//------------------------------// // The Prologue // Story: Potential // by Crisslunarflame //------------------------------// The Prologue… A pale green unicorn stood next to the entrance. Though an aura of intelligence wafted off of her in waves, the mare also gave the impression of being as sweet as her Cutie Mark; three colorful peppermints. She generally considered herself a pretty good combination: Smart and Talented enough to teach at Princess Luna’s Academy for Gifted Unicorns, but also kind enough for the tender young colts and fillies she taught. Though her Cutie Mark implied candy making, Minty Swirl’s special talent was something different altogether. Sure, the two were definably related, but the candy on her flank was a mere representation of Minty’s true talents. Minty had discovered her talent, when she had been assisting her mother making candy h’ordevours for the Grand Galloping Gala. (They had owned a Canterlot candy Shoppe, and were catering) Entranced by the bubbling colors that were to create peppermints, Minty had gently, naturally, twirled the mixture of the candy. In wonder, she watched as he colors responded to her will, and came out as a perfect choreography of color and flavor. That night at the Gala, everypony was amazed at the wonderful candy provided and, in delight, Minty almost missed the moment that she got her Cutie Mark. Ever since then, the Princess had ordered her peppermints from Minty specially, and always made sure to compliment the talented young unicorn. But Minty later discovered that her true talent was not limited to candy making. She discovered that her gift was the literal ability to mix substances at her will. She was able to take any substances, be it color, light, potions, even simple day-to-day things like baking a muffin recipe, she had an uncanny ability to combine and mix them so that they complimented each other in a composed, yet natural, way. It was this ability, this raw talent which enabled Minty to be a teacher at the Academy. She was well liked and respected by her students, and she enjoyed her work. With a happy sigh, Minty was suddenly jolted back to the present after a large “Bang”. All thoughts of Cutie Marks and inner meaning lost, Minty peered into the adjacent classroom. She quickly opened the door for a forlorn pale blue unicorn filly to pass. Oh, dear. Poor, thing, I hope her parents don’t give her a hard time at home for the audition… I’m sure she did her best… In a kind effort to comfort the subject of the failed audition, Minty offered Beatrix Lulamoon the bowl of colorful peppermint candies next to her. The down cast unicorn gave a brief mumble of gratitude before morosely exiting the hallway. After a brief moment of regret, Minty used her telekinesis to unravel the long scroll by her side. Her eyes slid down the list until she found the name she was looking for… “Twilight Sparkle”, The small lavender filly jolted up with a start. A smart-looking mare was reading her name from a list! After a moment of serious debate, Twilight curled herself into a ball of nervous energy. When she peeked back up, the friendly mare was walking over to her. Glancing at her Cutie Mark, Twilight sat up a little. I wonder what that means, she thought, Why would a teacher here have candy as their Cutie Mark? Suddenly, Twilight noticed the giant candy bowl levitating beside the mare, and she widened her eyes. “Would you like to have a piece of candy before the audition, Twilight? Asked the teacher. “Thank you, it looks delicious,” Twilight replied as gracefully as she could, trying not to tremble. As she sucked on the delicious candy, Twilight calmed herself down, and mentally prepared herself for the task ahead. OK. All I need to do is pass this entrance exam, and then I can have a scholarship to this school. To Twilight, reading and studying were her life. She had worked especially hard for this moment, and she felt that she was ready to shine. The whole reason that she was here was because she was studious and took her education seriously. That is why her teacher had recommended her. I can do this. This was a very important exam, and it would be vital that she pass. I know. And I think I can do this. This prestigious Academy would help her to live up to her full potential. Gulp. Maybe… Twilight looked into the gentle eyes of the soft green mare, and was instantly reassured. With a shaky smile, Twilight whispered a small “thanks,” of gratitude to the teacher, for just being a kind, reassuring spark of hope, which would hopefully start the fire that was her potential. “Good Luck,” replied Minty as Twilight Sparkle went through the door. “And may the odds be ever in your favor…” Yes. ...