Resparked

These creatures were a cross between a horse and a monkey, with wild, curly manes. They moved like hunters, each with a cloak and weapon belt, machetes hanging at their sides. The ponies' fur bristled in alarm. The centaurs were clearly carnivores. Applejack, trembling as she looked up at their leader, Asbolos, pleaded, "Please... spare us."

The dark-skinned centaur with a fierce black mohawk caught sight of Applejack's blood-soaked bandage, his sharp eyes narrowing. Without hesitation, he withdrew his spear and took a step back.

“You’re in luck,” he said, his voice deep and authoritative. “Our law is clear: we do not attack injured creatures.” His fellow centaurs relaxed slightly, though their eyes remained wary, watching every movement of the ponies. Applejack exhaled shakily, relieved but still tense.

“But you are disturbing the peace of the Holy Garden, and we can't tolerate that!”

Asbolos turned to the other centaurs, waving his hand to signal them to lower their weapons. They obeyed without hesitation, their tense stances relaxing slightly. Applejack opened her mouth to ask questions, but the fever blurred her vision, and a wave of dizziness silenced her before she could utter a word. She swayed unsteadily, her thoughts spinning, as the world around her felt distant and out of reach.

“Tell me how this fight actually came about,” Asbolos demanded, his deep voice commanding attention. His sharp eyes shifted to two centaurs who were prodding Trixie with their spears, forcing her out of the rock she'd been slammed against. With a grunt, Trixie tumbled to the ground, her face meeting the dirt with a rough thud.

Applejack was trying to answer, but the fever took over suddenly. Asbolos supported her head before she fell. He quickly realised that she needed help and lifted her up with strong arms, holding her like a baby.

“Ah, Lykus!” A centaur with grey fur replied. “If you could be a big help and carry the other pony on the ground there, that would be great,” Asbolos said, pointing at Rainbow Dash.

Rarity wasn't sure how to respond in the situation. No one else was up for a chat. Fluttershy hid her face behind her mane. All of them, including Trixie, were treated the same way by the centaurs. They gave a hand signal to indicate that they should follow. Trixie met Rarity's gaze. She wrinkled her nose and made a beeline for the other end of the room to avoid getting into a discussion with the others. If the centaurs hadn't been there, Rarity would have done a lot more than just argue.

The hunters led them over streams, past cliffs and valleys. Every now and then more ruins appeared, all in the whitewashed rock. Deserted houses, damaged statues of monkey creatures in masculine poses.

“These are remnants of our ancestors, who unfortunately paid less respect to the Sacred Garden. The gods had rightly punished them,” explained a centaur walking alongside Rarity.

Applejack kept nodding off during the lulling walk. Asbolos sensed her weak aura and decided to hurry. Later, the patrol reached a bridge that led into a cave on the other side. A white archway allowed entry. They marched through dark corridors until they reached a large room. The room was lit with blue fire in golden bowls. In the center stood a deep truncated cone, surrounded by torches. There was a slight indentation on this elevation. A golden ring on the ceiling had the same radius as the truncated cone. The ponies suddenly realized everything.

“Is this…?” Rarity was taken aback and before she could finish her sentence, Asbolos replied, “... the gateway to our world!”

Fluttershy stared at the ring as if she would be crushed by it at any moment. “Are... are we going to die?”

Laughter erupted from the centaurs, causing Fluttershy to blush deeply, shrinking behind her mane. The question of how they had arrived here seemed almost silly now.

“You’ve nothing to fear,” Asbolos reassured them, his tone more relaxed now. “This gate can be passed from either side. All it takes is the right key.”

With a simple gesture, Asbolos ordered one of the hunters to begin working on the gate. The centaur swiftly moved into action, leaving the ponies to glance nervously at one another.

The red-brown centaur carefully placed a round sapphire into the notch. The stone pulsed softly before a beam of blue light shot upward, illuminating the center of the ring. In an instant, a shimmering, water-like structure materialized, its surface rippling gently. The light danced across the room, casting glittering reflections that sparkled in the eyes of the astonished ponies.

“After you,” Asbolos said to the ponies. Fluttershy was still afraid. But when Pinkie Pie and Rarity stepped onto the platform of their own accord, she gathered her courage. Something pulled the ponies up. They were floating towards the water.

“Haaa! I want to get out of here! This is too much! I want to go home!” squealed Fluttershy, kicking her hooves in a panic. Without hesitation, the three friends dove into the shimmering liquid. It felt cool and tingly, almost like swimming through gentle rain. On the other side, they emerged from a circular pool, yet somehow remained dry. Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie shivered as they took in their surroundings, while the others followed behind, carrying Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and a bruised Trixie. And then, at last, they saw it...

It was simply breathtaking! Before their eyes stretched a vast, ancient city, teeming with lush gardens and towering temples. It was indescribable, almost dreamlike. White marble streets snaked through the city, all leading to a grand center. Dominating the skyline was a shining capitol, standing far taller than any other structure. The ponies stood in awe, their jaws nearly hitting the ground. Asbolos couldn’t help but grin at their astonishment. But he wasn’t about to keep the name of this wondrous city a secret. “Welcome to Atlantis!” he announced proudly.

“Atlantis?” Pinkie Pie repeated, fascinated. The name triggered a certain enchanted feeling in the ponies.

“That's right, this is our realm!” said Asbolos proudly. “We've been guarding the journey of the deceased since the world was created.”

The ponies were guided deeper into the city by the centaurs. Women chatted and laughed, while young centaurs played joyfully in the square. The returning hunters were met with nods of respect and warm greetings. A centaur girl called out to Asbolos, her voice bright with curiosity. “Hello, Asbolos! How was the hunt? Who did you bring back? Will you be joining us for dinner tonight?”

Asbolos waved back with a smile. “Maybe! All is well, Greta!”

It became clear where the centaurs were leading the ponies: the grand capitol. It bore a resemblance to the town hall in Ponyville, but it was a mere shadow compared to this magnificent structure. Wide, sweeping stairs ascended to the entrance, where two imposing guards stood sentinel. One of the guards nodded at Asbolos before blowing a horn he held at his side. The massive gates creaked open slowly, inviting them in.

As the ponies entered, they did so with a sense of awe and reverence. The interior was warm and welcoming, in stark contrast to the imposing exterior. Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Trixie felt the heated floor beneath their hooves, a comforting sensation. A sweet floral scent filled the air, enveloping them in tranquility. The reception hall was designed like a mythical garden, with vibrant greenery and flowers. At the center stood a fountain with three elegantly carved bowls, while colorful birds flitted gracefully above it. Nearby, an elderly centaur with a full gray beard watched them closely, adorned with an ornate golden buckle wrapped around his torso. As he looked up, the other centaurs bowed their heads in respect.

“Asbolos, my friend! What a pleasure it is to see you’ve brought the expected visitors!” the old centaur exclaimed warmly.

“Your knowledge is unmatched, Councillor Cheiron!” replied Asbolos, a sense of pride in his voice.

Cheiron's kind eyes scanned the new arrivals. “Welcome! I am Cheiron, head of the Council of Atlantis. You’ve journeyed far; now you can rest your weary bones.”

Rarity, however, wasn’t in the mood for rest. “Thank you for your hospitality! I’m Rarity, by the way... Your city is absolutely magnificent, sir. It’s just a pity we’re not here for a leisurely visit.”

She looked sadly over at Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

“I know,” Cheiron said understandingly, “One of your friends has a torn soul inside her. I've heard about it. It doesn't happen often.”

He strode towards Lykus. Rainbow Dash had put on a particularly sniveling face in her sleep. Cheiron touched the pony with his old hands and winced as he felt the creature's distress. “I can feel the presence of the weak personality. It is suffering great agony. It is very bad. The other soul has become very disturbed and ill because of this suffering. They are closely connected.”

Fluttershy made a catching sound. “Can you heal Rainbow Dash? Please tell me! Will she always be like this?”

“If another day had passed, both souls would be beyond saving,” Cheiron said seriously. “But we can do something, it's not too late!”

“There's something else!” Asbolos suddenly exclaimed, urgency lacing his voice. “Something’s wrong with this pony, too. I have a feeling she’s dying...”

A chilling silence fell over the group. Even Trixie, usually so confident, found herself taken aback by the gravity of the situation.

“I see,” Cheiron responded, his tone shifting to one of authority. “Get her to the hospital immediately. I want my doctors to attend to her right away!”

The friends exchanged worried glances, their concern for Applejack palpable. Before anyone could speak, Asbolos darted out of the room, two centaurs rushing after him. Just then, a blonde centauress emerged from a back room, catching Cheiron's eye.

“Ah, perfect timing! I was just about to call for you!” he exclaimed.

Cheiron gestured toward the centauress, introducing her to the four ponies. She wore a stunning blue robe that left Rarity momentarily speechless. The centaur woman radiated beauty and grace, captivating even the most discerning eye. "This is my daughter, Okyroe," Cheiron said, “She possesses the unique ability to help your Rainbow Dash separate the sick piece of her soul. It's an ancient ritual known only to her; a gift bestowed by the gods themselves.”

Lykus handed the pony to the woman. The woman looked at Rainbow for a long time, stroking her mane. “Poor thing!” she said, “Let’s get started right away, follow me!”

The friends followed the young woman with Cheiron. Okyroe spoke to one of the women in a strange language. They nodded and dispersed. Doors and gates were opened and the ponies travelled through several halls and corridors until they came outside.

In the heart of the clearing, a wonderful sight unfolded. At its center stood a weathered stone tablet, surrounded by a serene atmosphere. Beyond it, a vast ravine cascaded with several waterfalls, the water shimmering as it tumbled down the lush, plant-covered walls. The floor was decorated with intricate paving stones, adding to the beauty of the scene. The centaurs reverently washed their arms in the pure, crystal-clear water. Cheiron and the ponies followed suit, cleansing themselves before approaching. The white centaur gently placed Rainbow Dash on the stone slab. The Pegasus hummed softly in her sleep, blissfully unaware of the events unfolding around her.

“Please bring me the bowl,” Okyroe ordered. One of the women brought her a bowl of water. Rainbow sensed the presence of the centaurs. She whimpered in fear. Rarity, Pinkie and Fluttershy wanted to go up to the altar, but they had to keep a safe distance because this ceremony required great concentration.

Okyroe gave Rainbow a light breath of air on the face. A blue mist filled her nostrils, which helped to calm her.

“You see...” Cheiron said gently. “A while back, a soul came to us. It was a bit different from the norm.”

Okyroe made quick arm movements over Rainbow. The other centaurs joined in with her spiritual, flickering dance. The ponies watched the spectacle with great curiosity and trepidation as they listened to Cheiron.

“This soul was in a bad way and we couldn't help her.” She told us a story about pain, hatred and discord that had left her scarred...

Okyroe's movements became more intense and rhythmic. Some of the centaurs stomped their hooves.

“...But she also spoke of friendship. She talked about things like honesty, kindness, laughter, generosity, loyalty and magic.”

The centaurs started to sing, with Okyroe's voice being the loudest. Rainbow Dash's body started to move to the rhythm, feeling waves of energy flowing through her as she was surrounded by the sea of hands and song.

“She was counting on you to show up. Despite the terrible things that had happened to her, she still knew so much.

The centaur woman poured some liquid from a bowl over Rainbow's forehead. The ceremony became increasingly intense. Okyroe spread her arms wide.

“You've finally arrived!” The good news is that Twilight Sparkle’s soul can be redeemed!”

Rainbow Dash's chest rose up from the altar. Fluttershy stepped back to let Pinkie Pie look. Rarity and Trixie were so engrossed in what was going on that they didn't even notice their mouths had fallen open. Okyroe’s eyes began to glow, just like Rainbow's, and at the same moment, something luminous slipped from the pony's throat. It pulsed with energy. The centaur woman held the glowing thing steadily in the air, while Rainbow's body sank back onto the slab, completely lifeless.

“What is happening? What's happening to her?” Rarity gasped in confusion.

“Just watch!” Cheiron said calmly, arms crossed.

Rainbow Dash had the sensation of floating. In front of her, she could see a big tunnel that led into the light. She could see herself lying on the stone slab below her. Everything felt just fine. She wasn't in any pain or feeling sad. Not even a sound came from Twilight's soul. Then Rainbow had a new sensation: something was emerging from her body. Rainbow Dash was completely white, and the same was true of what materialized before her. It was initially very bright. Later, she realized who it was. Twilight Sparkle, in full. Her expression was a mix of gratitude and sadness. Rainbow Dash moved her mouth as if she wanted to say something, but she couldn't hear anything. However, she could tell from her lips: “Thanks, Rainbow Dash! Farewell!”

“No, I can't.” Rainbow whispered, but there was no sound. She held on to Twilight's hoof for a moment before she flew away. Twilight was taken aback at first. But then her expression changed, and she looked like she understood, like she was saying it was okay and that she should let go.

Rainbow's grip started to loosen, her arm slowly slipping from Twilight's hoof. At last, she released her grip. The free spirit waved at her, soaring into the light. Rainbow Dash felt herself being pulled back, but she kept her gaze fixed on the tunnel as Twilight vanished. Memories, captured like a film, rushed into Rainbow Dash's mind. They were wonderful times spent with Twilight: the group hugs, the adventures, the laughter, Ponyville… All memories that Rainbow Dash would cherish forever.

She returned to her own material body and when she arrived, she shed a tear in her sleep.

The energy flowed out of Okyroe. The other women supported her as she walked away from the altar. The centaurs left the clearing, satisfied with the success of the ceremony. The friends were now free to join Rainbow Dash. But Trixie stopped. She didn't dare look Rainbow Dash in the eye.

The wind blew through Rainbow's hair. In time, life returned to the Pegasus. She opened her eyes and was immediately blinded by the bright blue sky. Rarity and Pinkie Pie rushed to her. As Rainbow tried to get up, she almost fell off the stone slab.

“Easy!” called Rarity. The friends supported Rainbow Dash as she tried to stand on her shaky hooves. Fluttershy came up to her to give her a hug.

But Rainbow resisted all this cuddling and tore herself away from her friends. Groaning, she tried to walk on alone. With blurred eyes, she saw a cliff in front of her and slowly walked towards it. Her friends followed her and watched out for her. The awakening mare seemed to take her steps more and more confidently. She began to trot towards the precipice, picking up speed. The cliff was not far, just a short distance away.

“Rainbow, what are you up to?” called Fluttershy.

“Oh, Celestia! You're not going to...” Rarity gasped.

Pinkie Pie cried out in horror: “Stoop!!”

But Rainbow Dash didn't listen. She snorted, her strength spreading to the tips of her wings. She stretched them out, jumped off the cliff and plunged into the depths.

Pinkie Pie slowed down. She was about to scream, but a second later something blue shot up into the sky. A pegasus roared through the deep ravine, followed by a cry of immense joy. Rainbow Dash burst through the clouds, her wings fluttering with renewed vigor. She flew wild figure eights. Pinkie Pie was the first of the astonished ponies to start shouting loudly: “You can fly again!!! Yahooh!!!”

Rainbow had heard her. She could hardly believe her luck. She landed on one of the clouds. The soft, damp, cool mist carried her as it always had. Rainbow Dash hadn't felt this way for a long time. The wind in her mane, the adrenaline... She loved it, she loved it.

“I'm back,” she murmured to herself, realizing that her old liveliness was returning.

“I’m back!!!” Rainbow Dash shouted at the top of his voice so loudly that it could be heard throughout the gorge. Many centaurs turned round. They saw this puffed-up pegasus rearing up on the cloud. Some shook their heads. Cheiron laughed. It was quite a sight, Rainbow enjoying the attention. He returned to the capitol. Now the old centaur had to look after his patient.

Moments later, Rainbow Dash zoomed back down the aisle, landing at full speed right in front of her friends. They immediately pulled her into a tight group hug, and Rainbow Dash fluttered her wings triumphantly, planting kisses on each of them. “I missed you all so much! So, so much!” she exclaimed. The others nodded enthusiastically, their faces beaming with joy that was impossible to conceal.

“We’ll throw a party to celebrate!” Pinkie shouted, bouncing on her hind legs. She broke into song, her voice bright and cheerful: “Welcome back, Rainbow's wings! Welcome back, Rainbow's wings!”

Only Rarity was able to contain the energetic mood a little, which she noticed reluctantly as she cleared her throat. “Um... aren't we forgetting something?”

“Oh, yes! Right... Where's Applejack?” asked Rainbow Dash, looking around. Rarity closed her eyes with a sigh. She hadn't meant that, but it was a good question. Rainbow had been unconscious for hours, of course she couldn't know that.

“Applejack's in hospital, you know what happened to her,” Rarity said contritely.

Rainbow Dash remembered it vaguely. There were rocks, she had Applejack on her back. Finally, she remembered, followed by a huge groan. All her memories of what had happened before had been a nightmare. It would be good to close that chapter of bad thoughts, but Rarity was right, it wasn't over yet.

The hospital was not far from the town hall. The centaur Okyroe led them into the room to the care pony in question. Okyroe stayed outside the room with Trixie. Rainbow Dash went ahead, wings spread to surprise Applejack.

She was lying under the window in a wooden bed. Her right hind leg was bandaged and splinted. Her tired, dull face looked straight at the other ponies. All four of her friends were here and that brought a smile to her face despite everything. “RD! You're back, I'm so glad!”

Rainbow Dash tried to smile, but Applejack's condition made it difficult for her. “The doctors told me they released the soul from you. Finally...”

Rainbow Dash tried not to stare at Applejack's leg, because that was the only way she could keep the farmer happy. ‘Yes! I can fly again too,’ Rainbow said curtly.

“That makes me happy! I'll be well soon too and then we'll revive her! I swear on Granny Smith's dentures!” Applejack assured her with a steely gaze.

“That's right! We'll... see you!” said Rainbow and left the room so that the others could talk to Applejack.

Cheiron and Okyroe were standing in the wonderfully fragrant corridor. They had just finished a conversation and were looking at Rainbow casually. Trixie was nowhere to be seen, but that didn't matter much to Rainbow Dash.

“Well, how are you?” asked Cheiron.

“Good, but I think I'll stay in Atlantis for a while until Applejack's leg is fully recovered,” Rainbow Dash said.

Okyroe looked worriedly at the councillor. “Father! You'd better tell her.”

Cheiron hesitated a little. He scratched his head thoughtfully. “Well, about Applejack... She's out of danger, the fever's going down, but...”

Rainbow Dash had the unpleasant feeling that he was getting ready for something. “But what?”

“She will never be able to walk properly again and she can give up her job, whatever she was doing.”

Something hot crept into Rainbow's head. This couldn't be true. “Oh no!”

“I'll tell her as soon as your friends have finished talking. You can sit on one of these cushions.”

Colorful pillows were stacked high in the corner, and Rainbow Dash nestled into them, but comfort eluded her. Words escaped her as she tried to find the right ones to express her feelings. Moments later, Fluttershy, Rarity, and the ever-bouncing Pinkie Pie emerged from behind the curtain, passing by Cheiron, who had now entered the room himself.

“Hey! Dashie, what's with the face?” asked Pinkie Pie cheerfully. Rainbow Dash had to swallow twice before she could say it.

“I-I just found out that Applejack will never be able to work on the farm again because of her injury.”

“What?” shouted Rarity, startled, “A-and does she know about this?”

Rainbow Dash was silent for a moment and then said with a raspy throat: “Cheiron is telling her...”

Silence fell over the four of them for minutes. Then came the reaction: a scream and howl of pure despair.