A My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Fan Fiction

Written by: Goober Trooper

With assistance from: Ozpakko & Icrus Team 402

The Other Side - March 12th

And now the cake was hers. She had solved countless algorithms, taken Equestria's longest Calculus test, and solved a plethora of puzzles. She did all of this, while being antagonized by her Elementary School History teacher, but now she had cake. Wonderful glorious chocolate cake! With a candle and strawberries too! She jumped and started running across the strangely tiled pure white room. Her tongue hung out of her mouth as her stomach gave a ferocious growl. She stood before it now, the cake on it's small brown table. She reared back her head then drove it down taking a massive bite out of the cake and began chewing.

The texture was all wrong too... It LOOKED like cake, but it hardly felt like it, and it tasted... Feathery?

Was the last thought that passed through Twilight's mind before she awoke. She instantly lifted her head up and began spitting out chunks of her pillow.

Groaning again she rubbed the corner of her eyes with the edge of her hoof scraping out the crusties that collected there over night.

"Just had a bad dream, that's all." She assured him as she finished picking at her eyes. "Is breakfast ready?"

"It's been ready for a while now. You weren't waking up so I came over to check on what was going on. You NEVER sleep in this late."

"Guess all that late night studying is finally catching up to me, anyways lets go see what you made for breakfast."

They then headed down the short hallway to their small kitchen and dining area. Spike had simply made some Oatmeal and Cereal. The oatmeal was beginning to turn cold. Twilight glanced around the kitchen. It wasn't impressive, but it suited their humble needs.

There were only a few cupboards and cabinets all of which had been carved out of the tree. There was a basic, simple white porcelain sink, an oven with a stove top and a small refrigerator. All of which formed a crescent around a table and two chairs. Twilight spotted a small mess on the stove, she guessed that Spike spilled a small amount of the oatmeal when he was preparing it. She shrugged as she walked over to the sink. She turned on the faucet with her hoof, and levitated a washcloth over to the sink, ran it through the water, then wrung it out. Twilight tapped the water off, brought the washcloth over to the stove, and began scrubbing.

She glanced over her left shoulder as she finished cleaning the mess to where Spike was. He was already sitting at the table chowing down on his cereal. Twilight grinned mischievously and tossed the washcloth over Spike and into the sink.

"Hey! I'm trying to eat here! Not take a shower!" Spike complained as water trailing from the cloth splattered on him.

Twilight giggled and trotted over to her spot at their table, sat, and began eating her oatmeal.

"So what was that weird dream about?" Spike asked, as he neared the end of his breakfast.

"It was just a silly dream..." Twilight tried to briefly explain, but Spike had an expression of expectancy so she recounted her dream to him.

"Well, my Elementary School Pony History teacher forced me to solve a bunch of algorithms, take a calculus that seemingly had no end, and complete a bunch of puzzles. The whole time he berated and antagonized me. At the end of it all I was awarded with an entire chocolate cake, with strawberries... They even put a candle on it! But, of course, the cake turned out to be my pillow."

"Not to mention greatly desired..." Twilight grumbled at a tone Spike couldn't hear.

About half way through her oatmeal Twilight glanced up at a clock on the wall. However, it was positioned just so that the sunlight coming through the window above the sink made a glare on the clock's glass cover. Rendering it impossible to read from her perspective at the table.

"Spike, what time is it? I can't get a good look at it from here." She spoke, as she explained her request.

Spike took another bite from his cereal, looked up at the clock, then back to Twilight.

"Swallow, then say that again. You know it's bad manners to talk with food in your mouth..." Twilight chided.

"It's Nine O' Seven." Spike said, then continued. "I know it is Twilight, but this is hardly a formal dining experience. Do I REALLY have to follow ALL my manners, everywhere?"

Twilight had stopped listening as she stumbled out of her chair with an expression of shock and terror on her face.

"Spike! Nine O' Seven!? Surely it can't be that late! The Library is supposed to open at Nine! I've never slept past opening! Spike! Why didn't you come and wake me earlier?! Oh no! I got to get ready, my mane isn't comed or my teeth brushed! The door isn't even unlocked, we're not ready... What if somepony is out there desperately in need of a book!? Oh no, oh no, oh no..."

"What!?" Twilight snapped as she dashed back and forth in the little kitchen. "Can't you see I'm on the verge of a panic attack here!? I got to get ready! I need to get the Library open-"

"Deep breaths! Iiiinnnn and oooout. Iiiiiiinnn and ooouuut." Spike said in what he hopped was a calming tone.

Fortunately, Twilight calmed herself, and took some deep breaths, as she closed her eyes and thought through her predicament rationally.

"I need to decide if I should open first then get ready or get ready and then open. If I open now chances are somepony will wander in and I won't be present to assist them if I'm getting ready, but then again, chances are nopony is out there or will wander in during the few minutes it takes me to get ready. On the other hoof, If I go ahead and get ready now and somepony is waiting I'm sure they'll understand the late opening, and besides only once or twice has a pony come for a book at nine AM in the morning."

Letting out a sigh of relief Twilight opened her mouth to speak her decision when Spike belched.

Little flames shot out from his small maw and the shompoof of a letter appearing echoed the repulsive release.

Twilight managed to have a look of curiosity and absolute disgust at the same moment, as she asked Spike.

"Are you positive that you can't make that sound any less... Abhorrent, and is that a letter from the Princess?"

He tore off the seal and unfurled the letter. He cleared his voice and read it's contents aloud in his formal reading voice.

I trust that you and your friends are doing well, enjoying yourselves, and are continuing to learn about the magic of friendship whenever you can. However, I must require your audience in Canterlot for a pressing concern that I am trusting to you and your friends. This issue will take plenty of time to resolve so please plan to stay in Canterlot for about a week.
Please come at your at your earliest convenience,

Spike glanced up from the letter at Twilight who had an expression of concern and worry on her face. He was about to speak, when he thought better of it.

"It'd be best if I didn't interrupt her thoughts. She knows the Princess better than me and will know how to respond."

Spike nodded, as he rolled up the letter and held it out. Twilight levitated it to herself and unrolled it. She quickly read the brief message it contained. She still appeared worried and concerned. Which confused Spike. He expected her to be ecstatic to visit Canterlot with her friends and have some time with her Mentor.

"Twilight... What's wrong? I thought you'd be excited..." Spike asked nervously.

Twilight shook her head and sighed, as she rolled up the letter and set it on the counter.

"Spike... Celestia has never asked for our help in what I assume is a political issue. I mean, the only help that she's needed assistance with were issues that could only be solved with the Elements of Harmony. I just don't know, or think we're capable of handling political matters. I'm- I'm apprehensive... I don't want to let Celestia down, but I can't refuse this either." Twilight replied with apparent anxiety.

Twilight sighed again and sat down in her chair and dejectedly laid her head on the table. Her messy mane fell into her eyes and she half halfheartedly blew it out of her face several times before it finally was removed.

"I'm not sure on what to do, Spike. Well, not really what to do, but HOW to do it. It's not like I got much of a choice."

"Well..." Spike began. "Try getting your friends together and see what they think. I- I think I can manage the Library while you're gone."

"That's as good of a start as any I guess... And I'm not worried about your capabilities. Your more then adequate." She lifted her head and put on what she hoped was a reassuring smile.

"Thanks, Spike. You're a big help." Twilight complimented with a grin she didn't have attempt at faking.

Spike nodded and began collecting the dishes while Twilight rose from her chair and left the Kitchen. She went down the short hall to the bathroom and prepared herself for the day.

Twilight had finished readying herself and writing a note about her upcoming absence. She planned on taping it to the door before departing for Canterlot. She was about to leave when she called upstairs to Spike.

"I'll be back in about an hour or two, Spike, You know what to do if anypony comes!"

It was a crisp March day. The Sun was just beginning to warm the cool morning air and a few ponies were already milling about doing their morning errands or chores. Twilight had decided that she would go to Pinkie Pie first, she was the closest, only a couple houses and stores away, and if anything unexpected were to occur it'd be best to deal with it first rather than later. She turned left and began trotting down the streets and alleyways to Sugarcube corner, saying "Hello" and nodding greetings to any acquaintances she happened to pass. After a few minutes she arrived at the pastry shop. Twilight licked her lips as the smell of freshly baked goodies wafted into her nostrils. She let out a contented sigh and opened the door.

Quite a few ponies were already sitting at the dozen or so tables around the store creating a cacophony of conversation as they eagerly discussed their doings and dones, and consumed their food with identical enthusiasm. There was a small line of about seven ponies that patiently waited to purchase their pastries.

Mr. Cake worked the counter as he served his customers their purchases. Pinkie Pie could occasionally be seen darting or bouncing around the kitchen as she enjoyed her work. Twilight lightly tapped her hooves on the doormat to clear off any dirt they may have collected, and walked towards the counter. She briefly considered not buying a pastry and instead talking with Pinkie Pie directly, but one does not simply come to Sugarcube Corner and not buy a cupcake. So she stepped in line and waited. It wasn't long before Mr. Cake greeted Twilight.

"Hmmm." Twilight hummed as she studied the display of doughnuts, muffins, cupcakes, cakes and pies. She spotted something that wasn't familiar on the small shelf.

"What's that one?" Twilight asked, as she raised her right hoof and pointed it at the unknown muffin.

"That's an Apple Cinnamon Pumpkin Muffin, with the option of chocolate chips or nuts." Mr. Cake replied. "Pinkie Pie wanted to try a new recipe. Something besides cupcakes and cakes."

"Well I guess I'll try it!" Twilight said. She was more than eager to taste Pinkie's experiment.

Mr. Cake nodded as he grabbed the muffin with a hoof, placed it on the counter, and rung it up on his register.

Mr. Cake nodded and moved to a small refrigerator opened it, and retrieved the pint of milk. He brought it back to his register, and added the milk to the to the purchase.

Twilight looked over her shoulder and nosed the flap of her sidebags open. She fished out the appropriate amount of money and tossed it onto the counter.

Twilight grabbed her muffin with using mouth and the milk with her hoof and was beginning to turn away, but abruptly remembered the reason she came. The thought of a delicious muffin made her momentarily forget her assignment. She quickly put the muffin back on the counter and made her request.

"Well. I guess she could. My wife's supposed to be back any minute now. I'll go get her. Go ahead and pick out a table." He replied.

Twilight picked up her muffin again, turned away from the counter, and began walking through the tables. She quickly picked out a table along the wall farthest from the door and the main crowd, which was in the relative center of the shop. She placed her muffin and milk on the table, took her seat, and collected one of the straws already on the table in a small vase. She pulled the tab with her mouth and placed her straw into the milk and began unwrapping her muffin. By the time Pinkie Pie had arrived she had finished unwrapping the muffin.

"Oooooh is that one of my muffins?" Pinkie said, obviously taking notice of the muffin.

"Yes it is, I'm very eager to try it." Twilight responded, as she barely restrained herself from licking her lips.

Twilight lifted the muffin with a hoof and took a decent sized bite. It was very sweet, and spiced. The cinnamon was the dominant flavor, but with a subtle taste of Pumpkin. Along with an occasional crunch and burst of flavor as an apple slice was discovered. It was truly a marvelous muffin.

"It's very, very good. Most certainly one of the best muffins I've had in a long time!" Twilight appraised.

"Yay!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. but her expression then fell to a more disappointed appearance.

"I don't like them very much. I mean, I always liked cupcakes waaaay more than muffins, but I wanted to try something new and different! Go ahead and bake cupcake after cupcake or cake after cake and try not to get tired of it. I mean that's BOOORING after a while. Like three point two four seven weeks a while. So I made muffins!"

"It's always good to try a hoof at something new." Twilight said half mindedly as she enjoyed another bite of her muffin.

"You ready for the picnic tomorrow?" Pinkie began excitedly. "I am! I'm very excited we haven't had a picnic in FOREVER!"

"I'll be bringing cupcakes! So many cupcakes! You see Mr. Cake and Mrs. Cake they baked to many cupcakes so I'll be bringing the extra cupcakes, let's see we have..."

"Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate cupcakes, Pink Strawberry shortcake cupcakes, Raspberry Cupcakes, BLUEberry cupcakes-"

"What something? Does she need cupcakes?" Pinkie giggled. She attempted to make a joke out of the cupcakes, but was obviously putting too much effort into it.

"No! I'm afraid it's something far more political." Twilight replied in all seriousness.

"Politics? Ooooo, that could be interesting! I've never been involved in politics, but that could be fun! What do you think of a political party, Twi? We could talk about politics, and have all sorts of political games, and- and- and... There really isn't much you can do with politics is there? Hmmm. What if we make it a competition!? The group of ponies with the best politics wins! Wait- What exactly is politics?" Pinkie Pie rambled.

"This IS why you chose to tell Pinkie Pie first. Just need to tell her where to meet, and finish this muffin." Twilight thought.

"To answer your last question, 'The art and science of administrator of government'." Twilight quoted.

"The letter said we'd be staying in Canterlot for a week. Do you think you can get packed and meet at the Train Station in about two hours? Eleven to be precise." Twilight asked.

Pinkie Pie bounced away from the table. She was always happy with what life gave her. Twilight hastily finished her muffin and downed her milk. She levitated a napkin to her mouth and whipped away the muffin that remained there, then stepped down from her chair and trotted out of Sugarcube Corner.

Twilight was outside Carousel Boutique. She guessed that Rarity would be hard at work on some project. Twilight had devised a plan that would test her acting skills. With any hope it should work. Twilight trotted up to the door and pushed it open. As she entered the chime of a small bell, and various scents are what she noticed immediately. As Twilight glanced around for Rarity she took notice of a few dresses and suits on display, but didn't give them much attention. Apparently Rarity wasn't in the main room.

While Twilight waited she review her plan once more in an attempt to find a last minute flaw. Rarity entered the room enthralled in what appeared to be a design for a dress. She quietly mumbled something as she studied it, but hastily rolled it up and placed it on a small table. Before Twilight took the opportunity to dive into her plan she noticed that Rarity's meticulously curled and styled mane was becoming ragged and frayed, but Twilight gave no thought to it as she almost literally dove into her plan. She galloped straight up to Rarity and almost slid into her when attempting to stop.

"Rarity! I just got a letter from the Princess! We're wanted in Canterlot at once! We need to hurry and catch the Eleven O' Clock train! Who knows what terror could be on the land now? Oh whatever could it be!?" Twilight said in her best attempt at dramatic speaking.

She hadn't read much about preforming drama, but she'd seen Rarity preform it a few times and tried to act in a similar manner. She even came close to feinting a faint, but decided against it at the last moment.

Rarity was shocked by Twilight's reaction. She had never seen her this distraught before! These must dire tidings indeed!

"Well! I'll get prepared to meet you at the Station then! My, my, an urgent meeting with Princess Celestia... Goodness knows what it could be!" Rarity said much more calmly.

Rarity turned to prepare herself for the journey when a thought occurred to her. This caused her to turn about and face Twilight again.

"Will it just be the two of us or will the other four be attending?" Rarity inquired.

"Er. No, I've yet to tell the others except Pinkie Pie. Oh! I almost forgot, the letter mentioned that we'll be staying there for about a week..." Twilight replied and added hastily.

"A week!? Surely it can't be THAT long! Oh dear! What will I do!?" Rarity cried out in despair.

"But- A week in CANTERLOT Rarity? What could be the issue?" Twilight asked, as she began to worry that she was losing her opportunity.

Rarity quickly used her magic to grab the design and brandish it in front of Twilight's face.

"THIS!" She hissed, viciously. "This insufferable suit! It's so obscure even I didn't know it existed, but not only that! The way it HAS to be made the way it was DESIGNED is so complicated, and strange, along with the materials being incredibly expensive I'm not even sure if it's WORTH it."

"The Stallion is paying me near two hundred bits for it!" Rarity exclaimed. "I hardly get any orders worth that much, but what is truly important about THIS..." She waved the Design again. "Is that if I can complete it I will show to ALL of Equestria just how great and magnificent of a fashionista I am! Not only a designer of the present, or the future, but of the PAST as well!"

Rarity's tirade left Twilight somewhere between astonished and terrified. She was also sent reeling for a solution.

"Couldn't you inform this stallion that you have a 'pressing concern' and can not finish it as scheduled?" Twilight asked timidly.

"Certainly not!" Rarity said, as she stood straighter and tossed the design back onto the table.

"If I delay his suit, but finish it later I will not only be known of my fashion prowess, but for the delays that I make! I simply don't know what to do, but to keep trying and trying and TRYING!" Rarity cried in frustrated despair.

Twilight thought quickly. She desperately searched for a solution, but she repeatedly returned to only one. She sighed, closed her eyes for a moment, then opened them as she calmly stared into Rarity's deep blue eyes and spoke.

"Rarity... You know I care very much for your career, and your success. You know I would do all in my ability to help you succeed. However, there is a choice you must make. A very important one. You must decide to either answer the Princess's summons, whatever they may be, or to continue in your endeavor to appease this stallion and your own desires... I hope to see you at the Train Station."

Twilight nodded a farewell to Rarity with a very serious and concerned expression. Rarity said nothing and watched her friend leave. She was mildly impressed with her response, but she needed some time to consider the possible implications of either choice. Rarity sighed and turned towards the personal parts of her Boutique levitating the Design with her, and hearing the chime of the doorbell as Twilight left.

Twilight was crossing over the West Bridge. Her destination was Fluttershy's cottage, and from there she would head to Sweet Apple Acres. She approached an intersection in the path. Right would take her to the cottage, and left would take her to the farm. Obviously, she took the right road.

As Twilight approached the cottage she noticed Fluttershy talking with a light brown stallion with a black mane. Twilight couldn't gather much about the conversation from this distance, but Fluttershy gave the Stallion a basket of flowers. She assumed that would be the end of it, but she continued to wait at a distance for several more minutes. They continued to converse, and at some point began to walk towards the animal pens that Fluttershy kept. Twilight released an impatient breath. She didn't want to interrupt Fluttershy's business, yet she couldn't afford to waste time while she waited for it to conclude. She decided to return later after informing Applejack. She stood from where she had laid, stretched her legs, and trotted back down the path to Sweet Apple Acres.

As Twilight approached the farm, she glanced over at the long lines of apple orchards. Of course, they were bare as the season for apples had yet to come. The day was also wearing on as the air became progressively warmer. She guessed that it was around ten o' clock, and quickened her pace. Shortly thereafter the farm came into view. She could see Applejack and Applebloom pull some plants out of the fields, and toss them into some work bags they carried on their backs. Big Macintosh walked behind them as he pulled the massive plow made of dense wood and sturdy steel with seemingly minimal effort.

Twilight arrived at the gate. She used her magic to unlatch it and pushed it open with her hoof. She ensured that it closed behind her. As she trotted up to the farmhouse, she took notice of Granny Smith in her rocker. Who gently rocked back and forth. She seemed to be napping, but Twilight nodded to her anyways as she passed.

Twilight arrived at the perimeter of the field, she stood on her hind legs and placed her front hooves on a fence post. She looked over to where Applejack was. She slowly approached and pulling the weeds that had collected in the field between seasons.

Applejack raised her head and glanced around. She quickly landed her gaze on Twilight.

Applejack turned around and said something to Applebloom and Big Mac, both of them looked over to where Twilight was. Applebloom waved, and Twilight returned the gesture similarly with a wave of her own.

"Well is there something wrong...?" Applejack replied, as she tilted her head in concern. Her mouth unconsciously slid into small frown.

"I don't know... I got a letter from Celestia today. She wants us in Canterlot for a week to help her deal with a 'pressing concern'..." Twilight explained and continued.

She was obviously worried and wanted to confide her troubles to a trusted friend.

"I'm really apprehensive, AJ. I'm not sure if we're up to handling political matters. Just imagine Pinkie Pie in a dull meeting with some Griffon ambassador, or any of us for that matter! None of us have the appropriate knowledge, and may flounder in our mistakes better than others."

"Now don't worry none, Twi. The Princess ain't gonna give us somethin' we can't handle. She knew that you'd be able to handle Nightmare Moon, she knew we could handle Discord, and I ain't about to doubt her yet." Applejack said with reassuring confidence.

"But not with Chyrsalis! We didn't defeat her! She was able to prevent us from getting the Elements. If it weren't for Cadance and Shining that day all would have been lost!" Twilight said with despair slumping her head down on her hooves, as she closed her eyes.

"That Changelin' Queen was a surprise to us all. There wasn't a way to prepare or to know that it'd happen, but ya see Celestia KNEW that Nightmare Moon was comin', she KNEW Discord was returnin' and she still chose us. If Celestia had known that the Changelin's were comin' she'd 'ave prepared us." Applejack assured with seemingly unending confidence.

It escaped Twilight on where Applejack obtained this confidence from, but she saw her point. She was surprised that Applejack had more faith and confidence in their Ruler then she herself did. Twilight perked up with Applejack's confidence being rubbed off onto her.

"I'm surprised I didn't have the same amount of confidence in the Princess that you have." Twilight said significantly reassured.

"We all gotta believe in something bigger than ourselves Twi, and I trust the Princess to take good care of her subjects." Applejack responded, as she crossed her front hooves and tossed her hat up with a quick nod from her head as a grin spread across her mouth.

"I understand. Thanks for the reassurance AJ." Twilight said sincerely appreciative.

"Well... I've told Pinkie Pie and Rarity to meet at the Train Station at eleven, I assume you'll be coming?"

"Well we're gettin' ready for the plantin' season..." AJ nodded over her shoulder towards Applebloom and Big Macintosh who were still at work.

"Now I'm not sayin' I won't go, but I'm gonna need to hire somepony to help out while I'm gone. So we don't get behind schedule and all. I'll see you at the Train Station, Twi." Applejack turned and started walking to her siblings.

Twilight then slid her hooves off the fence post, turned and trotted back down the paths. She passed by Granny Smith again who still snoozed and snored. Twilight hastily opened and closed the gate and galloped towards Fluttershy's cottage.

Twilight approached the property line for Fluttershy's Cottage. She used her magic to unlatch the gate and a hoof to open and close it. She latched it with her magic again. As she trotted up the path to the cottage she realized how far she'd come with magic.

Opening a latch to a gate was second nature, subconscious. She didn't need think about it. Whereas simple telekinesis was the most difficult thing she could have tried doing when she a filly. She enjoyed her moment of accomplishment and pride until she arrived at the Cottage.

Twilight glanced about as she approached. Nopony was around and the sound of the critters that Fluttershy kept made a strangely pleasant cacophony. She stopped at the door of the home and knocked with her hoof.

"I-I'll be right there!" Fluttershy's timid voice called from the back of her Cottage.

After a few moments Fluttershy answered the door. She gently opened it as she pushed it to the side with her hoof.

"Oh Twilight! It's good to see you." Said Fluttershy with more confidence as she noticed it wasn't a stranger.

"Well, please come in then." Fluttershy invited, whom then turned and walked towards the kitchen in her home.

She was already busily going about making tea. Twilight nodded as her response and leaped onto a chair. She shifted slightly as she got cozy in Fluttershy's comfy chairs.

"Thanks Fluttershy... Are you making tea?" Twilight asked, as she noticed her swift movements about the kitchen. They were familiar to Twilight as she had tea with Fluttershy several times before.

"Why yes, I can't have you here and not give you something to drink at least... Unless you're suggesting you don't want tea..." Fluttershy said in some doubt.

"Tea would be nice, and it might be best if I tell her over tea instead of popping in dropping this on her then leaving." Twilight glanced up at a nearby clock. "It is getting close to the deadline though.It's ten twenty-five and I still need to stop by the library and pack MY things."

Twilight shrugged mentally. She had learned not to worry over a schedule too much, but not at all. She decided she'd have to make this as quick as politely possible, then teleport over to the Library and pack her belongings.

Fluttershy was watching Twilight with a worried, and curious expression. She was interested as to why Twilight had stopped, and was concerned if it had been her fault.

"Yes. I'd like some tea, I just need to inform you of something while we enjoy it." Twilight said, as she quickly noticed the expression.

"How are the animals today?" Twilight asked. She knew that the best way to get someone to talk, shy or not, was to inquire about something that they enjoyed.

"Oh... A unicorn stallion all the way from Stalliongrad came today to retrieve the pink flamingo I was taking care of. He also wanted some particular flowers for his mother. He said that they would 'make great addition to one of his tables' and that they were 'good for health'. I'm a little sad though. I had grown fond of him." Fluttershy responded.

She did her best to mimic the Stalliongrad accent, but failed horribly. She ended up amusing themselves, and they laughed briefly. Twilight then registered the last part of the response and adopted an awkward expression.

The pot on Fluttershy's stove began to whistle. Fluttershy turned about, and turned off the stove. She grabbed the cushioned teapot handle with her mouth and poured the hot water into her China cups. It puzzled Fluttershy as to why they were called China cups... She'd never heard anything about a "China". Regardless, she put the tea bags into the cups, and placed them on a small platter. She carried the platter over to the table, and sat with Twilight. Fluttershy took the closest cup and blew on it. Twilight had taken a cup with use of her magic and breathed on her tea.

As they cooled their tea, Angel jumped into the Cottage through an open window. He noticed Fluttershy and bounded across the living room. He stood next to the table as he taped his foot with crossed arms. Fluttershy quickly noticed and look down at him. She placed her tea on the table.

Fluttershy stepped off of her chair and walked over to her refrigerator and took out a small bowl of carrots. She brought it over and placed it on the floor next to her table.

Angel had acquired a bib from somewhere and was already tying it on. Once completed with that he immediately began scarfing down the carrots. Fluttershy climbed back into her chair.

"Sorry about that, but you know how Angel gets when he's hungry." Fluttershy apologized.

Fluttershy blew on her's once more then took a sip, and enjoyed the very sweet herbal taste.

"What was it that you wanted to talk about?" Fluttershy prodded. She was curious about what was occurring.

"Well. I got a letter from the Princess today. She wants us in Canterlot for about a week, and to get there as soon as possible. I've already told Pinkie Pie, Applejack, and Rarity to meet at the Train Station at eleven."

Twilight glanced up at the clock. It was almost ten thirty. Fluttershy also glanced up at the clock and realized the time.

"Oh my, it's almost eleven o' clock now, but Twilight I'm not sure if I can go... I mean the animals and all. Who'd take care of them?" Fluttershy asked. She was torn on the issue and very concerned for the well being of her livestock.

"Don't worry about it too much. I know Spike would do it if he had to, but he's told me he had some... Difficulties last time. I'm sure there's somepony out there that could help." Twilight answered. She then chuckled briefly and suggested. " You could always ask Derpy to help if you had to, she'd be more than willing." It was more of a joke then an actual serious suggestion.

"Well I guess I could..." Fluttershy said. She didn't realized that Twilight had kidded.

She took a rather large drink from her tea as she attempted to finish it as quickly as possible. Twilight also took large drink, but disguised it as a long sip. Neither of them noticed the other's haste. When their drink had been finished they returned them to the platter.

"I also need you to do me a favor... Can you find Rainbow Dash? You know where she would be as well as I, but if she's in her house I wouldn't be able to get up there." Twilight requested.

"Oh don't worry Twilight. I'll do it while I'm looking for a pony to watch my animals." Fluttershy accepted.

Twilight lazily rolled out of the comfy chair she had used, as Fluttershy stepped out of her own and carried the tray into the kitchen. Once the platter was deposited into a sink she turned her head over her left wing and thanked Twilight Sparkle.

"Of course. See you then." Twilight replied as she turned to open the door to leave.

Once she was a few yards (or meters) away from the cottage she quickly focused, and gathered her inner magic and cast the Teleportation Spell. There was darkness for a few seconds, then she appeared in the Library. She quickly ran about and gathered her belongings, as she prepared for the train ride ahead.

Fluttershy placed the last of her items in her saddlebags. She glanced over her shoulder at the clock. It was only a few minutes after Twilight had left so it was actually ten thirty now. Fluttershy remembered how little time she had and quickly threw her saddle bags on, and trotted over to her secretary. She opened a drawer and retrieved a piece of stationery, a pen, and an envelope with her mouth. She then brought these over to the table, and began composing a letter in her smooth and neat penponyship.

I have sudden business in Canterlot starting today and ending next week. Because of this I can not tend to my animals so I would humbly ask if you could take care of them for me while I am away. If not then please search for somepony else that is willing. If you must hire them then I will gladly repay you next Tuesday when I return.
Thank you in advance,
Fluttershy.

She had decided that it would be best to mail Derpy then search for Rainbow Dash. Besides Twilight recommended her, and she was an old friend. Fluttershy folded the letter once and tucked it gently into the envelope. She raised the envelope to her mouth with a hoof and licked the flap, nosed it closed, and placed the letter back on to the table. She pressed on the flap with her hooves to ensure that it sealed properly. She addressed the letter and applied a stamp, then placed it in the mailbox as she left her Cottage. Fluttershy raised the flag on her mailbox, then trotted down the path she flapped her wings a few times before actually achieving flight. Once airborne she angled towards Ponyville.

Fluttershy landed as she entered Ponyville she glanced into trees and up into the clouds for a sign of Rainbow Dash, but of course, she found none. She had determined that she would purchase her ticket and store her luggage at the Station then fly up to see if she could spot Rainbow Dash from above. As she passed through the Marketplace, which consisted of several stalls that were set up in a large circle, and ponies busying themselves at each of them, She noticed Applejack, packed and ready to go, talking with a blue stallion with a black mane and a full beard. His cutie mark was of a colored bucket. Fluttershy thought there was something familiar about him, but she didn't obtain a good view of him though. The beard unnerved her though. Ponies weren't supposed to have beards yet some went out of their way to get one. She didn't dwell on it as she had quickly left the Marketplace and was nearing the Train Station.

Fluttershy had now paid for her ticket and her baggage waited on a bench. She was quite a ways above Ponyville as she searched the area below for Rainbow Dash. She searched for a few more minutes, but had come to the quick conclusion that Rainbow Dash wasn't in Ponyville. Fluttershy contemplated searching the surrounding areas for her or going directly to her house. She chose on the latter. Fluttershy then turned and flew in the direction of Rainbow Dash's home.

Fluttershy landed at Rainbow Dash's doorstep. The soft clouds gave a little under her weight. She lifted a hoof and pushed the doorbell. The bell chimed and there was no response from within the house, but Fluttershy waited a moment and tried again.

"I'm COMING! I heard you the FIRST time!" Rainbow Dash yelled from somewhere in her house. Her frustration with the disturbance was obvious.

Rainbow Dash was muttering as she opened the door. She appeared sleepy and unkempt.

"This better be important... Oh Fluttershy! Sorry! I didn't know it was you!" Said Rainbow Dash taken a back.

"Oh. Don't worry Rainbow Dash, It's alright. Twilight just wanted me to tell you that she got a letter from The Princess and that she needs us in Canterlot for about a week. Twilight says we're supposed to meet at the Train Station at eleven, which is probably only be fifteen minutes from now..."

"Finally SOMETHING to do. Do you have any idea how many naps I've been taking these days? Wait- What does Celestia need help with?" Rainbow Dash asked, as she tilted head slightly and her brows leaned towards each other in curiosity.

"Well... We don't know yet. She just said that she needed us in Canterlot for a week." Fluttershy answered. She glanced down at the cloud and pawed at it with her right hoof..

"Meh. Doesn't matter to me as long as we get to do something. See ya there 'Shy!" Rainbow said, as she turned and walked back into the mansion. She closed the door with a rear hoof, and gave a shout of glee as she quickly packed.

Twilight taped the notice on the Library door and was now hastily trotting to the Train Station. After a few minutes passed she arrived at the Train Station. Twilight quickly paid for her ticket, and stuffed it into her left sidebag. It was only a few minutes before eleven when she walked onto her platform. She noticed the train was already there and was under preparation the next departure. Twilight glanced around for her friends. She quickly noticed Pinkie Pie, who was talking with Fluttershy. Next to them Applejack, and Rainbow Dash sat at a table and were engaged in hoof wrestling match. Rarity was sitting on a bench. She reached up and rubbed her chin with her right hoof as she pondered something. Twilight made an educated guess at it being the suit.

"Oh! Hey there Twi' " Applejack said as she halted her effort in the contest with Rainbow Dash.

"Hey Twilight..." Rainbow began, as she got up from her seat at the table and walked over.

"What do YOU think we're going to be doing in Canterlot? I mean, AJ thinks we're gonna receive some Diplomatic Training, Rarity said she hadn't thought about that yet, Pinkie believes we're gonna help set up a party, and Fluttershy is hoping we're dealing with animals, but I believe we're going to Canterlot to be sent to another country!"

"I don't think we're going to another country, the letter did say that we would be staying in Canterlot, but I think we're going to help Celestia in a delicate political issue with another country." Twilight shrugged. "We won't know until we get there, to be honest."

"Now boarding Train 47!" Shouted a mare in a conductor’s uniform. "AAALLLLL ABOOOAAARD!"

The others followed suit as they collected their own luggage and placed it on their backs.

They nodded in various was and followed her onto the train. Each of them had their ticket punched by the Conductor before being allowed to board their train to Canterlot.

The train was beginning to slow. Twilight turned her head to look out the window, and saw Canterlot approaching. She was still very anxious about what their task was, and could not resist theorizing about what it could be. There was movement in front of Twilight's seat. She involuntarily glanced at it. Fluttershy and Applejack had moved to get a better look out their window. Twilight refocused her attention on Canterlot. Even though she was raised there the city never ceased to impress her. The fact that it was constructed into the side of a mountain, and even from the distance the architecture was truly something to behold. Twilight was certain that nothing like it could ever be built again. Pride filled her heart as she continued to behold her nation's capital as she allowed her thoughts to wander in wonder of the city.

Twilight was brought out of her reverie when she noticed that they had suddenly entered the city. She could faintly hear the full application of the train's brakes as they slid into the Grand Station. They quickly gathered their bags, and climbed out of their seats. The six of them patiently waited in the aisle with the other passengers for the doors to be opened. Once they had been they shuffled down the aisle and leaped onto the platform, and gathered into a group to discuss their next move. The train ride from Ponyville to Canterlot was roughly an hour and forty-five minutes long. Which left the majority of them aching for some sort of food.

Twilight rubbed her chin with a hoof as she contemplated her choices. There were several restaurants, and cafés around the Grand Station. The issue was picking one that would suit their needs.

"You think we should just get a snack? I'm sure the Princess would treat us to lunch, as long as we don't arrive too late, of course." Twilight queried.

"I'd like lunch... If that's alright with everypony else." Fluttershy meekly responded.

"Meh. I'll be fine with a snack." Rainbow Dash answered with a careless expression.

Twilight tilted her head to the left and right as she evaluated the responses and considered their dining locations again.

"Alright. I know of a good Café just down the road. If you're hungry enough for a meal you'll be able to get one there, same thing for a snack." Twilight informed.

"Yay!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. Which pretty much summed up their responses, and so they followed Twilight to the Café.

"Thanks a lot, Twilight!" Pinkie Pie said appreciatively as they left the café.

She had a considerable bulge in her stomach, and none of them were quite sure how she managed to put away so much food in such a brief time period. Never mind how she afforded it. The other four also gave Twilight their thanks.

They were now in route to the Palace. The streets of Canterlot were extremely busy during the lunch hour, as they waded through the traffic Fluttershy asked a question that was barely heard over the commotion of a very active intersection they had begun to approach.

"Twilight, what exactly are we going to do once we reach the Palace? They don't just let anypony walk in and talk to the Princess." Fluttershy spoke up from somewhere behind Twilight.

Twilight glanced over her left shoulder and noticed that Fluttershy was actually right behind her and not farther back as she had expected.

"It really shouldn't be too much of a problem. I can usually get audiences with the Princess when she has a moment, but we have a direct summons. So I can show them the letter and be granted entry if I have to." Twilight answered.

Twilight took another look over her shoulder at her friends. She wondered how they would react to a normal day in Canterlot. The previous times they had been here were for specific reasons, and they did not have the opportunity to witness a typical day in Canterlot.

Rainbow Dash looked to the skies, as she studied the weather patterns. Occasionally a beam of light would connect with a specific cloud as some manager micro-managed his workers to obtain the perfect sky. She was put off that unicorns were managing the weather. Her attention was captured as she saw a small group of pegasi daring each other to do silly tricks. However, a dark yellow colt with a pink mane and tail preform a mildly impressive trick.

Rarity was regarding every pony they past. She barely kept her eyes from leaving her skull as she witnessed the variety and beauty of fashions that one could simply see on a Canterlot street.

Fluttershy observed the buildings and streets with simple awe. The beauty of the city captivated her. Most of Canterlot was in fact made out of a very durable form of marble. More recent additions to the city, however, consisted of simple stone that had been painted white. The quality of the paint job was fantastic, as it fooled many of the tourists and new residence into believing it was actual marble. Several of the buildings had a genuine gold trim and on the gold were intricately carved pieces of art which varied from the flowers in the Canterlot Gardens to the founding of Equestria.

Pinkie Pie looked everywhere, as she tried to take in everything. Her attention was repeatedly caught by the balloons of parties, or the occasional stall along the side of the street. Several of the stalls sold little treats, and souvenirs.

"Twilight! Can we stop and get one of those shiny crystal balls? Oh! What about that jump rope? Or some balloons!? Oh let's get a doughnut! Your girls want I doughnut? I want a doughnut!" Pinkie Pie pestered.

"No! We have a mission, Pinkie." Twilight called back to her in an annoyed tone.

"Of course, silly me. What about on our way back home? Can we get a jump rope then?" Pinkie asked again.

Applejack trotted along in the back of the group. She observed the city's art, and architecture, but not to the same degree as Fluttershy. She kept her head low, and walked with an uneasy stride. Whenever she bumped into one of the city's citizens she grinned sheepishly and apologized profusely.

"I reallay don't belong 'ere... The sooner we get to where we're goin' the better." Applejack thought.

As they traversed their way up the mountain they took several streets and paths, until they had finally left the main crowd. Now only a few ponies walked in the same or opposite direction. They could see the Palace in the not-so-distant distance, and knew they had begun to approach it. After a few more minutes they arrived at the Palace gate. It was raised which allowed them pass through without any complications. The guards unfortunate enough to be stationed there silently regarded them as they passed then fixed their gaze ahead of them as they stared blankly at nothing.

They were now in the courtyard. It was elliptic in shape with four paths that met in the center at a fountain. Flowering bushes and bushes without flowers were planted in rows that circled the fountain in a very beautiful display. As the six approached the fountain Fluttershy spoke up again to Twilight.

"Please, just a moment! I would love to take a second and look at these flowers."

"So much for having a mission." Pinkie grumbled under her breath, but she was genuinely interested in the scent of the flora here also.

"Fluttershy dear, Come look at this gorgeous flower!“ Rarity called as she held one particularly vibrant red and yellow flower with her right hoof.

Rarity placed her nose near the flower and breathed in slowly as she enjoyed the scent.

"I must know what flower this is! It smells marvelous, and would definitely be good inspiration for a dress! Just simply look at how the red and yellow blend together so well..." Rarity appraised.

She had quickly flown around the courtyard and observed the flowers. She halted intermittently to sniff a few when none of her friends looked in her direction, but she had now flown to where Fluttershy and Rarity were. She was curious as to what had grabbed their attention. When she realized it was just another flower she turned and flew off to the fountain, and sat on a bench next to it as she waited for her friends to finish gawking.

Fluttershy and Rarity continued to gaze at the flower. They were unable to be satisfied with it's beauty. Twilight's voice disrupted their enthrallment.

"Wow... That's a particularly beautiful daffodil." Twilight said, as she joined Fluttershy and Rarity.

Fluttershy nodded, and turned away from the flower. She walked towards the Palace entrance on the far side of the courtyard. Rainbow Dash noticed this and fell in behind her.

"Well we had best get going then..." Rarity said, as she trotted off to follow Fluttershy.

Applejack and Pinkie Pie noticed their movement towards the entrance and joined them quickly. When they had arrived at the door Fluttershy stopped unaware that she was at the front of the group. She looked back hesitantly.

Fluttershy placed a hoof on the door handle and pushed the massive white reinforced wood door open and entered.

The Palace Lobby had a very high ceiling, but was very simply decorated with a few paintings and plants spread along the walls. Several windows were placed around the square room to admit sunlight. The few other ponies in the lobby were seated on immaculate couches and chairs in the waiting area. Across from the waiting area was a large counter. Behind it were a few ponies that managed audiences with royal dignitaries.

Twilight approached the counter. Her friends stood a short ways back as she did so.

"Hello. How can I help you today, miss?" Said a light red mare, as she looked up to Twilight when she arrived at the counter.

"Hi..." Twilight replied, as she put on a polite smile. "I'm Twilight Sparkle, me and my friends were requested here by Princess Celestia at the earliest possibility."

"She told us to expect you. She's currently having lunch in her chambers. I'll have a servant show you the way in a moment."

"Celestia is currently having lunch. So a servant will be guiding us to her room." Twilight informed her associates.

"You sure she won't mind? The last thing I'd want to do is interrupt the Princess during her meal." Rarity inquired with concern.

"I don't think she'll mind." Twilight began, but was interrupted when a short pale blue stallion that sported a white mane approached.

"This way M'Ladies." He said as he motioned to his right. The six followed him through the winding halls of the Palace to the Princess's room.

They had arrived at the Princess's room. The walk was much longer than they had anticipated, and they had climbed more stairs then any of them cared to count. After the first few stairways Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy took flight, but this left them with weary wings instead of sore hooves.

The stallion opened the door and poked his head in. He lowered it in respect then raised it to it's former position and spoke.

"Oh. Well do send them in, and thank you for guiding them here." The Princess replied.

The stallion nodded again, and withdrew. The Six gave him their appreciation as they entered the room. They unconsciously formed around Twilight. All six of them bowed, and lifted their heads, as they began to take in the room.

It was very simple in decoration, but extravagant. There was a large poster bed with two nightstands on either side. There was a closet to the left of the door, and across from the door was an exit to a balcony. To the right of said door sat Celestia in a chair at a desk. She ate a sandwich as she viewed a document. Celestia placed her sandwich down onto a plate, and rolled up the document. She placed it into a drawer, and closed it with a shove from her right hoof. She turned in her seat and smiled to them with an expression of kindness and understanding.

"Welcome. I'm a very glad that you arrived as quickly as you could." Celestia said.

"Ooh yes! They had such a lovely tea on board... Pinkie, darling, do you happen to know what it was called?" Rarity complimented, and inquired.

Pinkie smacked her lips as she remembered the sweet flavor. This resulted in a glare from Rarity, but Celestia merely chuckled.

"That is a good tea. I've had it a couple times before. The sweetness of it never quite leaves your tongue." Celestia commented.

"Here we are, in the Princess's bedroom talking about tea. TEA! We're supposed to be getting our assignment or figuring out what the blazes that letter was about... If Fluttershy asks about that flower I swear..." Rainbow Dash ranted in her mind.

"What sandwich is that? I don't think I've seen one like it before." Twilight inquired.

"Oh. It's a Zinnia Bluegrass sandwich. Come now, if we continue talking about food I'll be convinced to return to my meal..." The Princess said humorously.

"Come on... We came here because of a letter, not to interrogate the Princess about her food and gardens... Lets get on with it!" Rainbow Dash said with obvious exasperation.

The other five, except Pinkie Pie who viewed her with suppressed amusement, regarded Rainbow Dash with horror due to her sudden outburst. Fluttershy was cowed by Dash's blunt words, but the Princess burst into laughter.

"That was quite an accurate description of this predicament Rainbow Dash!" Said Celestia with amusement, but she regained her composure.

"Oh don't fret Twilight and Rarity. I'm not going to banish her because her curiosity makes her eager."

"Or banish her and throw her into a dungeon in the place that I banish her." Princess Celestia continued, and chuckled.

Twilight grinned nervously while Rarity remained flustered, as Pinkie Pie joined in on Celestia's merriment, and Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. Applejack had closed her eyes and laughed quietly along with Pinkie and the Princess.

The laughter and chuckling slowly died out and silence replaced the mirth. A foreboding atmosphere filled the room. Celestia perceived this, and decided to get on with what they were all here for

"Rainbow Dash does have a point. We had better get on with the briefing." Celestia collected a solemnly serious expression, but her eyes displayed a hint of sorrow.

"Recently, we have had times of peace. There are no immediate threats. Threats that would require the Elements of Harmony, of course." The Princess paused. "I have decided that this is the best time to send you on a mission."

A slight smile appeared on Celestia's face when she noticed Dash's reaction, but vanished as quickly as the hoof pump had ended.

"I'm going to be direct." Celestia said. "You will be leaving Equestria on this mission. In fact, you will be sent to another planet entirely." She then paused and waited for this to sink in.

Fluttershy seemed to shrink as her face fell and ears twitched backwards in an expression of fright.

"Going to another country would have been interesting enough, but another altogether planet!? Eep!" Fluttershy thought fearfully.

Twilight's mouth dropped and pupils shrank as she changed to an expression of shock and disbelief.

"WHAT!? How is this possible? I've studied all the known planets several times! None of them can sustain life! None of them! Even if they COULD support life it wouldn't be sentient. What could Celestia POSSIBLY want us to do on one of these planets?" Twilight thought with a baffled mind.

Rarity was also shocked, but her ears were straight and her eyes small as her mind filled with thoughts of despair.

"Wh-What...? This can't be happening! It was bad enough sending that stallion the letter, but to possibly end up lost in an unknown world and losing all my potential!? This is. The. Worst. Possible. Thing." Rarity mentally cried.

Pinkie Pie bore the only positive expression. She grinned as her eyes shook with excitement

"Ooooo. This could be fun! I wonder what sort of people we can expect to meet. They might have tasty and interesting foods to share, or have the bestest parties! Maybe even new games! Oh oh oh! I'm so excited!" Pinkie Pie rambled with eagerness in her mind.

Rainbow Dash's mouth was an uneven line and her brows were slanted towards each other with unease, as she shifted her weight to the left and right.

"Well, I guess it was cool that I guessed what we're gonna be doing, but this is probably something that even Twilight couldn't have imagined! It's gonna be pretty awesome exploring a whole new planet! But what can we expect there? Why are we even going there? Not knowing that unnerves me..." Rainbow Dash thought with a mixture of excitement and anxiety.

Applejack had raised eyebrows and bore a small frown. Her expression was predominantly worry, and concern.

"Well, I'll be. A new planet? That's completely new territory right thar. Nopony's ever been to another planet before, and yet that's exactly what we're gonna do. What worries me is if this planet does have life, and they're not pony-like. That'd mean a wholes society not built 'round ponies. What if they're not welcomin' t' strangers? That could get bad prettay fast." Applejack quickly evaluated mentally.

"This Planet can support Ponylife, in fact it's our twin planet. It does not look exactly like ours, neither does it support the same life, but the life it does support are very miserable. The planet is slowly dieing and Harmony there is fading fast. The reason you are being sent there is to attempt to save them from their despair, and give them hope in their black hour." She paused.

"But Princess, you know I've studied our Galaxy extensively and we have yet to discover a planet that can support sentient life!"

"Twilight..." Celestia replied, as she smiled kindly and with a tone of understanding in her words. "You wouldn't be able to see it. It's exactly on the other side of the Sun, which allows us to share the same orbit."

"There are many things I can see through the Sun. Unfortunately, I can not share many of them with you yet."

"These people are in a dark time. A time of fear and despair. I have watched this planet from a distance for a very long time. I have seen many joys and sorrows pass on this planet, but a time has come where happiness and kindness is rare."

"I am sure you know the true meaning of rare, and with that knowledge you can begin to comprehend how terrible this planet has become."

She then returned her attention to the group as a whole and spoke with an expression of sadness.

"My hope is that you can create a sanctuary of hope, love, and kindness. To teach and share the magic and joy of friendship, and all that is good. In this place were joy is replaced with fear, and kindness is lost to cruelty. Where there is little prosperity, and much poverty, but do not fear my little ponies! For in the darkest of times we will find the brightest of hope. You are the hope that has not been found. Be found and give to them what they desire."

Several moments passed as grim expressions settled on the faces of The Mane Six.

"You will still only be gone for a week. Myself and Luna will be the only others that will know of your true location. The rest of Equestria will believe that you are residing in this Palace and assisting me in negotiations with another country. I have chosen a place to send you in this world, and I will warm you. This world is nothing like what you are familiar with. Their technology is much more advanced when compared with ours, and I fear that many things that you take for granted here will not be so on this planet. Now if you have questions, please ask them."

"Those who you will be working with are known as humans. The wildlife I believe is similar if not the same as what we have here. How they will react to you I can not say, for I do not know." The Princess replied.

"No, but those that I have seen did not seem to share the same amount of intellect we possess." Celestia answered in all seriousness.

"You have my entire confidence in your abilities. You do not have a need to worry about your capabilities. If I did not believe you could aide these people, then I would not have sent you a letter." Princess Celestia responded.

Their expression shifted to one that resembled solemn determination when they heard these words.

"I will say this however." Celestia began again. "You may choose to stay. I will not force you to go if you do not feel capable, but just as the Elements of Harmony are worthless when not all are present, so also will you render each other less effective if not all of you are present. I will ask now if any of you do not wish to join this endeavor."

"I expected as much, and it gladdens me to hear nothing." Princess Celestia said, as she grinned.

"Every evening I will send a crate with supplies and provisions for you to use throughout the day as you please." Celestia answered.

"I got a question." Rainbow Dash started as she briefly raised her right hoof. "Why don't we just take the Elements with us and use them on the Planet?" It seemed to be an obvious solution.

"That is an excellent question Rainbow Dash, and I thought that would be the solution at first. However, I investigated this planet and ours a bit closer. The Elements of Harmony require a pony, or ponies that embody each of the Elements to be used, and the Magic of Equestria."

"Magic of Equestria...?" Twilight queried, with curiosity. This was the first time she had heard of this term.

"The Magic of Equestria may not be located only in Equestria as it's name implies, but we have only noticed it here." Celestia said.

"Recently, Luna and Myself have possibly made a controversial discovery. We discovered that there exists two forms of magic. One that is invisible to the eye, but is present everywhere. The second is magic that is present in everypony's soul or being. This includes Pegasi and Earth Ponies. I'll take some moments to inform you of how these relate, and what this has to do with your mission."

Celestia used one of those moments to levitate a glass from her desk, and drink some of the water it held. She placed it back in it's previous location.

"These two types of magic relate in more than a few ways. Firstly, with Unicorns the way they use magic to levitate or preform spells is different than what most philosophers believe. When a Unicorn casts a spell they are not directly using the magic within their being to preform an action. Instead they are relying on the invisible and ever present magic that is throughout Equestria. They connect to this magic and use it to fuel their spells, and manipulate objects. Provided that they have the willpower and reserves of Inner Magic, as we've taken to calling it, to sustain their connection with this Outer Magic, again as we've begun calling it. For example, if a Unicorn chose to levitate a glass, just as I did a moment ago, they would connect their Inner Magic to the Outer Magic and manipulate the magic around said glass to move it however they wish. This process sounds more complicated than directly using your Inner Reserves, and we have not yet discovered why we rely on Outer Magic instead of our Inner Magic, but it is certain that the three pony types are attuned to the Outer Magic in their own unique way."

"Since Luna and Myself are Alicorns we can not know for certain if the following is true, but we believe it to be so.
Unicorns are either attuned to the Outer Magic at all times, or only when they preform magic. We believe that the Unicorn's horn is a physical manifestation of Outer and Inner magics, and this allows them to connect their Inner Reserves to the Outer Magic. We have not studied the horns extensively, and what I have told you concerning them is mostly theory.
Pegasi, can feel Outer Magic best when in flight. We also believe that the Outer Magic allows them to walk on and manipulate clouds unlike the other pony races. Why this only effects Pegasi has yet to be discovered.
Earth Ponies, should be able to feel Outer Magic when they physically work with the land. Since Unicorns can work with magic and Pegasi have flight and dominion over the clouds, we believe that Earth Ponies are superior in regards to working with the land or physical labor."

So far The Six seemed to be receiving this news well, but they postponed their questions until Celestia had finished.

"How this ties into your mission I will begin to explain. My repetitive, but brief observations of this world have shown me a lack of magic, and due to this the humans have relied on their cunning and cleverness to develop their technology. If this world does not possess magic as I suspect, then you will experience the lack of Outer Magic something that is even inconceivable to me. From birth you have been accustomed to the presence of this magic what occurs when you are severed from that is out of my knowledge, and I fear that you will experience that."

"Even with this knowledge I still believe you are capable of adapting and fulfilling your objective. I'd imagine you should have some questions concerning this."

"Celestia. What if a pony attempted to levitate an objective directly with their Inner Magic instead of relying on this Outside Magic." Twilight inquired, as she contemplated all this new knowledge. She was beginning to feel a little overwhelmed.

"We believe that if such was accomplished it would take much more energy out of a pony. The reason being that Inner Magic reserves are limited, whereas Outer Magic is seemingly infinite. However Luna has studied this, and discovered that when Inner Magic is lost it will regenerate naturally over time, and in some occasions be restored to a point that was greater than before. Similar as to how a muscle becomes stronger the more it is used, or a mind more keen the more it is required." Princes Celestia replied.

"I see." Twilight said, as she pondered this. This information in fact explained some hypothesis of her own.

"It couldn't have been more than a few years ago, maybe a decade... I'm not sure." Celestia replied with a sly grin.

The Princess chuckled, but began to regard each of the six ponies before her individually.

They all displayed their emotions slightly different, but there was a common confidence they carried, and Celestia was pleased to have given them that.

"Yea. I have one last question." Rainbow Dash spoke up before the silence became too long. She tilted her head to the right and frowned slightly.

"That is a bold question Dash, but I will reward you with an answer. For it is your place to know why you should do this.
Consider it in this way. You are traveling down a road when you encounter another pony cast aside. He is wounded grievously and near death. His heart is full of terror and despair, but he is a mute and unable to call for aid. No other has traveled this road to take notice of him or help him. I ask you this Rainbow Dash. Would you pass by this stricken being with disgust or worthless pity? Or would you be kind and do your best to tend to his wounds or at least comfort him to his last breath?" Celestia replied.

"Very well." Celestia said. "I have no further reason to delay you. I have the spell ready in my own mind, and am willing to cast it once you all are prepared."

"I uhm... Have a question, two actually... If that isn't an issue..." Fluttershy spoke up cautiously.

"To my knowledge, there isn't a way. You would have to devise a way to accomplish that if such became necessary." The Princess replied.

"Lets go!" Rainbow Dash shouted, as she let her eagerness for adventure display.

"Go forward with confidence knowing that the Sun's grace is with you, and may you always find peace and happiness in it's warmth." Princess Celestia said in some form of blessing.

Her horn began to glow yellow as she prepared the spell, a burst of light came from the tip of the horn. A flash of yellow, orange and red overwhelmed their vision until darkness was all that remained.

Applejack groaned. She had no idea how much time had past, but her head throbbed in pain, and she was certain of that.

Her nose was in between her forehoofs. Without removing her nose form it's hiding place. She glanced around as she sought her friends. Rarity was next to her in a similar position although she hadn't stirred yet. She could see Twilight on the other side of Rarity, but she could not see any of the others from her perspective. AJ took in the new location. The Princess hadn't lied this planet was indeed different.

Applejack couldn't identify what building they were in, but it was long and wide with a very high ceiling and metal beams which prevented the severely sagging roof from falling in. There were windows along the roof, although most of the glass that they had once consisted of was now broken. Rainbow Dash groaned from somewhere behind her. AJ endured the pain and moved her head as she looked for the rest of their group.

Rarity was still out, but Twilight had begun to observe their group also. Pinkie Pie was behind Twilight and beginning to move, along with Rainbow Dash who was behind Applejack. Fluttershy was still.

"If you teleport over great distances you develop a terrible headache... But if this was just any other teleport spell, then we should have died from the amount of pain we would be experiencing... Ugh. I can't think through this headache..." Twilight theorized and grumbled.

"Oh ah oh ah ow ow ow ow ah oh." Pinkie Pie yipped, as her head throbbed with each pulse.

Rarity didn't complain as much as Applejack had anticipated, and the ponies began to take in their new surroundings.

It was pretty dismal looking, besides what Applejack observed already the walls were made out of decaying wood supported by the same metal beams that upheld the roof. The floor was cold concrete and rubbish was strewn all across the room. Along the edges were stairs that led up to some metal catwalks which ran parallel to the ceiling and across most of the building. A few of them had lead to a room which overlooked the bland interior, but many of the walkways had collapsed which was not an encouraging sign. Several chunks of the roof had also fallen which revealed a hazy blue sky that was spotted with a few clouds. The rubbish that was abundant in this structure was mostly paper products, cans, black wheels (Tires), wires, rotting wood, rubber tubing, and several large pieces of metal. A couple piles of refuse could be seen from their location, but they had long since stopped smelling.

"Well she didn't lie to us. This is quite different..." Applejack verbally restated.

"Quite." Rarity said, as she finished viewing her surroundings with a mixed expression of sadness, and disgust.

"Well... While we wait for these headaches to go away we should take stock of what we have." Twilight suggested.

They took off their packs and placed them in a small pile, as each went through their items.

Twilight had a cyan notepad and a mechanical pen. She planned on taking notes of whatever political matters that they would be helping the Princess with, but that didn't turn out as she had anticipated. She had now decided to take notes of their time here on this planet instead. She also had brought along two books for pleasure reading the first was A Review of Common and Rare Spells, and the second being An Extensive Look at Theoretical and Non-Theoretical Physics.

Rarity brought a sketch pad and designing pencils, along with that Suit Design. She planned on working at it when she ever obtained a moment, but she doubted that this would still be the case.

Rainbow Dash had some flying goggles, a dark red beanie, and a bouncy ball. She had packed the beanie out of haste, as she was not paying much attention to what she threw in her bags.

Fluttershy packed some critter food in case she encountered any creatures. She figured it could still prove useful.

Pinkie Pie was extremely disappointed. No matter how far into her partybags she searched she couldn't find her infamous Party Cannon. Neither could she locate the majority of her party provisions. Although she still had several packages of balloons, streamers, confetti, and party whistles.

Applejack hadn't packed much besides a few apples that should have served as snacks on the train ride if she hadn't forgotten about them.

And of course, they had all packed their personal items that would keep their teeth and manes cleaned. Those of them that were more concerned about their appearance also packed a small reserve of makeup, and curlers.

"Yeppers. It sucks SO much that I couldn't find my Party Cannon. I was CERTAIN I had packed it." Pinkie Pie agreed before filing her complaint.

Rainbow Dash looked at Pinkie Pie incredulously for a moment then shook her head.

"Well it's not like we're going to need much either. Celestia did say she would be sending us what we needed." Twilight reminded them.

For a few moments they talked amongst themselves and began exploring their interim home.

"Is this... What I think it is?" Rarity said when she found a pile of refuse and pointed at it with a hoof then used the same hoof to cover her nose and mouth.

"Uhm..." Twilight said as she also raised a hoof to cover her mouth and nose. "Yes."

Rarity cringed. The others also came and looked at the poop, but hastily walked away once they realized what it was. Eventually they finished exploring their pathetic squat of a home, and returned to where they had dropped their packs.

“Alright. There's some tasks we need to do before daylight is gone, give me a second to right them down…“ Twilight turned and, without a second thought, attempted to levitate the notepad and pen out of her pack. Her horn glowed, but she could not feel a grasp on items she desired. Suddenly she felt as if she was in a far away place.

She felt alone. As if all light was gone and she was a mere candle amongst vast darkness, or that she had discovered all those whom she held close to her heart had been suddenly slain. She shuddered as fear filled the pit where her stomach should have been. She recalled what Celestia had said earlier, and instantly halted her attempt at telekinesis. She realized she had closed her eyelids in concentration. She opened them and sat on the ground. Twilight wasn't sure whether to be ashamed or that, or to be full of fear for what she had experienced.

Twilight's pupil's were small and her ears flattened themselves against her skull. She stared vacantly at nothing as her lower jaw quaked. She abruptly shook her head and looked up to her friends with scared eyes.

"I-I can't use magic... Alone. I feel alone... She was right..." Twilight stuttered as she spoke haltingly, and somewhat incoherently.

Twilight looked over to Rarity. She had an unnerved look as her irises were small with worry and her mouth hung open slightly.

Rarity accepted the challenge, as she looked to Twilight's pack. Rarity decided to open the flap and retrieve the materials inside. She quickly focused inside of herself. She felt the familiar "warmth" of her magic, as she "pulled" it out of where it resided in an attempt to lift the flap. She felt as if cold water had suddenly been poured onto her. A callous cold enraptured her soul and filled it with despair. She quickly stopped the spell and tried to remain standing on her shaking knees.

"I think they're experiencin' that lack of Outer Magic as, Celestia put it." Applejack answered for the Unicorns.

"I just hope it isn't as awful for the rest of you as it is for us." Twilight wished.

Rarity nodded agreement as she also gathered more confidence. The other four began to relax as they realized that Rarity and Twilight had not been physically harmed.

Pinkie Pie glanced to Fluttershy with a raised eyebrow, as she managed to make one of her eyes larger than the other in usual Pinkie fashion. She quickly looked back to Twilight and Rarity.

"Soooo does this mean you won't be able to use magic?" Pinkie asked, as she voiced everypony's concern.

"Yes, unless Rarity and I can discover a method to use our Inner Magic directly we won't be able to use magic." Twilight replied.

She glanced over to Rarity hoping she did not have an issue with abruptly being volunteered. She didn't as she was also nodding agreement to Twilight's words again.

Twilight sighed and shook her head vigorously as she dispelled the remnants of her sudden loneliness.

"In the interim. I would appreciate it if you..." Twilight nodded to Rainbow Dash. "And Fluttershy could get a better idea of what's around us. Since we not entirely certain on how these... Humans, will react to us it's best to remain hidden. So attempt to use clouds as much as you can, and try not to create a rainbow trail." Twilight ordered, as she made a dismissive gesture with her right hoof as a thought occurred to her. "And if you have some time to waste after that you can investigate wildlife or something."

Dash trotted briefly then jumped into the air, her strong wings easily carried her through one of the larger holes in the roof.

The other four wished them their farewells, then Twilight brought her attention to the Earth Ponies.

"Applejack, Pinkie Pie. Do you think you can start cleaning this place up? It's awful, but just try to push it all into a corner or whatever works." Twilight asked.

"No worries Twi'. We'll get it done." Applejack assured, as she began to walk away with Pinkie Pie bouncing in tow.

"Hmph. I see why it shouldn't be. Have you not noticed the filth that covers this place, or the repulsive condition it is in? It may as well be a rubbish pile!" Rarity appraised.

"Don't get in such a fuss now Rarity. We'll get it cleaned up prettay good." Applejack replied, as she turned about again and trotted over to one of the larger groups of trash.

Twilight looked over to Rarity and shrugged, as she walked towards a random piece of paper.

They had lain themselves on the dirty concrete floor and had stared at a piece of paper while they both devised ways to lift it in silence.

"I guess we should try levitating it, or get accustomed to the lack of OMagic." Twilight said.

"OMagic...? Oh! Outside Magic." Rarity began confused, but she quickly realized it‘s meaning.

Twilight nodded, as she closed her eyes in concentration. She remembered that she hadn't had to do that since she was a filly and shame washed over her. She tried to move the paper again, but the devastating loneliness returned. Instead of cutting off her attempt she endured the soul crushing pain, as she tried to the best of her efforts to lift the paper. Rarity released a sudden gasp.

Immediately Twilight raised her eyelids with an elated expression. She expected to have succeeded, but soon lost her joy when she noticed that the paper did not float, or even fall. Twilight's eyes narrowed as she sent Rarity a swift glare.

Rarity closed her eyes as she gave her own attempt. The coldness surrounded her soul again. Like Twilight she endured the grief, but she did not avail and came to the same result as Twilight had.

"To me it feels like profound loneliness. As if all those that I had cared for abandoned me..." Twilight described.

They stared at the paper in silence, as each sought a way to rediscover telekinesis.

"I think I know how..." Twilight said after several minutes of silence. "Essentially, we need to toss away everything we've ever known about how magic works, and approach this as if we were lifting it with our hooves. Basically we have to harness our IMagic and just... Push it somewhere else. Just how you only desire to move a hoof, yet you don't have to think about every single action that is necessary to accomplish that movement. If you follow what I'm getting at..." Twilight explained.

Twilight closed her eyes as her horn glowed again. She connected with her Inner Reserves of magic, and tried to harness it in a way that seemed similar to gathering several items with forelegs. Once her Inner Magic had been "gathered" she shoved it onto the paper. Twilight noticed that she felt nothing, but that did not remain the same for long. A familiar feeling entered Twilight's mind. She, of course, sensed the paper. Twilight willed for the paper to fly.

Rarity inhaled sharply again, as Twilight quickly opened her eyes. She had launched the paper up, and was keeping it held aloft. She pushed it in different directions, and was met with success, but she couldn't shake a feeling of shame that resided in the bottom of her being.

"It's hard to believe that in the same day I took pride in how far I've come with magic... I've traveled backwards across time, but here I am learning telekinesis like a filly." Twilight thought in self pity.

Twilight found it difficult to wallow in self pity when an odd sensation occurred. It felt as if her heart had become sore and weary, and was beginning to slow due to it. Twilight looked down to her chest as an involuntary reaction to this feeling. Of course, she couldn't see it what caused it. Twilight abruptly ended her interaction with the paper and the innervation ended.

Twilight explained to Rarity how she had accomplished this in greater detail and with better understanding. Once the knowledge had been shared they searched for the paper which had drifted off when Twilight ended the spell. Once they had found it, they laid around it again as Rarity began her attempt.

She closed her eyes and tried to do as her friend had described. She took all of her magic and attempted to forcefully subdue the paper like Twilight had. She briefly felt the cold encroach upon her being a couple times, but each time she stopped the process and attempted again. After a few minutes Rarity had accomplished the same feat.

Twilight smiled as he eyes followed the paper's ascension, but momentarily lowered them to Rarity to see her reaction to her success.

Rarity had a proud look to her as she relished in her victory over the unusual adversary. After a moment of spinning the paper her eyes briefly displayed a feeling of alarm, and she disintegrated her connection with the paper.

"I take it you felt your magic depleting?" Twilight asked although she already knew her answer.

Twilight let out a breath as she allowed her mirth to fade away. She put on a more serious expression as she once again got down to business.

"I'll keep working on this, and maybe cross reference what we now know with some of the books I brought. In the meantime, could you assist Applejack and Pinkie Pie?" Twilight requested.

"I'll see what I can do..." Rarity replied with more than a little hesitance in her tone.

She watched Rarity walk towards Applejack and Pinkie Pie whom had finished moving a large chunk of metal into a corner of the building where they had begun piling trash.

"I'm not feeling too good, Dash." Fluttershy said as they flew up to one of the nearest clouds.

Rainbow Dash knew what she meant, but she tried to hide it. It was a feeling of loss. It felt as if she had lost a wing, and continued to realize it was gone and sorrow filled her as she longed for it to return. But she did her best to ignore it, and continued to climb higher.

"Rainbow Dash! Can't you hear me!?" Fluttershy yelled. It wasn't much louder than what she normally spoke at, but it was still much more audible.

She stopped and waited for Fluttershy to catch up. She flapped her wings to keep her in place as she assumed a vertical posture with hooves crossed over her chest. It was bad enough having to go so slow, but Fluttershy's complaints didn't help either. She glanced up to the cloud they were attempting to get to. There was something strange about it. It didn't look firm or solid like the clouds back in Equestria, but instead very thin and wispy. Fluttershy finally joined her.

"Rainbow Dash, something is very wrong! I feel as if I’m drowning in cold water and can't breathe." Fluttershy quaked, as she shuddered with fright.

Rainbow Dash realized how distraught her friend was. She resolved to comfort her, and immunity to pain wouldn't do that.

"I... I feel it too Shy. It feels as if I've lost something important to me, and I keep realizing that it's not there, as my... Well, heart fills with pain." Rainbow Dash empathized.

"Oh Okay... But why aren't we hurt as much like Twilight and Rarity were?" Fluttershy inquired again.

"I think it probably has somethin' to do with their horn. Like Celestia said it being some psycho manifungustation of magic." Rainbow Paraphrased.

"Oh! Rainbow Dash? Do I really have to fly all the way up there with you? I'd like to see if I can find out what sort of critters live around here." Fluttershy asked meekly.

"Aren't you the curious one today...? I don't see why not. Sure go ahead." Dash said, as she quickly followed the words with a chuckle.

"Yay! Thanks Rainbow Dash!" Fluttershy said in glee, as she began to glide down towards the buildings below.

As Rainbow Dash watched Fluttershy glide down she noticed just how large this city was. It was a collage of gray, black, and red buildings for miles on end with only a few specks of color amongst them. They traveled almost all the way to the horizon. There was a river that divided the city, and was crossed only by a few bridges, but she didn't pay much attention to the city as she quickly turned about and continued to zoom up towards the clouds.

It was much farther than she had estimated, and she guessed it was much higher than Cloudsdale. Rainbow Dash flew to the side of the cloud and rolled in a turn to climb over and above the cloud. Rainbow slowed her wings as she cautiously lowered herself onto the cloud. She didn't trust this thing to hold her wait. Unsurprisingly she began to sink into the cloud. It was strange to "land" on a cloud yet not feel it.

"Of course. These clouds are made of junk and we can't sit on them or anything. Now what...?" Rainbow Dash thought as she lowered her eyes to the ground.

Dash moved away from the cloud and wondered if she could spot Fluttershy from this altitude. She was met with minor success. Apparently the yellow Pegasi was fluttering from rooftop to rooftop in her search, but she could only notice her when she crossed one of the black streets below.

"I may as well join her. I don't really got much to do anyways. I've seen all that I need to of the city, and these clouds don't seem to... Wait, what?" Rainbow Dash thought with a befuddled mindset.

"So these clouds move on their own? Huh. They look and felt rather weak. It didn't seem like anything physical could move them..." Rainbow Dash thought with a perplexed mind.

She twisted about in search of anything that could do this. She felt the cause disturb the rhythmic flapping of her wings as a strong gust of wind blew across the sky.

"The wind causes these clouds to move? Weird... It made since back in Equestria, since the clouds are so much more firm. More mass and all that science stuff... I guess, it does make more sense now that I think about it more. Wait... What else could I have overlooked?! Things that I didn't think more about? What secrets did I... Maybe that's why..." Rainbow mused.

"That's enough eggheadedness for one day!" Dash spoke aloud, as she started her decent to join Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash had descended to a fairly low altitude. She was still a ways above the buildings, and had begun to angle towards where she last saw Fluttershy when a sudden burst of movement caught her attention from the corner of her eye.

Two creatures that traveled on two legs, and swung their other two appendages as they did so, were sprinting away from each other. Rainbow accurately guessed that these were the humans that Celestia mentioned earlier. They ran down an alleyway in the shadows made by a soon-to-be setting Sun. Dash dived towards these humans, as her spontaneous curiosity urged her to race them and discover how fast these weird creatures were. She was about to pull over the alleyway when a sudden cry of alarm came from above her.

Rainbow Dash flared her wings and halted. She popped a few of her feathers, as she then darted over to Fluttershy who was hovering over a building.

"Ssshhh. You remember what Twilight said? We're not supposed to be seen." Fluttershy had a very urgent look to her eyes.

"Yes I remember, I just wanted to see how fast these aliens could run." Rainbow Dash grumbled.

"Aliens, Humans. Whatever." Dash replied dismissively, as she waved a hoof with the same meaning.

"Come on, Rainbow Dash. It's getting late and we need to get back to Twilight." Fluttershy urged.

Rainbow Dash grumbled, but followed her friend back to their temporary abode. The feeling that troubled her earlier had been successfully pushed into the rear of her mind, as a hungry tummy became a priority for her attention.

"So how ya takin' all this Pinkie?" Applejack asked, as they carried one of those black wheels over to the area where they would start their garbage heap.

"Well, I think it's AMAZING to know that there's just a bunch of people and ponies we get to meet JUST on the other side of the Sun! And guess what!? We're there! We're on another planet! Can you name one pony that's been to another planet? I can't! Oh and can't you imagine all the tasty foods and AWESOME parties we'll get to participate in and eat? And all the new games they'll teach us!" Pinkie Pie quickly began to ramble.

"Uh... Don't ya mean eat foods and participate in parties?" Applejack asked with slight bemusement.

"That's exactly what I said silly filly!" Pinkie Pie replied with typical cheer.

As they carried the black wheel to the corner where their pile would begin Applejack had a strange feeling in her gut. It felt similar to indigestion.

"I don't think somethin's settlin' well in mah stomach. Hope it wasn' some of that fancy Canterlot food that was prettay good stuff." Applejack mentioned.

"Weird! Cause I just started feeling a little hungry. Do you got any snacks? I forgot to bring some and I ALWAYS bring snacks. Like a chocolate bar or some of those beans of jelly! Oh I'm craving some of those jelly beans right now." Pinkie Pie said.

They had arrived at their corner. Applejack began to bend down to toss the black wheel over their heads and into the pile while Pinkie began to move to the side as if to drop it.

Applejack let out a quick "Hmph." As she scooted to the side and allowed the tire to tumble off their backs in between them.

Applejack's "indigestion" faded away as soon as they had dropped the tire. AJ noticed this and frowned for a moment as she considered the possible relationship between the two events.

"Funky Monkey! I'm not hungry anymore, but I'd still like a snack though." Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

"Yea... About that snack you can go ahead and grab an apple out of mah bags if ya want." Applejack suggested.

"A apple! I want to make sure that the others get somethin' too if they're feelin' peckish." Applejack reminded with a subtle warning.

Pinkie Pie nodded several times, but whether she had actually heard AJ or not wasn't known. Pinkie Pie obtained an apple from Applejack's bags and quickly devoured it in only a hoofful of bites. She rejoined Applejack and they continued to move the garbage into the corner. They made sure to not handle any of the poop until the Unicorns had rediscovered telekinesis.

Occasionally Rarity would release a gasp. The first time they noticed nothing gasp worthy while the second time they could see that Twilight had successfully relearned levitation. Shortly after that Twilight squealed in delight as they relished in their success. Quickly after that Rarity trotted over to assist them.

"Welcome aboard matey!" Pinkie Pie said, in an attempt at a savvy pirate accent.

Rarity nodded in response to Pinkie Pie, but directed her attention to Applejack.

The left corner of Applejack's mouth twitched, as she remembered the slumber party at Twilight's house about two and half years ago.

"Not really, Applejack." Rarity replied, as she obviously remembered the same event.

"However, Twilight and I have discovered how to perform Telekinesis with our Inner Magic, so I can help move heavier objects or... Objects that you'd rather not pick up... Perhaps." Rarity said, as she glanced down at a pile of turds.

"Well that'd be appreciated, just lob them over to that Trash Heap and that'll be the end of it." Applejack responded, as she gestured to the sizable pile behind her.

Rarity nodded and used her magic to grab the turds and throw them towards the pile of garbage. They continued like this, Applejack and Pinkie Pie collecting larger objects while Rarity threw poop for quite some time. They managed to relocate the majority of the trash into this single heap by the time Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy returned.

As they walked over to where the Pegasi had landed, Rarity slowed and put her left hoof on Applejack's front right shoulder. Pinkie Pie continued to trot along. Applejack stopped and looked over to Rarity with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, by 'it' ya mean that whole lack of Equestria Magic and all? Maybe, but I didn't feel much. Kinda felt like indigestion if ya asked me... Which I guess you did, heh." Applejack said, as she chuckled at the end.

"To me it feels as if an evil cold has encircled my soul, cutting it off from anything around it." Rarity described, but then nodded to the two Pegasi. "But we should hear what they’ve seen.”

"Alright." Applejack agreed, and they trotted over to where their friends were gathering.

Twilight already had her cyan notepad and mechanical pen ready, and had begun her civilized interrogations.

"Yea." Rainbow Dash replied, as she sat on her rear with her forelegs crossed over her chest. It was obvious she was doing her best to endure.

"The clouds are also moved by the wind. Which is pretty weird if you ask me." Rainbow Dash mentioned.

"This doesn't surprise me too much." Twilight said as, she used her magic to hastily write notes down into her notepad.

"Anything else?" Twilight asked, as she looked over a pair of writing or reading glasses that she must have quickly obtained when they had returned.

"Well I didn't get a good look at them. They were in some shadows, but I did see that they wore some clothes, and they ran on two legs. They also had some other sort of legs coming out of what looked like their chest, but they just waved them around as they ran." Rainbow Dash described.

Twilight scratched her chin with the top of her pen as she gazed up towards the ceiling.

"Uhm. Yea. These guys didn't look like monkeys. Maybe a TINY resemblance, but no. Definitely not monkeys." Rainbow assured.

"No! Same thing as with the monkeys." Dash said, as she quickly became exasperated.

"Were they Funky Monkeys?" Pinkie Pie queried, as Twilight jotted down more notes.

Rainbow Dash looked to Pinkie Pie incrediously then shook her head several times.

"I see... Well I hope that changes." Twilight said, as she finished off her notes.

"Yea we can't have ya gettin' all berser-" Applejack said, when a sudden light interrupted her.

The flash of light came from behind the party, but no sound came with it. It was bright, similar to a beam of sunlight, but it slowly faded. They didn't dare to look towards it until it had faded. When they did look to it there was a simple long and low crate. It appeared old and worn.

The other five followed her over to the box. There was a crowbar taped along the top. Applejack tore off the tape and grabbed the crowbar. She wedged it in along the top and pried it open, and took a quick inventory of what they had been shipped.

On the left side of the box was food. They had salad fixings, pancake mix, sandwich materials, and some ingredients for what appeared to be tomato soup. There was a single large hard plastic container of water with a spigot, and several gallon jugs of water to fill it. Lastly they had hot cocoa packets and plastic bags full of coffee grounds. Along with a six bottle case of Canterlot Cider. In the middle of the box, and to the right of the food were several foldable tables, collapsible chairs, two plastic tubs for washing, dish soap, and a typical green Colemane two burner camping stove with two canisters of fuel. There were six sets of plastic kitchen ware, plates, utensils, cups and mugs, bowls, and a green coffee pot with white speckles. Stored to the right of the generic supplies, were sleeping bags and pads along with a few extra blankets. Underneath all of this were some meager construction supplies. Namely several boards wrapped in a blue tarp, a hammer, and a small box of nails. Tucked into a corner, as if they were squeezed in at the last minute, was a bottle of soap and shampoo.

"Lovely! I wouldn't be able to STAND living her without these, and do I feel awful already so if you don't mind..." Rarity said, as she casually snatched the soap and shampoo and trotted off.

Applejack and Rainbow Dash looked to each briefly with extremely amused expressions, as they barely held in their own laughter. They watched the White Unicorn trot away with the bathing materials only to realize she had no decent place to bathe yet. Rarity's cheeks turned red as she turned back around and walked back to her friends with embarrassment. AJ and Dash couldn't withhold their amusement any longer and released a hearty burst of laughter. Pinkie Pie giggled along with them. Twilight gave Rarity an empathic look, while Fluttershy smiled with amusement. Rarity laughed briefly with them good naturedly.

"What do we have for dinner tonight, AJ?" Twilight asked, as she had not yet obtained a good view of what they were given to eat.

"Well, we can choose from salad, sandwiches, or tomata soup. I'm gonna guess that this pancake mix is fer tomorrow mornin'." Applejack replied.

"Yea! Let's make a salad! Is there whipped cream? I like whipped cream in my salads!" Pinkie said in typical cheer.

"I guess salad it is then. Who's going to make it?" Twilight said, then inquired.

"Just hold on a minute. We still need t' set up a place fer ya to make this at." AJ pointed out.

Rarity nodded, and took some steps back to give Applejack the space she needed to accomplish that.

The ponies quickly worked together at taking the tables out of the crate and deploying them to form a few counters and a single large table. They set up the stove and fuel on it's own table while placing two more collapsible tables next to it. A couple feet (or a meter) away they positioned a table to hold the blue water jug. Finally two other tables were positioned away from the stove to carry the tubs which would serve as kitchen and bathroom sinks. Once their makeshift kitchen had met their standards Rarity and Pinkie collected the salad ingredients and began to prepare the meal.

As AJ and Fluttershy set up some chairs to relax in Twilight grabbed Rainbow Dash for a moment and assigned her another task.

"Here, use my notepad and pen and just draw what you saw. You know, a map. You have seen a map before, right?" Twilight said, as she levitated her cyan notepad and pen over to Rainbow.

"Good. I'll just view it before I go to sleep." Twilight informed Rainbow, as she trotted over to assist the AJ and Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash looked down at the cyan notepad. There was what appeared to be a black storm cloud with a jagged yellow lightning bolt coming from it. There was something fishy about it. Rainbow Dash glanced to her flank and observed her cutie mark, then the cloud and lightning bolt. They appeared almost identical in shape.

"Nah! Nopony would have put my cutie mark on a notepad. Who would put the awesomest cutie mark ever on a crumby notebook?" Rainbow Dash thought as she dismissed her suspicions.

She nosed open the notepad and quickly passed Twilight's notes until she found a blank page. She grabbed the pen with her mouth and clicked the pen with her tongue, and began to poorly draw what she saw. After about thirty-four seconds she had finished with scratching out her pathetic attempt at a map and had chosen to write a simple note instead.

Satisfied that she had accurately conveyed what she had seen she clicked the pen again and tossed it down next to the notepad, and closed it.

When Rainbow Dash sat down in one of the chairs with Applejack and Fluttershy she noticed that Twilight wasn't present.

Eventually Rarity and Pinkie Pie called the others to dinner, of course Twilight had returned by this time and joined them for their meal. They passed the bottles of cider around and quickly dug into their meal. Much wasn't said over dinner besides sharing their excitement and expectations for the coming week. Dinner was quickly eaten and the ciders drunk. Rainbow Dash wistfully gazed into her empty bottle, but shook it off as she stood to assist Fluttershy in cleaning the dishes.

As the Sun began to sink and the light that bombarded the Earth throughout the day turned to an evening glow; The other four brought the sleeping bags and pads away from the crate and towards a wall. They unrolled the sleeping pads and unpacked the sleeping bags, as they prepared for the night. Once their sleeping quarters were established they each went to their packs and retrieved their personal items. The majority of them simply brushed their teeth and trotted off to their sleeping bags. While others inserted their curlers and removed extensions. Finally they had all returned to their bags and talked briefly before they began closing eyes and attempt to drift off to sleep.

Twilight however, had ducked into her sleeping bag and attempted to create a light with her horn. After the seventh try she succeeded and opened her notepad. She turned quickly to an empty page, but not before noticing the attempts at a map made by Rainbow Dash and the note she had left her. Twilight was disappointed at first, but silently chuckled the feelings away as she realized who she had told to become a cartographer. She nosed to the next page and quickly wrote notes about her day, and what she had learned. She was greatly tempted to go into more detail, but restrained herself for she had a very limit supply of paper in this small notepad. Once satisfied with what she had written she brought the notepad and pen out of her sleeping bag and tossed it gently onto the ground above her pad. She then rolled onto her side and fell asleep with the sounds of her friends softly snoring surrounding her.

Alleys

by Goober_Trooper

March 12th - The Other Side