//------------------------------// // Chapter 13: Magical Talent of Equestria // Story: Rise of the Element Gang, Book 2: Friendship Adventures // by Power of Six //------------------------------// Chapter 13: Magical Talent of Equestria “Is here just fine, Rarity?” I asked as I stood on the other side of the Boutique. “Yes, Dusk, that’s fine. Now just stand absolutely still.” she instructed, lowering her head and making her horn glow. I stood my ground as the black cloth piled up nearby began to whirl around me, obscuring my vision like somepony had just turned off a light switch. After a few seconds, I shut my eyes to shield them from a bright light. When it subsided, I opened my eyes to see Rarity smiling. I looked down to see myself dressed in a tuxedo, complete with a bow tie, a frilled undershirt, and a top hat. If you’re wondering what exactly is going on, I’m helping Rarity practice. For what exactly? For the annual Magical Talent of Equestria contest. She asked me over to the Boutique and I ended up acting as Rarity’s “willing volunteer” for her performance at the contest, which would be taking place in Canterlot the following evening. Both she and Twilight had been practicing hard over the past few days, using their unique attributes in magic to put on a show for the grand prize that would be awarded to the winner. To other ponies, it was just a trophy. But, in Canterlot, it was the pride that you had won using your unique magic that counted. Rarity had been using the girls, the guys, and herself as practice for her performance, which was using her magic to create clothing from just the fabrics that she bought. Much like with Leon, Dog, and Shield, she had also been using me to create male clothing, having already gone through quite a few practice runs with me. “Marvelous spell work, as always, Rarity.” I noted as I removed the tux and exchanged the top hat for my usual trilby. “I think you’re ready.” “Yes…yes, as ready as I’ll ever be.” she said with a slight tremor in her voice. “What’s wrong?” I asked, sensing her distress. “Well…this will be my first time in a long time since my last visit to Canterlot.” she said. “I want to make this display completely spectacular to show the high-class ponies what I’m made of.” “And it is. Your clothing is remarkable. You’ll be sure to impress the elite of Canterlot with your performance.” “But, Dusk, what if I don’t?” She was starting to look distressed. “What if—what if they don’t appreciate my style that they think of it as uncouth? Unsophisticated?” “Rarity, do you remember what I said to you that day we first had tea?” She nodded. “I said that you would fit right in at Canterlot, that you have the sophistication and grace to it make seem as if you’d lived there your whole life. And I meant it.” “You…you really did, didn’t you?” “I did and still do.” I corrected. “You’re going to be just fine. We’ll all be there for you, right there in the audience just like with Rainbow Dash. Just have faith in yourself, I know I do.” I had good reason to tell her this. I’d witnessed performers at the competition many times. Some of their magic was flashy and eye-catching, some were more reserved but just as special. Rarity’s fell into the latter category, but would still earn her recognition. Like the Young Flyer’s Competition in Cloudsdale, Magical Talent of Equestria was as much a display of skill in magic for unicorns as flying was for a Pegasus. If one would do well enough, they could receive the top three prizes: the Bronze Ring of Merit, the Silver Wand of Excellence, and the Golden Staff of Victory. To receive at least one of these was a sign of recognition that the Princess acknowledged how special your magic was, which truly was a show of pride. This year, along with Gold Star and Princess Celestia, Princess Luna would attend it as one of the three judges. This would be the first time that both princesses would be judging the contest and along the Mystic King, so that made it even more special. I was rather looking forward to seeing what the younger princess would judge the acts. I was especially rather eager to see how old Gold would do as a judge for the contest. Considering my history with him, I’m hoping that the son of Celestia would try his best to keep his image as the Mystic King. Looking back to Rarity, she seemed to have regained the confidence that I knew she had and drew a more determined look on her features. “Yes…yes, you’re right.” She drew herself up. “I’ve put on enough fashion shows to know how to cope with nerves. I shouldn’t let them get the better of me. I’ll show them I can be just as classy as they can be, just as graceful.” “That’s the spirit!” I said happily. “You’re going to be great.” “Thank you, Dusk. It’s good to know I can rely upon you for support.” she noted with a smile. “I shall also be looking forward to seeing your display in the competition. I’m sure it will be spectacular.” “Heh… No, it won’t.” I didn’t say anything further, not wishing to go into more detail about why. Rarity, however, continued to press on. “But why ever not? Your displays are always spectacular and I cannot wait to see what you’ve prepared for this show. I can see it as being large, breathtaking…beautiful. Would I be right in guessing?” “I, uh…I haven’t been practicing…anything.” I mumbled pathetically. “What? Then you’d better get started. We’re departing for Canterlot tomorrow morning!” she said in a worried tone. “I know… It’s just that… that…” I couldn’t quite get the words out as I didn’t want to admit it to her. But she continued to gaze intently at me. “Dusk, I can understand that you’re nervous about getting up on stage. But, once you get going, it’ll be fine.” “Um… Rarity… I’m not going to be performing.” I admitted quietly. “What?” She seemed quite surprised by this news. “But…but how can you not? Your puppets are a joy to watch, sparkling and sailing through the air as they do. It’s like an undiscovered form of art. You simply must perform!” “No, Rarity.” I sighed sadly. “For one thing, I-I’ve never performed on stage before. All of those faces staring at me… I just don’t think I’d be able to cope with that. I’m not that kind of pony.” “But you performed with Rainbow at the Flyer’s Competition, using your talent in front of all of those ponies.” she reminded me predictably. “You’ve also done it before in your time with Dawn Racer, all the way to performing at the Equestria Games.” “Those times were different. I was just brightening Rainbow’s performance, remaining offstage the whole time.” I told her. “I did the same with Racer’s performances. As part of the arrangement with Racer, I was an anonymous helper, so nopony knew it was me helping him.” “Well, that seems a bit unfair. Why would he make such a condition for your partnership?” “Because he didn’t. I did.” I told her. “Much like with him, I made that arrangement with Rainbow Dash. That’s the reason why nopony commented on my magic at the Flyer’s Competition. When it was over, I never claimed credit for my part. Like it was Racer’s moment in his performances, the competition was Rainbow’s moment of glory, not mine.” “But why didn’t you? I could tell everypony loved the effect that you created.” “That brings me to my second point.” I continued. “It’s sort of my old worries coming back. You girls and the guys think my magic is great, but I’m still not sure what anypony else might think about it. I kind of…don’t really want to find out. You know… in case they hate it.” “Dusk, don't be silly. They won’t hate it.” she assured me. “We all love it and I’m sure that they will too.” “But I don’t know that. You don’t know that. Not for sure, at least. I’m sorry, but I just can’t face up to that. Not yet anyway.” “But, Dusk…” “Rarity, please just…drop it.” I shifted his gaze to the floor. Though I felt confident in my decision, I still felt rather ashamed of myself for telling her this, for making her so disappointed. When I looked up, she was still gazing at me in a sympathetic sort of way. “Very well, Dusk. I understand your reasons for not wanting to take part and I shall not question it further.” she promised. “If you don’t want to do something you’re not comfortable with, then there’s no point in me trying to pressure you.” “Thanks, Rarity.” I sincerely said with a grateful smile. I cast my gaze to the horizon. “Well, it’s getting late. We’ve got a big day tomorrow and you need your beauty sleep.” “Indeed.” she nodded giggling. “Sleep well, Dusk. I shall see you in the morning.” “Night, Rarity.” I made moves to leave back for my home as the stars began to twinkle in the sky. “And, Dusk?” I looked back as she called from the threshold of the door. “I do think it’s a shame that you’re not taking the opportunity to share your wonderful magic with everypony.” “Rarity…” “I know, I know. You’ve said your reasons.” she said quickly. “But…I would have really liked to have seen what you might have come up with.” She gave me a sad smile. “I hope you enjoy spectating.” Without another word, she stepped inside her home. I stood there for a few minutes, thinking on what she had just said. Should I reconsider my reasons for not taking part and maybe… perhaps actually enter it myself? I had a few ideas that might put on a good show, so perhaps… No! I decided, shaking my head. I had my reasons and I was sticking to them. Even though it may indeed be a missed opportunity, it was one that I would be happy to miss and nothing was going to change that. Absolutely nothing. Standing firm on that note, I set off back home, ready to wake up early tomorrow and to go back home…in a manner of speaking. The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as me and the group boarded the train to depart for the royal city of Canterlot. Even though everypony was rather drowsy from being awoken so early, there was still a buzz of excitement in the air that this would be the first time most of us would have seen the city up close and not just from Ponyville. As I sat with them in our carriage, I too found myself to be rather excited. This would be the first time I would be back home since the guys and I departed to Ponyville all of those months ago. It was the same old city, but I was returning as something—no, somepony—very different. Much like how the guys help me change from being brooding, lonely, and silent, the girls also brought more of a change to me. Having ponies I could call my friends was something that brought more to my life. Now the inner circle of friends I had before has grown to give even more to my life, my trebly being the sign of that very change. Sure, I might still not be very interesting, but at least I had friends who thought that I was. That was definitely an improvement. In my glances around the room, I found myself glimpsing towards Twilight at times as she was in animated discussion with Rarity. Sometimes, she caught my glances and I looked away hurriedly. Good thing my tail was camouflaged so she didn’t see it wagging. After recovering from that, I found myself wondering what she would think now that we were both going back to the city we had grown up in, both of us different from what we used to be. Before the Element Squad, we had both been known at the school as the friendless ponies. Sure I had friends in Gold Star, but some ponies thought that it was just the prince taking pity on me. Wouldn’t blame them for seeing how I was back then. The looks on their faces if they could see us now… Bet they would be the same ponies had after Shield, Dog, and Leon came into my life. I smiled to myself again, turning my eyes elsewhere as Twilight turned in my direction again. While the girls were all talking about what we might do while we were in Canterlot, I took to gazing quietly out of the window, watching as we climbed higher and higher into the mountains. Just a few more minutes and I would be back at the place where I had grown up…with my friends…I gave a satisfied sigh, a smile on my features reflected in the glass. “I’m a little glad to be going back home too.” I looked to see that Twilight had come over to join me, smiling brightly. “Even if it’s just for a day, it’ll be nice to be back for a while. May I?” “Of course,” I said, as she sat beside me and I turned my attention to her. “Yes, it will be. It feels like so long since I—since we were last there.” I corrected, “It feels strange, going back now…but in a good way.” “I know what you mean.” she agreed. “We both used to be the secluded ones back at the school. Can you imagine how they might react after all that’s happened since then?” “That’s just what I was thinking about!” I said excitedly. “Once again, our thoughts seem to be one.” “Ooh, spooky.” she said in a mock-scary voice. “I remember, before I left Canterlot, Moon Dancer was having a party in one of the courtyards. I was invited along, but I said that I had studying to do, which was kind of true. I almost wish I’d gone now, see what it would have been like.” “Maybe you can ask her if you see her.” I suggested. “If I know Moon Dancer, she’ll give you a chance.” “You know Moon Dancer?” She was surprised to hear this. “Yeah, we got a friend who’s close to Moon Dancer. We practically know a lot about her. It was thanks to that kind of connection we got invited to one of her little get-togethers.” “Wow. Guess those rumors were true about you being popular.” “Those are the rumors about me?” I said with an amused chuckle. “I mean, I understand my other self being popular, but me? Never really thought of myself as that. Nor did I think you were one into gossip.” “Well, I’m not. I just happened to hear some ponies talk while passing them through the halls.” “I see what you mean. You should’ve heard them talk before Shield and the guys got to Canterlot. Everypony just stayed away from me most of the time.” “Oh, yes. Sorry, I forgot.” “It’s fine.” I quietly said. “I’m sorry I did though.” she insisted. “You were a lot lonelier than me at the School and I should have known better than to remind you of that.” “I told you, it’s fine. I don’t mind. That’s just how I was before I got my trio of friends. Like you said though, you and I are both different now.” Willing to change the subject, I asked her: “So are you all set for your performance in the competition?” “Ready as I’ll ever be.” she said brightly, glad for the change of subject. “It’s gonna be like my entrance exam all over again, only with far more ponies.” “And hopefully a little less stony-faced?” “Good point.” she giggled. “Still, not meaning to brag, but I think I’m going to be fine. I’m going to at least put on a good show, do my best.” Her look turned sympathetic. “You’re still set on not taking part, aren’t you?” “No, I’m not.” I affirmed. “Though at least I’m not going to be the only unicorn in our group that won’t be competing.” “Yes. Dog and Leon did say they wouldn’t perform, despite they’re unicorns themselves.” “Well, Rarity did try to talk them into it, but Dog is still against it. It’s understandable, seeing how Dog places mostly physical efforts more than magical efforts. He would be out of practice with it.” “Well, he does work on the Apple Farm. So what is Leon’s reason for not competing?” “Oh, that’s because he’s banned from competing.” “Wait, banned? How can somepony be banned from such an event as Magical Talent of Equestria?” “It’s was due to his performance there. Can’t really go into detail, but let’s just say it involved a couple of his animals and a spell above his skill level and a group made of his animals in a way that made the contest a complete disaster. Long story short, because of that, he’s now been banned from competing for the next few moons.” “Oh, wow. So he can’t compete even when he wants to, huh?” “Yeah. Though the previous Mystic King was kind, he’s still brought out harsh punishment for him. Surprisingly, Princess Celestia actually agreed to it and that’s the very kind and fair ruler of Equestria.” “I know, even I find it hard to believe Princess Celestia would allow that. So the reason those two aren’t competing is that Leon isn’t able to and Dog doesn’t feel like he can?” “Exactly.” “Sounds like you and Dog have the same reason, huh?” “Yeah, I guess we do.” It was from that point I realized something by how she said that last question. “Hey, you aren’t going to try and convince me to take part, are you?” “Not at all. I understand your reasons and I don’t blame you one bit for feeling how you do. I’m just glad that you’re coming along to watch at least… It wouldn’t have been the same without you.” “I wouldn’t miss you perform for the world.” The two of us exchanged warm smiles, mine from how well my friend knew me. “Thanks, Twilight.” “No problem.” Her gaze lingered on me for a bit, then her smile grew when she looked out the window. “We’re here! Look!” I turned to where she looked and I felt my own smile widen when my eyes locked once more on my home. It could be seen (as a speck in the distance) down in Ponyville. It was nothing, however, compared to seeing it up close. It was truly majestic, regal enough to fit the princesses and the elite that it housed. The towers climbed high enough to touch the sky, connected by lengthy bridges and walkways, built from the purest white marble, royal colors of purple and sparkling gold, capped with images of the sun and moon. Waterfalls, sparkling in the morning sun, cascaded down the cliffs below, falling to goodness knows where. High up in the peaks of the mountains, it seemed like it could overlook the whole of Equestria from its tallest tower. I had forgotten, or never truly appreciated, how beautiful it was. I glanced at Twilight and she at me. We both had the same look on our faces, one that seemed to say the same thing: it was good to be home. We all stepped out of the train and onto the station, the very one I had come to begin my new life. The girls were all awing, gazing around at the sheer majesty of it all. We said farewell to Rarity and Twilight (who were off to enter themselves in the contest), arranging to meet at the school in half an hour, leaving me alone with Applejack, Dog, Rainbow Dash, Shield, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, and Leon, all of the mares present in our group looking around in wonder. “I feel so small. Everything is so big!” Fluttershy gasped. “Yeah, Canterlot is a pretty big place.” Leon said to her. “Has to be in order to have two princesses.” “Whoa! Would you look at all of this?” Rainbow marveled. “And I thought Cloudsdale was awesome. I mean, it still is, but this…” She gave a low whistle that she was impressed. “Yeah, Canterlot is a pretty cool place.” Shield commented. “That is, if you can stand all the snobs that walk around.” “Hey, Dusk,” Dog called, “how ʹbout us and the guys givin’ the visitors a tour of the place?” “Great idea, Dog. We got half an hour, so I guess we can show the girls around.” I said to him before I spoke to said girls. “Girls, we got some time to kill. How about me and the guys show you around Canterlot?” As they nodded, I once again had that feeling of warm acceptance they always inspired in me. “Well, okay. Then let us be the first to say ‘Welcome to Canterlot’! Our tour begins now, if you would kindly follow us.” “Ooh! I hope there’s a gift shop at the end!” Pinkie remarked as she bounced along. “So, where we going first?” Rainbow asked. “I think I know just the place.” Shield winked as he took the lead. “Come on! Hopefully, we get to see some action!” With that, we all followed as Shield led us through the streets. The white stone buildings seemed to glow in the morning sun, making the city look even more spectacular. The girls got a few odd looks from some of the Canterlot elite, staring down their high-held noses at them, but they didn’t seem to mind nor did I. Neither did Dog or Leon (for the most part). Though it was needless to say that Shield did mind and even glared back at all the peering eyes. This was something me and the guys preferred about Ponyville: here in Canterlot, everpony was too reserved and snobbish. Much like Shield, I was reminded of that, along with being rather annoyed too, as I saw them with their heads held high. “Here we are!” Shield announced as we arrive at our destination, which we could see from the path we stood upon, just as Rainbow gasped. “The Wonderbolts Racing Derby!” It was an oval-shaped ring of clouds set with red clouds flapping in the breeze, with stands containing ponies watching it. Inside the course, a group of very familiar Pegasi in blue uniforms were tensed and ready to fly. “Of course, Shield would make this place our first stop.” Leon smugly said, making the Earth pony stallion look back at him. “Well, duh! It’s one of the best things I love about this place!” Shield said to us. “Plus, it’s least I could do for Dash after she gave me the chance to hang out with the Wonderbolts.” “And it seems we made pretty good time.” I said as we all looked down to see that a race was about to start. “Looks like a race is about to start.” “Awesome!” Rainbow’s eyes locked on her heroes, studying them. “Hmm…” “So, Dash? Which one do you think is gonna win?” Shield asked her. “I’m gonna say that Fire Streak has this one.” She answered. “Really? I thought you’d bet on Fleetfoot.” Leon inquired. “I would, but she’s not having the best year at the minute, so she won’t be on form.” Rainbow said wisely. “Fire Streak’s the second fastest in the team, so he’s bound to win this.” “Good point. Seeing this lineup, he’ll leave everypony in the dust.” Shield added. “What about you, AJ?” Dog asked his fellow cowpony. “Who do ya think’s gonna win?” “Shoot… I’m gonna say Spitfire’s gonna win this.” Applejack decided. “Spitfire?” Rainbow scoffed. “Come on!” “Yeah, Applejack, be real.” Shield said. “We know she’s the captain, but speed isn’t really her thing.” “I know ya know your stuff about ʹem, but maybe this’ll be her lucky day.” “AJ’s right.” Dog said, backing up Applejack. “Ya never know. Luck might be on Spitfire today.” “It’s not about luck, Dog.” Shield told him. “It’s about speed and skill, which Fire Streak has more of than Spitfire.” “Well, I’m sticking to it.” Applejack replied stubbornly. “Your loss.” the Pegasus shrugged as the announcer signaled the start of the race. I knew better than to argue with Shield and Rainbow about the Wonderbolts. They knew as much about them as I did about…well, almost anything. I just watched silently as the pegasi soared a few laps around the track, the wind whipping through their manes. Soon, it was the red-streaked mane of the Rainbow’s bet that zoomed across the finish line ahead of the others. After Rainbow was done saying to Applejack “I told you so” and Shield was done gloating about how right he was to Dog, me and the guys showed the girls around other areas of interest, giving them a little bit of history about the place. With most of them, we were required to stay outside as we would need to pay to get in. We showed them the opera house, the art gallery, a few cafes that we frequented, places that were of significance to either ourselves or to the city. Though most of the places were high standing and sophisticated (in other words, as Shield would put it, rather boring), the girls were happy to be guided wherever we took them. It almost like, after they’d given me so much with the magic of friendship, I was finally starting to give something back, showing them the elements of the life I used to lead before I met them. It was like how Shield and the guys had done for me and I changed from that lonely, less-adventurous young stallion they met before. When we arrived at the Palace of the Princesses, this elected the greatest expression of awe from any of the girls, seeing the high towers that housed Celestia, Luna, and their royal court. We couldn’t enter the castle itself, but we were allowed entry to the Canterlot Sculpture Garden, a place that I had frequented quite a lot. The guard that let me and the guys in still recognized me, smiling in approval that the little group of friends I had grew. I gestured to the various carvings that symbolized many important and noble qualities that ponies held in high regard: the Three Fillies of Friendship, the Noble Mare of Victory, the Stallion of Bravery… It was when we arrived at the most unique one of the bunch that we stopped for a bit. It depicted a serpent-like creature that was patch worked with many different body parts from other animals. It looked as if it was in the act of singing an opera piece. “What the hay is this?” Applejack asked, raising an eyebrow at it. “It looks funny!” Pinkie sniggered. “This is what’s called a draconaquis, a type of chimera.” I explained. “It’s a being that’s made up of the body parts of different animals.” “Yeah, that thing’s like a messed-up collage of animals.” Leon said before he looked to Fluttershy with a gentle smile. “Flutters, do you think you can tell which animals each piece of it came from?” From there, I knew what he was doing. By allowing Fluttershy to guess which animals made up the draconaquis, he could be able to slip a compliment. Maybe I should’ve intervened and just told the animal parts myself, but I let it slide as I didn’t see any harm in this. Plus, I thought it would be good for her confidence to get her involved more. “I…I think so.” Fluttershy said before she bent forward to examine it, flying up to the face. “It’s a pony’s head, but—oh, my… the antler of a deer, the horn of a goat, a wing of a bat and Pegasus, a lion’s paw, a lizard’s leg… none of these parts fit. This doesn’t make any sense.” “That just about sums him up.” I agreed. “And those are the exact parts of it.” “Great job, Flutters.” Leon told her, causing the Pegasus to blush as she flew down back to us.” “So what exactly is this thing?” Rainbow asked. “Did the sculptor just go nuts and throw a bunch of body bits together to see what would happen?” “Yeah, but this guy would be the reason for it.” Shield told her. “This guy?” It didn’t take Rainbow long to figure it out. “Wait, you mean this was actually somepony?” “Indeed, Rainbow.” I said, standing next to it. “Girls, you remember the Paraserpent?” Fluttershy gave a squeal of fear as she hid behind Leon. “Don't worry. He’s not here.” After giving that piece of reassurance, I returned to my explanation. “Anyway, remember how I told you they had a master?” “Sorta. Wait a minute…” Rainbow said as she realized it. “Are you saying that this is their boss?” “Yes.” I turned to gaze up at the statue’s face. “Ladies, allow me to introduce you all to Discord, the Spirit of Disharmony and Chaos as well as the former ruler of Equestria.” “That’s the boss?” Applejack looked it up and down. “Well, he sure is an odd-lookin’ fella, that’s for sure.” “That’s kind of the point, Applejack.” Shield told her. “Shield’s right.” I said as I went on. “This is how he’s meant to be. He’s literally the personification of chaos. When Equestria was under his control, it was complete and utter misery and disharmony. Ponies walking on ceilings, flying pigs, patchwork grass, clouds raining chocolate. It was…” “Wait, wait, wait, wait!” Pinkie raised her hoof to stop me. “Did you say ‘clouds raining chocolate’?” I nodded. “As in ‘chocolate-chocolate’?” Another nod. “As in yummy-scrummy, melt-in-your-mouth, great-with-a-glass-of-milk chocolate?” “Yes… what’s your point?” “My point is why did they stop him? That sounds great!” “Heh. Well, your ancestor didn’t really think of it as great.” I told her. “And, believe me, it wasn’t.” “Yeah, from what Dusk told us, Discord’s reign wasn’t the best thing to happen to Equestria.” Leon added, recalling what I told him. “With all the things that were messed up, there were also ponies who were cruel to each other.” “Yeah. Discord practically treated everypony as his personal play things,” I then continued. “Earth ponies, unicorns, and pegasi alike. There were even ponies that were placed into a state of insanity, altered by his powers. Nopony was friends and they didn’t trust each other.” “Oh.” Pinkie frowned at that. “In that case, not so great then.” “No kidding.” Shield said, knowing how bad Discord was from what I told him. “Discord was the worst. Nopony was safe from him. Even the old Element Gangs weren’t able to stop him.” “One thing I don’t get.” Rainbow bought up. “If he’s such a bad guy, why make a statue of him? Was it because he’s the old ruler or something?” “They didn’t.” The girls all looked at me, bewildered. “Well, technically they did, but not in that sense.” “What Dusk is trying to say is that this isn’t a statue.” Shield said as he walked over and stood at the other side of the statue, giving an amused smile. “It’s actually Discord, set in stone! Literally!” As he laughed, the girls were all shocked by this. “What?!” the four of them said in unison. “Yeah, credit goes to the princesses for that.” I told them. “After Discord was overthrown, Princess Luna and Princess Celestia used the Elements of Harmony against him. The magic they used was so powerful that Discord was turned to stone.” “Ohhhhh!” Pinkie nodded as she and the girls processed it all. “So this is the genuine bonified certified stonified ruler of chaos?” “Exactly.” I affirmed. “This is the Lord of Chaos, in the flesh… So to speak.” “More like in the limestone.” Leon joked with a chuckled. “So they had this Discord guy here, standing around like a statue?” Rainbow questioned. “Yep.” Dog told her. “Ever since he got turned to stone, he’s been nothing but a garden ornament.” “Ain’t that a little risky?” Applejack asked, gazing at it warily. “I mean, what if he busts outta there?” “Oh, my! That would be awful.” Fluttershy squealed. “Don’t worry, girls.” I assured them, knowing that Discord escaping wasn’t going to be an issue. “The magic that was used to imprison him came from the Elements of Harmony, the strongest mystical power in Equestria and the very same Elements you girls used to defeat Nightmare Moon.” “Dusk’s right.” Dog said, supporting me. “As everypony knows, practically nothing can beat the Elements of Harmony.” “But they also trapped Nightmare Moon and she managed to break lose.” “Well, unlike with Nightmare Moon, Celestia didn’t do it alone.” Leon added. “Since it took all six of you to beat that rogue princess, I bet that Luna and Celestia using them together made Discord a permanent addition to the garden.” “Yeah, plus he’s been stuck like this longer than Nightmare Moon was stuck in, well, the moon. If he was gonna break out, he would’ve done it by now.” To make a point, Shield rapped the statue with his hoof. “Trust us, he’s not going anywhere, any day soon.” “That’s good to know, but Applejack’s got a point.” Rainbow said to us. “What would happen if he did break out?” “If he did, Rainbow…” I looked back up at Discord again. “If he did…” Not wanting to dwell on the thought of the draconaquis breaking free, I decided to change the subject. “Well, best not think about it. Anyway, I think Twilight and Rarity are just about done now. Let’s go and meet them at the school.” “Okie-dokie-lokie!” Pinkie agreed, bouncing alongside me as we all left the sculpture garden behind. As we left, I considered further on Rainbow’s question. Discord had been imprisoned with the power of the Elements, but that had been when Celestia and Luna had wielded them. They had now moved on to the girls. Would that mean that the magic would no longer keep him locked away in stone? Could he actually break free of his prison and once again reign chaos around us? Again, I tried not to think about it… still… Anyway, we soon arrived at the gates of the school as it wasn’t too far away from the sculpture gardens. There, we saw our unicorn friends in an animated discussion with each other. They stopped and smiled when they saw us approaching and I was surprised to see Twilight lock eyes on me. I knew that look, that was her studying look. Did I have something on my face? But then Rarity greeted me and I didn’t have time to consider it further. Me and Twilight decided to give them a small tour of the school itself as me and Twilight were former students. Though the guys didn’t need much of a tour as they did travel with me through the halls from the times before we left Canterlot. As we were walking, I noticed that (all the while) Twilight was still giving me that studying look, like she was analyzing every little bit of my actions. Why was she doing that? Had I done something wrong or said something wrong? The answer soon came when the group split up for a bit, leaving me alone with Rarity, who managed to find a suitable excuse to do so. “Twilight, why don’t you take the girls and the boys off elsewhere whilst Dusk shows me around separately?” she suggested. “No!” She seemed to realize how loudly she had said that and recovered herself. “I mean… we don’t have to split off. We can just stay together.” “Perhaps, but it was my gentlecolt cousin here who told me that I would definitely fit in at Canterlot and I would rather like him to give me something of a personal tour.” Rarity said to her before she looked to me. “If it’s alright with you, of course.” “Um… sure, I guess… I don’t see why not.” I said unsurely, wondering what she was up to. “There, you see?” She then began to nudge me off in another direction. “We’ll meet you back in the courtyard of the school in a few minutes. Ta-ta for now!” “Okay then.” Twilight seemed to glare at Rarity for a bit, before smiling at me. “We’ll meet you in a few minutes then.” “Yeah, um… see you later.” I said before Rarity ushered me along quickly, up until we were out of sight of the others. “Okay, Rare. What exactly is going on? Why do you need me a private tour? I already showed you around the school before.” “Oh, I know that, darling. That was just a ruse.” she said in a hushed voice. “A ruse? For what?” I asked before she checked around. “I’ve just been talking with Twilight about a…personal matter.” Rarity told me. “One concerning you.” “Personal matter?” I thought for a moment and realized what she meant. “Rarity, tell me you didn’t.” “Don’t worry. Your secret is safe still.” she said quickly. “I kept that little detail out. I was merely testing her, seeing how she responded to the subject of you romantically.” “Right.” Breathing a sigh of relief, I too found myself checking that we were alone as we approached a balcony overlooking part of the city. “And…?” “It’s difficult to say. It seems you were right about her views of romance. She denies anything but affection for you as a friend, but it is clear that she’s not entirely comfortable on the discussion of the subject at all.” “Oh… right. So she doesn’t… you know…” A stone seemed to drop in the pit of my stomach. She didn’t feel the same way that I did and she most likely never would. Rarity sensed my distress and quickly elaborated. “Now, now, darling. I didn’t say that.” she corrected. “Despite her saying otherwise, there are some signs that she does harbor something stronger.” “How do you mean?” I asked her, almost dreading the answer. “Well, she gains significant color to her cheeks, she stammers a little, loses her composure, and she did agree with me when I mentioned some of your positive qualities.” she elaborated smoothly. “Wow.” I found myself blushing again at the thought of that. “Well, she…also kept staring at me before. But she was giving me that look when she’s trying to figure something out.” “I should think that she’s trying to determine what your feelings are for her.” she explained. “I think she’s trying to calm her mind because it’s possible her own romantic feelings for you are conflicting with her own views on romance.” “Oh… that makes sense.” I looked at her admirably. “You really have a detailed eye, don’t you, cuz?” “Thank you. In addition, I think you saw how she reacted with you and I going off alone. She was jealous, perhaps a little scared that I might have romantic intentions for you. Not that I do mind, no offense.” “None taken. It’s understandable. I mean, we aren’t related by blood.” I chuckled. “So… should I do anything?” “Not really. Keep doing what you’re doing, of course, but Twilight will have to untangle her feelings by herself. That’s just the way it is.” “Really? So…there is hope?” “Of course there is.” she said softly. “Soon enough, Dusk, she’ll come around. I am sure of it. Just give her time.” “Okay… you’ve not steered me wrong yet, Rarity, I trust you.” I told her. “Right. Let’s get to the courtyard and wait for the others. And…thanks.” “It was no trouble at all. Lead the way.” I did so and the two of us set off, proceeding to discuss how Rarity was enjoying Canterlot. Whilst we waited in the courtyard for the others, I wasn’t sure whether to feel hopeful or ashamed. In essence, it was my fault that Twilight was confused about her emotions like this, if indirectly. But also, there was a chance she might feel something for me…that seemed to light a fire of hope in my chest and raise my spirits a little. At least nothing would spoil my good mood. Or so I thought. “Well, well, if it isn’t Ms. Rat’s-Nest-Moss-Mane.” said a high and reedy voice from behind us. “And you, with that thing on your head. Is that a hat or did a bird’s nest fall on you?” “What? How dare you…” Rarity stopped as she saw our speaker. “Oh, I should have known that you would be here.” I also turned to look at this newcomer. She was a unicorn, or at least I supposed she was. I couldn’t see her horn under the witch hat that she wore. Her fur was a dark blue color, her mane a bluish-white. The cloak and hat she wore were a deep purple, decorated with magical stars. Her eyes sparked with a contemptuous glow, her very stature radiating arrogance and self-importance. I didn’t like to judge, but she’d insulted me and Rarity without provocation. Dislike was brewing for her. Her description struck a chord in my memory however, something that Twilight had once talked about: a unicorn that matched her description. What was her name again? “Of course I would be here.” she replied in that reedy voice of hers. “I would never miss the chance to show how powerful I really am.” “You’re still on that?” She turned to me. “Come along, Dusk. We don’t have to listen to this.” “Wait a sec…” I looked back at the unicorn, who still regarded me with contempt. “By any chance, are you the pony who calls herself the Great and Powerful Trixie?” “Trixie sees her reputation precedes her, even amongst the little noponies.” she unpleasantly cackled. “But, then again, Trixie would not have expected any less.” “Mind I ask what you’re doing here?” I asked, trying to keep my voice level. “Well, Trixie was hoping to have a little word with her nemesis, one Twilight Sparkle.” she elaborated. “Trixie saw her silly little friend here and assumed she would be nearby…but it seems she was mistaken. And who are you? Trixie doesn’t recall seeing you in Ponyville with this one.” “My name is Dusk Noir and I was…” “Oh, what does it matter what your name is? Trixie will vanquish you soon enough with her show-stopping magnificence. Even an under-sized colt like you does not stand a chance against her might.” “Under-sized?” I said, taking her short crack personally. “Now wait a minute.” Rarity said, my cousin stepping in front of me. “Twilight has already proven just how much of an overzealous boaster you really are and yet you still insist that you’re the best?” “Oh, but I am.” she said, unperturbed. “Sparkle may have bested me with the Ursa Minor, but Trixie has entered in this contest for years and every year she has won first prize. What chance do you think you have?” “Every chance.” I said, firmly. “Twilight told me she beat you that day and I know she’ll beat you again.” “Hmph.” She flicked her mane casually. “Sparkle is an amateur when it comes to the stage. Trixie has had years of experience and practice, amazing ponies from here to Las Pegasus. You see how futile your hopes are to defeat me in the contest?” “I wasn’t talking about me. I’m not even entered, but Twilight…” “‘Not even entered’?” She scornfully laughed at me. “I suppose you heard that Trixie was competing and realized how pointless even trying was. A little cowardly nopony, just as Trixie thought.” “Trixie, I think you’ve said enough.” Rarity stood between them. “Save your empty boasting for the performance tonight. Twilight isn’t here and we certainly wouldn’t tell you if she was. Now, if you’re just going to insult us, I suggest you leave.” “Hiding behind others, I see.” she remarked to me. “Well, Trixie has better things to do anyway. I hope you enjoy my performance when I defeat your precious Twilight, little Dusk.” With one last flick of her cape, she strode away around a corner and out of sight, leaving me and Rarity glaring after her. My blood was boiling. I had hoped that, if I ever did meet Trixie, she wouldn’t be as bad as Twilight had said, but now I had… I could see she was truly unpleasant and rude. All those things she said about me, about my friends… about Twilight. Ooh! If I could get her back…but how? Nothing physical or violent, nothing hot words could achieve. Only actions would win this. She had to be shown how wrong. Seeing how she was a performer and she no doubt loved the spotlight, I knew that was how I could beat her. Of that, I was sure of. Here, today, there was only one possible way I could do that. I did have a few ideas as to what to do… My mind soon formulated an idea, a plan to prove her wrong. I would normally have never even considered this, but—in a way—Trixie had convinced me to see things differently. I was going to keep her from winning… I knew exactly what to do. “I apologize, Dusk.” Rarity said to me, once that boaster was gone. “I assumed that her experience in Ponyville might have taught her a lesson, but she’s just as boastful as ever. Are you alright?” “Yes, I am.” I said in a confident tone, turning to go. “Would you excuse me, Rarity? I have to do something.” “Oh… not at all.” she said, surprised. “What is it, may I ask?” “The only way I’m gonna show that Ms. ‘Great and Powerful’ how wrong she is. I’m going to enter myself in the contest.” I answered. “Nopony talks to or about my friends like that, especially not Twilight. I’m going to compete in Magical Talent of Equestria and I’m going to ensure Trixie doesn’t even get third place!” Twilight’s view It was the evening of the show. The stars were shining in the sky and the moon glowing like a magical orb. While the stage was set and the performers were ready and raring to go, I was worried. Not so much for myself, but for Dusk, where he was pacing nervously back and forth on the other side of the room. I had been just as surprised as everypony else when we’d learned from Rarity that Dusk would be in the contest due to an encounter with Trixie. We’d seen him briefly afterward to wish him luck and tell him he would be great, especially Rarity. After that, he requested that he’d be left alone so that he could practice and keep his display a surprise until the show. I, however (during all of the support for Dusk), had been worried in silence, only really giving a smile, but even that was rather forced. Dusk had clearly made his views on performing, of getting up on stage and being stared at by all of those ponies. It even made me a little nervous. This sudden change of heart made me worry for me. I couldn’t help but imagine Dusk appearing on stage and completely breaking down in front of the audience… In front of the Princesses. And the Mystic King, no less. I had managed to track him down before hoof, practicing in his old room at the school, the one he used to stay in before he received the very house he shared with Shield, Leon, and Dog close to it. After getting there, I desperately tried to talk him out of it, reminding Dusk of what he, himself, said. Dusk, however, insisted that he had to do it and had asked me to leave so he could continue practicing. I did that, but was reluctant. Now, it was my last chance to do so. I walked up to me, but Dusk seemed so engrossed in his own thoughts that he didn’t notice me. “Dusk, are you nervous?” Dusk didn’t answer. “Dusk?” “Wha…? Oh!” He snapped out of his reverie and turned to face me. “Sorry, Twi. Guess I am, yes.” “I am too.” I admitted. “No matter how many times I go over my routine, I’m still getting the jitters. I’ve never performed like this before.” “Really? You never even entered while you were being taught here?” “I knew about it, yes,” I told him, “but I didn’t think I was ready to do something like that. I still don’t think I am.” “You are.” He said, yet that simple tone was enough to calm me a little. “You’re going to be great.” “Thank you… I’m sure you will be too…” I tried to say what I meant to, but I found myself lost for words there. Dusk, however, seemed to sense there was something more and supplied for me. “But…” “You read me like a book.” I said with a smile. “I am as avid a reader as you are.” He reminded me. “You still don’t feel good about me taking part, do you?” “Well… it’s just… Dusk, you don’t have to do this.” I said to him, repeating my earlier pleads to him. “Even if Trixie insulted you, you don’t have to do this to prove yourself in some way to anypony.” “Yes, I do, Twilight. It’s not just because of that. You know I’m not really one that would act so much on pride, especially with somepony like her.” He told me. “Ponies like Trixie? They need to be shown the error of their ways through actions, not words. I want to prove that.” “But there’s me and Rarity competing with our own unique magic.” “And now you have me too.” I noted. “I know I’m not really needed but…I want to do my bit. It’s… it’s sort of personal. I feel like I need to do this, even though I don’t have to.” “That doesn’t make any sense!” I almost screamed. “Dusk, I just don’t want you putting yourself into some kind of risk. Please, just think about this.” He didn’t answer me, not at first. Dusk stared at me, a kind of disappointed look on my face. “It’s strange…” “What is?” I was rather piqued by the almost cold tone his voice took. “I thought, out of all ponies, you would have faith in me. That you would do your best to support me in this. Like we’ve always done with each other up to now. I guess…I was wrong.” “Dusk…” This caught me off-guard. I hadn’t thought about that. “I’m not saying that I don’t. I’m just worried about you. I mean… this is big, Dusk. This isn’t like you. I’m just…concerned.” “I understand why, Twilight. You’re right. This isn’t something I’d normally do. But…ever since I met you girls, I’ve done a lot of things I wouldn’t normally do, things that I’ve only experienced with Shield, Dog, and Leon. Things that have changed me for the better. So…why is that a bad thing?” Right there, I had no answer. While I stood by my argument, determined to look out for Dusk, my friend, he was right about that. He and I were best friends, sharing so many of the same interests. Was I looking at this wrong? Should I be a little more supportive despite the circumstances? “Dusk, I didn’t mean to…” “I thought I might see you here, Sparkle.” cut in a familiar reedy voice as Trixie had arrived on the scene. “Ready to be humiliated in front of hundreds by the show-stopping skill of the Great and Powerful Trixie?” “I’m ready to do my best, Trixie.” I said to her, speaking firmly. “Are you?” “Trixie is the best, you don’t stand a chance.” she boasted. She turned to me. “And you. So you decided to enter then? Thank you. You’ll make Trixie look even better.” “Believe me, that’s not my intention.” Dusk quietly told her. “Oh, really?” She laughed dismissively. “So, Trixie sees your cutie mark is a scroll. What’s your performance going to be? Reorganizing a shelf or reading poetry?” “Just you wait and see.” I said, speaking in what I might have thought was a confident voice, but I could hear his voice shaking underneath. “Oh, Trixie will. We could all do with a good laugh when you fail spectacularly.” she cackled. It was there that I had heard enough. “Now, wait a minute.” I began, now angry with Trixie. “His magic is the most wonderful, beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. You wouldn’t believe it if I told you, but it’s enough to put your fireworks, bangs, and flashes to shame. He’s going to be amazing, just you watch.” Trixie seemed caught off guard by my sudden outburst. I was a little surprised too because I had no idea what came over me. Trixie, however, recovered herself. “Trixie supposes we’ll soon see.” Trixie said to me. “Trixie shall see you at the awards ceremony, Sparkle, when Trixie will be taking first prize.” She stalked off onto the stage as she was called on to begin her performance. I glared after Trixie for a few minutes. I had really hoped she would have learned her lesson, but it seemed that her experience in Ponyville had just made her even more unpleasant. Perhaps it was a good thing Dusk would be competing as he would make her eat her words. We all would. I looked back at Dusk, to see him smiling gratefully. “Thanks, Twi. I needed that. I’m not brilliant with confrontations. Maybe as El Dragon, but not as Dusk Noir.” “Anything for my friends.” I said to him, giving him a kind smile. “I’m still worried about you competing, but you’re right. Trixie needs to be taught another lesson and we’re going to make sure of that.” “Duly noted.” Dusk then offered a claw to bump and I did so, lingering for a little. “We go out, we do our best, and we beat Trixie.” “Agreed.” I felt happier now that bit of disagreement had been avoided. Then, I realized my hoof was still in contact with his claw and receded it, blushing slightly. We waited together in silence, watching as other contestants were called out to perform. Afterwards, we were to go and sit in with the audience, so there were less and less ponies backstage by the minute. Rarity would be on before us, followed by me, and finally Dusk. I didn’t like the idea of leaving him on his own like that, but I had no choice. Soon, Rarity was called on to perform. She quickly passed by us before she had to leave. “Well, time to show these Canterlot ponies’ true style and grace.” she said smartly. “I’ll see you both later. Break a leg.” “You too.” We both said at the same time, eliciting a blush from us both and a smirk from Rarity. She then turned to Dusk. “Just keep calm and remember what you’ve practiced. I’m sure it will be wonderful.” she encouraged, stepping gracefully out onto the stage. She always knew just what to say. I could still remember the conversation we’d had after we had entered as we were walking through the streets of Canterlot. We had been talking about Dusk, but not in the way I might have liked. She’d asked me if I considered him to be attractive. At first, I thought Applejack must have said something to her, but then caught myself as I knew she wouldn’t have, of course. Rarity had been saying about how she considered Dusk to be good-looking, intelligent, polite, and good-natured. All-in-all, a good stallion. I agreed with her, though I didn’t say it out loud and had tried to avoid questions directed at me about Dusk. For some reason, I felt annoyed whenever Rarity mentioned anything she found attractive about him, especially since that was her cousin. Was she interested in Dusk like that? More to the point, why did that matter to me? I didn’t have romantic feelings for Dusk… did I? I had been trying to find other explanations for my constant thoughts about Dusk, but I always came back to the same conclusion. Though I didn’t want to, slowly but surely, I was being forced to accept that… maybe I did. But, if I did… what was I supposed to do? Did Dusk feel the same? Should I tell him, ask what he thought? This was so confusing! “Twi? Twi, you’re up.” Dusk’s voice brought me back to reality. Butterflies fluttering in my stomach, I made my way there, looking back once more at Dusk, where he smiled. “Break a leg.” “Thanks… See you later.” Taking a deep breath, I stepped on stage to appreciative applause from the audience. My eyes traveled to see who was watching me, so many unfamiliar faces…then I saw my friends, waving and smiling at me which made me feel better. The judges were seated before the stage, one of which was actually part of the board that judged me for my entrance exam, though she seemed a little brighter. As expected by tradition, the Mystic King was there as well. Though there was something off about him. Unlike the previous Mystic King, he was giving what appeared to be a forced smile and I could’ve sworn I saw his eyes look around at the crowd. Was he nervous? I didn’t dwell long on the thought as I looked to the main judges of this event. Also seated were my teacher Celestia and her sister Luna, who was looking a little bigger than the last time I saw her. Both of them were smiling as I began. Using volunteers from the audience, I performed from my list of 25 different magic tricks I could do, demonstrating hair growth, minor and moderate levitation, alteration of an object, shield magic, and among very others before finishing off with a teleportation to the back of the audience and back to the stage. I would be lying if I didn’t say I found myself flushed with pride as everypony cheered for my performance. Still smiling, I exited the stage and went to sit with my friends, all of whom were supportive and amazed by my display of skills. I thanked them, still feeling red in the face, and sat to watch the final performance: Dusk’s performance. “Great performin' there.” Applejack said. “Yeah, ya kept your head, showed ‘em yer stuff, and left feelin’ proud. Ya put in some good work there.” Dog told me. “Yeah, sure as hay beat Trixie’s performance!” Rainbow added. “You got that right, Dash.” Shield said. “I think you got her on the ropes now." “Marvelous spell work, darling.” Rarity remarked. “You truly outdid yourself and I think to manage to turn a few heads.” “Thanks. You were great too.” I said to my friend. “The way you dressed that couple up in regal ball clothes truly showed your skill with cloth and fabric. I think you really helped brighten up their evening.” “Yes, they did seem quite flustered when they left, didn’t they?” she noted. “I certainly hope that I did.” “Now… there’s just Dusk…” I glanced at the empty seat we were saving for him. “Do you think he’ll do okay?” “Twilight, you and I have both seen his work and how unique it is. We all have.” Rarity said to me. “I’m sure he’s prepared a spectacular puppet show for all to see, though it is somewhat more sophisticated than an entertainer with marionettes.” “You’re always supportive of him, aren’t you?” I asked. “Well, he is my cousin. Besides, we all are supportive of him within reason.” she reminded me. “He’s had no friends for most of his whole life and has only managed to get at least three before meeting any of us, so I would say that he’s earned it, wouldn’t you?” “Yes… Yes, of course.” My eyes flickered again back to the seat and Rarity's expression softened. “He’ll be fine. You’ll see.” she assured me. “I hope so… I just can’t help but worry about him.” I mumbled. “I understand.” Rarity said, in a way that let on more than what she said. She only gave a knowing smile at my blush and turned her attention to the stage. “Alright, let’s see what he’s made of.” Rainbow whispered as Dusk stepped nervously out onto the stage. “Hopefully, he doesn’t freeze on the stage.” Shield added. “Oh, my. I hope he’s not too frightened. I’d be terrified if I were in his position.” Fluttershy murmured, who probably understood Dusk’s feelings almost as much as me. The two of them were fairly similar. “I’m sure he’ll be fine.” Leon said, trying his best to reassure her. “Dusk has gone through some tough stuff before.” “Well, hooves crossed, everypony.” Applejack said. “Yeah, let’s see what he does.” Dog added, ending the discussions as Dusk took center stage. After taking a deep breath as he stood there on the stage, he removed his trilby so his horn was visible. He then nodded to somepony off-stage and closed his eyes, his horn beginning to glow. A formless red shape appeared in the air that began to mound itself, just as a dramatic orchestral piece started to play. Everypony gasped as we saw what had taken shape, one I only recognizing from the books Dusk had shown me. It was the being known as Discord that took form before us in a blood-red color, sparkling in the night. I knew it was his puppet show, but I knew the story that he was telling with it. I began to view it in the context of the show. His mouth opened and he threw his head back in silent laughter. As he did so, he conjured up marionette holders and laughed further, playing with little ponies that were attached to the string. Said ponies consisted of an Earth pony, a Pegasus, and a unicorn. They were jumping and dancing, helpless to stop him toying with them like his playthings: Equestria as it was under his rule. Discord did this for a good few seconds before a stream of fire came around, one he quickly dodged before looking over to find where it came from. Standing in front of him were six ponies that anypony could recognize as the Element Gang. Though there was something different about them. They looked almost exactly like the Element Gang we have now, but their lightning and air elementals were stallions while their ice and water elementals were mares. Knowing the Element Gang’s secret, I had to guess that these were the puppets of a past Element Gang that existed during Discord’s time. With a cheer from the crowd, the six heroes then charged at the draconaquis, beginning a great battle. Though they all tried their best, each one using their skills and respective elements and pushing themselves to the limit, Discord was able to overpower them and defeated them one by one. As the heroes laid there, Discord began to laugh in triumph as the Element Gang was no match for him. Everypony thought they were finished until two others crashed down from above. With the two being alicorns of bright white and darkest blue, I knew them as Princesses Celestia and Luna, there to challenge Discord’s reign of chaos as they stood between him and the Element Gang. Discord saw them and stopped his amusement before pointing at them and laughing further. The two alicorns stood their ground, ready to fight. Finally, Discord seemed to realize that they weren’t kidding around and (rather casually) met them in battle, flying up above the audience, everypony craning their heads above to see. While Discord and the two princesses battled, the Element Gang recovered and bared witness to the event above. As the music rose in crescendo, a choir singing in accompaniment and Celestia charged forward to attack, the power of the sun shining with her. The beam struck Discord dead-on in a bright flash, eliciting another gasp from the audience. The draconequus, however, caught the beam in his hands, turning it into a pile of custard pies. He promptly then pelted Celestia with them, (seemingly exploding on contact) injuring her and knocking her down, Discord laughing all the while. Luna was next, flapping her wings and charging with her horn before her. Flashes of lightning emerged from all sides, striking Discord. The lord of chaos countered this attack by holding an umbrella that was open the wrong way around above his head and absorbing the bolts of electricity into it. Flicking it casually, the bolts were sent back at Luna as she tried desperately to dodge them. Despite her efforts, she was struck three times and fell with her sister. This part continued on with each Princess trying and failing to fight Discord with blinding flashes and streaks of colorful magic. Only once did they combine their powers they had Discord on the run for a while before he beat them again. Growing bored from them, Discord struck them down one more time and, after seeing them unable to get back up, left them, forlorn and defeated. As the Element Gang came and help the sisters to their hooves, it seemed as if Equestria’s fair rulers would have to give in for Discord was too powerful for them. Then six orbs of light appeared in the air before them, all of which were in different colors. Just from seeing them, I knew that these were the Elements of Harmony. As the heroes backed away and the orbs floated down to the sisters, the two gazed in wonder as each shone in turn: Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Loyalty, and Magic. They hovered around them (three to each Princess) before melding into them, making them shine even brighter than before as the Elements imbued them with their power. The princesses gazed at each other and nodded before they flew off, halting before Discord once more. He laughed to see them again as the music was beginning to build to a climax. The sisters mimed actions, giving him a chance to stand down and surrender, but he refused as he scornfully chortled. They nodded to each other again, glowing even more brightly. As they did, the sisters encircled Discord, flying faster and faster. He seemed to grow wary, tried to leave, but he was trapped by a light, growing brighter with every second. Finally, he was consumed by it, forcing the audience to shield their eyes from the blindness as the chanting reached its pinnacle. When it cleared, the heroes gathered around as the princesses descended back to the stage, Discord now having changed color to grey, frozen in place as he had been turned to stone. The statue vanished and the Princesses relinquished the Elements, sitting on golden thrones that had appeared behind them. With the Element Gang bowing to them in respect as harmony had triumphed over chaos, they then vanished too with the heroes vanishing with them. After they did, Dusk opened his eyes as the music stopped. The show was over. For a long moment, there was a silence. I, who had been so absorbed in the puppets, was bought back to reality. I began to fret for Dusk, who looked unsurely around on stage. At first, I thought nothing would happen. I knew what to do. Beaming at him, I stomped my hooves in applause. My friends soon followed, as did Shield, Dog, and Leon, and soon the entire crowd after a few minutes, cheering the loudest they had for any other act. We clearly hadn’t been expecting that. Dusk was red in the face as he placed his hat back on and bowed humbly before walking offstage. It didn’t take him long to reach our seats with the others and I all greeting him as everypony else was still in discussion of the performance we’d just witnessed. We didn’t expect any compliments from Leon for how well those two got along. “Bravo, Dusk, bravo!” Rarity praised as she was closest. “That was utterly spell-binding, if you’ll pardon the pun.” "Golly, I knew y’all were good with your puppets, but ya sure have outdone yourself tonight, sugarcube.” Applejack added. “Yep. You've really outdone yourself, Dusk.” Dog told his friend. “It was nice, but…did it have to be so loud? The music made it scary.” Fluttershy said timidly. "I mean, I still liked it, but, um…” “Oh, that’s just Dusk for ya.” Leon commented. “Whenever he haves something like that planned, he tends to give a dramatic flair. Sort of a habit of his, believe me.” “Oh, I see.” She said before she spoke to Dusk. “Sorry… It was nice…” “Oh, come on, Fluttershy! ‘Nice’ is an understatement.” Rainbow berated. “Yeah! That was simply, truly radical!” Shield added. “Radical is an understatement!” Pinkie squealed. “That was… that was… I don’t know what it was, but I'm gonna find out, look up in a dictionary and find out, even if I have to make up a whole new word just to say how… whatever it was it was!” All the while, Dusk remained modestly silent, simply smiling from all of the praise. His eyes sought me, giving me a smile that made my heart glow. I returned it as best I could, a silent praise and understanding passing between us. Unable to resist, I looked over to where Trixie sat, who had done pretty much the same stuff she’d done in Ponyville for her performance. She had looked dismissive of her own display last time I saw her, but it was quite clear she too was amazed by how well Dusk had done. Though she was trying hard not to show it. She caught me looking at her, put on her self-confident smug smile again, and looked away. Now, we just had to wait… After a while, everypony was quiet again. The judges were now up on stage to announce the winners, a startled-looking Luna taking center stage at the encouragement of her sister. She composed herself, drew herself to her fullest height, and spoke in a loud, booming voice. “Fillies and gentlecolts, citizens of Canterlot! We have been in deep discussion over who should take the prizes of this contest and we have come to our decisions! The envelope, please!” The startled, almost frightened judge levitated the envelope to her, which she opened with her magic. She read it, allowing for dramatic suspense. “In third place, receiving the Bronze Ring of Merit… Treble Cleft!” With that, a green unicorn stallion, who had used his magic to play an orchestral piece with multiple instruments by himself, stood up proudly to receive the ring, placing it proudly on his horn and standing on the stage. “In second place, for the Silver Wand of Excellence… Dusk Noir!” Everypony applauded once more as Dusk was utterly dumbstruck, his mouth hanging open. Though he had done his best, he clearly hadn’t expected to win anything. A grin slowly growing on his features, he beamed at them all, tears shining in his eyes as he hurried up to the stage, accepting the wand and standing next to Treble, returning to his usual modest expression and smile. All the while, his eyes never left mine and mine never left his. “And finally, in first place, receiving the grand prize of the Golden Staff of Victory…” Everypony leaned forward, Trixie actually preparing to stand up and walk to the stage. “Twilight Sparkle!” The applause was even louder as I too was completely shocked. I knew I was good at magic, but I never would have expected this. My friends were the loudest, clearly heard over the din. Somepony gave me a sharp nudge and, rather giddily, I stepped up to the stage. I was unable to keep the smile off my face as accepted the staff from the princess, stood next to Dusk, and beamed out across to my friends. Then I saw Trixie, frozen in disbelief and at a loss for words. I glanced at Dusk, who grinned with me. Seeing all of this, what both of us had accomplished, how could I have ever been worried? Dusk’s view As the train rattled across the tracks on its way back to Ponyville, back down from the heights of the mountains, I sat there as I admired my accomplishment. The girls and the guys were all sleeping soundly in their seats just until we got back. I was the only member of our group not sleeping soundly in his seat. I was at the back of the train, watching the lights of Canterlot fade and wielding my prize before me in my claw. I had never felt so proud of myself. I never even suspected that my talent would get me anything in life, let alone a prize at a contest. Yet here I was, holding the Silver Wand of Excellence which I had won. Me alone. It wasn’t the Golden Staff, but I didn’t mind. I was happy with what I had achieved. There was one thing though. All the while I’d been on stage, I noticed that Luna had been looking at me with a curious expression on her face. She never spoke to me afterward, apart from to offer brief congratulations, but had simply gazed at me, like I was some strange creature she’d never seen before…or something familiar. Dragonis did appear and gave me some congrats on winning the Silver Wand. He told me that he especially made the Wand for me and told me to keep it safe. Though confused as he told me that with a serious, I promised that nothing would happen to it. Though I was still curious to the behavior of those two, for now, I paid them no mind. I was still reveling in my triumph and didn’t want anything to spoil it Trixie had, of course, cornered me afterward and demanded to know how I did that. Gladly, I told her of the circumstances of my magic, how I had never learned it but that it had always been with me. Then I offered her a claw to shake in friendship as she had done her best too for I didn’t want there to be ill feelings between us. She had batted it away, vowing that she would get Twilight back somehow one day, get back on both of us, for stealing her “rightful place”. Would she ever learn? Pinkie had, of course, suggested a party to celebrate. We all agreed that it was too late and just decided to go home. That certainly sounded good to me, though I would miss Canterlot. Now, when I returned, it would be for the Grand Galloping Gala. Only a few more months… “I thought I might find you here.” I turned to see that Twilight had joined me, a proud smile on her face and still with the Staff. “Deep thinking again?” “You know me.” I replied. “Well done again for winning first. You should be proud of yourself.” “Oh, I am, but that’s not all I’m happy about.” She walked beside me, leaning on the rails. “You won something of your own too and I’m very proud of you.” “It was just a contest.” I mumbled. “It’s not that big of a deal.” “Yes, it is. And I’m not just referring to the contest. You took something else away today.” “And what’s that?” “You learned a lesson that I did a while ago, that there are times when it’s good to show off your talent, especially when you use it to stand up for your friends.” she said happily. “Huh. I guess so.” “But I think you also taught me another lesson about friendship.” “Really? What did I teach you?” “That sometimes, when something important needs to be done for a friend, you need to step out of your comfort zone, to do something that you might not normally do. When that happens, you shouldn’t try to discourage them, like I did.” “You didn’t really.” I put in, but she shook her head. “I think I did. I should have supported you more, had a little more faith in you. I’m sorry.” “It’s okay.” I dismissed, the incident already forgotten and forgiven. “You were just trying to look out for me, like any good friend would.” “You did a good thing today and I don’t regret you doing it.” She cocked her head to one side. “You changed today, I think.” “How do you mean?” “By doing something you wouldn’t normally, you changed yourself for the better. You’ve become an even better pony and a better friend. You’ve really grown today, Dusk, and…I’m proud of you.” She held out her legs and I accepted her hug. “Thank you for standing up to Trixie with me.” “It was my pleasure. Anything for my friends, especially you.” “Yes, you do that a lot.” She gazed into my eyes for a few minutes, then remembered herself and broke away with her cheeks flushed. “Anyway, I’ll write that report when we’re back home. For now…I think you and I have earned a rest. Mind if I stay with you?” “Not at all. I’m…glad of the company.” Together, we watched as Canterlot drifted away, both of us proud of the lesson we’d learned and the work that we had done.