Chapter 72:
Legend of Everfree Part Two
“I’m assuming you didn’t have much luck with the Twilight in this world?” Tempest asked with an unsurprised expression on her face.
“None.” Sunset could only answer as she puts on her sunscreen. “Even though she wasn’t at fault for what happened at the Friendship Games and has some control of her newfound magic she refuses to use it out of fear of turning out like Midnight again and still blames herself for what happened.”
“At least she is trying really hard to steer clear from her evil influence because the Twilight we all know more is struggling to do so and refusing to let go of the grudges she holds against everyone who has hurt her in the past.” Tempest spoke of her little success. “Considering what had happened and she now sports the same mark I have, I wouldn’t blame her.”
“I know.” Sunset agreed. “The Flash here even has a crush on Twilight’s human self even though she really likes the camp director’s brother more.”
“Yeah, Twilight was just lamenting on how put out she was when he didn’t even acknowledge her when she tried to speak with him.” Tempest brought up her just telling her that. “Guess it’s hard to blame him since it’s been a while and she has completely altered her appearance.”
“True.” Sunset replied. “Although even though they live in separate worlds…” She said as she noticed Flash feeling disappointed as she looks on as Human Twilight and Timber spend more time together as Princess Twilight prepares to get ready for a competitive canoeing adventure with Rainbow Dash. “She does owe him one more conversation just to clear everything up after coming to accept the facts in life, in fact…” She said as she decided to go over to him. “I’m going to go talk with him.” She said as walked ahead to do so meeting up with him as Flash sighs in defeat upon seeing the crush moments between Human Twilight and Timber as he helps her keep her balance after nearly falling through the dock as part of it fell apart upon stepping on weak wood.
“Guess I can't get too jealous, right?” Flash commented to Sunset as he sees here approach him. “After all, she isn't my Twilight. Not that the other Twilight was mine! But we were... you know.” He quickly corrected himself.
“Yeah. I get it.” Sunset sympathized with a smile as she placed a hand on his shoulder. “But your Twilight is a princess in Equestria. Hate to break it to you, but that's where she's gonna spend most of her time.”
“So you're saying I just need to get over her?” Flash asked her as he rubbed the back of his neck.
“Kinda, yeah.” Sunset bluntly replied.
“Ouch. You're not pulling any punches.” Flash returned in stride.
“Not really my style. Sorry.” Sunset apologized with a smile, a small punch to the arm, and a shrug for having to break it to him this way. “Although, you and Twilight should have one last conversation with her just to clear things up.” She then suggested to him. “She is actually here and is the girl with black hair and clothes with pink streaks in her hair in case you haven’t noticed yet.”
“You mean the girl that tried to say hi to me earlier.” Flash immediately realized and face palmed himself. “That’s who she was? Oh man, I can’t believe I didn’t recognize her back there. Oh, I can't believe I blew her off like that.”
“It’s okay.” Sunset assured him it's not a big deal. “Just make sure you go talk to her while and when you still have a chance, Okay.”
“Okay.” Flash agreed as they witness Celestia, Luna, and Gloriosa examine the hole Human Twilight accidentally created.
“This is a safety hazard. I suggest we close down the dock for the remainder of the camp.“ Luna suggested as they examined the damage much to the student’s dismay.
“Oh, I'm sure it won't have to be for the remainder of camp.” Gloriosa assured everyone it won’t be necessary. “Just needs to be patched up a bit. I've got this!”
As Applejack thinks for a moment she comes forward with an idea.
“Or maybe we do!” She suggested as she walked up to them. “If you ask me, this whole dock needs to go.” She further added as she easily chipped off a part of the dock with her boot. “Building a new one could be our camp gift. Sure, it would benefit us, but a nice new dock would benefit future campers, too.” She further encouraged everyone as they all immediately supported her idea.
“I don't know.” Timber voiced her skepticism about the idea. “It's an awful lot of work. I wouldn't want you guys to miss out on doing other fun camp stuff because you're so busy building a dock for future campers.”
He then glared at his sister as Sunset looks a little concerned seeing their restrained and visible tension towards each other again.
“I hear what you're saying, Timber…” Rainbow understood where he is coming from as she stands beside him before their argument could even start. “…but we're Canterlot Wondercolts. We've got a reputation to uphold! And there was no way we were gonna leave this place without contributing the most awesome camp gift ever!” She further added as she gestured to Applejack with full support. “I'm with AJ. Building a new dock is definitely it! What do you guys think?”
The students all cheered as Timber hangs his head in defeat.
“Looks like it's settled, then.” Gloriosa somewhat smugly commented in a satisfied tone and crossed arms.
“Looks like it.” Timber said in defeat and somewhat crossly towards his sister with crossed arms and a matching tone to boot.
“That's some tension, all right.” Sunset remarked on their visible tension towards each other.
“No question.” Princess Twilight agreed without second thoughts as she joined up with her with Tempest and Starlight as they all immediately focus on replacing the old dock with a new dock so everyone can be able to do on the water activities they came here for along with everyone else.
“We can reinforce the foundation.” Human Twilight proposed.
“Make it nice and sturdy.” Applejack added.
“And we can add a wood-carved sign that says "Camp Everfree”” Sunset also suggested.
“And little boxes with food so you can feed the ducks and fishies.” Fluttershy added her thoughts.
“Oh, we'll add lanterns so you can see at night!” Rainbow also proposed as Watermelody draws down and pools together the new dock design.
“It’s stunning!” Rarity remarked impressed with her work. “And will make an absolutely perfect runway for my camp fashion show!”
“More importantly…” Applejack voiced her input as Rarity started geeking out her thoughts.”…it will be a great place for docking canoes and feeding the wildlife.”
“Oh, you say "tomato", I say "perfect place to showcase glamorous boho-chic stylings".” Rarity still voiced her thoughts about her fashion dreams later on.
“What do you guys think?” Human Twilight proposed to Celestia, Luna, and her pony counterpart.
“It's going to be a lot of work, but we can do it!” Celestia didn’t sugarcoat her opinion but remains confident the job can be done.
“Yes! Adult supervision!” Pinkie cheered surprising the school principal and vice principal in the process as Princess Twilight pulls out her notebook as she prepares to organize everyone into teams.
“All right, everyone.” She began giving her instructions. “To work.” She said as she turned to Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Flash. “Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Flash, you three are in charge of building the docks.”
“On it!” Rainbow obliged.
“You got it!” Applejack replied with a nod.
“Whatever you say.” Flash answered without hesitation while still trying to adjust to her new appearance as Twilight gives a concerned look in his direction for a moment.
“Fluttershy and Rarity you two are in charge of creating the bird and fish feeder boxes.” Twilight instructed the two who both nod understanding their task at hand.
“Got it.” Fluttershy said.
“Of course.” Rarity also said.
“The rest of you are with me in getting the supplies we need to build the dock.” Twilight instructed the others as she turned to Derpy. “And Derpy.” She quietly added as she snapped to attention. “Try to not carry the tools with your mouth okay. It’s nothing personal.” She kindly and gently told her. “I just really don’t want you hurting yourself, okay?”
“Okay.” Derpy understood as she shook her head as she went off ahead to get the tools as Twilight lets her be after deciding she can be trusted to handle it on her own enough without hurting herself.
“Twilight.” Celestia called out to the princess counterpart while catching Human Twilight’s attention. “Sorry, not you, her.” She quickly clarified upon seeing the two Twilight’s together for the first time.
“Okay.” Human Twilight awkwardly replied before setting out to do her task as Princess Twilight approaches Celestia.
“Yes.” The princess calmly replied.
“I just wanted to come over to say it’s so good to see you again.” Celestia warmly said as the dark-haired girl was slightly taken aback.
“Good to see you too.” Twilight returned with a kind yet somewhat forced smile. “It’s been awhile since we last saw each other and I gotta say it's quite good that you were able to recognize me right off the bat.”
“It sure has been and quite truthfully you did stick out a bit from the other students.” Celestia returned with a chuckle. “How are things back in Equestria?”
“Going fine” Twilight answered as she tries to find the right words to keep the conversation short to the point not wanting to reveal everything that has happened recently. “Although things at Equestria have been recently stressful to the point my friends felt it was in my best interest to come here for a vacation.”
“How so?” Celestia inquired.
“Remember of how your and Luna pony counterparts are princesses too?” Twilight asked her.
“Yes I remember.” Celestia replied.
“Well, as of recently they have decided they are planning on retiring from the throne with me as their successor.” Twilight said as Celestia listens intently.
“Really?” Celestia asked in amazement. “That’s amazing.”
“Yes.” Twilight said with a despondent frown took which Celestia took the hint to where she is going with this.
“Then why aren’t you happy?” Celestia wondered why she looks so troubled.
“Nothing, expect…” Twilight honestly started. “…that I’m not looking forward to it.” She admitted. “Ever since she turned her back on me at the wedding rehearsal back at Canterlot, and then just when things were getting better after forgiving her, she then knew that I wasn’t acting like the mare everyone knew and didn’t tell me right away along with my friends and brother.” She added as she expresses through her composed tone of the pain she is feeling since then.
“Trust issues, I see.” Celestia concluded as she puts the pieces together. “Coming from the people or in this case, ponies close to you, that can definitely be hard to forgive someone like that.”
“I know. Especially when I grew up admiring her and my brother when I was young and I was just getting warmed up to friendship.” Twilight said pleased to hear her agree with her there while voicing her exasperation towards those back at home. “I’ve been trying to be a good friend to them from day one and have always been there for them when they needed it. But when the roles reverse they fail to deliver. When I truly needed them the most they turned their backs on me then I never bothered to speak to them again after that. Honestly, I just don’t know why I even bother trying to forgive them after everything.” She then said sounding irritated as she looks away with contempt towards her former loved ones as Celestia sighs as she tries to find the right words to comfort her.
“I know that can be very frustrating and hard to do and while I may not have had it just as bad as you but I’m sure you can find it in your heart to forgive them for hurting you like that.” Celestia tried to encourage her to do so as Twilight gives an unconvinced raise of her eyebrow. “Yes, I know what they did was wrong and yes they should have told you the truth right away, but I’m sure they just really care about you, trying not to hurt you the wrong way no matter what.” Twilight’s harden expression softens a little as they walk around to oversee the progress of the construction. “And as you said it yourself nobody’s perfect and everyone makes mistakes.”
“That’s true.” Twilight agreed with her there as she thinks back and begins to feel she did act a little too unforgiving towards them when the truth came out. “You really think I should forgive them.”
“No, but I’m just suggesting that you should try because I know deep down that they all truly sorry for hurting you.” Celestia replied as she placed a hand on the back of her shoulder as the two face each other.
“Even when they tend to forget the same lesson time to time?” Twilight asked feeling a little uncertain about it going forward.
“I believe that you can overcome anything even during the toughest challenges fate throws at you as long as you stay true to who you are.” Celestia assured her that she has faith in her which left Twilight feeling genuinely touched by her words as much as Princess Celestia.
“I’ll try.” Twilight said in response as she thinks to herself.
“Good.” Celestia replied as Gloriosa met up with them.
“Hey!” Gloriosa greeted the two. “How is everything going?”
“Going great thanks to Princess Twilight’s excellent organization skills.” Celestia answered while Twilight is still feeling touched by the heart by her praise as it really felt close to home. “At this rate we should be done in the next day or two.”
“That’s wonderful to hear.” Gloriosa said pleased to hear as she turned to the organizer in question with a smile. “And we are very pleased and thankful that the guest of honor was able to come all the way out here to help make this trip the most promising we had in years.”
“Well I try not to brag about it but I did manage to get Winter Wrap Up back home all done in one day just by finding and delegating the tasks to those who are very capable and most qualified to the assigned task at hand.” Twilight humbly replied. “Just my natural gift and talent.”
“And it is a very promising gift you have, Twilight.” Celestia commended her as she turned her attention to everyone for an announcement. “All right, now. You've made a lot of progress, but it's going to be getting dark soon. We can pick this up tomorrow between our other camp activities.”
“Everyone, get cleaned up, and we'll gather by the fire pit at eight to share s'mores and scary stories!” Gloriosa also announced.
“S'mores!” Pinkie cheered in excitement as she held up her marshmallow pillow bag, chocolate, and graham crackers already looking forward to it.
As Tempest and Starlight both helping carrying the supplies back to the shed for the night they both witnessed Princess Twilight’s conversation with Celestia along with her visible second thoughts on disowning her former friends and family seeing that Sunset’s plan seems to be working while concerned of how she’ll come out for the better.
Later that night, every one of the campers has gathered around the campfire with s’mores and campfire stories being under Luna’s supervision as Rarity takes a turn telling her scary campfire story.
“...And that's when she looked down and realized she was wearing purple socks with a burgundy dress!” Rarity said as she screamed at the thought as everyone stares blankly at her while Pinkie happily munches on her treats. “Purple and burgundy, darlings! The same color family!“
The students murmur uninterested by it as Sunset, Princess Twilight, Starlight, and Tempest all chuckle to themselves at Rarity finding slightly bad fashion horrifying.
“Uh... that was a terrifying story.” Applejack commented to Rainbow sarcastically who chuckled in agreement.
“Yeah, I'm terrified she'll try to tell it again.” Rainbow said in agreement.
“Well then let’s hope we don’t encounter someone trying to wear red and black together.” Tempest quipped as everyone laughs at her dry-toned sarcasm while Rarity pouted and crossed her arms in response.
“Well, I never.” Rarity could only say with a huff as Luna clears her throat to move forward after finding a good laugh out of it.
“Anyone else have a spooky story?” Luna asked the others for more spooky stories to offer to everyone gathered tonight.
“I have one.” Timber offered. “But I'm warning you, you might as well hug a friend now. That's how scary it is!” He playfully with some hints of ominous feels warned everyone as Fluttershy gasped as Spike hopped into his arms as Snips and Snails immediately embraced each other as Bulk Biceps hugs them both.
“Oh boy.” Princess Twilight laughed it off.
“What does your counterpart’s lover boy have in mind for us?” Starlight jokingly asked.
“It's time I told you about the legend of Gaea Everfree.” Timber began as he began telling his tale. “Many years ago, my great-grandparents came to this forest. Seeing its beauty, they decided that it would be the perfect place for a camp. But once they started building, strange things started to happen. One pitch black night, when the wind was howling, a tree branch crashed through the roof of their cabin! They screamed and ran outside, only to see the giant creature rising from the earth! She had wild hair like the roots of a tree. Her mouth had jagged rock teeth and her eyes were pools of black tar. But her aura shimmered like diamonds. Anywhere she went, she left a trail of gem dust in her wake. Trembling, my great-grandparents asked who she was and what she wanted. In a deep and hollow voice, she told them that her name was Gaea Everfree – an ancient spirit who held domain over the forest, and that my great-grandparents were trespassing on her land. They begged her to let them stay and build their camp, to share this wonderful place with others. Gaea Everfree finally agreed but warned them that they would not be able to keep it forever. Someday, she will return and reclaim the forest as her own.” Everyone expect Princess Twilight and Tempest were both on edge hearing this spooky tale. ”So if you see a trail of gem dust, you'll know that it is...Gaea Everfree! He then finished in a loud tone which caused everyone expect Princess Twilight and Tempest to scream in terror as Gloriosa arrives.
“Hey, guys! Sorry, didn't mean to scare you!” Gloriosa apologized.
“Then why'd you come out of the bushes?” Sunset wondered.
“I... took the scenic route, because the forest is beautiful at night.” She fumbled a little in her explanation before pressing through. “But no one else should do it without a guide, kay? All right, everybody, time to head to your tents.”
Everyone all makes their way back without protest as Snips and Snails approach Gloriosa.
“Oh, hey, Gloriosa. Do you have extra toothbrushes? I forgot mine.” Snips asked he showed the food stuff in his teeth.
“Sure do! I'll get one for you.” Gloriosa positively answered while hiding her brief disgust as Snails comes up shuddering in fright while clinging onto her.
“I'm scared of the dark! Do you have flashlights?” He asked as he cowered behind her.
“Of course! I got this!” Gloriosa again positively answered as she led them back to their tent as the girls plus the Mane Six watch on.
“Fluttershy?” Spike struggled as he is strained from her overly-tight grip on him.
“Sorry, Spike.” Fluttershy quickly apologized upon realizing that she is choking him to death. “I guess that story got to me.”
“Why? It can't be real.” Applejack asked amused of her timid friend.
“I don't know.” Rainbow voiced her thoughts very doubtful about it. “Gaea Everfree could be some creature that got booted from Equestria and ended up in this world. That's what happened with the sirens.”
“Eh. Sounded more like something that Timber was makin' up just to scare us.” Applejack dismissed it mostly with both Princess Twilight and Tempest nodding in agreement. “At least I hope it was. Last thing I want is to have camp ruined by some power-crazed magical creature.”
“Oh, hear-hear.” Rarity also spoke in agreement. “We've had to deal with more than our fair share of those. At the Fall Formal, a musical showcase, the Friendship Ga—“ She then quickly shut up upon seeing Human Twilight looking hurt and guilty about that last aforementioned incident. “Well, I mean, you know, everything turned out all right, of course.” She then said with a nervous chuckle and her hands behind her back.
“Mmm. I'm kinda tired. I'm gonna turn in.” Human Twilight said as she headed back towards her tent.
“Maybe lay off bringing up what happened at the Friendship Games?” Sunset advised the Mane Five. “I think she's still pretty sensitive about it.”
“Our lips are sealed.” Pinkie vowed as chewed on a melted and sticky marshmallow as everyone decides to call it a night as they made their way back to their tents.
While Human Twilight sleeps with Sunset in their tent, Princess Twilight and Tempest sleep in their tent, as both Twilight’s are both having trouble sleeping as they are both having dreams.
Human Twilight in her dream was sitting at the campfire roasting marshmallows when she heard a creepy voice.
“Here I am!” She called out leaving her looking around in alarm for the source of the voice. “Over here.” She called out again as the flames from the fire turn purple as Midnight appears herself. “I'm always here!”
Princess Twilight on the other hand was having a more conflicting dream as she wrestles with her darker instincts.
“Twilight! Please stop!” Celestia cried out to her back at Mount Aris.
“No!” Twilight refused as she roared in rage. “You betrayed me again, fool me once shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.”
“Twily…” Shining pleaded only to be hoisted in the air with her magic.
“You don’t deserve my forgiveness.” Twilight growled as she forced her brother underwater to drown him to death before turning to the Mane Five.
“Twilight!” Applejack called out to her in desperation.
“Snap out of it!” Rainbow said in the same tone.
“We’re your friends!” Fluttershy cried out to her in tears upon seeing her give into her inner darkness.
“No you’re not!” Twilight yelled back much to their shocked, gasp-drawing, and jaw-dropping devastation upon hearing that. “You’ve only spent time with me because I am nothing but a joke to you! I can’t believe I fell for it for so long!”
“Please Twilight!” Pinkie pleaded. “Friends trust each other!”
“Well maybe I’d better off without FRIENDS LIKE YOU!” She yelled as her horn flared like Tempest’s as she unleashes a blast of powerful magic right at her seven former loved ones as the princess finds herself awakening just after shouting that last sentence at the same time her human counterpart screams after awakening.
After calming herself down, Princess Twilight moved to make her way out of the tent as she hears her human self screaming.
“No!” Human Twilight screamed awakening Sunset in the process who assumes a fighting stance with her eyes still closed and feeling half-asleep.
“What happened?” Sunset asked.
“Nothing. Sorry, Sunset.” Human Twilight quickly assured her friend and calmed herself down.
As Sunset wakes herself up she sees a magic aura forming around her belongings.
“Uh, Twilight, I think something happened.” Sunset alerted her with the latter yelping upon seeing her and Spike levitating. When the magic immediately wore off and disappeared, they both slammed back hard into the ground, with Spike grunting in pain after being awaken from the commotion.
“Is it time to get up already?” Spike groaned as he turned around and went back to sleep.
“Twilight, we really have to talk about this.” Sunset urged her to open up more.
“No, we don't!” Human Twilight refused as she turned away in shame leaving her princess self wondering the same question as Sunset just when seeing her mirror counterpart make her way into the nearby forest before following after her in secret. Once deep inside and far away from the camping grounds, the princess made her way towards a nearby stream before singing in a somber tone.
“It used to be so simple
It was a world I understood
I didn't know what I didn't know
And life seemed pretty good.”
She sang as she sat down and looked at her own reflection which transforms into her Midnight form.
“But now the darkness rises
From somewhere deep inside of me
Her power overtakes me
Can I keep this midnight from getting free?”
She sang as she stood up from the log.
“If I can stay with the light
I know I'll be free
And I can start to be whole
I can start to be me.”
She sang her vow not to become her evil counterpart back at home.
“But instead I am struggling
With all that I see.”
She sang as she reflected on what happened at the wedding rehearsal, the beach fights on Mount Aris twice, along with Midnight conquering Equestria and the Crystal Empire as she looks down at her heart that has dark magic inside of her that can’t be removed before sitting back down as her heart briefly glows for a second.
"And these friends
These so-called friends
That make me wonder and see the midnight in me!
The midnight in me!
How can I trust them when they see the midnight in me...”
She finished singing before sighing to herself as she voices of how much she wants to prove she is no longer the evil mare she used to be. She really does deep down, but finds it more conflicting with her friends questionable actions along with Midnight further fueling her doubt about friendship.
At that moment Tempest walked up to her. “Can’t sleep again.” Tempest asked catching the girl's attention.
“No. Can’t sleep either.” Twilight asked back.
“No.” Tempest returned as she sat down beside Twilight. “At least after hearing you scream from whatever dream you had.”
“Oh.” Twilight cringed a little in embarrassment. “Then I guess you know what’s going through my mind huh?”
“Just about.” Tempest answered. “Struggling to whether you’re good or evil, and whether to forgive your friends and family or not.”
“Yes.” Twilight answered with complete honesty as she looked at Tempest. “Just after I reformed I knew there was a lot of rebuilding and by the time I put the past behind me I had just formed friendship with the griffons, dragons, yaks, and changelings, as well as Starlight who reminded me of how I used to be before becoming an alicorn.” She said as said girl was eavesdropping on their conversation from the nearby bushes. “But then came a mistake I made when wanting to free myself of the dark magic that’s been corrupting my mind led to Midnight herself being brought back from the dead which led to everything that had happened.” She said as she gazes on her scar and briefly sees her heart glow for a second. “It’s just the more I keep trying to press forward towards the light, I find it fading as the darkness in my heart grows leaving me more and more feeling like it was a mistake to forgive them in the first place. You were right Tempest, friendship has failed me.”
“Please Twilight. Don’t say that.” Tempest tried to urge her otherwise. “What’s the princess of friendship without her friends like me, Starlight, and Sunset?”
“A pretty lousy princess.” Twilight retorted as she still frowns. “From the second we got away I have been trying to figure out ways to deal with Midnight and her army but I’ve found nothing. As no matter what advantage I try to think of Midnight always outsmarts me.”
“But it will be okay.” Tempest further tried to assure her. “You’ll come up with something. We can’t save Equestria without you.”
“But with Sunset’s help they were able to escape without me while I was in a coma.” Twilight still refused to budge her stance. “They didn’t need me then so why would anypony need me now?”
“I know things look bad, but we've been in tough spots before, and we always…” Tempest tried again only to be cut off mid-sentence this time around.
“Open your eyes Tempest!” Twilight snapped back at her causing her to flinch from her sudden outburst. “Ever since Midnight came back she has manipulated you and the Storm King’s army into launching an attack on Equestria after terrorizing the Crystal Empire, burned down my castle, took down the most powerful ponies in just minutes in one brutal beat down, and nearly killed Flurry Heart leaving the poor filly forever haunted by her. And just when everyone thought she was defeated, turns out she was playing the long game all along as she was prepared for the events of her defeat when she had an escape plan all ready to go as she had took advantage of Celestia and Luna’s fraying relationship to create evil clones of them, while helping Tirek and Chrysalis escape from prison, resurrected Sombra who took over the Crystal Empire and destroyed the Tree of Harmony, and took in Cozy Glow, and together they all returned and more powerful than ever! The School of Friendship? Shut down after being burned to the ground by Midnight as she took over Equestria. Everypony in Equestria is so blinded by fear, they can't remember what friendship is! Nothing we do makes any difference!” She further said in despair.
“Okay.” Tempest acknowledged with raised hands to try to get her to calm down. “I know that bad things happen. No matter what you do, there's never gonna be a time when everything's perfect. But that doesn't mean you quit tryin'!” She tried to find the right angle to approach it.
“But what I make things worse?!” Twilight questioned still filled with doubt as she turned forward towards her reflection as she starts to waiver in her voice. “Ever since Celestia told me I was taking over I was afraid to step up to the role my former self wanted to the point I needed reassurance to gain confidence to step up to the throne. Then I find out Midnight along with Tirek and Chrysalis have escaped allied with Daybreaker and Nightmare Moon whom she created and I didn’t even notice until she took over leaving Equestria to further fall apart around us.” She further ranted. “And it’s all because of me!” She then said as she broke down in tears. “I ruined everything and there’s no chance in saving Equestria now. And it’s all my fault!” She then cried as she buried her hands into her face.
Tempest even though she disagrees with that couldn’t help but feel sorry for her seeing her breakdown while feeling remorseful with how much damage she has done to her from when she told her friendship has failed her, to Midnight scarring her, and how much her and Midnight’s influence has messed with Twilight’s psyche.
“You’re right, Twilight.” Tempest agreed as she placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. “No matter what you do there will always be new conflicts and enemies to face and new challenges in life.” She said very bluntly to her to which didn’t help things there.
“How is still supposed to make me feel better?” Twilight asked as she still sobbed.
That's where she soften up with her next words. “Because even so, a wise princess once told me, no matter what, good always triumphs over evil, and if anything no matter what Midnight comes up with to stay on top of things, she will be defeated in the end.” Tempest further added on as Twilight looks up to her courtesy of Tempest placing a hand on her chin to get her to look at her. “And I also came all the way out here to be with that princess because I believe in her.” She added as Twilight feels astonished hearing those words, from Tempest of all ponies.
“Really?” Twilight asked touched hearing that from the pony who used to be the cold enforcer of Midnight and the Storm King.
“Yes.” Tempest replied as she handed her a tissue to dry her eyes. “And I’m sorry for the moment when I told you friendship has failed you. If anything I’m also to blame for this since I helped her try to take over Equestria when we first meet and helped her scar you for life, literally.” She apologized as they both see each other’s scar’s in their reflections. “All I wanted was to be able to have my horn restored so I could reach my full potential in magic, but in the process of pursuing it I ended up being blind to Midnight’s manipulations to the point I didn’t see her betrayal coming until it was too late.” She said as she thinks back to when Midnight did nothing to save Tempest when she got sucked up into the tornado she created. “In the end I was nothing but a pawn to her in her little game.”
“It’s not your fault, Tempest.” Twilight returned after calming herself down. “She fooled everypony. No matter what she will be able to manipulate those around her even while wary of her true nature. She’s just that good at what she does no matter how you try to approach or steer clear of her.”
“She sure is.” Tempest agreed as they both stood up from the log. “If anything from what Cadance taught me when she orchestrated the reunion of my childhood friends is that it’s not too late to reconcile with those who have hurt you in the past which can do wonders to you if you do the same.”
“You mean what Sunset is doing right now?” Twilight asked with a knowing look having figured it out herself.
“Yes.” Tempest honestly replied while feeling a little awkward to confessing the truth even though it's better than being caught red-handed lying to her. “I know that tricking you into coming here and going on this vacation wasn’t the best approach but we really wanted to help you come to terms with who you really are, the mare that everyone knows and loves, and the one true ruler of Equestria.”
To Tempest’s surprise, she is greeted with a hug instead of being yelled at for her part in Sunset’s plan.
“Thank you.” Twilight gratefully told her with a smile. “I really needed this vacation.”
“Okay, let’s try not to get too emotional here.” Tempest politely yet firmed urged her to let go of her grip to which she does. “What do you say we get back to our tent and try to get some sleep?”
“Probably for the best before Gloriosa catches us here.” Twilight agreed to the suggestion as they stand up and make their way back to their tent. “Come to think of it, there is really something off about her.”
“I know.” Tempest voiced her thoughts too. “But I can’t put my finger on it.”
Starlight watching this smiles as she secretly makes her way back to her tent where she would sleep outside finding dealing with Trixie unbearable.
“Suddenly, my little feud episode with Trixie back home doesn’t seem so bad.” Starlight muttered to herself as she went back to sleep just as Twilight and Tempest made their way back to their tent to go back to sleep while noticing Starlight sleeping outside in her sleeping bag.
“Poor Starlight.” Twilight said in pity at the sight. “Such good friends, yet not the best roommates.”
Twilight while nodding at Tempest both pick Starlight up from both ends of the sleeping bag and carry her inside their tent so she won’t be vulnerable to the bugs and insects outside as they can be pretty nasty most of time. Starlight while this was happening was already deep asleep so she didn’t even notice what had happened until she woke up in the morning. Upon waking up she smiled at this kind gesture from her friends and saw of how much doing good deeds for each other go a long way.
On the second day of camp the boaters are out enjoying a nice sail on the river as Sunset and Human Twilight approach the docks.
“Hey, I know you don't want to, but I really think we need to figure out what's going on with your magic. If you could learn to control it…” Sunset tried to approach it differently only for Human Twilight to refuse before she could finish her sentence.
“But that's just it! I'll never be able to control it!” Human Twilight voiced her doubts as they heard a crash at the docks.
It was Derpy and Sandalwood’s ride accidentally crashing into the dock, destroying a good portion of it with Timber and Fluttershy already there having watched this unexpected scene occur before their very eyes.
“What happened?” Rainbow asked as she arrived on the scene.
“I didn't mean to!” Human Twilight said in an instant panic.
“We didn't see anything, so we don't know what happened.” Sunset quickly assured Twilight she wasn’t at fault before helping the disoriented sailors to the feet. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah.” Sandalwood answered. “It was so weird. We were stuck in a middle of the lake with no wind, then all of a sudden, bam!” He said as he pounded his left fist into his right palm as Timber escorts them to get checked up. “The wind picked up, and we were pushed right into the dock.”
“You don't think it was the spirit, do you?!” Pinkie gasped in worry as Human Twilight looks away in shame while grabbing her left arm just as Starlight and Trixie arrive on the scene.
“No, it was me.” She said to herself.
“Spirit, show yourself! The Great and Powerful Trixie commands it!” Trixie said out loud much to Pinkie and Starlight’s embarrassment as they both face palm together.
“Trixie, please, no.” Starlight urged her to stop. “It’s embarrassing.”
“What's that?!” Rarity questioned as she and some other students observe mysterious purple sparkling liquid into the lake much to the other surprise before running up to the others while both Princess Twilight and Tempest arrive on the scene too.
“Oh, man! All our hard work! Ruined!” Rainbow groaned in frustration. “And I was so looking forward to that boat race with the princess.”
“At least the fishies are eating well.” Fluttershy commented as she saw said fish swimming and eating okay.
“Let's salvage what we can out of the water. Maybe we can still fix this.” Sunset proposed as she examined the damage with Princess Twilight.
“We have to try!” Rarity quickly supported. “Camp Everfree needs a runway!”
“Dock.” Applejack corrected.
“Dock. Yes. That's what I meant.” Rarity agreed while thinking only about her dreams as she inspects her nails as Human Twilight runs away into the forest while everyone’s backs were turned.
As the princess organizes the campers willing to help with rebuilding the dock again, she notices that Human Twilight disappeared and ran off.
“Twilight.” Sunset called for her attention. “Where’s your human counterpart?”
The princess turned around and saw that she is gone too.
“I don’t know.” She replied as she looked around for her. “She was here a minute ago. Maybe for some reason she ran into the woods.” She suggested. “Let me help make sure everything is in order then I’ll help you find her, okay?”
“Okay.” Sunset agreed as she went off ahead to do so. “I’m going to get her pet dog Spike to help track her down.”
“Good idea.” Twilight said as she turned her attention back to the Mane Five and Tempest.
“Applejack and Rainbow Dash you both replace all of the boards with new wood on the dock.” She instructed the two who immediately set out to get more wood as she turns to the others. “Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy you three tie on new rope onto the posts.” She instructed them as she turns to Tempest. “Can you keep an eye on them while I check up with Sunset and my human self?”
“No problem.” Tempest obeyed without hesitation as she heads off into the woods to find them.
“Sunset!” She called out to her and Spike before quickly ducking into the nearby bushes when they all found her talking with her crush.
“Oh, hi.” Human Twilight nervously greeted. “What are you doing here?”
“Uh... Looking for you.” Timber replied equally nervous.
“Oh, I just went on a nature walk and got a little lost.” Human Twilight quickly said to cover the fact she ran away into them.
“Let me show you the way.” Timber offered. “I'm kind of an expert at these woods. I've lived here my whole life.”
“That must have been nice. Growing up at a camp.” Human Twilight complimented.
“Yeah, though it has its downsides.” Timber thanked her with his smile turning into a frown as pushes aside a tree branch that was sticking out right in front of them. “When I was younger, I wished we'd sell this place so we could live in a town like normal people.”
“Really?” She asked in surprise at his wishes.
“I was ten. I really wanted to hang out at the mall.” Timber said as they both came to a stop as the two giggled for a moment before the former continues. “I've never told that to anyone. You must be special.“ The two both blushed as the former compliments her deeply. “And not just because you have tree branch in your hair.” He added as he pulled out said twig.
“Ugh. How long has that been in there?” She asked in embarrassment.
“Not long. Just the whole time we were talking.” He replied as she nudges him in the arm in response for that.
“Well, why didn't you say something?” Human Twilight asked as they walked off ahead.
“I guess we can help Twilight deal with the magic stuff a little later.” Sunset told the two as they all had knowing smiles seeing that they clearly both like each other.
“It’s pretty clear that these two really like each other.” The princess said in agreement. “And believe me I know what it’s like upon coming across love at first sight.”
“Like you and Flash.” Sunset hinted much to her embarrassment as she blushed a little with a grin.
“Yes, well back at home.” Twilight quickly composed herself as Sunset chuckles in response before they made their way back to the camp where they all hear Rarity screaming as Applejack quickly manages to save her from hurting herself catching everyone’s attention.
“Applejack! What are you doing?!” Rarity screamed as she held a tight grip on the rope she is holding just a foot above from the ground.
“Is everything okay over there?” Celestia asked.
“Uh, I don't know what happened.” Applejack honestly answered as Rarity placed her feet onto the ground. “I didn't even pull the rope that hard. It's like she was light as a feather all of a sudden.”
“I was scared half to death!” Rarity breathed heavily in reply as she struggled to take off the harness.
“It wasn't my fault! Let me help you get your harness out.” Applejack innocently voiced while trying to help her friend.
“No, thank you!” Rarity irritably refused as magic suddenly appeared and shoved Applejack into the nearby lake. The farm girl was left irritated by this seemingly rude gesture while spitting out the water that got in her mouth.
“What in the world just happened?!” Celestia urgently asked as she approached her.
“Oh, dear! I am so sorry!” Rarity quickly apologized as she looked at her own hands where the magic came out of. “I think. Did I just do whatever that was?”
“I don't think it was your fault. I gonna go get Applejack a towel.” Human Twilight suggested as she ran off ahead to do so.
“Me, too.“ Sunset said as she immediately joined her while Celestia and Princess Twilight both check up on Applejack. “You're not the only one with a new kind of magic! This is great!” She shared with her.
“No, it's not!” Human Twilight immediately refused. “Rarity and Applejack could have really hurt each other! Why is this happening? I don't…”
“Hi, girls!” Gloriosa immediately approached them with her usual friendly smile. “Anything I can do for you?”
“Uh, Applejack just fell into the lake!” Twilight reported.
“Oh, no! She's gonna need warm towels, dry clothes, oh, and a hot cocoa! I've got this!” Gloriosa also said as she immediately yet happily ran off to do so as they hear a familiar scream.
“Fluttershy?” Both girls said in unison as they both ran over to the cafeteria where they come across a batter explosion with Fluttershy and Pinkie caught in mix literally.
“What happened?!” Sunset asked as they both observed the aftermath of the explosion.
“I don't know.” Fluttershy honestly answered just as confused. “We were just decorating cookies and…”
“And I was all, "You need more sprinkles! And you need more sprinkles!" Pinkie added.
“So, standard Pinkie Pie stuff.” Sunset figured with a knowing smile.
“I was just tossing sprinkles to Fluttershy, when all of a sudden they glowed pink and exploded!” Pinkie then said as she tosses up some sprinkles as they just as she described resulting in another explosion leaving everyone’s hair blown back. “Just like that, only earlier!”
“Oookaay.” Sunset kindly suggested as she pulled her arm away from the sprinkles. “Why don't you lay off touching stuff for a while?”
“Oh, dear. We really should clean all of this up.” Fluttershy said as she went over to get paper towels only to struggle to reach them. “Can someone help me out? She asked her bird friends as an orange bird immediately flies up, retrieves it, and hands it to her.
“Thank you, Mr. Bird.” She thanked the bird as it landed on her finger.
“Why, of course I can get you a little something to…” Fluttershy then gasped upon realizing what she had just said. “Did you just... talk?” She asked the bird who confirmed through chirps. “But I don't speak "chirp".” The bird continues to communicate with her. “I don't know if you're the only bird I can understand.” The bird further chirped in response. “Oh, no! Please don't call for your friends.” She asked of the bird to no avail as a flock of birds flew over and rested on her shoulders catching the others attention. “It's nice to meet all of you, too.” She kindly yet awkwardly told them.
“Were you just talking to the birds?” Sunset asked her feeling very confused of what had just happened.
“Um, yes?” Fluttershy answered just as confused as everyone else as she then screams at Applejack and Rarity bursting into the room causing the birds to fly away after the doors slammed open.
“Did you tell them what happened? So crazy!” Applejack asked them just equally surprised as everyone else. “I hoisted Rarity up the rock climbin' wall like it was nothin'! Like I had way more strength than I usually do.”
“And I made a diamondy thing appear out of nowhere, which normally I'd be excited about. I mean, the facets were just perfect, and the…” Rarity marveled at her own discovery while annoying her victim standing right next to her.
“Rarity!” Applejack immediately interrupted wanting her to get to the point.
“Oh, sorry. It knocked Applejack over and then it disappeared!”
“Speaking of disappearing, has anybody seen Rainbow Dash?” She asked as said girl immediately crashed into the room in a flash. Literally. “Whoa! How'd you do that?”
“I don't know.” Rainbow answered just as confused as her friends help’s her to her feet. “I started running to get the harness, and the next thing I knew, I was practically back in town!”
“But if you had some sort of super speed, why you were gone for so long?” Rarity questioned.
“Because I lost it when I got far away. And then it came back when I got close to camp.” Rainbow answered as Pinkie gasped in realization.
“Being at camp is giving us all new magical abilities!” She came to conclusion as Sunset voices her thoughts otherwise.
“Not all of us have gotten new abilities. I haven't, but Twilight…” She quickly corrected herself as Twilight refuses to talk about it. “...hasn't, either.”
“So much for my theory that leavin' CHS would mean leavin' any new magic business behind.” Applejack sighed as she crossed her arms in annoyance.
“Something at the camp must be making this happen.” Sunset thinks off of the top of her head at a possible theory.
“Um, Gaea Everfree?” Fluttershy nervously suggested as she screams completely startled at a shadowed figure appearing before them Fortunately it just turns out to be Gloriosa arriving with towels and dry clothes.
“Applejack! I was looking for you! Here, I brought you some towels and dry clothes.” Gloriosa approached and gave her the items in tow as she looks around to see the mess around her. “Uh, what happened in here?” She curiously asked.
“We're kinda trying to figure that out.” Sunset replied.
“Well, don't worry about it. I got this!” She positively replied as Sandalwood barged into the room with Derpy accompanying him.
“Gloriosa, I kicked my beanbag into the lake!”
“I'll get you another one!” Gloriosa responded with a twitched eye before quickly recomposing herself.
“And I'm all out of arrows!” Derpy presented the broken arrows on hand.
Even though her composure was starting to crack she managed to rein her frustrations in. “Say no more! New arrows coming right up!” Gloriosa replied while still looking a little stressed out as her brother arrives on the scene too.
“There you are!” He called for her before whispering to her. “Filthy Rich is back. Do you want me to handle it?”
“Absolutely not!” She immediately refusedin a hush before turning and smiling to everyone again. “I've got this!” She assured everyone again as she set out to do all of those tasks at hand Just then they all hear another scream.
“Fluttershy, enough with the screaming!” Sunset assumed and chided since she was now finding it very annoying at this point.
“I didn't scream.” Fluttershy honestly and innocently answered.
“For once.” Rainbow remarked bluntly.
“Nobody did.” Rarity said in her defense as Sunset looks around very puzzled.
“Huh?”
“Attention, campers!” Celestia said over the P.A. system. “Anyone who's interested in making floating paper lanterns, please meet us by the picnic tables.”
“I don't know about the rest of y'all, but I've been lookin' forward to comin' here for a month. Maybe we forget about this "new magic" for a bit and just try to focus on enjoyin' our time at camp?” She suggested to everyone as Rarity is the first to agree.
“I was oh, so excited about designs I've come up with for the camp fashion show.” Rarity said with her mind fully focused on what she came here for.
“And I've barely gotten to whoop anybody in tetherball.” Rainbow also voiced one of her greatest desires while Sunset however still remains unconvinced.
“I think we should try to figure it out. But if letting it go for now is what the rest of you want...” Sunset tried to urge once more of what is truly best for everyone before giving in much to everyone's happy excitement. Well, all but Human Twilight cheered in agreement.
“Abso-tootly-lutely!” Pinkie cheered as Human Twilight looks away unable to join her friends in looking forward to their camping trip together.