//------------------------------// // Episode 6: Past and Future Defines Chance // Story: My Little Pony Mystic Season 2 // by Shadow Master //------------------------------// At the Castle of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle brought the wheeled tray of table setting tools to the dining hall. Shadow Dragon and Starlight Glimmer were there as well. Princess of Friendship is giving a new lesson to her reformed pupil. Twilight Sparkle smiled, "I hope you're ready for the next lesson, Starlight. This one is very important." Starlight Glimmer nodded nervously, "Okay, I'm ready." She inhaled and exhaled for a while. She noticed Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon looking at her oddly. She looked awkward and confuse, "Uh... What am I suppose to do?" Shadow Dragon sighed in annoyance, "Do you always rush things? Did Amon taught you be very quick of learning?" Starlight Glimmer groaned in annoyance and frustration, "Well, he used action than words. So, I've gotta be prepared and expected for anything." Twilight Sparkle giggled, "No need. You can relax now. In fact, the next lesson is simple only. I just want to make sure you're ready for this dinner. Princess Celestia will be joining us tomorrow night to see how the friendship lessons are going!" "If it's just you, me, Shadow Dragon, Princess Celestia, why are needing more plates?" Starlight Glimmer asked curiously while looking at the plates. Twilight Sparkle smiled, "Well, the whole point is for you to bring a new friend. That way, the princess will see for herself just how far you've come. And how good a teacher you have." "Well, I can't choose. I like all your friends." "That's the best part! You have to make a new friend!" "New friends?" Starlight Glimmer asked. She hummed in thinking before smiling, "Hey, maybe I'll just force friendships by magically enslaving the entire population of Ponyville!" Annoyed and angered by her pupil's planning, Twilight Sparkle exclaimed, "Starlight!" "Kidding!" Starlight Glimmer explained before laughed nervously. Shadow Dragon sighed in annoyance, "Well, you'd better stop with the jokes for now. Make one wrong move could attract some unwanted attention especially from Dark Sacred Knights. They're still keeping an eye on you. Gallant Gamma is on duty now." Starlight Glimmer groaned in annoyance, "Wow, you sure have a dry sense of humor." "I don't jokes or even taken it so lightly from anyone especially from you. And it's not funny either." "You still don't trust me? Why am I not surprise? Coming out from traitorous Dark Mystic Pony..." "It's called being caution and alerted, missy. Watch that tone of yours, Starlight Glimmer! I can easily get tempered!" And just before Starlight Glimmer and Shadow Dragon could argue, Twilight Sparkle intervened the argument between them both. "Okay, that is enough, both of you!" Twilight Sparkle sighed calmly as Shadow Dragon and Starlight Glimmer calmed down. She continued, "Starlight, why don't you go, find and make new friend? Once you did, bring him or her here for introduction. I'll deal with my boyfriend here." Starlight Glimmer sighed, "Alright. I'm going now." As soon as Starlight Glimmer left the dinning hall, Twilight Sparkle turned and gave the glare at Shadow Dragon, who was still annoyed and confused by her angry looks. "Do you always have to be so suspicious on Starlight Glimmer?" Twilight Sparkle asked in annoyance, "I told you about her past before. So, you have to-!" Shadow Dragon sighed as he interrupted the talk, "I know, Twilight. And I'm trying to give her the benefit of doubts. And it's not easy too." "I understand, Shadow Dragon." Twilight Sparkle said calmly as she patted Shadow Dragon's left shoulder, "But do you trust me? I still love you, Shadow Dragon." "Well... I, uh..." Shadow Dragon nervously muttered before looking at her pouty eyes. He sighed in defeat, "Of course, I trust in you. But it takes time to give her a chance." Twilight Sparkle sighed in relief, "Thanks, Shadow Dragon." They yelped in surprise as they heard some wrecking noises and girl's screams. They both knew of what's going on especially when it comes from Metal Ponies. Twilight Sparkle groaned, "METALGEAR!" Metalgear entered the dining hall while showing optimistic yet calm looks, "Yes?" "We need to talk..." Twilight Sparkle said dryly, "We seriously need to talk about your problem with Starlight Glimmer..." Shadow Dragon sighed, "Oh boy..." Starlight Glimmer walked across the Ponyville Town in search for new friends. However, she wasn't alone as she was followed by a humanoid elf warrior with white long ponytail worn the dragon visor-like, crimson-white armor-like with crimson shoulder plate and crimson cape. She groaned in annoyance while not being surprise. The Dark Sacred Knights are still keeping an eye on her. Starlight Glimmer groaned, "Still following me? Gallant Gamma, I presume?" "Yes, I am. Both Equestria and Mystic may have believed in you, Dark Sacred Knights aren't." Gallant Gamma said in annoyance yet calmly, "Until I know you speaks the truth, you're not off the hook. Understand, Amon's Pet?" "Whatever. I just need to focus on the mission now." Starlight Glimmer sighed, "Let's see. Make new friends in Ponyville, the friendliest place in Equestria. Shouldn't be hard..." "Need to make a new friend, huh?" Pinkie Pie exclaimed happily as she appeared and surprised before Starlight Glimmer, "I know just the pony for you!" Pinkie Pie dragged Starlight Glimmer to the Sugarcube Corner's kitchen, whereas Gallant Gamma chased after them both. As the Crimson Knight remained outside, the party pony brought the reformed student into her home's kitchen. The girls faced at Mrs Cake, who was spraying the creams on the baked white cake. Pinkie Pie smiled, "Miss Starlight Glimmer, meet Mrs. Cake!" Mrs. Cake smiled while waved to Starlight Glimmer, "How are you, dearie?" "Are you baking? Can I help?" Starlight Glimmer asked happily. As Mrs Cake spraying the cream on the cake, Starlight Glimmer used her magic in baking the cake for 2 minutes. It surprised Pinkie Pie. "Wow, Mrs. Cake! Look what your new friend made you!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed in amazement. As Mrs. Cake looked up, she gasped in shock, "Howza-wowza! A-Are you trying to put me out of business with your fancy magical-thingy-whatsit cake?!" Starlight Glimmer gulped in concern, "Sorry..." "Interesting," Gallant Gamma said in surprise while watching the event from outside window, "Despite her baking skills with magic, the Earth Ponies do not appreciate it. Why? This could have done at ease. Stubborn as mule." As Starlight Glimmer put on the table near to the angry and annoyed Mrs Cake, Pinkie Pie approached to it. She took a bite on the chunk of it. She hummed happily as she continued eating the cake. Starlight Glimmer giggled uneasily as she quickly leave the kitchen at once before she getting into troubles. Gallant Gamma continued following her now... As she had finish with the cake, Pinkie Pie turned and found Starlight Glimmer left. She sighed in disappointment while looking at the angry Mrs Cake, who huffed in annoyance while looking away. Laxtinct brought and guided Starlight Glimmer to Ponyville's Military Training Ground, where most of brave and strong stallions and mares were recruited and trained for combats and rescue operation. Blazefist and Bladestrike were supervising the program, with the help of Sweetie Drop and Lyra Heartstrings in their Secret Service Disguise. "Here we are! Ponyville's Military Training Ground!" Laxtinct exclaimed proudly and firmly, "The Best Training Camp ever!" Starlight Glimmer hummed, "Really? When did you start this program? I'd never heard of it." "Happens after your infiltration and time travelling. Metalgear even make some reports about the security problem." "Right... Metalgear..." Starlight Glimmer grunted while gritted her teeth, "What am I not surprise about this?" "Cheer up. Come on. Let me introduce to my buddies," Laxtinct said happily as he and Starlight Glimmer approached both Blazefist and Bladestrike. He cleared his throat, "Blazefist and Bladestrike - my brother and adoptive father." "Hey there," Blazefist greeted. Bladestrike bowed in respect, "Welcome to the Training Ground." "Thanks." Starlight Glimmer bowed in respect. She smiled, "Hey, do you think I can try this workout? I'm good at martial art skills." "Really? You do realize that this does not involved with magic?" Blazefist asked in amusement. He scoffed, "I think it's best that you don't-! WOW!" Starlight Glimmer grabbed and thrown Blazefist straight at the recruits and table of all foods hard to the ground. Bladestrike and Laxtinct were in shock and surprise. She smiled uneasily. "Was that good enough?" Starlight Glimmer asked curiously, "Was I made as the recruits?" Blazefist and the recruits groaned and moaned in pain. Bladestrike and Laxtinct were dumbfounded and concerned about it. "I don't think you need training," Bladestrike said in surprise, "Since you were trained by Amon. And you wreck my Bak Chow Bun. That was my favorite food." Laxtinct nodded as he helped Blazefist and the recruits up, "Yeah. You've quite give my brother and recruits a big beat down. You seriously need to control your strength." "Oh. Right..." Starlight Glimmer said in awkwardly and embarrassment, "Sorry..." Gallant Gamma hummed, "It appears Amon taught her well in martial art skills. She's not defenseless as we thought. This is getting interesting." Applejack brought Starlight Glimmer to the Sweet Apple Acres. They headed straight to the Apple Orchid field where they found Big McIntosh apple-bucking on the apple trees. They both approached him. Applejack smiled, "I think I have just the pony for you, Starlight. Meet Big Mac!" Big McIntosh nodded, "Eeyup!" "He's not much of a talker." "Nnope." "Oh, that's too bad. I love a good conversation." Starlight Glimmer commented in disappointment. After some thoughts, Starlight Glimmer smirked in amusement. She fired her magical spell as it flown and entered through Big McIntosh's mouth for the moment. The Apples looked surprise and concern about it. "Eeyup-yup-yup-yup-yup-yup-yup-yup-y-y-y-y-you did something! Whoa! What's happening? I feel really weird! I'm talkin' so much! And I'm so articulate!" Big McIntosh exclaimed in motormouth movement, "Enunciating with such precise pronunciation! Annie Apple awoke and accidentally ate an auburn azalea!" He screamed in fear, "Make it stop!" With Big McIntosh running away, Applejack turned and glared at Starlight Glimmer. "I can't be friends with somepony who doesn't talk," Starlight Glimmer said in concern. Applejack growled angrily. She gulped in concern, "...And I guess my first instinct shouldn't be to magically command ponies to act the way I want them to?" "Fix my brother now!" Applejack exclaimed in anger. Starlight Glimmer groaned, "Alright, I'll change him back!" Starlight Glimmer approached Big McIntosh as she used her magic to restore his motormouth voice into normal. Gallant Gamma also watched the event. Gallant Gamma sighed, "She has no manners at all especially making ponies do what she wanted them to do. Truly annoyingly." Saber Dragoon brought Starlight Glimmer to Bueno Nachos Restaurant as he was introducing her for his usual and daily foods. He even introduced his pet Ace the Naked Mole Rat to her. With all of his food - nachos, tacos, burritos, chimichanga and quesadilla brought to their table; both Saber Dragoon and Ace dug, ate and put all of the foods into their mouth swiftly. Starlight Glimmer hummed in surprise yet concern and dumbfound. "Wow... You really enjoy these... Tenochtitlan Basin Spicy Foods?" Starlight Glimmer asked in surprise. She turned and looked at Ace, "I'm surprise that a naked mole rat like this guy can see, even though he's supposed to be blind and lived in dark underground. And not to mention, he can eat anything." Eating his food, Saber Dragoon scoffed while muttered happily, "Well, you don't know the half of it. Ace is actually an artificial naked mole rat - done by Shorty Thinking. He can see clearly and even eat anything, almost like an elf or human. Crazy, right?" Ace giggled while muttered happily in eating his food, "Mm-hmm! Crazy!" "Besides, you should try it," Saber Dragoon insisted happily in his high-pitch voice, "It would make other ponies to befriend with you. After that, ponies can talk whatever they want especially when it involved with detective stuffs. And word of advice, don't puke at me." Starlight Glimmer hummed in concern as she looked at her burrito, "Okay. Here I go..." As Starlight Glimmer took a bite on burrito, she yelped in pain. She felt her body and head sweating and burning in red. She screamed in pain while steamed off from ears. "HOT! HOT! TOO HOT!" Starlight Glimmer screamed frantically. Starlight Glimmer headed off to the girls' bathroom while leaving Saber Dragoon and Ace behind. Behind the restaurant, Gallant Gamma chuckled in amusement of watching the event. Saber Dragoon shrugged, "Not a fan of spicy food, I supposed. And I thought Shadow Dragon hates them a lot." "Nnope. Not her favorite food," Ace nodded in agreement. At Carousal Boutique, Starlight Glimmer sought Rarity for help about making friends. The white unicorn explained as she brought the fabric and silks while measuring Starlight Glimmer's body size and height. "The trick to finding a new friend is to render yourself radiant. First impressions count a great deal, you know." Starlight Glimmer sighed, "I'm glad you all got past my first impression." "Well, everypony deserves a second chance. Ooh! Now, I have a top-notch idea. I'm thinking pastel silk here and here with a crinoline underneath." "You really think a new outfit will help me meet ponies?" "Oh, with the right outfit, you can do anything, darling!" "When will it be ready?" "Three weeks." Starlight Glimmer yelped in concern, "Dinner's tomorrow." "Well then, how about a hat from the..." Rarity said nervously before cleared her throat while pointed at the bin, "...clearance bin?" Starlight Glimmer sighed as she levitated the hat with feather. As she struggled putting it on her head, the hate got ripped with her horn pierced through it. Rarity was in shock and annoyed by it. Gallant Gamma looked awkward of it from the outside building's window, "Awkward..." Starlight Glimmer groaned, "Ugh! Maybe not." At Tiger Mecha Workshop, Shorty Thinking was building and inventing a small pony's ear-shaped device-like. Starlight Glimmer was there in watching the event. "Ooh! What are you working on?" Starlight Glimmer asked happily. Shorty Thinking smiled, "I'm building a device called 'com-link'. It allows the users to contact from one to another at the distance or close by. Not only that, it will help and prevent anyone wasting the paper or even the message to either get lost, counterfeited or destroyed. It's the safest way to communicate and delivering the message. "So, where did you get the idea from?" "Twilight told me of how telephone communication works. I got inspired of it. " "Wow. That's interesting. Can I help?" "Yeah, sure. Can you bring me screwdriver and screws. And whatever you do, don't use-!" BOOM! Both Shorty Thinking and Starlight Glimmer were covered in black while coughing. The lad was ruined and mess. The scientist noticed the reformed student used the magic to levitate screwdriver and screws before the explosion happened. Watching the event from the garage, Gallant Gamma chuckled, "Such an amusement of that pony. She never listens well to seniors or military officers. I wonder how Amon handles her when she was a little pony." "What was that?" Starlight Glimmer asked in concern while coughing. "Anti-Magic Blockade Defense Mechanism or known as AMB Defense Mechanism. It detected the magic activated, it will fire at the targets and intruders. Science beats Magic!" Shorty Thinking explained. He turned to his tools and spare parts. They were all damaged and destroyed. He groaned in annoyance, "And thanks to you, the tools and parts are badly damaged and destroyed. I needed them!" "Why didn't you tell me earlier?!" "Because you'd never listen! You should really listen carefully before you take the action. Honestly..." "Ooh..." Starlight Glimmer said in shock and embarrassed. She blushed in red, "Sorry." Shorty Thinking sighed, "I think I will handle this by myself. Thank you for the help." "Sure. Why not? I don't want the AMB attack me again," Starlight Glimmer said unhappily. Shorty Thinking nodded in agreement before he returned to continue his work on projects. Starlight Glimmer quickly exited the shop before she gets into trouble. Gallant Gamma continued following her. Starlight Glimmer sought for both Rainbow Dash and Aquastroke for help. She found them both sparring against each other at Rainbow Dash's green field. As she called for help and assistance, they responded and answered her concerns. "Heh. Nopony's gonna make friends with you because of your outfit or invention." Rainbow Dash said in amusement, "The only thing you want a new friend draped in is coolness." Aquastroke nodded, "Dash's got the point. Clothes are for wimps. Inventions are just a distraction. All you need to find tough, fast and independent mares!" "Like you two?" Starlight Glimmer asked. Aquastroke smiled while shook her head, "Maybe." "Yeah, but you already know both of us, so..." Rainbow Dash said in amusement. She gasped in realization, "Spitfire!" Starlight Glimmer hummed in curious, "Who's that?" Rainbow Dash gasped in shock yet annoy, "Only the Wonderbolt-iest pony in the Wonderbolts! Come on, I'll introduce you!" "Uh... What's a Wonderbolt?" Starlight Glimmer asked in concern. Rainbow Dash gasped in shock, "You've never heard of the Wonderbolts?! Where have you been?!" Suspect of Starlight Glimmer's lack of knowledge, Aquastroke sighed, "Amon never let you go anywhere near to Equestria, didn't he? And he allowed you at the town you enslaved and build for equality. Am I right?" "Yeah. That sums of it," Starlight Glimmer said in amusement and awkwardly. "Right." Rainbow Dash said dryly yet annoyingly, "I forgot about that part..." Gallant Gamma stood still and hidden behind the tall tree. He chuckled in amusement while watching the event, "Interesting. She lacks the knowledge of the worlds. Without Amon's permission and instructions; she is not allow to go anywhere." At the Ponyville's Central Park; Fluttershy invited Starlight Glimmer, Terrorcreep and her animal friends for tea party. As the shy Pegasus gathered the carrots, the pink unicorn tickled Angel and Naughty the Vampire Fruit Bat happily. The animals giggled happily. "They like you very much," Terrorcreep commented. Starlight Glimmer smiled, "You both are adorable, but probably not what Twilight had in mind. No offense, Terrorcreep." Terrorcreep shrugged, "None taken. I'm sure Fluttershy understands." Starlight Glimmer nodded in relief as she headed off. Gallant Gamma turned and followed her now. The animal friends including Angel and Naught waved goodbye to her. By the time Fluttershy returns, she found her friend has left. The yellow Pegasus sighed in disappointment. Terrorcreep approached and patted her in comfort. As Starlight Glimmer walking across another part of Ponyville's Park, she noticed and found so many ponies chatted happily with each other friendly and kindly. It looks so easy yet for her, it was difficult to deal with it. Starlight Glimmer groaned as she looked at the fountain's reflection, "What is going on? This is Ponyville! If I can't make a friend here, there's gotta be something wrong with me!" She sighed as she turned and looked away from it, "Okay, calm down. Nobody makes friends with a total stresscase." As Starlight Glimmer looked around of her surrounding, she found ponies chatting and playing with each other happily. It's stressing her a lot! She screamed in annoyance and pain before landed on the ground hard. Gallant Gamma approached her from behind. "Still having problem with making friends?" Gallant Gamma asked in amusement, "I wouldn't be surprise of it when you're Amon's apprentice." Starlight Glimmer groaned in annoyance as she turned and glared at the Crimson Knight, "I'm supposed that you wanna be my friend?" "No. My duty is to keep an eye on you. Not communicate with you. This is your own mission, not mine." "Why am I not surprise? You're no help. Now you excuse me. I need to continue my work now." Starlight Glimmer headed off at once while Gallant Gamma followed her. After leaving the park, they came across the spa. She smiled happily. This could relax her, but not the knight. At the spa, Gallant Gamma waited and stood still at reception area since he has strong dislike on relaxation. Starlight Glimmer entered the chamber to have a spa treatment. As she was walking across the hallway, she was grabbed into an empty steam room. She turned and found a familiar character stood before her. "Amon?" Starlight Glimmer asked in surprise. Amon smiled happily. She jumped and hugged him passionately while sobbed tearfully. As she departed while wiped tears off, she asked, "What are you doing here? How did you get here? You shouldn't be here! You could get caught by the knight!" "Don't worry about me. I'm perfectly fine. I have ways to get in and out," Amon Blood said calmly, "But that's not why I have come." Starlight Glimmer sighed as she suspected of why her mentor is here, "You know I can't come back. I failed you. Dark Mystic Ponies will punish and kill me." "I know. But you're my family. And don't worry about what others thinking, I will protect you at all cost. Come home now, my little Twinkle" "I appreciated it, father, but this is my home now. Twilight Sparkle is my mentor and a friend, including these ponies. And I have a mission to complete. I can't afford to let them down." "I understand, Starlight. But the Knights are still watching you. They don't trust you. Can Twilight Sparkle and others believe in you? How do you intend to prove you're one of them?" "Well... I... uh... I don't know." "Think wisely before you act, Starlight Glimmer." Amon Blood said calmly, "Make one mistake could lead you into trouble. I know you well. You don't want failures or proven to be inadequate to those who cared for you. So, my advice is think before you act. Farewell, my daughter..." Amon Blood slowly moved back into the shadowy corner of steam box. He then disappeared into the shadows. Starlight Glimmer sighed in concern as she has some thoughts of what her mentor has said. Nevertheless, Starlight Glimmer headed off to the chamber for spa treatment. She sat on the chair as the spa ponies helped and polished her hooves while her face is covered by greenish mud and cucumber. Starlight Glimmer sighed, "This is just what I needed." "Tell me about it." The calm yet cocky voice said. "You ever have one of those days?" "For me, they're all one of those days." The voice commented. Starlight Glimmer sighed happily and relief of it. The voice continued, "I'm gonna start coming here every time I visit Ponyville." Surprised as Starlight Glimmer answered, "I'm not from here either. I've been trying to make friends, but it's not easy. They're not saying it, but I think everypony knows about my past. I may have been a tiny bit... completely and utterly evil? The voice answered, "Ponies judge me on my past too." Starlight Glimmer was in surprised again. Removed her cucumber, she turned to her back and found a blue unicorn was having a spa treatment. She smiled in relief as she realized that she found somepony who share the same common traits as she is. "Finally, a pony I can relate to." At the Castle of Friendship's Dining Hall, Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon were discussing with Metalgear while setting the table sets. "Honestly, Metalgear! What am I gonna do with you?!" Twilight Sparkle exclaimed in annoyance as she set the final table sets, "When Starlight Glimmer comes back, I want you to apologize to her and never ever pull that stunt again." Metalgear groaned as he checked thoroughly on the dining table, "Fine. But that doesn't mean I have to like her." "It doesn't have to be, Gear. We just have to give her some benefit of the doubts," Shadow Dragon said in annoyance. He sighed in concern, "And believe in me, it's hard. But worth to try." Twilight Sparkle smiled, "Thanks, Shadow Dragon. That means a lot to me." "Well, I aimed to please, my beloved Sparkle. And plus, I'm trying my best too." "I know you do. That's why I loved you a lot, sweetie Dragon." "Twilight," The familiar voice called happily. Twilight Sparkle, Shadow Dragon and Metalgear turned to their back as they found Starlight Glimmer entered the dinning hall. She smiled happily, "Guess what? I made a new friend!" Twilight Sparkle smiled, "That's fantastic news!" "She's great! And she's powerful!" "Wait?! Did you just said great and powerful?! That sounds awfully like-!" "Hello..." The familiar voice greeted as Twilight Sparkle and her friends looked up and found pony figure standing at the entrance. She smirked in amusement as she revealed her face, "princess!" Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon gasped in shock, "Trixie?!" Surprised and shocked as Starlight Glimmer turned to Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon. It is not what she's been expecting. "You know each other?" Starlight Glimmer asked. "You could say that." Twilight Sparkle answered dryly." Trixie nodded as she approached Twilight Sparkle, "We've had our differences. What matters is Twilight gave me a second chance, and I appreciate it." Twilight Sparkle then gave a dry smile at Trixie. She turned and looked at Shadow Dragon, "And how did you know Trixie? I'm surprise that you met her before." Shadow Dragon was about to answer. Trixie interrupted, "Isn't it obvious? He's my first and best boyfriend the Great and Powerful Trixie could ever had in her life!" "WHAT?!" Twilight Sparkle, Starlight Glimmer and Metalgear exclaimed in shock and surprise before they turned to Shadow Dragon, "YOU AND TRIXIE DATED?!" Trixie smirked in amusement and proudly, "Yes, The Great and Powerful Trixie and the Legendary Mystic Warrior Shadow Dragon dated! We're the most happy couple throughout the years!" "Tricia 'Trixie' Maggie Lulamoon! What have I told you about making up the story that is not even true?!" Shadow Dragon asked in annoyance. Trixie yelped in concern while Twilight Sparkle, Starlight Glimmer and Metalgear were in shocked and dumbfounded of what they just heard. They all laughed in amusement while she groaned as her face burnt in reddish. Trixie screamed in anger while glared at Shadow Dragon, "You're not supposed to use my full name! That was embarrassing!" "Well, if you have learnt about not being bragger and making up the story, I wouldn't have called you by that." Shadow Dragon said in annoyance. He turned to his friends, "In truth, I was her babysitter when she was 4 - 12 years old. Her parents keep asking me to help and look after her." "Really?! You babysit Trixie?!" Starlight Glimmer asked in amusement. Twilight Sparkle giggled, "Wow. It's no wonder she liked you because you're nicest babysitter she ever has. And not to mention, she got crush on you before you met Rara, and then me. I think you'd make a best dad in the world." Shadow Dragon scoffed, "Well, I need some bits to buy food and shelter to stay. What else do you think I've been doing for 500 years? I wonder how you and Trixie met. By the looks of you both, I can tell that you weren't friends before." Trixie sighed as she approached the table, "Let's just say it's not pretty." "I agree," Twilight Sparkle nodded in agreement, "So, um, what brings you to Ponyville?" Trixie smirked as she turned and gave her calm and confident looks and pose, "The Grrrreat and Powerful Trrrrixie has come to perform a new stage show of grand illusion! I am calling it 'The Humble and Penitent Trixie's Equestrian Apology Tour'!" Starlight Glimmer approached and asked softly, "That's kind of a mouthful." Trixie replied softly, "It's a working title." "Starlight? A moment? Over here?" Twilight Sparkle called at the cornered of dinning hall, along with Shadow Dragon and Metalgear. As Starlight Glimmer approached her mentor, her friends began their chats. She said, "I know I said make friends with anypony, but, well, with Trixie's past, and your past, I'm not sure she's the best... first friend." "But whatever she did, you've forgiven her, right?" Starlight Glimmer asked. "Of course. It's just..." Twilight Sparkle said in concern, "She wasn't the nicest pony." Shadow Dragon shook his head, "Trixie maybe a bragger, but she wasn't that bad or naughty. And she does have creativity and tricky in her magic tricks. She just need some friend and assistant to teach her about some manners and morality." "Like what you did before?" "Well, I was her babysitter. She behaved well when I was around. But I think what Starlight Glimmer did was correct. Both of them deserve each other. They make a great friends." "Thanks, Shadow Dragon." Starlight Glimmer smiled before turned to Twilight Sparkle, "Well, you all did say anypony, and I just assumed that you'd trust me to make my own friends the way Princess Celestia trusted you." Metalgear groaned in defeat, "I hate to admit. She does have the point. Your order and she follows it till she succeed her lesson." Twilight Sparkle sighed, "You're right. I trust you. Just be back in time for the dinner." Starlight Glimmer smiled as she hugged Twilight Sparkle passionately, "Thanks, Twilight! You won't regret it!" She turned to Trixie, "Come on, Trixie. You said you wanna show me something!" Trixie smiled, "Of course, Starlight. We're going now." As soon as Starlight Glimmer and Trixie left the dinning hall, the trickster unicorn gave a smirk and salute to Twilight Sparkle. "I hope not." Twilight Sparkle muttered in concern. As she turned to the table, Twilight Sparkle sighed in annoyance as she found forks and spoons bent together as the pony shape-like with napkin as cape. Shadow Dragon and Metalgear approached to it as well. Metalgear whistled, "You have to admit it. That was creative of her." "That's Trixie. She maybe bragger and show-off pony, but she got tricky and creative skills." Shadow Dragon commented in amusement. He turned to Twilight Sparkle, who began dismantled the statues and make them in their proper form. He hummed in concern, "So... How did you know and meet Trixie, Twilight?" Twilight Sparkle sighed as she narrated her story from the past, "Well, it all started back when me and Spike were talking how we completed spell number 25..." Next day... Trixie was setting her magic show at the eastern park which was located near to Ponyville Town. Starlight Glimmer was there to watch. Gallant Gamma was there to watch. Trixie smiled as she turned to Starlight Glimmer, "This magic show's gonna be the greatest thing Ponyville's ever seen!" And just before Starlight Glimmer could ask or comment, both her and Trixie saw and overheard Ponyville Town Ponies chatted and whispered to each other about the blue unicorn. Starlight Glimmer looked worry and concern while Trixie was upset and disappointed. "Everypony always says they'll give you a second chance," Trixie said in shame, "but deep down, they never forget." "That's what I'm worried about especially when a crimson knight is keeping an eye on me. I think Mystic Ponies don't trust me especially Shadow Dragon," Starlight Glimmer agreed while glanced at Gallant Gamma. As she turned, she noticed and heard Trixie sighed in distress. She asked, "What is it?" "I heard what Twilight said about me, and she's right. I wasn't very nice. So I'd understand if you didn't want to be friends." "Are you kidding? You're the first pony I've met who has any idea how I feel! And besides, it's better than that stubborn Metalhead Pony." Trixie looked around of her surroundings before turned and whispered softly, "Can you keep a secret?" Starlight Glimmer nodded, "What are friends for?" "The things I've done? I did them because I was jealous of Twilight. She's just the best at everything, and I wanted to beat her at something!" "Your secret's safe with me." Trixie smiled, "Thanks. Want to help me unpack my wagon?" Starlight Glimmer smiled happily. Both Trixie and Starlight Glimmer were made to be friends as Shadow Dragon has suspected. "Interesting..." Gallant Gamma said in amusement, "The ponies who made mistakes from the past share the same in common. They're truly made to best friends. This day gets more interesting than before..." At Ponyville Town streets, Starlight Glimmer and Trixie continued their chatting and laughing happily about their personal life. Gallant Gamma continued following them both. As they all were passing some residents, both Starlight Glimmer and Gallant Gamma heard some 'pssst' sounds. They both turned and found a bush nearby them. They checked and found Twilight Sparkle and annoying Shadow Dragon hiding within the bushes. Starlight Glimmer sighed in annoyance as she turned and said, "I'll catch up. I think there's something in my hoof." Trixie nodded, "Sure. The wagon's right around the corner." As soon as Trixie left, she turned and glared at both Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon. Gallant Gamma remained silent. "This is so not my idea," Shadow Dragon said in annoyance. Twilight Sparkle nudged Shadow Dragon's chest before smiled and asked, "So, how's it going with your new friend?" Starlight Glimmer sarcastically answered, "Great. Thanks for asking in a completely not creepy way." "Because you know, if it isn't working out for any reason, I could introduce you to my friend here." Twilight Sparkle said while bringing DJ Pon-3 up. She smiled, "You like music, right? DJ Pon-3'd be the perfect friend for tonight's incredibly important dinner with Celestia. You know, if you decide to make a last-minute change. Heh." Shadow Dragon groaned, "Didn't you say about 'I trust you' to Starlight Glimmer? And you're saying that Trixie is a bad influence and friend to your pupil?" Twilight Sparkle groaned, "I'm just trying to look out for her! She is my student!" "She maybe younger than you. And for Heaven's Sake, she's a 16-years-old!" "And I've got more experience about friendship and morality lessons especially know whose your enemy and rivals." "Oh, and you mean Trixie?! I told you before that she's not a bad pony! She just need guidance and a friend!" "And you think Starlight can help?! I don't think so!" Starlight Glimmer sighed, "I appreciate it, Twilight, but Shadow Dragon's right about Trixie. She's just like me. We have a real connection." "Not a word I have in mind," Shadow Dragon said sarcastically. "That's kind of what I'm afraid of." Twilight Sparkle said in concern. She turned and looked up as she found Derpy passing them by. She smiled, "Oh! What about her?" "Please, Twilight! I know you're trying to help," Starlight Glimmer said in annoyance, "but I need to make friends on my own if I'm going to become a better pony." "But do you really think Trixie's the one to help you with that?" Twilight Sparkle asked in concern. "Wow. Trixie was right." Starlight Glimmer said in shock and upset, "You're not really giving her a second chance. I wonder what that says about how you feel about me. At least, your boyfriend done fair than that stupid Metal Butler of yours!" Gallant Gamma nodded, "She is telling you the truth. Trixie and Starlight Glimmer have the connection to each other. They're truly meant to be best friends." "Y-You help me?!" Starlight Glimmer asked in surprise. "Wow... Gallant Gamma - The Duke of Crimson - actually defend the suspicious pony - Starlight Glimmer? This is surprise," Shadow Dragon said in amusement. Gallant Gamma groaned, "Said can't be same from you. I recalled you don't trust Starlight Glimmer until Trixie came to change your mind about her chance." Shadow Dragon sighed in defeat, "Touche." Starlight Glimmer turned to Twilight Sparkle, "If these two can trust me and Trixie, so can you. Please, Twilight, let me choose who to be my friend. And it's Trixie I want to befriend with. See ya..." Starlight Glimmer headed off while Gallant Gamma followed her. Twilight Sparkle looked around to find something or someone to stop her. She found Cranky Doodle Donkey feeding the pigeons. She smiled in amusement as she called. "Oh! Now he'd be perfect!" Starlight Glimmer groaned in annoyance as she headed off at once. Gallant Gamma went after her too. Shadow Dragon gave the glare at the confused and concerned Twilight Sparkle. "What?!" At the Eastern Park, Starlight Glimmer was helping Trixie in unpacking and unloaded the magic props and settings for tonight's magic show. Gallant Gamma assisted them in their job as well. Starlight Glimmer turned to Trixie as she asked, "I was thinking. You said Twilight is better than you at everything, but that's not true. You're better at magic. Like Shadow Dragon said, you're creativity and tricky." "Thanks. I truly appreciate the praise, Starlight." Trixie smiled. Gallant Gamma sighed in annoyance, "Only when you're wearing a soul-sucking evil amulet, so I don't think that counts." "Really?" Starlight Glimmer asked in shock. Trixie groaned in annoyance, "Funny story. Don't need to get into it." Starlight Glimmer rolled her eyes in amusement, "I meant stage magic." "Well, of course! Great? Yes. Powerful? Obviously. But I'm not the best." Trixie said proudly while looking through her trinkets, "As great and powerful as I am, there's one trick I've never been able to do – the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive!" "What's that?" Starlight Glimmer asked curiously. Gallant Gamma groaned, "It's impossible to use such tricks like this. I doubt ponies survived it." "That's where you're wrong, Crimson Knight," Trixie said calmly. She set the film projector out. She summoned the large tent to cover her and her friends. As the film started, she narrated about her favorite magician and hero, "Only one magician has ever pulled it off – my hero, Hoofdini!" Within the film, the magician was setting himself into the canon. He then gotshot straight into the manticore's mouth before he got swallowed up. A moment later, the box magically opened. The magician stood before ponies while bowed in thanking position. Both Starlight Glimmer and Gallant Gamma were in surprise and amazed of it. "You are supposed to blast yourself into the open mouth of a hungry manticore! After the manticore chews you up and swallows you, you magically step out of a box on the other side of the stage! Completely unharmed!" Trixie shut her film projector off while packing it and the tent up into the box. Starlight Glimmer awed, "That sounds very..." "Dangerous?" "I was gonna say cool!" "I knew I liked you for a reason." Trixie commented as she and Starlight Glimmer gave each other a hoof. She sighed, "I don't know how he did it! If I tried it, I'd get chewed up and swallowed by that manticore." Starlight Glimmer hummed thoughtfully, "Not if you could use real magic." "Obviously. Way to rub it in." Trixie remarked sarcastically. "No, I mean, I could help! You could start the trick, and right before you got chewed up, I could use magic to save you..." Starlight Glimmer explained as she levitated Trixie. She teleported the blue unicorn into the opened space box. She smiled, "...and make you appear in the black box!" "I guess that would work..." Trixie said thoughtfully, "But if you made one mistake, I'd be a goner." Starlight Glimmer scoffed, "Hah. When it comes to magic, I don't make mistakes. Maybe I could be your... magic show helper pony!" "We call it 'assistant' in the magician biz. And... nopony's ever offered to help before." "Well, I'd be honored." "You may have just made my great and powerful magic show even better! Which I didn't think was possible!" Trixie said proudly as she summoned her poster out, "We're gonna blow them away tonight!" "Tonight?" Starlight Glimmer asked in concern. She groaned in disappointment, "I can't! Tonight's this incredibly important dinner with Twilight." "I sense an anger within you," Gallant Gamma said calmly, "I believe you're angry with her. Starlight Glimmer sighed in defeat while looking at Trixie, "Even after Twilight says she trusts me, she clearly doesn't trust me enough to choose my own friends. I guess you were right. No second chances." "Hmph, I wish I could say I was surprised. Well, lucky for Princess Twilight, I have my magic show tonight. If you have to go to the dinner, I completely understand." Trixie said in upset. She then dramatically said in despair, "I just hope I find a way to survive the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive without my new assistant!" Gallant Gamma nodded, "You must choose, Starlight Glimmer. Whatever you make, you will have some supports from both of us." With the words struck her down, Starlight Glimmer became shock and worry. She can't let either Twilight Sparkle or Trixie down! But she has to choose one for tonight! What is she going to do? In the evening, Princess Celestia has arrived at the dinning hall. And the dinner is set on the table. Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon were there as well, along with Cranky Doodle Donkey, DJ Pon-3 and Derpy. Everything is set except Starlight Glimmer... Princess Celestia grew bored while drinking her tea, Twilight Sparkle gulped nervously, "Starlight Glimmer should be here, heh, any minute, heh. Any minute now..." "Oh boy..." Shadow Dragon sighed in annoyance. Twilight Sparkle laughed nervously as she quickly explained, "How about I introduce everyone? Our friendship lessons are going so well!" She then looked at her three guests, "She made three new friends! She has such great taste in friends. I don't know where she would've learned that!" "I wondered the same thing." Shadow Dragon asked sarcastically. He sighed as he whispered, "Twilight, let's just tell Princess Celestia the truth." Twilight Sparkle gulped uneasily as she whispered, "No! We are not!" "But Twilight-!" "Please, don't!" Twilight Sparkle snarled softly as she turned to her former mentor, "If you'll excuse me, Shadow Dragon and I are gonna check the kitchen. Maybe she got lost amongst the, uh... artichokes! Metalgear and his Metal Ponies will entertain you!" Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon trotted off at once. Metalgear and Metal Ponies stood before the guests. They all began their tap dancing in robot styles, making the guests awed in amazement and surprise about it. Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon ran across the Ponyville Town in search for Starlight Glimmer. And so far, nopony seen or heard of her. They can't find her either. "Ooh! Where could she be?!" Twilight Sparkle asked in concern and worry. She groaned, "I swear if this is Trixie's doing-!" Shadow Dragon interrupted, "Now, Twilight! You can't blame Trixie for this. This could be Starlight Glimmer's decision. And I believe she has her own reason." "Like not coming to the dinner?! I told her to come, not delayed! Today is very important! How could she forget?! What is wrong with her?! I'm trusting her! She's letting me down!" "The same way you did to your own student, you know." "Was that supposed to be mean?!" "It means you're letting her down. You're not giving Trixie a second chance. She wants to prove to you that she and Trixie can be friends. And it's unfair of you to force her give up her very first best friend." Thought of what her boyfriend has said, Twilight Sparkle sighed, "I didn't mean it. I just want her to be careful, that's all. It's just that I don't trust Trixie. She wasn't very nice and even rude to all of my friends. And not to mention, she's got big mouth and troublemaker. She's a bad influence to Starlight Glimmer. And I can feel she's up to something." "The same way I felt about Starlight Glimmer," Shadow Dragon reminded while patted Twilight Sparkle gently. He then smiled, "But you advise me to give her a benefit of doubts. I think you should do the same thing." "Hmm. I guess you're right. I think I should give the benefit of doubt to Trixie," Twilight Sparkle smiled. She then gave her attractive lovely eyes to Shadow Dragon, "Who knew that you actually listen to me? I thought you'd love to challenge me about how wrong I am..." Shadow Dragon chuckled as he nuzzled Twilight Sparkle, "There are things I just have to adapt. And you're the pony who knows how to make me do things." Twilight Sparkle awed happily as both she and Shadow Dragon gave each other a passionate kiss for the moment. They then trotted off at once in search of Starlight Glimmer now... At the Eastern Park, Trixie's magic show the Ponyville Town Ponies have gathered including Mane Five and Dragon Strike Force. Trixie's Equestrian Apology Tour Show is about to start! "So this is the Humble and Penitent Trixie's Equestrian Apology Tour?" Pinkie Pie asked in surprise while reading the poster's title. Applejack smiled in amusement, "Ain't that a mouthful of molasses." Open a peek through the curtain, Trixie groaned in annoyance, "It's a working title!" She returned to backstage as she turned to both Starlight Glimmer and Gallant Gamma. She smiled, "Oh, this is gonna be the greatest night of my life! Excuse me. Our lives." Starlight Glimmer sighed, "I'm so glad we're not at that boring dinner. But I still feel bad about not telling Twilight about this." "I'm sure she'll understand it. It'll be fine," Gallant Gamma said calmly. "Thanks. But one thing I need to know, Sir Gallant. Why? Why did you help me? Aren't you suspicious of me? I am your number one suspect?" "I would have killed before we even met Trixie in pony. However, after two days in observing and analyzing you, I believe you can be trusted." "Wow... That's great. Other than Magna, you're the second knight to accept and help me. Not that I'm against it. I'm just relieved." Gallant Gamma smiled, "Not a problem, milady. I believe it is time." Trixie nodded in understanding, "Indeed. Show time! Everypony, into your position!" Trixie moved through the magic show's stage curtains while standing a firm and proud pose. Both Gallant Gamma and Starlight Glimmer positioned on both west and east sides of backstage. Trixie took a deep breathe before released it. "Come one, come all. Come and see 'The Humble and Penitent Trixie's Equestrian Apology Tour'!" Trixie said proudly. The ponies then chatted in shock and surprise about it. It irritated Trixie a lot as she screamed, "It's a working title!" The ponies were silence. Trixie continued her explanation of her magic tricks. "Behold, your fears come true. A pony-eating manticore." Gallant Gamma pulled the rope tightly in bringing the curtain up. The stage revealed both the wild manticore and a rectangle in vertical stand box. The ponies including Fluttershy chatted and trembled in fear and worry of what they were seeing. Trixie smiled, "For tonight, the Great and Powerful Trixie will be performing the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive." The crowd gasped in shock and scared of what they heard. She smiled, "Now, now, save your gasps for when I defy the beast's jaws of doom and appear inside that black box. And it's time to start the show, with my great and powerful assistant, who was also my great and powerful friend!" Trixie jumped off the stage to the ground. She then walked towards the canon at the back of the crowd. As she got herself into the canon, she removed her magical hat while putting a helmet on her head. Gallant Gamma reappeared from her back as he pushed her to the front while aiming at the manticore. He even lighted it up. Starlight Glimmer from the backstage readied herself while watching the event as well. Trixie sighed calmly, "Starlight? If you're listening, let's be great and powerful friends forever! I'm proud and happy to have one like you." With the canon lighted up, it shot Trixie straight out in midair. As the manticore roared while opened its mouth, she screamed in fear and worry. The beast caught her in his mouth before swallowed her up. He then gave the loud burp. Everyone gasped in shock and concern of what they just saw while Fluttershy fainted. They then all chatted in confuse and concern. ZAP! They turned and found the box was lighted. It opened in four while revealing dizzy Trixie while standing still and moaning in exhaustion and woozy. "Behold, the Peat and Growerful Triskie...!" Trixie fell to the ground hard. Ponies were in shock and surprise for the moment. They then cheered wildly and happily for Trixie's latest tricks. Both Gallant Gamma and Starlight Glimmer emerged from the backstage as they helped Trixie up. They then gave her a wink, making the magician smiled happily. She turned to the front as she make her grand finale speech. "And now, I'm proud to introduce my great and powerful assistants! And best friends." Trixie said calmly and gently before pointed her hoof and lights at Gallant Gamma and Starlight Glimmer, "Starlight Glimmer and Gallant Gamma the Crimson Knight!" The ponies cheered wildly and happily. Trixie and her assistants bowed gracefully and humbly before the crowds. The curtains closed down. At the backstage, both Trixie and Starlight Glimmer hugged each other happily and passionately. Gallant Gamma smiled proudly and happily. That was relief and happy one. "Ahem?" The familiar voice called. Trixie, Starlight Glimmer and Gallant Gamma turned and found angry Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon standing at the wagon's entrance. Two unicorns yelped in concern and worry. "You just decided to skip our dinner without telling me? Are you aware that, at this very moment, Princess Celestia is waiting for you at a table with exquisite silverware placement?!" Twilight Sparkle demanded in annoyance and angry. Starlight Glimmer gulped, "Yes, but—" "And I can see why you chose to help Trixie. And you've made the right one," Twilight Sparkle said calmly while smiling, making Starlight Glimmer and Trixie surprised and shocked of it. She continued, "Starlight, when I first came to Ponyville, Princess Celestia gave me room to make my own decisions and my own friends. I need to give you the same freedom. I shouldn't have tried to pick and choose your friends for you. Just like me, you have to make your own decisions and your own friends. And I believe it's real thing." "Really? But what changes your mind?" "A boyfriend of mine reminded me to give the benefit of doubts for Trixie. And I'm glad he did." Shadow Dragon smirked, "Glad to help. And I'm glad you both were made for each other." Trixie and Starlight Glimmer smiled and nodded in agreement with Shadow Dragon. They were meant to be best friends forever. Twilight Sparkle sighed, "And I hate to admit it. I was wrong to judge you, Trixie. I'm sorry. And I have to hand it to you. I could never have pulled off a trick like that." Trixie was surprised yet relieved as she smiled and bowed in respect, "Thank you, princess. I guess it's pointless to see who win." "Win?" Starlight Glimmer asked in surprise, "That sounds like you just made friends with me to beat Twilight." "True, I do wanted to beat Twilight so badly," Trixie sighed in shame. Starlight Glimmer was in shock. She smiled while reassured and patted Starlight Glimmer down, "But you are my true winning prize as being the only best friend I ever make." Starlight Glimmer smiled, "I feel the same way too. Thank you too." As both Trixie and Starlight Glimmer peeked on the outside, the blue unicorn fired her magical fireworks to the sky. The ponies cheered wildly and happily for the event. Both Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon put their hooves over each other's shoulders while smiling. Gallant Gamma smiled while crossed his arms, "Thus, end today's event. Again, Starlight Glimmer proved to be good. But more trials awaits her..." At the Castle of Friendship's Dinning Hall, Metalgear and his Metal Ponies continued singing harmonically and calmly. The guests continued watching the show while Princess Celestia sighed in annoyance as she asked. "Where is Twilight Sparkle?" END... Review and Suggest... Main Casts: Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle Matt Lanter: Shadow Dragon Kelly Sheridan: Starlight Glimmer Kathleen Barr: Trixie Steven Blum: Gallant Gamma Minor Casts: Derek Stephen Prince: Metalgear Ashleigh Ball: Applejack, Rainbow Dash Andrea Libman: Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy Tabitha St. Germain: Rarity, Mrs Cake Daid Faustino: Blazefist P.J. Byrne: Laxtinct Roger Craig Smith: Bladestrike Will Friedle: Saber Dragoon Nancy Cartwright: Ace Skip Stellrecht: Shorty Thinking Janet Verney: Aqaustroke Matthew Mercer: Terrorcreep Cameo: Peter News: Big McIntosh Jason Statham: Amon Blood Statham Nicole Oliver: Princess Celestia