> Day of Meetings, Night of Hate, and Adventures > by Krz > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > 1. From Canterlot To Ponyville > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once Upon a Time.... In The Magical Land of Equestria, there were two sisters who ruled together, and were bringing peace and harmony for all the land. To do this, younger one was using her power to raise the sun at dawn, the older one brought out the moon to start majestic and romantic night. But over the time Older sister became sad and angry, as everypony was playing at day, and were hiding in their homes at night. This was going on until one day, that this sadness and anger overtook her , and turned into wicked mare of hate Bleeding Heart, then she decided to destroy her sister and become sole ruler of the Kingdom. To stop her evil sister she decided to use Elements of Harmony. Using the magic of elements she defeated Bleeding Heart, and banished her to the moon, and after that the land was ruled only by one in peace and harmony... "Hmm" Thinking Unicorn get up from her blanket, and took out another book from her saddlebags and read " Legend of Bleeding Heart" she then heard a shout out of nowhere as she was looking around "TIA" shouted unkown voice, "huh " unicorn was still looking around, and then pegasus fell from sky on her "CELESTIA !" said pegasus. Celestia, personal Student of Princess Twilight lying on her back was now looking at dark blue coated pegasus who was her only friend "Luna" small smile formed on her lips "What are you doing ? why are you disturbing me ?" Luna was beaming with smile from ear to ear "my catering contract is over so i decided to visit you" "Oh, can you get of me ? i was reading something important Lulu" it was then, when smile from dark blue pegasus faded "Oh come on stop reading so much Tia, you need to get out from Castle more often" unicorn closed her eyes, and said "and...and go to those liars from the city who talk behind my back" she started shaking a little "how can you be with them ?" "Tia...i know its hard to you " "Hard ...they lie, they deceive...they say im useless, but when im with them they say im their friend, they say that im important!" "I know that they fake, but if not with them...come with me, will you be okay walking alongside me ?" "Lulu" Frowning Celestia looked behind her, to take a look on the book that was laying on blanket, page that was open was saying about Bleeding Heart, she then turned to Luna "Luna can you go ahead to castle ? I will join you when i finish reading this" Dark Blue Pegasus looked at her friend with concern , but then nodded and started trotting toward castle, then heard Tia as she was saying with fear in her voice "THIS IS !....Oh no!" "Celestia" worry in pegasus voice " What is it" ? White unicorn was still looking at the book, and said "B-Bleeding Heart is returning !" dark blue eyes of pegasi has narrowed "What ? who ?" "I must inform Princess" "You're scaring me, what's going on" "Didn't you heard me" the eyes of unicorn showed determination and seriousness of situation "Calm down, and tell me, what you have read from that book" It's says that tomorrow is 1000 year since Alicorn of Hate Bleeding Heart was banished to the moon, and that in the 1000 anniversary of her imprisonment, she will return to bring hate pain and destruction, and that's why i must inform princess" then studious unicorn took out of her bags a paper, and quill and started writing to her mentor. "You reading too much " Pegasus sighed " I'm going to castle" then smiled "it would be nice if we could spend more time together" Celestia took her eyes from paper looked into her friend eyes noticing in them concern "Don't worry as soon as Princess read this, i will go with you " "Promise ?" "Promise, in fact you can wait it's just short massage " Studious Unicorn eyes returned to piece of paper which she was holding with her magic. and resumed her writing and then used her magic to send off her letter, after that said"Let's go" "Um Tia...are you sure Princess will believe you ?" "Why Shouldn't she believe me ? I'm her student" "I Know but...." Pegasus words were cut off, as out of nowhere letter appeared in front of them "See" Tia smiled, lifted the letter, and started reading My Faithfull Student Celestia, i'm happy of our time together as friends, and as teacher and student, know that i'm proud of how your studies go, but in my opinion you read too much of those books that lie in the old Canterlot Archives, Therefore im sending you to Ponyville to check on preparations for Hearts and Hooves Day special event that is taking place early evening when the sun and moon will be together in the sky, as many lovers across Equestria say their sacramental yes, or simply enjoy their love life in homes, also when you there you should make some friends....Say hi for me to Luna There was a silence after Celestia finished reading the letter, confused at what she read a few moments ago her mouth started moving, but there was no sound, then she decied to look at her only friend who apparently was smiling "You going to Ponyville and going to make friends !" "What ?" then ticket for train appeared the same way as letter "Oo, she got you a ticket...wait where are you going, the Canterlot station is that way" "Princess ...she...she doesn't understand i..." her words were stopped, as Luna put a hoof into her mouth "Mmfmfmf !" "It says here, that your train leave in next 20 minutes" Pegasus hugged her friend "Im going to miss you" ''Uff" Tia was struggling against titanic grip of her friend as she tried to desperately breath some air into her lungs, and after awhile she was free, but was dragged to Train Station "Wait , i must , Luna ...." _________________________________________________ Celestia was now sitting on a train, that was going in the direction of Ponyville, and was talking to herself "How can she send me to that town, she doesn't understand, Bleeding Heart is dangerous, and why Hearts and Hooves day "her face now hidden in hooves " Uh there is Summer Sun Celebration you could send me to, or how this celebration with longest night was called....AGHH" she was now starting to speak very loudly "If the Princess do nothing, Bleeding Heart will bring eternal darkness, she will bring chaos, pain, and ahh "she again held her head in hooves, and noticed that ponies were looking at her as if she was some looney crazy mare, it caused her a little blush of emberassment on her face "Even Luna without hestitation send me to train...what are they thinking ? she started babbling aloud again, this time slightly faster "IfshereturnsandPrincessdon'treactintimewewillbedoomeditwillbeoverforEquestria'gasp'...No for whole world" She started heavily breathing, and next to her was conductor, who was looking at her with concern "Miss" "Huh ?" "Is everything alright ?...i think you scaring passangers" "Oh" Celestia started looking around, and saw eyes of the ponies that were looking at her, and some of them showed annoyance "Oh sorry ehehe" Conductor smiled, and was going away from her Celestia sank in her seat quietly, but decided to ask "Um, how long until Ponyville ?'' "We're almost there Miss" "Oh great...uhh" She was worried, and to make it worse her stomach started to hurt, was it from something she eat ? or maybe it was stress, well yeah it was probably the stress, becuase you know the Monster from the Moon is about to escape, and her Princess instead to simply take action to stop the upcoming danger, she just told her to make more friends instead "She doesn't believe in me...no pony believe" Celestia took her first step from the train , immediately started to look around, she saw a lot of unknown faces in this quieter and smaller than Canterlot little town. She looked at the second letter she got in train from Princess , and it was written that she is supposed to stay at library. Unicorn was now walking on town streets, looking around to find her first thing on the list, which was Ponyville Town Hall. It was then when she fell, but by not herself , she was tackled from the sky "Tia !" "Luna ? " "Tia" "LunaWAIT!"Unicorn pushed her friend from her body with magic "What...what are you doing here ?" "I came to help" Pegasus smiled, and started giggling "Why ?" "Becuase, Tia is grumpy loner, and mfff"Her words were cut off by magic, as Celestia was now annoyed by words...well she is loner, but she isn't certainly grumpy, she just doesn't understand why her teacher send her to this town, wait maybe she was sent here, cause Canterlot was supposed to be the place of battle between her mentor, and Bleeding Heart , and Princess secured her safety by sending her here "It's possible"Unicorn said narrowing her eyes "What is ?" "Eh...nothing" "Can you put me down" "Of course"....They were looking at each other in silence Luna was still smiling ,flapping her wings as if she wanted to tackle her again, then Tia turned as started walking "Wait , i'm coming with you...were to first" "Ponyville Town Hall to see the Mayor " They entered, and stopped inside empty town hall well almost empty, as there was one pony standing , looking around sparkling hall "Excuse me" They both said it, and Luna started giggling , Earth Pony mare turned around , her coat was Pale, light grayish amber and honest blue eyes , on her flank was Tan scroll tied with blue ribbon cutie mark which probably meant that she is mayor Tia wanted to say something, but no words were coming from her mouth ,Luna rolled her eyes and asked "Miss Mayor ?" "Ah yes...I am Mayor Ivory Scrolls" then Tia started talking" I am Celestia, and this is my friend Luna, we're both from Canterlot to oversee the preparation for Hearts and Hooves Day special event, is this where this occasion takes place" "Oh Princess sent you , 'cough' Yes as you see the place is sparkling clean, and soon decoration for lovers will be put in here , you probably were going to ask about them , please let me led the way" Celestia was silent and Luna saluted her with smile "We thank you Miss Mayor" "Ohoho your very nice pony , you can call me Ivory Scrolls...or just Ivory, let's go the boutique" Three of them entered the boutique, it's walls were decorated in Love Theme wallpaper, and on the floor were scattered rose petals , then they heard someone struggling behind courtains stage "Excuse me" the three of them said it in unison, Celestia little annoyed now ,Ivory was smiling and Luna started giggling again "Eep" soft sound came from behind, as curtains fell on the floor, exposing Earth Mare with Light amberish gray coat and Feathered Hat as cutie mark, her mane and tail were two-tone blue of pale , light grayish cyan and light opalish cyan entagled in ribbons of different colors struggling to get free Mayor was first to react "Oh my, Coco are you alright ? , where is Rarity ?" "She kinda...went out, and i was continuing without her ...i wanted to finish before she returns, and when i was almost done....this happened" Coco cheeks began blush Celestia lighten up her horn, and ribbons started to detaching from the body of Earth Mare , it took maybe a minute, and Coco was free and safely on her hooves "Thank you" Coco started looking everywhere except the eyes of three ponies who stood before her " I need to clean up" "WE CAN HELP" Luna shouted, blushed closed her mouth with her own hooves, and then said again "We can help" Celestia looked at her with narrowed eyes "But...but we need" "Oh i help you too" Ivory said "Ok i help too" Tia shrug her arms and smiled 10 minutes later everything was on its former place, ribbons on windows, love themed wallpapers and, rose petals on the floor. "Is this how town hall will look "Unicorn asked looking at Coco, and then the Mayor Coco said"Yes it will be beautiful to see ponies together" , then looked at the floor, she was sad about something , Luna came closer to Coco and put hooves on shoulder "What's Wrong " "Erm...nothing really" and then there was scream of excitement "OH MY GOSH COCO! ITS SIMPLY DIVINE , This place is like from those romantic books" everypony ears were blocked by their own hooves, that didn't help much though , Tia and Luna decided to see who it was, and they saw a white mare, with deep blue eyes indigo mane "Marshmallow" was only what came from Luna "M-Miss Rarity" Coco looked up to the mare, who stood now close to her and started nuzzling "You didn't have to do this dear...hmm and Miss Mayor welcome , who are our guests ?" "Their helped me Miss Rarity" Coco had still curled ears. "Oh my , thank you for helping Coco so much, she always try too much , I mean i appreciate the help dear, but you simply must do something for yourself sometime" then Rarity eyes went wide in excitement "Oh you simply must take this present Coco" Rarity levitated a gem from her bags. and placed on her assistant hooves , it was now Coco's eyes turn to went wide, but her were of shock "I can't , it's to much precious " "Take it i insist" "I-Thank you...Thank you Rarity" Coco now cleary was embarrassed , Rarity then turned from Earth Mare and asked about Pegasus and Unicorn "I'm Luna and this is Celestia" Luna was smiling and Celestia took a little bow "They here from Canterlot to oversee Hearts and Hooves Day special event" said Mayor turned to guests "I'm sorry but it seems i must go, it's kinda late for me i'll see you later" "Hmm Coco maybe you should go with your new friends, and show them Ponyville" Celestia looked in confusion at the words of white unicorn "Friends ?" "Um o-okay" They were now walking on streets of Ponyville , Tia was thinking about Bleeding Heart, and way to stop her, in front of her was Coco and Luna they seemed to talk, but talking was almost done by Pegasus, Coco was most of the times nodding but seemed to enjoy their walk, soon between them flew a little pegasus, and there was sound as if something was hit "Uff"Celestia was lying again on her back, and on her chest was little gray pegasus with black mane "Oh...i'm sorry" and then, there was loud shout RUMBLE ! "Ah need to run ...uf i can't move" "Rumble" In front of them landed a mare , her coat was pale persian blue , and her mane pale cerulean with white highlights, it looked dishelved in every possible direction "M' sorry Cloudchaser" Before Cloudchaser said anything she looked at unicorn, and helped her get up "I'm Cloudchaser thank you for stoping him" ''Well, that wasn't my intention" it was this moment when Rumble crossed his hooves, and started lying on grass As the introductions were made another mare came flying , she looked tired "Flitter" Luna and Tia looked at Flitter , she was similiar to Cloudchaser but her mane was Pale, light grayish opal and in different style "Hey" Cloudchaser started "She's my sister Flitter" and they started hugging ,Coco cheeks were turning red Luna beaming with smile "Aw their cute" Gleh was the only sound that came from Rumble , Flitter shot a look on the young colt "Ok i'm sorry Flitter i was bored, anyway can we go ,Thunderlane soon will be back and please don't tell him" "I won't ....Cloud" she was cut by words of her sister " Don't worry about me i won't lose job because of you're screw up, besides it was Rumble fault ...We see each other later"Clodchaser cheeks turned red ,and with this Flitter and Rumble flew away Cloudchaser was looking at the ponies she never saw "So i'm Cloudchaser, but i think i already said that" "I'm Luna, and she is Celestia" and Unicorn responded with "Wow seems that recently we only introduce ourselves to other ponies" Cloudchaser smiling looked at Coco "Hey hey , is the decor for Hearts and Hooves day special event done ? " "Um...Yes" "Oh yeah it will be romantic moment hihi" Then Celestia decided to be bold and asked " So you make out with your sister ?" and this was the moment that Cloudchaser lost her good mood "Is there a problem ?" Tia backed away from pegasus "No im sorry...i was just curious...sorry" hiding behind her hooves "She's my sister, but i love her more than just a sister , and i will always protect her"Celestia was nodding "I understand" then Cloudchaser seen that her little outburst scared the unicorn "Oh sorry didn't meant to scare you" "It's ok" "Sorry i must go, we probably see each other later again" and with this she flew off "I wish i could be so brave" said Coco looking at the ground, then was hugged by Luna from behind "You're nice pony" "Ah Luna...its embarrassing" Earth Mare were again red "It seems that Hearts and Hooves Day mood is getting to ponies" Said Celestia and started going away "Im sorry i have something important to do" "Tia where are you going ?" "To library Lulu , maybe there i will find something on how to stop Bleeding Heart" "Uh Tia " then their talk was interupted as another pony approached them , the unicorn patted Blue Pegasus back, coughed and with excitment said "Luna ?! Luna it's you !" Luna turned to see Light cornflower blue coat of a unicorn mare which she recognized immediately "Colgate !" Light blue unicorn let a little squee "What are you doing here Luna ?" "I'm with my Friend from Canterlot , here her name is Celestia" as soon Luna finished talking Colgate was shaking Celestia hoof "I'm Colgate pleased to meet you" "L-Likewise...um Luna maybe you should catch up with your friend, while i go to Library, because there is this important stuff i must do ehehe" she then looked to Colgate and she was talking to Coco , so it was perfect opportunity to walk away and go to library ,she couldn't do anything with those ponies trying to make friends with her "Ponies in this town are crazy" > 2. Party Before the Storm > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Evening was coming, but a personal protege of Princess Twilight did not care, because she sat in the library, which generally meant they should be silent, instead there was a party, a party with lots of ponies she didn't know. White Unicorn stared in disbelief, at the chaos prevailing in the place which she supposed to reside, suddenly a unusual stallion jumped out of nowhere, he had smile from ear to ear, his coat was colour of light orange, and his messy mane was dark brown, and cutie mark, grilled cheese sandwich shaped like accordion, stallion decided to come closer to Celestia, and bowed his head "Hello, I'm Cheese Sandwich nice to meet you, my good friend Luna told me, that you are the first time in Ponyville, so I thought, since I'm in Ponyville, albeit temporarily, I took the opportunity, and I arranged a party for you!" Unicorn looked around, the room full of ponies, and saw some familiar faces, Cheese jumped in front of her " So you like it ? , you will now have lots of friends". Celestia looked at the merry stallion, who jumped with joy and happiness, she said only that party was ok, and then the next thing that stallion did was turn around. Unicorn slightly worried that she offended him said " I mean the party is nice, and there are a lot of ponies, i like it" "Happy to hear that little filly, but my Cheese sense tells me, that there is a big party in another place" and just like that he left, Tia stared at the closed door, unsure of what she should do now, but after a few seconds , she was joined by blue unicorn , and her friend Luna. Luna spoke first "Join us Tia, it's fun" Pegasus looked at the blue unicorn standing next to her "Colgate wanted to get to know you better" after a moment, she came closer to Celestia, and began to whisper "Beware of your teeth" Tia raised eyebrows, and looked at Colgate, as she started to respond " Oh don't listen to her, she's joking , I am a dentist , but i try to do this painlessly as possible" Celestia smiled slightly, looked at the table with drinks...and then she saw, a strange stallion hiding behind chair, he looked in every direction. "What's he doing" Tia said, the dentist came up to her," Oh, it's just the doctor " "Doctor?" Luna and Tia asked together, then Luna added, "I never saw him being here" "Luna, perhaps because he's a doctor?, And he has no time, to have fun with others" said Celestia, and looked at Colgate, who laughed "No, we just call him a doctor, he's not a real doctor" Celestia looked slightly confused at the strange stallion, who seemed to have started waving at the blue unicorn, who has done the same thing " Doctor is under the supervision of a psychiatrist, but he can not fully tell what is wrong with him, sometimes he just run past through Ponyville, and other time he tells a story about..."Colgate stopped, because she did not know, how to tell what the doctor sometimes says " The stories of his journeys in a box..." Luna, and Celestia looked at each other slightly puzzled, whereupon Pegasus spoke "box?" "Uh, hard to explain it now, anyway Doctor is really nice", after a while they were joined by Coco "I like his drawings" meek earth pony said, Colgate nodded, "Oh yes, he has a real talent, but hey we're talking about him , and this is the party for you, shame on Cheese, that once again he left us early, that stallion is quite amusing" Luna started to giggle, then looked at Coco "Let's go, and play?, You too Tia" Celestia looked at the ponies standing in front of her, and after a moment she remembered why she's was here, she must stop the evil Alicorn, that tomorrow will flee from her lunar prison, surely there will be something in the library."Excuse me, but unfortunately ..." She was suddenly interrupted by the hoof belonging to Colgate " If you have something important to do, this can wait until tomorrow,now come" There is loud music, a lot of smiling, and having fun ponies, there is also a student of Princess Twilight, sitting at the bar with Colgate, Coco, Luna, even the mayor and Cloudchaser, which the latter asks a lot of questions towards Coco, about whether decorations are ready for tomorrow, Colgate finally spoke "Cloudchaser stop it, don't you see that Coco feels a little uncomfortable, with continuous questions ?" "I'm sorry, I can not just wait" she let a little squee,Coco just said its ok. Colgate let a little sigh, and then Celestia asked "So, how can party go, without the pony who organized it all ?" Luna appeared, from behind her friend "Ah Tia, do not forget, that Cheese is not the only great party pony in this area" Tia looked at the pegasus flank, and more on the cutie mark, which represented her friend special talent, it's Moon with baloon inside, she never know, what has a moon to do with partying "So, my dear" Luna had a smug smile on her face "maybe few drinks, and then we might have a dance or something " then the mayor spoke "As for drinks, I can help you "Coco and Cloudchaser looked at the mayor with mild surprise" No offense Miss Mayor , but what about town responsibilities ? " pale persian blue mare asked "Oh, do not worry, my assistant Silver Quill can replace me quite proudly, if I may say so" "Yes, when he does not happen to be a slouch, or have thoughts somewhere in the clouds," Dentist said with her eyebrow raised "Well, he is sometimes a birdbrain, but he's not bad, for a griffon, so anyway Celestia about that drink" "I'm not sure" Unicorn looked at the ponies around her, and saw smiles on every face,it looks like she has no choice, she can not refuse besides, she can take a few sips for relaxation, and right after that, "I will start the search, for a way to stop the tomorrow's imminent danger", she thought to herself, how bad it can be ? It turned out, that it was very bad: Luna drank the least, so she could continue to manage the event, and actually to spend some time with Coco, she really likes her Colgate and Cloudchaser surrendered, and both went home, the quantity of alcohol proved to be too big for them. For Celestia misfortune, The mayor does not intended to give up, and with each successive drink, her body became more, and more limp, until she got knocked out > 3. The Day of Love > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was noon, and thanks to Pegasus ponies , Ponyville was sunny and warm, while Celestia still slept tucked under the bedsheet, there was a dark blue pegasus in her room, she looked at her sleeping friend , then started looking out the window, she saw townsfolk being busy with their work, but here and there were voices of excitement, cause soon this little town would be visited by their ruler Princess Twilight. Pegasus smiled back at her sleeping friend, "Wake up" , she said lightly, then continued after a while " Tia, can you hear me ?" The answer came after a few moments, although it is not known, whether the mumble can be called a response or not "What ?, Tia i don't get what you saying" - silence, then she leaned closer to unicorn "Are you okay ?" "No, stop screaming" "I'm not screaming" Luna answered with raised eyebrows "Please, somepony stop singing" "Nopony is singing , you have hangover, you really drunk alot last night" the answer was little weep of pain coming from bed "The Mayor has strong head, you know i saw her today a few times, and she was really okay" another moan as answer, pegasus sighed, then unicorn said very weakly "Water" "Huh ?" "Water, Lulu please" "Ok, be right back" "Alot..." Luna brought two glasses of water, then it turned out, that for the unicorn it was not enough, So she decided to bring a bucket full of water, in the blink of an eye, the head of Celestia went to the bucket. "Wow, you must be really thirsty" After a few moments of submerging, Celestia head shot out of a bucket, then with a wet mane, unicorn laid back on her bed, and started moaning, Luna giggled at poor friend "Come on, you can't spend full day in bed, can you ?" "I must...find...something...about...uhh my head" "Ok, come downstairs" "I can't move, my head gonna explode" "Mayor Scrolls gave me a hangover cure" "What ?" "Well, actually she got it from her assistant,it's a secret recipe of Griffons" in next few seconds, unicorn was dragging herself downstairs, she decided to ask "C-Can't you bring that cure to me?" pegasus shaking her head said "No, I don't want you to become a slacker" and, after a moment her lips formed into smile, "You're amused, by my pain aren't you ?" Dark Blue coated pegasus turned around with serious look on her face "Tia, what would be me of a friend, if i was amused by your suffering" then, serious look has been replaced by smile "Come, it's lovely day" When they came to the library, Celestia stopped, and looked around, blinked several times, she could not believe how clean the library was, she assumed the party continued on, after she lost consciousness. Probably immediately after ending, all the ponies went home, since they were probably tired, then Luna spoke "Here it is" Tia came to the table in the middle of the room, looked around again, this time paying attention to the appearance of the library. It was small, smaller than those she had seen in Canterlot, but all the shelves were filled with books, unicorn looked from one shelf to another, somewhere there must be the one she seeks, one in which will be described how to defeat Bleeding Heart, the book about elements of harmony... "So..." Luna started "Are you going to drink it ?" Unicorn raised a wooden mug with magic, looked at the substance contained inside, color of drink was red with some green stripes, she looked at Luna, and pegasus spoke "This apparently only works, when you drink from wooden mugs like this" Celestia raised the mug, and started drinking hangover cure until her eyes got watery "Ugh, it's terrible" she said with slight disgust "But it helps, Mayor was very lively today" "Lulu, it was you, who brought me to bed ?" Luna nodded, came closer to her friend " You're cute when you sleep" She said with amusement, Tia shivered in surprise at words coming from her friend "W-What ?, You mean you watched me sleeping, Lulu you're kinda scary" Luna rolled eyes " Well, after cleaning library in the morning ,I went for a walk around town, when i returned you were still sleeping, so I decided to be with you, till you wake up, but you kept sleeping, so i woke you up myself" "Um, wait how long i was sleeping ?" "It's noon already" said pegasus, and Celestia face was that of shock, and little mix of fear , "Soon Princess will be here, come let's go for a walk" Pegasus went for the doors , unicorn spoke "No i need..." she was interrupted, by her aerial friend,who quickly flew to her, and closed her mouth with a hoof " Come on ! " Celestia let a little moan "How do you like this town ?" Dark coated Pegasi spoke - silence, and in the next second, she looked behind her, at the white unicorn "Something wrong ?" "Lulu, can I ask you a question?, perhaps a few questions if needed" Luna nodded "Tell me, what you think of Hearts and Hooves day ?" This time Luna frowned a little "It is a day, in which ponies express their love to somepony else " "They can do it every other day, but it does not matter, why Princess sent me here?" "Um, cause she told you to check on preparations for the event i guess" "And this is the problem, these ponies may have everything under control, well, maybe except for yesterday's accident with Coco in a boutique" she finished her sentence, she went to her thoughts. Does The Princess really believed me?, And therefore sent me here, but what about other ponies in Canterlot ? her line of thinking was disrupted, when she saw the dark blue eyes of her friend in front of her face "Stop being grumpy, smile, soon you'll be able to see a Princess, and talk to her " said Luna smiling herself , and soon they were joined by local dentist "Oh hi, hey how are you ?, I heard that Miss Mayor gave you a hard time of drinking" "I feel good, I got hangover cure from her assistant " "Oh I cannot wait to see the Princess, too bad she will not be here long, but still it's an honor" "I also cannot wait, and what's the idea of the sun and the moon?" unicorn asked, surprised dentist looked at their dark coated pegasi friend "Pony named Cross Heart 700 years ago, of course, with prior approval by a Princess establishes non official day of love, which later Princess Twilight turned into Hearts and Hooves Day, a wedding on this day supposedly brings good fortune, and the theme of the sun, and moon, came from the fact, that the Princess thanks to her magic, can make heart from them, it's an illusion, but i thought you knew this Tia" The unicorn shifted uncomfortably and said "You know that I like books, but I do not read those about love" ""Hey Colgate, should i tell you, about hidden chest containing books with love theme" , Colgate laughed, and Celestia made blushed scrunchy face "Not true" "You guys fun, but i need to go, I still have two patients that i need to take care of, see you later" "How did you know about my books?" "I will not tell you" Luna slipped a tongue, smiled, and she started running through the town, Tia right behind her Eventually Celestia caught up with her , and they continued to explore the town, Unicorn bought a chocolate bar, in local candy store, sharing with her companion, who started joking about that she's not ready for relationship, later they met Coco carrying a shiny fabric back to the boutique, which as she mentioned is supposed to be a deck used to sew clothes for some pop star, but because Coco lost her balance and fell, they didn't hear, who it was, after helping to carry all the fabric to designated place, and after Earth mare finished her thanks, they went further into town, and met the local bard, whose Luna praised for sounds coming from her lyre, later they went even further into town, until finally something caught the attention of the studious white pony "Hmm" Student of the Princess closed eyes, and raised head to the sky, her companion noticed that "What's wrong ? " "I sense a huge, but peaceful magical power, It's Princess, she's coming" , Other mare smiled, and also raised her head, towards the City of Canterlot that was visible from Ponyville, she knew that Celestia says the truth, since her talent is magic, and cutie mark confirms that - The Sun that is surrounded by five stars, except for extraordinary magical abilities she can also feel the energy inside the other unicorns if necessary. The Majority of Ponyville residents gathered in town hall, some with curiosity, some out of love for each other, because some stories say if ponies manifest their love, on that special occasion, the love they share will last forever, until the end of their time. Celestia and Luna were standing in front of a crowd, between the so called tables of love, on one of them, sat two pegasi sisters they met yesterday, Cloudchaser noticed Luna looking at them, and waved a hoof. Mayor Scrolls came onto stage, looked around town hall, smiling began her speech " This moment, is important to Ponyvillians, you can even tell it is just as important, as the Summer Sun Celebration, or Longest Night, since we can host, the most important pony in all of Equestria, fillies and gentlecolts it's my pleasure to introduce and welcome our wise ruler, gracious and powerful protector. The Monarch of the Three Tribes, living in friendship, and unity, the Ruler of the Land of Equestria...Her Royal Majesty, Princess Twilight Magica von Equestris ! " Behind the Mayor was empty balcony, but as she finished her speech, there was a flash, and everypony was looking at Princess with awe, she was smiling, and her wings were spread "My little ponies" her voice completely calm , "It's great to see all those lovely faces, beacuse you see, Love is excellent friendship, violent feeling, storm fertilising, the wind spread the seed of life, in the deepest corners of darkness, and brightens our lives" she closed her eyes, and her horn started to glow lavender. Every set of eyes in town hall was now looking at windows, cause at this time, the sun should take place beyond the horizon, and the moon should slowly rise into the view, but now they were going to be together at the sky, of course it is only an illusion, a simple trick, that is giving many ponies a lot of joy, they actually believe that thanks to this, their love will survive forever, the room was illuminated in light red, and many ponies sitting at tables, now were holding each other, simply whispering, or looking into each other eyes, until there was scream of excitement, some stallion proposed to a mare, and she was now in his arms, the Princess still had closed eyes but smiled more wide, then her horn flashed, illusory heart was gone, and room was full of shadows of poets who wrote about love many famous pieces, and now they were reciting some of them, the horn was no longer shining, and she looked into direction of Celestia "Enjoy your dates my lovely ponies, but i have something to do" she teleported out of town hall, Celestia was now leaving too "Tia, where are you going ?" "She's gonna wait for me at the library" The Mayor came to Luna slighlty worried "Is something wrong ?" pegasus smiled "No, student and teacher need to talk" , then Colgate came "Do you see that magic, wow first the heart, and now this, I mean they are shadows, but they reciting their pieces from romanticism era of literature, as if they were living " then another mare came, Luna smiled "Coco how are you ? " "I'm good, it was lovely, but i must go back, I need help Miss Rarity with work" Celestia stood in front of the library, looked up to the balcony, which was on the first floor, there was a Princess gazing at the sky "Celestia my student" "Princess " she bowed, then returned her gaze towards her teacher "So illusions ? " "Something's wrong with them? , Most of the ponies loves when I do it " there was no answer "What's wrong my student ? " "You, you sent me here for, nopony knows what reason, and you ask what's wrong ? " this time her teacher was silent, and jumped from the balcony, they embraced and hugged, the two of them were like this just for a few moments "I am sorry there is nothing i can do" "Princess did you say something ? " "No, it was nothing " Celestia suddenly looked toward the sky, and saw the full moon at the maximum height, which seems to be wrong especially it's not so late" Princess ? the Moon is...." Unicorn looked at the Princess face, she was full of something she never seen, it was full of anger and fear, she never was so angry, even if Celestia did something stupid when she was young, she wasn't even mad when Luna did a bad joke on her, she was always caring, she always had something wise to say, but this was something new, and then shadows from moon fall on the ground, spread, and it gotten darker all of sudden, after a while there was an explosion of magic, the mouth of the Princess hung open as she wanted to say something but nothing came from her Celestia was in shock and fear, in front of her in a place where there was a small explosion of magic, stand dark purple Alicorn who smiled evilly, and there was another explosion of magic, this time though, there were screams of panic, Alicorn was laughing, Celestia's nightmare, which she read about became a reality. Bleeding Heart have returned ! > 4. Bleeding Heart > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Mayor came to Luna slighlty worried "Is something wrong ?" pegasus smiled "No, student and teacher need to talk" , then Colgate came "Do you see that magic, wow first the heart, and now this, I mean they are shadows, but they reciting their pieces from romanticism era of literature, as if they were living " then another mare came, Luna smiled "Coco how are you ? " "I'm good, it was lovely, but i must go back, I need help Miss Rarity with work" Mayor turned again to Luna "Is something wrong between Celestia, and Princess?" Luna thought for a moment "Probably not, the point is that Tia reads a lot of books, the Princess sent her here to take some rest from studying, but it seems to me that she did it under the wrong pretenses" Coco who, was walking toward the doors turned her head "What do you mean? " Dark blue pegasus started rubbing her chin, "Well, in a nutshell, she sent her here, to check preparations for Hearts and Hooves Day Special Event, but it seems that wasn't needed" Mayor laughed a little, but she was interrupted, because from somewhere came the sound of explosion, and after a moment the shadows of poets began to disappear, and a lot of sudden it got darker, many ponies started looking around, and leaving the town hall. Outside, ponies were staring at the full moon, shadows started to fall onto the ground like a meteorites, until there was an another explosion of magic, from which the light for a moment blinded ponies, some began to panic, then there was a sudden silence, and then... "Huh ?" Ivory started to turn, so she could look at other ponies, she saw that they have become aggressive, and began to quarrel with others "What is happening?" she asked "Flitter please, come to your senses ! What is wrong with you !? " Colgate ran to the distressed Cloudchaser "What's going on?" pale persian blue pegasus mare turned to her "You tell me, because I do not know, it just, I don't know she got mad at me a lot of sudden, but from what I can see, this also happened to other ponies" "So what do we do?" Coco timidly asked "Let's go to the library, Princess should be there, she probably will know what is going on," Luna said, and quite a number of ponies that were still normal, began to run after her At the Library, the Alicorn was laughing, then she looked at Princess Twilight "Ah, my dear sister, how you've grown " after she finished those words, a lot of ponies came running, when they stopped, she smiled spreading her wings ""Ah, our subject came to admire us " "Who is this ?" The Mayor asked "Oh, you grieve us with your ignorance my little ponies" "STOP !" Princess Twilight cried out with spread wings "Please run away from here, it is dangerous ! " "HOW DARE THOU INTERRUPT US !, WHEN WE SPEAK TO OUR SUBJECTS !! " "These are not your subjects ! " "BLASPHEMY ! I AM BLEEDING HEART, THE TRUE RULER OF THIS LAND " when she had finished her speech, the sound of whispers grew larger, and an increasing number of ponies started to fall into dread "Now you remember your queen my little ponies, here comes the new era, THE ERA OF ETERNAL DARKNESS " "Not if I can stop you!" "Poor sister, maybe you've grown , but you can't do anything to me, not without Elements of Harmony! " Celestia was frightened, her heart was beating like crazy, she looked up at her teacher "Princess ? " fear was present in her words, Bleeding Heart began to laugh "I'll do anything to stop you !" "Really?, Then defend thyself ! " Suddenly horn of dark purple Alicorn lit up, and Princess Twilight was pinned to the ground, Celestia run up to the monster standing in front of her, she wanted to do anything to free her precious teacher, but the attempt ended almost in disaster, magic bullet flew past unicorn grazing her cheek, causing slight bleeding, Tia was in shock "HOW DARE YOU, COMING AT US LIKE THAT ! " "Ce-Celestia !" Princess horn started shining in dark violet Bleeding Heart began to laugh maniacally, thrusting Princess a little deeper into the ground, "You trapped me for one thousand years on the moon, you betrayed me, and traitors are treated like garbage, maybe this time I will banish you," she looked at the frightened ponies standing before her, chuckling, once again began to speak ""What about the Tartarus sister? Perfect place for such a fool as you are " "NO!" Celestia screamed, looked terrified , "And you still dare oppose your queen!" Alicorn eyes were all white and horn was now enveloped in dark purple color, white unicorn stepped back "Just as I thought " Suddenly, Princess of Equestria stood up, breathing heavily, she was covered with a dark purple aura "Oh" Bleeding Heart started laughing, Twilight closed her eyes to steady her breath, the aura which she was surrounded seemed to reinforce, once her breathing was calm, she opened her eyes, there was compassion in them, she looked with those eyes at her student "I am sorry, I cannot do anything, but I have faith in you...Goodbye" when the speech was over, the aura surrounding her had disappeared, moment later body of the Princess was shining in white and purple colors "Oh sister, I always thought that you were a fool, but not a coward, but do not worry, ponies will live well with their NEW RULER !! " "And who said, that I'm leaving them with nothing? I have faith in them !" And with this, she changed into a light ball, and shot in the sky, that after a while, shone a blinding light "WHAT ! THOU REALLY DID IT ! " After a few moments of silence, everypony looked upwards, they saw sun, and the moon together, and it was not an illusion, but it was not day and night, it was something in between, some were confused, some were frightened because they were now alone with a monstrous dictator. Finally, Bleeding Heart looked at ponies in front of her " BOW TO US ! " "NO !" Celestia shouted, shocked ponies looked at her "You, you were a student of my sister, you are strong, I can feel it, but you can be even more powerful, if you become my apprentice, It will save your miserable life ! " "No, I'm not going to listen to you!" "It is very unwise of you" Alicorn laughed " I wish I had some time, but the moment has come" she looked at the city which was at the top of the mountain "MY TIME HAS COME ! " " I will stop you !" Alicorn approached the frightened unicorn, looked into her eyes, and what seems to be unlikely for all, kissed her, Tia tried to back off, then stopped moving, her eyes lost their sparkle. When their lips parted, Tia fell to the ground, Alicorn was already ready for departure "You have wonderful memories of Twilight, but my stupid sister didn't even bothered to tell you, if the elements are active, they cannot be used by mortal believe me there is no hope for any of you AHAHAHA ! " and she flew away Luna, Mayor Scrolls, Coco, Colgate and Cloudchaser rushed to the shocked unicorn, and helped her to get up , Cloudchaser asked, "Where is she going ? " "She looked into my memory, she's going to Canterlot " Luna hugged Celestia "What now ? " Coco asked, and all of sudden, ponies around them began to panic, and run home, some were simply arguing with each other. After a while, and older mare came to them, her coat was green "Granny Smith ? " Mayor asked "Mayor dare to explain what is going on, it's all so strange, in guild everyone was fighting, they say that guild need to be dissolved ! Tell me what the hay is going on !" elderly mare voice was worried "Um it's complicated Granny Smith, in short the evil Alicorn escaped Lunar Prison and..." "Oh mah stars ! I better go home, an check on Jackie and Apple Bloom, better to be together when the world ends" "Merchant Guild ? dissolve ? " Colgate asked with raised eyebrow "Probably the same thing happened to them, what about those we saw earlier" The Mayor responded, Celestia suddenly stood up, her face full of determination "Tia ? " Luna spoke "Where are you going ? " "In the library should be the answer " "What answer ? " the other five mares said in unison "There should be a book, about the elements of harmony " "The book that you look for, is not in the place, where you want to find it" said a mysterious voice, and everyone turned to see a zebra " Book that you're looking for is in my possession, you see the patron told me to bring it here, Forgive me for being late " "Ah ! " Coco exclaimed " You live with that strange pegasus in the forest " "Do you really have that book ? " "Wait Tia, what if those elements don't work " Luna was looking into her eyes, Celestia sighed " Lulu i must try, I can't just sit here doing nothing ! " Zebra came close to 6 mares " My name is Zahara" she took the book out of her bag "Wait ... since when we immediately trust a stranger ?" Cloudchaser asked "She is a zebra, Zebras live in peace with other tribes " Tia replied quickly " Wait, your patron know about us ? Who is she ? " "Explanations later, there's no time " Zahara replied, white unicorn looked to the book, and found what she was looking for " There are six elements, but only five are known: Generosity, Compassion, Laughter, Loyalty, Integrity, the last is unknown , the last know location of elements is in ancient castle, it is located in the... " "EVERFEE FOREST ! " Celestia looked at the frightened Coco, Colgate, Cloudchaser and Mayor Scrolls "What is wrong with this forest ? " slightly frightened Coco said, "This is no ordinary forest, all the plants grow on their own" next was Cloudchaser "The weather manages itself " then Colgate interjected "The Animals are taking care themselves" Celestia looked at Zebra " You and your patron live there ? " Zebra chuckled " It not so bad, at any rate, we must hurry. I can go with you, but not too far, I must return to my hut ". Celestia turned her gaze toward Luna " Lulu stay with them in Ponyville, I hope that we see each other again " But Luna was standing next to Zahara "Let's go" "What ?" -Blue coated pegasus turned to her " You coming ? " "What ? , Yes but i'm going alone " Suddenly Mayor came to her, and put a hoof on Tia's back " We go together " studious unicorn looked at Coco "Are you not afraid? Meek Earth mare smiled "Better together than alone " Celestia looked at five mares in disbelief, Luna put a wing on Tia's back "You can't be alone now " Unicorn sighed "Let's go together " Zahara smiled, and when the white unicorn was beside her she said "It is nice to have some friends " there was no answer, but unicorn thought to herself They all crazy, even Luna... The six ponies and one Zebra entered the forest in silence. Not knowing what awaits them there, they knew only that Bleeding Heart must be stopped. > 5a. In the Dark Forest... > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Six ponies, and one zebra, walked through the forest, until zebra stopped, looked around, and started talking "I apologize, but this is as far, as I can take you, for I must return to my hut, from now on, you must go on your own" Zahara looked at Celestia, and passing beside her " Remember young unicorn, The Elements of Harmony only works, when there is also harmony in your heart " and she left. Luna was wondering "Why she left so early ? " Celestia looked at the dark blue pegasus " She's a zebra, she probably saw our future " rest of the ponies were confused, Cloudchaser flew in front of white unicorn "What, for real ? " "Probably " Celestia still was looking at direction which zebra went " Zebras, well, at least some of them, can see the future, and through this gift, they cannot partake in the events they see, they can only observe, then describe everything what they saw, when they return to their land, they catalogue everything important, events changing world and so on " "Sages of history " Mayor Scrolls said, looking at Celestia, who nodded, "And you think, she saw our future ? " Colgate asked "Maybe, maybe not, but for now it does not matter, we are here for another reason " Tia turned to look at five ponies " There is still chance for you to turn back, I will handle this myself " "We must stick together in this dark forest, who knows what is waiting for us here " Mayor voice was firm, but she was smiling "Let's go ! " Luna joyfully declared, Celestia groaned in annoyance, then sighed slightly "Coco, are you not afraid ?" but there was no reply, as Coco was already walking with Luna, and Cloudchaser. But after a while, the forest became even darker, and even more scary, the cause of that, were probably shadows extending from the trees, Coco started slightly whimper, and eventually stopped walking, Cloudchaser flew to her "What's wrong ? " her voice was shaky "I'm scared " meek earth mare said, pegasus offered a tentative smile " You want me to stay with you? " "Are they going to attack us ? " unicorn dentist asked, Celestia was on alert, looking from tree to tree. Then something unexpected happened, as Luna started giggling Smile, Luna went to Coco, and grabbed her hoof Let us smile, as we go through the dark, frightful forest Celestia's eyebrows started twitch " Is she really singing ? " Laugh as we go forward, through the daark, smile, and face those shadow monsters Luna with Coco approached Colgate, and she grabbed Cloudchaser Let's go hoof by hoof, you, and me, there's nothing to be afraid of , as soon you smile, and laugh, those fears will disappear. so hear me here ponies, taaake my hoof, Celestia jaw dropped, but her hoof was grabbed by Mayor Ivory Scrolls Let's go through the frightful fooooooreeeest ! let's go together, hoof by hoof, you and me, vanquish those shadows with smile upon our faces ! The shadows were gone. Coco was laughing, and white Unicorn was confused "Erm, Lulu " Dark blue pegasus had wide smile on her face "Lulu, that was kinda bad " "Maybe, but still it was funny " Coco was smiling too, at least she isn't so scared as before Tia thought, and as she looked at other mares, they were grinning too, she covered her eyes "Just...let's go " Somewhere in the forest, to her hut, Zebra returned "I'm back " Zahara said, but room was empty "In the kitchen " said calm, and soothing voice, Zebra came into the kitchen, and saw slightly, hovering Pegasus at the window, her mane was long and pink, covering one of her eyes. "Miss Fluttershy" Pegasus looked at zebra with smile "Did you met them ? " yellow pegasus asked "Yes, same mares from my vision, but unicorn is different, than I expected, she kinda rejects others " "You're still young Zahara" She paused, and looked into window "I know you wanted to be by their side, but you know its dangerous, you could change the course of the history " "I know, but tell me miss Fluttershy, can those mares do it ? Can they, free the heart of a Princess from a nightmare ? " "We must believe in them, We must believe in her...." Moments later after the song, Coco was still smiling, but their path was blocked, as they encountered a Manticore, that roared at them. "Ok, now what !? " Cloudchaser asked, flapped her wings in annoyance, Celestia, and Mayor Ivory were in battle stances. "You're going to attack it ? It's gonna eat both of you " Said Coco, as Manticore was roaring, and approaching them with slow pace "No, I am going to take care of it " Colgate said, started walking towards creature, her eyes focused on it's mouth, Celestia looked at blue unicorn, and wasn't certain if this was good idea "Colgate ? " Cloudchaser inquired. Colgate stood before the monster, and her horn started shine in blue, Manticore opened her mouth, and wanted to roar, but blue mare poked her head inside its mouth ,Coco covered her eyes out of fear. Monster was at first surprised, then angry and tried close it, suddenly mare pulled her head, and above her, dental instruments were levitating "Now, keep your mouth wide open " The sound of drilling, echoed through the forest, as other five mares were watching in silence, Coco still slightly covering her eyes, every now and then looking at scene before her, as she was curious to see what happens next "Ok, your teeth should be ok now, But " above unicorn dentist head, teeth brush, and toothpaste were levitating "Remember to brush you're teeth after every meal, and before sleep " Manticore blinked few times, and suddenly grabbed blue mare, other ponies panicked, but soon after, their worries were gone, as Manticore was licking Colgate cheeks, then started to purr "Oh, like a little kitty "Colgate patted manticore belly, other ponies started to smile, as they could push on, further into the forest. > 5b. Defenders of the Canterlot Pt. I > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- City of Canterlot, The Capital of Equestria. A city, in which most of the country nobility lives here. What's more, on the outskirts of the Capital, there is small residence of the most important family in the country, a family which for centuries now, supports the crown of Equestria in every possible way. Current head of the Starlight Sparkle Family Twilight Velvet, sometimes known for her pen name as Star Sparkle, is closest friends with the Princess. It is also home to the captain of the Royal Guard, who is preparing to return into service after little vacation. From one of the rooms, whose door hung open, a panel with the inscription saying "Shining Armor " White Stallion with blue mane came out, and looked in the mirror "Hm, looking good" he said, then went away from the mirror, and began to descend the stairs "Mother ?... " there was no answer, so he decided to check the basement. When he started to walk down the stairs, stallion saw a light coming from the below. Leaning out from behind the wall, he saw his mother, she was sitting with a pile of paper in front of her, it looks like she resumed writing her book, so he decided not to disturb her. "It seems like she got rid of writer's block, I can't wait when new Daring Doo book hit the shelves " and he left home. When he found himself in front of the castle, he saw soldiers, who apparently were waiting for him, he suddenly heard a mare voice "Attention!", then looked at the stairs, in front of the castle, stood azure mare, with cape on her back. "Brother " Shining Armor smiled "Sister, how did you manage to persuade the soldiers to give me honors ? " "After all, you're the captain my brother " "Done with the formalities sis ? " Captain frowned, Azure mare descended the stairs, and nuzzled her brother "So, how is the Castle doing Trixie, is there a big mess waiting for me, like the last time ? " "Not at all brother " She smiled, and they began walking towards the door to the castle "Ah, I forgot to mention, Princess Twilight went to Ponyville " "Oh, she already left ? I wanted report to her, that i am ready for duty " they were now inside the Castle of Canterlot, ahead of them, there were stairs leading to the throne room, to the left, there were also stairs, and corridor leading to the library, this was the direction Trixie was going, she turned to her Brother "Now that Captain of the Guard returned, I can focus on my books " "Heh, sure ! " Suddenly one of the guards came running " Lady Starlight ! Lady Starlight Sparkle ! " Trixie raised an eyebrow, leaned against the railing of the stairs " I'm here, what happened ? " The guard looked upwards, and saw also the Captain of the Royal Guard " Ah! Captain's here, that's even better ! " Mare and Stallion looked at each other, as the guard was clearly in the panic, Shining Armor went down, and put a hoof onto guard shoulder "Tell me, what is going on ? " "Look out the window ! " Captain walked over to window, looked up to sky, and he could not believe his eyes, there was a Sun, and Moon locked on the horizon. He and his sister knew what it might mean, this meant that Equestria is in danger. > 6a...We Encounter Trouble > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Wow" Coco exclaimed " That was brave Colgate" Blue unicorn looked at Coco "No, I just did what I had to , I mean i noticed his broken teeth, he roared cause he was in pain, so i just had to help him " Celestia lips formed a little smile, until Cloudchaser flew to her "So, wanna talk ? " Celestia looked at pegasus "About what ? " "Well, you're a student of a Princess, how did you become one ? " She asked, Luna was beside persian coated pegasus " She adopted us " "Luna !. That's private matter " Other four mares now looked at them with curiosity. "Come on Tia, what's wrong with telling them " Celestia stopped " It's not important Lulu " "Are you ashamed of, where you come from ? " Blue Pegasus said with raised eyebrow, Celestia was surprised by the question "What ? Why do you think that ? " "We probably have long way to the Old Castle, so we might talk for a bit " "Lulu, Eh whatever, there was magic talent show in Canterlot, in which, I really wanted to take part, so after long talk with some orphanage patrons they agreed, as it turned out, the magic show was organized by a Princess herself " Luna interrupted her, and she began to speak herself " Princess was looking for someone with extraordinary magical talent, When she saw Celestia, she was immediately fascinated, our patrons told us, that the Princess said, she had never seen someone with such magical potential like her, thus she decided that Celestia will be her student, and straight away she asked, who are her parents. Patrons told the Princess that Tia parents left her,when she was just an infant, and that, they were taking care of her upbringing " Luna started smile " When i found out, that she's not going to be with us anymore, I protested, I did not want her to leave, she was my friend, patrons didn't know what to do, Princess decided that she will take me too. We were at the age of 10, when she took us under her wing." Celestia snickered "Yea, but somehow you never were at her lessons, also you forgot to add, that after the magic show I got my cutie mark " "So you've never seen your parents ? " Coco voice was a little sad "Nope never, patrons told me that, I was in a basket, in front of the main door of orphanage... " Awkward silence fell upon them, as other four mares didn't knew what to say, until Ivory spoke up " After this, we go for ice cream,you like ice cream ? " Cloudchaser giggled " I like mine ice cream mint flavored " Colgate, and Coco looked at each other, smiled, then both of them said " Yea, ice cream is good " Luna put a wing on Tia back " You feel better ? ". "What ?, what do you mean ? ". "I know you Tia, but its better when we are together ". "I guess ". Then their journey was interrupted, cause they heard loud stomping. "What's that ? " Ivory asked. Suddenly, from behind the trees, a pair of Rock Golems emerged "Ponies !" they exclaimed. Mares eyes widened in shock, "I think, that after this, we're going to need something more than ice creams " Ivory declared, and they started run. "Ponies " Golems stomping echoed through the forest. When, they were fleeing from these rock creatures, Tia was looking at them " Why we run ? I mean they're dumb, I can use my magic..." "You can't, if you use magic, more golems will come, the only way, is to lose them " Mayor told her, "Man they're fast " Cloudchaser said. Abruptly Coco dropped on her hooves, causing panic among ponies. "Oops" Cloudchaser turned toward lying earth mare "I handle this " Persian blue coated pegasus, flew straight ahead, to bending down golem, she hastily flew over to monster face "Catch me ugly " At the same time Coco was lying on Ivory back "Wait we can't leave her " she was protesting, "Go, I will catch up to you ". Golems tried to snatch her, waving their big arms, but pegasus flew between the legs of the two monsters, as they began to spin around, she suddenly flew up into air, and because golems are stupid, they looked at the sky, to seconds later bump into each other, falling over " It wasn't so hard " cerulean maned pegasus exclaimed "Time to catch up ". "Oh, I hope she's ok ". "Don't worry Coco, I bet she's already on her way" Mayor Mare told Coco . "But rock golems never wander so far away from their caves " Said Colgate, with little wonder in her tone " Caves in the forest are far from here, so what they were doing here ? " when blue dentist finished her sentence, Cloudchaser arrived slightly out of breath, suddenly Coco ran to her, and hugged pegasus "I'm sorry, I'm not used to do so much running ". "Ah, it's ok, let's go, so i can tell you how i get rid of them " Cloudchaser smiled, along with Coco. "Then they hit each other, and fell, and..." Cloudchaser story was interrupted, as she bumped into Coco flank "What's wrong ? " "Hush" Earth Mare looked around, and her ears were in listening mode, others were confused. "You hear that ? " five mares looked at each other, then decided to listen with their ears.....and they heard sound of weeping "Someone's crying ? ". "Hey, look here " Coco pointed at small dog, who clearly was looking for something. "It's diamond dog, wait Coco ? " Colgate called to gray coated mare. Coco watched a puppy sniffing the ground, then after a while little dog sat down,drooped its ears and, let a little squeal, after sniffing the air, its ears raised, and began to growl "I know you're in that bush pony ". Coco was a little startled, then came out from behind the bushes " I'm sorry, I didn't mean to eavesdrop on you " diamond dog puppy was growling at her, but suddenly she was in hooves in one of other ponies "Let me down, or i call alphas ! " "So cute " Luna was holding little dog with her hooves, she was hugging her, and sometimes she was waving around "Please...stop...i feel dizzy ". "Luna stop " Celestia urged to her friend " She's a puppy after all ". Coco let a little laugh "Eh, I bet even grown creature would get dizzy , anyway why are you crying ? ". "Grrr, I'm not crying" Little dog started to look around her, sniffling, after a while she dropped her ears again. "Tell us what happened, maybe we can help somehow " Coco asked with little smile. "I...I don't really know, I mean i was with alpha dogs on gem hunt, and i went to little bat cave, when i found awesome valuable gem, but later some shadow came, and took it from me, and it was when i was supposed to show the alphas what i got. After shadow was gone, I started to look for that thing, but there is no shadow, nor my gem ". Coco thought for a while, and suddenly she pulled out of her mane a shiny gem "Will this help ? " Dogs eyes were sparkling, and her tail began to wag. "But Coco, you got this from Rarity, it's precious to you " Colgate told her. Dog enthusiasm passed quickly as it came. Amberish Gray coated Earth mare lips formed smile "It true it's precious, but what's count its the gesture, and feelings associated received from giving pony. I can give this gem, but those feelings will stay in my heart " . "You really want to give me this ? " All of sudden Luna popped out of nowhere,with waterfall of tears she hugged Coco " You are so sweet, little, cuddly, cute". Celestia's brow was twitching "Oi ,you're overreacting Lulu ". "Haha , you ponies are fun, alphas say you're dumb, but it's not true ". Coco, who was now free of Luna cuddles, stretched her hoof toward dog "Here take it, by the way My name is Coco ". "My name is Rin" She took gem from her new friend, then looked at pony "T-thank you, i guess...". "We need to go " Celestia urged. "Wait, where are you going ? ". Rin said with confusion "Why you ponies are even in this forest ? " Ivory looked at little dog "Well, did you saw the sky " Rin nodded, and Mayor continued "We must get to the old castle, before it's too late ". "Ah, old castle is in that direction, although in your place, i would avoid that, there is something strange with the bridge ". Rin sniffled the air "Oh no, I'm sorry i must go....Coco thank you i hope to see you someday" and she ran off. Mayor Ivory Scrolls went to her fellow earth pony "It was nice thing to do ". After this little encounter, they went toward direction Rin pointed them. At last it seemed they saw the exit from this dreadful forest, white unicorn started to run "Wait, Celestia " Cloudchaser shouted, but she wasn't heard, the rest decided to follow, though pegasus stayed by Coco side, who wasn't fast runner. Celestia stopped, her attitude changed "Be on your guard, something is here ". Six mares looked around, but there was nothing "Well, she said something about the bridge, so I guess we could approach it " Mayor said sarcastically, then she went to the edge "I can't see the bottom, that fog is too thick ". And all of sudden, she was pushed backwards "W-what was that ? ". Celestia eyes noticed something by the bridge "Who are you ? " "We are the shadows" two calm voices said "You can go through, only when you win the game of truth or dare " They smiled evilly, confused ponies looked at each other "Game of what now ? " said Cloudchaser, "Uuu, I want to play " Luna informed others while jumping. Shadows started talking again "You need to choose, two ponies for truth or dare, if you fail to choose, you will fall down there" they again smiled evilly. "Come on" Luna pushed Coco forward "Why me ? " earth mare asked. All of sudden one of the shadows was around meek mare "Truth or dare little pony ? ".Celestia horn lit up "If you hurt her !" "Stupid pony we're not going to hurt her, although not now, well let's just say if you fail , she will fall down there...all of you will, so little pony truth or dare ?" "Truth" "So, in your heart, there is place for your special somepony, is it not ? do you love that pony ?". Coco cheeks became a little red, question suprised her "What ? ". If you do not answer, you, and your friends will go down there ". "What kind of question is that ? " Colgate asked "Hush ponies she has thirty second, then you go down...and probably die " "I LOVE RARITY !!! " . Coco Pommel timid, scaredy, meek, quiet mare scream blew other ponies manes back, her face changed from amberish gray to red, embarrassed, she hid her face in her own hooves. "Wow, that was bold. " Luna said, her mane due Coco scream, covered her whole face. "Hrm, it seems that is correct, cause you still here, but i believe you needed to say only yes or no...." one of the shadows announced. "Whaaat, buuh " she was hugged by Ivory "It's ok ". "Don't worry, its going to be our secret " Cloudchaser told her with wink. "You, dark coated pegasi, truth or dare ? ". Luna smirked "Dare !" "Here eat this". One of the shadows gave Luna a flower, and other ponies were confused again "Eat this flower, or you fall ". Flower, which she needs to eat, is the color of blue, with some darkened stripes in the middle "What's the catch ? " Celestia asked "Eat or you fall ". "Meh, nom nom" Luna after some chewing, swallowed blue flower "Hm, it's doesn't have any flavor " rest of ponies looked at shadows, they were laughing "Why are you happy, we can cross the bridge now" "Ha !" shadow exclaimed "Truth for everyone ! ". Celestia brew twitch "But they passed your stupid truth or dare " "Truth for everyone, are you playing ? You're going to die if you don't ". Mayor Mare came out to front "We play, but that is your last game, after this we're free to pass through ". "There's someone among you, who hides her true colors ". "What now ? " Colgate asked, and looked at Celestia, and both of them she shrugged their shoulders. "I'm not hiding anything anymore " After finishing her sentence Coco hid her face again in her hooves. "Uuu ponies have twenty seconds ". Then suddenly Mayor Ivory Mare sighed "It's me". "sixteen". "Grr, I dye my mane and tail !" . "What !? " other mares were little shocked "What do you mean ? " Colgate was first to ask. "My mane and tail are pink ". "Pfhahahaha " Luna was laughing, and rolling on ground "R-really, that's silly ahahaha ". Ivory was not amused, and knocked Luna in head, dark coated pegasus yelped although she was smiling " I'm sorry ". "Thank you..." "Why you dye your mane, and tail ? " "Because with pink mane, and pink tail i would look silly" she looked at Luna "I said i'm sorry ". "Anyway, I'm doing this to hold Ponyville together, I mean if i look properly ponies will respect me, respect my decisions, they will laugh at me if i look silly, they won't listen to someone who looks silly, eventually they would choose somepony else, but I am the only one who understand need of the Ponyville citizens I... "No they will respect you either way, with pink mane or not, its because of your character " Colgate put hoof on Mayor shoulder "But Luna was laughing " Celestia smirked "I'm sorry Mayor, but Luna is able to laugh at everything, though i would like to see your pink mane, and tail". "Oh hush " Ivory sigh a little "Ok I told you my little secrets, does it count, huh where are they ?" "Looks like shadows are gone " Luna jumped in excitement. "We can pass, we have free path to castle let's go" White unicorn urged, Ivory stayed behind for a moment, looked at her tail, which waved a little, she giggled, then joined the rest of the group. > 6b. Defenders of the Canterlot Pt. II > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Trixie went down to her brother, and guard who were staring at the sky with dread "Brother ! " Her voice was firm, and her cheerful face, became serious " Sun, and Moon are locked, that means she escaped ! " Shining Armor turned to scared guard " Alert the City, alert other Guards ! " Guard just nodded, and went running "Princess " "Sis..." Shining Armor was now away from the window, and started to embrace his sister " She probably will be here soon" Mare said, and looked away, in the direction of running soldiers " I only hope, that the princess was right about her student " Soldiers came and saluted " Orders ? " "Yes" Trixie started smiling " Bring me Enhancing Jewels, and Gems from Canterlot Archive, from B8 Wing, also bring me 5th Rune Knights Battalion " "Sis, what are you...' his sister interrupted him "So what about this Battalion ? " soldiers looked at each other " I'm sorry Lady Starlight, most of them are on leave " "How many of them, Is on duty ? " "Well, there is only 100 of them " "Good, bring them immediately, also tell others to evacuate citizens ! " "Yes ma'am ! " "Also, don't forget about those gem enhancers from B8 Wing " she looked at Shining Armor who clearly was confused " You, you will not fight with her do you ? " "We have to stop her for sometime " "Sometime ? Do you really think that you can fight her, even with enhancers, which by the way are prohibited " "It looks like I'm naive enough to have hope, that Celestia will manage somehow " Shining Armor was unconvinced, but probably, it was now the only thing they could do, to stop the enemy for as long as possible. Both of them, were now trotting toward the main gate of the city, in the meantime they were passing, the frightened residents as they were evacuated by soldiers, some of soldiers were joining them, as they come closer the gate. Shining Armor, The Captain of the Royal Guard, had together more than one hundred soldiers, equipped with magic enhancing abilities jewels, and gems, among them, the soldiers of the elite 5th Rune Knights Battalion, that fully counts 1,000 ponies at arms, but there is now only 100 at disposal. Yellow unicorn mare went to the Shining Armor "Commander is going to kill me Captain " "If we survive this Vice-Commander Spear, besides, I'm in charge when the situation requires it remember ? " Spear frowned "But, it is far too dangerous, in addition where you have these amplifiers from ? " "Better put them on, I sense very unpleasant magic approaching, she's close" Trixie said , and then suddenly soldier came up "Captain ! " "Oh, did you evacuated citizens ? " "Most of them, some didn't want to go, and Lady Twilight Velvet refused to go " Starlight siblings looked at each other in panic "I am sorry, she didn't wanted to listen, Lady Velvet said, she have utmost confidence in the princess, and her student " "But, Bleeding Heart will be here soon, what does mother think ! " Azure Mare screamed, and felt something on her back, she looked at her brother " She's already here ! " Over a hundred ponies looked at the dark cloud, that was in front of them, which dissipate, as Dark Purple Alicorn emerged with sinister smile "Oh, a Welcome company, BOW TO US ! " she spread her wings, and force of the wind pushed over one hundred ponies back. > 7. Defenders of the Canterlot Pt. III > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maniacal laughter spread through quiet area around them. Over a hundred pairs of eyes stared at the dark purple Alicorn in disbelief, cause with single motion of her wings, they were all on their knees, there were whispers among some soldiers, they started to panic. Captain Shining Armor stood up first, right behind him was Trixie, Stallion looked at their foe "STAND ! We have City to defend ! " "You fools realize, who is against you !?" her horn flashed dark purple color ,and then fired magic missile at them. "SHIELD ! " Captain screamed, and after a while, the blue shield protected them from attack, their opponent was surprised "How ? " She asked with raised eyebrow "NOW !" Azure mare appeared behind , and hit her with assault of magic waves,then others joined in the attack, there was a lot of smoke, and then explosion, Trixie landed next to 5th Rune Knights Battalion Vice Commander Spear "Did we get her ? " yellow unicorn mare asked Bleeding Heart spread her wings, and the smoke cloud was gone " I see, you have enhancers, interesting " Soldiers were trembling with fear, Vice Commander Spear came to the front of them "Silence!, Rune Knights with me ! " Some of the knights teleported, appearing behind their enemy, attacking her with their powerful hind legs, some attacked her with punches and magic attacks, but she was just pushing them aside, Alicorn horn flashed, which caused a strong explosion. Vice Commander Spear, along with her fellow knights fell to the ground, her armor was shattered, and her head was bleeding. Shining Armor, and Trixie were in shock, as their foe was surrounded by a dark magical aura with purple lightning. "Someone else want to feel my power ? " "Trixie " Stallion looked at his sister, he saw determination in her eyes "Are you still going to fight her !? " "I'm not going to run away, because I AM THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE....I always wanted to say that " Shining Armor, and other still standing Soldiers were baffled because of her words "Sis, I know you're strong, hell you're the strongest mage in the kingdom but still... " "Did you say, the strongest mage ? " "Oh, no" Stallion facehooved, Trixie smirked "Well, thats what Princess Twilight said " "My foolish sister is no longer, face me, and I shall decide, whether you strongest or not! ". They were staring at each other in silence, at some point Trixie heard the beating of her own heart, and she started to sweat "You're not going to move? So let me start ! " Alicorn dived towards Trixie, but silver maned mare teleported at the last minute, she appeared behind enemy, and shot magical projectiles causing explosion, when she was on the ground, she surrounded herself with magical aura " Magia Cataegis " lightning shot out from her magical aura, causing burst of magic, making her kneel. Her breathing was slightly faster, but she was still ready to fight. "Nice spell my subject, but I think you did a mistake making it, or maybe it was your enhancements " Trixie was in dread, normally attack of this strength would be enough to beat other unicorn "Not a scratch ?" Bleeding Heart stamped on the ground, and steel piles emerged from the ground, which began to strike azure mare with magic, Trixie tried protect herself, unfortunately it was vain effort, as she was hit from every direction, making her squeal in pain, Alicorn stamped again, and burst magic engulfed silver maned mare. "TRIXIE ! " Captain of the guard, feared for the life of his sister, he wanted to leap into action, but there was this feeling of helplessness. "I'm...ok....brother" Trixie, was breathing heavily, her one eye was closed, and there was blood in the corner of her mouth, all of sudden, she was caught by shadows "W-what ? Let me go " as she was struggling to get free, she was striked by magic electricity from shadows, then they were gone, and Bleeding Heart was holding her with magic. She threw Trixie, into wall that was protecting city, some of the wall, part of that wall fall on her. Azure mare was able to stand, she looked at the empty space, where before her opponent was standing, but alicorn was already behind, and thrust her into the ground, making a crater underneath, lying pony, some of the enhancement gems break, and Trixie began to scream in pain "Oh, seems that someone have broken ribs" Trixie looked at her foe, from small crater, with pain, and anger "Do you hate me yet !? " there was, wide grin on purple alicorn face, slightly bleeding from, mouth, and forehead Trixie struggled to get up. "Don't worry, in a few moments, I will finish you, I have to admit though, that you were brave to stand against me " She began to laugh, however, after a while, her laughter stopped, and looked into direction of the forest "My shadows, It can't be, they are at the Old Castle ?. But the elements, don't work when they are used by mortals, but still...You're lucky, that your going to live for a while longer " and she was gone, and Trixie ?. Trixie, and soldiers were happy, that monster was absent, and that, they don't need to face her, at least for some time. > 8. Inside the Old Castle > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ivory joined the rest of the group on the other side, they were looking at Old Castle, but she noticed something unusual about Luna appearance. Celestia was happy, and excited "The Elements, they are so close". She run to the front of the castle, then turned back, and noticed that other mares were still close to the bridge, looking at something or somepony ?. Mayor scratched her chin, blinked few times, then finally burst out laughing, other ponies looked at her, though immediately all attention has been turned to Luna. "Um ? Is something wrong ? " Confused pegasus looked at other ponies, then she turned back "Waaaa !! ".Luna's tail was small, barely visible, Coco went to dark blue pegasus "It's not only your tail, your mane is completely gone ". "I'm bald !? ". Luna eyes were wide as afternoon sun, she started to run in circles. "Your wings also are tiny " Cloudchaser added. "It was probably from that flower " Colgate said, looked at Mayor who was still smiling "I'm sorry, I shouldn't laugh ". Ivory bowed. "I guess, but it's okay, since I was laughing at you Miss Mayor ". Dark pegasus was blushing "Though, that's kinda stupid way to lose mane, and tail, I mean i just ate that flower..." "Greetings to you, bald hero Luna ! " Celestia was giggling like a filly. "Ohaha, very funny Tia, maybe we should go for the elements ? ".Luna left eye was twitching "But you smile Lulu" Celestia added quickly, and Luna stuck out her tongue at unicorn. "After this, we will have to look for a way to bring your mane, tail, and wings back to normal ". Cloudchaser was looking at Celestia "Is it even possible ? ". Persian blue pegasus looked at Luna. "If i knew how this flower was called, it would be possible...probably ". "AH ! You said probably ! ". "It's your imagination Lulu....let's go inside the castle ". All six Ponies stood in front of the castle, they looked at damaged left wall, damaged roof, there was no door, "Ready ? " Celestia asked, Coco gulped "I'm not sure ". Cloudchaser,and Mayor put hooves on her back. "You're with us, you don't need to be afraid ". Coco lips formed a smile, and they entered the castle, inside at the center of the room, stood statue with five arms, on each arm stones. "Are those the elements ? " Colgate asked,and took a glance at Celestia "Yes...they are inactive though ". "So what now ? ". Cloudchaser asked. "Can you take them off ? ". Cloudchaser flew to the stones, and put them on the floor "Man, they're heavy ". Mayor took a closer look at the stones "Wait, there is only five elements, where is sixth element ? ". "The Book said something about spark, a spark will cause the sixth element to be revealed , when the five are present". "And what it means ?" Colgate looked puzzled. "I'm not sure, but you better stand back " Celestia looked serious, and her horn started to glow in yellow. "Let's leave her alone girls, she need to concentrate " Mayor said, and the ponies started to go outside. At the same time Celestia was already pointing her horn towards the elements, until dark purple cloud started to swirl around stones "What ? ". She straight away jumped into swirl, and they were gone. Five ponies returned, they were all confused "Where are they ? " Mayor was looking around. "Did you see that dark cloud ? ". Coco said. "Hey look there ! " Luna pointed toward different part of the castle, visible from the room they were in. "Let's go!" With Mayor words they set off after her friend, and the elements. Celestia has been teleported with The Elements of Harmony. When she stood up, in front of her was incarnation of hatred, "Bleeding Heart "Tia stamped her hoof angrily. "It's you my subject, do you still hope to wield the elements ? ". Celestia eyes stared into the eyes of her enemy "I can beat you without elements " she smiled, her eyes were full of determination. "What ? Thou want to fight ? " Celestia was silent, but she was still staring deeply into her opponent eyes "You will meet the same fate as the blue mare who tried to oppose me in Canterlot ". White unicorn smile disappeared "Blue Mare ? You mean Lady Trixie Starlight Sparkle ?". "Hm, so that was her name ? " Celestia stamped again, her horn was shining in yellow, and her lips formed a smile. "Is this excitement ? " Bleeding Heart looked again at white unicorn standing in front of her "You dare to attack US !? " upon finishing her sentence Alicorn body was surrounded by purple aura "Come little pony, come and show us your magic ! " Celestia power raised, and she was now surrounded by her own yellow aura. "Interesting ". "In a few seconds, that demeanor of yours will change, I can guarantee you that Bleeding Heart ! " When Tia's aura disappeared,she started to run, and after few seconds when she was really close to her foe, she teleported. Bleeding Heart looked around ruined room, until Celestia showed in front of Alicorn, and started to pummel her hooves into enemy face, Alicorn body wasn't moving an inch, fact was that only her head was in waving motion, to avoid attacks, once from left, once from right. Celestia continued to attack with her front hooves, until she noticed that Bleeding Heart had evil grin on her face, white unicorn teleported, and in the next moment Bleeding Heart face was blown away, from behind her, Celestia was attacking with her hind hooves, though it was only blow alicorn received, she again was avoiding attacks with waving her head. Suddenly Celestia was blasted away by magic shock wave, she break through the wall, and was lying in pile of rubble in the other room. "This is not the way you can defeat me ! I'm not that kind of enemy !". Celestia was moaning in slight pain, as she raised from rubble "Ugh...not a single scratch ?! " Bleeding Heart stood proudly, she was unharmed, on the other hoof Celestia cheek,and back were scratched, and her belly was bruised a little " Well maybe hoof combat was bad idea ". "Giving up ? ". "What are you talking about ? " Celestia blue-pink mane began to flow, when under her hooves magic circle appeared, and she was once again surrounded by yellow aura. ''That is a lot of magic little pony, I see you're prepared to lose ". "This attack will knock you off your hooves " . "If you're so confident, why your tone is so anxious ". "It's your imagination ! " White unicorn began her assault, magic missiles were flying very fast toward the foe, which was surrounded by cloud of dust, area around them was trembling caused by Tia magical attack. There was short silence after the offensive, the only audible sound was Celestia's rapid breathing "D-dit it w-work ? ". Clouds were swept away by Alicorn wings "I'm afraid it didn't ". "N-no..what ? " Celestia started to shake. "Oh little pony, Did you really thought that you could defeat me like this !? Oh I like that face of despair, I told you that without elements you can't do anything to me, and since elements don't work on mortals, you better surrender now ". Alicorn flew onto Celestia, and pinned her down to the floor. "Are you afraid ? Do you despise me ? " Celestia was struggling to get free, but every time she wanted to move, Bleeding Heart was hitting her into stomach, every blow was stronger than previous one, causing Celestia to groan louder after each blow, from the left corner of her mouth, a little trail of blood was running down. "Do you hate US !? ".Celestia was hit once more, the impact from the strike, shattered the elements. In Celestia's eyes, tears started to form, she closed them, and suddenly heard familiar voices. "We're coming ! ". "We'll be there in a minute Tia ! ". "N-no, don't come...please ". White unicorn voice was low, sad, resigned, Alicorn noticed that, and started to laugh, at the same time five ponies entered the room, and saw Celestia lying on the floor, behind her they noticed broken stones, The Elements of Harmony were in pieces. "Welcome little subjects !, You are about too witness a Fall, and Rise of new EQUESTRIA ". Maniacal laugh echoed through the castle.