How things started
Huh...huh... Agh... Why are they acting up now?I was just starting off to find sister and mother.
A cloaked pony huffed, then continued galloping.
Those monsters! And the Solaris told me they’d help my homeland.
The mysterious pony stopped and looked back. There were strange looking creatures wandering aimlessly.
It’s just a ruse! They still know where I am. I’m not stopping to rest just because you’re all acting clueless!
The cloaked pony ran on.
***
Twilight Sparkle was walking at the edge of town. Hopping on a rock, she scanned the small store. “Hmm? It’s so bland looking. I didn’t know there was a shop like this... I can’t imagine anyone here.” Said Twilight. “Maybe it sells wood?” Spike suggested, but Twilight shook her head. “There’s wood all over in the forests. Let’s go and check it out. Won't know ‘till we try, right?” They walked in. A bell chimed.
Darn. I wouldn't see anything this empty if I lost all the books in the library.
“And what shall I be doing for you, miss?”
Twilight looked up. A pony walked out of the door marked as “Staff Only”.
“Ah, forgive me if I've startled you. My name is Rafael Fredric. You are Twilight Sparkle, yes?” Twilight twitched her nose. “That’s me. Anyway, I was wondering what all this-”
All this what, exactly?
“-well, all this emptiness, is supposed to be?”
“Hmm. good question. You see, my partner and I are antique dealers. Look at the cushion in here.” The collector pointed at the small glass case. Twilight bent down, staring into the cushion’s emptiness.
There’s... nothing there?
Spike stated, ”There isn’t anything special about it...” Twilight peered in closely. She gasped. She saw a circular impression.
The collector took out a photo. “This beauty here was recently sold to Miz Celestia. I assume some sort of celebration?”
Wow. that’s some crown.
Spike raised a thoughtful claw. “Oh! Twilight! I forgot to give you this! Princess Celestia sent it a few days ago!” Spike handed her a letter. Twilight read out loud: “The ponies of Ponyville are formally invited to my Grand Galloping Gala. Please meet in the Banquet hall, where we will have a formal reception. Sincerely, Princess Celestia.” Twilight unrolled the scroll more.
“P.S. Twilight, as my most knowledgeable and trusted student, there are matters I would like to discuss with you in private.” Hmm? What could that be about?
“Ah, so it is. I may not be going for there are too many things for me to do, however, you will most likely spot my partner there, being the figure that he is,” The collector said.
Ahh! what?! 6 pm... today?!
“Spiiiiiiike... This is for June 12! And it’s in three hours! Oh, we gotta go!” Twilight exclaimed. Tugging Spike along, she galloped out of the room. “Bye Mister Friedrich! Alright, come on Spike. You wouldn’t want to miss Rarity and we’ve only got 3 hours so we better- What’s that?” Spike was deliriously sniffing a fancy card and fainted. Twilight caught the card.
“F. & D. Authentic Antiques?”
She sniffed the paper.
Urgh! Why, Rarity, does this paper smell like you?
Twilight galloped on.
***
Twilight and Spike arrived at the palace doors. The coach pulled off back down the road.
“Ah, Miss Sparkle. The castle has been expecting you. I am Princess Celestia’s Chancellor,” He said.
He is the what!?
Twilight blinked in surprise.
“Hmm...? You- I- you- huh?” Twilight stammered out.
“I believe that I have not thanked you for spreading happiness, and of course for bringing Princess Luna back to us. ”
“Oh- um. I-, I-, I-, you... we...ee...???” The chancellor gave her an unsure look,
Oh Princess Celestia, why’d I have to be so nervous around authorities?
“Twilight says that she’s welcome. Don’t worry about her, she’s just a little nervous.“ Spike spoke.
“I suggest you hurry along, your friends are inside right now.” The chancellor said with a pleasurable smile. Twilight staggered out, “O- o- of course. I- it’s been my pleasure meeting you,” her cheeks red with embarrassment.
... I’m such an egghead sometimes...
She slipped past the chancellor and walked in the main lobby. “Thanks there Spike... You’re a lifesaver.”
“*Snrk* Hahaha! Twilight, your face back there was redder than Rarity’s roses!”
Ah... but he’s still such a dolt sometimes...
Twilight came up to a set of doors. A magic aura pointed towards the middle. She chose the central set of doors, leading her through a hallway bustling with waiters and chefs. She went up to the double doors at the end and peered into the banquet hall. She gasped and bounded in.
Wow...
The ponies of the castle had redecorated. The room was 10 times larger than the lobby, with golden diamond chandeliers overlooking 100 tables. Twilight bounded over to table 52, where Applejack and Fluttershy resided. As far as she could see, ponies were running up and down aisles, Pinkie Pie was blowing balloons to entertain little ponies and Rainbow Dash was zipping around with some pegasi. They began to say hello when Spike dramatically fainted.
Rarity’s perfume sure is strong today. Still managed to faint several strangers. Mental Note: Keep Spike away from Rarity.
“My darling, you look absolutely gorgeous!” said Rarity. Twilight suddenly looked down at her purple evening gown and felt guilty to Fluttershy’s angel tee and Applejack’s white blouse. She gave a sheepish smile, hoping that Applejack and Fluttershy hadn't heard Rarity. However, all of their clothes were nothing to Rarity’s flowing teal dress and intricate swirl mane design.
They managed to gather Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash, and Spike came to after fainting twice more, flushing Rarity a brilliant shade of crimson. They all had their individual thing to talk about; recent turn of fashion, apple pastries, Rarity’s dress...
There was the sound of a spoon and glass. Everypony bowed down. Princess Celestia was at the top of her balcony with nothing special but her new mithril and diamond crown.
“I thank you all for coming to the annual Gala. It is my joy to hold this celebration for all you wondrous ponies. Please everypony, enjoy yourselves and relax.” Princess Celestia walked down the grand staircase as the crowd cheered. Princess Celestia trotted over to table 52. “Twilight Sparkle, I’m glad that you made it here. I was afraid that there might be some trouble with messaging you. I know he does not like waking up to a letter. Come, there is a matter I would like to speak to you with.” Twilight blushed again. “What? Oh, of course. Right away.” Twilight bounded over to Princess Celestia’s side and nuzzled her leg. They started walking up the staircase together.
"I find that you have been doing well, Twilight Sparkle?"
"Yes. I've been okay. Have you been well?"
"It's been quite peaceful, though I find myself to be enjoying the days less and less, with what has been happening."
With what has been... happening?
"Well what has been happening?"
“Now Twilight Sparkle, to first comprehend what I need to say, I must ask you this- I trust that you are already quite informed, but it is for clarification- how did Princess Luna become... corrupted?”
“Hmmm... well Princess Luna controlled the night while you had the day. She became angered at the weakness of the moon and how it depended on the sun, and wanted to take over night and day. To put it bluntly, her desires.”
“Yes... There is something about that is what I wanted to ask you. Do you think that you are capable of helping me?”
Me... Helping the princess? What?
“Erm... your majesty- well, I could try.”
I could try? That’s all I can think of?
“Thank you. The thing thing happens to be that Princess Luna has been undergoing some mental stress, and during part of the time that she controls her consciousness, she barely remembers me, only hatred, jealousy, and greed. Her behavior has been awfully queer, seeing that it has been such a long since the elements have brought her back from 'Nightmare Moon',”
Princess Celestia stopped and turned to Twilight. “I am fearing that the same will happen as... the last time. But her feelings will most likely be reinforced, now that I have experienced controlling day and night instead of her. Of course, she once again rises the moon, but she still seems to have an overwhelming depression. What I want you to do, as my loyalest student, is to find out what is happening to her, because Princess Luna was not like this. Yes, she may have been the ‘fun’ sister and a little out of bounds, but she was also kind, and gentle. I fear that there may be a driving fo-”
Princess Celestia paused suddenly.
“A driving force...”
Twilight gasped, her eyes wide open. Princess Celestia’s mane had lost it’s color, only being a sickly translucent color. The air around her shimmered darkly, refracting the tapestry on the wall behind her. Princess Celestia closed her eyes. “Twilight... I... this pain, I- I-...feel terribly sick...” And she collapsed, the crown clanging with a heaviness on the floor.
Gyah what what what oh my celestial princess what is going on with princess celestia
“Princess!” The chancellor yelled, and ran up the stairs with a few royal guards. Somepony screamed. The crowd fell in dismay, scrambling frantically. The chancellor knelt down next to Princess Celestia at the top of the staircase. Celestia was looking terribly distraught, her eyes were closed, breathing shallow, and had a colorless mane. The chancellor turned, and looked at Twilight. “You. What have you done?!”
Ahhh it’s him what do I do
Averting her eyes from the chancellor, Twilight backed away. “I- we- talking- Luna!” but as she stepped back, she mis-stepped onto the staircase and fell down.
”She’s running away, get her!”
Twilight was tumbling down the stairs as royal guards flew after her. Twilight smashed into Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy.
“Ouch! That hurts! Twilight, watch where you’re rolling from now on, ‘kay?” Rainbow Dash said. “Oh. Sorry, Rainbow.” Twilight said. When the dust cloud settled, The guards were right in front of Twilight. Princess Celestia was being carried to her room.
“What have you done to princess Celestia? Why have you harmed her?” Questioned one of the guards.
Huh...? I didn’t do anything!
“What? I haven’t done anything except talk to her!” Twilight blurted out.
“So why would the Princess just faint?!” the guard yelled. “Why else would you try to escape? We should arrest you right now!”
I'm *not** escaping!*
“But I haven’t done anything!” Twilight stammered.
The guards charged at her. Twilight turned and galloped for the exit. “I told you already, I had completely nothing to do with this!”
Please, stop chasing me!
“So why are you running!?” A guard yelled back.
“I-”
ah. keep calm. okay. please stop chasing me.
She slowed to a halt and turned around.
“I’m sorry! Will you stop chasing me?”
But nopony could hear her over the noise of the crowd in distress. The guards barely noticed that she had stopped except for a blue pegasi guard who tried slowing them down, but they still slammed into her. She was butted out the Main entrance. Her gown caught on the caught on the doorknob and ripped, causing her to spiral in the air, right towards Spike.
Ah... Rats.
Rarity trotted over, “Oh, are you alright Spike? And Twilight darling, you're beautiful gown has been ripped!”
What were you two talking about out here?
Twilight groaned. “ohw... you two are...?”
“What? You don't remember who we are? Hmm... hope you haven't gotten amnesia. Nevermind, my darling, we have to do something about you first!” Rarity magicked Twilight into a coach, and then hauled delirious Spike in herself.
“No... Rarity... I need to speak with Princess C- ow- lestia...”
“Hush, don’t say another word, you’ll be under my intensive care from now on.” Rarity spoke dominantly. The guards burst out the door as the coach disappeared from over the hill. “Rrgh!" The guard punches the door in anger.
"I guess we’ll have to tell the chancellor that that we couldn't get her." He turned around. “Everypony, Miss Twilight Sparkle is missing. If you see her, we must bring her into custody.”
***
“Gyah!” The pony yelled. “Grr... Keep away from me, Solaris!”
they really are persistent...
The Solari creatures moved in closer. The pony twisted around.
I’ll have to just get in the forest. Now if only this annoying river wasn't here.
The stranger turned back. The Solari were closing in on. The stranger was surrounded. “Tch... Well then?” The stranger spoke. The Solari rumbled after her and pounced.
Be that way and come with me, then. But... I will find you. And you mother.
The stranger leaped backwards into the rushing river.
***
Twilight groaned again.
Rarity’s intensive care is pretty rough.
“Keep still Twilight! If Spike can do it, so can you.”
“Spike is unconscious! That’s not fair!”
“Fine then, would you like me to make you unconscious?”
“I-... Hmph. Fine, I’ll stay still.”
“Don’t worry and just relax, the pain will be over soon.”
“Rarity, you shouldn’t have brought me over here. I needed to clear things up with the chancellor and help Princess Celestia!”
“You could explain what happened to me first.”
“Fine. I... mmm... Actually, I don’t know what happened myself for that matter.”
“Well good thing we brought you over. Let’s do some thinking.” Rarity finished bandaging Twilight’s hip. “What happened in the beginning all the way up to when she fainted?”
“Hmm? Oh! Well, Princess Celestia wanted to talk to me, so I went over and began going up the stairs. We talked about her sister’s behavior and jealousy and then near the top of the staircase, she collapsed.”
“Really now? Just collapsed? What did she look like? It is, after all, about the fashion!”
Ergh... not sure that's the way it is, Rarity...
“Well, she sort of lost her balance after the air around her seemed to bend.”
“Like she was sick?”
“Yes- no wait, not sick, like something was draining all her energy. Like- like- Oh no... It was like she was cursed...”
“No! Really now? Who could do such a thing? They must be one horrible pony to have such hatred for Princess Celestia.”
Hmm... Hmm? Hatred for... Princess Celestia...?
“Well? Who do you think it is? What are you thinking?”
I...I...Gahh! Princess... Prin... cess... Princess...
“Uh! ummm. I was actually considering... Do you remember... What I said we were talking about?”
“Hmmm...? When you and the Princess were...?” Then Rarity gasped. They momentarily had the same thought and said it. “Princess Luna.”
***
“Hmm? You’re asking me? I still haven’t the slightest on what happened to Her majesty, much less Twilight.” Applejack proclaimed. The guard solemnly replied, “Well, if you say so...” Apple jack leaned in and whispered, “Listen sugarcube, if I see her, I’ll give ya a holler, ‘kay?” The guard nodded and walked over to a different passerby.
Geez, what’s with everyone today?
Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were also being interrogated, but Pinkie Pie was giving a few guards a hard time, hopping all over the place.
“Twilight, do you think you could do something about this?” Applejack muttered to herself as she leapt over to help the guards catch Pinkie.
***
Twilight crept forward.
There shouldn’t be too many guards around...
She approached Celestia’s room. Twilight bumped into something that made a *dink*.
Eep!!!
Twilight stopped herself and sighed. It was the crown.
Wow... no one took it back to Princess Celestia yet? I guess they didn’t notice it. Like me. I should return this.
She picked it up in her mouth. She felt that it was pretty heavy, or that she was weak. Twilight cautiously trotted over to the Royal Infirmary. She opened the well oiled door without a squeak and stared inside. Princess Celestia was in bed, two ponies with their backs to Twilight were standing next to her, one of which Twilight recognized as the Chancellor.
Mmm... Agh... painful. That was odd... Why couldn’t I move...? I... Oh! I... I can hear myself think!
“Ah!” Princess Celestia blinked her eyes open. “I can hear my thoughts!” Princess Celestia mumbled.
Oh, there’s Chancellor Drummond. And Selena! Oh, I’m so glad you ponies cared for me! Thanks. And... That... at the door... is....
“Twilight...?” Princess Celestia said quite loudly. Chancellor opened his groggy eyes. “Oh! Princess Celestia! You’re awake!” the chancellor exclaimed. Twilight’s mouth opened in surprise. The clink of the crown on the floor smothered Twilight’s quick hoofsteps out the doors. The chancellor turned backwards, confused. Then he smiled at the beautiful crown and brought it over to Princess Celestia after closing the door. Princess Celestia smiled, and shook her head. She placed it on the drawers while The Chancellor woke up Selena the maid. Celestia got up out of bed and gave her rainbow mane a delightful shake.
I feel wonderful today!
Everyone noticed the change of the suddenly brighter sun. They already knew before Selena ran throughout town shouting “She’s back! Princess Celestia is back!” Princess Celestia looked out her window laughing cheerfully at her rejoicing town.
***
“Woot! Her Majesty is high and mighty once again!” Applejack shouted over the town’s cheering. “Yeah, we should throw a party!” Rainbow Dash responded. “Sounds like fun!” Pinkie yelled. The villagers all charged toward the castle. Twilight sighed and slowly moved onwards.
With the chancellor’s consent, the villagers hid all over the castle. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy stood right in front of Princess Celestia’s door. At 8PM, hoof steps were heard. The doors opened, and Princess Celestia entered the room. She had surprised them all by coming in through the main entrance for she was already out. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Fluttershy bowed.
“Please, there’s no need to be so formal. I heard there was a party going on,” and she smiled. Every pony burst out of their hiding places. They yelled and cried, shouting “To the good youth of our Princess!” Tons of villagers poured into the room. It was quite festive. No one noticed anypony exit the palace.
Twilight lay down on the grass outside. She sighed.
Why can’t I enjoy parties? I should be in their, rejoicing with Princess Celestia...
Sighing again, she flexed upwards, ready to go back to Rarity’s house but a door squeak stopped her. A guard walked out the castle. Twilight sighed again, laying back down. The guard looked up at the moon. He let out a lonely sigh and was trotting on the path when he noticed Twilight.
Ooooooooh... rats.
“Um... hi?” Twilight nervously chuckled. The guard faced her. He took off his mask. His face was lonely and somber.
“Hello. You’re Twilight Sparkle right?” The crowd indoors gave a whoop.
“Um, yes. I- I- don’t know your name.” Three cheers for the princess.
“Adysius. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He lay down on the grass next to her. “So Twilight Sparkle, what are you doing on a fine evening such as this?”
Uh... Duh! Aren’t you guards all trying to catch me?
“I’m a criminal, remember? Besides, Even if I wasn’t, I’m not a party person. Shouldn’t you be inside with Princess Celestia and the chancellor though?”
Did I say too much?
Adysius did not answer. He only gazed at the stars, looking as lonely as anypony could.
“Oh. Sorry if I hurt your feelings...”
“No I- I’m fine. I- I’ll be going now. Enjoy the evening Twilight Sparkle.” he got up and flapped into the air.
That’s it?
“Wait, Adysius. Why aren’t you arresting me?”
He gave a weak smile. “Because you’re innocent,” And he flew down the road.
Leaving Twilight dazed on the grass.
***
“Princess Celestia! Are you alright?”
“Yes Rarity. I believe I am quite fine, there’s no need to worry.”
“Well, I’ve also been wondering about Twilight... I’m sure she didn’t do anything wrong, and this may be a bit much to ask of you but, do you think you could clear Twilight’s name?”
“Don’t worry, I’m sure it was all just a misunderstanding, though I am curious to know what really happened.” Princess Celestia turned to the chancellor and whispered into his ear. He looked thoughtful for a moment, then smiled. He ran over to the chief guard. A few moments later, Twilight was not a criminal anymore. Rainbow Dash, Applejack and Pinkie Pie dragged Twilight from the grass into the palace.
Twilight Sparkle had a terribly loud night.
***
“Oh! Hey. It hurts when you pinch me so hard. Think you can stop?” The stranger yelled. The only responses were hisses and growls, but they stopped crushing her forearms.
Hrrr... These stupid Solari. Why couldn't they have not bothered anyone? I still have to find mother... And learn why.
The escorts were the Solari from before. 3 were left behind to bring the stranger into the large ship. Walking down the ship’s main corridor, the stranger glanced around.
Shoot. No windows. How exactly am I getting out of this mess?
The small group approached a curved doorway. They walked in.
***
2 days later, Twilight walked around, scanning the crowd for the familiar rainbow mane.
No, Princess Celestia isn’t out yet. Might as well walk around a bit. The Substitutional Grand Galloping Gala is just as amazing. Everypony has gone back to normal. me too, I guess.
The sound of tapping glass once again caught her attention and everypony bowed. Princess Celestia walked onto the outdoors stage.
“I hope that this picnic will apologize for the inconvenience of the last Gala which ended abruptly,” Princess Celestia announced, “and that you all enjoy yourselves with this wonderful replacement banquet!” Everypony cheered. Princess Celestia was just walking down the stage when a magical projectile thudded into the wood wall of the stage where she would’ve been in a second.
"Oh, the irony..." Applejack stated, slightly annoyed, but mostly anger with paranoia mixed in. Apple jack took a quick survey of the land behind her, then whipping around to the side.
The crowd roared in confusion. The chancellor looked around frantically. No one had time to shout as the second arrow flew in. It found a heart artery. Princess Celestia’s gasped with her eyes wide open as blood gushed out. The guard keeled over, falling onto the grass heavily.
“Over here Princess!” The chancellor yelled. Celestia quickly flew over, still staring at the royal guard who fell. Selena ran over, leading a few bodyguards. The small group fled to the forest.
***
Hrgg... Dealing with me? Those stupid Solari creatures.
The stranger and the group had left the domed room. The escorts were back. The way that the cloaked pony had been captured was being beamed up after the Solari had once again encountered her. The stranger had been teleported into a glass case at the edge of a room before. The Solari were now walking back. After a few minutes, the group walked into a space through a semi- solid gel wall. The stranger growled at them.
This isn’t the same room. I shouldn’t have trusted any of you! You aren’t helping me at all... I’m getting out of here. Yeah, I’ll still keep my side of the promise, you dumb creatures, I do want to find my parents. But remember, you have to too!
The Solari let go of the stranger’s legs and moved towards a very different machine than what she knew was their teleporter. They turned it on, then gestured towards the stranger to go inside.
What? Anypony can see that that things full of sharp objects! You- I’m getting out on my own.
The stranger moved slightly towards the machine. The creatures kept gesturing. The cloaked pony walked up to directly in front of it. Then smashed a hoof into the face of a Solari, knocking it to the heavens.
“Yeah right I’m going into that thing!” The pony yelled, and whipped around and rammed into another creature, which knocked it into the side of the machine. The pony gave a strong smash at it’s stomach, which gave easily. The stranger gave a glance and turned towards the last creature.
Hah, intimidated now, aren’t you?
The Solari ran out the gel wall, the stranger running after it. The Solari stopped.
Not running anymore? Waaaait a second... that on the wall... that-!
And then the Solari mashed a button. The floor in front of the door opened up, revealing a large array of buildings below.
Ahhh... should’ve known.
The stranger plunged.
***
Twilight looked around frantically.
Where could that arrow have come from?
Dashing towards the stage, she heard Applejack yell, “Ev’rypony! Get to the trees!”
A loud rumble split the air along with a scream. Twilight could hear a building collapse. Twilight looked up. An almond shaped mass had appeared above Canterlot. A different sounding rumble caught her attention. “No...” Twilight croaked. Another large shape had just gotten to the castle, crashing into part of the highest steeple, Celestia’s room. A star, the moon, and a sun were emblazoned on the ship.
What
“Come on Twilight! We can’t stand around all day!” Applejack yelled as she ran into the forest with a few other villagers.
What
Twilight stood there, unmoving for a few moments, then she ran for the stage.
WHAT is happening?!?
She knelt down next to the guard. She took off his helmet and gasped. Twilight tried magicking him up, only to find her unable to magic.
?
Twilight hauled him onto her back. She staggered after Applejack and the others.
The ponies walked over to the smoldering ruins in the city. Rainbow Dash and Rarity gasped. Fluttershy sat down and started crying and Pinkie Pie stared solemnly. Applejack wondered in horror, “What have they done to Ponyville...?”
Twilight was slowly panting after the others.
Ergh. You’re a light pegasi but still a heavy pony in general, y’know.
Soon, she began to see smoke. The small town was in ruins. Twilight saw the crowd of ponies and began to go off in their direction. An explosion nearer to Twilight shook the ground. Twilight could see several large airships.
And those aren’t hot air balloons either!
A beam of light suddenly approached the ground. Twilight barely saw it as it flashed past her and into the forest.
Was that a-
An explosion blasted trees out of the forest and created a crater.
What? That was a-!
Trees smashed into the ground. A few nearly missed Twilight.
Gyaaahohmycelestiawhatishappening
A thunk brought Twilight back to her senses. Quite a large branch had smacked into her forelegs.
Aaaaaaaahnoimfallingwhatdoido
Twilight stumbled a little, then smashed down into the grass painfully. The guard slipped off her back. Twilight gasped, then looked the cyan pegasi.
Mm... Looks like Rainbow...
She lay there, breathing heavily, muscles strained, but could see a new puddle of blood forming under him.
Aaagh... No... Don’t die... Adysius...
Twilight closed her eyes.
***
Twilight woke.
Mmmf. mmm? Gah!!!
Adysius was still in front of her where she dropped him. She sighed and picked him up. Instantly her knees buckled and she dropped heavily onto the ground.
Why are you even heavier than before?
Twilight painfully stretched her limbs out, then brought them together and pushed herself off the ground. She stood swaying for a moment, then dropped back down.
Adysius... wai- wait a little more, ‘kay? I- I- I will... get to you... in a moment...
***
Twilight’s eyes flickered open.
Oh snap! Adysius!
Twilight stood up.
Hmm! Not as painful. Mental Note: When in pain, sleep it off. That oughta help me with my headaches.
Twilight walked over to Adysius.
Yeah, whatever. I’m not going to try that again.
Twilight slowly dragged Adysius into town. She slowly trudged around town. She lead herself to Rarity’s house. Or at least Rarity’s wall. She set him on the clump of felt that was once a couch. She stared at him. What was she to do now? She sighed and tripped over half a medical kit. She magicked it up. It was Rarity’s, the same that was used on her. She half broke it while undoing the clasp. She smiled at the supplies.
Meh. Well I can do something now...
Twilight walked over to Adysius. She took a deep breath at what she was about to do.
Urgh... Sorry if this hurts!
Then, looking away, she ripped out the magic projectile. Even in his unconsciousness, Adysius gave a wince. Blood started dripping at a quick pace.
Eew!
She rubbed a small supply of sticky salve.
Eew!
Then she wrapped a third of the cloth bandage around him.
Eh... It should last for now... I’ll do something else about it later.
Twilight smiled at her work and regurgitated her hayseed salad.
Eew! That was really... blergh... I just touched somepony else’s blood... I put my hooves inside him! My... own...
***
Walking around the town, she examined the ground carefully. No sign of the other villagers. Twilight sighed.
Hmm... I wonder what happened to them... Are they alright?
. She looked around.
Nothing useful here...
“Uuuugh.....”
Ah!!! Who’s that!
Following her ears, She was led to a building that had a crack almost straight down the middle.
I think it came from here...?
She slowly removed loose dirt and rubble. She was amazed that the pony in the wreckage had survived. Twilight dragged her out slowly, and then levitated her the rest of the way back to Adysius. But dropped her when she got near Adysius for no apparent reason.
Mmm... She doesn’t seem like a villager...
Twilight removed her ripped cloak, folded it, then set it next to the stranger.
Hmm... this fabric feels familiar...
Twilight applied a soft powder to the stranger’s bruised back. Adysius was sleeping peacefully. The stranger was set on the stone next to him. Twilight waited for hours. She fell asleep herself. She woke up when her nose twitched from a potent smell in the wind from the east.
Haha, Spike. I bet you’d still faint, even though it’s not as strong as usual. Pff... you silly filly- er dragon!
Twilight stood for a moment, a random smile on her face. Then punched the air in realization and happiness.
Spike fainting? Wait, I know this scent! Could it really be?
Twilight took out the card-
wow, I still have this? Guess I forgot to throw it out? Well I guess it's a good thing I have it now!
-Twilight sniffed it, and then the air. Then repeated it.
Yes! It is!
Twilight began moving the stranger. Twilight pulled the stranger onto her back
Thank you Rarity! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Twilight faced the wind and began to run. She pulled back.
Ooow... gah it's my hip this time!... no time to sleep. I ... still... need to...
Twilight dropped down, the stranger slipping away.
“Good morning.” Adysius said as he caught Twilight on his back.
He- Oh! He caught me and the stranger. Okay. Wait what?
Adysius set Twilight down, still carrying the stranger. “Good morning, Adysius.” Twilight said. Adysius looked surprised. “Thanks for taking care of me, Twilight.”
He...
“Oh! Um. Don’t worry about.” Twilight said while blushing.
Agh! Wait a minute he’s up!
“Ah!!! Adysius! There’s still a hole in you!” Twilight yelled.
“Huh? Oh.Oh!...”
“Gosh, Adysius, you’re clueless sometimes.”
Twilight trotted up alongside Adysius. “Mmm?” Adysius said groggily.
He’s sleepy. Rats.
“You're probably sleepy and dizzy from the blood loss. You can lean on me, if you want.”
“Mmm? Oh. Ok, Twilight.”
Adysius slightly leaned, Twilight stood next to him and got ready to push against his weight. Twilight caught him and-
Woah. His fur is really soft. His mane is also really smooth. Wait- where am I getting with this? I needed to hold him-
They toppled over and Adysius fell on top of Twilight.
Ah! What? What? What just happened you're heavy ah why is he on top of me
They kicked up dust from the ground. “Twilight... Didn’t you say... that you would... Oh... It’s really comfortable... I... want... to rest a bit... it’s warm here...”
Wait... He’s saying I’m WARM? And COMFORTABLE? WHAT?!
Twilight blushed furiously. “Aw... ADYSIUS! C’mon, Adysius, We still have to catch up with the others...” Twilight said.
“Huwhu...?”
Aw princess Celestia. He’s falling asleep? That would have been fine but... On top of me?
Twilight pushed off the ground. She stood up, Adysius leaning most of his weight on her and starting to slump towards the ground. She prodded him with her hoof. Adysius made a small noise that seemed a lot like a sigh, then began walking forward.
Oh, Adysius. You remind me of Spike a little.
Twilight rested her head against his and together, they walked towards the sunrise.
Buried Apples- The element of honesty.
“Meh... Whadowedonow...? Ponyville... gone. And Canterlot. Blazing thunder all over the land. Hmm... Hats...”
Hats?
“Yargh! Ha-ha!”
“No! stop it Rainbow!”
“Ergh! ...What did I do???”
What?! You just leapt at me! Smile on your face much?!
“Stop it, awright?”
“Applejack, why does it matter so much anyway?”
“Just don’t touch it, ‘kay? This... This...”
This hat was pa’s.
_______________________________13 years ago____________________________________
“It’s another gooday, Pa!”
“Yep! I should get tuh work, Apple tart! Burning daylight raht now.”
“Hee hee hee. Apple tart! Hey, didja eat breakfast yet?”
“I know what I would like to eat... Apple tarts!”
Pa runs towards me and takes me in for a hug. Then he starts tickling me. I can’t stop laughing.
“Haha! got you!”
“Heeheehee!!! That tickles!”
“Hey, Whadya say that we spend a little time at the sugarcube corner after I work?”
“Alright!”
“Oh-kay then! Off you go then! Don’t cause trouble!”
I run off towards the woods. Pa starts walking to the fields.
Sugarcube corner! Sugarcube corner! I’m going with Pa! He works hard. He needs a treat too.
Sugar! Cube! Corner! With!
“Pa!”
I run at Pa.
“Yes mah dear?”
“I love you pa.”
“Aw, shucks, sweet tart. I love ya too.”
______________________________________________________________________________
I wish I didn’t remember, Dash. Sometimes, I think it would have been better to never know.
“I bet that I’d look good in that hat. Now... If-- If only you’d let me...... Take it!”
“Ah! Ah! No, stop it!”
“You didn’t tell me why I shouldn’t take it yet!”
“Just let GO!”
“Hmmph. You- you... tell me why.”
“Dash... I would tell you... But...”
“But what?”
But...
______________________________________________________________________________
“Sugarcube! Sugarcube! Sugarcube Corner!”
“Alright, settle down. We’re here!”
“Mmm. Can I have ice cream?”
“Ice cream? Okay. Which flavor do you want?”
“Hmm... I think I want apple.”
“Well okay then.”
Pa pays for the ice cream and find a place to eat. I think for a little bit before eating.
“Hmm? You haven’t started on your ice cream yet.”
“Oh... Well... It’s just that I have ice cream and you don’t. That’s not fair.”
“Oh... well, I’m full. I had a lot of sweet things today.”
“You did? Where did you get them from?”
“I got them from you. You’re my own sugarcube.”
Pa takes off his, hat, brushes it a little, then puts it on me, and smiles as I start on my ice cream.
“I love you, sugarcube.”
“I love you too, pa.”
______________________________________________________________________________
“A-... Applejack?”
“What?”
“Applejack... You- you’re crying.”
I am? I am...
“Rainbow- I’ll tell you.”
“Tell... me?”
“Tell you... This hat.”
_____________________________________________________________________________
“Hi, pa!”
“Oh! Hi there, sugarcube.”
“Watcha doin???”
“Erm. No- not much.”
“Really? You’re getting the cattle ready to travel, right?”
“I- cattle- the dri- ergh... hmm, shouldn’t say... Well the cattle are go- going to be... looked ov- looked over... on...? Um. Inspected!
“Um...? By the way. When’s the cattle drive? I want to go with you.”
“Ca- ca- cah... Ergh! Um well we- we might not go this year...”
“Hmm? Not going? Oh... well... I wanted to...”
Pa’s hat flies off in the wind.
“Oh! Sugarcube, couldja get that for me? Oh and after that, you probably should get to sleep. sundown already.”
“Mmm? Oh okay. Good night pa.”
I race towards his hat. It landed in a tree. I give a good kick and it falls down. I put it on and walk to the house.
***
I flop down on the bed.
Mmm... Sugarcube corner with pa. He never gets any time off. He doesn’t let himself. We should have more fun. Running in the fields... Eating apples... His hat flies off... We race to get it! I can beat him! I’ll get his- Oh! his hat!
I take Pa’s hat off the drawer and slowly trod down the stairs.
“-angerous. How will she be safe?”
“It would be nice to bring her along on the cattle drive...”
“There are many things that could hurt her. Snakes, bandits, sandstorms, the whole trip is chaotic and evil. We can’t risk little sugarcube getting hurt.”
“Um... Pa?”
“It’s not safe if -agh- a- a- a- applejack?”
“Cattle drive?”
“Umm... well- I...”
Pa sighs, a defeated look on his face.
“Applejack, we are doing the cattle drive, but... even now, when you’re old enough...”
“Pa... You- you-...!”
“I’m sorry... it’s really dangerous...”
“You- I’m old enough! I can take care of myself!”
“Applejack...”
“You- you-... How could you lie to me!?”
“Applejack... I knew that you’d want to go...”
“You lied so that you could stop me from- you- argh! Why would you do that?!”
“It was to protect you...”
“Protect me!? Prote- You- you... I-”
Dad lie- He---... He... lied to me.
“-I hate you.”
***
I retreat to my room, hoping that I would just forget everything while sleeping. I throw pa’s hat into the corner. Pa walks into the room.
“I- I’m sorry...”
“S- You’re sorry!?”
“Erm...”
“You- Why? Why would you lie? When did we ever keep secrets from each other? We would always tell what’s botherin’ us and then help each other.”
“I know... but-”
“But what?! What is it that would make you do this? You lied! In spite of our trust, in spite of our days, in spite of... me. D- ...do you still care for me?”
I turn away, rage building up. But something else is there. A small... a trembling... a new, sensation that rushes a searing warmth to my eyes.
“Sugarcube... It was to-”
“Hmm? It was to? Oh, don't answer. I know that. You want to protect me. Protect? I think I know where this comes from. It’s fine if- if ah can’t go to Prairieville... but- but- but you thought you had to lie to protect me? Do you still know me? I haven’t changed from your little mare. That- lying will build up to another. And more. And... all of the lies ahead of us, but I hope there isn’t any more. I don't care what you lied about, I-i-i- it's not that big of a deal... But- lying? Why in Equestria would you be- Lying this once... It shows that we broke our trust. Pa, we cared for each other, right? It's not fake. We love each other. B- b- but now... How can I know if it's still real? How can it be? How-... How can there still be trust? A- A- And if I can’t trust you... Then... Oh Pa, Then how can I still love you?”
My voice is cracking. I'm not shouting anymore. I might have calmed down... or... There it is again. The hot sensation, right behind my face, I can tell it wants to come out. It reminds me of apples. A sweet scent, comforting. But A hint of sadness lies within. I'm holding back everything but just a little bit, and it will come flooding out. I- I think I know what I am holding back.
“Sugarcube... Ah- ...Ah still love you... and I always will...”
I duck into bed and pull the covers up. I didn’t care. I didn’t care what anyone had to say. I wanted to forget it all. I wanted to wash it out of my mind. I wanted to curl up into a ball and hug my tail, forever and ever and ever and make it all go away. It’s better to not know. Ignorance is bliss. Nothing matt-
I hear water. Soft drops dripping onto the floor. Pa is crying softly.
And- and for the first time... I am too.
***
When I wake up, I decide that I would forget it all, then notice that I already messed that up by thinking about it. I jump back in bed, then jump out. Fresh start. Clean slate. Brand-new. I look outside the window, and see that the cattle are gone. I assume Pa and Ma have gone off for Prairieville already. No matter. I take the hat, put it on, then trot down the stairs.
Mac is waiting for me in the kitchen. He seems to be reading a note.
“Pa ‘n Ma say tuh take care of granny and ‘bloom.”
“Hmm.”
“Dad’s hat?”
“Yeah. He didn’t bring it.”
“Oh. Well we’ll be gettin’ to work soon. Pa says not to miss apple bucking season.”
“Then let’s get to it.”
After eating, me and Mac go to the trees. The apples are still a little green, but look ready to pick. I stand, facing away from the trees, and give a test kick. None of the apples fall.
“You’ll hafta do better than that!”
Mac shouts over to me while cracking half of his tree’s trunk.
I stand still, then, give a good smash into the tree. Apples fall down into the basket.
I do this with each tree, and dozens of apples fall out. It’s hard work. But... Pa does it all for us. He collects the apples, grows them, bakes them... He does it all. For us.
An apple falls to the ground in front of me. Red, ripe, shining in perfection. I take a bite. I know. I would tell pa when he gets home, that I’m sorry and that I love him, and then I’d hug him and we could go to the sugarcube corner, and never get angry at each other again. It was alright to lie. He thought he was doing good. He was. He was being pa. I love pa.
I finish today’s work and head on back with Mac. But before that, I get a string, and tie up his hat to the post. It’ll be waiting for him. I miss him so much. He’s the wall to support me, the pony to lean on. I’ll be waiting for him, right where he belongs.
***
The days bunch up to just a few obstacles. Their only days, and only more things to keep me away from Pa. And then one day, I hear the doors open, and hoofsteps outside. I rise out of bed and trot down the stairs. I can’t wait. Pa is home. I walk out the door. It’s Mac. He wants to see them too...--? Mac, and a pegasi. She has handed him a letter and Mac takes it. It’s a sunny day. The pegasus flies off. Mac opens the letter, smiling. He starts reading as I bound over. He then seems suddenly occupied by reading the letter as I say good morning. I try leaning to see the letter, though Mac’s a bit tall.
“Mornin’ sis’.”
“Mmm. so... letter...?”
“Wai- wait a second...”
Mac seems overly preoccupied.
“Mac...”
He blinks, then looks at me.
“Mac, did Pa and Ma’s trip get delayed.”
“I- guess you could say that.”
“So they’re coming home on...?”
“It- it doesn’t say.”
“Doesn’t say-...?”
He turns away a somber face that I haven’t seen before.
Then he opens his mouth to drop the letter. I give him a questioning look as he walks away. I turn the letter around.
My eyes instantly zone in on “regret to inform”.
I give a further scan, and notice “money will be delivered”.
My mind instantly throbs.
What?
“Applejack...”
Looking down, I see “rustlers”-
No no no oh no
-and “ambush”.
What what is this I don’t
“Little sis...”
I smash the paper into the ground.
It’ll be dangerous. I did it to protect you.
I give another crumple.
I love ya sweet tart.
I yell in frustration and tear the paper back into the air. I rip it up with my teeth, then spit it out.
“Sis’, Pa and Ma are-”
A small section of the paper lands in front of me. the worst section.
no no no stop it Gah just just just-
I love ya sugarcube, and ah always will.
“-gone.”
I give a violent twist away from the paper and from Mac. How could this be? There are so many things that they did and it takes only a group of- of- of stupid morons to lose it all! They- they can’t be gone. They can’t. I have to tell pa that I love him, that I’m sorry. And the last thing I did to him was be angry-
No. Not the last thing. It can’t be. It just- It can’t-
Mac unties the hat on the post and puts it on me, and I know, there are no lies ahead of me and pa. Not a single one.
“PAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!”
______________________________________________________________________________
“So that hat- is-...”
I nod.
“This hat is... my pa’s.”
Rainbow Dash looks away. Then she looks back at my hat, and lets it all go. She leans on me and I am there to hold her.
I tip my hat forward as Rainbow sobs. Hello, old friend. I remember all of the time I spent with you.
My good friend, crying.
I've missed you. I've missed you so much.
