//------------------------------//
// 12 Labors 
// Story: Has Anyone Ever Loved Me? 
// by DerpyMuffins15 
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Ruling the stars and cosmos was the only thing on Trixie's mind when her mistress said control over Lunar magic. She could finally command the night and everything associated with it. Trixie could raise and lower the tides, invade and bestow pleasant dreams and nightmares, and bend the cosmos and universe to her liking. What she was doing instead was reading from half a dozen scrolls about star formations, fertility, and the lunar calendar. She read ancient scrolls upon ancient scrolls on the different days the new year arrived in the Lunar calendar, about how on a full moon, a mare would be blessed if she had been fertilized. Trixie was bored beyond what her enchanted mind could bear, and the lectures her mistress spoke didn’t help to keep the mare awake either. It wasn’t that she didn’t understand anything, it was that she understood and remembered everything. Every single useless fact recited by the Lunar Alicorn was crammed inside Trixie’s mind and they didn’t seem to be leaving anytime soon. Not only did she comprehend the ancient text on the scrolls, but Trixie could also read and recite it without fault. Her magic, as well as mind and body was heightened to beyond that of normal. Equations that Trixie thought she would never be able to solve were trivial thoughts in her mind now. Her IQ centupled overnight as well as her perspicacity. Trixie, in both body and mind, were in total sync with each other, each one adapting should the other fail in a certain area.

“When will Trixie be able to conjure lighting?” asked the showmare mildly. She tossed the scroll she had just finished onto the growing pile inside Luna’s room.

After a quick nap, Luna attempted to do her nightly duties, but the lowering of the moon took more effort than the Lunar Alicorn had thought needed, and now she sat on her bed working through scroll after scroll of paperwork. Her attention was torn away at her new student’s request. “We have already told thee student, elemental magic will come naturally, if thou show enough potential. So far, thy has only shown that the seeking of knowledge is not thy top priority. Read and recite each scroll from the top.” commanded Luna. 

“UGGH.” moaned Trixie as she facedesked. “Trixie has already recited each scroll over a dozen times. How will Trixie learn about Lunar magic if she can’t even use it?” questioned the azure mare.

“Knowledge is half the battle, my impatient student. First, you must learn restraint, then  you must learn control. After you have mastered the two we shall move on to wielding things associated with my night.” explained the Lunar Alicorn. She had expected the showmare to complain about not being able to use her magic. Only time will tell if the azure mare is worthy of wielding Lunar magic. One last signature signed and the Lunar Alicorn finally finished her documents. It had taken all night, but Luna had finally caught up. The Lunar Alicorn minor stacked the official scrolls into a neat pile before turning to her annoyed student.

“Trixie isn’t a foal that needs to be trained in basic magic. The Great and Powerful Trixie has defeated an Ursa Major and won victories, saving a town. Trixie doesn’t need to know these things.” boast the showmare.

“Thou has defeated an Ursa Major?” asked Luna suspicious. It was rare to encounter an Ursa, but to defeat one in battle, the Lunar Alicorn couldn’t believe the words of her student. So she decide to call Trixie on her bluff. “Well then, if what thou say is true, we shall move on to a harder challenge.”

“Finally.” exclaimed the showmare. Not only would she not have to read another scroll, but she could test out her new limits.

“If thou is up to the challenge, thou must perform the Twelve Labors.” explained Luna. She weakly magiced another scroll out of thin air with a list of things for the showmare to do.

“Twelve Labors? Trixie will have all of them done in a single afternoon.” boasted the azure mare.

“We suggest thy look closely at each labor. Start with the first, and when thou decides to quit, thou may return to thy studies.” scowled Luna as she levitated the scroll to her eager student.

“Let’s see, the first labor. Trixie must capture the soul of a...” said Trixie as she trailed off. Her expression would have faltered into fear had she not hidden it from the Lunar Alicorn. “Trixie has to capture the soul of a LEO?!”

“Thou can always return to thy studies if thou chooses to not accept the challenges.” returned Luna. No matter how hard she tried, Luna couldn’t help but feel a smirk on her face at her student’s distress. ‘Maybe now you will learn to not boast as much, my student.’ mused the Lunar Alicorn. 

“Trixie... accepts mistress’ challenge.” muttered the showmare as she looked over the remaining labors. Each task laid before her got worse and worse the further down the list she went, until Trixie came across the worst one yet, the last one on the list of task to do included Cerberus. Trixie never really liked dogs, now she wasn’t going to like them even more.

“Wh-what?” stuttered Luna at her student’s answer. She had just created the list as a joke, to tease her into learning not to boast as much, but now it seemed to have backfired on the Lunar Alicorn. Not only is Trixie willing to do the labors, but also collect each soul one by one. “The labors are not for mortal beings. We jest with thee, student, thou do not have to do the labors.”

“Trixie is a new mare, and with new powers. Trixie wants to gauge her new limits, is all. These trivial labors are nothing for someone as great and powerful as Trixie.” answered the showmare as she headed towards the door. It seemed that Luna’s new student was really gonna do the labors set for her. Not only was each task impossible, but each time the showmare could get herself killed.

“Student, We order thee to quit thy notions of completing these labors. They are a joke and should be treated as such. These tasks are impossible for anyone who dares try them. Even with the Lunar magic embedded within your body, your lack of control and  knowledge on the subject means one wrong move and thou can seriously hurt thyself. Do not attempt these labors, my student. Get back to thine studies.” protested the Lunar Alicorn.

“Consider this a field test of Trixie’s powers. Trixie will return with a report and twelve labors accomplished. First on the list is a Leo, does mistress know where Trixie can find a Leo?” asked the showmare cockily. She still paid heed to her teacher’s warnings, but didn’t let them falter her mood. She was more powerful than she was before, and only the Twelve Labors can prove she is the best unicorn in all of Equestria.

“We shall give thee one last chance, student. These task are nigh impossible. If thou paid any attention in thy studies, thou would know that Leos are found within large mountain peaks. Now get back to thy studies.” argued the Lunar Alicorn as she tried to intercept her student. All efforts were useless as the phthalo mare desperately stumbled on the the obsidian floors. Fatigue still gripped the Alicorn after giving her student most of her powers the night before. Not only was she drained magically, but physically as well. It seemed all strength left the Lunar Alicorn as the healing spell worked into a transference spell. The only things Luna still commanded was her night, moon, and stars, but she still struggled with them nonetheless. “Why art thou doing this?” asked Luna for one last desperate attempt.

“Let’s just say Trixie has a score to settle. Trixie has been humiliated by a certain unicorn, and wishes to get things fixed once and for all. Only these task will prove if Trixie is powerful enough to face the mare again.” grumbled the showmare as she helped her mistress upright. 

“My student, learn to forgive. Revenge will lead you down a dark path which thou may never recover from. Believe us, We know, for we have fallen down the same path. Thou will focus on nothing more than proving thyself better than the other mare, are We correct?” asked Luna. She was steadily courted back into her bed as the showmare beside her contemplated an argument. 

“Trixie needs this mistress. Trixie needs closure. Trixie has been waiting a very long time for a chance to best the mare at her own game, a duel of magic, wit against wit. She has been trained, and trained well. She has defeated an Ursa Minor and has claimed to be better than Trixie in every way possible.” argued the showmare.

“We do not mind if thou seek closure, but closure involving revenge is another thing entirely. Thou may complete the task if thou chooses, but please forget about vengeance, it is not worth it in the long run, nor is it healthy to keep such bitterness welled inside of thyself. Take advice from someone with personal experience in the matter, my student.” answered Luna bitterly.

“Fine, Trixie shall just complete the Twelve Labors then. Now where is the nearest Leo?” asked the showmare as she finished helping her mistress into bed.

Luna couldn’t help but give a sigh at her student’s persistence. “We find thine bravada to be indulgent. Thou really seek to find a Leo?” asked Luna one last time.

“Trixie finds your lack of faith in Trixie to be disturbing, mistress. Of course Trixie can find and defeat a Leo, there will never be any doubt about it. Trixie has defeated an Ursa Major before.” boasted the showmare.

“Very well then, you shall find the nearest Leo to be within the peaks of the Crystal Mountains. Be warned, the Crystal ponies are not kind to outsiders. Should they discover thee, thy would be hung by lynching. They shall charge thou for trespassing or, if they are able to, treason. My sister and I do not exactly have clear tidings with the Crystal ponies, so be on thine guard. No one has seen a Crystal pony in over a thousand years, and their King has manage to keep the Kingdom in solitude. Tread with caution, my student, a Leo is no pushover either. Once thou have traveled deep enough into the mountains, Lunar magic will do the rest.” answered Luna. Sending her student into hospitable territory would be considered a terrible thing to do as a teacher, but it may teach the showmare humility and honesty.

“Crystal Mountains mistress says? Trixie hasn’t been there before, nor seen any Crystal ponies yet. Alright, Trixie will grab a scarf. How does Trixie capture the soul of the Leo?” asked the azure mare.

“The proper spell should be within the scrolls labeled under Necromancy. Look in the archives if thou wishes, our seal is all thou needs to gain access. Tread with care my student, We cannot say it enough times. Necromancy is one of the most dark and forbidden forms of magic. Should anything go wrong during the spell, not only would thy body perish, but thou will be unable to die. Thou shalt be stuck between living and death, forever roaming, haunting until someone puts thee out of thy misery. If thou succeed, We shall reward thee, though.” answered Luna. She rolled up the list of labors from the azure mare before sealing it with her official emblem. The crescent moon glistened along with the three stars that accompanied it, as the scroll was given back to the showmare.

“If these lands are as horrid as mistress says they are, how will Trixie defend herself should she encounter the Crystal ponies?” asked the showmare as she accepted the scroll. In a flash of bright magenta light, the scroll dissolved into a pocket dimension waiting to be used again.

“Thou will not. The Crystal Empire has been as elusive as its ponies. Any information about them is either outdated or faked. Thou shalt just have to rely on thine wits and magic alone. We shall be watching thy from a distance should thou need us.” answered Luna. Her new student was about to embark on a terrible journey to prove her worth. Worry was mixed with pride at how far her pupil was going to go to impress her. Not only would Trixie face certain death, but also testes of of the mind and soul. “May our stars watch over thou on this journey, my apprentice. Thou have my blessing.” spoke Luna one last time as her student disappeared from sight. ‘Maybe I shouldn’t have let her go.’ wondered the Lunar Alicorn as she reviewed the labors her pupil had to accomplish. Her thoughts were interrupted as a glossy-cerulean mare stepped from the shadows. The ghostly Alicorn coolly glided across the room and onto a nearby cushion before addressing the other Lunar Alicorn.

“I see you have sent the mare to her death. To think I was cruel and cold blooded one.” complemented Nightmare. It was the first time Luna did something horrible without the influence of the evil Alicorn.

“The mare asked for a chance to prove herself, I just gave her that chance. If she believes she can complete these task, then I shall believe in her as well. It’s what friends do for each other.” said Luna. Even though she barely knew the showmare, Luna would have gone as far as to call her a friend. 

“You shouldn’t hold faith in such trivial things as friendship, Luna. In the end, it is power alone that will prevail.” argued Nightmare. “I could wield stars while that pathetic friendship will only give you company.” said Nightmare cockily.

No matter what the Lunar Alicorn tried, her alter ego wasn’t likely to lighten up in her boasting anytime soon. Not only was Luna tired of hearing it from one mare in her life, but two was beginning to push her over the edge. “Your overconfidence is your weakness, Nightmare, always has been.”

“Your faith in your friends is yours.” barked back Nightmare harshly. “There is no one you can rely on but yourself. Subordinates will only go so far, in the end, if you want something done right, you have to do it yourself.”

“That is where you are wrong Nightmare. Trixie will prove you wrong. She may not see it now, but she will soon. Bitterness towards another just isn’t worth the trouble it causes. She is on the way to learning humility, as will you.” retorted Luna.

“That mare wouldn’t know humility if it smacked her right in the face. She boasts when unnecessary, has an ego worse than Celestia, and annoys me to no ends.” complained Nightmare.

“Remind you of anyone?” asked Luna sarcastically. Her face formed a smirk as Nightmare’s grew in annoyance. 

“I tire of this petty conversation. Awake me when needed. My strength is not yet at its fullest.” answered Nightmare as she shifted back into the shadows.

Luna sat on her bed, smirking madly at her first victory against the assertive counterpart. ‘One of many victories to come if my new pupil succeeds in her quest.” mused Luna as she continued on with her paperwork. As soon as her thoughts were away from Nightmare, Luna felt a shiver run down her spine. All of a sudden, she felt all the heat within her body leave her, as well as a nagging sense that she was in mortal danger. The Lunar Alicorn continued to shake in her trance as the need to do paperwork grew into undoable. ‘I wonder if Tia will mind if I snuggle with her. I think I may be coming down with a cold.’ sniffled Luna as she weakly headed out of her room. Elsewhere, a frozen mountain range very far, far away, a certain showmare was facing an avalanche as it toppled down a mountainside towards her.

~~~

Shortly after leaving her mistress, Trixie whisked herself into the Royal Archives with the Lunar seal wrapped in her magic. Not only was gaining entrance to the old library difficult, but the musty books constantly reminded Trixie about a certain lavender mare she hated. The showmare trotted in silence as she made her way towards the ‘N’ section of the dark library. The further inwards the azure mare headed, the eerier things got. More often than once, Trixie saw something moving from the shadows, lurking, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. The showmare continued to caution herself as she approached her destination. As she finally reached the correct shelf, her eyes meticulously searched for the scroll needed to perform the ritual. The black scroll was finally found as Trixie levitated it from the dusty shelf. A second smaller note was attached to the black one, as the showmare opened the old document. To her surprised the entire scroll was blank. ‘Or someone was stupid enough to use black ink on a black scroll.’ mused the azure mare, as her attention was now drawn to the scroll beside the larger one.

As she slowly uncurled the smaller one, Trixie thanked that it wasn’t blank like the first. Her eyes scanned it quickly until it came across works that made the mare sickly pale. “...blood of an innocent is required to view the black scroll, preferably from someone pure of heart and virtue...” read the showmare. Trixie made very few friends growing up with a difficult life, not a single one of them fit the description the scroll required. “This will just have to wait for later. Right now, there is a Leo with Trixie’s name on it.” said the showmare to herself. Her horn once again glowed a magenta as she was whisked away to a frozen tundra thousand of miles away. 

The first thing the mare noticed was the bitter cold that entrapped her as she face-planted into the deep snow. The chilly winds bustled harshly on Trixie’s damping coat as she pulled herself from the bitter snow. All the azure mare could see was the blinding wing and hail that continued to push her backwards. It took barely a second for the showmare to cast a warmth spell to surround herself as well as a cloaking spelling. The black veil her mistress wore now blanketed the azure mare. As Trixie raised her head towards the sky to find her celestial position, all she could see was a faint eos glowing as black clouds covered the sky. The protection spell will likely wear off in a few hours if the showmare didn’t find any shelter soon. Her eyes once again scanned the mountainside for any form of cover the mare could use, and soon spotted a little cave beyond the treeline of the mountain. Once again, the mare flashed in a blink and appeared within the cold and dark cave. Any and all light was only apparent because of the faint aura that still surround the showmare.

The shadows grew long and eerie as Trixie continued to make camp. A few bundles of logs were gathered as the showmare whisked them out of thin air. A single spark ignited the fuel and revealed the entire interior of the cave. It appeared that the only entrance and exit from the dark hole was the one Trixie spotted from in first place, as the cave rounded not a few steps in. “It’s not much, but it’s something. Trixie will have to wait for this storm to blow over before she can find a Leo.” said the mare to herself. Soon something caught her eyes. Something lavender followed by six other colors, mushy shapes moved across in the snowstorm as the showmare sat snugly around the warm fire. After the lavender came cyan, orange, hot pink, and light yellow. Another two shapes were hard to make out, but Trixie was certain they were white colored. Trixie paid no attention to them as each one disappeared from sight and the foggy storm thickened. Slowly the mare lowed her head as well as her eyes into a light slumber. Her ears perked high, fell, as the mare finally drifted into deep sleep. Her mind wandered into peaceful dreams as her body remained alert, to warn her if anything was out of place.

Only after a few minutes of silence,the showmare was torn away from slumber as she felt something curl up beside her. Without opening her eyes, the showmare felt every movement with her body. Something large and warm snugly warped the azure mare in a deathly hug. Soon she felt a large weight laid on her back. She was completely covered under white fur. Silently igniting her magic, the showmare extended her view  beyond her body. What Trixie saw startled the mare more than ever. Tightly wrapped around the showmare was a Leo looking for some warmth from the blinding snow, stumbled upon the cave Trixie resided in. The Leo laid happily on top of the showmare completely blanketing her and covering her from view. Not only was capturing the soul of a Leo already difficult without the knowledge of how to use the soul stealing spell, now Trixie had to deal with a hungry beast that could easily rip her piece from piece if it wanted to. 

‘This is going to be a problem...’ mused Trixie. Not only was she being cuddled by the Leo on top of her, but the beast was also using her as a plushie as well. It seemed the showmare had forgotten to disperse the warmth spell used early as the Leo likely stumbled upon the azure mare to find warmth. Trixie quickly reviewed her choices, each one getting her killed, maimed, and eaten. No sooner did her worries enter the showmare’s mind did her teacher’s words as well. ‘Lunar magic will do the rest...’ echoed faintly inside her again and again until Trixie finally understood what it meant. Leos were created from Lunar magic itself, and anyone who wielded Lunar magic had absolute command over the celestial beast. ‘So that’s why it didn’t eat me...’ mused the azure mare as she continued to plan out her escape. ‘If that troublesome Twilight has a pet, so will Trixie. A Leo should be more than fitting to challenge a draken.’ thought Trixie as her smirk grew.

“Leo...” whispered the showmare at first. All she got in return was a snore and a slight growl from the heavy beast on top her. “Leo!” exclaimed Trixie, again muffled by the thick fur on top of her. This time, the Leo return the command with a mild and annoyed roar that shook the mountainside. The celestial beast still slumbered, but was on the verge of wake. “LEO!” ordered the showmare confidently. No sooner had the shout escaped Trixie did the celestial beast roar awake angrily. It’s eyes burned furiously with animosity as it lifted its heavy body to confront the Lunar apprentice. The anger slowly died as the Leo backed away slowly sensing the Lunar magic that surged through the showmare. Not only did the celestial beast fear Trixie, but it bowed in her presence. “Trixie wonders....” murmured the mare as she gave the Leo the sign to raise. She stared directly into the transparent eyes and found them burning furiously. “Trixie has interrupted your sleep hasn’t she?” asked the azure mare as she reignited the dying fire. A quick look outside the cave and she saw that the storm had only gotten worse. The entrance was nearly sealed off with tons of snow piling on top of each other.

“It doesn’t look like we are going anywhere anytime soon.” deduced the showmare. Trixie’s attention was quickly returned to the celestial beast as she heard it purr in the corner it had retreated into. The beast’s fur was transparent, with stars shining dimly within its mane and coat. A single red star glowed brightly in the center of the Leo’s forehead as its whiskers twitched. With a closer inspection, the razor sharp fangs were a ghostly white that could have ripped through anything without much effort, not even a dragon’s backside would have stood up to it. The stormy blue eyes that glowed, stared directly back at the showmare as she saw cosmic and Lunar magic pulse around. Not only was the beast majestic and showed it prowess effortlessly, this one was bigger than a usual Leo, twice as big, and stood nearly hunched over in the small cave. The bulky muscle threatened to rip through the beast’s very celestial skin, while scars and hunting wounds were scattered across the Leo’s back, chest, and face. A deep scar ran through one of the Leo’s eye, paling the blue. Not only was this beast trained, but it was an alpha among alphas. It only showed weakness because the fear of being whisked away, back to the stars, threatened it.

Trixie couldn’t help but feel a liking to the living constellation. “Trixie has always wanted a cat.” mused the mare as she trotted closer to the purring Leo. All thoughts of capturing the beast’s soul drifted away as the showmare discovered that the beast had a soft side to it. She felt it cuddle snugly around her once again to seek warmth from the harsh conditions. The azure mare couldn’t help but smile as the Leo glomped her vigorously. “Convincing mistress to let Trixie keep you is going to be difficult.” said the showmare to her new pet. The celestial beast only stopped its glomping to nudge the azure mare playfully and give a set of puppy dog eyes that made Trixie’s heart ache. “Capturing does have more than one meaning...” pondered the azure. As its licks dried on the mare’s coat, the saliva left over made the fur glisten and shine an even darker shade. She was now more of a lazuli mare more than ever, as she sensed the storm outside lightening. 

“What is next on the list?” asked the showmare to the Leo. “Oh wait, you need a name...” questioned the mare. “Maybe Trixie will think of one later. Right now, we have a Hydra to kill.” said the mare as she examined the list. A soft growl left her pet at the word Hydra alone. It seem not only were those two hated enemies in the stars, but also in the mortal world as well. “Don’t worry, these task won’t take long. The sooner we get them done the better. Trixie’s mistress would be completely lost without Trixie.” said the mare as she wrapped both bodies in a magenta aura. In a flash both disappeared from sight and into the Everfree Forest.

~~~

Some time later...

“Tia, I think I may be coming down with the sniffles.” sneeze the Lunar Alicorn as she tried to drink from her cup of tea. Both Princess were once again within the private dining halls, one of them a paler color than healthy.

“Lulu, I think you are coming down with something. We should check you in with the doctors. You have never gotten sick before, did something happen? You seem to be weaker than usual.” questioned the concern alabaster Alicorn. “Perhaps we should cancel your courts tonight.”

“N-n-n-no need sister.” said Luna. “Ahh-ah-ah-coo...” sneezed the Lunar Alicorn quietly. Even when ill, Luna was still adorable. Her vision clouded as a pounding headache ran through her head. No longer being able to hold her cup with magic, it dropped to the table with a thud and cracked.

“Lulu, I don’t care what you say, I believe a few days of rest is in order for you. Perhaps you should spend a few days in your bed. I will send for a personal nurse for you.” said Celestia as she rushed to her sickly sister’s side.

Raising a hoof to Luna’s forehead, it felt warm to the touch, something very hard to accomplish with the Solar Goddess’ normal body temperature being over a hundred. Not only was Luna getting sick, but was also worsening by the second. In a flash the alabaster Alicorn blinked both of them into the medical ward. Surprising the doctors once again, they continued with their professional routine. They each checked a specific part of the Lunar Alicorn’s body, from taking her temperature to blood pressure. It seemed like overkill to Luna, but it was just another part of being pampered. After half an hour of checks and rechecks, the doctors were clueless.

“What does thou mean thou do not know what is wrong with us?” asked the Lunar Alicorn angrily. Slight coughs were followed as Luna expanded more energy to keep her temper in check. 

“So-sorry Princess, but Alicorn biology is still very much unknown. You could have something as light as a cold, or something as worse as the flu. We simply cannot tell. All we can suggest is bed rest and some medicine. Or it could be a mental illness.” answered the doctor as she read over Luna’s symptoms. 

“Art thou calling us crazy?!” Luna barked back harshly. It was rude to waste her time, but to question her sanity was pushing it. She was already dealing with one over inflated ego, but two was driving her over the edge.

“N-no, Princess, you misunderstood me. What I mean is, stress can be affecting your health. You have been very stressful lately, it could just be that.” answered the frightened doctor.

“We have been under a great deal of stress these last few nights.” said Luna as she reminisced about the sleepless hours she spent awake. Now that she realized it, her eyelids grew droopy and heavy. She didn’t know why, but she felt more fatigued than ever.

“If that is the case, then we suggest you get plenty of bed rest in a stress free environment.” said the doctor as she jotted down a note pad. “I’ll prescribe some vitamins as well to get your immune system back up. Do you know where you will be staying Princess?”

“Sis-sister, would thou do us a favor?” asked Lunar Alicorn as she begun to shiver. Violent coughs were followed as the Solar Goddess rushed to her sister’s side.

“Yes, Lulu?” asked Celestia with a worried expression. She closed snugly around Luna to only find her ice cold. Her sister usually had a cool atmosphere around her, but this was something a lot worse. Luna’s small trembles turned violent as her coughs continued on and on.

“Wou-would you mind wr-writing a le-letter to Tw-Twilight Sparkle for me? I be-believe I sh-shall be staying with her for the time being.” answered the Lunar Alicorn roughly.

“Of course, sister. Do not worry about your duties, I shall take care of them. Right now all I want you to do is get plenty of rest. Have not the need to return until you feel fully recovered sister. I shall call for your chariot and luggage. Just try not to expend much energy for now. Get something to eat, and I shall see you at your departure.” answered the Solar Goddess. In a single flash, she blinked to her sister’s room for a quick letter to her student and started packing Luna’s belongings. Luna didn’t own many clothes, and mostly she just wore her effects like the Solar Goddess did. But Celestia saw that they were laid on the nightstand too big to fit the Lunar Alicorn anymore. “I guess some socks and a sweater will do.” mused Celestia as she stuffed her sister’s suitcase. Blinking again, the Solar Goddess entered the Lunar barracks where a spiked chariot lay. Not too far behind were two Lunar Stallions at their post. Soon both stallions stood ready for their Princess to board and depart. Goodbyes and hugs were exchanged between the sisters as Celestia slowly watch her sister disappear into the skyline.

~~~

Luna lazily sat in her chariot sneezing and coughing every now and then, but enjoyed the scenery as they passed. More and more thoughts of staying with the mare she longed for, consumed her mind until nothing else remained, not even the cold she had could make the Lunar Alicorn falter in her lively mood. ‘Maybe being sick isn’t so bad.’ thought Luna as she drew closer and closer to Twilight Sparkle. Her attention was drawn away as storm clouds thundered. A heavy gale was gathering, quickly too, and anyone caught within its grasped would likely be doomed. A single bolt of lightning shot from the clouds to another vicinity as the typhoon slowly churned in the blackening sky. Not only were ponies told to keep inside, but were warned never to leave their home when a storm of this magnitude hit. The fear of being struck by lightning calmed as Luna realized she will be stuck inside with her love, Twilight for the duration of the storm. Blissful thoughts once again entered her mind as Ponyville entered Luna’s line of sight. The small town which the Lunar Alicorn had made most of her friends in, was only a short distance away. She saw ponies run around frantically to board up any loose windows and to tear down any loose branches. From just the looks of it, everypony was prepared for the storm of a lifetime.

As the Lunar chariot drew closer to the library-treehouse, Luna could see the windows faintly lit with candle light. One of the shapes moved around frantically through each room as Luna approached the front door. Her luggage in one hoof, and with another she gave a subtle knock on the wooden frame. Several seconds passed by before Luna heard movement. Quick hooves moved around the small house, a few stumbles along the way, the door opened quickly to reveal an overworked lavender mare. Twilight’s mane was messy and wild while her eyes twitched from side to side with bags under them.

“He-hello Princess, excuse me for the mess you see I didn’t have enough time to clean up and your sister just sent me a letter about a few hours ago telling me that you are sick and will be staying with me for a while so then I started preparing but everything went wrong when I couldn’t find the correct books on how to take care of a sick Alicorn so then I did everything I would normally do when one of my friends got sick which is lots of soup and books to read so I went to the market to buy some ingredients for a homemade stew, but when I got home I burned the water so now I don’t know if we will be drinking burned water or a plain salad.” explained the lavender mare in a single breath. Not only did stress affect how she acted but her speech patterns as well. “Oh sorry Princess where are my manners please come in you must be tired and cold from your travel, you can wash up in the bathroom and then I can have Spike fix the soup.” continued Twilight as she gave a lopsided smile.

“Uhh, Twi-Twilight, please calm do-down.” coughed Luna as she entered the spotless treehouse. Her voice was barely audible and sounded raspy and arid, like it pained her to get out each and every single word. She groggily stepped inside the cozy house to find it very much still the same. Everything was in its place, and for once she felt welcomed. After a few weak steps, her luggage was quickly taken by a bright raspberry aura and levitated to a nearby counter. “Wh-where is the bathroom Twilight?” asked Luna weakly.

“Upstairs and to the right Princess. Would you like to get some rest first Princess? You don’t look so good.” questioned Twilight as she switched from her hyperactive state to a concerned one. In a better light, Luna’s coat was barely a powder blue, and she grew paler by the second as she slowly trotted to the stairs.

“All I shall need is some bed rest, Twilight. For now, I would like something to eat, my travels have left me weary and I would like to retire early tonight.” squeaked Luna. Her voice could barely be heard anymore, let alone made out. Her several dozen attempts at the stairs were finally met with success when she finally reached the bathroom.

Concern was still written on Twilight’s face as she entered the kitchen where her purple assistant was working overtime to clean the mess she made. Scorch marks were still left on the pan she burned water in, but a new, more savory smell gripped the lavender mare as she approached the young draken. “Spike, this smells delicious! Are you sure you can be done in time?” asked Twilight as she took a sip of the stew. Tangy celery with a hint of sweetness washed on her tastebuds. She felt like she was in heaven as she took another sip of the delectable stew. ‘The Princess will feel better in no time!’ mused the lavender unicorn as she licked her lips.

“Yes, Twi, almost done. Who was at the door?” asked the young draken. He had his heart-apron on and a ladle in one of his hands. The burned soup was easy to fix, as the young draken had gotten used to Twilight burning every single meal she tried to cook.

“It was Princess Luna and I’m afraid she is a lot sicker than the letter I got from Celestia described. We are gonna need something more potent than just soup to get Princess Luna well again.” answered Twilight.

“Come on Twi, my soups are like liquid love. How can she not feel better after getting a taste?” asked the purple draken back, pride hurt.

“Spike, you should know better than to boast like that. Even if you had the best stew in all of Equestria, it just isn’t enough to cure a cold alone. You need rest, which the Princess will get plenty of after dinner. I don’t want any noise, alright Spike? I just hope we have enough supplies to last us the storm. Rainbow Dash said it was gonna last us for a few days, maybe a we-” said the lavender as lightning shook through the sky. All stood still as a loud clatter escaped from the bathroom the Princess was in. Something large had fallen on the wooden floors upstairs, and just from the sounds of it, it was Luna.

Fear and concern once again gripped Twilight as she rushed upstairs, leaving her assistant behind. “Princess?!” questioned the Twilight as she reached to the bathroom. Bustling through the door, she found the Lunar Alicorn paler than ever and unconscious on the floor. It seemed Luna had fainted from pure exhaustion and lack of Lunar magic that used to run through her body. “PRINCESS?!” screamed Twilight even louder as she tried to help the fallen monarch. Luna’s eyes were lazily open, her chest barely raised, while her pale body was shaking violently. No matter how loud the lavender mare shouted, the only response she got in return was a labored moan. Heavy coughs shook the Lunar Alicorn as Twilight tried desperately to rouse her. Once she realized her efforts were fruitless, the lavender mare screamed for her assistant. “SPIKE! Get the medicine out of the cabinet and my book on herbal vaccines! Get that soup ready as well, I want the Princess to eat something before she takes any medicine!” shouted Twilight downstairs.

She only heard footsteps, but Twilight knew her assistant was running the errands commanded. With a gentle light of her horn, the Solar student teleported the passed-out Alicorn to her room. Delicately laying Luna on the cozy bed, Twilight covered her with the blanket, trying to warm the Alicorn in any way she could. Raising a hoof to feel the Lunar Alicorn’s temperature, it felt burning hot, while her small body felt icy cold. Luna was burning up with a fever and they were both stuck until the storm blew over. Examining her again, Twilight notice that Luna’s face contorted in pain. Her breathing nearly stopped for a second as fear of the Alicorn’s death entered Twilight’s mind. ‘This is just a fever Twilight, calm down, don’t jump to conclusions.” as she tried to comfort the Lunar Alicorn in any way she could. 

Running to bathroom again, Twilight wet a towel and returned to Luna’s side. In the short absence, the feverish Alicorn’s temperature rose even higher. The damp cloth sizzled against Luna’s burning forehead, but it helped calm her down, ever so little. “Spike, where is that medicine?!” shouted Twilight as Luna’s condition only worsen. Heavy steps quickly rushed through the door, as a purple dragon ran to the lavender mare’s room with a tray of the things she requested, the only thing missing was the soup. “Spike where is the celery soup?” asked Twilight as she magiced the tray away.

“Sorry Twi, but it’s gonna take me a little while longer to fix burned soup.” apologized the young draken as he rushed back downstairs.

Twilight barely noticed his words as she put the plate on the edge of the bed, and looked quickly through the book, searching for a cure. The only one that fit the description needed to heal the Lunar Alicorn were ingredients Twilight already had, all but one. Even Twilight paled as she read the ingredient out loud. “...a golden apple...” mumbled the lavender mare. “Apples aren’t even made out of gold! Where the buck am I supposed to get a golden apple?!” screamed the mare frantically. No sooner did her fears get the better of her did she start pacing around the sick Alicorn. ‘I gotta tell Princess Celestia...’ mused the lavender mare. A quick glance back at the Lunar Alicorn made Twilight’s heart stop in mid beat. Luna’s coat was now an alice blue, barely noticeable. ‘Now or never...’ thought Twilight as she rushed to her writing desk. It was the only way to save the Lunar Alicorn, even if the Solar student would be seen as a failure in her teacher’s eyes, Twilight didn’t care. There was a life at stake and no amount of reputation could save the Lunar Alicorn. As she sat at her desk to write about the dismay, her thoughts on the letter were interrupted soon after.

Knock,Knock,Knock...

After the first loud bang came from the front door, another wave of knocks came, each time getting louder and louder, it seemed whoever was at the door wasn’t leaving anytime soon, unless answered. “Spike please watch Princess Luna. Call me if her condition worsens. Grab a bucket of ice water as well. Drench the cloth every few minutes and place it back on her forehead. I’ll go see who is at the door, don’t they know better than to go outside during a storm?” said Twilight as she headed for the door and magiced it open. With only just a peak, the lavender mare froze in fear instantly and stared blankly at her new guest.

As the wooden gate parted, a hooded figure was at the doorway, and just to make it creepier, a flash a lightning struck a nearby tree, sending flames scorning its dry bark. Rain started to pour heavily damping the mare’s coat and black shroud.  Behind the unknown figure stood her pet, a growling Leo, with its white coat stained a crimson red, fresh, like it was from a recent kill. Saliva mixed with thick blood drooled from the frightening fangs of the beast, while the sight of it alone nearly made Twilight puke the contents of her stomach, had she not kept it under control. As her vision returned to the figure, the black veil that covered the mare was shredded to bits with marks of teeth, claws, and talons, covering only a portion of her blood-stain coat. After igniting her horn in magic, light shined on the unknown figure. Her coat would have shined a deep lazuli if it wasn’t drenched in a crimson red, while the eyes shone a stormy gray violet, and her cutie mark was a five-point star wand. The mare in front of Twilight’s doorsteps was Trixie Lulamoon, the same mare she had bested not too long ago.

“Trixie?!” exclaimed the frightened mare as she stumble back into her house. The only response she got was a continued growl from the angry Leo beside the showmare. As she made eye contact, Twilight saw nothing but pure hatred for her in Trixie’s enchanted eyes. A spark of electricity surged between the two mares as they continued their deathly staring contest.

“Where is Trixie’s mistress?!”

Author’s note: Let’s be serious guys, no jokes, no foalplay. I’ll be letting you guys have a say in what will happen. I will get a lot of hate, but it is needed. Is Trixie willing to swallow her pride to save Luna? Will you guys let me stay canon and kill off your favorite pony, or would you all want me to twist Trixie into something she’s not? Just a thought. Indeed I shall get lots of hate and dislikes, but this is purely up to you. It will not be my fault if Luna dies, it shall be that Trixie will always be herself, not something she isn’t. This chapter is dedicated to my editor who put the thought in my head in the first place. She asked if Luna was mortal or not, so what if she was? Should Luna live, and I’m not telling you if she does, will Trixie ever be the same? We all love/hate Trixie for who she is. Are you guys gonna hate me for giving you a choice?

Editor’s Note: I swear, I had no idea he was going to do this. If I knew he would take my comment that way I would have never said it. Also, I will take it personally if any of you say “kill Luna”. Also, on a separate note, the Leo needs a name. I voted for Alfonso, because I knew it would get a buck load of lol’s, but thats just me. Help us out with the name too. Again, not my fault he’s doing this. TwiLunaLover out.