//------------------------------// // 10. New Alicorn // Story: Chrysalis' Revenge // by RickyB //------------------------------// CHAPTER TEN: THE NEW ALICORN Laying far from where the battle now raged, lay Twilight Sparkle. Above her was the baby phoenix PeeWee along with Philomena who was the pet for Celestia herself. PeeWee chirped and exploded in a burst of light! When it faded PeeWee was no longer a baby. He seemed to be fully grown. The two phoenix’s chirped and flew off being followed by somepony. This pony followed the phoenixes to the battle. They saw what happened and the third party took action and fly down just in time to prevent Chrysalis from killing Applejack. When they landed all eyes turned to her, the lavender coat and triple colored mane that now seemed to sparkle. She spread her wings and her horn glowed purple. Celestia found the strength to look up and saw the savior and gasped barley able to hold back tears she choked out. “Twilight.” The lavender Alicorn looked to her mentor and smiled, she noticed the down earth pony. She furrowed her brow as her horn shot blasts of magic chasing off the changelings. She noticed the ponies trapped in Pinkie’s special syrup. She glared at Chrysalis who was looking to flee. “Oh no you don’t” Twilight said, and was surprised at how she sounded, her voice was a little bit deeper, richer. Her horn glowed and the group of ponies trapped, found themselves free while Chrysalis found herself trapped in the syrup. With Chrysalis dealt with, Twilight turned to Applejack who just starred at Twilight. “Are you ok AJ?” she asked. “Ah though you where gone.” Applejack said between tears. “I was.” Twilight admitted. “I made my choice, for better or worse I’m an Alicorn. I was always destined to be the Princess of Magic, now I am.” “Nice wings.” Applejack said as she tried to get to her hooves, but she fell. “Your hurt Applejack.” Twilight said. “Everypony gather around, I’m taking us back to Canterlot. I’ll be more than happy to answer questions there.” “Allow me to.” Luna said. “You still have a problem.” She glared at Chrysalis and at Lightning Dust who sat there like a statue. “Ok.” Twilight agreed. “Princess Celestia, would you like to go with the others.” “I’ll stay with you dear Twilight.” Celestia said. “Very well,” Luna agreed and her horn glowed with magic and she was gone with the others, leaving only Twilight, Celestia and Chrysalis with Lightning Dust sitting in the distance. “I’m letting you live.” Twilight growled. “Even though, you deserve the same thing you tried to do to me. You so much as look the direction of Canterlot or Ponyville and I’ll come for you. Once a month you will meet with Celestia and try to work out some sort of peace.” “Twilight.” Celestia said. “No,” Twilight said evenly looking at her mentor. She was taller than she was as a unicorn, even so she had to look up at Celestia. “We need peace Princess, you have to do your part, like I did mine. Please.” “You think I’ll agree.” Chrysalis snorted. “To these absurd conditions?” “You have no choice.” Twilight snarled narrowing her eyes and making Chrysalis cringe. “It’s this or you can find someplace else. Given what you did to ponykind, be happy I’m letting you stay here at all.” “I agree.” Celestia sighed. “If only to protect my subjects.” Twilight looked to Chrysalis who just nodded. “Now go.” Twilight said, and the changeling queen left. She looked to Celestia. “So how did I do?” “You have grown my pupil.” Celestia said proudly. She went to where she left her vestments only to see them trampled and damaged, only her crown was undamaged. With a sigh she donned her crown. “I have a lot I need to do.” Twilight admitted. “I need to talk to my friends, first and foremost.” “I’m sorry,” Celestia said. “That this was thrust upon you Twilight.” “I’m not.” Twilight replied as PeeWee landed on her hoof. “If I chose to not come back, she would have killed Applejack. I couldn’t…wouldn’t let that happen Princess. When you sent me to Ponyville two years ago, I didn’t understand why. I was happy how I was, but it slowly started to sink in over time. The friends I’ve made and how much my magic has improved.” “When Discord turned my friends against me, I was ready to give up. In fact I did give up, then I got to the library and found the lessons you sent me back. All my friendship lessons have made me a better pony. Now my friends are the most important thing to me. Even though it hurts even now to think of when they will leave. I know I’ll be there to spread their legacy.” “Yes,” Celestia agreed. “You have grown my student, I have never been prouder of you. However my praise can wait, we have matters back home to attend to.” “We still have one issue left here.” Twilight said as she looked at Lightning Dust who sat unmoving. “What do we do about her?” Celestia approached the Pegasus as did Twilight. She gave no notice to hearing either of them. “What am I?” Dust asked. “What am I? What did she do to me?” “You are Lightning Dust.” Celestia said. “I’m a changeling! A freak! Do you really think Spitfire will let me join the Wonderbolts now? Do you think anypony will ever look at me the same way again?” Lightning Dust raged. “Many ponies still don’t know.” Twilight assured her. “I know.” Lightning Dust said. “I can’t go back now. I just, can’t. I need to think. I need time!” “Take all the time you need.” Twilight said. Within seconds Lightning Dust was in the air. “There was little we could do Twilight.” Celestia told her student. “Chrysalis struck a hard blow with her. It’s up to her to make it right. That will take time.” “Time for us to go home.” Twilight admitted as Philomena flew over to Celestia. Celestia nodded and her horn glowed. The badlands once vacant of life, was vacant once more. XXXXX In a golden flash Celestia and Twilight where in her throne room. PeeWee and Philomena cried out as the two phoenix flew away. Twilight noticed her brother come running in looking panic stricken. “Twilly!” he cried. “What’s wrong Shiney?” Twilight asked. “Umm,” Shining Armor said nervously. “I might have told mom you where an Alicorn, and she..” He was cut off by yelling from outside the throne room. The throne room doors burst open as a white unicorn with a mane streaked with white and purple came charging in. “Twilight Sparkle!!” she bellowed. “Oh! Umm hi mom.” Twilight said nervously. “Don’t hi mom me young lady!” Velvet scolded. “Did you ever think to ask your parents before you made this life altering choice?” “I really had no chance.” Twilight replied. “I’m sorry mom, but I’ve made my choice. You can be mad and yell all you want, but it was my choice.” Velvet softened and hugged her new Alicorn daughter. Twilight smiled and wrapped her wings around her mother. “See mom,” Shining Armor said. “It worked out.” Velvet glared at her son. “Where were you when your sister was out risking her life?” She was in her sons face. “Umm, oh look at the time, gotta go!” Shining Armor said as his horn glowed and he vanished. “Now mom,” Twilight said. “Don’t be too hard on him.” “Oh I won’t sweetie,” Velvet replied. “I’m just glad you’re ok, your father is too. Wait where is he?” Night Light came wobbling in and gave his wife a cautious look. “Are you ok Dad?” Twilight asked. “You know how your mother gets.” Night Light smiled. “Are you ok sweetie?” “I’m fine dad,” Twilight replied. “I’m glad I saw you guys first. This changes everything.” “You’re still our daughter,” Velvet said as she nuzzled her taller daughter. “We love you and are very proud of you. Now excuse me I need to find our son.” She ran out of the throne room with Night Light on her tail trying to calm his wife down. “Parents.” Twilight sighed. “They love you no matter what Twilight.” Celestia reminded her. “Go see your friends, I need to see the jeweler about remaking my garments.” Twilight looked at the Princess, her mentor and friend, she still had her crown but the rest of her royal vestments where gone damaged in the fight. The two hugged and Twilight left. XXXXX She made her way to Canterlot Hospital, she noticed the looks she got from the ponies she passed. Somewhere of awe, some of jealousy, most were of admiration. Twilight got to the hospital where she was met by Shooting Star. “Twilight,” Shooting Star said as she gave the Alicorn a quick hug. Now Twilight was an Alicorn she was a head taller than Shooting Star. “Looks like you’re taller than I am. Come on, Applejack’s been asking for you.” “Is she ok?” Twilight asked. “She’ll be fine,” Shooting Star replied. “She’s more upset over being told she needs bed rest for a week.” “Star,” Twilight started but Shooting Star shook her head. “No need to apologize for anything Twilight,” Shooting Star said. “What matters now you’re ok, we all are.” They got to Applejack’s room and they heard a southern voice yelling. “Ah’m tellin ya, there ain’t no way I can be off mah hooves fer a week!” Applejack argued. “Ah’m fine! Ah jus got hit on the noggin” Twilight pushed the door open to see Applejack in bed yelling at a poor nurse. Who ran out of the room crying. The others where there, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie where in the corner watching the argument, while Rarity and Rainbow Dash tried to calm Applejack down. Twilight noticed Spike sitting in a chair rocking back and forth. “Spike?” Twilight questioned. The dragon looked at the Alicorn and instantly hugged her. “Twilight!” he cried. “You’re an Alicorn!” The other looked at their friend, she was taller now, taller than Shooting Star but still shorter than either Luna or Celestia. Her mane and tail sparkled now, fitting given her name. She was also more slender, she looked fit and trim. Her wings where folded at her sides, her horn was longer and pointed on the end. “You look beautiful.” Fluttershy squeaked. “I so wish I had wings!” Rarity whined. “I would look so smashing with wings! Like I did before, oh those wings where so beautiful!” “They also burst into flames when ya decided ta show off.” Applejack reminded her. “You know what this means?” Pinkie said. “This means I need to throw a Twilight is an Alicorn party!” “Maybe later.” Twilight said. “I’ve got a lot of adjusting I need to do.” “Is Celestia going to train you in your Alicorn magic?” Shooting Star asked. “I don’t know,” Twilight replied. “I’m guessing I’m going to be staying in Canterlot for awhile.” “You don’t even know?” Rarity asked. “No,” Twilight admitted. “I’m just guessing at this point. All I know is I hope to come back to Ponyville someday.” “Excuse me everypony?” A voice asked, all in the room turned to see Cadence standing there. The pink Alicorn smiled when she saw Twilight. “I’m sorry for interrupting, but Auntie Tia wants to see Shooting Star, and I want to talk to Twilight.” Shooting Star left the room and after getting hugs from her friends, so did Twilight as she left with her foal sitter. XXXXX As Twilight walked with Cadence she noticed she was quiet more somber than what Twilight was used to. Cadence looked at Twilight as she came to a halt. She finally noticed that Twilight was slightly taller than her. That thought brought tears to her eyes. “Cadence?” Twilight asked. “I’m fine Twi,” Cadence said as she dried her tears. “I just wasn’t prepared to see you as an Alicorn. Look at you, you’re beautiful.” “I feel the same I did as a unicorn.” Twilight admitted. “I thought I would feel weird with my wings, but now I have them, it feels like they were always there. I’m still waiting for it to all sink in.” “It won’t be pleasant when it does,” Cadence said shuddering at the thought. “How did you take it?” Twilight asked. “I refused to eat or drink for three days.” Cadence admitted. “Auntie Tia finally told me, that it was a gift. I accepted that. I know I’ll outlive those I love, even Armor. I know though that he will live on through our fillies and colts.” “You mean?” Twilight asked. “Well not yet,” Cadence said with a smile. “I’m hopeful though.” “So what do I do when it all comes crashing down?” Twilight asked. “Who will I go to?” “Your friends.” Cadence replied. “You know they will be there for you. Besides you also have me, Luna and Celestia.” “I just hope I’ll have time to live a normal live before being crowned as a Princess.” Twilight whimpered. “I don’t know many mares that saved Equestria three times over and prevented the Crystal Empire from falling to Sombra. Who would call that normal.” Cadence said with a smile as she began walking with Twilight by her side. “Do you think Princess Celestia will make me a Princess soon?” Twilight asked. “No way to tell,” Cadence replied. “She would have to hold a coronation, just to be proper. You are the Princess of Magic, after all.” “The Princess of Magic?” Twilight questioned as her eyes grew wide and began to twitch. As she stopped dead in her tracks. As if she sensed that Twilight would lose her mind, Cadence wrapped her wings around the purple Alicorn. “It’s ok Twilight.” She purred. “None of this is official, this all needs Auntie Tia’s approval. You know she won’t put you in anything she doesn’t think you can handle.” “So now what do I do?” Twilight asked. “Well I rudely took you away from your friends,” Cadence admitted. “So you should go back and talk to them. Auntie Tia will want to talk to you but I’m sure she’ll let you know when.” “Ok,” Twilight agreed. “Bye Cadence!” Cadence waved her hoof as Twilight left, she smiled. She remembered when Twilight was a filly telling her how special she was. She indeed was special, and now an Alicorn. A tear rolled down her muzzle, for better or for worse this is what Twilight was now. Cadence just hoped it was for better. XXXXX Twilight slowly made her way back to where Applejack was staying. She glanced at her wings, she knew Rainbow Dash would want to teach her stunts, but what about basic flying? Would Dash want to teach her something as boring as that? If she had to stay in Canterlot what would happen to her friends? Twilight sighed as she walked, she then saw a small purple dragon waddling towards her. She smiled at Spike as she used her magic to place her dragon on her back. “Bored?” she asked. “Kinda,” Spike replied. “They just talk about girly stuff or boring stuff. Wait until you get back to Ponyville! Everyone will flip when they see your wings.” “That’s if I go back,” Twilight sighed. “The Princess might keep me here, to learn to use my new powers.” Spike said nothing as they went into Applejack’s room, where Twilight was instantly hugged by Pinkie Pie. “So ya gonna be coming back with us?” Applejack asked. “I don’t know,” Twilight answered. “I just want to spend this time with you girls.” “But of course,” Rarilty replied. “Even if you are kept here, I’ll visit often, I’ve even bring Sweetie Belle along, when she’s not busy with school.” “I’ll come too,” Fluttershy offered. “My little animal friends, won’t mind if I keep food out for them.” “Me too!” Pinkie exclaimed as she bounced in place. “We can have a party!” “You know I’ll be here,” Rainbow Dash said. “Academy students hang here all the time.” “Ah’ll come too Twi.” Applejack said. Then all eyes were on a little dragon. He looked at Twilight and didn’t know what to do or say. He loved Twilight, she was his older sister and mother in one pony. Sure she yelled, but only because she cared. Still he had friends in Ponyville, he didn’t know what to do. “You don’t have to tell me now Spike.” Twilight said. “I might go back to Ponyville with you. I just don’t know, and I won’t know until I hear from Celestia herself.” With that said the seven friends talked, and Twilight enjoyed every minute of it. XXXXX Shooting Star walked the final stretch to Celestia’s throne room. She saw two royal guards who said nothing as the black mare walked past them. She swallowed hard and entered the throne room. She saw Celestia sitting there in her usual royal garments, the ones she lost in the early morning battle already being replaced. “Hello Shooting Star,” Celestia said. “Forgive Luna not being here, but she had restless morning. She will speak with you come sunset.” “Am I still going to Ponyville?” Shooting star asked cutting right to the chase. “Yes,” Celestia replied. “Though you will remain Luna’s student. Twilight’s ascension into an Alicorn has forced my hoof in this manner. Still I have seen how they accept you, and feel that it would help you grow. Luna feels the same I assure you.” “Do you think this is a good idea?” Shooting Star dared to ask. “I do,” Celestia replied. “I understand and respect your reservations Star. However I see the potential you could reach in Ponyville, among friends. You have already taken the hardest step Shooting Star, the rest is easy. I do have a favor to ask of you once you get to Ponyville.” “What’s that?” Shooting Star asked. “Write me.” Celestia said with a smile. “Twilight writes you,” Shooting Star said. “She’s your student, not me. Why do you want me to write?” “Do you plan on learning about friendship?” Celestia asked. “Well, yeah.” Star replied. “Then, writing to me should be easy.” Celestia said. “Of course these will be shared with Luna. She is your teacher after all.” “Then why write you?” Shooting Star asked. “A good start for our relationship.” Celestia said with a smile. “Worry not, Luna knows and approve of this as well.” “I just feel like an outsider,” Shooting Star admitted. “That they only tolerate me because they feel they have to.” “Friendship takes work Shooting Star,” Celestia said. “It’s a bumpy road, somepony could be a bad friend or a fake friend, and hurt you. I have faith however, faith that good friends will find each other. I have faith Shooting Star, that you have six friends gathered, and one here who will miss you greatly.” On cue a yellow and white blur streaked in and crushed Star in a tight hug while bawling the entire time. “Surprise.” Shooting Star gasped. “Can’t….breath…” “YourgoingtoleaveandforgetaboutmeandIllhavetofindnewfriendsandIdontwanna!” Surprise blubbered. “I won’t forget about you Surprise,” Shooting Star assured. “You where my first friend. In fact, Princess Celestia?” “Yes?” Celestia answered. “I’ll write you on one condition.” Shooting Star said. “What would that be?” Celestia asked. “You let Surprise read my lessons too, and she visits me in Ponyville.” Shooting Star said. Celestia looked at Surprise who was nodding her head so fast it was a blur. “Very well,” Celestia replied. “I hereby decree that Surprise has access to all of Shooting Star’s friendship reports, and will visit monthly.” Surprise hugged the black coated mare tightly before zooming off in a streak. Shooting Star smiled at Celestia. “Thank you Princess.” She said. “You will learn much in Ponyville,” Celestia said. “You will face dangers, but also make friends. I’m sure the times there will make it well worth your time. Now return to your friends, and send Twilight Sparkle to me. I wish inform her of what I’ve decided now she’s an Alicorn.” Shooting Star bowed before leaving. XXXXX “Oh no!” Fluttershy squeaked in despair. “Where did my little Angel run off to?” The others looked at the animal caretaker, all was well until Applejack made mention of them not seeing Angel for some time. At that mention Fluttershy began to worry and pacing. “Relax Fluttershy,” Rainbow Dash said as she hovered lounging on her back. “The little guy can take care of himself.” “Oh no,” Fluttershy insisted. “He’s too small, and delicate, what if he meets up with those mean garden animals?” Pinkie Pie, who was being Pinkie Pie was all over the small room. She peeked under the bed and reached her hooves. She then placed the bunny she found in front of her. “Oh Angel!” Fluttershy cried as she zoomed over to her pet bunny. “Well that’s taken care of dear, with minimal drama.” Rarity stated. Twilight just smiled with a small nod, she didn’t say much, and she just enjoyed her time with her friends. She turned her head with all the others when Shooting Star trotted in, she was smiling. “I’m still going to Ponyville!” she announced happily. “That’s great sugarcube.” Applejack said. “I can make you a fabulous dress.” Rarity squealed. “And throw a super fun party!” Pinkie said as she bounced. “That’s wonderful.” Fluttershy said. Shooting star looked at Twilight, she smiled at the Alicorn, a sincere one. “She wants to see you.” Star said. “Thanks Star,” Twilight said. “I’m glad you’re coming to Ponyville.” “I hope to work with you there.” Shooting star said hopefully. “Yeah,” Twilight said as she left. “Me too.” XXXXX Twilight slowly made her way to Celestia’s throne room, while she knew she should hurry, she just didn’t feel the need. She was more interested on how she changed, aside from being taller and having wings and a slightly deeper more rich voice. She felt magic inside her, like she could float an Ursa Minor all day and not feel tired. Then was her teleportation magic, Celestia helped her with the spell to get them back to Canterlot from the Badlands, but Twilight was certain she would have been able to do it herself. She thought of the recently resolved conflict between the Changelings. It wasn’t perfect, she doubted Chrysalis and Celestia would ever see eye to eye about anything. There was much more to the animosity between Celestia and Chrysalis than meets the eye. Twilight sighed as she reached the door to the throne room. She made sure her wings where tucked at her side and took a steadying breath. She entered and saw Celestia, once again in her regal vestments. The sun Matriarch smiled at her student. “You wanted to see me Princess?” Twilight asked. “Please Twilight,” Celestia said. “Call me Celestia. After all when you are coronated, it will be Princess Twilight.” “C-coronated?” Twilight asked her features losing all color. “Like a princess coronated, like courts, and nobles and being silently judged?” “Twilight..” Celestia started. “I can’t deal with this,” Twilight said hyperventilating. “I have friends, a home, a can’t lose it to mountains of paperwork. How will I eat, how will I sleep?” “Twilight!” Celestia said more forcefully. She went to her student and wrapped her wings around her. She was about to speak when a thundering was heard and Princess Luna burst in her face betraying panic. “You are going to let her attend the courts?” Luna asked half hysterical. “Sister,” Celestia sighed. “Did you cast a scrying spell to spy on us?” “Tis good I did!” Luna yelled. “Sister, please calm yourself, you as well Twilight.” Celestia said remaining calm despite the two nervous wrecks in the room. Celestia waited for Luna to stop pacing and sit still and for Twilight to stop shaking. “Now, I don’t know where the two of you gets your facts.” “I’m an Alicorn.” Twilight whimpered. “With much to learn,” Celestia said. “You will be coronated as Princess of Magic at some time, but no time soon. I would never dream of putting you in a court session, there is a reason only I attend those.” She gave her sister a dirty look. “I didn’t even do anything!” Luna cried. “I only threatened to incinerate him! He kept calling me Nightmare Moo!” “Nightmare Moo?” Twilight asked confused. “Judge Hard Justice, liked to tease Luna,” Celestia said. “He liked to make fun of her weight. One time he took it too far and Luna took exception, she hasn’t sat in a court session since.” “What about me, and Ponyville? How will they act when they see I’m an Alicorn?” Twilight whimpered. “I already was in contact with The Mayor,” Celestia said. “I tried hard to make the change of subtle as possible. They town often turns to you in moments of crisis, I fear that won’t change. As an Alicorn, they’ll expect much from you. Some demands will be outrageous.” “What do you mean?” Twilight asked. “I have been asked to destroy the sun after a pony got sunburned.” Celestia said. “Others have asked me to make it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.” “Can you even do that?” Twilight asked. “I’m afraid not,” Celestai replied. “I can only lower and raise the sun, I have no control over how warm the sun gets. The blame always falls upon me, the worst was that one time…” Celestia stopped the tears overwhelming her. “Princess?” Twilight asked going to her mentor and trying to wrap her wings around her. “There was a Pegasus named Sun Charger who led the weather team.” Celestia said. “She was much like Rainbow Dash, brave, bold, fearless. We were in the middle of a heat wave so intense that no Pegasus dared take flight. She saw how much Ponyville needed water and took flight. It cost her, dearly.” “She died of heat exhaustion,” Luna continued. “I was in the moon at the time, but Tia told me of this.” “I faced a revolt of angry Pegasus.” Celestia said. “I was called cold, uncaring, that if I really cared I would have told the sun to be not as hot. I told them, that I had no power over the sun. It was then a stallion named Storm Wind stepped up.” “He’s the founder of the Wonderbolts!” Twilight said. “Yes,” Celestia said. “With the help of him and his team, I was able to prevent a revolt. The weather team went from a sparse group to every Pegasus that could achieve over five wing power. Now his daughter is leader.” “Rainbow Dash?” Twilight questioned. “She never told me.” “I wouldn’t imagine she would,” Celestia mused. “From what I have glimpsed from Storm Wind, he and Rainbow Dash aren’t all that close.” “That’s terrible.” Twilight whispered. “What about her mother?” “Thou should ask Rainbow Dash herself.” Luna interrupted. “Twilight,” Celestia said getting back on track. “I have made arrangements for Applejack to be cleared to leave, despite doctors concern of her health. You have much to do my pupil. Luna will you excuse us?” The Princess of the night nodded as she left, leaving Twilight with Celestia. Twilight looked at Celestia whose face was impassive. “Come with me.” Celestia said. “I need to show you this.” Her horn glowed gold and the two found themselves in a familiar room. Twilight noticed it was the basement in the castle in the Crystal Empire. She was facing a door, the door that showed her, her worst fear. “I know this door,” Twilight whispered. “Yes,” Celestia said. “It’s a gateway to your worst fear. Twilight, what did the door show you? “I failed,” Twilight said hanging her head. “You wanted no part of me, you ended our student teacher relationship. I was so afraid of letting you down, even when I sent Spike to bring the crystal to Cadence, I was still afraid.” “I told you then it was a different sort of test,” Celestia said. “I meant that, I never expected you to bring the heart to Cadence, I hoped you would find a way and you did. You put others ahead of yourself, while you would have freed yourself, it would take time you didn’t have.” “That is why I passed you, because you showed me you knew the meaning of sacrifice. You showed that this morning, when you gave your life to keep me safe. That is why Philomena and PeeWee came to you along with mother and father.” “Mother and Father?” Twilight asked. “They are your parents?! Then what was the test really for? Is this my next step?” “Part of it,” Celestia admitted. “You will be tested in your new duties in Ponyville. Come now let’s go back home.” “Right,” Twilight agreed as she took a step she yelped in pain. After getting a worried looking from Celestia Twilight just smiled sheepishly. “Something just poked me.” Celestia nodded and her horn glowed gold. If either of them saw the tiny shard of dark crystal that Twilight stepped on, they would be worried. Now in the crystal Kingdom a low laughter echoed on the breeze XXXXX In a golden flash they returned to Canterlot. As the theme with the still young day Twilight heard yelling. “Get that thing away from me!” Applejack screamed. “Please Applejack,” Nurse Redheart pleaded. “They have to do this.” “Ah’m not bein carted out!” Applejack yelled. “Is there a problem?” Celestia asked. “Applejack refuses to follow hospital protocol.” Nurse Redheart said. “Come on AJ,” Twilight begged. “Let them do their job, I promise you can walk with us to the train station.” She looked around. “Where is everypony else?” “Star is gonna go talk to Luna, Rarity an the others are on their by, but Rarity said something bout window shoppin,” Applejack grumped. “Fine jus haul me out so Ah can get on mah hooves again.” Twilight looked at her teacher, her mentor and her friend all in one. The two Alicorns nuzzled each other. “You make me so proud.” Celestia said with a smile. “Thank you Celestia.” Twilight said as she left with her mentor. “Your friends are on their way,” Celestia said. “Shooting Star will join you when she’s done. How do you feel Applejack?” she turned to head to greet the farm pony. “Ah don’t know what all the fuss was about.” Applejack muttered. “Ah’ve taken worse than what Ah got from her.” “You are very noble and brave.” Celestia said proudly. “Farewell for now my little ponies.” “Bye!” Applejack called as she waved a hoof. She then walked with Twilight. “Did you really go hoof to hoof with Chrysalis?” Twilight asked. “Sure did,” Applejack said proudly. “She learned a farm pony ain’t nopony ta mess with. Ah’m glad yer back Twi, Ah don’t know what we woulda done without ya. Ya are gonna go back ta Ponyville with us ain’t ya?” “The Princess made me protector of Ponyville,” Twilight said. “I’ll need you girls more than ever.” “Ain’t nuthin we can’t whoop.” Applejack bragged. “I sure hope so.” Twilight said wistfully. “Our lives won’t be the same.” “Things will be fine.” Applejack said. “Ya got us an we won’t desert ya. Ya don’t mind hangin behind a bit do ya?” “Sure,” Twilight agreed. “How come?” “Well,” Applejack started. “As she was bout to leave Princess Luna asked to see her in her chambers. Star looked mighty nervous, I thought if I was there she would feel a lil bit better betcha she would feel better with two of us there.” “Sure,” Twilight said. “Sure beats shopping with Rarity.” The two friends shared a laugh as they sat down and talked while waiting for their newest friend. XXXXX Shooting Star nervously approached the private chambers of Princess Luna, the double doors opens as soon as she got close. After taking a deep breath she entered. The chambers where adorned in royal blue, black and gold colors. It almost seemed that she entered the night sky itself. She tore her attention from the chambers and focused on the mare seated on her throne. When she became Luna’s student a year ago, she felt nervous, anxious almost ready to faint. She felt those same sensations now as she looked at her teacher. Unlike Celestia who would almost always have a warm smile on her face. Luna was impassive, she kept her eyes on her student almost like she was sizing her up. Shooting Star let her eyes wander to a statue of Nightmare Moon, her blood ran cold. “A reminder of my past,” Luna said. “Tis still odd to me, that I have been freed for only two years. I have not many I can call friend, I am proud to call thee friend. Tia told thee what we require of thee?” “Yes.” Shooting Star replied. “Tis a big change,” Luna warned. “Thou will be leaving the safety of Canterlot and venturing into area’s unfamiliar to thee.” “I can handle it.” Shooting Star said with all confidence. “I know thou can handle it,” Luna said with a smile. “Tis why I trust thou, I know thou will make me very proud.” She wrapped her wings around her student in a hug. Luna let go and her horn glowed Indigo as she floated Shooting Star’s saddlebags onto her flank. “Thank you Princess Luna,” Shooting Star said as she bowed before her mentor and friend. “Tis I who should offer thanks,” Luna said. “Thou hast shown me that not all ponykind fears me for what I was. Thank you Shooting Star, and please, stay in touch.” She ended with a wink. Shooting Star nodded though her tears where starting to show. “Shooting Star?” Luna asked becoming concerned. “Art thou well?” “I’m fine,” Shooting Star choked. “I’m sorry I have to go!” “Star!” Luna cried. “Wait!” But the black mare had already run out, leaving a confused Luna behind. XXXXX Applejack and Twilight waited outside of Luna’s chambers after being shown the way by one of Luna’s Night guard. The Night guard was Luna’s personal guard, much like Celestia’s Royal Guard. The major difference was most of Luna’s Pegasus had their wings transformed to Bat’s wings. “Think I would look good with bats wings?” Twilight joked. “Let me get used to yer real wings first Twi.” Applejack muttered. “I’m going to need to learn proper wing care.” Twilight commented. “Maybe Fluttershy can help ya with that.” Applejack said thoughtfully. “Ya know Rainbow is gonna trip over herself to teach ya fancy stunts. Ah gotta admit, they look purty.” “Thanks AJ.” Twilight said. “I just hope that things don’t change that much when I get back to Ponyville.” “Now doncha go frettin bout that!” Applejack scolded. “Ya got us an when have we ever letcha down?” “Your right AJ.” Twilight admitted wrapping a wing around the farm pony. Applejack leaned into the hug, Twilight blushed at first but said nothing. Then to break the moment the doors to Luna’s chamber opened and Shooting Star came out. She looked at the two with a tear streaked muzzled before galloping off. As they were about to go after her they heard a voice call out. “Stop!” They say Luna looking very distraught gallop out of her chambers. “What happened?” Applejack asked. “I know what happened,” Twilight answered, drawing a look from Luna. “She feels like you don’t want her Princess Luna.” “That it absurd!” Luna shouted using her royal canterlot accent. “I’m Celestia’s top student,” Twilight continued looking the angry Princess of Night in the face. “When she asked me to go to Ponyville and to make friends I took offense to it. While what you did was different, and I’m certain you didn’t see this happening. Shooting Star feels like you don’t want her.” “That is untrue!” Luna yelled and took a menacing step forward. “Ya might wanna let this one go Twi.” Applejack advised, she knew Luna had a bad temper and wouldn’t want to be on the receiving end of a burst of anger. The farm pony just held her tongue as she watched a tense face off. XXXXX Shooting Star galloped as fast as her hooves could take her, she was blinded by tears and ran full speed. She ran until she hit something, or rather somepony. “Star?” Shining Armor asked. “What’s wrong?” “Why do you care?” she yelled jabbing an angry hoof at him. “Come on Star,” Shining Armor coaxed. “What has you so upset?” “I was being told I was going to Ponyville,” Star started. “Then I got sad and tried to leave, but she noticed, she called after me but I didn’t listen to her! She must hate me now! Why did I have to be so emotional?” “Just go back and talk to her.” Shining Armor told her. Star looked down, but Armor raised her chin with his hoof. “You can do this Star.” “Thanks Armor,” Shooting Star said as she hugged the Captian of the Guard. She then galloped off. Shining Armor looked behind him and saw his wife Princess Cadence who just smiled warmly as her husband as she nuzzled him. ‘She’ll be fine.” Cadence assured him. “I know.” Armor replied. “She’s quite the mare.” Cadence teased. “That she is.” Shining Armor replied. “Almost like anypony else would have been sloppy seconds.” “Yeah.” Came the reply of a stallion not paying attention. However when he said those words and saw Cadence’s frown he knew what he did wrong. “I mean..ummm…oh look at the time.” He horn glowed but so did Cadence’s thus cancelling his teleportation spell. He looked at the pink alicorn who gave him a teasing smile. “Gotcha.” She whispered before skipping off with a big grin. Shining Armor smiled at his wife’s playfulness. XXXXX “Listen Luna,” Twilight started holding her ground against the angry night ruler. “I know you didn’t mean to upset Star.” “I didn’t,” Luna said calming down. “Did this ever happen with you and Tia?” “You where there yer highness,” Applejack said. “After we used the elements ta free ya, is when Princess Celestia sent Twi ta Ponyville full time.” “I think it was all just a misunderstanding.” Twilight dared to say. “She didn’t want you to see her sad. When you did, she panicked and ran off.” “Princess Luna!” Shooting star called as she galloped towards her as fast as possible skidding to a stop before her teacher. “I’m…..so…sorry” she wheezed out between gulps for air. “Dost thou want to go to Ponyville?” A very confused Luna asked. When she saw an out of breath Shooting Star nod. “Then why didst thou become sad before?” “Sometimes when a pony leaves the only friends she knows,” Applejack reasoned. “She tends ta feel down. She shouldn’t though, she’s got tons of friends jus waitin fer her ta say howdy in Ponyville.” “I see,” Luna said as she tapped her chin with her hoof. “So leaving me made her sad?” “I’ll miss you Luna,” Shooting Star said. “I am sad about not being able to see you personally every day. I know that this is for the best though.” Luna approached Shooting Star and embraced her with her wings. “Thou didst make me proud. I’m sure thou will continue to make me proud. Now go! Thou hast a train to catch.” “Omigosh!” Twilight cried. “Our train! We have to go girls! If we all run top speed and ignore exhaustion we can reach the station in time for the other girls to drag us onto the train!” “Twilight Sparkle.” Luna said and she tapped Twilight’s horn with her hoof. “Right.” Twilight sighed. “Ok girls gather round, thank you Luna.” Luna simply smiled as she watched the small group leave in a purple flash. She had every faith that Shooting Star would do her proud. XXXXX “No! No! No!” Rarity said tossing garments behind her and onto a reluctant Fluttershy. “Eeerrgh! None of this will do! Let’s go girls!” Pinkie Pie bounced out followed by Rainbow Dash, Spike helped unbury Fluttershy from the mountain of rejected garments. Fluttershy walked next to Rarity who had Spike on her back. “Are you ok Rarity?” Fluttershy asked. “Shopping normally makes you happy.” “My heart just isn’t into it dear,” Rarity sighed. “I really hoped shopping would cheer me up after, well, this horrid morning.” “But Twilight’s ok now.” Spike said. “You should talk to Twilight.” Fluttershy suggested, then after Rarity gave the timid mare a hard look. “You know, if you want to.” Her ears drooped. “No,” Rarity sighed. “Your right, I do need to talk to Twilight, WAIT! The train!” she broke into a gallop followed by Fluttershy. Luck was with them, when they reached the station Pinkie was already there bidding a tearful goodbye to Surprise. Rainbow Dash was flying around. A flash of purple light brought Twilight, Applejack and Shooting Star. Pinkie Pie bid a quick farewell to Surprise before she bounced on the train. The others followed and went to their car with Rarity lagging behind. The fashionista sat down outside on the outside porch of the car. The others noticed this with great worry. “Ok,” Applejack said. “So what’s with Rarity?” “I think she’s depressed.” Spike said. “Like really depressed.” “After what she saw this morning I don’t blame her.” Twilight said. “I mean really depressed.” Spike stressed. “I heard you the first time Spike.” Twilight said growing annoyed. “She’s didn’t like shopping!” Fluttershy blurted. All eyes turned towards the yellow mare that in turn hid behind her mane. All at once the car filled with voices suggesting what was wrong and how to fix it. Shooting Star saw it as little more than total chaos, she saw Spike waddle towards her. She used her magic to float the dragon onto her back. She joined Rarity only to see she was sobbing. “I’m so pathetic!” Rarity wailed. “I’m such a horrible friend! Look at me! I used to be somepony!” Shooting Star gave Spike a confused look. “Rarity are you ok?” Shooting Star asked. “I think I’m going through a mid life crisis,” Rarity whined. “Wait I’m only Eight teen. I’m going through a pre mid life crisis!” “So you didn’t feel like shopping.” Spike said. “Not the end of the world.” “We all had a tough morning,” Shooting Star said. Shooting star noticed a lavender wing through the window in the door. “I know we had a rough morning.” Rarity admitted. “I wasn’t prepared to see what I saw.” “I don’t think anypony here was.” Shooting Star comforted. “You can talk to me if you ever want to, since I’ll be in Ponyville.” “Well,” Rarity said. “I will have to make you a dress, the Grand Galloping Gala is but four months away. Then all the ponies who will want me to make dresses, oh I’ll be busy!” Rarity came to life animated at the thought of gaining business. “Hate to run, but I must be off, we’ll be in Ponyville soon and I’ve oh so much to do!” Rarity squealed as she burst through the door, not noticing the sounds of door on fur as she hit Twilight on her way to join the others. Shooting Star ran to Twilight who was still on her hooves. “Thanks for letting me handle that,” Star said. “We’re all friends here Star.” Twilight said. “You’re going to love Ponyville!” Shooting Star nodded as she joined her new friends. As she watched Ponyville come closer and closer she smiled. This was her new life and she was going to love it here! END CHAPTER 10