//------------------------------// // A Resolution - Chapter Four // Story: Lifetime Salvage // by Mokoma //------------------------------// As it is said; Hate is a strong word. As it stands - is Hate stronger than Love? Do the white fires of hatred burn hotter than the warm embers of love? Or is instead hate not a white-hot flame, but the dreadful frostbite that deadens the limbs it touches? The Ponyville Train Station was alight with activity and commotion; just as it was every day. Minus about several dozen ponies. In-fact, for what Twilight presumed was going to be a busy platform was diluted to merely her, her friends, and the waiting conductor. It wasn't really the "time" for Ponyville residents to go to Canterlot nor vice versa, but the recent rumors and concerns have made ponies a bit more worried about travelling by rail. Still, Twilight wasn't discouraged none - neither were the seven others, and neither was the human; who hasn't spoke much since being woken up. Seeing them and her friends to the platform, Twilight bit her lip in worry and turned to her faithful assistant - one the human suspected Twilight viewed as her non-biological son, and perhaps wasn't far from the truth anyway. She leaned in a little closer to him to be both heard better and to relate to him in terms of height. "Spike, are you sure you'll be alright?" She whispered. "I'm sorry I can't bring you along, but I really need somecreature to take care of the Castle and the School..." "Trust me - Discord's good backup. And Big Mac too!" Smirked the dragon. "Besides, when we're done with our jobs, we'll just have the whole castle to ourselves when playing Ogres and Oubliettes. It's definitely a motivator for the other two alright!" "Just make sure that the O'n'O session happens after you three take care of everything, okay Spike?" "You bet!" The dragon saluted. Twilight pulled the dragon into a warm hug - one that she allowed to linger longer than normal, yet she wasn't sure why this time she felt apprehensive and even...scared. The alicorn boarded the train - and Spike waved. She waved back - and so did the other girls as they pressed themselves to the window. The human had managed to give a few visible waves too - not wanting to hog too much space as they returned to the seat. "You'll adore Canterlot, darling." Rarity said to the human as the train began moving, taking a seat at a parallel row of seats. "Ponyville certainly appeals to those who have a down-to-Earth approach, but the pizzazz and wonder of Canterlot will captivate anycreature!" "If ya can put up with all the "high society" they preach about." Applejack rolled her eyes - but chuckling afterwards; the human noting her opinion wasn't one of spite. "But, still, Rare's gotta point. It sure's a wonderful place to go to, at-least 'ta visit! I certainly prefer it over Manehattan, that's for sure." "The ponies in Canterlot are sure, uhm...nicer than those in Manehattan." Chimed in Fluttershy, and blushed at the intrusion of a thought. "T-That's not too mean to say, is it?" "I get what you mean." Starlight smiled softly. "In Canterlot ponies aren't as rude as they're, well..."busy"? They definitely don't act as rude as they do in Manehattan..." "Oooh!" Pinkie gave a big grin. "After this, we should totally show Seaquestria and Mount Ares! Oh! Maybe even Yakyakistan! They'd totally love it there! Imagine how much pent up anger and frustration they could release by just smashing something!" "Oooor." Dash grinned. "We should hook 'em up with one of those cloud-walking spells and get them front row seats on a Wonderbolts show in Cloudsdale! Er, the one after the next one though, that one's gonna have me be in the lead of a cool new trick we've been training for." The human would have said a lot right now, and how could anyone blame them for being in a state of (good) shock - appearing in Equestria and all? And yet, they couldn't mutter out much. They could only say... "I believe you." Smiled the human - and hadn't said much else. Their gaze was distant, watching Ponyville become smaller and smaller. Starlight frowned as she sat on the opposite of them. It occurred to her that something was wrong - and it was to her luck she had spoken about it with Twilight earlier. Starlight noticed the human's gaze at the distance, and passed on a concerned look to Twilight; who understood the relayed message. She frowned - looking at the human to confirm that there was something off about their gaze. There wasn't much she could do unfortunately; as a worry-wart seldom could calm a worry-wart. However, it didn't stop Pinkie Pie - a maverick in the situation who hasn't even been aware of Star and Twi light's concerns, from leaning in with a big grin to the human. "Sooooo, since we are gonna be in a train for a preeeeetttyyyy decent amount of timeeee..." The pink mare hummed musically. "How about we pass the time with a game~!?" "O-Oh, I'm not good with games." The human nervously chuckled with their arms raised defensively. "There's gotta be a game you're good at! We can even play pin the tail on the princess! It's a blast to play on a moving train! Totally unsafe, but fun! Oh, what about I spy!? I spy with my little eye on something--" "Oooooh no!" Rainbow Dash shook her head. "I am not playing I Spy when the only thing outside of the window is just snow, mountain, and sky!" "Oh! Twenty Questions!" The Pink Mare giggled. "Whatcha thinking of? A plant, vegetable, or mineral?" "Ooh!" Rainbow Dash grinned. "I got this. Animal--" "You, Rainbow!" Pinkie booped Dash on the snoot. "W-Wait, what!? How'd you know!? I--" The mare's grin went to the human next. "Your turn, uuuuh...Sam!...Max?...I thought your human names go something like that...Uh, Alex? Oh! I know--" "I'm thinking of a part of an animal." The human smirked. *** Upon exiting the train, Pinkie had clung to the human's foot - much to the horror and surprise of the guards and station workers; confused not only to see a human being, but even more-so to see Pinkie freaking out as much as she did. "Pleaaaaaaaaaase! Just one more question!" She begged. "I don't understand! It's a part of an animal, pink, soft, endless inside, wild, curly, stretchy, becomes straight on a bad day, can't be changed in form or consistency otherwise, and may or may not taste like cotton candy!?" "Pinkie, just give up." Sighed Rainbow Dash as she exited the train with a tired look. "You've already gone twenty questions by like, a hundred." "Fine! Just please!" Pinkie begged. "Tell me! Tell me what you're thinking of!" "Your mane, Pinkie." The human grinned. They initially supposed all those questions would've given away their surprising knowledge of them, but it made sense that with Pinkie's antics, you wouldn't need too long to figure out what that hair was capable of. Not even Twilight seemed concerned or suspicious. Not to mention, Pinkie's mane was already deflated as seen by the fact she spent the whole train ride struggling to find the answer. The moment the answer was heard, Pinkie quickly rose to her hooves, and her mane inflated once more - the puffy hair bapping Fluttershy in the face by accident. "Oooooooh! So that's what it was!" Grinned the mare. "I had no idea! You're good!" They stepped out of the station's perimeters - the street had already opened with an awe-inspiring view, even if from below. The human saw the towering top of the mountain, and the imposing towers of the Castle. The elevation of the city has filled the human with crisp, fresh mountain air - compared to Ponyville's more humid and foresty, warmer air. However, exaggerations over the varying lifestyles weren't out of proportion. Canterlot was bustling, but compared to Ponyville, ponies were unlikely to as much as wish you a good morning or a good day. Ponies walked with a certain strut that made sure they'd show every angle of their high-end clothing. The human hadn't had much time to dwell on it as Twilight turned her head to them to deliver a raised-cheek smile. "I can't wait for you to meet the Princesses." "Me neither..." Softly sighed the human as they remembered their intrusive and negative thoughts. With that, the ponies walked through the streets to finally make their way to the castle. *** "Remember." Twilight explained as they approached the gates to the throne room. "Celestia isn't going to send you to the dungeon for something like not bowing, she's not crazy. But try your best, please? It'll be a gesture of good will and--" "You don't need to ask me twice." The human reassuringly smiled. "I won't embarrass you!...Uh, okay, maybe I might embarrass you out of accidental incompetence, but I wouldn't bring you shame. Uh, you get what I mean, right?" "Uh, bringing shame or embarrassment? You wouldn't have to worry about something like that!" Awkwardly grinned the mare. "W-Well, since you're the one introducing me to the Princesses, I really shouldn't mess it up, you know?" The human scratched their head as they stopped at the doors. "I think you know where I'm coming from." "I do." Princess Twilight reassuringly placed a hoof on the human's arm. "But we're friends. Friendship is more than worrying about things like shame or embarrassment or whatnot." "Twi's right." Applejack stepped forward. "Well, maybe at the start you might fuss over the lil' things. Since you don't know ponies all too well at the start, you might worry about every thing you do and if it upsets 'em..." Dash grinned as she stepped forward right next to AJ, wrapping her blue wing around the hat-wearing gal. "But after some time, knowing how to act becomes second nature. You know how to work together and as a team without batting an eye and hesitating to figure out how!" "And it's true, dear, that conflicts inevitably happen, no matter how careful you are or aren't." Coughed Rarity to get her attention. "The two mares behind this door know how often I've gravely disagreed with these two, and how much they have among themselves." She gestured to the usual suspects - the orange and blue pony. The former blushed and hid her face under her hat, and the latter chuckled with an embarrassed blush. "But one of Friendship's strength is compromise and resolution. The anger we might feel during a heated moment is nothing compared to how we feel towards our Friendship. There are no finer mares than these six - and I remember this each time something goes wrong between us." She said - Starlight blushing a little and smiling at the mentioned number. The human had no words, smiling at the mares with admiration. The silence - perhaps wholesome perhaps awkward, was broken by Dash who groaned. "...Oh come on, who decided this was gonna become an impromptu Friendship lecture?" "You contributed to it!" Snorted Pinkie. "That's 'cause I thought I'd get to say the last line!" "Nonsense!" Rarity waved her hair. "I had to continue this tangent to bring much-needed clarity to our guest!" "Did not!" "Did too, Darling!" "Did--" The mares looked at each other - at which point most of them had full cheeks attempting to hold back laughter. And it erupted - giggling and hearty laughs coming from the mares. And while the human hadn't exactly felt a laugh coming on, they smiled in warm admiration. Sure - this was a corny moment on which episodes seemed to end from time to time...But it warmed them to no end. And as the laughing quieted down...The human turned their head to the doors. Twilight noticed this and frowned. But it was time to get this show on the road. And so, Twilight took a deep breath. Her wings had pushed the doors open. The first thing they saw was the long carpet. Then the stained glass. The golden and guilded decorations, the guards, the throne room...A blue alicorn, and a white alicorn. The human was still in awe since their awakening in the lake - so they needed time for the reality to kick in. But they were still anxious. Still - they were face-to-face with the Princesses. Two towering goddesses that, by all means, were taller than the human. The human bowed immediately - but too early, as Rainbow Dash cringed in second hand embarrassment, making Applejack scrunch her mouth disapprovingly, elbowing RD a little to get her to wipe the look. Twilight had a brief look of panic - using her magic to lift the human up a little to indicate them to keep walking. The human, with a red-hot blush, squeaked and nearly jog-walked forward - anxiously looking at Twilight to understand *when* the right time to bow was, their neck angled awkwardly to be able to look at the throne and at Twilight at the same time. Celestia had gone through great effort to hide her humored grin under her wing, and Luna had managed to limit herself to a smirk that could be disguised as a patient smile. Watching ponies - and creatures - fumble over their presentation "never gets old". It wasn't a malicious sense of humor. It was just cute to them, especially since they had nothing to be so nervous about. At-least in Celestia's eyes. "Princess Celestia!" Twilight happily passed the human, removing their "marker" as to when to bow. Still, the human had done it at a moment they deemed appropriate, bowing on one knee. Seeing as how Rainbow didn't cringe and the other six ponies joined them, it was apparent this was okay. "Twilight!" The Princess of the Sun smiled. "I'm so happy to see you. I've been so nervous about your safety on the road to Canterlot..." Twilight shook her head, and Celestia smiled wider. "We ran into no problems, Princess." She said. "The weather hasn't gotten that intense. Cloudsdale has really been trying to do everything they can to stabilize the weather." "Indeed." Sighed Princess Luna. "I was looking forward to the Wonderbolt's Ball and the show that was planned for it...But it appears that the elements are not fond of air shows." "Is that a joke, sister?" Warmly smiled the white princess - mostly in an attempt to brighten the mood. "I learn from the best, sister. Even if some of your jests elude me." Celestia blushed a little with her small smile - and turned to Twilight. "Well Twilight, I believe you have somecreature to introduce us to." "Y-Yes! Uhm..." Twilight turned around and whispered. "Y-You can get up now!" The human hadn't realize they were the only ones bowing. They looked to see expectant faces - Princess Celestia with a patient smile, and Princess Luna with a curious and brooding gaze. They stood up quickly enough to cause dizziness upon themselves, but having no time to stumble as much as it nauseated them. They had to stand at attention and properly. "U-Uhm, hello...Princesses..." The human said with their voice wavering. How was this supposed to be done anyway? How were they to present themselves to a goddess and plus? "I-I'm...Uh..." "...Nervous, aren't you?" Princess Celestia started standing from her throne, a soft "eep!" escaping the human's kips. "N-No! I mean, I, uh...--" "Hm..." The Princess frowned a little. Something was off - but she wasn't going to let this get in her way. "I implore you not to be afraid, little human. I am Princess Celestia. I raise the sun, and I watch over Equestria." "Oh...You know what I am, ma'am? E-Er, I mean, your majesty--h-highness?" "Call me Celestia, please. Or Princess. Both, if you would like." She spoke. Something about her voice was more comforting to hear in "real life" than headphones. Something about her voice must've been actually magical, or maybe her voice had impacted the area around them in such a way. Celestia continued. "And yes - after all, I've been living a long life. I've seen stranger than a human, even if you look much different from the "humans" I'm used to." She explained. It must've been the mirror she was talking about. Celestia loved travelling dimension-to-dimension. There was no way she could've left out the CHS portal. "Ah..." The human wasn't sure what to say. Princess Luna then stood up, and fear overtook them in that it was a result of their lack of confidence that perhaps upset her. Yet, she looked calm. "And I am Princess Luna - Princess of the Night and Dreams. I am not sure as to where you came from, but we can promise you that a friend of the Elements of Harmony is a friend of ours. Welcome to Equestria." "Th-thank you, Princess!" "Please, call me by your highness." Celestia gasped. "Luna!" "A jest, sister!" Nervously let out the moon princess. "Just as we discussed, the joke merely eluded you!" "I suppose you're still learning." Celestia softly smiled with an exhale from her nostrils. "Twilight - I wish to make a request." "Y-Yes Princess! Anything!" "Would you allow Luna and I to talk to our guest in private for the time being?" "O-Oh..." The smaller alicorn's heart sank. This wasn't what she hoped for by any means. Not at all. Her wish was that she'd be able to at the very least be present by the human's side to help them however they needed. Certainly, Luna and Celestia weren't troublesome company...But how easy would this be on the human? The human stepped forward before Twilight was even able to get a word in. She gasped - but the human's words had stopped her from intruding. "I'm sorry for answering a question you've given to Twilight, however...Seeing as it regards me, I wish to express that I will be comfortable speaking to you personally." Twilight couldn't help but smile softly. So did the Princesses. Sure - this wasn't exactly how royal interactions worked, but the ponies in this room were friends. And nothing less. *** The room they found themselves in was something of a private study; rocking chairs next to a fireplace, bookshelves surrounding them, and desks located next to the walls. Celestia had prepared some tea, while Luna took out some treats for the tea time. The human was staring into the fire and was a little startled when Celestia set the tray for the three on a table, before taking a seat with her sister. Her smile was warm and accepting - but the human had no idea why they were afraid. "I think you'll like it." Smiled the Sun Princess. "It comes from the land of the Kirin. Not many ponies have been there - except for Applejack and Fluttershy recently." "Thank you, Princess..." The human took a sip - the vigor in their face a sign enough for the Princess. Celestia sighed softly. It was time to talk. "I can sense that...you are worried, my little human..." "..." Sighed the human softly as they set the cup back down, fearing for the shaking in their hands. "Y-yes. I am..." "Twilight has told me that you wish to stay here - even if given the choice to go home...Is this because...?" "Yes, Princess...It is." They sighed, remembering their conversation with Applejack. "My world is...Not a good place. And I haven't felt such happiness before I appeared in your land..." She smiled, standing up slowly, towering above the human, who could only look up at her as a child watching watching up at the Undertaker in amazement. Except this wasn't a massive scary dude - this was merely Princess Celestia...Who was friendly and caring - right? "The truth is, I do fear that your appearance in Equestria may have caused certain instabilities. We have already faced a lot of difficulty with this. Not just our world, but even the "other" human world which is overseen by one of my faithful students, Sunset Shimmer - as Equestrian magic leaks into their world. Magic and other related elements are unstable and are prone to violent and unpredictable anomalies and incidents." The human fell silent, looking down at the ground upon which Celestia stood. But a hoof suddenly found it on their hair and ruffled it, before the same hoof lifted the human's gaze up by the chin. The human saw a warm, motherly smile. "But if you believe that Equestria is your home, then you are one of my cherished subjects. And for you - Luna and I will do everything for your sake. No - I do not intend to banish you. I do not intend to return you to a world you deem hostile and unfit to live in either. I will, together with my sister, the Elements of Harmony, and anypony who can help - make sure that you can stay here, together with us." "Princess, you..." Tears appeared in their eyes. "Princess, you...mean it?" "It is my oath, my subject. I promise this to you and will swear all I can for your sake. You do not need to fear me - because even if I have the ability to return you home, I shall never - EVER use it. We will instead work together to find the best solution to this problem. We will bring stability back to our land - without sacrificing your wellbeing." "...I...Gosh...Princess, I..." The human looked to the side and...sniffled. The Princess could only smile as she pulled them into a soft embrace. "...Thank you." *** Twilight found relief when the human and the Princesses remerged. It wasn't hard to see that the human had been crying if at-least a little, but the warm smile on their face indicated that these tears had been of happiness. Now with the verdict of the Princesses, it was time for the Elements to sort out just what had to be done... They were in a room designed for planning - a map rather similar to Twilight's had stood in the center of the room, and the ponies and the human had encircled it. Celestia had received a letter from Cloudsdale and read it. The only reaction was a sigh through her nostrils. "The information is...concerning, but it has made the situation clear. Equestria is undergoing a weather anomaly...Dangerously similar to the Windigos." "Oh no..." Twilight frowned. "Y-You can't be saying they're returning, right Princess...?" "Do not fear, Twilight Sparkle." Interfered Luna in the talk. "The ponies have been united more than ever thanks to you and your friends, and all efforts to unite the creatures around us. In no way could the Windigos return." "You may be right Luna - but this also means that our problem has an unknown source." Sighed Celestia - finally surrendering in trying to hide worry. "The Cloudsdale Weather Center has given us information on the patterns regarding this anomaly. The temperature is lowering at a concerning rate. At the moment it is limited to what the report describes as "late autumn". But...The report indicated that temperatures might become negative starting next week..." "Is there anything at all that can be done, your Highness...?" Rarity said with her fluttering, worried, and certainly gussied-up eyes. "Perhaps to delay these temperature drops until the source of the problem is dealt with, yes Rarity." Nodded the Sun Princess. "I shall make it known that the Sun will remain raised longer each day to allow for additional warmth." "It is a good plan, Sister." Luna smiled. "Then as for me, I will intensify my duties. Ponies do not need incessant fear and panic plaguing what little rest they have. I will prevent nightmares and give as many ponies a peace of mind as I can while they sleep." "Thank you, Luna." Smiled the other sister. In the meantime, the human decided to once again stop being a wallflower. "Then the rest of us will need to hunt down the root of this problem, right?" "Indeed." Nodded Celestia, frowning. "I had hoped you wouldn't need to be involved, but the Elements could certainly use your help." But to these words, the human shook their head. "No, Princess. I want to help - and nothing will talk me out; nor will anything make me want to help stronger than I do now." Celestia regained a big, big smile. But the human hadn't allowed their thoughts to derail. "If we need to hunt for it, what can give us leads? How will we know where to look, where to go...?" "In all honesty, I am not sure. But...I believe I know some ponies who may help us." "W-Who might those be?" Asked the human. To that, Celestia turned to Twilight with a smile. "Twilight - send a message to Sunset Shimmer through the diary. Find Tempest Shadow. And send Sunburst a letter. " "Sunburst!?" Starlight tried to hide her excitement and instead showed surprise. Twilight in the meantime gasped out mentions of Sunset and Tempest . "Wait, Sunset and Tempest, Princess?" "I think these three unicorns will be of much help, Twilight. Sunset Shimmer was always studious, and since her last visit to combat the Memory Stone, I've noticed she hasn't dropped her studies whatsoever. Tempest Shadow is familiar with the mechanisms of the Staff of Sacanas used by the Storm King, and I have no doubt her knowledge could help us here greatly. Not to mention, she herself is a very talented unicorn." She smiled at Starlight then. "And Sunburst - you have worked together to prevent the Crystal Empire from falling to frost. I think you two are familiar with how these situations work." "Yes Princess!" Nervously chirped Starlight. She totally wasn't ready to see him - but she was even more excited with the prospect she'd work once again with him to save the world. "Wait, what about the Pillars of Equestria?" Cut in Rainbow Dash. "Don't worry, Rainbow." Smiled Celestia. "I've asked for their help immediately. Starswirl is actually here. Well...Not that I think you'll have a chance to see him." "Huh? Why's that?" Asked Twilight. "He's deep in his personal library. Iiiiiiiiii...know him long enough to know that means he won't want to go outside for a loooong while." A plan was made. With three unicorns joining them, progress could be made. Research could be done. Twilight had quickly written into the diary, and used a powerful spell to find Tempest and request her arrival. Sunburst was even closer, and would arrive almost in time with the other three. Twilight sat with the human by the mirror. The rest of the girls were enjoying their time in the castle - except for Starlight who was terrified out of her mane that she was winning a game of chess against Princess Luna - this time thankfully using board pieces and not real ponies. Pinkie made an impromptu banquet - which was really just a classic Pinkie-styled party with classier snacks. AJ and RD went exploring the castle, and Rarity had an exciting opportunity to discuss a personal dress design with Celestia. The only pony hard at work was Fluttershy, who was frantically building bird houses for the birds of the castle's garden. "I...Really hope she'll come." Sighed Twilight. "...Why are you unsure, Twilght?" Asked the human with a frown. Nothing bad had happened between the off-screen...right? "When we message each other, the timing sometimes gets...ugh, horrible." Sighed the unicorn. "When I was trying to stop Starlight from causing a time loop that nearly destroyed Equestria, Sunset Shimmer was calling for help against dealing with my human counterpart who was corrupted by Magic and nearly tore the barrier between this world and theirs." "...Yeaaaah, I know. Not an easy situation." "..." "..." "Wait..." Twilight blinked. "You understood...all of that?" The human indeed would've missed everything she said if they didn't love the Friendship Games and its epilogue. "You're just a very good speaker, Twilight." They grinned at her. With a flash, the mirror had suddenly shimmered. Shimmered, and through came Shimmer. Sunset Shimmer. And Shimmer was incoming, prompting both Twilight and the human to dodge as a fiery-coloured unicorn stumbled on her hind-legs and into a pile of books. "U-Uhhhhh..." Groaned the mare underneath a copy of "Warm and Peace" by Leo Coltstoy. "Still can't get used to it, huh?" Giggled Twilight. "That was the first time I ran through portal. Never again..." Groaned Sunset as she removed the famed and overly complex novel off of her face...Only to see Twilight, and...a human. "D-Did I end up on both halves of the portal?" "Nope! I'll tell you later." "Pleased to meet you!" Smiled the human. "Uh...Yeah! Nice to meet you too. Sunset Shimmer." She shook their hand, instinctively nearly grasping it like another hand. *** They walked through the hallways - the human was grinning but trying to hide it - after all they adored Sunset and her character. Sunset thoughtfully asked questions in the meantime. "So wait, you came from a different human world? No Canterlot High? No Equestrian magic? No constant shenanigans caused by said magic falling into the wrong hands?" "Nope. It's...a pretty boring and mundane world - compared to that." Chuckled the human. "I just woke up in the lake, and the rest is history." "...Huh. Now I'm starting to wonder just how mundane that world is. Are you sure it isn't affected by Equestrian magic...?" "I'm sure." Affirmed the human. "...Right...So, how're you finding Equestria?" She awkwardly smiled. "It's great!" Was all that they could say. "Glad you think so! You know, since you're already a human, and since you didn't come from, well, Equestria, you could totally come to CHS sometime! Y'know, without the whole "running into your alternate universe hijinks" that Twilight went through. I probably have my own doppleganger too...Somewhere!" "Heh, I don't think I could stand another copy of myself." "Don't be so self-depricative!" Frowned Twilight. "Sorry!" "Yeah. I think I'll take finding a copy of myself over being evil. Especially being evil once and remembering about those times. Eugh." She shivered. The human suppressed a chuckle of fond memories. "Uh, that being said..." Sunset coughed. "I wouldn't recommend visiting my world at the moment. Nooot just yet anyway." "Wait, why's that?" Twilight interrupted with a frozen look of concern. "Oh, we've just had a really cold couple of days. No idea what's up with it - apparently it's the coldest spring on record. Weird, right?" "W-Wait, you mean...You're having the same problem too!?" Twilight stopped walking and faced Sunset fully. Sunset froze as she looked at Twilight. "...What do you mean "too"...?" The human however felt even worse. Their heart sank. No way. No way was their presence so bad that it was also affecting the CHS world. But...How? Could it be caused by the rift of Equestrian Magic connecting this world and Sunset's? Twilight explained the situation - but left out one important detail. The human felt responsible to tell Sunset. "It's...My fault." They said. "It coincides with my arrival - there's no way it doesn't." Frowned the human, knees shaking and almost buckling. "I...I'm so sorry. I had no idea it affected your world too, Sunset." "..." Sunset was quiet. Not from anger or anything of the like - but the gaze she gave the human was worry. Concern. No wonder - Sunset knew what it felt like to feel guilty. She remembers the looks she got shortly after her "nasty debut" as a she-demon. But she knew that this was worse. Guilt from actions you're responsible for at-least served as a lesson. But to be guilty of something that was out of your hands - the defenselessness must've hurt. "Hey." Sunset took a step forward. "I...Don't know how good I am at reassurance, but I can tell you this much. In-between me as a demon trying to raise an army, a trio of mind-controlling sirens, a magic-mad version of Twilight, a nature-manipulating camp counsellor, a Memory Stone-wielder, a magic-mirror wielding giantess, a girl with a magic phone capable of manipulating space, remnants of some "Storm King's" evil magic, and a duo of musicians able to cause timeloops like something straight outta that movie "Woodchuck Day"..." Sunset wound up all those words to drive her point, and reassuringly nudge the human. "I think in-between all of that, you're the least destructive thing that might be happening to my world. It's nothing a warm coat and a heater can't solve." The human wasn't convinced they were the 'least dangerous' threat, but they smiled. That was enough. Telepathically through unicorn magic, Twilight asked... "You're actually just as concerned as I am, right?" And Telepathically, Sunset responded. "Yeah, I do...But I hope I can calm them down." "That's why you're the Element of Empathy back home, right?" "Heh, at-least that's what it says." "Princess Twilight!" A guard had run up to the three - looking mildly alarmed. "H-Huh? What is it?" Twilight asked, taken back by the state of emergency. "W-We have an intruder! S-She claims she's here to see you!" *** As the three ran, they could hear the sounds of commotion. Though granted, one of the parties involved sounded extremely calm. "Explain how you got into the castle!" Exclaimed a male voice. "...I'd feel more inclined to answer without a spear pointed at my face." Coldly spoke a female voice. Twilight ran faster having identified it, and the other two followed suit. "You were the Lieutenant of the Storm King during his invasion!" Exclaimed a commander. "I remember your face! Do you think you could return to Canterlot and not face justice!?" "I see that not everypony has gotten the memo..." Sighed Tempest. "I guess it serves me right for doing my good deeds away from most ponies. By the way - your spear is dull. Work on your technique." "Your taunting will not work on me, fiend! Besides, what "memo" do you speak of!? You claim you've "appeared" here, but you have most likely snuck in! You do not have an invitation, nor have you been allowed inside by the other guards!" "...I'm serious about the spear thing. Being the commander is no excuse to be lazy, you know. You need to oil the blade and keep it some place dry. Where'd you even learn to take care of your weapon?" "T-That's it! Haul her off to the dun--!" "Tempest!" Twilight exclaimed, running up to her and parting the guards. "E-Everypony, it's okay! She's a friend!" Twilight said, getting between her and the guards. "W-What!? But she just snuck into the castle through the pantry! And I remember her, she led the assault on Canterlot, Princess! She petrified the other Princesses! She's up to no good, she must be--" "Like I said. You missed the memo." Shrugged Tempest, much to the scowling of the commander. "Sir, she's actually the one that helped us stop the Storm King. S-She's been travelling and repairing the damages caused by his reign..." The commander looked at Twilight, and then at the taller unicorn. He sighed and gave Twilight a bow, before calling the guards away, leaving the three and plus one in the privacy of the chamber they were in. Twilight turned to the taller unicorn with a relieved smile. "Tempest! I-I'm so glad to see you, but did you really have to cause a scene?" "Mm. Sorry about that, Twilight." She apologetically bowed her head. "You've told me how urgent things were - I had to use a Relocator Orb and I could only faintly sort Canterlot's coordinates. I appeared in the pantry. On that note - tell somepony it has a rat problem before somepony gets fired." "That's alright...Tempst, I'd like for you too meet somepony. Uh, somepony and someone." She said, stepping aside, and allowing her to see Sunset and the human. Tempest took a step forward - Sunset was smaller and required her to look down, but the human had nearly matched her height. She gave a quick, firm nod. "Nice to meet you. Sunset, right?" "U-Uh, yeah...!" Sunset said, surprised a little at how imposing the unicorn with the broken horn looked. "I've heard about you...I-I mean, in a good way!" "I'm certain. Twilight has told me about you too. Glad to see I'm not the only mare here who has had an..."oopsie" in the past." She softly smiled - but returned to neutrality as she turned to the human. "But you..." Tempest continued. "I've never heard of you." "I'm...new here." Gulped the human slightly. "I'm a human, actually..." "I see. Guess I am pleased to meet you - since you're a friend of Twilight's. I am Tempest Shado--" "Ehem." Came from Twilight. Tempest blinked at Twilight - and assertively kept speaking, much to a grumpy frown from Twilight. "Tempest Shadow." She continued. "You may have heard stories about me. They're true. But they're also in the past - so don't be scared of me. Unless you got a reason." The human grinned. "No reasons at all!" "...Good, then. So, Twilight. I think I know why you've called for me." Tempest turned back to the unicorn. Twilight gulped. "O-Oh no...Considering how far away you travel..." "Exactly. This problem has spread quickly assuming that maybe Ponyville or Canterlot were ground zero. I was all the way in the North when it all happened. At first I thought that maybe the Crystal Heart had failed or something. Again - if what I've heard is true. Guess this means nobody knows what the problem is." "It's even affecting worlds in other universes..." Sunset sighed. "You're just as surprised as I am, Tempest." "Don't worry, Sunset Shimmer." The darker-purple unicorn turned her head to her. "The Storm King and his powers - and the Staff of Sacanas - I've had a front row seat. I can at-least help you all figure out what it isn't." "You know, we've actually had a bit of a run-in with that Storm King you mentioned." Sunset added. "Er, not him. Rather, his magic, and on the other side of a portal mirror." "I'd be interested to hear more, Sunset Shimmer." Grinned Tempest. "Mainly 'cause I wanna hear about the Storm King getting his flank kicked a second time." "You've got it!" Grinned the fiery unicorn. "And you..." She turned to the human. "Tell me about your world. Maybe about its military and the competency of the leaders. I wonder how much time it would need to be taken over by Equestria." "T-Tempest!" Twilight exclaimed. "Never hurts to think about the hypothetical, Twilight." *** The room where the unicorns would plan their next move was a massive study. It put Twilight's own library to shame, with a plethora of magical aperture that would allow the unicorns to maximize their potential in the search. The last to join was another trio - Starlight, Sunburst, and Trixie - who have had a moment to reminisce and happily reunite on their way into the study. Sunburst was in the middle of telling Starlight and Trixie about a new discovery. Starlight was genuinely curious - Trixie listened for support. "So there has been no magical method of repelling Parapsrites other than music - although magic may cause audio frequencies with the potential of reducing their appetite, and thus lowering their population increase in a given area!" "At that point I don't see why not bring out an instrument set..." Starlight chuckled. "It may be of use to settlements where the instrument industry and import is lacking! Furthermore, I--" He had no idea he had walked into something soft and fleshy - something that walked on two feet. The human hadn't realized that Sunburst was heading their way, stumbling as the stallion bumped into them. "O-Oh goodness, I'm so sorry about that, my fellow--..." Sunburst's vision readjusted as they saw the bipedal. He needed a moment - unsure what word to use. "Human." Starlight advised, nudging him softly. "R-Right! Sorry! I've been horribly distracted!" He chuckled. "I-I am Sunburst! M-Maybe you've heard of me? I'm sure you've perhaps seen my name mentioned in several dissertations and studies!" The human chuckled - Sunburst's adorable and at times nervous disposition warmed them. "I'veee only been here for about a few days. I don't think I could really start reading and finish any dissertations and studies by now." "O-oh! That explains much! I...Had no idea! Welcome to Equestria!" "Sunburst, haven't I told you about them?" Starlight quizically raised a brow. "Sorry! You have, you have!" Sunburst blushed. "I just got overwhelmed talking about my latest findings! You know..." As Trixie made herself present, Twilight softly sighed. "...Trixie." "Sparkle." Grinned the magician. "Trixie, I uh..." Twilight struggled to be polite about this. "I'm not sure we...H-How do I put this..." Trixie let out a laugh that almost seemed like something out of her villainous-phase. "Fear not, Twilight Sparkle. The humble, and understanding Trixie knows that she is no expert in the pursuit of mysterious forces - as great and powerful she actually is. But my presence shall inspire you all to work harder, and better!" Twilight could only groan - but she was right. It would ease the burden on Starlight and Sunburst - they'd have another friend by their side. In the meantime, Glimmer had approached Sunset. "Sunset!" Grinned Starlight. "Glimmy!" Beamed Starlight, the two mares coming in close to hug each other...And they froze when they noticed a suspicious gaze from Twilight. They reverted from the hug and had looked to the sides. "I-I mean..." Starlight coughed. "Sunset! I-It's been so long that I've seen you when you came through the mirror! I-I really missed you even though we've seen each other ONLY for two minutes and twenty nice seconds, and I totally didn't follow you back through the mirror!" "O-Oh, uhm..." Sunset hummed. "Uh, y-yeah! I am so glad to see you! Y-You seemed really nice when the only thing you did was give me another diary, and totally didn't do anything else like saving the day!" "Yeaaah, totally, haha...!" Twilight was unable to investigate more as she was approached by Tempest. "I assume this little rendesvouz means we're ready to begin." She spoke. "Give me the Staff of Sacanas. I'll reverse engineer it and additionally see if it can reverse the effects of the anomaly. Without harvesting Alicorn power, of course." "W-Wait, did you say the staff of Sacanas!?" Beamed Sunburst. "Y-You mean the staff that was used by the Storm King to control the sun and moon, as well as cause terrible storms!?" "...Uh..." Tempest looked at Twilight for help. "...Yeah. That one." Sunburst beamed with joy. "O-Oh goodness! No way! Y-You've got to let me take a look! Please? Please please please please!" "...Sorry to burst your bubble - but whether or not I've become..."good" by most ponies' conventions, that doesn't mean I don't work alone--" "Tempest!" Frowned Twilight before Sunburst could possibly cry. "Don't disregard how much knowledge Sunburst has! He really knows a lot! He figured out how to restore the Crystal Heart when it shattered, and he helped release the Pillars of Equestria. Trust me - he knows the ins and outs of magical artifacts and spells! I think he might even find a way to power up the staff if needed!" Tempest looked down on the orange stallion, who sat there with big, teary puppy eyes staring right up at her. Her cold gaze was warmed as indicated by a mere exhale from her nostrils. "...Fine. He can help." "Huraaaaaaaaaaaaay!" The stallion jumped with a big smile. Twilight proudly looked at Tempest and smiled, teleporting the staff from her castle and hoofing it over to the tall unicorn. "Uuuuh, I don't reckon you could teleport another thing here, could you?" Asked Sunset as she approached Twilight. "Whatever you need." Smiled Twilight. "The mirror portal." Insisted Starlight. "I know it's a difficult thing to teleport all the way here, Twilight - but maybe we can study the portal to catch the anomaly as it goes from here and into Sunset's world?" "That's a great idea, girls!" Said Twilight. She concentrated - a rather difficult spell as it was, but much to the surprise of Spike who was dusting up the room in preparation for Ogres and Oubliettes, the mirror portal had disappeared in a flash of purple. At-least he knew this was Twilight's doing, so with a shrug he continued sweeping. "Great!" Sunset stepped closer to it. "I think I got an idea of how it works - we'll just need to tune it without breaking the connection. I still gotta get back home, you know." "And I, the Great and Powerful Trixie, will go get us snacks!" Giggled the magician, running off. Like that, all unicorns save for one had a task to perform. The human felt a bit left out, rubbing their neck as they looked down on Twilight. "Is there...Anything I can do, maybe? I really hate feeling left out..." "...Hrm, maybe one thing." Said Twilight. "There's definitely a link between you and the anomaly. N-No offense. I could study any magic coming off of you, but I can't guarantee it will be conclusive." "Alternatively." Chimed in Tempest as she overheard them. "If Sunburst and I can figure out how to power the staff, we could see what happens were we to drain any magic coming from our bipedal friend, capture it, and analyze it." "Do you really think that would be safe...?" Frowned the alicorn. "As long as they don't depend on magic to live, then no." "Our world is devoid of magic." The human said. "I'm ready for that." "Well you still need to wait. Sunburst, what do you think?" "Using the staff to consume magic won't take anything, but we should fine tune it to their anatomy!" "Agreed. Come here for a second, please." Beckoned Tempest. The human did as told, and was surprised to see her maw open. For a moment the human feared they had done something to offend her and were going to have their face bitten off, but instead, with a "yeowch" from the human, a mere strand of hair was removed with her teeth. "We'll magically analyze this to understand what you're made of." "O-Oh. My...D.N.A.?" Asked the human. Puzzled, Tempest could only shrug. Twilight put a hoof on the human's back, pensive and full of thought. The human turned around to hear her out. "I'm sorry, but the only thing you can do now is wait...M-Maybe spend time with the girls? I'm sure Pinkie would love to see you at the uh...party they're having..." "Are you sure there isn't anything I could do, Twilight...?" Frowned the human. "I'm sorry. At the moment, all you can do is wait. We need time to reach conclusive information that will help us..." With a sigh, the human surrendered and prepared to leave the room. "Just...Call me when I'm needed." "H-Hey..." Twilight stepped forward before they could leave. "...Please, take care of yourself, okay?" "I promise, Twilight." Smiled the human - giving her a warm nod, before leaving the room.