CMCs: YEAH!

Applejack hums as she reads over her latest letter from her cousin.

B.MacIntosh: So THAT'S what happened.

Applejack: Yeah.  She WAS thinkin' about family, just her own.  I had her all wrong!

B.MacIntosh: At least ya caught it in time, sis.

Applejack: Ee-YUP!

Applejack and Big MacIntosh laugh it up.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Nightmare Moon murrs as she watches over Ponyville from Canterlot.  She blinks as she notices a few ponies.

N.Moon: Hmm.....

She gazes down at several ponies.

Pony 1 - blue with two-toned yellow hair - fem: But I DID return your book.

Pony 2 - grey with two-toned green hair - male: Are you SURE?  I don't have it.

Pony 1: Positive.

Pony 2: Well, OK?

The male walks off slowly, looking back at the female.  She smiles at him, then after he walks away, she snickers, a look in her saddlebag revealing she had it after all!  Nightmare Moon gasped.

N.Moon: She told a lie!....... Fyb.

Nightmare Moon flies down in front of Princess Celestia, making the sun goddess gasp.

N.Moon: Get the Elements!  Fyb is active!

P.Celestia: Are you sure?

N.Moon: Yeah, go look for yourself!

Princess Celestia looks in the telescope and sees widespread lying spreading from where Nightmare Moon saw the first two ponies.

P.Celestia: *nod* Yeah, that's gotta be Fyb, no question about it.

Nightmare Moon nods, then writes a note to Twilight Sparkle.  The Bearers of Harmony soon enter the throne room and put on their necklaces.

T.Sparkle: Where is Fyb?

N.Moon: His influence was last seen in the northwest sector.

R.Dash: We're on it.

P.Celestia: Be careful, my little ponies.

T.Sparkle: We won't let you down.

The ponies dash out of the throne room and scramble towards Fyb's location.  Along the way, they pass ponies lying about everything, from whether they paid for something to whether or not they have something that belongs to somepony else.  Applejack snorts, speeding up into the lead.  They hear whooshes in the sky, heading towards who was flying around - Fyb.

Fyb: So, you ponies have arrived!  Ruinous will be pleased to know I stopped your little roll!

T.Sparkle: You, stop us?  I'd say your own lying magic got to YOU!

Fyb: *laugh* Foolish little mare!  By the time I'm done with you, you'll be lying to YOURSELF!  Liar's Tongue!

All the ponies had to plug their ears as lies filled the air around them - everypony except Applejack, whose Element of Harmony was shining almost angrily.  Nightmare Moon flew over and watched from above as Applejack's Element of Harmony put a suit of armor on the farm pony, similar to Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie!  Applejack screamed out as the armor clad her in gold, apples of truth blasting all of Fyb's lies.  Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie armored up, Applejack landing in front of them, angrily glaring at the cobalt pegasus.

Applejack: Ya'll don't git it: WE are stronger than YOU are, YOUR LIES are NOT gonna affect ANYpony, ANYWHERE!

Just as before, all the Elements of Harmony pulsed with each other, especially Fluttershy's, Pinkie Pie's and now Applejack's.  The resulting Element of Harmony attack was almost too bright for Nightmare Moon to watch as it blasted Fyb hard enough to slam him to the ground!

Fyb: AH! This can't be!  THIS MUST BE A LIIIIIIIIIIIIIIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Applejack: NO! RUINOUS IS A LIE!!!!!

The same apples that destroyed all of Fyb's lies buried the dishonest pegasus as he felt his body dissolve, like Toxion and Fryght before him.  Applejack smiles as she nods at the mound of magical fruit.

Applejack: Halfway there!

Everypony congratulates Applejack, Nightmare Moon smiling from above.  Later that day - after apologies were made - everypony had a party to celebrate Applejack's victory.

?????: MI PRIMA!

Applejack: !!!  Jalapeno!

The two cousins embrace tightly.

N.Moon: Wow.  -ALL these ponies are something special.  It's almost as if everything they went through and everypony they know give them strength.-

P.Luna: WOW!

Nightmare Moon looks at Princess Luna, the moon goddess covering her mouth.

N.Moon: Spicy?

Princess Luna nods, floating a jalapeno popper to Nightmare Moon with her magic.  The black alicorn pops the whole thing in her mouth, then flies up, her hair turning into fire!  Everypony laughs as Nightmare Moon drinks down almost a whole punch bowl by herself!

N.Moon (smoke coming out of her mouth as she talks): *sigh*  *chuckle*  Yeah, that's..... spicy.....

This time, Nightmare Moon joins in everypony's laughter.

Jalapeno: Well, those are my Five Alarm Poppers.

N.Moon: I'll say!

Jalapeno and Nightmare Moon share a laugh.  Meanwhile, in the place the ponies fought Fyb, the pile of apples shifted to reveal a handsome peagsus stallion with white hair and a cobalt coat and no cutie mark.  He murrs as he walks around a bit, then heads off.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 24 - Flim Flam Shim Sham

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 24 - Flim Flam Shim Sham

The time: One month after the defeat of Fyb.

Applejack hums as she bucks apples for her cider.  She hears another thud and smiles.

Applejack: Hola, cuz.

Jalapeno: Hola, mi prima.  How are you?

Applejack: Why, just great.  Buckin' apples fer our cider, I see.

Jalapeno: Si.  Mi familia has the casa (house) under control, so I'll be visiting for a few days.

Applejack: Awesome.

The two cousins high-hoof, then continue bucking apples.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Cider making is well underway as ponies line up for the finished product.  Jalapeno gets a sample of the cider and takes a drink.

Jalapeno: !!  Holy frejoles!  That is awesome!

R.Dash: Yeah, Jalapeno!  Applejack's cider is the best in Equestria!

Applejack: *blush* Aw, shucks, Rainbow Dash.

Jalapeno: Aw, mi prima, *giggle* you're so humble about it.

R.Dash: Yeah, she's very humble about her successes.

Jalapeno: I can see that.

All three ponies are soon shocked to hear what to Applejack is a disturbingly-familiar clattering.

Jalapeno: What in the.....?

Applejack: No way in Equestria!

Up drives the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 - or something that looks like it.  And up on it were two yellow unicorns dressed as vaudeville performers.

Applejack: Flim and Flam, what are you doing back?  I thought ya'll were chased outta here.

Flim: That may be true, but that was with the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000!  THIS is the Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 7000!

Jalapeno: Seis mil, siete mil, un mil mil, whatever número (number) you attach to that thing, it's STILL a pedazo de chatarra (hunk of junk)!

Applejack: YEAH!  Now turn that unwelcome wagon around and git outta our town, NOW!

Flam: Aw, now, Applejack, SURELY you can appreciate what we've done to improve our already-amazing machine.

R.Dash: Too bad the OPERATORS were suffering from a lack of integrity!

Flim: *smirk* Aw, cute little Rainbow Dash!  Trying to interject a sense of justice into the recipe.  OUR Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 7000 is THE last word in cider-making!

Applejack: No, MY BACK LEGS are the last word in cider-makin', and MY last word is gonna be "Get the haybale outta here and NEVER - I mean, NEV-VER - COME BACK!"

Applejack stomps off back to her orchard with a snort.  The Flim Flam Brothers watch her go with slowly spreading smiles.  That night, the brothers were hard at work - but it wasn't fixing their machine.....  The next day, Applejack trots out to her orchard humming, only to be shocked when she saw that her entire orchard was taken over by Flim and Flam!

Jalapeno: *GASP!*  Ay carumba!  What kind of traición (treachery) has happened here?!

Applejack: MY FARM!  MY APPLES!!

Flim and Flam: You mean OUR FARM and OUR APPLES!!!

Applejack: WHAT DID YOU TWO DO!?

Flim: Since you wouldn't GIVE us a chance to prove ourselves,.....

Flam: WE decided to TAKE our chance.....

Flim and Flam: By taking YOUR farm!!

The brothers laugh spitefully at a horrified Applejack.

Flim: Now, ya'll have one hour to get your JUNK off OUR property!

Flam: Or WE will arrest you for trespassing!

Jalapeno: NO!  LOS MENTIROSOS!!! (LIARS!!!)

Jalapeno jets out of Sweet Apple Acres and dashes towards the Everfree Forest.  Coming out of the woods, across the bridge near Fluttershy's cottage, were Zecora and Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: I must say, your stories aren't ALL that is fascinating about you, Zecora.

Zecora: I'd love for you to visit my land,

I think you'd agree it's really grand.

N.Moon: And if everyone there is as friendly as you are, I'd love to go.

Jalapeno: EMERGENCIA!! EMERGENCIA!!!  EMERGENCIA MAYOR!!!  (MAJOR EMERGENCY!!!!)

Zecora: Huh?

N.Moon: What's that mean?

Jalapeno skids to a stop in front of Nightmare Moon, the black alicorn shielding herself and Zecora from the dust the Spanish mare kicks up.

Jalapeno: Emergencia!  En la granja de Applejack!  Ha habido una OPA hostil!!  (Emergency!  At Applejack's farm!  There's been a hostile takeover!!)

N.Moon: !!!  What the?!  Who are you?

Jalapeno: No hay tiempo para explicar! *gets behind Nightmare Moon* Data prisa! (No time to explain! Hurry!)

N.Moon: *Jalapeno shoves her back where she came from* OK, OK!! *starts galloping off*  I'm going!!

Jalapeno follows Nightmare Moon back to the farm, where the Flim Flam Brothers have Applejack's entire family tied up and were forcing them to watch helplessly as they took ALL the money and credit for the cider.

G.Smith: Stop this nonsense immediately!  Untie me or you won't like the consequences!

But the Flim Flam Brothers were pretending not to hear the Apple family matriarch.  But they DID hear.....

Jalapeno: MI PRIMA!!!

Applejack: Jalapeno!

N.Moon: What's going on?!

Nightmare Moon takes in the scene and growls.  She slams her front hooves on the ground and shatters some of their empty barrels, halting cider production almost instantly.

Flim and Flam: What the?

The brothers look and spot Nightmare Moon glaring at them.

N.Moon: Don't'cha two know what the meaning of the word "INSANITY" is?!

Jalapeno: Si, ustedes dos son muy locos. (Yes, you two are very insane.)

Flim: Insanity? *laugh* Surely you jest!

Flam: WE are expert businessponies!

N.Moon: *eyes narrow* Well, I am an expert in security measures with a major in helping out my friends!  I do my best work at night where my specialty is stealing nightmares.  I also like long walks on the beach, cloudless nights and tall mugs of APPLE FAMILY cider.

The two brothers smirk, spitefully dousing the Mare in the Moon with a barrel of their lower-quality cider!  The Apple family and Jalapeno let out a gasp.

N.Moon: So, you wanna play *straightens up, wings out, hair flowing out like a plume of smoke* DIRTY, EH?!

Nightmare Moon slams her hooves down, causing the Flim Flam Brothers' machine to fall apart like a house of cards in an earthquake.  Then, she uses her magic to dump ALL of the brothers' low-quality cider on top of them, the resulting wave sending them out of Ponyville for parts unknown!  She then takes the "Flim Flam Fields" banner down and magically teleports it to the brothers, along with raining the parts of their machine on their heads!  After doing that, Nightmare Moon snorts a few times, then breathes heavily in an attempt to calm down.  After she calmed down, she heads over to the Apples.

N.Moon: AJ!  Are you OK?  Who WERE those two?

Applejack: Those were the Flim Flam Brothers. *Nightmare Moon begins untying the Apple family*  They were here to try to muscle in on our profits earlier.  They had that Super Speedy Cider Squeezy thingamajigajalopy-thingy-whatever here and they DID out-cider us, but it was MUCH lower quality than ours, so nopony bought their cider.  I THOUGHT that shooed them off, but I GUESS it didn't.  And you, Jalapeno.  If ya'll didn't bring Nightmare Moon,.....

Jalapeno: Calmarse, mi prima, calmarse (calm down). I'm just lucky I ran into her.

N.Moon: So, you DO speak a language I can understand.

Jalapeno: *giggle*  Lo sentimos, Pesadilla Luna. (Sorry, Nightmare Moon)  I sometimes revert to speaking Spanish when I get panicked.

N.Moon: *BLINK*  Pe-sa-WHAT?

Applejack and Jalapeno laugh.  That evening, all traces of the Flim Flam Brothers were removed and cider-making season resumed without a hitch.  Nightmare Moon, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and the changeling royals were also invited to the party, the two night mares enjoying the cider.

N.Moon: OK, now I see why those two wanted this cider, it's outstanding!

P.Luna: This is the most divine apple cider I ever had!

T.Sparkle: It's the ONLY apple cider you ever had.

Princess Luna and Twilight Sparkle laugh.

Jalapeno: Boy, this town is muy agitada! (very eventful!)

Applejack: *chuckle* That it is, Jalapeno.  This town ALWAYS has some *Discord lands by Jalapeno* crazy thing goin' on in it.

Jalapeno: *looks at Discord*  *POINK!*  With or withOUT *points at Discord* him?

Applejack: *looks* AH!  I was wonderin' when ya'd show up, Discord.

Jalapeno: Discord?  Si adecuado! (It's appropriate)

Discord: *laugh*  And who are you?

Applejack: This is my cousin, Jalapeno.  She's from Los Pegasus.

Discord: Which would explain the Spanish.

Jalapeno chuckles, then shakes hands with Discord.  The draconequus is struck by something.....

Discord: -What the?!  Why do I feel another Element?  I thought there were only five more!-

Jalapeno: Uh, senor?

Discord: .....!  *drops Jalapeno's hoof*  Sorry, Jala.

Jalapeno: No problema.

Jalapeno chuckles as Discord blushes.  Then, the pegasus formerly known as Fyb trots up, wearing a lower cowboy hat otherwise similar to Applejack's.  He gets a mug of cider, smiling at and tipping his hat to Applejack, then he heads to a picnic table to enjoy the drink.  Applejack blinks at the pegasus.

Applejack: .......Naw.

The farmpony continues her work.  That night, Discord picks up the updated copy of the book on Ruinous.  He flips to the part where it talks about the new Elements of Harmony, finding something that catches even him unawares!

Discord: Well now.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 25 - Stirring Up a Storm

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 25 - Stirring Up a Storm

The time: One month after the recent "visit" by the Flim Flam Brothers.

Fluttershy flies around feeding her animals.  She blushes as a few of them show their appreciation as Rainbow Dash flies up.

R.Dash: Heya, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: Good day, Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: I need all the pegasi to come with me to Twilight's library.

Fluttershy: Does Cloudsdale need more water?

R.Dash: Yeah, it was an unusually rainy spring, so we need more water up there for the rest of the year.

Fluttershy: Is anypony coming down with the Feather Flu?

R.Dash: Nah, we checked everypony out and they're all clear.  You helped us out last time, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: I know, but.....

R.Dash: Look, Pitstop'll be there and so will I, actually helping make the tornado, OK?  We'll fly right by you.

Fluttershy: *smiles and hugs Rainbow Dash*  Thanks, Rainbow.  *Rainbow returns the hug*  You're a great friend.

R.Dash: Aw, shucks, just wanna make sure you feel comfortable - well, as comfortable as possible since.....

Fluttershy: Since?

R.Dash: Well, Spitfire was all alone last time we did this.  THIS time, ALL the Wonderbolts AND Meteor Strike will be watching.  Are you sure you're gonna be able to hold it together?

Fluttershy: I-I-I think so.....

R.Dash: *reassuring smile* Look, *hoof on Fluttershy's shoulder as the Bearer of Kindness looks at her* you were the MVP of last time's twister.  I have faith in you, OK?  You've been getting faster, right?

Fluttershy: *nodding* Yeah?

R.Dash: And you sure impressed me AND Pitstop with your speed against Toxion, right?

Fluttershy: *slight proud smile* Yeah.

R.Dash: *smile* That's the sort of thing I wanna see from you, Fluttershy.  Now, c'mon, I got the testing equipment all set up.  *Fluttershy nods and the two pegasi trot off to the arena* You SHOULD be able to hit 10 Wingpower now, right?

Fluttershy: I think so.

Rainbow Dash nods and the two pegasi take off.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Pegasi from all over Ponyville were gathered at the arena.  Each pegasus flew at an anemometer designed to measure their Wingpower.  Rainbow Dash set the stage for the other pegasi with an astounding reading of.....

T.Sparkle: !!!! 22 WINGPOWER!

The pegasi were amazed, clapping the cyan mare.  Pitstop was next up, her blazing speed on display as she generated.....

T.Sparkle: 21.7 WINGPOWER!

The two Wonderbolts laugh, then fly above the crowd, making a motion like they're throwing dice downwards at the ground three times, then flying up a bit more and exchanging a reverse high-hoof.  Virtuna gasps!

Virtuna: HEY!!  That's Manehattan-style, girls!

R.Dash (As she and Pitstop fly down to Virtuna): What?

Virtuna: That little thing you two did, the triple-fist-pump and the backhanded-high-hoof.

Pitstop: Really, luv?  I saw WarpSpeed and Thunderbolt do the same thing once.

Virtuna: I'll betcha at least one of them was from Manehattan.

R.Dash: Funny you should say that since.....

R.Dash and Pitstop: They're BOTH from Manehattan!

Rainbow Dash, Pitstop and Virtuna laugh as other pegasi fly at the anemometer.  Then it was Fluttershy's turn.  The yellow pegasus takes a deep breath and flies her best at the anemometer.  Twilight Sparkle, Spike and Virtuna look on as the results come in.....

T.Sparkle: *impressed expression* 8 Wingpower.  Not bad, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: *nod* I'll take it - for a baseline.

R.Dash: HAHA!  There ya go!

Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy high-wing.

Pitstop: Ya know, luv, that was only one less than MY first crack at it.

Fluttershy: !!  Really?!

Pitstop: I wasn't NATURALLY as fast as I am, I had ta work at it.

Fluttershy: Aw, shucks, Pitstop, this ISN'T my first go at it.

Pitstop: It's NOT?

Fluttershy: *nod*  Yeah.  The VERY first time I did that, I was, well, *Rainbow Dash smirks and shakes her head at Fluttershy's politically-correct method of describing her own performance* somewhat underpowered.

Spike: SOMEwhat underpowered?!  Fluttershy, you were PATHETIC!

R.Dash, Fluttershy, Pitstop and T.Sparkle: SPIKE!!!

Spike: What?! Her first effort was 0.5 Wingpower!

Pitstop: *looks at Fluttershy in shock* And ye raised it to a score just now of 8?!  *She swings her head at Rainbow Dash*  Watch yer flank, *points a hoof at an instantly-blushing Fluttershy* she's coming up behind ye!

All three pegasi laugh, soon joined by Twilight Sparkle, much to Spike's chagrin.  After the tryout, Fluttershy flew to the Everfree Forest and landed in a clearing.  She hummed the first line of the "My Little Pony" theme and all kinds of animals came to her, birds, bunnies, even a timber wolf!

Fluttershy: OK, tomorrow is an emergency water delivery to Cloudsdale, rainy spring and all.  Now, *pulls an anemometer out of her saddlebag* this is an ane..... ane..... wind-speed-meter-thing.....  *giggle and blush*  It measures wind speed and Wingpower, and I gotta get it to at least a 10.0.  *The animals growl and murr, knowing it's a daunting task, but then.....*  I *blush!* already got it to 8.0.

The animals murr, impressed, as some bunnies, birds and even the timber wolf hugs Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: Aw, thanks. Now, I flew my fastest when I'm trying to save my little friends, and *shrinks a bit and blushes a lot* I even did my own "Rainboom" when I battled Toxion.  Seeing as Toxion's not here anymore, here's what we need to do: *turns to the timber wolf* YOU throw the critters up in the air and I'll fly by the ane..... ane..... *points to the anemometer* THIS thing as I go to save them.  OK?

All the animals nod, then get into position.  The timber wolf throws one of the squirrels up high, making Fluttershy dash by the anemometer and catch it!  The pegasus checks the meter.

Fluttershy: 8.4.

The timber wolf nods, then throws a rabbit up in the air.  Fluttershy catches it and checks the meter again.

Fluttershy: Getting there, 8.7 that time.

The birds chirp a chorus at Fluttershy's improvement, spurning the determined pegasus on.  She kept it up the rest of the day and into the night, attracting Equestria's nighttime protector, Nightmare Moon.

Fluttershy (wiped out): Nine point..... s-s-seven..... almost-there.....

The timber wolf whimpers a bit, then throws Angel Bunny!  That prompts Fluttershy to fly her absolute fastest past the anemometer.  Nightmare Moon had a front-row seat as Fluttershy blazed past the anemometer, seeing the needle go into the green just a teeny-bit, but more importantly, Fluttershy slowly landing on the ground.  Nightmare Moon caught Fluttershy in a gentle night breeze, laying her and Angel Bunny on a tuft of moss, the rabbit pointing at the display on the anemometer.  Nightmare Moon blinks, then looks, the moon shining a bit brighter as she smiled.

N.Moon: 10.2.

Nightmare Moon murrs as she trots to Fluttershy, gently picking up the yellow mare.  Angel Bunny carefully picks up the anemometer and carries it to Fluttershy's cottage after Nightmare Moon.  The black alicorn lays Fluttershy in her own bed, Angel Bunny putting the anemometer on a shelf within sight of the bed.

N.Moon: thanks, angel.

The bunny nods, heading to his room to rest.  Nightmare Moon smiles, heading off to do her nighttime duties.  The next morning, Fluttershy woke up and saw the anemometer.  Her face lit up like a Christmas tree when she saw the reading.

Fluttershy: Oh, MY!!  I DID IT!! OH!

Fluttershy zipped off to the reservoir were the tornado was to happen.  There, the Wonderbolts did a small air display before landing.

R.Dash: *GRIN!*  Spitfire, Soarin, Meteor Strike!  SO glad you three could make it!

Spitfire: Well, well. My favorite gutsy pony.

The two Wonderbolts hug, then Rainbow Dash spots Illusion!

R.Dash: Illusion?!

The large changeling nods as the ChangeWings land.

Spitfire: They insisted on being here.

R.Dash: COOL!

JetStream: Hello, Rainbow.

R.Dash: Hey there, JetStream.  Ready to watch us make history?

JetStream: *nod and chuckle* Yeah!

Just then.....

Fluttershy: RAINBOW DASH!!

All the airshowponies look at the speeding pegasus flying to Rainbow Dash, carrying the anemometer without the fan on top of it.

Fluttershy: LOOKIT! LOOKIT!!

R.Dash: ......!!! 10.2!!

Rainbow Dash laughs and the two pegasi hug up.

R.Dash: I KNEW ya had it!

The two giggle, then Fluttershy gasps as she spots the ChangeWings.

Fluttershy: Y-y-you said the W-w-wonderbolts were here, but *points a nervous hoof at the ChangeWings* (squeaky): them?

JetStream (gently): Fluttershy, we insisted on seeing this, Spitfire spoke highly of you and Rainbow, I hope we're not gonna shake your confidence TOO much.

R.Dash: Yeah, besides, all they are are just a few more changelings. It'll be OK, OK?

Fluttershy: I hope you're right.

JetStream and Illusion exchange glances, then notice how gentle Rainbow Dash was talking to her friend and smile.

Spitfire: Mnemonic device.

Illusion: *nod* Used a few of those myself.

The two air performers get in a special box to watch the tornado.  Rainbow Dash was giving the pegasi a final pep talk.

R.Dash: OK, we've got a bit more of a special section watching us.  The ChangeWings - the Transformian equalivent of the Wonderbolts - are also in attendance.  *Several pegasi look at the changelings, JetStream waving back*  But don't let them distract you from your mission: Get that water to Cloudsdale and break that record!  Are you ready?

Pegasi: Yeah!

R.Dash: I said, ARE YOU READY!?

Pegasi: YEAH!!!

R.Dash: Then let's DO IT!!!

The pegasi cheer as they took their positions, wearing smaller individual Wingpower meters.  Fluttershy blinks a bit as she spots one of her bullies from flight camp: A chocolate-brown pegasus with a barbell as his cutie mark.  She shook it off, ready to go.  At the sound of the horn, all the pegasi were airbourne, flying in a circle as they attempted to suck the water up.  Twilight Sparkle kept tabs on the huge anemometer from "Hurricane Fluttershy", a mark at 911 Wingpower, 1 Wingpower more than Fillydelphia's record.

T.Sparkle: 100 Wingpower!  200!  500 Wingpower!

Rainbow Dash, Pitstop and Fluttershy flew in a close pack, smiling at each other and spurning each other on.  The two Wonderbolts flew higher up to check on other ponies, then the brown male bodychecks Fluttershy right out of the tornado!

Brown Pegasus M: Sorry, Klutzershy!

As he laughs, Fluttershy slammed to the ground, skillfully keeping her wings from impacting, but picking up abrasions on her sides!  She struggles to get up, then thought about last night and how she tried so hard to get to 10.0 Wingpower.  Then, Nightmare Moon appeared, her very prescence igniting a fire in her!  The normally-meek pegasus growled as she looked at the tornado, spreading her wings!

Fluttershy: Oh, no, YOU DIDN'T!

With a grunt, Fluttershy lifted off again, bringing the ChangeWings and Wonderbolts to their hooves!  The yellow pegasus flew up higher and higher, faster and faster!

T.Sparkle: Oh, my sweet Celestia!  850!  900!  Nine-!

BOOM!!!!!  Everypony looked up to see the same "Sonic Butterboom" Fluttershy produced when she beat Toxion!  The brown pegasus who checked her out of the tornado gasped in total shock, nearly spinning out of the bottom.  JetStream had a hoof over his mouth and Spitfire was almost moved to tears at the spectacle.  Twilight Sparkle looked at the meter and gasped, seeing the record smashed, but more importantly, the needle in the quadruple digits!

T.Sparkle: 1045!  1075!  1100 WINGPOWER!!!

At that, a huge volume of water flew out of the reservoir and up to Cloudsdale, bringing new meaning to "My cup runneth over"!  In fact, they had enough water in Cloudsdale to put in several reserve tanks for emergencies!  The ponies all went nuts as the pegasi land one after the other - all but Fluttershy who was still flying in a fast circle, but was gradually slowing down.  Nightmare Moon blinks, then flies up to catch the faltering Fluttershy.

N.Moon: *catches Fluttershy on her back*  Gotcha!

The black alicorn slowly lands near Rainbow Dash and Pitstop.

R.Dash and Pitstop: Fluttershy!

Fluttershy lays on the ground after Nightmare Moon crouches down, gasping with the effort of flying so fast.  Rainbow Dash took notice of Fluttershy's injuries.

R.Dash: Who did this?

Fluttershy pointed out the perpetraitor and Rainbow Dash growled at him.

R.Dash: You just don't know when to lay offa her, do ya?!  Tell me, do YOU have the GUTS to take on one of Ruinous' Elements of Darkness?!  'Cause that's what Fluttershy did!!  I don't ever wanna see your sorry flank again!  DO... YOU... HEAR-ME?!?!

The bully snorts and trots off, Rainbow Dash heading back to the other pegasi, checking their Wingpower meters.  After exchanging notes with Pitstop, Rainbow Dash checks the meter on Fluttershy.  The cyan mare summons the cobalt mare and the two Wonderbolts look on in shock as Twilight Sparkle trots over.

T.Sparkle: What?

Rainbow Dash shows Fluttershy's Wingpower meter to Twilight Sparkle.  The lavender mare looks at her incredulously.

T.Sparkle: Are you serious?

Both Wonderbolts nod.  Then, Rainbow Dash addresses the pegasi.

R.Dash: OK, guys, that was the BEST tornado I ever saw!  First and foremost, mission WAAAAAAAY more than accomplished!  Twilight?

T.Sparkle: All of you combined for a tornado with 1,106 Wingpower!

The pegasi cheered and the Wonderbolts and ChangeWings applauded.  After a while, Rainbow Dash signalled for calm.

R.Dash: OK, now this time I had you all wear *holds her Wingpower meter up* these.  They measured your individual contributions to this tornado - and all tornadoes we need in the future.  Now, we have the top three fliers in terms of Wingpower here.  In 3rd place, Pitstop generated 25.7 Wingpower!

The ponies cheer Pitstop's performance, the Bearer of Humility taking a well-deserved bow.

Pitstop: Not bad for me first trip up.

R.Dash: That was your FIRST tornado?!

Pitstop: Trottingham never got called upon to send water to Cloudsdale.

R.Dash: *nod*  In 2nd place..... Yours truly, with 29.5 Wingpower!

Ponies cheer for one second, then.....

Illusion: HEY!  You NEVER take second!

M.Strike: He's right!  Who the hay could you have lost to to make you actually PROUD to lose?!

Rainbow Dash looked as Nightmare Moon brought Fluttershy over to her.

Illusion and M.Strike: *exchange a shocked look* NIGHTMARE MOON?!

Rainbow Dash smirked at the two former airshowponies, then showed Twilight Sparkle's report to Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: *looks at the report, then Rainbow Dash* 33?

Illusion and M.Strike: She did WHAT?

Illusion and Meteor Strike exchanged shocked looks, then trot over.  Twilight Sparkle showed the two legends the report.

Spitfire: What is it?  *runs over*  What-is-it?!

Illusion shows the report to Spitfire.

Spitfire: Oh, SU-NAP!

Spitfire looked at Fluttershy, an impressed look on her face.

Spitfire: Do you know what MY Wingpower was during the.....  *looks at Rainbow Dash*  First?  *Rainbow Dash shakes her head*  Second?  *Rainbow Dash nods*  .....the second tornado I made to send water up to Cloudsdale?  *Fluttershy shakes her head*  28.8.

Fluttershy: Really?

Spitfire: Fluttershy, you have a LOT of hidden flying talent.  I'm just shocked you don't show it off often.

Fluttershy: I guess I needed more confidence, *smiles at Nightmare Moon* and a great motivator.

N.Moon: *blush* M-me?

Fluttershy: If you didn't show up, I might not have gotten back in that tornado after that mean pony knocked me out.  Then I'd've never guessed I was capable of producing 33 Wingpower and making a Sonic Butterflyboom.  *Rainbow Dash snickers a bit and Fluttershy giggles back, then she hugs Nightmare Moon around the neck*  I owe my success to you, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: Aw, Fluttershy!

The two embraced, ponies around them clapping.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 26 - This Just In!

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 26 - This Just In!

The time: One month after the tornado.

The mean pony that checked Fluttershy out of the tornado has been put on an official blacklist from any kind of team duty.  Speaking of Fluttershy, the yellow pegasus was nominated as a top flyer and tornado maker for Cloudsdale.  It's the later story that drew Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo to Fluttershy's cottage, the farm filly knocking on the door.  Angel Bunny answered the door, blinking at the notepads the fillies were carrying.

A.Bloom: New editor-in-chief.

The rabbit smiles, stepping aside and letting the Cutie Mark Crusaders in single file.  The four ponies talked for a while, the fillies jotting down notes, mostly talking about Fluttershy's effort in the tornado.  After a while, the fillies have all they need and they thank Fluttershy, hugging her before heading back to the school.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Cheerilee and her students on the "Foal Free Press" gather in the classroom - all but editor-in-chief Featherweight.

Cheerilee: My little ponies, listen up!  Featherweight came down with the Feather Flu and will be out for a week.  So, I have decided that the intern editor-in-chief will be.....

???: ME!!

Everypony looks at the door, spotting the last pony anyone expected: Diamond Tiara!

D.Tiara: Make way for the NEW editor-in-chief of the school paper!

Cheerilee: Now, look here, Diamond Tiara, you were stripped of that title and assigned to printing duty.  As Celestia is my witness, you will NOT send ANY of my little ponies through what you sent them through again!

D.Tiara: Bite your bridle, teach!  YOUR editor-in-chief is sick, YOU need a stand-in, YOU have NO CHOICE!

Cheerilee blinks as Diamond Tiara takes her place.

D.Tiara: Now, we will be printing a special edition of the "Foal Free Press".  The Cutie Mark Crusaders will be reprising their role as Gabby Gums for this issue!

The trio gulp collectively, remembering what happened last time.

D.Tiara: And I want the biggest exclusive in the the history of this paper..... I want BIG!  I want SHOCKING!  I want..... *glares at the CMCs* NIGHT... MARE... MOON!!!

A.Bloom: OK, lemme see if I got this right: *points at Diamond Tiara* YOU want *points to herself* US to go ALL THE WAY TA CANTERLOT and get a sit-down interview with the Mare in the Moon while she's A. Protectin' everypony's sleep, B. Studyin' with the princesses and C. Most importantly, tryin' ta help protect Equestria from Ruinous and his Elements of Darkness.  *shrug*  I dunno if we can, she has a couple of BIG things on her plate right now.

D.Tiara: *pounces Apple Bloom!*  I don't care if she's trying to help cure the Cutie Pox, GET ME NIGHTMARE MOON!!!

Later that day, the Cutie Mark Crusaders sigh as they make the long walk to the train station, arriving in Canterlot right at sundown.  The princesses were about to change the day into night when the CMCs entered and bowed.

P.Celestia: Cutie Mark Crusaders?

P.Luna: What brings the three of you to our abode?

A.Bloom: Pardon our unplanned appearance and our intrusion, but we need to have an interview with Nightmare Moon for our paper.

The two princesses exchange looks.

P.Celestia: You three wish to have an audience with the Mare in the Moon?  She's a bit busy right now, arranging the stars.

Scootaloo: *groan* i was afraid of that.....

P.Luna: Child?

S.Belle: Our editor-in-chief was pretty adamant about us getting an interview with her.

P.Celestia: *writes a note*  There, this should explain everything.

A.Bloom: *takes the note and puts it in her saddlebag, all three CMCs bowing again*  Thanks, Princess.

P.Luna: *Both princesses bow back*  We are sorry your request could not be accepted.

The fillies walk out slowly.  Just as they leave, Nightmare Moon flies in.

N.Moon: What were you discussing?

P.Celestia: Some fillies from Cheerilee's school wanted to interview you, I said you were too busy.

N.Moon: Well, that's very interesting since *clears throat* I AM too busy.  Discord and I are working overtime with the changelings to watch for the next Element of Darkness.

P.Luna: *nod* That is what we told them.  I just hope our response is satisfactory.

Back at the school, the Cutie Mark Crusaders had given Princess Celestia's note to Diamond Tiara.  The spoiled filly read the note and promptly threw it out, making the trio gasp in horror!

D.Tiara: You think I am to believe THAT?!  You three probably faked it so you DIDN'T have to interview her!

A.Bloom: That note is from Princess Celestia!

D.Tiara: I! DON'T! CARE!!  You will pay for this!!  YOU WILL PAY FOR THIS!!!

Three terrified fillies rushed out of the school and to their clubhouse, shivering in fear.  The next day, the "Foal Free Press" ran A story on Nightmare Moon, but it was packed full of misinterpretations and embarassing moments.  The two princesses read it, blinking uneasily.

P.Luna: I hope Moon didn't get her hooves on this.....

The loud opening of a door dashed their hopes.

P.Celestia: Nightmare-Moon!  I-told-them-you-were-busy, I-!

N.Moon: The Cutie Mark Crusaders are not to blame for this.  I believe the reason why can be found on the opposite page.

The princesses look and saw the three embarassing pictures Diamond Tiara blackmailed the Cutie Mark Crusaders with in "Ponyville Confidential".

P.Luna: I see.

N.Moon: I want to have a talk with this..... Diamond Tiara.

P.Celestia: PLEASE don't be TOO harsh on her.

N.Moon: That depends on her.

Nightmare Moon flies down to Ponyville, ponies afraid of her for the first time since she met Virtuna.  She heads for the school as the Cutie Mark Crusaders rush outside.

CMCs (rapid-fire): Nightmare Moon, please don't wreck our school!  It wasn't our fault!  Diamond Tiara did it! *Nightmare Moon stops and listens*  Featherweight's out for a week with Feather Flu!  We TRIED to explain to Diamond Tiara!  She threw out Celestia's note!  She-!!

Nightmare Moon silenced them with a hoof, smiling a bit at the frantic fillies.  The trio smiles back, relieved at having been forgiven.  Nightmare Moon heads into the school, several students awestruck at how magnificent she was.  Cheerilee nods at Nightmare Moon as she heads towards a shaking Diamond Tiara.

Cheerilee: I'll leave her to you.

Cheerilee heads off to a side, leaving Diamond Tiara to face Nightmare Moon one-on-one.

N.Moon: So..... *reads the story a bit* .....1200 years ago, I helped Trottingham win the Equestrian Soccer Championship?  There are a number of problems with that story.  *trots around*  There was no Trottingham 1200 years ago, there was no EQUESTRIAN SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP 1200 years ago - unless the players were kicking around a rock *She smiles a bit, making all the ponies not named Diamond Tiara laugh* - but the main problem with that story is *looks at Diamond Tiara with a fearsome glare* I'M ONLY 1183!!!

Diamond Tiara was shocked into submission by Nightmare Moon's flash of anger!

N.Moon: Correct me if I am mistaken: *looks at Apple Bloom* Didn't your sister and the other Elements of Harmony defeat Fyb, the Element of Darkness of DIS-HONESTY?  Wouldn't that've brought about the *glares at Diamond Tiara* END OF LYING?!  And WHERE did you get THIS?  *holds up the paper*  "Went on a ship voyage around the world."?  As much as I'd love to, I can't even go in the blimp from here to Canterlot sometimes without feeling nauseous.  Where do ya suppose I'd get the stomach to float in a boat for a decade!?  All this story is is just YOUR effort to put SOMEthing in the paper, and you NEV-VER took one fact into consideration: I AM TRYING TO HELP SAVE EQUESTRIA FROM RUINOUS AND THE ELEMENTS OF DARKNESS!  There is NO TIME TO SPARE!  *She gets Princess Celestia's note out of the trash*  And to throw a letter from Equestria's ruler in the trash like a candy-bar wrapper, HOW DARE YOU!!??  Have you no sense of respect?!  *looks at Cheerilee*  I don't think she's going to be allowed to even PRINT the paper, let alone RUN it.

Cheerliee: *nod* I agree.  Diamond Tiara, from now on, the only thing you can do associated with the "Foal Free Press" is read it.

Diamond Tiara fled out of the school, fearful of Nightmare Moon.  The Mare in the Moon, however, calmed down and started to head out, but then.....

N.Moon: Ya know, I can't just leave this be.  Yes, I have a lot to do.  Yes, the battle against Ruinous takes top priority.  BUT!, I cannot go to sleep knowing *holds up a paper* this slander is out-and-about.  How would ya like to hear my REAL story?

A.Bloom: You sure?  I wouldn't wanna impose.

N.Moon: Apple Bloom, I'm sure of it.

The Cutie Mark Crusaders sit down with their pads and pencils as Nightmare Moon tells them of how she first appeared.  The students were shocked at how evil she used to be, which made them even more impressed at how good she's been acting.  When the interview was concluded, the students applauded, although Apple Bloom had one more question:

A.Bloom: Why were ya'll so jealous before?

N.Moon: This doesn't condone my actions, but I hope it explains them: Imagine you're a world-class artist.  If your pictures were hanging in the best museums in Equestria and nopony saw them, wouldn't you feel a bit hurt?

Cheerilee: So you felt underappreciated.  Twilight Sparkle once told us about Princess Luna.....

N.Moon: *nod* Right.

Cheerilee: .....and how she was resentful of how everypony loved Princess Celestia.  You're over this, I take it?

N.Moon: Thanks to Virtuna's help, I'm getting there.

???: *cough* That's nice.

Everypony whirled, gasping as Featherweight struggled to get up the steps.  Nightmare Moon flapped her wings and put a force field up.

Featherweight: *cough* Hello, Nightmare Moon.  Fancy seeing you.

N.Moon: Yeah.  I'm sure that your prescence here while still feeling the effects of Feather Flu means you've seen Diamond Tiara's attempt at an exposé about me?

Featherweight: *nod and cough*  Y-yeah.....  I had no idea that *BIG sneeze* that me missing a week would cause this much damage.

N.Moon: *reassuring smile*  Believe me, I'm not angry - anymore.

Cheerilee: You should've been here a bit earlier, Featherweight.

Scootaloo: Yeah, she let Diamond Tiara have it!

The four foals laugh, Nightmare Moon blushing.

Featherweight: So, what's big *COUGH!* news?

Apple Bloom showed Featherweight the story and the little pegasus gasps.

Featherweight: Really?!

N.Moon: *nod* Yeah.

Featherweight: *smiles at Nightmare Moon*  I'd hug ya, but I don't want you to get sick.

N.Moon: I understand, thanks for your consideration.

A.Bloom: Well, I know ya'll're busy, so I'll let ya head back, K?

N.Moon: *smiles* Glad I could help out here.

Cheerilee: You're always welcome back here, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: *bow* Thank you.

Nightmare Moon turns into purple smoke and heads back to Canterlot as Featherweight - from outside the school - took command of the paper.  The black alicorn appeared, blushing when she saw the two princesses.

P.Luna: So you DID do it after all.

N.Moon: Just didn't feel right with all those lies about me in the paper.

P.Celestia: *smile*  I see.

N.Moon: Turns out all it was was just a spoiled filly's lame effort to have SOMEthing to print - and to injure the reputations of the Cutie Mark Crusaders in the process.

The princesses nod and wince, remembering the pictures.

P.Luna: So, what's next?

N.Moon: The spoiled filly is forbidden from even printing the paper, let alone dictating what goes in it.

P.Celestia: YOUR decision?

N.Moon: Naw, Cheerilee's.

P.Luna: Noted.  *yawn*

N.Moon: *nod*  I got it, OK, Luna?

P.Luna: *nod* Thanks, Moon.

Nightmare Moon nods, then flies outside.

N.Moon: I've seen the princesses do this millions of times..... *She grunts as she tries to raise the moon*  .....This shouldn't..... be-too..... HARD!!

The moon rises smoothly across the sky, Nightmare Moon smiling brightly.  The ponies marvelled at their old enemy raising the moon, applauding loudly when the job was complete.  Nightmare Moon heard them and smiled brightly, happy tears in her eyes.

N.Moon: thanks, girls.....

The Mare in the Moon goes on her nightly nightmare-removal rounds.  In Applejack's house, the Cutie Mark Crusaders were having a sleepover when Apple Bloom woke up as the moon rose high and bright in the night sky.  She looked outside and smiled as bright as the moon.

A.Bloom: ya'll welcome, nightmare moon.

Apple Bloom goes back to sleep, a copy of the "Foal Free Press" with the real story on Nightmare Moon on her nightstand.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 27 - The Spirit of Selfishness, Styngee

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 27 - The Spirit of Selfishness, Styngee

The time: One month after Nightmare Moon's REAL story appeared in the "Foal Free Press".

The Mare in the Moon hummed as she looked in the telescope, Princess Cadence walking up to her.

P.Cadence: Still scanning?

N.Moon: *nods without turning to look at Princess Cadence*  Yeah.  Trying to find baddies based on behavior is hard.

P.Cadence: Oh?

N.Moon: When Toxion attacked, that was obvious, he was poisoning a good chunk of the Everfree Forest.  When FRYGHT attacked, that was also obvious, she was spreading fear all over.  The others that aren't DarkSparkle - Fyb, Styngee and Hatetrol - are based off emotions, so it's kinda hard to tell..... *She looks intently at something* .....whether something like that is an..... isolated-incident-or-the-lynchpin-of-a-wider-problem.....

P.Cadence: Something like what?

Nightmare Moon lets Princess Cadence look through the telescope as ponies began to not share with others or do favors for others.  The two alicorns look at each other, then gallop into the castle.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Not long after Nightmare Moon found the pocket of selfishness, the ponies were galloping hard towards the spirit of selfishness, the earth pony, Styngee.  Finding her, they glare.

Styngee: Ah, the Bearers of Harmony.....  *laugh*  Time for you all to think of yourselves!  WHEEL OF GREED!!

A game-show-style wheel appears and the Bearers of Harmony's cutie marks are put on it.  Nightmare Moon growls, sending up a force field around the ponies as the wheel spins.  Rarity saw how self-centered all the other ponies were acting and growled.

Rarity: It..... is..... ON!

Her Element of Harmony glowed brightly, armoring her up as it did Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Applejack before her.  She glared at Styngee as the force field went down.

Rarity: You know, Styngee, you REALLY oughta be a bit more perceptive and think of others - like US HERE ABOUT TO END YOU!!  GEMSTONE BLIZZARD!

Rarity jumped WAY up and aimed a salvo of various jewels at Styngee, the earth pony trying to dodge them.  A ruby caught her in the head, then a second Gemstone Blizzard nailed her hard!

Styngee: NO!  This can't BE!

Styngee was soon buried in gemstones, then she got blasted with the Elements of Harmony!  Four of six ponies were armored up as their combined power took out Styngee, the selfish pony dissolving as Toxion, Fryght and Fyb did before her.  After she was defeated, ponies began doing favors and sharing again.  The ponies high-fived each other and congratulated Rarity, the unicorn blushing furiously.  At Sugar Cube Corner, another celebration was held for the defeat of Styngee, Rarity the guest of honor this time.  Discord flew in, smiling as he beheld the scene.

Discord: Two more left, but these are VERY powerful.  Hatetrol and DarkSparkle strike right at the heart of what you ponies stand for.

N.Moon: Let them try, we'll win.

Discord: Really?  I've never met a pony that speaks with YOUR conviction.

N.Moon: We will beat Ruinous and his Elements of Darkness. I have faith in these ponies and with their power, determination and friendship, they can stand up to ANYthing.

Discord: *nod* I hope you're right.

The rest of the party goes without a hitch.  Princess Celestia attends as well, smiling at Nightmare Moon's conviction.

P.Luna: She sure seems to have a lot of hope, sis.

P.Celestia: Indeed.

The two continue on with the festivities, not realizing the implications of their exchange.  Meanwhile, outside, the pile of gems shifted to reveal a red earth pony with no cutie mark.  She helps a foal reach an apple on a tree and heads off.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 28 - The Great Prank-Off

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 28 - The Great Prank-Off

The time: One month after the defeat of Styngee.

Rarity's dress sales flew through the roof in the wake of her battle with the Bearer of Darkness of Selfishness.  In fact, the unicorn was almost over-whelmed with the orders from all the clients she picked up!

Rarity: This is AMAZING!  I'm even getting orders from Ponyis! (Paris!) This is incredible!

As she worked, the earth pony formerly known as Styngee entered the boutique.  She looked around the shop before slamming her front hooves on the ground, instantly finishing ALL of Rarity's dresses to the exact specifications asked for!  The fashionista gasped as the pony smiled, then walked out.

Rarity: What the.....

She shrugs and clears her throat, packing the dresses for shipping.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

That afternoon, ponies were gathered at Suger Cube Corner when in comes Rainbow Dash.  Already there are Trixie and Zecora.

R.Dash: Heya, girls.

Trixie: Hello, Rainbow.

Zecora: Best be careful when on the ground,

Many zany things are all around.

R.Dash: Huh?  Is it the Day of Discord already?

Trixie: A "Day of Discord".  It's time for.....

P.Pie: *bursts out of nowhere!*  THE GREAT PRANK-OFF!!!

Pinkie Pie's sudden appearance sends the trio flying in different directions.  All three land hard on the floor, Zecora on her side, Trixie on her back and Rainbow Dash on her stomach, the pegasus almost ending up outside!  The trio look at Pinkie Pie.

Trixie: The Great and Powerful Trixie MUST impose the question: What's "The Great Prank-Off"?

P.Pie: You-REALLY-need-to-get-out-more.....  The Great Prank-Off is a prank contest of the greatest practical jokers in ALL of Equestria.  I ALWAYS wanted to win it!

Zecora: Where is it?

P.Pie: It's at the same Canterlot grounds where Princess Cadence and Shining Armor celebrated their anniversary.  There's gonna be games and jokes and prizes and treats and candy..... *shudder* oh-oh-oh-OH-OH-OH!! I GOTTA GO PRACTICE!!

Pinkie Pie dashes out of the bakery.  All day, she was playing pranks on everypony, Rarity, Applejack, even the princesses and Nightmare Moon!  The Mare in the Moon smirks a bit as she - and Princess Morphina - had fallen for the "telescope black eye" trick while scanning for Hatetrol.

P.Morphina: *head shake* Bit of a prankster, eh?

N.Moon: *nod* It's her schtick.  She spreads laughter wherever she goes.

P.Morphina: *smile* It works.

The two laugh as Princess Celestia comes out.

P.Celestia: Pinkie Pie?  *Nightmare Moon and Princess Morphina nod* *laugh* Figures.

P.Morphina: She reminds me of OUR "Pinkie Pie", Trickstar.  He was our jester, always made me, Prince Shiftshape and Mother laugh until..... *She shakes it off* N-no, it's nothing. *Princess Celestia and Nightmare Moon exchange skeptical looks*  Let's-just..... look-for-Hatetrol.....

The changeling keeps her eye on the sky, oblivious to the concern on the faces of the alicorn pair.  Meanwhile, Pinkie Pie's prank-a-thon continues, the party pony in prime condition for the competition to come.  The day of the contest, everypony is in attendance, Pinkie Pie more than her usual hyper self with antsiness over the possibility of not being picked.....

R.Dash: WHOA!  This is the jitteriest I ever saw you, Pinkie Pie!

P.Pie: I-know-Rainbow-Dash!  I-REALLY-want-to-win-this-contest!!

Applejack: Just remember, it's better to lose with integrity than win without it.

P.Pie: *nod* Right-o, Applejack.  I have the rules memorized by heart: 1. The joke MUST be funny, 2. The joke MUST be harmless, and 3. The joke MUST involve a theme announced by the organizer.

Fluttershy: You HAVE been watching this competition!

P.Pie: Are ya KIDDING, Fluttershy?!  This is MY "Grand Galloping Gala"!

Rarity: More like a Grand GUFFAWING Gala.

That got everypony laughing as Nightmare Moon flies in.

N.Moon: *laugh* What's so funny?

P.Pie: *giggle* You'll see.

N.Moon: I got a feeling!

The announcer takes his place and begins calling up participants.

Announcer: From Baltimare..... CHUCKLES!!

Chuckles, a red pony with candy-cane hair and a smiling face as a cutie mark, trots up.

Announcer: From Trottingham..... SIR LAUGHIE!

Sir Laughie, a pony dressed in armor, also trots up.

Announcer: From Ponyville..... *Pinkie Pie puts on her best "PLEASE CALL ME!" face* .....PINKIE PIE!

The excited baker pony gasps out, then hugs all of her friends, all four princesses, Shining Armor and Prince Shiftshape before taking her spot.

S.Laughie: *smirk* Thou hast quite the support group, Young Madam Pie.  Too bad it shall not be enough, for this day *camera pans to Nightmare Moon as she looks skeptically at the armored pony* I will emerge victorious in this contest of mirth.

N.Moon: *blink* Amateur.....

The action in the contest was fast, furious and funny as the pranksters perform their funniest.  Soon, it was the finals, with Pinkie Pie versus Sir Laughie.

Announcer: And now, the final funny fight between Pinkie Pie and Sir Laughie.  The time has come to reveal the theme for this battle of the bozos, and it is..... *looks around for inspiration, then spots the changeling royals, Prince Shiftshape giving him a curious look*  .....*points at Prince Shiftshape* THEM!

Ponies are shocked as it turns out their new Transformian friends are the subject of the final prank-off!

Announcer: This round will be ALL about things that look like one thing, but hide or are another thing totally different.  Each prankster will have 10 minutes to get in all the misdirectional mirth they can.  The one who makes the audience laugh harder wins the championship.  Pranksters, ARE YOU READY?!

S.Laughie: Thy future champion is ready!

Nightmare Moon continues glaring skeptically at Sir Laughie.

P.Pie: Ready!

Announcer: GO!!

The two finalists rush off, trying to make all the ponies laugh at their pranks.  Every time Pinkie Pie got the crowd rolling in the aisles, Sir Laughie also got the crowd going.  Pinkie Pie's friends were fidgetty as they watched the baker and the loony knight fight prank-for-prank for the title.

Applejack: Real heavyweight fight goin' on out there?

P.Shiftshape: Yeah.  I never knew it would be THIS much work to be funny!

T.Sparkle: They're trying to be better than the other.  It's like how you felt that one year you raced Rainbow Dash during the Running of the Leaves, Applejack.

Applejack nods, remembering how she challenged her Wonderbolt friend.  Meanwhile, the time was almost up and Pinkie Pie was a little bit ahead.  Sir Laughie, feeling the desperation, tripped Pinkie Pie just before the clock ran out!  Nightmare Moon growled low, then cast a spell on the trophy as Sir Laughie ran up to steal it!  The trophy turned into a snake, lashing out at the now-petrified knight!  Sir Laughie jumped back, almost landing in the front row - right by Nightmare Moon!  Just as the announcer blinked and was about to ask what happened.....

N.Moon: Rule 2, knightboy.  Pranks must not hurt, remember?

S.Laughie: *girlish screaming* MONSTER!!!

Sir Laughie ran faster than Rainbow Dash could fly in her dreams out of the contest area, glared at by Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: I KNEW there was something amiss about that pony.

Nightmare Moon blinks as she looks in the eyes of Princess Celestia.  The sun goddess smiles at the Mare in the Moon.

P.Celestia: Guess you CAN work days.

Both alicorns laugh as Pinkie Pie smiles, slowly getting back up.  The announcer huddles with the judging panel on a decision.

Announcer: Fillies and gentlecolts, we have reached a verdict.  Since Sir Laughie broke the rule about no harm must be done, he is disqualified.  Therefore, the winner of this year's Great Prank-Off is PINKIE PIE!!!

Everypony cheers as Pinkie Pie goes nuts with delight.  Nightmare Moon smiles as she sees Pinkie Pie happily accept the trophy for Equestria's best prankster.

P.Pie: Thanks so much, everypony!  *She smiles at Nightmare Moon*  I would like to dedicate this victory to one of my best new friends, Nightmare Moon.

Nightmare Moon blushes as every pony applauds.  That night, Pinkie Pie held a special celebration party, inviting Nightmare Moon as the guest of honor.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 30 - The Spirit of Hatred, Hatetrol

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 30 - The Spirit of Hatred, Hatetrol

The time - One month after the Running of the Leaves.

Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle are standing in the middle of Ponyville a good distance apart, facing each other.

N.Moon: The night... will last... FOREVER!

T.Sparkle: Not if I can help it!

The two mares dash at each other, then launch into a series of attacks at each other, hooves, beams of magic and even a few energy balls flying.  The two ponies ended up flying farther and farther back as they get hit with each successive attack.  Finally, Twilight Sparkle blasted Nightmare Moon with an energy ball that sent the Mare in the Moon rocketing upwards!

N.Moon: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooooooooooo.....................

SFX: *DING!* GAME!!!

The camera pulls out to reveal that Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle were actually battling each other in a "Super Smash Bros."-style video game in Virtuna's arcade, the two mares smiling at each other.

N.Moon: Nice game!

T.Sparkle: Thanks. Another round?

N.Moon: Yeah!

The two high-hoof, battling again as Virtuna watches, smiling ear-to-ear.  The little earth pony giggles, then resumes looking over her arcade with Pixel.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

As Nightmare Moon and Twilight Sparkle continue playing, the rest of the Mane 6 rush into the arcade.

T.Sparkle: Heya, girls.  What's up?

Fluttershy: Discord wants to see us, he says it's urgent.

Applejack: *nod* Yep, BIG-TIME urgent.  He was even writing some serious wordin'. (to Virtuna): Ya'll may wanna lock this arcade up fer a spell, too.

Virtuna (uneasy): OK?

After Verdescale helped Virtuna shut the game machines off and lock up, the eight ponies make their way to Canterlot.  In Canterlot Castle, Princess Celestia is pacing nervously, a la how she paced when telling the ponies about Discord.  The draconequus himself was standing at the midpoint of Princess Celestia's path, striking a thinker's pose.

Discord: I DID say that Ruinous would strike ANYtime, ANYwhere, ANYhow, did I?

P.Celestia: But like THIS?!  *SIGH*  Has this happened before?!

Discord: Almost as infrequently as Ruinous attacking himself.  When Hatetrol does this, usually whomever's fighting against Ruinous stands down, for fear of hurting whomever Hatetrol did this to.

P.Celestia: This is SO not fair.....

N.Moon (walking into the room with all other Bearers of Harmony): He sent Fryght out during my birthday party, remember?

T.Sparkle: Why's everypony looking so serious?

P.Celestia: It has all to do with your next opponent, Hatetrol.

The ponies wince a bit, some sighing.

R.Dash: *nod* Here comes the first REAL hard one.

Trixie blinks a bit as she noticed the sun goddess give a sad sigh as she nodded.

Discord: For many years, Hatetrol's hatred magic was enough to conquer all who opposed Ruinous' might.  The idea was that Hatetrol's power would cause a mutiny in the ranks, and through a combination of distrust, betrayal or just good-ol'-fashioned bickering-back-and-forth - like I had you at one point - that would do it for the battle.  You'll be locking horns - literally, Hatetrol's a unicorn - with one of Ruinous' top generals.  But he does, however, employ another far-more cruel trick.....

Discord, then the alicorn princesses, then the changeling royals, look at Rainbow Dash, the Bearer of Loyalty uneasily scanning their faces.

R.Dash: Wwwwwhy-is-everyone-here-looking-at-me-like-that?

P.Shiftshape: I'll tell her, I DID catch it. *Princess Celestia motions with her right-front hoof as if to say "Go on."* *looks at Rainbow Dash and kneels by her* Hatetrol possessed a griffon who kept screaming out for a..... "Rainbow Trash"?

As Prince Shiftshape told Rainbow Dash the name the griffon screamed out, her face became contorted in horror.

R.Dash: GILDA!?

Rest of Bearers of Harmony: GILDA?!

Discord: *nod* VERY rarely does Hatetrol do this, but I guess he found one whose hate was sufficient enough for him to use as either a vessel - which means Hatetrol himself resides in the body of his target - or as a puppet - one sent to do his evil bidding as an unwitting stand-in.  In either case, you have to beat BOTH Hatetrol AND his target.

R.Dash: Both?

Discord nods, uneasily looking at Rainbow Dash.  The cyan mare bows her head, eyes shut, leaving all to wonder if she'd actually do it.  After a while,.....

R.Dash: Discord..... *Her eyes snap open, determination radiating from her body as she slowly looks upwards* .....Hatetrol is NOT getting away with this!  I WILL free Gilda from his evil hold, and I hope Ruinous is watching, because the smackdown I will give that unicorn will be NOTH-THING compared to the one HE'S gonna get!! GOT ME?!

P.Celestia: *smile* I KNEW you'd come through, my Spirit of Loyalty.

The two nuzzle, then Rainbow Dash puts her Element of Harmony necklace on. The others do the same and head out to battle Hatetrol.  En route, the ponies spot others hating each other for being different.  Twilight Sparkle shivered a bit.

Virtuna: What, Twi?

T.Sparkle: Do you feel a bit cold?

Virtuna: .........*shrug* Must be because we're running.

Twilight Sparkle shrugs it off, keeping pace with the others.  Rainbow Dash's eyes were narrowed as she lead the rest of the Bearers of Harmony towards Hatetrol.  Spotting the dark unicorn, the cyan mare snorts angrily at him.

Hatetrol: Ah, so they arrive.....

R.Dash: Can the cheesy rhetoric and hooves off my friend!

Hatetrol: Ah, your friend, the griffon, I trust?  She is too far gone to hear you.

R.Dash: I don't believe that for a wing-flappin' second!

Hatetrol: *evil laughter* Do not take MY word for it, see for *steps to the side* yourself.....

Rainbow Dash gasps.  Seeing Gilda under Hatetrol's influence was like looking at a total stranger.  The two glared at the Wonderbolt with the same glowing red eyes reflecting total hatred, so much so, in fact, a cold wind swirled around the ponies and griffon, making Twilight Sparkle shiver.  Hatetrol chuckled.

Hatetrol: Feel the cold wind blowing..... MY power has brought back Equestria's greatest threat.....  With the power of the wendigoes at my disposal, Equestria will FREEZE!

R.Dash: Not if WE have anything to say about it!

Hatetrol laughs, setting a barrier around Gilda and Rainbow Dash!

Hatetrol: Show me if you can reach her!

Fluttershy: You BIG..... DUMB..... MEANIE!!!!!

As the other Bearers of Harmony went all out against Hatetrol, Rainbow Dash looked at the hulking monster that used to be Gilda.

R.Dash (between dodging Gilda's attacks, mainly claw swipes and harsh pecks): Gilda!  Snap outta it!  Hatetrol's.....!

Rainbow Dash gasps, dodging a particularly vicious swipe from her former best friend.

R.Dash: Gilda, stop it!  Hear me, PLEASE!  Hatetrol's influence has turned you into a monster!

Gilda hisses at Rainbow Dash, pouncing right at her!

R.Dash: GILDA, STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As Rainbow Dash screamed at Gilda to stop, her Element of Harmony glowed and sparked up almost angrily.  Her armor was colored in all the colors of the rainbow, gold tinged and Spartan-like, just like her friends'.  With one mighty flap of her wings, the barrier Hatetrol made dissipated, much to the surprise of the dark grey unicorn.

Hatetrol: What is THIS?

R.Dash: Your worst nightmare.....

As Rainbow Dash hovered overhead, the rest of the Mane 6 armored up.

R.Dash: Attacking during Nightmare Moon's birthday party was one thing, but this is going too far.  You can NOT expect to just taint somepony's friendship and get away with it, especially MINE!  I... am the Element of Loyalty, which means YOU... do NOT... HURT... MY... FRIENDS!!!

With a growl, Rainbow Dash flew right at Hatetrol, breaking the Equestrian record for the shortest distance to get up to speed for a Sonic Rainboom!  The massive spectral shockwave was devastating to the Element of Darkness of Hatred, slamming him around all over Ponyville like a pinball!  The Wonderbolt then flew in a reverse loop, smashing Hatetrol with a series of Volt-Tackle-like air-tackles that end with the hateful unicorn being sent straight up, screeching in agony!

R.Dash: THIS..... IS..... *Elements charge up!* FOR-GILDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Elements of Harmony seem to respond to Rainbow Dash's anger, blasting Hatetrol stronger than anyone they nailed before!  The hateful unicorn seemed to explode into a supernova of tiny lights, the fallout breaking Hatetrol's spell on everypony.  As the lights fell around them, the realization of their victory over one of Ruinous' generals slowly hits them.

Fluttershy: Oh, my!

The ponies start cheering as everypony soon acts normal, a round of apologies following.  Rainbow Dash perks up, her armor going back into her necklace as she looks frantically around for Gilda.  The other ponies follow the cyan pegasus, helping her look.  When Rainbow Dash does find Gilda, the scene is heart-breaking.  The griffon was laying motionless on the ground a good distance away from where the fight against Hatetrol took place.

T.Sparkle: Oh.....

Trixie: She must've..... gotten nailed with the Elements as hard as Hatetrol did.

R.Dash: NO!

Rainbow Dash ran to Gilda, hugging her and calling her name.  The scene was so emotional, Applejack took her hat off, but then.....

Gilda: *grunt* mmmmm..... Dash?

R.Dash: ...........Gilda?

Gilda: What the hey happened?  *looks at the other ponies*  Who're they?

Corinne: W-w-what the.....?

Trixie: Is it just Trixie, or.....?

Gilda: Do you ALWAYS speak in the third person, dude?

Virtuna: Hold on, hang on!  You don't remember when ya made a fool of yourself at the Running of the Leaves?

Gilda: *head cock to her right*  No, dude, ain't that event only for ponies?

Zecora: You mean, in your memory

is not the greatest day for me,

when I got my Element of Harmony?

Gilda: *looks slowly at Zecora, then blinks* Uh, no way, dude!  A rhyming zebra and a stuttering giraffe?

Fluttershy: Do you even remember the FIRST time you came to Ponyville?

Gilda: No, dude.  Look, why is everypony asking me this stuff?

R.Dash: Uh, G, during your three visits here, you, uh, weren't exactly the best friend in the world.....

Gilda: How-bad-was-I?

Delicately, every pony relates their experiences to the progressively-shocked griffon.

Gilda: Dude, that's..... Any pal of Dash's is a pal of mine, I would NEVER.....

R.Dash: See, G?!  My friends are WAY cool enough!

Gilda: *chuckle and blush* So I see now, Dash.

Everypony chuckles, reintroducing themselves to Gilda.  That night, a party was going on in Canterlot, the royals stunned to hear what happened.

P.Celestia: Really? Nothing?

Gilda: Not an inch of it, Your Highness.  Dash told me EVERYthing and it was a total shock.

P.Shiftshape: That is rather bizarre.

Discord: It COULD also be indicative of Hatetrol influencing her long-term, possibly the day after you graduated from the Junior Speedsters.

N.Moon: Were you approached by anypony you didn't recognize from the academy?

Gilda: .............Not really, dude.  I just felt..... normal.....

Discord: Sneakier than I thought..... *Gilda looks at him, and he looks back at her*  He used a much more subtle way of changing you into that rude, obnoxious, borderline-hateful griffon you were by the time you came here the first time.

Gilda: Changed me by inches, not miles.....  That IS sneaky.

R.Dash: Well, I'M just glad he's OUT of your system, G.

Gilda: Right back at'cha, Dash.

Rainbow Dash and Gilda hug up, smiling widely.  As this was going on, in her cavern, Queen Chrysalis sighs, watching the celebration below.  She crosses to the other side and looks out.  The sight would break even the blackest of hearts: A huge chunk of Transforma devastated, changelings laying all around motionless, a scene straight out of an apocalypse movie.  The former monarch dashes to the Equestria side and looks out again, repeating one phrase:

Q.Chrysalis (whispering): Don't let it happen again.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Hoping to Fit in

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 31: Hoping to Fit in

The time: One week after the defeat of Hatetrol.

Rainbow Dash is at her house when a knock alerts her to the front door.  Opening it, she spots a familiar griffon.

R.Dash: Heya, Gilda.

Gilda: *hugs Rainbow Dash* Heya, Dash.  Thanks so much for freeing me from that vile monster.

R.Dash: Hatetrol or you under his influence?

Gilda: Both.

Both laugh as Tank crawls slowly to the front door to see what all the commotion was about.

Gilda: *blink* A turtle?

R.Dash: Tortoise, heh-heh, long story.

Gilda: *chuckle* And it probably ended with you saying, "Dear Princess Celestia, blah-blah-blah, your loyal subject, Rainbow Dash.", eh?

R.Dash: *chuckle* Yeah.

Both laugh as Tank smiles.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Gilda and Rainbow Dash are walking towards the town square.

Gilda: So, a lot changed with ya, eh? You're a Wonderbolt now, ya got a pet tortoise and ya READ?

R.Dash: Hey-hey, don't knock Daring-Do, it's a great series.

Gilda: Heh-heh, still got that edge to ya, Dash.

R.Dash: Of course!  I just use it to *Virtuna trots up* help my friends.  Heya, V.

Virtuna: Wassup, Dash?  Heya, Gilda.

Gilda: Heya.  Virtuna, right?

Virtuna: *nod* Yeah.

Gilda: Look, I'm sorry for.....

Virtuna: YOU don't need ta apologize - unless your name's Hatetrol, not Gilda.

Gilda: *laugh* Your Element of Harmony should be Forgiveness, not Empathy.

Both laugh and high-five, Rainbow Dash smiling widely.

Gilda: Ya know, V, you're pretty cool.

Virtuna: Daw, shucks!

A loud whoosh startles the trio as Pitstop soars overhead.  The azure mare landed by the griffon.

Gilda: Whoa!  If YOU were in OUR Junior Speedsters class, you'd pass with no question!

R.Dash: *laugh* This is Pitstop, she's my Wonderbolts flying partner.

Gilda: Real easy to see why, Dash, she's fast!

Pitstop: *chuckle* Aw, luv, ye flatter me.

R.Dash: She's REAL humble.

Gilda: I can see that, Dash.  She's far more mature-acting than half the ponies in flight camp.

Pitstop: *laugh* Oh, now you're just stackin' it.

Gilda: *chuckle* You're cool, too, Pitstop.

Pitstop: Daw!

Everypony laughs as Gilda looks at the trio interact.

Gilda: -Such good friends already. Seems as if everypony fits in almost instantly 'round here.  I wonder how I can fit in in this town?-

The next day, festivities for Nightmare Night were underway.  Fillies and colts dressed in costumes and ponies bought candy to give out.  It was a time for great festivity, but amidst all the revelry, Gilda still felt like an outsider.

Applejack: Heya, Gilda.  Why the long face?

Gilda: I just..... don't know if I can fit into all this.

Applejack: Now don't'cha worry yer head about it, sugarcube.  Zecora, Virtuna, Trixie, hey, even Nightmare Moon *Gilda winces* fit in once we got ta know 'em.  Everyone here's friendly enough fer ya ta find SOMEpony that'll get ta know ya'll - I mean, OTHER than Rainbow Dash, of course.

Gilda: I hope so, dude.  I just hope how I acted under Hatetrol's influence didn't alienate EVERYone in this town.

Applejack sighs sadly at the departing griffon.  After a while, Gilda finds a pony she bullied during one of her visits, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: Lessee, treats, check.  *flies up a bit*  Lights, *tests one, gasping when the whole strand lights up* check, *lands* looks like all's in..... *sees Gilda approach* Oh.

Gilda: Heya, Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: H-h-hi.

Gilda: Gettin' ready for... Nightmare Night?

Fluttershy: Y-yeah.

Gilda: Sounds fun.

Fluttershy: It is..... if-you-like-being-scared.

Gilda: I dunno if Nightmare Moon would like having that tale told about her.

Fluttershy: She already said to Zecora she's fine with it.  She even said she'd have a special addition.

Gilda: Whatever THAT is, I'm sure it'll blend in good, eh?

Fluttershy: *nervous chuckle* Yeah.

Gilda: Well, good goin' with the decorations.

Fluttershy: Uh, th-th-thanks.....

Fluttershy zips off, leaving Gilda behind.  The griffon sighs a bit as she moves on, walking by several others she bullied.  Either they said nothing or they brought up how she used to be, both of which hurt.  Jalapeño blinked as Gilda walked by.

Jalapeño: Hola!  Senorita leonado?  Hola?  Aw..... (Hello!  Miss griffon? Hello?)

Gilda didn't stop walking until she walked onto school grounds.  Nearby, the CMCs were playing a triangle catch when Sweetie Belle made a particularly bad throw that sailed right over Apple Bloom's head.  The ball went right towards Gilda, the griffon stopping it with her tail.

A.Bloom: Sorry 'bout that, miss.

Gilda: No prob, dudes.

Scootaloo: Aw, what's wrong?

Gilda: I thought I could fit in here, but..... everypony seems to remember how I was when I was here before more.....

S.Belle: Oh?  How WERE you when you were here before?

Gilda: Do you REALLY wanna know?  *The CMCs nod*  OK.

Gilda sighs, then explains what happened during her visits to Ponyville.  The three fillies were shocked at how bad she acted due to Hatetrol's influence.

A.Bloom: Aw.....

S.Belle: Gosh.....

Scootaloo: Maaaaaaaaaaaan.........

Gilda: I know, NOT my proudest moments.

The CMCs huddle up, whispering amoung themselves.  After a while.....

CMCs: Cutie Mark Crusaders, YAY!

A three-way high-hoof later, the CMCs break the huddle and approach the now-curious Gilda.

A.Bloom: Step into our office.

Gilda: O..........K?

The quartet walked to the CMCs treehouse.  Later that night, festivities for Nightmare Night were in full swing, ponies admiring each others' costumes.  A pony dressed as Mare-Do-Well appraoches the pumpkin toss when it runs into ANOTHER pony dressed as Mare-Do-Well coming the other way.  Both ponies move aside their masks to reveal the pony on the right to be Twilight Sparkle, the one on the left.....

T.Sparkle: Rainbow Dash?!

R.Dash: *blush* Yeah.

T.Sparkle: What happened to Daring-Do?!

R.Dash: Sold out.

Both laugh it up as they mingle with the crowd.  A third pony dressed as a "Phantom of the Opera" shows up on the grounds near the apple-bobbing tank as Applejack fills it up with water and apples.  The farm pony spots the new arrival and smiles.

Applejack: Hey ya'll! Wanna give it a go?

The strange pony nods, trying her luck at pulling an apple out of the tub.  She succeeds a bit later, smiling.

Applejack: Nice goin'!

The new pony smiles, walking away with a few treats.  A bit later, it's time for the reading of Nightmare Moon's legend, Zecora appearing on the stage in a puff of smoke.

Zecora:

Follow me, and very soon

you'll hear the tale of Nightmare..... Moon?

Everypony gasped at the Mare in the Moon appeared right in front of the stage!

N.Moon: *chuckle* Aw, go ON!  It's Nightmare Night, right?

Mayor: Are you SURE you won't be offended?

N.Moon: Aw, Mayor, PLEASE!  I already told Zecora she's an amazing storyteller.  Besides, if having a holiday of the night in which ponies scare other ponies all in fun is good enough for Princess Luna, it SHOULD be good enough for me, right?

Everypony breathes a sigh of relief, then Zecora cleared her throat to get everypony's attention.

Zecora:

Listen, close, my little dears,

I'll tell you where you got your fears.

of Nightmare Night so dark and scary.....

*thunder crash, several ponies scream*

...of Nightmare Moon who makes you wary.

*whoosh!, more screaming*

Every year, we put on a disguise,

*the curtain behind Zecora seems to grow eyes, that look around evilly*

to save ourselves from her searching eyes.

*The eyes acquire an evil grin, which makes more ponies scream out*

But Nightmare Moon wants just one thing,

to gobble up ponies in one quick swing!

Hungrily, she soars the sky

*Nightmare Moon flies up, scanning the ground*

if she sees no pony, she passes by.

*Nightmare Moon acts as if she can't find anypony to "gobble up", flying on*

So if she comes and all is clear,

Equestria is safe another year!

But give candy you must, my little friends,

for Nightmare Moon no one offends.

Fill her belly with a treat or two,

*upon that Nightmare Moon seems to dive down at the crowd!*

so she won't return to come..... *"Nightmare Moon"'s mouth opens*  eat..... YOU!!!

"Nightmare Moon"'s open mouth slams into the ground first, the hologram disappearing on contact.  It was real enough to send ponies into a screaming frenzy, some even jetting off to the statue to make an early donation!  The shadowy form of the Mare in the Moon lands, making more ponies scream - but Virtuna squeal out in laughter!  Nightmare Moon looked at the little pony and blushes a bit.

Virtuna: Now THAT is how ya tell a story, eh?!

Everypony chuckles a bit, agreeing with Virtuna.  Everypony soon claps the story, Zecora and Nightmare Moon exchanging smiles.

N.Moon: *laugh* You using that green powder, nothing like the REAL thing, right?

Zecora: YEAH!

The two exchange a high-hoof.  Around town, fillies and colts bring in the candy.  Amoung the groups are the Cutie Mark Crusaders, dressed in their talent show costumes, and Gilda, dressed as a female version of the Fonz from "Happy Days."  Apple Bloom knocks on Twilight Sparkle's library door, Trixie opening it.

CMCs and Gilda: Nightmare Night, what a fright, give us something sweet to bite!

Trixie: *laugh* Cute costumes, guys!  And - WHOA!  The Great and Powerful Trixie thought Nightmare Night was for ponies only.

Gilda: *blush* *points to Apple Bloom* HER idea.

Trixie: Gotcha.  *gives them all a treat with her magic*  Have fun.

S.Belle: You, too, Trixie.

The quartet moves on as the "Phantom" pony walks by.  The showmare sends a treat her way, exchanging a smile.  The pony continues on, Trixie shrugging a bit.

Spike: Who is THAT?

Trixie: Trixie has no idea.....

The two keep an eye on the mysterious visitor until the next group of foals stops by.  Meanwhile, near the stage, Twilight Sparkle and Nightmare Moon discuss the story-telling.

T.Sparkle: I MUST say, Nightmare Moon, you sure added a sense of realism.

N.Moon: But of course!  A great story deserves great effects.

T.Sparkle: I must say, those WERE great effects.

???: WE CONCUR!

Both ponies look and smile, seeing Princess Luna trot up.

P.Luna: We have never seen the story of Nightmare Moon told with such... impact.

N.Moon: Just doin' my job.

All three laugh as the CMCs and Gilda walk by.  Princess Luna smiled at the quartet as they collect candy.

T.Sparkle: Heya, Gilda.  When'd'ya get back in?

Gilda: Just yesterday.  I just wanted to thank Rainbow for getting that monster outta me.  Going around collecting treats was their idea.

N.Moon: *chuckle* Cool.

P.Luna: That SHOULD do it, Gilda.

N.Moon: Don't worry, you'll fit in eventually, just look at me.  I'm fitting in just fine and I threw the princess into the sun and brought night-time everlasting - two things I doubt you could do.

Gilda and Nightmare Moon chuckle.

Gilda: Look, Moon, I'm sorry about that comment that.....

N.Moon: Forgot it already.  C'mon, candy offering's next.

Gilda nods, following the others as they head for Nightmare Moon's statue.  There, several foals were giving candy to the effigy of Nightmare Moon.  As Pinkie Pie was making her contribution, the sky darkened up almost to the point of blackout!

P.Pie: HEY!  Who-turned-off-the-moon?

When the sky relighted, the statue was gone!

P.Pie: EEK!  Where's-the-statue!?

The sky redarkened up as Pinkie Pie looked around for the statue.  When the clouds parted again, there on the podium, striking the same pose as the statue, smiling widely, was Nightmare Moon!

Virtuna: *laughs and runs around the podium*  You're gettin' inta this, aren't'cha?!

Everyone laughs as Nightmare Moon nods.  Gilda joined in, prompting Rainbow Dash to put a hoof around Gilda's shoulders.

Gilda: Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes, it's tough to fit in, especially with those you hurt before.  But once you find someone willing to listen, you can find friends you never knew you could have.

Your loyal subject,

Gilda

The "Phantom" pony heads behind a stand and vanishes from the grounds, reappearing..... in a cavern.  One spell later, the "pony" turns into..... Queen Chrysalis?!

Q.Chrysalis: Now I KNOW *sighs as she looks out at South Transforma* this can't happen again.....

The changeling sighs as she looks out at the fun the ponies were having.

Q.Chrysalis: Twilight, please, don't let it happen again.....

TO BE CONTINUED

On the Rayzor's Edge

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 32: On the Rayzor's Edge

The time: One week after Nightmare Night.

A shape runs through the Everfree Forest in a panic, tripping over branches and running through bushes.  Periodically, it looks over its shoulder, breathing hard and grunting on each trip and bush.  Another shape pursues the first one, hooves clopping on the ground in anger.  The two shapes rush through the forest, the larger one closing the gap.  The larger shape generates a magical field, throwing a ball of light at the smaller shape.  The ball of light connects, sending the small shape rocketing towards Ponyville, where it eventually lands with a clattering that neither wakes anypony nor attracts Nightmare Moon in a pile of garbage.

??? (larger shape): *SNORT!*

The larger shape trots back into the forest.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Twilight Sparkle, Spike and Trixie walk through Ponyville the next day, talking about their studies.

T.Sparkle: So, Trixie, how are things at Princess Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns?

Trixie: *clears throat* Just got into ADVANCED!

Spike: !!!  In less than a year?  That takes some amazing skills, Trixie.

Trixie: Well, Trixie DID have a great tutor.

T.Sparkle: Who?

Trixie: The Great and Powerful Trixie!

Twilight Sparkle smirks.

Spike: YOU taught yourself?!  That takes real skill, Trixie, I'm impressed.

Trixie: Thanks, Spike.

Twilight Sparkle smiles as Spike and Trixie hug up.

Trixie: So, Twilight, you?

T.Sparkle: Well, I'm the personal student of Princess Celestia since the day I took my entrance exam.

Trixie: Entrance-exam?

Spike: You..... DIDN'T hatch a dragon egg?

Trixie: No, Trixie never DID take the entrance exam.

T.Sparkle: That's odd.  Shall we inform the Princess?

Trixie: *blink* Really?  You'd do that?

T.Sparkle: 'Course!  EVERYpony that goes to Princess Celestia's school has to take the entrance exam.  She doesn't just let ANYpony in.

Trixie: Gosh, thanks!

T.Sparkle (as Trixie hugs her and Spike): No problem, Trixie.  *hugs back*  Anything for a friend.

As the trio converse, a pair of sad eyes look on from a pile of trash.  It limps through Ponyville to Sweet Apple Acres.  Later on that day, Trixie, Twilight Sparkle and Spike were in Twilight's library when Applejack burst in.

T.Sparkle: !!!  Applejack!

Applejack: YOU!

Spike: Me?!

Applejack: Ya'll ate up a good number of my apples, ya scaly varmint!

Spike: NO!  Honest!  I was here all day!

The farm pony got in Spike's face, causing the little dragon to breathe heavily.  The lack of apples on Spike's breath made Applejack soften up quickly.

Applejack: Sorry, Spike, I just saw a load of my apples eaten ta the core and some claw marks and figured it was ya'll.

Spike: There's ANOTHER dragon in Ponyville?

Trixie: If it was small enough to sneak into your barn, it MUST be somepony's assistant.

T.Sparkle: Are you sure?

Trixie: And how much could that dragon Fluttershy spooked off eat?

Applejack: I also reckon he'd've split my barn wide open.

T.Sparkle: *nod* I see.

Applejack: I'll keep a lookout fer the little tyke.  And, sorry again, Spike.

Spike: No prob, AJ.

Applejack walks out of the library, the two unicorns exchanging glances.

Trixie: Do you think it's been.....

Spike: NO!  *Trixie startles up, eyes wide open*  Sorry.....

Trixie smiles, comforting Spike from behind.

Trixie: Trixie hopes she's wrong, but the possibility MUST exist.  If you were having to scavenge for food.....

Spike: Twilight would NEVER do that, and I can't accept that ANYpony would.

Trixie: Just because you don't see it, Spike, doesn't mean it doesn't exist.  I have to find it, before something worse happens!

Trixie dashes out the door, leaving Twilight Sparkle and Spike shell-shocked.  The showpony dashed around the town, looking around for whatever it was that ate Applejack's apples.  Racing near Sugar Cube Corner, Trixie heard a clanking sound and the sound of departing hooves.

Trixie: HEY!  Wait!

The departing shape dashed off as Trixie approached.  Trixie sighed, then turned around and took one step before she heard something in the pile of garbage near her.

Trixie: oh, my.....

Carefully, she removed the garbage to reveal the heart-breaking sight of a small powder-blue dragon about the size of Spike with white spines, weakened by neglect.  Trixie, knowing there was no time to lose, got the dragon on her back and rushed through town like a shot, her four hooves carrying her faster than ever before!  She bounded over Granny Smith, dashed under a cart and even ran past the café so fast, she inverted two umbrellas in the outdoor dining area!  Not even Rainbow Dash and Pitstop could keep up with her!

R.Dash: TWILIGHT!

Twilight Sparkle startled up at the sound of her name, galloping out as Trixie zipped past her library on the way to the hospital.  Even a downed cart didn't stop Trixie, the showmare jumping into the air, bounding off Rainbow Dash -

R.Dash: OOF!

then Pitstop -

Pitstop: UGH!

then a roof before making a mighty leap, aimed at the hospital's front entrance.  Trixie opened the door with her magic, skidding to a stop on the tile floor as she gets the dragon on a gurney, coming to a stop looking at the doctor!

Trixie: *points to the dragon* HELP HIM, NOW!!

That got all hooves on deck as Twilight Sparkle and the Wonderbolts walk in.

T.Sparkle: Trixie.....

Trixie: *turns to look at the three mares* Before you say another word..... *She gasps as she sees Spike, pointing to him* GET-HIM-OUTTA-HERE!

Twilight Sparkle turns and teleports Spike out of the hospital and back into the library.

Pitstop: Luv, what is it?

Trixie: I didn't want to have Spike see *shows them the dragon getting worked on* this.

All three gasp in shock as they see the little guy surrounded by doctors and machines.  Twilight Sparkle was particularly struck by this.

T.Sparkle: Oh, my.....

Trixie: *nod* Did you send that letter?

Twilight Sparkle produces it, holding it magically.

Trixie: I wish to modify it.

T.Sparkle: *nods, then floats a quill over*  Go.

Trixie: *clears throat*  Dear Princess Celestia,

There's been a dire discovery made in Ponyville.  I have discovered a small baby dragon the size and maybe age of Spike, powder-blue scales with white spines, in a garbage pile near Sugar Cube Corner.  I also have seen a pony dressed all in black rushing from the scene.  I need you to help me investigate this, for it is my fear that this... was no accident.

Sincerly yours,

The Worried and Hoping Trixie.

R.Dash: Trixie, I.....

Hooves echo from the front door as Applejack races in with a cart full of apples.

Applejack: Heard it from Apple Bloom.  Where's-the-dragon?

Trixie points to where the dragon is being worked on, Applejack's face dropping.

Applejack: Does Spike know?  *heads shake*  Good.  I dunno if he'd be able to handle it.

???: Handle what?

Applejack whirled.  Walking into the room were Fluttershy, Rarity and Pinkie Pie.

R.Dash: Trixie's thinking this dragon was abandoned on purpose.

Rarity: What dragon?

T.Sparkle: *points* Him.

Fluttershy: oh, my.....

The Mane 6 hold vigil outside as Trixie walks in, laying on the bed next to the sleeping dragon, careful of his many tubes and wires.  Meanwhile, her letter got to Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: *reads it*  Luna.

P.Luna: Yes, sis?

P.Celestia: Get my roster book.

The moon princess nods, trotting by Nightmare Moon on the way to Princess Celestia's office.

N.Moon: Wassup?

P.Celestia: You don't wanna know.....

N.Moon: I'll take your word.

Princess Luna brings in the book, Princess Celestia looking at it.  She was able to find one student with that exact dragon and she wrote the name down.  She wraps up the scroll and gives it to Princess Luna.

P.Celestia: Get this... to Trixie.

P.Luna: OK, sis.

Nightmare Moon sees Princess Luna fly out of the room, looking at Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: *sigh*  Trixie thinks a baby dragon she found was abandoned by its partner.

N.Moon: Who would DO such a thing?!

P.Celestia: I know who did..... and I THINK..... I may also know why.....

That night, in the hospital, Trixie was sleeping by the dragon on the covers, the dragon under the covers and monitored by doctors.  After the doctor leaves, the dragon awkens to see Trixie on the bed sleeping.

Trixie: *groans and awakens*  *yawn*  Oh, hey.

The dragon gasps, trying to hide under the covers.

Trixie: !!!  Hang on, hold on, no, please, stop, don't hide from Trixie, *etc.*

As soon as the dragon heard Trixie's name, he stopped trying to hide.

Dragon M: Your name is.....

Trixie: Trixie.

Dragon M: Trixie?  NOT Troyka?

Trixie: Who, may I ask, is Troyka?

Dragon M: My boss.

Trixie: Boss?  Trixie knows Twilight Sparkle and Spike, and Spike NEVER calls Twilight "boss", those two are more like siblings than boss and employee.

Dragon M: .....oh?

Trixie: Yeah.  Those two have a special bond.  *The dragon sniffles*  What?  What's wrong?

Dragon M: Troyka..... She *sniff* never liked me.....

Trixie: What?!  How can you say that?

Dragon M: I dunno..... But she hated me..... Said she wanted a griffon.....

Trixie: Oh, my.....

Trixie hugs the little dragon to her.  Twilight Sparkle smiles at this scene as Princess Luna flies in.

T.Sparkle: *bows* Princess Luna?

P.Luna: *nod* I come here with a note for Trixie.  May she be available?

T.Sparkle: Depends on what you mean by "available".

P.Luna: *looks* I see.....  *She produces the scroll written by Princess Celestia*  Please see to it she receives this correspondence.

T.Sparkle: *bow* I shall, Princess.

Princess Luna gives Twilight Sparkle the scroll and flies back to Canterlot.  The next day, Trixie and the dragon are chatting it up over breakfast when Twilight Sparkle walks in.

Trixie: Heya, Twi.

T.Sparkle: Good morning, Trixie.  I see your friend's up.

Dragon M: H-hello, miss.

Trixie: *giggle* Aw.  This is Twilight Sparkle.

Dragon M: H-hi.

T.Sparkle: hey there.  you ok?

Dragon M: Yeah.

Trixie: So, what's your name?

Dragon M: It's Rayzor.

T.Sparkle: Nice to meet you, Rayzor.  *She gives Trixie Princess Luna's scroll*  Princess Luna dropped this off for you, Trixie.

Trixie: Hmm.  *takes it and reads* ...........So, that's why.....

T.Sparkle: Oh?

Trixie: Troyka's exactly like Trixie, except-for-her-cutie-mark, that-is.  And she's also horrible to dragons.  She expected a griffon when she took the entrance exam.

T.Sparkle: And the picture on the egg cart wasn't enough of a tip-off?

Trixie: *smirk* Griffons don't breathe fire.

Both mares laugh.

Trixie: Seriously, dragons are the only companions for ponies in Princess Celestia's school since they're enchanted with the ability to give and receive scrolls.

T.Sparkle: *nod* Sometimes, she needs us for emergencies.  By the time a griffon flies up to Canterlot, grabs the scroll and flies back, it may be too late, even for a griffon as fast as Gilda.

Trixie: *sigh*  Trixie doesn't know how to state this, but.....  Troyka hates dragons.

T.Sparkle: HATES dragons?

Rayzor: *nod*  She never really tried to know me..... It's almost as if I embarassed her by being near her.

Trixie: Well, you are no embarassment.  Take it from Trixie.  Trixie never took the entrance exam, and she sees how close Twilight and Spike are.

Rayzor: I just wish I could be with somepony who'd appreciate me.

Trixie smiles, putting a leg around Rayzor.  Later that day, a unicorn similar to Trixie with a hat and wand as a cutie mark appeared in Ponyville.  The denizens gave the newcomer a wide berth, even standing way off to the side to keep out of her path.  She didn't mind it at all, carrying an air of self-importance and arrogance.  She trots to in front of Town Hall, smirking.

Mayor: Who are you?

The unicorn's eyes glowed and she made a stage appear out of a heckuva lot of smoke, fireworks, sparklers and lights all over!

???: Name's Troyka.

Troyka begins an elaborate display of her many magical powers.  The display was so drawn-out, the mayor got disgusted and walked off.  The display did not go unnoticed by Twilight Sparkle, Trixie and Rayzor as they and the rest of the Mane 6 walked to the library.

Rayzor: ...............

Trixie: What is it?

Rayzor: It's her!

Rayzor hid behind Fluttershy's hair, startling the yellow pegasus.  Trixie growled at the over-the-top display.

Troyka: Come one! Come all! Witness the power and show-stopping ability of the AMAZING AND UNBELIEVABLE TROYKA!!!

Trixie: Why that lowdown, arrogant whelp!  Get Rayzor in the library.

Trixie grunts as she gallops off towards Troyka's stage, the Mane 6 trying to herd Rayzor into the library.  Troyka saw the little dragon, however, and aimed a ball of light at it with an angry growl!

Trixie: Aw, no, ya don't!

Trixie jumped up in the path of Troyka's attack, blocking it with a ball of light of her own!

Rayzor and Mane 6: TRIXIE!!!

Trixie landed with a grunt right in front of Troyka, staring down the newcomer.

Trixie: Who the haybale do you think you are?!  Do you have no concept of what blessings you have?!

Troyka: Blessing?!  THAT little scaly misfit?

Trixie: YOU are the misfit, Troyka!  You are supposed to be friends with your dragon partner!  You hatched him for your entrance exam, for pony's sake!!

Troyka: *snort!*  And why should I care about that?!  Dragons are the scum of the world, scaly, stupid, arrogant, greedy, they should be all punished!

Trixie: ........That's where you're wrong, Troyka.  *Spike and Virtuna, curious as to why there was all the screaming, walk outside*  You and Rayzor were supposed to be partners, sending friendship reports to the princess, learning all you can about the magic of friendship.  But instead, you treated him like worse than dirt, abandoning him in a heap of garbage like an old boot.  When Trixie found Rayzor, the poor little guy was in horrible condition, and it was all your fault.  If he..... *clears throat*  If he didn't make it, how would you have felt?!

Troyka: Just fine.  After all, that's one fewer dragon to.....

???: ENOUGH!!!!!

Life seemed to stop dead cold as the enraged voice split the sky.  Twilight Sparkle slowly turned her head up and gasped.  There, on the topmost balcony of the library, wearing an expression angrier than she ever did before, was Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: Trixie, stand aside.

Trixie: *nod* Yes, Princess.

With a final glare at Troyka, Trixie leaped off the stage as Princess Celestia landed where the showmare was.  As Trixie rejoined the Mane 6, Princess Celestia glared at Troyka.

P.Celestia:  I can't believe you, Troyka.  You have thoroughly disappointed me.  I look at other ponies and their dragon friends and I can't imagine seeing any of them abusing and neglecting them in this manner.  *Spike gasps, eyes tearing up, making Princess Celestia take a split-second look*  Dragons are not the beasts you say they are, they're creatures with hearts, with minds, with souls.  You treat them as less than you are simply because they're not ponies.  Your disregard for not only your companion, but also the principles of the school have forced my hoof.  This is the first time I've ever done this, but you leave me no choice.  Troyka, you are hereby expelled.

Troyka: WHAT?!

Spike and Virtuna: Whoa!

Trixie, Rayzor and Mane 6: WHAT?!

P.Celestia: The basis of the School for Gifted Unicorns is not supreme magical power, it's how well you can make friends.  That's why there are so many team-building activities in the basic classes.  As a side note, Trixie NEVER took a basic class, and yet, she can make friends better than you.  For all HER bravado, she periodically shows she's got a heart in the right place.  After all, she saved Rayzor.

Troyka: .......What?

Trixie: It's true, Troyka.  Your hatred for this little guy is disgusting to me.  You never got to know him, I doubt you even WANTED to.  All he was was a target to you, not a friend.  Look at *magipulls Spike and Twilight Sparkle together* these two.  They've done everything together.  Each has been there for the other through good, bad, terrific and terrible.  And he's been Twilight's faithful companion ever since she hatched him.  But you, you never gave him the chance to get that close to you, since he was under you because he's not the griffon you wanted.  That's appaling to Trixie and Twilight and Spike and Twi's friends and the princesses and everypony else around here.  You oughta be ashamed of yourself!

P.Celestia: And I will ensure that no one at the school can regard your name with anything but contempt.  *She writes a note on a scroll, sending it after she's done*  Now, let's see how YOU like being looked upon as a lesser being.  I'd advise you start running, unless you want EVERYpony in your hometown of Bitsburgh to know how despicable you are.

Troyka gasps, teleporting herself home quick!  Princess Celestia, however, smirks..... then holds up the scroll she just wrote!

P.Celestia: Gets 'em every time.

Virtuna: *laugh* Oh, my gosh, Princess, you are so random!

That got everypony, Spike and Rayzor laughing.  Rayzor hugs Trixie as the two laugh it up, smiling at each other after a while.

Virtuna: Daw!

Rayzor: *blinks at Virtuna*  Whoa!

Virtuna: Surprisin', huh?  Name's Virtuna.

Rayzor: How are ya?

Virtuna: Just great, now that that loudmouth's outta here.  HOOH!  "Amazing and Unbelievable", where did she get THAT?!

Twilight Sparkle smirks at a blushing Trixie.

Virtuna: ..............Oh, no.

Trixie: Not related.

Virtuna: Thank Celestia!

P.Celestia: You're welcome!

Virtuna gasps, then laughs, blushing.

Applejack: Whoops!

Virtuna: Man, what a rude, hurtful pony that Troyka was.  I may be able to fix problems, but I can't fix just unbelievably, indiscriminately and wantonly rude.  I mean, I may have gotten Nightmare Moon to not be jealous, I may have gotten Discord to use his chaotic powers for good, but I think I'd have an easier time gettin' Queen Chrysalis *Princess Celestia blinks at the mention of the changeling queen* on Princess Celestia's good side than I would tryin' ta fix Troyka.

P.Celestia: I'm not sure you'd wanna try either, Virtuna.

Virtuna: Look, I just read up on changelings.  They don't usually go out on raids like that.  Something HAS to be up.

P.Celestia: I always thought they were savage ravagers of feelings or something.

Virtuna: Even if they were, they don't usually invade other kingdoms.  And for her to try what she did durin' the anniversary, she must've been desperate for... something.  Look, I know it's a huge stretch, but I've patched further bridges.  I have helped many ponies understand each other, ever since I helped this one pegasus get a tryout with the Wonderbolts.

R.Dash: What's so special about that?  EVERY pegasus wants a tryout with the Wonderbolts.

Virtuna: THIS pegasus stood like *kicks her back right leg up* THIS.  *puts her leg back down*  She was born like I was - well, kinda - and her brother thought it was gonna stop her dream.  So he lashed out at others, especially me.  But once I got his sister a tryout with the Wonderbolts, he lightened up and we keep in touch a lot.  That's what led me to think, "Huh, I'll betcha I can talk ANYpony through ANY problems they may have with each other", and sure enough.....

P.Celestia: *nod* I see.  But even so, me and the Changeling Queen..... Bit of a stretch.

Virtuna: Look, Princess, if it's ANYthing my video games have taught me, it's this: The greater the challenge, the greater the reward.  And I feel as if if you can forgive her - or at least try to understand her - you'll both be better off.

P.Celestia: I hope, for everyone's sake, you're right.

Virtuna: *smiles* When have I EVER been wrong, Princess? I was right about Nightmare Moon and I was right about Discord.

P.Celestia: Perhaps.....

Spike: .....! Aw, SNAP!  I forgot to wrote that letter to Princess Celestia about Trixie's entrance exam!

T.Sparkle: Uh, Spike, I don't think that'll be necessary.

Twilight Sparkle, Spike and - more importantly - Princess Celestia watched as Trixie and Rayzor seemed to bond as if they were lifelong friends, the little dragon even setting up Trixie's magic show.  Princess Celestia pulls out her ledger and writes Trixie's name next to Rayzor's.  Virtuna murrs, heading into her arcade and spotting Verdescale.

Virtuna: Heya, Verdescale.

Verdescale: What's up, V?

Virtuna: I just want ya ta know, I'm not a unicorn, I didn't hatch ya, but I am super-appreciative for everything ya do around here.

Verdescale: *smile* I know.

The two friends hug up, murring a bit.  That night, Princess Celestia heads to her bedroom and pulls out a picture.  Her eyes tear up as she looks at it.

P.Celestia: I hope you're right, Virtuna.....

The sun goddess puts the picture in a drawer in her nightstand as Princess Luna and Nightmare Moon walk past.  In the Canterlot Caverns, Queen Chrysalis is looking at a picture.  The changeling looks up and puts the picture to her chest, tearing up as well.

TO BE CONTINUED

The (Zap) Apple of My Eye

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 33: The (Zap) Apple of My Eye

The time: One week after Trixie adopts Rayzor.

Trixie: Quills.

Rayzor: Check.

Trixie: Scrolls.

Rayzor: Check.

Trixie: Extra ink.

Rayzor: Check.

Trixie: EXTRA extra ink.

Rayzor: Check.

Trixie: Hug.

Rayzor: *blink* Hug?

The two giggle and hug up, Trixie rubbing his back a bit.

Rayzor: *sniff* Thanks, Trixie.

Trixie: You're welcome, Rayzor.  Trixie knows how it's like not having friends.  Trixie's life wasn't always pleasant, and it's due mostly to what she did.

Rayzor: Eh?

Trixie: *nod* Trixie's self-promoting herself got so far out of hoof, many thought I was bragging.  It wasn't until Trixie met friends like Twilight that she saw what was truly important.  After all, what good is being *rears up* THE GREATEST EQUINE THAT'S EVER LIVED! *lays back down* if no one's there to see it all?

Rayzor: *murr* That's a great lesson to learn, Trixie.

Trixie: *nod* Yeah.

The two finish their preparations and head out, Twilight Sparkle listening in.

T.Sparkle: Good one, Trixie.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

That night, Nightmare Moon was flying through the sky, absorbing nightmares when a timber wolf howls, followed by.....

G.Smith: *clangs bells and runs around* THE TIMBER WOLVES ARE A-HOWLIN'!!!  *Nightmare Moon startles and looks down semi-annoyedly*  THE TIMBER WOLVES ARE A-HOWLIN'!!!

N.Moon: By the Eternal Night!  *flies down to about level with the farmhouse's bedroom windows*  Granny Smith, what the haybale are you doing running around at this time of night like that?!

G.Smith, A.Bloom, B.MacIntosh and Applejack: THE ZAP APPLES ARE COMING!!!!!

N.Moon: *blink* Zap Apples?  What're those?

Applejack: Ya'll see, they're super-special!

N.Moon: *nods, then another timber wolf howls* And THAT.....

G.Smith: That's the first sign!

N.Moon: I see.....

Applejack: Nightmare, why don't'cha come 'round tomorrow and help us set up?

N.Moon: *blink* Really?

A.Bloom: 'Course!  And get the royals here, too.

N.Moon: *blush* OK.

After completeing her rounds, Nightmare Moon flew back to the castle.

P.Luna: What WAS that screaming?

N.Moon: The Zap Apples *Princess Celestia perks up* are coming.

P.Celestia: Zap Apples?  OH!  Those are amazing!  Trust me, you two are in for a treat!

P.Shiftshape: What's a Zap Apple?

P.Celestia: *smile* You'll see.

P.Shiftshape: *blink* OK?

The next day, Nightmare Moon flies down to help with the harvest, only to spot a special landing zone set up for her.  As she touches down, storm clouds envelop the orchard, lightning bursting out of them and leaving clusters of four leaves all over the trees.

N.Moon: WHOA!

A.Bloom: Big Sis didn't want ya to get zapped by the second sign.

N.Moon: So I see.

Just then, the voice of Granny Smith singing the Alphabet Song can be heard as the elder pony jumps over a set of watering cans full of water arranged in a circle while wearing a bunny costume.

N.Moon: OK?

A.Bloom: OK, it looks a bit..... silly..... but these steps are important.

N.Moon: Seems like a LOT of steps, though.

A.Bloom: It IS! But it makes it worth it.

N.Moon: *laugh* Now you're sounding like Virtuna.

The two high-hoof, then head for Granny Smith.  The matriarch stops jumping as she sees Nightmare Moon.

G.Smith: *looks at Apple Bloom* Get Rarity.

N.Moon: Rarity?  What's Rarity got to do with.....

After a while, Nightmare Moon is in a bunny costume, customized for her!

N.Moon: .....Ha-ha.

G.Smith: Now, now, it's kinda like a machine.  Each cog and each belt and each drop of oil is essential.  OR, if ya wanna equate it to what YOU do at night, it's kinda like how each star is important.

N.Moon: *nod* I see where you're coming from, Granny Smith.

G.Smith: Now, what'cha gotta do is jump around counter-clockwise and sing the ABCs, like this.

Following a two-lap demonstration, Nightmare Moon, then Apple Bloom join in.  The Mare in the Moon seemed to actually lighten up and have fun with the strange tradition, even in her bunny costume.  As the baskets were being set up, Applejack chuckles as she sees Nightmare Moon bouncing, then a massive bank of clouds blots the sun from the sky.  Next was a huge flock of crows, the birds making concentric apple-shaped circles in the darkened sky!

G.Smith: WHOA!

N.Moon: What?

G.Smith: That's the third sign!  WAY ahead of schedule!

Blue star-shaped flowers appeared in the trees, each sending sparks arcing from plant to plant and tree to tree.

N.Moon: Is it supposed to be THAT power-packed?

G.Smith: No.....  The Zap Apple blossoms usually don't get THAT charged.

N.Moon: Maybe it's a bumper crop.

G.Smith: Possibly.  This is the first time we had a Zap Apple harvest with those changelings on our friends list.

N.Moon: *chuckle* Yeah.

Soon, the blossoms turn into grey apples!

Applejack: Tarnation!  At this rate, we'll be *Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina land near her* buckin' Zap Apples in no time!

P.Celestia: Oh?

Applejack: *turns and bows* Yes, Princess.  The signs have occured REAL quick this year.

P.Morphina: Maybe it's Nightmare.

G.Smith: Or it's you guys.  This is the first harvest after we met ya'll.

P.Shiftshape: Maybe.

Applejack: I'll help paint the barn.

A.Bloom: Me and my friends'll gather the supplies.

G.Smith: I better give the jars a stern talking-to.

The changelings exchange curious looks.

N.Moon: Stars.

P.Morphina: Right.

Prince Shiftshape snickers a bit at Nightmare Moon's costume, then the three break out laughing.  The next day, all the elements were in place. Pink polka dots were painted on the farmhouse and the supplies were gathered.

A.Bloom: Thank Celestia those bees didn't think of me as a stranger.

G.Smith: I told ya, stick with me and it all makes sense.

The two high-hoof - carefully - then rejoin the festivities.  Just as the last basket was put in place, the Zap Apples appeared - and it was a HUGE crop!

Applejack: All hooves on deck!

Try as they could, the Apple family was insufficient to get all the apples off the trees!

G.Smith: HURRY!

Prince Shiftshape sighs, picking up a single Zap Apple, then he beat his wings again, summoning a massive flock of changelings.  He held up the apple as if to show them what they need to do and the swarm nods as if one.  Then, the swarm start harvesting Zap Apples like crazy, not stopping until they were all down!  Granny Smith was shocked and Applejack was impressed!

P.Shiftshape: HOOH! Good thing I know how to use the hive mind.

G.Smith: Eh?

P.Shiftshape: It's how I'm able to tell them all what to do at once like that.  Had that skill since I was hatched.

P.Celestia: *nod* I see.  Real heads-up there.

P.Shiftshape: Thanks, Princess.

The ponies enjoy the fruits of the huge crop of Zap Apples.  One of them was a white unicorn halfway between Prince Blueblood and Princess Celestia size-wise.  His blonde hair made him a truly regal prescence even without a cutie mark.  When he spotted Rainbow Dash, he smiled and bowed, carrying a Zap Apple pie.

Gilda: *lands near Rainbow Dash* Heya, Dash.

R.Dash: Heya, G.

As the two high-wing, the white unicorn smiles widely at them, bowing and walking off.  Gilda cocked her head at him.

R.Dash: Don't ask.

The two shrug, enjoying the harvest.  Nightmare Moon and the changeling royals expressed similar rave reviews.

N.Moon: WOW!  This is amazing!

P.Shiftshape: I concur, these apples are incredible!

P.Celestia: I TOLD you you'd be in for a treat!

The trio giggles as they watch Discord work his zany dessert magic using the spectrum fruit.  Everypony loved seeing the draconequus make great foods with Pinkie Pie using the Zap Apples.  This brought a big grin to Virtuna's face.

Trixie: *chuckle* One of your best projects, eh, V?

Virtuna: Oh, yeah!

Both laugh as they head for Discord's stall.  At the end of the harvest festival, Princess Celestia took some leftover Zap Apples home. One of the apples glowed green, being copied.  The copy wound up with no pony but Queen Chrysalis.  The changeling takes a bite and murrs.

Q.Chrysalis: I had one of these..... long ago.....  It's one of the things that... that led me.....

The changeling breaks down and cries.

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Shadow Magic, DarkSparkle

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 34: The Spirit of Shadow Magic, DarkSparkle

The time: One month after the Zap Apple harvest.

Applejack is all smiles as she continues storing Zap Apples in various forms.

Applejack: Best harvest ever!  Those changelings are great harvesters!

G.Smith: I'll say!  And that Prince Shiftshape, so quick to do what was needed.

Applejack: *nod*  VERY wise use of the hive mind.

The matriarch nods as she helps store the rest of the Zap Apple jam.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Princess Celestia was writing out some scrolls when she sensed a dark prescence.  Princess Luna walks in and the two sisters locked eyes.

P.Celestia and P.Luna: DarkSparkle.

The sun goddess writes a letter to Twilight Sparkle.  The purple unicorn was facing Trixie in a magic duel, each sharpening the other's skills.  The duel was eventually won by Twilight Sparkle when she wrapped Trixie in her own cape!

Trixie: GAH! *pops her head out* *laugh* Nice one!

T.Sparkle: *giggle* Aw, thanks, Trixie.

The two high-hoof after Twilight Sparkle gets Trixie unwrapped, then Spike belches up a scroll.

T.Sparkle: ???

Spike hands over the scroll and Twilight Sparkle reads it.

T.Sparkle: .........DarkSparkle's arrived.

Everypony nods, heading to the castle to get the Elements of Harmony.  They didn't have to go far to find DarkSparkle, as the shadowy version of Twilight Sparkle was waiting for them right by the Starswirl the Bearded wing.  Her first move was to put a shield around herself and Twilight Sparkle.  The two unicorns glared at each other.

DarkSparkle: Shall we begin?

T.Sparkle: We shall.....

The two unicorns start having a magic duel.  Each made something random appear on or around the other, only for the other to use a counter-spell.  The two unicorns' spells increased in complexity until Twilight Sparkle conjured up a tornado that spun DarkSparkle way up in the air.  As the dark unicorn plummeted to the ground, Twilight Sparkle made a trampoline appear that sent DarkSparkle flying up through the shield!  Twilight Sparkle won!

T.Sparkle: !!! GIRLS!

With a nod, all the ponies used the Elements of Harmony on the plummeting pony, a massive screech echoing across the sky.  The power of the Elements was enough to finally defeat the evil mare.  The ponies celebrate, knowing there's one more obstacle left: Ruinous.  As the ponies head back to the castle, Virtuna stays back and looks up.  Without knowing it, she looked up at Queen Chrysalis as the changeling was in her cell.

Virtuna: *smiles*

(singing): It doesn't matter what your past,

I'll help you just the same.

Your problems, I will always hear,

and that's the object of my game!

T.Sparkle: Virtuna!

Virtuna turns her head towards Twilight Sparkle's voice.

Virtuna: *runs towards Twilight Sparkle* Coming, Twilight!

As Virtuna dashes off towards her friends, Queen Chrysalis watches her go.  The changeling smiles slowly, knowing she's got at least one supporter.  When the Bearers of Harmony reported their success against DarkSparkle to Princess Celestia, the sun goddess was equal parts happy and apprehensive.

N.Moon: *bites her lip* Ruinous' next, right?

P.Celestia: *nod* I'm not sure if these ponies can do it without the Master Elements.

T.Sparkle: Then we'll find them.

P.Luna: *blink* I hope you're successful.

T.Sparkle: We will be.

The ponies and Nightmare Moon exit the castle, heading to Ponyville to celebrate their win over DarkSparkle.  In his swirling vortex of nothingness, Ruinous growls and opens his dark red eyes.

Ruinous: So..... the time for my intervention is at hand.....  Equestria... will... FALL!!!

Ruinous rises out of the darkness and takes flight, making Queen Chrysalis shiver in her cell.

Q.Chrysalis (repeating): This can't happen again.....

TO BE CONTINUED

Twilight vs. Troyka

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 35: Twilight vs. Troyka

The time: One week after the DarkSparkle battle.

A shadowy form heads through the Everfree Forest.  Its hoofbeats convey anger and a thirst for revenge.....  Meanwhile, in Virtuna's arcade, Spike and Rayzor are having a dance-off.  The two dragons laugh as they trade the lead.  When the game was finished, it was a tie!

Spike: Nice one!

Rayzor: Hey, you, too!

The two exchange a high-five, unaware that an old foe was glaring hatefully at them from the outskirts of town.....

???: *GROWL!*

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

After the dance-off, Spike, Rayzor, Trixie and Twilight Sparkle were returning to the library when Rayzor was magically lifted off his feet and tied up with a blanket!

Rayzor, Spike, Trixie and T.Sparkle: !!!!!

The flailing dragon was pulled backwards towards a smirking unicorn mare - one they all remembered.

Rayzor, Spike, Trixie and T.Sparkle: Troyka?!

Troyka: Correct.  And The Amazing and Unbelievable Troyka has returned to reclaim what is rightfully hers!

T.Sparkle: NO!  Rayzor belongs to Trixie now, not you!

Troyka: YOU have no say, Twilight Stupid!

Trixie: You do NOT insult Trixie's friend in that manner, Troyka! Gimme back Rayzor NOW!

Troyka smirks, making Trixie's mouth shut tight, like someone glued her lips together!  Both dragons gasped.

Troyka: Tell you what.  If *points to Twilight Sparkle* YOU can best me in a magic duel, The Amazing and Unbelievable Troyka will return this sad sack of scales to the Worthless and Weak Trixie.  If NOT, then your blue friend over there is going to have to look for another dragon egg to hatch - IF she has the power to!

Trixie whimpers at Twilight Sparkle as Troyka laughs maliciously.  Twilight glared at Troyka as Rayzor struggled to get out of the blanket.

T.Sparkle: You're on, Troyka.....

Troyka smirks as she heads in front of City Hall, Twilight Sparkle following.  Spike hurriedly wrote a letter and sent it.  The two unicorns face each other, Rayzor - in his blanket - hanging in the balance - and from one of the flagpoles.

Rayzor: AH! *shivers*

Troyka sneers at Twilight Sparkle.

Troyka: SO, Twilight Weakle, ready ta lose?!

T.Sparkle: *glare* I don't think so, Troyka.....

The two unicorns go at each other, major spells firing all around.  Where before against DarkSparkle the spells were affecting only each pony's opponent, this time several ponies just watching got caught up in the crossfire.  The action was so fast-and-furious, Princess Celestia flew in to check it out, having been alerted by Spike's emergency letter.

P.Celestia: *angry glare* Troyka.....

Nightmare Moon dove down towards the duel, making herself visible to Twilight Sparkle.  Below, the duel wasn't going well for Princess Celestia's favorite student.  The vengeful Troyka had Twilight Sparkle on the ropes and was about to give the last blow - until Twilight Sparkle saw Nightmare Moon.  Just like what happened with Fluttershy, the mere sight of her was enough to light a fire inside Twilight Sparkle.  Twilight Sparkle put up a barrier, deflecting Troyka's attack into the sky before hitting it with a shot of her own, sending shimmery stars downward.

T.Sparkle: Game over, Troyka.

Troyka: No! NO!

Twilight Sparkle's last attack was to encase Troyka from her neck down in ice while her back legs were a good yard or two off the ground.  Troyka gasped as she found herself in a position where she can't counter.  Princess Celestia lands nearby, glaring at Troyka.

P.Celestia: I'd've thought after our last meeting, you'd've learned to stay away from Trixie and Rayzor.  Seems as if I was mistaken.  Your thirst for revenge knows no limits, Troyka.  I am seriously disappointed in you.  *She holds up the letter to Bitsburgh with her magic*  I was holding back, since I didn't want to see you embarassed, but now it seems as if embarassment is the perfect punishment for you.  *The scroll vanishes, making Troyka gasp*  I'd seriously consider leaving and never returning, for real this time.

The unicorn leaves as Princess Celestia gets Rayzor down and back to Trixie.  The two hug up, all smiles.

T.Sparkle: *looks at Nightmare Moon* I see what Fluttershy was talking about.  Your mere prescence seems to give other ponies hope.

N.Moon: Wh-what?

Rayzor: Yeah, I saw it.  Soon as Twi looked at you, BOOM! It was night-and-day!  *Princess Celestia and Nightmare Moon smirk at him*  No pun intended.

First Princess Celestia and Nightmare Moon, then Twilight Sparkle, then everypony and the two dragons began laughing.  Troyka, meanwhile, was soon exiled from her hometown and made to live off the land for the rest of her days.  She soon found work, humiliatingly enough, on Pinkie Pie's family's rock farm.

TO BE CONTINUED

Ponies, Pets and Pals

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 36: Ponies, Pets and Pals

The time: Two weeks after beating DarkSparkle.

Virtuna hums as she tends to her arcade when a ball bounced into the open door.

Virtuna: Huh?

As the little earth pony goes to investigate, Winona bursts in and swipes it in her mouth!

Virtuna: *falls on her rear end!* WHOA!

With a short bark, Winona dashes outside as Virtuna struggles to her hooves.

Virtuna: One of Fluttershy's?

The little earth pony charges out of the arcade after Winona, Pixel flying after her with a buzz.  The border collie soon comes across a park in which the Mane 6 and their pets were playing.

Applejack: Sorry 'bout that, girl.  Must've put a bit too much spice on that throw.

Winona barks and licks Applejack's cheek, making the farm pony laugh.  Virtuna watches from a nearby bush and grins widely.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Virtuna trots over as she watches the Mane 6 play with their pets.

Virtuna: Heya girls!  *Everyone stops and looks*  What's goin' on?

R.Dash: Heya, Virtuna.  We're just having our weekly Pony Pet Playdate.

Virtuna: Which would explain the ball in my arcade.

Applejack: Whoa, Nelly!

Applejack and Virtuna giggle as Pixel floats over the pets.  Opalescence growls at the parasprite, even going as far as to swipe a claw at it!

Rarity: Opal!  Don't attack Pixel like that!

Opalescence meows sharply and walks off as if she owned the park.  Rarity frowns as she checks on Pixel.

Rarity: I'm SO sorry about that, Pixel.

Pixel buzzes and smiles at Rarity, the unicorn putting on a relieved face.

Virtuna: Aw, he's a toughie, Rarity.  He DID come from the Everfree Forest, remember?

Rarity: *nod* Of course, Virtuna, but Opal's no mere tabby cat, she's a bit.....

Applejack: Ornery?

Rarity frowns a bit, then shakes her head, knowing the farm pony was right.  Applejack chuckled as Virtuna walked up.

Virtuna: So what exactly happens here?

Fluttershy: Well, exactly as you see.  We take our pets out to run around, have fun, get some fresh air, etc.

Trixie: Sounds like a blast, but.....

The Mane 6 and Virtuna and their pets look at the approaching unicorn.

R.Dash: *nod* I see.

Trixie: Sorry.

T.Sparkle: No problem, Trixie.

Trixie: Well, you all appear to be having so much fun and Rayzor doesn't like being cooped up in my cart, so.....

Applejack: Are ya'll sayin' ya'll're wantin' a pet, Trix?

Trixie's nodding set Fluttershy off into an over-excited frenzy, like she was when Rainbow Dash said she may want a pet in "May The Best Pet Win"!  She picks up Trixie and flies back to her cottage, barely keeping the showpony's back hooves dangling over the ground, the whole while squealing like an excited child.  The rest of the Mane 6 chuckle a bit at the departing pair.

R.Dash: So, what'll happen first, Trixie finds a pet or Fluttershy makes her lose her mind?

Twilight Sparkle laughs.  Later that day, Rainbow Dash was in the Wonderbolts locker room getting into costume for her practice when in comes a pegasus wearing a Wonderbolts costume. She takes it off to reveal a star with a three-yellows rainbow surrounding it - and an artificial back-right leg similar to Virtuna's!

R.Dash: *blink* Whoa.  *approaches the pegasus*  Do you know of a Virtuna?

Pegasus F: *POINK! at the mention of Virtuna*  *looks at Rainbow Dash* Yes?

R.Dash: *smiles*  She's a pal of mine.

Pegasus F: *smiles* I heard of that.  I saw her at the air show we put on recently.

R.Dash: *nod*  She waved at you.

Pegasus F: Too busy focusing.

R.Dash: *nod*  Understood.  Why don't'cha come to Ponyville and visit between performances?  I'm sure Virtuna would like to catch up with you.

Pegasus F: *nod* OK.  Can I bring my brother?

R.Dash: Certainly.  The more friends, the better.

Pegasus F: *nod* OK, I'll see when and tell ya, K?  By the way, name's Star Chaser.

R.Dash: Rainbow Dash.

The two hoofbump and Rainbow Dash heads out to practice.  Star Chaser gets out of her costume, puts it in her locker and shuts it, sighing.

S.Chaser: -One last show.....-

With a sigh, she walks out of the locker room with her head down.  The next day, Star Chaser and her brother, Storm Striker - a light-blue male pegasus with a white double-thunderbolt for a cutie mark - flew over Ponyville towards the main square.  Pinkie Pie looks up and gasps, smiling widely as the two pegasi land.

P.Pie: Oh, my gosh! Hello, BOTH of you!

As Pinkie Pie hits the duo with a wall of greetings, they exchange silly grins.  As the party pony talks about how happy she is to see them, an excited shriek bursts out of the arcade!  Both pegasi smile as they see Virtuna bolt outside wearing a big grin!

S.Striker: Heya, pip-squeak!

Virtuna: HAHA!  Wassup!?

The two exchange a high-hoof, smiling widely.  Star Chaser smiles at her brother and her best friend getting along well.  Twilight Sparkle walks by with a saddlebag.

T.Sparkle: Whoa!  Friends of yours?

Virtuna: Uh-HUH!  These are the two I told Princess Celestia about. This is Star Chaser and Storm Striker.

T.Sparkle: Aw, cool.  My name is Twilight Sparkle.

S.Chaser: *smile* Pleased to meet you, Twilight.

S.Striker: *nod* Indeed.

All ponies heard a WHOOSH! split the air as a rainbow-colored trail followed!  The trail arched around and flew downward to the main square.  With a four-point landing kicking up a cloud of smoke, Rainbow Dash arrived and gasped loudly.

R.Dash: Star Chaser!  I told you to tell me, silly!

The two pegasi laugh.  Trixie comes back from Fluttershy's cottage wearing a few bruises.

Fluttershy: Really, I don't know WHAT got into that falcon.

Trixie: It acted as if it didn't like Trixie too much.

The two shrug, oblivious to a pair of sad-looking eyes looking at Trixie.  That night, a party was thrown welcoming Storm Striker and Star Chaser to Ponyville.  Spitfire was also there, having a good time with the other Wonderbolts.

Spitfire: I don't suppose Star Chaser's told ya.

R.Dash: Told me what?

S.Chaser: The next performance is going to be my last.

Pitstop: Why, luv?

S.Chaser: They just told me to retire because of new talent coming in.

???: I think that's the stupidest thing I ever heard.

All the Wonderbolts blink, turning around as they see Prince Shiftshape fly in.  Everyone bows at the Changeling Prince and he bows back.

P.Shiftshape: I saw you in that Wonderbolts-ChangeWings air show, you were as spectacular as Rainbow Dash.  I didn't see a missing leg at all, I saw a remarkable showpony.

S.Chaser: *sniff* I know, I.....  I wanted so much to be a Wonderbolt.  It was my life's dream and Virtuna gave me the courage to try out for the team.

S.Striker: You should've seen the look on her face when *Nightmare Moon lands nearby* they let her in.  It was the best day in her life.

N.Moon: You should let them know, then.

S.Chaser: Oh?

N.Moon: If your dream is to be a Wonderbolt, you should fight like heck to keep that costume on.

S.Chaser: .................*eyes narrow* You're right!  *turns to Spitfire*  Spitfire, *Spitfire looks up* we need to talk.

Spitfire nods, then the two mares head into Sugar Cube Corner.  The Mane 6 swung their heads slowly to a blushing Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: Where'd that come from?

Everypony laughs, Discord keeping an eye on the former harbinger of endless night.  The next day, Trixie was back at Fluttershy's cottage, trying to pick a pet.

Trixie: This is the hardest thing Trixie has had to do.

Fluttershy: I know, but you just have to be patient with them.

Trixie: There's a need for patience and then there's just striking out.  Seems as if none of your animals know Trixie well enough.

Fluttershy: Well, yes, that COULD be a factor.

Trixie: *sigh* It's Trixie's fault.  Trixie should've been out-and-about more.

Fluttershy: You've been reading on Ruinous and your element.  It's not ALL your fault.

Trixie: *nod*  I know.....  Let's give this one more try, OK?  *Fluttershy nods*  Trixie needs a small pet, tough enough to live in any kind of conditions and be nice.

Fluttershy: Small, tough and nice, got it!

The two mares look around for a pet for Trixie.  A rustling in the Everfree Forest goes unnoticed by both ponies, but Angel Bunny's ears perk up.  By the time the rabbit looks, the source of the sound is nowhere in sight, prompting the rabbit to shrug and rejoin the search.  Nearby, Star Chaser was going through her routine.

S.Chaser: Won't give up..... No matter what!

The pegasus flies gracefully through the air, giving no indication of her missing leg.  She dives, loops, twists, zooms, soars and glides across the sky, cutting clouds with laser-like precision and making one into her cutie mark.  After doing the stunts, the Wonderbolt landed and sighed.

S.Chaser: Why do I have to.....

The mare gets up and heads to her room, crying the whole way.  Nightmare Moon was nearby, feeling sorry for her.  Later that day, at the air show stadium, Star Chaser fidgets in the back as she waits for her teammate.  As pair after pair of Wonderbolts flies off, the pegasus gets a sinking feeling in her gut: She's going to have no one to fly with.  Finally, when two of the last three fly off, Spitfire sighs and turns towards Star Chaser.

Spitfire: I guess you don't have a partner, Star Chaser, so.....

???: Who said she DIDN'T?

Spitfire turns and gasps in shock.  Outside, the ponies were watching as Rainbow Dash and Pitstop sat in the Wonderbolts box near Soarin.

Soarin: I know you don't think it's fair, but we had a record graduation at the academy.

Pitstop: But don't'cha just feel like crud, luv?  That pegasus has been through a lot already.

R.Dash: I know.  I made it my life's ambition to be a Wonderbolt, and yet, Star Chaser's much tougher than me.  Going through life like that..... I can't imagine.

Soarin: I know, but.....!! What the?

Everypony looks down in shock to see Star Chaser flying around doing tricks.  But it wasn't just the Wonderbolt everypony was amazed to see, it was her partner: Nightmare Moon!

P.Celestia: Oh.....

P.Luna: .....my.....

Everypony watched in silent awe as Star Chaser and Nightmare Moon performed like a veteran pair, doing a perfect routine to everypony's amazement.  Even Soarin and Spitfire were awestruck at how fluid the unlikely pair was.  Star Chaser nodded at Nightmare Moon, the alicorn nodding back.  Then, the pair flew straight up in the air!

Spitfire: Are they gonna.....?!

R.Dash/Pitstop: Whoa!

The two ponies dive down in a dual spiral, a wall building up in front.  They gather speed as they continue falling through the air.  Just over the stadium, BOOM!!!!!  It appeared as if an aurora blazed its way across the sky!  Everypony was amazed as the two sent a "Sonic Rainboom" across the sky that combined the night sky with a golden rainbow!  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop were awestruck.

R.Dash: I KNEW when..... when Nightmare knocked around the Changeling Queen at the anniversary..... that she was fast, but..... Next-tornado-I'm-getting-a-meter-on-that-pony, FOR REAL!  *everypony in earshot laughs*  I mean it! That took some SPEED!

Fluttershy: You think she can get to 30?

R.Dash: 30?  I think she can get to 40!

Both pegasi laugh as Star Chaser and Nightmare Moon land after their finale to the admiration of the whole stadium.  Both ponies bow at the cheering crowd as the Wonderbolts huddle up.  After the show, a party is held at Sweet Apple Acres.  Star Chaser sits right next to Nightmare Moon.

S.Chaser: THAT was amazing, I have to say.  I've almost done this as long as Spitfire and that was by far the most incredible display I've ever seen.

N.Moon: Daw, shucks.  Thanks, Star Chaser.

Spitfire: *sigh*  That showed a lot of guts, Star Chaser.  Look, I'm sorry about all the retirement talk.  I should've guessed you'd've had the heart of a giant knowing about what happened to you since foalhood.  You can bet your three remaining legs I will vouch for you to stay a Wonderbolt.

S.Chaser: Aw, thanks, Spitfire!

The two pegasi nuzzle up as everypony claps.  As Applejack applauds, a wolf cub jumps up, takes a strudel and jumps back!

Virtuna: !!!!!

Applejack: Huh? *looks at the plate of strudels and notices one missing*  Hey!  Who swiped a treat?

As the farm pony looked around her table, the wolf cub popped up a few more places, next to several ponies and between some pairs, only stopping once it popped up by Trixie.

Fluttershy: It's-a-wolf!

Trixie: A what? *looks* Whoa!

The wolf cub gives a small bark before grabbing an apple and tossing it up, eating it in one bite!

Applejack: That thing eats APPLES!?

Trixie: Makes it easy to feed.

Trixie gasps, then laughs as the wolf cub licks her cheek.

T.Sparkle: Whoa!

Trixie: My grandfather said a wolf is a symbol of wisdom.  In fact, why don't I call you Wysheid, (< Afrikaans for "wisdom") little guy?

With a bark, the wolf cub nuzzles Trixie.  That night, Princess Celestia was in her bedroom after lowering the sun for the night.  She takes out a picture depicting an adorable scene.  It was of a group of four alicorns, a draconequus and a changeling having a picnic, all of them Cutie-Mark-Crusaders young and all ponies having no cutie marks.  She smiled at a white alicorn looking like her with a black alicorn looking like Princess Luna near her.  Nearby was a pink alicorn that looked like Princess Cadence.  Her eyes scan to the left side of the picture, a laugh coming from her as she sees a changeling that looks like Queen Chrysalis being drenched by a chocolate-milk raincloud of cotton candy.  She was looking upward at a draconequus that looked a lot like Discord with a cute smirk.  On the right was a gray alicorn floating in a tree.  She looked a lot like Nightmare Moon, her body and main hair color being silver and having none of Nightmare Moon's armor being her only difference.

P.Celestia: Old friend, we may have found her..... The one to carry the flame you held so well.....  Accept her, love her, appreciate her as we have grown to.....

The princess put the picture in a frame by her bed, behind a picture of the two princesses and the Mane 6 laughing it up on her birthday.  She murrs as she settles off to sleep.  Discord, however, was about to have a really bad night.....  He grunts and moans in his sleep as if in pain for a while, then he's whisked from his bed by a wave of darkness, the only clue to his abductor being a sinister laugh.  He wouldn't be the only one.....  One by one, the Mane 6 was swiped from their beds by the wave of darkness, an evil laugh the lone calling-card.  When the wave of darkness was done rounding up Discord and the Mane 6, it returned to the sky over Canterlot and Shiftopolis, where a massive floating castle materialized.  Featuring hewn stone walls and wrought-iron around everything, it wasn't a place to spend a day sightseeing.  The main feature was the labyrinth around the whole castle, spikes preventing air escape while darkness and shadows inhabited every corner.  In her cavern, Queen Chrysalis shivers, sensing the sinister arrival.

Q.Chrysalis: No....... *shakes her head* No!  *She growls as she is soon wracked with nightmarish visions of ponies laying motionless and homes destroyed, much like South Transforma*  This can't..... This can't..... *She goes up on her front legs, almost in a sitting position*  THIS CAN'T HAPPEN AGAIN!!!  *She breaks down and cries*  This can't..... happen again..... *With a growl, she gets back up, her crown and powers restored!*  This WON'T happen again!

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 1 - The Fall of Harmony

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 37: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 1 - The Fall of Harmony

The time: The very next day.

Spike wakes up to see an empty bed where Twilight Sparkle went to sleep.  All over Ponyville, panic set in as the news of the abduction of Discord and the Mane 6 slowly broke.  Virtuna, Zecora, Corinne, Pitstop and Trixie met outside Virtuna's arcade.

Trixie: What's happened?  Where's Twilight?

Corinne: M-M-My guess?

The giraffe pointed at the evil-looking castle floating over Canterlot and Shiftopolis.  Everypony realized what this meant.....

Virtuna, Trixie, Pitstop, Zecora and Corinne: Ruinous!

The quintet rushes off towards the castle, determined to rescue their friends.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Twilight Sparkle groans as she wakes up, not in her bed, but in the center of Ruinous' labyrinth.  The rest of the Mane 6 woke up one-by-one in their own seperate sections, all wearing their Elements of Harmony.  All of them looked around, feeling uneasy at their new surroundings.

Applejack: Where in tarnation.....

R.Dash: *cough* Whoa!

Fluttershy was more than her usual jittery self, even more so when.....

Ruinous: Greetings, Bearers of Harmony.

T.Sparkle: Ruinous!  What's going on here?!

Ruinous: I brought you to my castle to play a little game.....

Rarity: Well!  If you DID bring us here, then you SHOULD have gotten a professional cleaning crew in here!

Ruinous: I see my accomodations aren't very accomodating to you..... Too bad.

P.Pie: Well, PARDON US for not wanting to welcome you to Ponyville, Mr. Meanest-Meanie-Pants I've Ever Seen!

Ruinous: Trust me, I'll be the LAST thing you ever see.....  This game is so simple.  Since you all hate this place so much, I am allowing you to leave - but there's a catch.....  If ANY of you make it out, I will allow all of you to go.  But if I catch you first, you will only have two opitons: Fight me and win..... or lose and expire.....  Your choice.  Good luck.

Rarity: Oh, man.....

Applejack: C'mon.

The six ponies walk towards their own exits.  Outside, a huge battle was going on, pitting Equestria's Royal Guards and Transforma's changeling soldiers versus Ruinous' guards, dark ponies with red, hateful eyes that seem to have them out-numbered.  An errant blast slammed into the side of the mountain, making an opening large enough for Queen Chrysalis to fly out!  The changeling queen flies over the battlefield and glared.

Q.Chrysalis: This WON'T happen again!

Queen Chrysalis descended on the battlefield and began blasting Ruinous' guards left-and-right!  The changeling soldiers buzzed as they see their queen helping the Equestrian forces suppress Ruinous' army.  Queen Chrysalis smiles, buzzing back, then glares as she sees a large amount of Ruinous' soldiers advancing on a single Equestrian soldier.  She slammed the dark ponies all over the place, using her beam attack, flames and even telekinesis to thin the herd of evil troops.  When she saw who it was, she got the shock of her life - it was Shining Armor!

S.Armor: What the?!

Q.Chrysalis: Oh, my.....

As the two looked at each other, two more of Ruinous' troops jumped at Shining Armor!  Queen Chrysalis growled, blasting the would-be attackers aside as Shining Armor ducked and galloped off to the side!

S.Armor: You.....

Q.Chrysalis: No time to explain!

The changeling queen flies off, blasting more of Ruinous' forces.  Meanwhile, inside the labyrinth, Pinkie Pie was trying her best to get out.  A quick show of the part she was in revealed one critical thing: She was walking around in a circle!

P.Pie: Geez, where's the exit?!  This game is no fun!!

Ruinous: It depends, Pinkamena, on your definition of *appears* fun.....

Pinkie Pie gasps, backing away from the Spirit of Oblivion.  She shivers a bit, then grunts.

P.Pie: If it's a fight you want, Ruinous, I'm more than ready to take one to ya!  Element Call: LAUGHTER!!!!!

Pinkie Pie's Element of Harmony necklace clad her in her armor, the charms on it blazing brightly.

P.Pie: Party's over for YOU, Ruinous! CUPCAKE CANNON!!!

Despite how well it worked against Fryght, Pinkie Pie's Cupcake Cannon was virtually useless against Ruinous!  The party pony gasped as she saw one of her strongest abilities have next to no effect on Ruinous.

P.Pie: You..... OK, time to send in the BIG GUNS!  PARTY TIME!!

Pinkie Pie's ultimate attack sent down a party atmosphere, with presents, balloons, streamers, the works.  This party, however, had some surprises that were rather explosive.  The presents and balloons exploded around the evil pony, bright lights flashing all around him.  Pinkie Pie gasped and panted, exhausted at how much energy it took to use her move.

P.Pie: That's..... gotta.....

Pinkie Pie was suddenly hit with a massive shudder!  She gasped as she saw Ruinous had not suffered any damage at all, his eyes glowing bright red as he took flight!

Ruinous: Enough of your games!  EXPIRE!!!

Ruinous sent out a thick black fog that enveloped everything below him.  Pinkie Pie shivered in fear as the fog encircled her.  One by one, the charms on her armor turned black, leading the charm on her necklace to also turn black.  Once that happened, Pinkie Pie's eyes rolled back in her head and she slumped to the floor.....

Ruinous: Party's over.....

Ruinous levitated Pinkie Pie and walked off, searching for his next victim.....  Meanwhile, outside, Queen Chrysalis was still helping the Equestrian and Transformian forces battle Ruinous' army - but this time she wasn't alone.  Shining Armor was also blasting the troops, working surprisingly well with the creature who nearly ruined his wedding.  The two soon spot a huge Hercules-beetle-like changeling attacking the shadowy enemy with bladed wings.

S.Armor: Who's that?!

Q.Chrysalis: That's *blasts a baddie* General Crosswing!

Shining Armor nods as he and Queen Chrysalis make their way towards the large changeling.  General Crosswing was blasting, slicing and hurling dark ponies left-and-right, only stopping when he saw Queen Chrysalis land by him!

G.Crosswing: My Liege?!

Q.Chrysalis: General, I see you're quite busy.

G.Crosswing: Indeed. *slashes three of Ruinous' troops in half with one swing!*  They seem to be coming from everywhere!

S.Armor: Well, we've been quite the tandem, if you can believe it.

G.Crosswing: *nod* I'm not surprised.  Our queen DID share your ruler's penchant for making friends.

S.Armor: !!!  Really?!

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* I did.....

S.Armor: Did you know this all was going to happen?

Q.Chrysalis: I did..... since it happened to me.

S.Armor: What?!

Q.Chrysalis: Long story short, Ruinous came to Transforma and destroyed the southern districts.  He told me if I didn't fight him by myself, he'd destroy Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina.  I couldn't let him do that.  He fought me for a while one-on-one, then Hatetrol got involved and I was no match for them.  Hatetrol cursed me with the hunger for love that brought me to invade Canterlot on your wedding day.  *head down*  For years, I tried to fight back.  I wanted to get Princess Celestia to help me, but everytime I got close to her, it's as if I wasn't myself, and.....

Shining Armor couldn't help but feel sorry for Queen Chrysalis, listening as she wept a bit.  The Captain of Equestria's Royal Guard raised Queen Chrysalis' head and shook his own.

S.Armor: Look, Chrys.  If Ruinous had Twiley in the same way he had your kids, I'd fight EVERYthing he had - soldiers, Elements of Darkness, even Ruinous himself.  I'd do ANYthing to save my family, anything.  I don't blame you for doing what you did.

The two murr, embracing, their past encounter seemingly forgotten.  Queen Chrysalis points off in the distance to a spot with hardly any soldiers attacking the combined might of Equestria and Transforma.

Q.Chrysalis: Captain Imitato should be over there.

S.Armor: *nod* C'mon.

Both changelings nod back and head over, blasting baddies the whole way over.  Back inside, a very scared Fluttershy was slowly walking through her part of the maze.

Fluttershy: c'mon, fluttershy, it's just one hoof..... in front of the other.....

Ruinous: That's all it is..... One hoof..... *appears* .....in front of the other.....

Fluttershy gasped loudly, looking more scared than she'd ever been before.  But then, seeing Pinkie Pie draped on Ruinous' back like a pelt awoke her inner rage!

Fluttershy: HOW DARE YOU!?  ELEMENT CALL: KINDNESS!!!

Fluttershy armored up and lifted off, gathering speed for her Sonic Butterfly Blast.  Ruinous cocked his head as the normally-timid pegasus picked up speed, then slammed him with the shockwave several times.  Ruinous just stood there, taking each blow.  Finally, after several shockwaves hit Ruinous, Fluttershy flew way up and dove with her full 33 Wingpower right at him, building up power for a huge Sonic Butterfly Blast!

Fluttershy: You FIEND!

Ruinous: Thanks.

Fluttershy gasps as Ruinous emerges from her attacks largely unscathed!

Ruinous: EXPIRE!!!

Ruinous blasted out the same fog that he used to defeat Pinkie Pie.  It shot up at Fluttershy as if laser-guided.  Just like Pinkie Pie before her, the fog blacked out the charms on her armor, then her necklace, causing her to sink slowly to the floor.....

Ruinous: This is too easy.....

Ruinous levitates Fluttershy and heads off, now carrying two ponies.  Outside, Shining Armor was helping the changelings secure a foothold near the middle of the battlefield.  Queen Chrysalis and General Crosswing were doing a ton of damage to the dark ponies when the queen snapped her head to a bridge nearby.

S.Armor: What is it?!

Q.Chrysalis: It's Virtuna and the others!  They're heading into a deathtrap!  I HAVE to stop them!

With a nod from Shining Armor, Queen Chrysalis flew to the bridge as fast as her two wings can take her.  Virtuna and the others ran full gallop towards Ruinous' castle.

Trixie: What do you think we'll find?

Virtuna: Our friends and one VERY soon-to-be-VERY-sorry pony!

Pitstop: Let's get in there, then!

Virtuna nods and keeps up the pace until the bridge suddenly gives out in front!  Everypony slams on the brakes, then the bridge behind them goes out!

???: YOU ARE DOING NOTHING OF THE SORT!!!

Virtuna looked up and came face-to-face with.....

Virtuna: Queen Chrysalis?!

Q.Chrysalis: Yes, child.  I MUST warn you: Ruinous has the Mane 6 captive and he's playing a very un-fun game with them.

Trixie: We know, that is why we're going to save them.

Q.Chrysalis: NO!!

All five ponies cringe a bit, allowing Queen Chrysalis to put them in a pod similar to the one Princess Celestia was imprisoned in during "A Canterlot Wedding 2".

Q.Chrysalis: You'll thank me for this!

With a snap of her hooves, the pod - and the ponies in it - returns to Twilight Sparkle's library, hanging off the ceiling.

Corinne: W-W-Why do I g-g-get this feeling like w-w-we just saw an-n-nother baddie turn good?

Trixie: From what the Great and Powerful Trixie heard from Twilight about her, THAT would be a miracle.

Virtuna: Didja see the fear in her eyes?  I have a feeling we may need one.

All five huddle up and look at Canterlot Castle.  Back in the labyrinth, Rarity was also picking her way through the maze, periodically grunting in disgust at how dusty and dirty it was.

Rarity: WHY does that Ruinous hire a cleaning crew for this place?!  I take it he doesn't get many visitors in here.

Ruinous: I COULD have done it myself..... *appears* .....I just couldn't find enough time.

Rarity: *GASP!*  You uncouth ruffian!  Element Call: GENEROSITY!!

Rarity armors up and glares at Ruinous.

Rarity: It..... is..... ON!!! GEMSTONE BLIZZARD!!!

Channeling her rage at Ruinous' treatment of two of her friends, Rarity's Gemstone Blizzard lasted much longer than normal.  The fashionista's face was fixed in a glare as she poured on the damage, striking Ruinous with a long-lasting salvo of gemstones.  After a while, Rarity was exhausted, but confident she'd beaten Ruinous - until.....

Ruinous: Pardon me..... But none of those..... ugh..... colors..... suits me..... EXPIRE!!!

Ruinous threw out that dark fog again, the cloud enveloping a still-shocked Rarity.  The charms on her armor blacked out, then her necklace, causing the fashionista to slump to the floor.....  Ruinous glared as he landed, kicking up a huge plume of dust onto Rarity with his wings, getting her dirty and messing her hair up!

Ruinous: THAT is for insulting my castle, you snotty foal!

With a snort, he carries Rarity along with Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, looking for either Applejack, Rainbow Dash or Twilight Sparkle.  Back in Twilight Sparkle's library, Virtuna and the others were trying to break out of the pod Queen Chrysalis put them in.  Spike heard the grunts and thumps and ran downstairs.

Spike: AAAHHH!!!  What happened?!  Who did this to you!?

Virtuna: We'll tell ya soon as ya get us outta this thing!

Spike nods, getting a broom and poking up at the pod.  Meanwhile, in the labyrinth, Applejack was trying to get out of there, panting and near exhaustion.

Applejack: The more I try to get outta here, the less I'm certain one can.....

Ruinous: Now, Applejack, that hurt!  *appears*  Now why would I have you play a game that you had no chance of winning.

Applejack: Maybe it's because ya'll're a sick, twisted, psychotic baddie who's already defeated three of my friends!  ELEMENT CALL: HONESTY!!!

Applejack armors up and begins blasting Ruinous with her apples of truth.  Just like Rarity, she held the salvo for a much longer time than normal, using her blazing speed and hard kicking to keep the combo going!

Applejack: YOU!  WILL!  PAY-FOR!  HURTING!!  MY!!  FRIENDS!!!!!

Applejack did not stop bucking her apples of truth until Ruinous was buried in them!  After the vile pony was covered, she stopped, admiring her work - until they began melting like an igloo in the desert.  Applejack gasped loudly in shock as Ruinous stood tall, appearing to have survived the attack without taking damage!

Applejack: What?!

Ruinous: EXPIRE!!!

Without letting Applejack even have a chance to move, Ruinous blasted her with the same dark fog.  It knocked her hat off her head as well as blacking out her charms, sending her to the floor in a heap.....

Ruinous: And another of Equestria's so-called heroes falls.....

Applejack became Ruinous' latest trophy as he carries her with his magic.  The vile pony walks slowly off, looking for Rainbow Dash and Twilight Sparkle.  Outside, Queen Chrysalis, Shining Armor, Captain Imitato and General Crosswing were almost done defeating Ruinous' troops.  Changeling soldiers were assisting in beating the last few pockets of troops.  Shining Armor noticed Queen Chrysalis' exhaustion.

S.Armor: Still trying to make amends?

Q.Chrysalis: For what I did during the wedding and the anniversary, I may always be making amends.

S.Armor: Look, I can't condone what you did, but Ruinous blasting your land and cursing you could certainly explain it.

Q.Chrysalis: YOUR understanding isn't what I yearn for, Shining Armor..... It's Celestia's.

S.Armor: *sigh*  Tall order - after what you did.....

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* I know.....

The changeling sniffles, then looks up - WAY up - towards Ruinous' castle.

S.Armor: What are you.....

Q.Chrysalis: One more thing.....

Before anyone can say anything, Queen Chrysalis took off like a rocket!

S.Armor: CHRYSALIS, NO!!!

Meanwhile, in the labyrinth, Rainbow Dash walked around, getting more and more upset at her lack of progress.

R.Dash: Did Ruinous make the unsolvable maze or what?!

Ruinous: What's wrong, Rainbow Dash..... *appears*  .....Need a hint?

R.Dash: RUINOUS!  *She gasps loudly as she sees her friends all seemingly in a coma*  You dark FIEND!  You think you can slow me down?!  Prepare yourself!!  ELEMENT CALL: LOYALTY!!!!!

Rainbow Dash armors up and uses her dizzying speed to make several Sonic Rainbooms around Ruinous.  Couple that with her ability to throw lightning and Ruinous was in for his toughest fight yet.  Ruinous growled as Rainbow Dash hit him every which way, trying to fire off moves of his own, only to hit nothing but air.  Rainbow Dash noticed one of Ruinous' attacks - a black "plasma ball" - go THROUGH a wall and gasped.

R.Dash: You're a cruel fiend AND a heartless prankster!  YOU WILL REGRET THIS!!!!!

Rage fueled Rainbow Dash's salvo of Sonic Rainbooms, the Wonderbolt seemingly having the Spirit of Oblivion staggering.  Ruinous growled as he was smacked around harder than he thought Rainbow Dash could do so.  After a while, Ruinous' eyes glowed brighter red than ever - and it wasn't due to him turning good!

Ruinous: I WILL END YOU!!!  EXPIRE!!!!!

As Rainbow Dash flew full-speed towards Ruinous to hit him with yet another Sonic Rainboom, she flew right into the dark fog that felled the other ponies!  To Rainbow Dash, it was like flying into a chaotic tornado as she was totally stopped, the charms on her armor and necklace blacking out.  The pegasus lands hard on the ground and skids to a stop, splayed on the floor.....  Ruinous gasped and panted, having received more of a battle than he thought he would from his latest conquest.

Ruinous: I will say this.....  You fought valiantly.....  But your fate is still the same.....

Ruinous carries Rainbow Dash off with the others, Twilight Sparkle his final target.  Meanwhile, in Twilight Sparkle's library, five ponies plus one baby dragon seemed to be less than the strength of the pod as Virtuna and the others were unable to break it, even with Spike helping out.  Just then, Spike heard a clattering and a crash.  Six heads turned to see that a picture fell off a nearby end table.  It was of the Mane 6 - and the glass over it had shattered!

Spike: AGH!

Spike was instantly scared of what the implications were of this.  Zecora looked at Ruinous' castle out the window, shivering.

Zecora: .....Oh, no!

Trixie: TWILIGHT!!!!!

Twilight Sparkle, the only remaining Bearer of Harmony, sighs as she kept looking for the exit.  She groans as she kept hitting dead end after dead end.

T.Sparkle: This maze makes no SENSE!  How can I find the exit if the wall is all I see?!

With a groan, she leans up against a wall - only to fall through it!  She screams out as she winds up in a completely different part - with the exit right in front of her!  Twilight Sparkle rears up and takes three steps towards her goal - only to have to throw it in reverse.  Walking into the room, with her five friends' bodies, was Ruinous.

T.Sparkle: You..... You monster, you.....

Ruinous: Oh?  Moi?

T.Sparkle: This whole maze..... This..... It's all a trap.  You brought us here to pick us all off one-by-one.

Ruinous: Indeed, and pick them off, I did, as you can see.....  This one *holds up Rainbow Dash* gave me the best fight..... *He growls, snapping one of her wings, making Twilight Sparkle gasp in horror!*  I HATE her!  *He hurls Rainbow Dash back at the other ponies*  But then again, I hate everypony.....  Oh, don't be so surprised.  YOU are the mouse, I am the cat.  I WILL, however, give you... an offer.

T.Sparkle: What.....

Ruinous: It's simple, really: I will allow you to survive your encounter with me..... if you surrender yourself to me..... right now.

T.Sparkle: *shuts her eyes for a while, then snaps them open* Never!  I would NEVER abandon my friends - no matter WHAT you do to them!

Ruinous: *sigh* Very well..... Don't say I never gave you a fair choice.....

As Ruinous readies his dark fog attack, Twilight Sparkle teleported!

Ruinous: Hmm?

The dark pony looked around the confines of his own maze.

Ruinous: You are merely delaying the inevitable.....

Twilight Sparkle began running around, trying to find the real way out.  Everytime she and Ruinous crossed paths, she'd teleport off at random.  One such teleportation occurred while she was standing on Applejack's hat.  When she re-appeared, she wound up with it on her head.  Before she could take it off, Ruinous popped up out of nowhere and slammed her against a real wall!  A groggy Twilight Sparkle attempted to get up, just as Queen Chrysalis appeared in the sky over the maze.  The changeling saw the ponies below and gasped.

Q.Chrysalis: NO!

Without regard for herself, Queen Chrysalis dove right at Twilight Sparkle!

Ruinous: EXPIRE!!!

The changeling turned on the afterburners as she tried to beat Ruinous' dark fog to the still-dazed unicorn.  Just before the fog caught her, Queen Chrysalis scooped up Twilight Sparkle with a grunt, making her own sonic boom in the process that disrupted Ruinous' illusion, turning his labyrinth into a wide-open courtyard and knocking the Spirit of Oblivion off his hooves!  Below, Shining Armor, Captain Imitato and General Crosswing look up at Ruinous' castle for any sign of Queen Chrysalis.

S.Armor: Can you read her on that hive mind Twiley told me about?

C.Imitato: .........I can't tell, there's too many changeling soldiers' casualty reports on the line.

S.Armor: *sigh*  Oh, please.....

G.Crosswing: *GASP!* Look!

Shining Armor looked up to see Queen Chrysalis floating down, holding Twilight Sparkle.  Ponies and changelings alike cheered as the changeling monarch descended in front of Shining Armor.

S.Armor: TWILEY!!!

Q.Chrysalis: I can still read her magical energies, she's still alive.

S.Armor: *PHEW!*  Man, Chrys, you're really proving a lot to me.

Q.Chrysalis: Shining Armor.....

The two hug up, the queen crying a bit.

Q.Chrysalis: Words and actions cannot possibly express how sorry I am for.....

S.Armor: Your Highness, don't..... Please, don't torture yourself this way.  You came here, kicked some major flank, stopped five of Equestria's heroes from ending up as pawns in Ruinous' twisted game and to top it all off, you save one of the two most important ponies in my life without regard for yourself.  As far as I'm concerned, you've already been forgiven.

C.Imitato: My Liege.....

G.Crosswing: Your Majesty.....

Queen Chrysalis looked at the two captains and general.  Instantly, her expression toughened up.

Q.Chrysalis: We have to think of a plan, something that'll allow us to free Rainbow Dash and the others and beat Ruinous.  For now, retreat to my castle.  General Crosswing!

G.Crosswing: Yes, Your Excellency?

Q.Chrysalis: You are to find Princess Cadence and bring her to Shiftopolis.  Once there, do NOT return to Equestria until we have something concrete in place.

G.Crosswing: *bow* Yes, Your Majesty.

The two changelings fly off, leaving Queen Chrysalis with Shining Armor.

Q.Chrysalis: *levitates Twilight Sparkle*  I moved Virtuna and the others to Twilight's library.  I will sequester her there until we come up with a strike plan.  *lifts off* And Shining Armor?

S.Armor: Yes?

Q.Chrysalis: It may not be needed as you said, but someday, I WILL make it up to you.  I hope that one day, I will be able to compensate you, Cadence and Celestia for everything I did at the wedding AND the anniversary.

Queen Chrysalis flew off to Ponyville, delivering Twilight Sparkle to her library before Shining Armor could say a word.

S.Armor: Chrysalis..... *sigh*  Forgive yourself.....  Just forgive yourself.....

Shining Armor sighs as he follows Captain Imitato off the battlefield.  Meanwhile, Ruinous finally righted himself and looked around, expecting to see a lifeless purple unicorn.  So one can just imagine his shock when he found..... NOTHING!

Ruinous: GRAGH!!!!

Ruinous roars out nightmarishly, slamming his front hooves down so hard, two huge fissures open up!  He snorts, then looks at the other ponies.

Ruinous: No matter.....  *He slowly picks them up*  She wouldn't abandon..... her friends.

Like a disturbing rendition of a peacock's feathers, Ruinous carried the five ponies he defeated behind him like a fan to his castle.  Just as he was about to go in, he stopped and turned, dropping all five ponies behind him.  It was with good reason: Glaring at him were the two ponies he most wanted to destroy - Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.....

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Oblivion Ruinous, Part 2 - The Last Sunset

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 38: The Spirit of Oblivion Ruinous, Part 2 - The Last Sunset

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna glared at Ruinous as he threw aside the Bearers of Harmony he defeated.

Ruinous: *chuckle*  I KNEW if I kept on taking out the soldiers, I'd eventually get an audience with the generals.

P.Celestia: Can it, Ruinous!

P.Luna: Thy treachery shall be rewarded with thy demise!

Ruinous: *laugh* Let me guess: The two of you are going to try to rescue your subjects by defeating me.  I must say, this kingdom is full of weaklings with huge ideals and tiny capabilities.

P.Celestia: Believe me, WE have far more capability to fulfill our ideals than you think!

The princesses glare at Ruinous, horns blazing and ready to fight!

Ruinous: *sigh*  Such a classic stance..... *gets ready to fight*  Very well.....

The two princesses and Ruinous fly up, each side shielding themselves from the other's attacks.  They clashed multiple times in mid-air, the princesses grunting under the power of Ruinous' attacks.

P.Celestia: Your foul deeds will not go unpunished!

P.Luna: You'll pay for hurting Twilight's friends!

Ruinous: Believe me, I will do worse to the two of *throws a black plasma ball at each princess!* YOU!!!

The balls missed the princesses, but exploded behind them, making them go into a minor corkscrew.  It was enough of a distraction for Ruinous to charge between them, nailing them with a shadow blade from his wings!  The two grunt, their shield a bit lessened as they glare at the Spirit of Oblivion.

P.Celestia: I thought we banished you 2,000 years ago.  How could you have returned so fast?

Ruinous: The answer is simple: It's because I wasn't.

P.Luna: What nonsense art thou speaking?

Ruinous: It's not nonsense.  When we met the last time, it was only the two of you and a couple others against me, the strongest force in the world.  I MUST say, I am impressed at how well you were able to use two Elements of Harmony at once, Princess.  But not even YOU could control the Elements of Light and Hope at the same time powerfully enough to stop ME.

P.Celestia: Princess Shimmer.....

Ruinous: *chuckle*  Easy prey indeed.....  All I had to do to ensure my return was to take out ONE of you, so that I may someday return to take out ALL of you.....

P.Celestia: ......You dark MONSTER!

Ruinous: Why, Princess!  You flatter me!

Ruinous strikes a pose similar to when Applejack's gearing up to use her move!  The princesses gasp as a dark version of Applejack's Apples of Truth attack flies at them, just barely putting their shields up as thick as they can.  Ruinous' attack still hit hard, horrifying both princesses.

P.Luna: NO!

Ruinous: *looks back at the bodies of the other ponies*  Well now.....  This is a rather unexpected bonus.....

Ruinous laughs as he rises up, flying full-speed at the two princesses.  They barely got out of the way of a Sonic Shadowboom attack - a dark version of Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom!

P.Luna: Didst thou..... corrupt the Elements of Harmony?

Ruinous: Precisely.....  And now, with their power, I can now destroy the two of you!

P.Celestia: It won't matter what you did to anypony in a while, Ruinous. WE can still protect our people - from YOU!!!

The two princesses fire a beam from their horns at Ruinous.  The beams twist around each other, making a helix as they flew towards the Spirit of Oblivion.  The attack strikes the dark stallion, knocking him back a bit and making him growl.

Ruinous: You will not WIN!!!

Ruinous counters with a dark version of Rarity's Gemstone Blizzard!  The two attacks collided in the middle, both sides struggling to gain the advantage.  Ruinous growled, slamming his front hooves down and intensifying the attack.  Slowly, the barrage of dark crystals pushed closer to the princesses, Equestria's rulers straining to stop the forward advance.  After a long struggle, Ruinous' attack began impacting the princesses' shield, weakening it bit-by-bit!

P.Luna: SISTER!

P.Celestia: HOLD STRONG!!!

The two slam their front hooves down, firing their helix beam again.  Ruinous snorted and took off, the princesses' attack flying under him, throwing shadow balls at the princesses on the way up.  A shadow ball struck each princess sending them staggering almost into the wall.  They were prime targets for a dark version of Pinkie Pie's Party Time attack, dark blasts emerging from presents thrown at them by Ruinous.  Despite still having their shields up, the princesses were much slower to rise to their hooves this time.

Ruinous: Your friend was once like this.....  Your precious bearer of Hope.....

Princess Celestia and Princess Luna glare up at Ruinous.

P.Celestia: Princess Shimmer would NEVER tolerate us giving up!

P.Luna: We will not betray her memory!

P.Celestia and P.Luna: RAGE OF EQUESTRIA!!!!!

The princesses fire their ultimate attack at Ruinous, a beam of golden sunlight and a beam of silvery moonlight twisting around super-fast!  The super-powerful helix beam flew right at Ruinous, the evil pony countering with a beam of pure darkness.  The two beams collided in the middle again, the princesses giving all their power to pushing back Ruinous' attack.  Little by little, Ruinous' attack started winning the battle.  The princesses gasped in horror as they saw the dark beam come closer and closer until it shattered their shield!

Ruinous: And now..... YOU..... BOTH..... WILL..... EXPIRE!!!!!

Picture the Elements of Harmony's rainbow attack colored black and corrupted and that's Ruinous' next blow against the struggling princesses.  The attack caught both of them simultaneously, slamming them hard.  Both princesses wail out in pain, struggling to stand up even through this.  However, they slump to the ground, landing with a thud, their crowns flying off and rolling to the steps of Ruinous' castle.....  Neither even moved as Ruinous landed near their crowns.

Ruinous: *evil laugh*  *LOUDER evil laugh*  *He rears up and smashes both princesses' crowns with his front hooves!*  FINALLY!!  EQUESTRIA IS MINE!!!!!

The evil laughter of Ruinous reverberates across the sky.  As Princess Celestia was no longer able to control it, the sun fell from the sky like it was made of lead.  Ruinous cackled evilly as he raised a sun with swirling red and black on it, the skies reflective of pure evil.  Canterlot Castle was his next target.  Equestrian guards all over gasp, some making a futile attempt to fire back.  Ruinous growls, firing a huge red-black orb at Canterlot Castle, corrupting it and the guards trying to defend it.  Ruinous flies to what was Princess Celestia's throne room and lands, assuming his position as the new ruler of Equestria and heralding it with another evil laugh.

TO BE CONTINUED???

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous, Part 3 - Winds of Change(ling)

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 39: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous, Part 3 - Winds of Change(ling)

???: Twilight?

Twilight Sparkle moans a bit, slowly moving.....

???: Twilight.....

T.Sparkle: ooohhh......

The purple unicorn groans, holding her head and slowly sitting up.

Virtuna: You OK, Twi?

T.Sparkle: *long, drawn-out groan* I feel like the Running of the Leaves and the buffalo stampede are happening in my head.....

As Twilight Sparkle groaned and rubbed her head with her eyes shut, a bright pulse of green light flashes by her, taking her pain and discomfort away.

???: Is that better?

Twilight Sparkle slowly opened her eyes and focused her vision.  She was shocked to find, of all ponies.....

T.Sparkle: Queen Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: Yes, child.

Virtuna: I KNOW you're gonna find this REAL hard to believe, but she got us back here *Trixie, Pitstop, Zecora and Corinne nod* AND you.  We all could've been caught in the middle of that!!

Q.Chrysalis: Look, I know because of what I did at the wedding and the anniversary, you may find this hard to believe, but I'm not an evil monster, I.....

Twilight Sparkle glomped - AKA tackle-hug - the Changeling Queen, knocking her off the bed and onto the floor!

T.Sparkle: You.....  You may have just saved all of Equestria!

The purple unicorn sobbed as the others look at each other, troubled expressions on their faces.

T.Sparkle: We need to find Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.  If we can get to them before Ruinous does.....

Trixie: Twilight, I think you may need to look outside.....

As the purple mare looks outside, then up, she sees the damage and destruction caused by Ruinous.  But the most depressing thing was the "sun" in the sky, swirling red and black and depicting pure evil.  Twilight Sparkle's head bowed with a sigh.

T.Sparkle: Then all is lost.....  If only.....

Twilight Sparkle gasped as, standing in the doorway of her library, glaring disappointedly at her, was Nightmare Moon!

N.Moon: Twilight Sparkle..... You of all ponies..... *She walks into the room*  Now you stop that talk right now.  All is NOT lost, you hear me?  All is NEVER lost, you understand me?!  Where's MY Twilight Sparkle?!  Where's the Twilight Sparkle who fought me for the Elements of Harmony? Where's the Twilight Sparkle who ran around Ponyville trying to break Discord's spell?  Where's the Twilight Sparkle who detected Queen Chrysalis before anypony else did?  Where's the Twilight Sparkle who solved every problem with her friends?  Where is she?  Bring her back, NOW!! BRING BACK "MY" TWILIGHT SPARKLE!!!

Twilight Sparkle and Nightmare Moon look at each other until Twilight Sparkle glares at her with a fierce look in her eyes.  Somehow, Nightmare Moon was able to pick up on Twilight Sparkle's spirit returning, her Element of Magic's glow returning as well.

N.Moon: THERE she is.  *brohoofs Twilight Sparkle*  THERE'S my fierce little pony.

Twilight Sparkle walks up to Nightmare Moon and nuzzles her.

T.Sparkle: Thanks, Nightmare Moon.  I sure as hay needed that!

N.Moon: *smile* Anytime, Twilight Sparkle.

Q.Chrysalis: Now, Twilight, This is important: First and foremost, your friends are not dead.

T.Sparkle: They sure LOOKED like it...

Q.Chrysalis: They're not.  They're just in a super-deep sleep.  They need something powerful to wake them back up.

T.Sparkle: *crouches down a bit, ears down and slightly embarassed* I-don't-have-to-kiss-'em-do-I?

The changeling queen begins laughing, Nightmare Moon blushes and strikes the same embarassed pose and Virtuna and the others try to stifle their laughter at Twilight Sparkle's question.

Q.Chrysalis: No, no, no..... *giggle*  You won't have to kiss them.  You WILL have to use a memory spell.....

T.Sparkle: *POINK!* I have a memory spell!

Q.Chrysalis: *smile* That's great!  That's ONE part.  The other is you'll need something that'll jog their memory, since the state Ruinous put them in is deeper than the state Discord put them in. *looks around* Do you have anything here that reminds you of your friends?

Twilight Sparkle looked around and noticed Applejack's hat.

T.Sparkle: *smile* Indeed, I do.

Twilight Sparkle levitated her saddlebags to her, then Applejack's hat -

T.Sparkle: Applejack.

putting it in, then she got her copy of "Daring-Do and the Quest for the Sapphire Stone" -

T.Sparkle: Rainbow Dash.

putting that in, then she got a copy of the "Foal Free Press" with the story of Fluttershy beating Toxion -

T.Sparkle: Fluttershy.

putting it in, then she got the party hat she wore during Pinkie Pie's surprise birthday party from "Party of One" -

T.Sparkle: Pinkie Pie.

putting it in, then a picture of her in the dress Rarity made for her to go to the Grand Galloping Gala -

T.Sparkle: Rarity.

putting it in.

Q.Chrysalis: Those should do amazingly.

T.Sparkle: *nods at the changeling*  This is not going to be the most conventional thing I ever did, but if THIS is the real you at last.....

Q.Chrysalis: I assure you, you will NEVER see me become the monster I was again.

T.Sparkle: *smile* Good. *nuzzles Queen Chrysalis*  Shall we?

Queen Chrysalis nods, then starts to follow Twilight Sparkle out of the library when.....

N.Moon: Hold up, you.

Queen Chrysalis turned to face Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: You saved a VERY important pony to me, in fact, TWO.  I can't help but respect that.

Q.Chrysalis: *smile and nod* Thanks, Nightmare.

Nightmare Moon follows Twilight Sparkle, followed by Trixie, Zecora, Corinne then Virtuna.

Virtuna: Boy, she knows how to light a fire in somepony, eh?!

Q.Chrysalis: Yes..... She does......

The changeling was the last to leave.  Outside, the group finds Discord, the draconequus with his back turned.

Virtuna: Hey, Discord!  Glad ta see you're.....

Virtuna gasps as Discord turns around fast - his eyes as red as Ruinous'!

Q.Chrysalis: !!!

The changeling queen magipulls Virtuna out of the way of a vicious Discordian punch!

T.Sparkle: Oh, NO!!!

Discord growls as he swings his fists and tail at the scattering group.  Twilight Sparkle seems to be his main target, the possessed draconequus running after her at times.  After a while, Trixie got an idea:

Trixie: Twilight!  The Elements!!

T.Sparkle: What if it turns him to stone again?!

Trixie: DO WE HAVE A CHOICE!?

With a knowing sigh, Twilight Sparkle nods, putting her Element on.

T.Sparkle: VIRTUNA!  ZECORA! PITSTOP! CORINNE! We have to use the Elements of Harmony, it's the only way to stop him!

With a nod, the six friends bunch up, Twilight Sparkle teleporting them a good distance behind Discord.

T.Sparkle: NOW!!!!!

It was a pastel rainbow, not the normal one, but it worked as the Elements of Harmony rainbow attack strikes Discord hard!  Discord screams out as the rainbow blasts all the evil out of him, falling to the ground after the attack ceases.  Twilight Sparkle gasps and races to Discord's side.

T.Sparkle: NO!  Discord, wake up!  PLEASE! Wake up, Discord!  Come on!  PLEASE wake up!  *hugs him* I lost enough friends today!  I don't wanna lose anymore!  Discord!  DISCORD!!!

Twilight Sparkle breaks down and cries, the scene even getting to the former baddies.  Slowly, Discord wakes up, hugging Twilight Sparkle, clearly back to normal!

T.Sparkle: DISCORD!  You're OK!!

Discord: *hugs Twilight Sparkle*  Thanks so much, Twilight.  I had no idea Ruinous would try SO hard to.....

Discord slowly rises as he puts the purple unicorn down, eyes focused on.....

Discord: Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: Discord?

The two head towards each other and hug, softly sobbing in relief.  Virtuna walked up and blinked.

Virtuna: YOU TWO were FRIENDS?

Discord: You COULD say that.

Q.Chrysalis: Discord's the only one who was able to out-prank me when we were younger.

Trixie: WOW!  That's amazing how far back you two go.

Discord: There were MORE than just us two, Trixie.

Virtuna: Do we know them?

Q.Chrysalis: Possibly.

Virtuna: Sounds cool.

Discord: It is.

Zecora: *giggle*

Normally, we would all be mad,

We're teamed with three who used to be bad!

Everypony laughs, including the three former baddies.

Virtuna: I know!  Eternal night, eternal chaos, and eternal... *looks at Queen Chrysalis* What would you have done?

Q.Chrysalis: I'd've sucked all the positive emotions out of Equestria.

Virtuna: And eternal sadness.

The former enemies laugh a bit harder.

T.Sparkle: C'mon.  We got a BIG baddie to cut down to size.

N.Moon: Yeah.

The small group starts walking towards Canterlot.  On the way, they pass by the Cutie Mark Crusaders' clubhouse, three nervous fillies slowly looking outside.

A.Bloom: Twilight!  What-happened?!

T.Sparkle: We, uh, hit a small snag, we.....

S.Belle: My sister.....

Q.Chrysalis: Ruinous ponynapped her and the other Elements and stalked them.  He's got them under a spell and we are on our way to breaking it.

Scootaloo: PLEASE get our friends back!

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* I assure you, I will.  Trust me, I will get them all back.

The changeling queen's words reassure the fillies, bringing smiles to their faces.

T.Sparkle: We won't be long.

A.Bloom: OK, Twilight.

The group walks on, spotting Sugar Cube Corner.  Mr. and Mrs. Cake stand outside, seeing the group walk by.

Cake Twins: Pinkie! Pie!

Queen Chrysalis walks up to the two foals and lays by them.

Q.Chrysalis: I assure you, I'll get her back for you.  I'll get them ALL back, OK?

Just as the Cutie Mark Crusaders, her words reassured the Cakes.

Mr. Cake: Just be careful, OK?

Mrs. Cake: And come back alive.

T.Sparkle: We won't let Ruinous beat us.

The two groups bow to each other, then Twilight Sparkle's group heads on towards Canterlot.  Inside what was once Canterlot Castle, Ruinous had put the rest of the Mane 6 on beds.  As if adding insult to injury, they were decorated to match them on all facets - personality, their element, their dreams, everything.

Ruinous: Now, try to get some sleep.....  if you can.  I WOULD say "Sweet dreams", but..... Where YOU are all headed, that would be false advertising.

With a final chuckle, he heads out into the hallway, where he picks up Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.

Ruinous: Now..... for a more suitable final resting place for YOU two.....

The dark stallion carries both princesses to another room.  Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle and the others were looking around for a way to get to Canterlot.  They pass by houses where ponies huddle in fear, the skies more threatening than anything ever seen before.  Strangely, seeing Queen Chrysalis made them feel a bit more at ease.  They soon pass into the main square, Queen Chrysalis murring and taking - of all things.....

T.Sparkle: A Zap Apple?

Q.Chrysalis: Yep.  *pays for it and takes a bite*  I LOVE these things!

T.Sparkle: *chuckle*  We'll make sure to invite you to the next harvest.

Q.Chrysalis: Can't wait!

Both laugh as they head for the train station - only to find the tracks torn up.

Virtuna: This is becoming a bit of a chess match.

N.Moon: Oh?

Virtuna: Yeah..... I'm not a fan of chess.

The alicorn chuckles, then Twilight Sparkle blinks.  Standing near a huge metal lid was the earth pony formerly known as Toxion.  Twilight Sparkle walked up to the earth pony and he kicked the lid out, sending it to the ground with a clatter.  The two ponies bow to each other.

T.Sparkle: Heya, guys!  This pony helped us find a way in!

When Twilight Sparkle turned back around as the rest walk up to her, the earth pony had vanished.  Twilight Sparkle shrugs as the others run up to her.

Trixie: What?

T.Sparkle: You didn't see.....

Q.Chrysalis: No.....

With a collective shrug, they walk into the sewer single-file.  Meanwhile, Ruinous had gotten the two princesses on huge canopy beds, decorated the same way as the rest of the Mane 6.  He takes the rest of their regalia off before laying them on the beds.

Ruinous: *chuckle* There we go.  Equestria's rulers and their greatest heroes, all snug in their beds. Ha-ha-ha.....

He makes a similar bed appear for Twilight Sparkle between the princesses' beds.

Ruinous: Don't worry, the two of you won't be alone long.  For one thing, you'll have each other for company..... And soon, your number-one student.

Ruinous laughs evilly as he heads to his new throne room.  Back in the sewers, Twilight Sparkle and her group head mostly uphill, finding it a struggle - and it wasn't the smell.  A river of water ran through the middle of the tunnel, making it a slippery climb, especially for those with hooves.  A couple times, Twilight Sparkle even tripped, but every time, she rose to her hooves, unwilling to let the hope inside her that she'd be able to rescue her friends die.  Nightmare Moon smiled each time Twilight Sparkle rose from each slip and fall.

Q.Chrysalis: You're acting really strong, Twilight.

T.Sparkle: MY strength..... comes from my friends, Queen Chrysalis.  It's their memory that's keeping me going.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod*  Impressive.  -My friends keep ME going, too.-

Queen Chrysalis and Discord exchange smiles as the group soldiers on.

T.Sparkle: -Hang in there, girls.  I'm coming for you.  Hold strong, we'll be together again.-

Twilight Sparkle had reason to worry, though, as her friends weren't having a good rest.  They were thrown into a horrific nightmare in which not only was everypony around them acting the opposite of their elements - ie, no one laughed in Pinkie Pie's nightmare, Rarity's was full of selfish ponies, Applejack's was full of liars, Fluttershy's was full of bullies and Rainbow Dash's had nopony there for anypony else - but also, everypony acted as if they were the scum of Equestria.  Most of their dialogue centered around asking why everypony was treating them the way they were, their feelings legitimately hurt by the spiteful ponies surrounding them.....

Applejack: Please..... Stop lying.....

Fluttershy: Be kind.....  Don't be so cruel.....

Rarity: Now, now, now..... It's nicer to share.....

P.Pie: Smile!  PLEASE smile!

R.Dash: It's important to be there..... for your friends.....

All 5: NO!  Don't hate us!!!

All five ponies scream out in their sleep, Ruinous' spell firmly on them all.  Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle and her group made it to a junction point of the sewers.

N.Moon: This is NOT the usual place for it, but.....  Let's just take a rest here.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* 10-4.

Everyone sighs as they take a breather.

Q.Chrysalis: So, are those objects OK?

T.Sparkle: *nod* Yeah.

Corinne: So, w-w-what's the plan?

Q.Chrysalis: Have Twilight use those objects and her memory spell to break Ruinous' grip on her friends and the princesses.

Zecora:

A stronger spell could be a tip,

the princesses may be in a tighter grip.

N.Moon: *nod* Indeed.  We may need the other Elements to help out with those two.

Q.Chrysalis: Goodness knows what they're going through.

T.Sparkle: Do we wanna know?

Everypony knew what Twilight Sparkle meant, and the very thought chilled even Nightmare Moon's spine.  Virtuna walked over to the Mare in the Moon.

Virtuna: Bit for your thoughts, Moon?

N.Moon: Just..... worried about Princess Luna.

Virtuna: If this works, she'll be back, K?

N.Moon: I know THAT.  I just don't know what she's dreaming of right now.....

Virtuna: Don't worry about that.  Ruinous'll pay for what he's done, no matter what, K?

N.Moon: Thanks, you.

The two nuzzle up, making Twilight Sparkle smile.  After a while, the group got up and stretched.  As they did, Twilight Sparkle saw the pegasus that used to be Fryght standing by a gaping hole.  As Twilight Sparkle walked to it, the pegasus ran through the gap in the wall.  What Twilight Sparkle saw outside made everything about Queen Chrysalis clear.

T.Sparkle: Guys?  *The rest of the group looks at Twilight Sparkle, the purple mare looking back, tears in her eyes*  I think..... we all need to look at this.....

Everyone nods, slowly walking nervously through the gap.  What awaited on the other side was telling, heartbreaking and angering: Destruction everywhere, smoke clouds clogging the sky and changelings laying in the same way as the rest of the Mane 6 and the princesses.

T.Sparkle: Even if..... you were still evil, Queen Chrysalis..... your kind does NOT deserve this, I.....

Trixie: Where ARE we?

Q.Chrysalis: SOUTH Transforma.

T.Sparkle: We weren't allowed here when Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina gave us a tour before the ChangeWings/Wonderbolts air show.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* He wanted you to have fun and not worry about finding all this.....

Corinne: Th-Th-This isn't what I th-th-think it is..... is-it?

Q.Chrysalis: It-is..... *SIGH*  You're looking at Ruinous' arrival in Transforma 2,000 years ago.

T.Sparkle: Discord told us about Ruinous' last attack 2,000 years ago.  He didn't say anything about it coming from here.

Discord: ................He tried to attack from two sides.  This was one side and my chaos was another.  But the Master Elements sealed Ruinous away - however temporary - and then the princesses sealed ME away with the Elements of Harmony.

Q.Chrysalis: We were able to keep our hunger for love fueled by Hatetrol's curse in check - until the day of Shining Armor and Princess Cadence's wedding.

T.Sparkle: Then you invaded Canterlot, stole Princess Cadence's identity, turned my brother into a zombie and almost sucked Equestria dry of all love.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod*  Then, during the anniversary, I tried to get to Princess Celestia, but then Hatetrol's curse got to me again.  This isn't the kind of thing in which I was all la-di-da and pleasant, like Fluttershy, one second and then a despicable horrible fiend the next.  This was a gradual thing, the closer I got to Princess Celestia, the more evil I got.  By the time I saw her, I only wanted to hurt her and steal her kingdom.  I hated hurting her like that.....  and I'd give anything to take that memory from her.....

Virtuna: Daw, Queenie, look.  All ya have ta do is tell Princess Celestia what you told us.  I'm sure she'd forgive ya.

Q.Chrysalis: Really?

Virtuna: Yeah!  Look: You come over to my arcade - and by the way, you're welcome to anytime - *Queen Chrysalis blushes and smiles* put a bit in a machine and press "START".  What do ya get?

Q.Chrysalis: A lot of fun for a little bit of money?

Despite the heavily-depressing surroundings, Virtuna wails out in laughter at Queen Chrysalis' one-liner.

Virtuna: That, too, but I was focusing on this: You get... three... lives.  You didn't fail, Queenie, ya just lost a life.  You have a second one - and-a-third-should-ya-need-it.  You just have to make the most of it.

The changeling murrs, hugging Virtuna to her.

N.Moon: Is she good, or what?

Everypony laughs as Queen Chrysalis smiles at Virtuna.

Q.Chrysalis: Thanks, child.  I sure needed that.

Pitstop: And even if you still WERE a love-sucking demon race, this is FAR beyond despicable, luv.  Princess Celestia would come to your aid even the day after the wedding.

Trixie: We know her well, Your Highness.  She would NEVER let any people suffer - even yours.

T.Sparkle: Princess Celestia's greatest joy is when she makes a new friend.  She made friends with Nightmare Moon, with Discord and with your kids.  I'm sure she'd love to be friends with you.

Q.Chrysalis: *hugs the rest of the group to her with her magic* You have no idea how good your words just made me feel, you guys.  C'mon, let's go get the rest of your friends, Twi.  *The group starts moving on*  So, other than reinstating the ChangeWings, establishing a peace with Equestria and falling in love with your princess, what else has my son done to make me so proud?

Virtuna: Wait?!  They fell in love!?

Everypony laughs as they kept going on.  Meanwhile, the princesses were hit with their own Ruinous-generated nightmare.  Princess Celestia and Princess Luna were constantly hated by all their subjects, but most heart-breaking was the rejection of the Mane 6 and their new friends.

P.Celestia: Twilight.....

T.Sparkle - Ruinous: Don't "Twilight" me, (mockingly): Princess! (normal voice - cross between the real Twilight Sparkle's and Ruinous'): You sent me all over the place, you made me do all this ridiculous stuff and you NEVER thanked me at all!  And those lame friendship reports!  Do I REALLY need to document my feelings to you EVERY DAY?!

P.Celestia: Twilight..... please.....

T.Sparkle - Ruinous: *magilifts Princess Celestia!* QUIET!!! *The fake Twilight Sparkle slams Princess Celestia against a wall!*  (repeating): I HATE YOU!!!

As the fake Twilight Sparkle repeated her hurtful words, Princess Luna was finding out how it felt to be a witch in Salem during the infamous witch hunt!

P.Luna: Please!  Don't hurt me!

Villagers - Ruinous: Begone, foul monster!  Leave this place!  You are not wanted here!

The two princesses found nothing but torment in their sleep, torment generated by Ruinous.  As Twilight and her team continued on, they come across a huge chasm.

T.Sparkle: OK, NOW what?

The clearing of somepony's throat got her attention.  Twilight Sparkle looked up and saw the pegasus stallion that used to be Fyb standing by a huge slab of rock.  In true Applejackian style, the cobalt pony kicked the slab over, making a bridge.  The rest of the group startled at the loud bang made by the falling rock, the pony responsible vanishing into thin air.

Q.Chrysalis: WOW!  That is some spell of yours, child.

T.Sparkle: Uh..... Yes-it-is.

Twilight Sparkle nervously chuckled as the rest of her team slowly walk over the bridge single-file.

T.Sparkle: -If those ponies are who I think they are, the Elements of Harmony must be more powerful than I thought.....-

Meanwhile, Shining Armor, Captain Imitato, General Crosswing and Princess Cadence walk into Shiftopolis Castle.  The large doors slam shut, startling the alicorness.

P.Shiftshape: Locking the doors is just a precaution.  We need this castle to be a fortress against Ruinous' army.  We heard about what happened to the Elements of Harmony.

S.Armor: *nod* The same thing could've happened to us.  Believe me, we're grateful for your help, Your Highness.

P.Cadence: What exactly happened to Twilight and her friends?

P.Shiftshape: From what my intel's telling me, Ruinous ponynapped them and Discord overnight.  No one's heard anything about them ever since.

S.Armor: Well.....

Everyone looks at the white unicorn.

P.Cadence: Well what?

S.Armor: Somepony DID get Twiley out of Ruinous' castle.  From what I heard from THIS source, they were taken into the castle and made to fight for their lives.

P.Shiftshape: I take it Twiley, er, uh, Twilight was the only one who made it out?

S.Armor: *nod* She was rescued.

P.Shiftshape: Oh?  By who?

S.Armor: *clears his throat* Queen Chrysalis.

Shining Armor's revelation was a shocker to everyone gathered in the room, none more so than Princess Cadence!

P.Cadence: -Could it be?!  Has she..... awoken?-

Meanwhile, Twilight Sparkle and her team finished crossing the bridge.  Queen Chrysalis turned to look at the purple mare.

T.Sparkle: What?

Q.Chrysalis: Look, *kneels by Twilight Sparkle* all I did, evil or otherwise, was so my kingdom could continue.  Ruinous was a dire threat then, just like now.  I know you don't want to see all of Equestria turned into South Transforma.  I don't want that, either.  But more than that, I don't want to see ALL of BOTH kingdoms look like South Transforma.  For yourselves and my children, please, use all your power to combat Ruinous.  I don't want to see either you or my son rule a dead kingdom.....

The changeling queen bows down and sobs.  Twilight Sparkle walks in close to Queen Chrysalis, lifting her face and drying her eyes.  With the rest of her team looking on, Twilight Sparkle made a promise to Queen Chrysalis she made countless times to Princess Celestia:

T.Sparkle: *She smiles with a twinkle in her eye* We won't let you down.

The changeling queen smiles, hugging Twilight Sparkle to her.  The purple unicorn hugs back, smiling as well.

Q.Chrysalis: C'mon, child, *rises* let's go save your friends.

T.Sparkle: Right, Your Highness.

The team reassembles and heads towards a sewer cover.  Twilight Sparkle sighs.

T.Sparkle: Man, if AJ was here, she'd be able to knock this cover off.

Trixie: Can't Nightmare buck it off?

N.Moon: Not really, Trixie.  Believe me, THIS is the most walking I've done in 1,000 years.

Trixie and Nightmare Moon giggle, then Corinne clears her throat.  The giraffe heads to the sewer cover and, with one kick, bucks the heavy cover off so hard, it half-buries itself into the wall!

T.Sparkle: WHOA!

Corinne: All those tr-r-recks into the m-m-mountains.

N.Moon: GEEZ!  That took some power, Corinne.

Corinne: Thanks, Moon.

The group continues through the opening into another sewer tunnel.  This leads to the royal labyrinth of Canterlot.  Despite how promising it was supposed to look, the sight of having to go through another labyrinth sent chills down Twilight Sparkle's spine.

Trixie: Let the Great and Powerful Trixie venture a guess: When Ruinous defeated Rainbow Dash and the others, he did so in a maze?

Twilight Sparkle nodded solemnly.

Q.Chrysalis: HOW are we gonna get through THIS?

Twilight Sparkle sighs.  The royal labyrinth was now a cluster of thorny brambles and scary-looking bushes.

Pitstop: Poor Fluttershy would find a spot ta hide and not come out for years, luv.

T.Sparkle: But where would she..... *She hears a whistle* .....Huh?

The earth mare that used to be Styngee looked at Twilight Sparkle from a good ways away.  The purple unicorn rushed over, prompting everypony else to follow.  The red pony dashed off, zipping through the maze, Twilight Sparkle and her team on her heels.  Soon, the pony formerly called Styngee led Twilight Sparkle and her team through the labyrinth, vanishing as Twilight Sparkle ran through the last exit.  As Twilight Sparkle stood there catching her breath, the rest of her team caught up.

Trixie: Twilight!  What is going on?  You just found the way through in record time!

T.Sparkle: It's weird..... I thought I saw.....

N.Moon: Who?

T.Sparkle: You're not gonna believe this, but..... I think it USED to be Styngee.

Q.Chrysalis: One of Ruinous' henchponies?

T.Sparkle: I THINK when we beat Ruinous' henchponies, they were somehow purified.  I thought some pony that looked like Toxion showed me the sewer at the bottom of the hill, then the pony that used to be Fryght led us out to South Transforma, then that gap we crossed on the bridge?  The pony that used to be Fyb kicked that rock over.  And now, the pony that was Styngee showed us the way through the maze.

N.Moon: Interesting.....  And they're only showing themselves to you?  *Twilight Sparkle nods*  *shrug*  Maybe they're tied to you or something.  I dunno.

T.Sparkle: Me, neither, but there's Hatetrol and DarkSparkle to go.

Pitstop: Well, whomever's guiding ya, we need ta free the other ponies, luv.

Twilight Sparkle nods, then the group heads into what was the Canterlot Royal Ballroom.  Nightmare Moon sighed, remembering the fun she had at the Grand Galloping Gala.

Virtuna: *sigh* I know, this place should be hosting parties, not ancient evils.

Q.Chrysalis: Then shall we ensure that this room again lights up?

Virtuna nods at the changeling, then they walk on.  Twilight Sparkle spotted Prince Blueblood.  The snotty stallion blinked in shock at Twilight Sparkle's company.

P.Blueblood: *GASP!*  What are you doing with her?!

Q.Chrysalis: So!  I'm an INSECT to you?!  Not even you deserve to be here with Ruinous!  There's a tunnel in Celestia's bedroom that leads to my son's.  Go through it, GET OUTTA HERE!

Prince Blueblood blinks, but obeys Queen Chrysalis' order.

T.Sparkle: Wow.....

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* I ALWAYS try to do what's best for my subjects.  Even under Ruinous' influence, I thought of my people first.

T.Sparkle: You know, you're the strongest pony I ever met.

Q.Chrysalis: Pony?  You called me a PONY?

T.Sparkle: Well, Prince Blueblood isn't taking the time to know you like I am.  I was trying to make you feel appreciated, Your Highness.

Q.Chrysalis: *blush* You certainly are everything Celestia says you are, Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: I didn't have that when I first came to Ponyville.  I said to Spike, "The fate of Equestria doesn't depend on me making friends."  But the more I lived in Ponyville and the more things I did with my friends, the more I knew that to be totally false.  Now, I have more friends than I could ever fathom.  I really think that somehow, someway, everything I've done, everyone I've met, it just makes me that much stronger.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod*  -I know what you mean, Twilight.  There was a time like that for me..... long ago.-

As the group walked on towards one of the castle's stairways, the unicorn formerly known as Hatetrol stood in their path.

N.Moon: ......

Virtuna: Boy, you're NOT kidding, Twi.

T.Sparkle: *nod* Yeah.

The unicorn wordlessly walked up the staircase on the left and into the third door on the left side.  Nervously, the group walked up the stairs and checked the door the unicorn went through.

Q.Chrysalis: .....*blinks*  Twilight?

T.Sparkle: Your Highness?

Q.Chrysalis: I found them.

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 4 - The Revival of Harmony

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 40: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 4 - The Revival of Harmony

Twilight Sparkle and her group walk in slowly, seeing the rest of the Mane 6 as Ruinous left them.  The purple mare sighs, knowing she's got work to do.

N.Moon: *nod* Go on.

Twilight Sparkle nods, putting on her Element of Harmony and heading to the first of her friends she met - Applejack.  She pulled out the farm pony's hat and got on the bed next to her.

T.Sparkle: Applejack..... Hey, Applejack.  It's me, Twilight.  I brought back your hat. *She puts it on her head*  You remember when we helped you with the harvest?  =SHIFT: Applejack's nightmare= Boy, there were a lot of apples to pick.  I had no idea Sweet Apple Acres was so expansive.  *The nightmare begins to dissolve, Applejack slowly rising to her hooves*  And the Flim Flams?  Sure, they cheated, but all that cider we made.  It was almost as if  *A beam of light breaks through the darkness*  we became closer with each barrel.  All the good times we had together, everytime you helped me out of a jam, the honesty you showed me, *Applejack looks up and sees Twilight Sparkle's face, smiling as the light makes a ramp for her to go up*  I remember it all.

Applejack: Sugar cube.....

Applejack runs up the beam of light, towards Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: That's it, Applejack.....  Come back to me.

Twilight Sparkle hugs Applejack and cries.  Her Element of Harmony and her magic power swirled together and enchanted her tears as they fell on Applejack's necklace, purifying her Element of Honesty and reviving her!  Applejack groans and slowly wakes up, hugging Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: APPLEJACK!

Applejack: Heya, sugar cube.....  How are ya?

T.Sparkle: Oh, thank Celestia you're OK!

Applejack: Man, that was horrible!  Everyone was lying and wouldn't stop hating me and.....

T.Sparkle: It's OK, Applejack.  It's all over.

Applejack: Well, how did YOU get outta there?  I thought ya'll were stuck in that maze with us.

T.Sparkle: You won't believe who got me out.

Applejack cocked her head at Twilight Sparkle, then looked at the foot of the bed.  The farm pony gasped as she saw.....

Applejack: Queen Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: Yes, child.  Are you OK?

Applejack: Y-yeah.

Virtuna: She saved us, too.

Trixie: I guess Ruinous didn't feel like we were synchronized enough.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod*  I guess not.  Anyway, you may not find this believable, but that monster at the wedding and the anniversary wasn't the real me - THIS is.  I was how I was because Hatetrol cursed me 2,000 years ago.

Applejack: Discord told us that Ruinous last attacked 2,000 years ago.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* Yes, child.  He tried to attack Equestria from my kingdom, but the Master Elements stopped him.  He was supposed to be sealed away for longer than 2,000 years, but the lock apparently wasn't strong enough.

Applejack: Maybe 'cuz there were only three of ya'll.  *tries to get up*  Ugh..... C'mon, AJ.

Queen Chrysalis used the same green pulse that healed Twilight Sparkle on Applejack.  Applejack smiled at her former enemy as she got off the bed.

Applejack: Well, guess ya'll CAN change.

Nightmare Moon and Discord clear their throats, making Applejack and Queen Chrysalis laugh.  Twilight Sparkle also laughs, then heads for her next target - Rainbow Dash.  Twilight Sparkle grunts as she gets up on the bed.

T.Sparkle: Rainbow Dash.....  Hey, Rainbow.  *She levitates the book out of her saddlebags*  It's me, *pulls the book over* Twilight.  And I brought your favorite book.  Remember the fun you had reading with me in the library?  Those were some of my best days with you.  *She puts the book by Rainbow Dash*  Remember the Young Fliers' Competition?  I was so in awe of your flying ability.  =SHIFT: Rainbow Dash's nightmare=  Everytime I see you fly, it's breathtaking to me.  And when I think about how *the nightmare begins dissolving* you've been there for everypony, it makes me smile.  Scootaloo is right to idolize you.  *A beam of light comes down on Rainbow Dash, the pegasus looking up and - just like Applejack - seeing a smiling Twilight Sparkle*  You've been there for everypony.  Your loyalty is legendary, Rainbow, and everypony's better for it.

R.Dash: Twilight, I..... You're my favorite egghead, you know that?  I NEVER said this, but..... I love you.

Rainbow Dash runs up the beam of light towards Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: Oh, Rainbow, I love you, too!  *hugs Rainbow Dash*  Please come back!  RAINBOW!!!

Just as before, the Element of Magic and Twilight's own magic power combined with her tears to purify Rainbow Dash's element.  This time, when Rainbow Dash woke up, she began shrieking in pain!

R.Dash: AW!  My wing!!

Q.Chrysalis: !!!  *flies over*  Here, Rainbow!

Queen Chrysalis uses her heal pulse to fix Rainbow Dash's wing and restore the pegasus' energy.  Rainbow Dash tests her wings and lifts off, flying around a bit and landing on the bed next to Twilight Sparkle.

R.Dash: *hug*  That is some heal spell, Twilight.

T.Sparkle: I can't take credit for it, Rainbow.

R.Dash: Oh?

The pegasus looks around, locking eyes on Trixie.

Trixie: The Great and Powerful Trixie..... doesn't know that spell... yet.

Rainbow Dash nods, then smiles at Applejack before looking at Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: Close!

R.Dash: HOW close?

Nightmare Moon points behind Rainbow Dash.  The pegasus turns and blinks.

R.Dash: You?

Q.Chrysalis: That's right, child.  It was me.

R.Dash: You sure didn't act THIS way at the wedding.

Applejack: Hatetrol cursed her.

R.Dash: *bangs a hoof on the bed* Gilda!

Q.Chrysalis: Who?

R.Dash: A griffon friend of mine who acted obnoxiously every time she flew to Ponyville.  I just thought she was rude!  Then, when we beat Hatetrol, she acted so nice.  I didn't think he'd be able to overpower YOU, of all ponies.  You even beat Princess Celestia in a beam fight!

Q.Chrysalis: I wasn't that strong when Ruinous attacked Transforma 2,000 years ago.

T.Sparkle: You should've seen the southern area.  Homes destroyed, changelings all over laying like *points to Fluttershy's bed* that, it was heart-breaking.

Rainbow Dash sniffled, then hugged Queen Chrysalis.  The changeling sighs, hugging back.

Q.Chrysalis: Thanks, child.

R.Dash: I cannot imagine what you went through.

Q.Chrysalis: It hurt me worse to hurt Celestia - if such a thing makes sense.  I SO wanted her to help me.....

R.Dash: She will.  *Queen Chrysalis perks up at her*  I know it.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* Thanks, you.

The two hug up one more time, then Rainbow Dash practically tackles Applejack to the ground hugging her!  Twilight Sparkle chuckles, then heads over to Rarity.

T.Sparkle: *gets on the bed* Man..... I thought what Ruinous did to RAINBOW was bad..... Hey, Rarity.  It's me, *pulls out the picture* Twilight.  Remember when you made this dress for me?  It was so beautiful, just like its creator.  *She sets the picture by the white unicorn*  Gosh, you were an amazing dressmaker.  All those dresses you made for the gala.  And all that I learned from you about strength from within. =SHIFT: Rarity's nightmare= The way you handled the Diamond Dogs, the way you handled Prince Blueblood, everything you did, you handled yourself with *The nightmare begins dissolving* poise and character.  And your generosity!  I have never seen a pony *Rarity sees a beam of light leading up to Twilight Sparkle* give everything they have like you before, and I don't think I ever will see anypony who approaches it.

Rarity: Twilight.....  YOU have also taught me things I can't put a price on.

Rarity rushes up the beam of light towards Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: That's it!  Come back to me, Rarity, *hug* COME BACK TO ME!

Again, Twilight's Element of Harmony and her magic combined with her tears to purify Rarity's Element, reviving the fashionista.  She groans out as she re-awakens, half because she was weakened by Ruinous' attack, and half because she was disgusted at how dirty he got her!

Rarity: AGH!  What did Ruinous do, use ME to clean that maze?!

T.Sparkle: RARITY!!!

The two unicorns hug and chuckle, Queen Chrysalis' heal pulse restoring Rarity's energy.  Rarity looks at Queen Chrysalis and gasped.

Rarity: WELL!  THIS is sure a turn of events.  *She grunts, shaking off as much dirt as she could*  First Nightmare Moon, then Discord and now YOU?

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* Indeed, child.  I hope my earlier interactions didn't spoil any chance of a friendship.

Rarity: Now HOW can you say that?!  Just the fact that you healed me should be enough.

Virtuna: She also saved Twilight.

Rarity: YOU are on a roll, Your Highness.

Q.Chrysalis: Oh, now.  I wouldn't go THAT far.

Rarity: Trust me, you are.  I dunno what happened at the wedding and anniversary, but.....

R.Dash: Uh, HATE to interrupt.  Remember Gilda?

Rarity: *blink* The griffon?

Rarity jumps down and hugs both Rainbow Dash and Applejack.

Applejack: Yeah, and how she became a sweetie after we beat Hatetrol?

Rarity: *nod* .....Puh-LEASE don't tell me.....

Rainbow Dash and Applejack nod, the farm pony pointing at Queen Chrysalis.  Rarity looks at the changeling with a blink.

Rarity: Well then, I guess I have ONE thing to say to YOU, Your Majesty.

Rarity walks up to Queen Chrysalis.

Rarity: *blinks and cocks her head*  I do NOT know how you are washing yourself, but your skin or carapace or whatever this is is so DULL!  And your WINGS!  I should be seeing rainbows criss-crossing in them, they have no prismic effect whatsoever!  And HOW are you treating your HAIR!  I have NEV-VER seen so many split ends and it's so oily!  And your crown!  You are a queen and you should be in a more regal ensemble.  May I suggest a version of what Princess Celestia wears?

The changeling queen was stunned, looking at Twilight Sparkle.

Q.Chrysalis: Does she do that a lot?

T.Sparkle: Nope.  She does it every time.

Q.Chrysalis: You think you can do it?

Rarity: I KNOW I can.

The two hug up, smiling.  Rarity then hugs Rainbow Dash, then Applejack as Twilight Sparkle heads for Fluttershy.  She leaps up on the bed, holding the copy of the "Foal Free Press".

T.Sparkle: Fluttershy..... Hey, Fluttershy.....  It's me, Twilight.  I brought over the "Foal Free Press" with your victory over Toxion.  I was so happy for you on that day.  *She lays the newspaper down on the bed*  You're so vigilant when it comes to caring for animals.  It's one of the things I like most about you. =SHIFT: Fluttershy's nightmare= Your kindness knows absolutely no bounds.  And you've been there with such sweetness and caring, oh, Fluttershy, you got *The nightmare begins dissolving* me through so much.  *A beam of light shines down on Fluttershy, the pegasus looking up to see Twilight Sparkle*  You've seen nothing but good in everyone, and I will always take that with me.

Fluttershy: Twilight.....

With a gasp, Fluttershy dashes up the beam of light.

T.Sparkle: That's it, Fluttershy.  Come back to me, to US!

Just as before, Twilight Sparkle's magic and her Element of harmony swirled in her tears and helped purify Fluttershy's element, reviving the yellow pegasus.  Fluttershy hugged Twilight Sparkle and softly cried.

T.Sparkle: Fluttershy!

Queen Chrysalis purred, healing Fluttershy and restoring her energy.

Fluttershy: *blink* changeling?

Q.Chrysalis: "Changed"-ling, technically.

R.Dash: yeah, fluttershy.  remember gilda?

Fluttershy: *nods, then hugs Rainbow Dash* yeah.....

Applejack: Apparently it's the same principle.

Rarity: Once we banished Hatetrol, not only did GILDA turn nice, but also, *points to Queen Chrysalis* her.

Q.Chrysalis: you ok?

Fluttershy: *smiles* Yes, Your Highness.

Trixie: She is incredible, one she got rid of that curse.

Q.Chrysalis: *giggle* Aw, no.  YOU did.  I just decided to DO something about what Ruinous did, and what he tried to do.

Fluttershy: What happened?

Discord: Remember when I told you about Ruinous' last attack, 2,000 years ago?

Fluttershy: Yes.

Discord: Apparently he struck Equestria from South Transforma.

Trixie: It looked like a meteor flattened the place.  Trixie has never seen such destruction before, and hopefully she never shall again.

Fluttershy: How bad?

Queen Chrysalis sighs.

Q.Chrysalis: Bad.  *points at Pinkie Pie* See her?  Imagine her state times all of Equestria.

Fluttershy: oh..... my.....

Fluttershy hugs Queen Chrysalis, weeping.  This touching moment even got to Nightmare Moon and Discord.  After a while, Fluttershy looked into the changeling's eyes.

Fluttershy: You have my word, Your Highness.  We WILL help you stop him.

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* You are an amazing pillar of strength, Fluttershy.  *Fluttershy blushes*  You really are your Element of Kindness.

Fluttershy hugs Queen Chrysalis, then reunites with Rainbow Dash, Rarity and Applejack.  Twilight Sparkle smiled and eyed her last target, Pinkie Pie.  She heads over to the party pony's bed, carrying the party hat.

T.Sparkle: Pinkie Pie.....  Heya, Pinkie.....  *She puts the party hat on Pinkie Pie's head, even though it had stars and not balloons on it*  Remember your surprise party?  I do.  That was so fun.  *chuckle*  Just thinking about you makes me laugh.  Your jokes, your zaniness, your Pinkie Sense.  You're so good at spreading laughter all over Equestria. =SHIFT: Pinkie Pie's nightmare=  You made my day so many times just being around.  You and the others made my day just being around.  *The nightmare dissolves*  That's why all of you *A beam of light appears around Pinkie Pie, leading to Twilight Sparkle* are my best friends.

P.Pie: Twi.....

In her typical fashion, Pinkie Pie bounces up the beam of light towards Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: That's right, Pinkie Pie.  Come back to me!

Twilight Sparkle's Element of Harmony and her own magic power swirled in her tears, purifying Pinkie Pie's Element and reviving her!  Everypony cheers as the Bearers of Harmony hug up, reunited at last!

P.Pie: So, Twi, *sniff* how'd'ya get out? *SHUDDER!*

R.Dash: Doozy, eh?

P.Pie: I dunno.  I thought losing to Ruinous was the doozy.

Pinkie Pie shudders again as Queen Chrysalis hits her with the heal pulse.

Q.Chrysalis: Is she OK?

Pinkie Pie shudders big-time, ending up looking right at the chuckling changeling.

P.Pie: YOU?

Q.Chrysalis: *nod* Yes, child.  I was cursed by Hatetrol.

P.Pie: *nod* Mr. Meanie-Pants with the e-e-e-evil stare.  But-hold-on.  You're stronger than even Princess Celestia.  How.....  Oh, man.....

Q.Chrysalis: He used Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina as pawns in his game, a game he'd've won if not for the Master Elements.

P.Pie: Ruinous IS a mean meany-pants for using your children like that!  Of COURSE you were worried about them, I mean, I worry about the Cake Twins and I didn't give birth to them!

Q.Chrysalis: I'm glad to know of your devotion, child.  You and your friends are amazing.

R.Dash: HAH!  It's what we do, Your Highness.

The changeling smiles, then.....

P.Pie: Well, another thing: Happy Birthday!

Queen Chrysalis gives Pinkie Pie a curious look.

P.Pie: .....In (however many days to Oct. 10) days!

The changeling queen laughs, hugging the laughing party pony to her.

N.Moon: *laugh*  Boy, you work FAST on that friend-making thing, eh, Pink?

P.Pie: Oh, yeah!

Everypony laughs as Twilight Sparkle smiles, seeing her friends accept Queen Chrysalis despite all that's happened.  In fact, she was so fixated on seeing this touching scene, she failed to see Ruinous behind her, readying a bomb made of the black fog that defeated the ponies she revived in the first place!  Nightmare Moon gasps as Ruinous fires!

N.Moon: Look out, Twilight Sparkle!

T.Sparkle: ?!?!

Nightmare Moon knocked Twilight Sparkle way aside, taking the shot!  She puts up a shield around herself, ensuring she was the only one affected.  After the shield dissipated, Nightmare Moon, similar to the ponies before her, slid to the floor in a heap, eliciting gasps from everyone else!

Mane 6: NO!!!!!

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon!

Virtuna: Oh, MAN!!!

T.Sparkle: She..... She took that for me.....  Why did..... Who..... Where..... Nightmare-Moon?  Nightmare-Moon!  Wake up!  You GOTTA wake up!  Nightmare Moon!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 5 - The Princess of Harmony

My Litte Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 41: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 5 - The Princess of Harmony

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon!  Wake up!  PLEASE wake up!  You can't just go like this!  C'mon, Nightmare, get up!

Ruinous: BLAST!  *appears*  Shanked it!

Virtuna: RUINOUS!

T.Sparkle: You big ugly meanie!

R.Dash: You..... You're the meaning of "uncool"!

Ruinous: Hang on, girls!  I just did away with one of Equestria's greatest threats once and for all, aren't'cha happy?

P.Pie: NO!!!  HOW can we be happy when you just defeated another one of our friends?!

Ruinous: *blink* Huh?

The Elements of Harmony surrounded Nightmare Moon, glaring up at Ruinous.

Ruinous: Wait a.....  *begins laughing long and loud*  You can't..... You can't be SERIOUS!!  You mean... to tell me you actually LIKE her?!  That she's your FRIEND!?  *laugh*  You should be THANKING me for this!  I should have a parade in Canterlot in my honor for vanquishing the evil Mare in the Moon!

Elements of Harmony: SHE'S NOT EVIL!!!!!

Ruinous began laughing his head off, almost going to the floor!

Ruinous: You know, I was gonna put you all in a tougher maze and watch you struggle to find the exit again, but on THIS merit, I may just keep you all around!  *laugh*  Imagine: Reforming a baddie like Nightmare Moon.  That's a complete joke.  Now, if you ALL will excuse me, I need to plan a short trip.  I hear Shiftopolis is nice this time of year.....

Q.Chrysalis: You don't DARE hurt my children!  You hear me?!  Don't you DARE hurt my people more than you have!!

Queen Chrysalis was so furious, Discord had to hold her back from going one-on-one against Ruinous again.

Discord: NO, NO!  Queenie, no, don't do it.  He'll just curse you again, and then we're all screwed.  You'll get yours back, OK?  Calm down.

As Queen Chrysalis broke down and cried, Twilight Sparkle looked at her four friends..... Hold on.

T.Sparkle: *blink* *points to Rainbow Dash* One, *Applejack* two, *Rarity* three, *Pinkie Pie* four..... *looks around*  Where's Fluttershy?

Fluttershy sniffled as she walked up to Nightmare Moon, wearing her Element of Harmony.  The yellow pegasus sits by the alicorn's head and closes her eyes.

Fluttershy: Nightmare-Moon?  Nightmare-Moon?

A look in Nightmare Moon's nightmare showed she was surrounded by a dark wasteland.  Horrible screams echoed around as she saw ponies and changelings suffer nightmares in their sleep and be scared of everything when awake.  Both races also regarded her as as evil as she was before.

Ruinous: Behold, *appears* how it should be.....

N.Moon: Ruinous!  *looks around* Looks like you cooked up a real doozy.

Ruinous: But of course!  Only the best for one so powerful.

N.Moon: *eyes narrow*  You WON'T get away with this!  My friends will-!

Ruinous: You HAVE no friends!!!  Princess Luna does all YOU do, better than you ever did.  SHE raises the moon, SHE sets up the stars and SHE eliminates the nightmares, NOT YOU.  IF the princesses are restored to their past glory, I assure you, neither will find ANY use for you.  You will go back to being the evil Mare in the Moon you were, and nothing you or anypony else can do will change that.....

Ruinous disappears, leaving Nightmare Moon alone.  The black mare dipped her head and felt broken, lonely, useless.....  Just as despair and sadness were about to consume her.....

Fluttershy: Nightmare Moon?  *Nightmare Moon gasps, rising to her hooves in a flash*  Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?

N.Moon: What?  *gasps as she looks around*  Fluttershy?

Fluttershy: Nightmare Moon!  It's me, Fluttershy.  Can you hear me?

N.Moon: I can, Fluttershy.  I can hear you.

Fluttershy: Nightmare Moon.....  What happened?  Ruinous was just out here telling us you were evil.

N.Moon: Ruinous told ME no one cared about me, that no one would.

Fluttershy: That's a load of hay!  You've got LOTS who care about you, the princesses, Discord, us.

N.Moon: Fluttershy.....  Your kindness is so amazing.....  I shut off the sun, brought along the night and yet you STILL like me.

Fluttershy: Because you turned out to be so dependable and so amazing once you accepted everything.  You helped out so many ponies, including Princess Celestia.  Nightmare Moon, do you remember when you helped me achieve the impossible?

N.Moon: ........The tornado?

Fluttershy: Yes!  The tornado!  I never knew I could fly as fast, no, even faster than a Wonderbolt until YOU gave me hope by just being there.

N.Moon: Everypony was so shocked when they checked your wingpower meter.  *blink* Huh?

A butterfly similar to the one on Fluttershy's Element of Harmony flew around Nightmare Moon, then began flying around the dark landscape.  It flutters around Nightmare Moon, then a beam of light strikes it as soon as it lands.

Fluttershy: If you need further proof of how much you mean to me, look at this.

The butterfly turned into a lighted object.  Nightmare Moon walked over and picked it up.  What she saw touched her:

N.Moon: It's..... a wingpower meter..... and it's reading 33.....

Fluttershy: I thought the only one who could even approach that was Rainbow Dash.  I NEVER thought I had the strength within to do that.  You helped me realize that I can do MORE than I put my mind to doing.

N.Moon: Fluttershy.....  I'm just... so glad I could help you.

Fluttershy: You HAVE to come back!  We ALL still need you!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: FLUTTERSHY!!!!!

Fluttershy's Element of Kindness blazed brightly, sending a pink beam of light upwards, then down in an arch towards Nightmare Moon.  A similar beam flew from the wingpower meter in Nightmare Moon's nightmare and flew upwards.  As soon as the two beams collided, a pink bridge appeared, Nightmare Moon seeing Fluttershy looking at her.  Outside, the screaming caught everypony else's attention.

T.Sparkle: What's Fluttershy up to?

Queen Chrysalis saw Fluttershy's Element of Harmony and gasped.  She got the rest of the Elements on everypony and looked at the group.

Q.Chrysalis: Call to her.....  Like Fluttershy just did.

Trixie's eyes popped wider and she nodded, dashing next to Fluttershy.

Trixie: Nightmare Moon, do you hear Trixie?  Do you hear the Great and Powerful Trixie?  Nightmare Moon, can you hear Trixie?  Nightmare Moon?  Nightmare Moon!

In her nightmare, Nightmare Moon blinks as she hears Trixie's voice.

N.Moon: Trixie?

Trixie: Nightmare Moon!  'Tis I, the Great and Powerful Trixie!  Can you hear Trixie?

N.Moon: *smirk* Yes, I can, you constant self-promoter, you.

Both laugh.

Trixie: Really, in all sincerity, Trixie wouldn't have what Trixie has if not for you, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: All I did was lend an ear to you in the Everfree Forest.

Trixie: Exactly!  Trixie needed to find the courage to just talk to Twilight, and talking to you helped me get that.  Trixie's life would be much different if not for you.  No pet, no dragon, no Element of Harmony, no friends!  I dunno if I told you, but the life of a travelling ANYthing, it's so lonesome and depressing sometimes.  But you, you helped make at least two cities bright spots on Trixie's journey.

N.Moon: Re-Really?

Trixie: *sniff*  Yes.  Trixie never had ponies line up in droves to see my show, never performed at the Grand Galloping Gala, never performed for a dignitary and never had anyone as powerful as Princess Celestia go out of her way for me.

A beam of light struck the ground, making another object glow.  Nightmare Moon follows it - and finds a newspaper of Trixie performing for Shining Armor and Princess Cadence at the Grand Galloping Gala.

N.Moon: All that because I just..... talked to you?  Trixie.....

Trixie: All you did for me, I can't repay.....  You even helped me be friends with Twilight Sparkle.....  You helped me find courage and happiness!  I echo Fluttershy's sentiment: PLEASE COME BACK!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: TRIXIE!!!!!

Just as before, Trixie's Element of Harmony blazed brightly and shot out a similar powder-blue beam of light.  The newspaper also shot out a beam of light, colliding with the beam from the Element of Sincerity.  It made another solid beam, floating up in the air as if the two beams were trying to make a tunnel, but had quite a few parts missing.  Virtuna noticed the charms themselves seemed to burn their image into the floor and cocked her head.

Virtuna: Huh.....

Applejack nods, then heads over to Nightmare Moon.

Applejack: Nightmare Moon, can ya'll hear me?  It's me, AJ.  Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?

Nightmare Moon was looking at the two beams when she heard Applejack's voice.

N.Moon: Applejack!

Applejack: Nightmare Moon!  Ya'll hear me, sugar cube?

N.Moon: Yes, Applejack.  *giggle*  Your honesty has been so reassuring to me.

Applejack: You, too, sugar cube, AND how ya'll took care of the Flim Flams.

N.Moon: Those two should go by Cheat and Swindle in my opinion.  I just did what was right.

Applejack: And ya'll saved my farm, Nightmare!  That was MY "She's our friend now" moment.  Calmin' our sleep, watchin' over us, and just bein' there.  Ya'll're more than ya'll think to us.  Ya'll went from the hated Mare in the Moon to us loving you, almost as much as Princess Celestia.  Ya'll mean so much to me, and not just because ya'll saved my farm!

A beam of light struck the ground, making another object glow.  Nightmare Moon saw it before she lifted it up.  It was one of the cider mugs from the recent cider-making season.

N.Moon: I remember that cider, AJ.  Best thing I ever had! - until-the-Zap-Apple-Harvest.

Both laugh.

Applejack: Nightmare, ya'll helpin' us just made everything better.  I'm proud ta call ya'll my friend.  I wanna still have ya'll around, please come back!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: APPLEJACK!!!!!

An orange beam of light fired from Applejack's Element of Honesty and the cider mug, colliding in the sky in Nightmare Moon's nightmare.  the orange beam joined the pink and powder-blue beams from the other two ponies, the tunnel taking shape.  But there was still a way to go and Corinne knew it, heading over to the black alicorn.

Corinne: Ni-Ni-Nightmare Moon?  Nightm-m-mare Moon?  C-C-Can you hear me?

Nightmare Moon blinks and looks around, hearing the stuttering.

N.Moon: Corinne?

Corinne: Nightmare Moon!  Can y-y-you hear me?

N.Moon: Yes, Corinne, I can hear you!

Corinne: I remem-m-mber when I was s-s-scared of making friends.  I th-th-thought my stuttering would s-s-scare ponies.  You h-h-helped me see that my h-h-heart was m-m-more important than my voice.

N.Moon: I know, that was unexpected.  Me, sharing friendship with somepony else, I didn't think I had it in me.

Corinne: You DO have it in you, Ni-Ni-Nightmare Moon.  Y-Y-You always did.

A red beam of light hit the ground, illuminating another object.  Nightmare Moon smiles as she saw it was a large crystal.

N.Moon: Your special talent.....  First Zecora and now you.

Corinne: I've al-al-always been fascinated by crystals.....  Not j-j-just for healing, just... l-l-looking at them.  They taught me s-s-so much, like h-h-how to look for the most beautiful things in the l-l-least likely places.

N.Moon: Corinne.....

Corinne: Nightmare Moon, you are beautiful!  I want my treasure back!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: CORINNE!!!!!

A red beam of light shot from Corinne's Element of Respect and the crystal Nightmare Moon was holding, meeting in the air above the alicorn.  Four beams of light now combined to start to form a circular tunnel, but there were still bits missing.  Next up was Zecora, the zebra walking over to Nightmare Moon.  Halfway over, she turned to look at those that haven't gone yet.

Zecora:

Although I mainly speak in rhyme,

Right now, this is not the time.

Zecora sighs as she completes the journey.

Zecora: Nightmare Moon?  Nightmare Moon?  Do you hear me?  Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?

Nightmare Moon blinked at who spoke next.

N.Moon: Zecora?  Don't you usually rhyme when you speak?

Zecora: This is serious, Nightmare Moon.  This is not about me, it's about you, and getting you back to all of us.

N.Moon: *smile* Aw, Zecora.  I'm just touched everypony's thinking of me like this.

Zecora: It's not just who is assembled here.  Remember Nightmare Night?

N.Moon: *laugh*  Most fun I had in 1,000 years!

Zecora: And the tale I told about you on that night.  You helped my story come alive!

A golden-yellow beam of light made another object glow.  Nightmare Moon smiled as she saw it was a lantern with the Nightmare Night mark on it.

Zecora: I have so many more stories to tell you.  You were always a great listener and..... I'm sure you have some for me.  I want to hear them!  I want you to come back!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: ZECORA!!!!!

A golden-yellow beam shot out of Zecora's Element of Tolerance and the lantern, meeting in the sky.  As the tunnel took shape in Nightmare Moon's vision - with so much lit up, most of the scariness had dissipated - Virtuna also noticed more Elements of Harmony carved into the floor - and they surrounded Nightmare Moon.

Rarity: I don't know what it is, but it's working.....

Rainbow Dash and Pitstop nodded, then headed out towards Nightmare Moon as a pair.

R.Dash: Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?

Pitstop: Nightmare, luv, can ya hear me?

R.Dash: Nightmare Moon?

Pitstop: Nightmare Moon?

Nightmare Moon blinked more, hearing TWO voices this time, not just one.

N.Moon: Is it Rainbow Dash or Pitstop this time?

R.Dash: It's BOTH of us, Nightmare Moon.

Pitstop: We're teammates now, and it's because of ya, luv.

N.Moon: The Wonderbolts tryout.

R.Dash/Pitstop: YES!

R.Dash: We've became one of the best tandems in Wonderbolts history!

Pitstop: Even Soarin and Spitfire themselves said we're as good as they were at our point in their careers, if not better!  Everytime I think about it, I feel proud, blessed and honored, and it's all because of YOU, luv.

R.Dash: When you proposed that fly-off, it gave each of us the chance to see the other, just raw flying talent and no self-promotion.  Ever since that tryout, we were devising new ways to amaze everyone who came out to see us.  We've not only became great teammates, we've become great friends.

A swirl of cyan and dark blue light appeared, two beams shining from the next object, an air-show arena.

N.Moon: You two..... Poetry in motion.  Especially when we met the ChangeWings in Shiftopolis.

R.Dash: The venue didn't matter.....  Nor did the chance to meet such a unique team.....  All that mattered was YOU were there.

Pitstop: Nightmare, you made it possible for me to have such a friend as Rainbow Dash.  Her skills keep shining even OUT of costume.  And YOU!  When ye smacked around Queen Chrysalis, *The changeling queen smirks* Spitfire herself said ya had a shot at makin' it.  Imagine: You, a Wonderbolt.

N.Moon: Really?

Pitstop: Door's always open, luv.....

R.Dash: But you have to come back first!

R.Dash/Pitstop: NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: PITSTOP!!!!!  RAINBOW DASH!!!!!

The Elements of Loyalty and Humility burst out with a cyan and a dark blue beam of light, respectively, colliding with similar light rays from the arena.  With now seven rays, the tunnel was closing in on being finished.  With an assertive nod, Rarity walked up.

Rarity: Nightmare Moon?  Nightmare Moon, it's Rarity, can you hear me?

N.Moon: Rarity!

Rarity: Nightmare Moon!  You CAN hear me!  Oh, the fun I had making your dress for the Grand Galloping Gala!

N.Moon: That was the first time anyone's given me something like that.

Rarity: Aw.  It's my element, remember?  My generosity is the best thing about me, at least that's what many say.  Anyway, your dress!  It was so amazing and gorgeous, aw, you were the belle of the ball, Nightmare Moon.

N.Moon: I FELT like the belle of the ball, and I'd've felt the same no matter what you made me.  Just knowing YOU made it for me was enough, Rarity.

Rarity: *sniff* Nightmare.....

A purple beam of light shone another huge area.  Nightmare Moon saw the ballroom, where the Grand Galloping Gala she attended was taking place.  She saw all the fancy ponies doing her dance with her and Pinkie Pie, as well as the fancy ponies teaching her a move or two.  It all brought a big grin to the face of the former antagonist.

N.Moon: Rarity..... That night was truly magic.  And all I helped you and your friends out with, it just made me feel so good to know I helped you all.

Rarity: Nightmare Moon..... Everypony should still know your generosity!  Please return to us!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: RARITY!!!!!

A purple beam fires from Rarity's Element of Generosity and the ballroom in Nightmare Moon's vision, colliding in mid-air.  Only Pinkie Pie, Virtuna and Twilight Sparkle needed to help out.  It was the party pony who walked up next.

P.Pie: Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?  Nightmare Moon, it's me, Pinkie Pie.  Nightmare Moon?

N.Moon: *giggle* Pinkie Pie!  Oh, you amazing party planner, you!

P.Pie: Hard to believe you were once Queen Meanie!  Now you're Queen Sweetie.

N.Moon: *BLUSH!*  Aw, Pinkie!

Both ponies giggle.

N.Moon: You made sure my 1183rd birthday was my best yet!

P.Pie: That was one of my best parties, and to think one of my former foes was the pony of honor.  You really changed my mind about you, and it WAS fun dressing up like you, too!

N.Moon: You and the others looking like me, that was hilarious!  It was Flutter Moon, Rarimare, Apple Moon, Nightmare Dash, Pinkie Moon and Nightmare Sparkle.

Everypony laughs.

P.Pie: I thought I was the spirit of laughter, you seem to have that well down as well.  You sure lightened up since you started knowing us.

N.Moon: I was so honored to know all of you, and I loved how you all made me feel so special.

A pink beam of light hit the ground.  Nightmare Moon walked to it and looked.  She murrs as she finds out what it is: A party hat.

N.Moon: Aw.....  From MY party.

P.Pie: You helped me so much with everypony else's parties as well, especially Princess Luna's.  We could be having so much fun together!  Please come back!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: PINKIE PIE!!!!!

A pink beam shot out from the party hat and Pinkie Pie's Element of Laughter, colliding in mid-air.  The tunnel was almost done, just one panel left, but even so, the panels seemed to be apart, as if they were bricks in need of mortar.  Virtuna nods, dashing to Nightmare Moon's side.

Virtuna: Yo, Nightmare Moon!  Can ya hear me?  Nightmare Moon!

N.Moon: Virtuna!  The pony who helped me in the first place!  I can hear you!

Virtuna: Nightmare Moon!  Man, I remember when I first saw you, you were so shy, you didn't want to even cross a bridge into Ponyville.

N.Moon: I remember that night, taking everyone's nightmares, keeping their dreams safe.....  Just like Princess Luna.

Virtuna: If Luna were here, she'd say the same thing: We need you, Nightmare Moon.  We ALL do.

A green beam of light flew out of the ground, taking the shape of the bridge she had her summit with the Mane 6 near.

N.Moon: I was on one side with you and Twilight and her friends were on the other.  I was so scared, then..... Then you showed me how to make friends with them, and that's what led to everypony else liking me.

Virtuna: Man, Nightmare..... I was just glad I could help you so much..... And I wanna be able to help you more!  Please come back!  You told me I was one of your best friends, I feel the same about you!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

N.Moon: VIRTUNA!!!!!

The beam of light from the bridge and Virtuna's Element of Empathy completed the tunnel - in the sense that the beams were in a cylinder.  There was one thing left: Something to hold them together.  Twilight Sparkle sighed, then nodded, rushing over and calling Nightmare Moon's name.

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon!  Nightmare Moon!  Can you hear me?!

N.Moon: Twilight!

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon!  Nightmare Moon, can you hear me?!

N.Moon: Twilight Sparkle, my best friend ever!  The very first pony I even talked to!

T.Sparkle: I remember when we fought over the Elements of Harmony.....  I thought I felt something then, but THIS just goes beyond even MY expectations.  I never knew that moment would lead me to have you as a friend.

N.Moon: You helped me see the magic of friendship, even if you DID use it to whup my flank.

Both ponies laugh.  The stones that were the original six Elements of Harmony orbit the black alicorn going one way, with the stones depicting the new Elements going the other way.

N.Moon: I felt something then..... I feel it more now.

T.Sparkle: You DO?

N.Moon: You are on the cusp of a great destiny.  I want to see you fulfill it.

T.Sparkle: I can think of nothing more than for you to share my happiness, EVERYpony's happiness.  You're no "nightmare", you're an amazing friend.  We all need you back here.  *Magic swirls around Twilight Sparkle and Nightmare Moon from the Elements of Harmony*  Please come back!  WE LOVE YOU!  NIGHTMARE MOON!!!!!

A tear appears in Twilight Sparkle's eye.

N.Moon: TWILIGHT *A tear appears in her eye* SPARKLE!!!!!

A huge column of light flies up from the now-completed seal on the floor, striking Nightmare Moon.  A similar column flies from the stones, colliding with the approaching beam with a massive thunderclap!  Nightmare Moon found herself in a tunnel of light, looking up and seeing ALL her friends!

T.Sparkle: Nightmare Moon!

R.Dash: Up here!

P.Pie: C'mon back!

N.Moon: My girls!

The black alicorn races up the tunnel, encouraged by the other ponies.  As she ran up, the tunnel began spinning around her, colors blending together, faster and faster, brighter and brighter.  By the time Nightmare Moon was close to getting out, the colors were swirling around at warp speed.  The colors from the Elements of Harmony on the floor were also swirling around at the same rate, making a kaliedoscopic column of pure light that surrounded all of them.  When the Mare in the Moon finally did break out, the column gathered into a ball of light.  What emerged from the ball was astounding: Nightmare Moon, looking like Princess Luna would if she was as tall as Princess Celestia.  In place of her helmet was a crown with a moon jewel in it, and her chestplace was replaced with a full pendant with the Elements of Harmony symbol in it.  Her shoes more closely resembled Princess Celestia's, made of silver, not gold, and her whole body seemed to be outlined in silver.  She flew around a bit, leaving a trail of shimmers wherever she was, making her a truly breath-taking sight.  Everypony in the room was shocked as one of Equestria's former foes now has become one of her greatest heroes.

T.Sparkle: Oh, my.....

Nightmare Moon smiled, landing by Twilight Sparkle and laying by her.

N.Moon: And that is why you NEVER give up hope.

Twilight Sparkle nods, then hugs Nightmare Moon.  As the rest of the Elements of Harmony and then Discord hug Nightmare Moon and welcome her back, Queen Chrysalis' mind began ticking.

Q.Chrysalis: -I knew it.  Just by looking at her and her deeds, I figured she'd be a good candidate.  I thought about it for a long time.  I don't think so anymore, I KNOW so.  Nightmare Moon has become something WAY more than even that little gray pony thinks she is.  She's more than the Sentinel of the Stars.  She's the Princess of Harmony.-

The changeling murrs as she felt the energy from the Elements of Harmony.

Q.Chrysalis: Twilight Sparkle.....

Twilight Sparkle blinks as she looks at the changeling.

Q.Chrysalis: I see now what your friends mean to you.

Queen Chrysalis sighs as the leftover light floods her, bonding to her wings and turning them from green-blue moth wings to rainbow-colored butterfly wings!  Queen Chrysalis smirks a bit at Rarity.

Q.Chrysalis: Regal enough?

Rarity: Getting there.

Both laugh as they high-hoof.

N.Moon: Guess I'm not the only one to undergo a radical transformation.

Q.Chrysalis: I feel like I'm free for the first time in a long time.

T.Sparkle: Speaking of which, let's go see if we can wake the princesses up.

N.Moon: *nod* Indeed.

The group heads out of the room, the seal on the floor crackling and shimmering.  After looking in a few doors, it was Queen Chrysalis who found the princesses.

Q.Chrysalis: Twilight.....  They're here.

TO BE CONTINUED

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 6 - Wake the Sun and the Moon

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 42: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 6 - Wake the Sun and the Moon

Princess Cadence was in Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina's throne room, pacing and looking at the door to the tunnel back to Equestria nervously.  Shining Armor was looking at his wife.

S.Armor: Cadence, you're making me nervous doing that.

P.Cadence: I can't help it.  I feel as if..... I dunno, something's about to happen.

P.Shiftshape: Cadence, look: No amount of worrying's gonna improve things.  Just stay here and let Twilight *Princess Cadence perks up* and her friends handle it.

S.Armor: Cadence?

Without a word, Princess Cadence bolted for the door!

S.Armor: Cadence!

P.Shiftshape: Stop her!

Princess Cadence jumped, dodged, ducked and flew over a number of changelings trying to get her.  Not even Captain Imitato and General Crosswing could halt the pink alicorn as she dashed through the door and through the tunnel!

S.Armor: Cadence!  CADENCE!!!!!

Meanwhile, Ruinous was surveying all in his castle, glaring at pony and changeling alike.  Content that he had full control, he retired to his quarters.  Little did he know that Twilight Sparkle and the other ponies were walking in to Princess Celestia's throne room, where Ruinous had put the two princesses.

Virtuna: Two ponies..... THREE beds?

R.Dash: I'd be willing to bet my wings that bed has Twilight's name on it.

Discord: Ruinous is just plain sick.....

Twilight Sparkle nods, a fierce look in her eyes.

T.Sparkle: Remember when we revived Nightmare Moon?

Trixie: *nod* Yeah.  Girls!  Let us wake these two in similar fashion.

With a nod, the Bearers of Harmony took their places in a circle around Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.  Nightmare Moon, Discord and Queen Chrysalis huddle up as Twilight Sparkle's Element of Magic started glowing.  The rest of the Elements of Harmony followed suit, making a seal around the princesses.  Beams of light flew from the seal, making a rainbow that hit both princesses.  Nightmare Moon blinked as she felt the two returning!

N.Moon: Oh, my..... It's working!

The three former baddies smile as they watch the Elements of Harmony do something miraculous: Revive both princesses and even restore their regalia!  Princess Celestia and Princess Luna slowly began to get up, Queen Chrysalis flying straight up.

Q.Chrysalis: Hold on, Celestia!

Summoning all her power, Queen Chrysalis let loose a giant heal pulse, restoring both princesses' magic power and energy.  Teacher and student gasp, embracing and crying happily as the others cheered.  After a while, Princess Celestia locked eyes with Queen Chrysalis and Nightmare Moon, shocked at their collective changes.  Princess Celestia looked at Twilight Sparkle with an incredulous look on her face.

P.Celestia: OK, *stretches* I have seen the magic of friendship do some amazing things and some miraculous things.  I have seen it cure my sister, bring order to chaos, and even save the kingdom time and again.  But I have to ask how you did *points to Nightmare Moon* THAT.

N.Moon: Well, ya see, Ruinous cheap-shot me after Twilight ran around reviving her friends.  Then, your most loyal subjects actually helped me come back, and, well, I come back like *spreads her wings* this.  I WILL say: The shimmering effect off my wings, VERY nice touch.

Princess Luna giggles, then about glomps Nightmare Moon to the floor, the two night goddesses hugging up.  Princess Celestia looked back at Twilight Sparkle.

P.Celestia: Not bad, Twilight. *nuzzle*  Now, question 2: *points to Queen Chrysalis* What happened to her?

The changeling sniffled as she saw Princess Celestia smiling at her.

T.Sparkle: THAT one, I dunno, I.....

Twilight Sparkle gasped, looking at Princess Celestia in disbelief.  The white alicorn was crying happy tears and looking right at her top student.

P.Celestia: You purified her.

The Bearers of Harmony were stunned!  All of them exchanged shocked glances at Princess Celestia's words.

All Bearers of Harmony: What?!

Princess Celestia ran towards Queen Chrysalis, smiling all the way.

P.Celestia: Chrysalis!

Q.Chrysalis: Celestia!

The two rulers embraced, crying happy tears, much to the further shock of Twilight Sparkle and her friends.

P.Luna: Chrysalis!

Q.Chrysalis: Luna Fish!

N.Moon and the Bearers of Harmony: Luna Fish?!

Q.Chrysalis: *giggle* Before she could fly, Luna would bounce around, like Pinkie Pie, so I called her a "Luna Fish".

P.Luna: *smirk* And I would call you "Buzzy Buzz", because that's the sound your wings made.

The two laugh, Queen Chrysalis demonstrating her wings' buzzing a bit.

Virtuna: Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaang on!  You three are acting like.....

Q.Chrysalis: Yes, Virtuna, we were already friends.

Virtuna: Aw, PHOOEY!!!  I don't get to do MY thing!

The three rulers laugh, then Queen Chrysalis walked up to Virtuna and hugged her.

Q.Chrysalis: YOU gave me the courage to just... talk.

P.Celestia: Then let's talk.

The changeling rose, turning towards Princess Celestia.

Q.Chrysalis: I KNOW you heard about what happened in South Transforma, right?

P.Celestia: *nod*  I did, and it hurt as much as if it happened in Equestria.  But what ELSE happened?  All I got from you was "Attack in South Transforma", then "Challenged to a one-on-one fight", and that was it.

Q.Chrysalis: The "Challenged to a one-on-one fight" was from Ruinous.  He tried to use Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina as pawns to further his evil plans in Transforma.  If I didn't battle him BY MYSELF, he'd've laid waste to the entire kingdom.  I stuck to my word and fought him, summoning everything I had.  Then, when I was just about to win, here comes Hatetrol.  Hatetrol hit me with a curse, one that turned me into the monster you saw at the wedding AND the anniversary.  *sniff*  It also fixed it so that I would feast on the love and positive emotions of others.  I was also..... *sniff* .....driven to hurt anyone I ever made friends with, the closer I got, the more I wanted to hurt them.  When Shining Armor and Princess Cadence knocked me away after the wedding, I decided to try talking to you again.  I knew that Hatetrol's curse would kick in, so I went alone.

R.Dash: You kept the Changeling Army out of it?

N.Moon: I wondered why you just came over by yourself that time.

Q.Chrysalis: Yes, and I'm grateful to YOU, Nightmare Moon.  If your aerial attack display didn't seal my powers until Hatetrol was defeated, I don't know what I would've done!

Virtuna: *laugh* WOW!  Really smart, Queenie, I mean, ultimately, I mean, keeping yourself from hurtin' others until the main reason why got the EoH beatdown.

P.Celestia: Well, I expected nothing less from the pony who taught me how to play chess.

Both rulers giggle.

T.Sparkle: I still find this amazing, Princess.  I mean, how long could you two have known each other?

Queen Chrysalis murrs as she takes out the picture she and Princess Celestia had of the picnic so long ago.

P.Celestia: You still kept that?

Q.Chrysalis: Of course!  It kept me going through a lot of bad days.  I KNEW if I kept believing, I'd see you again, as my REAL self.

P.Celestia: Aw.

Trixie: Hmm?  *takes the picture*  *POINK!*  Twilight!

Twilight Sparkle walked to Trixie and gasped.  She had to blush a bit, not expecting to see Princess Celestia as a blank flank!

Bearers of Harmony: AW!

All the ponies pointed out who was who in the picture, then.....

Virtuna: So, who's *points to Princess Shimmer* THAT pony?

Before anyone could answer, a black portal opened up behind the Bearers of Harmony, sucking them towards it!  Discord had to use a shield to stop himself, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses from being pulled in.  But Nightmare Moon growled, jumping out from behind the shield!

N.Moon: OH, NO, YOU DON'T!!!

Nightmare Moon bolted through the portal just before it snapped shut!  The picture Trixie was holding fluttered to the floor as Discord, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses stood there in shock.  The Bearers of Harmony were taken to Ruinous' castle, the Spirit of Oblivion glaring at them.

Ruinous: I take it my accomodations weren't good enough for you.  Perhaps a mass grave would suit you all better.....

R.Dash: Give it up, Ruinous!  You'll NEVER beat us when we're all together!

Ruinous: HAH!  I already beat you before, I can do it again!

N.Moon: Oh, really?!  *The Mare in the Moon puts up a shield of silver light!*  I see things differently!

Ruinous: Not differently enough.....

Meanwhile, back in the Canterlot throne room.....

Discord: WAS he going to let us have our moment?

Q.Chrysalis: Ruinous is just.....

The changeling queen stomps her right front hoof with a hiss.

P.Celestia: Cheap shots, dishonest fights and now this.....

???: Seems as if we need to give him a good whupping!

Everyone turned and gasped.  Standing near the door to the tunnel, wearing a fierce look, was Princess Cadence!

Q.Chrysalis: Cadence!  I thought I told General Crosswing and Captain Imitato to hold you AND Shining Armor at my son's castle.  Get back over there, NOW!

Princess Cadence's fierce look made Queen Chrysalis back off her stance.  Slowly, the changeling came around with a nod.

Q.Chrysalis: *smirk*  Twilight.

P.Cadence: You better believe it.

Q.Chrysalis: *chuckle*  I guess it wouldn't matter if I put my entire Canterlot invasion force in the tunnel.  You'd STILL find a way to get through to her.

P.Cadence: *chuckle* Of course.  WHY would I abandon the foal I most loved to sit?

Both laugh as they head to Princess Celestia.

P.Celestia: Couldn't stay on the sidelines, eh?

P.Cadence: No way.  Not when Twilight's in trouble.

The white alicorn nods.  In Ruinous' castle, the Bearers of Harmony and Ruinous were in the middle of a power tussle.  Nightmare Moon was lending her power to the Elements of Harmony as they attempted to push back Ruinous' attack.  Applejack growled as she started thinking about her life.

Applejack: My friends..... my family..... they're all countin' on me!

Down at Sweet Apple Acres, the Apple Family was tending the farm, when Big Macintosh looked up at Canterlot Castle.

B.Macintosh: Applejack.

The crimson stallion stood in the middle of the field and shut his eyes.  Applejack's family nodded, standing with Big Macintosh.  As if compelled to, they made the shape of Applejack's Element of Honesty.  As if feeling their prayers, Applejack felt the power flow through her, screaming out!  Her armor activated and glowed bright orange, giving her a horn and wings in addition to increasing her power over earth!

Applejack: RUINOUS!!!!!  My Element of Harmony is Honesty, and I embody it to a "T"!  My friends are the best thing that happened in my life, and my family is where I get my power from!  They have helped me through everything in my life, and I would NEVER abandon them, not even for your evil schemes!  I'm Applejack, and I..... AM..... HONESTY!!!!!

Applejack's wings activated, and with one flap, put a shield around her as well!  Rainbow Dash was next to growl as she felt in need of help.  That came from the Wonderbolts Academy as Gilda tried to be the first non-pony to be a Wonderbolt.  Just as she was going into her routine, she stopped.

Gilda: Rainbow Dash.

Students, cadets and instructors alike nod, standing in unison.  Then, the ChangeWings flew over, JetStream standing by Gilda.  The two teams made the shape of Rainbow Dash's Element of Loyalty.  Rainbow Dash grunts as her armor increases in power.

R.Dash: Gilda..... JetStream..... Soarin..... Spitfire..... the Wonderbolts..... the ChangeWings..... I feel them AAAALLLLL!!!!!

With a scream, Rainbow Dash's armor grew a horn, giving her magical power over the elements as well as upgrading her speed!

R.Dash: RUINOUS!!!!!  MY element is the Element of Loyalty!  I NEVER abandon my friends, no matter what!  Good, bad, dark, light, thick, thin, I never leave my friends in the lurch!  ALL my friends know that about me, and my power comes right from them!  I am Rainbow Dash, and I..... AM..... LOYALTY!!!!!

Just as Applejack, one flap of her armor's wings was all it took to stop all of Ruinous' attacks, a bright blue glow emitting from it!  Ruinous growled a bit at this development.

Ruinous: -I may be in for more of a fight than I realized.....-

In the throne room, the quintet gathered see Applejack's Element of Honesty glowing in the seal burned in the floor.  Some time later, Rainbow Dash's Element of Loyalty started glowing.

Discord: They're giving it a go, Princess.

P.Celestia: I can see that.  For not having the Master Elements, they aren't just gonna quit.

P.Cadence: Indeed.  I sense their determination.

Q.Chrysalis: I just hope they have enough to beat him.....

Discord: -They don't.-

Despite Applejack and Rainbow Dash increasing the power of the Elements of Harmony, the beam fight was still an exhausting-for-both-sides draw.  Ruinous growls as he increases his beam's power, making Fluttershy grunt a bit, concentrating.....  Her animals blink and look up, seemingly feeling Fluttershy's peril and standing as one, making Fluttershy's Element of Kindness on the ground.  Fluttershy smiles as she feels their strength guide her.

Fluttershy: RUINOUS!!!!!  My Element of Kindness symbolizes my love and care for others - ponies, animals, changelings, all friends of mine.  When I give my heart to others, they give it to me in return.  It is that which gives me more power than you can realize.  I am Fluttershy, and I..... AM..... KINDNESS!!!!!

Fluttershy's armor gives her a horn, increasing her power over nature.  Her wings flapped and a bright yellow shield appeared around her.  Pinkie Pie was next, everypony she made smile sensing her.  But the most was the Cake family as they huddled in the middle, the ponies making the shape of a balloon.  Pinkie Pie nods and smirks as she sensed their prayers.

P.Pie: RUINOUS!!!!!  My Element of Laughter is MY symbol, of spreading joy around my hometown and making ALL my friends and townsfolk smile!  I've learned long ago that smiling is the BEST way to get through the worst times!  Everyone in Ponyville feels this, they give me a big grin everytime I walk by and my strength comes from all the good times we shared!  MY name is Pinkie Pie, and I..... AM..... LAUGHTER!!!!!

A bright pink glow and a horn and wings adorned Pinkie Pie's armor, giving her amazing defensive powers.  Rarity was next to reach out, grunting as she fought back with everything she had.  Photo Finish and Hoity-Toity were doing a fashion show when they felt something that brought the whole show to a halt.

P.Finish and Hoity-Toity: Rarity.

The two ponies and their models formed Rarity's Element of Generosity on the stage.  The crowd that gathered to watch felt it as well, lending their support.  It brought a tear to Rarity's eye as she straightened up.

Rarity: RUINOUS!!!!!  My Element of Generosity symbolizes my willingness to give everything I have to help out a friend, no matter what it is.  I feel the best whenever I see someone smile when I give them a wonderful gift, even if it's something as mundane as an ear to listen and a shoulder to cry on.  My friends sense this and they love me for it.  I am Rarity, and I..... AM..... GENEROSITY!!!!!

Rarity's armor sprouted wings and gave her power over the gems she uses for her dresses - as well as for countering Ruinous' powers!  The dark pony began sliding back, not expecting this at all!

Ruinous: -I see the FIRST string has their spirits..... but what about the BENCH?-

The quartet kept an eye on the seal, seeing Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Rarity's Elements of Harmony light up on it.

Discord: Uh..... Where's-your-student?

Q.Chrysalis: All DarkSparkle did was challenge Twilight to a magic duel.  It didn't cause Twilight to suit up like Ruinous' other henchponies did to the other main elements.

A chill ran down Princess Celestia's spine.

P.Celestia: Then they CAN'T win without us!

P.Luna: THAT FIEND!!!

P.Cadence: Then..... What'll we do?!

Discord: *clears throat* I *holds up a recorder* have a solution.

The Mane 6 minus Twilight Sparkle were on the front lines, blazing their powers at Ruinous.  The dark horse kept at pushing them back, not getting anywhere at all.  Ruinous growls as he shields himself, lifting off with the Elements' power still focused on him.

Ruinous: I expected nothing less from Princess Celestia's main troops of harmony, but..... What of those discovered?  What about YOU, Trixie?  The first time YOU came to Ponyville, you were shown up by Twilight Sparkle.  Doesn't that make you angry?  Humiliated?  Embarrassed?  Surely, you'd just wanna walk out of here..... right..... now.....

Trixie sighed as she heard Ruinous' words, then glared back at him after a while.

Trixie: Nice try.....  While it is true Trixie's first trek to Ponyville left Trixie feeling less than great and powerful, it DID set Trixie up for future success.  I know not how YOU measure success, but TRIXIE thinks making so many good friends is a worthwhile achievement.  TRIXIE represents saying EXACTLY how you feel and what is on your mind, and while some may hate me at first blush, they always thank me later, for telling them exactly what I think!  I am the Great and Powerful Trixie, and I..... AM..... SINCERITY!!!!!

Trixie screamed out as her Element of Harmony blazed, giving her a suit of powder-blue armor with a set of wings and granting her power over the cosmos.  She made her statement by smashing Ruinous in the head with a comet!

Trixie: Strike ONE, ugly!

Ruinous: *growls*  -OK, that's not a problem.....-

Meanwhile, down below in the throne room, Discord holds the recorder as if about to play it.

P.Celestia: Do we..... Do we show them?

Queen Chrysalis gets in face-to-face with Princess Celestia.

Q.Chrysalis: If not now..... When?

One by one, the princesses knew the changeling was right.  Discord cleared his throat, then began to play - of all songs - "Happy Birthday"!  He played it perfectly - until the last note when he blew a harsh discordant note, making Princess Celestia wince and Queen Chrysalis hiss.  It also made a heavily-decorated jewel box appear in the room.

Discord: I put that in on purpose so the Master Elements don't appear EVERY TIME I play "Happy Birthday" to somepony.

P.Cadence: Clever.

Discord: Thanks, Princess.

Princess Celestia hums as she opens the case.  It contained five tiaras and a chain-link necklace.  The five tiaras had a sun, a moon, a heart, a changeling wing and a star on them, each tiara having their own specific charm.  The chain-link necklace had an opening present charm.  The chain-link necklace was Discord's, the draconequus picking it up and putting it on.  Queen Chrysalis lifted her tiara - the one with the changeling wing - with her magic, smiling at it.

Discord: Never thought I'd lay eyes on the Element of Surprise again.

Q.Chrysalis: For the longest time, I thought I didn't deserve the Element of Strength.

P.Luna: You had strength within, even under Hatetrol's curse.  All you did was for your children.  It's a MOTHER'S strength you possess.

Q.Chrysalis: *hugs Princess Luna* Aw, you and that faith of yours.

As they get the Master Elements, Ruinous tries again to instill doubt amoung the non-original Bearers of Harmony.

Ruinous: Corinne.....  *The giraffe looks at him*  .....You think they like you?  They just feel sorry for you, all that stuttering.  You cannot actually tell me they genuinely like you.  Just go..... Leave.

Corinne: *glares*  No.  You th-th-think that my f-f-friends are fake, the only f-f-fake I see is YOU.  Your hatred and des-s-struction will NEVER p-p-prevail over our powers of friendship.  W-W-We saw what you did in S-S-South Transforma, and the t-t-time for you to pay f-f-for your deeds is PAST DUE!  I am Corinne, and I..... AM..... RESPECT!!!!!

The giraffe is soon clad in full-body armor, emblazoned with her Element of Harmony charm.  Her armor gives her wings, a horn and an improved version of Rarity's power.  Ruinous growled, throwing shadow balls! - only to have Corinne use a crystal shield to block them!

Corinne: Try again, dark boy!

Ruinous: -These ponies are stronger than I thought.....-

Meanwhile, in the throne room, the princesses had their Master Elements on.  Princess Luna had her moon-charm tiara, the Element of Faith.  Princess Cadence had her heart-charm tiara, the Element of Love.  And Princess Celestia had her sun-charm tiara, the Element of Light.  With Discord's Element of Surprise and Queen Chrysalis' Element of Strength, five of six Master Elements were ready to go.  All that was left was the star-charm tiara.

Discord: The Element of Hope.....

P.Cadence: Princess Shimmer.....

P.Celestia: Not even I can handle the Elements of Light AND Hope at once..... I tried 2,000 years ago, but it failed.....

Q.Chrysalis: You won't need to.....

P.Celestia: Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: I found another candidate for the Element of Hope.

P.Luna: Who?

Q.Chrysalis: Nightmare Moon.

Discord and the princesses blink as they try to absorb what Chrysalis just said.  Meanwhile, Ruinous tried to bend the will next of.....

Ruinous: Pitstop.  Rainbow Dash hated you when you first arrived.  WHY would you stand with her now?  You two being a Blunderbolts tandem, what a joke.....  Why don't you just..... go.....

Pitstop: I'll go...... *glare*  I'll go upside ye head!  There is nothing ya can do to make me leave Rainbow now, buster!  Not after what we just went through.  You knockin' her out made me angrier and more determined to see ye pay for ya crimes.  My friends like my propencity to show the utmost respect for anything I receive.  It's because I'm grateful for all I have!  My name's Pitstop, and I..... AM..... HUMILITY!!!!!

Pitstop's armor grew out of her Element of Harmony, giving her a horn and command of the winds.  She made her statement by throwing a tornado at Ruinous, making the Spirit of Oblivion spin around fast and almost into the ground!

Pitstop: Black flagged, black foal!

Ruinous: *growls as he rights himself* -These ponies are starting to tick me off.....-

Meanwhile, in the throne room.....

P.Celestia: Nightmare Moon?

Q.Chrysalis: YOU saw her new get-up.  She's the new Princess of Harmony, and the Princess of Harmony is ALWAYS the Bearer of Hope.  'Sides, you should've heard the lines she dropped on Twilight when she was in the library.  Twilight was thinking all was lost since you two had been beaten by Ruinous, and Nightmare got in her face, *gets in Princess Luna's face* "Where's my Twilight Sparkle!" and brought her right back around.

P.Luna: She also DID give everypony a lift during something tough.  I mean, Fluttershy flying with 33 Wingpower when a critter ISN'T falling, where'd that come from?

P.Celestia: She SOUNDS like a perfect match, but.....

P.Luna: But what?

P.Celestia: This isn't a toy or a doll, this is synchronized with Princess Shimmer.  The only one who can help us re-synchronize it with Nightmare Moon is Princess Shimmer herself, and Shimmer's.....  HOW are we going to get Nightmare Moon and Princess Shimmer together long enough?

Discord: Leave that to me.....  Ruinous owes me one for trying to re-possess me.....  He owes me one for making me a chaotic mess in the first place!

P.Celestia: I just hope your plan works.

Discord: *holds up the recorder* It will.

The princesses nod then race up to Ruinous' castle.  Ruinous growled as he glared at Zecora.

Ruinous: Zecora.....  Once blamed for cursing the populace.....  Mainly by the very ponies you now stand beside.....  WHY are you helping them now?  Leave at once.  Abandon them all and never worry about their accusations again.

Zecora: *glare*

Now you listen to me, you ignorant fool

Telling me to leave?  Abandon my friends?  Not cool!

Twilight and the others are friends to the end,

Ponies I can call upon and on which I depend.

Nothing will ever make me leave,

Not fire, darkness or your willingness to deceive.

Make ME leave them NOW?!  There is zero chance!

I am Zecora, and I..... AM..... TOLERANCE!!!!!

Golden armor now wraps around the zebra, giving her a horn and wings as well as the ability to heal via magic.  With one flap of her wings, Ruinous was socked with a blinding flash of golden light!

Ruinous: GRRAGH!!!!!  -This is not happening.....-

Meanwhile, in Ponyville, Jalapeno and Star Chaser were looking up at the castle.  The two were gripped by a sense of duty, a sense of urgency.....

Jalapeno: Come on!

Star Chaser nods, getting Jalapeno on her back and rocketing off towards Ruinous' castle.  The princesses kept running up the stairs, only momentarily stymied by the fact that Ruinous' castle was floating over even Canterlot Castle's tallest spire.

Discord: C'mon!

Discord, then Queen Chrysalis, then the princesses take wing, flying to the final battle.  Below, Jalapeno noticed Ruinous' castle floating over Canterlot and pointed up.

Jalapeno: Por ahi!  (Over there!)

Star Chaser nods, flying almost straight up.  An Element of Harmony necklace appeared around Jalapeno's neck, a jalapeno pepper as the charm.  Then, another necklace appeared on Star Chaser's neck, this charm was of an orange-yellow star.  Discord looked down and smiled.

Discord: -Two things left to do.....-

Ruinous growled, getting nowhere with his campaign of deceit.  Then he locked eyes on Virtuna.

Ruinous: Virtuna.....  Empathy..... The easiest element to fake.....  Friends come and go, they sometimes turn out to be..... less than genuine.....  Do you HONESTLY think that these ponies are your friends?  You need to.....

Virtuna: You need to ZIP IT RIGHT NOW!!!!!

Ruinous grunts at having been interrupted.

Virtuna: I know where ya going, "They're not real, leave 'em."  I ain't movin', not from Twi and her friends, not from my OTHER friends, and CERTAINLY, not from *points to Nightmare Moon* HER!!!  To leave her after all I did to help her would be the biggest betrayal of my life, and I share Rainbow's loyalty!  I would NEVER leave anypony in need, NOT ANYPONY!  Tryin' ta get us outta here?  Nah-ah!  You totally failed in your deceptions, and THAT means "Game over", bub!  I am Virtuna, and I..... AM..... EMPATHY!!!!!

Virtuna was clad in silver armor with her Element of Harmony charm, giving her the power over the spectrum as well as a horn and wings.  Her opening gambit was to smack Ruinous with a rainbow beam, strong enough to almost knock him over!

Ruinous: *GROWL!*  This..... ends..... NOW!!!!!

All the Bearers of Harmony glare back, armored up and seemingly about to blast Ruinous with the Elements' main attack.

Ruinous: I'll give you ONE thing: You all sure seem to have gotten in touch with your elements..... =SHIFT: Discord, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses flying fast towards the fight.  Jalapeno and Star Chaser fly just behind the Master Elements towards the castle, then the pegasus speeds up, the duo overtaking the Master Elements!=  .....which will make it all the more significant WHEN I DESTROY ALL OF YOU AT THE SAME TIME!!!!!

Ruinous readies his black fog, Princess Luna sensing it and speeding up!

TO BE CONTINUED!!!!!

The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 7 - True Harmony Attained

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 43: The Spirit of Oblivion, Ruinous - Part 7 - True Harmony Attained

Ruinous: YOU..... WILL..... ALL..... EXPIRE!!!!!

Just as the black fog approaches the ponies, Nightmare Moon's shield gets stronger!  The Mare in the Moon smiles as she sees Princess Luna land by her.

T.Sparkle: Princess Luna?

P.Luna (TRCV): RUINOUS!!!!!  ART THOU SURE THOU CAN VANQUISH US ALL!?!?  You, of all ponies, should know that one of the driving forces of the spirit of all is the faith that burns in everyone's soul!  I symbolize that faith with my ability to help ponies with their dreams, at night and in life.  On another note, Ruinous, Nightmare Moon and I share the same heart.  Anything you do to her affects me as well, and your crimes against us BOTH will now be punished.  I AM PRINCESS LUNA AND I..... AM..... FAITH!!!!!

If the Bearers of Harmony had magnificent armor from their elements, Princess Luna's was on another level.  It looked as if someone made a regal dress, crown, shoes and a pendant out of the same alloy as the other Bearers' armor, the moon princess having the power of the cosmos more so than Trixie.  Several comets of light smack into Ruinous, Princess Luna glaring at the dark pony.  On the seal in the throne room's floor, a moon appeared on an outer ring.

Ruinous: ONE of you will NOT make a difference!

P.Cadence: *lands* Then how about TWO!?

T.Sparkle: Cadence.....

P.Cadence: RUINOUS!!!!!  You are facing more than you think!  You think you can conquer a kingdom like Equestria using sheer hatred?!  LOVE is the best weapon against hate, and all my friends have proven it time and again!  Tolerance, acceptance, or even just being willing to talk, many a friendship has been forged with the power of love.  And love is my special power!  And while the changelings MAY have fed on love, I now know the truth about that - You tried to corrupt one of my oldest and best friends!  I am Princess Cadence, and I..... AM..... LOVE!!!!!

Princess Cadence gains an amazingly beautiful set of armor, her Master Element of Love shimmering all over.  Her love grants power to the shield used by the two moon goddesses and a heart appears on the seal in the throne room.  Ruinous growled as his attacks did less and less to the shield, his eyes burning with more hatred upon the arrival of.....

T.Sparkle: Queen Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: I still haven't forgotten what happened 2,000 years ago, Ruinous..... When you tried to enslave my people with that curse..... When you cheated when you faced me.....  I was stronger than you before, and I'm MUCH STRONGER NOW!!!  My Master Element of Strength is a symbol of my devotion to do whatever it takes for others, a trait you can NEVER take from me!  And my strength now comes from my friends, and they helped me have the chance to do something I never got a *The symbol of her Master Element of Strength appears under her, a changeling wing* fair chance to do the last time we met: I can protect my country..... I can protect my people..... *Twilight Sparkle seems touched by Queen Chrysalis' motivation* I CAN PROTECT MY CHILDREN FROM (holds): YOU!

As Queen Chrysalis screams out, in Shiftopolis Castle, Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina looked at Ruinous' castle hovering over their own.  The two of them had one thought on their minds:

P.Shiftshape/P.Morphina: Mother.....

The two changelings nod at each other, cross horns and concentrate.  Power flowed between the two siblings as they used the hive mind to give it to their mother.  Queen Chrysalis murrs as she senses the power from her two children, screaming out as she gained a suit of armor as well!  Hers was a bit more insect-like taking into account her purified state.  Despite being black, rainbows criss-crossed it, her wings seemingly made of light.  Her crown was also the same as her armor, her wing as the charm on the tiara.  Even Rarity was impressed with Queen Chrysalis' armor.  But Twilight Sparkle was impressed with what Queen Chrysalis said.

Ruinous: *growl* I don't know where you got that power, but it WILL NOT... MAKE... A DIFFERENCE!

Discord: *lands* I see things differently, "Boss"!

Ruinous: YOU!!??  I should've destroyed you with the others!

Discord: But you didn't, you black hole with hooves!  Fryght, however, DID make a mess of Nightmare Moon's party.

Ruinous: And WHY should I care about that?!

Discord: *smirks as he makes a white box wrapped up with red ribbon appear*  I didn't give her MY present!

Discord smirks at Nightmare Moon, throwing the box at her!  The present snaps around Nightmare Moon like the quick-biting jaws of an alligator!  When Nightmare Moon got up, she was in Canterlot Castle's royal ballroom.  It looked like a coronation was about to take place, dignitaries from all over Equestria present.

N.Moon: What is this.....

Nightmare Moon slowly walks across the floor, seeing the dignitaries look up and smile at her, then bow as they step backwards, making a lane for her.  But what was on the other end made Nightmare Moon stop: A silvery-grey alicorness about halfway between Princess Cadence and Princess Celestia height-wise wearing a very pretty dress.  The dress seemed to be shimmering all over.  The alicorn wore silver shoes that left shimmery stardust wherever she stepped and silvery wings that made a trail of stars appear whenever they moved.  The alicorness looked at Nightmare Moon and smiled, giggling a bit.

N.Moon: *GASP*  Who are you?

The alicorness slowly stepped over to Nightmare Moon.  Her mane and tail looked like what would happen if Princess Luna copied Princess Celestia's hairstyle with her own mane and tail.  There was also a crown on the approaching princess' head - a crown with a star-shaped jewel in it.

N.Moon: What the..... Is that.....?

The alicorness walked around Nightmare Moon, as if looking her over.  When she was next face-to-face with Nightmare Moon, she nodded, smiling and giggling again.  Suddenly a dark hole opened up.  The two alicorns nodded and bolted towards the hole.  The two lifted off, their trails of silver light braiding around each other.  The closer they got, the tighter the spiral until they were about to go through the hole or collide.  As they went through, the two hit with a loud clap.  When Nightmare Moon emerged, Ruinous started going nuts!

Ruinous: WHAT?!?!  NO!!!  IMPOSSIBLE!!! I DESTROYED YOU 2,000 YEARS AGO!!!  HOW DID YOU RETURN!?!?

To her friends, it was Nightmare Moon, but to Ruinous, it looked exactly like the silvery alicorness from Nightmare Moon's vision.  The alicorn glared at Ruinous.

N.Moon/P.Shimmer: Ruinous.....  You of all ponies should realize that while you may have been able to destroy my BODY, my SPIRIT would NOT be as easily extinguished!  It lives in every pegasus who yearns to soar through the skies..... It lives in every unicorn who yearns to cast the strongest magic..... It lives in every earth pony that yearns to ascend to the greatest heights, and it lives inside every creature in this kingdom and others who yearn to unite as friends.  And that is what MY Master Element represents!  *turns completely into Princess Shimmer, making Twilight Sparkle gasp*  I am Princess Shimmer!  *turns into Nightmare Moon* And I am Nightmare Moon!  And I..... AM..... HOPE!!!!!

If Nightmare Moon wasn't a beautiful sight to behold before, she certainly was now!  Stars flew from her mane, tail and hooves and her armor had stars all over it.  She got a crown and a pendant with a star charm on them, and her wings sent out stars and shimmers, just like the princess whose Master Element she now possesses.  Ruinous had to block the incredible brightness with a wing, so he didn't see the gathering cloud of cotton candy over his head until it slammed down on him!  The dark alicorn growled as he was stuck!

Discord: HAHA!  Gotcha, bub!  And THAT is MY power, bringing happiness from the darndest things.  I now feel no happier than the moment I give somepony a nice present they never expected to get, OR playing a funny prank with my partner in mirth here.  My name is Discord, and I..... AM..... SURPRISE!

As Discord murrs, getting a full suit of armor that makes him look like a battle jester, over the fight, Star Chaser glares and dives down, Jalapeno on her back.  The pegasus lands right by Corinne, the earth pony jumping off and landing by Virtuna.  Applejack didn't see her cousin get in formation.  Likewise, Virtuna, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop had no idea Star Chaser was in their midst.  Ruinous glared and hissed at the side now opposing him, seeing Jalapeno and Star Chaser armored up.  In fact, he saw everypony armored up - all but one.....

Ruinous: So..... Twilight Sparkle, is it?  ALL your friends have such amazing power, all but you.....  Doesn't all this make you even the slightest bit jealous?  Would you be better off without them?

T.Sparkle: After all I went through to wake them up from your spell, AND Nightmare Moon, AND the princesses, you already know the answer to that question.  There is NO WAY I would EVER abandon ANY friends I have, had or will have in my life, and not a thing you say or do will change that.

Ruinous: We'll see about THAT!  I don't even see.....

P.Celestia: Sorry to be late to the *appears with a bright flash and a huge clap!* PARTY!

Princess Celestia was the most amazingly beautiful thing yet, sporting golden armor with a sun pattern on the chestplate and a huge elaborate crown with a sun charm.  Sunlight seemed to radiate from her body as the monarch descended next to her student and sister.  Despite radiating so brightly, Nightmare Moon wasn't harmed by Princess Celestia's power at all!

P.Celestia: You almost won, Ruinous, almost, but you neglected to factor one thing: You can NEVER shut out the light I stand for!  My sun warms, protects and assures, your sun chills, scares and harms.  Your corruption can NEVER win over the purity I stand for, that WE stand for.  I am Princess Celestia, and I..... AM..... THE LIGHT!!!!!

Princess Celestia's power made everypony else's armor brighter, making Ruinous growl and stagger.

Ruinous: Call yourselves what you will, I call your precious student vulnerable!  She is the only one without any protection from my powers!  And once she falls, all the rest of you will fall before me!!

Ruinous growled as he re-summoned his henchponies.

Ruinous: *points at Twilight Sparkle* GET HER TO ME, NOW!!!!!

But not one pony moved!

Ruinous: What is the meaning of..... WHAT?!

Ruinous' henchponies look back at their master, or should I say, their FORMER master.  The six shook off their old coats, cutie marks and identities, effectively breaking out of Ruinous' grip on their minds.  That done, "Toxion" looked and smiled at Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy's Element of Kindness on the seal on the throne room floor glowing brighter and firing a beam through the ceiling of the castle, through the floor of Ruinous' castle and directly under the dark pony.  The same happened with "Fryght" - Pinkie Pie, "Fyb" - Applejack, "Styngee" - Rarity and "Hatetrol" - Rainbow Dash.  The unicorn that used to be DarkSparkle looked right at Twilight Sparkle - and bowed!

"DarkSparkle" (in Twilight Sparkle's mind): Time to get ready, princess.

T.Sparkle: Princess?

"DarkSparkle" nodded, then, down below, the gatherings started glowing.  Power flowed from those below to Canterlot Castle, the townspeople standing as one and giving their own power.  A view from above showed that everyone - pony, changeling, dragon, critter - was standing in the shape of Twilight Sparkle's Element of Magic!  All around the two sides, holograms of Equestrians and Transformians appeared - ponies, changelings and others!

T.Sparkle: You see, Ruinous, there's one OTHER thing you forgot to take into consideration: You're not just facing us, you're facing everyone who's ever liked us, depended on us or we've depended on, our friends, our families, even our pets!  *Winona's hologram barks twice, then Opal's hologram yowls and swipes its claw*  We also get our power from our memories.  *Screens showing everything that happened to and with all the Bearers of Harmony appear all around!*  All the times we shared, good, bad, terrific and terrible, all we've known, all we've fought, everything we've seen and done, all gives us power.....  *Ruinous' former henchponies turn into beams of light, flying into Twilight Sparkle's Element of Harmony!* .....POWER ENOUGH TO DEFEAT (holds): YOU!!!!!

Twilight Sparkle glowed brightly, gaining a suit of armor that made her look like a wizard.  Her Element of Harmony appeared on her hat, and a set of wings appeared.  Her magic power was increased to Equestrian princess levels, and her armor shimmered and shone super-brightly.  Twilight Sparkle flew up and glared at Ruinous, the dark pony held in place by the symbols of the Elements of Harmony erupting from the floor.  All the Elements of Harmony below Twilight Sparkle sent their power to her, turning her into a bright light.  When she flew down at Ruinous, she more resembled a kaleidoscopic column of light as she zoomed through the dark pony!  Ruinous screamed out as the sheer power made his body dissolve!

Ruinous: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Elements of Harmony's collective power smashed down on Ruinous, making him scream out as he slowly melted away.  As that happened, his castle dissolved, the black-red swirling "sun" and skies gave way to a nightscape and South Transforma was restored, all the ponies floating down with their winged armor until they landed in Canterlot Castle's throne room.  As the non-Master Elements landed, they powered down their armor, Twilight Sparkle landing last.  Trixie was the first to notice something - While Twilight Sparkle's armor did recede into her tiara, she still remained an alicorn.  Virtuna gasped as she began walking around, noticing something else:

Virtuna: We're here..... and Ruinous isn't.....  We're here..... and Ruinous... ISN'T here.....  WE'RE HERE AND RUINOUS ISN'T!  Do ya know what this means?!  It means we won!  (repeating while running around the room and doing occassional tricks): WE BEAT HIM!!!!!

Virtuna's antics have all the rest of the group laughing, especially those she hugged up.  The only thing that stopped her was locking eyes on Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: *cocks her head* What?  Is it my mane?

Everypony else shakes their head.

T.Sparkle: Did my cutie mark change?

Another round of head-shaking, then Discord gets a mirror and shows her.  Twilight Sparkle gasps in shock, a smile across her face.

R.Dash: WHOA!

Fluttershy: We all did THAT?

Q.Chrysalis: Now THAT is amazing!

T.Sparkle: Does this mean.....?

P.Celestia: Apparently.

Trixie: When Twilight absorbed all that power for her attack, it must've made her an alicorn.

T.Sparkle: Well, this is amazing!  We saved the world and I wind up becoming a princess.

N.Moon: I could say the same thing!  Only one question: That silver pony in the box Discord threw at me, who was she?

Discord, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses got fidgetty as they looked at Nightmare Moon.

P.Celestia: That..... was Princess Shimmer.

R.Dash: Shimmer?  You, Luna, Cadence, Twi and Shimmer?

Pitstop: Gosh, luv, how many princesses do ya have here?

Princess Celestia and the two Wonderbolts laugh.

P.Celestia: Princess Shimmer was the Princess of Harmony.  She was also the Bearer of Hope.

Fluttershy: When was THIS, Princess?

P.Celestia: This was long ago.  Back then, there was no border between us and the changelings.  I was a princess as well as Chrysalis.

Q.Chrysalis: Back then, we were united under one ruler.  It was only recently that Equestria and Transforma established a border - in the geographic sense.  We were still friends - until 2,000 years ago.

T.Sparkle: *nod* When Ruinous destroyed South Transforma.

Q.Chrysalis: Now, back when we were younger and the two of us were one country, we only needed four princesses, one to raise the sun in Celestia, one to raise the moon in Luna, one for the power of love in Cadence and one to protect and empower the Elements of Harmony.  Princess Shimmer was that fourth princess.

Discord: *nod* Princess Shimmer was incredibly powerful, able to handle the power of ALL the Elements of Harmony at once.  As such, she was entrusted with a very special Element of Harmony: Hope.

P.Luna: But she was VERY friendly.

P.Cadence: And super-smart.

N.Moon: She sure sounds like a blast!  Where is she?

Q.Chrysalis: Uh, Nightmare, see.....

Discord: Where-is-Princess-Shimmer? Uh, well.....

Virtuna: I dunno if ya saw it, but we did.  When you came down during the fight, Ruinous went nutso.  *clears throat*  "AH! NO! WHAT ARE YOU DOING BACK!? I DESTROYED YOU!!"

N.Moon: *rears up and neighs*  Ruinous..... DESTROYED Princess Shimmer?  *Discord, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses nod*  HOW?!

P.Celestia: Princess Shimmer gets her power from the stars she puts up every night.  When Ruinous shut the stars off - and you saw his ability to alter the skies in that fashion - Princess Shimmer's power decreased to the point where it was almost non-existant by comparison.

Applejack: Ya'll mean when he made us run through his maze of cruelty until he picked us off one-by-one?

P.Celestia: *nod* Indeed.  Princess Shimmer was overwhelmed by Ruinous' power, and then he corrupted Discord and cursed Queen Chrysalis.  2,000 years ago, it was just me, my sister and my niece wielding six Master Elements against the Spirit of Oblivion.  Cadence was able to wield Love and Surprise and Luna was able to use Faith and Strength just fine.  It was MY mistake in thinking that I could wield Light and Hope at once that helped Ruinous re-emerge.

Virtuna: Ya did what ya had to, Princess.  We crushed him now, when it counted most.

P.Celestia: I only wish Princess Shimmer was here to see it.

N.Moon: Wait, wait.  If Princess Shimmer was destroyed by Ruinous, and she was the Element of Hope, why do I have it now?

Q.Chrysalis: When Twilight and the other Elements of Harmony revived you after Ruinous destroyed you, you were decked out in Princess Shimmer's regalia.  It was MY idea to have the Element of Hope passed to you.

N.Moon: This..... is a lot to take in.....  I-need-a-moment.

Nightmare Moon gallops off to the observation deck, giving Princess Celestia the tiara of the Element of Hope as she does.

Fluttershy: Oh, my.....

Q.Chrysalis: Better give her space.  This would be overwhelming for ANYpony.

Corinne: Of c-c-course.  It's n-n-not everyday you w-w-wind up being made into a p-p-princess.

Discord: *nod* Well, TWILIGHT I could understand, but NIGHTMARE? No offense, Luna, but no way.

Virtuna blinks and looks outside.

P.Luna: No offense taken, Discord.  Nightmare Moon did NOT have the best entrance into this world.

Virtuna: Girls?

P.Luna: She may be as loved as my sister NOW, but-

Virtuna: Girls?

P.Luna: -it did not begin in similar fashion.  It took hard work and Virtuna to-

Virtuna: HEY!

Everypony turns to look at the little earth pony.

Virtuna: *points with her artificial hoof* One of the stars is going nuts.

Everypony looks up at the sky.  One of the stars was glowing in all the colors of the rainbow..... and it was getting closer and closer.

P.Celestia: Oh, my.....

P.Luna: Sister, is that.....

Q.Chrysalis: HAS to be.

Discord, Queen Chrysalis and the princesses bow down.  Virtuna blinks as she sees them.

Virtuna: Uh, girls, if THEY'RE bowing.....

T.Sparkle: *nod* Yeah.

Everypony bows down as they're swallowed up by a rainbow-colored flash of light.  What emerged from the light was magnificent: A huge four-winged alicorn stallion that looked like he was made from the very light he emerged from.  He wore full armor and a helmet that had the seal of the Elements of Harmony.  He retracted his armor, showing his cutie mark was of the mark of the Elements of Harmony.  Pony after pony looked up at the new stallion in awe.  Princess Celestia beamed happily at the new arrival.

???: Ah, Princess Celestia, my faithful student.

P.Celestia: *smiles and nuzzles* Equinous, it's nice to see you again.

Virtuna: WHAT?!?!  *points to Equinous* THIS is your TEACHER, Princess?!  *Princess Celestia nods* WOWOW!!!!!

Equinous: *laugh* And who is THIS?  A new student?

Virtuna: *blush*  My name's Virtuna, sir, video arcade owner and Element of Empathy at your service.

Equinous chuckles, then looks at the other Master Elements assembled.  He smiled widest at Queen Chrysalis and Discord.

Equinous: Aw, Chrysalis.

Q.Chrysalis: *bow* Equinous.

The two nuzzle up and smile.

Equinous: I remember how you and Discord would keep EVERYpony on their hooves.

Discord: NO ONE knew what came next with the two of us!

Equinous: *laugh*  I remember all your antics, Discord.  You and Chrysalis had everyone smiling all day long.

P.Pie: Really?

Equinous: Yes.  *chuckle* I sense that in YOU as well, Pinkie Pie.

T.Sparkle: You know us?

Pitstop: ALL of us?

Equinous: *nod* Indeed.  I have watched you all do everything in your collective power to halt the corruption of Ruinous.  Rainbow Dash, Spirit of Loyalty.  Applejack, Spirit of Honesty.  Pinkie Pie, Spirit of Laughter.  Fluttershy, Spirit of Kindness.  And Twilight Sparkle, Spirit of Magic.  All you have done today will be written down in history.  And your friends shall also not go ignored.  Trixie, Spirit of Sincerity.  Virtuna, Spirit of Empathy.  Pitstop, Spirit of Humility.  Zecora, Spirit of Tolerance.  Corinne, Spirit of Respect.  And you two as well.

Everypony turns, Applejack and the Wonderbolts gasping.  Standing behind them, wearing their Element of Harmony necklaces, were Jalapeno and Star Chaser!

Jalapeno: So, lemme see if I got this right, mi prima.  You buck apples, you make the most delicious cider I ever tasted, you're the best athlete in Ponyville *Rainbow Dash clears her throat* - without wings *Rainbow Dash smiles and blushes as Applejack smirks* - and you do that.  That was nothing short of magnifico (magnificent).

Applejack: Aw, shucks, cuz.

Discord: Remember when she FIRST came over?

Applejack: Yeah.

Discord: Remember when I wouldn't let go of her hoof?

Applejack: Yeeeeeah.....

Discord's smile told Applejack everything.

Applejack: Ya'll're an Element of Harmony?

Jalapeno: *nod* Si.

Applejack: What is it?

Jalapeno: I'm Reliability.

R.Dash: Awesome, Jala.  *The two high-hoof, then Rainbow Dash turns to Star Chaser*  And you.  What's YOUR Element, Star Chaser?

S.Chaser: Heart.

R.Dash: Daw.

The two pegasi hug up, Rainbow Dash not caring at this point if she cried or not.  Equinous murrs a bit, then spots Princess Luna.

Equinous: Luna.  How has life been?

P.Luna: Kinda up-and-down.

Equinous: I heard you went through a 1,000 year stretch that was not entirely pleasant.

P.Luna: Yes, sir.  I... let my jealousy overtake me and.....

Equinous: We all make mistakes.  You learned well from them.

P.Luna: *smile* Thanks, sir.

P.Cadence: Equinous.

Equinous: *murr* Cadence.  The one who loves all she sees, spreading it around.  I find it incredible that you are so generous with it.  *She nods, giving Queen Chrysalis a small blast with her love beam to use as fuel*  Feel better?

Q.Chrysalis: MUCH better than just forcing others, sir.

Corinne: Ya know, I know of a c-c-crystal that can hold that beam and c-c-constantly recharge.

Q.Chrysalis: *blink*  Really?  You can do that?

Corinne: Of COURSE!  I l-l-LOVE working with crystals.  *She murrs as she hugs Queen Chrysalis*  Daw, you.

Equinous: I see that MY students have passed their lessons well.  Equestria and Transforma are in good hooves.  But..... Where's my beacon of hope?  I have my pillar of light, my leap of faith, my column of strength, my constant surprise and my everlasting love.  Where is Princess Shimmer?

T.Sparkle: Uh, sir?

Equinous looks at Twilight Sparkle.

T.Sparkle: Ruinous defeated her.

Equinous: Oh?

T.Sparkle: He wiped the stars out from the sky, destroying Princess Shimmer's source of power.  He then made Discord and Queen Chrysalis evil and set them loose on Equestria, hoping they'd weaken the princesses enough for him to take over.  But he forgot to factor one thing in: Me.  But..... I almost didn't fight.  The lynchpin of our victory can be chalked up to one pony: *sigh* Nightmare Moon.

Equinous: Nightmare Moon?  Princess Luna's alter-ego?

Virtuna: *heads to Twilight Sparkle and taps her side with her tail* Tag.  *looks at Equinous* See, sir, I may have something to do with her conversion from bad ta good.

Equinous: Oh?

Virtuna: See, once she realized she can stop nightmares from invading ponies' sleep - and this even applies to the princesses - she started doing everything to make sure everypony got their hopes fulfilled.  Rainbow Dash AND Pitstop got inta the Wonderbolts, Rarity got some respect from Photo Finish, Pinkie Pie won her first-ever Prank-Off, Applejack was finally rid of the Flim Flams, Twilight Sparkle won a magic duel with that Troyka, and by Celestia!  Look at what she did for Fluttershy!!  Just by lookin' at her, how much Wingpower d'ya think she can generate, just gimme a number.

Equinous: Maybe..... 9.

Virtuna: Try 33.  Fluttershy flew faster during this tornado than she ever could imagine possible for her.  And all Nightmare did was just stand there.  Not only that, Nightmare watched as Fluttershy got her Wingpower ta 10.2 the night before.

Equinous: Sounds like what Princess Shimmer would do.  *magilifts the Element of Hope tiara*  I now know what I must do.  This Nightmare Moon has inspired hope in others.  I must do the same..... for her.

Virtuna: Just love her..... like we do.

Equinous: *smile* I love ALL my subjects.

Virtuna smiles as Equinous heads to the observation deck.  Nightmare Moon was looking up at the stars, so caught up with wondering how she'd be able to measure up, she didn't see Equinous walking up behind her, holding the Element of Hope tiara aloft.

N.Moon: *sigh*  Can I do it?  The Princess of Harmony AND the Bearer of Hope?  Me?  All I wanted was to be loved, to know that ponies sleeping through my nights was not a sign of disrespect, but of reverance.  *sigh*  I just hope I can.....

Nightmare Moon sighs, closing her eyes.  Equinous walks softly up behind her and places the Element of Hope tiara on her head.

N.Moon: *smirks and rises* Princess, I appreciate the gesture, I just need to.....

Nightmare Moon turns around and gasps in utter shock, coming face-to-face with Equinous!

Equinous: Expecting somepony else?

N.Moon: Um, uh.....

Equinous: So, YOU are now the holder of Hope, Nightmare Moon.  I must say, you make an amazing princess.

N.Moon: This exceeded my expectations.  I never suspected my destiny would include this.

Equinous: Few who acquire such power are prepared for it.  Even fewer know how to wield it correctly.  Your friends seem to have the utmost confidence in you.  They have given me six examples of your willingness to give others hope.

N.Moon: Twilight and her friends.....

Equinous: *nod*  Yes, but.....  Your actions have touched more than just six, well, EIGHT lives.....

Equinous spread his four wings and glowed.  Screens of when Nightmare Moon helped out Twilight Sparkle and her friends appeared all around.  The screen of Nightmare Moon suggesting a fly-off between Rainbow Dash and Pitstop at the Wonderbolts tryout expanded.

Equinous: Now, Nightmare, what do you see?

N.Moon: I see the Wonderbolts tryout.  Rainbow Dash and Pitstop put everything into that fly-off they had.

Equinous: Those two aren't the ONLY ones you've inspired.  Look.....

The scene seemed to pan to the two ponies' left, Nightmare Moon cocking her head curiously.  The scene soon stopped on a small pegasus stallion who was watching the fly-off.

N.Moon: Who's he?

Equinous: That is Swoosh.  He's trying to be a Wonderbolt, too, but he was rejected for being too small.  When he saw the fly-off you suggested.....

Nightmare Moon saw Swoosh lift off and fly around, trying to mimic Rainbow Dash and Pitstop.  Fleet Foot noticed and walked over, Swoosh still flying around.  Fleet Foot looked at Swoosh eye-to-eye and smiled, Swoosh smiled back and nodded, then the two pegasi walked off to a training area.  Nightmare Moon was shocked.

N.Moon: My fly-off helped him, too?

Equinous nods, then expands the scene with Fluttershy.  As Fluttershy zoomed back into the tornado, a Rainbow-Dash-sized pegasus with Scootaloo-sized wings watched.  The violet female glares, then takes off, flying around as fast as she could.  Equinous slowed down the tornado long enough for Nightmare Moon to see a white pegasus stallion wave the violet mare into the funnel.  Her added Wingpower may not have been much, but the smile on her face after the job was done was worth it.

N.Moon: *blink* OK?

Equinous: The violet pegasus was named Violet Blossom.  The white stallion is named Snowbank.  Those two wanted to be a team in the tornado, but due to Violet Blossom's bad wings, she was only able to generate, at most, 3 Wingpower.  Her brother picked up the slack and she wanted to be in the tornado for a long time.  That tornado..... was her first chance, and YOU helped her make the most of it.

Nightmare Moon smiled, touched by all she's being showed.  The other scenes showed other ponies her actions helped inspire.

Equinous: You see, Nightmare Moon, hope just isn't directed at one, it's felt by all.  It isn't focused, it spreads out, like a glow.  Each thing you did inspired someone else in a way you cannot measure.  Princess Shimmer was the same way, and you match her perfectly.  THAT is why you were such a good pick for the Element of Hope.

Nightmare Moon ducked her head down as she mulled over what she heard and saw.  She saw how the other ponies' efforts inspired others, like links in a chain.  It clicked with her in that moment, and she knew what to do next:

N.Moon: *raises her head..... and smiles*  I won't let you OR Princess Shimmer down, Equinous.

Nightmare Moon heads to and nuzzles Equinous.

Equinous: Glad to hear it, Nightmare Moon.  *nod*  Let's rejoin your friends.

Back in the throne room, Virtuna was pacing back and forth, worried.

Virtuna: I hope Equinous was able to talk to her.

Q.Chrysalis: I hope Nightmare Moon didn't reject the element.

P.Celestia: If she does, there is no pony else we can transfer it to.

Virtuna paces a bit more, then a light glowed from near her.  Virtuna looked and gasped, smiling widely.  Equinous and Nightmare Moon came down the stairs, the black alicorn wearing the Element of Hope and smiling.

Virtuna: NIGHTMARE MOON!

T.Sparkle: You mean, you're ready?!

N.Moon: I am, Twilight Sparkle.  I just needed someone to show me.

P.Celestia: Glad to hear it, Nightmare Moon.

The two alicorns cross horns, smiling at each other.

N.Moon: I dunno who was that pony who helped me, but he sure gave me a lift.

T.Sparkle: You won't believe me if I told you.

Nightmare Moon blinked at Twilight Sparkle.  Teacher and student chuckled as the black alicorn looked at the sun goddess.

N.Moon: Principal?

P.Celestia: Nope.  MY teacher.

N.Moon: *POINK!*  I see where you get your wisdom.

P.Celestia: *nod* Indeed.

Applejack looks behind her, trotting from one throne room to another.

Applejack: Uh, Your Majesty?

Queen Chrysalis cocks her head, walking to the farm pony.  She gasped as she realized something: The two castles were somehow fused into one!

P.Celestia: I guess we DON'T need the tunnel anymore.

Q.Chrysalis: *looks at Princess Celestia with a sneer* Tunnel?  You tried to do something withOUT my input?

P.Celestia: *blush* Uh, yeah.

R.Dash: Input?

Q.Chrysalis: She tells me what she's gonna do, I tell her how best to do it.

R.Dash: Whoa.  Nice to know you two had such a strong friendship before Ruinous ruined it.

P.Celestia: Well, not completely.  I'll admit, it hurt seeing her turn evil, but she's back to her normal self.

Q.Chrysalis: Hurting you hurt me worse.  The day I was defeated at the wedding, I cried my heart out.....  I thought I ruined our relationship forever!

P.Celestia: *smirk* If you DID, I wouldn't've wished so much to have the chance to help you.

Virtuna: Just a question: How long were ya friends?

The two monarchs blush at each other.

Virtuna: How old?

Queen Chrysalis whispers something in Virtuna's ear that makes her eye pop.  The gamer pony looks at the snickering duo in disbelief.

Virtuna: You-two..... were-friends..... for 10,000 YEARS?!

Other Bearers of Harmony: 10,000 YEARS?!?!

Q.Chrysalis: Give or take a bit.

Everypony laughs, then.....

???: MOTHER?!

Everypony looks at who spoke.  Queen Chrysalis gasped, her bottom lip quivering.  Standing on the other end of the footbridge - hoofbridge? - were Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina.

P.Shiftshape: Are my eyes deceiving me?

T.Sparkle: Nope, Your Majesty.  Apparently, I've been turned into an alicorn.

Rarity: I'll have to make an ensemble fit for a princess while I make your mother some proper.....

P.Morphina: For once, not Twilight!  I'm talking about *points to Queen Chrysalis* HER!

P.Shiftshape: How did you purify her like that?!

The ponies explain what happened.

P.Shiftshape: Wow.....  This-is.....

P.Morphina: I KNEW we'd have a good group with YOU, but this just exceeds everything I ever thought could happen!

Q.Chrysalis: Can I be straight with you?  Ruinous was the root of most of the bad things I did to Equestria.  I HAD to face him by myself to save you from his influence, but then Hatetrol got involved and cursed me with that "suck all the love and positive emotions" thing.

P.Shiftshape: You did that for US?

Q.Chrysalis: I'd face all the evils of Tartarus if it meant keeping you safe.

The trio hug up, bringing happy tears to the ponies.  Twilight Sparkle walks up to the changelings.

T.Sparkle: Queen Chrysalis?  *The trio look at her*  I think... I speak for all of us when-I-say..... that if I EVER have foals of my own, I hope I'm half the mother YOU are.

Everypony behind the new princess nods as the queen hugs Twilight Sparkle.

Q.Chrysalis: Trust me, when you DO have kids of your own, you'll know the strength I have.

T.Sparkle: *nod* You have strength I don't think even Princess Celestia has - and not just beating her in a beam fight.  I mean the strength that comes from protecting something truly valuable to you, that you brought in yourself.

Q.Chrysalis: That's the strength Equinous saw in me, when he personally gave me my Element.  From now on, I will NEVER betray that strength, nor will I use it as an excuse to put myself in such a dangerous situation again.

T.Sparkle: *nod* Good.

Queen Chrysalis and Twilight Sparkle bow to each other, then both heard a buzzing.  Everypony looked around, then a changeling lands on the railing by Fluttershy.

Fluttershy: oh.

The changeling takes off and flies to the changeling royals.

T.Sparkle: *cocks her head*  Who's that?

Changeling M: *lands in front of and bows to the royals, then looks at Twilight Sparkle* My name's Xylo.

T.Sparkle: Xylo?  That's a cute name.  I wonder how come-?!

Xylo smiles as he spread his wings to full instantly, making Twilight Sparkle gasp.  He then plays the "My Little Pony" theme by flicking his wings, the tones resembling a xylophone.  Rainbow Dash laughs.

R.Dash: That is AWESOME!

Xylo: Thanks.

The two high-hoof, then Queen Chrysalis cocks her head.

Q.Chrysalis: What's your ID number?

P.Celestia: ID number?

P.Shiftshape: *nod* So many of us are born at once, so we found a way to tell who's who with the hive mind.

P.Morphina: Here it is.  6-18493.

Q.Chrysalis: *POINK!*  What?

P.Morphina: It's 6.....

Queen Chrysalis' incredulous look stopped Princess Morphina from going any further.

P.Morphina: Mother?

Q.Chrysalis: Can everypony excuse me for a second?

The changeling queen flies off like a supersonic jet, dead south, leaving everyone blinking in shock.

T.Sparkle: What's with her?

P.Shiftshape: Transforma's divided into 12 sections, like a clock.

P.Morphina: It's so we can get status reports via the hive mind easily.

T.Sparkle: That's smart, Your Highness.

R.Dash: So, what's zone 6, where's that?

P.Shiftshape: Zone 6 is the southern area.

T.Sparkle: Your Highness?

Before either changeling could answer.....

Q.Chrysalis: HEY!  *She magilifts them all!*  C'MON!!!

The changeling queen hauls the entire group south, Xylo blinking and swinging his head back-and-forth.  Princess Celestia blinks and looks at the smiling changeling.

T.Sparkle: -The south..... Oh, my, that must mean-!-

When the group gets pulled over South Transforma, they gasp in surprised shock.  Every changeling Twilight Sparkle had seen lying on the ground when she walked through the area was now back up, cheering their queen!  Trixie and the others that went with her also were amazed.

Q.Chrysalis: My people, I have returned!  *Every changeling in South Transforma buzz their collective approval*  And these are my new friends, they helped me get back to where I SHOULD be.

T.Sparkle: Uh, hello?

Xylo: It's OK, they're real nice.

Applejack: There sure are a lot of 'em.

P.Shiftshape: This was Transforma's most-populated region.  It was why Ruinous popped out here.

T.Sparkle: I remember seeing them when I came through here.  Every one of them was laying on the ground, motionless.

Q.Chrysalis: It's because Ruinous did the same thing he did to your friends to them.  He knew me calling to them the way you did would've taken too long, and he thought nothing could beat him.

Virtuna: Well, he sure got the SECOND part wrong!

Virtuna blushes as the changelings below buzz out in cheering.

Q.Chrysalis: *signals for quiet*  I have something to say to all of you: I'm so sorry for how I acted.  For 2,000 years, I acted as if Equestria was our enemy.  The sad fact is WAY before Ruinous attcked my kingdom and defeated all of you, *floats Princess Celestia to her* the two of us were inseperable friends.  We knew each other as fillies, if you can believe that, way back so far, all the princesses flanks were blank.  *Giggles and blushing all around*  When we each received our crowns, we made a promise to each other: If one's in trouble, the other one helps.  Ruinous threw more than one monkey wrench into that, and I shouldn't've let him.  But I thought of mainly my own people, particularly my son and daughter - I know that's not an excuse - and I didn't tell Princess Celestia exactly WHY I needed to face Ruinous alone.  My power was just barely enough to surpass that of Ruinous, and he knew it.  Hatetrol got involved just when I was about to send him back where he came from, and he cursed me with the hunger for love I had at the wedding.  He did this in hopes that the two of us would take each other out, leaving BOTH kingdoms open for him to take over.  He wanted nothing more than to conquer, destroy and enslave.  But we stood together for the first time since we made that pledge to each other: A pledge I will now no longer ignore.  *With her magic, she makes the castles glow, everyone can clearly see that although Canterlot Castle and Shiftopolis Castle are still discernable, a footbridge connects the two!*  Like our castles, our countries and their people are forever united.  Celestia and I will never again see each other as enemies.  From now on, our kingdoms - like our castles - are unified!

Cheering erupts from the changelings as Princess Celestia and Queen Chrysalis cross horns, a burst of light flying from them.  Pony and changeling alike felt the power of the new union and cheered as well.  The two rulers soon go for a fly-around, the rest of the Bearers of Harmony suiting up and joining them.  Equinous watches from above as the two soar around and smiles.  Below, everypony and every changeling waved and cheered as they watched their heroes soar through the sky.

TO BE CONTINUED

Homecoming

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 44: Homecoming

The Bearers of Harmony smile as they land one-by-one in Ponyville and armor down.  As soon as Applejack and Rarity powered down their armor, they get glomped by their sisters.  The four fillies laugh, hugging each other.  Even Rarity getting a bit dusty didn't dampen her mood.

S.Belle: SIS!

Rarity: Aw, you!

Both laugh as Apple Bloom and Applejack roll around a bit, laughing as well.  As the four got up.....

???: Rarity!

Rarity whirled.  In ran Photo Finish with an amazed look on her face, followed by Hoity-Toity.  Photo Finish took off her sunglasses as she addressed the fashionista.

P.Finish: Rarity, you're OK!

Rarity: Aw, Photo Finish.  You know, I actually felt you while I was battling Ruinous with my friends.

S.Belle: "FELT" us?

Rarity: Why, your SPIRIT, Sweetie Belle.  I felt you and *looks at Photo Finish* YOU and Hoity-Toity, Jet Set, Upper Crust, Fancy Pants, Fleur-de-Lis, EVERYpony I ever met!

???: Rarity!

Rarity blinks as she spots an approaching Prince Blueblood!

P.Blueblood: I-just.....

Rarity: You just what?

P.Blueblood: I heard about what happened when you were fighting that HIDEOUS Ruinous!  Look, I thought about what Nightmare Moon said and..... I'm sorry about how I treated you.

Rarity: You SHOULD be.

P.Finish: She has the MAGICKS more than you can realize!

Hoity-Toity: And not just dressmaking, although I MUST say, the ensemble you made for Nightmare Moon made her look just alluring!  I mean her OTHER job, as the Element of Generosity.

Rarity: I do this all the time.

P.Blueblood: And for all you do, YOU deserve the posh title.

Prince Blueblood bows to Rarity, then turns around, running smack into Queen Chrysalis.

Q.Chrysalis: And you don't?

P.Blueblood: Uh..... *sighs and lowers his head*  I called you an insect at the anniversary, remember?

Q.Chrysalis: Oh?  I don't remember that anymore.

P.Blueblood: Compared to you, I'M the insect, I.....

Queen Chrysalis puts a hoof on Prince Blueblood's mouth.

Q.Chrysalis: NO!  Don't talk about yourself like that.  We all have our moments of weakness.  It takes strength within to rise above it.  I have it, and so do you.

Prince Blueblood nods and smiles, heading off.

Rarity: Nice one.

Q.Chrysalis: Thanks.

The two high-hoof as Applejack walks up.

Applejack: Ya know, I felt everypony I met as well.  My family.....

A.Bloom: Aw, sis.

The two hug up, happy tears in their eyes.  Applejack's family walked up and hugged the two.  Winona barks and begins licking Applejack's face, making the farm pony laugh.  The other pets began heading to their masters, Opalescence giving Rarity a little respect for once.  Malphorius screeched as he flew overhead, landing on Nightmare Moon's back.

Trixie: Boy, he WAS facing us all.....

Trixie grunts as Rayzor tackles her off her hooves.  Spike rushes up to Twilight Sparkle, only to slam on the brakes!

Spike: Twilight!  WOW!

T.Sparkle: Yeah.  *blush*  Apparently, absorbing all that power for the Harmony Strike made me a princess.

P.Celestia: This is an amazingly rare occurance.  The last time this happened was when Equinous himself wielded the Elements.

Zecora:

Quite a long time in the past!

Who benefitted from that blast?

P.Luna: That would be me.  Equinous' use of the Elements of Harmony so close to me gave me wings before my time.  Unfortunately, it didn't give me the level head I now have.

N.Moon: She got amazingly jealous about ponies sleeping through the night.  That was the first 1,000-year cycle of both of us going to the moon and back.  Thing is, the last time the Elements of Harmony were used on me, something weird happened.  My grip on Princess Luna WAS shattered - along with my body, apparently - but it also separated my spirit from Luna's.  As you ponies had nightmares, taking them from your sleep aided my return.  Then, Virtuna saw me that night in the Everfree Forest, and, well, look at me now!

P.Celestia: One that can wield the Elements of Harmony.

N.Moon: When I saw Trixie's ice sculpture of the original Elements at the Grand Galloping Gala, I had a thought that I would be forgiven by them.  I never thought it would lead to so much.

T.Sparkle: Aw, Nightmare.

The two alicorns nuzzle up, smiling as Trixie hugs Twilight Sparkle.

Trixie: Princess Twilight Sparkle..... Not bad.

N.Moon: Better than Princess Trixie?

Trixie: *blush* Walk first, gallop second.  Trixie isn't going to let Trixie's power go to her head ever again.  Besides, the magic of friendship you share with everyone you know and knew is far stronger than any spell Trixie can cast.

R.Dash: Far as I'M concerned, YOU got a good start on it.

The two high-hoof, then Rainbow Dash gets sky-glomped by Gilda!

Gilda: DASH!  Oh, my gosh!

R.Dash: G!

Gilda and Rainbow Dash hug up, sobbing a bit as the Wonderbolts land nearby.

Spitfire: I had no idea about this whole friendship thing, then I sensed you were in trouble, Dash.

Soarin: It was surreal.  Every Wonderbolt and ChangeWing just felt as one.

R.Dash: The ChangeWings were there, too?

JetStream: Rainbow!

JetStream comes in for a landing, hugging Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: Heya, bud.  *sniff*  Not bad, eh?

JetStream: I'm so glad you beat him at last.

R.Dash: This is gonna sound funny, but while we were whupping Ruinous' hindquarters, I actually..... felt ya.  The ChangeWings, the Wonderbolts, everyone I knew.  It's as if my Element of Harmony reacted to all of you.

JetStream: Facing THAT amount of power, I wouldn't be surprised if it happened.

Rainbow Dash nods, then nuzzles JetStream.  Virtuna saw this and looked at Princess Celestia and Prince Shiftshape.  Instantly, the gamer pony began laughing.  The two rulers blink as they look at the laughing pony.

Virtuna (laughing on pauses): Hang on, hang on.....  When we were... walking through the sewers,..... Queenie asked Twilight "Other than reinstating the ChangeWings, establishing a peace with Equestria and falling in love with your princess, what else has my son done to make me so proud?"..... That's..... That's..... *Princess Celestia and Prince Shiftshape look at each other, sheepishly smiling and blushing* That's silly, right?  I mean,..... I had no eye in the Transformian sky, but CERTAINLY.....

Virtuna blinks as the two look at each other.

P.Luna: Sis?

Q.Chrysalis: Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?

Virtuna: No..... way.....

P.Shiftshape: Princess.....  *He kneels down, making Shining Armor and Princess Cadence's eyes pop wide open in shock*  I have admired you from afar for a long time, and I really admire you now, up close.  Princess..... Will you marry me?

Princess Celestia nodded, nuzzling Prince Shiftshape.  As everyone cheered, Xylo jumped onto a nearby table and began playing "The Wedding March."

Q.Chrysalis: WOW!  This is..... *hugs the newly-engaged couple*  I actually got to see the two most important ponies in my life get engaged!?

S.Armor: Yeah!

P.Cadence: This'll be interesting!   You guys really turned it around!

Q.Chrysalis: From enemies to friends.

Xylo: Ain't that how it SHOULD go?

P.Celestia: Oh, yeah.

As the two nuzzle up, Virtuna blinks, looking around a bit.

T.Sparkle: What is it, V?

Virtuna: I'm gonna ask what USED to be a VERY dangerous question: *looks around*  Anypony seen Nightmare Moon?

Everypony at the party blinks, looking around a bit.  Nightmare Moon was heading through the Canterlot Memorial Gardens.  She bowed down at a few markers, looking around for somepony..... There she is!

N.Moon: Princess!

The Mare in the Moon rears up, then gallops towards a large, elaborate altar.  This was Princess Shimmer's resting place.  Nightmare Moon smiles as she bows down, then approaches Princess Shimmer's casket.

N.Moon: Princess Shimmer?  It's me, Nightmare Moon.  I've got your Element of Harmony.  *blush*  And we beat Ruinous for ya.  I KNOW you wanted to see it, to stand side-by-side with Princess Celestia and the others you knew.  *Twilight Sparkle slowly walks up*  From what I heard, you were the most beautiful of the princesses.  I know I'm *Applejack walks up, silenced by Twilight Sparkle* probably gonna catch a lot of flak from Celestia AND Cadence for that, but from what I saw in the vision of you when I got my Element, you were the most beautiful princess.

*Pinkie Pie walks up next*  First a bit about me.  I was the evil, jealous side of a friend of yours, Princess Luna.  I was born of her jealousy at Princess Celestia.  Legend was the ponies frolicked and played in Princess Celestia's day, and slept through Princess Luna's night.  One day, Princess Luna wouldn't let Princess Celestia raise the sun, thus was born me, Nightmare Moon.  Princess Celestia used the power of the Elements of Harmony to seal me on the moon and she then took control of BOTH the sun and the moon.  Every 1,000 years, *Fluttershy* the stars aid my escape, bringing with them the power to seal Princess Celestia in the sun as well as the power to bring nighttime to Equestria forever.  This only lasts until I get blasted with the Elements of Harmony.

*Rainbow Dash lands by Twilight Sparkle*  THIS time, when I got nailed with the Elements, something..... peculiar happened.  Princess Luna was freed from my influence - evil at the time - and is still helping Princess Celestia, she's not jealous and she's actually rather pleasant about ponies sleeping through her nights, but for some odd reason - well, odd to me at the time - I stuck around.  I was in the Everfree Forest ever since the last time the Elements of Harmony needed to be used against me.  *Rarity walks up*  I was alone, mis-directed, almost a lost soul.  I really didn't know where to turn.  Then, one day, I heard a voice.

*Virtuna walks up*  It was full of understanding, friendship..... I dare say, even love.  *Virtuna smiles a bit*  She actually told me she could help me.  I had no idea if I COULD be helped, then.....  Then she actually told me it'll be OK.  She actually got Twilight and her friends to talk to me, then, that night - I guess it was because I had more of Princess Luna in me than I thought - I jump out into the middle of town and start absorbing everypony's worst nightmares.  Twilight and her friends, their families, even the princesses.  *Trixie walks up*  Once I saw their dreams in their sleep, the weirdest thing started happening: I started working to make their dreams a reality.

I'm sure you'd've done the same thing.  Helping Rainbow Dash be a Wonderbolt, Rarity get respect from Photo Finish, and my gosh!  Didja see Fluttershy!  Faster than the Wonderbolts?!  Who'd've guessed?  *Corinne strides up*  Certainly nopony gathered, and especially Fluttershy.  I can't remember feeling better than that day.  And that wasn't all I did: I started putting the stars up in the sky.  My wake left the skies twinkling at night.  At first I thought it was because Princess Luna did the same thing, but I read one of Twilight's books on her and *Pitstop lands by Rainbow Dash* it didn't mention Princess Luna putting the stars up.  It was weird, though: The more I helped those little ponies, the more stars I could put up and the stronger I felt.  *Jalapeno walks up*  I don't think I'd've smacked around Queen Chrysalis the way I did without that extra light I felt in me.  *giggle*  The Mare in the Moon, talking about inner light.  But it's true!

I felt so outstanding everytime I helped somepony, and I was always blown away when it happened.  Now I know the reason: It's because it's how YOU would've been.  *Zecora walks up*  I read up on you after hearing about how you were and everything I've been doing ever since that day Virtuna found me..... It's uncanny.  Running around and making everypony's dream a reality, putting the stars in the sky, wielding the Element of Hope and generally being a nice pony to have around.  Everything that is me now was you back then.  *Star Chaser lands by Zecora*  I only wish I could've met you - before that vision - and told you how honored I am to be like you.  It's almost as if I sense your prescence all around me.  And I had no better reminder of that than when I was cheap-shot by Ruinous.

*Discord walks up*  I heard them, all my friends.  They called out to me, lifting me from my depression, lifting me from the darkness, lifting me from my despair.  Everything I helped them with, they remembered.  They helped me to realize I was their shining beacon, their wishing star, their Element of Hope.  *Queen Chrysalis walks up*  Then when I came back and faced Ruinous after meeting you in that vision, Ruinous freaked out!  *Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina walk up*  He actually thought I was you!  Looking at your regalia compared to mine, I guess I can see why he'd think that.  *The princesses walk up*  Because I have been nothing short of a perfect match to you, and it was all because I heard the small caring voice of a small grey pony one night in the Everfree Forest.  If not for Virtuna and her caring heart, I don't think I'd be anywhere near where I am now.  I never thought I would say this about anypony - especially those that wielded the Elements of Harmony against me - but I am so proud to call them my friends.  *Virtuna, overcome with emotion, lets out a barely-audible sniffle*  *smirk*  Even if they ARE a bunch of screwballs!  *She turns around, laughing with all her friends*  How long have you all been standing there?!

T.Sparkle: Long enough.

P.Celestia:  That was a beautiful speech, Nightmare Moon.

P.Luna: And to think you used to be my dark side.

Virtuna smiles as she trots to the black alicorn.  The two nuzzle up as the rest of the ponies applaud.

N.Moon: I guess..... I just needed a light to shine my pathway.

Virtuna: Daw, shucks, just glad I could help.

N.Moon: You helped me more than I can quantify.  Thank you.

Virtuna: Just doin' my job.

Both laugh and hug up, murring.

Q.Chrysalis: Tomorrow, there's going to be a party celebrating Ruinous' defeat and my son's engagement to Celestia at the castle.

T.Sparkle: Which one?

Queen Chrysalis and Twilight Sparkle laugh, blushing.

Q.Chrysalis: May as well be both.

P.Pie: An engagement, a coronation, beating Ruinous...... I gotta go!

Pinkie Pie zips off for HER version of an all-nighter - baking a TON of treats for the triple celebration to come.

P.Celestia: *chuckle*  C'mon, let's get ready.

Everypony nods and leaves, Nightmare Moon leaving last.  As soon as she trots off, Princess Shimmer appears in spirit, looking the same as she did in the vision she had in Discord's present.  She giggled and smiled, then disappeared.....

TO BE CONTINUED

No Boundaries Between Us

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 45: No Boundaries Between Us

The time: One week after Ruinous' defeat.

Preparations were complete for the largest celebration Equestria and Transforma had ever seen.  A royal coronation, a royal engagement and the final defeat of the most dire threat in the history of two kingdoms made for a lot to celebrate.  So much, in fact, the only place large enough was the footbridge connecting Equestria and Transforma.  Ponies and changelings were hurriedly putting the final touches on the gathering, rainbow colors meeting black-with-sea-green-trim in the bunting placed on the canopy over the footbridge.  Rarity smiled as she put the finishing touches on Queen Chrysalis' new regalia.

Rarity: Ya know, you REALLY needed a new crown at least, but I THINK this can work.

Q.Chrysalis: I hope so.  I haven't worn anything this bright-colored since my school days.

Spike: It still blows me away that you were friends for so long with Princess Celestia, or that once, SHE was in Twilight's position.

Q.Chrysalis: How'd'ya think SHE knew how to teach Twilight so well?

Spike: That's a good point, Your Highness.

Rarity: Man, Equinous was a thing of beauty.  I'd LOVE to have a private teaching session with him.  You and the other Master Elements are really lucky to have a teacher like him.

Q.Chrysalis: Not as lucky as we are to be his students.

Rarity: I'm sure anypony in his prescence would have a LOT to learn.

Q.Chrysalis: As far as I'm concerned, I can say the same thing about Celestia.

Spike: Really?

Q.Chrysalis: You should've been there when *Rarity magipulls a mirror over* we were fillies.  Equinous said Celestia had potential to be a great teacher.  I just had no idea that she'd teach Twilight so well.

Rarity: That's an understatement.  Well?  *shows her the mirror*  What'd'ya think?

To say Queen Chrysalis looked more regal than ever was an understatement.  Her regalia looked a lot more like Princess Celestia, black gold inlaid with sea-green jade with a huge yellow gem in the middle of the pendant.  This yellow gem was the love crystal Corinne and Princess Cadence made for Queen Chrysalis.  The changeling gasped in shock.

Q.Chrysalis: Rarity, you are amazing!  I saw the dresses you made at the wedding, THIS is..... *hugs her* You've SO out-done yourself!

Rarity: *giggle* Daw.

Q.Chrysalis: Celestia was right, you ARE amazing friends!

Spike: Just doing our job, Queenie.

All three laugh and hug up, Twilight Sparkle walking into the room.  She's in the same dress and shoes she wore at the end of "Magical Mystery Cure".  All she was missing was the crown she was given at the end of that episode.  Twilight Sparkle blinked at Queen Chrysalis.

T.Sparkle: WHOA!  Rarity, you are amazing!  You nailed this big-time!

Rarity: Oh, *blush* Twi, you're embarassing me!

Q.Chrysalis: YOU look beautiful yourself, Twilight.

T.Sparkle: Aw, thanks, Your Highness.

Q.Chrysalis: PLEASE!  After all we went through to finally send Ruinous back where he belongs, I think calling me by my name isn't out of the question.

T.Sparkle, Spike and Rarity: Really?

Q.Chrysalis: Of course!  Twilight, you went so far out of your way to help me even after what I did to your brother and foalsitter, it's not funny!  Your ascension may be impromptu, but it wouldn't be unearned.  Regardless of why you ascended, you're ready.

T.Sparkle: *bow* I'll do all I can to deserve it, too.

As the two bow to each other, Shining Armor walks up and knocks on the open door.  The two look at him.

S.Armor: We're ready.  Twiley, your coronation's up first.

T.Sparkle: OK, bro.

The ponies and dragon head out, single-file.  They ascend the stairs and head out onto the footbridge on the Canterlot side.  The rest of the Elements were there, decked out in extremely-pretty dresses emblazoned with their Element of Harmony charms.  Princess Celestia and Prince Shiftshape were in the middle, where orderly Canterlotian bricks met seemingly-haphazard Shiftopolisian cobblestones on the footbridge, each standing on each other's capitol city's side.  The audience was a mixture of ponies and changelings, further symbolizing the unity between the two lands.

P.Celestia: Ponies and changelings, we are all gathered here to mark an unprecedented combination of events: The ascension of a new princess, the engagement of two rulers and the final defeat of an ancient threat.  For years, I have mentored one very special pony, seen her through the best and worst days of her life and watched as she's made friends and acheived great deeds, including the release of my sister, Princess Luna.  Through darkness and chaos, she has stood tall through all challenges presented to her.  I am happy, proud and amazed to call her the newest princess of Equestria and the first one crowned in the new Equestria-Transforma unification.  Ponies and changelings, I give you Princess Twilight Sparkle!

Ponies and changeling cheer as Princess Twilight Sparkle walks out of the stairway and onto the footbridge, followed by two other ponies singing in chorus.  Trixie gasped at how beautiful Twilight Sparkle looked, hugging her former rival and making everypony else chuckle.  Twilight Sparkle hugs Trixie back, smiling at her.

Trixie: -Someday.....-

Twilight Sparkle heads to the two rulers, putting her crown on and facing the cheering throng below her.  She waved back to the ponies and changelings gathered as Princess Celestia walked up to her.

P. Celestia (whispered in Twilight Sparkle's ear): say something.

T.Sparkle: !!!  *clears throat*  At one point, I've said that the fate of Equestria didn't hinge on me making friends.  But I know now that thought..... is true.  It's not just Equestria, but also Transforma as well.  *Laughter*  Back when I was a young filly, knowledge was all I cared about.  I would always have my nose in a book, constantly gaining knowledge.  Then came the 1,000th Summer Sun Celebration after the most recent banishment of Nightmare Moon, and so began the most important and memorable education of my life.  I now know that friends like those behind me are the most important things you can have.  It's like this footbridge.  The bricks and cobblestones are your life experiences and the mortar holding them together are the friends you make as you journey through life.  And EVERYthing I went through shaped me into the pony I am today.  Princess Celestia, my family, Rainbow Dash and the other friends I made, even the foes we faced.  I am honored to say these experiences have made me stronger and better everyday, and for all that, I thank not just my friends and family, but each and every single one of you.

Twilight Sparkle's speech drew a round of applause from the audience and a group hug from the original Elements of Harmony.

P.Shiftshape: A footpath.....

P.Celestia: Nice metaphor.

The two rulers soon make their way to the front of the footbridge.

P.Shiftshape: Greetings, our loyal subjects!  *cheering*  This is indeed a monumental occassion, and not just because of Twilight's ascension.  It also marks the start of our lives together, not just as united kingdoms, but also as an engaged couple.  I have always admired Princess Celestia from afar and right after beating Ruinous, I knew she was the one for me.  *Princess Celestia blushes*  I know I already asked in front of the Elements, but..... *gets on one knee as the audience gasps* Princess Celestia, will you marry me?

P.Celestia: I will, Prince Shiftshape.

Everypony and every changeling cheers loudly, fireworks going off all over and a rainbow linking the two kingdoms as the rulers hug up, all smiles and happy tears.  After a while, Princess Celestia addresses the throng.

P.Celestia: As I have ruled over Equestria, I have seen the magic of friendship do amazing and nearly-miraculous things.  It has ended the ceaseless night, brought order to the infinite chaos and has safeguarded this country many times.  But nothing in Equestria's history, from the endless night of Nightmare Moon to the perpetual chaos of Discord to even the perceived scourge of the Changelings could have prepared us for WHY the Changelings acted as they did - the ancient evil known as Ruinous.  He arrived 2,000 years ago from South Transforma and attempted to destroy both our kingdoms by turning us against each other.  For two millenia we fought each other, weakening each other for his next assault.  Not long ago, that assault started in the form of six henchponies.  Toxion.  Fryght.  Fyb.  Styngee.  Hatetrol.  DarkSparkle.  All six stood against my little ponies and the powers of friendship and harmony, and all six fell.  Then, it was Ruinous himself.  It was a terrific struggle, neither side gaining or losing ground.  Then, the Master Elements came and tilted the balance, resulting in Ruinous himself falling before the power of harmony!

Ponies and changelings cheer and jump around a bit in delight until Princess Celestia signaled for silence.

P.Celestia: But it almost didn't happen.....

Silence grips the massive gathering.

P.Celestia: Ruinous had ponynapped the Elements of Harmony and put them in a sick, twisted maze of his magic's creation.  One by one, he hunted them down and defeated all except Twilight Sparkle.  Even me and my sister were overwhelmed by Ruinous' dark powers.  It could've spelled the end of both kingdoms..... if not for three ponies.  One, my favorite student and newest princess, Twilight *Twilight Sparkle nods* Sparkle.  The second, Princess Luna's former dark side and the Princess of Harmony, Nightmare *Nightmare Moon nods* Moon.  And the third..... The ruler of Transforma and the Element of Strength, QUEEN CHRYSALIS!

Despite the applause and a fanfare, the changeling queen didn't emerge from the stairway.  Twilight Sparkle blinked as she looked in Equestria's direction.  She got between Princess Celestia and the microphones, bowing to the crowd.

T.Sparkle: It seems the Element of Strength needs a bit herself.  *laughter*  I'll go get her.

The princesses nod to each other before Twilight Sparkle rushes off to the Equestrian side of the footbridge.  She walked about halfway down, finding Queen Chrysalis, nervous as heck.

T.Sparkle: Chrysalis?

Q.Chrysalis: Twilight?

T.Sparkle: C'mon up, it's your cue.

Q.Chrysalis: Will my own people want to see me?

T.Sparkle: Of COURSE!  You helped us save them.

Q.Chrysalis: Are you sure?

Twilight Sparkle smirks, getting beside Queen Chrysalis.

T.Sparkle: C'mon.

The two nod to each other, then ascend the stairs together.

Queen Chrysalis came out, shaking a bit with her eyes shut.  Twilight Sparkle noticed this and nuzzled her side.

T.Sparkle: Chrysalis, look.  *She points out at the audience, Queen Chrysalis looking out and slowly opening her eyes* They love you.

Ponies and changelings bow before the Changeling Queen.  Queen Chrysalis murrs as she saw the audience pay her as much reverence as they did Princess Celestia.  The sun goddess smiles at her top student as the duo make their way to the microphones.

Q.Chrysalis: My people, *sigh* for the longest time, I had considered Equestria an enemy, a ripe feeding ground for us to siphon all emotion and leave it barren and desolate.  Then, Nightmare Moon went upside my head with that..... *looks at Nightmare Moon*  What do you call that, other than powerful?  *Laughter*  *chuckle*  Once I was rendered powerless by Nightmare Moon's attack, I started seeing and feeling how powerful that friendship really was.  The brightest light on that was none other than Twilight Sparkle.  After what I did at the wedding, I thought a friend would be the last thing I deserved.  And of all ponies, I'd've thought Twilight Sparkle would've been the last pony to give me ANY affection or friendship whatsoever.  *looks to Princess Celestia*  I guess that's why she's at the head of the class, eh, Celestia?  *Both rulers and Twilight Sparkle laugh*  Her willingness to forgive me and make me her friend - even with the memory she has of me - is the main thing Equinous taught us as fillies.  It was a lesson I had long forgot, due to Ruinous' corruption. And it's a lesson that, because of friends like *magipulls Twilight Sparkle to her* you, that I will never forget again.

Everyone cheered as the two nuzzled up, murring and smiling.  The other Elements of Harmony applauded as Twilight Sparkle and Queen Chrysalis smiled at each other.  Shining Armor smiled at his former foe.

S.Armor: -Good going, Twiley.  You helped her forgive herself.-

Virtuna murrs at the changeling queen, Queen Chrysalis smiling at her.  Then the two rulers did something they haven't done since they were fillies: They, together, raised the sun!  Pony and changeling alike cheered and gasped in awe at the display.  Trixie smiled, seeing the majestic sight, then gasped as she looked to her left.  Coming up the Equestrian staircase were the former henchponies of Ruinous, now purified and about the size of Shining Armor and all blank flanks.  But they weren't alone: They were joined by a huge alicorn stallion about as tall as Corinne.  White all over with a straight horn, dragon wings and no cutie marks, he nonetheless made for quite an impressive sight.  Nopony knew what to think as they watched the group assemble.  Fluttershy blinked as she looked at the male earth pony.

Fluttershy: Toxion?!

Discord: What the.....?

T.Sparkle: Who, Flutter..... Oh, my!

P.Celestia: Are they.....?

Q.Chrysalis: Yeah.

Trixie: Those are the ponies who used to be Ruinous and his henchponies!

N.Moon: The Elements of Harmony must be stronger than I thought!

P.Luna: Especially since there were 11 of them.

Both night ponies laughed as Virtuna galloped up to the newcomers.

Virtuna: Heya, guys!  Welcome to our kingdom!

Voices of shock started swelling from the throng below as all seven ponies - including the alicorn - started crying!

Virtuna: Why the tears, guys?  This is supposed to be HAPPY times.

"Fryght": We..... we don't deserve.....

Q.Chrysalis: Now WHY in the wide worlds of Equestria and Transforma do you say that?!

"Hatetrol": We did such... awful things.

"Toxion": I poisoned half the forest!

"Fryght": I sent the population screaming with fear!

"Ruinous": I EVEN KILLED HALF OF YOU!  WHY are you so nice to us?!

P.Celestia: It's because we enjoy making new friends, and since you all seem to be nicer thanks to the Elements of Harmony.....

P.Pie: Princess, with all due respect, *Princess Celestia looks at her* this is really MY department.

Princess Celestia nods at Pinkie Pie.  The party pony smirks and builds power.

P.Pie: PARTY TIME!

The alicorn that used to be Ruinous takes a half-step back at the attack call.  Despite this, this was not a malicious attack.  A full party appeared all around the footbridge, cakes, presents and games all over the place.  After her setup finishes, Pinkie Pie tumbles to the footbridge, making a perfect landing right in front of the rulers!

P.Pie: Because it's what we do.

The former enemies smile a bit, then they join the festivities.  Then, Queen Chrysalis heard a massive whoosh!  The changeling gasps as she notices the Heart of Equestria over BOTH castles!

P.Celestia: Oh, my!

R.Dash: Whoa!

P.Shiftshape: That's.....

T.Sparkle: Wow.....

P.Luna: We ARE one.

Princess Celestia and Queen Chrysalis smile as they watch the Heart of Equestria send its warming waves all over both kingdoms.  The Elements of Harmony stand side-by-side, old and new friends looking upon their new friends.

THE END

Virtuna: Thanks for playing!!!

Chapter 1 - Virtuna Reality

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 1 - Virtuna Reality

Time: Five years after the defeat of Discord.

A new building has been built across from Sugar Cube Corner.  Pinkie Pie watches from her upstairs apartment as several large boxes are brought into the building.

P.Pie: What the heck are those?  Do we have some competition in the cake market?

All is answered by two unicorns putting a sign above the door with their magic, a PS3-XBox360-like controller and an old-school arcade machine over a yellow-blue explosion.  The Bearer of Laughter cocks her head as Gummy, her pet toothless alligator, looks at the building glow from the inside with his typical blank expression.  Pinkie Pie blinks, looking on intrigued.

P.Pie: A video arcade!  Looks like a GREAT place for a party!

Pinkie Pie hums as she retreats inside her room.  Outside, a grey pony with a red-yellow-blue-striped mane from her right to her left puts an "OPEN" sign on the door.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Pinkie Pie hops through town to Twilight Sparkle's library, knocking on the door.  The lavender unicorn answers it after a while.

T.Sparkle: Oh.  Hey, Pinkie Pie.  What's up?

P.Pie: Thee's a new arcade open today!  I can't WAIT to see what's in there!

T.Sparkle: A-a video arcade?  I dunno, it sounds a bit.....

All Twilight Sparkle had to do was look at her "Daring Do" book collection to change her tune.

T.Sparkle: OK, I'll be there.

P.Pie: GREAT!  I'll get the others!

T.Sparkle: *chuckle* OK, see ya later, Pinkie Pie.

Soon, the whole Mane 6 are assembled in front of the arcade.  Twilight Sparkle walks through the door, followed by the rest of her friends.  As soon as Rarity steps in.....

???: *GASP!* CUSTOMERS!

The six mares now hear clop-clop-clop-CLOP, clop-clop-clop-CLOP, as if somepony was walking down a ramp.  Applejack couldn't help but notice something.....

Applejack: Hey, ain't one of those hooffalls a bit heavier than the others?

T.Sparkle: *blink* Sounds like it.

As the two talk, a loud thump turns the other four to look at the stairs.  Reared up on her hind legs was the small grey pony, about halfway between the Mane 6 and the Cutie Mark Crusaders.  She acknowledged the six of them with a big grin as Applejack spotted what made the louder hooffall - an artificial leg.

??? (cutesy New Yorker accent): Welcome to my arcade!

Fluttershy: Oh, h-h-hi.....

???: My name is Virtuna, I own this place.  Pleased to meet Equestria's heroes.

That got all six of them blushing.

Rarity: Oh, well, *giggle* I wouldn't say THAT, we're just six good friends here, Virtuna.

Virtuna: Are ya KIDDING ME?  Ya beat Discord, ya beat Nightmare Moon, ya took on all challenges, believe me, all ya'll are famous in Manehattan.

R.Dash: YOU are from MANEHATTAN?

Virtuna: Ah..... NEAR Manehattan.

P.Pie: HOW... (tries to impersonate Virtuna): NEAR Manehattan?

Virtuna and Pinkie Pie giggle a bit.

Virtuna: Just across the Hoofson River, right near the tunnel entrance.  I was in an apartment complex before I came here.

R.Dash: *head cock* What-happened-to-your-leg?

Applejack: RAINBOW DASH!

Virtuna: (to Applejack): Aw, calm down, Applejack, I get that question all the time. (to Rainbow Dash): I was born like this.

Rarity: Darling, doesn't that get a bit.....  I mean, isn't it a bother?

Virtuna: I don't see it as a bother.  I'm happy with how I am and I wouldn't change a thing.  'Sides, I got an assistant to help out.

Right on cue, in comes a small Spike-like dragon with green scales and a purple crest, the exact opposite color-wise of Spike.  Twilight Sparkle chuckles a bit at the sight of the little dragon.

Virtuna: This is Verdescale, he's been my right hoof through everything.

Verdescale: *bow* Howdy.

Applejack: Howdy?

Virtuna: *smirk* He's from near Appleoosa.

Mane 6: Oooohhhh.....

Rainbow Dash then gets a bit fidgety.

R.Dash: Uh, Vir-Virtuna, if it's... no problem, c-c-can I.....?

Virtuna shuts her up with a reassuring smile and Verdescale nods, taking her artificial leg off.  Virtuna moves her back right hoof to make a triangle with her left legs, smiling.

T.Sparkle: That's rather clever.

Virtuna: THAT is adjusting to the crush in Manehattan at rush hour.

T.Sparkle: I see.

Verdescale nods, then puts Virtuna's leg back on, the little filly walking around in a circle around the Mane 6.

Virtuna: So, game on, anypony?

The Mane 6 look around, Rainbow Dash's interest piqued first.

R.Dash: Hey!  Ain't that the new Wonderbolts simulator?

Virtuna: It sure is!

T.Sparkle: *laugh* Oh, Rainbow Dash, the uncrowned Wonderbolt.

R.Dash: Maybe now, but not forever!

Virtuna: *laugh* WOW!  You REALLY like 'em, don't'cha, Rainbow?

Mane 6: LOVES 'em!

Everypony laughs, then they play some games in the arcade.  Later that day, the ponies head to their homes to do their tasks as in come the Cutie Mark Crusaders.  Virtuna smiles.

Virtuna: Welcome.

A.Bloom: *blink* Hello?

S.Belle: This is the pony sis told me about.

Virtuna: Rarity?

Sweetie Belle nods.

Virtuna: *smiles* Nice to meet you.

The two ponies shake hooves.

Scootaloo: She's sure nice.

A.Bloom: Yeah.

Virtuna: *puts her front left hoof on A.Bloom's shoulder* Trust me, I get it.  Someponies only loosen up around me when they know me.

A.Bloom: I guess I should've remembered the lesson of Zecora.

Virtuna: Who?

Scootaloo: She's a zebra who lives in the Everfree Forest.  She's real nice, but she's all alone out there.

Virtuna: *nod* I see.  Were you scared of her at first?

A.Bloom: I wasn't, but nearly the whole town was.  Pinkie Pie even made up this weird song.

Virtuna: Eh?

Apple Bloom then does Pinkie Pie's song-and-dance from "Bridle Gossip".  (For all you non-MLP:FIM watchers, it's this.....)

A.Bloom (while doing Pinkie Pie's dance from "Bridle Gossip"):

She's an evil enchantress

She does evil dances

And when you look in her eyes

She'll put you in trances

Then what will she do?

She'll mix up an evil brew

Then she'll gobble you up

In a big, tasty stew

So..... WATCH OUT!

Virtuna: *head cock* Somehow I don't think the "Pinkie Pie" I saw in my arcade is the type that would do that.

A.Bloom: Well, ya'll weren't here the first time we saw Zecora.

Virtuna: *nod* I see.  Ain't'cha those Cutie Mark Crusaders?

Scootaloo: Yeah, we're trying to get our cutie marks.

Virtuna: *sigh* Believe me, I understand.

S.Belle: Oh?

Scootaloo: Really?

A.Bloom: How can ya relate?  Ya'll're older than we are.

Virtuna smiles a bit, moving her tail to reveal her flank..... her BLANK FLANK!  The CMCs are shocked!

Virtuna: *nod* Yeah.  I'd've thought it would've come in by now, but apparently, I haven't learned my special talent yet.

A.Bloom: Aren't we surrounded by it?

Virtuna: I guess it's not special to me enough.  Believe me, the waitin's hard, the days're long and sometimes ya feel like you're not important.  But ya can't let it beat ya.  Just keep lookin', not just with your eyes, but your hearts, OK?

All three CMCs nod, Sweetie Belle even tearing up a bit.  Apple Bloom walked up to and hugged Virtuna.

A.Bloom: Thanks for the advice, Virtuna.

Virtuna: Aw, no problem, girls.

The CMCs hug Virtuna as the camera zooms out to see that Twilight Sparkle saw the whole thing.  The sight of Virtuna having the talk with the CMCs brought a smile to her face.

T.Sparkle: What a pony.....

Twilight Sparkle heads over to Spike.

T.Sparkle: Spike, take a letter.

Spike nods, producing a quill and parchment.

T.Sparkle: *clears her throat*

Dear Princess Celestia,

Sometimes we find a pony who's different, not like Zecora, but in another way.  It doesn't matter if somepony's missing a leg or can't walk without a wheelchair, as long as their heart is in the right place.  No matter what the difference, once you see past it, you can often find a great friend.

Your faithful student,

Twilight Sparkle

Spike bundles the letter up and sends it to the princess.  It arrives with a picture of Virtuna and Verdescale.  The sun goddess looks at the photo with an intrigued expression as Princess Luna trots into the room.

P.Luna: What pony is that, sister?  I have not seen the likes of her before.

P.Celestia: It's a new friend Twilight's met, her name is Virtuna.

P.Luna: She seems nice, even if she IS without one of her legs.

P.Celestia: She is, sister.  I think we need to pay her a visit.

TO BE CONTINUED.....

Chapter 13 - Genesis: TOLERANCE

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 13 - Genesis: TOLERANCE

The time: One month after the treaty between Transforma and Equestria was ratified.

Virtuna hums her song as she gets the arcade set up - or tries to, seeing as her artificial leg still hadn't been replaced.

Virtuna: They charge me 600 bits and they take their time fixing it.  And they always FIX it, not REPLACE it.....  I tell ya, Verdescale, it's stupid.

Verdescale: *nod* Who do they think you've got in your tree, Princess Celestia herself?

As Virtuna shrugs, Prince Shiftshape lands outside and walks in.

Virtuna: *She and Verdescale bow their heads* Greetings, Prince Shiftshape.

P.Shiftshape: *bow* Hello, Virtuna.  Still having a problem getting your leg replaced?

Virtuna: BIG time.  They charge me three months' profits and then take an eternity.

P.Shiftshape: Well, forget them from now on.

Verdescale: Oh?

The prince nods, then produces a new artificial leg.

Virtuna: Prince?

P.Shiftshape: *puts it on her* Consider this your housewarming gift.

Virtuna: WOW! *nuzzles the changeling* Thank you!

P.Shiftshape: *nuzzles back* You're welcome.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

As Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina play a few games, an eagle shriek splits the skies, making Virtuna and Verdescale look up.

Virtuna: Who dat?

R.Dash: Believe me, *enters the arcade* ya don't wanna know.

The pegasus bows to the changelings, then notices Virtuna's leg.

R.Dash: Well!  That company got that leg replaced?

Virtuna: No, Prince Shiftshape got that leg replaced.

R.Dash: Awesome!

Rainbow Dash and Prince Shiftshape exchange a high-hoof as Gilda lands by the arcade.

Virtuna: WHOA!  Four kinds of ponies, dragons, a draconequus, changelings and now a GRIFFON?  How many crazy and cool beasts does this part of Equestria have?

Gilda: Just one kind: Mine, you.

Virtuna: *blink* Hmm?

Gilda (advancing on Virtuna, who backs off towards the staircase): Let me get one thing into your head, pipsqueak: I am the COOL-EST thing in Equestria, NOT the princesses, NOT Nightmare Moon, NOT ANYTHING ELSE.  GOT ME?!

Gilda stomps out, shoving past a dumbstruck Rainbow Dash as Virtuna gets back up and shakes it off.

Virtuna: *whistle* Cranky birdie.

R.Dash: THAT..... is why you didn't wanna know what that shriek was.....

P.Shiftshape: Not the friendliest thing I ever saw here, Rainbow.

R.Dash: Uh, yeeeeeeeeeee-AH!

P.Morphina: You know her?

R.Dash: KNEW her, Princess.  She was one of my best friends in flight camp, I mean, inseperably so.  We'd have races all around flight camp and we'd even get into fights about who was fastest.

P.Shiftshape: Sounds like Captain Imitato and his brother.

R.Dash: *laugh* A bit like sibling rivalry.  Then one day, I called her over to meet my NEW friends, Twilight and Pinkie and the others, and she was so mean to them because they *flaps her wings angrily* "weren't cool enough for her".

P.Morphina: THAT'S not fair.  All those friends of yours are real nice and cool enough, Rainbow Dash.

R.Dash: *smiles* Aw, thanks, Princess.  Anyway, she was so fixated on being cool, she didn't see how nice my friends were or how cool they could be in their own right.  And NOW when she says she's cooler than even Nightmare Moon?  This time, she's gone TOO far.

P.Shiftshape: *smirk* Far as I go, Nightmare Moon's WAY cooler than THAT birdbrain.

Virtuna: Oh?

P.Shiftshape: *nod* First of all, I don't think that griffon would be able to handle flying as fast as Moon did to smack our mother around like that.

Verdescale: *smirk* Her feathers would burn off.

Everyone looks at Verdescale, then laughs.  Later that day, Rarity hums as she works on her latest fashions while Sweetie Belle waited for her friends to take her to Sweet Apple Acres.  The door opened and shut, getting the little unicorn excited as she galloped out of the room with her saddlebags.

Rarity: Have fun!

S.Belle: OK!

A short while later,.....

S.Belle (from downstairs, startling Rarity so much she accidentally ripped a sleeve off with her magic): BIG SIS!  C'MERE, QUICK!

Sensing the urgency in her sister's voice, Rarity galloped downstairs fast.  Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, she was horrified to see ALL her dresses ripped to tatters!  Two ponies raised their heads nervously out of dressing rooms.

Pony 1 - pink fem with yellow hair: She just..... Everything's.....

Pony 2 - blue fem with red hair: And her coat! So UGLY and brown, YUCK!

Rarity: Brown?

The fashionista looks down and sees a long brown feather.  That plus how her dresses were destroyed led Rarity to one conclusion:

Rarity: Gilda.

As Rarity tried to get her clothes back in selling condition, across town at Sweet Apple Acres, Apple Bloom was also getting ready for the day's fun.  Applejack was also preparing, stretching her legs for the day's harvesting when Big Macintosh trotted in, panicked.

B.Macintosh: AJ!

Applejack: Hmm?

The two rushed outside and gasped.  Half the trees look like they were blown over or split in half lengthwise!

Applejack: LANDS SAKES!  What in thunderation?!

B.Macintosh: I heard an eagle cry after I saw all this damage.

Applejack: Gilda.....  *sigh*  C'mon, Big Mac, let's..... let's clean up.

It's all hooves on deck as the Apples try to clean up the orchard.  Twilight Sparkle arrived after a while to help clean up by using her magic, then Spike ran over to the farm.

Spike: TWILIGHT!

Twilight Sparkle dashed back to the library to see all her books knocked over in a mishmashed pile, a brown feather on top as a calling-card.

T.Sparkle: Gilda.....

Twilight Sparkle sighs, then puts her books back on the shelves as Pinkie Pie wakes up to the same mess at Sugar Cube Corner, a brown feather on top of a cake that reads, "Pinkie Pie is a LOSER!" and had Gilda's spitefully-smiling face on it.  The party pony growled as she saw that cake.

P.Pie: What a stinky birdie!

As Pinkie Pie cleaned up the cake shop, a roar echoed out!  Zecora was out gathering herbs when she heard it.

Zecora: Hmm?  What was that?  Fluttershy helping a jungle cat?

The zebra dashed out of the woods to investigate.  What she saw in Fluttershy's cottage was heart-wrenching: The Bearer of Kindness curled in a corner, weeping and shivering, not an animal in the room.  Not even Angel Bunny was present.  Zecora dashed to Fluttershy's side.

Zecora: Fluttershy!  What happened here?  Why do you feel all this fear?

Fluttershy could only point at a brown feather on the floor.  Zecora's eyes narrowed in rage.  Outside.....

R.Dash: What are you doing?!  I heard there was SOMEgriffon terrorizing everypony, I just didn't think it'd be YOU!

Gilda: Lay offa me, Rainbow TRASH!  YOU'RE the one hanging around these *Zecora growls and walks slowly outside towards Gilda, who had her back to the approaching zebra* lame-o ponies all the time, you've lost your edge!  I thought you were cool!

R.Dash: I thought YOU were cool FIRST!  If I'd've known you were THIS rude and obnoxious, I'd've never befriended you in the first place!

Gilda growls, raising a taloned claw to scratch at Rainbow Dash - only for Zecora to grab it, fling her around and hurl her out of town into the forest, right into a BIG patch of Poison Joke!

R.Dash: ?!  Zecora?!

Zecora:

*looks at Rainbow Dash* You'd better get to Fluttershy's house,

she's shivering and squeaking like a scared little mouse.

*She fixates a glare on Gilda*

YOU!  You think that Rainbow is lame,

then scare and destroy like it's some game?!

You have no love for those not like you,

and you show it in all you say and do.

But there's one thing you forgot, and it's bad news for you.

These "lame-o" ponies are MY best friends, TOO!

Gilda: YOU!?  You are the lamest thing I ever saw in my life!  I can't think of anything else lamer!

Just then, a second "Gilda" landed nearby.

Gilda: What the?!

"Gilda": What the?!

Gilda: HEY!  Stoppit!

"Gilda": HEY!  Stoppit!

Gilda: CUT-IT-OUT!

"Gilda": CUT-IT-OUT!

Gilda growled, then reared her head back and tried to roar - only to wind up with a sound similar to Fluttershy's attempt at it.

"Gilda": Was THIS what you were trying to do?

"Gilda" rears her head back and fires a picture-perfect lion roar right at the stunned griffon.  Gilda shivers as she gets a high-volume dose of her own medicine.  "Gilda" smirks as she turns into Prince Shiftshape, much to everypony's delight as Virtuna trots up, smiling.

Virtuna: When I heard that roar, I figured she needed a dose of her own rudeness.

Gilda: Rudeness?!  That is MY ROAR!!

P.Shiftshape: Funny what can happen when you've got a CHANGE-LING on your friends list.

Zecora: You should be ashamed of yourself,

all that hate should be put on the shelf.

As for me, I don't care if we don't look the same,

As long as we're friends, nopony here is lame.

Twilight Sparkle smiles, then senses something, craning her head towards Canterlot.....

T.Sparkle: No way.....

Zecora looks up in shock as she sees the same crystal dust that surrounded the other ponies that got Elements of Harmony surround her!

Applejack: So wait?  Ya'll DON'T need to be a pony to get one of those?!

Everypony is in shock as Zecora got a necklace as well, her cutie mark as the charm.  Discord flew down after the shards, blinking as he saw Zecora.

Fluttershy: zecora?  y-y-you are an element?

Discord: Did you know the first holder of the Element of Tolerance was a deer?

Rarity: Oh?

Discord: *nod* Yes.  Ever since it was discovered, the Element of Tolerance has NEVER *Fluttershy cringes a bit and Discord bows his head as he looks at her* - sorry *Fluttershy straightens back up with a slight smile* - been held by a pony.

T.Sparkle: Not once?

Discord: It ALWAYS goes to a non-pony Equestrian that exhibits the same traits Zecora here just did, a willingness to see beyond a pony's cover and see what they are all about inside.

Gilda (voice getting squeakier and quieter): WHAT?!  You mean SHE threw me into the Poison Joke and SHE gets the Element of Harmony?!

Discord: She threw you into the Poison Joke since YOU needed a lesson in being tolerant of other ponies' differences AND because you were INtolerant of EVERY single thing LIVING in this village that is NOT... A... GRIFFON!

Fluttershy: YEAH!

That got all the ponies - and Zecora - laughing.  Gilda, however, wasn't laughing as she tried to take off - only to find out she was having so many control problems, it made Rainbow Dash's bout with Poison Joke exposure seem like a minor problem!

Gilda: AH!  *CRASH!*  NO!  *SMASH!*  WHY-ME?!  *THUD!*

The griffon smashed, crashed and bashed her way out of the village.  Meanwhile, the ponies faced a HUGE clean-up, Prince Shiftshape sighing a bit, then flapping his wings hard, making them buzz.  Up above flew a squadron of changeling soldiers, who descended down and helped clean up every bit of damage Gilda did!

Applejack: WOW!

P.Shiftshape: Yeah!

R.Dash: So THAT'S why Queen Chrysalis didn't have that huge army of changelings she had before.

P.Shiftshape: *nod*  Her rule was on the way down, anyway.  What happened during the wedding only accelerated the process.

Discord: I heard of that.  Feeding changelings love, rubbish!  Cake tastes a LOT better!

P.Pie: *laugh*  Oh, yeah!

After a while, all the damage was repaired by the ponies and changelings and everypony celebrated the finding of a new Element of Harmony.  Discord flew back to Canterlot and ran into the princesses and Nightmare Moon.

P.Celestia: So?  Who and what?

Discord: Tolerance and Zecora.

P.Luna: Zecora?  The zebra?

Discord: *nod* Yes, Princess.

N.Moon: The streak continues.

Everyone chuckles a bit.

P.Celestia: Once Respect is revealed, Ruinous' henchponies will start the attack.  This is close to the beginning of the greatest battle in Equestrian history.

N.Moon: Soon to be followed by the greatest TRIUMPH in Equestrian history.

P.Celestia: You seem so sure of that.  In fact, every time I bring Ruinous up lately, you seem to be increasingly confident of our victory.

N.Moon: Of course!  Twilight and her friends beat me and Discord, Twilight herself sniffed out Queen Chrysalis and ALL of those ponies have taken on every trial that's been set before them with their unique blend of friendship, love and trust.  They also have something I can see burning deep in them: The hope in themselves that their bond IS enough to overcome obstacles, and THAT is the greatest strength they possess.

Nightmare Moon punctuated that with a nod and heads off down the hallway.  Princess Celestia watches her walk off and slowly smiles.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter 29 - Running with the Night (Mare)

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic: RISE OF RUINOUS

Chapter 29 - Running with the Night (Mare)

The time: One month after the Great Prank-Off.

Pinkie Pie puts her Great Prank-Off trophy on the mantle next to her cake-baking awards as Princess Morphina flutters in.

P.Morphina: Heya, Pinkie.

P.Pie: *bow* Hello, Princess.

Princess Morphina bades Pinkie Pie rise and she does.

P.Morphina: I see you won the prank-off.

P.Pie: YEAH!  Thanks to Nightmare Moon punishing some cheater-pony.

P.Morphina: I heard of that.  She's REALLY lending a hoof EVERYwhere, huh?

P.Pie: *nod* Almost as if she's trying to atone for what she did - or tried to do.

P.Morphina: What DID she do?

P.Pie: She once threw Princess Celestia into the sun and brought upon nighttime everlasting.  When me and my five best pals blasted her with the Elements of Harmony, she was purified from Princess Luna - or we thought so, until Virtuna got her out of the Everfree Forest.

P.Morphina: I see.  I guess this means you're all MUCH stronger now.  If SIX Elements of Harmony can purify Nightmare Moon AND Discord, imagine 11!

P.Pie: I've already seen what 11 Elements of Harmony can do - four times.

P.Morphina: *nod* And three more and you've saved BOTH our kingdoms.

P.Pie: *nod* Yeah.

Princess Morphina nods, then buys a few treats.

*INTRO SEQUENCE*

Ponies gather at the town hall as the mayor speaks.  Nightmare Moon flies over this scene.

N.Moon: What is this?

As Nightmare Moon descends.....

Mayor: .....Running of the Leaves.  This event is special since it's the only way the leaves come off the trees.

N.Moon: *lands near Rainbow Dash and Applejack* Running of the Leaves?

R.Dash: Yeah, Nightmare Moon.

Applejack: It's a runnin' ta get all the leaves off the trees of Equestria.

N.Moon: Sounds like fun.  When is it?

R.Dash: Tomorrow.

Nightmare Moon nods, seeing other ponies register, including Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Pitstop.  She smiles as she signs up for the race as well!

Mayor: N..... Ni..... Nightmare..... Moon?

N.Moon: I better be Nightmare Moon, that's what I wrote!

The former enemy laughs as she trots to the same running track Rainbow Dash holds the tornado-to-send-water-to-Cloudsdale tryouts on.  She sees several other ponies running around the track, trying their best to be fast.  Several others waiting in line see her and "part the Red Sea", making a lane for her.

N.Moon: *smirk* Please!  I'm just another pony, go on ahead.

The others, relieved, take their laps.  Then, it was Nightmare Moon's turn.

N.Moon: Now, I dunno. I AM a bit out-of-practice.

R.Dash: Since there's less gravity on the moon.

Pitstop: Just do ye best, luv.

Nightmare Moon nods, then dashes around the track.  Pony jaws hit the floor as they all noticed one thing: Nightmare Moon, for her size, was remarkably fast!

R.Dash: Whoa, whoa, WHOA!

Applejack: If THIS is you being out-of-practice!

N.Moon: *blush and laugh*  Well, I DID have a LOT of spare time on my hooves.

All three mares laugh and practice a bit more.  The next day, everypony was on the start line for the big race.  Nightmare Moon shows up, wearing number 20.  Rainbow Dash smiles as the black alicorn takes her spot.

R.Dash: Heya, Moon.

N.Moon: *smile*  Heya, Dash.

Pitstop: Ready, luv?

N.Moon: *nod* Yeah.

Just then, an eagle screech splits the air!

R.Dash and N.Moon: No way!

Gilda lands next to Nightmare Moon, having taken the number 1.

Applejack: What in thunderations are YOU doin' back here?

Gilda: Winning this race, DUDE!  I will show ALL you lame poines - ESPECIALLY *points at Nightmare Moon* YOU! - that I... AM... NUMBER-ONE!

N.Moon: *smirk* Well, you won't have MUCH to fear in this race. *Zecora lines up to Nightmare Moon's left* For one thing, we're not going through the Everfree Forest so *Zecora chuckles* no danger of Poison Joke.

Gilda was the only one on the start line NOT laughing.

Zecora: Aw, now, wipe that scowl from your face,

Just have some fun and enjoy the race.

Gilda: I'll enjoy it MORE once I leave ALL of you in my DUST!

Rainbow Dash and Nightmare Moon exchange a skeptical glance.  Then, Pinkie Pie takes her spot in the blimp, Spike, Verdescale and Virtuna already there.

P.Pie: *cocks her head*  You're not running in the race, Virtuna?

Virtuna: With *extends her artificial leg* this?  I'd be slippin' all over the trail!

Verdescale: *nod* She tried it on the track and slipped coming around the turn.

Virtuna: *nod* Yeah.  I wasn't even *Pixel lands on her head* runnin' that fast.

P.Pie: Wow.  Good thing you don't have to RUN around the arcade.

Virtuna: *giggle* I'd be slidin' around like an air-hockey puck!

Both ponies laugh as the horn sounds for the ponies - and Gilda - to take their positions, Gilda lining up right next to Nightmare Moon.

Gilda: Look here, you.  I'LL show you I'm faster than your lanky flank.

N.Moon: Don't trust covers, birdbrain.

A bell rang and the ponies galloped off, Gilda trying to keep up.  Nightmare Moon smirked back at the struggling griffon and smirked, increasing her pace.  Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pitstop were jockeying for the lead when they noticed Nightmare Moon pulling up alongside!

Applejack: NO WAY!

P.Pie: Holy moly, look at THIS!  Who'd've guess Nightmare Moon would be in the running?!

Spike: Indeed, Pinkie.  From enemy to a great friend to Equestria, and now she shows she's as fast as the three top ponies in the race!

The quartet race through Whitetail Wood, periodically exchanging the lead.  Gilda, however, was being overtaken by, of all ponies, Fluttershy!

Gilda: *gasp, pant* HEY!

Fluttershy: Gotta move a TEEEEEEENY bit faster than that!  Ta-ta!

The Bearer of Kindness turns on the afterburners and gallops further ahead of the sputtering griffon.  Further ahead, Twilight Sparkle's keeping pace with Trixie, the showpony lacking her hat and cape.

T.Sparkle: WHOA!  Not bad, Trixie!

Trixie: A product of lugging that cart around Equestria.

Both unicorns giggle as they remember that.  The two kept running hard as they came up on Rarity and Corinne.

T.Sparkle: Rarity! You, too?

Rarity: Just because I'm a lady..... doesn't mean I don't enjoy..... a good workout now-and-again.

Corinne: Y-y-yeah!  This is f-f-fun!

All four laugh as they continue on down the path, leaves raining to the forest floor in their wake.  Gilda wasn't having the best race and the proud griffon knew it.  She turned on the afterburners and scrambled to make up ground.  Up front, things were getting interesting as Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pitstop and Nightmare Moon traded positions as they rumbled four abreast through the woods.  The taller alicorn was first to spot the finish line and turned on an extra burst of speed, the other three having the same idea!

P.Pie: OH MY! OH MY!!!

Spike: This is gonna be close!

And close it was as Nightmare Moon edged Rainbow Dash by a hair, the cyan mare crossing just barely before Pitstop and Applejack!  From above, all the quartet in the balloon could see was four smoky trails where the four mares crossed the finish line!

P.Pie: OH MY STARS!  I can't tell who won!

Virtuna: GEEZ!  That looked like a four-way tie!

Mayor: Hang on!  It was a photo finish!

As the four frontrunners caught their collective breath, they trot over to look at the picture.  Pitstop and Applejack gawk in disbelief at the pony who came first.

N.Moon: *blink* How did.....?

R.Dash: Whoa.....  I knew you were good at running, but not THAT good!

N.Moon: You and me, both, Rainbow!  I never thought in a thousand years *Everypony except Nightmare Moon laughs* that I'd be faster than YOU!

Applejack: Ya'll're too modest, Nightmare.

N.Moon: I prefer to call it "keeping a level head", Applejack, something you and Rainbow could've done a few years back.

Both blush, remembering that race.  Then, everypony hears huffing, gasping and wheezing.  Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pitstop and Nightmare Moon look to see Gilda almost drag herself across the finish line.

Gilda: *GASP!* *PANT!* *WHEEZE!* made-it! *sigh of relief as she lays right by Nightmare Moon, who looks at the others as if asking "Should I tell her?"*

R.Dash: Uh, Gilda, the, uh..... the-race-is-over.

Gilda: Oh, *slowly rises with a grunt* really?  Who won?

The three smaller ponies all point at a nodding, blushing Nightmare Moon.

Gilda: WHAT?!  How........  What-the?  I mean, what-why-how-did.....?

N.Moon: Oh, puh-LEASE!  In the time it took YOU to get across the finish line, I could've met my special somepony, had three foals and seen one become a brainiac like Twilight Sparkle *Twilight Sparkle chuckles*, seen one become a great athlete like Rainbow Dash *Rainbow Dash laughs* and seen the third become a great ruler like Princess Celestia!  I mean, FLUTTERSHY beat you, for pony's sake!

R.Dash: Moon's kinda right, G, for all your bravado and your speed ABOVE ground, ON the ground you were sortaaaaaaaaaaaa............ slow.

Trixie: Trixie can see TRIXIE beating you - The Great and Powerful Trixie was hauling a cart that was Trixie's home all around Equestria. But Fluttershy's only exercise - other than the outstanding job she did on that tornado *Fluttershy blushes* - was flying around feeding and caring for all those animals.

Gilda: What-tornado?

The ponies explain what happened.

Gilda: WHOA!!  33?!  You're kidding!  *Nightmare Moon smirks*  You're kidding, right!?  Fluttershy?  *Fluttershy nods*  33-Wingpower?  *Fluttershy nods again*  *SCREECH!*

Pitstop: Ya, she was brilliant, ye should've seen 'er!

Gilda: You expect ME to believe that *points at Fluttershy* SHE got to 33 Wingpower?!  I can do 40!

Trixie smirks, then puts a Wingpower meter on Gilda.  The griffon growls, then flies her fastest in a circle.  As Princess Celestia, Prince Shiftshape and Princess Morphina arrive, Gilda starts slowly drifting to a halt, landing with a heaving chest.

Gilda: THERE!  THAT... SHOULD.... BE-40!

P.Shiftshape: *blinks at Gilda's meter* Iiiiiiiiiiis this-thing-upside-down?

R.Dash: *bow* Don't think so, why?

P.Shiftshape: *beckons all to rise* Since this thing's only showin' 4..... something.

All Except Prince Shiftshape: WHAT?! 4!?

Gilda: F...... F...... FOUR?!  FOUR!?  NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gilda walks off, lamenting about her dual poor performances, Princess Celestia craning her neck at the departing griffon.

P.Celestia: Boisterous one, ain't she?

Everypony laughs, then the medals are awarded, Princess Celestia impressed with Nightmare Moon's performance.

R.Dash: Hey, Moon. *Nightmare Moon looks at her*  Wanna try out for the Wonderbolts?

Everypony laughs, especially Rainbow Dash, Nightmare Moon and Pitstop.

TO BE CONTINUED