Revenge of the Brony

Chapters

Prologue
Father's Request
A King's Welcome
Further Preparation
Prep Conclusion
Look at the Moon
Welcome to Pony Central

Prologue

It has been one thousand years since the time of Princesses Celestia and Luna had ended. The peaceful times of their rule are now the bedtime stories for little fillies and colts to learn important lessons of friendship from. The last of this series we are all told is how the sister Princesses went on a mission to save all of Equestria. However, they were never heard from again. After nearly a year everypony assumed they were unsuccessful and too ashamed to return. When the Princesses disappeared; cold darkness spread across Equestria and everypony suffered. The darkness fell on the land like a rolling fog nopony had any idea what could be forming it. The pegasus ponies tried to clear it away, but to no avail.

Squadrons of ponies, one of each tribe, traveled all over Equestria to see how far the darkness would spread. Nopony could find their way back. It is assumed they settled in the outer lands of Equestria or became swallowed in the darkness. From what most records report anypony who was outside for too long would start to halucinate. One report told of a pony running through the streets yelling, "Daleks! Daleks everywhere!" Another told of a pony who just sat hugging herself repeating the words, "The cake is a lie." The darkness affected each individual differently. Speculations say that the darkness feeds off of the fears of ponies.

Despite the odd behavior that the ponies would exhibit they all tried to get on with their lives for the most part. The unicorns took on the task of controling the sun and moon like in the days of old. The earth ponies who could farm grew their crops and the pegasus ponies provided the moisture needed for everyday life. However, everypony soon learned how hard it really is to manage an entire ecosystem without the skill and precision the Princesses once had. The unicorns struggled to control the sun and moon so that the earth ponies could properly harvest their crops. As the unicorns struggled so did the pegasi. The clouds they made could not produce enough water as it would either evaporate or freeze. The seasons went out of control and nopony could tell the difference between night and day. Everypony was scared, but unified…

From those dark times new monarchs, King Cosmos and Prince Tenebrae, cleared the darkness and breathed new life into the land. The Brothers used their magic of light and shadow to both purify and master the darkness. Prince Tenebrae did his best to absorb most of the darkness and purify it with his goodliness. However, as history tends to repeat itself, Prince Tenebrae underwent a dark transformation as a side-effect of taking in the darkness that plagued Equestria. He became a sentient manifestation of the darkness known as Dark Horse. Dark Horse did not have long in this world as King Cosmos knew exactly what he must do, in order to ensure the future of Equestria. With a tear in His eye and His magic surging King Cosmos banished Dark Horse into the moon. The loss of His brother may have left a hole in King Cosmos’ heart, but in honor of the fallen Prince King Cosmos now rules Equestria in an era of brotherhood. Every year hence we have a day of solemn remembrance that reminds us to treat everypony as our brother in hopes that the fallen Prince will one day see the light and return.

The elements of harmony, with which King Cosmos used to banish Dark Horse, have mutated since the time of Celestia and taken on new forms. Integrity, benevolence, hilarity, charity, devotion, and sorcery are what they are known as now. The original masters of the elements are long since gone and nopony can remember their names. The royal archives have no documented proof that the fabled masters have even existed, although, that may be due to the fact that I am not from Equestria. This tale is not about me, it is about Equestria itself and the ponies who live there. I will, however, play an important role in directing the future of Equestria…

The darkness reached Canterlot first nopony was ready for the hardship that lay ahead. At the time the Prince Regent, the King who lead the ponies in Canterlot to a new land, tried his utmost to work with all his forces to shield Eauestria from the oncoming plague. Eventually they all gave out and when the then Prince Regent was about to run out of power He transformed into a magnificent alicorn. It was then He realized that the greater good of His subjects is more important to Him than anything. However, even as a newly realized Alicorn, He still could not stop the darkness from taking hold of Equestria. He appointed Himself as a new King and came to the conclusion that for the survival of all pony kind they must find a new land to inhabit. He led as many ponies as would listen to Him and began the long journey to their new land.

It took many months for the migration to find a suitable place to live. The darkness was so deep and vast, so many ponies nearly lost hope. At the worst times the King would use his magic to bring light and laughter to lighten everyponies spirits. To make the travel easier the King worked directly with capable twin unicorn engineers who were first made famous by building an engine driven transport powered by magic (which could also brew a delicious batch of apple cider.) They were able to apply this then newly adapted technology to nearly everything they could think of. The twins helped build engine driven land and sea transports that took the unicorns further than they dreamed. The land that was finally found was built around the technology that was developed during the long travel. This was long before my sister or I was born, but this is all according to the records of that time…

Author's Note

To clarify a few things, Cosmos = Celestia, Tenebrae = Luna,
Integrity = Honesty
Benevolence = Kindness
Charity = Generosity
Hilarity = Laughter
Devotion = Loyalty
Sorcery = Magic
I'm sorry if there are a few things I missed to clarify. I am more than happy to add more to the list. Chapter one will go up next week. I hope you all enjoy the first installment to what I hope to be a successful story.

Father's Request

Present Time

In the royal library the sound of shifting pages and book stacking fills the room as the only pony in there is Dusk Shine, a purple unicorn sporting a purple star motif as his cutie mark. His mane and tail are black with a red stripe. His loyal assisstant dragon, Scale, is attending to him by bringing him a new stack of books, scrolls and quills whenever Dusk Shine finishes with any of them.

“Dusk are you sure this is something that you can just study for? The King wasn’t very clear on what He wanted to test you on.” Says Scale.

“He does not have to be clear Scale. The fact of the matter is that the King may finally be acknowledging my potential. This is a big step for us. Now focus the King may call on us at any second!” Dusk Shine commands as he goes from one book to another and takes more notes.

The two continue with their labor for another hour; reading, taking notes and magical exercise. The books around Dusk Shine’s hooves are of various titles; pony biology, unicorn technology, anthropology, etc. Scale, though still a baby, gathers up to ten books and carries them back to their proper shelves. Dusk Shine is now levitating several objects in the air, when suddenly the clopping of hooves can be heard from the nearest staircase. Dusk Shine gently sets down the levitating objects and stands at attention in anticipation of the visitor. From the entrance of the library the guard announces the entrance of Princess Shining Amour an all white alicorn with a shield and stars cutie mark with a periwinkle mane and tail. She enters the library with two royal unicorn guards and they all proudly stride towards Dusk Shine.

“It is time Dusk Shine” says Princess Shining Amour. “There is no need to worry the royal escort is only a formality.”

“Last time I checked anyone who lives in the castle does not need an escort.” Replied Dusk Shine.

“Today is special you know that. Since when do you have such a negative attitude?”

“Since the King thought it best that I study without my tutors.”

Dusk Shine joined the royal escort and stared at the ground all the way to the throne room. The doors were magically opened by the guards outside and the escort was announced in. All in attendance are waiting in earnest for the King to attend from His private office.

The Page cried, “The King now approaches. All kneel before the King. All hail King Blueblood!”

Everypony present bowed in their place as the King approached His throne and then straightened when He sat down. The King is an all white alicorn with a golden flowing mane and his cutie mark is what looks like a compass as what would appear on a map.

“Dusk Shine you may approach, the important matter we have discussed earlier this week will now be addressed. Do you remember what the matter entailed?” King Blueblood announced to the general assembly of ponies. Dusk Shine hesitantly approached the King and dared not look Him in the eyes.

“Yes, Your Majesty, I remember. You said that I must prepare and that I was to be tested here at court. In that same breath you commanded that from then on I study on my own and dismissed my tutors.” Dusk Shine had been looking at the floor the whole time until he said the word “tutors.”

King Blueblood did not waiver. He kept his composure before the court and in a consoling tone said. “It is your intelligence that is most valuable to Me. It will serve us all very well one day. The immediacy of the approaching situation will be one of which the King of Equestria will not be prepared for. Tell me through all of your studies have you learned what is most important in this world? Well, Do you have an answer Prince Dusk Shine?” The King put emphasis to the word Prince.

Dusk Shine did not break eye contact with his Father. No one moved throughout the court as they waited for Dusk Shine to answer. Dusk Shine thought of everything he studied within the week and his life. He recalled everything his tutors had taught him. “The most important thing in this world is knowledge.” After Dusk Shine replied he let out a sigh.

The King did not seem impressed by His son’s answer. The King squinted and pursed His lips. He is now resolute with what He had planned to do. “Prince Dusk Shine that is not the answer I was looking for. Although, it is a good answer knowledge cannot get you everything. I believe you are aware of the story of Dark Horse.”

“Yes I am, but that is just an old mare’s tale. How does that have any relevance to what is going on right now?”

“It has all the relevance in the world! The King of Equestria is not yet aware of the coming tide that will befall his kingdom. Dark Horse will return and that is a matter of fact! It had once happened to the sister Princesses of old and it will happen again. As King of Buckingham I charge you, Prince Dusk Shine, this day to act as an ambassador to Equestria and relieve them the burden of Dark Horse!”

The full impact of the decision hit Dusk Shine all at once. He had read all he could about the history of old Equestria without even thinking about visiting the country. Dusk Shine had always thought that the magic used to banish Dark Horse was permanent, however fictional. The reality and gravity of the matter is hard to accept, but Dusk Shine allowed himself a pause to let it all sink in.

With a sigh and a bow Dusk Shine says, “I humbly accept the task given me by the King my Father.” Straightening Dusk Shine followed with, “When am I to leave for Equestria?”

“Right away, a letter has already been sent to His majesty King Cosmos. He is awaiting your attendance and He will give you further instruction for your success. The same royal attendants that brought you here will escort you all the way to Equestria. I will miss you my son and I know you will succeed.”

“Thank you Father, I will do my best.” Dusk Shine turned away and walked out of the great hall with the royal escort. Shining Amour followed after to further brief Dusk Shine on his task.

“King Cosmos does not fully know what you are being sent to do. We let Him believe that you are going to Equestria to study abroad as a cultural ambassador and get to know new ponies. He has arranged for you to live in the town where the Day of Brotherhood is going to be held, it also happens to be the Summer Sun Celebration.” Shining Amour sounded especially pleased when she mentioned the “Summer Sun Celebration.”

With a groan Dusk Shine replies, “I don’t care about whatever celebration they are having. I care about how I am supposed to fulfill my task and no doubt King Cosmos will give me further responsibilities when I arrive.”

“This is a good opportunity for you brother, I am actually kind of jealous. You get to witness King Cosmos raise the sun! You also get to meet real Equestrians, ponies we’ve only heard of in letters.”

“If you’re so excited why aren’t you going instead of me?”

“The King chose you, and He said that only you can do it. Besides think of it like this, you get to spend time out of the castle and study records that nopony else here has access to.”

“I hadn’t thought of it like that. You’re right Shining Amour perhaps something in those records can give me clues as to how I can fulfill my task.” Dusk Shine looks a little excited about the prospect of learning new information and the practical application of the information.

Shining Amour smiled approvingly, “That’s the spirit little brother! Don’t forget to remember the significance of the Day of Brotherhood.”

With a louder groan Dusk Shine exclaims, “I don’t need to be reminded of what the day is about! How is the significance supposed to help me? I don’t even know how the lost Princesses or King Cosmos banished Dark Horse in the first place!” Dusk Shine worked himself out of breathe.

In a consoling tone Shining Amour says, “You have nothing to worry about little brother. Everything will happen in its course. Perhaps you can focus on the answer Father is looking for. You know the answer to the question he asked you.”

At this point Dusk Shine and the attending ponies have reached the royal transport that will take them to New Canterlot in Equestria. “Thank you for trying to help Shining Amour. I love you and I hope that you and Father will fare well without me.”

“Have a good time little brother and don’t worry about us. Most importantly make some friends.” The siblings embraced and the attendants had already loaded Dusk Shine’s luggage. As they boarded Dusk Shine gave his sister one last look and took his seat on the transport.

The transport is what is known as a behemoth class land-to-sea ship mark X. This particular transport is named Dusk Amour after the King’s children. It is mostly used for long transportation across continents or for military use (not that there has been any need for a military). It is powered by three dozen unicorns at specific power stations and can be powered by a dozen in emergencies. It is the grandest mode of transportation available in these times.

What once took months now takes a few days and Dusk Shine used that time to study a teleportation spell. Once he got the technique he went on the open deck of the Dusk Amour to practice. The Royal attendants were with him the whole time observing his actions. Dusk Shine practiced most of the day stopping only for water and food. By the end of the day Dusk Shine could teleport from one end of the ship to the other.

Author's Note

Its finally here. Chapter One introduces the plot, the main character, and gives a few clues as to how this story will run. There are a couple of parts that seem superficial you can choose to ignore them. I already have. Chapter Two will go up on monday or if I feel like posting it early. I hope you all enjoy this one. :-)

A King's Welcome

Within a few days the Dusk Amour landed on the Equestrian Shore. After the ship docked Dusk Shine and the Royal attendants exited the transport and made their way to find the New Canterlot Palace Guard. All around were ponies of all different types either rushing to get on a transport or rushing off of one. Within a few minutes the Royal attendants spotted the New Canterlot Palace Guard.

The Palace Guards are standing in front of a bright red air balloon with the royal insignia of King Cosmos. Dusk Shine’s Royal attendants made sure to transfer custody with the New Canterlot Palace Guard. Both sets of guards exchanged pleasantries as one acknowledged to the other that Dusk Shine is now in the hands of Canterlot. Once Dusk Shine boarded the air balloon which will take them to Canterlot the Royal escort re-boarded the Dusk Amour to return to Buckingham.

After a few hours of travel the balloon landed in New Canterlot Square and the riders walked the rest of the way to Canterlot Castle. New Canterlot is awash of decorations, tall buildings and fancy looking unicorns with pegasi and earth ponies interspersed among the crowd.

The decorations depict the King with the sun rising behind Him. The colors are red, blue and green. There are fillies and colts running around and playing with toys.

“There is a lot more diversity here than at home.” Dusk Shine remarked to Scale, who has been riding on Dusk Shine’s back for most of the trip.

“They seem to have some of the same tech. we use also.” Scale seems impressed with that fact as she does not understand how it all works any way. Dusk Shine rolls his eyes at the remark and feels that the explanation would only cause Scale more confusion.

As the party passes a tavern Dusk Shine notices something odd. There are four male ponies standing outside the tavern. They are all wearing black cloaks and standing under a banner that reads: “Never forget the shadow.”

Dusk Shine whispers to Scale, “I have read about this Scale. A few years after Dark Horse was banished a group of ponies decided to wear black cloaks as a sign of solidarity for the fallen Prince on the Day of Brotherhood.”

“But, I thought Dark Horse is evil why would they want to show him support?” Asks Scale a little confused.

“The real Prince Tenebrae was not. They believe that it wasn’t his fault for being corrupted by the darkness that plagued Equestria. King Cosmos believes it too. That is why the Day of Brotherhood exists to remind us to treat our fellow ponies as our brother and that we are all bronies.” The rest of the walk was spent in silence.

The party finally arrives at Canterlot Castle it has several spires with the keep in the center of the structure. The whole structure is white with a blue trim. The party walks to the front gate and briskly heads to the throne room. The throne room is empty except for the King himself and an attending guard pony. He is an all white Alicorn with a sun cutie mark and his mane and tail are an ever flowing mixture of red, green and blue.

As Dusk Shine enters King Cosmos says with a smile “It is an honor to finally meet our royal cousin! How are you Prince Dusk Shine?”

Dusk Shine bowed before King Cosmos and replies “Thank you for receiving me cousin. My Royal Father tells me that you require my assistance during my stay here. May I ask what it is that I am needed for?”

King Cosmos beamed and answered, “You have the most important job of all. You have the task of making sure that this day goes according to plan. I want you to go ahead to Pony Central and check on all the preparations for the celebrations. What do you think?”

Dusk Shine did not know how to answer though he did not want to stall, “I thought I was going to work directly with Your Majesty.”

“Oh, but you are. I need you to be in charge in my stead, there is noponyelse I trust more than you cuz.”

Dusk Shine bowed and said, “I will do as you command. When do I leave for this Pony Central?”

The King’s smile never dimmed as he seems overjoyed with what seemed like Dusk Shine’s enthusiastic attitude towards his job. “It would please Me that you go immediately and you will be given an itinerary to follow so that you can make sure everything is in order. If there is any information that you need I have arranged for you to stay at a library so that there is plenty of books at your disposal. I am told that the ponies of that town are very friendly so they may assist you as well. Thank you so much Prince Dusk Shine.”

Dusk Shine did not want to appear rude and the idea of living in a library made him slightly happier, “Your Majesty is very generous, I will make you proud. Also, if it pleases your Majesty I prefer to be called Dusk Shine.” He turned away to leave and the escort that brought him to the castle saw Dusk Shine off to the hot air balloon.

After Dusk Shine left King Cosmos turned to the attending guard pony and says, “Take a letter. Write to my cousin King Blue Blood and let him know that his son has arrived safely. Let Him know that I am pleased with His son’s character. You may leave me and send that letter as soon as it is finished.”

When the attending guard pony left King Cosmos took out a black cloak and put it on. He looked skyward and said in a musing voice, “Dusk Shine I hope that you can fulfill your task not just for me, but for Tenebrae as well. I am not asking for redemption, but I do want my brother back. For, we are all Bronies.”

Author's Note

Sorry again for the delay. Got a new job and it has been eating up some of my free time. Unfortunately that may mean that I'll be posting when I get around to it. Though I hope I can make it worth the wait.

Further Preparation

By the time Dusk Shine left the farm it was turning into midday and from all the eating he had gotten a noticeably distended stomach. “I blame you Scale. All those years giving in to your pleas for one more gem.”

“Don’t blame me that a young colt knows how to use the same trick.” Scale says with a chuckle. “Where are we going next?”

“To see somepony named Elusive. He is in charge of choosing the style and color of Bubble Berrie's decorations. I hope that pony won’t be around when we find this Elusive.”

“Hey look there it is Carousel Boutique! This looks like the fanciest place in Pony Central.”

“Good eye Scale.”

While Dusk Shine and Scale are walking toward Carousel Boutique a rainbow colored blur zooms inches from over their heads. Dusk Shine did not notice, but his hair got fluffed up into a perm. To their surprise the rainbow blur turned out to be a blue colt with a rainbow mane and tail.

The colt looked a little embarrassed and flew back to Dusk Shine. “Sorry about that. I didn’t frazzle you too much did I? My name is Rainbow Blitz the best flyer in Pony Central and you are?”

Dusk Shine took a moment to get settled and said, “You’re Rainbow Blitz?”

“Ah, so you’ve heard of me?”

“I am Dusk Shine and I am here on official palace business. I’ve heard that you are supposed to be cloud busting. Why are there still clouds in the sky?”

“Oh, that. I can take care of it in ten seconds flat. I got all the time I need. If you’re from the palace would you know the Wonderbolts?”

This gave Dusk Shine an idea, “Of course I know the Wonderbolts. They performed at my last birthday party. I’ll tell you all you want to know about the Wonderbolts if you can prove to me that you can bust all these clouds in ten seconds.”

“You’re on!” At that Rainbow Blitz zipped off and flew through four clouds. Before Dusk Shine could look where Rainbow Blitz is flying he was already off flying to another cloud. Zips, whirls and flips all over the sky in a rainbow streak. When the quick businesss was settled Rainbow Blitz hovered to the ground next to Dusk Shine his mouth agape. “Ten. Seconds. Flat. Do you want me to take care of that perm for you?”

“I hadn’t realized my hair was in such a way. I would appreciate it.”

Rainbow Blitz brought a rain cloud over Dusk Shine and emptied it over his head. “At least the perm is gone. Now tell me about the Wonderbolts.”

They both trotted to Carousel Boutique and spoke about the Wonderbolts. Dusk Shine told Rainbow Blitz all about how the Wonderbolts performed for his last birthday. Rainbow Blitz told Dusk Shine all about the first Wonderbolts performance he had seen.

“It was nice talking to you Dusk Shine. I’m sure we’ll be good friends while you’re here in Pony Central. As much I as I like talking with you I don’t fit in well in a place like this. See ya around.” At that Rainbow Blitz flew off into the sky.

“Whew, that Rainbow Blitz can really talk. He seems more sane than either Bubble Berry or Apple Jack.” Says, Dusk Shine.

“I’m glad to know you’ve finally made a friend Dusk. You can be so hard to please sometimes.” Replied, Scale.

“I don’t know about friend yet, but he is a lot of fun. Also, if you really feel that way I can always double your chores." That silenced Scale.

The two enter Carousel Boutique to find a white unicorn feverishly working a sewing machine on a banner. They waited for him to finish sewing before announcing themselves. However, the colt noticed them before he finished and immediately attended his visitors.

With a swish of his curly violet hair he addresses Dusk Shine warmly. “Hello there, my name is Elusive. I am the proprietor of this humble establishment meant to make anypony who comes in here to look magnifique. How may I help you?”

“I am Dusk Shine. I am here on official palace business to oversee the preparations for the celebrations-.”

Before Dusk Shine could finish Elusive gasped and said, “You’re here for the king?! That means you live in New Canterlot, I have always dreamed of being a designer in the city. You simply must tell me what it’s like while I make an outfit for you.”

A little bewildered Dusk Shine replies, “Actually, I am from Buckingham. Just as impressive, I think anyway.” Dusk Shine is being measured while he talks. “I am visiting this country for educational purposes. This is all very unnecessary. I am only here to mark your progress.”

Elusive scoffed and said, “This is entirely necessary. What kind of designer would I be if I do not make sure the official in charge is not well dressed?”

“But, I am not in charge.”

“Nonsense, if you’re not in charge at the very least you should look the part.” Elusive is now picking through his clothes and is taking great care to make sure the colors go with the decorations and Dusk Shine's own coloring.

In less than half an hour Elusive had selected the perfect outfit and finished sewing his banner. “Perfection~! I do believe I have outdone myself this time. Not only have I completed most of the decorations, but I have also selected an outfit that perfectly suits their color scheme and yours.”

Dusk Shine could not help, but smile about how good he looks. “I do not know anything about your work, but I am impressed with your prudence.”

“Why thank you Dusk Shine.”

“I must be going now.” Says Dusk Shine as he gently takes off the clothes Elusive had selected for him. “I still have to meet with the pony in charge of the music.”

“I know him. I can escort you if you like.” Elusive walked eagerly to the door.

“No, I’m fine. Besides you still have work to do. I cannot take you away from that.” Dusk Shine left and made a sigh of relief. “The king was not lying about how friendly these ponies can be.”

“I like them and you seemed happy with most of the ones you've met so far.” Says Scale.

“I am still not convinced. I still have to figure out how to handle this Dark Horse situation. I do not know when or how his return will happen. I still have no idea how my father even knew that Dark Horse will return."

Prep Conclusion

It would seem that Dusk Shine should have taken Elusive’s offer to be escorted to where the pony in charge of music is. Dusk Shine took a few wrong turns and avoided anypony who seemed curious about what he is doing. Dusk Shine did not want to ask for directions nor did he want to be side tracked by conversation. Eventually he heard the song birds which have been orchestrated for the event.

Dusk Shine saw birds of a few varieties on a perch. There are blue ones, yellow ones, red ones, and a particularly big white one in the front. The conductor is a soft spoken yellow pegasus with a pink mane. Dusk Shine observes from a distance and learns that the orientation of the birds is meant for the best harmony. The white bird seems to be struggling with his solo and his chirp sounds more like a screech.

“Now now, don’t try too hard. The note is an F sharp not an E flat.” Says the yellow pegasus.

Dusk Shine walks over to him slowly and with a polite tone introduces himself, “Excuse me, my name is Dusk Shine –“

The yellow pegasus gasped and jumped backward. “H-h-hello, wh-what do you want?”

Confused Dusk Shine continued, “I’m here representing the King. I’m sorry for startling you. The birds sound wonderful.”

The pegasus squeaked “I-I’m Butter Scotch.”

Dusk Shine did not want to belabor the point, “Well, you seem like you are doing well here. I guess I’ll leave you to it.”

As Dusk Shine turned to walk away Butter Scotch cooed when he saw Scale riding on Dusk Shine’s back. “Who is this cute little creature?”

Scale enjoying the attention replies, “I’m Scale. I assist Dusk Shine in everything.”

“A talking baby dragon, that’s so adorable. What do dragons talk about? What do you eat? Tell me absolutely everything, don’t spare a single detail.”

Scale is smiling broadly and enthusiastically answers every one of Butter Scotch’s questions.
Dusk Shine sighed deeply and could not believe that Butter Scotch had not been as friendly to him. Butter Scotch followed them all the way to the library that would be Dusk Shine and Scale’s home.

Dusk Shine opened the door, “Thank you for following us all the way home Butter Scotch, but Scale needs to nap.”

“But, I’m not sleepy.” Replies Scale.

“Yes, you are.” Dusk Shine furiously whispers to Scale.

Butter Scotch snatches up Scale in his hooves, “In that case I would be happy to put her to bed for you.”

Almost disgusted at the idea, “That would not be necessary.” Replies Dusk Shine.

“Oh, it’s not a bother at all.” Cooed Butter Scotch. Scale jumped from Butter Scotch’s hooves and walks proudly inside.

“I appreciate that you want to help, but I have important stuff to do. I do not want to be rude, but you would only get in the way.”

Butter Scotch held his head low and walked away. Dusk Shine closed the door behind him and breathed a sigh of relief.

However, that relief did not last long as the lights snapped on it seemed almost everypony in Pony Central appeared out of nowhere to surprise Dusk Shine. Bubble Berry is in the center of the crowd and bounced toward Dusk Shine with a big smile. “Hi there Dusk. I told you I think of everything and so I have. Remember earlier? Well I had the idea that I should start the party here and then in a big parade like fashion walk to city hall and finish the party there.”

Dusk Shine just stood there in shock his mouth agape. Apple Jack walked from among the crowd to Bubble Berry. “He’s not gonna stay like that, is he?”

Elusive came up next to Apple Jack, “Should I get him a sweater or a soothing scarf?”

Rainbow Blitz hovered overhead, “I don’t think a nice set of clothes will solve this problem…yet. Allow me.” He gracefully landed in front of Dusk Shine and took a deep breath. “I’m going to tear up all your books!!!”

Everypony had to cover their ears while Rainbow Blitz shouted. Dusk Shine snapped out of his shock, but then started to hyper-ventilate. “Why…is …everypony… in here?”

Bubble Berry bounced high to answer the question, but the others quickly grabbed him before another incident could happen. “It was Berry’s idea Mr. Dusk Shine. He just wanted you to feel welcome is all. Elusive here even made a few new decorations. He was very careful putting them up, honest. I even catered, since you seemed to love all the food before.”

Dusk Shine kept gasping and Elusive patted his back to help him get air. “Thank you Elusive. It’s not that I’m not grateful. It's just that I have to do research on Dark Horse. If you four could join me in my room I have something to tell you.”

The door slowly creeks open, “Can I go with you too?” In the doorway Butter Scotch is standing there patting at the ground.

Smiling warmly at the yellow colt, Dusk Shine says, “Of course you can. Everypony else please don’t let this party go to waste.”

The rest of the town's ponies got back to partying, drinking punch and dancing to the music playing on a record. The mane six and Scale walked up to Dusk Shine’s room. He lit a candle and began to tell his new friends all about what he knows of Dark Horse. The boys listened patiently to the tale bewildered that they had not known they were in the presence of a Prince.

When Dusk Shine concluded Apple Jack spoke first, “Now why do you think Dark Horse will return after so much time?”

Dusk Shine thought on this, “I don’t know. However, I do know that my father would not have sent me here for nothing.”

Rainbow Blitz spoke up, “If this Dark Horse does plan on coming back I’ll take care of him. How bad can he be?”

“Let me give you an idea. While He was Prince Tenebrae and little after he bacame Dark Horse He was powerful enough to control the moon and he is mostly responsible for why this world is not a wasteland.” Replied Dusk Shine.

“Now I believe we all have ponies we want to protect. So, it is everypony’s best interest to assist Mr. Dusk Shine in any way we can.” Says Apple Jack. The group nods in agreement.

“The most important thing right now is to keep this party going. Maybe Dark Horse really likes parties and will be very happy to join us.” Bubble Berry blurted as the idea struck him.

“I agree.” Said Dusk Shine to everyponies surprise. "Right now, we are not even sure if Dark Horse will even return. What's best right now is to act like nothing bad is going to happen."

Author's Note

Don't be fooled by the chapter title. There will be more. This only says that the preparation for the celebration is over.

Look at the Moon

The party went on as the mane six have agreed. Dusk Shine, as carefully as he can, levitated several stacks of books up the stairs to his room. Each of the mane six takes a book to skim to see if they can find any information regarding Dark Horse or anything prior.

Meanwhile at Sweet Apple Acres there are three young colts that chose a different way to celebrate all night until the ceremony at City Hall. Apple Butch is outside playing shadow tag with his two friends; Scooter (Scoots) and Silver Bell (SB). As the boys enjoy their game, without supervision for once, Apple Butch stops suddenly when he glimpses the moon.

Noticing this SB yells out, “Hey, what are you stopping for Butch?!”

“Look at the moon SB! It’s all flickery.” Replies Apple Butch.

“Huh? How is that possible?”

“Look! The purple glow is coming from that shape in the moon!” Scoots Exclaims.

“I wonder what that means.”

“Maybe we could ask Mr. Dusk Shine he seems smart.” Replies Apple Butch.

“What are we waiting for, saddle up boys!” Scoots yells to the other boys.

The other two pile into a wagon that is tied to Scoots’ scooter. In a Rainbow Blitz like fashion the group turns into a multi-colored blur that moves through town. The boys arrived safely (by some modern day miracle) and each knocks on the library door as loudly as they can.

It was somewhere around this time of night that the mane six had taken a break. Dusk Shine opens the door to reveal Bubble Berry balancing on a big blue rubber ball reciting the alphabet for everyponies entertainment. Apple Jack impressing some girls by doing rope tricks and had managed to grab three girls to his side. Scale for whatever reason is dancing with a lampshade over her head.

The younger colts say all at once, “Mr. Dusk Shine come look outside!”

With a queer look Dusk Shine replies, “What is the matter boys?”

The younger three point to the moon. Dusk Shine pokes his head out over them to notice the purple glow and how it is distinctly shining off the moon. Upon a finer inspection Dusk Shine noticed the impression of a black unicorn on the moon.

“Apple Jack, Bubble Berry, could you come over here for a second?!” Dusk Shine called to the friends nearest to him. When they got to the doorway Dusk Shine asks, “What do you make of this?”

“That looks like a whole mess o’trouble. How do we get everypony over to City Hall without them seeing it?” Replies Apple Jack.

Bubble Berry has a devious look in his eye, “What we need is glow sticks, lots and lots of glow sticks.” He says while clapping one hoof over the other.

“How’s that s’pose’da help?”

“Think about it Apple Jack” replies Dusk Shine, “The glow of the sticks will offset the moon. The town’s ponies won’t even notice. This may be our best option. The King made it my job to help you make everypony happy for the ceremony.”

Bubble Berry beamed with enthusiasm and says, “I’ll go tell everypony that the parade to City Hall will be a glow stick party. Woo Hoo!”

Dusk Shine could not help, but smile as the pink colt happily informs the partiers. “Good luck to you Apple Jack and to you too my little bronies.”

“You can count on us Mr. Dusk Shine.” Apple Jack turns to the younger colts, “Come on younguns’ we got a job to do.” Apple Jack and the children rushed out the door to find a shop where they can “borrow” the glow sticks that they need.

Dusk Shine trots up the stairs to inform the remaining boys of the new developments that have occurred. Upon hearing the plan Elusive and Butter Scotch looked at each other and nodded.

Elusive closes the book he was reading and rises. “We trust you Dusk Shine. If you will allow me, I will go on ahead to get City Hall set up.”

Butter Scotch very hesitantly walks up to Dusk Shine and in almost a whisper says, “Um…I need to prepare also. You see…my birds.”

Dusk Shine pats Butter Scotch on the back and says, “You go do what you need to do, both of you. Don’t worry everything will be ok as long as we trust one another.” Butter Scotch looks at Dusk Shine with trusting eyes and trots off with Elusive.

After Elusive and Butter Scotch leave Rainbow Blitz steps up to tell Dusk Shine, “I can’t stand having nothing to do, man. Give me something that doesn’t have to do with me staying in here with books. I want something that will get me to stretch my wings.”

That gave Dusk Shine an idea, “I know the perfect job for you Rainbow Blitz. It is of the utmost importance that I know how far this glow stretches. I need to know if it is only centered on Pony Central or if there are other areas that it is covering.”

As though setting up for a race Rainbow Blitz braced for takeoff and then zipped out of the library window. The rainbow colored streak remained visible for a few seconds then disappeared. Dusk Shine got comfortable and floated a few books over, opened each and began skimming the contents of them all.

Both Scale and Bubble Berry come back upstairs to help Dusk Shine. Scale goes over to a stack of books and tries to lift them all. The book on the bottom gets loose and Scale falls on her butt. The whole stack of books falls on top of Bubble Berry who could not get out of the way in time.

Dusk Shine gets up from his station to help his friend. After moving most of the books off of Bubble Berry, Dusk Shine picks up the one that was open over Bubble’s face. The title is Compiled Letters and Communications Between Princess Celestia of Equestria and Twilight Sparkle.

Welcome to Pony Central

The trip took a couple of hours and Dusk Shine has gotten tired of traveling everywhere with one mode of transport or the other. When the balloon landed and Dusk Shine got out a bubbly pink pony came prancing his way. He would seem like any normal pony out for a prance, if one could ignore the many instruments that he seems to be carrying and simultaneously playing.

Dusk Shine looked at scale with some concern. Scale only shrugged and seemed to believe that must be normal in Pony Central. The Pink Pony is closing the gap and the joyful sound of his instruments has a welcoming air to it. Dusk Shine slowly realized that it must all be for him. Though, Dusk Shine is more curious as to why a colt would be born bright pink, but decided it would be polite not to ask.

With a beaming smile and a little over-enthusiasm the pink colt said, “Welcome to Pony Central! I never met a pony with official palace business before. My name is Bubble Berry and I will be your social liaison; it is my job to make sure you make good friends during your stay. I would also like to say that it is my job to decorate City Hall for the King Himself.” There did not seem to be any pauses or breathes throughout that whole statement. Dusk Shine looked more confused than welcomed and Scale was smiling the whole time.

“Um… well that was sure welcoming. My name is Dusk Shine, thank you very much Bubble Berry I’m sure you will do a good job and be very helpful. If you don’t mind, however, I’d like to conduct my business alone. If I need you I’ll find you at City Hall. Not to be rude, but I was hoping to do some research before the celebration and I think you would just slow me down.” Replied Dusk Shine.

“Say no more Mr. Dusk Shine. I have great plans in mind already to decorate City Hall and make sure you make friends at the same time! Silly, I think of everything. I know everypony in town and I know how to plan parties! This is going to be so much fun!”

Dusk is now walking backwards and his face is reddening. “I will be going now. Good luck on your plans (that I hope I will have nothing to do with). Bye.” At that Dusk Shine turned around and trotted away.

Moments later when Bubble Berry is out of sight, “I thought he was funny. I can’t see why you wouldn’t want his company. Bubble also looks talented do you think he could teach me how to do that? He said he knows everypony in town maybe he knows something about Dark Horse.” Scale comments.

“I highly doubt Bubble knows anything beyond party planning Scale. I never thought it would be so much work just to be left alone. Well, it is time we do the first thing on our task sheet. ‘Meet with Apple Jack at Sweet Apple Acres to check on the catering.’ I have never seen an apple farm before. I wonder if they use the same technology as our country.” Replies Dusk Shine.

After a short trot Dusk Shine arrives at Sweet Apple Acres. It may not use the heavy farming equipment used in Buckingham, but the sight of all the apple trees is impressive enough. Even more impressive is the massive pony bucking at the trees. She is a light red pony with a big green apple half as a cutie mark and the biggest crest Dusk Shine has ever seen.

“That must be Apple Jack.” Dusk Shine says to Scale.

“Or at the very least is related to Apple Jack.” Replies Scale.

When the red pony noticed Dusk Shine she came running over at top speed and stopped on a dime. In a surprisingly deep tone she says, “What y’all want?”

“Hello I was hoping that you could help me. My name is Dusk Shine and I am here to oversee the festivities. Are you by any chance Apple Jack?”

“Nope”

“Uh…Could you take me to Apple Jack?”

“Eeyup!” at that the big mare directed Dusk Shine toward the barn where a big picnic table was setup.

At the picnic table a bright orange colt is setting various dishes with different apple themed food. He is wearing a characteristic cowboy hat and his cutie mark is three red apples. When Dusk Shine and the red mare got close enough Apple Jack says “Howdy there! Y’all is new around these parts. Big Mac did he say what he’s here for?”

“Eeyup!”

Dusk Shine stepped foward to introduce himself, “Hello my name is Dusk Shine. King Cosmos asked me to oversee the preparations for his arrival this year. May I ask how the catering is coming along?”

“Mr. Dusk Shine you can rest assured that the Apple family has it all under control.” Apple Jack pulled out an iron triangle and rang it as loudly as he could to signal his whole family to show all the dishes they have prepared so far. “Yeehaw! As you can see Mr. Dusk Shine that not only did we make a lot of food, but it is made with the Apple family stamp of approval delivered by none other than Grampy Smith. Come meet the guest Grampy Smith!”

The crowd of ponies parted to let the old pony come forward. Grampy Smith is bright green and has an apple pie cutie mark. He is supported by a young colt who is yellow in color with red hair. “Eh, thank you Apple Butch. Mr. Dusk Shine it is mighty kind of you to come all the way here just to sample our wares. I hope it’s all fit to the King’s liking.”

“W-well I’m glad to be so well received, but I just wanted to make sure we are on schedule. Now that I see that we are I can be on my way.” Dusk Shine nearly stammered on the whole statement. As he backed away Dusk Shine tripped over Apple Butch who must have wanted to say thank you as well since his eyes looked of wonder.

“Do you have to go Mr. Dusk Shine?” Came the innocent voice of the colt.

“I guess I can stay for a little while.” Dusk Shine could not resist those eyes.

Everypony cheered and pushed Dusk Shine into a nearby chair at the table. They gave him samples of their dishes as Apple Jack enthusiastically described each one as it is served.

Author's Note

Sorry for the long wait. Also, I apologize in advanced, because it might take a little longer for the next update. I'll make sure to write as much as possible this week.