//------------------------------// // Chapter 28 - Heading up the mountains // Story: Wherever the Light Shines: Part 2 // by MLPSolarDash1907 //------------------------------// Twilight opened her eyes. Blinking blearily, she managed to clear her sight to see that she’s in an outcropping with several warm bodies pressed against hers. She looked to see herself covered by a blanket, the sleeping faces of Fluttershy and Rarity to her left, and to her right, her other friends’ sleeping faces. Sunset had her head on top of Pinkie’s as she gently snored. The alicorn gazed outside to see the barest glimpses of sunlight turning the sky a dark blue, some stars were still visible but they will fade over time. Yawning, she moved slightly, trying to get up, her mind waking up and focusing on getting Starlight and Sunburst back. Being careful not to wake her friends, she pushed herself upwards. Fluttershy and Rarity stirred in their sleep, causing Twilight to pause. When they stopped, in a gentle motion, Twilight got herself out from the covers, quickly stood up and covered her friends. She still had her blue starry winter jacket on and she loosened it a little due to having her friends pressed against her. Taking another glance at her friends, she smiled a little bit. Only to frown at Mystic’s absence. Growing concerned, Twilight stepped outside into the open air as the wind blew in her face. Flipping her mane out of her eyes and squinting her eyes, she spotted Mystic sitting on a rock sharpening her knives with her sharpening tool. Relieved, she began walking over and stopped about five feet from Mystic’s side. “Good morning,” she said. Slightly startled, Mystic turn to face her. She relaxed some when she saw Twilight. “Oh, morning,” she said before turning her attention back to sharpening her knives. “What’re you doing up so early?” Twilight asked. “I need to be ready for the journey, so I thought I’d sharpen my knives before heading back to our campsite and salvage what’s left of it.” “You haven’t been up long?” “About ten minutes. Apparently woke you up.” “You didn’t, I woke up and didn’t see you.” “I suppose that’s a reason to get up.” Mystic continued sharpening her knives as Twilight stood close by. “So, when we get to Oogundaa, will you still lead us?” Twilight asked. “Why?” “Because I assumed you’d know the land better than any of us.” “Pft, those citizens keep changing their borderlines of territory, they run wild, there aren’t any real borders set up,” Mystic levitated another knife and began sharpening it, “I suppose when we get there we can go wherever you think is best with some consideration and cut down anycreature that gets in our way.” “So... it’s you leading until we get to Oogundaa?” “Yep. For the most part. I’ll provide information about the land and where the most dangerous parts are. I advise you to stay away from the northern border.” “Why?” “Most citizens avoid it, they’re too afraid to go there. Most never come back alive, and if they do, they’re cursed or traumatized by the Elokos or other dark beings.” “Elokos?” Mystic cracked a smirk, “So many questions huh?” She dropped her smirk, “Elokos are very dangerous creatures that can use their eerie music not to only hypnotize you, but lead you to an untimely death and get yourself to cut your own limbs off.” “What?!” Twilight gasped. “Yep. There was one case in a scroll I read, is that a husband never heard from his wife one night, and the next day, after hearing the fading chimes of the Eloko’s music, he found her bones.” Twilight gagged, but Mystic didn’t laugh. “That was my first reaction, believe it or not.” “Why would you look at such terrible creatures?” Twilight asked, trying to compose herself. “The world’s a big place. I’ve been trying to understand it my entire life,” Mystic explained as she levitated her knives and put their sheaths over them before placing them in her bag, “Even if some things may or may not be real. “Of course...” she sighed, “That includes the most horrendous beasts rumored to be real.” “I-I see...” “You might value friendship as if it’s the only cure to the world,” Mystic stood up, “But there are things and creatures that can’t be saved or resolved by friendship.” “Friendship is magic, it’s the most wonderful thing in the world!” Twilight protested, “I’m sure if we tried to get an understanding then we’ll be able to figure something out.” “Some things won’t try to do that. Some are just downright evil as you probably know.” “I-I believe so?” “You have your values, but some just won’t accept it. Because the world is a dangerous and wild place,” Mystic turned and began walking off, “I’m retrieving all of our stuff. Follow if you want.” As Mystic left, Twilight pondered on her words for a little bit. It’s true there were some that didn’t accept friendship, but she’s grown to believe that friendship is the ultimate solution to everything and that if they can reason with those who aren’t understanding it or doing something wrong, they can help everything be okay. The alicorn took a step after Mystic, and then another before deciding to follow her back to the campsite. She saw the young unicorn glance back at her before they arrived. The shelter Mystic built last night is in shambles, the sticks are broken in half, Rarity’s gown and her sleeping mask are ripped, along with Pinkie’s bag filled with treats, Applejack’s bag is torn and the apples were smushed. Fortunately, Twilight had her bag with some extra food in it, Fluttershy managed to salvage some water bottles from her bag as they scurried away. Twilight noticed Mystic had knelt down and looking at a couple impressions on the rocky ground. Twilight looked and it’s a very large footprint. Mystic looked at their surroundings, towards the logs in the stream before standing up straight. “Stupid pegasus,” she muttered, “It’s a wonder nothing ended up being worse than what they were.” Twilight inwardly agreed, but she felt as if this could be an opportunity for her. “Mystic,” she said softly, the unicorn glanced at her, “Rainbow might be brash and rude at times, but she does have a heart. She does care for everypony close to her.” “Yeah, ‘close to her’” Mystic scoffed. “I know you two have issues, but I want to encourage you to try and talk to Rainbow.” “I don’t think that’ll happen.” She levitated some of the scattered, torn bags and items next to her, “Besides, she’s your problem, she won’t listen to me.” “I’ll talk to Rainbow about this, but I believe if you can get past your issues, you can be an effective duo in dangerous situations.” Mystic turned and faced Twilight with a slight glare, “Look, I don’t need that pegasus. I can handle things on my own. Besides,” She took a step forward, “You can’t rely on anypony out there, Princess.” Twilight hated being called a princess, but she ignored it, and cleared her throat, “You might not think you need her, but you’re here with us and all of us work as a team.” “Good for you.” Mystic levitated the bags and everything else, “I’m heading back.” Likewise, Twilight followed, but as she did so, she thought back on what Mystic told them about taking them to Oogundaa, “In all seriousness, I could use another trip. Besides, it beats the heck out of being with that horrendous Hong.” Is Mystic using them as some sort of sanctuary? Does she not truly care about them and their friendship? However, she did save Applejack and put out the fire to keep them all safe. Even with those in mind, she did reflect to when Mystic referred to Applejack as a resilient, dependable pony or something along those lines. Twilight wanted to see the best in Mystic, but it’s difficult when she closes herself off, the mare isn’t the easiest to get along with, that makes it a combination of it being difficult knowing when to try to reach her. However, that won’t deter Twilight. She and her friends can and will find a way. When they arrived back at the outcropping, everypony else is yawning, stretching, or just waking up. Twilight smiled softly, flapped her wings and rejoined them ahead of Mystic. “Morning everypony,” she said softly. Everypony gave their good mornings and own small smiles, except Rainbow who looked away in shame. “What about the campsite?” Rarity asked. “Gone,” said Mystic plopping everything that had been left behind in front of them. “My nightgown!!” Rarity shrieked, getting on her knees and holding it close along with her sleeping mask. She began sobbing, “Oh why-hy-hy-hy?!” “Mah apples!” Applejack lamented as she held up her bag. “Most of our bags are ruined!” Fluttershy lamented, searching her bag for her packed food. Sunset facehoofed at the loss of everypony else’s bags, she saved hers as did Twilight, but the loss of them meant less food storage, provided if they had the food inside the destroyed bags. Pinkie sulked sadly at her lost treats but she pulled out an extra saddlebag from her mane, reached into it and ate a cupcake. “Do you have any more than that one?” Twilight asked, obviously not questioning it. Pinkie shook her head, “I’m afraid not. Sorry...” “I know we had an unnecessary loss,” Mystic spoke up, looking over at Rainbow for a few seconds before turning back to the others, “But we can’t dwell on that now. We need to get moving if you want to find your friends.” She turned to face the mountains, “There won’t be any food for us up there. Until we get to the other side conserve your food, there’ll be more in the forest on the other side.” “We’ll share saddlebags, too,” said Twilight, “I’ll label everypony’s portions of food and water before we head out. Nothing more nothing less from what I label, got it?” Everypony else agreed as Mystic glanced to her saddlebag and back up at the slopes of the tall mountains. She knew that they’ll be treacherous in some areas and they’ll have to cross through avalanche zones. The unicorn opened up her satchel. “So, Mystic,” said Twilight, turning around, “What do we...” She paused when she saw Mystic levitating a glass container with a yellow potion in it. “Where did you get that?” Twilight asked. “I made it,” replied Mystic. She looked at everypony else, “These mountains will be cold, windy and treacherous at times, this potion here gives me more stamina and strength to push through such environments as these mountains. Not because I can’t handle them, but because it’ll help me get through them faster. As it will with all of you.” Before anypony could ask anything else, Mystic opened the potion and took a small sip from it. She smiled, showing her teeth some as her eyes lit up with excitement getting energy from it. She quickly composed herself, “Just a sip will get you through for an entire day.” “And you’re sure it’s safe for all of us?” Applejack asked. “I drank a sip of it, so I advise you to do the same,” said Mystic, partially answering her. Everypony glanced at one another for a few seconds before Pinkie stepped forward and took a small sip. Her eyes widened and she smiled brightly. “Wow! I feel charged!” she shrilled happily before bouncing in place happily. Mystic rubbed an ear in slight pain as Sunset took a step forward and took a sip. Her eyes widened as well, “Whoa. That’s quite a punch.” Soon, everypony took a sip from it, including Rainbow, as if to appease Mystic for her actions last night. The mare nodded in satisfaction before she put the half-empty container back in her satchel. “Now, let’s get moving,” she said, “We want to be over and down by evening.” “Why evening?” Rarity asked, still holding onto her ruined gown, “Can’t we move faster than that?” “We would if there weren’t such deep snow, high winds and predators up here,” Mystic explained before she turned towards the mountains. “Let’s move, we’re burning daylight.” Everypony followed, heading up the slope of the mountain, they gazed upwards to the ragged mountains and snow-covered tops. Mystic poured a couple drops of red potion onto her head and she stopped shivering. Suddenly, it hit Twilight, “Hold up! Where did you get those potions? Weren’t they destroyed?” Everypony else gained a look of realization while Sunset raised an eyebrow. “Yes. They were,” replied Mystic. “Where did you get them?!” “I made them.” “I know that, but how?” “Let’s just say what luck it is that I found a potion maker in your town.” “What?” “You heard me.” “But which potion maker?!” “That’s not important right now,” said Mystic jumping up a small ledge, “What’s important is that we get moving.” “Ah think Ah know who she’s referring to,” said Applejack. The herd of eight ponies began making their way up the hill that eventually turned into a slope with some snow and ice. Mystic made sure the others followed her rather than going near the snow and ice this early in the climb. She warned them again about there being hidden chasms being underneath it and knew where the safe areas were. Rarity, although her hooves were sore due to climbing, she pressed forward with the help of Fluttershy. Applejack tied a thin rope around her head and forming a knot at her chin to keep her hat from blowing away in the winds as they picked up speed, causing Rarity to pull up her hoodie to protect her mane. Soon, the mares reached some steep slopes and Mystic began climbing up the rocks followed by the others. Twilight slipped on a small patch of ice, but the young unicorn caught her by the hoof before she fell and Sunset levitated the non-fliers onto a higher ledge. As they climbed higher and higher, the mountain became steeper as the morning wore on to when they were far above the tree line, giving them a clear view of the forest, they went through. Beyond that is Equestria’s lush forests, fields and the river pointing in the direction of Las Pegasus. The air became thinner as they climbed even higher, steep rocks and cliffs surrounded them on the steep path they’ve been following. Everypony realized that the potions Mystic had given them have been helping them move faster up the steep mountains than they would have normally. As the day went on, the herd encountered a canyon with small platforms to land on, the wind is blowing hard, too, almost knocking some of the ponies over. Mystic, Applejack, and Pinkie jumped across with no problem, but Twilight and Rainbow flew the others across despite the wind. After a small celebration, they moved on. Mystic gazed upwards to see the sun is almost at its peak. To her left, pushing herself up to a ledge, Sunset joined up with her, slightly panting but giving her a small smile nonetheless. “Are we making good time?” she asked. “Yes,” replied Mystic, “At this rate, we should be arriving at the tops of the mountains and then we traverse through some thick snow.” She let out a breath, “Be wary, there will be more chasms up here.” “Duly noted.” Sunset looked down at the others just below her, “I’m glad we packed warm, the weather can get unpredictable up here.” “It can, I was once caught in a blizzard up here.” Sunset was about to say something else, but Fluttershy took in a deep breath as she and Pinkie caught up with them “Can we slow down a bit?” she asked. Mystic smirked, “Come on, we’re making good time.” “Doesn’t hurt to take a break,” Fluttershy sat down. “We’ll be taking a lunch break soon, Fluttershy,” Sunset assured her. “Remember to conserve your food,” Mystic advised. “As for me, I’m going to have a quick bite and scout ahead.” “Scout ahead?” Fluttershy asked. “Yes,” Mystic began looking around and spotted a large rock that the others could take cover by, “Get next to that rock, you don’t want to be exposed while sitting still in this wind.” “I love the wind!” Pinkie cheered standing up tall and letting the wind blow her mane back, “Wheeeee!” “It’s not going to be nice when we get moving at the peak, we’ll be there within an hour. Beware once again, because avalanches are plentiful if there is a bunch of noise,” she turned away, “Which is one of the reasons why I’m going ahead. The mountain gets a little more treacherous and I want us to steer clear from the zones.” “Okay,” said Sunset as the others joined. Mystic ate a granola bar before leaving causing Twilight to raise a curious eyebrow. “Where is she going?” “She’s scouting ahead for us so we’ll have it a bit easier,” Sunset explained, “Anyway, let’s get behind that rock so we can eat.” “Oh, thank goodness!” said Rarity, now having a pink scarf around her neck, she made her way over to the rock and knelt down out of the wind. Soon, everypony’s eating and staying out of the wind. “Is Mystic going to be back soon?” Fluttershy asked. “I imagine she will be; she wants us to move,” said Sunset. “Uhm, Sunset, I’ve noticed Mystic hasn’t been talking with you as much as she normally does, did something happen?” “Oh no. I can tell she’s into getting us to our destination. Besides, we did chat before we arrived at the Crystal Empire,” Sunset paused. “You did? What did you talk about?” Fluttershy asked. Sunset paused again, almost as if she’s thinking on what to say, “Oh, just stuff...” “What kind of stuff?” “Just some about magic and places Mystic’s been before,” Sunset finally answered, “We did smile and bond a little more as well.” Fluttershy nodded, “I see.” Applejack had a raised eyebrow, Sunset seems to have regretted bringing up the chat and she hesitated to answer. What was that about anyway? “Is there something we should know, Sunset?” she asked. “N-No,” Sunset answered, “Mystic and I are growing closer. There wasn’t anything that you need to know.” “Are ya sure ‘bout that? Because you seem a little uneasy.” Sunset scoffed, “As if that weren’t obvious, AJ, I am deeply concerned about the situation and being half buried under snow.” “Ya know me in the other world. Ya know I can tell when a lie is around.” “I am not lying, Applejack!” Sunset insisted, growing uneasy. The unicorn and earth pony continued to glare at each other. Applejack still isn’t sure about Sunset, but she looks pretty convincing. “Whatever the chat was, I’m glad somepony managed to bond with her,” Rarity spoke up. “Can’t say the same for us,” Pinkie slightly sulked. “I’m sure you all did your best,” Sunset said, trying to reassure them, her look softening and taking her eyes off Applejack. “It’s just that she’s difficult to talk to with how she is and hard to get her to open up,” said Applejack, “Ah had trouble mahself.” “However hard she is, Oogundaa’s citizens can probably be better,” Rainbow muttered. “For once, I believe you’re right, Rainbow,” said Rarity, “I do want to see the bright side of Oogundaa, maybe there are some citizens that do look on the bright side of life instead of being at each other’s throats.” “I believe she might be wrong about the citizens,” said Twilight. “And could they value friendship just like all of us?” Pinkie asked. “That would be wonderful,” Fluttershy smiled, “Everycreature can use a little kindness no matter who it is.” “Except when it’s Oogundaa,” a new voice spoke up. Everypony looked up to see Mystic has returned and is leaning against the rock. “I found a way for all of us to travel and I returned to hear all of you talking about me and Oogundaa,” she went on. “Oh, but we didn’t mean anything by it,” said Fluttershy. Mystic dryly chuckled, “You know, I had a vibe, but I believe it now. It’s ironic, you don’t trust me, just as I don’t rely on all of you.” She sat down, “Ponies all about that friendship and other values.” “Well we can’t really help it,” Rainbow spoke up. “I get it,” Mystic smiled, not pleasantly but accepting, “Somepony like me that wanted nothing to do with you, probably not caring about friendship, and some of my actions to get out.” She looked at Twilight, “Not to mention me wanting my weapons back.” She looked at the sky. “Mystic, we want to trust you,” said Twilight, “We want to be your friends.” “Keep telling yourself that.” “We’ve been sticking up for you,” said Rainbow, “You’ve got a funny way of showing gratitude.” “More like everypony but you,” Mystic shot. “I don’t know the full details behind them knowing you, Mystic,” said Sunset, “But have you ever seen any other ponies stick up for you?” Mystic didn’t reply, “You might be new to us just as we are to you.” “And you’ll be to Oogundaa,” Mystic said with a stern expression, “It’s not that I’m not used to some kind of scrutiny, but as for Oogundaa’s citizens, they won’t be so welcoming and kind.” “Oh, but we can show...” Fluttershy started. “And using that gesture is the kind to land you in trouble,” Mystic cut her off, “I tried getting info and talking to some of the citizens, but they approached me with spears and a desire to kill. They showed me their nature, untrustworthy towards outsiders. They’re dangerous and liars.” “Who were they?” “Savages, just wanting a pony dead or run off. I had to hide and explore the land discreetly, even then there were some critters that wanted to take a bite out of me. In fact,” she lifted the left part of her shirt, showing a scar on her torso that they had never noticed before. “Whoa, what happened?” Sunset’s eyes widened. “A wild dog bit me as I tried to run from them one night,” Mystic put her shirt back down, “They managed to corner me but I fought my way through. Sure, it was rare that I got cornered and because I am a fighter, but the point is, everycreature from impala, kudu, rhino and buffaloes aren’t willing to reason or listen. They’re at each other’s throats, they don’t rely on each other’s species at times.” She locked eyes with Twilight and the others, “You remember when I talked about my uncle how I go out and travel?” “Yes?” Twilight asked uncertainly. “I used to be covered in scars during my time with him,” Mystic explained, “And scars from teeth, claws, beaks, poison, and blades struck me everywhere on my body during travels throughout my years of traveling.” “But you look totally fine,” said Applejack, “No scars ‘cept the one.” “I healed all those scars with my potions and kept the one to constantly remind myself of what’s out there.” Everypony seemed slightly taken aback by what she’d told them. Fluttershy had a look of sympathy for her. “Oh, I’m sure if...” Rainbow spoke up “If what?” Mystic asked sharply, “I’ve seen them, you haven’t.” She sighed, “And to top it off, with King Clawdius and his pride, they live in fear of him and try to search for ways against him. They don’t care about us, they don’t care about anything but themselves, which is why we must do the same when we’re there.” That caused the ponies to gasp, sure they’d primarily wanted to solve their problems with the huge adventures, but they did care for those when they wanted to. “We help those in need, little acts can go a long way,” Twilight stated, “Griffonstone took a long time to start its true road to recovery, but the little acts we did overtime have gotten it there.” “That’s insightful for the griffons, but this place isn’t like them, they hate outsiders and show no mercy to those who come their way,” Mystic explained with a hard look, “Don’t let your values land you in trouble in something you can’t come out of.” “They wouldn’t dare!” Rarity said, aghast. “Oh, don’t they? Then why are you, Pinkie and Fluttershy even here?” “Because we care about our friend! She’s in danger!” Fluttershy glared, “We deeply care about her and won’t let her be out there however dangerous it is.” “And that’s what I mean,” Mystic spoke, causing Fluttershy to look a little confused, “You’re not agile, strong, or magical like other ponies here in this group.” “She’s done a lot,” Rainbow glared. “I know why you came Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity,” Mystic sighed, “But I truly wonder how you can possibly be prepared to fight past lions, buffalo, rhinos and other tough species.” “We always stick together!” Fluttershy stated. “That is true, but Applejack, Twilight, Sunset, the pegasus and I, either have magic, agility, and strength, but none of you do. Sure, Pinkie can use cupcakes and party cannons, but all of you... you aren’t like them, you don’t have either of those.” “Are you sayin’ that they aren’t special?” Applejack glared. “I’m saying that they’re dedicated... just not adequate enough to fight against danger, I wanted Fluttershy to stay safe as I went to fight the lions because those who cannot fight should stay safe and not put themselves in danger.” “And yet Fluttershy, Pinkie, and Rarity all helped us save Equestria! Not to mention you didn’t have a clear plan against an army of lions!” “I would’ve found a way!” Mystic snarled briefly before looking back at Fluttershy, “With magical artifacts as I’ve heard, but on their own, without them, they just don’t stand a chance like the rest of us,” Mystic sighed, “I’m not saying that they’re not special, I’m just saying maybe they should’ve considered staying home.” That caused everypony to get somewhat agitated, especially Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Pinkie slightly sulked. “Now see here, Mystic!” Sunset glared. “What? That they’ve contributed in ways in your adventures beforehoof? This isn’t like your normal adventures.” “Fluttershy reformed Discord! She helped make a tornado to get the water to Cloudsdale!” Rainbow spoke up. “Her kindness is admirable. Pinkie, however annoying she is, does want to make ponies smile, and Rarity wants to spread generosity. But that will lead to naivety and a sense of youth, as you see the world, you’ll see that creatures are completely unwilling to accept any of that. Don’t let your values become too much to where it gets you in grave danger.” “You can’t go sayin’ stuff like that Mystic!” Applejack glared. “Why? Am I wrong?” Mystic stood up, “Somepony who’s been traveling and seen all kinds of danger in her life? The world is an unforgiving place, everypony, just as Oogundaa is. It’s either you die, or you survive no exceptions.” She looked at Twilight, “You value friendship, you value the Elements of Harmony, but face it; friendship, however valuable to all of you, isn’t enough for the world.” Everypony was silent. Mystic just stared at them for a little bit, waiting for some kind of response. “Let’s get moving, we’ve wasted enough time here,” she finally said, getting up and walking off. Everypony looked at one another with wide eyes. “Did-did she say friendship isn’t enough for the world?” Pinkie squeaked out. “I-I guess she did,” Twilight’s eyes bulged. “That can’t be true,” said Rainbow, “Friendship has gotten us so far, and we’ve been unifying with different creatures across the globe!” “Yes, indeed!” Rarity agreed, “How could she say something like that?” “Ah know! Friendship can bring everycreature together!” said Applejack, nopony has ever encountered a pony who thought friendship would slow her down, as told to them by Fluttershy, and that it isn’t enough for the world. “So... what should we do?” Sunset asked. Twilight sighed, “Keep going with her, and we’ll show her that our friendship is more powerful than any magic. I think she’s wrong and that there are those who do want friendship and care about one another.” “Yeah!” Rainbow agreed. “Sunset,” said Twilight, “Do you think you can find a moment to talk to her again?” Sunset nodded. “As for the rest of us, we’ll show Mystic that friendship really is something the world needs, the world needs harmony.” “But isn’t she right about some creatures not wanting friendship?” Fluttershy asked. Twilight let out another sigh and slowly nodded, “Chrysalis, Sombra, Tirek, and the Storm King come to mind, but even with them not accepting it, friendship has done so much for us over the years.” She held back Cozy Glow’s name because it still brings her hurt feelings. “That mare is a real puzzle,” said Rarity, “I don’t know how we can break the ice.” “Yer right, Rarity, she’s difficult to talk to at times,” said Applejack. Twilight stood up, “Regardless, we need to do what we do best. But not now, we need to move.” Everypony agreed, how much they wanted to talk to Mystic now. As they stood up and met up with Mystic, she motioned to steeper rocks to climb leading to the mountain’s peak, where the strong winds howled. Starlight's steps pushed through dried grass giving out hard, crunchy ground. Nothing will stand in the way of her goal, not even the harsh land of Oogundaa. She’ll take out anycreature who gets in her path to get what she needs. “I will revive you, Mother,” she muttered as the sun continued to beat down on her, “No matter what it takes.” Filled with determination, Starlight let out a yell and began galloping. She didn’t know exactly what happened after her argument with that pony who was unable to understand just how good things will be once she brings back her mom, not only for her but all of ponykind. Maybe even the whole world would appreciate her. All she recalled is that she’s looking for some kind of ingredient...some potion? Some flower? Some kind of jewel that will bring the dead back to life? Her mind can’t remember, it’s as if she knew and it faded away. She remembers she and him had an argument, was mysteriously transported to a hot desolate desert and Voice telling her that she’s in Oogundaa. He apologized that the ride sent her somewhere off her target, but he told her to continue heading northeast and look for what she needs there. After two hours, she managed to push past the hot sands and sun in order to get to this hard, crunchy grass. Her head pounded, sweat poured down her brow, but none of that deterred her. Running up a hill, Starlight stopped with a light gasp, seeing the landscape of Oogundaa for the first time. Small acacia trees gently swayed in the wind, surrounded by brush and a couple of baobab trees, much larger than they. This area must be called the sahel. A couple of plateaus were to the north that pointed to the blue cloudless sky. A long way off is a savanna seemed to outstretch forever as evidenced by its sea of golden grass. “Whoa...” Starlight breathed out, never seeing such a landscape before. She’s supposed to find what she needs out here? This place is vast for only one pony! She began doubting herself, and she closed her eyes... Only to see an image of Moonlight smiling brightly at her. She gasped as she opened her eyes to see herself back in the foreign land. She’s reminded of her goal and knows what she must do. But...is she wrong about all this? She slapped herself. “No no! Of course, I’m not wrong!” she laughed a little madly, “Sunburst is the idiot, not me! For once the smarty pants is wrong, and I the ever formerly stupid, impulsive Starlight is right!” She laughed again, her eyes slightly derping, “Not even Twilight could convince me otherwise!” Twilight. Oh, how would she react if she found out about her actions and her trip out here? She’d be proud! She’d ever be so proud of her former student’s accomplishment! This will be bigger than reforming the changelings and dethroning Chrysalis. Despite her hot head, she decided to push on and look for a freshwater source and some food because she’ll need it for energy. With another determined yell, she bolted again. Starlight spent another hour scouring the sahel and waving around the trees that got bunched closer together as she got towards the middle of the sahel. The trees are nice and wet, meaning it must be the wet season or the very end of it by Starlight’s judgment. She spotted a flock of birds flying overhead, followed by a few vultures circling their prey. Starlight later encountered some warthogs, surprising them and herself and both bolted in different directions. She even saw one warthog and a meerkat hanging out together by a watering hole... watering hole? Without a second thought, Starlight practically dove towards the watering hole and began drinking out of it, accidentally knocking the duo she’d seen aside, but they landed next to a log with grubs so they didn’t mind it. After feeling her canteen, Starlight began her journey once again. She felt cooler but the sun still felt as if a spotlight was right above her. After traveling for another half hour, Starlight eventually broke through the sahel and acacia trees to be greeted by the savanna. She’s surrounded by a spoon of sahel, and in front of her the way opens up to the savanna. “Oooh yeah,” Starlight smiled widely, “Now I can see for miles!” She cleared her throat, “Provided if I can find a high vantage point.” “Starlight?” a familiar voice said behind her. “Huh?” Starlight asked, surprised, she whirled around to see Sunburst! She gasped loudly before she closed her eyes for a couple of seconds, only to open them and see him gone from her sight. Looking around fast, she didn’t see Sunburst anymore. Just herself and the wilderness surrounding her. She swore she didn’t hear him teleport away. Rubbing her temples, Starlight muttered to herself, “Get a grip, Starlight. You can do this.” She turned around back to the northeast and began to run again. As she ran, she began to feel freer, no worrying about him or the others until she gets her job done Starlight spotted some of the animals that live here, from the lesser Kudu to wildebeest, the striped zebras. Zebras? Huh, she’s only seen one back in Ponyville, what an experience to see more than just one. However, she saw something that made her screech to a halt. Up in a tree, was a leopard. His beady brown eyes had his eyes locked onto a herd of gazelles. He turned and looked over at Starlight. Uh oh. The leopard growled and climbed down the tree. Starlight gasped as it began charging at her at high speed. She didn’t waste a second of blasting it with her magic, sending it flying back into the tree and landing with a thud. The animals in the area took notice of this and were amazed by Starlight’s power. The herbivores took off running scared, but another leopard showed up from the grass. He lunged at Starlight but the unicorn teleported away onto a nearby hill, surprising the leopard. When Starlight reappeared, she spotted the leopards regrouping and stomping towards each other in defeat. “Magic can’t always solve problems,” said a new voice. Starlight gasped to see Twilight standing next to her. “Remember how you tried to use all five of us through hypnosis?” a raspy voice said from behind her, Starlight turned to see Rainbow Dash glaring at her, “You’re impulsive, Starlight.” “No! I’m not! This is for the good of Equestria, they attacked me by the way!” “As somepony who has used magic more than enough in her life, I’d have to disagree,” ‘Twilight’ added. “I’ve learned! I really have! I just need to do this!” “Do you?” Sunburst voice came from behind her. “Enough!” Starlight screamed, sending out a pulse of magic out from her horn, getting rid of the illusions. Panting and sweating, Starlight’s wide, pupil dilated eyes made sure she was alone. What was that all about? Were they really here? No, they couldn’t have been, how could they get so far in such a short time? Unless... “No, no, that’s silly! How could they have like me! I had Voice to help me, I’m sure he knows what he’s doing!” “Don’t get distracted by those who want to doubt you, Starlight,” Voice said, “They’re just obstacles standing in your way. Keep heading northeast, you’ll find a food source for yourself.” “Yeah, but what ingredient am I looking for?” Starlight asked aloud, “I seemed to have known but now I can’t remember. “You’ll remember soon. If not, I’ll tell you after you get what you need for this wilderness. The leopards were just the beginning.” “Okay...and...” Starlight stopped herself, eyes widening, “Wait, how do you know about that?” “I have my ways.” “Are you...watching me?” Starlight asked, looking around. “Am I? Or are you just assuming that I am?” “I need to know, why don't you show yourself?” “For the same reason I mentioned when we first met. I’m helping those in dire needs of healing and proper adjustments to pain in their lives.” Starlight remembered that, and he has gotten her this far. “I suggest you move now. The wilderness is a hostile place here.” With that, Voice left her. “Wait!” Starlight cried. No response. With a groan, Starlight began going forward. However, with the appearances of her friends, the doubters, she begins to wonder if somehow, they’d found her and now are trying to get her to stop? No, that’s silly. But...is there someone really watching her? Having the feeling of knowing you’re being watched is an uneasy feeling, but to have the possibility of that seems a little more unnerving to Starlight. Was it her friends watching her? Or someone else entirely if at all? These questions make her feel more uneasy as the sun continues beating down on her, causing her to drink some more of her water. After sucking some in like a vacuum, she lurched up, her nose pointing right at the sky. She let out a crazed laugh, her pupils dilating. “They’ll see! They’ll all see!” she cackled, “Even the figure that may or may not be watching me!” Her demeanor became serious, “Where are you figure?!” She stood up, looking around with a crazed look, “I know you’re out there!” She let out a bark, almost like a dog. “I am Starlight Glimmer!” she screamed to the heavens, pushing aside her doubts, guilt, and distractions, “I created a new spell! I traveled through time! I defeated Queen Chrysalis! I sure as hay can handle finding a stupid, darn ingredient!” She cackled again, “Just you wait, Voice! I totally got this!” She began running through the water hole, greatly disturbing the pure water that creatures came to drink occasionally. The unicorn didn’t give a crap as she ran while laughing excitedly and crazily to herself. Mystic saw the sun was getting close to setting and our ponies have managed to push past the howling winds and thick snow. Rarity’s hood got blown a couple times, ruining her mane and staining it with snow. Applejack had to force her to keep moving while Fluttershy attempted to speak with Mystic about her views about friendship and Oogundaa, but the young mare was very insistent and didn’t regard her reasonings. Now other side of the mountain surrounded by aspens, our ponies took a short break by sitting on the softer dirt. The sun is barely above the horizon, its rays piercing in the ever-growing thick woods that seemed less intimidating than its cousin on the other side of the mountains. “Oh, thank Celestia we made it past that mountain,” said Rarity, checking her mane in a small puddle, “I don’t know if my mane could handle being in my hood or the wind for much longer!” Applejack rolled her eyes as she removed the rope from around her hat. The atmosphere isn’t as cold as it was earlier but it still gave them a slight chill. Speaking of chill, slightly shivered but she remained strong. “We’ll move for about another hour and then we’ll make camp,” said Mystic, “Remember, no lighting fires, but this forest won’t be as cold as the other one.” “Thank goodness,” said Fluttershy. “However, these woods have a large wolf pack that roams them as they look for their prey.” “Did you ever encounter any of them?” Sunset asked. “I’ve not been seen by them, but I have seen them hunting before. If we stick to the path I’ve gone through, we should be fine.” “Okay.” Continuing for another hour, our ponies could feel the temperature changing as they made their way through the forest. Becoming around fifty degrees, the snow dispersing into patches and removing their warmer clothing gave them a sense of familiarity of being back in the forests around Ponyville. Soon, the ponies came upon a bit of an open space in the woods. “We’ll camp in this area,” said Mystic, “Be sure to stay among the trees so we won’t be spotted easily.” “Are you sure we’re safe among the trees?” Rarity asked, looking around with trepidation. “Trees, bushes, and brush can hide predators but they can hide us as well.” “Will we know if there’s a predator nearby?” “You’ll know when they leap at you and bite into your neck,” Mystic gave her a serious look. Rarity gulped. “Okay, let’s not get our manes in a mess,” said Applejack, “We’ll set up some shelter here.” “Let’s,” said Mystic, looking at Rainbow, silently reminding her of what not to do, causing the pegasus to look away in annoyance. As everypony began setting up camp, Twilight began to deter which way is north. Mystic kept her eye on the trees as Sunset joined her side. “You sure know what you’re doing, huh?” she asked with a small smile. “Yeah,” said Mystic, not looking at her. “I just think we do need to catch up when the time is appropriate,” said Sunset. “We’re on a mission now, I don’t think there is such time.” “I think differently. Friends always find a good little moment together.” “And take their eyes off impending danger that could rear its ugly face at a moment’s notice.” Sunset sighed, frowning a bit, “I just want to bond more with you, Mystic.” She placed a hoof on the mare’s shoulder, causing her to flinch. Sunset retracted her hoof, “So we can be there more for each other as we always are.” “Sure, sure.” “I think we could use another little talk like we did back on our train ride.” Mystic’s ears perked up. “Honestly, I think they should be aware of...” Mystic held up her hoof, looking at Sunset with a softer look, “Don’t. Please.” Sunset paused, her mind drifting to some parts of their chat. She felt sad but wanting to help and assure Mystic, the mare just softened her look more towards Sunset and gently placed a hoof on her shoulder. “You’re a good mare, Sunset,” she said, “Just try to focus on the task at hoof.” Mystic turned and stepped away to scan their surroundings. “Have you had anymore headaches?” Sunset whispered. Mystic perked up and held her hoof up to her lips. “I have not,” Mystic whispered, fear crept into her heart. Meanwhile, Fluttershy had begun stepping away from the group to use the restroom. Twilight told her to stay close. This being a forest with dangerous predators, Fluttershy knew to conceal her scent so nocreature would come looking for her. She respected Mystic’s wishes. But Fluttershy’s mind drifted to when Mystic told them something they’d never heard before. “Friendship, however valuable to all of you, isn’t enough for the world.” Friendship has been the foundation of the six group of friends ever since they met. They saw Luna freed from Nightmare Moon, Discord reformed, and they’ve faced many other tasks throughout the years seeing friendship change the world. They even have species like dragons for friends now. Forming a determined look, Fluttershy grew determined to prove that friendship is enough for the world and that kindness can go a long way! She’s got talent with all sorts of creatures, maybe if she made a friend in this forest, maybe that’ll show Mystic that friendship is enough for the world. But how can she find a creature here? She doesn’t want to wander far from her friends. She came upon a stream, and... footsteps came from the woods, breaking sticks and branches. Fluttershy perked up and whirled to look to see some bushes rustling on the other side of the bank. Her eyes squinted in the ever-growing dimmer light to see... A grizzly bear. He was larger and bulkier than Harry back in Ponyville, easily more than twice his size. His dark brown eyes looked around for some food to eat as he came upon the stream. He crouched and began to wait. Fluttershy watched with interest, making sure that she doesn’t disturb him. Suddenly, something to her left caught her eye. The bear lifted his paw up and swiped at a few salmon, sending them flying out of the water. His eyes lit up when they did so, but he gasped/growled in horror when they caught in a branch a few feet away. Seeing them flapping on top of the branch, he began running, only to come to a screeching halt when he saw a winged equine fly up to the branch, scoop up the fish, and place them on the bank not too far away. Fluttershy, holding a basket in her mouth, turned to face the astonished bear. She placed the basket down and smiled sweetly at him. He tilted his head in confusion. “Hello, Mister Bear,” she greeted, “I’m Fluttershy and I’ve been traveling quite a long way.” The bear let out a confused noise. “Why, yes, I can communicate with animals,” Fluttershy beamed, “Not just you, but all animals. It’s my special talent.” She turned to show her cutie mark of three pink butterflies. The bear looked confused again. “It’s a cutie mark, it lets the pony know what their special talent in life is,” Fluttershy explained. She stepped aside and showed him the food she’d gathered. “I saw the fish you caught about to fall back into the stream, so I caught them for you, and I picked you some blackberries,” she said. The bear looked at her with furrowed brows, then back at the food. “It’d mean so much if I got to know a creature here in this forest,” Fluttershy went on, “Especially if you got to visit my animal sanctuary.” A growl. “Huh?” Fluttershy asked, the bear forming a hard look, “No, I wasn’t trying to claim all of this as my own.” Another growl. “Goodness, no! I don’t mean to steal and get my scent all over it to claim it as my own!” The camp was almost set up, as Applejack checks everything again, Rainbow is looking around with a concerned look. “At least this forest is warmer than the other one,” said Sunset, “Though, it is pretty cool out here.” “No kidding,” Twilight agreed. From behind a tree, Mystic stepped out and sat close by. “Perimeter’s clear,” she said, “We should be safe here.” “Didn’t I hear a stream somewhere nearby?” Twilight asked. “Yep. But we’re up a rocky hill and bears don’t mind us as long as we stay out of their territory and keep quiet.” “Like a big ‘Do not disturb’ sign,” Sunset smirked. “Not the time now, Sunset,” Twilight facehoofed. “Hold up,” said Rainbow, flying over, “Where’s Fluttershy?” At this, Mystic perked up. “Oh, she went to use the restroom,” said Twilight, “Shouldn’t be more than twenty feet from us.” “But I don’t see here anywhere near here,” said Rainbow, “Are you sure she didn’t go more than twenty feet?” Twilight looked around, growing concerned. Before she could answer, Mystic locked eyes with her, “Tell me which way she went.” Fluttershy backed up a couple of steps as the colossal bear’s eyes hardened and his lips curled up into a snarl. “No, no! I insist! I was just wanting to do an act of kindness!” she insisted, “You lost your meal and I wanted to give it back!” The bear growled louder, at this Fluttershy began to feel the need to be assertive. “Look, look, I’ll give you a nice massage and brush your wonderful teeth,” said Fluttershy. The bear growled loudly and stood on both legs, towering over the little pony. “Uh oh...” Fluttershy whimpered. The bear let out a loud roar before slamming his forepaws back onto the ground, sending Fluttershy stumbling backward. Now at her limit, Fluttershy formed a hard glare and knew what to do. The stare! She flew right up to the bear and began using it, it slightly retreated. “You might be a big strong bear but that’s no excuse to be a bully to those who are trying to extend a kind hoof! Everycreature needs them and...” The bear roared, letting out waves of hot air onto Fluttershy, sending her flying backward into a tree. She plummeted to the ground. Slightly dazed, Fluttershy gasped when she saw the bear having a look to kill, discarding its meal. Why has this happened? She was Fluttershy. She had a wonderful talent with animals, and to top it off, her stare didn’t have an effect as it did back to the bears in Equestria. The bear raised his paw to swipe at her, but an orange hoof grabbed Fluttershy and pulled her to safety. Her horrified eyes met Mystic’s. “What are you doing?!” Mystic cried. Fluttershy tried to answer, but another roar rang out. Both ponies looked to see the bear now on all fours. “Fluttershy,” Mystic said in a dire tone, “Run!” No questions needed to be asked, Fluttershy and Mystic began running through the forest. Mystic would fight the bear but she had to get Fluttershy to safety and she doesn’t want to risk the bear getting back to camp. Mystic looked back to see the bear barreling through the forest, breaking small trees and branches under its massive muscles and weight. The attention of the bear charging through the forest got the attention of the others, with a quick glance at each other all took off in the direction to help their friends. Fluttershy is in shock over what happened, sure animals such as flash bees and Discord didn’t react to her stare, but a bear? She knew things would be dangerous, but not to the point where her stare wouldn’t have an effect! Mystic led Fluttershy through the forest and jumped across a small gorge, to which the bear jumped across without problem! “What were you thinking, Fluttershy?!” Mystic cried as she jumped over a tree trunk. “I wanted to show kindness! I wanted to let some animal that there isn’t all harshness in the forest they’re living in!” replied Fluttershy, still in shock. “Didn’t I warn you about the environment we’re in?!” “You did! And that’s why I wanted to talk to the bear!” “What?!” that surprised Mystic, her eyes widened. “Yes!” Fluttershy slightly glared, “Friendship and kindness can do all sorts of amazing things!” “Except when it comes to a two-thousand-pound bear that wants to rip our throats out!” The terrain became rocky, and the two ponies came to a small cliff which led down to a circular opening with a cavernous ceiling with stalactites poking down. A shadow loomed over them. Whirling around, the bear was standing on tall on his hindlegs and ready to strike. Mystic and Fluttershy jumped and landed on the rocky floor, both lost their footing and falling onto their stomachs. Both looked up to see the bear running along a path down to the circular opening. Mystic quickly stood back up. She looked at the cowering Fluttershy, casting a slightly sympathetic look before levitating her into a dark corner, facing the bear down. “Pick on somecreature that has more a fighting chance, coward!” Mystic shouted. That provoked the bear. He stood up proudly on his hindlegs again as Mystic bolted to the left. The bear got back on all fours and charged at Mystic! She rolled to the side, dodging the bear and firing a beam of magic at the bear’s face. It roared and the blast of magic didn’t have an effect! “That’s peculiar,” Mystic marveled, taken aback before she pulled out her machete. She swung it right at the bear’s neck, injuring it, but its fur kept it from going in too deep. Bolting to the other side of the clearing, she began thinking of other options. Suddenly, a rainbow streak came by and struck the bear. “Keep your claws off my friend!” Rainbow cried. Applejack bucked a couple of medium boulders and struck the bear in the face, as Twilight came down and fired some bolts of magic, only for them to not have an effect! “What?!” Twilight cried, “That should’ve stunned it!” “I found that out just now!” Mystic shouted. Suddenly Pinkie appeared out of nowhere with her party cannon, “Surprise!” She blasted the bear, covering its face in confetti. Mystic gazed up at the stalactites. “Maybe...” she muttered. Rainbow struck the bear a couple of more times, only to get swiped out of the air and crash into a tree. The bear lunged for her, only for Applejack to land a powerful kick to its side, and Twilight briefly held it in place with her magic. She struggled with it being so big, but it did buy Rainbow enough time to recover and strike the bear with a solid kick to the muzzle, knocking out of some its teeth. It roared in pain and anger. Mystic saw that they were under a stalactite. “Princess, shoot the stalactite!” she cried. “Everypony move!” Twilight cried. Applejack and Rainbow bolted as Twilight held the bear in place and Mystic struck the bear with a machete to the face. Roaring in pain and anger, the bear struck wildly. Twilight moved and shot a beam of magic at the stalactite, causing it to break into multiple pieces and come crashing down on top of the bear. Fluttershy gasped in horror as Rarity joined her side to make sure she stays safe. Everypony looked at the pile of rubble and no movement came from it. “Is it dead?” Applejack asked, hating if they truly did kill the bear. However, the rubble moved. Then the bear, battered popped out with an angry ROAR and tried striking anypony with its claws. His eyes spotted Twilight and he lunged for her, only for her to teleport out of the way. She reappeared next to Rainbow, “Rainbow! Get to a stalactite and break it just as the bear is coming underneath it!” “Right away!” “We’ll lead it to you!” Twilight and Mystic focused on the bear. As they’re fighting, Fluttershy couldn’t believe how she’s cowering here instead of trying to help her friends. All she wanted was to help and be kind, only for it to turn into a fight against the very being that she wanted to help. Is it really this dangerous in the forest? If that’s the case, what about Oogundaa? Mystic and Twilight managed to get the bear underneath the stalactite. Rainbow kicked it a few more times before it began falling from the ceiling. Twilight and Mystic bolted away as the bear looked up and the stalactite crashed on top of him sending a pile of dust. The forest resumed its regular silence as soon as the dust settled. The stalactite is nothing but a pile of rubble where it’d crashed. Twilight, Mystic, and Rainbow examined it carefully, hoping the bear’s subdued. The rubble slightly moved. “Are you kidding?!” Rainbow cried. Only this time, the bear pushed the rubble off to reveal his face, he’s battered, exhausted and defeated. He still had an angry, hostile look in his eyes. Mystic pulled out her machete to finish him. “Mystic, don’t,” Twilight warned. “What?” Mystic asked with a glare. “He’s defeated. We don’t need to do that.” Mystic scoffed, “What if he finds our spot? What then?” “I’ll put a shield over our campsite. If he does show, which I doubt, we’ll be ready and the shield will hold against him.” Mystic looked back at the defeated bear and back at Twilight. “Fine,” she said, putting her machete away. Catching wind of the others rushing to Fluttershy, she asked, “Is she okay?” Twilight looked over, seeing her friend being comforted by the others, “She will be. She’s got a talent for animals.” “I’m aware.” “And if animals won’t talk to her or turn hostile, it can be a bad experience for her,” Twilight explained, recalling how Fluttershy told her about the time at the Gala. Mystic nodded, “Make sure she’s okay to get back to camp. We need to be away from the bear.” “Okay. By the way, Sunset stayed behind to ensure our campsite wouldn’t be found.” “Very good.”