A New Day, A New Adventure
Chapter 1
A New Day, A New Adventure
A month has passed since Rainbow Dash’s and Applejack’s confessional. These two former friends, now lovers, have been dealing with the trials that come with loving one another. Trials that are only brought on by loving a pony of the same sex. It took all there will to admit to each other their feelings and against what they were taught they made a working relationship. With fear and doubt in their minds and hearts they pushed forward so they could be together. Even so one last thing had to be addressed and that was telling Applejack’s family the news.
As most would expect the family was taken by surprise by the news. Despite this Big Mac was supportive of his younger sister. Of course he would be this is his little sister after all. Besides Big Mac knew that Applebloom would be too young to understand, and in all respects she was, and he also knew that Granny Smith would be the hardest to win over with this “revelation” they brought out. That doesn’t mean they didn’t try but Granny Smith was too old fashion.
Granny Smith wasn’t too keen on the idea of this love and she thought it was a faze that needed to run its course. With that thought in her mind she still showed support to the two mares because it was still her granddaughter after all. Granny Smith just had her opinions on the relationship but never voiced them out of fear of hurting Applejack’s friendship with Rainbow. She just sat on the side lines and waited for her granddaughter to come to her senses and move on. No matter how much she wanted to say something.
The hardest one to talk to about this was obviously Applebloom. With her being such a young age and impressionable they tried to explain it to her but she wasn’t able to fully understand. To Applebloom love was love despite who it was or what gender they were. Applejack could have explained how somepony’s would say otherwise but Applejack didn’t want to stack political issues on top of this as well. She just told Applebloom that no matter what anypony says love is love and don’t let anything change that thought.
After telling her family Applejack felt like a load of cinder blocks was taken off her back. She was relieved to have the support of her family behind her and Rainbow right by her side. Now she could get finally focus on getting back to work and the best part is that now her and Rainbow don’t have to sneak around or worry about being caught. They are finally free to be themselves in front of Applejack’s family.
The last month Rainbow and Applejack had gotten back into the rhythm of doing the usual things. Applejack went back to running the farm and Rainbow was back to weather patrol also being lazy as usual. Of course no matter how lazy she felt Rainbow always made the time to stop by the farm at the end of the day and spend a few hours with Applejack except on the weekends. The weekends was their time to be together twenty-four hours a day.
They spent the time at the farm or around town but that doesn’t mean they didn’t try to spend their time at Rainbow’s home. It’s just falling through clouds at two in the morning when you’re asleep isn’t anypony’s idea of a fun weekend. Twilight forgot to tell them that the “Walking on Clouds” spell had a short time limit. Rainbow got a few good laughs out of the experience but Applejack didn’t share in Rainbow’s humor.
The last few weeks have been good to the two mares. They’ve enjoyed each other’s company and learning new things about one another. Both personally and intimately.
* * *
“Mornin’ Rainbow” Applejack mumbled
Applejack was laying there not fully awake, her eyes were still closed, but she knew Rainbow was next to her. Mostly because of the unique smell of Rainbow’s mane from the shampoo AJ got her. Rainbow was still tired from the night they had. She had hoped Applejack would sleep in today but unfortunately for Rainbow that wouldn’t be the case.
“Morning AJ. I’m surprised you’re awake this early.” Rainbow answered as she shuffled around under the covers.
“Well of course Ah’m awake. Ah’m not the lazy one here.” Applejack replied as she rolled out of bed and walked to the mirror.
“No jokes…not this early. I wanna go back to sleep.” Rainbow grabbed the covers and curled up into a ball and tried to sleep.
“Ah don’t think so Rainbow. We got things to do today.” Applejack pulled the covers off Rainbow forcing her to wake up.
“You know I didn’t come here to work this weekend.” Rainbow remarked
“There’s no work. We just have to get a few things from town, that’s all.” Applejack answered
“Sounds like work.” Rainbow mumbled
“Come on it won’t be that bad. Just a few things and we’ll be back.” Applejack said
“You sure know how to make a pony work hard, don’t you?” Rainbow jokingly asked
“You would know wouldn’t you?” Applejack replied
Rainbow buried her head in the pillow trying to hide the fact she walked into that one. She then sat up, her mane a mess, and started to walk to the bathroom.
“I’m going to take a shower. I’ll see you downstairs.”
“Alright, don’t go flying off now.” Applejack answered
“What? ME? Never” Rainbow answered back
“So y’all are gonna be downstairs soon, RIGHT?” Applejack sarcastically reminded her
“Of course” Rainbow replied
“Good, now Ah won’t have to spend half the day huntin’ you down.”
Applejack put her trademark hat on and left the room while Rainbow walked into the bathroom and proceeded to take a shower. The rest of the family was still asleep except for Big Mac who was out in the orchards working. Applejack, on the other hoof, had plans to spend the day with Rainbow but she needed to get some things for the family first. Rainbow didn’t want to go out and shop for things but if it meant she could spend time with AJ it will be fine. Besides she could also get a delicious home cooked meal out of it as well.
Rainbow got done with her shower and spent a little extra time brushing her mane. After all she was in a relationship now so she had to make herself look good for her partner. The distinct aroma of the shampoo Applejack got her caught her nose. Rainbow wasn’t use to the smell yet but her marefriend bought it just for her so obviously she is going to use it. After getting ready Rainbow headed downstairs to where Applejack was. Rainbow crept around the corner and snuck up behind AJ then gave her a small kiss on her neck. Applejack cocked her head to the side.
“No fair. Y’all know how sensitive Ah am on my neck.” Applejack replied as she turned to Rainbow
“That’s why I did it. Besides you didn’t complain last night.” Rainbow replied
Before Applejack could fire back a remark the sound of Granny Smith could be heard coming down the stairs. The Apple family did know about Applejack and Rainbow being together but it still seemed awkward talking about it in front of Granny.
“Mornin’ Granny” Applejack answered
“Morning there Granny” Rainbow followed up
“Morning dear, I see Rainbow spent the night.” Granny answered back
“Uh yea she did. Ah hope that wasn’t a problem?” questioned Applejack
“No of course not as long as she helps you today.” Replied Granny
“Of course she will. Right, Rainbow?” Applejack asked as she looked over her shoulder at Rainbow trying to sneak out of the room.
“Umm. Yea! Sure would love to help…on my day off.” Rainbow muttered that last part to herself
“After breakfast we were gonna head out.” explained Applejack
“Actually I need for you two to go to the market now. We’re runnin’ low on supplies already.” suggested Granny
“Alright then come on Rainbow let’s get goin’.” Applejack commanded
“Ahhh so no food?” moaned Rainbow
“Y’all can eat when we get back.” Applejack responded
“Fine…better be worth it though.” Rainbow mumbled
Granny Smith gave Applejack the rather substantial list of supplies needed. Rainbow caught a glimpse at the list and her draw dropped. All she could think is that this is going to take longer than an hour. Her hopes of getting some home cooked food for breakfast seemed like a pipe dream now. Rainbow hung her head down and strolled out of the room to the front door.
“What’s wrong Rainbow?” asked Applejack
“Nothing…” Rainbow sighed
“Aww cheer up. Y’all may not get breakfast but Ah’ll treat ya to lunch, how’s that?” Applejack bargained
“Alright but don’t let me down on this one too.” Rainbow agreed
* * *
The couple had spent the morning going from shop to shop and getting the things the Apple family needed. Walking around Ponyville seemed to be more difficult now that they were together. No pony outside the Apple family, except Twilight, knew that Rainbow and Applejack are together and have been for a little over a month. Not even their close friends had knowledge or even any suspicions. The two kept the truth to themselves and waited for the right time to tell everypony.
As they walked through the market place they tried to keep a firm distance from each other but not far enough. They were friends after all and being too far from one another would be obvious. The two had come up with the appropriate amount of space so they would be close but not too close. Even though they were in public it still didn’t stop the two from ‘messing’ with each other from time to time.
After walking around all morning they were about through with the list. Just one more stop at Mr. Greenthumb’s stand then they will be done. Not too soon either because Rainbow’s stomach could out roar an Urisaminor at this point. She was starving for some of Applejack’s homemade vegetable stew. At this point she would have settled for something cooked by Sweetie Belle.
“Afternoon Mr. Greenthumb” greeted Applejack
“Afternoon there Applejack and I see Rainbow Dash is here with you again.” Mr. Greenthumb replied
Mr. Greenthumb was an older stallion who has seen his share of better days. Even though he was up in age that never stopped him from cracking jokes or growing some of the best produce in Equestria. He had a dark green coat with a semi-long greenish-grey mane. He had light brown eyes and a cutie mark of a hand-shovel and plow. If you looked hard enough you could see a faint hint of grey coming through his dark green coat showing his age.
“Yea I tend to stick around the farm and help out from time to time. It’s not a problem for a pony like me. I’m use to hard work.” Rainbow replied
“Well I would suggest taking it easy you two. If you hang around each other too much somepony may get the wrong ideas.” Mr. Greenthumb chuckled
“What? Wrong ideas, yea right, nothing going on here.” Rainbow answered as if being interrogated
“Ahh there’s nothing wrong with that. If that’s what you’re into that is. As for me I think you should grab love at first chance you get. You don’t want it to roll right by you, do you?” Mr. Greenthumb answered as if he knew there situation
“Uh Mr. Greenthumb not meaning to cut you off but can Ah get two heads of cabbage and three pounds of potatoes.” interrupted Applejack
“Of course dear, I’ll be back in a few seconds.” Mr. Greenthumb left and walked behind his cart to get the items
“Ah man for a second I thought he knew something.” sighed Rainbow
“How could he? He was just giving some kindly advice that’s all. Y’all need to stop worrying so much.” Applejack reassured Rainbow then wrapped her hind leg around Rainbow’s
“Hey calm down AJ, now I know somepony will notice this.” whispered Rainbow
“Y’all are the one who needs to ‘cool down’.” whispered Applejack
“HEY I SEE YOU TWO!”
“What?!” Rainbow yelled and began looking around
“There you two are.”
“Ahh man we’ve been found out.” Rainbow thought
“Rainbow! Applejack!”
The two ponies were tackled to the ground and one fell swoop.
“Hey there Pinkie” answered Applejack
“Pinkie…should have known.” moaned Rainbow
“Hey girls so what are you doing here?” asked Pinkie
“Just some shopping for the farm.” Applejack replied dusting herself off
“Oooohh that’s soo weird. Just a few minutes ago I was at the bakery making some bon-bons and I noticed that we were out of eggs for the chocolate so I thought ‘Hey I should go see Applejack she has chickens and they lay eggs’ so I rushed out of the store then got to the market and saw you two standing here. It’s like it was destiny!” Pinkie excitedly explained
“Or coincidence” Rainbow said as she rolled her eyes
“Well anyway I guess since we’re all here we can head back to farm together.” suggested Pinkie
“Sure thing we just need to finish up here.” explained Applejack
“Oh I can help” Pinkie suggested as she waved her hoof in the air as if she was in school
“Speaking of which here are your items Applejack.” Mr. Greenthumb interrupted
“Thank ya kindly Mr. Greenthumb and here’s the bits.” Applejack grabbed the cabbage and gave the potatoes to Pinkie
“Finally now we can head back and I can get something to eat.” Rainbow remarked
“After we store this stuff first” Applejack added
“Urgh, you’re a real slave driver aren’t you?” Rainbow retorted
“You would know best, wouldn’t ya?” Applejack added again with a smile
Rainbow’s face began to glow red from Applejack’s remark. Poor Pinkie Pie thought the two were poking fun at each other and that AJ got one over on Rainbow. If Pinkie knew what they were really suggesting she would probably be embarrassed as well. At any rate that didn’t stop Pinkie Pie from asking why Rainbow’s face got red like that. They didn’t tell her anything except that it’s an inside joke between them.
* * *
Back at the farm they were storing the supplies in the cellar behind the barn. It was mid-day now and Rainbow wouldn’t stop hinting at her stomach being empty and Applejack’s promise for lunch. Applejack would just roll her eyes and go back to what she was doing. First the supplies needed to be put away then Pinkie Pie’s need for eggs after would be lunch. Of course this didn’t stop Rainbow from dropping hints the whole time.
After getting the supplies stored Applejack walked over to the chicken coop to gather eggs for Pinkie Pie.
“Rainbow have y’all seen where Pinkie went?” Applejack asked
“Probably left, like my hopes for vegetable stew.” Rainbow remarked
“Oh for the love of Pete. Once this stuff gets done I’ll fix ya something.” Applejack annoying answered
“I saw her walk off to the chickens.” answered Rainbow
“And y’all didn’t stop her?” asked Applejack
“Nope” Rainbow responded
“Let go get her before she hurts herself…again.” sighed Applejack
The two walk around to the chicken coops and find Pinkie running around and chasing chickens. She was laughing and calling herself a chicken wrangler. Rainbow and Applejack decided to let Pinkie Pie just have fun in her little world for a while. The two leave Pinkie alone and head inside so Applejack can fix Rainbow that lunch she promised and so Rainbow will finally quit complaining.
Applejack and Rainbow both headed into the kitchen. Since coming to the Apple family home on weekends Rainbow has picked up a few things on cooking herself. She is nowhere as good as AJ but she can help her nonetheless. Rainbow started cutting up the vegetables need for the stew and Applejack handled all the technical things like grinding spices, mixing herbs and preparing the vegetables. The two had become close to one another and enjoyed their company plus the Apple family like having Rainbow around to help every now and then. Rainbow enjoyed being around the family as well.
It took about an hour of cooking but the stew was ready and Rainbow had been dying for this all day. Just as they were about to sit at the table Pinkie Pie came bursting in through the front door sniffing the air.
“I smell stew!” Pinkie happily yelled and headed for the kitchen
“Ah yea help yourself.” Applejack offered
“Just save seconds for me!” Rainbow exclaimed
“Boy those chickens sure can run and run and run.” replied Pinkie
“Well when you have a giant, pink, pony chasing saying she’s a chicken wrangler you tend to run.” Rainbow whispered to AJ
Applejack snickered as Pinkie Pie sat at the table. Pinkie Pie began eating the stew and moaning with every bite. It was so delicious but then again Applejack’s food is the best in Ponyville. Applejack got up from the table and headed outside to get Pinkie Pie’s eggs for her and to see if any of the chickens might need to be calmed down.
“Ahh man that was good eatin’.” Pinkie said as she patted her stomach
“Yea AJ can cook the best food around.” Rainbow replied
Rainbow was still eating hers. She was savoring every mouthful compared to Pinkie who gulped it down. Rainbow was halfway through her bowl when AJ came walking back in and handed the basket of eggs to Pinkie. Pinkie gave Applejack a hoofful of bits and started to leave. As Pinkie was heading for the door a knock was heard. Pinkie opened the door to see Twilight standing on AJ’s front porch.
“Twlight? Well fancy seein’ you here.” Applejack answered surprisingly
“Yea shouldn’t you be in Canterlot or something? You know going through princess training.” Rainbow added
“What, no? What gave you that idea?” Twilight responded
“Well with y’all becomin’ an Alicorn and all, also we haven’t seen that much of you since then.” Applejack answered
“Well I’ve been busy with my studies of new levels of magic.” Twilight replied
“Ooh Twilight can you fly yet?!” Pinkie asked
“Yes Pinkie I can fly. You know that.” Twilight nodded
“Oh yea” Pinkie remarked and giggled
“So what’s with the visit?” asked Applejack
“Actually Canterlot is the reason I’m here. I received a letter from Princess Celestia saying she wants to meet with us.” Twilight explained
“All six of us?” Rainbow asked
“Yes she said it was urgent. It must be something big because she didn’t tell me everything.” Twilight continued
“Well looks like we’re off to Canterlot then.” Applejack replied as she shifted her hat
-End of Chapter 1-
Chapter 2
A New Foe Appears
The next day Twilight gathered her friends at her library to discuss what kind of plans Princess Celestia might have in store for them.
“So Twilight tell us, what exactly does the princess want us for?” Rarity asked
“To be honest Rarity I’m not even sure. She didn’t tell everything in the letter and I didn’t push on the subject. All I know is that she wants to see us.” Twilight explained
“Oh dear…I hope Discord isn’t acting like his old self again. I mean…we worked so hard to change him to good. It would be a shame if our efforts to go to waste.” Fluttershy added
“No I don’t think it was Discord. Princess Celestia would have told me that much at least.” Twilight replied
“Well whatever this problem is we sure as sugar can fix it. Ain’t no problem we’ve encountered beat us yet.” Applejack remarked
“Yea we so totally got this.” Rainbow added
“Oh boy! Another adventure with the six of us! This is gonna be tons of fun.” Pinkie Pie excitedly replied
“Well we have to make preparations first Pinkie. I’ve taken the liberty of making a check list of items we might need. Please look over it carefully and get everything on your list.” Twilight suggested while holding her head up high
“Not to be a wet blanket Twilight but how do you know we’ll need this stuff. I mean for all we know we could just be going to Canterlot for some diplomatic stuff like at the Crystal Empire.” remarked Rainbow
“The princess wouldn’t send me a letter with a word like ‘urgent’ if we weren’t needed for something of the utmost importance.” Twilight replied
“Yea I guess you have a point.” sighed Rainbow
“Alright so everypony head back home and get ready. This could be a long journey so make sure you’re prepared properly and that your pets will be taken care of. We’ll meet at the train depot in an hour.” Twilight instructed
The five friends left Twilight’s library and headed back to their homes to gather the supplies they will be needing for this unknown journey that lies ahead of them. Rainbow flies to her home and get everything she needs. Rainbow looks over the check list carefully this time marking off the things she has stashed in her bag. The last time Twilight gave Rainbow a list she skimmed a few things and that adventure didn’t end to well. Given she did get Applejack out of what happened but Rainbow doesn’t want to repeat her mistake again. More importantly she doesn’t want to look like a fool in front of AJ again.
Applejack does the same. She figures that Rainbow being Rainbow will cut a few things out so it’s up to her to make sure she packs certain things just in case Rainbow doesn’t. Applejack knows how Rainbow thinks and she doesn’t tend to think a lot on planning. Given Rainbow is a reliable pony but she had a history of just acting with her head. Rainbow isn’t one to plan out her movements she just acts in the moment and worries about the consequences later. That's probably one trait Applejack loves and hates about Rainbow. After running around and gathering the essential items Applejack is ready to leave. She grabs her bags then heads to the front door and much to her surprise Rainbow is already there.
“Took you long enough.” remarked Rainbow
“You know me. Ah had to make sure Ah got everything needed and then some.” Applejack replied
“I was wondering if it would be alright if Tank could stay here. No offense to Spike but I just trust your family more plus Applebloom and Tank get along well enough.” Rainbow inquired
“Sure it’s no problem. Ah’m sure Applebloom won’t mind lookin’ after the lil’ fella.” Applejack answered as she scratched Tank’s shell
“Thanks also I came here thinking we could walk together. After all the others don’t know about us except for Twilight so we’ll have to act normal around them. Well normal according to them.” Rainbow continued
“Yea Ah see your point.” Applejack added
“Well maybe this ‘journey’ Pinkie calls it won’t last that long.” Rainbow replied
“Come on girl. The others might be waiting, let’s get Tank settled and get going.” Applejack answered
Rainbow and Applejack entered the house and they put Tank in AJ’s room with Wanona. They gave Applebloom the directions to taking care of the pets while they’re gone. To be on the safe side though they also wrote down the directions and gave them to Big Mac just for reassurance. The two mares left the house and headed for Ponyville and their next big adventure. Of course they were in no rush, they moved at a pace where they could enjoy one another’s company the way they want to before they have to act ‘normal’.
* * *
Rainbow and Applejack arrive at the train station. As expected they are the last ones there. They walked across the street to the station but before entering Rainbow grabbed Applejack gave her a long, passionate, kiss. They didn’t know when they would be alone again on this trip or if they would be alone at all. Rainbow wasn’t going to take that chance. She was going to get one last kiss in before they had to leave.
They stood there on the steps of the train station lost in each other’s embrace. Feeling one another individually but not feeling like separate ponies. They enjoyed this time as long as they could, as long as they must, until finally one of them had to give. Rainbow moved her head back but Applejack moved hers forward trying to keep up with her. Applejack didn't want to let go and neither did Rainbow. After a few seconds they let go and where lost in each other's eyes. Applejack started to walk up the stairs and into the station.
“There you two are. What took you guys so long?” Pinkie Pie asked
“Sorry we got…held up. Rainbow brought Tank by my house so Applebloom could look after him.” Applejack answered
“Well at least you two are punctual. Another five minutes and we would have to had to wait for the next train.” moaned Rarity
Twilight tried not to giggle. She wasn’t sure herself but anypony that knew about Applejack and Rainbow’s situation could guess why they were late arriving. They needed sometime to themselves, it’s obvious. if you knew that is. It’s none of Twilight’s business what they do now. Twilight struggled to put them together so everything else, like telling everypony, is up to them.
The train arrived at the station and the six friends boarded. The conductor motioned Twilight to the front cart. When they walked in through the door the whole cart was empty. The five friends looked at each other wondering where the other passengers are.
“It’s one of the perks of being a princess. I bought the tickets and the train conductor gave us a whole car to ourselves.” Twilight answered her puzzled friend’s looks
“I have to say Twilight I’m more than impressed. Oh how I wish to become a princess myself. I’m just so envious.” Rarity replied
“Trust me Rarity being a princess is more than just looking pretty and getting free things. There is a lot of work involved.” Twilight explained
“I know but the glamour of the lifestyle must that of dreams. Having one’s name known far and wide by everypony must an attractive trait of the job.” Rarity continued
“Well it is something that I have come to enjoy.” Twilight admitted
“Please take your seats. The train will be leaving the station momentarily.” yelled the conductor
“Oh if I would have known about our own private car I would have packed better.” complained Rarity
“Rarity this is a mission for the princess not your vacation.” Applejack replied
“Your Highness, please if you will be seated.” asks the conductor
“Of course” replies Twilight
Rainbow grabs a seat towards the back of the car and lays her bags on the floor. Applejack sees Rainbow alone in the back and heads back there to sit with her. When Applejack gets to the seat Rainbow is at Rainbow lays down taking up the whole thing. They stop and stare at each other and Applejack walks to the seat across the aisle from Rainbow.
“I’m going to knock out for a bit. You guys can wake me up when we get there.” Rainbow said as she rolled over and fell asleep
“Yea Ah’m gonna get some shut eye too. It’s gonna be a long ride it seems.” Applejack followed up Rainbow’s idea and slept through the ride to Canterlot
* * *
“Hey…hey Applejack wake up.”
“Hmm…not now just a little long Rainbow.” Applejack replied half asleep
“Umm AJ it’s Twilight.” Twilight answered
“Huh? Oh sorry Twi Ah’m just use to Rainbow wakin’ me up.” apologized Applejack
“Oh, well, Rainbow woke up when the train stopped and she’s already off.” Twilight explained
“Oh I see” replied Applejack
“AJ I know it’s not my place but are you two fine?” inquired Twilight
“Yea we just agreed that when we’re around our friends that we should keep our space since the others don’t know about us.” Applejack explained
“Oh I understand then.” Twilight nodded and left the car
“Ah just never thought she would be this good at acting.” Applejack thought to herself
Applejack sat up and stretched then grabbed her hat and bags. She walked off the train and saw her friends standing around talking to one another while waiting for Applejack to wake up from her deep sleep.
“Wow AJ I thought I was the only one who could sleep that deep.” Rainbow remarked
“Please Rainbow Ah know for a fact you can sleep through anything.” Applejack answered
“Oh and how do you know that?” Rainbow retorted
“From the time y’all worked on the farm, remember?” Applejack replied as she strolled by Rainbow
“Right…is she mad at me?” Rainbow wondered
“So what now Twilight?” Fluttershy asked
“We need to see the princess right away. Not time to rest girls.” Twilight motioned with her head towards the castle
The six walked down the street towards the castle. It didn’t seem to bother Twilight but the other five weren’t use to ponies bowing in front of them. Another perk of being a princess they guessed. You can walk down the street without anypony obstructing your pathway. All the royal treatment was getting to Rarity’s head; she began to walk around with her head held up high and waving at the other ponies. Applejack had to give a nudge to bring her back to reality.
They reached the castle gate where two armed sentries stood, silent and waiting, looking for any signs of trouble in the area. Normally Twilight would have to announce her presence to go pass but now the guards let her through without a word and even they bow to the six as they walk by. Rarity began to feel light-headed again from the treatment but was able to regain her composure.
“So, um, Twilight none of this treatment goes to your head?” Fluttershy questioned
“No, not really, after a certain point you kind of tune it out. Although I still haven’t fully come to accept it yet. I still find it weird
how ponies treat me now.” Twilight answered
“I do not see how Twilight? I mean if I were in your shoes I would know exactly how I would spend my days. First I would…” but before Rarity could finish Pinkie Pie interrupted
“Ooh I would bake a ginormous, ultra, super, deluxe, double chocolate cake with white chocolate fudge icing and go through the streets handing out slices to everypony, HAHA!” Pinkie Pie famous laugh and crazy ideas made the other five laugh as well.
“Well it seems like you six are enjoying yourselves.”
“Princess! I came as soon as I got the letter.” Twilight replied
“That’s great to hear. It’s also good to see all of you again.” Celestia answered
“What was with urgent message princess? Has Discord gone back to his old ways?” Pinkie asked
“No. I’m afraid we can’t talk about it here. This conversation needs to be held in a more private location. Come with me and I’ll explain.” Celestia answers and starts to walk inside the castle
The six follow behind the princess as she leads them through hallway after hallway inside the castle. The whole time Celestia stays silent and poised as she always does. Twilight had become the same way since becoming a princess herself. No doubt Celestia has been giving her lessons on proper etiquette. The other five didn’t know if they should speak up or just keep following.
After a certain amount of time Celestia stops in the middle of a hallway. Celestia conjures her magic and forces the wall to her side to shift revealing a secret hallway. She then continues down the hall lighting the way with her horn. After another minute or two of walking in this dark, damp, tunnel they come to a dead end. Celestia then moves this wall too and they emerge in the throne where Luna is waiting for them.
“Wait hold on! We did all that just end up here?” Rainbow exclaimed
“Rainbow, quiet.” Rarity whispered
“Princess I have to agree with Rainbow. Was all that necessary?” Twilight asked
“Yes Twilight I needed to make sure that we were not followed here.” Celestia answered
“What for, um, your majesty?” inquired Fluttershy
“I believe telling this story is better suited for me.” Luna answers
“All of you here are familiar the unicorn sorcerer Star Swirl the Bearded and from your recent run in with one of his incomplete spells that we sent to Twilight to solve you are also aware of the fact that Star Swirl had many spells that he did not complete within his lifetime. Well my sister and I took it upon ourselves to archive his incomplete spells in a secret location somewhere within the walls of this castle. Every century or so my sister and I come across a unicorn who is gifted in the art of magic. When we find this unique unicorn we train them and test them to build up their level of the magical arts.” Luna continued
“You see Twilight you are the unicorn that we found from this generation that possesses unnatural talent in magic. That does not mean you have been the only one though. There have been others before you but none who have ascended to the level of Alicorn.” Celestia added
“Once we build up their level through intense training we give them a test. To solve one of Star Swirl’s unfinished spells. There have only been a small percentage that have been able to do this. The others were either not strong enough or surcame to the will of dark magic, like I did.” Luna explained
“Okay but what does have to do with us?” Applejack asked
“In due time Applejack” Celestia answered
“The reason why you have been summoned here is because of Twilight’s predecessor. A unicorn named Lucid Vision. He was the unicorn we chose due to his talent in magic. He ranked up through magical studies unlike any unicorn we met. He had a thirst for knowledge but that led to his thirst for power.” Luna explained
“We confused his thirst for power for an unwillingness to learn. We didn’t see the signs that he was learning the dark arts behind our backs. That was until one day when he confronted me and my sister. He challenged us to a magical duel for the crowns to Equestria. We denied him his wish and tried to talk to him but he was too far gone for us to help. We had no choice but fight him.” Celestia added
“We had to protect the kingdom even if it meant hurting our pupil.” Luna added
“What happen to him? This Lucid Vision?” Twilight inquired
“We accepted his challenge and we bested him in battle. After the fight the guards tried to detain him but he proved to be strong enough escape. We held a pony hunt for him. We even offered a reward of twenty-thousand bits for his location.” Celestia explained
“Did you find him?” Rainbow asked
“We did a year later. The only reason we found him was because he was murdered.” Celestia continued
“So what does this Lucid Vision unicorn guy have to do with us?” Rarity asked
"When we found his home there was blood stains all over the walls and floor. We assume he was murdered by an unknown assailant he double crossed during his time running and stealing." Celestia added
"Stealing? Well that's just rude!" Pinkie Pie added
"The items he stole were magical items used in conjuring and casting spells. We believe he was doing research to try and obtain some kind of power that he could beat us with." Luna continued
“We searched the home he was living in and we found books, scrolls, charms, spell casting items. The items he stole but the thing that was missing though was his research notes.” Luna answered
“We believe Lucid Vision had taken on an apprentice of his own. He was probably training this unicorn to join him in his fight against us and to take the crowns. We never found any trace of this phantom apprentice though. That is until we received a letter a week ago from an anonymous source stating the apprentice has returned.” Celestia explained
“We didn’t take it serious at first because Lucid Vision’s apprentice would have to be at least one-hundred years old by now. That was until we received another letter saying that this apprentice had finished Lucid Vision’s unfinished spell and that they were going to use on Canterlot sometime soon. Until now, only my sister and I knew about Lucid Vision’s unfinished spell. The only way that this person could have known this is if they were his apprentice.” Luna continued
“That’s why I have to be so elusive earlier. We do not know what this spell does or if it affects ponies. I could not take any chances with this meeting today.” Celestia added
“So what do you want us to do about this princess?” Twilight asked
“What we need you and your friends to do is…”
Before Luna could finish her sentence the doors flung open and a royal guard came running in. He was out of breath and looked as if he had just witnessed a ghost rising from its grave.
“My ladies, pardon my abrupt entrance but a stallion in the greeting hall. He says he has information about who sent those letters to you a week ago. Another thing, his eyes, they’re not normal.”
“Well then let’s see what he knows, right sister?” Luna asks
“Let’s go and see.” Celestia answers back
The Mane six follows Princess Celestia out to the greeting hall. The guard escorting them walks at a fast pace but when he reaches the hall he stops. He takes a deep breath and looks around to see if anypony is still inside. After looking he rushes back to the party.
“He’s gone! The guards watching him, they are gone too!” reports the guard
“Luna” Celestia demands
“Right, I’ll secure the grounds. I will return shortly.” Luna run offs back down the hall
“Guard tell us about the stallion.” Celestia demands
“Your majesty, there is nothing to tell. He walked in like he own the place. He wore a hood over his head and a cloak over his body. We demanded that he remove his garment so we could see his face but he casted a spell. A levitation spell and sent guards flying all over. He must be a unicorn of some kind. I caught a glimpse at his eyes and they…they burned red like a fire.” the guard explained
“How can you be sure it was a stallion or a unicorn?” Fluttershy asked
“How else can a pony cast a spell unless they are a unicorn?” The guard answered
Hearing this news made Applejack shiver. Rainbow could see Applejack shake so she moved her wing over Applejack’s back to show her support. Applejack could feel the feathers move along her back. Applejack knew Rainbow was trying to give support to her but she also knew they had to keep up appearances in public. Applejack stepped to the side out from under Rainbow’s wing. She didn’t even give Rainbow a look back she just moved away.
“As for how I know he was a stallion. His voice was dark and sinister like…” the guard was interrupted by the sound a dark echoing voice
“Well Princess Celestia, if you are so much into me then why not get information from the source?”
“Who are you?!” Celestia demanded
“Oh now princess there would be no fun in just ‘giving’ away information like that. Meet me in the courtyard.”
“Sister” Luna yelled as she returned
“So you heard him too.” Celestia answered
“Let’s go meet this stallion.” Luna replied
The party rushed out of the room and back down the hallway. They moved through corridor after corridor getting closer to the courtyard. They turned a corner and came out to a breezeway that overlooks the garden. They stopped and scanned the area trying to find signs of this stallion’s presence. They saw nothing so they continued down the breezeway and came to a large set of marble stairs that lead to the garden.
They walked down the staircase and into the garden keeping a constant watch for anything. It was quiet, nothing seemed to move, which is unusual for the garden during spring.
“Is this some sort of trick?” Luna whispered
“I can reassure you my dear Luna there is no trickery here. I am, indeed, in the garden. Come to the center where the fountain is located. I’ll be waiting.”
They rush through the garden heading towards the center. Always looking over their shoulders not knowing what to expect. Once they emerged from the shrubbery they were at the fountain. It was quiet still and no sign of the unicorn.
“Blind as always I see.”
“There!” Rainbow pointed out
“He’s…hovering above the fountain?” Fluttershy asked
“That is an advanced form of the Levitation spell. This unicorn has mastered the ability to self-levitate. Be on you guard, who knows what else he has learned.” advised Celestia
“Well let’s see how great he is when I bring him down.” Rainbow replied as she flew directly at him
“Rainbow, wait!” Applejack yelled
“Insolence”
Rainbow flew right at the stallion with blinding speed. Right as she was about to reach him a flash of light appeared and he was gone. Rainbow knew there was no way he could have escaped or flew faster than her. Nevertheless Rainbow didn’t see him or saw where he went.
“Rainbow behind you!” Twilight cried out
“What?!” Rainbow turned
“And arrogance!” the stallion yelled out and casted a lighting attack the struck her wing.
Rainbow fell to the ground with a loud thud and laid there in shock. Applejack, not thinking, ran over to her love and grabbed her.
“Princess was that…?” Twilight asked
“A Weather conjuring spell.” Celestia answered
“What about earlier? That wasn’t a teleportation spell he used.” Twilight continued to ask
“It was the Reversed Mirror spell and the flash was a Flare spell.” Celestia replied
“I’ve never heard of those.” Twilight inquired
“They are advanced spells Twilight. The Reversed Mirror spell creates a magical invisible mirror that projects the user’s image from any location near the mirror. When somepony approaches the mirror it disappears and the user gets put in its place. The Flare spell is when a unicorn stores up massive amounts of magic and releases it at one time creating a blinding light. He must have used the Flare spell to blind Rainbow when she got to close to the mirror so when he switched he could escape. Spells like these are only able to be done by a pony on Star Swirl the Bearded’s level. What’s more is that he was able to do them together. Then follow it up with a Weather conjure spell. He’s showing off, telling us of his power without actually saying it. He’s playing with us.” Luna explained
The stallion kept his pose as he hovered in the air just inches above everypony else. He kept his eyes closed as he meditated and thought of what his next move will be. Everypony else just stood their ground and waited to see what he would do next. Then a faint glow was seen under his cloak. The stallion was caught off guard by this and reached under his coat. It was a charm of some kind and the light it was giving off was pulsing bright red and the charm was shaking.
He held it up and opened his eyes. The eyes the guard had said he seen were not a disappointment. They glowed a dark red as if they were on fire. An intimidating look for somepony with such power as him. He moved the charm around until it glowed a steady red.
“This is interesting…”
In a split second the stallion went from being in the air to the ground and in front of Rainbow. Applejack sat there staring at the thing that hurt Rainbow and all she could think about was getting revenge. He moved his cloak over Rainbow causing her to vanish from in front of Applejack. She frantically looked around and found him standing in front of the fountain holding Rainbow in his arms.
“What the hell! Let her go!” Applejack demanded
“Yes this is interesting…” the stallion mumbled as he snickered and held the charm up again
He then dropped Rainbow to the ground and put his charm away. He turned and began to walk away. Applejack ran after him but in a bright flash he was gone, this time for good. Applejack stopped and looked around trying to find him but he was gone. The only thing left was the scorched earth where he stood.
Applejack turned a started to run back to Rainbow who was still unconscious on the ground. After she turned and saw all her friends were standing around Rainbow she realized that she wouldn’t be able to hold Rainbow in her arms like she wants to.
The guard picked up Rainbow and carried her to the infirmary inside the castle. The others walked with him and Applejack was right next to Rainbow’s side the whole time. She kept looking over at her hoping that she will be fine and praying that she will wake up. Right now all Applejack wants to do is help her lover but Rainbow wouldn’t want that. She would be more concerned with keeping up the charade and waiting till Applejack wanted to tell everypony. For now Applejack will just sit and wait like a friend would.
-End of Chapter 2-
