Desolate, no?

Chapters

Chapter 1: A Not So Perfect Beginning
Chapter 2: A Throne Without A King
Chapter 3: Starswirl's Guide To Magic
Chapter 4: In Time, I'll Learn
Chapter 5: Chatting With Chaos
Chapter 6: My Reckoning

Chapter 1: A Not So Perfect Beginning

What is the difference between being a hero and a villain? Is it so black and white, that the two are so different? The extremes of both's actions cause undo change in the lives of those to witness them. Past actions have shown that one of the two, I am not; and yet there is still the future to decide the role I will take on. Princess of an entire kingdom, but a title that has been squandered for centuries.

Which am I?

If the role of one or the other were to decide my fate, then I'd gladly accept the best of both. Then comes the question, which is that? Which one is truly better? Play the hero, save all in the spotlight; Play the villain, and become the monger that all with see with false eyes. Both grant immunity to a much larger role.

Sister...I only hope your eyes will see my true self. When I wake, will you see my own in that light?

Will you forgive my actions, as those of a savior? If not, then I understand. Given the chance to forgive...I wouldn't take it either.

I wouldn't forgive my actions; be it hero or villain.

"Are you ready Luna?"

"Yes sister," Luna responded.

"Good. Ready and one, two, three, four..." Celestia shuffled her feet in motion with her partner. Luna gripped tightly to her sister's hand - her knuckles going white. Her other hand was comfortably latching onto Celestia's waist as they skipped and twirled along the dance floor.

Both of them were wearing very formal gowns. Celestia wore a lovely multicolored dress, toned to match the lengths of her sparkling hair. It got thick around and layered around the hip, so Luna's hand could be anywhere, she thought. Her own dress was quite plain comparatively. Dark blue, laced with glittering sparkles to represent the stars in the night air. So annoying she thought, readjusting a thick section near her chest. The dress wasn't form-fitting, so she managed to outgrow some of it in the past thousand years or so.

Celestia led Luna, signaling when to step forward and when to back off. She was extraordinarily gallant at dancing. At least in Luna's case. She was a fumbling fool. Being stuck in a place, without a partner to dance with - and without reason to - pushed this.

Why she was being forced to dance at all was beyond her. It isn't like dancing is why the whole party was being held. Did Twilight Sparkle and her friends defeat the horrific draconequus by dancing? Useless... "Luna, careful. Slow down before you take us both down".

Celestia chuckled and slowed their pace. Luna noticed she had apparently sped up and commandeered them without notice. "Terribly sorry sister, I don't know what got into me," she mumbled, sternly looking away.

"Is something the matter? You don't look at all keen to dance," Celestia questioned.

Her sister was right on that: She wasn't too keen at all. Luna's thoughts were instead focused on much more pressing matters. Like how to react at the party. Even though she had been back for a good year and a half; she hadn't had much interaction with the local leaders. Some in fact only requested the presence of her sister Celestia. They hadn't full grown used to Luna's return. Her acceptance into the worldly powers was still far off.

Luna clicked her tongue and returned her sister's gaze. "Do you-do you think everyone will really enjoy my company after this? I mean I don't really see how me looking all happy and having a good time, will change anything".

"Oh Luna," she said breaking their hands away. "You just need to have faith. I put my full confidence that they will take notice. And if those fools don't, then they'll have to deal with it". She placed both hands tightly on Luna's shoulders, staring deeply into her blue eyes. "Have faith in me, okay?" She chirped.

Mulling it over, Luna decided. "Okay. And I do trust you sister".

"Good. Now if you will...." She motioned for Luna to grab hold of her waist once more. Luna obliging, they twirled again and again. More so for fun, than actual practice.

The library was turned upside down, and inside out from the ruckus inside. Twilight Sparkle flipped every book's contents searching. A piece of information had recently left the tip of her tongue. She had been reading up on new spells, trying to find something that would really impress.

Scattered pages floated carelessly to the floor; no stone had been left unturned. Throwing up her hands, she sat flung herself onto a mountainous pile of novels and dictionaries. "This is hopeless!" She cried out. "Surely it has to be here somewhere in this library? Anywhere".

Suddenly a thought occurred. "Of course, Spike! Can you come down here?" After a few unsure seconds whether or not her assistant heard her, he appeared off the staircase.

Spike was wearing a purple jacket, with a green strip running down the center. His clothing was at least twice too large, but he would grow into them eventually. He looked surprised that Twilight called him. "What is it? Is something the matter? I swear, if it's about those missing cookies from Pinkie-"

"No, nothing like that," she said warily, waving her hand. "Wait, how did you know they're missing?" Spike grinned, scuffing the floor with one sole. "Well never mind". Spike's demeanor loosened at the close call. "I'm looking for a missing page from a book. It was about a spell named Anarthis" It's supposed to give details on exactly how to conjure up the spirit needed and-". Twilight found herself alone. Spike had already left in search of the page, leaving her to ramble on. Furrowing her brow, "Right".

The basement was a dusty, coffin of the oldest works. Most of the earliest and rarely asked books were stocked down here. A heavy, musky scent of death and vomit hung in the air, forcing Spike to keep a tight hold on his mouth and nostrils. With only one hand free, he safely made his way along the dark room. Barely any light seeped through the windows. It occurred to him that he could just fire a light, but that might have a chance at burning the books too. Better safe than sorry around Twilight.

Feeling his way thoroughly through the basement, his eyes scanned the open rows of books, and came upon a small section labeled in bronze Aa-Az. At his destination, he carefully stroked the bindings of the aged-paperweights, searching for the correct piece; stumbling to the pace of snail. Quietly he recited his findings, "Alect, Amen and All, Amassing a Bridge, Annals of History, Analogy, Ap..." He stopped, retracing his place to make sure. "Is this some kind of joke? There isn't any Ana...Anor...ugh! Whatever it is Twi wanted".

The frustrated teen lay down, thinking on how to continue about this. "Twilight's gonna kill me if--hey wait a minute. What's this?" Reaching up, he pulled out a loose parchment caught between two cobwebbed books. It appeared as old as the other items in this place. "I'm sure this is what she told me to get," he mumbled. Standing upright, he hurried out of the dank interior, fleeing to meet up with Twilight. "She can't blame me for trying".

Twilight was in the middle of cleaning the main chamber - kinetically placing books in their respective shelves, and sweeping - when Spike returned, parchment in hand. "Oh good you're back. Did you get what I asked for?"

He handed over the lone sheet; which she took a once-over of. "Spiiike! You got the wrong page".

"Huh?" Apparently she could blame him.

"I asked for the page on Anarthis, not...what is this? I don't ever remember seeing this in our inventory".

"It was in An, and was the closest thing I could find," he defended.

"Anathos huh?" The page was worn, but still legible. It had a teacup in the upper left, spilling its contents. The text on how to conduct the spell went along the entire page. "I don't understand. It doesn't say anything other than how to perform the spell. No creator, no description, nor what it does...nothing. Are you sure this was in our library?"

"Definitely," Spike said vigorously nodding.

Returning to the page at hand, Twilight stared deeply at the parchment - hoping to understand it. "Well I guess we'll never know what it does unless we try". She and the tailing Spike went into the living room; they began to move furniture and breakable objects out of the way. Anathos huh?

With the preparations made, Twilight was ready to test the new spell. She was still unsure as to whether or not what it would do, but that has never stopped her before. Reading over the slip of paper, she learned that it was a simple incantation with minor magic involvement.

Taking a steady breath, she began to recite the words on the paper. Her tongue tied in a knot, but still she went. Letters flowed and combined in unintelligible ways - her own reason for saying them lost. Strained concentration was losing momentum as she neared the bottom of the page; her very motivation becoming lost. Finally, she sent out a tiny burst of magic and the spell was complete. A loud pop struck the spacious room, knocking Twilight back to her senses. Hoping to see what effect the spell had, she waited. She waited and waited, until it became a boring game of hide and seek. "Maybe it takes a few tries," coming to conclusion.

Trying several more times, each had the same unsuccessful result of a loud pop. She even changed up her speed - speeding up and slowing down - expecting different results; but still nothing. Hopeless and frustrated, she threw herself onto the nearby couch. "I give up," she moaned.

"A-Are you sure you did it exactly as said? I mean maybe you said it wrong, right?"

"No Spike, I did everything to the dot. The stupid spell - if you can even call it that - doesn't do anything". Twilight slumped lower into the folds of the couch. "Maybe I should go and ask Princess Celestia," she said sarcastically.

An idea snapped in Spike's head. "That's a great idea!"

"What?"

"Well get the Princess's help! She must know something right, I mean she is the Princess after all?" Spike hurriedly unfurled a roll of parchment, and began to ink in a letter. Twilight only just managed to say 'You're right, Spike take a letter", before he blew the roll into a crisp.

They both waited a few minutes, until the letter returned with Celestia's stamp of approval. Twilight rushed to put on some clothes, grabbing Spike's hand, and pulling the both of them to the train station.

If we can’t, can the Princess?

Celestia's hand just frisked the letter back to her faithful student, when a blue-haired, shaken person entered her room. "Oh Luna! Is something the matter?"

Luna looked worse for wear than a few days earlier. Heavy dark spots pulled at her eyes, giving her a walking dead appeal. Some of her hair looked as if it hadn't been brushed since then either. Shaking her head once, "W-What? No, nothing's the matter, why?"

"Luna..."

Her eyes betrayed her true feelings. With a trembling lip, she spoke in turn. "Well...I'm a little nervous about this party. I mean...it seems a great idea, but I just don't feel welcomed". She retreated back into her eyes.

"Listen Luna," Celestia began grabbing hold of her sister's shoulders. Her tight grip forced Luna to return to the conversation. "It's okay to be a little nervous. You really haven't been involved, but that doesn't mean your return hasn't had an effect on the nobles or Equestria. They're just as happy to see you, as you are them". Her maternal instincts kicked in, giving Luna a solemn hug.

"Y-You're...right," Luna said gripping her sister.

Drawing back, Celestia wore the biggest grin possible. "Now then, I have a little something you can do to keep your mind. If you would, the garden has been getting a bit lonely lately, as our gardener hasn't been properly keeping up with duties. Would you mind asking if he could...speed up?" Her eyes may have been closed, and her brightened face aflutter; but Luna saw the evil face her sister wore. It menacingly rubbed its hands together, just hoping for him to not listen.

"I'll get right on that," Luna said escaping her sister's presence, for fear she may be host to her terrible ideas.

The train ride flew by quick, leaving Twilight and Spike stranded at a train depot just outside of Canterlot. Shining jewels encompassed the sky; with glamorous buildings hiding away. A lift to ascend to the mountain's peak, where the sparkling city awaited, wasn't far away.

Twilight pulled her assistant - who's mind was elsewhere. The lift jolted to life, leaping into the sky at terminal velocity. Taking hold of the rails alongside only just saved her from plummeting below; while Spike heaved his remaining breakfast. Stumbling off the rickety lift, the duo were greeted by a stern guard, covered in plated armor of the deepest blue; attached with the Canterlot Royal Badge. "The princess has demanded I escort you". Looking between the exhausted Twilight and queasy Spike, he spun around and led the way.

Canterlot hadn't changed much since last she visited, during the Grand Galloping Gala. Back then, she and her friends tried hard to fit in with the crowd, but instead caused undo havoc. Still a fresh memory in her. That didn't mean she wouldn't join in the festivities anymore - at least not as recklessly. Traversing, they passed a square where a massive fountain stood, erected with the sisters' likeness. Water streamed from their fingertips, flowing down to allow passing citizens a chance to catch their breath.

Beyond that were small shops, taverns, eateries, and anything else normally found in towns. Much wasn't for tourism, but the feel of outside visitors heavily wafted by. Twilight could remember back to living here - not exactly in this district. She had a bright childhood, and under Celestia's tutelage, and even better education. Back then I was...

"We're here," came the guard's gruff voice, bringing Twilight back to her senses. She thanked him, and he left in the direction they came. Now here, she straightened her hair and skirt, walking inside the front courtyard. Compared to the rest of Canterlot - which comprised of simple and current design - the castle grounds were archaic.

Stone statues stood on either side of the dirt path leading up; guarding the road. Hedges shaped like the princesses, beasts of old, and items - like a chalice - festered the fields. In all the years she lived and was under Celestia's care, not much had changed. The same old stone steps greeted her, the same guards stalked the castle grounds. Maybe it was nostalgia, but she grew more pleasant with each step. Up above reigned the monolith of Canterlot Castle; of which has stood for centuries. It has been around since the days of Discord, piercing doubt in those with fears. A grand beacon of hope to their subjects.

"It feels good to be back," Twilight gently stated, breathing in the fresh air that the buds of newly planted flowers gave.
She took to the steps, but not before a figure crossed from the side of the castle. Twilight didn't the figure until she stepped out of the shadows, sporting a flowing purple dress. Her moon crest proudly shown low, flowing along a cluster of constellations. "Princess Luna, hey there!"

The princess looked to Twilight, waving in kind. "Miss Sparkle what are you doing here? Do you have business with my sister?" She quizzically folded her arms, wanting a response.

Twilight nodded, reaching into her bag for the item in question. With parchment in hand, she handed over the thin paper to Luna. The princess looked it over, her face contorting confused, but nonetheless curious. "What is Anathos? Is it a spell or recipe?" She doesn't know? thought the previously bright Twilight.

"You mean you don't recognize it?"

"No, I'm sorry Miss Sparkle, but I have never set eyes on this. Why? Is it important?" Luna handed back the sheet, careful not to tear it in the process.

"Spike," she said pointing to the distracted boy, "Found this on accident. It isn't in our records, so we tried to perform it". The diligent student recounted their failed attempt at using the spell, and coming to the conclusion to visit Celestia. "Given her knowledge, we figured she would be able to help". Twilight appeared defeated at the failure.

Luna all the while listened intently at the origins of the mysterious Anathos. From the sounds of it, it was definitely a spell; but why it didn't work for Twilight was mysterious more so. Why didn't it? They had come in the hopes that Celestia could do the spell, but even that is a long shot. Her sister is powerful, but a broken spell won't work for anyone. She thought hard on taking them to her sister, but another thought crept up. She did tell her to get out more, and become more involved; maybe this was an opportunity. The garden can wait she came to the conclusion.

"Change of plans Twilight". She latched onto the parchment, heading for an enclosed area not far from them. "My sister is real busy at the moment, so I'll help you with this instead". Twilight was helpless to fight the ferocious confidence of Luna's grasp, being pulled along.

Inside the castle lay a mass scramble of maids, guards, and trays heaving the finest delicacies. The pearl walls became lined with banners festively promoting the party to be held that night. One maid setting up a banner fell loose from her hold on the stool, only to be caught by her companion. A low blush and she continued on with the rest of her duties.

All of the inhabitants rushed to complete the finishing touches. When done, they came to Celestia, who coordinated their very moves. The king in a game of chess, she delicately made sure their moves worked for the betterment of the whole. Each pawn needed a specific move to aid the others. Her arms swung each way, letting those misinformed of their priorities to scramble to a new location.

In the loud chorus from the mob, one maid - in a petite, black ensemble with matching frills - tried to speak. Her breath fell short, merely squeaking out, "Excuse me," before once more becoming lost. She blew on her flame blue hair, parting it from an already obscure vision. "Um princess?" Still no sign Celestia acknowledged her presence. "Excuse me, princess Celestia?" Her mouse cries turned into whimpers, with the surrounding crowd growing. Pulling back on her imaginary sleeves, the maid breathed in a lungful of air. "PRINCESS CELESTIA". The raving mass quieted to less than a whisper. "Oh...sorry," she said, her face turning red on sight.

"What is it Tutter?" Came Celestia's soothing voice.

Realizing she had been noticed, Tutter jumped a bit in surprise. "Oh! Um...sorry princess. It's just that you are needed urgently in the dining hall". Her quiet demeanor transformed quickly - a pawn becoming a bishop.

Celestia smiled, patted Tutter on the head, and walked with the shy maid to the dining hall; leaving the rest standing still, unsure of their next move.

"So what is it they need this time?" Celestia smirked, obviously bothered by the crew in charge, but still pleasant.
Tutter squeaked again, controlling herself. "They need to know the colors for plates, napkins, banners, and-"
Celestia chuckled, forcing the tiny girl to lose her train of thought. "Of course they'd have trouble with that".

Another spark of blue magic fizzled away; Luna had been unsuccessfully trying to make Anathos work for the past few minutes. She was receiving the same treatment as Twilight, with little improvement. The frustrated princess of the night tossed her tiara to the ground, stomping the dust underfoot. Grinding her teeth, "What is wrong with this spell?!" She screamed.

She began to pace around the small clearing they took as residence. Low hedges, with a cluster of pink and white surrounded them; the roundabout area leaving a large enough space to let the princess vent.

While this went on, Twilight indulged in reading a short three-thousand page book on the revolution cycle. Finding a sweet spot to stop, she handed the book over to Spike to listen to the Luna's ranting. "I mean seriously, only one as crazy as thy own blood could conduct a travesty! Oh, if only Shefarius the Reaper we're here and not in Tartarus! At least he could fabricate competent spells. Nifty and dangerous, but reasonable!"

"Princess, are you sure we've exhausted all possible solutions?" Piped up Twilight. "There must be something we haven't tried yet, right?"

Taking a break in her rant, "I'm afraid we're out Miss Sparkle," Luna said with nary any enthusiasm. "It's not like we have-"

"What?"

The princess blinked, renewed confidence beaming. "That's it! It's so simple, I cannot believe it didn't cross my mind earlier!" She was suddenly ecstatic at her new found discovery. Twilight still wore confusion at the ramblings now being shouted.

"What did you discover princess Luna?"

Luna spun towards Twilight, grinning. "Something quite simple Twilight...I'll use Nightmare Moon's energy!"
A smooth breeze flowed between the two. While Luna jumped for joy, Twilight and Spike remained dead silent.

Twilight and Luna argued over whether Luna's suggestion was feasible, or even safe. Luna staunchly stated that it was, more so now that she had had time to regain control. Even with that in mind, Twilight was still unsure; afraid of the outcome. What if Nightmare Moon came back? That wouldn't be worth it, not for any reason.

Yet she couldn't resist the opportunity to learn - to study further into other realms of magic. The possibility that Luna gave, was tempting. It took much effort, but Twilight finally gave, allowing Luna to do such what she will. I only hope I am wrong about Nightmare Moon she thought sadly.

"Now then, let's do this," Luna confidently said, taking steps away to ensure enough room. She steadied her breathing, imagining a tranquil place to clear all thought. In the past, she tried to use the dark powers within - to see if she could. The attempts caused many terrible weeks’ worth of nausea and severe headaches. However now she was confident in her abilities; there was no longer any doubt.

With a clear mind, Luna began to cast the spell. Her eyes before sympathetic, dynamically sharpened - searing with flame. One second, two; all became white, as she lost consciousness. The world floated further away. Low rumblings quaked underneath - or were they loud? Twilight held both her ears while screaming, so something must have been loud. Everything felt peaceful, despite what was happening around her. She hadn't felt this at peace, since she came back from her prison; when she felt free.

I do feel free. So very free. Maybe I'll take flight. Yes. Free as a bird...

The sky became a canvas; bleeding similar - but very different - shades of white. It ran as far as Luna could tell; an expansive canvas. She was laying on her back, merely watching the clouds float by as the world spun. Her fingers clenched the ground, sinking deep into its soft surface. Peering, she saw her hand sunk into sand

'Sand. Am I on a beach?'

That would be a prospective place to be. A beach was where you could let all the worries of the day float by - just like the clouds doing so. She could feel the water, softly lapping at her legs, asking her to bathe. Yet there was no water of any kind asking that of her. Along with no water, the surrounding area shown no other individuals, so a beach was out of the question. There were no children playfully tagging, splashing, and having dreams of the great blue. No families hoping for a happier tomorrow, for today was like no other. Yet even though she wasn't on a beach, the sand didn't feel out of place.

'Why is the sun so bright?' She placed a hand, forming a visor to stare up into the sky. There was definitely more sunlight than needed on a day such as this. "Wh..." Her voice, raspy; barely left her lips before falling short. So I can't speak? That's alright...there's no one to speak to anyway. If she could speak, her question would be 'what day is it?' Her voice wasn't the only aspect of her to fall short. Her very memory couldn't help her out. How she got here was more of a mystery; as she couldn't remember how, in this land where the sand felt right.

'It does not matter I suppose'. A moment passed, where she believed herself to be in a desert. The climate was perfectly suitable for conditions that would represent a desert. However then she would be profusely sweating. 'Another oddity in the odd world' she thought.

Feeling ready to move, she stood to get a better look at where she was. Apart from the sand and sky, there was not nearly enough clues to warrant a guess. Losing interest, she turned around to face a giant in the desert. Maybe it was a mirage playing tricks, but the reality of it was no different. A castle stood against the grain, lopsided in the sand - sinking into a coffin it made. The giant would be invisible to most, since it - like the sky - bled white. 'Not a mirage, yet it doesn't feel right'. Luna took in the monolith - old as time - for clues. The decrepit building was falling apart, with much of its stone slabs missing and or discolored. Just another oddity, much like the rest.

'Perhaps the owners left it. Without proper maintenance, even castles can't withstand time', she thought.
'fwssssssssssh

That sound...what is it? Following Luna since she sat on the soft sand, a sound had remained. It was silent at times - allowing no more than a passing flicker. To Luna, the melodic sound became familiar. It consistently stayed on a beat, beating to her recognition to it. The more she tried to find it again, the louder the sound returned. 'Do you want to be found?'

...'Why?'

Luna awoke, with searing pain stabbing her entire body. A flash of red and yellow signaled she was surrounded by flames. The fire licked the grassy field, encroaching upon her petrified form. The stabbing sensation pierced her lungs with each breath, carving up her organs. Her fingers - although numb - pricked with electricity surging across the tips. A lone flame found its way onto her left index finger, causing even more pain. Frightened beyond sheer panic, her heart rate increased, beating furiously - allowing more opportunities to be stabbed.

Twilight furiously shook her, hoping to get a response. Luna's eyes went wild, searching for a way out. A fall tree narrowly chopping off her leg, but managed to still cut a deep gash, of which had caused a small puddle of blood to form. Hurriedly, Twilight sealed the wound by forcing the torn tendons together and splicing vines as stitches. Luna screamed in agony, feeling each inch of her leg begin to catch on fire from the pain; while Twilight continually cried, splashing residual blood, washing away the stains.

Unable to overcome her own fear of situation, Twilight shook the princess. "Princess Luna listen! Please, you've got to help me on this. I need you to calm down!" No use, Luna was still lost in confusion at what was happening; she wouldn't be able to cooperate. With the fire creeping still on them, ready to engulf the two; Twilight pulled back and slapped Luna hard across her face. "Princess, pl-please l-l-listen. I need you t-to calm d-own". This time Luna remained still.

Looking past the yard in flame, Twilight guesstimated their distance from the castle. They would need to take a long path, but it was their only chance; the rest of Canterlot was being eaten in the resulting earthquake, ready to shatter. Coordination set, she returned back to face Luna. "Now listen, we need to get inside the castle. I know you're probably still paralyzed, but I need you to help as much as you can, okay?" Luna remained silent. "Luna!"

"Y-Yes! Okay!" She allowed Twilight to hoist up her back, preparing for the worst.

"Ready? One! Two! Three!" With a great heave, Luna was hoisted, grasping tightly onto Twilight's shoulder. A few snaps accompanied her, possibly the hastily-made stitching ripping. More damage, but she would need to deal with it for now; right this instant, they needed help.

Taking careful strides on Luna's good leg, they marched to the castle doors, crossing the path carved in fire. Screaming citizens echoed in the distance; along with a resounding crash of glass and metal. A second set of screams came from within the castle, so no matter wherever they happened to go, there would be pain.

"Where's Spike?" Called out Luna over the thick roar of flames.

"He went to help inside!" Responded Twilight. Hopefully he's okay.

With a last toss of their step, they nudged inside the doorway. Most of the castle interior appeared safe - besides a few shattered glass panes. Thank Celestia. Finding a seat to rest, Twilight slowly lowered Luna onto the cushioned seat. Her leg was bleeding, but not as profusely, so she didn't need any immediate care. Flocks of guards rounded the halls, passing Luna and Twilight; searching for distressed and injured.

One of the maids to pass, stopped short and quickly ran to them. She was wheezing and in tears, but otherwise uninjured. "Tutter, are you okay?" Asked Luna.

Sure enough Tutter responded to her name. "I'm so glad you're alright Princess Luna! So-So glad". At that she wrapped around the resting princess; bathing her in fresh tears. "It's just so horrible!"

"Don't worry Tutter, all of this will be fixed quicker than-"

"No, not that!" Bringing herself back, she was ready to lose more self-control. "It's Princess Celestia! Something's wrong!"

Inside Celestia's chamber, many stood watch over the princess. Luna, Twilight, Spike - who was found, lost in an eastern wing, building a fort - Tutter, and couple of guards, and a doctor holding a steady hand on the princess. He held her hand for a short while, before moving to her head, and chest - examining the rhythmic tempo of her heart. Sighing, he stepped back to examine a report shortly done up on her condition. On the outside, Celestia looked perfectly fine; however her internal injuries were another matter.

The doctor retrieved a clipboard, looked at it for a few seconds, before placing it back on the stool. "Tutter, was it? Can you please explain again what happened in as much detail?"

Tutter, still shaken, nodded in response. "I was showing the princess the dining room features for the party. Some planners requested her help in their decision. We-we were just talking, nothing else! Th-Then..." She sniffed, ready to break down. Wiping her eyes, she started again. "...Then the glass shattered, and we were thrown onto our feet. Princess Celestia was unconscious, so I figured she took a pretty nasty hit or something". Quickly, she flung onto a nearby maid. There wouldn't be any more coming from her.

Rubbing his worn eyes, the doctor stared at Celestia. He didn't show any emotion. His eyes were dull, showing their age. "Listen-"

"Isn't there anything we can do?" Interrupted Luna. "W-We can force her awake! O-Or-"

"No," he flatly stated.

Luna furiously took a step towards the doctor, falling into her chair shortly after - forgetting her torn leg. "And why not doctor? We should be trying anything possible! This is my sister we're talking about!"

His expression took on a sad demeanor. This only angered Luna more so. "What aren't you saying!?"

"Calm down princess, he's-" Twilight tried to calm Luna, but was forcibly slapped away.

Luna merely wiped away at some fresh tears. The pain in her leg only throbbed every so often, next to the pain in her heart. It would need proper treatment, but for now it was fine. With a slow start, she stood - leaning on Twilight for support. "Please..."

He combed his fingers through the disheveled nest of hair. Looking at Luna, fighting to choose the right words, his lips pursed. "So far," he began. "She is unresponsive to touch or sound. Before you arrived, I conducted a few tests to see how much so. Her heart rate is slow, her breathing stable; she is perfectly fine". Fixing the position of his amber glasses, with one lens cracked. "However that is also the issue. She's not asleep, or unconscious in any average way. I'm afraid my tests have deducted she is...in a coma".

Silence. Luna didn't make a move, until suddenly she was upon the doctor, shouting extremities at him. "What do you mean!? For how long!?"

Painstakingly, two guards reached forth, subduing Luna till she calmed.

The doctor took the brunt of her fists, not reacting, allowing her. "How deep, I don't know. We'll just need to keep an eye on her. There's nothing else we can do". After relaying steps to take, he left; going to aid others in the city. Luna sat silent, shivering, biting her bottom lip until blood drew. Most of the others left, with the remaining few taking Luna to her own room; there she sat in quiet agony. The dark moonlight fading into the shadows.

A light flashed on in the library, contrasting the darkness outside. Luna entered the massive room, full of history spanning back thousands of years. Books stacked high as the ceiling, all filled with ancient text and languages. She became a phantom floating between the ornate shelves. There were three floors worth of literature, with rows reaching either side of the room. Dust glinted in the moonlight, giving an air of ancient mystery to the open room. Long ago, she used to sing a song about the twinkling of the dust, like stars.

Gliding across the room, up the staircase, and around the bend; Luna caressed the books lined up. More dust was found coating the bindings of history long since read. Celestia read, just not as much as Luna. Luna had become an avid reader, passionate when she discovered fiction. Tales of great heroes and adventures yet to be made - that was her passion. Since she returned however, not much free time was made to indulge once more into those vast worlds. Even less now she told herself.

Most of the worn titles she forgot over time. Only a few sparse books - mostly on the founding of Equestria - did she really remember. History however wasn't her main passion. Still, the rows of past battles sung to her, calling to be remembered. One book covered in stunning gems gave the most effort. The green, aged book had a thinly-lettered title; rubbing the surface, it said Starswirl's Guide to the Stars. Seeing the old apprentice's name brought fond memories back.

Why I remember...

BAM

Suddenly the side entrance to the library shut closed. Luna, slightly startled, looked to find the cause. "Oh, it's you".
"That's all you have to say? You really are a heartless Princess of the Night," the figure said.
"Not heartless, merely indifferent," she scoffed.

"Well that seems fine. I heard something shuffling around in here, and thought it to be a rat". He was extremely confident, slyly picking at Luna, almost taunting her. Making his way up the spiral staircase, he caught up to her. "I didn't mean to compare you to a rat, just trying to lighten the mood. Celestia knows we need it after all that happened". He casually flipped the pages of random books as he spoke.

"Yes, well thanks". Luna earlier changed into causal wear consisting of a skirt, overcoat, short-sleeved shirt and another atop that. An emblem of her own cutie mark adorned the top of her shirt, the stitching brightly shining. Casual, at least for her. She kept picking at her jacket as the man spoke, annoyed.

"I heard what happened to Princess Celestia," the nameless man said to no one.

Luna felt a chill run up her back; she gripped her jacket, pulling it closer. "Sister is okay, as far as others are concerned. No one knows when she'll wake".

"And you figure these books will hold clues to her cure?" Luna kept silent; she had come to lose herself, but that wasn't the only reason, as her subconscious thought. "I may not be an expert, but don't quite a few of these contain history, nothing more?"

"That is true. But there are a few dozen on spells. It's a big collection". She wanted more than anything for this awkward conversation to end, and be left alone.

"Indeed," was all he said. Tossing a book he had fiddled with, "don't lose sleep over this". He worked his way back the way he came.

"Oh and Cythe," Luna called out. The mysterious man stopped, hand ready to close the door. "Please show a little more maturity around me, next time". Cythe left without a word, leaving Luna to be with the books again. Her hand caught inside a thick section of the book he tossed to her. On the cover of the chapter, were stones resembling brightly-shone gems. Reading the title, she smirked. "Harmony Stones..."

Three days had passed, and still Celestia’s conditioned didn’t change. The most hopeful glance that she was still alive was her constant shallow breaths. Besides her dreadful state, the repairs to Canterlot begun. Not a single earthquake occurred after the first, so most were in gratitude for that. Slowly but surely, buildings and roads were being brought back to peak condition.

Only one issue remained, and that was the day and night cycle. One of the days lasted five hours longer, as Luna lowered the sun steadily. Unlike the moon, her sister’s sun weighed more; it was vastly different from her usual effort taken; physically exhausting her in the process. Other than the daily action, Luna had rarely been seen – even by her faithful night guards.

Twilight began to dread, eventually believing she should intervene. On a night when Luna’s guard had lowered, she jumped out; this in turn took out a wall, in fright. After that, Twilight learned of the princess’s nightly escapades to the archives, and her study into the Harmony Stones. They were the very stones that gave the Elements their magic; lost in ruins far away.

“But why can’t we use the Elements of Harmony?” Questioned Twilight.

This wasn’t the first time that option crossed her mind; but the truth needed to be said. “When I transformed into Nightmare Moon, a barrier was put on the chamber guarding them. My sister had yet to release that barrier, and now that seems impossible”. Seeing the end, Luna brought the sun up painfully, giving rise to the morning. “The stones however...”

Seemingly a crazy endeavor, Luna had to try anything, regardless of the consequences. She had had enough to think, to plan for anything. Packing her satchel with all the necessities for her journey: a pair of light and heavy clothing, map of the general area and beyond, quill and parchment, and lastly for personal use, the book Starswirl’s Guide to the Stars; deeming it as a good idea she thought, running through the empty halls of the castle; its interior took a much darker feel at night. She slowed a corner, leaping to the staircase before the main entrance. With only a few steps to go, she halted, as Twilight swung out an arm from the shadows. “Princess, what do you think you’re doing?”

Thinking quick, “Going out for a walk of course! I haven’t had a chance to check the repairs out, so if you wouldn’t mind-“

Twilight kept her arm up, blocking Luna’s path. “Really now?” Oh dear. “So then why do you have a bag full of traveling supplies?”

“For others”. The feeble attempt failed, as Twilight place two fingers to her temple, shaking in annoyance. “Didn’t work, huh?”

“Did you really believe no one would notice you missing?”

Luna’s satchel fell out of her grasp, its contents spilling to the floor. She slumped down, both hands holding her face – covering her distress. Twilight was right that her excuse wouldn’t work. There was no point in continuing. Each teardrop left a stain on her unflawed face, a mark of defeat. What am I doing? “Miss Sparkle, how do you think of me?” Was it denial wanting the answer, or just a part of her that wanted resolve?

“I don’t understand princess. Think of you how?”

“It’s not a difficult question, Twilight. How do you think of me? Do you believe me to be just or not?”

Twilight pondered the sudden question. What do I think of her? Luna had been in a silent depression since the incident, to the point she became a recluse. There had been hushed talks she might not be able to perform her duties soon. All the while, here she was, asking a simple question. “Listen princess, I don’t really have an answer for you”. Luna bit on her lips, as Twilight spoke. “You’ve done some bad things in the past, but you’ve also done good! I’m sure you’d like a more thorough answer, but sadly I’m not the one you should be asking. How do you think of yourself, princess?”

...“I don’t have an honest answer either. I’ve tried to make up for past sins, but I can’t! Just look at me now: all I’m doing is blaming myself, because I feel I deserve it. So I suppose...I don’t think too highly of myself”.

“Then I guess, I think of you as a good person,” said Twilight. Luna looked to her in disbelief, as the solemn girl stared to a window, smiling at the hazy reflection of the sun.

Luna felt the warmth of the light hitting her. The sun was wonderful, but not as much as her moon. Once her prison, it became a place to call home. Never neglecting was it to her presence. For a long time, it cheered up her darkest. Yet now, the sun – her sister’s – lifted her spirits much the same. Looking at Twilight, whom also stared at the beauty of the sky. “Are you going to stop me?”

Celestia’s faithful student raised a curious eye. “You didn’t really think I would?”

With a dastardly smile, “No, I don’t suppose so”. Brushing herself off, Luna grabbed her satchel, picking up the fallen contents. “Twilight listen, there’s something I need of you to do while I am away”.

“Anything! What is it?”

“I need you to keep an eye on my sister. Also-“ She said fumbling with a key, and tossing it to her. “I am granting full access to our library”.

“What for?” Asked Twilight, now mistaken at Luna’s intent.

“I need you to find any and all info pertaining to Anathos. It is imperative we find out as much we can”.

“But what makes you think I can information here?”

This time it was Luna’s turn to steal a smile. “It’s a very expansive collection. Good luck Twilight,” she said, waving back. Leaving the castle grounds, she looked to the barely risen ball of gas. Lifting her hand into the air, the sun rose further into the blank sky. The new day brought many concerns for her whereabouts, with the whole castle ready to send a search party for the missing princess. If not for a single letter, they would have gone through with it.

Don’t miss me too much.

Author's Note

Welp, time to go and shoot myself in the foot right 'bout now...

...Hmm...no bullets. Ah well, guess I can move on now! This is an idea I was fiddling around with for no more than ooooh 30 minutes max, with 5 seconds as the minimum. So thinking long and hard on this was excruciating to say the least. Whether or not this becomes a hit or dump, it really won't effect my strive to finish or publish any more than what I already have. I like making stories I can read myself, so when an idea like this comes along, I just have to do it.

What makes a story for me is the questions that can be asked - and not necessarily answered. To have a character go through trials that allow them to grow, and subsequently find what it is they are searching for; that is a story well worth reading or writing.
This is the part where I thank the people who've helped make this semi-decent:
GoatGuy64 & Killshot247
Both of those fagotters have made my slightly legible string of words, turn into a messy pile of purple liquid (edible)
I really pushed them, and they more or less pushed back with weapons at the ready, and a minor knowledge in what the word "the" means. Can't give enough credit, so I won't; they don't deserve any more than that, so thank ya.

If you enjoy this, thanks for taking the time to enter my world in which stuffs happen.

If you don't, then thanks for at least looking at the title, seeing you hate the content, and doing stuffs not associated with my stuffs.

*BANG*

Yipee! I stalled you all long enough! SO LONG SUCKERS!!!

Chapter 2: A Throne Without A King

Thunkthunkthunkthunk

A woodpecker rapidly beat its sharp beak against the hull of a thick tree. Fragments of bark fell with the percussion of taps; littering the ground. The red bird – after successfully digging a hold into the tree, floated down where a heap of strand twigs lay. Taking a few at a time, he filled the hold, patching up a nest. His mate and future offspring were off five trees down, waiting to proceed with the movement.

After nearly an hour prepping the new shelter, the woodpecker flew to his family. His mate was a fine female to find; she was pink, with a twinge of white parting at the seams of her feathers. She had a thin, long beak – fit for feeding her babies when they hatched. To find one such as her was one in a thousand of the other magnificent opportunities. But no, he chose her; she was the first to show interest.

Picking up one of the two eggs with care, he and the female flew to their new home. Thinking about the egg he was carrying, he realized his role as a father was approaching. No longer was he the spry two year old he once was; going on five, he had grown old, fast. The wings which once could outrun a timberwolf on low-ground, now peddled him at the pace of a rabbit. There he had also as of a few weeks ago, sprouted a couple of grey and white hairs. His once thick coat of lush red became a dull maroon all too soon.

Soon the two reached the hollow tree, placing the eggs softly onto the makeshift nest. Their mother then gently sat atop them, warming them in the chill morning. A slight cooing told the male he needed to fetch some grub for his hungry mate. She had been learning to thoroughly chew the worms and berries, preparing for when motherhood called. His mat was a mere year younger; which shocked him, with how quickly she grew into the role.

Heeding the calls, he jumped out, searching for the small morsels. Locating a fresh patch of soft dirt, he discovered a brush filled with lively berries. Taking care to check for any predators, he ripped a couple off, depositing them into his mouth, and took flight again. With only a short ways to go, the male woodpecker looked across the surrounding forest. It was tiny, ending short of a clearing and town where people lived.

Recently both of them were struck with an earth-shattering quake, which rattled their previous home to toppling. That had been the reason for the move, for safety purposes. As the male and father, it was his job to protect his family at all costs; he couldn’t afford less than that.

With his home in view, he flapped his aged wings hard, speeding to get his mate fed.

SWOOSH

An eagle had flown by close, spotting the lone woodpecker. In a rash desire for food, it struck the small bird with its sharp talons, piercing the throat, and cutting off air. The prey died instantaneously, its eyes cocked in fright. As the eagle took a closer look, the bird had fresh berries, still uneaten. Happy with the catch, it flew off to its own nest.

The female woodpecker waited. She kept a watchful gaze on the entrance, hoping for her mate to return with the breakfast that had fast-approached lunch. But he wouldn’t return. Soon, she would crack open one of the eggs for sustenance, and leave with the remaining in search of a new mate. The nest lay barren for a while, empty of the family that was to occupy it.

The warm breeze of afternoon swirled around Luna. She sat on a white boulder, resting from the long trek from Canterlot. The city’s dancing lights was now far in the distance, twinkling like stars in the vast night. Sweat rained down her body, as the sun beat down. Retrieving a canteen from her bag, she took long, slow sips of the plentiful water.

Exhaustion had already taken its toll, forcing her to sulk on the hot stone slab. Finishing her drink, Luna replaced the canteen with a map. She glared at the rough parchment full of wrinkled roads, mountain passes, forests, towns, safe trails, and other sketchy patterns. Spitefully, she whacked the map. “Stupid map,” she mumbled, trying to locate where she stood. Trailing a slow finger, she spotted a curving road that split into two more. Just great she thought.

She was in the middle of the split; scoping out her situation, which had two options. The map – although detailed – also was old; new roads were unmarked on hers. She stared into the distance, searching for any sign to take her in the right path, with nothing but dirt trails winding away. Up in the sky, birds circled a tight ring around her. They continued to do so, watching her every move, as messengers of death.

Still the time slipped away, with Luna growing more worried on her next action. A dire situation, with no way out by the looks of it. Yet this is exactly what she signed up for. Expecting obstructions was needed...if only not so soon.

Not long before she stopped, her skirt caught on a branch and tore. From then until now jeans sufficed, even if the blazing sun cooked her legs like a well-broiled egg. Swinging each leg, she amused herself, with no leads to go off of, she was trapped without being locked up. In the air, the circling birds chirped, keeping her mild company. Wait a second she thought, quickly staring at the winged beasts as they flapped their black wings. Going with it, she grabbed a few crumbs of bread, throwing them outwards. On instinct, the hungry creatures nose-dived towards the scraps of delicious food.

They grabbed the tiny morsels, raising their heads high to choke the bread scraps. Six or seven birds in total flew down, but Luna needed only one. Eyeing the black birds – which on closer inspection had blood red eyes – she found a nice, plump one. Carefully she edged to the targeted bird, pouring light amounts of blue magic into her palms, waiting for the right moment. The magical threads seeped into her skin, flowing over hands, dripping onto ground. The bird turned its head towards her direction, unsure of what to do of the large female stalking closer. Her moment to seized, Luna wrapped a small barrier around the helpless crow, slowly suctioning off exists so it couldn’t escape. Inside, the black bird maniacally buzzed around, jumping in a futile attempt to take off. Luna, triumphant in catching her prey, walked up to the fluttering bird, calmly grasping it in her hands. She felt it brush around, nipping at her for freedom. Gently, she stroked its head, which seemed to calm it, as it stopped trying to free itself.

Luna felt it safe enough, unclasped her hands, letting the crow see daylight once more. The bird had curled into a ball, which made Luna laugh at how adorable it was acting. She patted it, smoothly gliding her fingers over the silky black feathers. “You’re a cute little thing aren’t you?” It seemingly responded, by unfurling itself. “Now then, I need your help small friend, if you’re willing”. The crow flapped its wings gently, still standing on her palm. “Can you direct me to the nearest village? I’m a little lost at the moment”. Her charm worked, as the bird lifted into the air, flying to the left road. Luna grabbed her bag and supplies, following the trail the crow took.

Luna trudged up the road, scaling a small hill. She had followed the crow, until it changed trajectory into the woods, where its flock may be. By this time, the sun was already sinking below the orange-rimmed sky; fleeting rings of heat layering the top of the mountains in a halo of distorted gas. With her path darkened, obscuring her vision, the road trail became more difficult to pass. Soft crunches followed every footstep, gravel and dirt mixing into a hard composite, as Luna found each new ground steeper. She found herself clutching her chest, her lungs aching for a stop, but she couldn’t. Just over the rise, lanterns flickered, revealing a post carved with a dull knife: Hoofdale Town.

Stalking up slowly, Luna watched for any movement within. Oddly, not a single soul appeared outside. Curtains from nearby houses were drawn closed, showing no signs of life inside. The sun hadn’t completely lowered yet, so to see no one out wasn’t a common occurrence. Hoofdale was a small town, with only a dozen or more buildings – all of them seemingly empty. For all she knew, it could have been abandoned without notice.

Luna moved deeper into the ghost town. Passed the empty houses, some were less intact – charred down to the floor. She came up to a large, rotund one with a hoisted flag of the town’s colors. A massive break – splitting the oval mayoral building – tore up to the center. It wasn’t patched up yet, so she took a looked inside. Within she saw it was equally as demolished: the tear also carving a linear path through to the mayor’s office. Scattered documents, a hanging – lazily swinging. She walked through the tear, searching or for any sing of life. “Hang on, this is a town hall. There might be maps here!” She realized, hurriedly searching the littered floor and desk drawers. Yes! In the secretary’s topmost drawer, were nearly half a dozen maps of not only the town blueprints, but also the local area.

She pulled out and unrolled a random scroll. The map was luckily recent, but only went out so far: a town or two away, max. If I’m just as lucky, they’ll be deserted too.

A somber thought, she rolled the map back up, placing it next to the one she brought. Her path made, she cautiously stumbled over the wreckage. CRASH! Luna knocked against a lantern, which shattered. “Oh crap!” She yelled as the lantern’s oil ignited. It was still burning when she toppled it; the flaming puddle began to snake around the floor. Slithering across, it found a large heap of papers and more oil. There was fresh oil all around she saw; making quick strides, she tried to outrun the growing fire.

Tripping over the carpet, she tumbled face down in front of jolting flames. Wood creaking from the fresh heat; it wouldn’t be long before the building fell in on itself. As that image passed, the limp roof above snapped off; crashing around Luna in a cacophony of splintering wood. Piles of loose items fell with, from chairs in pieces, to more lanterns.

“Crap! Crap! Crap!” Luna had no way out, and the flames began to smog up the air; she breathed in the thick smoke, her head losing weight, and her eyesight blurring. Gripping her throat, she made a mad rush over the fallen debris to the door. The handle jittered, opening after some fierce throttles, letting her dive to the ground. Fresh air flowed into her, clearing some of her blurry vision. The building collapsed, sending debris and dirt outwards.

Safe, she looked to the now demolished town hall. A floating flag dropped atop what was before the pinnacle; torn and unreadable due to the flames eating it. The red-hot flames ceased, extinguished from the cave-in.

A subtle wheezing told her she wasn’t alone. Standing behind her – coughing up a lung – was an old, poorly dressed man. His buttoned suit was burnt, including some of his skin, shining charcoal black on his fingertips and cheeks. Apart from the battered bruising and terrible cough, he was healthy in appearance.

Catching his breath, he merely stared at what was the town hall. The old man wiped some sweat from his forehead; staring and mourning the dusty remains. “She was bound to go sooner or later,” he spoke up. “I’m glad those restoration plans were denied.” At that, he let out soft wheeze, trying to laugh. His calm attitude toward the building was unnerving; surely he should be more agitated. “Now then, if I’m not mistaken,” he said poking a shaking finger to her moon symbol. “You would be Princess Luna.”

Not used to being casually addressed, she simply nodded, which was enough for the old timer as he grinned. “Terribly sorry, but do I know you?”

“No, I don’t believe you would, seein’s how you just got here. I’m Regal, mayor of this town, or what’s left of it at least.”

“Oh! So that was your town hall?” Luna asked. Mayor Regal nodded. Scanning the town, “If you wouldn’t mind me asking, what happened?”

He walked to a splintered plank, turning it to dust by mere touch. “A massive earthquake happened not too long ago. Shook us real good. Many fires erupted, so most of our homes are either gone or not fit to live in. We we’re able to quell them after the first night. Still...the damage is done. All we have left is what you see. Thank Celestia our loved ones are okay.” Throwing a few burnt possessions into a pile, he continued. “Where is the princess anyhow?”

Luna picked up a few discarded picture frames, dodging the mayor’s question. “She’s a little under the weather,” she concluded. It isn’t so much a lie, as a skewed truth.

Regal stared at her; his eyes trying to divulge if her quick answer was enough to trust. Still, the remorseful twinkle returned, deciding not to bother her further. “Well I hope she gets better soon. Can’t go helping others when you can’t help yourself.”

“Right.”

“Listen, I’m sure you have places to be, with what happened, but do you think you can stay for dinner? We’d love for some company.”

She placed a sympathetic hand on his shoulder, placing a small loaf of bread into his hand. “Sorry, but as you say, ‘I have places to be’.” The mayor held the offering under his arm, thanking her for the generosity. She passed by the once empty houses, only they now had clear residents, drawing the curtains back to watch her departure.

Mayor Regal watched the princess leave his broken town, going to who knows where. A door creaked open as a middle-aged man, with a long, mangled hair of deep brown approached. His face had been unshaven for days; an amateur stubble of hairs sprouting. “So where do you think she’s going off to mayor?” He asked, suspicious of her leave. The old man didn’t reply, his attention still on Princess Luna, until she became one with the darkness. Only after her figure vanished into the woods, did the moon color up the night sky. “Mayor?”

“Desolate, no?” Said the mayor, his brow creasing in thought.

Confused, the man with unkempt hygiene peered to the old man beside him. “Sir?”

“The princess, I mean. Her priorities are set, but she isn’t sure where to or why. It’s sad if you think about it. I think she’s hoping for the best...” He buttoned his coat up, leaving with the man shuffling behind.

Chapter 3: Starswirl's Guide To Magic

For the longest time, Luna just traversed the length of greenery. Overgrown vines raked their long fingers across the mangled floor bed. Every so often she stopped, looking at the map for further guidance, and then continued along the invisible trail ahead. Thick trees – with moss slapped along their necks – towered, and with their fully-bloomed canopies, blocked most sunlight from her. Tiny shafts of the sought-after heat source gleamed down to hungry plants, letting them drink in the small amounts soon to leave.

Multi-legged creatures scuttled over the ivory shrubs and fallen oak; the small steps taking them to food and shelter. Some of them were able to take flight, floating through Luna’s peripheral vision. She swatted the few who came too close, but otherwise let them be. Not taking fancy to the insect world, she’d much rather keep her distance, even if it was close to impossible in the tight terrain.

Soon after passing another forest-covered log, Luna grew weary. Up ahead, faint traces of a stream sounded. Pushing herself, she came to a real clearing in hours – with a clear stream of crystal water. She sat down with a heavy sigh, stretching her tired legs. When was the last time I rested? She thought. One hour? Four? The long trek from Hoofdale was not fully there. Most of her time was spent walking, hurdling, and climbing through the vast trail.

Before now, traversing the wilds of Equestria wasn’t the highest item on her list of things to do. She would, more often than not, be found in her room, reading old scriptures or studying the stars. Yet here I am. Kicking a pebble shifting with the movement of the stream, Luna reached into her bag, pulling out Starswirl’s book. Not since she packed it, had an opportunity come up to read it. In her opinion, now would be the best time.

Torn pages – dry as the sands of Saddle Arabia – met her fingers, gently pulling back the thin paper. Each page had a series of symbols along the sides; with faded ink stroking old language. Since it was centuries old, most common languages hadn’t yet been born; leaving only the elder marks of Equestria’s old days.

Seeing the dead letterings after so long, made it slightly difficult to read for the first pages.

The old wizard’s pages were filled with much more than Luna remembered. Mechanical accomplishments, devices, notes on local wildlife in his travels, potions, magical discoveries, and an assortment of stickies for uncompleted research. He lived for long, allowing none of his time wasted while he searched the unknown. Detailed drawings and descriptions took up vast sections; each detailing samplings on the individual ingredients for cures. Back in those days, medicine was less advanced, which had accounted for too many outbreaks and deaths; yet here were the very answers these doctors were wanting.

Flipping sporadically, she came upon many logs on his daily activities. Quite a few were on his tests, which had both good and bad results. Flipping more, she noticed dozens of unfinished devices; some had small notes indicating how close he came to accomplishment, but they were failures. None of them worked or were constructed. There were models for magic batons, brain sensors, machines to make life easier, and science vastly improve; a sphere with many gears, appearing more like a ball than a device for use in...time travel?

And Twilight is shaping up to be just like him. She smiled at the thought of that young girl – who was just starting out – to become as great a legend as the one in the book. In time she thought.

“Ugh,” she moaned, covering her nose from the repugnant odor. It reeked of buried wood and dead meat left to rot. “What in thy sister’s name is causing that?” she asked. That is when Luna heard it.

Across the stream came the garbled mushing of steel and bone. Crashing splinters erupted with each munch of the beast’s jaws; snapping shut and shattering the bone more. A dead squirrel fell from its mouth, with limp remains hanging, sucking them in. Its teeth sharply crunched the final bit of log into dust. Standing across the stream, eyes with murderous resolve, and a shifting body of bark was a horrific beast, sights set on her:

The timberwolf.

Its mouth reared back, revealing sharp sticks slathered in a thick drool of sap. Each “tooth” moved alone of the others to situate for the new meal. Its chest expanded and retracted; the saber strong claws dug into the ground, with its legs arching back. Glowing green eyes stared at her, waiting for Luna to move.

Luna stayed in place, her breathing slowed to barely visible. She had to do something soon or a hungry timber wolf would get fed. It wouldn’t take much to destroy the beast; even a simple fire could kill it. A finger pointed at the timber wolf, she snapped her middle and thumb, causing a spark of blue to briefly appear. Not long after, the spark materialized onto the hunk of wood, igniting into a fire. If it didn’t run too far, then the forest wouldn’t catch either.

Her satisfied grin lasted for only a second, as the growing flame burnt away. There wasn’t even a burn mark on its body. It looked from where the spark was to Luna, snarling as it began to rear in a charge. “That’s not good,” she said running opposite the swift beast.

The clearing quickly became thick forest. She peddled through any gap that would allow so, escaping the growls. How far back was it? Is it gaining? Luna didn’t have time to look, but the snarls of approaching jaws told her. The trees carved into a bottleneck, splitting high and low ground. With her best chances upwards, she ran right, heading for a rising pass. It seemed to work, as the timberwolf took low-ground, keeping up with her pace.

Ahead, both paths curved towards each other. There was no way back, and she was losing ground fast. “Have to think! Have to think!” Below, the low path wasn’t a closed off pass; it ran along a hill that sank deep into a thicket of trees. The hill rose up ten feet high, and dove near the end. She lost sight of the timberwolf, but caught a glance of it swerving around the bend, racing towards her.

“No choice!” Luna jumped off, bent her legs for impact, and landed. Unfortunately, her velocity brought her too close, as she tumbled off the edge. Gravity kicked in, making her rollover rocks, bushes, and uprooted ground. Her back was repeatedly stabbed, but she needed to endure it. She spun to the side, rolling down like a log. SNAP. THUNK. Both her head and knees slammed hard against two trees. For a second she couldn’t breathe as the pain washed over her. Hitting a small lift of plum earth, she was thrown into the air, landing hard on a rock. The forest shifted to rock bed on level ground.

Her lip tore in the fall; she could feel the soft pellets of blood draining down her chin. She stumbled to her feet, grasping a tree trunk for support. Looking to her leg it was battered, swelling to a pulp in her jeans. Limping to a second tree, a loud howl made her stall. Suddenly she felt the cold, hard ground, with the timber wolf furiously raking into her back. Its claws became wet with her blood, several claw marks grazing on her as she helplessly pushed in the rock – smothered by the heavy creature.

Clenching a tight fist, Luna smacked the timberwolf away. It flew back a few yards, losing a hind leg in the process. The detached ligament made baby kicks, trying to reach its target. After failing, it crumbled into small bits of wood, no longer filled with the magic that brought them together.

Luna hobbled away from the timberwolf. Heaving with a limp, she searched for some way out. The rocks dissolved into dirt as she escaped. A periodic trail of red followed – leaving a breadcrumb trail. She became light more than once, rubbing against stock-still logs. The howls didn’t persist, letting her limp to safety for a while. She hauled herself along the cluster of green bushels, leading to a dark rot; long twigs masquerading as the trees they believed themselves to be. Climbing one of them for safety wasn’t feasible for now. Still, she needed a someplace or else; so Luna climbed – steadily, as wrapping her injured leg brought waves of pain. It was a miracle the branch could even hold her, but with only a few cracks of instability, she relaxed for the moment.

Time passed slowly, with Luna occupying her time thinking a way out. The timberwolf was still out there, and could easily backtrack from the blood trail she left. She winced leaning against the trunk on her back. Her wounds were deep; still fresh and open. All over she was in pain, growing weaker the more she moved. Trying to use minor healing – at least to close the wounds on her, but the faint trickle of magic failed to close one claw mark. Her magic failed. When she first came into contact with the timberwolf, a spell to burn it was also useless. “What has happened?”

Howling came from the distance, the beast chortling from its find; the timberwolf stalked passed the tree she was silently on; it did not notice her presence, bouncing into a pile of shrubs, looking elsewhere.

“I can’t let this thing get the better of me,” she said, her voice rising. “If you want to hunt, we’ll hunt”. She stumbled off the branch, landing with a crunch of broken leaves. The timberwolf didn’t return when she scoured the area. She found a nice, long branch; brittle shavings jostling off as she shook it free. Arriving near the rock bed, Luna began to carve the branch with rocks, sharpening the tip to a fine point. Swinging it around, stabbing the air for non-existent enemies. Her weapon made, it was time to hunt.

Luna kept low – hiding behind the forest around her; a huntress in search of the chosen prey. Every crackle of splintered floor left a small footstep that she shuffled to keep her tracks hidden. The smell of burnt wood smoking was her tracker on the timberwolf. Wafting away, she was quick to sniff out the malefic scent.

Being overly cautious, she hit a roof that would have given her position away. Luna was only frightened for a second, no longer. Fear was gone from her; she had commanded it, forcing the petty emotion into a cage, letting it remain locked. For her to fear the very thing she was chasing, would be weakness; and she wasn’t weak anymore. Now is the time for me to stand my ground.

Snap

The ominous crack of a twig displaced the quiet setting, sending a flock of birds flying into the gray sky. Luna crouched low into a ring of bushes, keeping her eyes trained in the direction of the snap. Only her padded footprints shown, with the rest of the forest remaining still; not even a light breeze touched fallen leaves. Where are you? Her patience losing momentum, the stillness became irritating.

She was about to give away her location, when a dark form approached the embedded dirt. It was large, husky, its breath seeped a putrid smell – enough to make her hurl from contact. Gripping her spear, she lunged out at the creature. Her effort was met, as it ran away. GRRR, came the rolling throttle of something’s snarl; Luna barely turned before the timberwolf knocked into her, sending them both to the ground.

Lashing bark snapped onto her improvised shield, ripping into the wood like butter. She thrust he arms forward, struggling to get up before another series of strikes happened. The ravenous blades of the timberwolf gleamed at her, gleaming with fresh blood. A rattle of throaty growls continued, its snout flaring at the ready to take Luna out. With tremendous speed, the creature dove for Luna’s leg; her hand shifted grip on the spear, blocking the oncoming attack. She knocked its head down out an angle – with its neck exposed, curved.

The hit didn’t stop it long enough, with a razor-sharp slash cutting into her calf. She flexed her leg, for the pain, bringing the spear to her right, and swung it hard against the timberwolf – splintering both. Hitting it sent it on its back, rolling as a turtle would on its shell. Luna twirled the now-blunt stick, aiming for its stomach. Missed; dirt splattered, as the spear struck and lodged itself into the ground.

Luna pulled hard on it, her concern being weaponless,. Whilst she struggled, the timberwolf was able to get backup, fangs at the ready. Thinking quick, Luna brought her elbow down onto its head; her arm locked up, rendering it useless for the moment. She was able to dislodge the stick, dragging it along in a mad dash. Surroundings become a blur, directions flipping every which way. Her lungs ached, stunting weak body movements, she whipped to the side, her body easily fitting behind cover of a tree.

Spear close to her chest, Luna stood idly behind the thick trunk. “Where are you, where are you?” she rambled, waiting for the onslaught of the hungry monster. The lingering scent faded, the howls of the rushing beast gone. He was right behind me, where is it? She clutched her throbbing leg, the bleeding wounds soaking her pant leg. Luna ripped the cuff of her pants off, wrapping it around the wound tight. She winced at the pressure, blood seeped through the wrap – stopping short.

A succession of stomps brought Luna’s focus back from the injury. Thunderous paws thrashed towards her; fifteen feet...ten...five...three...

Luna stabbed where she though it would appear. She guessed correctly, the end cutting just above the timberwolf’s foot, where a tendon would be. It yelped in surprise at the sudden loss of trajectory, trampling to a patch of dirt along rock. They had come to the forest’s end; rock bed and cliff being their only ground left. Luna chuckled the stick at it, but it spun too fast, throwing itself on her.

They tussled, the beast’s jaws once more snapping-inches away. Luna was losing her grip on the only shield stopping it; with only a short break, she hadn’t had time to rest. This was it, this was all she had left.

Boom! A crack of lightening zipped by, with thunder following closely. She took the false call of an approaching storm as her chance; digging her fingers into the wood, and threw it towards the sunken teeth of the timberwolf. Luna began to spin, tossed aside with spear in hand. She groaned, her back smashing against the stone. With a great bark, the timberwolf dove off of high ground, its teeth out for the finishing blow. Last chance, Luna brought the spear out, connecting with it. Its glowing green eyes burned dark, the magical bindings keeping it together, loosening. Heaving the great weight of the timberwolf, Luna managed to toss it and the spear over her – the former tearing in half.

Luna remained still-fearing the massive beast would get back to finish her. But it didn’t, collapsed in a heap of upper and lower half. Reaching down, she flinched its head, hoping it wouldn’t wake. Still it did not, dead for the time being and as they all do, until that same magic that inhabits them like a soul, brings them back. They were as eternal as the forest. Leaving it, Luna wandered to the edge of the cliff. The drop was good thirty feet – more than enough to break a few bones and renders her immobilized. “Dammit...huh?”

Peering further, she saw rocks jutting out the fence, crawling down a good ways. “I can just climb down these, and jump the last ten or so. Better do it soon,” as she looked to the sky, “Before the rain makes them too slippery.” She pulled up her jacket’s sleeves, readying to start the climb. “Here goes nothing.” Right as she readied herself, Luna felt a fierce grip penetrate her hip. To her left – hanging by its teeth – was the front half of the timberwolf, still alive. Screaming, Luna tried to force it off, her hands simply slipping off it. Too exhausted. The beast dug further into her; she felt it raking into her, barely below her kidney. Blood spurted from her mouth, losing sense in her legs, reaching up.

“Get...off!” She yelled, ramming her elbow – already broken – into its face, causing it to fall off. The piles of wood flung near the other half, green energy knitting the two. She squeezed her side, but it was no use; turning away, her focus lost conscious demand to stay afloat, sending her over the edge.

She screamed, with inaudible shock at the impact. Electrical surges went through her, shutting down use in any limb. Unable to keep a grip on her wound, blood puddled from her. Gurgling for air, Luna’s sight took a shot. Above on the cliff, she saw the now-reformed timberwolf staring down. It wasn’t alone. Joining it were four more – equally alive – timberwolves. The pack of demonic animals just looked at her weak, immobile figure. How pathetic I must look, Luna thought.

Soon a flurry of damp trickles fell down, slapping Luna. The storm wasn’t here yet, but a small show of pellets was enough. From the sound of the previous thunderclap, it was sure to be real hairy. The soft raindrops stung her injuries, but only a little. The timberwolves vanished when she looked again. They’re either off to find another prey, or find an easier way down here, to pathetic me. With her accumulating blood loss and physical condition, she was sure to fall under before they arrived.

“Might as well get a head start,” she said closing her eyes.

Breathe.

Breathe Luna!

Celestia frustrated, told Luna to stop holding her breath. Luna found it a fun game to play, which her sister did not find amusing. “Please stop playing that game Luna, it’s unhealthy.”

“Awww, but why?” Luna whined. She puffed out her cheeks, resembling a blowfish more than a little princess. She swung her gown in the color of the night – thus playing another game.

“Mother wouldn’t enjoy hearing about his.”

“Mommy isn’t around, ever,” pouted the little girl. Luna started to form bright blue tears, her lip trembling at the thought. Celestia – noticing this distress – gave her petite sister a hug, curling around until she smothered Luna entirely.

“I’m sorry,” Celestia softly said, rocking them back and forth. “Listen, I’ve got something that is sure to brighten you up.” She brought a band out, curling her lush pink hair into a bundled ponytail.

“Oooh what! What?” Luna happily bounced, a big smile replacing the somber frown.

“Follow me and I’ll show you.” Celestia took Luna’s hand, walking to the behemoth boulder in the distance.

Chapter 4: In Time, I'll Learn

“Malefic Malevolence: An Archaic Rendition of Trauma. Now let’s see here...we’ve got bruises, well all over. Some sprained and broken bones along the right elbow, right leg, pelvic region, left hip, two ribs – both sides, and a sprained wrist. Not too bad, not too bad. According to this, you’ve fainted from blood loss, so that’s a bit iffy, but fear not I’ll help you get back in tip-top shape!”

“First off we’re unconscious, which is the first problem. After that...well? Anyways, let’s get right to it! First, we gain some knowledge of our surroundings and present condition”.

Luna felt the chilly air rub against her damp skin. The rustling of leaves, the crack of falling pines to the unknown elements. She couldn’t see under her eyelids, but the sense of the surrounding area was very much in her grasp.

“Next comes our heart. It will palpitate very rapidly, to the point of bursting!”

She could feel the rapid racing of a heart beating. Her heartbeat. The pounding rhythmically echoed and stopped, echoed and stopped. Blood was pumping; life was racing to keep momentum. Am I alive? She felt her heart, but what of her brain or lungs? Did she need them to live, or were they expendable?

“Then is our...breathing. Like our heart, it’ll start of really really slow, but speed up incredibly quick!”

The sensation of air flowing through the passage to her lungs; in and out. Her lungs were definitely not out of commission.

“...Problem is we may experience cardiac arrest!”

Her breathing was comfortable a second ago. Now she could hardly even take in a single breath; her nostrils flared, lungs became fire, she could feel the swelling expansion – but without the actual air to accompany. I’m on fire! Somebody...!

The chirpy voice calmed her, as it lowered itself to a mere whisper. Who are you? She wanted to ask, but still her voice remained distant; like a whole different person were asking. Her eyes couldn’t see what wasn’t there. You’re not there then...I’m imagining all of this...

“Nope, sorry to tell you I am! Getting back to business, with all these organs and sensory points coming back, you will feel some minor, excruciating pain!”

Right on time, Luna could feel a new pain. Stronger than the pain she felt in her lungs. Every broken bone and bleeding orifice came in full force. She screamed, or at least would if she could speak.

“Finally, we come to the best part: waking up! It’s gonna happen real quick, so be ready! When I snap my fingers you’ll be wide awake. Three! Two! One!” Snap! The snap of the voice’s fingers shocked Luna awake. She drank in the air, as much as her swollen lungs would allow. She turned to her side, trying to find an easier way to take in the plentiful air. A revolting queasiness entered her throat, causing Luna to vomit nothing but water fluid. Alive...I’m alive!

No, not alive; just not dead. If she were alive, would she be in pain, in a storm, with no idea where to go or where exactly she was currently? Being alive would be a blessing. One she didn’t have on her. Drumbeats of rain pounded, leaving dark spots on the cold rock that would then vanish among the many other dark spots, which led to a grey rock becoming black instantly; black rocks waiting to live and die, much like her. The surrounding forest - above and ahead – swayed, tipping to a point of no return.

She was surrounded by high boulders, their mountainous cliffs facing three points around, with one direction as a passage to her cove. The only entrance went down fifty feet heading into splintered branches and a layered mesh of leaves. It would be her only way out of the pit. She pressed down onto her side, draining watered-down blood. On the ground, a puddle of red sap formed; while unconscious, she must have lost a lot of blood, around a good half-liter. Walking would be a challenge, what with her broken bones as well.

At that moment, she pressed on her chest, her ribcage stung. “A few broken ribs for sure,” she said. “It’s going to hurt, but I need to get up. And those timberwolves.” Luna looked to the edge, and sure enough they weren’t there. How long have I been out? A good hour, maybe? There’s plenty of time for them to discover a way to her. Since they weren’t here already, they must be close; enough so that they could be just beyond that jungle. There wasn’t the smell of burnt wood, meaning they could be a few miles out. Might.

This wasn’t the time for second guessing; either she get up now, or stay to die. “Dying isn’t an option!” Luna placed her arms under herself, and shoved; she-at first-buckled under the increased weight on her body, but kept up until she was back on her feet, wobbling. The walk to the forest felt farther than fifty feet, her slow pace accounting for that. She found pushing on the face of the cliff helped. It acted as a stable support. The only concern she had besides fainting right there, was where to head off to.

Turning around to situate herself in a leaning position, Luna took out the crinkled map. Zigzags painted the parchment, crossing both man-made and natural terrain. Her previous location was Hoofdale, which was about a few miles back. The legend stated an approximate three miles back. She followed the insane amount of poorly-drawn mountain and forest, to where she believed herself to be; inside the Everfree forest. Exactly where, she couldn’t be sure; since it wasn’t a map on just the forest itself, but the neighboring towns as well.

The closest town was titled “Oakwood,” about a mile out. Not too far, good. She put the map back, not taking the time to wrap it up again. “All set to go, come on.” Making it to the exit - or entrance - she made it. Without a second to waste parting the double-door of leaves, and walking through.

“Come on Luna, you’re not getting tired are you?” Celestia coyly called down to Luna, who was a good five feet below, struggling with a swaying vine.

“Yes!” She angrily reported. The vine had now coiled around her in a tangle. They had been traversing the boulders - going along the ramp until it ended for a short climb. From below, the mountain appeared as a single boulder - hundreds of feet high - but was actually a clump of four massive boulders. The road followed up until just behind the tallest, where a short climb up some ingrown vines would lead to a new flat path. Celestia tugged on the few starter vines, climbing the wall to show Luna it was safe. She even hung by her hands just to toy with her. Luna wasn’t too happy at her older sister acting so childish.

“Sister...I’m stuck.” Celestia looked to the struggling girl, laughing at her misfortune; but came to the rescue, lifting the poor girl onto her back. “Thanks,” she said, grateful that she didn’t need to deal with the pesky string monsters anymore.

“That’s what big sisters are for!” With a piggybacked Luna, Celestia took them up the rest of the way. Reaching the top, she lifted them with effort to the new flat stretch of ground. Exhausted, she rolled Luna off, breathing heavily at the workout she was getting.

The little Luna got up, pulling on her sister’s arm to do the same. “Are we almost there!?” ‘Important as always’ Celestia chuckled. “What? What’s so funny?”

Celestia up righted herself, still laughing and saying, “Just thinking about how stingy you are.”

“I’m not impatient!” Pouting, Luna’s cheeks turned to tomatoes.

“I guess you’re right...strawberry”

At that nickname, Luna punched Celestia hard in the leg – the highest she could hit. “I told you to stop naming me after fruit!”

“Okay, I deserved that,” Celestia swirled, rubbing her little sister’s well-groomed patch of blue hair. “Let’s get going, shall we?”

Celestia turned to leave, when Luna grabbed onto her, “Where are we going anyways?” Her lip trembled, and her big blue eyes balled up into an over exaggerating expression. Luna’s signature face to get anything she wanted.

Bright-eyed, Celestia smiled. She pointed high above them, to the boulder’s edge, “There,” she said. “Right around that bend, on a small hill is a cave. In that cave is what I’m here to show you. It’s a very special secret, that only I know of...and Starswirl.” Her smile faded, concern looming.

“Where is he sister?” I heard he went on an adventure!”

“I don’t know if he would call it such, but yes...an adventure.”

Picking up Luna, they went up the path, encroaching on the bend she spoke of. “It’s really bright. Do you think you can lower the sun?”

Celestia laughed again. “Sorry, can’t do that, unless you can raise the moon?” Luna spat out her tongue. She really doesn’t enjoy those jobs.

Curses drew under her breath, as Luna made her way through the last feet of jungle. Since she came to, the howls of those dreaded beasts – or any other – were distant at best; a good mile out from her. That didn’t mean she was completely out of danger. There were still her vast injuries to attend to; of which she had no means to heal. Her magic failing to stitch up a scratch, and no nearby towns to speak of; Luna was very much in trouble.

She recalled that a village was located about a mile out, but in the thick jungle, there wasn’t much to see yet. For the most part, her wounds were kind by stinging passively. The only serious one that would stop her being the chunk the timberwolf bit out.

The final pair of large leaves parted, revealing what she hoped for: open road. A long stretch of light dirt – drenched in the storm – went out a fair distance, looping around the forest. Looking left, the road had already gone far, leaving her in the middle between the last town and...here. The map pointed the next town right. Luna lifted the bag up, and began to walk that way. She’d hoped before; hopefully hoping would work again.

I wonder how sister is doing she pondered. Luna had been walking for at least half an hour, with the town less in sight than ever. It started becoming a fear that she wouldn’t arrive before the sun fell. Her injuries wouldn’t give her that much time. So with the quiet travelling, she wondered on her sister’s condition. There was no word from Twilight yet, which wasn’t necessarily good. Twilight was left to keep an eye on her, and to also look into the spell. News about its origins would be much appreciated; but no news yet. How many days has it been? Luna figured it had been two days. But since she was out for a while, it could be ten. This storm could be on its first week for all she knew.

She snapped out of the thought, seeing a light at the end of the tunnel. Coming up around the bend, she saw the outskirts of a village. The village. Oakwood. Enlightened at the prospect of finding a nice, warm bed and fresh meals, Luna quickened her pace. Aaaaroooo. In the thunder and shower of rain she didn’t think her ears heard right, but they did. The far off hauls of a pack were heard. The call wasn’t near enough to gallop to her; however, hearing them at all stated they weren’t off the beaten path. Luna had no time to estimate, so she sprinted to the town.

The clouds lighted up in a bright flash, followed by the percussion of drums. A strong shove and she was going against the wind. Rain punched her with a small mix of loose dirt that decided to join in. Her discomfort with already moving faster than her legs could manage, increased with the change in wind.

Unlike Hoofdale, the village of Oakwood didn’t have fences or a designated entrance; its only barring were houses and a few hundred feet away, the forest. Luna dashed between a pair of houses, rushing into the villages. Smoke rose from the charred ashes of burnt buildings. While running, she noticed the entire village had been razed; smoldering piles of black wood were all that was left. All, except one house which had a clear puff of rising smoke from a chimney. She stepped forward, collapsing on her knees. “Help!” She cried out, holding her side which was torn more. The effects of her run had come stranding her in a village of lost lives. Her tears became rain, as she cried out for help that didn’t come.

Luna fell forward, growing weak in her head again. “N-No...please.” Too late, her body crumpling. A shadowed figure came out of the house, running to her. The dark clouds end blurred vision had the figure’s identity. It reached around, and lifted her with one arm wrapped under her left arm and over her back. She felt the muddy ground slide away.

“M~ gonna be ok~,” the figure said. “You’re s~f~.”

Those were the last words she heard, before succumbing to the darkness entirely.

“Luna, you must promise never to use this. It does not do what you believe it to.”

The sound of her sister’s warning voice brought Luna to. A warm, salty taste stuck to her mouth; her eyes fluttered in wake of the bright bulb of a nearby lantern. Trying to move her arms, they stiffened at her sides. Only soft groans were produced in an effort to speak. Unable to talk, to move, or think. Perfect. What first came to mind wasn’t “Where am I?”, but how did I get here? Short flashes of being dragged by someone came to her. He - or she - was tall, well-built, and took enough care to calm her. They brought her in and set her down in this comfortable bed. Feeling a damp area on her forehead and tightly-wound gauze, they must have also treated her injuries. There was still an incredible stinging sensation where she was bitten; meaning advanced medical treatment wasn’t used. Minor first aid at best she thought.

Looking at the room she accompanied, it appeared as living quarters. There was the bed, a counter with random knick-knacks and a sink, and small room to sit or stand. Luna only saw what she could. To her left – at the far end near the counter was a door. It probably led to a bedroom. Whatever it led to wasn’t a concern; who lived here was.

The house – which was more of a cottage – had an androgynous feel to it. Simple decorations adorned the living room: hanging pictures of fields, a typewriter, some left out dinner ware, a small notebook. Her bed was simple too, with plain-colored sheets. Yet there was also a feminine side to it. A flower pot, with wilted stems of dead plants lay on the foot of the bed. Something so beautiful turned to nothing but a dead waste of space. The who became whom.

Creeak. The cottage moaned as strong winds brushed up against it. Steady taps banged on the window; screeching wind howled at the structure. Inside, she felt safe. Even inside a stranger’s home, it was safe. Luna was situated near the edge of the bed’s open side. In her sleep, she must have moved. With nothing to do but look at flour pots and dirty dishes, she looked to the floor for help. If anything could be more plain, the floor would be a top competitor. Average wooden planks, dark, flat as a pancake; shaven quite well for a cottage. Then something interesting caught her. Laying directly under the bed still in view, were scraps of paper. Notebook paper by the looks of it, ripped out of the one on the counter. Strange she thought. Now what would you be doing there? The residents hadn’t shown themselves yet, giving her opportunity to scavenge.

She reached as far as her stiff arm would take her, bending her back off the bed. Pain surged up her spine, to her head. It overwhelmed her for the moment, so she went back to laying still. After the pain subsided for the most part, Luna went right back to reaching for the paper. Her fingers dragged the scraps out. With careful movement she pinched two fingers at a time; within a minute retrieving the three pieces. Whoever wrote on them was sloppy; it was nothing but overlapping scribbles. Few words were legible, such as “her” and “sorry”. Before she could really start making out the letter, a crash came from behind the door.

From the sounds, something fumbled around, and ransacked the room. More dropped objects were heard before the handle clicked. As the knob turned, Luna shut her eyes to appear still asleep. Time to meet her savior.

A man opened the door, rushing to the counter without a passing glancing to her. Luna peered with one eye, seeing the disturbed man search through the pile on the counter. He was mid-aged, wild dark hair, askew glasses, a white-collared shirt with stripes running down the length. His clothes were a mix of soaked and muddy. His back was to her, so whatever he looked like was unseen. She was right about his height – maybe a few inches taller. His arched back and frantic shoveling said disturbed, or possibly frustrated. Maybe that’s why he crashed something.

Luna’s back had been in an awkward position since she reached down. Needing to move, she flexed her shoulder muscles, sliding up. The pain in her side returned, causing her to groan. It was loud enough; the man stopped his raving search, turning to the source of the noise. Giving herself away, Luna refrained from feigning sleep; instead getting a look at the man. Blue eyes, long and narrow nose – with a bandage, thin cheeks flushed red, dirt rubbed over. Dirty, but presentable.

“Well, well, well. Look who’s awake”. He shuffled over to her bedside, pulling up a chair and taking a seat. “How you doing ma’am?”

Words didn’t come to her. She gasped for air; so he handed a glass of freshly poured water. Gulping it down quickly, Luna coughed to no end. The watchful man patted her back, till she calmed enough. “I’ll take that as a yes for now,” he said chuckling. Taking the empty glass away, he returned to staring at her.

“What’re you doing?” She barely said, still trying to breathe deep.

“Making sure none of your wounds have opened up.” He brought her arms up, turned her hand, and asked her if she could feel every so often.

Luna may have still been dizzy, but she needed questions answered. Gaining his attention, “How long have I been here?”
He was quick to answer “Two days so far. You were pretty much done with when I found you. Thank Celestia the storm had only just begun, or I wouldn’t have heard you.”

“I am glad you did. Thank you...?”

“Inkling. And the pleasures all mine.” He was humble. Not something seen often outside of the castle. “If I’m not mistaken,” Inkling said, pulling a thread through her eyebrow. “You would be Princess Luna, no?”

She didn’t say anything, but nodded in response. He pulled the thin wire through her skin one last time, snipping off the remaining length. Rubbing among some blood, he continued stitching up remaining cuts. Inkling was delicate; taking careful aim with each poke, pull, and tap. Luna was embarrassed at the gesture. Even though she’s the Princess of the Night, she’s also a random stranger. One who needed help...but still. Being trusted in the first place is embarrassing.

“Are you a doctor, Inkling?”

He’d moved on to her arms. “Gosh no!” He said astonished. “Why, if I were a doctor you’d be on your feet by now.” Chuckling softly at the notion,” No, I’m a journalist. I run...er ran our local paper.” He continued on with her wounds, finding and taking care of ones Luna didn’t notice. Some were minor – cuts and scrapes, while she did bring a few dangerous. “Now then, let’s take a look see.” He motioned for Luna to raise her top up a bit. She did so, going up until he stopped her on the third ribcage. Wiping sweat from his brow, he rubbed his hands back on his hair. “This is gonna be a pickle.”

Since the fall, Luna hadn’t had a good look at the bite. With her blouse up, she saw the damage thus far. Jagged holes like daggers plunged into her skin. “Damn. I just swabbed these not an hour ago,” he grumbled. Taking out soaked cloth, he lightly touched the wounds; dabbing at the crusted and seeping blood. “You seemed to have gotten bitten by something good. Mind telling me what?”

“Timberwolf,” she responded, holding her breath for each dab. “It chased me for the better part of a day. Outsmarted it, until it got the best of me.”

“Pesky blights, timberwolves. Roam in packs, ferocious alone. Glad I haven’t had the chance to meet ‘em yet.”

“This one had a pack. Probably still out looking for me.”

“Well the rain should take care of your scent. They can’t track in bad weather.”

Silence fell while he prodded at her wound, stitching up the puncture wounds. “So, Princess Luna what were you doing out there? I imagine being chased by hungry beasts isn’t a daily chore.”

She signed and looked to the ceiling. Plain and boring like the rest of the room. “Something...happened. I came to fix it.”

“Oh, you mean the fires?” Confuse, she gave him a questionable look. “A few days back, fires erupted. People fled into the forest and elsewhere. I was the only one that stayed to put them out.” He kept up a smile, but looked sadly at the cloth dripping with blood. “Been here since, figuring on what to do next.”

“And your wife?” Luna asked.

“My wife? Oh...” he said. On his finger was a metallic ring with a single shiny gem. “She hasn’t been around for a long while.” Inkling twisted the ring while putting the rag away. “So you say you came to fix something. Guessin’ it isn’t the town?”
“I’m sorry, but no. I –“

He waved his hands. “No, that’s alright. We each have our reasons. To explain to me what would be a waste of energy. I just hope that you understand why you’re doing what it is you came for.” Their silence returned, leaving bath to ponder their decisions. A few hours passed, but the rain still continued only letter up a bit when the clouds parted. Luna began to regain her strength, sitting up and walking a short distance. With Inkling’s help, she was soon able to move about without difficulty.

“You’ve really improved Princess. I’m really amazed!” Inkling said, patting Luna on the shoulder.

“Yes, well, we’ve learned to recover fast at times.” She remained humble even though it took mere hours for her to recover.
Inkling became positive, his smile flailing. “So I’m guessin’ this means you’re gonna be moving on, huh?”

“ ‘fraid so,” she replied. Thinking on it, her leaving was a little somber. He helped her so much, and she had nothing but thanks to offer. “Listen Inkling,” she said extending her hand. “It was a pleasure being in your company. We are forever in debt to your generosity.” It appeared as if his shaking hand wouldn’t reach, but after some thought gladly gripped her own.

“Think nothing of it, Princess. I hope...I hope you find what it is you’re after.”

Luna left on a blunt note, much like acquaintances would. If a chord was struck, she snapped it, breaching the harmonic beauty of the piece. She walked into the pouring rain of the threatening storm. Her back to the warm home, she gave it one last look. A shadow from its only resident passed by the curtain. I hope to see you once more. The storm beating on her, Luna ran across the town – pass the burnt homes – to the open clearing. Staying on the road would be foolish with the pack still on her, so she crossed into the dense forest. I can feel them she thought. I can feel them.

Luna and Celestia traipsed over the rocks, heading upwards to where a flatbed was. The little princess figured around the bend would be their destination, but no, one last climb was needed. Gravity heaved as they traversed the steep wall. Small pebbles unhinged and fell an undesirable distance, knocking off other rocks that came into contact. Luna gulped, pretending not to see the ground she kept her sights on Celestia – ahead of her, and almost to the top.

Not more than a few steps later and Celestia disappeared over the top. Luna quickly scrambled up the remaining steps, her speed slipping loose a stable footing, hanging her. She cried out in terror at her predicament; unable to regain a foothold and her hands hurting, she found herself soon to fall aside like the pebble. “Sister!” She called out, but Celestia wasn’t showing. Her left hand began to slip – each delicate finger sliding off to the firm law of gravity. Luna cried out more as her hand let slip, leaving only her right keeping her alive. “Please help! Sis –“ Her last grip on the smooth rock left, sending her downwards.

Her weight kicked in, pulling her faster to the sound bottom. She lurched in mid-fall, her wrist surging, and her body becoming heavier. Looking up, a flowing pink lock of hair accompanied a shooting arm. Celestia – with all her might – pulled Luna up, throwing her over to land on the flat surface.

The two sisters shared heavy intakes of relieving air; Celestia grinned to Luna, which she responded in kind. Getting up, Celestia patted the dirt off them, and took her sister’s hand. She led the way to a black face on the back boulder. “Here we are”; she stated in a show of amazement.

Luna however did not see what her sister saw. All she witnessed was her sister waving her arm at a black wall. Curiously, she peered closer, in case she missed an important detail hiding in plain sight. Still nothing came to her that was out of the ordinary. “What am I supposed to be looking at, sister?” She asked, mystified at what wasn’t there.

Celestia – with eyes closed – smiled at the innocence of her little sister. She then took Luna’s shoulders and faced her directly at the wall of black. “Look closer, Luna.”

Doing as she was told, Luna stared deeper at the pitch black wall. It wasn’t all black; the dark only went up ten feet. Why is only a small portion that way? She looked at all the miniscule portions of the black spot, trying to discover why. The answer came to her in the form of a small reflection of light near the bottom. She ran to the reflection more curious at the small detail. Placing her fingers on it, they dipped into the light. Water. Luna raised them out, and reached into the wall. Sure enough, she passed the barrier that should have blocked her. “It’s a cave,” she said in realization.

“Correct,” said Celestia joining her. “And inside this cave is what I came to show you.”

Together they dove into the abyss. The cave went deeper from first impressions, going deep into the mountain. Farther down, the constant voices of unseen life sounded; water dripping from stalactites, the brush of their feet on salty rock, ominous noises from just eh acoustics of the cavernous climb. Luna and Celestia trudged deeper, with the latter leading the way, changing her direction every so often. The path wasn’t straightforward; with them taking different paths along the multiple options available. If they found three different holes to go down, Celestia would often go up close and rub her palm against the wall, feeling for a sign only she could see.

The farther down they went, the more light from the surface vanished. Still, there seemed to a new light source all the way at the apparent bottom. Twinkling colors danced at the entrance to a chamber. Seeing as how that was unique in the bleakness everywhere else that must be where Celestia was taking them. Her hunch was correct, as they lowered themselves to the chamber. Inside, the dim lights which faintly shown were now blinding. Luna covered her eyes; following her sister to the light’s core.

At the center of the chamber, lying on a pedestal, were six stoves that could fit in the palm of Luna’s hand. The light show was done to their shading: each had a different tone of purple, white, yellow, orange, blue and pink. Celestia picked up the stone with a purple hue, tossing it to Luna. “This is what I wanted to show you,” she said. She grabbed the orange one rubbing a tight fist on it. “These stones are called the Harmony Stones, and they are very special”.

“Special. Special how?” Luna asked, her eyes wide with wonder at the mysterious storm rolling in her hands. Its purple hue shifted as she turned it; the light melting into the dark. If there was a chance the color could dust onto her, she wouldn’t mind.

“They heal. They fix. They allow right to emerge where chaos is free”. Her philosophic tone eased Luna. Normally Celestia was the sister who spoke kindly with authority; but now she spoke as an elder warning their pupil. These stones meant a lot.

Luna clenched the stone with purple once more before placing it back on the pedestal. “So they help people? Like the ones in town?”

Celestia frowned, her hopes lowering. “Not...exactly”. She was blunt

“But I thought –“

“I did say they helped, yes. Just not in the way most would believe”. Celestia rolled the stone in her hand much like Luna. Curious to its properties. “The name is a misnomer”.

“A mis-mis-number?” Luna couldn’t quite get the odd word out.

“Misnomer. It means the name isn’t the truth. They’re called Harmony stones, but very much not out to cause initial good.”

“I still don’t understand,” Luna said, scratching her head in confusion. Her sister softly chuckled, and put the orange stone down. She crouched down, placing comforting hands on her.

“It’s okay if you don’t understand. I just hope in time, you’ll learn”. Her motherly smile warmed Luna. “Now then, I think it’s time for dinner. Don’t you think so?”

With a rapid nod, Celestia picked Luna up and carried them home. Before they were ever off the mountain, the little princess was already fast asleep. Snoring loudly in her big sister’s loving arms.

Luna ran from the unseen stalkers behind. She had been running nonstop since leaving the town. Through the small spacing allowing her to speed, she saw an opening. The scent of fresh spring water hovered in the pines around. Brushing past a blockade of trees, she saw the outlines of ruins; perched on the edge of a sleeping hill. She dove out of the final layer of recently fed vines, jumping out into the clearing.

Beyond membrane and flesh, were the very organs of the forest. High walls rose overhead, hundreds of feet high. Thick sprouts of new life crept out of the cracks in their deafness. Above the walls was the cloudless sky, free of forewarning clouds and bullets of falling water. Ground level, Luna took in the majesty of the area. She stood on a lift of earth, stopping short of a rock field in impenetrable mist. To her left – down – was the spring she sniffed out before. A long waterfall poured the clear water into a small bowl. On her right, a rising staircase of sharp rocks like teeth stuck out, leading to the hill where the ruins stood. The ruins were made out of ancient blocks of pure white stone. They formed a ring – with a ceiling. Through sheer luck or careful structure, they stood after such a long time. Her want - the stones - were inside waiting.

With no time to lose, Luan stumbled down into the rock field. Her only other option was the hill, but it was covered in a minefield of sharp thorns. Landing with grace, she stepped into the thick cloud of mist. Her vision became obscured by the white mist, impairing her. She cautiously reached out, touching the rocks and boulders to get through. Out of the field there was life shouting, but inside was much quieter. Dead silence placed a cold shoulder on her arm and chills went up her spine, as she kept a blind eye for movement. Luna made her way around one of the larger obstructions before stopping. A shadowy trail flew past her. Another fly-by came from behind. Every time if flew close, she spun to it, hoping to see it. “Show yourself!” she shouted. There was fear in her voice. She tried to shove it off, but the genuine emotion stayed.

From the blurred distance – closely in – came a cachet. Whatever was hind was laughing at her. “My, my, my. If it isn’t dear Princess Luna,” it said. A great flap of its wings, and the hiding voice showed itself. Luna gasped. In the mist her eyes were useless, but there was no mistaking the hideous malformation in front of her. Every piece of its body was that of another creature’s dragon-like tail, hand of a griffon and paw of a lion, the antler and horn, bat wings, discolored on every part. The beast...no, the monster before her that had been frozen away, that the elements twice had to remove from existences.

Luna seethed its name, her fear and anger spitting disdain at its arrival. “Discord,” she said through clenched teeth. The abominable excuse for all that is chaos stood before her; his cocky smile reveling at her.

“It’s so good to see you again,” he said.

Chapter 5: Chatting With Chaos

CHAPTER 5

Discord raised his comically large eyebrow, and maliciously laughed. “Aren’t you happy to see me?”

His mock tone filled Luna with rage. In disbelief she rubbed her eyes, hoping for the abomination to simply vanish. Poof, he would be there, and the next be gone for good. Sadly after trying a second time he still didn’t go away. Maybe knocking her head against a rock would help; sending her out of this nightmare into the real world. “Well fine then. I didn’t come all this way to say hi anyways.” He crossed his arms, craning his neck back, and around, and around again until his head was stacked onto three layers of neck.

“What are you doing here?” She finally managed.

The draconequus peered at her from an eye on the back of his head. Unfurling the rolls, he blinked in mocked surprise. “You know what? I don’t know! One minute I was happily wasting away in the castle’s maze; the next I was flesh.”

“Liar,” she spat. “Tell me how you became free!”

“But I did,” he said. Tears made of milk dripped from his nose, pouring into a glass that spawned. He proceeded to sip from the drink. “In all honesty it’s a mystery to me, as much as you.”

Hearing him lie was bad enough, but to hear sincere truth was worse. If Discord found some good in his corrupted heart, then all really was lost. No she thought. For him to suddenly change his ways was wrong. He must be hiding something, anything. She needed to know what. “Okay Discord, I believe you. So why did you come to me? Surely you didn’t visit for just a ‘hello’.” Time to set the trap.

“Of course my little, itty bitty princess.” His words were venom. “I thought we could have a little chat. You know, to catch up on old times, talk about the weather.”

“Sure.”

“Excellent!” He said. With a snap of his fingers a boulder moved under him, and a smaller one to her. They seemingly conformed to the most miniscule readjustments. Finding a comfortable position, she crossed her legs, staring at the now fancily dressed creature across from her.

Luna and Discord simply stared at each other. Conversation was the last thing she wanted. What she really wished for was the ability to beat him into submission; and put him back into his prison. Here he was, sipping hot tea, looking around at the mist covered nothing. It was like he was free or something. Yet she realized that was the truth. He was free; free to do whatever he pleased. Turn off the sun, make all objects caramel, relocate your taste buds to less than suitable places, all of it.

“So, how has life been treating you Discord?”

“Fairly well. I’ve been stuck in that blasted stone for about a half year, so not too bad. And of you, princess?”

“Same,” she said bluntly. Discord sipped the last ounce of his drink, throwing the glass into a rock, and turning into a flock of smaller cups with feathered flight.

“You don’t seem too interested in taking,” he lamented.

Luna thought through her choices before she spoke. She needed him to spill the truth. “Not exactly. I’m just really concerned.”

“Concerned?”

“Yes,” she said. Tapping her leg, “I’m worried about what to do next. There was a terrible accident if you didn’t hear.”

“Earthquakes, fire, something about Celestia. Yes I heard.”

“Well anyways,” she continued. “I’m scouting out here to repair all that. Up there, on that hill, are some ruins where I hope to find my answer.”

“After that spell I did hear about…” Discord stopped. He realized what he had said, and whisked the classy attire away. “Drat.”

“So you do know how you were freed. Was it the spell?” Discord didn’t answer, but his silence was enough. “What did it do?” She inquired.

“Well since the cats out of the bag, yes I did. Whatever spell you used with poor Twilight Sparkle freed me. One moment, I was happily being a statue, thinking about what somepony would taste like if I made them cotton candy. The next, I could see and move about. When I was free, I saw all around, and felt late to a party I wasn’t invited to. That feeling really is dreadful.” He placed a heartfelt paw on his chest.

With a hand on her temple, Luna thought on his information. She couldn’t believe what she hear, even if it was a thought. I released him. When that spell worked, she unknowingly freed the most evil creature to ever exist. Next to her she heard the sniffles of Discord, blowing into a tissue. “It’s just so sad!” He whined. “To think that you of all people helped me!” He blew hard into the thin sheet, turning it into a bouquet of flowers.

Luna sat up, and walked away. Discord shortly thereafter floated by, still crying crocodile tears. “Leave,” she said. Her despise for him returning, she sped up, but the lone demon kept pace. “I said leave!” Flocks of frightened birds scattered from their nesting grounds.

“And why would I do that? I’m having fun hanging out with you”. He snapped his talons and a checker board appeared. “Want to play a game for chuckles?” Another snap and cards flew out of his palms. “Or cards?” He approached her with more propositions, each one she brushed off without so much a word. “You seem to have an affinity for disliking games”.

Luna stopped, her shoulders set squarely on her sides. “Why do you continue to bother me?” She asked.

Grudgingly, Discord threw the cards away. “Why do you continue to ignore me?” Luna was at a loss for words. “I’m me! Discord! You know, chaos incarnate. Ruler of a darker time. So why is it that you walk away, as if I’m some petty thief?”

She bit on her lower lip, gnashing as much bone on skin as she could. Her stiff shoulders shook; her clenched fists trembling. “B-Because. I can’t stop you. Not now, not alone”. Her messed hair covered her tearful eyes. Crying. Crying in front of their most hated nemesis. To lose calm on anyone was rare; but to lose it specifically at those that would do them harm. Injustice.

“Huh,” Discord mindlessly mouthed. “How…pathetic”.

She snapped as loud as a pin dropping in a silent room. “Pathetic! How can you say pathetic!? What kind of audacity do you have to say that to me?” She couldn’t control he emotions at this point. Every word seethed with a thousand years of harbored rage. “If anything, you’re pathetic! Chaos? You spend all your time trying to chat with us. Play games. What’s become of the once feared ruler?”

While she said anything that came to mind, Discord humbly stood by; letting her speak to him in such a manner. It was comical and pathetic how with little effort, he made her give in to her prime feelings. Lose to his taunting, poking, and mild chivalry. How young she acted for her age. He raised a thundering paw for her to cease for the moment. “Please princess, I think I’ve had enough,” he yawned. Gliding over her, retained power. “You know Luna, you resemble a calf still needing to suckle of its mother’s teat for sustenance”.

Stunned, she could only express pure confusion. “Oh yes, you believe yourself to have the power to go off on your own, but in reality you lie. Sure, you can trick those who trust you explicitly, but I know different. I see past that thick shell you have wrapped yourself in. Your thoughts, emotions, judgements. All of it hidden away so you don’t get hurt. But you know what? You’re weak. Weaning off the loyalty you hold, and the acceptance you wish to gain. As weak as the day you were born; as weak as that pitiful newspaper editor”.

“Inkling isn’t weak!”

“Oh really?” Reaching behind his antler, he revealed a handful of small papers. “Then what do you call these, princess?” Dropping them onto the wet ground, Luna snatched them up. On the slips were scribblings of a madman. They spoke of his daily life, but also of a recent tragedy. Something happened to his wife…

It hit her like a bucket of bricks. These were the journal pages she took with her that she found on the ground. “Where did you get these?”

“I found them in your ear and thought I’d take them”. His jester attitude returned.

Luna smoothed out the crumpled sheets. Her oily fingers smearing the ink. “Something interesting happened today. The Sugarcanes had their baby…”

We’ve been expecting little Pix for a while now. Each day Mrs. Cane’s birth grew just a bit bigger, leading us to believe any day she would blossom forth a little addition to our wondrous town. The celebration was met with much wine and good times; a joyous occasion for the whole town. IT isn’t often good tidings happen by, leaving me to believe we are cursed with momentary bouts of happiness, which proceed long droughts of distress or boredom. After spending your life – or almost all of it – in one place, you soon grow used to the day-by-day activities. Find a rock with mold covering both sides and that made the week. Starlight says not to worry, that “Things’ll get better”. Spending these last few years, living like that, I sure hope so. Writing these entries is a way to get better I suppose.

I’ve realized there are only two things keeping me here: Starlight and my journalism career. More like ‘career’. When I was younger I thought I would make something of myself, much like I do every starry night I crawl into our cold bed, pulling up the covers to hid my failed aspirations. Then there’s Starlight; and her love for me. She believes different, and frankly more optimistic than myself. Somedays I’ll be in a slump and she’ll plop down next to me, rub my swollen shoulders, and grace me with a heavenly smile; not out of apathy, but because she truly cares. I’ve told her I can do better, so why does she allow me to stay? I find it hard to believe, but it’s because she knows. My rants on our well-being have been heard galaxies far. Yet she continues to calm my wounded heart. A mender, a healer, that is what she is. There’s not a day she doesn’t fix what I’ve broken.

Starlight’s gotten sick. It happens to everyone, but still…I’m worried. She’s no more than a delicate flower. I for one haven’t seen her so much as cough since we met. The doctor returned my call for aid. He inspected her for a while; making sure everything was in order. Sadly, it looks as if she caught something worse than a simple cold. Problem is, no one knows what. Getting a mild cold is common, and common treatment is applied, curing said common sickness. Her condition is special somehow. We would know by the end of the next day how serious it was; so I was told to be patient. Before I slept that night, I prayed to the princesses that good news would come, and she would get better. Hope.

A week has passed and still no word on her condition. Her symptoms tell that she may have been poisoned by contact with a wild plant. Not the news we were for hoping for. Still I’ll stay by her side for the most part, and only take leave to eat or rest; both of which I haven’t taken much of. I have to replace her dried cloth with a soaked every few hours, keeping her raging fever down. These prayers I lent meant nothing and so too do the princesses’ words. Might as well stop trying, and help her by myself. Doctor says a plant might help her immensely. The fluid inside it calms the nerves and fever. I set out just off into the wilderness tomorrow. First good news in a while.

How long was I out? I fell on the ground, tripped over a small mound of clumped dirt. Cut myself up by the looks of it. There’s a splatter of blood on the rock I hit. However long I’ve been out, I hope it isn’t too late.

I said I’d keep you safe…

I now know why I’m here. I’m here to suffer, to never find true happiness. I’ll never be made whole. Whereas the Canes can have kids, I will be alone…so very alone. Then you come by today, Starlight. You come to me, to let me know it’s alright. Or did you? Your blue hair, delicate face of snow white, and charming smile; they’re all there. It isn’t you, I know this, but I wish to believe until she recovers. Why she was out in a storm, it doesn’t matter. I’m not alone anymore. At least for a while.

“See now, princess?” Asked Discord. He noticed she finished reading, but that she continued to stare, re-read, remain unmoving. “I’m afraid that strong

Luna held in the tears, afraid. He was right. Inkling prayed to her, to let his wife live; and she didn’t hear him. It was all false hope he gave to himself. Was I gone or here? She asked herself. If the former, then there was nothing she could do. If the latter…then there was something I could have done. Crunching the useless papers, Luna sauntered through field of rocks. Weaving through the thick mist she came to the cliff where above the ruins stood. Discord tried to gain her attention, showing off all his wacky antics. Nothing got through her tunnel vision. The climb up was fairly easy, the ruins in sight.

“Come on, can’t you at least look at me?” Drawled Discord.

“I’m not done with you,” she said. Luna dragged herself over, smoothly standing. Still not glancing towards his way, she walked towards the stone. “Discord,” she said stopping. “Why do you do this?”

“Do what?” He innocently asked.

“Hurt. All you’ve ever done is hurt. Doesn’t matter if it’s me, or sister, or Twilight and her friends. You hurt. Why?” Luna quivered in place. A single trail of liquid dribbled down her swollen cheek.

Discord floated to her, and placed a thorny talon on her. “It’s in my nature. Hard to figure, huh?” He relinquished his talon, floating away. “I hope you know, as well as I do, that those stones won’t fix anything. If you want to see real chaos, then continue on with this hopeless endeavor. Otherwise turn back now”. He snapped his multi ligaments and left. A fluff of pink cloud remained.

“I hope you’re wrong, Discord. I sincerely do”.

Chapter 6: My Reckoning

CHAPTER 6

Cold wind swept its way through the spherical dilapidation. Once placed on a great mountain, the aged fragments were enemy to the elements, swayed only so much to continue existing. The frigid tendrils caressed Luna, easing her inwards, gripping her heart and forcing simple steps to come further.

She felt a growing danger with each foot. It wasn’t fear, or insecurity; the feeling called to her to think, to fulfill her curiosity. Using the air as its voice, it commanded her to progress deeper. She lost her chance to leave long ago. Her only motivation to follow the strangling call was desire. A desire loomed around her, placing its warm fingers - not tendrils – and leading her down the path she chose. Why escape from something so caring of her?

Sickly, deep down, Luna wanted to run from those endearing hands. On the inside she was scared, psychotic, mesmerized, angry, and prone to burst from her shell that seamlessly hid her true self; yet on the outside, she was calm and collected. Her false sense of the possible approaching calamity dug inside, scraping away that hard shell.

A pedestal – carved upwards – rose to her waist. Six smaller plates rose around the face, each with a singular stone placed with delicacy on them. The stones were gray, plain. Their true worth lie in the center. They each were imprinted with a symbol of different color: purple, pink, yellow, white, orange, and blue. The symbols resembled cutie marks, but marks that were very much seen before. Twilight and her friends – the Elements of Harmony – had these specific symbols branded onto them. Magic, Friendship, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty, and Loyalty. She hovered a shaking hand over the stone of magic, wanting to hold it like she did so long ago.

“Come on Luna, do what you came for,” she whispered under strained breath.

Quickly, she snatched up the frozen hearth. Her fingers tightly coiled around the object, rubbing dry cracks across the indents. Crisp shedding fell under her touch ingraining further upon the old rock. “Please,” she spoke softly. “Please work”. Clasping it in both hands, she took it in a bow of prayer. Biting her lower lip, and squeezing out a final “please” before raising it to her breast, pushing it against the crest of the moon.

The rock – hidden beneath her angel stance – emitted a soft glow. Not much brighter than the twinkle of the stars. It shone from her cage. As quickly as it shone, the rock became dead. Just as before, it was a normal rock.

Luna expected more from it, patiently waiting for a second coming of the light. But it remained dark. She lowered it to its plate, wondering if it needed to be there. Before it so much as grazed the stone slab, it crumbled into dust in her hands. The sandy remains – held tightly – seeped from the gaps between her grips. They floated to the ground, and were picked up by the wind, soaring away. Her eyes watered, and a cold shiver spiraled down her back, reaching under her arms and beyond her physical body. The seconds turned into minutes. With her motionless. Blue eyes filled with life let loose the gates of the sea, sending her down with the ashes. She wept into her hands; the soft thumps of her moans disturbing the silence.

She garbled spited words into her mask. Moving them away, she revealed her torture. Face red as a phoenix’s temper, furious tears bathed in sadness gnashed away. “Why!?” She screamed to the high ceiling. “Why!? Why! Why!” It became more a statement with each succession. She wore her throat out with constant shouts, but still she didn’t cease to berate whoever she pleased. “What have I done?! So much done, and I’m treated like this! Does Thou think less of Thy!?” The royal voice screeched away. Animals that came too near were thrown off, scampering far out of her reach. “All this,” she said pointing to the piles where the stones were. “For nothing!”

If her tears could be blood she would let them. Her insides on fire, she slowly brought her rattled body up. The physical and toil she had been made to suffer were iron weights keeping her down. At a loss for anything but frustration, she swayed in place. On the floor, the ashes sifted away, not wanting to have anything more to do with her. A lone pebbled – from the stand – stayed underneath her foot. The small chunk acted oddly near her; it wriggled, scraping to move away. As the pressure lifted, it zoomed across the ruins, rose to eye level, and blinked out of existence.

The fallen princess didn’t have a clue as to what happened. She walked with care to where it vanished, grabbing at the air. Nothing. The pebble simply disappeared with no conclusive reasoning. The only substance in her vision was air, swirling air. Swirling air. She narrowed to the exact point that it disappeared. Air in that particular spot swirled clockwise. If she hadn’t been that close she would have missed it entirely. Nearly invisible to the naked eye. Now what’s this all about?

Before she could inspect further, Luna felt herself moving. A subtle slide brought her to the left, going past what remained of the table, and to one of the pillars. She slammed into the closest, sending a shockwave of pain through her. The rest of the ruins – not being bolted down – followed suit. On instinct, she wrapped around the pillar, and was lifted off the ground and over the edge. Below, a long drop to the rocky waters plopped with falling debris.

Reeling against the inconceivable fate, she had no choice but to swing back around. One strong swing would do. Problem being she didn’t have one. Any exertion would toss her off the pillar, or into the water below. The shifting stone seized from the low dip. Luna held strong, digging her fingers into it deep. Her fingertips became ghost white with small trickles of blood dripping off them. Blood rushed to her head as she strained to pull herself up. Another seizure shook her farther down. The throbbing sensation of a ready-to-burst vein made her vision take a nosedive. Blurred grasps of reality were the only things keeping her alive.

Sucking in hot air, she lifted with all she had. Luna found herself flinging like a feather, and flew inside the crumbling ruins. Her arm twisted outwardly for a moment before it ricocheted back into place with a loud snap. Hurriedly she got up and bullet-ed for the entrance. The ancient architecture wracked with each nudge of gravity.

One of the massive pillars caved in. She barely had time to react to it; jumping away as the column crashed through the floor, and into the angered waters.

Symmetrical patterns of destruction heavily raged. When one end of the world tipped, the other repeated. The normal flow of horizontal and vertical were thrown off as her shifting perception was too. She had been reminded of musical compositions that were similar. They told of a fight against one’s own reality to battle a bigger cause. Fate leaped in to save the would-be-dead; giving those heroes the chance to repeat it all over again. As she swayed with the tides of the tipping ruins, she wondered where her “fate” was. Were he to do the same, she could fight again.

Fate wouldn’t come Luna realized.