> The Worth of One
>  by DouglasTrotter
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the tan colored door closed, light from the ethereal world faded.  Flames flickered into existence.  No sound came from the gentle hooves that touched each marble tile of the long, dim-lit hallway.  Though the stone hallway appeared to stretch on into infinity, the mare's hoofsteps soon ceased.  She peered down two adjacent corridors then pressed a firm hoof against an ornate metal door.

The flames contained within the metal sconces vanished.  Princess Luna's eyes widened at the majestic room that appeared before her. 

Bookcases stretched towards the ceiling; each of them rolled along a complex network of brilliant magical tracks.  A device moved around the room in a slow elliptical orbit with a glowing glass sphere at its center.  At the heart of the library stood a medium sized desk, and, on top of the desk,  a strange crystal floated over a small base.  The crystal emitted a soft, peaceful, pale yellow light.  

"Odd, I could swear this was his dream," Princess Luna said to herself in a quiet voice, nearing the desk.  Two books lay on top of the desk's green colored matt. The princess crept further and further toward the desk.  She raised an eyebrow.  Light from the crystal reflected off a strange object, lines forming just underneath its surface.  The intricate lines glowed in her presence.  "What... in Equestria?" 

Princess Luna yelped as she bolted into the air.

"..."  

"You startled me little one --" Princess Luna blushed, "-- I apologize.  I didn't meant offend." She said.  Two calm eyes greeted the startled princess, the two blue eyes belonging to a little donkey.  The pony watched the equine move along the glass floor before he hopped into the desk chair.  Princess Luna floated to the ground. Her gaze gravitated around the room then honed in on the chair.  "This is a rather unusual dream.  What are you pretending to be?" 

A bookcase crept toward the desk chair, moving by Princess Luna.  Gears meshed together underneath the two equines, powering the strange contraption above them.  Moments passed while a small tan colored hoof ran across several lines of text within the red tome that had been removed from the bookcase.  Pages flipped by.  Two words were scribbled on a scroll.  Three more were words written before the tome was placed back onto the bookcase.  A slight push propelled the piece of furniture back to its original location.

"I dare say young one, this is quite astounding. Are you studying for some great purpose? Perhaps you're a wise sage, here to rescue Equestria?"  Princess Luna said.  Her kind grin degenerated into an awkward smile.  She levitated the scroll off the desk, the two curious eyes focused on it now focused on her. "I apologize for intruding, but, you are Soapbox, correct?" 

The little donkey nodded.  With no word spoken, he retrieved the scroll.  His attentive gaze resumed its focus on the scroll that had been taken away.   

Several small slits formed in the desk.  A metal cylinder popped up.  Soapbox retrieved the object, opened it, and removed the scroll from inside.  The metal cylinder was pushed back down into the desk.

Princess Luna rubbed a gentle hoof against her chin.  After a quick "hmm," the princess closed her eyes and smiled, and then illuminated her horn.  

The grand world of the arcane library shifted to that of a stone castle.  Atop the highest tower stood a vicious dragon that clutched onto a mare.  The large red creature grasped the pony in its left claw while it belched fire toward Princess Luna and Soapbox that stood below it. In a great voice that bellowed toward the two ponies, the dragon snarled, "Come get your damsel!"   

Her horn still glowing, Princess Luna materialized a set of armor on Soapbox with a sword at his side.  The dragon hissed.  Its vision narrowed.  Birds flew away from the nearby trees after the dragon let out a boisterous snarl, soon followed by smoke billowing from its nostrils.  

The dragon shrugged.  It released the mare, yawned, and flew off, exiting through a door.   

Princess Luna let out a quiet sigh.  The mare, let loose from the dragon's grasp, comforted the princess. The princess thanked the kind mare before materializing a set of armor on her, allowing the pony to go into another dream.  

"Where is that little one?" Princess Luna said. She flew into the distant horizon, towards a small dot.  She landed behind a tree and gazed at the little donkey. In a hushed voice she said, "What in Equestria is he doing?" 

Soapbox raised his right hoof and made a circle in thin air.  Two symbols materialized.  His hoof moved between the two symbols and caused a third symbol to form.  Four tan colored lines of light formed.  A tan colored door materialized, the little donkey disappearing behind it.   

"How did he... ?" Princess Luna pondered while she remained hidden behind the tree. She materialized a similar tan door, moved through it, and closed it behind her.  The princess raised an eyebrow.  "That was quite the interesting trick, young one.  The library is unchanged, down to the very last word scribbled on your scroll a few moments ago. You'll have to tell me how you performed that little bit of magic." 

Soapbox looked towards the princess, gazed at her for a few seconds, and then continued his work. 

Prince Luna's eyebrow twitched. "P-Perhaps daring tales of fighting dragons isn't your forte.  How about something different?" 

Gizmos whirled.  Lights blinked on and off.  Glass screens gave off an incandescent, green colored glow that reflected off the room's polished metal walls.  The sound of clinking metal echoed, emanating from beneath the equines' hooves.  The world shifted once more, this time, the two equines found themselves inside a cold metallic spacecraft. 

The control panel and its lights went dim.  The silence that greeted the two equine's ears was short lived. 

Horns blared.  Red warning lights brightened the once pitch-black room.  Loud, successive noises pounded against the ship's hatch.  Before Princess Luna and Soapbox reached the planet in front of them, two grey-colored, three eyed ponies burst through the ship's thick metal door.  The three eyed ponies' tendrils, poking out of their sides, wrapped around Princess Luna. 

"Save me from them." Princess Luna said as she materialized a device, chucking it at the Soapbox.  She rolled her eyes.  The princess watched the little donkey perform the same act as before, forming a door in thin air then disappearing behind it.  Released from the alien ponies' grasp, Princess Luna faced the two entities. "Ocular. Retina.  Thank you for the assistance. Please give my regards to Duchess Maria." 

Both creatures chirped and gurgled, and then nodded to Princess Luna before they disappeared behind a door with otherworldly symbols etched into its face.  

Princess Luna entered the strange library once more.  Her strong hooves caused the glass floor to crack with each step she took.  The princess marched toward the desk.  She planted a firm hoof against the chair.  She spun it around.  With a strong magical grasp, a book was removed from the little donkey's grasp.  

Soapbox's vision gravitated upward, fixating on the book. The little donkey remained emotionless. "Could I please have my book back? I'm rather busy." 

"Busy? Busy?! This is a dream.  A realm beyond ponies' wildest fantasies, expectations, hopes and desires.  You can be a space captain from a comic book, a proud knight, a --" Princess Luna said, her nostrils flaring.  

"But what are dreams meant to serve? Do nightmares serve a purpose as well?" Soapbox said.  

The princess held her tongue.  She took a deep breath, exhaled, and materialized a chair and faced Soapbox. "Nightmares serve no purpose.  I can assure you of that, young Soapbox.  It is my duty to oversee the dreams of others and guard them against nightmares.  I've promised to oversee your dreams, but what you have here confounds me." 

"I see.  Discord put you up to this." Soapbox said.  

"Hmm, you're quite the cheeky one. How do you know such a creature could 'put me up to this,' as you so quaintly put it?" Princess Luna said, ending in a coy smile.   

"The simplest solution tends to be the right one." Soapbox said in an eloquent tone.  He leapt off the chair then gazed up towards Princess Luna, "To receive a visit from the god of chaos, and then from you, Princess Luna, the guardian and overseer of dreams, after my darkness vanished, it seems to be the only logical conclusion. Besides," Soapbox raised his hoof, "Discord is right behind you, making rather 'charming' faces." 

"Spoil sport," Discord said, floating by on a piece of cotton candy.  "I must say," Discord let out a quick, quiet groan, "your 'studious' behavior is all-too reminiscent of Princess Bookworm.  You'd probably put her to shame with the amount of studying you do. I mean, I doubt even she studies in her dreams, right, Lulu."

"Ah hem," Princess Luna said, turning away. 

"O sweet Celestia in Equestria, what is wrong with that pony." Discord placed a firm claw on his face.  He shook his head. "Here I thought things couldn't get anymore 'boring' with that pony." 

Princess Luna watched Discord fly about the room.  She rubbed a hoof against the side of her head. Her attention turned toward the little donkey, "You haven't answered my question, Soapbox." 

"Does it matter?" Soapbox said, his sentiments echoed by Discord.

"Isn't this your first real dream? Shouldn't dreams be a place of happiness and wonder? You can be anything you want and do anything you want.  In dreams, you're the ruler of your realm." Princess Luna said. 

"Am I? If I am a ruler, why does it concern you what I do in my dreams? This isn't a nightmare.  I'm not in distress." Soapbox said. 

"But --" Princess Luna stopped herself and focused her gaze on the room before looking at the little donkey, "-- you are right, Soapbox.  This is your world.  Nopony -- not even me -- has the right to tell you what makes you happy." She said. Her eyes grew soft.  The princess placed a gentle kiss on Soapbox's forehead.  She smiled. "Even a princess needs to be reminded of things.  I apologize." 

Discord smirked. "Well, well, well.  Quite the treat to receive such a gift from Lulu." 

Princess Luna glanced at Discord, "Friendly advice.  Don't call me that." 

Discord Shrugged.

"Pray tell, what are you studying, Soapbox?" Princess Luna said.  

Soapbox pointed at the strange cube.  

Princess Luna inched forward.  She stopped.  Her eyes widened, "Discord, what have you done?!" 

Discord pulled off one of Princess Luna's ears and whispered into it, "It is for him to discover.  I'm curious to see what he does with it." 

The world went about its normal business while a cube formed around Princess Luna, the princess placing her ear back on her head.

"Discord, you should know your place.  You do not have the same level of power in dreams that you do in the real world." Princess Luna said.  Her hoof pounded against the ethereal wall of the cube. "Discord, this is beyond dangerous.  How could you give such a thing to him?" 

Discord chuckled as time froze outside the cube. "You are right on one account.  My powers may struggle against yours within this realm, but I have more than enough to toy with you." 

Princess Luna scowled at Discord.  She blasted the god of chaos into dust, and time resumed.  The princess lunged at the object on the desk, her hoof passing through it. "No. I'm too late." 

"Once bonded, not even I can take away what has been given." Discord said, backing away from the angered princess. "Easy there Lulu." 

"Don't. Call me that!" Princess Luna said, hurling a bolt of lightning towards Discord.  She smirked then recoiled when the bolt turned into butterflies. "How -- No, why? Why did you do this to him?" 

Discord materialized a chair. "My friend asked me to help Soapbox out, and so I have."

"How is this helping him out?" Princess Luna said. 

Discord sat in the foreboding chair.  The cube vanished.  Time resumed in the dream world outside.  "Now isn't this interesting. Why don't you tell Soapbox what he has in his possession?" 

"Beginning to End.  End to Beginning.  Uroboros." Soapbox said, interrupting Discord.  A circular symbol materialized on the strange object before it appeared on the small donkey's forehead.  "I don't. Understand.  H-Ho-How can I feel hot. In a. Dream?" 

The loud thud echoed throughout the arcane library. Gears grinded against one another, emitting monstrous sparks that rebounded off the glass floor.  Every contraption and mechanized entity slowed to a crawl, and then ground to a halt.  

Princess Luna gritted her teeth.  The room's colors faded to black and white.  She rushed towards Soapbox.  The princess held the little donkey in her hooves, "Please, answer me little one.  Please. Are you alright?" 

Soapbox pushed Princess Luna's hooves to the side.  He stood on his hooves, but only for a moment.  As he collapsed, his eyes closed.  

"Discord, I swear this right here, right now. If one hair on this little one's mane is harmed, I will personally see you turned back into a lawn ornament." Princess Luna said. 

"I am alright, Princess Luna." a voice interjected.

"Don't play games with me Discord.  I know you're moving his mouth and speaking in his voice."  Princess Luna said.  She cradled Soapbox in a soft magical aura.  The aura disappeared as the little donkey sunk into the soft bed the princess materialized. In a hushed voice Princess Luna said, "How dare you give 'that' knowledge to him.  Not even Star Swirl could handle it." 

"Ahh, but you're wrong.  Your 'sage of sages' had a mind like no other, and this here is no mere subject of your precious Equestria." Discord said.  He snapped his talons, producing a chart of the three pony races of Equestria with an icon at the center.  The end of his materialized pole tapped against each icon. "This little donkey isn't bogged down with instinctual knowledge that plagues the pony mind.  His mind represents the perfect blank slate," Discord removed his facial features then returned them, "and I have no doubt he'll understand what I have given him.  As to what he does with it, well, what fun is there in making sense." 

Princess Luna brushed a gentle hoof against Soapbox's mane.

"Mom. Dad. Sis..." Soapbox muttered.  

Discord snapped his talon, causing the world to freeze. The god of chaos, sitting atop his throne, glared at Princess Luna, "You ponies speak of Equestria and its beauty, of how equal and just it is to all its inhabitants.  However, let me ask you a question, Lulu.  What kind of world lets an individual like Soapbox here be born to a pony family when they're neither earth, pegasi, unicorn, or, in the rarest of circumstances, an alicorn? You can't stand there and tell me that makes any sense." 

"You're wrong." Princess Luna said. 

"Wrong? Wrong?!" Discord snarled, "If you want to add insult to injury, Soapbox stands in the shadow of his parents and his sister.  A shadow you are all too familiar with, 'Princess' Luna." Discord said.  He leaned back, his talon against his chest, "Even to a god of chaos like me, there's nothing about any of this that makes any sense."

Princess Luna faced Discord, "You know nothing of his life, of his family, Discord.  I've seen the dreams of his mother and father, and his sister." 

"Enlighten me." Discord said, rasping his fingers against the arm of his chair. 

"It pains his family because they know how Soapbox can't participate in activities like other ponies.  He can't use magic.  He can't fly.  He can't do things that earth ponies can do.  It goes well beyond what you see on the surface.  Not to mention there's the incident 'you' had to deal with, Discord." Princess Luna said.  She looked toward Discord, watching him close his eyes.  The misshapen creature hung his head.  His ominous throne faded into nothingness. "Don't you see? Despite the fact he can't do any of those things his family cares for him and loves him with every fiber of their being.  Discord, you and you alone are wrong for doing this to Soapbox, being cruel to his family by giving him that knowledge.  What you've given Soapbox, mark my words it will rip him apart." 

A few brief moments passed before Discord raised his head. In a soft voice he said, "Soapbox is quite the gifted sort, is he not?" 

"What does that have to do with anything?" Princess Luna said.  She looked at the object on the desk.  The lines in the object continued to glow in a pale colored light, despite the world fading to a monochrome color.  The princess looked toward Discord. "A puzzle?" 

"It took this 'gifted' little one only a few minutes to figure that out." Discord said.  He materialized an ice pack and placed it on the little donkey's head. "To give this knowledge all at once, to thrust it upon an individual that wasn't prepared, that would be beyond evil.  I might be chaotic, having a delicious touch of madness, but I am not malicious by any stretch of the imagination." 

"Yet you are the soul one who gave that thing to him. No matter how many puzzles, the fact is he solved one of them within the space of a single dream.  What stops him from solving all of them within a week's time?" Princess Luna said. 

"Some puzzles require more than sheer book smarts to solve, Lulu." Discord said.  He snapped his talon.  The world around the two shifted, for a final time, to that of Soapbox's room. "I think it's time this ended, don't you?  Anyways, as said, well I should have said so pardon me, I have given him something rather powerful. What young Soapbox does with it is up to him."

"You will watch over him, or I will tell Fluttershy about what you have done." Princess Luna said. 

Discord's ears dropped.  His eyes widened as a mortified expression came over him.  He got on his knees and clasped his claw and paw together, "Please Lulu, be reasonable." 

The room remained silent. 

"Fine," Discord stood up and crossed his arms, "I'll keep an eye on him.  This is what I get for doing a 'good deed' for you ponies."

"Good deeds don't go unrewarded." Princess Luna said, giving a sly smirk to the chaotic god.  She vanished in a flash of light. 

"Or unpunished," Discord said, grumbling under his breath towards the thin air.  He looked at Soapbox, and then materialized a black marker.  He grinned. "Who says I can't have some fun."
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Over the distant hills, crept above the horizon.  Clouds drifted on the gentle wind that brushed against the trees.  Just beyond Ponyville, the school bell remained silent in the early morning hours of the summer day.  Sunlight beamed through the windows of a house on the outskirts of the quaint village. Through three small windows, the sunlight caused a small object to stir beneath the white sheet on top of a bed, and two hooves pushed the white sheet away.  

A small, tan colored donkey squinted for a few seconds rubbed his eyes, and then peered across his bedroom.  He climbed out of bed.  Soapbox gazed into his mirror.  He sighed. "How juvenile." 

One pit stop made in the bathroom, the crudely drawn mustache removed from his face, Soapbox headed downstairs where he pulled back a chair. His namesake placed on the ground as a step, the little donkey seated himself at the dining room table.  

Several waffles floated onto his plate with a quick kiss planted on his forehead.  

"Remember what we discussed last night, Soapbox. You will go outside today, correct." a mare said in a tender, motherly tone.  Her kind smile faded.  A dark blue aura surrounded her horn.  The book in her son's grasp floated away.  Bright Spark received an expressionless gaze in return for her action. The unicorn mare squinted, and then said, "As a great philosopher said --" 

"To become whole, one must fill themselves with both knowledge and experience." Soapbox said, rolling his eyes.  His gaze gravitated towards the plate in front of him. 

"Here, I got some fresh fruits from the market.  Those Apple ponies had quite a selection.  This one tastes like I picked it straight from the tree myself." Bright Spark said.  Her magical aura dissipated from the apple slices, each one landing on Soapbox's plate.  She levitated several cleaned plates into the kitchen sink then turned around.  The mare planted a firm kiss on her husband's cheek. "Ok, honey.  Good luck at the meeting." 

"Thanks.  It's going to be one Tartarus of a day.  Spitfire has been riding our tails to come up with more aerial maneuvers and formations for her Wonderbolt performances.  That mare never lets up, even for a moment." Sky Flare said.  His sturdy wing glided against the duffle bag's zipper.  The stallion's right wing latched onto the bag's handles.  He let out a quick groan.  "Hey, Soapbox.  You up to a one-on-one rematch today?" 

Soapbox maintained his silent, expressionless gaze towards the plate on the table.  

"You know 'Soapy,' you shouldn't be so down in the dumps." Highlight said. The slender, young, earth pony mare giggled.  She rubbed a quick, gentle hoof against her brother's mane.  She placed a ticket near Soapbox. "Front row seat, as usual.  I hope you can make it to the show tonight.  Same goes with you two as well." 

"We'll be there, that's a promise.  Right, Soapbox." Sky Flare said. 

Soapbox chewed his last bite of food, nodded to his sister, and grabbed the small box near his chair.  

At the door, the little donkey reached for the cord that dangled from the handle of the doorknob lever.  The cord snapped, its end falling onto his head.  

"Thanks..." Soapbox said.  A gust of wind raced by him.  The silhouette of a pegasus stallion faded into the distant horizon. Another gust of wind breezed by.  Hooves pounded against the dirt.  Highlight raced towards the train station, her voice trailing off.  "..." 

Bright Spark trotted up behind Soapbox.  She placed a firm hoof on her head, sighed, and shook her head. "She's quite the starlet on the stage, but I swear that daughter of mine couldn't keep time if I glued a clock to her flank.  O well, we all have our faults." 

Soapbox grumbled. 

"Let me remind you Soapbox 'D' Spark," Bright Spark said in a gentle, yet stern tone, "I 'want' you to take today for some free time, ok.  That means your eyes shall not be firmly planted on the page of a book, scroll, tome, or any form of literature." She said. The unicorn mare closed the door.  "It would be wonderful if you actually met some ponies to chat with in Ponyville.  Did you need something?" 

"The time?" Soapbox said. 

"It's half-past eight... o dear. I guess I better head to class and get things started." Bright Spark said.  A flash of light enveloped the unicorn mare. The brilliant color drained from her mane, changing from its vibrant hue to an ashen grey color.  Her body grew, her legs lengthening as she grew three hooves taller.  The mare's body color turned to a dark blue hue.  "It's no fun to use the amniomorphic spell to change my appearance.  I'd be nice if I could have at least one day of fun to teach those unicorns at Princess Celestia's school without being 'Tome' to them." 

"Your voice?" Soapbox said. 

Bright Spark cleared her throat and illuminated her horn. The mare placed a gentle hoof on the little donkey's head, rubbed his mane, and then vanished.

Soapbox turned toward the house.  He walked forward.  His hoof pressed against the wooden door.  A small note fell onto his forehead. "Figures she'd place a spell on the house, and it even has a timer. Wonderful." 

The little donkey placed the note underneath his crate. He turned away from his house.    

Once silent voices grew louder.  Above the scattered clouds, the sun crept along its course.  The first day of summer break kicked into high gear as eager fillies and colts ran, galloped, trotted, and walked along the streets of Ponyville.  

Stallions and Mares sauntered along the street outside Tap's restaurant and eatery.  Three jovial fillies darted by the window towards Saddle Drive Avenue, each carrying a sack of bits with them.  

Soapbox, once inside the restaurant, placed his box on the ground.  He hopped onto the barstool then laid two bits onto the counter. "I'll take some lemon tea, please."

"Hey.  Been a while." The mare behind the counter said.  She poured a tall glass of lemon tea.  "How's your mom doing anyways? She never stopped by this weekend."

"Sorry. I don't know, ma'am." Soapbox said. 

"O come now 'Soapy,' there's no need for 'ma'am' or 'misses' with me.  I'm just your good ol' auntie Tap." the mare said.  Her wing brushed against an iced-tea drink, the cool refreshment pushed towards the patron in front of her.  Tap gave a slight wink. "Don't go causin' any trouble.  Got more than my hooves can handle with that darn Coracoid pegasi group in town for the -- hey, featherbrain! Ah'm gonna warn you only once. You break that mug and you'll be diggin rocks outta your teeth for a week!" 

"Sorry, Tap." A pegasus said, shying away from the mare behind the counter.

"Anyways, tell that brother of mine I said hello. He needs to come by and settle our hoof-wrestling score.  I'm 21 and 21 with him, and I'm not about to let him get the upper hoof on me." Tap said.  She eyed the note underneath Soapbox's crate.  The mare extended her wing and pointed the tip of it at the note. "O ho, I see. Kicked out of the house, again. Wow, this makes it, what, the third time?" 

Soapbox glanced his left side, "Seventh." 

"Nice.  Well, I'm not about to get in the way of your mother.  That mare could take on all of Tartarus and Equestria put together if she has the guts to marry my brother.  Listen, not to be rude here, but why don't you go sit outside.  I need to keep an eye on this group.  Also, please bring the others when you stop by every now and again.  I like the company." Tap said.  She scooted the little donkey outside with a gentle wing, placing the two bits back into his bit sack.  

Ponies trotted by the small eating area outside the restaurant, coming and going as they pleased.  The same three fillies that once galloped by the restaurant dashed down the street with a wagon behind them.  One of them pointed toward the distance, saying they needed to bring their supplies to the club house. 

The note from his mother placed on the table, Soapbox leaned back in his chair and peeked out from underneath the umbrella above him. The little donkey's gaze focused on a grey pegasus, with a bubble cutie mark, that flew towards a cloud house in the distance.  He watched the clouds drift.  The sun began to peak out from behind the cloud.  Soapbox's withers twitched.  He leaned forward.  Though he focused his gaze on the drink in front of him, his withers continued to twitch. Soapbox placed a firm hoof on his namesake, causing the twitching to stop. 

The noise faded.  Soapbox lifted his hoof up and leaned forward, prepared to take a sip of his drink.

"..." 

"Look out below!" a voice said.

Several equines in the vicinity scattered. Tables and chairs were upended. An umbrella flew towards the castle in the distance.

As the dust settled, Soapbox's eyes crept open.  

"Ouch," Soapbox said.  He coughed a few times and tried to stand up.  He rubbed a small injury on his left front leg.  "Ow."  

"Geez, that was a simple loop-de-loop stunt." A pegasus pony said as she descended toward the area.

"Hey, give me a break, Rainbow.  I still need to study the maneuver." A pony said. 

Soapbox looked up.  His heart pounded within his chest.  The little donkey's eyes darted around.  Under a hushed breath he said, "No.  No, no, no.  Where is it? Where is it? Where is it?"

"Twilight, you need to 'feel' it in your wings. It's not something you just study." Rainbow Dash said. 

The two ponies looked at the little donkey 

"I'm so, so sorry.  Are you ok? You're not injured, are you?" Twilight said, quickly getting off him the little donkey.  She reached forward.  The injured donkey in front of her backed up.  His withers twitched in a violent manner while a mortified expression came over his face.  The pony retracted her hoof. "It's ok.  I'm not going to bite.  Hey! Don't run off." 

"Yesh, he's more skittish than Pinkie Pie when she needs her 'you know what' after Nightmare Night." Rainbow Dash said. 

"I heard that!" a voice said, resonating across Ponyville. 

"How does she do that?" Rainbow Dash said. The pegasus pony plucked a small piece of paper off her friend's head. "Soapbox. I'm not too happy with your trick to get back into the house last week.  With this shield around it, you'll be forced to get out and enjoy yourself. Also, you little sneak, it's on a timer. No more getting in when you please. Enough studying.  Go play with some of your classmates and talk with some ponies in Ponyville.  Love, Mom."

"Kinda know how that feels to be inside all the time." Twilight said.  She brushed herself off.  "Ok let's get moving.  Wait.  Where is it? No, no, no, no!  Where's that letter?"

Rainbow Dash sighed. "What letter? You've been really weird since I nabbed you for this morning's practice, Twilight." 

"The letter from Princess Celestia.  I didn't have a chance to read it since you foalnapped me this morning." Twilight said, her eyes darting about. She bolted towards several points within the nearby area. "Where, where, where, where is it?! Nooo. It has to be somewhere. Wait, did that little donkey take it?"

"Probably stuck to his hoof.  I'll go get em'." Rainbow Dash said.  She turned.  The pegasus chuckled. "I gotta admit, he's pretty fast for a little guy." 

Rainbow Dash zoomed into the air.  All of Ponyville below, her eyes locked onto the target. She powered forward.  Two wing flaps later, Rainbow Dash arrived at her target.  The pony let out a guttural groan. 

Twilight landed near her friend.  "Isn't this his... umm, box?" 

"Little snot pulled a fast one on me. I hate being tricked." Rainbow Dash said.  She covered her nose, "Geez Twilight, shower much?" 

"Hey I showered.  Phew.  That's some strong lemon." Twilight said. 

Rainbow Dash's nostrils flared. She bolted forward. Her hooves reached under a small market stand. "Gotcha! We just want the, letter? Grr!" 

"Lemons." Twilight said. She shook her head at the mare behind the cart.  Several ponies trotted by.  One moment passed, and then another.  Twilight pointed a subtle hoof behind her. In a soft voice she said, "Psst, Rainbow, think you can nab 'that' one real quick." 

"Two seconds flat." She said, whispering to her friend.  After flying into the sky, Rainbow Dash went into a power dive.  "Now we got you!" 

"He's not here?" Twilight said, flying towards her friend.  

"Smooth move, egghead.  Wait," Rainbow Dash flipped the container over, "you little sneak.  Listen. Hey, don't jump!" 

Soapbox leapt out of his hiding spot.  He dove towards a tree.  His back hooves thrust against the tree's midsection.  Soapbox flew towards the ground, curled up into a ball, rolled on the dirt and came to his hooves.  The little donkey bolted towards the crowd. 

"Rainbow, wasn't that one of your moves?" Twilight said. 

"No way, that's one of Aerial Ace's maneuvers I learned from flight camp.  Where did he learn to do that one?  Heh, shame he can't fly.  That was awesome." Rainbow Dash said.  Her ears lowered, "Fine, we'll get your note back." 

Ponies whizzed by. 

Twilight and Rainbow Dash weaved through the crowded marketplace.  The two ponies continued the pursuit.  The two became four, and then six.  All of them spread out amongst the crowded market of Ponyville. 

With three taking to the sky and three on the ground, Soapbox surreptitiously darted into a nearby alley.  The little donkey peered around a corner then placed a hoof over his chest.  The trembling hoof was soon placed over his mouth.  His exasperated gasps for air resonated in the small area.  

"There's no telling what those crazy ponies will do to me.  I've got to get home.  Mom probably left a way to disable her spell.  If I can get back to my house, I'll be safe." Soapbox said to himself.

"Hi, my name's Pinkie Pie.  What's yours?" Pinkie Pie said. 

"Gah!" Soapbox said.  His calmed heart pounded within his chest, again. He darted down an alleyway.  Objects whizzed by. "Fertilizer. Reactants.  Metal shavings. Container. Stopper." 

Pinkie Pie bounded towards her target with a smile, but her ears lowered.  She stopped. The pink pony crept forward. "I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to scare you.  I Pinkie Pie Promise we're not gonna hurt you.  We just want to get Twilight's little note back.  That's all." 

"..." Soapbox remained silent.  His hooves refused to stop shaking.

Pinkie Pie pressed her hoof against the little donkey's shoulder. She reared back, "Whoa!" 

A firestorm of light came from the uncorked bottle Soapbox tossed into the air after a loud pop startled him.

Vendor stalls and carts rocketed by Soapbox as he raced through the streets. 

The little donkey's hooves caved out from underneath him. He fell forward then slammed to a stop.

"Big Mac.  Talk about a matter of luck.  I'm glad ya came on by." Applejack said.  The cowgirl wiped several beads of sweat from her forehead. "Quite the chase you gave us.  Listen, we ain't mad at ya or anything of the sort.  Twi just needs that letter stuck to that hoof of yours.  We'll fix ya right up and get ya on the way, promise." 

Big Macintosh raised an eyebrow.  He picked his front left hoof up.  The stallion ended up on his back as an explosion of light illuminated the area, sparks flying into the sky.  

The six ponies charged forward.  

Soapbox darted down the road till he slammed into a door.  His tired hooves carried him inside before he managed to slam the door behind him.  Two breaths taken, he said with an exasperated shout, "The castle?!" 

"Hey Soapbox, didn't expect to ever see you here without that box on your back.  How's your mom doing? " Spike said.  The two doors to the crystal tree house castle burst open.  His eyes were greeted by the sight of six ponies with frizzled manes, which stood at the steps of the castle.  He winced as the doors to the castle slammed shut behind the ponies. "Jeez, what dragon did you guys tangle with?"  

"Spike, this is no time for jokes.  That, that ruffian behind you almost destroyed my mane, and I needn't tell you how long of a good soak it'll take to undo this mess." Rarity said.  The aura around her horn surrounded Soapbox.  "Now, that is quite enough out of you.  All this fuss over a little piece of paper.  Twilight, what in Equestria is so important about this thing stuck to his hoof?"

"It's from Princess Celestia, but I haven't had time to read it since somepony, who shall remain nameless, foalnapped me this morning.  I mean, it could be anything.  It could be a dire emergency that needs our attention.  Perhaps something escaped from Tartarus, or there's an issue in Canterlot...." Twilight said, going off on a tangent. 

Pinkie Pie tilted her head, trotted up towards Soapbox, and removed the piece of paper from his hoof. "Four eggs, one teaspoon vanilla, two cups of sugar...." 

Applejack lowered the brim of her hat.  She said, "Twi, Ah think we're the flank end of a joke here." 

"So that's where the recipe went.  I fired off a letter to Princess Celestia for those awesome sugar cookies she always makes for the holidays." Spike said.  He shrugged. "What?" 

Soapbox, released from Rarity's magical grasp, looked around.  After he calmed his breathing, the little donkey crawled towards the door, however, he found himself levitated off the ground, again.  

Twilight glared at Soapbox, her left eye twitching. "O no. You aren't going anywhere.  You darted all over Ponyville and caused quite the ruckus."

"Fracas!" Pinkie Pie said.  She scratched her head. "No wait, you're right.  It's a ruckus." 

"Whatever the case, his injuries need tending to before they get worse." Twilight said. 

"Twilight, this is Soapbox, and you need to calm down." Spike said.

"Calm, CALM! How can I be calm when half of Ponyville got upended?" Twilight said. 

"And exactly whose fault is that? Soapbox avoids crowds. He can't deal with them without his box on his back." Spike said. 

"Grr..." Twilight said as she relinquished her magical grasp.  As the others left, one-by-one, the pony sat down near her faithful assistant who sat near the table Soapbox had taken refuge under. "Spike.  Will you explain to me what's going on, exactly?" 

"That's a bit of a long story." Spike said. 

"I like stories." Pinkie Pie said. 

"Pinkie," Twilight said, ending with a guttural groan. 

"Fine, I gotta get back to making some cakes anyways." Pinkie Pie said.


*** *** ***


"It's ok, Soapbox.  You'll be fine." Spike said.  He dabbed a small cotton ball against a scuffed area on the little donkey's foreleg.  Two pieces of clean cloth were placed over the slight injury.  The little dragon patted the bandage before he place the medical kit back in its location.  He came back to the table.  "Look, I'm not very good, but maybe you'd like to play a game against Twilight." 

"Game?" Twilight said.  She stretched her hooves then combed her mane and tail. "Now that I've had time to think about it, that little light show was rather impressive. How exactly did he pull it off?" 

Soapbox turned his back towards Spike and Twilight, and then hung his head

"What's up with him?" Twilight said. 

"It's ok if you don't want to talk about it."  Spike said. The little dragon received a shrug. "I don't mind telling Twilight, but it's up to you if you want to keep it a secret." 

Twilight raised an eyebrow.  She came closer after Soapbox closed his eyes. 

"What happened?" Twilight said.  She spoke in a soft tone, "It's ok, you can tell me. I'm not mad.  Is somepony bullying you at school?"

"Twilight, this stays between us, ok." Spike said. He pulled Twilight close to him. "Soapbox's mom, Bright Spark Tome, didn't really tell me not to talk about it."

"Wait a minute.  Are you telling me his mother is Tome, like, like as in the Tome, one of the most renowned teachers at Princess Celestia's school for gifted unicorns?" Twilight said. 

"Yea.  Mind if I continue?" Spike said. 

"Sorry." Twilight said, blushing. 

Spike rubbed a nervous claw against his neck.  The little dragon looked toward Twilight.  He took a deep breath, and then exhaled. 

"So, what's all the secrecy about?" Twilight said. 

"I didn't promise Soapbox's mom I wouldn't talk about it, but I kinda got the impression to keep it to myself." Spike said.  He cleared his throat. "Anyways, this is Soapbox, and things with him are kind of a long story.  There's a lot even I don't know about." 

Twilight raised an eyebrow, "Kind of beating around the bush, aren't you?" 

"Sorry.  I don't know the best way to put it.  I guess I'll just be blunt and say it mainly involves Tirek." Spike said. 

Twilight looked at Soapbox, and then reached forward. As she watched his withers twitched, she stopped.  "What happened?" 

Spike placed a soft claw on Soapbox's back.  He sat down beside him. "Even his folks don't. They blacked out when Tirek attacked."

"I see." Twilight said in a melancholic voice.

"All they know for certain is that it happened at a theater in Canterlot where Highlight, his sister, was performing. Bright Spark and Sky Flare pushed Soapbox off his seat when Tirek began draining the ponies of their magic.  They believe he was left alone in the theater with all those collapsed ponies."  Spike said. 

"..." 

"huh?" Twilight said. 

Soapbox began to shiver. "I.  Was just naive.  Tirek reminded me about the truth that day." 

The room where the crystal table resided remained silent.

"Tirek. I can't believe he's still lingering in Equestria." Twilight said. 

"What do you mean, Twilight? You and the others defeated him.  He's back in Tartarus." Spike said. 

"Spike, every battle has its price.  For us, it was the library.  We lost our home.  For others, it's worse than losing their home." Twilight said.  She glanced at Soapbox then turned towards Spike, "Sometimes, the hardest injuries to treat are the ones we can never see."

"I should leave," Soapbox said.  He exhaled a deep breath, his body calming. The little donkey crept out from underneath the table, reached up, and then placed his hoof on the ground. "Thanks." 

Spike held the door open, and then grumbled. "Why'd you close the door?" 

"Spike, can't you see that he's hurting." Twilight said. 

"Twilight, trust me, what you're seeing is way out of your league.  This isn't a friendship problem." Spike said.  He walked towards Twilight. "Soapbox has gone to shrinks and therapists all over Equestria.  Not to mention we should let his parents decide what to do."

"Spike, the note states that his mother wanted him out of the house.  It says quite clearly -- on the back -- Soapbox should meet some ponies in Ponyville." Twilight said. She frowned at her assistant, "Spike."  

The little dragon remained silent.  He reached for the door handle and tugged on it. "Twilight, open the door." 

"No.  We're going to find a way to help Soapbox." Twilight said. 

"Is that your choice to make? Shouldn't it be up to his family." Spike said. He pulled the piece of paper away from his face. His eyes glanced over each word. "Twilight, I know you're the 'Princess of Friendship' here, but I think Soapbox's mom meant somepony he could, I don't know, maybe relate to, like someone at school." 

"What game do you want to play?" Twilight said. 

Soapbox hid underneath the table. 

Twilight neared Soapbox, giving him a gentle smile. "You want to play something like horseshoes, or hide and seek?" 

Spike sighed.  He walked toward the table and pushed Twilight out of the way. The little dragon placed a gentle claw on Soapbox's back.  "Sorry.  When she gets like this, there's no stopping her.  You want to play some chess while I try to get in touch with your family?"

"Chess?" Twilight said.  She scratched her head. "Well, there's a chess set in the library."

Coaxed out from his spot, Soapbox followed Spike, who followed behind Twilight.  The little donkey's eyes gravitated to each object in the castle's hallway.  Soapbox raised his head and looked behind.  He hid underneath a table. Removed from his new hiding spot, Soapbox soon found himself in the castle's library.  

"Let me see, here it is, right where I left it. Pardon the dust." Twilight said. Her magic surrounded the box.  She let out a quick sneeze.  All of the pieces floated onto the table. "So, do you play normal or timed?" 

Soapbox glanced around the room.  He focused on the pieces. "Either." 

"I got twenty bits on Soapbox." Spike said. 

Twilight raised an eyebrow. "Snacks." 

"Fine. You owe me twenty bits when you lose. Besides, I better send a note to Princess Celestia about the Sugar Cookie recipe.  I need a new copy since mine got torn up." Spike said. 

Twilight shook her head.  Her magic surrounded a pawn.  As the ornate glass pawn moved forward, the game started.  

In the library's corner, the grandfather clock ticked on.  Pieces advanced and left the board.  All the pieces were placed back onto the board.  Spike returned, leapt onto a seat, and munched on some popcorn.  The games continued, one after another, until the sunlight began to dim in the library, both hands of the grandfather clock pointing at six.   

"Twenty. Bits." Twilight said.  She placed her head into her hooves.  The pony glanced at the little donkey who maintained a focused gaze on the chessboard.  "I know I'm rusty, but I shouldn't be 'that' rusty." 

Spike snickered, and then whistled an innocent tune. "I was gonna warn ya, Soapbox here is a bit of a champ.  He spends all his time studying." 

Twilight rolled her eyes before she chuckled. "Wonder who that reminds me of." 

Spike stretched his arms and popped a crick in his neck. 

"Spike, I thought I told you to put that book back in the case.  I can't replace it." Twilight said.  She placed a gentle hoof on the blue colored book.  Her eyes went soft. "I thought this had been lost when Tirek destroyed our home.  Pinkie Pie. Rarity.  Applejack.  Rainbow Dash. Fluttershy.  All of them signed this book Princess Celestia gave to me as a gift after Nightmare Moon was defeated." 

Spike rubbed a nervous claw against his left arm.  He took the book in a secure hold, and then placed it into the case. "I still miss our home, our real home." 

"..." Twilight latched onto Spike and gave him a soft hug, "I miss it too.  Though we've been in this castle for some time, it can never take the place of our old home."

Soapbox glanced toward Twilight and Spike.  He looked at the bandage on his leg.  The little donkey reached forward.  His hoof pressed against a piece on the chessboard. In a hushed tone, after he knocked the piece over, he said, "Check."

"Heh, focused as ever, I see." Spike said. The little dragon chuckled to himself. "I'll never forget that one day at your house, Soapbox.  If I remember right, it was thirty-nine books in total.  Still had some stashed away."

"Fifty-nine books.  Mom found the other twenty." Soapbox said, ending in a sigh. 

"Wait, you had twenty more books? How in Equestria did you store that many?  Wait, does that include the other forty-one books we nabbed from you?" Spike said. 

Twilight's ears perked up. "You checked out one-hundred books from the library?" 

Soapbox nodded.  

"Wow, here I thought my record of twenty-five from the Canterlot Library would remain intact." Twilight said. 

"I'll never forget when me and Bright Spark found Soapbox in that pile of books he borrowed from the library and brought all of them back to the castle." Spike said. 

"Wait, the ones you brought back to the castle?  Soapbox, are you the one who borrowed all those books from the library before Tirek destroyed it?" Twilight said.

Soapbox nodded

"I, I can't --" Twilight lunged forward and hugged the little donkey, "-- thank you so, so much. I can't thank you enough for keeping all those books safe.  It must be a miracle.  Almost every single tome, every single book you borrowed were one of a kind items I thought were destroyed.  Some of them were irreplaceable pieces Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had given to me as gifts.  Never have I been more happy the library didn't have a lending limit."  

Soapbox slipped out of Twilight's grasp.  He hid underneath the couch in the library.

"Geez Twilight, did you forget he's skittish." Spike said. He looked underneath the couch, "It's ok, she's not mad at you." 

Two eyes peaked out from behind the couch. "..." 

Spike shook his head. "And they say Fluttershy is skittish." 

"That little donkey needs to lighten up." A voice said. 

"Discord?" Twilight said. 

The tipped over chess piece rolled onto the floor. Light surrounded it before the object turned into a recognizable, misshapen form. "I have to say," Discord stretched, "turning into that piece brought back those awful memories of being turned to stone.  I need to make a mental note not to do that again." 

Twilight's right eye twitched.  She recoiled. "Discord! That's disgusting.  Put that back inside your head." 

"Well I did say I would be making a mental note." Discord said.  He sighed. "What is this, a graveyard? Can't get a decent laugh out of this house. Well, anyways, I wanted to see how my favorite princess was doing." 

"Discord, what are you up to?" Twilight said. 

"Me, up to something? I'm hurt.  Can't I hang out with a dear 'friend' like you?" Discord said.  His puppy-dog eyes reflected of Twilight's eyes.  The misshapen creature floated into the air and lazed back. "Fine. The truth of the matter is Fluttershy isn't at her cottage.  There's a note on the door saying she's gone to some animal conference in Las Pegasus, and it's so boring trying to 'hang out' with the others.  I mean, could Rarity be anymore uptight?  Not to mention Applejack and Pinkie Pie are doing their own little thing, and you'd think Rainbow Dash would be a more livelier sort.  I mean, for a pony that's about speed, she sleeps like there's no tomorrow.  I dare say you're the only one I can have some fun with at the moment."

"Likely story.  Anyways, I don't have time to entertain guests." Twilight said. She placed a quick hoof over her mouth. "What I meant to say is I don't have time to entertain your shenanigans." 

Discord snapped his eagle talon.  The world went hazy before turning to a bright open field. "What we need is a little change of scenery.  A bit of fresh air could do us all some good.  Now, from your little game, it looked like the little donkey was 7 and 0 if I remember correctly.  I'm up to seeing another game unfold." 

Soapbox crawled out from underneath the couch.  He raised an eyebrow at Discord. 

Time froze. 

"Princess Twilight Sparkle's assertion is quite correct. You are up to something." Soapbox said. 

"I'm just here for a little game, if you will. Nothing more, nothing less, Soapbox. Now, how about you play along before Twilight becomes suspicious." Discord said, whispering into Soapbox's ear. 

In the open field, time resumed.  A flash of light appeared beside Twilight. 

Soapbox crawled back underneath the couch. 

Discord sighed.  "Rather skittish, aren't you." 

"Stop tormenting him." Twilight said. 

"Hmph, if that's how you're going to be, I'll go have my fun somewhere else." Discord said.  

The world around the group disappeared, returning to the castle.  Spike, Twilight, and Soapbox looked at each other.  Twilight walked towards Soapbox, placing a gentle wing over him.  Spike patted the little donkey on the back. The two walked out of the library with Soapbox in toe. 

On the game board, a lone pawn moved forward. Several moments passed, and, in the end, a stalemate. 

"This will be rather entertaining." Discord said.  His tail wrapped around a small piece.  He flicked it into the air, and then froze it. "Well, as they say, 'the right piece can make all the difference.'" 

"Discord.  I do not like being up before it is time for me to take over duties from my sister." Princess Luna said.  She peered into the hallway before she sat in the seat opposite of the misshapen entity. "It appears the little one is unharmed, for now.  Mark my words, and heed them well.  If anything befalls him, you will be at fault." 

"Only time will tell Lulu, only time will tell. For now, it's best to set him on a path towards something rather momentous. I just wonder how long it will take Soapbox to understand the next riddle, if he hasn't already done so." Discord said.  In a deep tone he said, "Toodles." 

Princess Luna placed a firm hoof on her forehead, letting out an exasperated sigh.  When she removed it, the princess raised an eyebrow. "What can take a lifetime to earn, but a moment to lose?" 

The princess smiled. "Clever creature.  Though it's wrong, I must admit I'm quite curious how long Soapbox will take to comprehend this riddle."
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I do apologize if my son caused you any trouble, Princess Twilight Sparkle." the pegasus said, bowing to the pony in front of him.  "His ingenuity can be quite the nuisance at times." 

"Please, call me Twilight." The pony said.  Her smile faded. "Can we talk?"

"I take it Spike told you about things?" Sky Flare said.  He placed Soapbox on his back, and then extended his wing. "Please, come inside." 

Twilight rubbed her right front hoof against her left. As her ears lowered, she bit down on her lip.  She said, in a hushed voice, "I'm so, so sorry this happened.  The elements of harmony should have done something sooner to stop Tirek.  I should have done something sooner."

"This isn't your burden to bare, Twilight." Sky Flare said.  He lead the small group downstairs towards the dining room. "I'm sad to say what you see started long before Tirek's attack, however, that does not forgive Tirek's actions as he did exacerbate our son's issues and his condition."   

While the little donkey rested in his room, the sun setting in the distance, the two ponies and dragon munched on some snacks at the dinner table.  A clock in the sitting room, adjacent to the dining room, ticked on, it's sound echoing throughout the still house.  

Ten minutes of awkward silence passed.  Spike split the cookie in half, giving the other piece to Twilight. 

"We should get going." Spike said, prepared to hop down from his chair. 

"Please, I'd, I'd like to know more." Twilight said. 

Sky Flare shook his head. "I apologize, but, as said, this isn't your burden to bare, Twilight." 

Twilight's ears lowered. "Won't you let me try? "

"Twilight, it's not our place." Spike said. 

Sky Flare glanced over the words on the letter his wife had written, for the fifth time.  "All I can say for certain is that although Soapbox has always been different, always knowing he was different, Tirek made things worse.  We've spoken with a myriad of doctors across Equestria who have left us with only more questions, and so few answers.  It breaks our hearts to see him secluded away.  If you'll excuse me," Sky Flare escorted Twilight and Spike to the door, "Soapbox needs his rest, and I'd rather not aggravate things by causing undue stress." 

Twilight, after she gave a nod to the pegasus stallion who escorted her outside, gazed off towards Ponyville.  She looked at the house behind her, and then faced the street. "Spike, this isn't right." 

Stars began to twinkle in the sky, the moon beginning its ascent.  Cricket chirps resonated in the still night air.  A slight breeze brushed against Twilight's mane. 

Spike leapt onto Twilight's back.  

"To tell you the truth, I don't like it either. Before Tirek, things seemed happy. Like Sky Flare said, Soapbox knew he was different, but it never stopped him from enjoying life.  He'd read and study like there was no tomorrow.  I bet you five bits he read every single book in the library." Spike said.  He gazed at the stars, and then looked towards Ponyville. "Things have changed. Sometimes I wonder if they've changed for the better." 

"I don't know, Spike.  Change isn't always pleasant, nor is it welcomed." Twilight said. She looked at her sides before facing the road. "I'll be honest with you.  I know I seemed happy, but deep down, it terrified me when I became a princess. I changed in more ways than one. With all of you to help me, I grew to accept it."

"And the castle," Spike said, ending with a yawn. 

"I'm not sure." Twilight said.  She pushed on the castle's front door, closing it behind her. The two weary individuals found their way towards the library. "Rarity.  Applejack.  Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy.  Rainbow Dash.  Though my friends helped decorate the castle to make it feel like home, there are times where it just doesn't feel like home, despite their help."  

While the moon neared its apex in the sky, Twilight and Spike sat near the fireplace in the library.  Twilight let out a yawn.  She struggled to keep her eyes open.  

"Spike, we should probably hit the sac. Spike?" Twilight said, her ears greeted by the sounds of draconic snoring.  "Guess we'll be sleeping in the library tonight.  I wonder," Twilight yawned, "if things will.  Work out for. Soapbox." 

"Mom. Dad. Sis!" a voice said. 

"What's going on?" Twilight said.  She stood up.  The pony stumbled backwards. "Tirek?!" 

The Twilight held her hooves up, and then breathed a sigh of relief after the creature passed right through her.  She looked off to her side.  Though she felt relieved it was a dream, Twilight turned away. 

"Do not divert your gaze, Twilight Sparkle." Princess Luna said. 

Twilight watched as a little donkey looked around, calling out in a theater.  She reached out a hoof before pulling back. 

Princess Luna and Twilight watched Tirek tower over Soapbox. 

"There you are," Tirek said.  The monstrous creature reached down.  His strong hand latched onto a slender young earth pony. Tirek opened his mouth.  He relinquished his grasp, the earth pony, drained of her magic, falling to the ground.  "We're done." 

"Fine." Discord said. 

Tirek backed up.  He snorted. "Foolish little donkey!"

Twilight shut her eyes tight, "Please, enough." 

Princess Luna illuminated her horn, freezing the scene in place.  She looked at the pony in front of her. 

A tear rolled down Twilight's cheek. "That's cruel." 

"It is cruel, what Tirek did." Princess Luna said. 

"No, what you did was cruel.  There was no need to show me what happened." Twilight said. 

"It is one thing to hear a story, yet, as you know too well, it's completely different to see it for oneself." Princess Luna said.  The princess faced the pony in front of her. She waved her hoof, and the scene shifted. Before she could speak, the princess sighed.  The scene shifted back to that of the tree castle library. "As you wish, Twilight Sparkle.  I won't show you anymore." 

"P-Please don't." Twilight said.  

Princess Luna gazed at the pony in front of her.  Her gentle hoof raised Twilight's head. "I am not doing this to be cruel.  If you want to help young Soapbox, it is important to understand what torments him."  

Twilight looked away from Princess Luna.  

"You mustn't avert your eyes." Princess Luna said.  She faced Twilight.  The princess materialized a chair for her and Twilight. "To speak about another truth, one I'm not too proud of, Soapbox endured something equally horrible before Tirek's attack."

"What more has he endured?" Twilight said. 

"He was infected by a dream parasite." Princess Luna said. 

"Dream Parasite?" Twilight said. 

"These creatures were almost eradicated before my transformation into Nightmare Moon.  They are foul entities that feed off the dreams of their hosts.  Dream Parasites will drain the host till there is nothing left, leaving the hosts with no dreams to enrich their lives.  It's far worse than just dreams when the infection takes hold.  These atrocious things, once finished draining the dreams of their host, will feed off their host's emotions until nothing is left.  If one is ever infected by a Dream Parasite, they are almost nigh impossible to remove." Princess Luna said.  The princess of dreams gazed at the ethereal world that surrounded her. "I blame myself because one lone parasite survived, tucked away in a secluded spot of Equestria.  It found a host in young Soapbox."

Twilight wiped away a tear.  

"I do not know the precise moment when the parasite infected young Soapbox, however, because Soapbox endured a trying time, his willpower weakened to the point the creature took a firm hold on him.  The incident with Tirek almost solidified its hold. Without his family being there for him, he may have been lost, possibly allowing the creature to give birth to a new abhorrent brood of its kind." Princess Luna said.  She gave a resolute nod to the pony in front of her. "It is not all grim, Twilight Sparkle.  The parasite was removed, with some assistance.  Though I fear the damage has been done, there are the slimmest signs of hope for the little one." 

"Why are you showing me this? Why are you telling me this?" Twilight said. 

"As said, it is one thing to hear a story, but it's completely different to see it for oneself." Princess Luna said.  She pointed her hoof at Twilight. "Now, more than ever, I am sure young Soapbox is not beyond hope, regardless of what his parent's, his family may fear."

"How can I reach somepony that is unreachable?" Twilight said. 

"I cannot foresee the future.  How you help young Soapbox will be a choice you have to make." Princess Luna said.  The mare bowed to Twilight. "I must leave.  Remember, all it takes is the right key to open the door to a world of possibilities."  

Twilight closed her eyes, and then opened them. She looked to her left, seeing Spike sleeping by her side. The pony touched a hoof to her cheek, the fireplace's light sparkling in the tear on her hoof. 

"Soapbox." Twilight said.
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Though it appears invincible, what can take some an entire lifetime to earn while being broken by all in an instant?" Soapbox said.  He gazed towards the ceiling.  The sphere in the library reflected off his eyes as he watched it  go about its business in the grand, dream arcane library. The little donkey leaned back in his chair, and then looked at the desk.  His blue eyes fixated on the object in front of him. "A lifetime to earn.  Broken in an instant.  But it appears invincible." 

"Pencils down." A voice said.  Discord came forward, tapping the end of a ruler in his claw.  "Time to check your work." 

Soapbox raised an eyebrow. 

"I never said these riddles weren't timed." Discord said. 

"But you never stated they were timed, either." Soapbox said. 

"Touché," Discord said, causing the ruler to collapse. "Swear, if I knew you'd be this much trouble, I'd have given you some skeleton keys.  Of course, you'd find a way to drag me into that escaped.  Should have just given you a cookie." 

The gears underneath the glass floor began to slow. 

Discord materialized a watch. "Times almost up." 

"If I'm barred from the house, the libraries, and literature, this will be harder to comprehend." Soapbox said.  He leapt out of his chair. "There's probably an answer.  I just need to be cautious and avoid those six ponies.  I wonder if there's an answer in Ponyville." 

"Nope." Discord said, floating by on a cloud while eating popcorn bags. 

Soapbox raised an eyebrow. "Hmm?" 

"O, you'll see." Discord said before he vanished.  His chuckle resonated throughout the arcane library. 

Soapbox closed his eyes.  He rolled to his side.  His body landed on the ground with a thud.  The tan little donkey groaned.  His left ear twitched, being greeted by the commotion of several nearby passengers. 

"I see you're awake, Soapy." a familiar voice said. 

"How cute," another voice said. 

Soapbox groaned.  His eyes crept open.  The little donkey stood up.  He sighed, and then proceeded to hid underneath the seat of his big sister.  

"Now, now, now.  That's not nice, Soapy." Highlight said. 

"Hmm, I must say, that's quite the unusual mane style. Does he do it himself, or is it just naturally that way?" A pony said.  

"His mane is always atrocious.  I swear it has a mind of its own." Highlight said. She opened her bag.  A few minutes passed, and she closed her bag. "By the way, I cannot thank you enough for coming along on this trip, Miss Rarity." 

"Please, darling, call me Rarity." The pony said. She smiled at the slender young mare in front of her. "I had no idea that Soapbox's big sister was the starlet of the stage, Highlight.  If you pardon my gushing, I dare say you're quite the up and coming actress."

"Thank you, but, if you don't mind me asking in return, is it true you designed an outfit for Sapphire Shores?" Highlight said.  She grinned after Rarity gave a firm nod. "Sapphire Shores is my idol.  She's always so beautiful, and her music is superlative." 

As the two ponies chatted away, Soapbox yawned, and then ran a quick hoof over his mane.  He looked around.  His hooves latched onto the box that sat near his sister, and, with the box on his back, the little donkey proceeded toward the center isle of the train car. 

"Ow." Soapbox said. 

"I see you're awake." a familiar voice said.

"..."

Soapbox retreated into his box.

Highlight placed a firm hoof on her forehead. She latched onto the box and placed it next to her.  The young mare tapped on it, forcing her brother to poke his head out. "Soapy, that's not nice, especially towards a princess." 

Twilight waved a polite hoof at the young mare. "Please, just call me Twilight.  I have to be honest, I'm still surprised your father agreed to the arrangement, considering how hesitant he seemed when we first talked." 

"Dad is a little bit on the overprotective side when it comes to Soapbox.  I can't blame him since my brother was kinda frail when he was born.  Mom and dad wouldn't even let me hold him till he was like two years old." Highlight said. 

"O no, no, no, don't cry.  You'll ruin your makeup." Rarity said.  She reached into her bag, "Here, dry your eyes." 

"Thanks," Highlight said.  Her slender hoof rubbed against her brother's mane. "The truth is that I felt bad for him."

"Why?" Rarity said. 

"He didn't get to play with other fillies and colts, at least not like me.  About the only thing Soapbox could do is read and study." Highlight said.  

"Ten minutes.  Ten minutes till our arrival." The train conductor shouted. 

The little donkey raised his head, his ears standing straight up.  Soapbox glanced at the window.  His hooves soon pressed against it.  Under a hushed voice he said, "Manehattan?"

Highlight pulled her brother closer.  She tapped on the box.  Twilight and Rarity snickered at one another then levitated several bags off the storage area above their seat.  

"Now, I'll need you to be on your best behavior, Soapbox. You'll be going with Twilight on her excursion while Rarity assists me at the theater." Highlight said. 

"My friends call me Twilight," the pony said, giving a smile and a wink.

"Please, try to have some fun, Soapbox.  Here's a little spending allowance from me, mom, and dad.  Don't go spending it all in one place now." Highlight said.  She stood up.  The pony placed a quick hoof near her brother.  As the train came to an abrupt halt, the pony looked at her brother. "Big sis has your back, little bro." 

Rarity raised an eyebrow, "My word, where did you learn to do that?" 

"As mom likes to say, a lot, particularly to Soapbox, one must fill themselves with both knowledge and experience." Highlight said.  The slender earth pony placed a bag on her back. "I'll teach you that move, if you're curious."  

A puff of thick smoke rose from the train's stack. White steam billowed from the boiler and blasted from a release valve, a whistle soon following.  Twilight, Rarity, Highlight, and Soapbox descended the train car ramp.  The group found themselves greeted by the boisterous noise of the hustle and bustle of Manehattan's central train hub. 

"So, we'll meet up at Mr. Calzone's restaurant at four-thirty." Highlight said.  She led the group across the platform towards the outside area. "Rarity, again, I cannot thank you enough for helping us with the decor and costumes.  Things have been so difficult since Seam and Hem left the show to pursue their own ideas."

"It's quite alright.  Coco Pommel should meet us at the theater.  She's an excellent seamstress, and I know she'll be more than delighted to help." Rarity said. 

Twilight chuckled to herself while Soapbox remained underneath his box.  "I guess those two are hitting it off rather well.  Now, how about you and I hit up some stores.  There's one I've had on my list for quite some time."

Soapbox moved surreptitiously passed Twilight. 

Twilight smirked and illuminated her horn.  She glanced towards her right side.  The small box on Soapbox's back dragged him backwards. "That won't do any good.  I figured you'd try to hide, so I put a locator spell on your box." 

"O.  Goody," Soapbox said, finding himself levitated towards Twilight's side. As he gazed up at the pony in front of him -- the sun hovering near Twilight's horn -- the little donkey's withers began to twitch.  Sweat ran down his forehead.  He retreated into his box.

Twilight placed a soft hoof on the box at her side. She gave a gentle tap.   

"S-Sorry." Soapbox said. 

"Don't apologize." Twilight said.  The pony guided the little donkey down Wither Lane. She looked at Soapbox.  The further she traveled, the more the sounds around her and Soapbox turned to white-noise. "When you're ready to talk, I'm ready to listen." 

"..."

"Did you say something?" Twilight said. 

"Discord?" Soapbox said. 

Twilight scratched her head.  She looked around, and then shrugged. "Discord is back in Ponyville. Except, now that you mention it, why is there a pink cloud floating in the sky?  Stay right there." 

A small colt ran up to Soapbox, pulling him into an alleyway. 

"That pony can be the most troublesome thing." Discord said, shapeshifting into his true form. He snapped his claw, "There, no more locator spell." 

Soapbox squinted at Discord. 

"Hey, don't look at me like that, Soapbox.  I'm just here cause... umm, the bananas are excellent.  Can't beat the fine imports of bananas.  Just ask Princess Celestia about it.  She loves them bananas." Discord said.  He leaned against a nearby brick wall. "O poo, you're no fun.  If you must know, Princess Luna has me on a short leash."

The little donkey began walking away, having tossed the dog leash back at Discord. 

"You know, if I had known that little thing inside your noodle would have caused me 'this' much trouble, I would have stayed home when Fluttershy asked me to help out Princess Luna on her little request." The misshapen creature said.  He groaned. "Great, looks like the bookworm figured out the cloud. I better scoot before she gets wise to things." 

"What you're doing doesn't make sense." Soapbox said.  

"Heh, sense, what fun is there in making sense." Discord said, vanishing into the wall.  

Soapbox sighed.  Before he could move, the box on his back pulled him backwards.  He flew out of the alley.  

"Ouch," Twilight rubbed her head then stood up, "and where did you go? Discord must have played a trick because I spoiled his fun.  I swear that Draconeques is going to get a piece of my --" 

Soapbox raised an eyebrow after Twilight covered her mouth. 

"Nothing, nothing." Twilight said, ending with a nervous laugh.  She scouted the area.  The pony and her companion traveled further into Manehattan before coming to a stop. "Ahh, finally, Mr. Curios Curiosities and Conundrums.  I've always wanted to visit this place.  Wait, did you just laugh at me?" 

"No," Soapbox said, hiding a slight smile.  He proceeded behind Twilight into the shop where antiquities and knick-knacks decorated the walls. "...?"

"Hmm, a walking box.  Now this is quite the interesting find.  I'll pay you fifty bits for it." Mr. Curios said, lifting up the box.  

Twilight pressed a firm hoof to her mouth.  She chuckled to herself. "The, the box isn't for sale.  That's my friend." 

"You made a friend with a box?" Mr. Curios said. 

Twilight twirled her hoof at the stallion.  

The stallion put the box on the ground, cleaned his glasses, and squinted at the wooden object. "Seventy-Five bits, and not a bit more." 

"I'm unsure if you're doing this on purpose." Soapbox said. He glanced at Mr. Curios. "I'm not for sale." 

Mr. Curios backed away and grabbed a charm. "I banish thee in the name of the four winds, talking box." 

Soapbox rolled his eyes.  He glanced at the stallion in front of him. "I'm.  A.  Donkey. Not a living box." 

The stallion sighed. "Sorry Twilight, I tried." 

"Thank you, Mr. Curios." Twilight said. 

"Quite the joke, at my expense." Soapbox said. 

Twilight stood near the stallion.  She apologized to Soapbox. "Mr. Curios is a dear friend of mine.  Well, actually, he's a friend of my mother.  They're pen pals and write to each other, quite often actually.  I hoped to give you a bit of a laugh." 

Soapbox shook his head.  He meandered about the store, his hoof grazing across several objects. 

"Is your friend alright, Twilight?" Mr. Curios said, placing the charm back on the wall. 

"I don't know," Twilight said in a melancholic tone.  She glanced towards Soapbox, and then back towards Mr. Curios. "His parents, I feel horrible for them.  They don't know don't know what to do in order to help him out, and I don't know either. There are times where it'd be nice if life had a compass." 

"Life has no compass.  Nor will it give you a map when you are born.  All of us must walk our own chosen path in life, and, as unfortunate as this sounds, life has no easy path for some of us." Mr. Curios said.  He glided a gentle hoof down the brown, wooden side of a picture frame on the glass display case. "Today would have marked our sixtieth anniversary." 

"I'm sorry." Twilight said. 

"No, no, don't be sorry.  Life is meant to be lived, and the two of us lived our lives with happiness in our hearts." Mr. Curios said.  He grabbed a tissue then tossed it int he waste basket.  The stallion gave a kind smile to Twilight. "Not to worry, little bookmark.  You'll figure out how to help your friend, I know it."

"Heh, always called me that when you came to visit my mother." Twilight said.  She stopped.  Sunlight reflected off a small polished object on a shelf and illuminated the small shelf behind Mr. Curios.  Twilight's eyes lit up. "Ooo, what's that?" 

Mr. Curios smirked. "Always the keen eye.  This just came into my possession.  The mare almost donated it to a museum, but, it's bizarre. There was something about it that changed her mind.  She brought it into my shop, and, well, as they say, that was that."

Soapbox perused several objects inside a small bin. He placed an object back into the small bin, and then moved towards the corner of the shop.  The little donkey looked over his right shoulder, ever-so-often, at the object Mr. Curios held.  

"Wow, this is just, amazing.  It has to be at least, what, five-hundred years old?" Twilight said. 

"Try seven to eight.  The book almost dates back to the time Princess Celestia banished her sister, Princess Luna.  I dare say it might even be older.  I've cross referenced all of my literature on the matter, and I've yet to determine its age. Still waiting for the right buyer." Mr. Curios said.  The clock on the wall reflected off the glass top of the display case. "Hmm, four o'clock already? Time is always in motion." 

"No, we just got here. Hmph!" Twilight said, ending with a grimace. She bolted out the door. 

Soapbox approached the counter.  He pointed at the book now placed back on the shelf behind the display case.  "I'd like to make an offer on that book, if you don't mind, sir." 

Mr. Curios rubbed a quick hoof across his chin.  He eyed the young donkey, and then lifted up the sack of bits placed on the counter.  

"Seventy-five bits is the best I can offer." Soapbox said.

"I see.  That is quite the fair offer, but, I cannot do it for seventy-five bits, young one." Mr. Curios said.  He walked from behind the counter.  The tall stallion placed the book in a bag, and then placed the bag underneath the box on Soapbox's back. "We'll call it twenty-five as thanks for your kindness to endure an old stallion's attempt at humor.  Not to mention, I know that look in your eye.  This isn't for yourself, is it?" 

Soapbox gave a polite bow after placing his sack of bits underneath his box. "Thank you for allowing me to purchase the book, Mr. Curios."  

"Oooo, I knew I shouldn't have gazed at that book for so long.  It'll take forever to make it downtown to Mr. Calzone's shop." Twilight said.  Her eyes widened. "Soapbox!" 

"Yes?" Soapbox said. 

"Phew, thought I lost you.  Wait, what am I saying? I've got that locator spell." Twilight said, ending with a slight laugh.  

A melancholic gaze greeted Twilight as Soapbox stared at her. "We could fly to Mr. Calzone's shop, take a Taxi, or, if possible, we can teleport there." 

"..." Twilight said nothing, gazing towards the sky above Manehatten.  She looked at the taxis racing by the central street. "I guess I could fly us there, but I don't know the direction.  Not to mention getting a Taxi at the best of times is horrendous, especially during rush hour.  As for teleportation, it's a little more complicated than you might think." 

"Sorry," Soapbox said.  His gaze fixated on the crowd of ponies.  He looked up after receiving a gentle tap on his box. 

"It's, it's alright.  Contrary to how it looks, teleportation isn't the easiest of spells." Twilight said.  The pony looked at Soapbox, "If I'm not careful, I could hurt us.  Not to mention, with it being so crowded, I might slam into some-pony.  I guess flying might be the better option." 

"Actually, when I said flying, I meant a cloud." Soapbox said.  He looked off to his side, "I'm not comfortable sitting on the backs of others."  

"Why?" Twilight said. 

"I don't want to talk about it." Soapbox said. 

Twilight reached forward, and then stopped.  She looked at her hoof and clenched it.  The pony and her young guest meandered their way through the crowded streets of Manehatten towards a tranquil park where water cascaded from the top of a beautiful water fountain into its ornate base. Twilight sat on the bench, Soapbox standing beside her.

The sun began to set, its light receding from Manehatten and Equestria.  

"Twilight?" a voice said. 

"Coco?" Twilight said. 

"I'm so happy to see you.  I got separated from Rarity and her friend.  Manehatten is always a mess at this time of day." Coco said.  She sat on the small crate near the bench.  The pony let out an exasperated sigh.  "We were on our way towards the restaurant, and," Coco tilted her head, "what's going on?" 

"Umm, you're sitting on my friend." Twilight said, pointing a slow hoof at the box. 

"O dear, I'm so, so sorry.  Wait.  You're friends with a box?" Coco Pommel said.  She leapt off the wooden crate.  The mare lifted it up, "O my, he's precious.  What's your name?" 

Soapbox raised an eyebrow.  He relaxed, receiving a nod from Twilight. "I'm Soapbox D. Spark, Miss Pommel.  It's a pleasure to meet you." 

"He's quite the polite one, too." Coco Pommel said.  

"Do you know where Mr. Calzone's restaurant is located?" Soapbox said.  After several minutes, the smell of pizzas, calzones, and other delicacies permeated the air.  The little donkey received a quick wave from his sister and Rarity.  "It's. Nice." 


*** *** ***


"Twilight, I can't believe you devoured that whole pizza. The same goes for you too, Highlight." Rarity said.  She received a sheepish grin from the two ponies.  The unicorn placed a firm hoof on her forehead. "Though, I must say, Pinkie's record remains intact.  That pony could eat five pizzas without batting an eye, or gaining an inch or two." 

The sun continued its descent into the distant horizon, the moon rising in the opposite.  A little pegasus colt hovered near an unlit streetlamp.  He pulled a small lit candle out from his lantern.  Four seconds later, his work done, he moved onto the next unlit streetlamp.  

Outside Hotel De Marquee, a trio of ponies played underneath the awning of the entrance.  Rarity, Twilight, Highlight, and Soapbox walked across the street from Mr. Calzone's restaurant to the quaint hotel.  Soapbox glanced around the hotel lobby while the others gossiped and chatted away.  

"Hello, Misses Brooch.  How's Mister Inn doing?" Highlight said.  

"Highlight, it's so good to see you and young Soapbox, as always." Mrs. Brooch said.  The elderly mare flipped through her notes on the counter. "By the way Highlight, I cannot wait for your performance this Saturday." 

"I, I thought it was tonight." Highlight said. 

"Darling, the ticket says it's Saturday, a week from today." Rarity said. 

Highlight looked at her brother's ticket, and then examined Rarity and Twilight's. "Ooo... hmph.  This is the second time I've done this, I'm so, so sorry Rarity. The same goes to all of you." 

"It's quite alright.  There's no need to fret about it, and, to be honest like Applejack, I'm actually quite glad.  This will give us time to create a magnanimous epitome of fashion.  Coco will met up with us tomorrow at the theater." Rarity said. 

Misses Brooch reached behind the counter.  Her hoof latched onto four keys, and then placed them on the counter.  "You are actually in luck.  The patrons have yet to arrive, so the rooms aren't filled up.  Here, you can have the penthouse suite up top.  It has a lovely view of the theater from the balcony, accommodates ten ponies, and certainly not least, it has a divine sitting area." 

"Thank you, Misses Brooch." Soapbox said, bowing to the pony behind the counter. 

"Polite as always.  Please, feel free to order from the hotel menu.  We have a full service kitchen staff on call. " Misses Brooch said.

The four grabbed their keys and walked towards the elevator.  

The grand entryway of the penthouse suite greeted the four equines, and, with their bags stowed, the four settled in.  Twilight, Rarity, Highlight, and Soapbox relaxed on the large, circular couch.  Rarity and Twilight sipped on some tea as Highlight drank some water.  Soapbox let out a quiet yawn near his sister.  Rarity and Twilight whispered towards each other, pointing a subtle hoof at Soapbox while Highlight rubbed her brother's mane. The two ponies gave a quiet chuckle towards each other. 

Soapbox stood up.  He yawned.  The little donkey crept towards his room. 

"Soapbox, will you be ok?" Highlight said.  She opened the door. "I don't mind if you want to stay in my room tonight." 

"I'll be fine." Soapbox said. 

"You better promise me that you will not sleep on the floor in that box.  I will be checking in on you." Highlight said. 

"I promise." Soapbox said.  His eyes followed Rarity, and then his big sister, watching the two ponies close the door to their rooms.  In a quiet voice, the little donkey said, "... Twilight?" 

"Hmm?" Twilight said.  The pony raised an eyebrow as she turned around, looking over the couch. 

Soapbox remained silent as he reached underneath his box. 

"You didn't have to get me.  Anything." Twilight said.  She took the small brown parcel in her hoof.  The pony removed the object from the brown paper bag.  Her eyes widened.  As Twilight sat on the couch, she ran a soft hoof across the ancient book's cover.  "Mr. Curios, I swear that stallion has a sixth sense, but are you sure this is ok? It's quite the rare artifact."

"Good night." Soapbox said, giving a polite bow. 

"Thank you for the gift.  It's wonderful." Twilight said.  She walked towards Soapbox, and then stopped. "My promise will always stand." 

"Thank you for taking me around today.  I know I'm not the easiest to get along with, even in the best of circumstances." Soapbox hung his head.  He meandered into his room then closed the door with a gentle push.  Inside his room, the little donkey went to the bathroom and washed his hooves.  He placed the box beside the bed and pulled the covers down.  His hooves began to shake.  Soapbox took a deep breath.  

Gentle moonlight blanketed Manehatten.  The music outside the hotel faded on the final musical number.  Hoof-steps and voices ceased.  Above the grand city, the moon crawled towards its apex in the sky.  

Soapbox looked around his hotel room before he crawled underneath the bed.  He mumbled to himself and closed his eyes.  Two seconds later, the little donkey's eyes opened to a familiar sight of books, mystical objects, and a desk. 

"So, did you figure it out yet?" a voice said. 

Soapbox caressed the ornate cube on the desk.  The lines etched into its surface glowed in a pale colored light.  He nodded. The little tan donkey leaned back in his chair. "Though it appears invincible, what can take some an entire lifetime to earn while being broken by all in an instant? Trust." 

Lines began to form on the cube.  The pale colored glow intensified. 

"Trust takes time, and, above all else, it is easily broken, being almost impossible to regain once it is lost." Soapbox said. 

"And now, might I ask, who is it that you trust?" Discord said.  He materialized a chair opposite that of the little donkey's desk.  His fingers rasped against its arm.  Discord stopped.  He leaned in and said, in a firm tone, "Well, I'm waiting." 

Soapbox looked at the floor.  His eyes gravitated toward the object on the desk.    

"Hmm?" Discord said. 

"I trust you, Discord." Soapbox said. 

Discord's ears lowered.  He leaned back in his chair. "W-What makes you say that?" 

"I don't know if I can trust Twilight or Rarity. Though I trust my big sister, my mother and father, you're... different.  You gave me something special.  Not to mention, it doesn't take a psychic to understand that you are the one who freed me from whatever kept me from my dream, from my library." Soapbox said. 

The chaotic god rubbed his eagle claw against his lion's paw.  He opened his mouth, closed it, and then put both arms in his lap. "Excuse me, I need a drink," he materialized a glass of water and drank the glass before dematerializing the water, "umm, well, that is correct, the first part, anyways." 

"Why did you ask me who I trusted?" Soapbox said. 

"You're a sly one." Discord said.  He materialized a cowboy hat and placed it on his head. "I'll be honest as the day is long, little fellah.  There were two parts to this one."

"I see," Soapbox said. He maintained his melancholic, expressionless gaze toward Discord. 

"I had no idea you'd trust me.  It, it feels awkward.  Well, I mean beyond Fluttershy trusting me while being my one and only friend whom I can trust." Discord said after he flung the hat off, the Stetson vanishing into thin air.  

A symbol formed on Soapbox's forehead.  The unusual object, on the desk, shifted into a ball, soon resting on top of a stand.  

"So, how do you feel?" Discord said. 

"Weird.  Not hot. Not cold." Soapbox said.  He glanced around the world he'd come to know. The dream world remained intact. "What happened?" 

Discord waved his finger. "Now, now, now.  Don't go getting any funny ideas.  The worst thing I can do is ruin the surprise.  And before you ask, no, I haven't done anything funny, I promise." 

"Besides the clown nose you've put on me?" Soapbox said, raising an eyebrow. 

Discord picked the nose off and chucked it into the distance.  

"How many riddles remain?" Soapbox said. 

"Why not take a break?  You solved two riddles," Discord grumbled, "in a row." 

The world around the two stopped.  Soapbox groaned. 

"Soapy?" a familiar voice said.  Two slender hooves reached toward Soapbox.  Removed from his hiding spot, the little donkey rubbed his eyes. "You promised me." 

"I promised not to sleep in the box on the floor." Soapbox said.  

"Soapbox," Highlight said in a hushed tone.  She placed her brother in the bed, pulling the sheet over him.  The pony tucked the corners in. "There, you won't be getting out now." 

"And if I need to go to the little colt's room?" Soapbox said. 

Highlight placed a firm hoof on her forehead.  She closed her eyes then pressed her hoof against Soapbox. "Soapbox D. Spark, if I catch you sleeping anywhere but the bed, you'll be staying with me at the theater, understand.  Soapbox, I'm not joking.  I can't have you getting sick.  Now please, promise me." 

"I promise to sleep in the bed," Soapbox said. 

"With the covers pulled over you." Highlight said. 

"I promise to sleep in the bed with the covers pulled over me." Soapbox said. He rubbed his forehead, and then his eyes. The little donkey squinted. 

"Are you ok? You're not getting sick, I hope." Highlight said. 

"I'm, I'm alright.  I thought I saw something." Soapbox said.  

Highlight patted her brother on the head before she left.  The young mare headed to her room. "Soapbox, I hope you're making some effort to move forward.  Me, mom and dad, you don't know how much all of us care about you."
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Again, I am so, so sorry.  I can't believe I thought the show was last night." Highlight said. She held the brochure in her hoof. The young mare looked at it again and again. "I guess I read the show time vs. the actual date." 

Rarity returned from the buffet with several pieces of freshly sliced fruit on her plate.  She sat down in her chair. "Highlight, there is no need to fret.  The extra time will give us plenty of breathing room. Not to mention it'll allow for last minute changes and costume refinement.  These costumes must be magnifique!"

"What's all the fuss about?" Twilight said, standing near the buffet table. 

"The rumor going around is that the crème de la crème from all over Equestria will be at the event.  This will be a wonderful opportunity for some très chic designs." Rarity said. 

Soapbox nibbled on an apple.  He squinted at the crowd of ponies passing by.  He rubbed his eyes then yawned.

"You weren't up last night, were you?" Highlight said. 

"You tucked me in." Soapbox said.  He maintained a straight-faced, melancholic expression towards his sister. "Why do you ask?" 

"I heard you mumbling from behind the door, but when I checked, you were still in bed.  Were you having a dream?" Highlight said.  She blushed, "Were you dreaming about a filly-friend? Careful now, Princess Luna might come into your dream and catch you kissing?"  

Soapbox raised an eyebrow. "I fall asleep like you, mom and dad.  Dream or no dream."

"Hmph, you're no fun, Soapy." Highlight said, ending with a huff.  The young mare munched on her breakfast. "I've got some time if you want to check out the shops.  Rehearsals aren't till ten, and, before you ask, yes, I checked and double checked with the others at the theater before I came for breakfast."  

Twilight returned to the table, several pancakes piled on her plate.  A thick stream of maple syrup landed on top of the stack of golden pancakes, a slice of butter on top for the finishing touch. The pony licked her lips, and then stopped.  She looked at the others and said, "What? I like syrup first, and then butter." 

Soapbox shrugged.  

"You're going to love this, I've got a whole day planned out.  It will be 'totally awesome' as Rainbow Dash would put it.  Mr. Curio's place was just the start." Twilight said.  She unfurled a scroll from her bag.  The pony tapped the tip of a quill against each item on the list. "Manehatten is home to a plethora of stores.  There's Antiquities and Antiques.  Thrift's Finds and Fashions." 

"Twilight, could you be a dear and pick me up some crimson hem highlights and thread if you go to Thrift's.  That mare always has the best selection.  O my," Rarity tapped a quick hoof against her chin, "on second thought, it might be wise for me to go with you.  Thrift's, If I remember right, will be unloading their imports today, and I do believe some came from Saddle Arabia." Rarity said. She tapped her hooves together. "It would be lovely if they had some dyed silk."  

"That settles it.  We'll go to Thrift's so you can nab some supplies while me and Soapbox check out their finds.  Any objections?" Twilight said.  She grinned. "Ok, no objections." 

"I've got this one.  Here, keep the change." Rarity said, giving seven bits for the extra pancakes. 

Past Saddle Avenue, Hoof Drive, and Stallion street, nestled between Wither Lane and Pinion Way, the group found themselves at a medium sized shop.  Outside, the sign "Thrift's Finds and Fashion" welcomed Highlight, Rarity, Twilight, and Soapbox.  

A bell greeted patrons' ears and the mare behind the counter. Thrift perked up, "Welcome to the shop.  Miss Rarity, it's been too long, and you've brought guests.  Dear me, Princess Twilight Sparkle, I had no idea you'd stop by with Miss Rarity.  The shop must look a mess." 

"Please, call me Twilight.  I'm just like everypony else, and we're here to shop." Twilight said.  She made her way past the bolts of cloth and accessories towards the rear of the store. "Hmm, let's see." 

Each pony went about their pace, customers coming and going as they pleased.  

Soapbox meandered about the store.  He gazed at several objects on the upper shelves, out of his reach.  The little donkey shrugged and moved on. 

"Did you find something, Soapbox?" Twilight said. 

"There are books in the back, but they're mostly works of fiction, adventure stories.  I believe I saw a Daring Doo first print, and..." Soapbox said.  He looked at Twilight, the pony's wide-eyed grin reflecting off his eyes. "I'll show you." 

Twilight flipped through the book then placed it in the shopping bag at her side.  In a cheery voice she said, "Rainbow Dash will flip over this one.  It's hard bound with the original slip cover intact. Not a mark on it."

"hmm?" Soapbox said. 

"Sorry, me and Rainbow Dash are big fans of Daring Doo books.  It's the first real book she got into from the library." Twilight said.  

"Do you mean Rainbow Dash of the Wonderbolts?" Soapbox said.  He received a firm "yes" in reply. "My father has mentioned her before." 

"When I met your father, he never spoke about his work. Does he perform with the Wonderbolts?" Twilight said.

"No." Soapbox said. 

"Huh, I saw all those pictures in your house. Are you sure?" Twilight said. 

"My father doesn't like to talk about his work." Soapbox said.  He turned toward a small basket, rummaging through it.  In a quiet voice he said, "I still can't figure out why my father would do a pegasus workout with me when I'm just, just...."

"Just?" Twilight said. 

"Never mind.  I apologize for the rude comment." Soapbox said. 

"Is that how you knew that maneuver back in Ponyville?" Twilight said.  She received a nod. 

"Twilight, psst." Highlight said.  She motioned towards Twilight. "I apologize if Soapbox is being difficult." 

Twilight and Highlight meandered about the store.  The two ponies came to a small table. 

"The truth is that dad took up the name Sky Flare when he joined the Wonderbolts as a maneuver specialist.  He doesn't perform with them.  It's more of an honorary role since he requested reassignment from Canterlot." Highlight said.  She sat down.  "If you want to know, dad's real name is Blitzkrieg." 

"Blitzkrieg, now where have I heard that name before?" Twilight said.  She sat down at the table, adjacent to Highlight.  The pony scratched her head then tapped the tip of her right hoof against the side of her head.  She stopped and said, "Now I remember.  My brother mentioned a stallion by that name.  Is your father Blitzkrieg, as in chief commander and strategist Blitzkrieg?" 

"Yea.  Dad hates flashy titles." Highlight said.  

"Sorry if this sound rude, but, my brother said the few times he met your father, Blitzkrieg was a bit on the cold side." Twilight said. 

"Though dad can be a little cold at times, trust me, that stallion is not only as stubborn as they come, he's also caring and quite overprotective.  Between you and me, I think Soapbox takes after dad in the stubborn department." Highlight said, ending with quick quiet chuckle.  The young mare gave a polite smile towards Twilight. "Dad doesn't like seeing others being mistreated.  He makes sure the ponies under his watch are rewarded for their hard-work."

"Please don't tell me he's the one who turned down the Solar Solarium Accommodation and Achievement for Valor?" Twilight said. 

"Yes..." Highlight said, ending with a quiet groan. Her head banged against the table. She let out a soft moan. "What is wrong with that stallion? There's nothing wrong with a bit of praise."

"Does he hate attention?" Twilight said. 

"Do you know he turned down five awards after the Changeling invasion of Canterlot, all because he said 'they need to go to those who deserve it' and every other lame excuse under the sun."  Highlight said.  

"Wow, Princess Celestia doesn't just give that award out to every pony that asks for it." Twilight said.  She leaned in, "If you don't mind me asking, why did your dad leave if he's such a high-ranking officer?" 

"Dad would never admit it, but me and mom believe he left the service to be closer with us since the Wonderbolts have more lee-way in the times they can take off and leave." Highlight said.  She waved her hoof. "We better stop talking about dad.  I bet his ears are burning." 

"Do you mind if I ask one more question?" Twilight said. 

"Hmm?" Highlight said. 

"Soapbox seemed a little confused as to why your dad would teach him pegasus pony maneuvers when he can't fly?  Was your dad hoping for a pegasus?" Twilight said. 

"Are you kidding? Dad taught me those techniques too. Before I earned my cutie mark, he had me doing all sorts of athletics to keep me 'well rounded' as mom put it. That's how I wound up with a fourth-degree black-belt in both Hoof-Fu and Buck-kido." Highlight said. The young mare shivered, and then placed her hooves on top of her head, hunching over.  "My dad had the instructors drill those moves into me, and I still have nightmares about it.  The triple back-flip haunts me." 

"I wondered where I saw that move in the train car.  That was Tranquility's Motion of Water." Rarity said, coming around the corner. 

"Right, I still practice to stay in shape.  It's also great exercise." Highlight said. 

Soapbox glanced towards his sister, and then turned away.  He continued to meander about the store.  His hooves poked and prodded several different items in several different bins.

"Hello little one.  Are you looking for something specific? Maybe I can help you." Thrift said. 

"Thank you for the offer, ma'am, but I am alright." Soapbox said. 

"You know, that look in your eye reminds me of a certain somepony I know.  Mr. Curios." Thrift said. 

"Yes, Twilight Sparkle and myself met him the other day, ma'am." Soapbox said. 

"We were colleagues at one point.  That stallion always had his eye on the prize, in more ways than one.  When he found something, you bet he knew what to do with it." Thrift said.  She reached underneath the counter.  "I found this trinket on one of our excursions.  It's something I think you might like." 

Soapbox removed the crate from his back and placed it down.  The little donkey stood on top of the wooden box.  He leaned forward.  The white burlap, protecting the object inside, reflected off his eyes.  Several folds were undone.  The mystical object glistened in the sunlight that came through the front windows.  

"I'd be willing to part with this for say, fifteen bits." Thrift said. 

Soapbox squinted at the relic.  He backed up.  His right front hoof twitched. 

"Are you alright?" Thrift said. 

"Y-Yes, just something in my eye.  I apologize." Soapbox said.  He rubbed his eyes. "Thank you for the offer, ma'am. I'll take it." 

"Pleasure doing business with you." Thrift said. She re-wrapped the item in the burlap then placed it inside a small bag.

"Did you find something you like?" Twilight said

Soapbox gave a firm nod. 

"You'll have to show me back at the hotel." Twilight said.  She pulled the book out of her basket. "I'd like to purchase this." 

Ten bits were placed on the counter, the book placed into a paper bag.  

Twilight grinned at her newly purchased item.  She turned.  Her ears dropped.  The pony's left eye twitched. "Umm, Rarity.  Are you in there?" 

"Twilight, please be a dear, and, oof, grab one of these." Rarity said.  The pile of supplies landed near the counter.  Ten minutes later, the pony said, "Ok, that's everything.  I'm so glad we came." 

"That'll be forty-five bits." Thrift said.  

"Here, I've got this.  It's the least I can do for..." Highlight said.  She nudged her brother. "Psst, can I borrow five bits?" 

Soapbox reached under his crate. "Sorry, I didn't know this was for the both of us." 

"Soapy, it's ok.  Those are your bits.  I just need a, a quick loan, that's all." Highlight said.  She stuck her tongue out at her brother. "I'll pay you back.  I always do." 

Several bags floated above the group that made their way through the winding streets of Manehatten.  Ten minutes later, the bags, full of supplies, came to their final resting spot inside the grand Lectisternium theater. 

"Rarity, you must have cleaned an entire store out. There are enough supplies here to outfit a large troupe of ponies." Coco Pommel said.  

"I must admit I did get a little carried away.  Still, we must have the best supplies to do our best. These designs must be no less than magnifique!" Rarity said, clenching her hoof. 

"Here, let me introduce you." Highlight said. She motioned across the stage. "Everypony, this is Rarity, Twilight, Coco Pommel, and my little brother, Soapbox." 

"Thank you so much for the assistance.  A definite thanks goes to you and Coco Pommel, Miss Rarity." a stallion said. 

"It'll be delightful to have such talented designers." another stallion said, bowing to the two ponies. 

"Thanks for the help.  It's appreciated." A mare said.  

Several more ponies stepped forward, each greeting the two designers.  

Soapbox meandered toward the backstage, Twilight in toe. 

"Hmm?" Twilight said.

"You think my sister would have warned me about the play.  The brochure just states the performance is the play of the century." Soapbox said. 

"..." Twilight said nothing, instead raising an eyebrow. She followed Soapbox toward the back. "Wow.  That's one incredible model of.  Tirek.  Are you ok?" 

"I'm fine." Soapbox said. 

"You're not afraid?" Twilight said.  She received a firm "no" in response. In a hushed voice she said to herself, "What is it that keeps setting him off?" 

Soapbox walked around back stage while Twilight returned to Rarity and Coco.  

Sewing machines buzzed with each press of their peddles.  Spool after spool of thread landed on top of their respective holders. Bolts of cloth sped through each machine.  Rarity and Coco Pommel sat in a small area of the theater where the two ponies tinkered, tweaked, and refined each costume as rehearsals came and went throughout the day.  

Six costume designs refined and completed, day almost turning to night, the rehearsals neared their end.  

"Your defeat is nigh, Tirek, for we are the elements of harmony.  We are the friends of Equestria!" Highlight said, flying on a support wire alongside her fellow thespians.  She descended to the stage floor.  The young mare wiped several beads of sweat from her forehead. "Phew.  Good work, everypony.  Let's take five." 

"Did we really say that?" Twilight said, whispering to Rarity. 

"Darling, it's theater.  They have to throw in some umph, some, some pizzazz to bring the scene to life." Rarity said. 

Twilight chuckled to herself. "Ok, ok, pizzazz." 

"Have you two seen Soapbox?" Highlight said. She removed her harness. "Ooo, where'd that little sneak go. My brother could sniff out a scroll at five-hundred paces in two seconds flat.  He's probably hiding somewhere, reading some book.  Has any-pony seen Soapbox?"

"Yo, Highlight, I saw the little dude in the back. Looked like he went underneath the stage where we keep the costumes and props." a mare said.   

"Thanks, Curtain Call." Highlight said. 

"I'll go get him." Twilight said.  She leapt onto the stage and pushed the curtain aside. The trapdoor lifted up, the pony proceeded into the dimly lit area. "Soapbox? Are you in here? Soapbox -- Gah?!" 

"Twilight? I apologize." Soapbox said.  He removed the tiki mask from his face and crawled out of a small crate of props. "I didn't mean to startle you." 

"It's not even Nightmare Night, and I've already had my fright for the entire year." Twilight said.  She took several deep breaths.  Her heart calmed.  The pony tilted her head at the melancholic expression given to her. "Don't you go out on Nightmare Night?" 

"No." Soapbox said.  He turned toward the darkened area. "If this is rude, I apologize, but I prefer to stay home and read." 

"Haven't you ever been out on Nightmare Night?" Twilight said. 

Soapbox shrugged.  He said, "Doubtful, but my mother and father may have dressed me up when I was younger." 

Twilight snickered to herself, imagining Soapbox as a baby dressed up in a stroller.  Her snickering ceased.  The pony's wings quivered.  Her eyes widened.  She reached forward and said, "Soapbox?  Soapbox?!" 

The little donkey's hooves shook as he tried to stand up. He let out a deep, guttural cough. Soapbox took a deep breath then backed up.  His hooves continued to shake before he collapsed.

"Soapbox?" Twilight said.  She darted towards Soapbox. "We need to get you out of here. Here, let me lift you onto my back."

"No, no... it's alright. I'm sorry if I startled you." Soapbox said.  He sat on top of his box and took several deep breaths.  The tremors in his hooves stopped.  He looked at Twilight, "I don't understand what happened.  It felt like the energy just drained out of me." 

Light from the open trapped door gave a small bit of illumination to the darkened area.  Several crates resided near each of the grey, cobblestone walls underneath the stage.  

"We'd better get you out of here and to a hospital." Twilight said.

"There's something here." Soapbox said. 

"You're probably feeling ill from collapsing." Twilight said.  She turned. The pony raised an eyebrow. "Wait. What is that?"

Soapbox jumped down.  He grabbed Twilight's tail.  The little donkey struggled and groaned.  

"I. See what you. Meant." Twilight said, struggling to her hooves.  She faced the void alongside Soapbox. "There's a powerful magical trap, but why did it harm you?"

Soapbox glanced to his side.  He sighed and looked up.  In a quiet tone, his voice trailing off towards the end, the little donkey said, "I don't, I don't know if...." 

"Are you ok, Soapbox?" Twilight said.  She sat near the little donkey.  The pony extended her wing, placing it over the Soapbox's side. "What's wrong?" 

"Twilight.  Though you said you're willing to listen to me, are you are you willing to trust me?" Soapbox said. 

"Yes? Why do you ask?" Twilight said. 

The air around the two equines remained still. Soapbox rested his hooves in his lap. Twilight retracted her wing.  She sat in front of the little donkey.  

"What aren't you telling me?" Twilight said.

"I promise to tell you everything back at the hotel." Soapbox said.  His withers began to twitch.  The little donkey took a deep breath, and then let out a slow, calm sigh. "At this point, I need you to trust me when I say I'm seeing 'things,' things that aren't normal.  Please don't tell my mother or father, or my big sis."

"Alright.  What is it you're seeing?" Twilight said. 

"I don't know how to describe it.  About the only thing I can best surmise it as is a fog, a haze, or something clinging to those around me.  I hypothesize it to be magic, but that hypothesis isn't the best." Soapbox said.  He pointed a firm hoof at the darkness. "There, against the wall.  It's a small point of light with a green haze around it." 

"We can't reach it if there's a trap." Twilight said. 

Soapbox moved forward on shaky hooves.  He raised his right hoof, inching it forward till he recoiled.  The little donkey dropped his hoof.  

"We need to turn around.  I must alert Princess Celestia on this matter." Twilight said. She turned around. "Soapbox, we have to leave.  This is dangerous." 

"Twilight, you said you trusted me, right?" Soapbox said. 

Twilight remained silent.  She turned toward Soapbox, "This isn't the time or place, but you're not going to stop, are you? You want to protect your big sister and her night." 

"Yes," Soapbox said.  He glanced at the thin air.  His vision narrowed. "If I remember right, there was a book in your library that spoke about magical traps, but all of them, almost all of them anyways, are meant for deterrence.  This one is far too different.  It, it looks like a spider's web, made of magic." 

"Wait.  Wait, wait, wait... I know this one.  Spinneret. She studied how to intertwine magic into spider's silk.  The mare studied to the point she managed to make powerful traps out of ethereal threads. To undo it, one must find the finest point and pull it to undo the magic." Twilight said.  

"Here," Soapbox said.  

Twilight illuminated her horn.  A small thread of magic shot forth from her horn then latched onto an ethereal thread.  The once invisible web glowed in haunting green light.  The web began to pulse before it vanished. 

Soapbox adjust the box on his back, and then he crept forward. The little donkey's right hoof touched the back wall where an orange circle appeared.  His eyes widened.  He retreated into his box.  His body shook, Soapbox covering his eyes.  

"Tartarus.  It's a portal to Tartarus." Twilight said.  She gazed at the medium, dinner-plate sized portal. "That's it, I'm sealing this portal, right here, right now." 

"Please," Soapbox said.  His eyes remained closed.  The flash of light came and went. "Is it done?" 

"Yes.  The portal is destroyed, but it wasn't easy.  Whoever, or whatever, made that portal used a powerful spell to tie it to this location." Twilight said.  She tapped on the box with a gentle hoof. "Do you still see that green light?" 

"No, it's gone.  The light must have vanished with the portal." Soapbox said. 

Soapbox and Twilight ascended the stairs.   

"Where have you two been? Was my brother hiding again?" Highlight said. 

"I think he got stuck in a crate of props." Twilight said.  The pony gave a quick sly wink to Soapbox.  She moved towards her friend and pulled Rarity aside. "We've got a problem.  I need to get the others, ASAP.  Please take Soapbox back to the hotel."


*** *** *** 


Night graced the grand city of Manehatten once more. Cricket chirps resonated in the night air while mares and stallions went about their nightly outings.  

Inside the penthouse suite, a soft tap came to the door. Soon, five equines walked into the grand room, four of them stowing their luggage.  

"We'll need to be quiet," Rarity placed a hoof near her mouth, "Soapbox is resting." She said.  The pony floated a teacup onto its saucer.

"What's going on?" Fluttershy said.  

"Yea, what's going on Twilight? This doesn't seem like a slumber party.  There's no food, and so little drinks." Pinkie Pie said.  

"Sorry to grab you all like that, but it's an emergency." Twilight said.  She sat down on the circular couch, alongside her friends.  The pony wiped her forehead and said, "Phew, teleporting can take a lot out of a pony." 

"Twi, what's goin' on, exactly?" Applejack said. 

"In the basement of the theater here in Manehatten, me and Soapbox found a portal to Tartarus." Twilight said.  She looked at her friends, "Through the portal, we saw Tirek's cell.  It looked like he had his own power turned against him."

"Twilight, there's no way." Rainbow Dash said.

"I saw it with my own eyes." Twilight said. 

"hmm..." Soapbox said, rolling over on his side. The little donkey curled up into a ball, shivering.  His left eye crept open, and then closed.  "I'm sorry.  I'm sorry." 

"What's eatin' him?" Applejack said, removing her hat.  She looked at Soapbox. "Is he dreamin?" 

"Yes, Applejack.  Soapbox is exhausted from his experience at the theater." Rarity said. 

"Soapbox was a huge help, despite what he might believe. I would have never figured out the trap." Twilight said.  She gave a gentle smile towards the little donkey. "He must have worked up a lot of courage to trust me.  I just hope he understands the necessity to bring you all here.  This isn't something me and Rarity can deal with on our own."

"Hey, Twilight.  Just throwing this out there to you.  Think Discord did it for revenge?" Rarity said. 

"No.  Discord would never do something this cruel." Fluttershy said. 

"I'm with Fluttershy on this one.  I don't believe Discord could do this, even if he wanted to do it.  Not to mention, it's almost as if somepony stole Tirek's power, like he stole our magic." Twilight said.  She glanced at Rarity, and then Soapbox. "There's a piece to the puzzle we're missing, but what is it? Who would steal Tirek's magic." 

Soapbox's hooves twitched.  The six ponies chuckled towards each other.  

"Twilight?" a voice said, opening the door to the penthouse suite. 

"O, Highlight.  Come meet my friends." Twilight said, giving a nervous glance towards Rarity. 

"I want to check on Soapbox first." Highlight said.  She walked toward her brother, exhaling a deep sigh. "Good, he looks alright. I saw Soapbox on Rarity's back as she left the theater.  It concerned me because he hates riding on other pony's backs."

"No need to fret, Darling.  He's just exhausted from today." Rarity said. 

Highlight pressed a calm, soft hoof against her brother. "Right, sorry I doubted you. It's just that I was worried about Soapy.  He's been acting funny all day today." 

Soapbox sat up and rubbed his eye.  He yawned. "Sorry, did I fall asleep?" 

"I'd say waky, waky, eggs and toasty, but, it's kinda night time." Pinkie Pie said. 

"Wonderful," Soapbox said.  He retreated into his box. 

Highlight rolled her eyes as Rarity and Twilight giggled at one another. 

"Hmph, kinda rude there." Rainbow Dash said, letting out a yawn. "Whatever.  I'm goin to bed.  I'll catch you all in the morning." 

"Hate ta agree here, but, a girl does need her sleep." Applejack said.  

Soapbox leapt off the couch.  He crawled towards his room.  The little donkey closed his door with a soft hoof.  

"There's something going on." Soapbox said to himself.  He tucked himself into bed, and the little donkey closed his eyes. "A portal to Tartarus underneath a theater.  Tirek drained of his magic.  This feels like another riddle, but it isn't a riddle, is it, Discord?" 

Discord rose from floor and snapped his talon, freezing the arcane library. "Last round, I'm afraid, so the rest is up to you, Soapbox.  Any words, Lulu?" 

"Soapbox, you must be cautious.  I fear you and the others have stumbled upon a grave plot against Equestria, yet, there's something amiss.  Even I cannot fully understand it." Princess Luna said. She sat down. "You will be tested, more than ever.  I hope that you are prepared." 

"That's, cryptic." Soapbox said. 

"As for your final riddle, your 'final' lesson, Soapbox, you must think back." Discord said.  He pointed at Soapbox, "Though some believe you lack what I once did, they are all wrong.  Remember what you have learned because all that is needed for you to succeed is --" 

"Discord?" Soapbox said.  The world shifted back to the library.  "What is he talking about?" 

Soapbox opened his eyes and gazed at the door to his room.  The little donkey rolled over, keeping one eye open. 

"Soapy, I know you're not asleep." Highlight said. She crept into her brother's room. The young mare sat beside the bed. "Are you alright? I mean are you really alright?  You don't like riding on other pony's backs after you fell off dad's when he took you to Cloudsdale that one time." 

"Right." Soapbox said in a clam, emotionless tone. He sat up. "I am fine.  I may have overdone things a bit, that is all."  

"Ok if you say so, Soapbox.  I hope you trust me.  Your big sis will always have your back."  Highlight said.  She glanced at her brother's box.  "O, hey, I mean to ask.  What did you get at Thrift's, anyways?  I saw you buy something from her." 

"You can take a look." Soapbox said.  

"Huh, that's odd.  Looks like an amulet.  Of an, alicorn? Wonder what's supposed to go here in its center." Highlight said. 

"Do you want it?" Soapbox said. 

Highlight rubbed her brother's mane, and then planted a firm kiss on his forehead. "No.  I've got so much jewelry and trinkets it could sink an airship. You'll have to show it to Twilight and Rarity when you get the chance.  Goodnight, little Soapy." 

"Goodnight," Soapbox said.  He wrapped the object back up in the white burlap.  The little donkey gazed at the ceiling. "Princess Luna. Discord.  What is going on? What did he mean by I lacked what he once lacked? Something about going back to the beginning?"
> Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As the days came and went, so did the rehearsals. Voices resonated throughout the grand theater.  Costume upon costume flew out onto the mannequins in each dressing room.  Rarity threaded her final needle and plunged it through the costume.  On the final day, the pony gave a firm nod.  She clenched her hoof and raised it toward the sky and brought it down hard.  Rarity tapped her hoof against Coco Pommel's outstretched hoof.  The two smiled at each other.  In a unison voice they said, "Finished!"  

Ponies filed into the theater, guided by Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie.  Twilight tapped a pencil against her clip board, marking off a quick checklist. 

"Still no sign of this 'thing,' Twilight." Rainbow Dash said, flying towards her friend behind the curtain.  She sat near Rarity and Coco Pommel backstage.  The pony shrugged and said, "What?" 

"Keep your voice down.  The last thing we want to do is panic the other ponies and cause problems for Soapbox's sister." Twilight said.  She pulled back the curtain and looked out towards the crowd. "Unbelievable.  This place is packed."

"O my, is everything ok?" Fluttershy said, having come behind the curtain.

Pinkie Pie bounded towards the others, soon running off stage then returning with a bag of popcorn. "Nice and hot."  

"Right.  Anyways, the truth is I promised Soapbox we keep things quiet.  This is Highlight's biggest performance yet.  If it gets ruined, I don't know what will happen." Twilight said. 

"Okie, Dokie, Lokie.  We'll keep things on the down... low." Pinkie Pie said, lowering herself to the ground, being once centimeter away from touching it.  She crept along the backstage floor. 

"Is your friend alright, Twilight?" Highlight said. She backed up as Pinkie Pie passed her. 

"That's just Pinkie being Pinkie, Highlight. Anyways, ya'll set for tonight." Applejack said. 

"I hope." Highlight said.  She gazed at the curtain.  The young mare pulled a small section aside.  Her eyes glanced at each filled seat in the house. "This isn't just about me.  It's about all of us. Tonight will be the greatest performance of our lives.  Many of us have a lot riding on the outcome." 

"Don't worry, we're all here to help." Fluttershy said. 

"Yea, leave the grunt work to us." Rainbow Dash said.  She zoomed up to the lights, adjusting each one.  The pony flew down, prepared to pull back the curtains. "Looks like the shows about ready to start."

"O, indeed.  The show is ready to start." a mare said. 

"Huh?" Highlight said. 

"Hmph, such ridiculousness, hiding amongst my dinner." the mare said.  She plowed into the group of ponies, knocking them down the trap door. "I was worried when you destroyed the portal, but the deed had already been done." 

"Soapbox!" Highlight said.  The young mare slammed into the pony that stood in front of her. She lunged towards her brother, undoing the bindings. "Who in Equestria do you think you are?" 

"Who am I, you ask, my pretty young thing." The mare said, creeping forward.  A flash of green light enveloped her. "Do you recognize me now?" 

"Chrysalis," Twilight, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie said in unison. 

The six ponies stood their ground while Highlight glared at Queen Chrysalis. 

"What game are you up to now.  Why kidnap Soapbox?" Twilight said. 

"That pathetic little donkey almost ruined my plan. I had never imagined a creature such as Tirek existed." Queen Chrysalis said.  A small bump appeared in front of her horn.  The bump shot forth into a point, the Queen of Changelings now sporting a second horn. "Just think of it.  There's world of possibilities with his magic intertwined with my own power."

"Uhh, Twi, what's goin on?" Applejack said. 

The green glow from the empowered creature illuminated the stone walls.  She crept forward on steady strong hooves.  Her once translucent wings began to resonate in several colors. 

"She didn't," Twilight said.  The pony gazed at the transformed ruler. "But why absorb his power? What could would is serve you?" 

"Twilight," Soapbox coughed, "watch out.  She'll try to drain your emotions." 

"Love is just one point, one ray of color in the spectrum of emotions.  Anger. Kindness.  Fear.  It's beyond what I could desire, and those poor, unknowing, gullible foals in the audience will be my main course once I'm done with all of you.  You'll be withered up husks." Chrysalis said.  She charged forward.  The creature illuminated her horn. "I'll drain you all dry." 

The ponies galloped toward the staircase.  Each of them came to a halt.  They sped towards the corners of the storage area. 

"Soapbox, are you in here? Soapbox?" A voice said. 

"Where are you, Soapbox? Highlight." another voice said. 

"No." Highlight said, biting down on her lip. In a quivering tone she said. "Mom and dad have backstage passes."  

"More appetizers.  How delightful." Chrysalis said.  She licked her fangs.  The creature shifted into the little donkey's form and said, "Down here, mom. Down here, dad." 

Sky Flare and Bright Spark descended the stair case.  

"What's going on?" Bright Spark said.  She gazed at the area, "Soapbox?" 

"Mom, these mean ponies are trying to hurt me. Please stop them." Chrysalis said, disguised as Soapbox.  

"Shh, it's ok.  Mom is here." Bright Spark said.  She illuminated her horn.  A donkey sized hole formed in the stage. "Really.  Do you know how hard it is to fool a mother?" 

"She's all yours, honey." Sky Flare said, ascending the steps to the stage with the others.  

"I've fed upon the cast of your daughter's play. What makes you believe that a mere unicorn can take me?!" Chrysalis said.  She floated to the stage, having returned to her new form. "You won't defy me." 

"Chrysalis, do you know how I earned my Cutie Mark?" Bright Spark said in a calm manner, her horn starting to glow.  

"What does that matter?" Chrysalis said. 

"Unlike other unicorns, I wasn't very good at magic. I stunk.  That is until I started to study.  One book illuminated my world.  I got the 'bright' idea to try a spell.  The amniomorphic spell." Bright Spark said.  She frowned and illuminated her horn.  A puff of smoke surrounded the mare.  She snarled.  The unicorn flashed a wicked set of teeth.  Her claw lunged forward, gripping the creature in front of her.  With a snarl she said, "What did you do to my son.  To my daughter.  To their friends?!"

Chrysalis laughed as green flames surrounded her. She stood at eye level with the transformed mare. "How charming, a mother defending her child.  It's almost cliché, worthy of this worthless theater. That emotion of yours will be your undoing.  I don't need to 'charm' my meals with coos and calls anymore.  I'll just take what I want." 

The two dragons clashed with each other.  

"Soapbox, you best stick close.  When your mother is like this, she's one hard mare to deal with." Sky Flare said, sitting down.  He glanced towards Pinkie Pie, "Hey, I remember you.  You're the one who throws parties, right.  Can you get us some popcorn?" 

"Aren't you concerned about your wife?" Fluttershy said. 

"Nope." Sky Flare said.  He thanked Pinkie Pie for the popcorn.  He gazed at the action. "That mare is a force to be reckoned with when she's mad.  It's best to stay out of her way."

"You're beyond cold. We gotta help her." Rainbow Dash said. 

"I wouldn't, Rainbow Dash." Sky Flare said. He held out his hoof. "Besides, we best prepare for the next course of action.  What if those curtains go down? The audience came for a play of the century, and we need to reassure them what they see on stage is all part of the act. If Queen Chrysalis indeed feeds off emotions and her attention isn't focused on my wife, we will be in bigger trouble." 

"Is that true?" Fluttershy said. 

Twilight shrugged. 

"Hey, now that you mention it, why didn't Chrysalis try to feed off of us down there?" Pinkie Pie said. 

"Pinkie Pie, you're right." Twilight said. 

Pinkie Pie scratched her head. She shrugged. "I am right. I think? Uhh, I am right, right?  I'm right for being right, and it's alright to be right." 

"Yes.  Look. Chrysalis didn't feed on us because she's not used to her power.  She needs to focus." Twilight said.  The pony stood close to Sky Flare and said, "Not to mention, she is acting odd. Chrysalis is way more arrogant than usual."

Sky Flare nodded.  

As the two dragons battled each other, the curtain began to tear. 

"Soapbox, do not get any ideas.  You will not engage the target, do you understand me." Sky Flare said.  He placed a hoof over his mouth after Bright Spark glared at him.  The stallion waved a hoof at his wife after giving a sheepish grin.  "Listen, Soapbox.  Your mother has this under her control.  She will be fine." 

"No, she doesn't.  You taught me to look, listen, and focus.  Don't you see what's happening to mom?" Soapbox said, his body shivering.  The little donkey pointed towards his mother, "She's putting in more magic than she typically does with that spell.  It'll overwhelm her." 

"How can you tell, Soapbox? Can you see her magic?" Sky Flare said.

Soapbox looked away.  The little donkey remained silent. 

"I see.  Well, luck favors the prepared." Sky Flare said.  He pointed towards Rainbow Dash. "  Ok, assume your places.  It's time to give the audience a show of a lifetime, so," Rainbow Dash unfurled the curtain, "behold, the greatest show in Equestria!" 

"What in tarnation are ya doin?" Applejack said. 

"Where do you think Highlight got her theatrics from?" Sky Flare said, ending with a coy smile.  He nudged Highlight. "Psst, give em the performance of your life.  Just tell the story as it unfolds and leave no dry eye in the house." 

"Right, dad." Highlight said. 

Bright Spark lunged forward.  She lunged again and again.  The transformed unicorn traded blows with her adversary.  Fire boiled over from her mouth.  Bright Spark stepped back.  Her eyes focused.  She let loose with a torrent of fire, Chrysalis doing the same in turn with green and blue flames colliding.  The two streams molded into a sphere of fire, and exploded in a shower of sparks, eliciting several "ooo's" and "aww's" from the crowd.  

"Twilight, can you and the others summon up the elements of harmony?" Sky Flare said.  He glanced at his wife's head, midsection, and her legs.  "This isn't good.  I underestimated the power that creature now possess, and my wife can't hold her own for long." 

"Take off my box and throw me at Chrysalis when mom runs out of energy in the next thirty seconds." Soapbox said. The little donkey moved forward.  He looked towards the group in front of him. "It's the only way." 

"I refuse to put you in harm's way!" Twilight said.  

"Do we have a choice?" Soapbox said.  He stepped forward and said, "Isn't friendship about trust?" 

A loud thud resonated throughout the theater.  Bright Spark reverted to her unicorn form.  Her heavy, exasperated gasps for air resonated throughout the theater.  The crowd leaned in.  A green, spectral stream of magic left the mare.  Several ponies in the crowd gossiped amongst each other.  

"Soapbox, no matter what I say, do. Not forget. To. Remember.  I love you, son." Bright Spark said.  Her body turned grey.  The unicorn went still. 

Sky Flare nodded to the ponies behind them. "My turn." 

"And what do you, a pitiful pegasus stallion, think he can do against me.  You going to fly away?" Chrysalis laughed.  She stood back, a bolt of lightning vaporizing a desk behind the creature. "What?!" 

"Science and magic are both wonderful things.  I didn't take an interest in either till Soapbox came home with some books." Sky Flare said.  He faced Chrysalis, "Did you know it's possible to generate static electricity by utilizing some simple techniques.  Though it's a weak form of lightning, you can add a little pegasus 'magic' to it and 'zap,' instant lightning bolt." 

Sky Flare rose into the air alongside Chrysalis. Stallion and Changeling Queen traded blows with each other.  Powerful blasts of pseudo-lightning flew through the air.  

"You need glasses!" Chrysalis said.  She dodged left, and then right.  The creature powered forward. "What do you mean, 'tag?'" 

Chrysalis let out an ethereal wail.  She fell to the floor.  The creature snarled.  Her fangs gleaming in the spotlights, she stood up. 

"Imagine it.  A touch of science with a dab of magic, and you can do some impressive things. Ball Lightning included.  It makes for one Tartarus of a punch." Sky Flare said.  He swished his tail.  "A lightning rod is quite nice, but a magical one, even of pegasi magic, is quite unique." 

Twilight moved towards Soapbox, "Your dad wasn't normally this talkative." 

"He's stalling.  Those tail swishes are --" Soapbox said. 

"Code.  The Wonderbolts use them to communicate.  He's stalling for us to get the elements." Rainbow Dash said.  She gritted her teeth. "What do we do? They're back in Ponyville.  Can you make it in time, Twilight?" 

"I don't know if I can make it.  No!" Twilight said.  She held Soapbox back, Sky Flare falling to the ground.  

"Disgusting stallion.  It'll take a good, long soak to remove these marks." Chrysalis said. 

Sky Flare smirked at his son.  He said, "What your mom said, it kinda goes for me too, son. Your sister has your back." 

Chrysalis licked her lips.  She stopped.  Her eyes grew soft as she gazed at Soapbox. "It's ok little one.  I'll protect you and keep you safe.  That's a promise from Chrysalis -- wait.  Where did that come from? No matter." 

"You monster!" Highlight said.  She darted toward the nourished creature.  The young mare let loose with a flurry of attacks, sweeping Chrysalis off her hooves. "Quick, get the elements and hurry.  I can't hold her for long." 

"Such strength.  Such resolution.  Such foalishness.  Such impudence!" Chrysalis said.  She struggled. "What?!" 

"I'm stronger than I look." Highlight said. She leaned in and said, "Try dragging a boulder almost the size of house behind you for a warm-up." 

"Enough.  I will not be denied my right." Chrysalis shouted, her voice resonating throughout the theater.  Her horn glowing in a fierce light, the creature let loose with a powerful blast. She latched onto Highlight.  The empowered Changeling Queen threw her opponent to the stage below. "Durable too." 

"You got that right," Highlight said.  She jumped up. 

"You can fly?" Chrysalis said. 

"No. I can jump, good." Highlight said, her back left hoof meeting her opponent's body.  She landed on the stage. "Twilight.  Get Soapbox out of here, please.  Protect him." 

Chrysalis rose from the ground.  Her wings buzzed.  The creature's eyes glowed in a vicious green light.  She snarled, the creature landing on the stage floor.  

Twilight looked at Highlight.  She illuminated her horn, pulling Soapbox back. 

"You are mine." Chrysalis said.  She stood up.  The stream of green, ethereal, emotional power left Highlight, along with the young mare's color.  "Delicious." 

"Mom.  Dad. Sis.  No..." Soapbox said.  He hooves pressed against the sides of his head.  The little donkey's vision glanced at each collapsed pony. "Not, not again.  It can't happen again. Please.  Somepony help." 

"It'll be alright Soapbox.  Just stand back and -- what are you doing!" Twilight said. 

The box on the little donkey's back rocketed through the air.  

The Changeling Queen winced.  She spit out a small piece of wood. "That. Will. Cost you. Dearly." 

"I-It already cost me my family.  Twilight, please.  Go with the others and get the elements of harmony." Soapbox said. He crept forward.  His hooves shook.  The little donkey glared at creature that towered above him. "Give them back.  Give me back my family." 

"Hmm, no." Chrysalis said.  She blasted Soapbox, and then laughed. "Unbelievable. Such power." 

"Ow," Soapbox said, struggling to stand.  He gazed at his mother, his father, and his big sister.  His eyes began to water. "Not again.  Please.  I can't lose them again." 

Chrysalis floated towards Soapbox.  She crept forward. "Shh.  Let momma Chrysalis help you out." 

The thin green stream of ethereal, emotionally charged magic left Soapbox.  

Soapbox jumped to his hooves.  He rammed into the Changeling Queen's midsection.  In a confident voice he said, "Let it rot you to the core." 

"You brat.  W-What are you.  Talking about?" Chrysalis said.  She collapsed.  The Changeling Queen looked at her glowing horn, shivered, and curled up into a ball. "What's happening to me?" 

"Twilight, I do apologize, but could you and the others please go get the elements while the enemy is down." Soapbox said, maintaining his confident tone. He looked at the shivering Chrysalis, "I estimate you having two minutes." 

"Umm, ok." Twilight said.  

Rainbow Dash poked Chrysalis with a nearby stick.  She leaned in, and then jumped back. 

"My word Soapbox, what did you do to her?" Rarity said. 

Soapbox sat down and smiled at Rarity. "Ever eat something that didn't agree with you?" 

"Oooo, I get it.  There's this one time I made a cotton candy sandwich.  Phew, I'll tell you that's the last time I ever make that recipe." Pinkie Pie said, pointing towards her open mouth. 

"Yes." Soapbox said, raising an eyebrow.  A single tear crawled down his cheek. "I hope you can reverse the damage to my mother, father, and my big sister... and me." 

Two bright flashes of light consumed the area. Twilight opened the box containing the elements.  She and her friends rose into the air, a powerful beam of light rocketed forward. The second horn on the Changeling Queen's forehead reduced in size, but it still remained. 

"There, it's done." Twilight said, descending to the ground.  She looked at Chrysalis. "I doubt she'll ever be the same." 

Soapbox looked towards Twilight.  He sighed and shook his head. 

"Soapbox, what's wrong?" Highlight said. 

"Now I feel like the villain." Soapbox said. The little donkey looked at Twilight. He smiled. 

Pinkie Pie backed up. "That's not a real smile." 

"I know." Soapbox said.  He hung his head. "If we all seek revenge, going blow for blow, the world will be left with no-pony to inhabit it." 

"Hey, don't say stuff like that, kid. Chrysalis got what she deserved." Rainbow Dash said. 

"No, misses Dash," Soapbox shook his head then gazed at Rainbow, "she didn't deserve that fear.  It's a horrible malady.  I see that now.  Besides. The truth, the truth is I kinda don't like myself right now." 

"Y-You won't, won't get away with... this." Chrysalis said, shivering.  She remained curled up into a ball.  The Changeling Queen struggled to illuminate her horn. "Why won't it stop?" 

"The fear will consume you, and, I am sorry. It almost consumed me." Soapbox said.  He looked at his reflection in the Changeling Queen's eyes.  "By letting her consume my fear, stopping her short of taking all my emotions, it feels like I took the easy way out.  If I had made the smallest effort to take some friendship into my life when I had the chance, this wouldn't have happened.  Wait, go back to the beginning... that sly chaotic god. Twilight, do you mind getting that piece of burlap from my room with the item in it." 

"Ok..." Twilight said.  She disappeared, and then returned. The pony unfurled it, "The alicorn amulet.  Wait, why is it missing a gem." 

Soapbox looked at the amulet. "Friendship. That's the final answer, isn't it. Discord." 

Several loud claps resonated throughout the theater. The ponies in the audience turned. They watched a pony stand up, and then hop onto the stage.  Several hushed whispers came from the seats in front of the grand stage.

"Discord?" Fluttershy said. 

"Hello Fluttershy, so good to see you." Discord said.  He transformed.  The misshapen, chaotic god looked at the others. "What? No warm welcome for your friend?" 

"You could have stopped this!" Twilight said, her left eye twitching. 

"Now Twilight, what if Princess Celestia had intervened during Nightmare Moon? Would you have learned anything?" Discord said. He grumbled at Sky Flare. "Though, if I had to say anything, it appears I didn't fool every pony up here.  Ateast you didn't spoil the surprise." 

Sky Flare nodded to Discord. 

"Honey," Bright Spark said, creeping towards her husband.  She maintained an eerie, creepy smile. "Please explain.  I'll give you one minute before I give you a thirty second head-start." 

"Umm, heh, heh, ehh." Sky Flare said.  He backed up.

"You knew Discord was in the audience, but you didn't tell us?" Highlight said. 

"After the little display against Chrysalis, those Sparks should have harmed the crowd.  Instead, they behaved more like harmless fireworks and faded away.  There had to be a powerful entity in the theater, and, it seemed one pony stood out from the group in the theater, so, I played along." Sky Flare said.  He gave a sheepish grin towards the others. "The whole bit about lightning was kind of a farce.  I took a leap of faith that the entity would help by providing a bit of magic when I called out.  Though it's true static electricity can be coupled with pegasi magic, I can't do it to the extent I made it out to be during the act."  

Discord smirked.  He bowed to the crowd then restored the damage to the stage.  The misshapen creature said, "Deus Ex Machina. It's such a horrible thing in a play. It can set right once went wrong with a flick of the wrist, a snap of the claw, or a tap of the hoof, but, if used poorly, it can be quite overused.  Where's the fun in life if it can all be solved so simply." 

"And?" Soapbox said. 

"Yes, well, you are correct.  The final riddle is indeed, Friendship." Discord said. He huffed. "I'd say you cheated, but that's not possible." 

Soapbox groaned.  He fell to the ground.  The little donkey reached towards his forehead. 

"A gem?" Rarity said.  

The amulet flew towards the gem, the two swirling in the air.  Gem and amulet combined as an ethereal light gathered around them.  Four appendages shot forth, and then a tail. 

"A pony? She was locked inside your head?" Twilight said. 

"Ok, this makes no sense." Rainbow Dash said. 

"Well, what fun is there in making sense." Fluttershy said, receiving a quick hoof-bump from Discord.  She looked at her friends. "What? We've seen some pretty unbelievable things." 

"Touché, dear." Rarity said. 

"If I may speak?" The ethereal pony said. She bowed to Soapbox. "Young Soapbox.  Though I have passed, many once called me the granter of wishes.  Within you was the tome of Princess Che Desiderano Stella, the wishing princess.  It was hoped that one last wish could be granted, and you are indeed worthy." 

Soapbox looked at those around him. "What do I wish for?" 

"Nothing is out of your grasp or heart's desire. You can be turned into a unicorn, an earth pony, a pegasus, an alicorn, a mare or stallion, made ruler of Equestria, or whatever your heart's desire.  However, you must make your wish carefully.  You will be granted only one." The ethereal pony said.  She sat down, gazing at the theater. "There is no time limit either.  You may make your wish when you like." 

"Anything I desire." Soapbox said. 

"It's your choice, 'Soapy.'" Highlight said.  

Soapbox turned towards Chrysalis.  He sighed, and then looked at the wishing princess.  

"Hmm?" The ethereal pony said, her tail being tugged on.

"Once I make my wish, will you disappear?" Soapbox said. 

"You are so kind." The ethereal pony said. As she stood up,  being as tall as Princess Celestia and towering over Soapbox, the pony nodded.  "It is true.  Once you make your wish, the power that has been stored will vanish.  Also, I'm sad to say the library you enjoyed so much will disappear as well." 

"Can't we do anything?" Applejack said. She took her hat off. "This ain't right.  I know she seems all ghostlike, but she's a pony.  It ain't right ta trade her away like an apple or a cart." 

"Discord, can't you do something?" Fluttershy said. 

"I am sorry, Fluttershy, but this is the one time I cannot do anything.  It isn't within my power." Discord said.  He turned toward Soapbox, "But, the power does exist within him. I wanted to see what you would do with such a power, Soapbox.  The choice is yours." 

The audience leaned in.  Several ponies chatted with one another.  In the balcony, two elderly stallions chuckled at each other before turning towards the stage.  

Soapbox glanced at Chrysalis for a final time. He meandered toward the back.  The little tan donkey returned with a box on his back. In a firm tone he said, "I wish you would grant the wish that I am wishing for in my heart." 

The wishing princess slammed her front hooves together.  In a cheery voice she said, "Wish. Granted!"  

A powerful sphere of light enveloped the room.  As the light dimmed, an orange, ethereal stream of magic launched into the sky, vanishing into thin air.  The wishing princess faded into nothingness. 

"It's gone." Chrysalis said.  She stood up and rubbed her head. "I poured every ounce of magic into that spell to steal Tirek's power, to shield it from your elements." 

Soapbox glanced at the Changeling Queen with a melancholic, expressionless gaze. 

Chrysalis took two steps back.  She shivered for a second, groaned, and then turned away. "Forget it.  You're not worth it, Soapbox.  Mark my words though, Twilight Sparkle, you and your friends will be dealt with at a later time." 

As the queen of changelings vanished, the others stood beside Soapbox.  The little donkey quivered.  His withers twitched.  He retreated into his box. 

"O, 'Soapy.'" Highlight said. 

Cheers of applause erupted from the audience, and then died down.  One-by-one, the performers on the stage took their bow, Soapbox remaining hidden.  Seats emptied as ponies filed out of the theater. Highlight let out an exhausted sigh, along with her mother and father.   

"Thank you, Soapbox." a voice said.  Fine ethereal particles landed on top of the little donkey's box. "Thank you." 

"You did your best, sweetie.  That's all that matters." Bright Spark said.  

Sky Flare smirked.  He tapped on the small box, forcing Soapbox out. "Clever, son. Quite Clever.  You made three wishes with one wish.  That's impressive." 

"How?  She could only grant one... o, I get it." Twilight said.  The pony giggled to herself. "I never would have thought about it that way.  Unbelievable." 

"Well.  If you don't mind, I could go for a slice of pizza.  My treat." Rarity said.  The ponies laughed, smiled, and giggled at one another.  She waved her hoof, "If you promise to behave, you can come along too, Discord." 

Inside the restaurant, the group and their chaotic god guest laughed at one another.  Mr. Calzone tossed several pizzas into the air before he threw them into the oven.  

"Soapbox, I've been meaning to ask.  What's the D in your name stand for?" Twilight said. 

Soapbox pulled the box down over his head. 

"Soapbox Doctrine Spark, be nice." Bright Spark said. 

"Mom..." Soapbox said.
> Epilogue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The days of summer passed in the blink of an eye for Equestria.  Chilled winds blew against the trees of Ponyville.  The fillies and colts that once galloped, trotted, and walked the streets returned to the Ponyville school house. Each of them shared their stories of their exploits with one another as Ms. Cheerilee called class into session.

Clock hands moved at a slow pace.  Each filly and colt moaned and groaned.  Some laid their heads down before sitting back up.  The school bell rang.  The young ponies filed out of the classroom.  

A lone little donkey remained at his desk.  He finished his work, and then leapt off his seat. His box on his back, Soapbox meandered outside.  

"Twilight?" Soapbox said.  He tiled his head. "Is there a problem?" 

Twilight gave a quick grin to the little donkey in front of her.  She illuminated her horn.  

"Canterlot?" Soapbox said. He looked up, "I don't understand." 

"I'd like you to meet my mentor, Princess Celestia." Twilight said.  She smiled. "Sorry this took so long, but I wanted to talk things over.  Bright Spark.  Sky Flare.  Highlight." 

"What's going on?" Soapbox said.  

Bright Spark, Sky Flare, Highlight, and Princess Luna and came into the small room.  The group sat down at the table.

"Soapbox Doctrine Spark," Princess Celestia said in a clam voice, "it's a pleasure to meet you.  My protégé has told me quite a lot about you." 

The little donkey maintained his melancholic expression. He retreated into his box.  

Princess Celestia raised an eyebrow, "Is he alright?" 

"Soapbox," Bright Spark said.  She tapped on the box.  She tapped on it again. "Soapbox Doctrine Spark, that's not nice. You're being awarded for your help in defeating Queen Chrysalis." 

"..."

A slight tap came to the box.  Soapbox peaked out. 

"It's alright, Soapbox.  No pony is mad at you." Twilight said.  She smiled at the little donkey. "Actually, if it weren't for your efforts, Queen Chrysalis may have retained Tirek's power and used it to threaten Equestria if she gained full control over it." 

"I'm so sorry about this, Princess Celestia. Soapbox is just being difficult." Highlight said.  

Princess Celestia snickered to herself.  She laid on the ground. "It's alright. Whatever makes him comfortable.  O my, he's precious." 

Soapbox looked at his family, and then towards Twilight.  He removed his box.  

"He's quite skittish, but young Soapbox is also rather brilliant." Princess Luna said to her sister. 

"I apologize for my behavior, Princess Celestia." Soapbox said, giving a polite bow.  He looked at Princess Celestia. "I didn't mean to offend you." 

"Formalities, formalities," Princess Celestia waved her hoof.  She stood up. The mare moved towards a couch and sat down.  "Here, why not join me." 

"T-Thank you for the offer." Soapbox said, dragging his box over.  He sat next to the princess. "I'm a little confused.  What is this about, exactly?" 

The small roomed remained quiet, until Bright Spark blew her nose.  Sky Flare smiled towards Soapbox.  

"Soapbox, I would like to commend your efforts. You used your talents to assist my protégé and her friends in defeating Queen Chrysalis, ensuring the safety of Equestria." Princess Celestia said.  She looked to her side. "You skipped out on the awards ceremony, deciding to remain at school.  Also, before I forget Blitzkrieg, or should I say Sky Flare, you accepted your award, correct." 

"Y-Yes,  Princess Celestia.  I thank you for the accommodation." Sky Flare said.  

"No documents this time, I assume." Princess Celestia said. 

"Correct." Sky Flare said. 

Soapbox tilted his head.  He looked at his family. "I know I turned down the award ceremony, but, what is 'this' about? I apologize if I'm being rude." 

Princess Luna stepped forward. "As said, you are being recognized for your efforts, and, we have a little surprise for you.  Well, an additional surprise since it seems the library in your dreams is still intact, along with the wishing star princess." 

"You see Soapbox, I'd like to send you to a special school.  Rather, a special university." Princess Celestia said.  She smiled at her protégé. "Twilight had a wonderful aptitude towards magic, and, with proper guidance, she's blossomed.  All it takes is the right key to open the door to a world of possibilities, so, as a result, I'm giving you a full recommendation to the Equestrian University of Research and Advanced Studies."

"The EURAS?" Soapbox said.  A small scroll landed onto his outstretched hooves. "I don't know if I deserve this reward.  I mean, my sister, my mom and dad, the others, they helped protect Equestria.  I just --" 

"Soapbox, it's alright." Bright Spark said. She sat beside her son. "We all have our gifts, including you.  We won't force you to go if you don't feel it's right.  At the same time, this is a wonderful opportunity.  Besides, it's not like you'll be living in Canterlot.  I'll bring you to the university on my way to work, and then bring you home when I'm done." 

"And the other students in Ponyville." Soapbox said.  He looked at the scroll. "Feels like I'm being made out to be better than every pony else.  That's why it doesn't feel right, I guess." 

"Listen, Soapbox.  You gotta do what is right for you." Sky Flare said.  In a firm tone he stated, "I've actually got a friend at EURAS named Scarlet Rose.  Between you and me, she stunk.  She could fly between Canterlot and Ponyville, and that's it.  Rose can't do anything special, however, she is one intelligent mare who knows her way around a botany lab.  I kinda called in a favor to her and her husband, Genepool." 

"What do you say, sis?" Soapbox said. 

"I gotta admit, I'm kinda jealous there, 'Soapy.'" Highlight said.  She looked rubbed her brother's mane. "But I'm also proud of you, little bro. This is your chance to shine and take center stage."   

"May I think it over." Soapbox said. 

"Of course, there's no need to worry, young Soapbox.  There is no rush." Princess Celestia said.  She sipped on a small cup of tea. The princess leaned in and whispered, "Besides, between you and me, I think this is better fit for you than some dusty old medal."

Soapbox looked at the scroll in his hooves.  He leaned forward, giving the scroll to his mother.  The little donkey looked at Princess Celestia.  His hooves wrapped around her front left hoof.  Princess Celestia extended her wing. 

"You're welcome, young Soapbox.  I'm so sorry you endured such a trying time." Princess Celestia said.  She gave a firm nod and retracted her wing. "Within that scroll is a promise to guarantee you entry into EURAS, alongside a full scholarship. However, I do want to give you a word of caution." 

Soapbox wiped away a small tear.  He looked toward Princess Celestia. "Yes, Princess Celestia.  I understand it will be difficult, far more difficult than my studies in Ponyville in Ms. Cheerilee's class." 

"Indeed." Princess Celestia said.  She stood up. "Thank you for coming.  If you'll pardon me, I must attend to some business." 

"Princess Luna, I did have a question." Soapbox said.  

"Hmm?" Princess Luna said. 

"That kiss on my forehead, back in my dream. Did that contribute to my ability to see the auras around others?" Soapbox said.  

Princess Luna smirked.  With a coy smile and a calm voice she said, "Quite the cheeky little one, and, I do not know."

"Thank you, Princess Luna." Soapbox said. 

"I'll be keeping an eye on your dreams from now on, like all the other subjects of Equestria.  That is a promise I will keep." Princess Luna said.  

Twilight waved towards Soapbox.  The little donkey nodded in return, and then reached for his box.  He looked at his hoof, clenched it, and then he relaxed his hoof.  Soapbox placed a firm hoof on the floor. 

"Soapbox?" Bright Spark and Sky Flare said. 

"Soapy?  You ok?" Highlight said.

"Mom. Dad. Sis. I'm ready to go home." Soapbox said.  He gave a small, gentle smile. "Thanks for being there for me."  

Bright Spark placed a soft hoof on Soapbox's back.  Highlight and Sky Flare stood near Soapbox.  A bright flash of light illuminated the room.  

Inside the royal room of Canterlot Castle, a lone box remained near the couch where Soapbox sat next to Princess Celestia.