Equestria Lost: Dragons beyond time

by Tythen


Castle in the Mist: Part 3

Opening her eyes, Rarity found herself all alone in a yellow cloudy realm. Alone... and out of all the things to happen...

"H-Hey! M-my clothes!!! Where are my actual clothes!? Why am I in this skin-tight suit?" She demanded, "Wait a minute..." She touched it, only to discover she was touching her own skin instead, and that her hand passed through the suit.

"It's just made out of light!!! Why am I wearing a skin-tight suit made of light!?" Rarity corrected "Even if my body looks covered, It feels like I'm not wearing anything at all! Worse, This does NOT go well with my hair!"

There was no response to her endless questions. Instead, the skin-tight suit began to morph and change, altering its size and body shape as well as the young girl wearing it. Rarity noticed the process, and her shock went higher.

"Oy!!!!" Rarity yelled at her skin-tight suit, "Wh-what are you doing to my body!? Have you gone sentient!? Stop! Stop right this instant, you!!! Stop making changes to my body! I'VE ALREADY GONE THROUGH PUBERTY!!!"

As if it wasn't enough for change, her hair began to glow yellow. Like the skin-tight suit, it began to change by growing longer and clumping up together. Rarity felt like she was going to have a heart attack, feeling, but not seeing, all her hair change.

"Uwaahhh! Please Stop! Have Mercy!!! I'll do anything you tell me! I don't want to look any worse than how I feel right now!!!" She began to cry. And for a third time, there was no voice to answer... Instead, her hair, suit, and body gave one more bright illumination, blinding the girl once again.

As the light died down, Rarity found herself back in the Halidom, the silver staff no longer in her hands, and wearing her own clothes as normal. Except... they seemed awfully tight, and her hair felt longer and heavier than before! But that's not the problem here, her eyes were focused on the fact that everyone was staring back at her with faces just as confused as she was.

"E-Everyone..." Rarity started, "P-Please don't tell me I look like a complete pigsty!"

"Well..." Flash pulled out his phone, "If you ask me, you look a college freshman... Or woman. Or a very responsible lady. It's just well... If you can see," Flash turned his phone's screen towards her, currently displaying the camera app in its selfie mode and Rarity's surprised face.

Rarity took the phone and held it close with a trembling face. Her hair has lost its specially curled style and shine, and instead was a complete bush... Well, it wasn't a messy bush at all, but her hair has grown extremely thick and wasn't as stylish as she had planned it to be. But what was worse was that near the front top of her hair, she could pick out a small cowlick. Not as bad as the former New Alberian Prince named Euden, but a cowlick nonetheless. Looking down at her body, she could see that her clothes were really pushing into different parts of her body. They really were tight!

"NOOOOOOOHOOOOOO!!!" Rarity fell the ground in tears, "My hair! What happened to my beautiful hair!? It's grown so thick! And my body too!!! I don't fit these clothes anymore!!!"

"Yeah... that mood is something I can sympathise with." Adagio sighed, "It was quite a shock when I went through it myself. For my change, my height shrank, my body shrank, and for some reason, my legs got a little thicker and my chest grew!!! I couldn't fit in my normal clothes!"

"No time for anyone to react to that second-last part," Cleo interrupted the commotion, "We still have the monster to deal with! But let me fix your hair first." In only two seconds, Cleo tied two small side ponytails on Rarity and stuck them through a rather peculiar hat that displayed a tail from each side.

"There." Cleo huffed, "Now you may not look like your usual self. But with that thing on, your hairstyle is a spitting image of hers!"

Rarity looked up as she stopped her melodrama for a second and looked back at Flash's phone. With the hat on, the hair she had looked a whole lot more symmetrical, and the only thing that looked off was a bush of hair that reached down right to the middle of her eyebrows.

"It... Does look honestly better." Rarity noted, fixing up a little of her hair, "even if I'm not a fan of symmetrical hair. Anyway, who's the adventurer?"

"I believe you know her by name, but not by appearance. So this should jog your memory!" With another gift, Cleo bestowed a staff with a golden hand on its top. Rarity and Adagio gasped,

"I know most girls would take care of their appearance, even me. But the Girls of Alberia will also strive to take care of their castle, their home, and their people. Like the wielder of this peculiar staff." Cleo continued,

"You've got to be kidding me. Out of all the people you summoned, it had to be HER!?" Adagio bellowed,

"The--" Rarity took the staff, "The Loving Hand! S-So my body and hair is that of--"

"--The Loving Preacher Estelle." Cleo finished, "And now that I look at you, I couldn't think of anything more fitting!"

"H-Here Flash, your phone." Rarity returned,

"Yeah, I've got to admit... Perhaps if you were wearing the rest of Estelle's clothes, then you would look really wonderful!!! Not as horrendous as you think!" Flash complimented,

"Hmm... Perhaps you're right. Since Adagio is wearing the clothes fit for this Francesca, I shall make the fashion judgement once I try on Estelle's clothes." Rarity nodded, calming down a bit. "For later that is, we do have this fiend in the way after all."

"Alright girls, I'll be rooting for you from the sidelines!" Flash gave a thumbs up,

"Not so fast. I've got something for you too Flash." Cleo stopped, holding out a sheathed weapon in Flash's face.

"A sword," Flash spoke as he grasped the sheath and drew the sword. "And a beautifully decorated one at that."

"It also has a special power behind it. This is the Hero's Sword." Cleo explained, "The reason why this sword is one of the strongest in the New Alberian Armory is that the hero who forged this sword has bequeathed his or her will in it. This one is wielded by, and thus carries the will, of Prince Euden. He forged this sword together with the Smith sisters."

"Oh... wow!" Flash gasped, "That's... quite an honour! I-I'm not the chosen one... am I?"

"Euden firmly believed that a Prince is a shield for his people. That and many other things. Kind of what you're doing right now, protecting the castle and those who live here. If he were here to see you do this, he would definitely support you with his own might. If he was unable to fight... then he'd be happy to lend his sword to you."

"Then... I won't let him down!" He pointed his blade at the shroom, now three-quarters across the bridge.

"C-Cleo, Flash... Are you sure about this?" Rarity asked a small bit of concern in her voice.

"He's got the determination of a fighter." Cleo merely answered, "Sure, he may not have the same might as you girls do, but the sword more than makes up for it. And..." She raised her own staff, "I'll be helping too! A team of four is more than enough to plough through any horde!"

"Everyone dodge!" Flash warned as he saw the shroom leap into the air. All four quickly rolled away as the Shroom finally landed on the other side of the bridge, directly on the Halidom grounds.

"Right there a few things I should mention more about fighting these big Fiends. For now, just keep striking it, and dodge when it's about to attack! Rarity, please stay back at a safe distance." Cleo instructed.

"Time to take you down again!" Adagio grinned, running around to the shroom's back. With a frustrated growl that its prey was unable to fall, it turned to face her.

"Oh no, you don't! Hiyah!" Flash charged, plunging the sword in its stem. Like before, it was visibly clear that the fiend was taking damage, but not even the new sword was making it flinch.

"Adagio! Be careful!!!" Flash warned, pulling out the blade and landing wide and heavy slashes. "Blasted thing must have some large pain tolerance! And it seems to be focused towards you! Better run!"

"Don't tell me what to do!" Adagio retorted, "I know how to dodge on my own thank you very much!"

"Fiends will get enraged if you keep on hitting them!" Cleo explained, "When they do, they will hit absolutely hard, and possibly perform some other nasty attacks! The only way you can get rid of that temper is to just continue hitting them hard! That's what you need to know for now!"

"That's too simple!!!" Flash wailed, "But this world's been like that. So sure thing!!!" And continued his inexperienced slicing.

"Speaking of simple, watch this Rarity." Cleo gestured. At a safe distance from the large shroom, Cleo waved her staff at the beast, which shot a ball of purple energy straight towards the fiend.

"Wow! Healers can fight too???" Rarity gasped as Cleo swung her staff two times in succession, each swing flinging a similar purple ball.

"Yes. And as a staff user, you can fight in the same way I do. Our projectiles are quite slow, and definitely not the strongest compared to those who use a bow or wand." Cleo explained, just as the three projectiles popped the moment they hit the Fiend. "Now Rarity, what every adventurer has in my time is the energy called Mana."

"I know." Rarity held up her hand, "Source of all magic and life. Adagio told me."

"Well, what you need to do is channel the energy into your staff," Cleo instructed. Holding her staff up "Got it?"

"Y-Yes!" Rarity nodded, copying the handgrip on the Loving Hand and squinted. A popping, zapping feeling sizzled through her shoulders, arms and hands as if someone opened a soft drink in her body and poured it into her nerves and bloodstream.

"Ooh!" Rarity jumped as she could feel that fizzy feeling transfer from her hands into her staff, "This feels electrifying!"

"That's your mana. Now, focus on your target..." Cleo continued the instructions. She focused her gaze on the giant shroom as an example, so Rarity did the same. Once she did, Rarity felt that the 'Mana' inside her focus on the giant shroom alongside her.

"What do you feel?" Cleo asked, "In your mana?"

"It's like..." Rarity explained, "My mana is ready to strike something the moment I've painted an imaginary bullseye on the Fiend!"

"Perfect." Cleo nodded, "the last step, swing the staff!"

"Take this!" Rarity yelled with grandiose, swinging her staff. Halfway through that movement, she could feel the Mana shoot out from her staff. That mana quickly turned into a yellow ball of energy, contrasting Cleo's Purple. The Healers watched as this Yellow ball sailed like an airborne fish towards the Fiend, and pop the moment it made an impact. Rarity could see that the ball was able to subtly warp the Fiends skin in a bad and painful way, and smiled at the result.

"As I said, we may not be powerful compared to our fellow weapon-wielders, but it WILL deal damage." Cleo nodded in acknowledgement, "and now you know how to use it."

"I learned a new type of magic, from a different world..." Rarity looked at her hands and her staff with gleaming and wondrous eyes. "It feels wonderful!" She looked back at the assaulting Fiend and gave a taunting smile, "Let's help the others, Cleo!"

"Gladly." Cleo returned the same smile. The healers briskly walked forward, swinging their staffs and launching their magic bullets with a stone-cold focus.

"I noticed something." Rarity yelled, "I feel like I can drive my mana out faster when I'm attacking!"

"Oh like this?" Cleo asked. After swinging two shots, she quickly spun her staff to swing two more in quick succession. These two, however, were bigger in size, wrapped around by a thread of mana, and flying faster than normal. Cleo then playfully lunged her staff forward, shooting a third big one. For the final trick, Cleo gallantly spun around and launched one final ball with a firm flick of her staff. Rarity watched as this ball seemed to be the fastest of all, leaving a small trail in its path.

"That feeling Rarity," Cleo explained, as all six purple shots hit their mark, "Is akin to how our close combat friends can use their weapons in quick succession. Care to try?"

"Hey! You guys help a bit?" Adagio desperately called, "I'm barely scratching the skin of this 'fun guy'! Seeing Flash do better is an embarrassment!"

"Fine Adagio. If you're going to be that ungrateful, see if I help you again!" Flash retorted, "Heck, you belittling me made me overlook the fact you made a pun!"

"Hey!!!" A voice came from the hills, "Did we miss anything?" Rarity and Cleo turned around to see two familiar teens walking at a very slow pace towards them.

"Sweetie Belle, Big McIntosh!" Rarity jumped "You guys look... Drenched! And absolutely tired!!! Just what did both of you get into!?"

"Don't be angry at them..." Cleo defended, "If not for their efforts, you wouldn't be able to wield this power."

"Is that so?" Rarity looked at Sweetie, "Then you have my thanks. You got wet for a good reason."

"That's good to know but..." Sweetie looked very disturbed, "What's with the wacky hair? And is it me or did you... Look older?"

"You... look... nice..." Big Mac complimented, giving a really awkward smile,

"Ah yes... the power you helped give me has those sort of effects." Rarity chuckled, "But now's not the time! We need to--"

"Oof!" A sudden tackle from the large shroom drove Flash and Adagio to the ground. Once again, thankfully, away from the cliff's edge.

"--Blast it!" Rarity grumbled, seeing her allies having troubles standing up, "What to do now?"

"I've regained enough energy to cast another healing spell..." Cleo suggested, "But you're also a healer too. Perfect time for you to try!"

"Is that so? Then... Do I just yell 'Elder Cure' like you?"

"That's my own spell name, and all adventurers have their own name for their skills and spells. You'll be saying Estelle's instead."

"Then what is it?" Rarity asked,

"I'm afraid I forgot." Cleo shook her head, "But that's not my responsibility. When you hold an adventurer's essence in your body, you'll be able to learn everything about them if you give it the time. Empty your mind, and think about Estelle."

"Oh come on!" Adagio wailed, "just heal us already Cleo! One more hit for any of us, and we'll fall!"

"Oh alright." Cleo rolled her eyes, "I know you can do this Rarity!"

"Okay Okay... Time to Focus!!!" Rarity closed her eyes... And her surroundings fell to darkness and silence as she thought hard...

"Let's see... I know I'm Estelle..." Rarity mumbled, "I've been called the Loving Preacher... And I also have this Loving Hand..."

"Heh Heh!!!" The innocent giggles of a boy echoed around her,

"Reverend Estelle!!!" Another child's voice, this time a girl. Calling out to her, "Ms Estelle!!!"

"So it is true..." Rarity mused, "I am somewhat familiar with children..."

"Hey! Ms Estelle! Is His Highness Prince Euden treating you well?" The boy's voice asked smugly,

"Wh-What?" Rarity jumped,

"Have you kissed?" The girl continued, giving a stifled laugh.

Rarity blushed very hard, "I... Estelle was in love with the Prince? But she's a preacher! Granted, I do know ministers, male or female, are allowed to marry, but to someone like the Prince? That's... Quite adorable. I wouldn't be so shy if I knew a bit more about Prince Euden."

"Estelle!" A different voice called out, "There you are!"

Rarity froze in horror. This voice sounds to be male, well-refined and is befitting of a prince. And yet... He sounds really familiar!

"Ah! Your Highness!" The children spoke in unison,

"Haha!" The Prince chuckled, "You can just call me Euden or Prince!"

Rarity coughed horribly as a reaction. It was the Prince's Voice!!! She blushed even further... Not only due to the kids' teasing, but also the familiarity of Euden's voice.

"Anyway, Estelle. There's a sighting of Fiends close to the Forest and if we want to give those we love protection, I ask for yours."

"A-Ah! What!? Euden also likes me!?" Rarity screamed to herself,

"Ooh! Estelle and Euden sitting in a tree!" The kids sang mockingly, "K-I-S-S-"

"No!" Rarity interrupted, her face steaming hot, "Quiet! Shut up! And that stupid song is as old as Granny Smith!!!"

All of a sudden, the peaceful and blissful banter with the Prince and kids was quickly replaced with the sound of clashing weapons and roaring beasts, jumping from a peaceful place into a battlefield.

"Estelle!" Another girl's voice rang out, "Ranzal got carried away AGAIN, and he got plastered by a Fiend! We can use your Healing now!!!" The girl commanded,

"M-Me?" Rarity asked, "B-but... I... I don't know how to do it..."

"Urgh... It's nothing..." A brash low voice grunted, "I can walk it off..." Rarity heard the painful tones of the wounded man and put her foot down.

"As if!" Rarity rebuked. "You sound like you're about to bite it. And I'm not having it!" Then she remembered and lowered her anger, "I mean that's what I'd like to say but... I don't know my spell's name..."

"I know you can do it, Estelle!" Euden encouraged, "I have Faith in you, just as you have faith in me and everyone in the Halidom."

All of a sudden, the atmosphere broke out, shattered like broken glass. It was silent again, except for one new faint voice...

"... Healing..." The voice whispered,

"Healing..." Rarity repeated,

"... Faith..." The voice responded,

"Faith..." Rarity copied again. "Wait a minute... That voice... It sounds like..."

"... Healing... Faith... Healing... Faith..." The voice alternated between those two words, over and over again.

"Healing Faith? Estelle's spell is called Healing Faith, is it!?" Rarity yelled out. In response, a warm yet powerful green energy swept over her entire body, engulfing her in a healing sensation.

"I got it!" Rarity opened her eyes, feeling very enlightened, "Is anyone harmed???"

"Wow. You took an awfully long time trying to get an epiphany..." Sweetie crossed her arms, "Flash just got tackled again a few seconds ago, and for once, Cleo needs time before she can use her spell again. I guess he's not a good fighter after all. Is he?"

"At least he's brave." Rarity chuckled, "But either way, this is what a Loving Preacher like me can do!"

"You? Preach?" Big Mac cocked his head, "Ah... Ah can see that... Only a little."

"Very well then, please do the honours." Cleo gestured,

"Don't worry Flash," Rarity gave a victorious smile, "You can count on me!" She pointed a hand at Flash and with a deep breath, she yelled.

"Healing Faith!"

Two green streams of light roared from Rarity's extended hand and gripped the wounded Flash as if they were two hands clasped together in prayer, filling their 'captive' with healing energy.

"My... That's amazing!!!" Flash stood up immediately once the green hands disappeared, "I feel like this heals more than Cleo's healing spell!"

"That's wonderful to know! Now get back out there fighting." Rarity commanded, "Poor Adagio can't handle this by herself, especially with that disadvantage."

"To be fair," Adagio yelled, "This thing doesn't go down easily! It must still be in that 'enraged' state."

"Then let me bring out the big guns." Cleo stepped forward again, this time holding her staff close, and building up her energy.

"This is another offensive trick that all adventurers use," Cleo announced, as a purple light grew from the tip of her staff, "It differs depending on the weapon you use, but it's the perfect way to deal with those who are enraged!" She pointed her staff at the large shroom and laughed.

"Take this!" A large purple beam of light shot out from the staff, striking head-on the large fiend.

"Woah!" Big Mac gasped,

"That looks awesome!" Sweetie Belle laughed, "It's like a long laser!"

"Why," Rarity looked at the dazzling beam, "A magic beam huh? Healers here are truly a force to be reckoned with!"

The beam of pain was continuous for three seconds, but once it dropped, the Fiend was just as hopping mad.

"Just how much does it take to beat this guy down!?" Flash whined, getting a little frustrated. Just as he answered, the shroom slowed down on his hopping until it came to a stop. Once it did, it slumped on the ground, its eyes drooped low, and the cap moved back in forth like a metronome.

"That's it!!!" Cleo directed, "He's broken! When any large fiend is like that, they will stop moving, attacking and drop its defences!"

"So it's our turn to go ham huh?" Flash raised an eyebrow, "Then bring it on!" Flash laughed, rapidly stabbing and slashing to his fullest.

"Might as well make the most of it!" Adagio laughed with him, and drove in with the attacks, although more refined and not as reckless.

"I'm a bit worried though..." Cleo spoke, "if it took this long just to break him. He's going to get back up again soon, and he's dangerous already when enraged..."

"But what can we do?" Rarity asked,

"The Loving Hand is one that conveys the inner anguish of living beings to others for understanding, but Fiends fail at such a concept." A voice echoed through Rarity's head, "The Loving Hand delivers a different message, a response for those who harm!"

"Cleo!" Rarity yelled, charging right towards the Fiend, "I've got an idea. Watch me go!"

"H-Hey! What are you doing!?" Cleo protested, but Rarity's decision was set. With a fit of anger, Rarity held the Loving hand like a baseball bat and swung hard.

"Behold!" Rarity glorified, "THE LOVELESS HAND!" The Loving Hand swatted the large mushroom off the ground, and straight over the bridge and cliff. Everyone watched as the Fiend fell a long way down, shrinking in size the further it fell until it completely disappeared into the great blue, never to surface.

"And that," Rarity puffed her chest out, "Is a victory for all of us!"

"... Note to self, don't mess with Rarity." Flash spoke out loud,

"That... I had no idea you can do such a thing." Cleo stammered,

"Now that was awesome!" Sweetie laughed,

Big Mac gave an 'impressed' whistle.

"... Eh, not bad for someone like Estelle." Adagio smirked,

"By the way," Rarity turned to the Siren Merchant, "I'm curious. You seem to harbour a negative opinion on this Loving Preacher. Why is that?"

"Cleo has compiled biographies of all the adventurers here. I spent time looking through them, and this Preacher reminds me a lot of YOU. That's why I hate her so much!"

"Huh, so there are more similarities between us after all." Rarity giggled,


"I cannot thank you enough for protecting this castle." Cleo bowed to the four teenagers. "It was not my intention to bring this burden upon you, but you still stepped in to fight. Truly, I am in your debt."

"It's nothing Ms Cleo, really." Rarity, her body and hair back to normal, smiled. "I mean, a single gift from this castle is just fine, but to think you'd give so many!!!"

"Well..." Cleo smiled back, "It would be great if you do visit us more. You're always welcome here, the four of you."

"It's a deal," Flash nodded,

"Ah'll consider it," Big Mac shrugged, "No promises though..."

"Hmm..." Sweetie looked down,

"Well, Adagio?" Cleo turned to the Dazzling, "Would you care to lead them back into the park?"

"Might as well," Adagio grumbled, "Follow me, guys."

"Farewell." Cleo waved goodbye, "I hope we'll meet each other again."

"Hey, Adagio..." Rarity asked after waving back goodbye and walking through into the forest. "Back then, you were pretty brave in protecting Cleo, even fighting alongside us."

"Desperate times call for desperate measures." Adagio reasoned, "Quarrelling with you would not help to fight those fiends. And I'm sure you would know but... I owe Cleo big time."

"... Is that part of the reason why you are alone? Without Aria or Sonata?"

"Don't talk about them..." Adagio growled, "In fact, I'd rather you not talk about anything of the past. All I want for you now is to get out safely, as Cleo said."

"Adagio..."

"Listen up the four of you," Adagio announced, straight up ignoring Rarity, "The Mistholt and the Rovetelle forests aren't mazes. The one main route we're on will take you to a ghost village that shares the name of the latter, and that's pretty much the border of this world. Once there, there will be a short path that will take you to a small glade, you'll find the same misty portal similar to the one in Mayleaf Park. Just remember that the portal will take you to where you truly desire to go when you enter its mist so make sure you've decided properly on where you want to go! If you end up in a place where you'll never return, you've sealed your fate!"

"We told the girls to meet at the entrance of the Mayleaf Trail right?" Sweetie Belle asked,

"... Yes. That's right." Rarity nodded with a sigh, "This is a powerful portal indeed since it took the others to different places from what they told me over the phone."

"Well then? Get moving! The sooner we get there, the faster we can do things in our own lives!" Adagio hurried,


All the way back in Mayleaf park, the girls that didn't make it into New Alberia waited at the entrance of the Mayleaf Trail with bated breath in the dusk. It was truly frightening that their attempts to rescue Sweetie and chase down Adagio had taken them through different places around Canterlot. It all started when Rainbow crashed straight into Fluttershy, Twilight, Scootaloo and Applebloom out of nowhere after entering the trail, with Applejack following behind. It only took a few seconds of confusion and apology when Rainbow realised that Flash wasn't with her at all. Worried at that moment, they began calling their friends using their phones. Sunset managed to respond, detailing what happened. During their trip in the mist, Pinkie's usual hopping landed her foot on a rock that broke her ankle. Sunset was still holding on to her so they decided to go back the way the came from. The moment the mist cleared, however, they ended up in the female restrooms... of Canterlot's Mini-Clinic! Pinkie's leg was checked thankfully, but that was only two people accounted for.

They got quite scared when Sweetie Belle, Rarity, Big Mac, and Flash were the ones that did not respond to their calls. The girls were desperate to venture into the mist to find them again, but they didn't have the courage to after that surprising split up. They were going to resort to calling the police to help them search, but they were saved by a normal call from Rarity, though taken aback to hear that not only she found Sweetie Belle and the two boys, they even found Adagio! Of course, they couldn't believe their ears further when Rarity stated they'll be staying a little while longer with her, and to continue lunch without them, given they've been offered lunch in a very interesting place.

"A castle within this forest? Crazy!" Rainbow yelled,

"So it's something to do with magic again." Twilight discussed, "But not what we're familiar with... Do you know anything about it Sunset?"

"I'm afraid not. There's no record of a New Alberia or Grastaea from here, or in the Pony dimension." Sunset shook her head,

"H-hey!" Applebloom pointed, "There they are!!!" Following Applebloom's little finger, the girls' eyes laid towards four figures emerging from the woods.

"Hello!" Rarity and the other three waved, the girls were overjoyed seeing their faces and bodies all unharmed and clean.

"Rarity!!!" Sunset, Twilight, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Applejack rushed over to embrace her (minus Pinkie, who hopped to her on one leg instead of rushing over).

"Sweetie Belle! You're alright!" Applebloom and Scootaloo tackled Sweetie Belle, ruffling her hair and giggling with happiness.

"It's a thankless duty for family." Flash laughed, as the guys were the only two who didn't get embraced.

"Eeyup." Big Mac nodded in agreement.

"Don't sell yerself short, boys!" Applejack laughed as she and Applebloom let go of their best friends and hugged their big brother.

"Of course we care dearly for you too!" Scootaloo scooted over to Flash, giving him a massive squeeze, a tight expression given on his face.

"Well, since you found Sweetie, I guess you're the better caring friend to Scoots than I am Flash!" Rainbow conceded,

"Not really Rainbow, you technically won from what I heard." Flash chuckled, "More importantly, the four of us found something better than this, should you believe us!"

"Right... the Castle in the Mist?" Twilight asked,

"A very befitting title!" Rarity agreed, "This place is only accessible when you enter the mist, and only if your heart's in the right place! Otherwise, the mist will take you wherever your heart wants! If you didn't know the location of the place, you wouldn't go there anyway!"

"Is that so?" Sunset perked up, looking at Pinkie, "That makes a bit of sense... I mean when Pinkie got injured I was desperate to take her to find help, and we ended up in the place where we needed help the most!"

"But wouldn't the same apply to you?" Twilight asked, "Neither of you knew about the castle. So how did you get there?"

"It's not just relegated to place, but people too." Flash added, "Sweetie was marked on chasing Adagio. And Big Mac, Rarity and I were concerned about finding her, so we ended up on the other side. Your reasoning is spot on Sunset."

"Then what about us?" Applejack asked, "Ah was wantin' to find Sweetie Belle so we could put this trouble behind us an' eat our picnic!"

"Those were empty words. You were more concerned about the picnic than Sweetie Belle, perhaps that's the reason why you ended up back here with Rainbow... am I not wrong?"

"Now lookie here Flash. Ah..." Applejack started, but hesitated for a little while."... Okay, ah admit that it was a pain doin' this, and ah admit ah had the hunger pangs..."

"Don't betray your heart is what I'd say." Flash sighed, "Then again, you're always the honest one here AJ so I'm not surprised."

"Ah get it already, Ah'm not a good friend to Sweetie. Stop tryin' to rub it in Flash, yer pretty much provin' Rainbow's point." Applejack frowned,

"Sorry. As for you Rainbow, you were too focused on impressing Scootaloo that your heart ended up vying for Scoots herself, thus going to where she was. As I said, you won your bet in a way because, in your heart, you were concerned about her."

"So what about Adagio?" Sunset asked, "Is she plotting something bad with Aria and Sonata?"

"She's in good caring hands." Rarity answered, "And the money she got was legitimate. She's not going to do anything bad in the future as long as she's around."

"And who is this 'she'?"

"A mature woman named Ms Cleo!" Sweetie answered, "She's taking care of Adagio and making sure she's not evil!"

"She's given us gifts since we're affiliated with Adagio!" Rarity continued, "Big Mac?"

"Eeyup," Big Mac responded as he revealed a wooden basket, "Sweetie got a choirbook from a well-known children's choir from that time, ah got a baton wielded by the conductor of said children's choir, and Rarity got a cool set of clothes!"

"Oh wow!!!" The girls clamoured around to see the gifts in the basket,

"Wait." Fluttershy stopped, "What about you Flash? If you went with them, you should've got one too!"

"My one's not something you'd flash out in the open." Flash explained, "But I clipped it on my belt buckle if you're curious."

"Woah!" Pinkie and Fluttershy followed his instructions to see the Hero's sword and scabbard hooked to his trousers. "A real sword!!!"

"I also have a fancy thing myself!" Rarity laughed, pulling out her own weapon.

"Ooh! A golden hand on a stick!" Pinkie gasped,

"Not just any ordinary hand, it's the Loving Hand!" Rarity explained, "And this hand has a very important story behind it!"


"They're a really caring group," Cleo remarked as she and Adagio watched from afar from the castle balcony through a telescope. "Rarity's friends really like to talk for a long time, don't they? It only took you five minutes to drop them off at Rovetelle and come back, and yet they're still in the park! I bet you didn't even say goodbye to them!"

"Yeah, I didn't..." Adagio dryly agreed, "And I hope that this never happens again."

"Adagio, no matter your history with them, this is a part of starting over a new leaf." Cleo responded, "You can't keep social communication limited to me and our business partners. As I said, they're a caring group who would be able to forgive you after such a long time. I'm sure that if you talk it through with them the way you are now, you can bury the hatchet entirely."

"Yeah yeah, whatever..." Adagio dismissed, "I'm starting to get hungry. What's for dinner?"

"Well..." Cleo smiled, "How does some baked quiche sound? I haven't prepared the ingredients due to what happened this afternoon."

"Wonderful." Adagio smiled back, "Why don't I help you? I mean, if you make it all by yourself, it'd be way past dinner once we're done!"

"You're right..." Cleo thought, "You definitely aren't the Adagio back then anymore. That's why I firmly believe that you can reconcile with your foes, like many of my allies during the times of New Alberia. I'll be at your side, vouching for you, but the heavy task must be completed by you and them."


Despite being hidden from view by the mana barrier, the Halidom rotated in time with the nation of Equestria and the rest of the world. The next morning, Cleo woke up from her bed, did her hair and made sure to hide her ears within her ribbons, put on her exquisite clothes, and start the day. Today was Saturday, the start of the weekend, and aside from tending to the garden, this means there was more time for her and Adagio to spend together, and she knows exactly what to work on.

"Good Morning Cleo," Adagio greeted in the hallways.

"Good Morning Adagio..." Cleo waved back, "Ah! I see you've decided to be your normal self today."

"It's not related to what happened yesterday," Adagio responded, donning her dark purple vest, her light-purple stockings with triangles, her shin-high studded high-heels, and her spiked hairband holding together her extremely large curly hair, "I'd like to cool down for the weekends."

"In any case, do you have anything you need to do today?" Cleo asked, walking out of the castle.

"I intend to do some training, but after lunch. I'll help you with the garden before we split. Do you need anything I can do for you?"

"I'm happy you asked. Perhaps we can do training together? Personally, I'd like to see you overcome your elemental weakness."

"Really? That would be nice!" Adagio smiled, "But what about the castle grounds? Surely you want to fix some facilities too?"

"Eventually." Cleo responded, "If only the smithwyrms were here, but alas, if only we were able to form a pact with dragons that don't expire after the Prince's passing."

"Not to be a downer." Adagio tugged, "But during one of my training times, I went to the Den of the Windwyrm, and there's been no trace of anything. Are you sure that dragons exist? Or have they all grown old and whatnot?"

"That's not true. Dra--"

"There they are! Adagio! Ms Cleo!" A young voice called out to them. Cleo's face rose, Adagio's face dropped.

"You've got to be kidding me..." Adagio faltered as the two turned to the bottom of the hill. Four familiar figures were running up the hill, right towards them.

"Good Morning! Welcome back!" Cleo welcomed with a bow, "I'd never think you'd return so fast! If I can remember your names... Sweetie Belle... Flash Sentry... Big McIntosh... And Rarity!!!"

"Yep, that's us!" Flash winked, "Now that we know the secrets behind that Mist, getting here isn't so hard. We live close to the park after all!"

"Wh-Why would you come back?" Adagio spoke, "Th-there's literally nothing fun to do here!"

"Ah wouldn't say that," Big Mac shrugged, "Ah personally found something interesting here. Same goes for the others! Fer me, Ah'm mighty interested in how you work yer farm, not to mention the structures of the castle. Also during the tour, ah found a map that says this place has more than jus' a castle an forest. There's a large lake, a pretty tall mountain, some ominous ruins, heck even a massive volcano! Ah wanna go explorin'!"

"Very astute Big Mac." Cleo nodded, "yes. The places you mentioned do exist within this secretive region. Sadly, all five places are teeming with Fiends, but if you have Adagio, Rarity or me with you, we can get through easily!"

"I didn't agree to anything!" Adagio snapped,

"I'm very interested in the history of New Alberia, and the many adventurers that fought alongside you, Ms Cleo." Flash was next to share, "I'm also quite interested in their cultures and laws, not to mention their weapons and their fighting styles. I'm confident that even someone like me can fight these Fiends, just like those before had, and without souls. I've also got a few unanswered questions, but if I joined in the exploration, then I'd be able to find solid answers!"

"I can help you with that!" Cleo nodded, "How is Euden's sword?"

"It's displayed honourably back home. Mum and Dad were still curious about how I got such a thing, but they allowed me to keep it."

"Wait... Isn't your Dad a lawyer?" Sweetie asked, "You sure he's fine with that?"

"Laws regarding firearms are very strict but very lax around melee weapons. It also doesn't help that each State has different regulations too. But other than that, I wasn't able to mention yesterday my proficient weapon. So I learn Bojutsu, an art that uses a very long stick as a weapon. I say stick because it's usually called a 'staff', but you've already got a 'staff'."

"I know what you mean," Cleo pointed out, "Back when the Prince and everyone else was alive, we fought a large demihuman that wielded the same thing. We may not have that weapon in our armoury, but I know just the right weapon to replace it. Have you tried wielding lances and spears?"

"Oh, that is the perfect weapon!" Flash nodded with wide eyes,

"You're not seriously going to fight like that are you?" Adagio raised an eyebrow, "You'll get mauled by those fiends like you did yesterday."

"He's a brave spirit, and he's right. You can fight without the aid of an adventurer's memories." Cleo defended, "But it does involve a lot of training and hard work. As his friends, is he speaking the truth about using a weapon?"

"To be honest, I'm not sure..." Rarity scratched her head, "I know very little about Flash and Big Mac. I only just know that Big Mac is Applebloom and Applejack's brother, and I only learned about Flash being a strong brother figure to Scootaloo. If I asked her, however, she'd probably say yes."

"I acknowledge her love, but we're still Family Friends." Flash laughed while blushing.

"What about you Rarity?" Cleo asked,

"I really enjoyed the clothes you gave me! Sure, Dad and Mum were just as curious about how I got the clothes of a Preacher that doesn't even fit me, except for the Loving Hand though, they think it's just a funny trinket I bought for laughs. They honestly thought that I'd decided my future profession without telling them! As if I'd be befitting of such an occupation, it's ridiculous! N-No offence to your faith, Flash."

"None taken," Flash raised his hand in understanding.

"But anyway yes. I'm not sure you know, but I have a big interest in royalty. I am fascinated by Castles, Antiques, Royal Treasures. Specifically here, I am fascinated with the paintings, but even more so the choice of clothes. You can learn a lot from a culture by what they wear. Which reminds me... Unless you have other clothes, why does the one you wear not show your navel?"

"Oh! Did you find out? Well... topics and fashion are also... trending in Sylvan culture. Yes, a lot of them, as far as I can recall, wear midriff-bearing clothes around the time I was with Prince Euden. Thankfully, my Dragonyule outfit was designed at that time too!" Cleo responded,

"That's another thing. Dragonyule. Is that a holiday in New Alberia?" Flash added,

"It's a holiday celebrated all over Grastaea near winter. I believe it shares the same date, as well as some traditions, as your Hearth's Warming."

"You know what? I'm starting to believe that this place isn't another dimension... It's more like... Your place comes from a different era in time, and shielded by the powers that came from your time!"

"Yes. You are indeed correct." Cleo nodded without hesitation, "you are right on the mark!"

"That's all my questions from my sceptical nature done. I will enjoy this place to its fullest."

"That's wonderful to hear. Now, what about you Sweetie?"

"I... Well..." Sweetie Belle looked down, feeling a bit shy "Mom and Dad are really loving people, but they never seem to spend so much time with us because of their jobs... But you were really caring and protective, and despite Stranger Danger, Mom said that you should give people you trust your attention." She looked back at Cleo with an innocent face, "I'd love to spend time with you so I can trust you even more! You should meet our parents!"

"That is very kind of you Sweetie. I really appreciate it." Cleo blushed red with a giggle.

"But we've got another big reason besides our personal reasons." Rarity jumped in, "We're also here for Adagio."

Adagio tensed up, looking very hostile.

"Really? And what for?" Cleo asked,

"You misunderstand me Adagio." Rarity explained, "The four of us mean no harm to you or Cleo. In fact, we should say well... we kinda missed you yesterday. Just seeing you being protective instead of manipulating was out of left field, but something that really touched us. After you ran away, the entire school had remembered you and the Dazzlings, and what you did to the entire school."

"But here's the thing," Flash continued, "You're not the only one to fall on people's hate list. Sunset, the girl who introduced you to the school, was under that negative opinion. After she saved the school, she began to be accepted." He took a deep breath "It took me a few months and some strict lectures from my parents regarding why forgiveness is important, to understand that people can change for the better, even for those who personally did us dirty. Seeing you protect your foster mother... Yeah, I believe that you're on that journey of reformation, just like what Sunset went through."

"A mom? It's... very flattering..." Cleo gulped, her face turned red.

"Ah wasn't involved in this battle of the bands when you were 'round, though Applejack and Applebloom told me all 'bout it. There's some justification for this prejudice, but it shouldn't be so intense as it's supposed to be. And yeah, let bygones be bygones an' all that." Big Mac responded,

"Are you trying to imply something?" Adagio gave a suspicious squint.

"Not 'imply', we come in full force!" Sweetie Belle yelled, "We want to help you too! We're willing to forgive you, and we can become friends!!!"

"Ah-WHAT!?!?" Adagio jumped,

"Well if this isn't fate, I don't know what is!" Cleo smiled, "I'm very much happy that you guys are wishing to make amends with Adagio. I was talking about it with her yesterday too!"

"Ms Cleo..." Rarity bowed, "Bowing isn't a common greeting in this day age (except for Neighpon), but let me do this to say thank you for taking care of Adagio, and helping her too."

"Ah'm happy to fix some of yer buildings as thanks." Big Mac volunteered,

"Oh, you four... You are more than welcome to come back anytime to see Adagio and I! Isn't this exciting?" Cleo laughed,

"Yeah!!!" The four Equestrians jumped for joy.

"Oh boy..." Adagio cried on the inside, "Looks like I'm back in Tartarus... AGAIN!"

Castle in the Mist

The End