There's an ancient sword that has been recently discovered in a distant land, and is known as the most powerful object in all of Equestria. But what if it got into the wrong hooves?
There's an ancient sword that has been recently discovered in a distant land theorized to be the birthplace of the first alicorns. Whoever wields this sword is granted extraordianry power if they know the magic of friendship and how to use it. But if it were to fall into the wrong hooves, it could either end in their demise or reform them.
Many moons ago, there was a sword hidden somewhere in the Royal Mountains, where the first alicorns made their home. Now that alicorns have moved to more recognizable places in Equestria, such as Canterlot (Princess Celestia and Luna), Ponyville (Twilight Sparkle, Luster Dawn, Starlight Glimmer, and Sunset Shimmer), and The Crystal Empire (Princess Cadence and Flurry Heart), these mountains have become what one would call abandoned. That is, except for very few alicorns. And those were the alicorns that first resided there since the beginning.
You may be wondering. The first documentation of alicorns in the Royal Mountians as every Equestrian History book will tell you, are King Cosmos and Queen Galaxia, who reigned the lands before Equestira was even founded. It wasn't until years later after the Royal Sisters were born that Clover the Clever, Princess Platinum, Commander Hurricane, Private Pansy, Chancellor Puddinghead, and Smart Cookie came into the equation and named the land Equestria.
Once upon a time, ponies lived united amongst each other in the other lands except for the Royal Mountains, which was strictly the land of the ponies who possessed a unicorn horn, pegasus wings, and earth pony power. Thus known as alicorns to this day.
But at the time of this story, there was a king and queen who had a lovely daughter named Princess Sugarmoon. And that's where our story begins.
Several years earlier, Canterlot Castle, 12:00 A.M.
Twilight was in Princess Celestia's study, looking through all of the books on the bookshelf just like she had multiple times before. That was when Princess Celestia trotted in and saw the young pony with her muzzle buried in what seemed like a million books.
"It's awful late, my faithful student," Princess Celestia said. "A pony your age shouldn't be up this late. You should get some sleep."
Twilight looked up at Princess Celestia with bags under her eyes and bags under those bags. There was no doubt the young pony was tired, but she just couldn't stop studying. That was how it was with Twilight. She was the studious type --- so much that she didn't know when to stop.
Princess Celestia used her magic to pick up the books and put them back on the bookshelf. Twilight used her magic to try and pull them back, but she was no match for Princess Celestia. She knew that Princess Celestia cared for her like a mother more than a teacher-student relationship and she could see it in the way that she wanted Twilight to get some rest.
"Come on, Twilight," Princess Celestia said with a chuckle. "You helped make the mess. You're as much responsible as I am."
"I wanna study more," Twilight said.
"That's what I'm afraid of, Twilight," Princess Celestia said, putting a reassuring hoof on Twilight's chin. "You're studying way too much even for the average pony. Yes, you're the smartest pony I've met because of it, but you know that too much can cause burnout. That's why I'd like to send you to Ponyville to make friends."
Twilight chuckled. It soon turned into a scoff. "Come on, Princess. You know I have no time for friends," she says. "There's always so much to research --- so much to learn!"
"I have an idea," Princess Celestia said. "And I advise you listen close, my faithful student."
Twilight leans close.
"You can learn so much about friendship. More than you ever could with those dusty old books," Princess Celestia said. "That's a lot coming from me, but trust me, my faithful student, it's worth it." She smiled, kissing Twilight goodnight after placing her in bed. "Tomorrow when you leave for Ponyville, I shall tell you more. Goodnight, my faithful, student."
Princess Celestia trotted to her and Luna's bedroom, and plopped on the bed. She instantly fell asleep as Luna was just rising to start the night shift.
The next morning, 11:00 A.M.
"Rise and shine, my faithful student!" Princess Celestia said. "Oh my, is it that time already? I'm surprised, Twilight. You're generally a really early riser like me." She chuckled. "Looks like we both got our well-deserved rest, eh, Twilight?"
Twilight smiled, grabbing Spike out of his small dragon bed. "Yeah. We were both up really late last night, so it's to be expected," Twilight said.
"Were you in the study again, Twilight?" Spike asked.
Twilight nodded.
"Dammit, Twilight! You know staying up that late isn't good for you!" Spike cried.
"My bad," Twilight said. She turned to Princess Celestia. "So we're starting out to Ponyville now, aren't we?" She inhaled very deeply, then exhaled the same exact way. "It won't be that bad, Spike. Just make one friend and then we're done. Right, Princess?"
"Oh, it's a lot more than that," Princess Celestia said. "Make friends with everypony you meet if possible. Then, you will realize that there are such things as friendship lessons. Whenever you learn something valuable about friendship, I would like you to report to me by sending me letters."
"Will do, Princess," Twilight said.
Years later, Castle of Friendship
Twilight searched her bookshelf. "I know it's here somewhere, Spike," she said.
"If this is about a legend pertaining to the Elements of Harmony and the Magic of Friendship, then you shouldn't worry yourself too much," Spike said.
"You're right, Spike," Twilight said. She put everything down just to continue searching a couple seconds later.
Spike facepalmed. "Oh, Twilight. If Princess Celestia could see the pony she transformed into the Princess of Friendship now. Sometimes the apple doesn't fall far from the past."
"Oh, Spike!" Twilight said with a chuckle. "It's 'the apple doesn't fall far from the tree'". And the context is totally off. You're confusing the expression. 'The apple doens't fall far from the tree' refers to ponies who show abilities similar to their parents. Princess Celestia is not my mom, Spike. You and I both know that. She's my teacher. Sure, there's been times she's treated me like her own daughter, but that still doesn't make it right."
"Yeah, whatever," Spike said. "Keep looking, I guess. I'll be in the other room doing what needs to be done on my long Princess Assistant List."
"OK. You do that," Twilight said.
Then she saw it. It had a shiny cover despite being so old. It was also nothing like Twilight had ever seen.
"Spike!" Twilight called.
Spike came running in. "What is it, Twilight?" He saw the excited look on Twilight's face. That grin only meant one thing. At that moment, relief came over Spike. "Oh my Celestia! You shouldn't ahve startled me like that."
"Sorry, Spike. But I think I've discovered soething! Something truly extraordinary!" Twilgiht cried, using her magic to set the old book on the table.
Twilight's Discovery Lyrics
Twilight: You wouldn't believe it Not a rip, not a tear Looks like it's been Handled with care
I've gotta see What's in it What wonders of knowledge Awaits me Show me what I long to see!
You see, Spike This is a special book I've never seen it before So it doesn't hurt to explore
Just one look And you're hooked I can't believe my eyes
So there's a legend Could it be true? Spike, could it be true?
Spike (spoken): I have no idea what you're getting yourself into, Twilight.
(looks at the picture of the sword)
(sung): Whoa, is that real? Look at it Probably made of real steel
Twilight: So much it can reveal The Sword of Friendship So that's what it's called What can it do? How can I experience that shit too?
The Princess of Friendship Comes with its perks But there's nothing like A longing to research and learn That hurts
Is it just a legend? That I long to find out someday But you're right, Spike Today's not that day
I'll leave it alone I'll leave my desires astray And try to focus on today!
But maybe someday Somepony will find it And congrats to them If they do
Because I know That I might never Get to it before they do
Is it too good To be true?
A legend in disguise A picture that's shrouded in lies
I knew I couldn't believe my eyes
Twilight put the book back on the shelf. "That's enough for now, Spike," she said. "As cool as it is, it's only a legend. I can't let those things get to my head."
Spike ran up to Twilight. "So what are you going to do now?" he asked.
"What else is there to do?" Twilight said. "Call up my friends unless there's some sort of Princess-y work that needs my attention." She laid back. "All this for being the Princess of Friendship and I never get a day of relaxation like I used to."
"Hey, don't work yourself too hard, Twilight! You've got me, remember?" Spike said. "And I finished half of the list already!"
"Spike, do you know what this means? Half of the list is nothing because there's still the other half to do!" Twilight panicked. "You know how I am when unfinished business is, well, unfinished."
The dragon raised an eyebrow. "When you were Princess Celestia's student, she always told you to take breaks. She'd always tell you like I am now that it isn't healthy for you to stress so much."
"Then what else am I supposed to do, Spike?" Twilight cried.
"Don't ask me. It's your work," Spike said. "But I'd say go to the spa with Rarity for the day."
"This better not be because of the crush you used to have on her," Twilight said.
"No, no. I'm totally over her," Spike said. "Sure she's beautiful as hell, but she's not the pony for me. Applejack is more my type."
Twilight smiled at her little assistant. "You know what, Spike? You're right. I'll go over to the Carousel Boutique right now and see if Rarity's busy! If not, we can go to the spa and have a chill day! How's that sound?"
"I just said that," Spike said.
"Great," Twilight said, running off.
"Twilight, wait!" Spike cried.
But she was already gone before she could hear Spike.
"Oh, nothing at all!" Twilight said with a nervous smile. "Sorry to bother you! Uh, are you busy?"
"No," Rarity said.
"Great!" Twilight exclaimed. "Because Spike totally didn't suggest that I take a break because I'm totally not stressed about all the work that comes with being a princess and all."
"So, you're meaning to tell me that you'd like to take a relaxation day at the spa?" Rarity asked.
"Uh, I think I forgot something back at the castle," Twilight said. "I'll be right back. I promise when I get back, I'll tell you all about how I totally don't need to take a break!"
"Twilight, wait!" Rarity called.
But she was gone before she could even hear Rarity.
* * *
"Spike, I'm back!" Twilight said.
"You didn't ask her, did you?" Spike said. "You avoided anything about taking a break from all the stress you obviously have."
"What else am I supposed to do? I don't want my friends to worry about me!" Twilight said. She sighed. "I should really tell Rarity the truth, shouldn't I?"
Spike nodded.
"I mean, of course! You can trust your friends with anything! Thanks, Spike!" Twilight said.
The bookshelf started glowing again. Instantly, Twilight flew up to grab the glowing book with her magic and put it in her pouch.
"What are you doing?" Spike asked.
"Isn't it obvious? I need to know more about The Sword of Friendship," Twilight said. "I can't get all the information from just a few pictures and the overall legend behind it!"
"Fine," Spike said. "Take it if it makes you feel better."
Twilight hugged Spike. "Thanks, Spike! I knew you'd understand!"
"Yeah, yeah. You're welcome," Spike said. "And don't forget to tell Rarity the truth!"
"Sure thing, Spike!" Twilight said with a smile. "Bye!"
"Bye, Twilight!" Spike said.
* * *
Twilight entered Carousel Boutique.
"Sorry for the wait, Rarity. I was talking to Spike," she said.
"It's OK, Twilight," Rarity said. She suddenly switched gears. "You know I can tell when something's going on, darling. If you need to talk, you know you have a friend right here you can trust."
"Thanks, Rarity," Twilight said. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you that I was stressed about all the work that comes with being a princess earlier. I just saw how worried Spike was about me and I didn't want any of my friends to feel the same."
"Of course we'd be worried about you! We care about you, Twilight!" Rarity said. "When something is off, we instantly realize it. You know that. By not telling us, what you didn't realize at first, only gets us even more worried."
"I understand," Twilight said. "So, what's that about the spa day?"
Rairty smiled. "I go there practically everyday for daily beauty practices. I practically have a membership!" she exclaimed. "Oh, and when I'm feeling stressed, I also like to go because it reminds me that there's always a safe place that you can go to relax."
Twilight smiled. "Then, what are we waiting for? Let's go!" she exclaimed. "Maybe we'll meet Rainbow Dash since she's also a regular there."
Rarity chuckled. "Even though she hates to admit it."
"Yeah," Twilight said.
* * *
Ponyville Spa
"Hello, Princess Twilight and Rarity," said Aloe and Lotus Blossom. "How may we serve you today?"
"Nice to see you again, Aloe and Lotus," said Rarity. "My friend here just needs a relaxation day."
Aloe and Lotus frowned. "Is everything OK, Princess?"
"Thanks for the concern, girls, but after today, I'm sure it'll be just fine," Twilight said.
"Of course," they said. "Follow us, girls."
On their way to their treatment area, they ran into Rainbow Dash, as expected.
"Hey, Twilight! Hey, Rarity!" she said. "I'm just relaxing in the hot springs if you wanna join me!"
"Sure, Rainbow Dash," Twilight said. "We'd love to!"
"Twilighting?" Twilight said. "Oh, yes. The term Pinkie coined to refer to my panic attacks. Very nice."
"And yes, just that."
Rainbow Dash pointed to the glowing book coming out of Twilight's pouch. The pouch was sitting on a spa chair near the hot spring. "May I ask why that book's glowing?" she asked.
"Honestly, I don't really know," Twilight replied. "I found it on my bookshelf today like it just suddenly appeared. It was weird. Apparently it mentions a legendary sword that was used way before the Elements of Harmony were discovered."
"But I thought that the Elements of Harmony were around since the beginnig of time!" Rainbow Dash cried.
"Seems like there's more to it than that," Twilight said. "Nopony knew about the Elements of Harmony or the Tree of Harmony existed in the ancient time of the alicorns when this sword was prominent. At least, that's according to the legend. There's no telling if it's actually true or not."
"Then we'll need to discover it together!" Rainbow Dash said.
"Girls, may I remind you that today is a relaxation day?" Twilight said. "I will find out more about the sword tomorrow and I promise you, I'll tell you all about it."
So they relaxed.
* * *
That night...
"That was refreshing! Thanks for the idea, Twilight!" Rarity said. "Are you feeling better?"
"I feel like a completely different pony!" Twilight said with all honesty. "But I feel like there's something missing. A longing to know more about The Sword of Friendship. I'll research it in the morning."
"I can't wait! it seems magnificent, darling!" Rarity exclaimed.
"Yeah, yeah. Maginificent. Right," Twilight said.
"Is something the matter, Twilight?" Rarity asked.
"I'm sure I'll sleep it off," Twilight said. "Goodnight, Rarity."
"Goodnight, Twilight!" Rarity said.
* * *
The next morning
"I called you all here this morning to report my findings on The Sword of Friendship," Twilight said, placing the glowing book on the table. "According to the legend, the sword's existence dates back to when the only land ponies knew about was the land of the alicorns, as the legend states was called The Royal Mountains. What I think is really fascinating is that The Sword of Friendship is able to adapt to the power and energy of the wielder."
"That being said, does that mean that the sword can also change its shape depending on who has it?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"Yes," Twilight said in reply. "Let me continue. Due to the Sword of Friendship being the most powerful object in Equestria, nopony really knows much about it. In fact, its power is said to be so great that it is indestructable. But here's something we need to be exteremely careful of. If the Sword of Friendship for any reason were to get into the wrong hooves, it could be extremely fatal or go the more preferrable route of reformation. That means if somepony like Grogar gets the sword way before we have the chance to go afer it, things could be much worse."
"You mean the one Discord impersonated?" Pinkie asked.
"No," Twilgiht replied. "I mean the big and bad Grogar. The real one. He longs for power and will not stop at any cost to get the power he so desires. So that means we set out now and search all over Equestria."
"But what is the chance that we'll find this majestic sword?" Spike asked.
"It's said to be a legend, so there's no guarrantee that we'll find it," Twilight said. "But we've got to try."
So they set out to find The Sword of Friendship, only to find out that somepony got to it before them.
Twilight and her friends gasped. "It's gone!" they cried when they got to the Royal Mountains.
"But how is that possible?" Twilight said. "The map said it was right here. How could we have failed? How could we have let Grogar take it?"
"I don't think he did, Twilight," Spike said. "I think somepony else--- a young pony that lives here --- discovered its magic and is figuring out how to use it."
"I hope you're right, Spike," Twilight said. "And I hope we find that pony someday. I hope they take great care of the sword while it's in their possession."
A young alicorn princess, still living in the area, ran to the ruins and saw a glowing sword. Like anypony else, she was curious and in awe, running towards the sword.
"What is it?' she said.
At the ruined site of The Sword of Friendship, Princess Sugarmoon --- that was her name --- saw a book. But unlike with Twilight, the book wasn't glowing.
In These Ruins Lyrics
Princess Sugarmoon: In these ruins There's a sword That had not yet been explored
In these ruins There's a book
Would it kill me? Should I even dare? Would anypony care If I just took a tiny look?
I never believed in destiny I never believed in silly old legends
An age old story My mother told me Is coming true
In these ruins There's a curiosity That burns within me About the sword It just can't be ignored
I guess that means I have to go for it Seize this moment Take the chance
Nopony's watching That doesn't make it right But nopony's been guarding it all these years So it isn't wrong either
Go and get it What's stopping you?
In these ruins There's a force within That tells me "Should I go through with this plan?"
In these ruins I know and I understand What I must do It's about time I began!
Take one step At a time Don't look back it's not worth my time
In these ruins There's a legend So great and real
In these ruins There's a power Greater than I've ever felt before
And it calls to me: "Come claim your destiny You know enough of about The magic of friendship That you're worthy"
I never believed in destiny I never believed in silly old legends
But today, I guess that changes
Today in these ruins!
"Sugarmoon! Where are you?"
"Shit!" Princess Sugarmoon said, hurriedly grabbing The Sword of Friendship and ran to her parents.
* * *
"You know you aren't allowed to go out without our permission!" said Queen Lunette.
"Mom, it was something important!" Princess Sugarmoon said.
"I don't care, Sugarmoon," Queen Lunette said. "And thanks to this event of yours, I have no choice but to ground you right here and now."
"But I'm 18! That's a violation of my freedom!" Princess Sugarmoon cried.
Queen Lunette glared at her daughter in a brooding manner. "YOU DARE TEST ME!? YOUR MOTHERFUCKING QUEEN?" she shouted. "Well, we'll see about that."
She used her magic to place a dome around Princess Sugarmoon. "Not only am I your mother and you're disobeying me as a daughter, I am also your queen and this is an order!"
"One of these days I will be queen and I will find a way to send your ass to Tartarus!" Princess Sugarmoon shouted. "Because I've found a power that you can't best. That you can't destroy. The magic of friendship is the most powerful magic in all of Equestria. Isn't that what they teach us in school?"
She was right. It was typical for alicorn schools to focus on the magic of friendship as a subject as much as academic subjects, such as Magic, Math, English, etc.
Queen Lunette scoffed. "You're clever. Threatening your mother and queen as if she's on the wrong side," she said. "But that doesn't mean I don't love you and know the best for you. I want you to be safe."
"If confining me from my fucking freedom is your idea of keeping me safe, then your mind sure is fucked," Princess Sugarmoon said.
"Your mother is just doing what she thinks is right! For your own good, dear," said King Regality.
"Well, damn it! Damn it all!" Princess Sugarmoon shouted. "I have a choice in my life, don't I? I'm 18, aren't I? That means I'm grown, right? So I can get out of this hell if I so want to!"
"It's magic-proof," said Queen Lunette. "Good luck."
Princess Sugarmoon grumbled. "Dammit!" she swore aloud.
She faced her mother. "Release me at once!"
"I don't care if you're the princess or my daughter at this point. Nopony barks orders to the queen!" Queen Lunette said.
"You and your stupid traditions! I'm done with all this bullshit!" Princess Sugarmoon said.
She used her magic, struggling to get out. That was when the darkness overwhelmed her heart. But she could fight it. Fight the anger, fight the darkness. So she did.
"How could you break it?" Queen Lunette said in awe. "That's impossible!"
"She is your daughter," King Regality said.
"I know that, you buffoon!" she said. She composed herself. "Sorry, honey. I'm just not myself now that our daughter is so disobedient." She smirked. "But she's powerful. She does get that from me."
Queen Lunette turned to Princess Sugarmoon. "You know what? You win. I was wrong," she said. "Maybe I am too strict and set in my ways, but that doesn't make it right to resort to such extremities."
"Sure," Princess Sugarmoon said.
"You're free to go wherever you please," Queen Lunette said. "Just don't leave the Royal Mountains. You have duties here, you know."
"I understand, Mother," Princess Sugarmoon said. "But if at some point, could you make an exception to letting me explore all of Equestria?"
"I'll consider it since you are indeed grown," Queen Lunette said. "And you've tested that brilliantly, my child."
Her eyes widened. "What in Equestria is glowing from your bag, young mare?"
Princess Sugarmoon smled nervously. "N-nothing, Mother!" she said.
"It must be a royal weapon then," Queen Lunette said. "I remember when I was your age, I received mine."
"Yeah," Prncess Sugarmoon said. "That's exactly what it is. Although I don't quite understand it yet."
Shit, she thought. Why did I say that? Oh, why did I say that? What if they suspect something about the sword?
"Give it time, Sugarmoon," Queen Lunette said. "Now go."
"I've nowhere to go now, but perhaps the vast Equestria," Princess Sugarmoon said.
"Then do what you must," Queen Lunette said. "You've proven that I can't stop you anymore."
"Really? Thank you, Mom!" Princess Sugarmoon exclaimed, running out of The Royal Mountains.
Queen Lunette turned to her husband. "Did we make the right choice? I'm getting old and it's almost time for me to resign."
"Don't worry about her and the lineage," King Regality said. "She's young and free-spirited. That's perfect for a mare her age."
"I suppose so," said Queen Lunette. "But definitely not princess material."
"Then maybe you shoud change the way you define the word 'princess', my sweet," King Regality said, pulling her in for a kiss.
"Regality, I've no time for such atrocities!" Queen Lunette retorted. She sighed. "But I'll let it slide."
They kiss.
What's next involved Princess Sugarmoon and her journey with the sword.
The legend was over. In fact, it never existed. The Sword of Friendship was always locked away somewhere at the ruins of the Mountains. And she'd discovered it. She couldn't believe it, but she was the one all these years to uncover the mystery of the sword. But did she really? She still had so much to learn about it.
Princess Sugarmoon knew what she had to do. She had to take matters to Equestria --- where a group of ponies she knew would understand better than her --- would tell her all about the sword. And now that her mother had granted her permission to go wherever the hell she wanted, she was free as free could be.
There's No Looking Back Lyrics
No looking back There's only forward Just me and the sword And a world yet to be explored
Nothing to do Nothing to worry about
Just take the step With no doubt You're free With the world at your hooves
And oh It feels so good To suddenly break free from restrains To break free from the chains My mother held on me For years
No looking back On the ruins And my quiet mountain town of three
Just the sword and me And a growing curiosity To open that door of discovery To learn even more
There's no lookng back Whatever they say They said I'm free to go
And I know I'll find where I'm going With this sword by my side, a-glowing
And I know From coming this far That this journey won't end As things are
I'll find the answers I need By confiding in friends that I know I'll be guaranteed to succeed I know I know
That there's no looking back No turning the page It's time to leave the past behind
Because I'm ready to journey on My life is an open book If you just take a look The possibilities are endless
And I know That I'll be strong I'll just keep trucking along
And learn all that I can While they learn all that they can There's no looking back, it's true
The road is answers to my questions The road is filled with endless solutions And conclusions that last
Say goodbye to the past! Let it go at last!
There's no looking back I'm set aback
Equestria shines so bright The answer lies here If I'm right That means I'll try with all of my might To ask the right ponies
But where do I find the right ponies?
(gasps, spoken): Right there!
"The Sword has been missing and we still haven't found out who took it," Rainbow Dash said. "That means it definitely has to be in the wrong hooves!"
"We can't just jump to conclusions without concrete evidence!" Twilight cried. "We will wait until the pony shows up and gives us the sword."
They want the sword, Princess Sugarmoon thought. But it's my land's right. Why do they want it? Why do they need it more than I?
She trotted closer to the six ponies. She had to find out what they were talking about and why they wanted it, but for the first time in her life, she was hesitant. Why was she hesitant? Why couldn't she get a word out? She wasn't that shy, she was actually quite social.
Princess Sugarmoon didn't understand, but she took a few deep breaths. Was she seriously scared of the six ponies and the suspicion that they were the ones behind the diabolical plan to use the sword in ways nopony could ever imagine? The young, blue alicorn shook her head. They were united as friends, so there was no way they could be plotting against The Sword of Friendship, right? But Princess Sugarmoon just wanted to make sure.
She cleared throat. "Excuse me?" she asked.
Twilight and her friends turned around.
"Hello, and what might your name be?" Twilight said with a huge smile on her face. "I'm Princess Twilight Sparkle."
"Nice to meet you, Princess Twilight, but I believe the alicorn nation already knows who you are," Princess Sugarmoon said in reply.
Twilight Sparkle showed Princess Sugarmoon a glowing book. "Does that mean that the alicorn nation that my book mentioned is real?" She pranced around in utmost excitement. "That's amazing! Then that means the sword! I knew I was getting somewhere! Of course it isn't just a legend!"
"No, it's really not," Princess Sugarmoon said. She examined the book. "Where'd you get that? I found a book just like it when I visited the ruins before starting out to... what's this town called?"
"Ponyville," Twilight replied.
"Thank you, fellow Princess," said Princess Sugarmoon. "I was told that you were born in Canterlot. Since when did Canterlot become the residence for alicorns such as the Royal Sisters over the years? My parents say that Celestia and Luna were born of Queen Galaxia and King Cosmos in my land. But why did they move to Equestria?"
"You see, they wanted to unite all the pony races," Twilight said. "And by doing that, they sorta became the primary rulers of Equestria."
"I see," Princess Sugarmoon siad. "That's fascinating. Anyway, your home is in Ponyville now, correct? And if you really aren't after The Sword of Friendship, I'd like to ask you all some very important quetions."
"You see, I haven't quite had the chance to study it myself," said Twilight. "So if you're lookng for answers, I don't know much about it."
"Figures," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Nopony knows about htis object, not even me. I figured that you guys could give me the answers I need, but I'll be on my way."
"No! Wait!" Twilight said. "We can figure this out together!"
Princess Sugarmoon smiled. "I'd like that," she said.
"Welcome aboard to The Friendship Squad," Pinkie said.
"That Earth pony is quite something," Princess Sugarmoon said.
Twilight chuckled with a smile. "Yeah. She's quite extraordinary, II'll tell you that."
They trotted and trotted.
"Where are we going?" Princess Sugarmoon asked.
"To my castle," Twilight replied. "It's here in Ponyville. When I became The Princess of Friendship, the Golden Oak Library that I used to live in became a beautiful castle that I like to say resembles the Tree of Harmony."
"Ah, yes. And are you the bearers of the Elements?" Princess Sugarmoon asked.
"You catch on quick! I like that!" Twilight said. "What's your name?"
"Princess Sugarmoon," Princess Sugarmoon replied. "It's a pleasure to be your friend, Princess."
"You don't have to use our titles now that we're friends," Twilight said.
"But isn't that disrespectful?" Princess Sugarmoon asked.
"No, not at all," Twilight said. "Just call me Twilight."
"Gotcha," Prncess Sugarmoon said. "Twilight." She paused to let it sink in a little bit. "Then, I guess you can call me Sugarmoon."
* * *
At The Castle of Friendship....
Twilight sat down with all of her friends, including Princess Sugarmoon.
"Sugarmoon, do you have the sword with you at the moment?" Twilight said.
"Yeah. Of course I do," Sugarmoon said. "I didn't leave without it."
"That's good. May we see it?"
Reluctant at first, but then confident that she could trust her new friends, she placed The Sword of Friendship on the table.
The Sword of Friendship started glowing and transforming into the shape of a third-quarter moon. It seemed to surge with the power of Princess Sugarmoon's magic. Everypony watched in awe, but Rainbow Dash was the first to utter a word.
"Whoa!" she said.
"It's beautiful!" Pinkie and Rarity said in unison.
"It's everything I'd ever thought it would be!" Twilight and Sugarmoon said in unison.
The two princesses looked at each other. "Did we just say that together?" Twilight and Sugarmoon said in unison once again. They began to laugh and chuckle.
A new bond was forming and Sugarmoon loved every bit of it. So this is the real magic of friendship, she thought. Having friends to share a bond with. I never would've thought of it like that. After al these years of studying friendship in school...not once did they ever---!
"Uh, Sugarmoon?" Twilight asked.
"Oh, sorry," Princess Sugarmoon said. "I was lost in thought."
"It's happened lots of times," they interject together. They laugh and chuckle again.
"Rein it in now," Applejack said. "I think we've just about seen what this sword can do."
"You're right, Applejack," Twilight said. "And it won't be long until somecreature comes looking for it. So we have to be prepared."
"But nopony's found this sword in years!" Sugarmoon cried. "Who could possibly want it and its power?"
"I can think of only one creature that wants it more than anyhting and will not stop until he gets it," Twilight said. "Although he doesn't know where it is or how to grasp it."
"Then we've gotta protect the sword," Princess Sugarmoon suggested. "Lock it up like how I found it and only use it in times of dire need."
"No, that's too risky," Twilight said. "This villain is the most clever of them all."
"Isn't there a chance to reform him like everycreature else?" Sugarmoon cired. "Tell me, Twilgiht. There's a way, isn't there!?Didn't you say there's always hope for everycreature in Equestria?"
"I don't know about him," said Twilight.
"How can you say that? You thought Cozy Glow would never change, and yet she did! You thought the same about Tirek and Chrysalis, and look at them now!" said Princess Sugarmoon. "I refuse to believe that Grogar's dark heart is incapable of change. If those reformed die-hard villains can see the light eventually, why can't the villainous goat bastard?"
Twilight sighed. "You're right," said Twilight. "We've just gotta try."
"That's the spirit!" Pinkie, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Spike, and Sugarmoon exclaimed.
"Now what's the plan?" Princess Sugarmoon asked.
"Nothing yet," Twilight replied. "And the way the book describes something is disturbing."
All of the friends circled around Twilight, looking at the specific page as she read from it:
"'Whoever touches it with a dark heart incapable of reformation despite how hard you've tried, he/she/they will disintegrate to dust.'"
They all gasp. "That's horrible! Hopefully that's not the fate of Grogar!"
"We don't know yet for sure," Twilight said. "And there's only one way to find out."
Discord was held captive by Grogar, and had been ever since he tried to impersonate the big bad villain.
"I demand you tell me what gave you the audacity to impersonate me!" Grogar roared.
"I've already told you this the first time and I'm not gonna say it again," said Discord.
"You incompetent fool! You either tell me or else!" Grogar bellowed. "What gave you the audacity to impersonate me? TELL ME!" Grogar held up his bell to Discord in an attempt to threaten The Lord of Chaos.
"I did it as a test for Twilight and her friends," Discord said. "There. Are you satisfied?"
"Oh, come on now. What was the real reason?" Grogar said.
Discord was confused. "That is the real reason," he said. "What are you getting at?"
Grogar chuckled maliciously. "The real reason, you say? I know your true motives," Grogar said. "You and me. We're practically the same. Masters of acting and disguise."
"I'm nothing like you!" Discord shouted.
"Oh really?" Grogar said. "Your plan was brilliant. You successfully convinced your 'friends' that you were me and successfully turned them against you. Seems you aren't fully reformed after all. That means I can use you to get what I want in my plan."
"I would never stoop down that low!" Discord siad. "You can't make me!"
"Then I'll just have to suck up all of your useless chaos magic in this bell," Grogar said.
"You can't just do that!" Discord said.
"Why not? You don't use it for its intended purpose, so why would you need to keep it? It's practically useless when used for fun rahter than real chaos, don't you think?"
"I personally prefer not to go back, thank you very much," Discord said. "I think that using chaos magic for fun is much better than how I originally used it."
"You're pathetic!" Grogar bellowed. "To think I ever compared myself to you. You're a weakling! Just like those other villains who failed because of Twilight Sparkle! That blasted Twilight Sparkle! She's bested all of my minions with her stupid magic of friendship shit. And for what? For Equestria? Ha! It was only for her own selfish motives. Why else would the bitch open a School of Friendship?"
"You take that back!" Discord roared.
Grogar scratched Discord and whipped him. "SAY THAT AGAIN AND I'LL KILL YOU JUST LIKE I PLAN TO DO WITH THAT GODDAMN PRINCESS OF FRIENDSHIP AND HER GOOD-FOR-NOTHING FRIENDS!"
"They'll defeat you," Discord said. "They always find a way."
Grogar smiled. "Not on my watch," he said. "I have a surprise for those six ponies once they come with what I want."
"What do you want exactly?" Discord asked.
"Isn't it obvious? Absolute power," Grogar replied. "No. More than that. I want the sword that their new ally has. And I'm gonna use you and your knack for impersonation to help me get it."
"I've learned my lesson from that time," Discord said. "And I'd never do it again."
"Fine. Be that way," Grogar said. "I don't need weaklings like you in the plan anyway. I'm a lone wolf."
"When they do come, they'll free me, " Discord said.
"They'll fall into my trap, that's what'll happen," Grogar said. "Twilight and her new ally may be smart, but I'm smarter."
"I highly doubt it," Discord said.
Grogar glared at Discord, whipping him way harder this time. Discord began to bleed.
"Stop, please!" Discord begged.
Grogar ignored Discord's begging. In his mind, it was only distracting and above all, annoying as hell. He couldn't stand it. So Grogar decided to act. He lashed out and chained Discord to the wall.
Grogar then walked away, makng sure Discord was still in sight as he spawned a crystal ball. "Tell me where Twilight and her pitiful friends are! What are the whereabouts of the sword and how do I get it to come to me?"
"It seems to be in the possession of a most peculiar, but smart pony," the crystal ball tells him.
"SHOW ME THIS PONY AT ONCE!" Grogar bellowed.
The crystal ball focuses in on a young blue alicorn with flowing purple hair and pink eyes. Her cutie mark seemed to be three sugarcubes and a third-quarter moon. There was no mistake that this pony was Sugarmoon, but of course, Grogar didn't know that.
"Oh, Twilight. You and your many allies," Grogar said. "I've watched how many friends you've made and now to make a completely new one. How long are you going to keep doing this? It's tiring, really."
He smiled the most wicked smile you've ever seen. "Bring me this pony and I will convince her to bring the sword to me," Grogar said, turning to Discord. "Now is your time to prove yourself useful."
"But Grogar, I just can't betray my friends like that!" Discord cried.
"Don't be so stupid," Grogar said. "You did it once. You can do it again. It can't be that hard, can it?"
Discord sighed. "I'm sorry, but I can't go through wiht something like that. It's wrong to just take something that isn't ours. And what will you even do with it once you get it?"
"Those ponies have messed with your mind! Once the Lord of Chaos, always the Lord of Chaos," Grogar said. "And remember the look on their faces when they found out you betrayed them by pretending to be me? That was perfect. Absolutely diabolical! That's why I need you in this plan. If I go there myself, it won't be as effective. They'll be pressured to use the sword against me and we can't have that. But you." Grogar laughed. "They trust you... at least now since those assholes are too damn forgiving." He held out his blue goat hoof. "So, Discord, are you in or out?"
"What happens if I say I'm out?" Discord said, hesitant about grabbing Grogar's hoof.
"Then I kill you," Grogar said.
"I can't die," Discord said matter-of-factly. "A draconequus is an immortal creature. I thought everycreature knew that."
"Of course I did, you nitwit!" shouted Grogar. "But immortality always has a way to end itself." He gestured to his bell. "This bell of mine can suck up any chaos magic, as you've seen firsthand. If used by that wonderful filly Cozy Glow, the chaos magic is just pure evil! Who would've thought it would transform her into an alicorn even for that little bit time? But like all the villians, Cozy eventually failed and is now the same as the rest of thse pathetic friendship-bound assholes." Looking at Discord, he said, "So yes, I have a way to kill you if you disobey my orders."
"I'm not surprised," Discord said. "But I'm not so easily convinced."
Easy Lyrics
Grogar: You're really testing my patience I'm giving you an opportunity Of a lifetime You think I'm not being gracious?
You can deny, deny, deny All you want But that doesn't change
That you have a chance To be who you need to be Change the rules Think of it as double villainy
(spoken): You see?
(sung): For you, it'll be that easy
Discord (spoken): What is with you and not taking no for an answer
Grogar: I've seen the way How sly you are How you shined in the moment You were a star
Acting so well You gave your friends hell And despite your fake sadness You felt quite swell
I see your mind I see the way you think Thinking that you can play The part that's kind
You can fool them once But you definitely can't fool yourself twice Soon you'll see the price
Villainy is easy
Oh oh oh
Believe me when I say There's no other way Then the role you were Born to play
Damn, that's just how I am And you can be too If you follow what's true
Discord (spoken): But that's not me! Not anymore! My heart even says no!
Grogar: Then get ready for the thrill For the kill of the century Life ain't that easy
(spoken): Any last words?
Discord: No, I don't wanna go No, I will never stoop this low I won't follow you That much you should know
I am not like you I'll never be like you To my heart I must be true
I'd choose the magic of friendship Over villainy any day
So whatever you say If I die So be it that way
I don't care Do what you may
Because I know More than you That life ain't easy
Grogar faced Discord with a face that was the complete opposite of mercy. With his bell raised up in the air, Grogar smiled mercilessly and shot out the magic all onto Discord.
"Goodbye, worthless bitch!" Grogar said. "Seems nopony or creature around here would be willing to do my bidding. But am I clever."
Discord now lie there lifelessly with a pool of blood surrounding him. But don't worry. The best characters get revived eventually. That's just how Equestria works. But not Grogar. He was the most ruthless villain who kills anypony or creature who stands and his path --- who doesn't follow "simple" orders.
"I'll lure them here quite easily," he said. "I'll set up a little treasure hunt and they'll be surprised to find out that the X-marks-the-spot was all a scam!" Grogar laughed maliciously. "Just wait and see. It'll happen any moment now. I know it will."
He looked at Discord. "Better hide the body. I don't want them to think I'm the bad guy," Grogar said. "I mean, that spoils the fun of it!"
So he did just that and set up the treasure hunt around Equestria without even leaving his post.
Twilight could see what happened despite even being in Grogar's lair at the time. How could she have let this happen? She felt like a failure to everypony she was destined to rule over. Everything was over. Twilight broke down and cried.
Her friends crowded around her including Princess Sugarmoon with concerned looks on their faces. "Twilight, what did you see?" they all asked frantically.
Twilight sobbed and sobbed. "I saw.... Discord being held captive by Grogar due to those events when Discord impersonated him," Twilight said. "And all this time it was right under our muzzles and we didn't do a goddamn thing to stop it! And now that Discord has fought back against Grogar and failed to comply with his evil orders, Discord has been found dead by none other than Grogar himself."
"That's terrible!" Fluttershy said. "What will we tell Chrysalis? She'll be devastated!"
Twilight wiped her tears and stood up. "Maybe we won't have to," she said.
"We can't lie," said Applejack. "You know I suck at that."
"No, no. We're not gonna lie," Twilight said. "We are going to march right into Grogar's lair and confront him! Force him to tell us everything! Then after we defeat him with the sword, we'll revive Discord."
"But how are we going to go about reviving him?" Princess Sugarmoon asked. "We don't really know what the sword can do, and obviously our magic is not strong enough to bring back the dead. Not even mine."
"We'll figure out a way," Twilight said. "We always do."
"I hope you're right," Sugarmoon said.
* * *
"Excellent," Grogar said. "Everything is falling into place. It's only a matter of time before my plan is complete!" He let out an evil laugh.
* * *
Twilight pulled out a map of Equestria.
"I know where it is," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Don't ask me, but I've been there before."
"How?" Twilight asked.
"OK, OK. I'll explain," Princess Sugarmoon said. "After I found the sword, I wanted to see what was beyond the ruins before I made my way into Equestria itself. So letting my curiosity lead the way, I stumbled into a dark and gloomy cave that reminded me of a villain's lair. And boy, was I right. I caught eye of this menacing blue goat who I could tell was planning something at the time. Not wanting to get caught or disturb him, I ran out immediately and made my way to Ponyville."
"Damn, that's scary," Rainbow Dash said. "But nothing's too scary for me!"
Princess Sugarmoon chuckled. "You sure about that, Rainbow Dash?" she asked.
"Damn right," Rainbow Dash replied with confidence. "I'm not afraid of anything!"
"We'll see about that when we get there," Princess Sugarmoon said. "And I have a feeling that he's not expecting all of us. He only wants the sword and I have it."
"But Sugarmoon! It's too dangerous!" Twilight cried.
"I've gotten myself out of my mom's prison of hell, so I can get myself out of this mess," she said.
"Prison of hell?" Twilight asked.
"Oh, that's what I call it when my mom grounds me for stupid reasons," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Like that one time she grounded me for going out without her permission. And after that, she said since she's the queen, I must obey her. I was enraged. I mean, who treats anypony like that? So eventually I got through to her, and here I am helping you."
"So how much longer until we reach Grogar's lair?" Rainbow Dash asked.
"We'll arrive there in approximately two hours," said Princess Sugarmoon. "If you want, I can teleport us to the ruins so it makes the traveling faster."
The Mane Six nodded. So Princess Sugarmoon used her magic to teleport the seven of them to the ruins.
"This place looks like hell broke loose," Rainbow Dash remarked.
"They aren't called ruins for nothing, Rainbow Dash," said Princess Sugarmoon.
She took a deep breath when they faced the entrance to the dark and gloomy cave. "You guys stay here. Since I found the sword, I'll deal with Grogar."
"Do you know what Grogar looks like?" Twilight asked.
"Uh, no. But I have a feeling it's that goat I saw that day," Princess Sugarmoon said.
"That's right," Twilight said. "But are you sure you can do this alone? If you get hurt, I won't be able to forgive myself."
"It'll be OK, Twilight," Princess Sugarmoon reassured her. "I'll be fine. I have magic and the sword on my side. If he tries to reach for it, I know what to do."
"We're coming with you!" Rainbow Dash said.
"I advise against it for your own safety," Princess Sugarmoon said. "So, please. Stay behind while I deal with this. It's me he's after, not all of you. If you can just trust me, you'd know that I don't want to lose any of you just because I have the sword!"
Her friends looked concerned, but knew to confide in Princess Sugarmoon.
"I hope you'll be OK, darling," Rarity said.
"Good luck!" the rest of the Mane Six said, with Pinkie being the loudest out of the five.
Princess Sugarmoon gulped, closing her eyes and taking several deep breaths. In she went to face Grogar.
"Well, hello there, young pony," Grogar said. "Funny seeing you here."
"I'm not here to chat, Grogar! I know you're up to something!" Princess Sugarmoon said. She held up The Sword of Friendship. "If you want the sword so badly, just get it from me!"
Grogar smiled. "You're making this quite easy, Princess," he said. "May I ask you why?"
"I don't give a shit," said Sugarmoon. "Let me repeat. If you want the sword, then come and get me, you vile motherfucker!"
"I don't wanna play games with a pony who plays hero!" Grogar roared. "Just give me the sword and get out of here!"
Princess Sugarmoon smiled. "Of course, of course. You want the sword. And I'll give it to you. Only on one condition."
"And what's that, clever bitch?" Grogar asked.
"Oh, just for you to tell me where you're hiding Discord's body so I can go along with my plan," Princess Sugarmoon said. "You see, you're not the only one with the clever mind for schemes around here. The difference is I use my cleverness for good and you use yours for evil. In the end, they're all wonderful plans."
"What are you getting at?" Grogar shouted.
"You tell me the whereabouts, I give you the power you so desire," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Do we have a deal?"
"Not a bad compromise from the heroine," Grogar said. "I'll take it. But if it's a trick, I will destroy you and your pathetic friends!"
"Oh, don't worry. All you gotta do is touch the blade and then the power will be yours," Princess Sugarmoon said.
Grogar was hesitant. Why the hell am I trusting this bitch? She's out to defeat me! She's the heroine for Celestia's sake!
But Grogar gave in like any villain would, touching the blade and expecting absolute power. Even the most clever of villains can be outsmarted and have an incredibly stupid side of them.
After touching the blade, Grogar turned to dust.
Princess Sugarmoon emerged unphased. Twilight and the rest of her friends were relieved to see that she was alright.
"How did you do it?" cried Rarity.
"That must've been impossible without the help of your friends!" Twilight cried.
"What did you even do to stop him?" chimed the rest.
"Slow down, everypony!" Princess Sugarmoon said. "I can only get to one at a time!"
Her friends grew quiet.
"I just convinced him to touch the blade and he turned to dust," Princess Sugarmoon said. "I think it has something to do with the Sword of Friendship. What did the book say, Twilight?"
"It said that whoever touches the sword with a dark heart incapable of reformation would turn to dust," Twilight said.
"Then that's what happened," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Now what? We've defeated Grogar and we still haven't figured out how to bring Discord back to life!"
"That's the least of our worries," Twilight said, opening the book. "First we need to test if the sword can heal like the book says."
"If we're going to test its ability to heal, why not test it on Discord directly?" Princess Sugarmoon said. "That'll be a waste if we're for certain it works."
"That's exactly why. We don't know the sword's full capabilities. We aren't even aware that it can heal. That's why we've gotta test it on something to make sure it doesn't backfire and we feel like failures," Twilight said.
"I'm sure it'll only be you that feels like a failure," Rainbow Dash said.
"Rainbow Dash, that was uncalled for," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Twilight is clearly trying to think of a solution. Let's test it on that hurt animal over there. Then we'll be for certain it works."
"Aww! That poor thing!" Fluttershy said, running over to give it bandages.
"Or we could do that," Princess Sugarmoon said. "How about a plant? That's alive, right? So we'll see if the sword can restore the wilting plant to its prime. How's that sound?"
They all nodded in agreement.
Princess Sugarmoon put the sword up to a potted flower. To their surprise, the flower rejuvenated. That, Princess Sugarmoon knew, would work on Discord.
Princess Sugarmoon closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she held the Sword of Friendship above her head with her hooves. She placed it down on Discord and was afraid that it wouldn't work. She feared it would pierce him further, which she didn't want --- what nopony wanted for that matter --- but she knew she had to try.
"Here goes nothing," Princess Sugarmoon said. "Call the friendship in my heart I feel, revive and heal!" she cried out. Shortly after, she put the sword on Discord's dead body.
At that moment, everything around them was glowing --- even the sword. But the sword seemed to be glowing a beautiful mix of light beams of yellow and green.
Minutes later, Discord woke up.
"What happened?" Discord said. "Oh shit! I died! I've gotta go to Chrysalis right away!"
"That won't be needed," Twilight said. "We already let your wife know that you're fine."
"Phew!" Discord said. "So I guess I owe all of you a big thank you."
Twilight and her friends smiled. "Don't thank us," Twilight said. "Thank her."
Discord looked up at Princess Sugarmoon. "So you're the pony who brought me back to life. However did you manage to do so?"
Princess Sugarmoon chuckled. "All thanks to the Sword of Friendship," she said, holding up the majestic sword.
"Whoa! I didn't know swords could do that!" Discord said.
"Neither did we," Twilight said. "But we soon found out."
Princess Sugarmoon looked at her firends. "I guess it's time to return this to its rightful owners," she said, giving up the sword to the Mane Six.
"No, no. You proved yourself worthy of the Sword of Friendship more than the six of us," Twilight said. "You keep it. It is your land's right anyway."
"Nonsense! You're the ones who know friendship better than I do! Sure, alicorns in their homeland naturally cover friendship in school, all this knowledge that is now known wouldn't be possible if all of you haven't found out so much. That's why this sword belongs to all of you."
Twilight took the Sword of Friendship and teleported it back to the Castle of Friendshp with her magic.
"Thank you for believing in me," Princess Sugarmoon said. "I'm so lucky to have met such wonderful friends like you."
"Have you ever had friends before?" Twilight asked. "I mean, real friends?"
"Not really," Princess Sugarmoon said. "So I never fully understood the concepts they taught in school. I just thought to fully understand the magic of friendship you'd have to experience it for yourself and learn it that way. Isn't that what you did too?"
Twilight nodded. "And you've learned the same exact way. I'm so proud of you, Sugarmoon."
"I'm not your student, but thanks," Princess Sugarmoon said. "But I must get back to the Royal Mountains. My parents are probably expecting me. Being the heir to the throne and all. Always gotta be prepared."
"Are you sure you don't wanna stay in Ponyville with us? You can go wherever you want when you want. No restrictions or worries," Twilight said. "And friends that you never would've experienced back home."
"Actually, since I'm eighteen, I guess I'm old enough to make my own decisions although it may not be the best for the kingdom after my mom and dad pass," Princess Sugarmoon said. "But I never cared about being their perfect princess in the frst place, so why not? I'd love to live the rest of my life with all of you!"
Finale (The Sword of Friendship) Lyrics
No restrictions Free, able to go wherever I please Roaming around with ease
With friends by my side That's all I need Ponies I can be myself with No need to hide
A place where I finally feel Like I belong Where I don't feel like every move I make is wrong And up for criticism
So why not try A different life? I deserve better Who needs that extra sterss When I've made so much progress?
The sword we all possess United in friendship Nothing more, nothing less
And that's all I ever want To be free To be me To have a life of my very own