//------------------------------// // Chapter 1: Reunion // Story: My Little Pony: The Lost Soul // by Shadow Master //------------------------------// "Today is the day. The Festival of Friendship, an excited and also special festival for gathering and making friends between ponies and other creatures. This conceptual idea was inspired by my experience and adventure of friendship with my friends, across the Equestria. I want to share this experience and joy with everyone including other creatures. I was disappointed and upset that my proposal idea of Songbird Serenade's performance was rejected by both Royal Princesses and Mystic Council. They told me that I should rely on my own magic to do so. I couldn't understand what they mean. So, it looks like I have to rely on my organization and intelligent mind, and even my own friends to make Festival of Friendship excited and special. We're making our final preparation for Festival of Friendship. But we're about to get some unexpected company. Someone we didn't expected to be alive..." "Woohoo! Awesome!" Rainbow cheered happily and wildly as she flew around while bursting some clouds that surrounded the Canterlot Castle. While she was enjoying her fun, a familiar orange Pegasus flew and passed her by. Rainbow recovered from the surprise attack. She found Indigo was flying and standing before her. Her rival blew a raspberry at her while pulling her lower right eyelid down. "Hey, Rainbow Crash!" Indigo mocked happily, "Ready to lose to me for bursting the clouds?" Rainbow scoffed, "We'll see about that, Zippy! I'm so gonna beat you! Trust me on that!" Indigo laughed, "Only if you can catch me, loser!" Indigo flew off at once as she charged and burst off some clouds. Rainbow smirked before chased after her rival while hitting some clouds as well. They both laughed happily as they both chased and raced each other wildly and happily while bursting the numbers of clouds for competition. Blazefist and Aqua were there as well, along with Wonderbolts and Weather Pegasi for clearing the clouds off as well. The husband and wife noticed their daughter and honorary friend were racing and competing happily in midair. Blazefist was annoyed while Aqua giggled happily and amusingly of the teenagers' competitiveness and fun. "Honestly..." Blazefist remarked annoyingly, "Why can't those two stop fooling around and work?" Aqua nudged Blazefist's shoulder, "Lighten up, Blaze. They're just having fun. Plus, they're also working on it too. Wouldn't hurt for the moment." "Yeah. That would probably getting them into some troubles," Blazefist said in concern with a sigh. He gasped upon looking at where two Pegasi were flying to. He shouted, "Like that! Indigo! Dash! Watch out!" Rainbow and Indigo looked confused by Blazefist's concerns. They looked up and found a Black Hawk Gunship and two Falcon jets were coming towards them. The pilots also noticed two Pegasi as well, shocking and scaring them as well. Everyone yelled in shock and fear. Rainbow and Indigo barely dodge three ships alive. "Sorry!" Rainbow and Indigo apologized in worry. The pilots and marines complained and shouted angrily, "Hey! Watch where you're going, you moron! Wanna die or something?! Stupid Equestria Ponies! Always make our jobs difficult!" "Sheesh! We said 'sorry'," Rainbow remarked in annoyance. Indigo scoffed whole nudged Rainbow's shoulder, "Forget them, Dash. They're just jealous that we can fly while they have to pilot those junks!" "And those junks are effective and strong for both defense and offense especially they're packed with powerful Gem Crystals and nuclear missiles! Don't mess with them!" Blazefist said dryly as he appeared before Rainbow and Indigo. He pulled their ears hard, making them yelped in pain. He continued, "What the hell were you both thinking?! You wanna get yourself hurt and trouble?" "We were just having fun, dad!" Indigo commented painfully. Rainbow nodded and hissed painfully, "Yeah! It wouldn't to have fun, you know!" Blazefist let got of his hooves from pulling two girls' ears. Aqua giggled a bit, "Told ya, Blaze." She turned and looked at Rainbow and Indigo, "But he's right. You should be careful. You don't wanna mess with those ships especially the cruisers and Ares's Shield Gate." Rainbow sighed, "It's cool to see and have those ships around. But isn't it overkill?" Indigo nodded in agreement, "And not to mention, we have a space station here as well. What's up with that?" Blazefist sighed, "True. But when we have Mystic Emperor and Mystic Council on the same place, we need lots of securities to keep them safe from danger. That's why we have lots of soldiers, arsenals and cruisers patrolling and guarding the area." "Yup," Aqua nodded as she turned and looked at the space station, "And that space station is Ares's Shield Gate. It got some strong metal defense, awesome firepower and its secret weapon - unleashing a powerful barrier to protect us from inside and keep the enemies out from infiltrating, invading and even unleashing firepower on it. Nothing could beat that station." "Wow... That sounds like super space station..." Rainbow commented. "And awesome too!" Indigo exclaimed happily. "Anyway. Back to work now, everyone. We need to get the Festival of Friendship done by tonight. So, let's-!" Blazefist was interrupted as he found both Indigo and Rainbow were competing, finishing up and having fun of bursting clouds. They stood before him. He looked shock and surprise, "Finish it up?" "Sky's cleared and ready for the festival!" Rainbow exclaimed happily. Indigo scoffed, "And look who's win bursting up the clouds?" She then pointed her hoof at herself while smirked amusingly, "Moi!" "As if! I'm the winner, not you!" "I am! I got dozens of bursting clouds!" "I am!" "I am!" Rainbow and Indigo were complaining and competing of who wins bursting up the clouds. Aqua giggled amusingly while Blazefist shook his head in annoyance and frustration. "Honestly..." Blazefist commented in frustration. Aqua sighed happily as she patted Blazefist's back, "Well, at least, those two got the job done. Plus, they were just having fun." Blazefist scoffed, "Hopefully, they don't try to do something stupid and embarrassing in the festival..." On the ground, the rest of Mane Six and Dragon Strike Force were setting up and decorating the live performance stage for Songbird Serenade. They weren't alone. They were assisted by Cutie Mark Crusaders, Shadow Six, Starlight, Sunset, Sunburst, Flash and Shiroi. Pinkie was blowing up and decorating some balloons into animals version including Discord's. Just as she finished with it, Discord Balloon began to deflate and flew off like a rocket blasting off from the sky. On the stage, Fluttershy was teaching and training the birds to sing harmonically and calmly for Songbird Serenade's presentation. Lemon Zest and Sour Sweet were working and testing on their DJ Jockey and speakers carefully. Laxtinct was practicing and trained himself of how he speak and address to the audience since he was chosen to be an announcer Angel, dressed in purple bird costume, was there to support and helped his master. Terrorcreep was there for supporting his wife, though he looked very bored and uninterested. Shiroi was drawing and painting on her art block. Suddenly, the balloon was deflating and passing them by, which confuse them. "Whoa! Heads up, guys!" Pinkie cried as she was chasing after the balloon. And at the same time, she unintentionally chased off the birds and scaring her friends off while shouted, "Out of control balloooooon!" Pinkie has already left the stage as she was chasing after the balloon. Laxtinct slammed on the ground hard, with his messy tuxedo suits. Terrorcreep got his coat wrapping him up. Sour Sweet got tangled up by the wires. Lemon Zest was holding pile of discs before putting them on top of DJ Jockey. Everyone sighed in annoyance while shaking their heads. Struggling to get out of tangling wires, Sour Sweet groaned, "I hate it when she does that..." Lemon Zest laughed, "That's Pinkie Pie. Without her and her smile, the stage wouldn't be awesome and cool as today." "That is quite true..." Sour Sweet commented happily before shown her sour face, "If she hadn't been a wild animal." "Hoo," Fluttershy giggled a bit as she grabbed and patted her nightingale for comfort, "I don't think it's the balloon that's out of control, Pinkie Pie!" "Well, it could be worse," Laxtinct commented. He looked at his suit. He groaned as he dust them off, "And I just cleaned them for tonight. I was gonna be greatest but charming and coolest announcer..." "Idiot..." Terrorcreep sighed as he got up from the ground. He approached to Fluttershy and said, "I don't understand why you chose birds as the choirs for the night. Bats are better singers, and they loved nighttime." He scoffed as he dusted off his coat, "I know it because I trained them well to be professional." Laxtinct groaned, "Professional Nightmares?" Terrorcreep groaned in annoyance as he knocked Laxtinct's head hard, making him yelped in pain and fell down hard. Fluttershy giggled playfully and happily, "Oh, Terrorcreep, as much as I loved bats to play the part for tonight, but birds are the best choice for being singers because of their harmonically tone, which calm and inspire ponies to feel friendly and happy." Terrorcreep groaned in annoyance. She approached and held him close to her, "But that doesn't mean I don't love you, my dearest batty husband..." Terrorcreep laughed amusingly. He smiled and held her chin, "Truly an angel of my heart, my lovely wife. Always will be." Terrorcreep and Fluttershy gave each other a deep passionate kiss. Laxtinct recovered from a headache. He found his two friends kissing. It make him annoyed and frustrated due to him didn't get a girlfriend. "Come on, Lax. Don't be jealous on them," Shiroi said calmly as she painted on her portrait of Terrorcreep and Fluttershy. She smiled, "Those two deserve each other. They maybe different from each other, but they loved each other so much. They're lucky as some of us." Laxtinct scoffed in annoyance, "Yeah. They're so lucky to have each other. I am not." "Hey, come on." Shiroi said firmly and calmly as she patted Laxtinct's back, "Just because you're not lucky doesn't mean you won't get one. You'll find someone you can fall in love with. I know you will." "Really?" Laxtinct asked hopefully. Shiroi nodded happily. He smiled, "Thanks, Shiroi. You really know how to cheer this guy out." Saber, Applejack, Sugarcoat and Apple Bloom moved and pushed the cargo of apple cider barrels to the front stage. They both sighed as they wiped their sweats off. "Thanks for helping us out, Saber," Apple Bloom said happily. Saber laughed as he patted Apple Bloom's head, "Hey, what are family for. After all, I'm a big brother of the Apple Family." He hummed thoughtfully, "Or is it uncle?" Apple Bloom giggled playfully, "Big Brother would be great." "Yeah, me too." Applejack agreed. She turned and called her friends out, "Hey, y'all! Anypony up for some free samples of my family's apple cider?" Sugarcoat cleared her throat as she whispered, "You do realized that could attract one alcoholic drunk pony to get them, and leaving no one to get the apple cider. That might be bad idea." Applejack laughed as she patted Sugarcoat's head gently, "You worry too much, Sugarcoat." Heard of her best friend mentioning 'apple cider', Rainbow ditched the argument with Indigo about being the winner of bursting the cloud. She dashed down and went straight to Applejack's location. She landed on the ground. As she was about to ask, Rainbow gasped upon finding the apple cider barrel gone missing. "What?! I just got here!" Rainbow exclaimed in shock and upset. "Sorry, Dash. My Uncle Warpath Temper got the barrels," Saber apologized nervously before cleared his throat, "You know him. He loved drinking those things especially wines. They're all his favorites." Rainbow groaned, "I hate your uncle..." Sugarcoat sighed in annoyance and bluntly spoke, "Like I said, this is a bad idea." "Oh, knock it off, Sugarcoat. Now, Rainbow Dash." Applejack said calmly, "The Apple Family made the agreement with Dragoon Republic Nation. As long we provide the apple ciders for them, we get some protection and ingredients for the farm. It's better not to mess with him." Rainbow scoffed, "Yeah, right..." "You can take mine, big sis," Scootaloo's voice called. Rainbow turned and looked surprise as she found the young filly held the glassed bottle of apple cider. She smiled, "I kept it safe. Just for you." Rainbow was surprised yet happy. She laughed happily as she gave Scootaloo a noogie, "Thanks, kiddo. You're the best sister I could ask for." Rarity was humming happily and calmly as she levitated and decorated carefully on placing the diamond on top of reddish curtain with purple ribbon. Sunny Flare was helping Rarity out with decorating the stage. "Well done, Rarity," Shorty commented uneasily as he approached his girlfriend. He turned and looked at the stage's lower part, which was completely empty. He sighed, "If you ever get the job done in time." Sunny Flare hummed in concern, "Your boyfriend does have the point. Could we just speed it up? My Nanites can get things done." "Darlings, please," Rarity scoffed a bit of amusement, "Anypony can do 'fine'. Twilight asked me, so clearly, she's going for fabulous, and fabulous takes time." "I have the idea of getting fabulous done in time!" Tailtech's voice shouted happily, "Icy! Let a rip!" Icy's voice cheered, "Oh yeah! Ice Beam time!" And just before Shorty and his team could do anything, Icy jumped and fired an ice beam on the floor, creating freezing slide floor. She then skated, followed by Tailtech and Sweetie Belle. Tailtech used his Typhoon Blaster in firing the reddish curtains with purple ribbon on the walls. Sweetie Belle levitated and placed the diamonds on them happily. Three of them have gone around the stage and stopped before their friends. They then gestured and showed off at the stage's bottom, which is now filled with curtains with ribbons and diamonds. "Voila!" Tailtech exclaimed happily, "My first test of Typhoon Blaster with other objects is a success!" "And not to mention, fun!" Icy exclaimed happily as she gave Tailtech a high-five. She sighed, "I haven't had fun since baking lesson!" Sweetie Belle approached Rarity while squealed happily, "Well, at least, we get the job done in time." Rarity groaned in irritation, "Unbelievable technology nonsense..." She noticed Shorty and Sunny Flare's annoyed glaring. She cleared her throat, "No offense." "None taken..." Shorty commented dryly, "At least, it's better than Rainbow's screwing things up." Sunny Flare snickered amusingly, "You should try Indigo's stunt. Hers is the worst." Starlight, Sunburst, Sunset and Flash approached to the live-performance stage. They awed at its decorative appearance. "Wow... This is amazing!" Starlight commented happily, "I can't wait to see Songbird Serenade - the most popular singer of Equestria! She's coming here!" "You don't say," Sunset commented before giggled, "From where I cam from, Songbird Serenade is Sia. She's my favorite singer too. I wonder what kind of song we're gonna listen to." Starlight squealed happily, "I can't wait to find out. I'm thankful that Twilight entrust us to be part of the event, including Trixie." Sunset groaned, "Did you have to bring her here? She's gonna cause more problems than the usual." "Come on, Sunset, she's not that bad. Most of it..." Starlight commented uneasily, making Sunset glared at her. She sighed, "Okay, a lot of bad she did. But she's my friend. Just let a slide for once especially today, Sunset. Plus, she has fireworks." Sunset rolled her eyes in annoyance, "Fine. I'll let her go for fireworks. If she screw it up again, I put a blame on you." Starlight scoffed, "Dully noted!" "Wow. Can't believe that we finally a perfect day for us and the girls," Flash said happily, "Especially if it's today!" Sunburst nodded happily, "Me too! I just can't believe that me and Starlight are dating!" "Dude, you've said that a hundred times. We know that. And we know you loved her so much. Jeez. Cool your jet, Sunburst." "Sorry, I'm just too excited but worried! Excited but worried. But extremely super happy, excited and worried about the date! What if I screw this up?! What if I hurt Starlight more than I can make her happy?! I can't afford to make mess before Amon come and finish me up! I can't afford of that!" Flash slapped Sunburst while shouted, "Sunburst, cool your jet!" Sunburst breathed slowly and calmly. He smiled, "Just enjoy your date while not thinking about bad things. Okay?" Sunburst slowly calmed himself down and said, "Of course. Thanks, Flash." After exiting the Canterlot Castle; Twilight, Shadow Dragon and their family have arrived to the stage. The Princess of Friendship was busy mumbling and checking on her long scroll about many things to deal with. This has made them rolled their eyes amusingly and annoyingly. Noticed their arrival, Blazefist called, "Hey, look who join the party?" Mane Six, Dragon Strike Force and their friends greeted happily, "Hey, Twilight, Shadow Dragon, Lance, Nyx, Shining Armor, Princes Cadance, Flurry Heart!" Rarity smiled and looked at Spike, "Hello, Spike." "Uh, hi, Rarity." Spike said nervously while blushed in red. He laughed a bit, "Heh heh." "Spike, you do realized that Shorty and Rarity are dating," Lance reminded calmly yet amusingly. Nyx nodded playfully, "Yeah. Why don't you and Dragon Lord Ember date now? I heard she's here, and wanted to have a dance with you." Lance and Nyx smiled amusingly, making Spike blushed in red and shouted, "Hey! Mind your own business! And also, she and I are friends! Okay?!" "Yeah, sure..." Lance and Nyx remarked playfully. "How'd it go with the other Princesses and Mystic Council?" Applejack asked hopefully, "They like your idea? I bet they loved it!" Twilight sighed, "Not exactly. They think I can make today perfect without their magic." "And they're right, Twilight," Princess Cadance said calmly as she patted Twilight's back, "You can do this. We have faith in you and your friends." "Yeah, Twi. Don't worry so much," Shining Armor nodded in agreement while playfully shaking Flurry Heart a bit, "You've done so much amazing and incredible things before, without their helps and magic. If you can do that, then you can do it again." "After all, This festival is your brilliant idea." "And of course, you suggested to invite all other creatures to this festival for the beginning of our alliance and friendship. And it worked! They really liked the it." "We know you're up to the task, Twilight. You can do this." "Yeah, Twi! Nothing can beat you down." "Thanks..." Twilight said in relief before showing concern and worried looks, "But what if I'm not?! What if Songbird Serenade hates the stage?! Or nopony makes a new friend?! And if I fail at the festival, then who am I?!" Shadow Dragon held Twilight's face while spoke firmly, "Twilight, calm down! Breathe in... And out..." She did exactly what her boyfriend as she calmly breathed in before released it out. He smiled, "As long you have us - friends and family, we'll make the best Festival of Friendship that every creature could ever had. You can count on it." Applejack approached and patted Twilight's back, "Yeah. You've got nothing to worry about. We're here for you." She giggled amusingly, "If the bad guys show up, we just kick their asses back off our lawn. Simple as that." "Yeah. You should stop worrying and start enjoying the festival," Lance said happily. Nyx nodded, "So, are you gonna show the world what Princess of Friendship can do or not?" Twilight was inspired and touched by her family's speech. She smiled proudly, "You're right, guys! Thanks! Let's show them what the Festival of Friendship is all about. I will need all of you to help me out! Are you with me?" "YEAH!" Everyone cheered wildly and happily. "See? Nothing to worry about," Applejack said calmly. Shadow Dragon nodded, "Yup. So, let's enjoy the fun." "Hello! What about my script?!" Pinkie demanded annoyingly, "I'm supposed to give pep talk, you know!" "Hey, heads up!" Saber called out as he pointed at Master Ratio and Anger running towards them. He shouted, "Something's happening!" "There you are!" Master Ratio exclaimed in exhaust and relief, "We've been looking everywhere for you! We've got news! Greatest news we ever had!" Everyone was confuse and uncertain. Anger spoke, "You're not gonna believe this but she's back! She's alive! Princess Iris Crystal has return!" "WHAT?!" Everyone asked in shock and surprise. Master Ratio nodded, "It's true. She's at the castle's hospital wing now for checking and recuperating now!" "We're gonna inform my cousin and Princesses about this!" Anger said happily. Master Ratio and Anger headed off at once to inform the Royal Sisters and Mystic Council. Mane Six and their allies chatted and commented about Iris Crystal's being alive. "H-How is this possible?" Shadow Dragon asked in shock. Lance shrugged, "It can't be! That was 300 years ago! I saw her passed away, right before my eyes! I even bury her in the only place I know of! She can't be here! There is no way she could have come back from the death." "I wish I have the answer," Twilight said hopefully, "But right now, seeing Iris is important. It's what you wanted, Shadow Dragon." Shadow Dragon was surprised as his friends. He asked, "Are you sure?" Twilight smiled as she patted her boyfriend's cheek, "I'm sure. She was your wife, but also friends to most of us. We all wanted to meet her so badly! Come on. Let's go and find her now!" Shadow Dragon couldn't help but smile happily, "Yeah! You're right. Thanks, Twi." Twilight nodded happily, "It's what girlfriends do, even though Iris is your wife." Mane Six and their friends trotted and headed off towards the Canterlot Castle's Hospital Wing at once. All of them especially Twilight, Shadow Dragon and Lance can't wait to see and meet Iris Crystal. They're all too excited. "Shouldn't Twilight be worry about Iris Crystal's coming back?" Spike asked in concern, "I mean she was Shadow Dragon's wife. Plus it might make Twilight upset and jealous that he could be spending more time with Iris." Nyx sighed, "Spike, stop worrying. Let daddy have his moment. Plus, mummy doesn't get jealous so easily anymore." Spike scoffed, "Yeah, right..." Mane Six and their friends were rushing quickly and hurriedly to the Canterlot Castle's hospital wing. They all have arrived at the first patient's chamber room. They all looked excited and happy yet nervous and worried about meeting Iris Crystal. They were still uncertain if they should do it or not. They don't know what to react of seeing her again. "Hello! What are we waiting for?! Let's get in there and meet her now!" Rainbow demanded impatiently, scaring her friends off. They all turned and glared at her. She gulped meekly, "Sorry..." "She's right, though," Pinkie said playfully. "Still..." Shadow Dragon said in concern while looking down. He sighed, "I don't know what I'm expecting from her especially now. I don't want to freak her out or even confuse her. And not to mention, make her angry." Lance nodded understandingly of what his father meant, "Yeah. Me too..." "You're talking about me?" Twilight asked in concern. Shadow Dragon and Lance looked worry and scared. She sighed, "I understand. Nothing personal. It's just natural. Whatever happen, Iris will be okay with it." "How would you know?" Shadow Dragon asked in surprise. Twilight smiled while held Shadow Dragon's face, "I met Iris once. I told her the story about you and me. And she doesn't seem to be angry, upset or jealous about our relationship. She accepted it. She wanted you to move forward, and not living in the past." "Really?" "Yeah. We can work this out, Shadow Dragon. I know we can." Nyx nodded happily, "Plus, she's gonna be part of the family! I don't mind calling her 'Stepmom' or 'Mummy 2'! I like it!" Lance sighed, "Yeah. This is gonna get use to new stuffs." Shadow Dragon laughed a bit, "Yeah. You're right. Let's do this." Twilight nodded firmly, "We'll be with you. Count on it." Mane Six and their friends marched and entered the patient's room. And to their deep shock and surprise, they found a familiar navy Alicorn sitting down on the patient bed. Dr. Black Jack and the rest of medical staffs were checking and analyzing on her and her body. After finishing up checking on her, Dr. Black Jack and his medical staffs moved aside while looking at Mane Six and their friends' standing at the entrance. The Princess turned and faced them. She got down and approached to them. "It can't be." Shadow Dragon said in shock. Twilight shook her head in surprise, "It's impossible." Iris smiled, "Hello, Shadow Dragon and Twilight..." "Iris..." Shadow Dragon and Twilight said in shock. "Mom, is that really you?" Lance said in surprise as he approached Iris. The princess smiled while looking at him happily. He gasped as his tears flown down from his eyes. He jumped and hugged her tearfully and happily, "It is you! You're alive!" Iris smiled as she hugged her son happily, "Yes, I am, son..." Lance departed from hugging Iris while smiling, "I thought I'd never see you again!" "Me neither. I'd never thought I come back home alive. But it's good to be home too." Iris agreed tearfully. She turned and found Twilight and Shadow Dragon's friends and families, "These are?" "Our friends... And family..." Twilight introduced humbly and calmly. Shadow Dragon nodded happily, "And also, some familiar faces you know of." Mane Five, Spike, Nyx, Starlight, Sunset, Sunburst, Flash and Shining Armor introduced themselves happily. Dragon Strike Force greeted her happily for coming back home alive. Princess Cadance approached and gave Iris a warm hug. "Oh! It's so good to see you back alive. I've missed you so much!" Princess Cadance said happily. She then shown Flurry Heart, "And this is my baby - Flurry Heart. She's your niece or first-cousin-once-removed." And just before Iris was about to grab and hold the baby, Flurry Heart yelped and whined fearfully. Everyone was surprised and shocked by the baby's reaction. "That's odd..." Shining Armor asked in surprise, "This never happen before." Princess Cadance nodded fearfully, "Yeah. She usually welcomes and befriends anypony and even stranger, with her happy smile." "Unless she sense a demon nearby..." Twilight said suspiciously before shaking her head in denial, "No. That is ridiculous. It's preposterous Lance looked worry and suspicious, "Yeah... She shouldn't..." Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Azure Phoenix and Strikespell have arrived and entered the hospital wing. They all looked surprise and shock upon looking at Iris, who smiled happily. Mane Six and their friends moved aside to give them some space. Iris and her whole family all cried out tearfully in joy as they approached and hugged her warmly and happily, and also commented to each other of how much they missed her. "Oh, Iris! I'd never thought that you would come back home," Princess Celestia commented in relief while cried tearfully, "And alive too. My little Iris is back with her mother..." Iris nodded happily, "Me too, mother..." Azure Phoenix nodded, "We've always dreamed that you're still alive and return to us. And it did. All of us missed you so much." "Yes. Welcome home, sister," Strikespell said happily yet tearfully Iris sighed happily, "Yes. It's good to be home and be with my family again. I miss you all so much." She turned and looked at Princess Luna, "Are you..." Princess Luna smiled while nodded, "Yes. I'm Luna, your aunt. It's an honor to meet you in pony, Iris Crystal." While Iris and her whole family have their moments, Mane Six and their friends smiled happily to see the royal family reunited and were having moments. They all looked at each other before nodded happily that they should give the royalty some moment. "We'll leave you guys alone with her," Twilight said calmly, "We've got Festival of Friendship to finish." Mane Six and their friends turned and were about to leave the patient room. Noticing her friends' leaving, Iris shouted, "Wait! Let me come with you!" Everyone turned and looked at her in surprise. She spoke, "I wan to follow you all. I want to explore and see this new world especially this Festival of Friendship. That sounds fun." Everyone was in surprise and shock. Princess Celestia asked, "Are you sure, Iris? You're still recovering..." Azure Phoenix nodded, "Indeed. You shouldn't push yourself, my daughter." Iris smiled, "Father. Mother. I'm fine. I can handle it. Besides..." She looked up and looked at her friends, "I have friends and family to look after me." While Princess Celestia, Azure Phoenix and even Strikespell looked concern and uncertain of her decision; they all knew that they shouldn't make Iris cooped inside and deserve some freedom to do what she wanted to do. They all nodded to let her go with her friends. Iris climbed down and approached Twilight, Shadow Dragon and their friends. She asked, "Ready to go! Shall we?" Shadow Dragon chuckled happily, "That's Iris. Always ready for new things." "I can't wait to show you about this place," Twilight said happily, "You'll love it. The Festival of Friendship!" Iris giggled happily, "I can't wait. Let's do this!" Mane Six and their friends chatted and commented happily as they exited the patient room while guiding and leading Iris Crystal to the festival. And at the same time, her royal family laughed happily that they're glad that Iris is back and gone out for her adventures, with her new friends. Lance, Nyx and Spike were the last group to leave. Strikespell approached and halted them from moving ahead. He spoke, "I need you three to keep your eyes on her." Three of them looked surprise and confuse. He continued, "I'm not sure that she's recovered. She needs to be watched out and taken care of. So, she wouldn't hurt herself or anyone else. After all, this is modern days. She might use to it." Lance nodded understandingly, "Got it, uncle. You can count on me." "And all of our friends," Spike said happily, "We'll always look out and keep each other safe. That's what friendship is all about." "Plus, we'll make sure mummy and stepmummy don't be jealous and fight each other," Nyx said playfully. Strikespell laughed a bit, "Alright. Take good care of her, children." Three children nodded happily before turned and trotted off to meet up with the rest of their friends. He sighed calmly, "I hope my little sister's really back..." Mane Six and their friends led Iris to the Canterlot City; where she witnessed ponies and creatures befriended, chatted and taught about their cultures, customs and even personal lives, and even helped to set up the Festival of Friendship and their stalls. They also have some fun and great time at the festival, even though some often argue and fight with each other. Iris looked surprise and amazed. She is witnessing a new world, where the world is in peace and harmony especially ponies and creatures became friends. "Amazing..." Iris commented in surprise, "I've always dreamt of that all creatures will become friends. But I'd never thought it's happening today." Applejack smiled, "It's all thanks to Twilight. It was her idea to make alliance and friendship with all creatures." Shadow Dragon nodded happily, "Yeah. She's the best pony everyone could depend on." Twilight blushed in red, "Come on. I can't take all the credit. None of this could have happen if I hadn't met all of you." She held both Shadow Dragon and Applejack's shoulders while smiling happily, "These guys are my best and closest friends since the day I came to Ponyville Town. They changed me. They helped and taught me about friendship. They made me who I am today." "The Princess of Friendship!" Spike and Nyx cheered happily. "Wow. That's something," Iris said in amazement with a smile, "In my old days, I was called 'Princess of the Sky'." Rainbow scoffed, "Let me guess... You control the sky?" She got whacked on her head by both Blazefist and Aqua. She yelped in pain, "Hey! What was that?!" "Respect the princess, genius!" Blazefist and Aqua exclaimed in annoyance. Iris giggled amusingly, "Either way, as Princess of Sky, I don't just control the weather. I also use its power as my secret weapons because I'm good at martial arts and battle studies. And also, I was one of the Wonderbolts' seven founders." Rainbow gaped her mouth wide open, "N-no way..." She squealed happily as she held Iris's hooves happily, "And you know what I want?! Race!" She got her head whacked again by Blazefist, Aqua and Indigo, who glared at her annoyingly. She groaned, "What did I do?!" "Well, that would be pleasant too. I don't have to worry about weather to ruin my fashions and clothes, and also can use them for fashion show." Rarity said in pleasant tone, "Think of fashion, Princess Iris! You would show the world of how beautiful and amazing you in your fashions." Shorty, Tailtech, Icy and Sunny Flare groaned, "Rarity..." Iris hissed in concern, "R-right..." "Girls, she's still recovering. We should give her some space, not invading her privacy," Fluttershy said firmly. Terrorcreep nodded, "She's right. Don't mess with her." "Speaking of privacy," Lance said calmly as he approached to his mother, "Hey, mom. About Twilight and dad... You're okay with it?" Iris smiled, "Of course, I am okay with it. I don't mind him having another girl in the family. Plus, I entrust her to look after him, remember?" Everyone nodded in remembering of what she has said. She smiled, "As long my husband and my sister are okay with me in the family, then I'm okay." Saber whistled, "Wow. She's quite open to everything easily." "No kidding..." Laxtinct agreed in surprise. "Either way, we're happy that you accepted mine and Shadow Dragon's relationship," Twilight said happily. Shadow Dragon nodded, "We'll try to get along in the family, without fighting and arguing with each other especially jealousy when it comes to me." Twilight and Iris scoffed, "Yeah, right. Like that's gonna happen." They both gasped in surprise, "Hey, that's what I said to him for insult! Jinx!" Spike groaned, "Terrific... I just hope that they don't share worrying and paranoid." Shiroi scoffed as she nudged Lance's shoulder, "And you worry so much about your mom's relationship with your dad and stepmom." Lance shrugged, "I supposed so..." "Heads up, everypony!" Scootaloo cheered happily as she pointed at the familiar group. Sweetie Belle gasped, "It's Flare Tiger and her family. They came back from the future!" "Alright! They came here for the Festival of Friendship," Apple Bloom said happily, "This is gonna be awesome." Nyx nodded, "Yeah. Looks like the whole family is here!" Flare Tiger and her family have arrived and approached to Mane Six and their friends for greeted happily for seeing them here. And to their surprise, they have found Iris stood before them. They introduced themselves to her as well especially being her descendants. "I have the descendants," Iris was surprised and shocked about the revelation, which gained Lance's attention and concerns. She cleared her throat, "I'm stunned." "Stunned this, granny!" Ace Swift exclaimed proudly, "When I'm gonna show the world I'm made of! The Super Awesome Hero Ace Swift!" Aurora sighed, "It seems Ace hasn't learn the means of humility and patient again." Iris Heart Shield giggled, "At least, it can't be worse as Blaze Leo and Midnight." "Excuse me! Who are you calling 'worse'?!" Blaze Leo and Midnight demanded in annoyance, "I'm better and mature than he/she is! I'm the descendant of Shadow Dragon! I'm the best!" "Definitely the worse..." Aurora said in concern. Iris Heart Shield sighed, "This is gonna be a problem." "Alright, kids. Be humble in front of granny," Comet Star said firmly and calmly, making his children to back up and bowed humbly. He noticed Flare Tiger's groaning while touching her forehead. He asked, "Hey, are you okay, dear?" Flare Tiger shook her head, "I'm fine. Just a bit dizzy. Don't know why. Like I'm forgetting something." Lance looked surprise and concern of what she has said before looked at Iris. She scoffed, "I'm sure it's nothing. Shall we enjoy the celebration?" "YES!" Pinkie cheered happily. She turned and looked at Iris, "Alright, Iris! Look at me! This will be the biggest celebration Equestria has ever seen!" She turned and looked at Twilight, "As the Princess of Friendship, you cannot fail! This day will define who you are! You must show Iris what friendship is all about! The pressure is intense! It's almost too much for any single pony to handle!" Pinkie then screamed in fear, making everyone surprise and annoyed by her. She giggled happily as she patted Twilight, "But you have us! So stop worrying. We've got Festival of Friendship to do!" "Is she always like this?" Iris asked in concern. "Well, most of the time," Princess Cadance joked. Shining Armor smiled, "But Twiley really got some amazing friends. You can trust them." "But either way," Twilight said calmly, "Like Pinkie said, we've got the Festival of Friendship to do. We're gonna show you what we can do! Is everyone ready?" "YEAH!" Everyone cheered happily. Laxtinct cleared his throat as he smiled with rose on his mouth, "Hit it, ladies!" Applejack: It's time to show 'em what you've got Rarity: It's time to go and get things done Fluttershy: But you don't have to do it on your own Pinkie: 'Cause you've got friends right here to make it fun Mane Six surrounded Iris as they gave her a warm hug while the rest of their friends gave a loud applause and cheer to her. Rainbow flew off, followed by Indigo and her parents. Twilight grabbed and led Iris to the sky. After Spike got on Nyx's back, she and Lance flapped their wings and flew after them. Mane Six: We got this, you got this We got this together During flying in midair, Twilight and the children were giving Iris a tour of what Rainbow, Blazefist, Aqua, Indigo and the Wonderbolts can do. Bazefist: Sometimes the pressure gets you down And the clouds are dark and grey Aqua: Just kick them off and let the sun shine through Indigo: And scary as it seems, more help is on the way Rainbow: 'Cause friends have friends that wanna help out, too Rainbow, her friends and Wonderbolts: We got this, you got this We got this together Twilight and the children led Iris to land on the water fountain, where they met up with Fluttershy, Terrorcreep and Sour Sweet. The group led and venture into shopping stalls, where all creatures and some of familiar friends were celebrating and having great time for Festival of Friendship. Both Twilight and Iris got the photo shot by Photo Finish's camera. Lance grabbed and looked at the photo of Twilight and Iris giving a beautiful facial and pose. The rest of their friends giggled happily to see it. The group then flew pass some stalls while observing and checking up on the clients and their shops. So far, everything looked and worked well and fine. Fluttershy: It's the Festival of Friendship And we can get it done A festival that they won't forget Terrorcreep: A party to be proud of A day of games and fun Fluttershy and Terrorcreep: Just you wait and see A magic day in perfect harmony The group have arrived at the petting zoo, where Fluttershy and Terrorcreep passed and showed how good and friendly the animals are. They even allowed both Angel and Naughty to whistle happily and harmonically. And at the same time, the group got grabbed and hugged by Harry the Bear. This surprised and amazed Iris so much. Fluttershy: You got this Fluttershy and Terrorcreep: We got this together After leaving Fluttershy and Terrorcreep, Twilight and the children led Iris to the Apple Family-Dragoon Republic Nation shopping stall, where Applejack, Saber, Sugarcoat and their family showed off their foods and drinks. The group is inspecting on their food and water supplies. Twilight tried their apple cider if they're good or not. She helped adding some sugar into it, making sure it's sweet and tasteful. This made Applejack smiled happily to have a good friend standing besides her. Applejack: With friends and family, you are never alone If you need help, we've got your back Saber: You can be honest, let your problems be known Applejack, Saber and Apple family: 'Cause you got us to pick up the slack We got this Saber: Oh yeah! Apple family: We got this together On the live performance stage, Rarity levitated and set couple of diamonds on the stage's upper walls. Shorty, Tailtech and Icy were setting up some technologies, making sure they're all functional and effective for tonight's event. Tailtech and Icy: Pay attention to the details Every gem even-spaced Shorty: Make the colors perfect Spike tried to take a diamond for him to feast, but halted by both Lance and Nyx for whacking his claw. They don't want him to get them into troubles. Spike: Takin' one or two to taste Ow! Hey! Rarity's team of fashionistas and Sunny Flare have arrived with more of decorations stuffs and tools. The white unicorn even gave some diamonds to Spike, who is happy and ate them happily. Lance and Nyx rolled their eyes amusingly. Shorty even levitated and passed a large decorated colorful chandelier to Twilight. She flew up while levitated and attached it to the top of stage. Rarity: Inside and out, beautiful throughout Generosity is what we're all about Spike: You got this Shorty: You got this Rarity, Shorty and Spike: We got this together While leaving the children to give a tour to Iris across the Festival of Friendship, Twilight then flew up to the sky as she wondered about her duty as Princess of Friendship. Twilight Sparkle: Today needs to be perfect, it all comes down to me I don't know if I'm ready For all the things they need me to be Twilight was flying across the Canterlot City as she gave a wide and gentle smile to most ponies and smiled and greeted her back. After seeing ponies' smiling and happiness, this has made her has strong resolution of what she has to do now. Twilight: I am the Princess of Friendship But that is more than just a crown It's a promise to bring ponies together And never let anypony down Shadow Dragon was with Shining Armor, Princess Cadance, Flurry Heart as he shown them about the proposal ring. Three of them smiled and cheered happily to him to do it. He then turned and looked at Iris, who was talking happily to three children. It made him worried and uneasy about his decision of asking Twilight for marriage. Shadow Dragon: Today was supposed to be the day, The day I ask for Twilight's hoof, I don't know if I'm ready When Iris has come back to my life Shadow Dragon then noticed Sunburst and Starlight were chatting with Trixie about choosing and using some effective and colorful fireworks. Flash and Sunset were playing some entertainment and carnival games happily and wildly. This made him to rethink his relationship. Despite loving them so much, he is determined to protect and save them from danger. Shadow Dragon: I loved them so much in my heart Hurting them is the last thing I want It's a promise to protect and save them And never let them both down Pinkie, Laxtinct and Cutie Mark Crusaders were playfully and happily gathering most of ingredients for baking up couple of cakes. They even built up a giant party cannon, with the help of Cheese Sandwich. Pinkie: We've got an awful lot to bake Each pony needs a piece of cake Laxtinct: Oh, wait! There's something better we can do We're gonna need some more supplies Cutie Mark Crusaders: To make a really big surprise She'll be so shocked—she's sure to love it, too! Pinkie and Laxtinct: You got this! We got this together! Mane Six and the rest of their friends gathered up at the live performance stage, where they witnessed the ponies were singing and cheering happily. Mane Six and their friends couldn't help but feel proud and happy of what they have seen and accomplish of. The Festival of Friendship is complete and ready for tonight's main event. All: It's the Festival of Friendship Together we are one A day we will never forget And now everything is ready So when the day is done Rainbow: The weather Applejack: The banquet Rarity: The style Fluttershy: And music All: All will be in perfect harmony! BOOM! Twilight and most of her friends looked up and found five pinkish layered cream cake were on midair. They all fell and dropped on Twilight, making her to gasp and yelled in shock. Instead of holding still, the cake turned into liquid while flattened on her. Everyone was in shock and concern of what they just saw. Twilight got out from the creamy cake. She was covered by creams, and even has a burning candle on her horn. She turned and glared at the large party cannon. "Pinkie!" Twilight exclaimed in anger. Pinkie came out from the party cannon's nose. She yelped happily, "Oopsie! Guess my easy bake confetti cake cannon needs a little bit more fine tuning!" Twilight groaned in annoyance as she blew off the candle. She then noticed Shadow Dragon snickered and laughed happily and amusingly at her. As much as she loved her boyfriend, she hated his laughing at him. She decide to throw some cream at him. He got annoyed as he grabbed and thrown cream at her, but instead Twilight dodged down while hitting Iris's face. Iris got annoyed as she threw three at Lance, Nyx and Spike. Eventually; Mane Six, Dragon Strike Force and the rest of their friends and family joined in the fun. They all threw some creamy at each other happily and wildly. The rest of ponies were in shock and surprise yet amusing to see them having fun. GASPED! Twilight and her friends stopped at once. They turned and found some ponies were excited and happy to move aside as if someone was coming through. They also chatted happily. The group have found a lime greenish white Pegasus with a very dark persian blue with dark grayish persian blue highlights and pale gold with light gamboge highlights that cover her eyes, worn a large ribbon and a black suit-like dress, escorted by security guards. "Songbird Serenade? Is it really her?" Phantasm gasped happily, "It is, it is!" Songbird smiled, "Hiya. I'm lookin' for the pony in charge? I need to set up for my sound check." "Ms. Songbird Serenade?" Twilight said in surprise as she emerged from the creamy cake. She approached to Songbird, "Um, I was just going to check on you." She laughed nervously, "I'm Princess Twilight, and sorry about the mess. I'm usually not so..." "Having fun being caked in cake?" Songbird asked amusingly. Twilight blushed in red. She laughed happily, "I have that kind of fun with my family and my best buddy." "You mean me?" Everyone gasped happily before gave a loud cheer happily and wildly. Mane Six and their friends excluding Shadow Dragon were surprised and confused. There among the crowds have revealed of not one but a group. There were a light gold-brown colored unicorn with chocolate shaved mane and short tail worn a navy T-shirt with black jacket and his cutie mark is music note with greenish blazing flame; a navy Earth Pony with dark spiky mane and short tail with lime greenish streak worn black hooded jacket with white shirt and his cutie mark is rapping emoji; a medium brown colored Pegasus with chocolate brown afro, mustache and long afro-like tail worn black T-shirt with white stripes, and his cutie mark is black guitar symbol; a crimson Earth Pony with orange mustache and bear and tail worn blackish jacket, grayish T-Shirt and a cap; a dark purple old unicorn with bun-shaped navy blue mane with white streak worn a black jacket with yellowish sleeves and his cutie mark is DJ Jockey Disc, and finally a dark green Pegasus with curvy blue long mane with cyan curvy sides worn a yellowish T-Shirt with symbol and his cutie mark is drum set. "NO WAY!" Lance exclaimed in shock and surprise. "It's really them, dude!" McJunkimn exclaimed happily. Kaciek nodded happily, "YEAH! That unicorn singer is Chestnut Vocal! Rap Replay the Rapper! Delta Headset and Bass the Guitarist Bros! DJ Hahn the group's DJ. And the drummer is Big Beat! The Hyper Linking Park is here!" "What's up, my little pony?" Rap Replay asked happily. Bass nodded happily, "Yeah! Hope we're not late for the party!" "Yeah! I'm ready for the big beat!" Big Beat exclaimed wildly, "It's gonna be awesome!" "Hyper Linking Park..." Twilight said in shock and surprise, "Here? How? Why?" Delta held and gave a kiss on Twilight's hoof while smiling, "Why? We're here to set up our sound check." "Yo, bro!" DJ Hahn nodded happily, "We've got our live performing to do! And Chestnut wanna show his cool moves, right?" Chestnut Vocal nodded happily while giving Rap Replay a high-five. The Rapper spoke, "Hope you've got spare for us to play our music." Songbird scoffed, "You're kidding me? I'm always welcome my best friend for another double team-up live performance. I wonder what music we're gonna do." "Let's find out, man!" Chestnut Vocal said happily. Hyper Linking Park and Songbird were chatting and discussing what kind of music they could perform for the live performance stage. Mane Six and their friends were still in shock and surprise to have the group at Festival of Friendship. "Wow. I didn't know you'd inviting the band here," Nyx said happily, "I love them!" "Me too!" Spike said in agreement. The rest of their friends chatted happily about having Hyper Linking Park join the musical live performance stage. "How? I didn't invite them here. Unless..." Twilight said in confusion. She gasped as she turned and glared at nervous Shadow Dragon. She approached them while exclaimed angrily, "You! You set this up?! You wanted to have Hyper Linking Park here so badly, and decided to go behind me and get them here! Didn't you?!" Shadow Dragon gulped, "I have no idea what are you talking about." Iris giggled, "Oh, Shadow Dragon... You and your little troublemaker as usual." Twilight groaned, "Shadow Dragon, I'm gonna-!" BOOM! Mane Six and their friends including the rest of ponies and creatures looked shock and concern. They turned and looked at the clear sky, where they found a puff of dark cloud was floating towards the Canterlot Castle. "Storm cloud? I ordered a perfect weather!" Twilight said in shock. She turned and glared at her friend, "Rainbow Dash?!" "Uh... I... don't think those are storm clouds." Rainbow said in concern. Shadow Dragon hissed in concern, "Whatever it is, it's coming here." He spotted a strange yet demonic eyes-like within the storm clouds. He hissed, "I've got a bad feeling about it..." To be Continued... Review and Suggest...