//------------------------------// // A Happy Beginning // Story: The Little Pony Legend: A New Beginning // by MaggiesHeartLove //------------------------------// *(~)* Lamentations 3:22-23~  The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;  His mercies never come to and end; They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness *(~)* A Happy Beginning  Cheese Sandwich kept throwing confetti and balloons left and right. The supper-duper-party pony was back in full swing. "Yahoo!" he cheered, doing multiple summersaults, only to be stopped by his wife, of all ponies, who grabbed him by his yellow tuxedo. "Honey, save some of that energy for after the ceremony." Pinkie said, trying to sound mature, only to come off as her typical bubbly self once gain. "You're gonna spoil all of our surprises!" "I'm sorry, Sugar Muffin. I'm just so happy to have you back!" Cheese said, as he wrapped his arms around his beloved party-loving wife. "Me too, Mommy Pie!" Cookie Cream said, when she, in typical Pinkie cartoony fashion, popped from behind her mother, hugging her neck. Pinkie Pie only blushed at the love of her family. "Awww, I love you guys!" Applejack was happily reunited with her family, and the entire Apple Clan were dressed in their most formal country themed attire. Applejack sported a new hat, as did Double Diamond, wearing a tuxedo/country vest hybrid ensemble. Fluttershy wore a stunning floral inspired gown, while linking her arm with Thorax's, who wore a very handsome tuxedo, also with floral aesthetics. Rarity wore an ocean-inspired gown, which was cut open in the front to expose an even longer skirt, with mermaid-like ruffles, her hair adorned with pearls and a seashell hair clip while standing next to Kombu and Nori. Rainbow Dash and Sorain, happily reunited, cooed at their infant daughter, who nuzzled in her mother's arms. "It's okay, Fire Fly. Mommy's here. And she's never leaving you again." The ball room was filled with friends and family from all walks of life, gathered together at the Harmony Day Gala to for a very, very special occasion. One that was, entirely unexpected, but wonderfully so all the same. At the small stage in the center corner of the room, Korra walked up. Mako stood right beside her and the rest of the Mane Six walked up on stage to stand beside her. Twilight Sparkle stood on her left side, and Flash near Mako. Spike and Mika held claws, both also fancily dressed, with Mika wearing a lovely spirit flower on her head and Spike sporting a tux with green colored flames. Korra addressed the crowd. "This Harmony Celebration has been quite interesting to say the least." she joked, earning a few chuckles from the audience. "Regardless, today we're not only celebrating a time in our history, but also to celebrate a new generation." Nodding her head, Ali and San opened the doors, and Iris and her friends walked in, each wearing the same cloths they were wearing for the welcoming celebration days back, only now Iris and Akari's outfits were sprinkled with radiant sparkles, reflecting all the colors of the rainbow, and the symbols Chi, Hiro and Mai had were sowed onto the side of their cloths. The kids approached the stage and kneeled before their respected predecessors. "A lot of people have asked me what will become of the Avatar once my time in this world came to an end. I used to ask myself that question too." Korra smiled, turning to Twilight Sparkle. "But I realized, even thought a lot of us won't last forever, that doesn't mean our legacy, or stories won't. Our mission has, and always will be, to guide the world towards peace and balance. To share the truth about The Magic of Friendship, so that those who have been lost can be found once again." Kuvira, P'Li, Zaheer, the Sirens, Trixie, Starlight, Sunset, Discord, Hou-Ting, Tahno, and a newly reborn Chrysalis all smiled at her words. They too had been lost, and now were found, radiating with such joy and peace that no words in existence could ever explain. Mika tapped on Spike's shoulder, and the young dragon's ears perked upwards in realization. "Oh, right!" he hurried towards the stage, pulling out a box from his jacket and bowed his head before the two Alicorns queens. Inside were seven medals, each one with a symbol on both sides. The fronts had the symbols of the Mane Seven's respected Elements of Harmony. Applejack was the first to take her medal and stood before the young female firebender. "Mai Sato. All your life, you've never been afraid to speak your mind. While you may come off at blunt, at the core, you're always lookin' out for the well being of your friends. Do you promise me to always speak the truth, even when it's not easy? But most importantly, do you promise to do so from a place of love and compassion? To honor your own word, as well as the word of others?" Mai nodded her head. "I promise." Applejack motioned for her to stand and turn towards the crowd. Applejack turned the medal around, revealing it to be Mai's symbol and placed it around her neck from behind. "Then it is with the highest of honors, I present to you all, Mai Sato: The Element of Honesty!" Mai blushed at all the adoring applauds she received from everyone. Of course, she bit her bottom lip in embarrassment when her own parents started cheering louder than everyone else. Her father more so than her mother. "Woohoo! That's our daugther, right there!" Bolin cheered and hollered. "Go Mai!" Asami cheered, which was only partly drowned out by the rest of the cheering. Mai even caught a glimpse of Lu Ten, also cheering and giving her a thumbs up. Her blush deepened. The cheering slowly stopped when Fluttershy stepped forward to the kneeling Gallant Steed and took her own medal from the box. "Gallant Steed, words can't express how grateful I am for all the times you've helped me in my animal sanctuary, and using your magic to fix all of their broken toys and  beds. While skills in magic are indeed something to admire, they are only coupled by your unyielding desire to help others, regardless of who or what they are. But what amazes me the most is that, unlike me, you know kindness is more than just giving loving affection, but also tough love. Just like your wonderful mother." Fluttershy smiled at Starlight's way, who nodded in gratitude. "Do you promise me that you will continue to spread kindness and lend a helping and or hoof to anyone who needs it? Just as well, be willing to showcase the kind of love that may seem cruel to others, but is really the best gift you can offer someone?" "I promise." With a content smile, Fluttershy motioned to Gallant to stand and turn towards the crowd, where she turned her medal around, revealing the symbol of his cutie mark and placed it around his neck. "I am happy to present, Gallant Steed: The Element of Kindness!" Starlight and Sunburst cheered as loudly as Bolin and Asami did, only while they cheered, Starlight motioned to her son to stand upright. He didn't even notice that he was slouching a bit, so he quickly adjusted himself, which made him look only a tiny bit stiff, but managed to wave at everyone who cheered for him. "That's our son!" Starlight squealed with delight, while gripping her husband's shirt. Pinkie Pie took her medal from the box and turned to the eldest Sato sibling. "Okay, so I had this like, really heartfelt speech, but I kind of went overboard and it became like two hours long, so I'm just gonna cut to the chase. Is there really any doubt that Hiro would be the Element of Laughter? I mean, the time you volunteered to be the replacement clown at Cookie Cream's birthday party last year, you brought down the hose! And the cave with your juggling." "It was still good cake!" Cookie Cream voiced out from the audience. "But seriously, Hiro I know you only want folks to be happy, you also understand that life isn't always a joke. Sure, some folks can take you as a goofball, but at the heart of all, I know you would jump right into a giant river of lava to save the people you love, even when it's not funny. So, do you promise to spread as much positivity to others as you can? But to also know when it's the right or wrong time to deliver a punch line?" "I Pinkie Promise. Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." "Awwww! Okay, stand up so I can put this thing on you and I can start crying!" With watery eyes, Pinkie placed the medal around Hiro's neck, turning it to reveal his new symbol engraved on it. "Hiro Sato: The Element of Laughter, everybody!" Pinkie Pie said, right before bursting into tears, and Hiro only hugged her to cry and calm the pony, who was overwhelmed with feels. The audience both cheered, and laughed. Bolin and Asami cheered once again. "That's our son!" "Go, Hiro!" Among the audience, Zee, Roy and Gil were also present, happily free, and ready to start their new lives as noble citizens. Afterwards, Rarity took her own medal from the box and was already tearing up as she stood before the merpony. Compared to the speeches of everyone else, her's was undoubtedly the most personal. So much so, she literally got own on her knees to Nori's level, surprising her, but also warming the hearts of everyone watching. "Nori… I don't think there is anything else I can say that hasn't already been said. You are so precious to me, more precious than any pearl or gemstone in the world. There is absolutely no doubt that you are everything my Elements stands for. I promise you, not matter what, if you're confused or scared or have any questions, I will always be right here for you." Rarity cupped Nori's cheek, both tearing up and Nori held Rarity's hand with her own. "And I promise to be willing to share my gifts and wealth with those who need it more than I. To inspired others to be as creative and giving as you." The two shared a loving embrace before standing back up. Wiping her tears, Rarity turned her medal to reveal Nori's cutie mark symbol and placed it around her neck. "Ladies and gentleman, I present to you all, Nori Posidonia: The Element of Generosity." As the crowned cheered, Uta himself clapped the loudest, his large body almost the height of the ballroom itself, while also wiping away a few tears. Kombu signed with his hands how proud he was of Nori, and she in return signed back, saying she loved him. Rainbow Dash was next, and she could see how excited the little wisp was. "There used to be a time where I would have protested on ever bestowing this kind of tittle to anyone other than myself. Chi, you've lived a lot longer than most of us, and even when your own family turned on you, you never stopped being loyal not only to your own kind, but also to a pony who, some may even say, probably didn't deserve your friendship. It… actually makes me feel a lot more at ease to know, that there will always be that one special, awesome spirit who will literally go to the abyss and back again for those she cares about. Chi, do you promise to continue doing what your doing? And learning more about yourself and others along the way? Also, not to let your awesomeness go to your head?" Chi chuckled, "I promise." Rainbow Dash gave a wink and placed the medal around her neck, but not without turning it first to reveal Chi's new symbol. "Give it up for Chi: The Element of Loyalty! Come on, let me hear ya!" pounding her fists into the air, everyone cheered as loudly as they could for the new wisp. Chi literally flipped in the air, happily cheering herself, while striking and action pose. Nova and Sunset clapped and cheered for their little wisp, while also playfully rolling their eyes at her antics. She was the perfect successor to Rainbow Dash's legacy. It was finally Twilight Sparkle's turn. With great pride in her heart, she looked at her daughter. "Akari, you have proven yourself to be a strong, clever, and noble friend. You persisted in the face of danger and stuck by your friends even in the worst of times. Do you promise to continue to share the word of Friendship, even in the darkest of times? To always hold these lessons close to your heart?" Unexpectedly, but still welcomed, Akari rose up and hugged her mother, letting tears roll down her cheeks as Twilight embraced her in return. "I promise… with all of my heart." Akari said. Twilight caressed her daughter's mane. "I may not know what comes next for you, but whatever it is, I promise I will always be there for you." She placed the medal around her neck, only to realize she forgot to turn it around and did so before intruding her again to the crowd. "It is with great honor, and great pride, that I present to you all, Princess Akari. The Element of Magic!" Flash embraced both his daughter and wife, while Cadance and Shinning Armor clapped for their niece, and Flurry Heart was hollering like crazy, with two peace fights high up into the air. "Yeah! That's my cousin right there!" "Okay, Flurry, tone it down a notch." Cadance said to her daughter, slowly lowering her hands, only to be surprised when her own husband started hollering just like his daughter. "Woohoo! Yeah! You go, Akari!" Cadance only shrugged and decided to join in. "Yeah! Woo!" Finally, Iris was last. This time, Korra had her stand back up and she placed both hands on her shoulders. "I wish I could say the road ahead would be easy, and I know I can't protect you from everything. But just know, no matter how confused, or scared you may feel at some point, you can always come to me." Like Akari, Iris didn't need to say anything but rather embraced her mother, all the while crying. "I promise I will honor our legacy." she said, while shedding more tears. "To keeps the lessons you've taught me close to my heart, and all the ones I will learn afterwards." "I know you will." Korra said, kissing her daughter's forehead. She took the medal, which had her own cutie mark, and turning it around to reveal Iris's. She placed it around her neck and officially introduced her to the crowd. "I present to you, Princess Avatar Iris: The Element of Unity. Let it be known, from this day onwards, she and her friends will be forever known as, The Guardians of Harmony!" The crowd cheered even louder than before, with more eyes shedding tears, especially Discord and… Steven Magnet who was crying a river… into a fountain. Tenzin approached the stage and smiled at the young teenager. "I knew you could do it… Avatar Iris." Avatar Iris… it had a real nice ring to it. (~) The Gala proceeded as originally planned. Hiro, for his part, kept his promise, and now Zeen, Roy and Gil began their new lives… as party entertainers. Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich saw the potential and happily hired them on the spot to work parties and special events. The three friends performed a little comedy routine, involving pies, a whoopee cushion, and rubber chickens. At first, when looked like their jokes were unfit for a laugh, the three started their typical bantering routine, and typical slapstick which, being spirits, barely harmed them. This was enough to get Cookie Cream, Half Pipe, Sweet Gala, and Kai and Jinora's kids to laugh so hard a couple of them rolled onto the floor, hugging their stomachs and kicking their legs in laughter. The three smiled laughed along with them. "You know, I could get used to this." Gi said, tasting a bit of the pie on his face. (~) Mai took a sip of her punch, only to nearly spill it when an unexpected guest appeared before her, looking, possibly even more handsome than the last time she saw him. "Hey." "Oh! Lu Ten, hey." "You were… you were great out there." Lu Ten said, his voice sounding… surprisingly flustered. "All I did was get a medal." Mai said, for once, speaking in fluently without nervously stuttering. After everything she had faced, talking to a cute guy shouldn't be that difficult. "Well, yeah, what I meant was that, um…" Lu Ten's cheeks turned a light shade of red and his eyes kept darting back and forth, as if unable to fully look Mai in the eye and shuffled the tip of his shoe a bit. "Are you okay?" Mai asked. "Yeah, it's just… this is kind of awkward to ask." "Just say it." Mai encouraged, her natural honesty showing. Lu Ten took on a deep breath before speaking. "My uncle said you and your friends go to Harmony High, and since I'm gonna be transferring there after the summer, I was hoping maybe, you--you and your friends could-- show me around?" Mai blinked in surprise before smiling. "I… yeah, that'd be great!" "Fantastic! And, maybe you could help me with my own project?" "Project?" Lu Ten chuckled nervously, probably because he was worried he sounded a bit too eager before. He pulled out a notebook from his jacket pocket and flipped through the pages. Mai was astonished to see that a lot of the sketches and drawings were diagrams for inventions. Images of tools, gears and notes of all kinds, it as no different from her own ideas, except they didn't involve any geodes of any kind, unlike her own. Lu Ten stopped on one page, which was the prototype of a scooter. "I've been working on this new model for my organic fueled scooter for a couple years now. Your cousin Iris told me about your geode powered skateboard and, I thought, maybe, you could help me out? If, that's okay. I just don't have that many ideas on how to power it without using ordinary gasoline." If she didn't know any better, Mai could have sworn that Lu Ten's cheeks were now almost as red as his royal fire nation jacket. These diagrams looked incredibly detailed, well thought out, and just… inspirational to say the least. "This looks really good." Mai said, gently tracing her fingers across the image. "Maybe if you did a few tweaks here, and there--" "Oh, you mean if I calibrate the--" "Yes, that way it will--" "Ooh, so that it won't--" "Exactly!" "Wow! How did I miss that? Maybe I can show you my prototype mini model later today?" "I'd love that." Mai felt pretty good about herself right now. Not only was Lu Ten cute, but he was smart too, and was into inventing just like she was. However, while they could talk inventions all they wished, there was another idea Mai had in mind, placing her newfound confidence to good use. "But, first… you maybe want to dance?" "Yes!" Lu Ten said, really quickly and very eagerly, which even took Mai herself by surprise. He reeled back, blushing in embarrassment. "I-I mean, that'd be cool." Mai only giggled, her hand reaching up to partly cover her mouth, her cheeks tainted with red, matching Lu Ten's. Not too far away, Hiro and Gallant observed the two, the earthbender wrapping his arm around his pony best friend. "Well, doesn't this sweet little moment give you any ideas?… Any?… At all?…" Hiro casually took Gallant by the chin and turned him to see Akari, happily petting her beloved timberwolf. Gallant gulped nervously, but after witnessing Mai overcome her own insecurities and talk to someone she liked, and after everything else he had been through, it was high time to push fear aside and take a risk. With his head held up high, and his palms sweating, he walked up to the princess. "Hey, Akari." "Hey, Gallant. What's up?" "I, uh…" her turned his head only to see Hiro giving him a thumbs up. Gallant turned back to face Akari, taking in a deep breath. "I wanted to ask you something. Actually, I've been wanting to ask you for a while now." Akari's body froze and she fiddled with her fingers, anxiously anticipating what he was about to say. "What is it?" she asked, almost nervously. "I know we're already at the Gala and all, but if it's not too late--or too weird--would you maybe, consider… being my date?" Akari's eyes widened and her mouth opened upon his question, a gesture even Timber replicated, his wooden lower jaw almost falling off. But Gallant didn't stop there. "And, after today, if you're up for it, maybe we could… go for some noodles or, ice cream? The two of us? With your dad's permission of course because, I know if he would--Hmmp!" Gallant was completely cut off when Akari, out of a spur of the moment, and unable to find the right words to express how she felt, threw caution to the wind and kissed him full on the lips. It was short and sweet, but made all the different none the less. Gallant's eyes were widener than dinner plates and a smile began to form. Akari blushed, bitting her bottom lip bashfully. "I would like that." "Good… good." The young princess giggled, and Gallant couldn't stop the blush on his cheeks from deepening. While this was going on, Twilight and Flash watched the entire scene. "You're taking this surprisingly well." Twilight said to her husband. Flash shrugged. "Please, I've been rooting for those two since day one." (~) Chrysalis leaned against a spirit tree that grew from the floor, merging with the architect of the ball room. She silently observed the variety of people and creatures socializing. Laughing, hugging, kissing. There once was a time where this kind of scenery would make her want to steal every type of love they held in their hearts, only now, Chrysalis was content to simply be surrounded by it being shared and given freely. "Nice view, isn't it?" Chrysalis almost leaped in alarm when Kuvira spoke to her. She slowly calmed down. The poor thing was still rather jumpy after everything. "Yeah. First time I can actually enjoy something without wanting to suck the life out of it." Kuvira leaned against the same tree as her. "So, any plans on where you're going to stay?" "Thorax said I was more than welcome to return to the changeling kingdom but… I don't feel like I'm ready to go back there just yet." Kuvira's fingers trailed on the surface of the tree, as if pondering on something. "You know, my apartment has some extra room, and if you don't have anywhere else in mind…" Chrysalis's pointed ears perked upwards in interest, yet she stared at the metalbender in confusion. "Won't that be kind of weird?" "After what I've seen over the years, this doesn't even crack the top ten. Besides, I have a feeling you and I are going to find plenty of things to talk about. Plus, you'll need a place to stay in the city if you're gonna be going to school with Iris and the others." Chrysalis had thought about their offer. During her time disguised as News Caster, she had become rather enchanted by the beauty of the city, and it would be nice to be around others who were closest to her age for once. Be part of a group rather than be the forceful leader. "Is Queen Korra okay with this?" "She's all for it." Kuvira said, but she could tell Chrysalis was still hesitant to take the offer. Not because she didn't like it, but because she didn't think she deserved it. Feeling empathy for her, Kuvira placed her hand on Chrysalis's shoulder. She was still getting used to this type of physical contact from others. "I know how hard it is to start over after everything you've been through. But I can say, from my own experiences, that things will get better. You just need the right guidance." Chrysalis bit her bottom lip before asking, "You sure you won't mind?" "I'd be more than happy to have you around." Those words were enough to give Chrysalis enough confidence to believe she could accept the offer if she so wanted. Who knows, maybe learning from someone who understood her own dilemmas would be good for her. And… she never had a mother-like figure growing up. Maybe this could work out. Chrysalis hugged Kuvira, which took her off guard at first, but happily returned the gesture. Starlight Glimmer and P'Li observed the two nearby. They knew, also from their own experiences, that young Chrysalis would be in good hands. (~) Iris stood outside, leaning against a pillar in the entrance of City Hall, looking up at the Equestrian portal that rose upwards over the horizon. "Tired from all the dancing?" a voice said. Iris turned around to see it was Akari. "I just wanted to get some fresh air." Iris said. Akari didn't even ask and simply joined her, both looking at the beautiful scenery. "I never got to apologize." "About what?" "About not listening to you. If I hadn't tried to control the Avatar state all on my own you guys probably wouldn't have been captured. You were right, I was only thinking about wanting to be like my mom." "It's okay, Iris. If anything, I probably should have been more aware of that. All I wanted was for you fulfill your dream." "I know. But, as my best friend, you shouldn't be afraid to tell me when I'm in the wrong." "Well, you can expect a lot more of that from me from now on." Akari said, playfully punching her arm, which didn't even hurt her, yet she laughed alongside her. "I'm counting on it." Iris said, happy to hear it. "Besides, it doesn't matter how badly you mess up, our friendship is stronger can any mistake. "I know. I love you, sis." "I love you too." Akari welcomed Iris into her arms and the two best friends forever shared a tender moment. Iris ended the hug, placing her hands on her hips and smiling flyby. "So, took a page from my mom's dating book, huh?" Akari blushed, placing her index finger and thumb inches appart. "Maybe." The two friends shared a laugh and returned back inside, arms links and arrived just in time to see their parents, and all the Elements of Harmony, past and present, listening to one of Discord's humorous quips. "Seriously Discord, how in the heck were you able to get captured by Chrysalis?" Prince Wu asked. Discord casually confessed, "Well, one of her wolves might have caught me off guard when I shrunk myself down to spy on Thorax and Fluttershy." "You did what?!" both Thorax and Fluttershy exclaimed in shock, and evident annoyance. "I just wanted to be sure he didn't get cold hooves!" "Cold hooves?" Korra asked. "What is he talking about?" "Oh, that's right, we haven't told them yet." Fluttershy said, gripping Thorax's arm. "Told us what?" Twilight asked. All eyes and ears fell on the couple, with Discord excitedly grinning behind them. Thorax and Fluttershy blushed. "You want to tell them or should I?" he asked. "I've got this." Fluttershy looked so excited she looked like she was about to burst. "We're getting married!" Eyes popped and jaws dropped all at once and all women of the group screamed their heads off, even the die hard tomboys couldn't stop themselves from squealing and jumping up and down. Several more guests turned their head to see what the commotion was about. While not all of the mean were streaming, they most certainly did not stay silent. Mako, Flash and the rest of the pony husbands all hugged Thorax on congrats while Fluttershy was met with an array of hugs and kisses from her female friends. Korra, out of all of them, looked like a child on a sugar high as she literally lifted Fluttershy off the ground in her tight hug. "Oh my gosh, I'm so happy for you two! Finally! I was getting seriously impatient with you guys." Chi surprised Fluttershy with a hug from behind. "Congratulations!" "Thank you!" Nova, on the other hand, noticed that something was a little bit off with his wife. She was happy for Fluttershy, she was screaming her head off and hugging her as much as everyone, but once things cooled down, it was life she had just realized something. "Sunset, you okay?" Nova asked. "Are you sick again?" "No, no, Nova, it's not that." Sunset assured him, until she herself changed her mind. "Actually, I've been meaning to tell you something, but I couldn't find the right time, and with Fluttershy's announcement I--" "Oh, Sunset it's okay." Thorax said kindly. Fluttershy nodded. "Whatever it is, you can tell us. We won't mind." "Are you sure?" "Of course." Sunset Shimmer turned to Asami, who nodded her head in encouragement. The unicorn took in a deep breath. "Okay then." she turned to face her husband. "Nova, I have been feeling really under the weather, and it got a bit worse when I joined the team to bring you and everyone back. But, thanks to Asami, I'm feeling a lot better now." "So, no more puking or nausea?" "No, I'm still having those. And I will continue to have them for the next few months." Everyone became silent, and several coupled looked at one another then back at Sunset Shimmer with eyes as large as dinner plates. "What are you saying?" "Nova… I'm pregnant." "Y-You're what?" "We're having a baby." If the reaction to Fluttershy's engagement didn't leave half of the guests deff, then their reaction to Sunset's news certainly finished the job. Fluttershy was especially happy, seeing as this meant another adorable baby for her to babysit. Nova was paralyzed in place, allowing the initial shock to sink in. "You mean… I'm gonna be a father?" Sunset Shimmer nodded eagerly. "And I'm gonna be an aunt?!" Chi asked, Sunset nodded once again. Nova's smile spread so wide his cheek would be sore by the next day, but he couldn't care less about that as he scooped up his wife and spun her around before kissing her full on the lips. "I love you!" "I love you, too." Chi was literally trembling, her smile and eyes as big as Nova's. "This… is… the best… day… EVER!!!" everyone shielded themselves when Chi, literally, spontaneously combusted into a pile of confetti, falling down on the floor. Despite this, her voice was still heard from the remains. "Totally worth it!" Everyone just laughed at the wisps's reaction and she manifested herself back, good as new and hugged her adopted brother and sister-in-law. Her family was growing more and more by the minute, and she couldn't be happier. Spike then noticed his wrist watch. "Guys! It's time!" he said, tapping on the surface. "Oh, that's right! And perfect timing too." Rarity said, handing her drink to Kombu for the time being. "What better way to celebrate this glorious occasion?" Taking Nori by the hand, the two made their way towards the stage. Rarity tapped on the microphone. "Everyone, may I have your attention, please? As you know, during the last day of the Harmony Celebration, we would have one special volunteer sing an original song for the Gala. This year, I am happy to present to you somepony very close to my heart." Rarity happily stepped aside so Nori could take the stage. The two shared one last hug and Nori addressed the crowd, seeing all of her friends giving her a high five. "I had trouble trying to find the lyrics to this song. I wanted to make something new. Something that hasn't been done before, but when I tried to, I wounded up missing the point." she smiled at Iris. "Even if some of these lyrics have been said before, that shouldn't be a bad thing. This celebration is about remembering what's really important." Roy, Gil and Zeen played the instruments. Roy played the piano, and all eyes landed on Nori, who shared her beautiful voice with everyone around her. Rather than sing on stage, she walked back down, singing directly, and personally to the crowd. (You and Me from Disney's Descendants 2) Nori: Lookin' back at yesterday I thought I gave it everything But still there's so much road ahead of me She extended her hand towards Chi, back together again, and floated beside her. Chi: When I look at all that we've been through  I finally recognized  Who we are and all that we can be Each of the adults nodded their heads in approval. Chi and Nori encouraged the rest of their friends to join in, and the audience spread out, leaving a clear opening for the children. Chi and Nori: Sometimes it's hard to find yourself But it's worth it in the end 'Cause the Magic of Friendship's where it all begins Hiro snapped his fingers, and the three spirits replaced their classical instruments with those of pop and rock. The music became faster and more upbeat. Using her magic, Iris made her, Akari's Nori's, Chi's and Mai's skirts shorter with leggings underneath, giving them more freedom to dance around in an improvised choreography, combining elements of classic moves and modern dances. Guardians of Harmony: We can be bold We can be brave We can be free We can get loud Makin' that change If we just believe (Whoa, oh, oh) The seven teenagers danced together, and Iris reached out to take Chrysalis's hand, inviting her to join. Self cautious at first, but the young changeling quickly got into the spirit and danced alongside them. The music and the lyrics encouraged everyone to join in the dance. Grown ups, teenagers, children, ponies, spirits, dragons, griffons, benders and non-benders, everyone joined in the fun. The darkness will run and hide Once we rise up and shine United we're strong Starting today A new Legend begins It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! Iris: It starts with you and me Gallant and Akari held hands as he spun her around, gazing into each other's eyes. Akari & Gallant: There's something special that I've learned It's together we can change the world Everybody's got somethin' they can bring Flash Sentry and Starlight Glimmer came in, and danced with their respected child. Hiro and Mai danced side by side. Hiro & Mai: When the world tells you who you are Doesn't mean you gotta play the part That shinning star will always guide the way Their parents came in and they spun away with them, leaving Iris and Akari to hold one another's hands and spin around once another until all of their friends, Chrysalis included, gathered together in a circle. Iris & Akari: Sometimes it's hard to find yourself But it's worth it in the end 'Cause the Magic of Friendship's where it all begins Everybody: We can be bold We can be brave We can be free The entire ball room was bursting with color, music and laughter. The married couples paired up and danced side by side, as their children continued to sing, along with everybody else. We can get loud Makin' that change If we just believe (Whoa, oh, oh) Applejack and Double Diamond did a country dance, alongside Half Pipe, Sweet Gala, Apple Bloom, Granny Smith, Big Mac, Grand Pear and even Sugar Belle, included into the family. Varrick pulled out a country hat and danced alongside Zhu Li, perfuming the same dance and little VJ joined in the fun. The darkness will run and hide Once we rise up and shine United we're strong Starting today A new Legend begins It starts with you and me Nori, Rarity and Kombu slid across the floor in fluid movements as if they were underwater, Pinkie Pie and Cheese sandwich did a fun tap dance with top hats, canes and all, alongside little Cookie cream Pie. Rainbow Dash and Soarin performed a break dance routine alongside the other Wonderbolts, police officers and even Gilda. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Fluttershy and Thorax did an elegant, yet upbeat and fast ball room dance routine, as Seabreeze and his Breezie family swarmed around them, creating a dazzling display. Asami spun around and Bolin slid on by, grabbing her by the waist and lifting her up before spinning around. Twilight and Flash Sentry, alongside Korra and Mako performed a dance that was akin to the same dance that Aang and Katara performed together in their youth, mixed with modern updates. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Twilight: Let the rainbow remind us all Together we will play our part A true friend will help you see the light  Yeah! Korra, Twilight, their husbands, and the entire Team Avatar gathered together, wrapping their arms around each other. Even after they had all grown and begun their new lives, their friendships remained the same. In fact, it as even stronger now than it was before. Korra: Through all the trials and the scars  They've made us into who we are Team Avatar Harmony:  I know that I've been changed For the better 'cause of you! Korra: You! Discord took center stage, break dancing like a young, hip teenager, where Leilani approached, and the two danced together before making way for Celestia and Luna. Everybody: We can be bold We can be brave We can be free The two alicorn sisters danced, their long dresses having been shortened for more freedom, added with leggings underneath. Even in their age, they still moved like two twenty-year-olds. The two were accompanies by Lin and Suyin, who also danced side by side. We can get loud Makin' that change If we just believe (Whoa, oh, oh) Starlight Glimmer, Sunburst, Sunset Shimmer and Nova Nightshade took the dance floor, dancing side by side with their respected pair, only to be joined by P'Li and Zaheer. Despite him being shorter than her, they danced in perfect sync. Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo gathered together to dance alongside Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, Tender Taps, literally every single pony they had ever helped over the years in understanding their cutie marks. As a funny twist, Kuvira performed a stunning dance from her own days as a performer back at Zaofu, and Wu came in, dancing alongside her. She casually invited him to join and the two delivered a surprisingly good performance all around. The darkness will run and hide Once we rise up and shine United we're strong Starting today A new Legend begins It starts with you and me Spike and Mika danced side by side, while Cadance and Shinning Armor danced alongside their daughter Flurry Heart. Opal and her husband Tu led the airbenders in their dance, combining pop choreography with airbending movements, and Ikki, Rohan and Meelo took center stage with their performance. Tenzin, despite his old age, manage to do bob his head and move his arms to the beat, along with Pema, and even Aiwei who joined the party. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! Oh, ho! It starts with you and me The three sirens, Adagio, Aria and Sonata sang along to the words, while dancing together, each other wearing more modest clothing, yet still waving their hips like they once did when they were evil. Some habits are hard to break, but at least this time they were sharing their music rather than using it for selfish gain. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! Yea-Yeah! It starts with you and me Cadance and Shinning Armor danced together, and President Iroh danced with his sister. Kya and Bumi danced side by side, and Kai remained with Jinora, mainly just dancing in a corner since she was still pregnant, but that didn't stop them from having fun. Uta, of course, danced and sang along with all of his new friends, including Nori. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! Yeah, oh! It starts with you and me Iris hugged her mother, only to spot a familiar white and blue butterfly fluttering in front of her. Looking up, her eyes widened in awe and she could feel her heart swelling up. Right above her, above everyone, she saw the now human-like Raava with her beautiful wings, and alongside her was none other than Avatar Wan… and Prince White. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me The three radiated with a heavenly glow, but they were not alone. All around the ball room, right above everyone present. She saw the past Avatars, from Roku, to Kyoshy, to Kuruk to Yen Chen, and many more. But other than them, she also saw more faces of the past. She saw Avatar Aang, young and handsome, alongside a younger Katara, a younger Sokka, a younger Toph, Zuko, his entire family, even Iroh himself. Hiroshi Sato and his wife, Nova's old master, even his old girlfriend Midnight, as well as Noatok and Tarlook, all smiling down upon them with smiles of peace and happiness. Iris even saw her great-grandmother Yin, her deceased grandparents, Pear Butter and Bright Macintosh, all faces from the recent past and far back were there. Iris couldn't understand at first, until she saw the tears in her mother's eyes. She could see them too. Just as Korra would always be there for Iris, these souls would always be around to watch over her, her friends, and everyone in this room. The original Team Avatar all simultaneously nodded their heads in approval. It was their silent way of saying; "This if your story now… make the most of it.". Their bodies radiated with light before changing into tiny little light balls of energy and Raava changed back into a butterfly. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me In a dazzling display that nobody else, save for Korra and Iris could explain, something dispersed from above, and to everyone's astonishment, a swarm of brilliantly bright butterflies with leafs for wings swarmed all around the ball room, landing on the shoulders of various people. When one landed on Lin's shoulder, somehow, someway, she and Su knew who it was. The same happened for Tenzin and his siblings, for Mako and Bolin, Asami, Applejack, Apple Bloom and Big Mac, Leilani and her daughters, Iroh and his sister, everyone who had ever lost anyone could feel their presence, silently sending them their love and saying everything would be alright. The doors bursted open and everyone ran out, following the beautiful swarm of light, leaf butterflies out into the open, where they continued dancing and singing, now with ever more joy in their hearts as the swarm soared up into the sky, fluttering all around the city, where bystanders watched in awe at the sight. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me Iris, her friends, entire family, all huddled together, beaming with immense joy, and even Chrysalis felt right at home with everyone around her as they all sang and watched the swarm of butterflies soar up into the sky, and around the statue of Avatar Aang out on Yue Bay. With that, the Day of Harmony came to a close, with the surest of reminders, and promise, that whatever the future held for the new Guardians of Harmony, there was one guarantee. The Magic of Friendship would always be around to light the way and make their ever growing tree stronger with each passing day. That promise was sealed, yet again, as Raava flew above with the rest of the butterflies and a bright shimmering rainbow arched overhead in the clear blue sky. Whoa, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh - hey! It starts with you and me (~) Korra and Twilight reached the top of the hill. The beautiful oak tree served a the perfect shade from the intense sun. An assortment of beautifully, diverse colored flowers, each with a specific color pattern blossomed and danced in the wind, their petals emitting light glows that were most evident underneath the shade of the tree. In her hand, Korra carried a small seed. Pressing her finger on top of it, it glowed brightly and she placed it into the soil. With a gentle swift movement of the hand, a new flower blossomed in seconds. The petals on the flower carries the same ones as the newly freed Chrysalis's color pallet. Flowers that shared similar pallets to Starlight Glimmer, Kuvira, Nova, Sunset Shimmer, the Sirens, Discord, P'Li, Zaheer, Queen Hou Ting, even Trixie and Tahno were included. Right on front of the tree, above its roots, Korra traced her fingers across the surfaced of a due tombstone. A single tear escaped her eye, yet she smiled none the less. Twilight wrapped her arm around Korra's shoulder, gently caressing the gentle new addition to the garden. The two bowed in respect before flying off to return to their daily lives. On the tombstones, both images and names of Noatok and Tarlook were engraved on them. Underneath it, it read…. "An enemy is just a friend you haven't made yet." ……………………… The end …………………… *(~)* Lamentations 3:22-23~  The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;  His mercies never come to and end; They are new every morning; Great is your faithfulness *(~)*