Nightmare Moon over the Republic

Chapters

Places I should be.
Ponies I should See
Bad Moon Rising
What lurks in the dark
Give a little bit
No Relief
Our Finest Hour
The Future Soon
All on a Quest

Places I should be.

Once upon a time in the magical land of Equestria, lived two regal sisters who ruled over the night and day.
These ponies kept watch on ponykind, monitoring their progress in the fields of magic, science and technology. Under their watchful eyes, anything deemed harmful to ponykind was discarded, and these fields stagnated.
As time went on, many a pony began to ask themselves “is this truly harmful? What potential is there in these fields? What can we do to make our lives better?”
As these murmurings spread and the princesses clamped down on advancement, the ponies have become discontent.
A single incident involving a foal’s quest for her cutie mark finally sparked what had been building up, as Ponykind rose against the Princesses in open revolt.
Time went on, and eventually the Princesses’ worst nightmares came true.

Discord had returned to the land.
But not as the spirit of disharmony and chaos as ponykind once knew him.
As Order brought Stagnation, Change brings Chaos.
Reborn as the Spirit of Change, Discord sided with the rebelling ponies, bringing them closer to victory.

As things seemed bleak for the Princesses, they finally succumbed to the darkness in their hearts.
Reborn as Nightmare Moon and Tonatiuh, the Princesses challenged Discord and the rebels, nearly defeating him in pitched combat.
However, the Rebels had the one item powerful enough to challenge even the Gods;

The Elements of Harmony.

Sealing away the Princesses in their domains, Discord and the rebels won the day, as those who were still loyal to the princesses fled to form the Kingdom of Equestria.
One thousand years later, the Republic of Equestria is a thriving nation, built upon the foundations of Magic, Science and Technology, and one that is always seeking to better itself.
The Governing Council, assisted by Discord, rules fairly and with knowledge.

But this is not the story about them.
This story follows a young stallion that has yet to realize where exactly his life shall lead him.

This is the story of how one pony can make all the difference….

CANTERLOT, Capital of the Republic of Equestria
National Library

A middle-aged earth stallion trudged up a flight of stairs. His white mane is combed back, and his brown coat is graying around the edges. His cutie mark took the form of an hourglass. As he stepped up the final stair, he let out a groan.

“My goodness, I couldn’t have been that out of shape. Perhaps I do need a vacation after all.” The stallion grumbled.

“Of course you do, my dear Clagan.” Another voiced responded, dripping with mocking sarcasm.

Clagan looked to his left. A spindly dragon shaped beast with mismatched limbs smiled at the stallion. Clagan smiled back.

“Discord. I believe they were waiting for you. Something to do with the latest actions by the Kaiser, Hmm?”

“That old bag of hot air and feathers?” Discord scoffed, “Please. I have more important things to deal with. As do you.”

“I?” Clagan snorted and continued to walk, “I am merely looking for my son.”

“Of course, of course.” A glass filled with an amber colored liquid appeared in Discord’s hand as he floated by. “However, we both know why you are doing that.”

“Hrmph. The Youth of today. They disobey their elders, contempt for authority….”

“…Contradict their parents, chatter before company, tyrannize their teachers, and so on and so forth.” Discord yawned, “I distinctly remember your grandfather saying the same thing about his son, and His own Grandfather said the same of him.”

“Every generation must have its faults, but….”

Clagan pushed open a heavy wooden door. As it slowed to a stop with a groan, the sound of many heavy items falling could be heard, along with a panicked yelp. A flood of books washed up in front of the earth stallion and Discord. After a few moments of rustling a brown coated and maned stallion poked his head out of the pile.

“This is not quite what I meant.”

“Oh, Hello father. Discord sir.” The stallion gave the other two a lopsided grin, “I..erm, can explain what I was doing.”

“I would imagine so.” Clagan’s frown grew, “Wasting a fine day like this cooped up in this dusty old library.”

“Father, there is nothing fine about today.” Time Turner frowned, “I like rainy, gloomy days. They’re the perfect sort of days to stay inside and read.”

“Nonsense. Stallions such as yourself should be out in the world, experiencing what it has to offer.” Clagan paused, “Discord, don’t even think about it.”

“…Oh fine.” The draconequus pouted, “But we haven’t had a good Chocolate Rainstorm in a while. Just why are you in here anyway, Turny?”

“Ah! That’s the important part.” Time Turner struggled for a bit, digging himself out of the pile, “I...have…found…ah!” Time Turner plopped onto the floor.

“I have found a prophecy that is of great interest and concern. See, according to this book, and this one, as well as this astrological chart, It is almost the day that…

Time Turner trailed off as Clagan held up one hoof.

“Enough.” The Stallion rumbled, “I do not have time for this. I am here to inform you that I have found you an opportunity to gain some much needed life experience, as well as a job. A vacancy for a minor position in a small town has opened up, and I am sending you to take it.”

“But…” Time Turner meekly interrupted.

“But nothing.” Clagan sighed, “Time Turner…you must learn to live life, not simply exist. Go out and do things. Have friends. Find a lover. Lose a lover. Just experience what life has to offer. You are to report to the Train station in Two hours, do not miss it.”

“..Yes father.”

Time Turner stood and trotted past the stallion and Discord. The two watched him as he made his way down the stairs and out of sight.

“…You know, I could just teleport him there.” Discord grumbled, “just a snap of the fingers and bam, reporting for duty, Mayor.”

“Let him take the train. He might meet somepony.” Clagan shook his head.

“Really?” Discord floated above the stallion, smirking. “Sending your poor, eldest son on a train by himself? Why, you’d be lucky if he didn’t set it on fire by the time it gets to its destination.” Discord blinked. “What town are you sending him to anyway?”

“Ah, a small place called…”

PONYVILLE-CANTERLOT RAILWAY

“Ponyville.” Time Turner muttered. “I haven’t even heard of this town before, and out of all the places to go he sends me there.”

Time Turner sighed, closed his eyes and rested his forehead against the glass, “I never even got to tell him what tomorrow i-”

“Pardon me, sir.”

Time Turner’s thoughts are interrupted by a drawling voice. Opening his eyes, Time Turner is met by a large red earth stallion with a short messy yellow mane and goldenrod earth mare with a large curly orange mane. The stallion appeared to be heavily leaning on the mare in an awkward way.

“…er…yes?” Time Turner’s eyebrow rose at the couple.

“You said you were headin’ th’ Ponyville?” the Stallion inquired.

“Indeed I am.”

“you wouldn’t mind if we sat across from ya, would you?” The Stallion chuckled, “see, I broke my prosthetic, and it’d be easier for me ta stay close t’ a door.”

“Oh, go ahead.” Time Turner motioned to the empty seat across from him, “No pony is using it.”

“Thank ya kindly.”

The two ponies hobble over to the seat, giving Time Turner a good look at their cutie marks; a Green Apple and a Bunch of Carrots.

“Mac just shift a little…alright there.” The mare set the stallion into the seat. “Honestly, you need to take it easy on that leg. I know you get a deal on them and all, but it still takes a chunk out of the farm’s finances.”

“I told her it needed ta be sturdier.” The Stallion, Mac, grumbled.

“You punched a Buffalo.” The mare countered, “We’re lucky you aren’t in the hospital, or even worse the morgue.”

“You don’t insult th’ Apple family’s name like that.” The stallion grunted.

“…Apple family?” Time Turner’s eyebrow rose in interest, “Seems like you have quite an interesting life.”

“Eeyup.” The stallion nodded. “I’m Big Macintosh.”

“oh, The head of the Sweet Apple Collective.” Time Turner shrugged, “Very impressive numbers, might I add.”

“Beg your pardon?” The Mare’s own eyebrow rose in suspicion.

“…Oh, right. I’m Time Turner, from Canterlot. I’ve seen some of the forms and information you’ve had to send to the government. Very impressive numbers given the size of the collective.” Time Turner shrugged again.

“…thank you?” The mare responded in a confused tone. “I’m Carrot Top, by the way.”

“Ah, the one in charge of finances. You realize you would have a better profit margin if..”

Big Macintosh coughed, interrupting Time Turner.

“Mr. Turner, we find that keepin’ th’ individual farmers on their feet is a better use of some of our extra income. Ain’t nopony getting’ rich, but no pony’s gonna starve either.”

“I suppose.” Time Turner shrugged, “Still, you could be doing better than you are now.”

“We’ll keep that in mind” Carrot Top grumbled.

“Anyway, Mr. Turner,” Big Macintosh continued, “can I ask why you’re headin’ to Ponyville?”

“Oh, job opportunities.” The stallion vacantly waved his hoof, “My father wants me to gain more working experience.”

“well…we can always use another hand at th’ farm if it th’ job you’re applyin’ for don’t work out.” The farm stallion offered.

“..I’m not much for physical activity.” Time Turner grimaced.

“Little bit o’ hard work never hurt no pony.” Big Macintosh chuckled.

“NEXT STOP PONYVILLE!” the conductor called out, alerting the passengers.

“Mr. Turner, I hate to be a bother, but would you mind assisting me with Big Macintosh here?” Carrot Top embarrassedly smiled. “It would be easier for two ponies to help him along, and I’m certain your soon-to-be employer would understand.”

“...I suppose.”

THE PONYVILLE TRAIN STATION

“No, no, more to the left!” Time Turner instructed Carrot Top.

“If I go anymore to the left, he’s going to smack his head against the doorframe!”

“No, My left!” the stallion tugged Big Macintosh away.

“We have the same left!” the mare shot back.

“Oh fine. Just…”

The three managed to exit the train, their hooves clattering atop the station’s deck. A mulberry earth mare glanced at them, before calling out.

“There you two are!”

“Berry?” Big Macintosh called out as the earth mare trotted over.

“We need you at the farm.” Berry sighed, “Long story short, Roseluck and Applejack are arguing about the latest product from Wilted Leaf’s farm.”

Carrot Top sighed. “I can’t send Mac there without his leg.”

“Mr. Turner, I’m sorry, but I think I’m gonna need your help for a bit longer.” Big Macintosh apologized.

“Oh it’s fine.” The other stallion grumbled, “It’s not like I have anything else to do today.”

“Alright then, Carrot, you go with Berry Punch an’ take care o’ it.” Big Macintosh ordered the two mares, who quickly nodded and trotted off.
“Mr. Turner, I’m awfully sorry ‘bout this.”

“Oh, no, don’t worry. Just but into my plans for the day” Time Turner deadpanned under his breath.

“What was that?”

“Where do I have to take you?” Time Turner quickly changed his comment.

“We gotta head towards th’ Mechanical Boutique.”

The two stallions struggled their way downtown.

“It’s rather busy isn’t it?” Time Turner moved to the side to avoid bumping into two fillies, “Is it always like this?”

“Nope. Something important must be goin’ on.” Big Macintosh frowned, “Which is kinda odd, sense we didn’t hear anything before we left.”

“I-”

“Hey Mac!” a new male voice called out. A dark grey pegasus stallion landed. Time Turner took an involuntary step back once he got a good look at the newcomer; the pegasus’s silver blue mane was done up in a intimidating mohawk. Coupled with several scars on his muzzle and forelegs and his thundercloud cutiemark, Time Turner could not help but feel intimidated by the new comer.

“...Mac, you busted your leg again?” The pegasus shook his head, “You better have a good story behind that, otherwise I bet Rarity’s gonna lay it on you good this time.”

“…Eyup.” The farmstallion nodded.

“Who’s the new guy?” the pegasus jerked his head at Time Turner, “and why’s he looking at me like that?”

“oh right, Thunderlane, Time Turner. He’s from Canterlot.”

“Heh.” The pegasus, Thunderlane smirked, “What’s a big city guy like him doing here?”

“Looking for work, Mr, ah, Thunderlane.” Time Turner responded.

“An’ as for why he’s lookin’ at you like that,” Big Macintosh chuckled, “You ain’t exactly th’ friendliest lookin’ fella around, Thunderlane.”

Thunderlane laughed, “I suppose so, Mac.” The pegasus shifted his attention to Time Turner, “Time Turner, right?”
Once Time Turner nodded, Thunderlane continued, “I’m not a bad guy, once you get to know me. Don’t let looks fool you.”

“I’ll remember that.”

“Anyway, you need a hoof, Mac?” Thunderlane turned back to the farm stallion, “It’ll be easier that way.”

“That would be mighty helpful.” Big Macintosh nodded.

Thunderlane trotted over to Big Macintosh’s left, and struggled to support the stallion.

“Damn, Mac, what have you been eatin’?” the pegasus grunted.

“…sorry.”

“Let’s just get you to Rarity’s.”

The three stallions began to make their way down the street again.

Author's Note

Thanks to DeathRiseRobo for proofreading.

Ponies I should See

The three stallions stopped in front of a shop, shaped in the form of a large wrench, with piles of scrap metal and other miscellaneous, worn-out items around it.

“Well, this is our stop.” Big Macintosh stated, “thank you kindly, both of you.”

“No problem, Mac.” The pegasus nodded to the two ponies, “Nice to meet you, Turner.”

“You too.”

The pegasus took off, leaving the two ponies. Time Turner pushed the door inwards, ringing the bell.

“One moment!” A female voice called out. A white unicorn trotted out of a back room. The unicorn’s purple mane was tied back in a ponytail, with oil and grease stains peppering her coat. The mare smiled as she realized who had entered the shop.

“Oh Big Macintosh! You’ve com…” the mare’s smile quickly changed to a frown as she noticed his missing leg, “…Again?”

“I’m sorry, Miz Rarity.” The stallion blushed.

The mare, Rarity, sighed in exhaustion, “Oh Big Macintosh…I told you to be more careful with it….”

“I got a good reason.” Big Macintosh protested.

“It’s fine, just give me the scraps.” Rarity sighed again.

“It’s in th’ bag.”

A magical aura surrounded the bag and opened it. The aura surrounded the remains of the mechanical leg levitated out, and towards the mare.

“What on Equestria did you do?” Rarity gasped.

“…I got into a fight with a buffalo.” The stallion blushed.

Rarity opened her mouth to speak and stopped. She closed her mouth and shook her head in disbelief. “I don’t want to know.”

“I’m mighty sorry.” The stallion shrunk back.

“Can I put him down somewhere?” Time Turner strained, “He’s rather heavy.”

“Oh, of course.” Rarity motioned towards a fainting couch. “Place him there if you would. Big Macintosh, I have your normal leg here, Applejack brought it here for a check-up. Give me a moment to finish it up.”

Time Turner and Big Macintosh maneuvered towards the fainting couch and with one groan, the Canterlot stallion dropped the farm stallion onto the couch. As he turned away, Time Turner noticed Rarity’s cutie mark: a set of crossed wrenches.

“That was more physical activity than I would care to do in one day.” Time Turner groaned.

“I’m sorry, I do not believe we have met.” Rarity caught Time Turner’s attention, “My name is Rarity, I am the owner of this prosthetic shop.”

“I’m Time Turner, from Canterlot.”

“Oh, Canterlot.” The mare inspected a spare prosthetic leg, checking it's size, “what brings you to Ponyville?”

“Work opportunities.” The stallion shrugged.

“Hm.” Rarity shrugged, “I can’t think of many opportunities in Ponyville, perhaps with the Collective, the school or maybe with the Mayor.”

“I believe my father mentioned something about the mayor’s office.” Time Turner responded.

“Ah, marvelous.” Rarity telekinetically lifted the leg, and trotted over to Big Macintosh. “Now Macintosh…”

“I know, I know.” The stallion grimaced, before turning his attention to Time Turner, “I reckon its best that you be on your way, Mr. Turner. Thank you for all your help.”

“Not a problem.” Time Turner answered.

“I’ll find a way ta’ repay ya.” The stallion continued, “I never forget a debt.”

“No, no, there’s no need.” Time Turner insisted.

“No, no. A good deed always needs a reward.” Big Macintosh pushed on.

“Well….” Time Turner inched towards the door, “ohlookatthetimeIshouldreallygetgoingBye!”

The stallion yanked open the door and left, leaving the two ponies to stare at where he had been.

“Interesting fellow, that Time Turner.” Rarity commented.

“Eyup.” Big Macintosh nodded in agreement.

“Now, anyway….” Rarity turned her attention back to the mechanical leg.

“I’ve never seen a pony so intent on rewarding somepony.” Time Turner grumbled as he trotted down the street. He suddenly stopped, realizing something.

“Wait, I never found out where the Mayor’s office was.” The stallion groaned, “that was pretty stu-”

“ON THE SIDE!” a filly’s voice yelled out.

“Wha-”

Time Turner suddenly found himself staring at the sky.

“What the…”

An orange pegasus filly with a purple mane atop a scooter suddenly appeared in his view. Behind her, a grey-coated unicorn filly with a yellow mane, another unicorn filly with a white coat and purple and pink mane, and a yellow earth filly with a red mane poked their heads out. Each of them had a protective helmet strapped to their heads.

“I think ya killed him, Scoots.” The earth filly told the pegasus.

“He’s not dead, look” the white unicorn poked Time Turner’s face with her hoof, “See he’s moving.”

“I told him to watch out.” The pegasus grumbled.

“Most ponies would give others a lot of time to move.” The grey unicorn grumbled.

“Girls!” a new voice, that of an older mare, called out. “Oh no. what did you do?”

An older, khaki-coated pegasus mare with a pink mane and a cutie mare of three tornados trotted into view. The mare sternly looked at the fillies, all of which wilted under her gaze.

“Scootaloo, what have I told you about this?” the mare scolded the pegasus filly.

“Sorry mom.” The pegasus apologized.

“I don’t think I’m the one you should be apologizing to.” The mare stated, before turning her attention to Time Turner. “Sir, are you alright?”

“Fine, fine. I enjoy being run into by an out of control filly on a scooter.” The stallion grumbled.

“Let me help you up.” The mare offered Time Tuner a hoof, pulling him back onto his hooves. She quickly began to brush the dirt and mud off the stallion, profusely apologizing to him.

“I’m so sorry, my daughter and her friends don’t always pay attention to where they’re going.” The mare apologized, “Girls, apologize to..”

“Time Turner.”

“Thank you. Apologize to Mr. Turner here.”

“Sorry.” The four fillies hollowly responded.

“Now, go on. Just don’t run into anypony else.” The mare sighed.

“Right.” Scootaloo nodded, “C’mon, Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Dinky! Let’s go!”

The pegasus’ wings began to furiously flap, as they took off once again.

“Are you alright?” the mare continued.

“Fine, fine.” The stallion waved her off, “I’m alright, Miss…”

“Missus, actually. I’m Dizzy Twister.” The mare offered a hoof to Time Turner, who took it and shook, “Like I said, I’m so sorry about my daughter and her friends, they’re all very good fillies, but sometimes…”

“It’s alright, I’m fine.” Time Turner cut her off, “I just need some help looking for someplace.”

“Oh, certainly.” Dizzy smiled.

“Where is the Mayor’s office?”

“Right behind you.” The mare motioned, “Well, I really must be going now, see you around, Mr. Turner.”

The pegasus trotted off, leaving Time Turner behind. The stallion trotted over to the building and pushed the door in.

“Hello?”

An exhausted-looking maroon earth mare with a pink mane looked up from her paperwork. The mare pushed her glasses back up as she frowned at Time Turner.

“What do you want?” the mare inquired.

“Mayor Cheerilee?” Once the mare nodded in confirmation, Time Turner continued, “I’m Time Turner from Canterlot? My father sent a-”

“Oh right, you.” Cheerilee cut him off, “You should have come here right away.”

“I’m sorry?”

“Earlier, I got a message from Advisor Discord, saying that he was going to pay a visit to the town.” Cheerilee’s frown grew, “So I’m frantically trying to pull things together for this.”

“Oh.” Time Turner blushed, “I wasn’t aware that he…”

“Oh, never mind.” Cheerilee snapped, “I want you to check with the collective and Sugarcube Corner to see how the food is going along. Also check the school to make sure that the decorations are coming along. Now go, we’re already a bit pressed for time.”

“I don’t know where that is.” Time Turner meekly responded.

“I don’t think you can miss the Collective. Sugarcube corner looks like a gingerbread house, and you can ask around for the school. Now get going.” Cheerilee sighed, “I’m sorry, it’s just a bit stressful, between all the paperwork, forms, inquiries, and now this.”

“I understand.” Time Turner nodded and left.

Sweet Apple Collective

Time Turner trotted through an orchard, watching as ponies harvested apple, carrots, and other food crops.

“Well, looks like the collective is doing well. I su-”

“Oh, Mr. Turner.” A familiar voice caught Time Turner’s attention. Carrot Top, trotted up to him, accompanied by two other earth mares; an orange pony with a blonde mane, apple cutie mark and a stetson hat, and a light yellow pony with a two-toned raspberry mane and a rose cutie mark.

“Oh hello Miss Carrot Top. I assume that’s Applejack and Roseluck, then.”

“Indeed.” Carrot Top nodded, “Big Macintosh isn’t with you?”

“Ah, I left him at the mechanic’s place. I’m actually here for a different reason.”

“Oh right, the Discord visit” the yellow mare, Roseluck cut in, “Well we’re getting things together.”

“That’s right.” Applejack cut off Roseluck, “Plenty’a apple dishes for th’ boss an’ th’ crowd.”

“We have more than just apples.” Carrot Top rolled her eyes, “Plenty of dishes from all of us on th’ farm.”

“I trust the collective’s word.” Time Turner nodded, “I suppose I’ll be on my way.”

“Don’t want to stay for a sample?” Roseluck smiled, “We have plenty, and you’re new in town. Gotta let you have some of that small town hospitality.”

“…I suppose so.” Time Turner sighed, “but just one.”

“Well, if it’s only gonna be one, it’s gotta be a good ol’ fashion apple pie.” Applejack grinned.

“You and your apples.” Roseluck rolled her eyes.

“It’s th’ Sweet Apple Collective for a reason.” Applejack countered.

“I’m not actually a big fan of pies.” Time Turner interjected.

“We have carrot cake, Rose petal sandwiches, sweet corn cake…” Carrot Top started to list some of the other pastries and treats.

“Rose petal sandwich?” Time Turner’s eyebrow rose in interest, “tell me more.”

“You’ve never had one?” Roseluck chuckled, “It’s fairly simple, a baguette, some goat cheese, red onions, rose petals, and apple slices. It’s quite good, Applejack likes it even if she won’t admit it.”

“I heard that!” the orange mare shouted, as Roseluck chuckled.

“Well, Mr. Turner, let us treat you to lunch…” Carrot Top smiled.

Time Turner trotted through town, stuffed.

“That was much more than I intended to eat.” The stallion huffed, “they put something it there that makes it taste so much better than in Canterlot.” Time Turner blinked, as realization hit him.
“oh…I still have to go to the bakery.”

The stallion began to scan the area, seeking his next destination. “she said it looked like…that.”

Time Turner trotted over to a building shaped like a massive gingerbread house and paused in front of it.

“Well…never would have seen anything like that in Canterlot.” Time Turner shrugged, “Odd.”

The stallion pushed open the door, and trotted in; in front of him was a display case filled with a variety of pastries and treats; to the side were several tables.

“Hello?” Time Turner called out.

“One moment!” a female voice called out from another area of the shop. After a few moments, Dizzy Twister trotted out of the room, a tray full of muffins on her back.

“Oh, Mr. Turner. Nice to see you again.” The mare slid the tray off her back, and into the display case. “Let me guess, here to make sure that everything is going smoothly?”

“Yes, actually.” Time Turner blinked, “I didn’t realize….”

“I do odd jobs here and there.” Dizzy cut him off, “the Cakes and I are old friends, so I help them when I can. I also do some work at the Bar, the school, pretty much everywhere.”

“I see.” Time Turner nodded, “Well, since everything seems to be going fi-”

“Who is it, Dizzy?” a plump cerulean earth mare with a two-toned crimson mane trotted out of the room, a platter of pastries perched on her back.

“This is Time Turner, the mayor’s new assistant.” Dizzy pointed at him, “Mr. Turner, This is Cup Cake, one of the owners of the bakery.”

“Ah, pleased to meet you.” Time Turner smiled.

“You too dearie.” Mrs. Cake smiled back, “I assume you’re here to check on how things are going in preparation for tomorrow, yes?”

“Yes, but I see that you’re all quite busy, so I’ll be on my way.” Time Turner began to turn around.

“You don’t want any samples?” Mrs. Cake offered.

“Oh, no, thank you. I was at the Collective, and um, Roseluck and the others treated me to lunch, and I’ve had quite a lot to eat while I was there.”

“Well, perhaps next time.” Mrs. Cake politely nodded.

“Yes, um…can you tell me which direction the school is? That’s the last place on my list.” Time Turner inquired, slightly embarrassed.

“Oh, certainly.” Dizzy smiled.

Time Turner trotted up a hill towards the door of the school building.

“Well, this seems like it should be… nicer.” Time Turner looked around the rustic school grounds. “It’s much more subdued compared to the one Tempest is going to.”

Time Turner pushed open the door and trotted in. The school room was filled with simple desks and chairs, a black board, books and other paraphernalia. At the head of the room was a pink earth mare with a drooping dark pink mane. The mare looked up, and pushed her glasses back up.

“Yes? How can I help you?” the Mare inquired.

“I am Time Turner, the mayor’s new assistant.” Time Turner paused, “She mentioned that you are supposed to be preparing for Discord’s arrival tomorrow, Miss…”

“Pie. Pinkamena Pie.” The mare sighed, “Unfortunately, I have to finish this paperwork up before I can do anything, but one of my friends agreed to take care of the preparation for me.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t realize that.” Time Turner apologized, “it’s just…”

“It doesn’t look like we have that many students, is that what you were going to say?” Pinkamena concluded, “It’s not about them, it’s mostly my own expenses. See, I like to throw little parties for them if they all do well on their exams and that sort of thing. It keeps them happy and makes them try harder. It takes a little out of my income, so…” the school mare shrugged, “Small sacrifices to keep them happy.”

“I suppose so.” Time Turner returned her shrug, “In that case, where is your friend, so that I may ask her?”

“Certainly, you want to go to the Ponyville Library, just tell her that I sent you there.” Pinkamena instructed him, “Oh, and one more thing.” The teacher smiled, “Welcome to Ponyville.”

“Thank you.” Time Turner smiled back, “oh, um…where is the library?”

“Look for the tree-house, you can’t miss it.” Pinkamena turned her attention back to her paper work, “Now if you’ll excuse me….”

“…alright, thank you.” Time Turner turned around and trotted out of the school.

“The tree house? Couldn’t she be a little more specific?” the stallion grumbled, “How many tree houses could there be in this town? Not to mention why would you build a library up in a tree?”

Time Turner stared up at the hollowed-out tree that held the town’s library within. His face grew red with embarrassment.

“Oh. So when she said tree-house, she meant an actual tree-house. Or would this be a house-tree?” the stallion paused to ponder, “Ah, it doesn’t matter.”

He trotted into the library and began to look around, inspecting the book collection.

“Well, It’s certainly not up to the one in Canterlot, but it seems that they have plenty of useful boo-”

“Can I help you?” a female voiced inquired.

Time Turner spun around to see a yellow unicorn mare with a curled cornflower mane and a cutie mark in the form of three hearts trot down a flight of stairs.

“Ah, Miss Pinkamena told me that you were taking over the preparations for her?”

“And you are…” the mare eyed him.

“Oh, right, I’m Time Turner, the new mayor’s assistant.” The stallion blushed.

“Ah. I’m Lemon Hearts, and as for preparations…they are more-or-less complete.” The mare shrugged.

“What do you mean, more or less? Either they are or they are not.”

“It is complete, it’s not quite how I would like it, though.” Lemon Hearts shook her head.

“I believe it should be fine, how much of it is up already?” Time Turner responded.

“None of it.” Lemon Hearts continued, “Seeing that we are pressed for time, You will need to lend a hoof.”

“But I need to go report the progress to the mayor’s office.” Time Turner countered, “I ne-”

“Cheerilee will understand.” The mare cut him off, “Now grab that banner over there.”

Time Turner trotted over to the banner, quickly scanning it, “It says ‘Welcome Adv. Discord’.”

“We couldn’t fit it all in.” Lemon Hearts shrugged, “It will have to do, given the time table we were given.”

“…I suppose so.” The stallion sighed.

Author's Note

and this time Let's all thank Katherine Kerensky for proofreading.
and putting up with the over-usage of the word "Trotted"

Bad Moon Rising

Time Turner walked through the town, glancing at the chatting ponies, food stands, decorations and other going-ons.

“There doesn’t seem to be any guar-”

“There he is!”

Time Turner whipped around to see Thunderlane and Big Macintosh heading towards him.

“Oh, hello.” Time Turner awkwardly smiled back.

“Heard you enjoyed what we had ta’ offer you back at th’ farm.” Big Macintosh chuckled.

“Your sister, Carrot Top and Roseluck can be quite generous.” Time Turner motioned towards a food stand with a pile of donuts, “look at that, I want to try it, but I think I had too much to eat from then.”

“Heh.” Thunderlane chuckled, “I thought you city boys were all about parties and good times.”

“Not me.” Time Turner shook his head, “My father frowned on that sort of thing, and I preferred a good book over a party.”

“Well, each to their own.” Thunderlane shrugged. “What does your dad do anyway?”

“Oh, he’s a senator.”

“Oh, a se…” Thunderlane blinked in realization, “Wait, a Senator?”

“Hmm?” Time Turner shrugged, “Indeed. He’s Clagan.”

“…Damn, you must have some friends in high places.” Thunderlane nodded impressed.

“Eyup.” Big Macintosh agreed.

“WATCH OUT!”

“Oh not again!” Time Turner leapt to the side, out of the way. Thunderlane lifted off the ground as Big Macintosh stepped out of the way. Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, Dinky Doo and Sweetie Belle whizzed past the group on her scooter.

“Sorry!” Dinky Doo called out as they passed by.

Thunderlane touched down and trotted over to Time Turner.

“You alright?”

“Fine.” The stallion got back onto his feet and dusted himself off, “I prefer not to get run over twice in one day.”

“Heh.” Thunderlane chuckled, “Good reason.”

“I mean, seriously, who lets four fillies dash around town like that?” Time Turner began to rant, “Who lets their children do that?”

“Seein’ that my sister is one of them kids, I’d say I do.” Big Macintosh politely added.

“….Oh.” Time Turner blinked, “I thought one of them looked like your sister. It’s a little hard to tell when you’re upside down and dizzy.”

“Eyup.” Big Macintosh nodded, “They’re all good fillies, but you know how kids can be.”

“I suppose.” Time Turner muttered, “I was never one for romping around Canterlot like that.”

“Don’t think you could get away with it, y’know, being the son of a senator and all.” Thunderlane shrugged.

“…I suppose.” Time Turner frowned, “My father is not the sort of stallion to use his position and wealth to cover up my mistakes. Why, I know what he would say,” Time Turner coughed and started speaking again, in a deeper voice “ ‘Turner, I will do no such thing. You made a mistake and now you must suffer the consequences’.”

“He’s just bein’ a good parent.” Big Macintosh chuckled.

“I guess.” Time Turner’s stomach rumbled, “…I guess I am hungry again.”

“Well, I reckon you had enough apples. Why don’t you try one o’ th’ Cake’s sweets?” Big Macintosh jerked his head towards one of the stands.

“I suppose something sugary would be fine.”

The group went over to one of the stands; apparently empty save for a plate piled high with turnovers. Time Turner sniffed one of them.

“smells like…Carrots.”

“It’s the carrot and onion turnovers. Fresh from Carrot Top and Creamgold’s fields.” Dizzy Twister informed him as she returned to her stand, “Help yourself.”

Time Turner picked out one of the turnovers and took a bite. Chewing, his face light up in enjoyment, before he swallowed.

“That is fantastic.”

“Glad you liked it; it’s my mother’s recipe.” Dizzy beamed.

“I’ve had something like this before, back in Canterlot.” Time Turner took another bite and swallowed before continuing, “It had some fancy purple variety of carrot and some sort of onion cultivated in Saddle Arabia with plenty of rich cheese. But this is still better.”

“Interesting.” Dizzy shrugged. “By the way, have you seen…”

“Scootaloo an’ Dinky just whizzed by with Apple Bloom an’ Sweetie Belle.” Big Macintosh interrupted.

“Oh. She didn’t knock anyone over, did she?”

“Not that we noticed, Dizzy.” Thunderlane chuckled.

“That’s good.” Dizzy sighed. “I haven’t seen Rumble for a while.”

“Yeah, he’s back with the folks in Cloudsdale.” Thunderlane shrugged, “He’ll be back in a week or two.”

“Oh, wonderful. Scootaloo and Dinky miss him.” Dizzy glanced at the clock tower. “Huh. Almost time.

“You’re welcome to tag along.” Thunderlane offered.

“Oh, of course.” Dizzy came out from behind the stand, as Time Turner took two more turnovers.

The group walked off. Thunderlane and Big Macintosh exchanged glances as Time Turner choked down the turnovers.

“Thhese har hanhashic.” Time Turner exclaimed, his voice muffled by the food stuffed in his mouth.

“Mr. Turner, don’t you think it’s impolite ta’ talk with your mouthful?” Big Macintosh chided the other stallion.

“Hih…” Time Turner stopped and gave a mighty swallow, before continuing, “I suppose so.”

“So, Mr. Turner, how do you like Ponyville so far?” Dizzy asked.

“I’ve only been here for a day, but it seems nice.” Time Turner shrugged, “Quiet, not too busy. I assume nothing really interesting happens here.”

“Not really.” Big Macintosh agreed, “Ponyville’s a small little town, th’s a nice place ta’ live and raise a family.”

“I suppose.” Time Turner shrugged, “But where is the military outpost?”

“Never needed one.” Dizzy answered, “For the most part, we’ve never been under threat, not even from the Everfree Forest. Plus, it’s not that hard for the armed forces to make it here.”

“Not even a Militia?”

“We have one, it’s…” Dizzy glanced at Big Macintosh; the stallion shook his head, “Not really a big deal.”

“I suppose. So, um…what happened to your husband?” Time Turner asked.

“I beg your pardon?” Dizzy’s eyebrow went up in confusion.

“Well, you said you were a Missus, you have two children, but as best I can tell, no husband.”

“Mr. Turner, that ain’t exactly the nicest way ta’ ask somepony a question like that.” Big Macintosh frowned.

“…oh, I suppose you’re right.” Time Turner noted, “I’m terribly sorry, Missus Twister, I’m…not use to talking to others.”

“It’s alright.” Dizzy waved it off, “My husband is in the Air force. He works under General Spitfire, so he’s always busy. As for my children, Scootaloo is my daughter. Dinky is…” Dizzy Twister bit her lower lip, uncertain of continuing, “I think the best word to use is ‘ward’.”

“Oh?” Time Turner turned his attention to her, “She’s not yours?”

“No, she’s the daughter of a friend. But…” Dizzy shook her head, “I’m sorry, it’s not something I really wish to talk about. She’s not mine, but she’s like a daughter to me.”

“I see... Interesting...” Time Turner nodded, “I’m sorry if I said anything that…brought up some bad memories.”

“Oh, it’s fine.” Dizzy smiled.

The group came to a stop in front of another stand, this one decorated with pictures and art of historical scenes. One of the pictures showed Discord swooping into battle against the Royal army, followed by a group of rag-tag ponies. Another showed Discord locked in combat with an armored black alicorn with an inky blue mane and an armored white alicorn with a blood red flaming mane. The final picture showed a group of ponies wielding gemstones, sealing away the two alicorns.

“Lemon Heart did a fantastic job on those.” Dizzy noted.

“Eeyup.” Big Macintosh nodded.

“…I dunno, I thought some of her other stuff was better.” Thunderlane shrugged, “But then again, I’m not the artsy type.”

“What do you think Mr. Tur….” Dizzy Twister trailed off.

Time Turner stared at one of the pictures. It started off with a pair of alicorns against an elegant castle background; one white with a blue mane, one dark blue with a darker mane, in the middle of the picture, a scene portrayed the two Alicorns, upon their knees, the background reduced to tatters and the shattered remains of the castle.
The final portion of the picture showed the white alicorn with the flaming, blood red mane and the black alicorn with the inky blue mane, standing triumphantly in the ruined background.

“…Oh no.” Time Turner whispered, “I completely forgot.”

“Forgot what?” A new voice startled Time Turner. Lemon Hearts stepped out from behind the stand. The mare noticed Time Turner’s companions, “Oh Hello, Mac. Thunderlane. Dizzy.”

“Miss Hearts.” Big Macintosh politely nodded.

“Oh, there you are, Lemony.” Dizzy smiled uneasily, “Everything healed up alright?”

“Yes.” Lemon Hearts flexed her left foreleg, “Good as new. Just tell Scootaloo and Dinky to be a bit more careful.”

“I’m terribly sorry.” Dizzy apologized.

“Its fine, its fine.” Lemon Hearts waved it off, “Now, Mr….Time Turner was it? What’s wrong?”

“It’s…Personal.” Time Turner grimaced, “Where…oh, no, you told us there were no guards…” He glanced up at the clock tower, “What time is Discord suppose to get here?”

“In another hour or so.” Lemon hearts responded, “You do realize if you tell us what’s wrong, we could help you?”

“Politely, I don’t think any of you can.” Time Turner excused himself and galloped off. In his haste, he nearly knocked over Rarity. The mechanic shot a dirty look at the stallion, as he fled.

“What is his problem?” Rarity asked as she trotted over to the others.

“Not sure.” Thunderlane frowned, “He’s a weird one, isn’t he?”

“….’Peculiar’ is a better word, I think.” Lemon Hearts frowned and looked at her drawings, “What did he see in it?”

“I’m not sure.”

Time Turner tripped and stumbled into the mayor’s office. Cheerilee frowned at him.

“What is it?”

“Did Discord show up yet?” Time Turner pulled himself back onto his hooves.

“No.” the mayor shook her head.

“Dammit.” Time Turner began to pace around the office, “I need to tell him something that is of vital importance to the nation.”

Cheerilee rolled her eyes, “Not another one of those things…”

“But this time it’s true!” Time Turner stomped, “I did the research and the…”

“The what, Time Turner?” A new voice cut in.

Time Turner spun around, searching for the source.

“Above you.”

Time Turner looked up; an amused looking Discord touched down in front of him.

“Now, Time Turner, what is so important?” Discord smiled.

“Ah! I was trying to tell you and my father about it back in Canterlot, but today is the day that Nightmare Moon is suppose to escape from her prison and return!” the stallion broke off into a fast-paced explanation, while Discord and Cheerilee exchanged glances.

“..And quickly!” Time Turner concluded.

“Time Turner, I think you need to relax.” Discord yawned. “Nightmare Moon escaping? Please.”

“But…You were there when they sealed them away.” Time Turner added, “Surely you of all beings wou-”

“Yes, Turner I was there. I also knew just how powerful the Elements of Harmony were, when they sealed me away for thousands of years.” Discord shook his head, “I only escaped once enough chaos was built up for me to take advantage of. Luna and Celestia have no such advantage, and will remain where they are until long after you have passed on.” Discord’s expression turned gloomy, “Maybe forever.”

“But…”

“Time Turner, I do agree with your father. This is not something you should worry about, it’s a celebration, go out and have some fun.” Discord’s face lit up again, “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a crowd to entertain.”

The draconequus snapped his fingers and vanished. Time Turner sighed in defeat and left the room.

“Why won’t anypony listen to me?”

Time Turner stood in the crowd, as Discord appeared on stage in an explosion of fireworks, confetti, chocolate rain and fish.

“HELLLLLOOOO PONYVILLE! WHO LOVES YA BABY?!?”

The crowd cheered as Time Turner sighed.

“There he is.”

Time Turner looked up, as Rarity, Big Macintosh, Thunderlane, Dizzy Twister and Lemon Hearts trotted over. Lemon Heart’s magical aura brought a plate with several turnovers on it towards Time Turner’s face.

“Want them?” the mare inquired.

“…sure.” Time Turner sighed. The stallion took one of the turnovers and chewed.

“Why were you rushing around earlier?” Rarity inquired.

“It doesn’t matter.” The stallion sighed, “Even he doesn’t beli- what is that?”

Time Turner pointed towards an odd-looking purple cloud forming far above the stage and Discord.

“What the hell…” Thunderlane frowned, “I thought we got all the rainclouds. It doesn’t look like one of Advisor Discord’s chocolate rain clouds either. Unless he has a new trick up his sleeve.”

“No…I don’t think so.” Rarity squinted at it. “It’s…just hanging there.”

“….oh no.” Time Turner whispered, “I know what it is.”

“Beg your pardon?” Big Macintosh’s eyebrow rose.

The cloud began to grow, catching the attention of other members of the crowd. Discord frowned.

“What are you all looking at?” Time Turner looked up. Upon seeing the cloud, Discord paled in horror.

“Oh no…no, it can’t be. It was suppose to last fo-”

Discord screamed in horror as the cloud shot down and engulfed him. For several moments, the crowd could only watch in horror as the draconequus struggled within the cloud, until it ceased moving. The cloud quickly began to spin around until it dispersed; leaving a towering armored black alicorn with a flowing blue mane.

“…Oh Discord, I was right.” Time Turner collapsed to his knees.

“Nightmare Moon has returned...”

What lurks in the dark

“And here we are.”

Dizzy Twister touched down. The moment her four hooves were in contact with the ground, Time Turner scrambled off her back, landing on his face.

“You alright, Mr. Turner?” Big Macintosh trotted over.

“Fine, fine,” Time Turner pulled himself out of the dirt, “I’ve had worse.”

“Alright…unfortunately, this is as far as I’ve ever been,” Dizzy gave the group a weak smile, “Scootaloo usually doesn’t go this far.”

“You’ve still been a fantastic help, Mrs. Twister,” Time Turner nodded, “Does anypony else have an idea where we are going?”

“I do,”
Lemon Heart’s aura opened her bag and pulled out a book. She quickly flipped through it and stopped on a page, “We still have a ways to go, there’s a river, a chasm, a forest and...Hm.”

“What’s ‘Hm’?” Thunderlane touched down with Rarity on his back.

“Well according to the map, there’s a cave around the area,” Lemon Hearts shut the book, “according to this there was a troll and some other creatures around it, but this book was made when I was a little filly, so it might not be accurate. That said, I do not believe that the group is…prepared to face that sort of thing.”

“We’re going into this blind anyway,” Rarity interjected, “I personally think we’re greatly underprepared to face somepony strong enough to defeat and seal away Discord.”

“She’s got a point,” Thunderlane nodded.

“Right now, until word gets back to Canterlot, this is the only chance we’ve got,” Time Turner responded, “If you do not feel that you wish to continue, you can turn back. I won’t hold it against anypony.” The stallion blinked, “well, assuming I make it back alive.”

“I’m stayin’,” Big Macintosh told the others, “Ain’t goin’ back until I got my friend and Applebloom back.”

“I’m not going back,” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “Right now, the map is the best bet we have.”

“...” Dizzy looked down, “I’m not leaving them.”

The group turned their attention to Thunderlane, who simply shrugged, “I’ve gotten this far, I’m staying.”

“…I still feel this is foolish, but I suppose fools like to stay together,” Rarity sighed.

“Right then, let’s continue. Miss Lemon Hearts, please lead the way.”

“Fools,” Nightmare Moon shook her head.
“This spell is more than enough to deal with those sorts of ponies.”

The Darkness.

Time Turner felt a sense of uneasiness creep up inside of him. As the feelings of anxiety and dread passed through him, the stallion shook his head in an effort to rid himself of those feelings.

“Scared of the dark,” the stallion muttered, “what am I, six?”

“What was that?” Big Macintosh inquired, “Didn’t quite hear you.”

“Nothing,” Time Turner responded.

The group fell silent again, as they uneasily continued. Time Turner gulped as another feeling of dread passed over him. Glancing towards his right, he froze in place; another set of eyes, a piercing yellow, locked onto his. Time Turner continued to stare into the yellow eyes, straining not to blink.

“What are you doing?” Thunderlane turned around and gave the Earth pony a confused look, “You’re gonna get left behind.”

“There’s something there,” Time Turner whispered.

“What?” Thunderlane spun around, “Hey! Wait up!”

“What’s wrong?” Rarity called back, “Hold on, everypony.”

“Turner says there’s something h-”

Something exploded out of the bushes and landed next to Thunderlane. Spinning around, the pegasus came face to face with a skeletal pony; the tattered remains of it’s wings frantically flapping up and down, sending globs of rotting flesh and feathers everywhere. An unearthly yellow light glowed in its eye sockets, as pale smoke flowed from its mouth.

“What the hell?!?!?” Thunderlane stumbled backwards, trying to get away from it. Rarity, Big Macintosh, and Dizzy Twister burst into the scene, taking it in. The skeletal pony turned its attention towards the newcomers and broke into a weaving gait, as it charged at them.

“What is that thing?” Rarity took a step back, as Big Macintosh braced himself.

The farm stallion lunged forwards, bringing his metal hoof hard against its jaw. The bone shattered under the impact, peppering Big Macintosh with shards. The skeleton lost its balance and tumbled to the ground, coming to skidding stop behind Dizzy Twister.

“You alright, Thunderlane?” Big Macintosh turned his attention away from the skeletal pony.

“Yeah, yeah, it just startled me,” Thunderlane rubbed the back of his head with his hoof, “The hell is that thing?”

“Dunno, but I think I took ca-”

Big Macintosh was cut off, as a skeletal hoof smashed into his jaw. The stallion stumbled back under the impact, but quickly regained his footing and turned his attention to the attacker. The skeletal pony stood triumphantly, as its head spun around in a complete circle, spewing bone shards in every direction.

“That hurt,” Big Macintosh spat out some pink-tinged saliva, and lunged at the pony again.
Thunderlane glanced back at Time Turner before doing a double take: the earth pony was still staring into the bushes.

“What are you doing Turner? Mac need some help! Whatever you were looking at is out here now.”

“The eyes are still in there,” Timer Turner whimpered, “There are more of them.”

Thunderlane looked into the bush, as it lit up with more pairs of unearthly glowing yellow eyes.

“oh sh-”

More skeletal ponies leapt out of the bushes, as Lemon Hearts came back into view.

“What’s going o…” the unicorn mare trailed off at the scene of violence in front of her: Time Turner leapt over a fallen branch, while being pursued by two skeletal ponies, as Big Macintosh continued his battle with the jawless pony. Despite having lost its lower jaw, one wing and rear legs, the skeleton continued to pound away at the living stallion’s face. Thunderlane dodged one skeleton’s clumsy charging attack, only for another to knock the pegasus to the ground. Dizzy Twister remained behind Rarity, as the other unicorn used her wrench, hammer and other tools to fend off the skeletal hooves.

“…That’s new,” Lemon Hearts frowned, “But it seems so familiar…”
In the corner of her eye, Lemon Hearts noticed one of the skeletal ponies charging at her. As it lunged, Lemon Hearts’ magical aura surrounded it and yanked each bone out of its socket. The aura condensed, letting bones drop to the ground, until only the skeleton’s head remained encased in her aura. Lemon Hearts brought the head closer, studying it, as the head snapped at her and the eyes burned brighter.

“Ah, I thought so,” Lemon Hearts shook her head and begun to laugh.

Rarity dodged a skeleton’s snapping jaws and smashed it across the face with her wrench. The mechanic stopped her attack as Lemon Hearts’ laughter reached her.

“Just what is she doing?” Rarity snuck a glance at the unicorn, “We’re in the middle of a fight, and she’s laughing?”

“Hey!” Thunderlane finally managed to knock the skeleton off him, “What’s she doing?!?!”

“Lemony, what are you doing?!?!” Dizzy Twister yelled at the mare, “We need your help!”

“I am giving it,” the librarian smiled, “I feel quite insulted that somepony would use a spell of this caliber to keep us from our goal.”

Time Turner skidded to a stop. The skeletal ponies chasing him leapt at where he was and crashed into the ground in a heap of scattered limbs.

“Wait, what?” Time Turner looked at the mare, “What are you talking about?!?!”

“It’s a simple animation spell,” Lemon Hearts released the skull and turned her attention to the other skeletons, “I know how to dispel it.”

Lemon Hearts’ magical aura: a pale blue-green, circled around her horn before exploding outwards in a pulse. As it engulfed the skeletons, the light faded from each of their eye sockets. As the light faded, each of the skeletons collapsed to the ground. Big Macintosh pushed the limp pile of bones off of him and trotted over to the others.

“Everypony alright?”

“I’m fine,” Rarity waved the stallion away.

“I’ll manage,” Dizzy Twister weakly smiled.

“How could you tell what spell it was?” Time Turner inquired.

“I’ve used it before, for my work,” Lemon Hearts shrugged, “It’s a very basic spell, but novices tend to put too much energy in it.”

“But who would have done that?” Thunderlane inquired.

“Who else?” Lemon Hearts rolled her eyes, “Nightmare Moon. But if the best she can do is cheap parlor tricks like that, we will have this solved in no time.”

The unicorn turned around and prepared to continue on her way.

“Just a moment,” Time Turner called out, “you said you know this spell, right Miss Hearts?”

“Call me Lemony,” the Unicorn responded, “and yes, I do.”

“For what, exactly?” Time Turner trotted up to her, “What does a librarian need a spell like that for?”

“I’ll tell you if we survive this,” Lemon Hearts responded, “that, I can promise. Now let’s hurry up.”

As the group continued through the forest, Time Turner glanced at Lemon Hearts, then to Dizzy Twister, and finally Big Macintosh’s mechanical leg,

“Something on your mind?” Big Macintosh inquired.

“How did you lose your leg?”

The group skidded to a stop. The other ponies turned around, uncertain and concerned looks on their faces.

“What?” Time Turner grimaced, “did I say something wron-”

“It’s…not something we like to discuss,” Rarity cut him off.

“It’s alright,” Big Macintosh sighed, “I can tell him.”

“You sure, big guy?” Thunderlane frowned, “I mean…”

“If it’s gonna make him focus on what’s goin’ on, I’ll do it.”

Big Macintosh sat down, and sighed.

“‘Bout six years back, I was still a young fella, working at th’ farm….”

---

“Macintosh, you sure about this?”

“Granny, Roseluck and I think it’s worth a shot.”

The elderly green mare and the stallion trotted out of the house. Other ponies gathered around a bizarre contraption covered in a worn tarp, and seated near a ripe field of wheat; among them, Carrot Top, Roseluck, Applejack, Thunderlane, Dizzy Twister and Lemon Hearts.

“Think it’ll actually work?” Roseluck nudged Carrot Top.

“I don’t know,” the Orange-maned mare shook her head, “Have you ever heard of these guys before?”

“Nnnnope.” The other mare dragged out her response, “I spoke to a couple other farms, but none of them ever heard of any of them.”

“Reassuring.”

“Hey, Mac trusts them, that’s good enough for me,” Roseluck defensively countered.

“I don’t like it,” Applejack cut into the conversation, “I mean look at that thing, Looks more like it’s designed ta tear up trees and clear land, not harvest wheat.”

“Applejack, Red Fife was alright with it,” Carrot Top countered.

“My brother’ll give any ol’ pony a chance,” Applejack snorted, “This ain’t nothing-”

“I think we oughta give them a chance, Applejack.”

The mare jumped as the other mares gave each other a mischievous smile. Big Macintosh trotted out of the crowd, and towards the machine.

“Flim? Flam? You fellas here?” the stallion called out.

A pair of light olive unicorn stallions with nearly identical red and white-striped manes popped out from under the machine, their blue and white pinshirts stained with oil. The mustached unicorn slid over to Big Macintosh.

“Indeed we are, Mr. Macintosh.” The unicorn grinned.

“Alright, uh, Flam, right?” Big Macintosh paused, as the unicorn nodded in confirmation, “You wanna tell th’ crowd yerself, or leave it ta me?”

“I think that would be our job, Mr. Macintosh,” the other unicorn placed a straw hat onto his head as he responded, “Ready, brother?”

“Ready, brother.”

The two unicorns trotted to the front of the machine and beamed at the crowd.

“Ladies and Gentleponys, welcome welcome welcome!” Flim grinned at the crowd, “I’m Flim.”

“And I’m Flam,” the other unicorn grinned, “Together we are the Flim Flam Brothers, traveling salesponies nonpareil!”

“Now, I’m certain you all must be wondering what we are here for, right brother?” Flim turned his attention to the other unicorn.

“Indeed brother.” Flam turned towards the machine, “Harvesting wheat is such a tedious task isn’t it? Why, you can work all day and barely get any work done!”

“That’s right!” Flim trotted up to the other side of the machine, “And that’s why we are here to help Miss Red Fife with her troubles.” Flim tilted his hat at a red-brown earth mare with a pale blonde mane.

“And if we can help one mare with her problems, why, think of what we can do for the rest of you!” Flam grinned, “Why, the poor carrot farmers wouldn’t have to strain their backs harvesting their crops!”

“The grape growers could have an easier time harvesting their produce and turning it into wine!” Flim offered to the crowd.

“But don’t just take our word for it,” Flam nodded to Flim. The brother’s magical aura surrounded the tarpaulin, “Behold!”

The brothers ripped off the tarp, revealing the machine beneath it. Several ponies gasped and stepped back, away from it: the machine was a nightmarish blend of blades, wheels and chutes.

“The Super Easy Wheaty Harvester Three Thousand!” the brothers triumphantly announced to the crowd.

The crowd murmured among themselves as Red Fife, Carrot Top and Applejack exchanged uneasy glances.

“I see the unease on your faces, but all your doubts will be washed away once you see this in action!” Flam turned to his brother, “Ready brother?”

“Ready Brother,” Flim turned his attention to Big Macintosh, “Mr. Macintosh, would you mind stepping back into the crowd?”

“I think I’d like ta watch it from here.” The stallion responded.

“Well then, let’s get this demonstration on the road!”

The two unicorns turned their attention towards an instrument panel on the machine and began to fiddle with the controls. The machine roared to life, as the threshing wheel slowly began to spin. The brothers maneuvered the machine into the field of wheat, where it began to separate the wheat from the chafe, and toss the wheat into a bin.

“Seems like its working fine, Mac,” Roseluck chuckled.

“Eeyup,” Big Macintosh nodded in agreement, “I think this might be a good investment after all.”

“I believe Lutz Green said he needed some help with his beet harvest,” Roseluck added, “If we want to keep these guys around, they should make something for him next.”

“…Mac, should it be smoking like that?” Carrot Top jabbed a hoof in the direction of the machine.
The stallion turned his attention to the machine; thick, black smoke billowed out of the machine in various places, as the Flim Flam brothers continued to fiddle with the machine.

“Rose, AJ, Carrot, get the crowd back,” Big Macintosh jerked his head back, “I don’t like it, and I don’t want anypony to get hurt.”

“Right,” the three mares nodded and set off to work.

Big Macintosh started off to the machine and the brothers, only for the two unicorns to leap off the machine, and flee. Big Macintosh turned tail, and fled back only to skid to a stop as he realized one pony got left behind.

Applebloom.

The stallion ran towards Applebloom as the machine exploded…

---
“..Next thing I knew, I was in th’ hospital,” Big Macintosh looked down at his mechanical leg, “Missing this leg. Chunk of the machine ripped off my leg at the elbow, and I nearly bled to death in the field. Applebloom was safe, thank Discord.”

The stallion sighed before continuing, “They had to amputate ta rest o’ it ta save my life. That’s how I met Miss Rarity; she built my new one for me.”

“What happened to the Flim Flam brothers?” Time Turner inquired.

“Caught’m both before they could run outta town. Turns out they were a buncha conponies, with plenty o’ charges against’m,” Big Macintosh’s expression turned hard, “Last I heard, they were both rottin’ in a jail cell. I keep kickin’ myself over that. If I didn’t give’m a chance, or maybe if I knew somepony who had dealt with them before…”

“There’s no point beating yourself over it,” Thunderlane comforted the stallion, “Ponies make mistakes, and…well, sometimes that happens.”

“I know,” Big Macintosh got back onto his hooves, “We oughta keep goin’. None o’ that’s gonna matter if we don’t get th’ elements.”

“Right,” the other ponies nodded and got back onto their hooves.

Give a little bit

“…This bridge is not on the map,” Lemon Hearts frowned and examined the book.

The group stood at the bank of a river, cautiously glancing at a slapdash bridge built out of lopsided timber, uneven rocks and lashed together with vines and moldy rope.

“Looks like a slapdash job somepony threw together,” Rarity frowned.

“Yeah, but who would build this in the middle o’ nowhere?” The farm stallion trotted closer to the bridge and examined it, “Looks sturdy enough for us ta cross.”

“We could just fly you over it,” Dizzy suggested, “It’d make things easier.”

“We could, but no point wastin’ your energy like that.” Big Macintosh countered, “We might need you both if somethin’ goes wrong.”

“We’re not going to accomplish anything if we just sit here, arguing about crossing a bridge,” Rarity grumbled, “Now you all can stay here and argue, but I’m going across.”

The mechanic trotted away from the group, and towards the bridge. Before she could place a hoof on the bridge, the water next to it exploded. Rarity scrambled backwards, as a large, mottled grey-skinned bipedal beast stepped out of the water. The beast lumbered forwards, on two legs, and growled at Rarity.

“Need… food,” the creature growled before looking at Rarity.

It raised one scaly hand, and reached out to grab at her. Rarity’s aura flared up; her hammer, wrench and hacksaw flew out of her satchel, and smacked the creature’s hand away from her. It howled in pain and swatted at her with its other hand. Thunderlane and Big Macintosh exchanged quick glances before rushing in towards Rarity and the creature. Lemon Heart began to leaf through her book, muttering something to herself.

“What is that thing?” Dizzy stepped backwards, as Rarity dodged another swipe. Before she could counterattack, Big Macintosh knocked her out of the way, as Thunderlane landed in front of the creature.

“Easy now, big guy,” Thunderlane tried to calm the creature down, “C’mon, we’re not gonna hurt you…”

“Big Macintosh, what are you doing?!” Rarity wiggled out of his grasp.

“Tryin ta keep you from hurtin’ it any more than it already is,” the stallion replied.

“C’mon, sit down,” Thunderlane continued to coax the creature into relaxing, “Look, that was a misunderstanding, alright?”

The beast stared at Thunderlane, scowling. The pegasus grinned back.

“Hey, to show you we’re serious, we’ll get her to apologize, alright? After all, this was just a misunderstanding,” the pegasus used his wings to motion for Rarity to come over, “Right, Rarity?”

The mechanic stared at the pegasus in disbelief. Thunderlane glanced at her and continued to motion with his wings.

“...Yes, yes, I’m sorry,” Rarity gritted her teeth and smiled, “I apologize, I reacted poorly.”

The creature sighed and sat down, as a loud rumbling sound filled the air.
“Sorry not feed.”

“Ah, here we go,” Lemon Hearts scanned her book, “It’s a river troll. I speak trollish, so let me talk to him.”

The librarian trotted over to the troll, and let out a series of growls and snarls. The River troll looked surprised and responded in similar-sounding growls.

“...When would she ever need to speak troll?” Thunderlane wondered out loud.

“Oh, you know, just in case,” Dizzy waved her hoof, “Lemony likes to learn things.”

“…Between this and the reanimation spell, I’m beginning to wonder if she’s ex-military,” Time Turner scratched behind his head, “On another note, why did you stop her?”

“Because she’d be beating up a starvin’ fella,” Big Macintosh jerked a hoof at the troll, “Jus’ look at him, I don’t know much ‘bout trolls, but I don’t think his ribs are suppose ta be pushin’ through like that.”

Rarity fidgeted, “Well, I thought it was going to eat me.”

“Either way, we don’t need to waste our time fighting folks we don’t have to,” Thunderlane continued to watch Lemon Heart’s negotiations.

Lemon Hearts grunted one final time, before nodding at the troll and turning her attention back to the group of ponies.

“He says his name is Grr-ramph, and he hasn’t eaten in months,” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “He says the fish have vanished from the river and his attempts at hunting have all failed. Before you ask, No, he can’t live off just fruits and plants, trolls need meat in their diets to keep it balanced.”

“We don’t have anything to give him,” Dizzy shook her head; “Time Turner ate the last of the turnovers I had.”

“Well, trolls can’t digest dairy anyway,” Lemon Hearts shrugged, “He’ll let us pass, but only if we give him something to eat.”

“We could sneak around him,” Rarity pointed out, “It’s not that hard.”

“Trolls like to hold grudges, Rarity,” Lemon Hearts frowned, “Besides, that’s not very polite.”

“I got a solution,” Big Macintosh motioned towards Grr-ramph, “Lemon, I’m gonna need ya ta translate for me.”

The two ponies trotted back over towards the gloomy river troll.

“Tell’m who I am.”

Lemon Hearts grunted at the troll and motioned towards Big Macintosh. Grr-ramph responded with a similar grunt and nod.

“He said, he recognizes the name, Scootaloo apparently came around here once with Apple Bloom,” Lemon Hearts chuckled, “He said they looked too stringy to eat.”

“...I’ll remember that,” the stallion frowned, “Tell him I got an offer for’m.”

“Right,” Lemon Hearts groaned and growled at the troll, whose eyebrow’s rose in surprise. He grunted back.

“He said-”

“I don’t think I need a translation ta know he’s interested,” Big Macintosh chuckled, “Here’s th’ deal. Purple Laver needs someone ta guard his stocks from the wild animals. That means fish, ducks, whatever tries ta get at his seaweed. He lets us pass; I’ll talk ta Laver about it,” the stallion paused, “Laver’s a bit o’ a strange fella, so he should agree ta that.”

“Do you want me to tell him all of that, or just the first part?”

“The first part,”

Lemon Hearts grunted and snarled at Grr-ramph. The troll rested his chin on his hand, pondering his response.

“…Any idea what’s going on?” Thunderlane nudged Time Turner.

“Sounds like they’re trying to make a deal over… something,” Time Turner shrugged, “Either that, or they’re trying to offer us in exchange for safe passage.”

“That’s not funny,” the mechanic grumbled, “Can they hurry it up? Every moment we waste is-”

“Rarity, given the situation, we should be glad that he’s willing to talk it out,” Thunderlane cut her off, “So let’s just wait.”

“Well looks like we got a deal,” Big Macintosh held out his mechanical hoof, “Shake on it.”

“Mac… Good Pony,” Grr-ramph took the hoof and shook it.

Big Macintosh dumped his pack, revealing a bunch of crisp apples. Grr-ramph picked one up and stuffed it into his mouth. The troll’s expression changed to one of absolute delight and he began to stuff his mouth with the others.

“Well we got that taken care of, let’s keep goin’,” Big Macintosh motioned for the rest of the ponies to follow him across the bridge. The farm stallion and the librarian started across, as the others followed.

“…Trolls have become soft,” Nightmare Moon scoffed, “I must find something…better.”

The alicorn dissipated.

“Are we there yet?” Time Turner groaned.

“The answer is the exact same as the last seven times you asked,” Rarity gritted her teeth, “No.”

“Yer worse than Apple Bloom,” Big Macintosh grumbled.

“But I’m tired….”

“It was your idea to do this,” Rarity countered, “Let me guess, you were one of those ponies who spent all his time laying around, reading.”

“That was rather rude,” Thunderlane scolded the mechanic.

“…Well, I am. Or was,” the stallion paused, “Well, still am.”

“Get on my back,” Thunderlane dropped to his knees, “It’s better than letting him complain about it.”

“Thank you,”

The stallion scrambled onto Thunderlane’s back, adjusting his position until he was comfortable. The pegasus grunted under the weight.

“…Y’sure ya can hold’m, Thunder?” Big Macintosh chuckled. Rarity rolled her eyes in exasperation, while the other two mares exchanged baffled expressions.

“I think… I can manage,” He flashed a strained smile at the others; “Let’s keep going, how much longer?”

“…” Lemon Hearts scanned the book again, “Getting closer.”

“Can’t you be more specific?”

“Nope,” the librarian smirked, “I haven’t seen anything this amusing since the time Scootaloo got stuck in the library’s toilet.”

“One of these days, you’re going to have to tell me how she managed that,” Dizzy Twister shook her head.

“I told you, you wouldn’t believe me if I did,” the librarian chuckled, “But I suppose I can try. Let’s keep moving, though.”

The group started up again; Lemon Hearts and Dizzy Twister in the lead, followed by Thunderlane and Time Turner, with Rarity and Big Macintosh taking up the rear.

“Well, this is how it went…”

“Miss Lemon Hearts!” five voices called out in unison.

Lemon Hearts looked up from her scroll; glasses perched on her nose, quill levitating nearby. The mare took off her glasses and rolled the scroll up, before getting to her hooves.

“One moment!”

The librarian trotted away from her desk, and into the main library. She headed over to the door, opening it to greet her visitor.
Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Dinky Doo and Sweet Wheat beamed back at her. Behind the fillies was a red wagon filled with books.

“Hello girls,” a smile began to creep onto her face, only for it to drop into a frown, “…You didn’t drop them in mud again, did you?”

“Nope!” Apple Bloom responded, “We learned our lesson from the last time, so we putt’m all in plastic bags before we got here!”

“Good work,” the smile returned to the mare’s face, “Well, bring them in.”

The five fillies pushed past her, dragging the wagon behind her.

“Where should we put them?”

“By the front desk, I’ll sort it out latter,” Lemon Hearts waved her hoof vacantly, “I need to take care of something, so please don’t make a mess.”

“Alright Miss Lemon Hearts,” Dinky and the others nodded.

Lemon Hearts left the room, and returned to her business. She unfurled the scroll, and brought the quill towards her again.

“Now where was I… ah, right,” the mare returned to her writing.

---

“…so how are we s’pose to get that book off the top shelf?” Apple Bloom frowned.

“We could ask Miss Lemon Hearts,” Dinky suggested.

“No, she said she was busy,” Sweetie Belle shook her head, “Rarity says the same thing, and gets really mad if I bother her when she’s working.”

“That’s because she’s working with tools, sharp things and stuff like that,” Sweet Wheat countered, “If you distract her, she could get hurt. I don’t think Miss Lemon Hearts is doing things like that.”

“Heh,” Scootaloo chuckled, “You heard what Tootsie Flute said about Miss Lemon Hearts, right?”

“No, what?”

“They say she spends all her time in the backroom, building monsters,” Scootaloo’s smile grew as the others frowned.

“…That’s stupid.” Sweetie Belle shut her down.

“Yeah, when Sweetie Belle says it’s stupid, you know it’s stupid,” Dinky shook her head as Apple Bloom and Sweet Wheat chuckled.

“…What’s that suppose to mean?” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo countered.

“Whatever, let’s just leave that one for last,” Apple Bloom looked down at her list, “How come Miss Pinkamena gotta assign us all these books ta read anyway? I mean, why do we gotta read a cookbook?”

“She said it’s best for students to be well rounded,” Dinky shrugged, “I dunno.”

“I think it’s over here,” Sweet Wheat pointed towards another part of the library, “I think Carrot Top borrowed it once…”

The three fillies trotted off, leaving Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle behind.

“…We’re gonna get that book and show Dinky that I’m not stupid.”

“But how?” Sweetie Belle inquired.

“I have an idea…”

“Alright, I think we got all of them,” Dinky scanned the list, clasped in her telekinetic aura.

“I still don’t know why we need a book on military hardware,” Sweet Wheat frowned.

“Miss Pinkamena is just weird…”

“Almost… got... it.”

The three fillies looked up to see Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle atop a haphazardly constructed pile of books. Atop the pile, Scootaloo stood on Sweetie Belle’s head.

“…This isn’t going to end well,” Dinky backed up.

“Eyup.” Apple Bloom and Sweet Wheat responded, following her lead.

“Got it!” Scootaloo nabbed the book off the shelf, throwing Sweetie Belle off balance.

“WOAH!”

Sweetie Belle lost her balance, sliding down the pile. Scootaloo followed suit shortly after. Sweetie Belle came to a stop at the bottom of the pile, crashing headfirst into a thick book. Another door opened as Lemon Hearts stepped out of the room.

“Just need to send that the Purple Prose and the next one is do…” she trailed off at the scene in front of her, “…”

Scootaloo crashed into Sweetie Belle, sending the pegasus filly soaring through the air. She crashed into a door, blowing a hole in it, before landing on something with a hollow thunk. Dinky, Sweet Wheat and Apple Bloom peeked back into the room, as Sweetie Belle unsteadily got to her hooves.

“Um…” Apple Bloom, Dinky and Sweet Wheat gave Lemon Hearts an awkward smile.

“…Just. Just take the books and go. I’ll be talking to your siblings and parents very soon.” Lemon Hearts sighed, “Let’s get Scootaloo.”

The group trotted over the broken door and peeked in. Scootaloo struggled against the porcelain, her hooves slipping and sliding off the sides of the toilet, as she tried to pull her head out of the bowl.

“Get me out of this!” the filly’s voice screeched, distorted by the porcelain.

Instead of helping, the others burst out into uproarious laughter, eventually collapsing to the library floor, tears in their eyes.

“...And that’s that,” Lemon Hearts snickered, “I left that part out, since I figured the mess in the library was enough to get them all in trouble already.”

The group paused for a moment, staring at Lemon Hearts. After several seconds of silence, the other ponies erupted into laughter. Lemon Hearts smiled, as the group continued on their way.

No Relief

“Are we there yet?”

“Time Turner, if you ask that one more time, I will take my wrench and shove it up your-”

“Miss Rarity, that ain’t gonna do nothing,” Big Macintosh interrupted the mechanic. The stallion turned his attention to the stallion on his back, “Turner, I don’t think you should keep askin’ that.”

“Alright…” he trailed off, “I think I can start walking again.”

“Heh. You oughta get more exercise,” Big Macintosh chuckled as the other stallion slid to the ground, “If you’re gonna live in Ponyville, you’ll be walkin’ a lot.”

“…I walked in Canterlot,” Time Turner feebly protested, “Just…not a lot.”

“What do you mean, not a lot?” Rarity continued, “Either you did or you didn’t.”

“Must we discuss this?” Lemon Hearts rolled her eyes, “Don’t we have better things to be doing?”

“...I suppose so,” Rarity trailed off, “How much further until the ruins?”

“Shouldn’t be too much,” Lemon Hearts pulled out the book again and scanned its pages, “…Huh, there was suppose to be a cave around here, guess something must have buried it.”

The other five ponies exchanged uncertain glances, “By what?” Time Turner inquired.

“Who knows,” the librarian shrugged, “Timberwolves, Trolls, Ursas…”

“What was that last one?” Time Turner interrupted her.

“Ursas?”

“There are Ursas here?” the Canterlot pony stared at her, jaw agape.

“Oh yes, as long as you leave them alone, they’ll be fin-”

“That’s fantastic!” the stallion exclaimed in exuberance. The other five ponies stared at him, completely shocked.

“Can we find one?” Time Turner beamed, “Please?”

“No!” the five ponies yelled back in unison.

“Time Turner, we have a task to complete!” Rarity yelled at the stallion, “Why in Equestria do you want to look for more danger?”

“…I like bears,” the stallion meekly replied.

“…I think we should keep going,” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “We can send you out for that later.”

The group continued along, as Time Turner sulked.

“…Are we there yet?”

“Almost,” Lemon Hearts looked up from the book, “…Huh.”

“What’s ‘huh’?” Big Macintosh trotted up behind her.

“Well, according to this, we should be at the ruins, but as you can plainly see…” Lemon Hearts motioned to their surroundings, “Nothing.”

“…Perhaps it’s hidden by a spell?” Dizzy suggested.

“Or maybe the map’s wrong.” Time Turner grumbled.

“I don’t think so,” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “There’s no signs indicating that a spell is being used. It’s possible the map is wrong, though. Look around a bit.”

The six ponies spread out, looking around the area for any signs of the ruins or any path to them.

Thunderlane trampled through a bush, eventually tripping over a root.

“Wait, what am I doing?”

Thunderlane got back to his hooves and took off, scanning the area from the air. The weather pony glanced around, frowning.

“See anything?” Lemon Hearts called out to him.

The stallion swooped back down and landed, shaking his head.

“Not really,” Thunderlane shrugged, “I can give you a lift and you can look.”

“That might be for the best.” Lemon Hearts nodded.

The weather pony grabbed Lemon Hearts and lifted her up into the air. In the meantime, Rarity, Big Macintosh and Dizzy Twister met up again.

“Any signs?” the mechanic asked.

“Enope.”

“Nothing.”

“Ah-HA!” Time Turner stood up triumphantly. The other three ponies rushed over to him.

“What is it?” Rarity peered over.

Time Turner spun around; a small brightly colored mantis perched upon his hoof.

“It’s a Yellow-spotted red-eyed Mantis! They’re supposed to be very extremely rare!”

“…See those things on th’ farm all the time.” Big Macintosh rolled his eyes.

“Why are you wasting your time with…with...gah!” Rarity spun around and stomped off, muttering to herself.

“….I think it’s cool. Manti are cool.” Time Turner sulked as the mantis flew away.

“…Time Turner, I think we really should focus on the task at hand,” Dizzy Twister sighed, “There will be plenty of time to fool around later.”

“I know,” the stallion sighed, “I…I really don’t feel like I should be here. I haven’t done anything useful.”

“…Neither have I,” Dizzy Twister reminded him, “Lemony would say something like…oh, I don’t know, that different ponies are meant to play different roles. Not everyone can bake a cake, calm a crowd, or fight an army. Remember, you knew about the elements and that they could be useful. You’re the one who rallied everypony together. That has to count for something.”

“…I suppose.” Time Turner sighed.

“You didn’t think this would be as simple taking a stroll out into the woods, turning over a few rocks and finding them, did you?” an amused smile crept onto the pegasus’s face.

The earth pony blushed and became flustered, “Well…yes, actually.”

“Typical,” Dizzy chuckled, “oh, I don’t mean to offend you, but, that’s how Scootaloo and Dinky are sometimes. ‘Oh let’s go on an adventure and not tell mom! We’ll be back before dinner’,” the mare shook her head, “I gave up counting how often that happened.”

Before Time Turner could respond, Lemon Hearts and Thunderlane touched down again.

“Anything?” Dizzy turned her attention to them.

“We have an idea. The map was slightly wrong,” Lemon Hearts frowned, “Probably to throw ponies off. Let’s go.”

CANTERLOT.
DEBREIFING ROOM

Clagan trotted down the hall, frowning. He was joined by a tall, thin white-coated unicorn mare with a short cropped pink mane, and clad in a crisp white uniform. On each shoulder of her uniform laid a set of five golden stars.

“Ah, Generalissimo Fleur, I was expecting to see you with the others,” Clagan politely greeted the mare.

“I had another matter to attend to,” the mare replied, “Photo Finish’s spies sent a report back from the kingdom.”

“They are mobilizing?”

“On the contrary, they are doing nothing,” the Supreme commander replied. Clagan’s eyebrow rose in interest as the mare went on, “It seems they are waiting for something, our spies are not completely certain that they realize that Nightmare Moon has returned.”

“Hmm, this is important information, have…”

“The others have been informed,” Fleur cut him off, “We shall discuss this more with them.”

“Yes, yes.” Clagan sighed, “This is a disaster. I am aware that Mosely is usually the one to deal with these matters, but he is off taking care of the panic in Manehattan.”

“I am aware of that,” the commander shook her head, “How did word reach them so quickly, and why in the seven hells did they think rioting was a good idea?”

“I do not know,” Clagan shook his head, “But everypony is scrambling around trying to keep the situation from getting worse. I hope for some good news from this…”

The two ponies pushed open a heavy door, leading to a brightly-lit room. In the center of the room, three ponies sat around a heavy wooden table. The first was a golden-coated pegasus mare with an orange and amber mane, dressed in a dark blue uniform, four stars on her shoulders. The second was a plump amber unicorn stallion with a light-orange mane, clad in a dark green uniform with four stars on his shoulder. The final pony was a cream-colored earth pony mare with a blue mane with a rose stripe, and clad in a white uniform, four stars on her shoulder like the others.

“Marshal Spitfire, General Joe, Admiral Bonbon.” Clagan acknowledged the other ponies’ presence with a nod of his head, “Let’s get straight to the point, General?”

General Joe nodded before starting, “Manehattan is under control, and we were able to prevent similar riots in other parts of the nation. Oddly, Ponyville hasn’t erupted into riots, given that it’s the epicenter of this.”

“Good, what else?”

“I have the Second and Fifth under Toity and Magnum prepared to launch an attack into Ponyville and the Everfree if needed,” Joe paused, “I might decide to pull the Second back for later operations, depending on how the situation develops.”

“Only the two of them?” Clagan frowned.

“Both armies were relatively close and active,” Joe frowned, “Toity’s a good commander, he does care for his troops’ well being. Magnum’s a bit reckless, but I believe that he will buy us time to get the main army ready as well as our…other countermeasures.”

“That is satisfactory,” Fleur interrupted Clagan’s response, “Who is stationed at the border of the kingdom?”

Joe grimaced before continuing, “We did not expect this situation to happen so we sent…Apple Strudel.”

Clagan groaned, “Just replace that idiot before it’s too late.”

“Councilor, usually I would request that you do not insult my commanders, but…” Fleur trailed off, “I agree. Next then, Marshal Spifire?”

“Everypony’s up and active.” The pegasus curtly responded, “I have a group around Ponyville for support, but they don’t stand a chance against Nightmare Moon. They’re a class B group. All we had in the area.”

“Well, it’s better than nothing,” Fleur stated, “What else?”

“Moved most of the better units to Manehattan, Canterlot and the border. Rapidfire’s in Canterlot, Wildfire’s in Manehattan and Surprise is on the border,” Spitfire shook her head, “Same reason Strudel, we didn’t expect this now.”

“I suppose that is fine,” Clagan grumbled, “We are going to speak with the astronomy division, they are supposed to pay attention to this sort of thing.”

“We are also working with the Navy for the emergency protocol.” Spitfire concluded, “Bonbon will say more.”

“Which emergency protocol?” Clagan frowned, “we were not informed of this.”

“Protocol Louchuan.” Bonbon responded, to Clagan and Fleur’s surprise.

“I do not believe I gave permission for that,” Fleur eyed the earth pony, “Admiral?”

“Commander, I feel it will be necessary,” the mare returned the unicorn’s gaze; “We are facing a superweapon, that can decimate Canterlot, just as it has been done in the past. The Louchuan is heavily armored, heavily armed, and capable of keeping the government safe.”

“Would it not be safe to just relocate our government to one of our other predetermined locations? Neighport or Nokota City, for instance?” Clagan inquired.

“Neither would be able to house government in the long term,” Bonbon shook her head, “Neighport is too close to the rumored Pirate city, while Nokota is too close to the Kingdom’s border. I do not believe it would be best to take all our officials onto the Louchuan, just most of them.”

“Just incase something goes wrong, correct?” Joe inquired. As Bonbon nodded in agreement, he continued on, “So who stays behind?”

“We have a list for that sort of thing,” Clagan interrupted, “It’s on a need to know basis, and right now you do not need to know.”

“Sir, with due respect…”

“No, listen to me admiral,” Clagan cut off Bonbon, “Right now; no one knows what is happening. Mosely is out of the city, Ivory was in Las Pegasus for business and I believe Harshwhinny is still on vacation in Quilinguo. We have sent her a message, but we are not certain when it will arrive. Those three are part of the contingency, and are completely aware that it is their duty to stay where they are in case something happens to us here. We will inform you of who can go with you and who cannot.” Clagan cleared his throat, “Now what of military support?”

“This is going to be won or lost in the air and on land,” Bonbon gritted her teeth, “We can send marines, but it will make little difference.”

“I see. I will leave this up to you, Commander Fleur. I must check on others.” Clagan politely nodded and stood up. The stallion pushed open the door and left, as the commanders continued to discuss military matters.

“Excuse me, Councilor Clagan?” A white coated earth pony trotted up to Clagan.

“Hmm?”

“We received a message from Ponyville. It appears that your son is fine, a pony we spoke to saw him and a group of other ponies enter the Everfree.”

“Why would he do that?” Clagan frowned.

“Well sir…” the aid grimaced, “We don’t know.”

“And what of Nightmare Moon?”

“We do not know. She was reported to have taken hostages before the townsfolk pelted her with garbage and drove her off.”

Clagan chuckled, “It seems that our civilians have more fighting spirit than some of our generals, perhaps we do stand a chance.”

“Sir?” the aid gave the Councilor a baffled look.

“Nothing, merely a private joke,” the Earth pony explained, “Please keep me informed.”

“Yes sir.”

The ruins of the Castle of the Alicorn Sisters

Big Macintosh and Thunderlane pushed the crumbling remains of a pillar out of the way.

“That should be enough space.”

The two stallions continued on, leading the group. Dizzy and Lemon Hearts followed them, as Rarity brought up the rear. Time Turner floated behind her, encased in her magical aura.

“Please put me down?” the stallion begged.

“No. Setting off two traps is enough.” Rarity responded, not looking at him, “We don’t need any more delays.”

“I said I was sorry,” Time Turner sulked.

“’Sorry’ does not make up for nearly decapitating me.”

Lemon Hearts’ aura surrounded a pile of rocks, moving them away from a battered and moldy door.

“If this is right, this should be the way to the throne room and the elements.”

“Give me a moment.”

Big Macintosh spun around and gave the door a solid buck, shattering it into pieces. The group entered, taking the scene in.
Rusted swords and broken spears littered the floor. The walls remained covered in the tattered and ruined remains of once regal banners, and the shattered remains of two thrones sat at the far end of the room. In the middle of the room, the ruined remains of a statue stood, five gems piled on the floor. Rarity’s aura dissipated, dropping Time Turner to the ground in a heap.

“That’s it!”

The stallion ran over, tramping the ruined weapons, as the other ponies followed him. As the group reached the pile of gems, Time Turner’s smile faded.

“There’s only five.”

The stallion trotted off, searching for the last gem as the others examined the stones.

“…How do they work?” Thunderlane poked one of the gems with his hoof, as Lemon Hearts and Rarity levitated two gems, examining them.

“…I have no idea,” Lemon Hearts frowned, “The book says that they will be activated by a spark.”

“A spark of what?” Dizzy glanced at Time Turner, as he pulled down a banner to look behind it.

“Magic, love, fire, who knows?” Rarity dropped the gem into her pack, “It seems very va…”

Rarity trailed off as she stared out the window. A glowing pair of eyes stared back.

“Oh no,” Rarity’s aura surrounded the other gems and she quickly shoved them back into the bag, “We need to get out of her. Now.”

“Why?” Time Turner trotted back over to the group, “What ha-”

The window shattered as laughter filled the room.

“Such nonsense,” Nightmare Moon trotted into the room, “What hope did you ever have of defeating me?”

“Rar, Dizzy,” Big Macintosh motioned back towards the door, “When I give the signal, get out of here and get those things working.”

“What are you talking about?” Dizzy gave the stallion a worried look.

“Surrender now, and I may spare your lives. I do not tolerate rebellion but perhaps I may make an exception no-”

Big Macintosh grabbed the rusting remains of a sword and hurled it at Nightmare Moon. The corrupted alicorn knocked it away with her telekinesis.

“What a foolish and pointless ges-”

Big Macintosh rushed forward and smashed his metal hoof across the Alicorn’s face, forcing her to stagger backwards.

“GET OUTTA HERE!” the stallion yelled at the others.

“What about you?!” Dizzy yelled back, aghast.

“Forget me, get those things working!”

“What insolent cur dares raise his hoof again-”

Big Macintosh cut Nightmare Moon’s threat short with another blow from his metal hoof.

“GO!”

“You heard him, let’s go!” Rarity lead the other five out of the room. As Dizzy reached the entrance, she gave the stallion one last glance before leaving.

“...” Nightmare Moon stood up again, a small trickle of blood flowing down the side of her head, “It has been years since I have met a pony willing to fight against me. However, foolishness and bravery are often confused.”

“Ain’t nothing foolish or brave about this,” Big Macintosh grabbed the remains of a battle hammer in his mouth and flung it at Nightmare Moon.

“I gotta do what I gotta do.”

Nightmare Moon’s aura surrounded the thrown hammer, stopping it in midair, “YOU FOOL!”
She crushed the hammer before dropping it to the ground, “It appears that I must teach you your place.”

The Everfree

Dizzy skidded to a stop.

“Stop!” she yelled at the others

“What?” Thunderlane stopped, “Hold up, everypony.”

“What, what is it?” Rarity, Time Turner and Lemon Hearts stopped and trotted back to Dizzy.

“I have to go back.”

“Are you insane?” Rarity stared at the mare in disbelief, “You heard what Macintosh said, he’s sacrificing himself so we can figure this out.”

“I cannot… I will not let him do that,” Dizzy corrected herself, “What sort of pony would I be to let him do that?
We all knew the risk we would take when we did this, and Big Macintosh is willing to sacrifice himself for us. How can I do any less?”

With those words the mare spun around and took to the air as quickly as she could.

“I’m not letting her go by herself,” Thunderlane took to the air, “Sorry guys.”

Thunderlane sped off, following Dizzy. As Rarity and Lemon Hearts stared at the path back to the castle something caught Time Turner’s eye:

Something glowing within Rarity’s bag.

“That’s…interesting,” Time Turner muttered to himself. His eyes grew wide as realization sunk in.

“I’ve figured it out.”

Our Finest Hour

Big Macintosh collapsed to the ground, bloody, battered and breathing heavily. The stallion winced and spat out blood as he struggled to get back to his hooves. Nightmare Moon examined the torn off mechanical leg, ignoring the stallion’s presence.

“Fascinating. Technology has advanced so much since my banishment.” The alicorn grinned as she crushed the leg into scrap, “So many wonders, that must be undone.”

“It… ain’t over yet.” Big Macintosh managed to counter, before coughing up more blood.

“Such heroic nonsense.” The alicorn smirked, “But such bra-”

The alicorn’s gloating was cut off as something smashed through the wall and into the alicorn’s head, shattering her helmet and knocking her to the ground.

“What the…” Big Macintosh blinked.

A panting Dizzy Twister stood where Nightmare Moon once was. She ran over to Big Macintosh, as Thunderlane landed in the room and rushed to the Earth stallion.

“I told you all to get out of here.” Big Macintosh scolded the pegasi.

“You did.” Dizzy agreed, “But I never agreed to it.”

“Mac, we’re getting you out of here.” Thunderlane added.

A blast of magical energy flew past the three ponies, causing all of them to drop to the ground.

“You…You insolent bitch.” Nightmare Moon returned to her feet; shards of her helmet embedded in the side of her head, “Death is too good for you; I will send you to everlasting torment.”

Nightmare Moon charged up another magical blast and fired it at the group, only for a large rock to suddenly drop in front of the group, taking the blast. Rarity trotted into view, hurling another rock at Nightmare Moon.

“Rarity? Why are you here?” Dizzy Twister looked at the unicorn.

“Because fools must stick together,” the unicorn replied, “and we’re not leaving you either.”

“This…This is a grievous mistake on all of your parts,” Nightmare Moon returned to her feet, “I-”

“-will show you all the true meaning of suffering,” Lemon Hearts entered the room, levitating multiple rusted swords with her, “You shall rue the day that you decided to oppose the true ruler of Equestria and the princess of the night, is that what you were going to say?”

“I-”

“-will not be mocked by common trash,” Lemon Hearts finished as the others chuckled slightly, “Please think of something more original, right now you’re spewing every villain cliché that I’ve ever used and some that I probably never will.”

“Lemony, why are you here?” Dizzy propped Big Macintosh up, “We need to get out of here.”

“Not quite,” the mare smiled as she brought the swords to bare, “We’re waiting on Time Turner. Now what would the hero say…ah right.”

Lemon Hearts coughed to clear her throat as she prepared to fight.
“Come villain, I have shown you my valor, can you not do more?”

Three of the swords sliced at Nightmare Moon in a large curving arc, allowing the alicorn to easily block them. Two more stabbed at her, allowing her to easily dodge them.

“Your sword handling is most amateurish, how do you expect to defeat me?” Nightmare Moon taunted.

“I don’t have to win, just stall you.” Lemon Hearts grinned, “Or I can do this.”

The swords exploded, engulfing Nightmare Moon is rusted shrapnel.

“We need to get out of here,” Thunderlane told the others, “Nothing we can do is going to really defeat her.”

“Be patient, Time Turner has a plan,” Rarity paused, “Hopefully one that works.”

The smoke cleared, revealing a bleeding Nightmare Moon.

“I tire of these fleeting distractions. You have no way of stopping me, this is over, finished!” Nightmare Moon triumphantly declared.

“That’s…where you are wrong.” A grinning Time Turner entered the room, “Because in your haste to kill us, you have given us the exact means to defeat you.”

“You jest.”

“On the contrary, I am absolutely right. You see…” Time Tuner trotted to the front of the group, “I did read about the elements before, the old bearers, how they were used after your defeat, and something stuck out at me.
It was a quote referring to them, ‘When the Five are present a spark will cause the sixth element to be revealed’.
Naturally, I thought this meant only a unicorn would be capable of wielding it, but tonight may show otherwise.
For the new bearers of the elements stand before you!”

“…You cannot be serious.” Rarity stared at Time Turner.

“On the contrary, I am completely serious.” Time Turner flashed the mechanic a grin, “Let’s start with the first element, Generosity.

Generosity isn’t just about giving, sometimes it is about sacrifice. Certainly one pony here tonight is the best example of that, Big Macintosh.”

“Me?” the farm stallion blinked, “I ain’t nobody important.”

“On the contrary. You offered the troll both food, work and a chance to live on, when we could have easily ignored him. And even now you continued to give.
After all, what’s more generous than giving up your life for everyone else to survive?”

A gem shot out of Rarity’s bag and remained in front of Big Macintosh. It changed from a dull grey to red and remained suspended in midair, much to Nightmare Moon’s horror.

“…No. No no no, this cannot be!”

Nightmare Moon fired another blast of magic at the group, only for the other gemstones to erupt out of Rarity’s bag and form a protective barrier around the group. Time Turner glared at Nightmare Moon.

“I. Wasn’t. Finished. Speaking.” The stallion calmly responded, “It’s rude to interrupt.
Next is the second Element to activate, Loyalty, and its bearer, Dizzy Twister.”

“Why me?”

“This entire trip has been you refusing to abandon anypony,” Time Turner reminded her, “Not at the beginning, not when we faced the reanimated skeletons, not when Macintosh ordered us all to run, and certainly not now when we are face to face with Nightmare Moon.
Your entire reason for being here with us is your refusal to let ponies that rely on you down.

You said everypony plays a different role, this one is yours.”

One of the gems broke off from the protective formation and remained in front of Dizzy. The dull grey was quickly replaced by khaki.

“No…” Nightmare Moon spread her wings and attempted to flee the building, only to find herself unable to move, “This is impossible.”

“If it were impossible, we would not be here.” Rarity shot back.

“Thus leading us to Honesty,” Time Turner beamed.

“...If that is what I am, then I accept.” Rarity nodded.

“I don’t think I need to make an extravagant speech about this,” Time Turner chuckled, “Through this entire night, you have said exactly what is on your mind, and we respect you for it.
Take your element and stand proud.”

Rarity levitated a gem towards herself, and smiled as it turned purple.

“Halfway done, let’s get to the next one: Kindness, and its bearer, Thunderlane.”

“Whoa there, me?” The Pegasus tore his gaze away from Nightmare Moon.

“Yes you. Looks are deceiving and steely looks can hide hearts of gold, or how ever that quote went.
You saved the troll from further injury, and myself as well. This entire night has been you offering to help everypony you’ve run into.

Kindness is sometimes as simple as giving a pony a hoof when he needs it, and everyone needed it tonight.”

Another gem left the formation, stopping by Thunderlane. Rather than growing brighter, his gem grew a darker shade of grey, matching his coat.

“…I suppose I’m supposed to be Laughter then?” Lemon Hearts chuckled, “My entire life has been dedicated to making something that ponies enjoy, but I don’t think that makes me worthy of laughter.”

“I think sometimes ponies take the names of the elements much too literally,” Time Turner countered, “Laughter is about joy, kindness, compassion, love and satisfaction. You may have entertained us with your story, but you also kept our spirits up as we started this journey and now as we finish it.”

““Necessity makes even the timid brave”,” the unicorn quoted, “I will step up and be your element of Laughter.”

A gem floated towards Lemon Hearts, pausing by the unicorn. It changed to a shade of yellow, matching the unicorn’s coat.

“And that leaves…Magic.” Time Turner grinned.

“Fool, you think that an Earth pony is capable of magic?” Nightmare Moon scoffed at the idea.

“The slight hesitation in your voice says otherwise,” Lemon Hearts countered.

“Magic…” Time Turner sighed, “You are correct, I can’t perform magic. At least not what most ponies count as magic.”

Time Turner began to pace back and forth in front of the ponies, “You see…the ancient text keep referring to the magic of friendship. Not just magic. While it appears that the original bearer of the Element of Magic was a unicorn…this got me thinking.

What if, just if mind you, that there was a mistake translating?

It would not make sense to have only a specific type of pony to be capable of using one of the elements, they’re the Elements of Harmony for a reason.
Harmony as in working together, not letting a unicorn lead them every time.
Sometimes leaders need to be able to soar above the clouds, and in other times be closer to earth.

I’m not a great leader by any stretch of the imagination, but what I have managed is to bring five ponies together, and unite them with one goal in mind. We all have different reasons; Rarity. Dizzy Twister and Big Macintosh are here to save their loved ones, Thunderlane is here to keep his own from suffering, Lemon Hearts is here for…why are you here?” Timer Turner turned his attention to the unicorn.

“It’s the right thing to do,” Lemon Hearts shrugged, “If I don’t stand up and do it, who else will?”

“Seems logical. But back to the point at hoof,” Time Turner returned his attention to Nightmare Moon.
“That is why I am Magic. I made friends and worked with them to accomplish a goal. We chose this, and now we choose it for you.
After all, friendship is magic.”

The final gem changed from grey to a light brown, matching Time Turner’s coat. All six of the gems began to glow, engulfing the entire castle in a blinding light.

Time Turner groggily opened his eyes before closing them again. Several seconds later, his eyes shot open, and he leapt onto his hooves, scanning the area. Behind him, the other five ponies groaned as they shakily got to their hooves.

“What happened? Where are we? Why am I here? Why are you wearing that?” Time Turner pointed at Lemon Hearts.

“What?” the unicorn looked down; a golden necklace with a Yellow and blue heart-shaped gem remained around her neck, “Ah, The elements. They must have accepted us as their bearers.”

“I like it.” Dizzy looked at her own necklace; gold with a small khaki and pink gem in the shape of a tornado, “It’s quite nice.”

“I feel ridiculous.” Thunderlane blushed as he looked at his own elements: a grey stormcloud shaped gem perched in a silver necklace. “Did we all get these?”

“Not all of us.” Rarity frowned as she levitated an ornate wrench to show to the others. The wrench appeared to be crafted out of silver, with a purple wrench shaped gemstone in the middle of it, “This one looks like it fused with my work wrench. That was my favorite wrench too.”

“You can always get another one,” Big Macintosh trotted over to the group.

“Wait, Mac, how are you walking? Nightmare Moon crushed your leg,” Thunderlane looked at the stallion.

“She what?!?!” Rarity stared at the stallion in disbelief.

“She did, but…” Big Macintosh smiled as he turned to his side, revealing his new prosthetic leg. Crafted out of what appeared to be gold and silver, the leg hummed softly as Big Macintosh moved it back and forth. A single red and green gemstone in the shape of an apple was worked into the leg’s knee joint, and glistened in the light as Big Macintosh flexed it.

“It looks like the elements fused with the remains of it,” the stallion chuckled, “It’s mighty nice looking, ain’t it?”

“It’s very nice, Macintosh.” Dizzy Twister nodded in agreement.

“It’s much more artistic than something I would do, that is for certain,” Rarity stated, “But Time Turner, where is your element?”

“Mine?” the stallion blinked, “Oh please tell me I’m not wearing a crown. I look stupid in those things.”

“Look lower.” Lemon Hearts smiled.

The stallion looked down at his own neck; fastened around his neck was a small, black bow tie. In the middle remained a light brown gemstone in the shape of an hourglass, flipped onto its side.

“I like it,” Time Turner beamed, “Bowties are cool.”

“Indeed they are, Turner.” A familiar voice chuckled.

Time Turner spun around to see a radiant draconequus sitting atop the ruined display stand.

“Discord! You’re alright!” the earth pony excitedly exclaimed as the other five ponies stared on in shock.

“It seems so,” Discord chuckled, “Let me tell you that was not fu-”

“Where’s my sister?” Rarity interrupted.

“Behind you.”

“RARITY!” a shrill young voice called out. The unicorn spun around as the filly tackled her with a bone crushing hug.

“Oh thank goodness!”

“Mom!” Dinky and Scootaloo leaped at Dizzy Twister, embracing the pegasus.

“Mac!” Applebloom embraced Big Macintosh, as Carrot Top, Roseluck and Applejack lead another group of ponies into the room.

“It seems everyone is alright,” Discord smiled, “Let’s get you all taken care of now.”

Discord snapped his fingers: the other ponies vanished with a slight popping sound.

“I’ve sent them back to Ponyville; they’ve been through quite an ordeal.”

“We’re not finished yet?” Big Macintosh inquired.

“No, not just yet. There’s still one piece of business to take care off.” Discord smiled and motioned towards another pony, lying on their side, “Her.”

The pony remained motionless on her side; her coat was a dark midnight blue, and her mane a deep cobalt blue. With a pained groan she staggered to her hooves, revealing both a unicorn’s horn and a pair of wings on her back. The Elements of Harmony gasped in surprise.
The alicorn once again collapsed to her hooves, unable to stand.
“Is that…”

“It is, Time Turner. Princess Luna in all her regal splendor, and devoid of what made her Nightmare Moon.”

Discord floated into the air, and over towards the alicorn princess. He leaned in closer towards her as the defeated pony finally opened her eyes. Terror gripped the alicorn as she realized who stared back at her.

“Hello, Luny.” Discord grinned.

“D…Discord.” The mare weakly responded, “But…but…”

“The Elements purged you of what made you Nightmare Moon,” Discord stood back up, backing away from Luna. “And with that, it freed me and those you imprisoned.”

The alicorn sighed in defeat, “I’m sorry.”

“Sorry does not make up for all the things you have done all those years ago,” Discord shook his head, “I have had a century to think of the proper punishment for you.”

“I accept it, just…please. Let me face it with dignity. Like a Princess should.”

Luna pulled herself off the ground, and stood on uneasy hooves. She bowed her head and closer her eyes, awaiting her final punishment.

She continued to wait.

Five minutes passed before the alicorn summoned enough courage to open one eye: Discord impatiently stood there tapping his foot as the Element bearers exchanged uneasy glances with one another.

“Well?” Discord impatiently asked, “I have things to do, citizens to calm, celebrations to plan.”

“Why haven’t you killed me? I deserve it.” The Alicorn begged.

“Kill you?” Discord smirked in response, “Oh Luna that would be letting you off easy. I want you to see what has become of the Kingdom you fought to protect, and what has become of the republic you tried to end.”

“…No.” Luna whispered in realization.

“I want you to live and see what has become of your beloved Equestria. I want you to see first hand what has happened, and…” Discord’s smile turned from mocking to serious, “I want you to spend every waking moment suffering from regret.
That is your punishment.
I have shown you mercy, and you will suffer for every minute of it.”

Discord spun around, motioning for Luna to leave, “Now go, you have plenty to see and do. You know where to find me.”

“Wait!” Luna pleaded, “I…”

She trailed off as Discord snapped his fingers. The Element bearers and the dracoequus vanished in a flash of light. Luna stared at the spot where the elements were. After several moments, the full weight of Discord’s words sunk in and the alicorn collapsed to her knees and burst out into tears of regret, sorrow, shame and terror.

“…I can’t.”

The Future Soon

Ponyville

In a flash of light, Discord and the Element bearers appeared in the town square.

“And here we are, home sweet home.” Discord smiled. “Now that that’s over with we need to plan a celebration of some sort, in honor of you all. I mean it’s not every day that we get a brand new Elements of Har-”

“Um...Discord, sir?” Big Macintosh cautiously interrupted, “Is it really a good idea ta let Nightmare Moon go like that? I mean...”

“Luna,” Discord abruptly cut the stallion off, “That is not Nightmare Moon anymore.”
The draconequus sighed, “I know Luna fairly well, and I have confidence in what she will do.”

“But still, Discord sir, what if she…”

“Princess Luna isn’t the same person as Nightmare Moon, is she?” Lemon Hearts interrupted Big Macintosh, “The darkness in her heart has been purged, and that is what made her Nightmare Moon, isn’t it?”

“Yes.” Discord bluntly responded, “It is.”

“But still, is it not very irresponsible-”

“Or outright stupid,” Rarity butted in.

“- To let her wander freely, when we know that the Kingdom will welcome her return?” Lemon Hearts finished her question before giving Rarity a dirty look.

“I know Luna well. Even in the middle of the war, she still cared for the wellbeing of each and every pony in her kingdom. She…” Discord shook his head, chasing his thought away, “Well, we shall see. I must head back to Canterlot to take control of the situation.”

Discord vanished in a flash of light, leaving the stunned elements behind.

“What did he mean by that?” Dizzy inquired.

“…I don’t know.” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “Many of the books are rather vague about the exact personalities of the princess. All the biographies about them tend to be rather…bias, to say the least.”

“Well...”

“There they are!”

The group of ponies turned to look behind them. Roseluck lead Mayor Cheerilee and other ponies towards them.

“About time you showed up, Mac,” Roseluck grinned.

“Time Turner,” Mayor Cheerilee frowned, “You have a lot to explain….”

“Well….” Time Turner smiled awkwardly, “Where do I begin…”

A Week Later

The Mayor’s office

Time Turner shuffled some papers and looked over them.

“…Mayor Cheerilee, why exactly is there a…” Time Turner squinted, “Air Pirate attack budget?”

“A precaution.” The mayor responded, not looking up from her paperwork.

“But there have never been any reports about any pirates coming this close to Ponyville,” Time Turner frowned, “and why is there a…Rampaging farm machinery budget?” The stallion scratched his head.

“Applejack insisted on making one, so I humored her,” Cheerilee vacantly waved the thought away, “There’s no money in it.”

“Actually, it appears to have twenty bits in it,” Time Turner flipped the page, “from…an anonymous source.”

“Applejack.” Cheerilee rolled her eyes, “Take it out of that fund, and put it in the Air Pirate fund.”

“…Alright.” Time Turner glanced up at the clock, “Mayor Cheerilee, I will need to take my lunch break now, I need to meet with someone.”

“Right, right. Go on.” The earth mare motioned for Time Turner to go away. The stallion placed his paper work down, and trotted out of the office.

“….If he’s confused about the Air Pirate budget, I hope he doesn’t find the ‘Defense against an army coup budget’.” The mayor grumbled.

Time Turner trotted down the street, whistling to himself.

“Well, everything considered, this is much more fun than sitting around in Canterlot.”

“Hi Mr. Time Turner!”

The stallion looked behind him to see Grr-Ramph walking down the street, pulling a cart loaded with fruits and vegetables behind him, and Applebloom perched on his shoulder.

“Oh, Hello there Applebloom, Grr-Ramph.” The stallion greeted them.

“Greetings…Time Pony.” Grr-Ramph waved back.

“Close enough,” Time Turner shrugged.

“Purple Laver said ta call’m Gary,” Applebloom corrected the stallion.

“…Purple Laver speaks troll?”

“I think he thinks he does.” Appleblooms shrugged, “But he likes it, right Gary?”

The troll nodded in agreement, smiling.

“Anyway, we gotta get all of this ta the restaurant before it’s too late, Bye Mr. Turner!”

Applebloom and Gary waved goodbye and continued down the road.

“Well, it’s nice to see that he’s doing so well.” Time Turner chuckled to himself.

He continued down the street, passing other ponies.

“Look out!”

Time Turner leapt to the side, barely dodging an out of control Scootaloo. As Time Turner glanced up, he noticed the pegasus filly had been taped down to her scooter with a very crude motor propelling her along. Sweetie Belle and Dinky Doo passed by, chasing after her.

“Sorry Mister Time Turner!” Dinky called out as she ran past.

“…I don’t even want to know.” The stallion got back to his feet. A tall cream-colored unicorn mare with a streaked blue mane and three deco stars as her cutie mark skidded to a stop.

“Mr. Turner, did you see…”

“That way.” Time Turner pointed in the direction that Scootaloo and the others went.

“Thanks!” the mare thanked him before taking off.

“…Well that was interesting.”

Time Turner continued along his way before stopping at the Ponyville Café. The Maître d’ looked up at him and smiled.

“Ah, they were waiting for you.”

“Yes, well… work.” Time Turner shrugged.

“Right this way.”

The Maître d’ led Time Turner through the restaurant and towards a table. Sitting around the table, Rarity, Big Macintosh, Dizzy Twister, Lemon Hearts, Thunderlane and Clagan continued to make small talk.

“Ahem,” the Maître d’ coughed politely, catching the others’ attention, “As the last of your party arrived, I will return shortly to take your orders. Would anypony like a drink?”

“Water’s fine for me.” Big Macintosh responded, Rarity and Thunderlane nodded in agreement.

“Red wine,” Clagan stopped to ponder, “No, it’s too early for that, ginger ale is suitable.”

“Tea is fine,” Lemon Hearts responded.

“Tea for me too,” Time Turner added, as he took a seat next to Big Macintosh.

“Coffee, and lots of it,” Dizzy sighed as the Maitre d trotted off, “I really need that.”

“You could always take a break, Dizzy.” Big Macintosh chided her, “Cup Cake ain’t gonna tell ya ‘no’, is she?”

“I’m talking about Scootaloo and Dinky.”

“Erm…I hate to bring this up, but I just saw them on the way here.”

“What?” Dizzy perked up, “I left them with Alley Way.”

“Scootaloo was tied to her scooter with some sort of motor on it,” Time Turner meekly responded, “Dinky and Sweetie Belle were chasing after them, and Alley was chasing after them.”

“…So that’s where that motor went.” Rarity grumbled as Dizzy groaned and slumped onto the table.

“Hmm,” Clagan chuckled, “You have made some quite interesting friends, Turner.”

“‘Interesting is simply another way of saying ‘One of a Kind’,” Lemon Hearts quoted.

“‘I don’t want to be interesting, I want to be good’.” Clagan countered.

“‘Whatever you are, be a good one’.” Lemon Hearts smoothly responded as a waiter returned with their drinks, “Thank you.”

“…” Clagan firmly stared at Lemon Hearts as she took a sip of her tea. After several more tense seconds, he broke out into a warm smile, “Very good. It’s been a while since I met somepony with such a vast knowledge of quotes.”

“It is part of my job,” Lemon Hearts returned his smile.

“Ready to order?” the waiter asked.

“Apple and Rhubarb pie.” Big Macintosh stated.

“Daisy and Sunflower sandwich.” Rarity replied as she took a sip of her water.

“Rose petal sandwich with hay fries.” Time Turner beamed.

“Onion and spinach crepes, please.” Dizzy pushed her cup towards the waiter, “Also can I get a refill?”

“Oh, uh, just the Apple and hazelnut pudding,” Thunderlane stated as the waiter picked up Dizzy’s cup.

“Carrot and goat cheese quiche, please,” Lemon Hearts added.

“What is your special, young stallion?” Clagan inquired.

“Well…I would probably suggest the zap apple turnovers, sir,” the waiter scratched behind his leg, “Its zap apples, a little honey, cinnamon, brown sugar…”

“Stop right there, I will take that.”

“Right.” The waiter trotted off.

“Well then, Turner, how do you like your job?” Clagan turned his attention to his son.

“It’s…interesting. The financial situation is very…odd, and it seems Mayor Cheerilee has me spending most of my time cleaning up the budgets and other problems left behind by the last mayor.”

“…Yeah, electing Sunny Rays was a mistake on our part,” Dizzy sighed.

“That is good to know.” Clagan nodded, “As for our situation, since I have no doubt that you will ask, it is…”

“Not ideal, I would assume.” Dizzy Twister finished, as the waiter returned with her cup of coffee, “Thank you.”

“Put politely, yes,” Clagan sighed, “While the Kingdom still hasn’t acted, we still have our military on guard, and there are all the reports,” Clagan groaned.

“It seems everypony and his mother has seen Luna flying around, we’re still trying to sort out which ones are legitimate sightings and which are the products of overactive imaginations.”

“…And Discord?”

“Sulking. Whatever he expected to happen hasn’t happened yet,” Clagan shook his head, “While I do trust Discord…there are limits to my patience.”

The waiter returned, and quickly placed their food down.

“...Oh, right, before we start, can I ask you something, Lemon Hearts?” Time Turner inquired.

“Yes?”

“You kept saying that you would tell us why you knew that reanimation spell and spoke Trollish after everything was over, so…” Time Turner trailed off, “so why?”

“…are you familiar with Conscious River?”

“The author of the ‘Doc Daring: Mare of Bronze’ novels?” Time Turner blinked in confusion, “Yes, I am. My little brother is a fan of them.”

“So are Scootaloo and Dinky.” Dizzy took another sip of her coffee

“Applebloom an’ Carrot like ‘em.”

“I’ve read a few myself,” Rarity admitted.

“So did I,” Thunderlane added, “But what’s that have to do with it?”

“…Who do you think she is?” Lemon Hearts chuckled.

“…Wait, you’re Conscious River?” Time Turner stared at Lemon Hearts, his mouth hanging open.

“Indeed.” Lemon Hearts replied as she levitated a forkful of quiche to her mouth.

Dizzy spewed her coffee onto Big Macintosh and Rarity in shock, as Thunderlane and Time Turner stared at her.

“Interesting ponies, indeed.” Clagan chuckled.

All on a Quest

The crowd remained silent as Nightmare Moon surveyed them. The alicorn smirked.

“FEAR NOT!” Nightmare Moon boomed, “FOR NOW THAT DISCORD HAS BEEN DEALT WIT-”

“WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH DISCORD!?!?” an unseen pony in the crowd yelled. With that, the rest of the crowd moved into action, calling for Discord’s return and hurling insults at Nightmare Moon. The alicorn took a step back, shocked by their outbursts.

“But, now I have sa-”

Nightmare Moon was interrupted as a bottle flew out of the crowd and shattered upon her helmet. The alicorn fumed at the crowd and stomped her hoof in anger, bringing a crack of thunder.

“WHO DAR-”

The alicorn never finished her sentence, as more bottles, garbage and food pelted her. An apple pie splattered on her face, finally pushing the alicorn to her limit.

“ENOUGH!” Nightmare Moon bellowed, followed by multiple cracks of thunder and bolts of lightning.
“SO I AM NOT SATISFACTORY? DO YOU WISH TO SEE DISCORD?!? THEN GO WITH HIM!”

Several purple clouds materialized and dived into the crowd, engulfing ponies. As they struggled against the clouds, other ponies tried to help them, only to be engulfed as well.

“MAC! HELP ME!”

Carrot Top and Roseluck struggled against one of the clouds.

“HOLD ON, I’M COMIN’!” the stallion yelled. Before he could reach them, the cloud engulfed both of the mares.

“LET GO OF HER!” a filly’s voice called out.

Dinky, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle struggled to pull Scootaloo out of one of the clouds. As they continued to struggle, the cloud enlarged, engulfing the other three fillies.

“RARITY!” Sweetie Belle screamed, “HELP!”

“HOLD ON!” Rarity pushed her way through the crowd, followed closely by Dizzy Twister. Before any of them could reach the cloud, it dissipated, along with all the other clouds.

“…no.” Dizzy Twister collapsed to her knees.

“Now then…” Nightmare Moon smiled, “IF YOU WILL NOT SHOW ME PROPER RESPECT, THEN I SHALL FORCE YOU TO. ACCEPT ME AS YOUR NEW-”

Nightmare Moon was interrupted for a third time, as more garbage and insults were hurled at the alicorn. Suddenly, a brick flew into the alicorn’s chest armor, leaving a dent. Nightmare Moon scowled at the group.

“…It seems more drastic measures are needed.” She grumbled.
“LISTEN!” the alicorn boomed, shocking the crowd into silence. “Until you have learned proper respect for your new ruler, you shall never see Discord nor you family and friends AGAIN!”

The alicorn vanished in a swirl of blue mist, leaving behind a stunned crowd. The silence quickly exploded into panic as the full gravity of the situation sunk in.

“Contact the Council!” Cheerilee ordered, “We need to inform them about what has happened before things get worse!”
The mayor quickly scanned the crowd, “Where did that stallion go…”

Time Turner ran through town, searching for something.

“Where is the li…Ah-ha!” the stallion skidded to a stop in front of the library.

“…what’s the likelihood that she locked the d-”

Something whizzed past Time Turner’s face, embedding itself in the door. Glancing at it, Time Turner realized it was a screwdriver. He quickly whipped around, coming face to face with an absolutely livid Rarity. Time Turner took a step backwards, bumping into the library door, as Rarity brought out a claw hammer, wrench and a hacksaw.

“You. You knew this would happen.” Rarity brought the hacksaw towards his face. “You’re working for her, aren’t you?”

“N..No. No I’m not.” Time Turner stammered out, his eyes never leaving the saw, “I-”

Thunderlane touched down by the two of them, “Woah, woah! Rarity, Let’s not do anything too drastic…”

“HE KNOWS SOMETHING!” Rarity snapped, “Why else would he have been acting so suspicious before Nightmare Moon showed up?”

“Yeah, but has it occurred to you that he might be tryin’ to warn other ponies?” Thunderlane countered, “If he was working for Nightmare Moon, why the hell is he still here, and why would he be trying to break into the library?”

Rarity paused for a moment, before lowering her tools.
“I suppose…”

“Can you put the saw away too? Please?” Time Turner begged.

“…Oh, fine.” Rarity placed the saw back into her bag, “Talk fast, and talk well.” She ordered. Big Macintosh, Lemon Hearts and a distraught Dizzy Twister joined the group.

“Alright, Mr. Turner, th’ mayor’s tearin’ the town apart lookin’ for you. What exactly did you tell her?” Big Macintosh demanded.

“…Can we go into the library and do this? I can talk more freely there, and might find what I need.” Time Turner responded, “Please?”

“…What do you think?” Big Macintosh turned towards Lemon Hearts.

“…I suppose so. If he tries to escape, I’m sure Rarity and you will keep him from getting out.” Lemon Hearts shrugged.

The unicorn pulled out a key and unlocked the door. Time Turner pulled it open and began to frantically search the library for something.

“…Big Mac, You were with him the longest, what do you think?” Rarity inquired.

“I think he’s legit. He knows something ‘bout this, but ain’t sayin’ it.” Big Macintosh replied.

“I just want to know how I can get Sweetie Belle back.” Rarity shook her head, “I can’t imagine what Dizzy is going through right now.”

“AH-HA! Found it!” Time Turner leapt off the ladder with a book balanced on his back, “The History of Equestria.”

“What good will that be?” Rarity shook her head.

“…Oh right.” Time Turner paused. “Well, as you all should know, during the Equestrian Civil War, both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna succumbed to their darker halves and became…well, what we just saw.” Time Turner paused.
“But they were sealed away with the Elements of Harmony at the end of the war and that was that.”

“Evidently not.” Rarity deadpanned.

“I was about to get to that. See, there was a prophecy, where Nightmare Moon was supposed to escape her prison, one thousand years after being sealed away.”

“Which apparently was tonight.” Lemon Hearts nodded in understanding.

“Yes! Exactly!” Time Turner smiled, “I…had some doubts about how permanent it would be, and further research proved me to be correct.”

“How?” Big Macintosh inquired.

“…It’s actually fairly simple. See, during Discord’s first reign as the Spirit of Chaos, the Princesses managed to seal him away with the Elements. I theorize that the continued instability in the kingdom allowed him to…build up his energy somehow. Once the Civil War was in full swing, he was able to escape and…well you know what happened next.” Time Turner motioned in the general direction of Canterlot.
“However, I also theorized that the process of sealing away the princesses was incomplete, and might fail. Because we do not know much about what happened to the wartime Elements, it is very possible that they were not quite as unified as when the Princesses used the Elements, and created an incomplete seal, that the imprisoned alicorns could slowly work their way through and break free.”
Time Turner’s face turned grim as he continued, “I was right. Usually I love to be right, but in this case, I would have rather been wrong.”

“...So you basically think we need the elements to save Equestria again, correct?” Rarity added.

“Yes.” Time Turner nodded in agreement.

“Aren’t they in Canterlot, though? In the history museum or something?” Thunderlane cut in.

“Those are fake.” Lemon Hearts shook her head, “they’re decoys to trick thieves and spies.”

“Indeed, too valuable to leave in such an obvious place, so Discord hid them in their original facility.” Time Turner paused, “In the Everfree forest.”

A silence swept over the room as the other five ponies took in the situation.

“As much as I would like to wait for the military to move in, this is much too urgent.” Time Turner broke the silence and trotted to the door, “I have an idea where they are, and I need to do this. I knew it was coming.” The stallion looked down, “I could have stopped this from happening.”

“I’m going with you.” Rarity trotted towards him.

“No, this is my mistake, and it’s m-”

“Shut up. She took my sister.” Rarity scowled, “Do not tell me that it doesn’t involve me.”

“I’m goin’.” Big Macintosh agreed, “Ain’t gonna take no for an answer either, Mr. Turner. Ain’t no pony gonna mess with the Apples, not even a fallen princess.”

“…Hell, I can’t let you do this by yourselves.” Thunderlane shook his head, “I’m goin’”

“Thunderlane, there’s no need.” Rarity countered, “Rumble is safe in Cloudsdale, and you have nothing at stake here.”

“For now.” Thunderlane countered, “Suppose you fail. Then the rest of Equestria is at risk, and there’s no way I’m gonna let it get that far.”

“…I’ll come.” Lemon Hearts shrugged, “I’m sure I can make myself useful somehow.”

“No offense Miss Hearts, but you ain’t exactly the outdoorsy type” Big Macintosh added, “and I reckon this…”

“Macintosh, this is more important than that.” Lemon Hearts cut him off, “‘Courage is found in some of the most unlikely of places’, as they say. I am here, I am willing and I know the likelihood of surviving is fairly low. And I’ll still help you.”

“Brave mare, that Lemon Hearts.” Time Turner commented to Rarity, “Let’s go.”

“I’ll come too.” Dizzy Twister stood.

“Dizzy, you don’t have to.” Big Macintosh told the mare, “You…”

“My daughters.” Dizzy Twister shot a dirty look at Big Macintosh, “She took one of your sisters, but she took both of my daughters.
Do not tell me I don’t have a stake in this. I will go there and fight Nightmare Moon to the death if it means saving both of them. Besides, I know more about the Everfree than all of you. You would not believe how often Scootaloo and Dinky like to go adventuring in there.”

“Then it’s decided!” Time Turner kicked open the door, “We’re off.”

“…You know I thought it would be more dark and ominous than this.” Time Turner stated as the group continued down the trail.

“That’s because we’re barely inside.” Dizzy Twister informed him.

The group continued into the forest, keeping a watchful eye on everything around them.

“…What if?” Lemon Hearts began, “What if Nightmare Moon already knows they’re there, and has found them? I’m not saying she did, but what if?”

“Then we’re doomed.” Time Turner shook her head, “Firepower and faith will be all we have left.”

“And if she can activate it?” Lemon Hearts continued, “Then what?”

“Then she probably wouldn’t have come into town and got mad when the crowd started to throw garbage at her.” Rarity countered, “Honestly, if she could do all of that, we wouldn’t be here, walking through a forest at night, discussing it.”

“True.” Time Turner nodded.

“So what I suggest we do is not worry about that, and continue along our jo-”

“WAIT!” Dizzy Twister yelled. Everypony froze in place, staring at her.

“We can’t go that way.” the mare shook her head.

“Why not?”

“It’s a poison joke field. It…it’s unpleasant. It turned Scootaloo into a large bird and shrank Dinky down until she was about six inches tall.” Dizzy shook her head, “We either need to find a way around it, or go over it.”

“There’s a cure though, right?” Time Tuner took a step back.

“There is. But it’s very time consuming to make.” Dizzy looked at the group, “I think our only real chance is to have the two of us carry you all over it. Mac you’re first.”

“Why him?” Thunderlane grumbled.

“He’s the heaviest, so it’ll take two of us.” Dizzy Twister explained, “Besides, if there’s something on the other side, he can hold his own while we bring the others. And if worst comes to worst, one of us can stay with him, until the other brings somepony else there.”

“Makes sense.” Time Turner nodded.

“Alright, grab his leg, and let’s go.”

Dizzy took Big Macintosh’s left leg, as Thunderlane took his other leg.

Nightmare Moon gazed down from a hidden area, high above the Everfree.

“So... there are still ponies brave enough to challenge me.” A smug grin crawled onto the alicorn’s face.

“Killing fools is always fun.”