The Triumph of Harmony

The spreading aurorean rays beckoned all of Equestria to rise. They fell upon an ageless being standing on a high Canterlot balcony. Celestia gazed at the celestial body, her heart laden with sorrow. Day's duty done, she turned her weary gaze towards the west.

"Sister, thou hast returned," said Princess Luna, warmly. "What hast thou learned from thy communion with the Core?"

Celestia sighed and turned to regard her. "Unfortunately nothing good, dear sister. It is as we feared, the backlash of energy is beginning, and Manehattan was just the start."

The Ruler of the Night grimaced, saying, "How shalt we help our little ponies? This news is most dreadful."

"I have already reformed the Equestrian National Relief Force, and deployed them to Manehattan. Unfortunately, I must remain in Canterlot, for the peace of the nation. I, however, believe that you should, on our behalf, pay Manehattan a visit."

"That is a most sound plan. It will do our citizens good to receive direct support from their rulers," agreed Luna, "however, what shall be done about the backlash? From thy words, all of Equestria, neigh, the whole world, will crumble into dust if this continues."

Celestia's voice wavered, tremulously. "There is no greater power than Harmony. The call to summon the Elements must be made..."

An overwhelming sadness engulfed Luna. "Surely thou knowest another way?"

"The ancient texts are quite clear. There is not."

Luna stepped towards Celestia, giving her a comforting nuzzle. Each taking solace in the other's presence.

"It would be proper for us to inform Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, sister, occupied though she is."

"Yes, as the princess of love, she bears a heavy burden. These are troubled times. I'll get in touch with the captain of the royal guard, Shining Armor right away..."

In a reminiscent tone, Celestia continued. "It seems like such a short time since they were married, that they have been unable to be together is a travesty we have failed to prevent... We need to make things right, even if it entails the sacrifice of our very hearts..."

Luna said nothing, preferring to embrace her idol.

A passing pony would needed to have had a very gifted eye to see the glistening teardrops of the immortal rulers of Equestria.

***

One would have been forgiven for thinking that another meeting had been called judging by the amount of ponies milling in the town square. However, a keen eye would have observed the oddity of a large glyph inscribed into the paving. Twilight, magical protégé, had overseen its inscribing, as it is necessary for the mass teleportation spell.

Waiting for the rest of the ponies to arrive, Twilight found her thoughts drifting to the previous week's events. Being appointed head of Ponyville's relief mission, she had set about organising volunteers and emergency aid packages.

Everypony contributed in some way.

Mr and Mrs Cake, proprietors of Ponyville's premier confectionary and Pinkie's employers, had generously donated most of their fresh baking and ingredients. Much to Pinkie's chagrin, they forbade her from eating any of it. She, thus, had the unenviable task of carrying all those lovely treats without being able to partake.

Zecora, a zebra dwelling in the Everfree Forest with great skill in natural remedies, brought along her potions and unguents. She had emphatically emphasised her desire to join the volunteers: "If there are ponies in need, to help is my creed."

Twilight had received a copy of the Hoofington Post instead of her usual Manehattan Mercury. An article on the main page gave her the answer for this change. "Dear ponies, as the editor of the Hoofington Post I would like to express my condolences to the Manehattan ponies. You are in our thoughts," Twilight had read, aloud. "We at the Hoofington Post seek to assist in any way possible therefore we will be handling Manehattan's news. Hence, that is why those of you who have subscribed to the Manehattan Mercury have received the Hoofington Post. Thank you and good luck."

Of course, Manehattan's capacity has been severely reduced, she had thought. Flipping through the pages, she had found the Manehattan teleportation schedule. Ponyville was only given a ten minute window in which to conduct any teleports. Punctuality was therefore extremely important, she had expressed to the volunteers.

She recalled Rainbow Dash's vexation upon hearing this announcement. "Ten minutes! Who do they think we are? Don't they know that we are the Elements of Harmony!"

Twilight had spoken up, "Dash, we should be grateful that we were even assigned a slot. Princess Celestia herself had to suggest that Ponyville be included in the schedule."

Rainbow had accepted this, albeit slightly begrudgingly.

Twilight, in the midst of signing volunteers had heard a loud shout. "Cutie Mark Crusaders pony rescuers, yay!" hollered the trio of Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle were the younger sisters of Applejack and Rarity respectively.

She'd had to turn them away, firmly, explaining that a disaster zone was no place for young fillies, and that they could perhaps do something at school to help the ponies.

Rarity had popped by, having worked all week on some blankets; she donated those, some clothing, and a sizeable portion of her gems. "Of course I will be making more," she had said. "I just felt that it would be opportune to give these to you now, so that they can get to the Manehattan ponies as quickly as possible."

Twilight had protested. "Rarity, this really does seem like a lot, are you sure?"

She had lightly scoffed. "My dear, I actually feel like this is little of that which I have been blessed. Thank you for your sentiment though." She gave Twilight her most winning smile.

The rest of Ponyville's residents had given hampers, containing a myriad of essentials, for donation. Twilight truly felt proud of her town's spirit.

Around the middle of the week, Applejack, and her only brother, Big Macintosh, had arrived to hand-over many barrels of fresh, ripe apples. "Howdy, Twilight, ah reckon' ya have been as busy as anypony," she had commented.

"Eeyup," Big Macintosh had said, in agreement.

"Thanks guys," Twilight had said, then paused. "Applejack, are you sure about leaving the farm?"

"Sure thing, Twilight! Macintosh an' Apple Bloom will be just fine. Besides, ah need ta find mah uncle an' aunt. Nothing will stop me from coming! See ya tomorrow an' get some rest!"

As evening dawned, on the last day before their departure, Fluttershy had flown in at speed, and enveloped Twilight in a big hug.

"Oh, Twilight!" she had cried. "Thank you, thank you, thank you so much!"

Twilight, highly startled by her appearance, had said, in a slightly strangled tone, "Hi, Fluttershy, why all the thanks?"

The joyful pegasus had released her, elaborating, "It's about your Field. I was caring for a sick little fox kit, and he got better much quicker than usual! I'm just so happy!"

Twilight had grinned. "That sounds great, Fluttershy. I'm glad."

"Twilight, um, I also just wanted to check, if it's not too much trouble, if my name is on your list," she had said.

Twilight had assured her that it was. "However, Fluttershy, who will look after your animals when you are away?" she had intently asked.

"Oh, I asked Amethyst to look after them. If you remember, she was the um... head of the animal team during Winter Wrap Up. She is really good with animals, and Angel likes her, so she was my best choice.

Twilight had nodded in understanding, "I see. That makes sense. Which reminds me, Fluttershy, I've realised that I don't really know anything about your family. Do you mind me asking after them?"

Fluttershy shook her head. "Oh no... I don't really mind. You see, my mother remained in Cloudsdale when I moved to Ponyville, so we don't really see each other often, but we send letters. My father... He isn't with us anymore..."

Twilight had given her an empathetic look. "I'm so sorry to hear that... I'm sure he was a lovely father, to have such a wonderful daughter."

"He was." Fluttershy had blushed. "Thank you for saying so... um... I must get back to packing, thanks again, Twilight!" In saying that, she had flown back to her cottage.

Seeing the size of the gathering, Twilight's thoughts were effectively hauled back to the present.

"Okay, everypony, listen up! I'm going to do a roll-call, when I say your name, please raise your hoof. We have about ten minutes before we depart, so please work with me. Also, if your name is not on the list, please depart the square, the Cutie Mark Crusaders included."

A trio of fillies sulkily left the square. Applejack, and Rarity, who was seeing the ponies off, shouted at their respective sisters for this stunt. Rarity had earlier spoken with her five friends, ensuring that they would look after themselves, and return, safely. Spike, tagging along with Rarity, gladdened to be able to spend some time with her, wished them luck.

Satisfied that only documented volunteers were present, Twilight said, "Everypony, I will, shortly, be teleporting us, and all the provisions"—she indicated the barrels and other items—"to Manehattan. When we arrive, please follow me, we are to report to General Savior for our assignments. Thank you and Celestia-speed!"

She began the spell. She summoned energy from her surroundings, the Earth, sky, and Sun, it coalescing within her horn. She cast an ethereal net, marking the boundary of the mass-teleport zone, ensuring that all were inside. She visualised the clearing that she had seen in the Hoofington Post, the space specially set aside, just outside Manehattan. Every detail clear in her mind, the feel of the grass, the caress of the wind, and the view of a semi-ruined city. Channelling her power, she filled the net with a pulsing dome. Nearing completion, she reared up and cried, "To Manehattan!"

There was a rush of wind as the air pressure re-stabilised. The Ponyville town square was completely empty.

***

A loud crack announced the arrival of another group. General Savior looked up from his documents, and glanced at the transit schedule. He realised that he wasn't sure of Ponyville's exact location, but if Celestia herself ordered it be given a spot it must have some significance.

Born to Canterlot nobles, his decision to join the royal guard was greatly unorthodox. Through his self-determination, ambition, and pursuit of excellence, he was able to prove himself, and ascend in rank. He cut a dashing figure, with a coat that gleamed a burnished silver, and a cutie mark of a kite shield bearing a stylised daystar. Lacking a horn and wings didn't diminish his presence by a scintilla, as his air made it clear that he was undoubtedly the head of this operation.

Rising, he turned to meet the already approaching unicorn.

Twilight had quickly surveyed her group on arrival, and found nothing amiss. She then turned her attention to her surroundings. They had teleported into a large clearing which was surrounded by a multitude of tents ranging in size from gigantic to small. A conspicuous red cross emblazoned one of the larger tents, and she figured that that must be a makeshift infirmary.

The semi-ruined city of Manehattan loomed just beyond the tent perimeter. Her keen eyes found an official-looking tent with the banner of Equestria displayed next to the already open flaps. She caught site of the general inside, and set off at a brisk pace towards him.

"Miss Sparkle, I presume," he said, bowing his head when she reached him. "A pleasure to meet you. As Princess Celestia's personal student, I've heard a great deal about you. I wish we could have met under better circumstances."

Twilight reciprocated the bow, "Greetings, General, I too wish that circumstances weren't as dire as they are. We, Ponyville's citizens, have brought some aid, and all the ponies that have joined me have volunteered our time to the rescue effort."

"I see why the Princess has such faith in you," he acknowledged. "Thank you, as the Equestrian National Relief Force we appreciate any assistance."

"Pacer," he called, waving at a sea-green earth pony, "help the Ponyville ponies move their aid into the warehouse, we will store it there for now." The pony named Pacer, with a ruler as his cutie mark, nodded enthusiastically, and set about his task.

Twilight glanced around, and found that the 'warehouse' to which the general referred was actually the largest tent in the clearing. "You ponies sure are efficient," she complimented.

Applejack, who, until this point had been waiting patiently, but with a barely concealed urgency, burst forward. "Mister," she exclaimed, "mah aunt an' uncle, the Oranges, live here in Manehattan! Let me go look fer 'em!"

The General regarded her with sympathy. "Well, the scientists say that the aftershocks have tapered off for now... so I think that it should be alright Miss..."

"Applejack."

"Miss Applejack," he said, continuing, "where do they live?"

"Forty Ponyvale Way," she replied, quivering with impatience.

"Okay, let me see..." he said, consulting a comprehensive map. "There is a sector where the survivors from that area were taken. I suggest you look there. Suit up, grab yourself a hard hat, and—"

Applejack was galloping away.

"Be careful!" he cried after her.

Fluttershy, viewing this exchange flew after Applejack, concerned.

Rainbow Dash called after them, "Hey, AJ, Fluttershy, where you goin'?" She watched the orange earth pony disappear into the ruins.

"Bye, Applejack, bye, Fluttershy," called Pinkie Pie, waving in a comical fashion.

"Uh, Twilight! Why are we just standing around! Isn't there stuff to do?" asked a vexed Rainbow Dash.

Twilight, putting her worry for Applejack aside, spoke, "Yes, General, I think that we are all anxious to assist."

Savior nodded.

The ponies from Ponyville stepped up to be assigned to teams based on their strengths.

Rainbow was assigned the role of aerial reconnaissance, to report any emergencies, and to relay messages. "Awesome!" she exclaimed, on finding out that the Wonderbolts had also volunteered.

Pinkie was placed in, well... the general didn't really know what to make of the effervescent pink pony, so he sent her to catering.

When Zecora stepped forward, he was momentarily shocked. "A zebra, here in Equestria! How fortuitous, you will be a great help!" he said, assigning her to the infirmary.

So the process continued until only Twilight remained.

"Miss Sparkle, how powerful would you say that you are?" asked the General candidly.

"I don't mean to boast, but I have dealt with an Ursa Minor before," Twilight stated, a ghost of a blush gracing her visage.

The General's eyes widened. "Perfect! Would you be okay with doing some of the heavy lifting? When a triage team needs to move some rubble, and we get the message, could you be that pony?"

She smiled sadly. "I'll do anything I can to help."

***

"Applejack!" called Fluttershy, as she struggled to keep up with her. "Wait!" she wheezed.

Applejack, however, continued to barrel forward, navigating the cracked streets and dodging rubble, heedlessly.

Fluttershy's wings ached by the time Applejack slowed to a halt. She couldn't tell whether they were any closer to their destination, and apparently neither could Applejack.

The earth pony looked at Fluttershy an embarrassed expression on her muzzle. "Sugarcube, ah think we're lost."

Fluttershy began trembling, fear gripping her tightly. That emotion wholly dispelled by an orange leg, pulling her close.

"We'll be fine, Fluttershy, let's just backtrack an' find some ponies to ask for directions."

Her trembling ceased.

Applejack removed her leg and went in the opposite direction. Fluttershy flapped to her side and lay her wing across the pony. They trudged on for what was a mercifully short amount of time, before spotting a team of ponies.

Nearing them, Applejack noticed that the ponies were clothed in a cowpony fashion. She smiled, before hollering, "Are y'all from Appleloosa?"

A pony with a big red apple as his cutie mark, and the most striking green eyes ever seen, started, and looked towards the two lone ponies. The entire group mirrored his actions, to a lesser extent of recognition.

"Applejack!" he cried, shocked.

"Braeburn! Cousin!" she shouted back, less surprised, having put two and two together and coming up with four.

The two ponies embraced each other, joyful in their unexpected encounter.

Braeburn was the first to speak. "So, cousin, really glad to see you! I suppose it was silly of me not to expect you and your friends to be here, what with y'all saving the world time and again. But what are you doing here, without a team?"

"Oh Braeburn, ah'm as happy as a hog in mud ta see ya here! It's like this here disaster is bringing the whole world together, ah just wish it was under better circumstances."

Braeburn nodded. "Me too, me too. Are you here to join us? Oh, and where are my manners," he said, walking over to Fluttershy. "Howdy to you, missy! Good to see ya."

"Thank you, Braeburn," quietly said the pegasus. "I'm, um, glad that you are here to help."

"Braeburn, listen here," Applejack said, drawing the stallion's attention back to her. "Ah'm looking fer Aunt an' Uncle Orange... an' we're a bit lost."

"Applejack! How can you be wandering around a ruined city, all lost? It ain't safe!" chided Braeburn.

"Ah know, ah know, Brae!" she responded, remembering the multiple times her headstrong behaviour had caused trouble. Images flashing: a grove of apples trees, a desolate locale.

A gruff voice interrupted their exchange. "Hey, Braeburn, get back here and pull yer weight!"

"Sorry," answered Braeburn. He quickly turned back to Applejack. "No worries, cousin, the first thing I did when I got here was to check up on Aunt and Uncle Orange. Here's how you can get—"

Applejack enveloped him in a hug. "Ah'm so happy that they are okay, sugarcube!"

Braeburn returned the embrace. After separating he proceeded to list an array of directions."

Applejack tipped her hat, in gratitude. "Thanks, Brae! Gotta run! Come on, Fluttershy!"

And off she ran, her steps more cautious, speed lessened, joined by her pegasus friend. Braeburn's wave continued until the pair were out of site. Gritting his teeth, he rejoined the effort.

***

Applejack ground to an abrupt halt as she reached her intended destination: a tent located on the East side of Manehattan, set a fair length away from any hazardous buildings.

She rushed inside, her vision confronted by many ponies, huddled together in their family units. Fluttershy followed, meekly apologising for their brash entrance. The inhabitants regarded this hurried pony with interest.

Applejack scanned the ponies' faces intrusively, looking, hoping, praying that they would be filled with the vision of her aunt and uncle.

"Applejack?" a fatigued, familiar voice, asked.

She turned in the direction of that voice, and paused. She felt as if she could savour that moment for all eternity. Giving a great whoop of a cry, she launched herself into her aunt and uncle's embrace.

"Darling, you are really here! My how much you've grown, I hardly recognise you from that wilful filly that once lived here," her aunt said while hugging her.

"It really is heart-warming to see you again, Applejack," said her Uncle, wrapping them both in his embrace.

Applejack wiped away the gathering tears. "Shucks, don't worry none 'bout me. How have ya been? When ah heard, ah was right sick with worry. I'm so darn pleased that y'all are okay!"

"Fluttershy," called Applejack, "come and meet mah aunt an' uncle."

Fluttershy fluttered demurely to them. "Um... hello, Mr and Mrs Orange. I'm, um, happy to see you reunited."

Aunt Orange spoke, "My dear, so you are Fluttershy, the caretaker of animals. Applejack has told us many positive things about you."

"Yes, you are truly an upstanding Equestrian, saving us all from that dragon, not to mention all your other adventures," Uncle Orange said.

Fluttershy blushed, her visage crimson. "Oh... um... thank you. I had my friends, and Applejack to help me."

"That's the honest truth, but it don't make ya one bit less special," said Applejack.

Aunt Orange, spying the setting sun, had an idea. "If you girls don't mind, would it please you to spend the night with us? I am afraid that we have little to offer, but we would enjoy the company."

"That sounds just dandy," agreed Applejack. "Ah brought along some of Sweet Apple Acres' finest which we can eat."

Fluttershy merely nodded, having been praised into submission.

After a delightfully simple dinner, they settled in for the night. The site was rather cramped, but Applejack was glad to be next to her alive-and-well kin.

She found her thoughts drifting as they are wont to do when she tried to sleep. She remembered her aunt laughing and chatting with her mother as she tried to handle a rope for the first time. That was a mighty fine embarrassment, she reminisced.

The memories of her aunt and uncle caring for them after the death of her parents, rose from the depths of her mind. That was, really, one of the main reasons why she had chosen to go to Manehattan, she missed the love and attention that she had received. Sure, Granny Smith and Big Macintosh were great, but Granny wasn't young anymore, and Macintosh had been heavily occupied with the labours of the farm.

Things had worked out in the end, but she had always held a soft spot for the Oranges, for the ponies that had been her bulwark in her time of need.

A contented sigh escaped her curved lips as she slipped into the realm of dreams.

Fluttershy saw the earth pony's expression and smiled herself. Tucking her wings into a more comfortable position, she fell asleep.

***

Rainbow Dash had been ecstatic on finding out that she could assist the Wonderbolts. On being given her assignment, she flew high into the air, and gazed down, gaining a bird's-eye view Manehattan. Crumbling buildings, lingering fires, and destroyed infrastructure greeted her sight. She felt a pang for all the ponies that had perished in the collapse. Her trained eyes quickly picked out the familiar storm-cloud contrails of her heroes.

"Well, that's a sight that you don't see every day," remarked Spitfire as a rainbow bore down on them.

"That must be the pony we met at the gala!" cried Soarin'. "Rainbow Flash, I think it was..." he said, trying to remember. "Oh yeah, she saved my pie!"

"Dash." Corrected Spitfire, grinning at his insatiable appetite. "I'm glad that she volunteered, we could use the help."

Rainbow Dash bled her speed off, coming to a gentle stop in front of the two. "Hey, Spitfire, hey Soarin'," she greeted. "How have things been?"

"As well as you can expect in a crisis, Rainbow Dash. Things are looking better now that you're here," said Spitfire. "On an unrelated note, I hope that you've been training hard, what with the auditions for the Academy coming up quite soon."

"Hay yeah!" she exclaimed, "I've got something special planned, you just wait and see."

"Excellent! Now, Soarin', which area needed reconnaissance again?"

He scratched his muzzle for a moment. "Hmm, I think it was the northern sector, near the Victory Statue."

"That's where you're headed, Dash," said Spitfire. "Remember, just search the area for any activity and carry messages for any search parties which you come across."

"Yes, ma'am!" Rainbow saluted, blasting northwards. As she flew she saw a multitude of ponies combing through the debris and buildings. The skies were relatively busy, the pegasi engaged in all manner of tasks.

Flight. The birthright of every pegasus, Rainbow's claim to fame.

The daring mare couldn't help but show her skills off, performing barrel rolls above, and slaloms between the other pegasi. Most waved at her, word having spread of the rainbow-maned champion and her legendary sonic rainboom.

A spear, she hurtled onwards. Soon, she could see the remains of a monument, a statue dedicated to the Sun Goddess, made in her likeness. It had fared none the better, missing a wing and its horn, among other things. Surprisingly, the awe invoked was not in the slightest bit diminished.

Rainbow whistled appreciatively, hovering in the air while gazing at the statue. A few heartbeats later, she began to trace ever widening concentric circles around the tribute, all the while concentrating for any movement on the ground.

Catching a glimpse of a green flag being gestured furiously, she swooped downwards, alighting next to a harras of earth ponies and, surprisingly, another pegasus. The flag-bearer gestured her over. "Okay, here's the situation. We need to search a location a few clicks south of here, but it's overrun by fire and is a hazard. I need you two to get over there and put those fires out."

The other pegasus, a mare with a deep purple coat and yellow mane, gave Rainbow an acerbic glance. She walked up to Rainbow, roughly nudging her. "Let's go! There's lots to do and I won't have you keeping me up!"

Rainbow Dash recoiled a mite from her hostility. "What's your problem?"

She deigned not to reply, taking wing.

Dash followed. Uncertainly.

Together, they traced a path to a most curious contraption. Blockish in design, it had a plethora of dials and knobs peppering its surface. A long stack with a funnel opening rose to the sky above. To another race of pony, it may have looked incomprehensible.

Multiple pegasi engineers swarmed around the device. One of them, seeing the two flying in, gestured at them to wait by the funnel. Issuing orders, they began to engage it. Water flowed through an inlet in the side.

The sun had barely moved by the time thick and dark clouds bloomed from the stack. Rainbow Dash and her unnamed companion grabbed one each. "Now, be careful with those! They are high-grade storm clouds and may release unanticipated bolts!" called one of the pegasi.

They nodded, carrying their payloads over to the target. Fires, like stars in the night sky, glittered below. They set about the process of dousing. A rather comical act, jumping on a cloud, fulfilling a vital purpose.

Rainbow Dash tried her best to avoid the other pegasus, it seeming like she had the same idea. Their paths, thus, rarely intersecting.

The clouds slowly lost their thunderous nature, transitioning to a milky white. The unnamed pegasus sighed, but immediately hardened her expression on seeing Rainbow looking in her direction.

"I must say, Rainbow Dash." She spat. "It is most interesting to see you using your talents for good, rather than lording it over others. Just because you are an exceptionally gifted flyer does not make you the leader of all pegasi!"

"Wha—"

"Element of Loyalty, hah! The only thing you are loyal to is yourself! I... I believed in you," she said, her voice losing some of its fire, "but you were fine with endangering all our lives, for your ego and pride. Trying to impress that Wonderbolt..."

An unsubtle silence settled over the two. Rainbow hesitantly spoke, "You... you are from Ponyville? But how, I don't recognise you."

"Oh, but of course, her highness, Rainbow Dash, is too busy being awesome for her to mingle with the common pony!"

"Now wait just a minute!" shouted Dash, growing angry. "I may not be the kindest pony, but that's going too far! Besides, Cloudsdale needed that water! What could we have done!?"

"Called for help, that's what! As if, by admitting that disease-stricken Ponyville couldn't do it alone, you'd be a failure?! Nonsense!"

Tendrils of self-doubt began to sprout in Rainbow's mind. Did I really behave so brash that I disregarded my loyalty to other ponies? The answer shocked her: yes.

"I..." she began saying, "I'm sorry." As difficult as it was, she knew that it was the right thing to do. Rainbow's eyes bore a downcast pallor.

"Huh, well that's new... I never thought I'd see the day..." said the pegasus, sounding genuinely surprised. Abruptly, she turned around and jetted away.

Rainbow blinked her eyes, flapping languidly.

Night fell.

***

Rainbow Dash opened the flaps to the Wonderbolts' tent, their temporary accommodation. The day's exertions and unpleasant encounter had sapped her strength, but the opportunity to interact, again, with the Wonderbolts on such a personal level buoyed her energy immeasurably.

Spitfire gave Dash a friendly nod. Looking around, Rainbow spotted Rapidfire, Soarin', and the rest of the Wonderbolts. The entire company was here, much to Dash's delight.

Fleetfoot sauntered over. "You must be Rainbow Dash, the aspiring Wonderbolt. You caught our eye with your daring rescue; hopefully you'll impress us even more during the auditions."

"Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh," stammered Rainbow Dash, giddy from the recognition. She calmed down, before confidently saying, "Yeah! I'm ready, you'll see!"

"We were just about to have a bite to eat, Dash, would you like anything?" asked Spitfire, joining the conversation.

The blue pegasus shook her head, determined to meet and quiz everypony present. The Wonderbolts humoured the excitable hopeful, but as the night wore on, each pony broke away, to rest for the coming day.

Dash followed soon after. She felt pleased to have helped the ponies, and to have been privileged to fly and interact with her role-models. Her dreams were filled with her Wonderbolt imaginings. One day, they would be dreams no longer.

***

The general had given Twilight instruction to assist in creating passages in the rubble.

The mare headed away from the command tent. She squeezed her eyes tightly shut. Seeing the havoc wrought by the disaster had stunned her, but she had internalised it, to present a brave face. Now, alone, her emotions flowed freely. She offered a silent prayer, for all the fallen ponies and broken families.

After acquiring the necessary safety equipment, and casting a latent shield spell for surety, she set off into the city.

While carving passable pathways in Manehattan's South district, she heard a memorable voice, causing her to grind to a halt, nostalgia flooding her mind.

"Prepare to be amazed by the awesome magic of the Great and Powerful Trixie!" boasted the voice, fireworks exploding above it.

Twilight, noting the direction from which the voice had come, set off towards it, clearing a path. Loud cheering could be heard. She was highly curious now, why would Trixie be performing here? What was her purpose?

As she crested a mournful wreck, she saw a clearing filled with ponies, and Trixie standing in front. She was rendered speechless. The cheering crowd was filled mostly, not with mares and stallions, but with fillies and colts.

At that moment, she glimpsed the generous and good spirit of the showmare. A smile playing on her lips, she sat down for a moment to watch the show.

"Trixie faced down an Ursa Major!" she cried, creating the floating illusion.

Twilight found it interesting that she was still telling the Ursa story, but what Trixie said next truly broke her initial impressions of the boaster.

"However, the Great and Powerful Trixie was hurled away, the Ursa proving a bit too much to handle alone." Her illusory self was flung from the Ursa, eliciting a cry from the audience.

"Trixie got up again, ready to charge, but at that moment, another unicorn arrived!" She crafted another illusory form, Twilight noting the uncanny resemblance it bore to herself. The foals cheered excitedly.

"Twilight Sparkle, Celestia's magical protégé, lent her assistance to Trixie, and the final spell was cast!"

Twilight felt her heart pulsing, adrenaline flooding her body. As Trixie was closing the scene, she teleported next to hear.

Trixie was stunned, her spell ending. The crowd gasped. Twilight struck a pose and cried, "Combining their power, the two were able to triumph over impossible odds!"

She winked at Trixie, and the actress understood. Both unicorns joined their magic together in a symphony of grace; enveloping the ethereal Ursa in a cloak of power they sent it rocketing upwards. The sky burst in an awesome display. Whirling rings shot away from the explosion, and the entire district was lit up like a meadow of roses.

The cheering and shouting lasted for a long while, Twilight and Trixie bowing to their young watchers, gladdened by the dancing smiles that could be seen.

When the excitement died down, the crowd dispersed, some cute ponies jumping the two for autographs, which were happily given.

Shortly, Trixie and Twilight were relatively alone. They gazed at each other for a few heartbeats.

Trixie broke the silence. "So, Twilight, imagine the surprise of the Great and Powerful Trixie when the second mare of the show suddenly decides to show up. What brings you to this desolate locale?"

Twilight responded, saying, "I joined a group of ponies from Ponyville. We're here to lend our assistance. However, I think that of the two of us, my surprise is more justified. Why are you here, Trixie? I would never have fathomed this meeting."

Trixie grew slightly uncomfortable. "Well, the Great and Powerf—"

Twilight cut her off with a piercing glare.

"Fine! Trixie was near Manehattan, giving a show in an outlying town, and when the news arrived, Trixie decided to come. Trixie felt it would be good to distract the ponies from their predicament."

Twilight gave her a quick hug, alarming the other mare. "I'm really glad to hear that, Trixie. I knew that you had some compassion deep inside. You aren't as selfish and arrogant as you like to portray."

If Trixie gets shocked one more time... Trixie will just die, she thought. "You misunderstand," she protested. "Trixie came here to perform so that people will know of Trixie, and spread Trixie's greatness."

Twilight nodded understandingly, not falling for the fragile facade. She glanced at the skies, searching for any messengers. There weren't any, but she did catch a glimpse of the setting sun.

"It's getting late, Trixie, and I haven't received any messages. Would you mind if I spent the night with you? I hadn't really got around to asking the general about accommodation."

"Trixie... Trixie..." she started saying, hesitantly. "Trixie could use the company."

They set off through the ruins to her newly-purchased wagon.

***

On the other side of the clearing, a sizable grey tent stood. Passing ponies marvelled at the fragrant aroma that from within wafted. The interior was filled with a sombre silence. The ponies were melancholically engaged in their tasks, the weight of the disaster pressing down on them.

Pinkie Pie, having just been given her assignment, skipped into the tent, literally bouncing off the walls. The ponies inside ducked and dived, trying to escape the pink whirlwind that had roared in.

Coming to a stop, she announced, "Hi everypony! My name's Pinkie Pie and I'm from Ponyville! Genny sent me to help you!"

One brave pony raised a hoof. "Genny?"

"Yep, Genny Savior."

She caught sight of a makeshift oven. "Oh yay! You have an oven, I'm gonna bake so many treats!" she squealed.

She jumped headlong into the store, rummaging through the ingredients. The others shared a collective glance, collectively shrugged, and collectively returned to preparing the mass meal.

The pink pony, however, always mistakenly regarded as oblivious to her surroundings, had noticed this exchange. She too noted the fact that the faces of the ponies now bore smiles, and she felt pleased.

"Look at me, being a great, big, forgetty forgetterson!" Pinkie said, after a while. "The Cakes sent these goodies for the ponies." She emptied her bags, the contents belying their size. This was accompanied by an outburst of confetti and balloons.

By now, she was receiving highly quizzical looks.

"Oops, sorry! Those are for the super-duper-Manehattan-pony party! Twilight and the others said I shouldn't have a party, so I thought, 'hey I can have the party later when everypony is ready'!"

She then proceeded to continue rummaging through the store.

That night, when the meal and rations were served, each pony received a tasty cupcake. Pinkie Pie was more than happy to spread the cheer, and she spent the night singing of happier times before finally heading to sleep with the other catering ponies.

She chirpily called, "Night night, sleepyheads!"

***

"Oh, Spike, I seem to have misplaced my measuring tape again, could you be a dear and find it for me?" called Rarity.

"Sure thing! Anything for you, milady!" he said, enthusiastically.

The stylish frost-coloured pony smiled. A chime sounded from the front of the boutique.

"Ah, girls, you're here."

"Hi, sis," Sweetie Belle replied. "Cheerilee said that we could help you."

"Ah'm glad that ah can help," stated Apple Bloom.

"Yeah! Who knows, maybe we'll finally get our cutie marks!" Scootaloo hoped.

Rarity appreciated the enthusiasm, hoping that she would be able to manage the rambunctious trio.

"Excellent," she said. "Now I was planning on starting with some quilts, and I could use your assistance in preparing the materials."

The ever-energetic bunch yelled, "Cutie Mark Crusaders quilt makers, yay!" In a short space of time, they were occupied in snipping pieces from ages old fashion lines to be fashioned into a quilt.

"Now remember, try to cut the pieces as square or rectangular as possible. Irregular edges are truly a bane to sew," she instructed.

"Yes, Rarity," they said in unison.

Spike sidled over, successfully having found the tape.

The fashionista spoke, "Thank you, dear Spike, you are so generous to lend me your time. But I was wondering, are you certain that the library should be closed?"

"Oh yes, Rarity, I don't think that anypony will be looking for books right now. Well, except Twilight," he giggled, "but she's in Manehattan, and besides, she said that I could if I chose."

Rarity wistfully wondered how the librarian was doing. Her daydream was interrupted by a rapping at the door. She answered, finding Ponyville's mailmare on her doorstep.

"Good morning, Derpy," she greeted. "How may I be of assistance?"

"Hello, Miss Rarity. Here's the paper," said the mare, proffering a rolled up copy of the Hoofington Post.

"Many thanks, darling. Here, have this muffin, for your sterling work."

"Muffin! Thank you, Miss Rarity. Bye." She flapped away at an odd angle.

Rarity, considering that she had been up all night once again, decided to take a brief break to peruse the news. She instructed Spike to assist the Crusaders in their task, and he willingly obliged.

She was pleased to note the overall positive tone of the news. There were the reports of the number of missing ponies increasing, but the tales of bravery and miraculous rescues were uplifting. One particular story captivated and moved her generous heart. It involved the selfless sacrifice a father had made, enabling his family to escape before their building collapsed.

Her thoughts swirled, unbidden. Questions arose within her mind. Would I be willing to sacrifice my life for my family, my friends? She thought back to their adventures, the times well-shared, and the memories made.

Contemplating deeply on her Element: Generosity, she reflected, to be generous is to give to others without want for something in return. So if by giving my life, I could preserve others... A stitch in time saves nine as 'twere.

"Rarity," complained Sweetie Belle, "this is boring!"

Rarity was brought back to attention. Glancing at the progress the quartet had made, she was surprised. Perhaps helping other ponies gave them focus she thought. "That looks great you four, how about we begin sewing them together, stitch by stitch," she said, smiling.

They worked tirelessly, Rarity guiding the hooves (and claws) of her helpers to produce functional, but stunning, pieces. However, this exercise was not without incident.

"Apple Bloom, you've already had your turn! Let me try!" shouted Scootaloo, trying to push the earth pony away from the machine.

"Nu uh! Ah just started! Sweetie Belle's the one who's been hogging the time!" countered the Apple filly, resisting the pegasus.

"Girls!" Rarity said, warningly. "Stop fighting this instant, or both of you will be sent home!"

Unfortunately, the two fillies were engrossed in their argument consequently they didn't hear her.

The sewing machine was knocked quite violently by Apple Bloom, as Scootaloo gave her an extra-strong push. Rarity watched as it sailed through the air, crashing into pieces. Apple Bloom got up, ashamed. The orange pegasus was looking around, sheepishly.

Rarity forbade them from using any of the machines, and set them to compiling quilts on opposite sides of the room.

I cannot say that that was wholly unexpected, thought the tasteful unicorn.

Sweetie Belle flitted between her friends, a mediator of sorts. Between them, at a slower pace, they managed to finish just after dusk.

Rarity saw the moonlight filtering through the window, and could scarcely believe that a full day had passed since her friends' departure. A large bunch of completed quilts dominated the one corner of the boutique. The silence was punctuated by frequent yawns.

Realising the lateness of the hour, Rarity insisted that they all sleep over. She was very grateful for their assistance, and that nopony had gotten hurt. She shooed them away, to prepare for bed, before turning her gaze up to the pendulous moon.

"Oh Celestia, oh Luna, protect them, protect everypony."

***

That night, the six friends shared the most vivid of dreams. They were together in a darkened room, an eerie light drifting from above. They saw a pony, coloured in all the colours of the spectrum, with the a map of the entire world as her cutie mark. It almost seemed normal, however, this pony was... she was chained to the wall, solid, black manacles binding her in place. Her expression firm, yet gloomy, she didn't seem to notice the new arrivals.

The six sensed heavy negativity exuding from those chains. Emotions of hatred, envy, and frustration were among the most potent. The icy pony heaved against the binds, straining with all her might. Her efforts succeeded in shattering a single chain, but within a blink it had reformed. However, the force unleashed by the shattering, gauged deep, leaking gashes into the surrounding wall, the room heaving and quaking.

The viewers were utterly powerless, at a loss in the face of such a scene.

The enigmatic pony's eyes finally focused on the dreamers, imploring, mystic. Her voice was gentle, but firm, as if it bore a millennia's worth of wisdom. "Elements arise. Be swift, Bearers, your time is at hand. Seek out the bringer of the night, and come," the pony commanded, continuing her never ending struggle.

The dream slowly faded, each pony fitfully tossing in their sleep. It would not be completely remembered, but one thing was firmly lodged in each pony's subconscious mind: to rise, and find the Princess of the Night.