//------------------------------// // Into the Depths Part 3 // Story: PinkieShy // by PatRoison //------------------------------// Morning came, and four ponies woke to the sounds, and smells, of breakfast. “We should have brought food, too,” Cobalt said as he rose to his hooves. The dark blue unicorn fell to the ground when a voice growled, “Stay down. They’re awake and she was looking this way.” Cobalt sighed at Sapphire Flower and asked, “Fine, but why did we have to sleep out here?” She shook her head, “You know why.” “Actually,” another voice said, “We don’t really know why.” Aqua Rain glanced around nervously and added, “Look Sapphire, we’ll back you up. You know that. That’s why, when you told us that these ponies needed to be taken out, I was with you.” She scratched her head with a hoof, “But now, I need to know why you made a beeline to attack that blue one.” “Not just her,” Sapphire Flower said, “All of them.” Her eyes narrowed as the six ponies in the clearing gathered to eat. “She’ll pay for embarrassing me.” --- “Good morning, everypony,” Pinkie Pie shouted as she jumped from her slumber. The smell of pancakes roused her from her sleep easily. Her leap wasn’t as impressive as Fluttershy still slept soundly on top of her. The yellow pony let out a squeak as she was knocked off of Pinkie Pie. She stared at the partly cloudy sky with a hind leg twitching slightly. A smile appeared on her face when Pinkie came into view. “Flutters,” Pinkie said, “You are always coming up with the best ways to wake up. You gotta show me that one.” Pinkie helped Fluttershy get to her hooves, and after a quick nuzzle, the two made their way to Applejack and Twilight. “Good morning,” Fluttershy said, stifling a yawn, “Oh, I’m sorry. I usually don’t sleep in this late.” “I can imagine. You have a pretty comfy blanket,” Applejack said with a grin. She passed a tin plate with a short stack of pancakes to Fluttershy and said, “Don’t you worry none. We got this under control.” Twilight nodded and said, “Right, you can relax. We’ll head out after breakfast, and we should be at the ruins just past noon.” Fluttershy sat down and began to eat her pancakes, but she paused as she saw Pinkie staring at her. “Oh,” Fluttershy squeaked, “I’m sorry, Pinkie. Would you like some of my pancakes?” Pinkie shook her head, “Nope, I just wanted to see how you gobbled them down.” “Oh,” Fluttershy said, “Why?” “For research,” Pinkie shouted, “I want to know how ponies eat, so I can make better treats.” “Oh,” Fluttershy said, again, and asked, “What does my eating tell you?” Pinkie smiled, “Well, you eat nice and slow. That means I can slather all the sauce and stuff on it, and you won’t make a mess.” She pointed a hoof to Rainbow Dash, who had already scarfed down her pancakes. “Dashie eats so fast that I wouldn’t do more than a little powdered sugar.” Rainbow Dash looked up from her plate with a slight look of indignation. “Hey,” she said, “I may eat fast, but I’m not a sloppy eater.” Pinkie stared at her for a moment before smiling. “If you say so, Syrup Face,” she added quickly. Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes and took an offered towel. “Thanks AJ,” she said as she wiped the excess syrup from her face. She ignored the sound of giggling but lowered the towel when she heard Applejack. “Weren’t me, Sugarcube.” Rainbow turned to see Rarity levitating the towel with a big smile. Before Rarity could say anything, Rainbow said, “Not a word.” Rarity giggled into her hoof and deposited the towel into a tub to be washed. “Um, Pinkie,” Fluttershy said, “What can you tell me about the other girls and their pancakes?” Pinkie hopped in place and said, “Well... let’s start with Rarity.” Rarity was about to take a bite from a levitated fork but paused when she heard Pinkie. She flinched when she noticed a drop of syrup fall and hit the tin plate. “Right there,” Pinkie said, “You see how she kinda cringed when that syrup fell from her fork? That tells me that Rarity likes syrup but doesn’t like the mess.” “Well,” Rarity began, “It’s just that I don’t. Um, I mean.” She paused before glaring at Pinkie, “I do not have to justify myself.” Pinkie nodded and said, “You sure don’t. I’m just saying what I’m seeing.” “With Rarity,” Pinkie said as she hugged Fluttershy, “The thicker the better with the sauce. That way, everything is nice and clean.” Rarity smiled and continued to eat. Pinkie then made her way to Twilight. “Sorry, Pinkie,” Twilight said smiling, “I already ate, so you have nothing to work with.” Pinkie grinned, “You think so?” She slammed her face to the ground as she began to study Twilight’s plate. A startled “eep” escaped Fluttershy, but it was missed by the others. After a few moments, Pinkie looked up and smiled, “I got it.” Twilight shook her head and sat down. “Okay,” she said, “Let’s hear it.” Pinkie nodded and said, “Okay, so your plate is clean. Mostly.” “What,” Twilight said as she lifted the plate. Sure enough, a speck of pancake crumb stuck to a tiny bit of syrup. “You’re careful and organized,” Pinkie said, “I bet you even ate them from left to right and down.” Before Twilight could reply, Applejack chimed in, “Now that you mention it, you do eat in a, uh, precise way.” Pinkie nodded, “Yup. She loves math. So, for her, it’s everything in equal parts. Maybe even a golden spiral.” Twilight smiled and asked, “You know about the golden spiral?” Pinkie shook her head, “Not really. I just remember one time that Flutters showed me the spiral on one of her snail friends. She told me the name and said it was some math thing.” “It’s kind of a big deal,” Twilight began, “And I would get into it, but you still need to tell us about AJ.” Applejack set her half-eaten pancakes down and waved at Pinkie. “Well,” she said, “Take a gander and tell me what you think.” Pinkie walked up to her plate and nodded. “Oh, this is easy. There are syrup and apple chunks on here.” She pointed a hoof at Applejack and added, “That tells me she likes syrup but wants her food to be filling. Chunky food means a fuller stomach, and that means she can do more work before she has to eat again.” Applejack looked at her plate and let out an impressed whistle, “I didn’t rightly catch all of what you said, but I do like to spread my meals out and a full stomach is a big help.” Pinkie turned back to Fluttershy and laid down next to her. After a quick nuzzle, she said, “See, you’re all special, and I want to make sure that you have the best treats.” She began tapping her chin with a hoof, “On second thought, Flutters should get the best.” “You girls okay with being number two,” she asked. A combination of giggles, and an eye roll from Rainbow Dash, confirmed the consensus. “You’re number one, Flutters,” Pinkie squealed as she gave Fluttershy a quick kiss on her forehead. “Pinkie,” Fluttershy squeaked out and buried her face into Pinkie’s side. Rainbow tapped Pinkie on the shoulder, “We should get packed up. Don’t forget, we got a job to do.” Fluttershy looked at her friend and nodded, “Of course, I’ll help clean up.” “Nah,” Applejack said, “We got it. Just enjoy yourself.” Before Fluttershy could argue, Applejack added, “And I ain’t taking any lip. You got kindness but I got stubbornness for days.” Fluttershy let out a sigh and smiled, “Thank you.” She looked around, “But please let me know if you need anything, I want to help.” “Don’t worry,” Rainbow said, “I’ll let you know when you can stop being lazy.” Fluttershy nodded, “Then we can switch places.” Silence fell before Rainbow began to chuckle. “You calling me lazy?” Fluttershy shook her head, “Oh, not at all.” She nuzzled Pinkie for added comfort and said, “You work very hard on doing as little as possible.” Rainbow laughed, “Pinkie, stop giving her jokes.” “I didn’t tell her,” Pinkie protested, “My Flutters did that on her own.” Fluttershy looked up at Rainbow and opened her mouth. “Stop,” Rainbow said, “It was a decent enough joke. Don’t apologize.” Fluttershy nodded, “Okay. Sorry.” The girls laughed at Rainbow’s groan. --- They watched the six ponies break camp and begin to head to the far side of the clearing. “Okay,” Cobalt said, “Now what?” The other two turned to Sapphire Flower and waited. She pawed at the ground with a hoof and said, “We follow, and when we get a chance, we take them out.” The group glanced around nervously, each one hoping that somepony would object. Internally, they breathed a sigh of relief when one did. “No,” Aqua Rain said, “Not until you tell us the real reason you’re so eager to hurt them.” She glanced around and smiled as Cobalt spoke up. “She’s right,” he said, “All we had to go with is that these ponies wronged you, and two others were in on it. That they were horrible ponies and that it’d better to get rid of them. From what I’ve actually seen, these ponies are just minding their own business and aren’t bothering anypony. ” He pointed a hoof toward Rarity and Twilight, “What do they have to do with any of this?” Sapphire Flower seethed, her glare moving from one pony to another. She wanted to shout, but she knew better than that. “You have to trust me,” she said, “You know what they are. Just because they’re not being awful right now doesn’t mean they’re nice ponies.” Emerald Lilly shook he head, finally speaking up, “I’m sorry Sapphire Flower, but that’s not good enough. We need more to go with. We’re already wanted for attacking those four. If you want us to go any further, you tell us. If not, we’re gone.” Sapphire Flower felt her blood boil. Her gaze grew more hateful as her friends were defying her. Still, she relented. “If you want to know, fine.” She pointed a hoof toward Rainbow Dash and said, “Because of her.” The other three ponies waited, and when Sapphire Flower didn’t continue, Cobalt asked, “So you have a problem with one pony. You then have us help you hurt another and try to hurt two more. And now, you want us to hurt another two.” He got closer to Sapphire Flower, making certain to keep out of sight, and asked, “Do you hear how crazy this is? What did she do?” Sapphire Flower looked at each of the three ponies in front of her. Each a friend for years. She knew that they would back her up. They committed a crime without question because of her. Her eyes began to lose their rage and soon filled with pained tears. “Fine,” she said, her voice cracking, “I’ll tell you.” With a glance toward the ponies in the clearing, she said, “Because she rejected me.” --- The group entered the forest, but Applejack stopped when she noticed that somepony was missing. She turned back and saw Rainbow Dash staring into the other side of the clearing. “Something wrong, RD,” Applejack asked. “I don’t know,” Rainbow Dash said, “I can’t help but feel that something’s out there.” Applejack looked toward the edge of the clearing where Rainbow Dash was staring and thought she saw some of the leaves move. “I think it might be nothing but the wind, Sugarcube,” she said. Rainbow Dash shook her head, “No way. There’s something out there.” “Or, you're still shook up from the beatin’ we took night before last.” Rainbow lowered her head and said, “ Maybe you’re right. We better keep an eye out though.” Applejack adjusted her hat and said, “Nothing wrong with being careful. We should get going.” Rainbow nodded and followed Applejack back into the forest to join the others, but she paused to glance back into the clearing. “Everything all right back there,” Twilight called out. “Just checking on something,” Applejack called back. She nudged Rainbow Dash with a smile. “We better get going,” Applejack said, “We’re not usually the ones in the rear.” Once the two ponies joined the group, they all began to feel the discomfort of the Everfree Forest. The forest carried its usual oppressive feeling, and it seemed to grow stronger the deeper they traveled. Animals could be heard every now and then, but these animals had no interest in the ponies. In fact, one particular howl caused Fluttershy to press against Pinkie Pie’s side. “Hey, Twi,” Pinkie said. Twilight used her magic to keep a clear path. She didn’t turn back but asked, “Yeah, Pinkie?” “Why is the Everfree Forest so creepy?” Twilight stopped for a moment before she started walking again. “I don’t know,” she said after a while. The group fell silent as they waited for Twilight to elaborate. “Is that it,” Rainbow asked, “You don’t have any ideas?” Twilight let out a chuckle, “Of course I have ideas. And theories. And conspiracies. There’s just so much that we don’t know about the forest.” After walking for another hour or so, Twilight’s magic began to fluctuate. The foliage she kept out of the group's path appeared to resist her. “Let’s stop,” she said before turning to Rarity. “Can you try to use your magic?” Rarity tilted her head but did as she was asked. Her horn began to glow as she saw tried to grasp a leaf from a branch. She winced and rubbed her head near the base of her horn. “Oh dear,” she said, “That was quite unpleasant.” Twilight nodded, “Sorry about that. I’ve been feeling some pretty strong feedback for the last half hour. I just wanted to make sure that it wasn’t just me.” Rarity made her way to Twilight and shook her head. “Twilight Sparkle,” she scolded, “That was one of the most painful experiences I have ever had with magic, and you were dealing with it all this time?” Twilight smiled, “It’s fine. I had grown used to it. The effect was gradual, and it just became a lot stronger right now.” “So, what does that mean,” Applejack asked. Twilight smiled, “That means that we should be near the temple, and that means no more magic.” She gave Fluttershy a comforting smile, “And, I’m sorry, Fluttershy, but you and Pinkie have to keep your distance.” “Where should I be,” Fluttershy asked. Twilight looked down at the ground and closed her eyes. Again, the forest animals made their calls and were not friendly. “I think it’ll be best if you stay near Rarity. If something were to happen, I want Rainbow and Applejack free to take action.” Applejack and Rainbow Dash nodded approvingly. “What about me,” Pinkie asked, giving Fluttershy a comforting nuzzle. Twilight nodded, “Same goes for you, I want you to be able to act quickly should anything happen.” She turned to Rarity, “Is that okay?” Rarity smiled, “Without my magic, I doubt I will be of much help, so I will gladly provide my dear friend comfort.” The group all nodded and continued to walk toward the ruins. Without Twilight’s magic, Applejack and Rainbow Dash took the lead forcing the foliage to the side. Though it felt much longer than it actually was, they found themselves in another clearing. The only difference is that the trees covered it entirely, and only scant sunlight filtered through the canopy. In the center of this clearing sat the temple. It was a large building but not tall. Wide steps led up the pillared entrance, where they couldn’t see deeper for the shadows. The temple had a dome with a hole at the top. “I think that was where I flew out of,” Fluttershy said. “This doesn’t seem like what you described,” Twilight said, awed at the ancient structure. “I’m sorry,” Fluttershy said, “It was a long time ago.” “It sure was,” Pinkie Pie said, giggling. Rainbow Dash turned back and asked, “So, do we go on in, or what?” Twilight nodded and said, “Okay, I say we go in but be careful.” “Hey Twi,” Applejack said, “I have an idea.” The group turned toward the orange pony. “Well,” Applejack said, “You said something about this here place having some kind of system for ponies that weren’t supposed to be here, right?” Twilight nodded, “Yeah, a security system that monitored each unicorn’s unique magical signature.” “Right,” Applejack said, “So how about RD and I take the first look? We don’t use magic, so there shouldn’t be anything to track.” Twilight sat down and gave it a thought. “I don’t know,” she said after a while, “The book Princess Celestia gave me didn’t provide enough information. For all I know, your lack of a unicorn signature could activate the system.” “Maybe,” Rainbow Dash said, “But we’re not going to find out by sitting out here.” Rarity nudged Twilight and said, “I believe they have a point. As long as they’re careful, there should be little harm if they go.” Before Twilight could respond, Applejack said, “Well, not just us two.” She nodded to Fluttershy, “Fluttershy over there should come with us. The ponies here already know her, so it might help with a first impression.” Fluttershy shook with nervous energy and took a careful step forward. She began to paw at the ground. “What is it,” Rainbow asked, “Something bothering you?” Fluttershy looked up and said, “Well, I was thinking about what Twilight said about Pinkie and me. Would it be safe for you and Applejack to be together?” She shrank from Rainbow’s angry glare and whimpered, “I’m sorry. Please don’t be mad at me.” Pinkie Pie jumped in between Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. “Yeah,” Pinkie shouted, “Quit with the dagger eyes already.” Rainbow Dash shook her head and walked around Pinkie. She knelt down and said, “I’m sorry. I’m just getting sick of hearing this.” Fluttershy looked up, “I know. I’m just worried.” The yellow pegasus got to her hooves and hugged Rainbow Dash. “I know you are,” Rainbow Dash said smiling, “You’re never gonna change.” She glanced at Applejack and asked, “Ready to go, lover?” Rainbow accentuated the question with an exaggerated wiggle of her eyebrows causing the orange earth pony to laugh. “Sure am,” Applejack said, “So long as you’re the girl.” Rainbow shook her head, “Whatever. Let’s get going.” Fluttershy gave Pinkie a hug and began to walk to the stairs. Rainbow followed her and Applejack took the rear. She turned back and said, “Don’t you worry none, Pinkie. We’ll keep an eye on her.” “Both eyes,” Rainbow shouted, “If we can.” The remaining ponies sat down and watched as the three walked up the step. Each had worry in their hearts, but one held wonder as well. Twilight marveled at the majesty of the temple. She tried to imagine how many ponies made their way here to study and create the spells that so many took for granted. That was when she noticed something missing. “Girls,” she whispered, “Have you heard any animals?” Rarity shook her head, “Now that you mention it, this forest has grown dreadfully quiet.” “Maybe they don’t like this place,” Pinkie Pie said, rising to her hooves. She began to fidget as Fluttershy got closer to the darkness. Pinkie Pie felt her chest tighten as Fluttershy’s normally vibrant yellow coat darkened as she entered the shade of the temple. The pegasus was still bright, but she was a shade Pinkie Pie didn’t like. “Pinkie,” Rarity said, “Please sit. Fluttershy is in good hooves.” “I know,” Pinkie protested, “But I wanna be by Flutters.” “You’re a good girlfriend,” Twilight Sparkle said, “As long as they stay safe, there should be nothing to worry about.” Pinkie Pie continued to fidget, “But that’s what I’m worried about. Should. That means there’s a chance something could go wrong.” Twilight walked to Pinkie and gave her a hug. “I understand, but life is about uncertainty. There’s always a chance something could go wrong, but we move forward anyway.” She lifted Pinkie’s chin with a hoof and asked, “Imagine if you never threw your great parties because something might go wrong?” Pinkie closed her eyes for a moment before she opened them again. “Flutters is too important. I don’t want any chance of anything going wrong.” “Then simply have her bronzed,” Rarity said, “That way, she’ll always be the same Fluttershy.” “That’s mean,” Pinkie whimpered. “Then stop worrying about what might happen and appreciate what is happening,” Rarity scolded. She pointed a hoof toward Fluttershy. “That pony is doing something that would have taken a great deal of coaxing to even consider doing.” Rarity nudged Pinkie Pie and smiled, “She has you to thank for it.” Pinkie turned back toward Fluttershy and said, “I. I guess. I’m just worried.” Twilight laughed, “It would be a problem if you weren’t. It’ll be okay.” Pinkie laid down on her stomach and watched her girlfriend slowly get further away. --- “Okay,” Rainbow Dash whispered, “Now what?” The three stood before two large wooden doors. Tarnished metal adorned both doors, and glyphs danced across the surface. These glyphs had lost much of their potency over the centuries as they twinkled in and out like stars. “Normally,” Applejack said, “I’d knock, but these sparkly things make me a might nervous.” She turned to Fluttershy and asked, “Any of this look familiar?” Fluttershy shook her head, “No. I’m sorry. The door was open, and I just walked in.” “Hold on,” Rainbow said, “You’re telling us that you walked into an unknown building? Willingly?” “I guess so,” Fluttershy said, but it was closer to a question. She turned back toward Pinkie and added, “I don’t know why I was drawn here. Maybe the ponies were calling me?” “Well, I don’t like it,” Rainbow said, “Did that ghost take control of you?” Fluttershy began to cower, “I. I don’t know.” Applejack gave the shaking pegasus a hug, “Lay off her, Rainbow. She was upset and got lost. I don’t blame her none.” Rainbow Dash sighed, “Fine, but I gotta ask. How did you get here on hoof and get back to Ponyville in a single day?” She waved a hoof to the surrounding foliage, “We had to spend the night, and we just got here. How did you get here? You said that you were wandering the forest.” “Perhaps,” a new voice said, “I might be able to answer that.” --- “Okay,” Cobalt said, “Now we’re lost.” A few rumbling bellies caused him to add, “No. We’re lost and hungry.” The group had stopped using magic an hour ago as the feedback was too strong, and they had to try and force their way through. “This just isn’t worth it,” Aqua Rain said. Sapphire Flower turned to face her and shouted, “Then leave! I don’t care. All of you just leave me here. I’ll get my revenge on my own.” She continued walking following the hoofprints. Aqua Rain began to stop her, but Cobalt just shook his head. “We have to help her,” she whispered. “I know, hon,” Cobalt said, “And we will, but we have to keep things from getting worse.” He glanced back to Emerald Lilly, who wanted to be anywhere else. “It’ll be okay,” he said. “We’re going to jail,” she shouted, “Just because somepony had a silly crush.” Sapphire Flower spun around and stomped toward Emerald Lilly. Once she got nose to nose, she said, “It wasn’t a silly crush. It was more than that, and if you don’t like it, you can just leave.” Emerald Lilly lost her resolve and lowered her gaze. “Fine,” she said, “Let’s just get this over with.” Cobalt nudged her gently, “Don’t worry. We’ll see this through.” He cast his gaze upward and sighed, “Let’s keep going. Eventually, we’ll run into them.” --- Applejack stared slack-jawed at the white orb floating before them. “Hello,” Fluttershy said, “I don’t think I met you.” The ghostly orb floated and said, “That is correct. You were greeted by the little one.” “Little one,” Rainbow Dash asked, “How many of you are here?” “Rainbow,” Fluttershy scolded, “Be nice.” The orb bobbed up and down and said, “That’s all right. There are six here. It would appear that we were the most likely candidates.” “Candidates for what,” Applejack asked, “All we know is that this here place was Princess Luna’s temple.” The orb floated closer to her, “You are aware of the Princess?” “Yes,” Fluttershy said, “We helped free her from Nightmare Moon not too long ago.” The orb bobbed up and down, though more quickly, “That is wonderful news. We have been worried for the Princess for so long.” “She’s doing much better now,” Fluttershy said, “In fact, she asked that we help you.” The orb froze in place and dove toward Fluttershy. She gasped and stepped back as the orb stopped just short of her muzzle. “Help,” the orb asked, “We do not need nor want any help. You delivered us the news of Princess Luna’s return, and for that, I thank you. You have violated this place once, do not do so again.” The orb then flew back into the wall, and the forest grew silent again. “So,” Rainbow said, “Now what?” “I guess we go back and let everypony know what happened,” Applejack said. She glanced back to the door, “Hold on a second.” The two pegasi turned back. “What’s wrong,” Fluttershy asked. Applejack shook her head, “It might be a whole lot of nothing, but I think them sparkles just got a bit brighter.” Rainbow walked closer to the door and nodded, “Yeah, they look brighter. Maybe that ghost turned them on?” Applejack shook her head, “That’d be a Twilight Sparkle question, Sugarcube. Let’s get back.” Soon the three returned to the group, Fluttershy gave Pinkie a nuzzle and a hug and sat down. “So,” Twilight asked, “What happened?” “We met one of the ghosts,” Applejack said. “Kind of a jerk if you ask me,” Rainbow interjected. Fluttershy looked up and said, “I don’t think they were being rude. I just think that they got a little offended.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “Let’s start over. What happened when you got the entrance? Could you see inside?” Applejack shook her head, “Nope. There are two big doors and no windows that we could see. The doors had some sparkly things on them too. The ghost showed up. They got mighty upset when we told them we were here to help. Once the ghost took off, the sparkles got a little brighter.” “They might be protective runes,” Twilight said. “Runes,” Rarity asked, “I thought that was just superstition.” “Well,” Twilight said, “These ruins are ancient, and if the door does have runes on them, it could be a great discovery for magic.” “How come,” Pinkie asked, “You know everything there is to know about magic. How is this special?” Twilight smiled, “Well, magic doesn’t last forever. It eventually expends all of its power and dissipates.” She waved a hoof to the ruins, “These have been sitting here for a thousand years, and who knows how long they were standing before that. If the runes still contain a small bit of power in all that time and can be reactivated easily, that is big news.” “It seems to be a trap,” Rainbow said. “See,” Pinkie shouted as she hopped to her hooves, “Ruins have traps! It's just how things are.” “Be that as it may,” Rarity said, “We still need to get in there and at least try to liberate these ponies.” “But,” Fluttershy said, “They don’t seem to want any help.” “Wrong,” Rarity said, “All you told us was that one spirit got upset. We don’t know what the remaining spirits have to say.” The group fell into an uneasy silence as they each tried to figure out their next step. “I think,” Fluttershy began. The other five ponies turned to her. “I think,” she said, “We should have lunch. That way, we can decide what to do.” Pinkie laughed and nuzzled Fluttershy’s side, “That’s my Flutters. I always do my best thinking on a full stomach.” The rest agreed and got a small campfire going. As Applejack was preparing the lunch, Fluttershy waved Twilight over. “Is something wrong,” Twilight asked. “I don’t know,” Fluttershy said, “There’s something that’s bothering me.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “What is it?” “Well, I don’t know how I got here the first time. We all had a hard time walking here, and all I remember is walking a little bit and finding this place.” Twilight nodded, “You’re right, this is much deeper that to be expected from somepony just wandering around.” “Also, the voice said they would tell me how I got here so fast, but we made them mad.” “Don’t worry about it,” Twilight said, “We’ll figure it out.” She gave Fluttershy a warm smile, “Was there anything else?” Fluttershy began to shake her head but stopped herself. She turned to the ruins and said, “The ghost mentioned a ‘little one’ I think one of the ghosts is a child.” Twilight turned to the ruins, and they lost some of their grandeur. The sight of the ruins now caused her to shiver. “I never thought of that,” she said, “I assumed that all of the ponies were adults.” “I want to free them,” Fluttershy said, “But I don’t think we should force them. If they want to go, we should help them.” “And what if only that one ghost wants to stay,” Twilight asked. “I hope the other ghosts can convince them to leave. I don’t want them to be alone.” Twilight sat down and said, “This might be tougher than we expected, but we’ll see this through. We always do.” Fluttershy caught the change in tone when Twilight said that. “Is something wrong,” Fluttershy asked, “Are you still mad at us for what we said about your research?” “I was never mad,” Twilight said, “Just a little hurt. It’s fine.” “Is it?” Fluttershy moved to look Twilight in the eyes, “Please tell me the truth?” Twilight sighed, “I’m still a little mad, but I understand what you girls were telling me. I’ll get better.” Fluttershy smiled and gave her a hug. “Please don’t stop being you,” she said. Twilight smiled, “I don’t plan on it.” “Soup’s on,” Applejack shouted. “Oh boy,” Pinkie Pie squealed and ran to the campfire, “Soup!” She stopped and looked around eagerly. “Where’s the soup,” she asked. “It’s just an expression,” Applejack said, “And you were a farm pony, so you should know that.” Pinkie sat down and took her plate. “Oh,” she said, “Yeah, I kind of forgot.” She grabbed Fluttershy’s plate and balanced it on her head. Then, with an odd grace, she hopped to her girlfriend and set the plate down. “Let’s eat, and we can get to helping these ponies,” Pinkie said. “Yes,” Fluttershy said. The group ate in silence, and too soon, the meal was finished. “Okay,” Rainbow Dash said, “We ate. Now we have to decide what to do.” Twilight nodded, “Yeah, we can’t leave these ponies trapped here, but we have to be careful of that door.” “Want me to fly in,” Rainbow asked, remembering the hole in the roof. “No,” Twilight said, “I don’t know what that might trigger. For all we know, these spirits were dormant when Fluttershy found the ruins. They might be much more active now.” Applejack stood and stretched. She began to pace for a few moments as she tried to piece together what she wanted to say. “Then,” she said, “I say we go up to the door. Turn off those rune things and just knock. We’ll see who opens up.” Twilight walked toward the ruins and stopped. She turned back to her friends and remembered what Spike said about the strengths of her friends. “Let’s go,” she said, smiling, “We’ll figure it out.” The group left their camping gear behind and climbed the steps to the ruined temple of the Moon Princess. Fluttershy and Rarity followed a fair distance away. “This is incredible,” Twilight said as she stared at the ancient architecture. “These pillars are similar to the ones that adorn the Canerlot courthouse. I wonder if Princess Luna once had a role in the justice system.” “That’s a scary thought,” Rainbow said, “Imagine Nightmare Moon making the laws.” “Rainbow,” Twilight scolded, “I was referring to Princess Luna before she turned into Nightmare Moon.” She shook her head, “But I can see how her corrupted form could be disastrous.” They got closer to the double doors, and the runes danced across them. “Let us not dwell on that,” Rarity said, “Let’s see this problem first.” Once the group stopped at the doors, Twilight examined the runes more closely. “This will be harder than I thought.” “How come,” Applejack asked, “You see something we don’t?” Twilight nodded, “In a sense. You girls mentioned that the runes were ‘sparkling, but I just assumed they were blinking in and out. These aren’t static. They’re moving, and I can’t predict their direction.” “And that,” Rarity added, “means that it’ll be nearly impossible to deactivate the runes.” “That’s right,” Twilight said, “We would need to focus on the rune to dispel its energy. With such chaotic movement, I don’t think I can do it.” The girls turned away from the door, trying, in vain, to think of a new course of action. Rarity walked back to Fluttershy, who smiled at her friend’s return. The five ponies jumped to their hooves and, nearly out of their skin, when they heard somepony pounding on the door. “Hello, in there,” Pinkie shouted in between bouts of pounding on the door, with her face, “Open up and let us in!” “Pinkie,” Twilight shouted, “What’re you doing?” Pinkie smiled, “It was worth a shot.” Before Twilight could scold the pink pony further, the doors began to open. Pinkie began to hop happily as a new orb appeared. This orb, yellow in color, flew lower than the previous orb, and the voice was higher in pitch. “Hi,” the orb said, “You knock funny.” Pinkie lowered herself to the orb’s level and said, “Hi there, I’m Pinkie Pie. It's nice to meet you.” The orb moved up and down quickly and said, “Hi, Pinkie. I’m, um...” The orb froze for a moment before saying, “I don’t remember my name. Been a long time since I thought of it.” As the group stared at the friendly orb, it disappeared. “Okay then,” Rainbow Dash said, “It looks like we’re all set to go in?” Before anypony could make a move, the orb came back. “Well,” it said, “Come on in!” The group shrugged and entered the temple. The air was still and humid. Except for the hole in the ceiling and now the open doors, there was almost no circulation. Within a few moments, they arrived at the main hall. In the center sat the pedestals Fluttershy talked about. Five formed a crescent with a lone pedestal in the center. “This must be where you were,” Twilight said. Fluttershy nodded, “I think so.” She looked up and saw a familiar hole in the ceiling. “That’s where I left,” she said. “I’m sorry about what happened,” the orb said. “You were the first to be here in a long time, and I didn’t want you to leave.” “That’s okay,” Fluttershy said, “How did you do that?” The orbed seemed to move more slowly, as though embarrassed, and said, “Well, I tried to give you a hug, but I only got your ghost.” “Her what,” Rainbow shouted. The orb moved back quickly and said, “I guess that’s not the right word. I guess spirit. I don’t know. I had you in a hug, but your body fell to the floor. I let you go, and then you were off. I’m sorry.” Fluttershy smiled, “I think I understand. I’m not mad at you. In fact, we’re here to help you leave, um, if you want to.” Again, the orb stopped moving, then it began to dart quickly and said, “I don’t think Grannie will like that.” “Boy,” a voice boomed, “What did you do?” The ponies looked around, trying to find the source of the noise, but it seemed to come from everywhere. The white orb that appeared earlier came into view. “You let them in,” it asked the other orb. The white orb flew around each pony before stopping before Twilight. “I see there is one of you with promise,” the orb turned to Rarity, “Is this your servant?” “Absolutely not,” Rarity said with furious indignation, “We are friends.” “It’s true,” Twilight said, “I might have more skill with magic, but Rarity is very skilled in her own way. She can do things that are far above my ability.” The orb didn’t move but said, “If you insist. Then tell me why you brought in laborers?” “Laborers,” Twilight asked. “I think it means us,” Applejack said, pointing a hoof to herself and Pinkie Pie. “Don’t forget, a long time ago, all earth ponies were allowed to do was work the land.” “Right,” Twilight said, “Again, they are not laborers nor servants. They are my friends, and I gladly hold each of them as my equal.” The orb drifted above the ponies before settling back down to Twilight. “I don’t sense deceit in your words. I won’t say that you are lying, only that you sincerely believe your words.” The orb grew brighter and said, “You will be responsible for the actions of your party, but you are welcome within this temple.” “Thank you,” Fluttershy said, “Um, may I ask a question?” “Go ahead,” the orb said. “You said you would tell us how I managed to get here so quickly. Will you still tell us?” The orb floated to Fluttershy, and a strong sense of sadness washed over the group. “You reminded me of her,” the orb said, “Do not ask me to speak of her. The pain is still too fresh.” “I’m sorry,” Fluttershy said, “I promise I won’t ask.” The sadness grew immensely and then began to fade. “Very well,” the orb said. Not a sound could be heard for a few minutes before the orb spoke again, “I felt a presence. Her presence somewhere in the forest. I had forgotten what she looked like, but I knew her energy. I reached out and found you. There was much sadness and regret within you, and I simply opened a portal that brought you to our doorstep.” “That’s why the door was open,” Applejack said, “Y’all already done invited her in.” The orb floated toward Applejack and said, “If you can’t bother speaking properly, keep your ignorant mouth shut.” Applejack took a step back and opened her mouth to respond. “What the hay is wrong with you,” Rainbow Dash shouted, “Just who do you think you are talking to my friend like that?” She got uncomfortably close to the orb, “In case you haven’t noticed. You’re dead. We’re not. You’re stuck here, and we’re trying to help you. Lose the attitude already.” The orb began to glow brightly when a new voice joined the group. “Oh, Grannie,” the new voice said, “When will you learn to be more gracious?” A pale red orb rose from the floor and gently bumped into the yellow orb. The girls realized the yellow orb was vibrating like a scared child. “He’ll be all right,” the red orb said, “Grannie just gets into her moods once in a while.” This orb floated around the group and stopped before Rarity. “It’s a pleasure,” Rarity said. The orb bobbed up and down, “The pleasure is mine. I sense your energy. Are you perhaps a candidate?” Grannie, the white orb, shot toward the red orb. “There are no other candidates,” she shouted, “It was just us and only us.” The red orb floated behind Rarity’s head and asked, “Then, care to explain how this pony shares a similar energy to myself?” “A coincidence,” Grannie said, “Nothing more.” “Really,” the red orb asked, “Then why did you invite the pegasus then? You don’t believe in coincidences.” “Excuse me,” Twilight asked, “If by candidates, do you mean the Elements of Harmony?” The yellow orb began to bob up and down quickly. “Yeah,” the orb said, “I’m supposed to be happiness or something.” The red orb giggled, “Laughter, dear. And you are certainly good at it.” “And whom are you supposed to be,” Rarity asked the red orb, “If we share energy, then would it be fair to assume that you represent the Element of Generosity?” “I am, or was, nothing more than a candidate,” the red orb said, “But yes, it appeared that I was closest aligned to the Element of Generosity.” “Okay,” Twilight said, “And if the one that, um, Grannie doesn’t want to speak about had an energy that matched Fluttershy, that would mean the Element of Kindness. That means there are still the Elements of Loyalty and Honesty remaining.” She turned to Grannie and asked, “Are they nearby, and may I assume that you were the candidate for the Element of Magic?” Grannie bobbed up and down in agreement, “That is correct. Those two are currently occupied.” The yellow orb began darting around the group excitedly, and Pinkie chased him. “This is fun,” she shouted. Before Twilight could scold Pinkie, the red orb floated before her. “Please allow him his fun,” she asked, “He’s been so lonely, and we’re not much for playing anymore.” Twilight nodded and shouted to Pinkie, “Be careful.” “I will,” Pinkie shouted back and promptly tripped on a rock. Boy floated to her quickly, and both burst into giggles. “They’ll be fine,” the red orb said. The orb flew close to the other ponies, paused for a moment at each, and then returned to Twilight. “May I impose a question,” the orb asked. “Certainly,” Twilight said. “Are you all candidates?” Twilight shook her head, “No, we each actually hold the Elements of Harmony.” This clearly incensed Grannie as she instantly grew so bright that she almost became blinding. “I refuse to accept this,” she shouted, “First, you invade our home because a fool opened the door. Again! And now you mean to tell me that there are ponies other than unicorns are candidates?” “Please calm down,” Twilight said, “I don’t understand why you’re so angry.” Grannie began to vibrate and then dove into the floor. The red orb floated to Twilight and said, “I’m not sure how things have changed over the centuries, but telling somepony to ‘calm down’ is certain to make them angrier.” Boy floated over to the red orb and rubbed against it gently. “Don’t you worry,” the red orb said, “You know how she gets.” Twilight sat down next to Boy and asked, “What did she mean when she said the door was opened again?” Boy floated behind the red orb and was silent. “It’s all right,” the red orb said, “You didn’t know any better.” “I should have,” Boy shouted, “I should have known they weren’t friendly ponies.” The red orb rubbed against Boy the same way a mother would comfort a child and said, “Well, none of us had any idea of what happened.” “And what did happen,” Rainbow Dash asked, “Is that how you all died?” “Such brashness,” the red orb said, “I take it you bear the Element of Honesty?” “Uh, no ma’am,” Applejack said, “That’d be me. That there’s Rainbow Dash, and she holds the Element of Loyalty.” The orb bobbed up and down, “I see. I do apologize. You see, you bear a resemblance to our candidate of the Element of Honesty.” Rainbow Dash shook her head, “Don’t worry about it, but I wanna know. What happened when the door was opened the first time?” “Well,” the red orb said, “We weren’t accustomed to visitors, so you can imagine our surprise when we heard pounding on the doors.” Boy bobbed up and down, “Yeah, it was just like when Pinkie Pie knocked. I thought that if they were pounding that hard, it must be important.” “Do you remember anything after that,” Twilight asked. “No,” Boy said, “It’s dark for a while, and then I remember floating around here.” The red orb bobbed up and down and added, “That would be the same for each of us. Our last memory is a large group of ponies storming the temple and then nothing.” The group fell silent, and the still air of the temple grew more stifling. “We never gave it much thought,” the red orb said after a while, “Because the outcome was obvious.” “What happened,” Pinkie asked as she tried to hop about. Her movement was limited by Fluttershy holding her in place. “Well, we died,” the red orb said, “I thought that was obvious.” “Oh,” Pinkie Pie said, “Sorry, I’m slow, but I get there.” Fluttershy nuzzled and said, “It’s okay Pinkie. It's just natural for you not to assume the worst.” Pinkie nuzzled her back and looked up when she heard a loud gasp. “When did you two get close to each other,” Twilight shouted, “I can’t believe we forgot about the security system!” “The what,” Boy asked. “Well,” Rarity said, “I can’t think of a better source of information than the fellow residents before us.” Twilight took a deep breath and said, “I’m sorry for the outburst, but we received information that there was a security measure to keep the ponies here honest.” Boy floated closer to the red orb and asked, “What is she talking about?” “Something that you never had a chance to worry about,” the red orb said. “Those measures that you mention were only activated when needed and only by the master of the temple or the candidate for the Element of Magic.” The red orb floated to Pinkie and Fluttershy and added, “As for these two, their affection is pure. There is no cause for concern.” It floated around the two and said, “Also, the measures are for unicorns, so they wouldn’t apply to these two.” Twilight sat down and whispered, “So it was a waste of time.” “What was that,” Rarity asked. “It was all a waste of time,” Twilight shouted as she jumped to her hooves. “I spent hours pouring over books, scrolls, and parchments. It was pointless. Why do I even bother?” The group of friends watched as Twilight fell and began to cry. “It’s okay,” Fluttershy said, “It wasn’t a waste of time.” Twilight looked up and asked, “How can you say that? You heard her. The measures are for unicorns only.” Fluttershy sat down and smiled, “And how were you supposed to know that? Even the Princess didn’t know that.” She nuzzled Twilight gently and added, “Besides, you knew exactly what was going on with the door. You must have discovered that in your research in the past, right?” “Yeah,” Twilight said, “And Pinkie just bypassed it by pounding on the door. With her face!” Fluttershy helped Twilight to her hooves and asked, “That would be a good question to ask if somepony were interested in research.” Twilight wiped her eyes and laughed, “Thanks, Fluttershy.” She walked to the red orb and said, “I apologize for making a scene. It’s... Well, it’s not important.” “I understand,” the red orb said, “But I do hope that you discuss this with your friends. Unless such explosive emotions are normal for you, it won’t bode well for you to keep these feelings to yourself.” Twilight took a deep breath and said, “I agree, but first, I am curious about the door. What was the purpose of the runes?” The red orb floated toward the doors and paused for a moment before returning to the group. “I don’t remember,” the red orb said, “I do know that they were designed to only allow candidates entry.” Twilight nodded, “That must be why they didn’t react when Pinkie knocked on the door.” “With her face,” Boy giggled. Pinkie shrugged and said, “It’s what I do.” The red orb bobbed up and down and said, “I could be mistaken, but I believe that the runes accepted Pinkie Pie as a candidate, even if she actually bears one of the Elements of Harmony.” Twilight nodded, “That makes sense.” She walked to the podiums and shook her head. “There’s so much to study here,” she said, “But we are here on important business.” The red orb floated to Twilight and said, “You speak of our liberation.” Twilight nodded. “That might be a problem,” the red orb said. The rest of the group joined the two and gasped as the five pedestals began to glow. “We should move away,” the red orb said. Twilight began to ask why but thought better of it. “She’s right,” she said, “Let’s move back.” The girls walked away, and the pedestals dimmed. “What happened,” Twilight asked. “It would appear,” the red orb said, “That the pedestals still remember their purpose.” The red orb floated around the room, seemingly gathering her thoughts before coming back down, and said, “Perhaps, I should provide some context as to the purpose of the pedestals.” All six ponies sat down, and Boy floated next to Pinkie Pie. “I really like story time,” he said. Pinkie giggled, “Me too.” The red orb was silent for a moment and then spoke. “From what I understand, you six freed our beloved Princess Luna from her corrupted form.” The six ponies nodded. “That’s wonderful to hear. It would seem that Princess Celestia’s plan worked.” “And what plan was that,” Twilight asked. “To purge the corrupted energy from Nightmare Moon and return Princess Luna to her former self.” Twilight nodded, “That seemed to be the plan, but we didn’t know it at the time.” The red orb bobbed up and down and said, “Both the Sun and Moon temples worked to deal with the Nightmare Moon problem, but we had different approaches.” She waited for a possible interruption, and when nopony did, she continued. “Where the Sun temple sought to cure Princess Luna, in a sense, we felt that she was too far gone.” Fluttershy felt her chest tighten and pressed closer to Pinkie Pie. “Shh,” Pinkie said, “It’s okay. It’s just a story.” The red orb bobbed up and down, “That’s true. It is only a story. Now, if you would look at the pedestals.” When the ponies gazed on the six pedestals, the red orb said, “Our goal was to use the Elements of Harmony to combat Nightmare Moon directly.” “So, your plan was to destroy Nightmare Moon,” Twilight asked, “That’s horrible.” “I can understand how you feel, but please see it from our perspective.” The orb moved towards Boy and said, “Princess Luna visited the temple often. Boy here played with her, and she would often sneak him treats when she knew he was punished.” “Princess Luna was so nice,” Boy said. He rubbed against Pinkie and asked, “Is she still nice?” “She’s learning,” Fluttershy said, “She still has to adjust, but I know she will be happy again.” The red orb floated back to her original position, “That’s wonderful to hear. Our Princess was so dear to us that to see her suffer. To see the suffering she spread. It was too much to bear.” “We feared that if she were cured, the realization of what she wrought would be too much for her.” “So you decided that it would be best to just fight her,” Rainbow Dash said incredulously, “Some gratitude. You don’t care about her at all!” The orb grew brighter and flew towards Rainbow Dash. “Hold your tongue,” she shouted, “I love my Princess. This was not a decision made lightly nor in haste. A pony like you would never understand.” “What’s that supposed to mean,” Rainbow asked. “You know what I mean,” the red orb said, “I witnessed your behavior. Only acting without taking a moment of consideration for the possible ripples that it could cause. You may be loyal, but you are reckless. That recklessness will bring you sorrow if you are not careful.” Applejack stepped between pony and ghost. “Easy there, RD,” Applejack said, “I don’t think she’s telling lies, and we do tend to get a bit headstrong.” Rainbow Dash looked Applejack in the eyes and nodded. “I guess you have a point,” she said, “I just don’t see how your plan would work.” The red orb bobbed and said, “I’m not certain. Don’t forget that we need to bear the Elements of Harmony. That means that we would have to be worthy of them. There was a possibility that some Bearers came from the Sun Temple and some from this temple. It was a possibility that we accepted but didn’t care for.” “Because that would mean neither group’s plan would be used,” Twilight Sparkle said. “Yes,” the red orb said, “Undoubtedly, there would be much discussion, and a possible compromise met, but I suppose it doesn’t matter to dwell on such matters.” “Why not,” Boy asked, “This is interesting.” “Because our Princess has been freed,” the red orb said, “The task assigned to us has been fulfilled.” “And now we wish to help you move one,” Rarity said. She turned toward the pedestals and asked, “How much magic still dwells with those pedestals?” “Not much, but enough,” the red orb said. Rarity smiled, “I suppose that would be a question better suited to Grannie.” The red orb bobbed up and down in agreement and said, “This is true, and please, do not bear ill feelings towards her. This task was to be her final act before we were attacked.” Twilight studied the pedestals and asked, How would it be fatal?” “Fatal only to me,” Grannie said, rising from the floor. Twilight spun around and said, “Grannie! Please allow me to apologize. I was out of line.” “No,” Grannie said, “I was wrong to behave in such a way. Now I think it would be best if I were to answer your questions.” Grannie moved toward the pedestals and said, “Each Bearer would take their position and focus all their energy on me. I would then focus on the Elements of Harmony, as well as my own Element of Magic, to complete the spell.” Twilight walked toward Grannie but stopped when she felt a leg on her chest. Rarity shook her head. “Right,” Twilight said, “What was the purpose of the spell?” In an instant, Twilight realized the intent. “The spell was made to change you,” she said. Grannie bobbed up and down, “Exactly. I knew you had promise. The spell would turn me into a being that could match the power of the Princesses. The hope was to draw Nightmare Moon away and subdue her.” “Even if that meant putting her down,” Applejack asked. Grannie bobbed up and down again and said, “That was the duty that I swore by. I was prepared to betray the very oath I swore to free my Princess from her suffering.” “Thank you, Grannie,” Twilight said, “I see there is still so much about the Elements that we need to learn.” “Unless you manage to gain immortality,” Grannie said, “There’s more to learn that you could fit in your lifetime.” She floated to Twilight and said, “Don’t make my mistake. Live your life. You do not have to be the one to unravel all of the mysteries of the world.” Twilight smiled as she teared up, “I’m beginning to learn that lesson, and I’m trying.” “That is good,” Grannie said. Rarity walked forward and said, “Now, I fear that we have dawdled far too long from our task.” She gave Grannie a comforting smile, “We come directly from both of the Princesses. Princess Luna wishes that you be freed.” Grannie fell silent for a moment and said, “I understand. I promise to not trouble you, but you must understand that I cannot leave.” “But you shouldn’t be alone,” Fluttershy said, “If all of the other ghosts leave, it’ll just be you.” “Not just me,” Grannie said, “She’ll be here as well. What’s left of her at least.” Rarity took a careful step forward and asked, “Is that the one you didn’t wish to speak of?” Grannie bobbed up and down, “Yes, she was dear to me. I don’t wish to tarnish her memory with bitterness.” “Then, if you will not be truly alone,” Twilight said, “Would you object if the others leave?” The red orb floated to Twilight, “I’m afraid it’s not quite that simple. You see, the way our current situation works, either we all leave, or none of us do.” Twilight sat down and asked, “And what was the cause of your situation?” Grannie floated toward the rear of the temple. A light appeared, and soon a tunnel opened. Torches, unlit for centuries, sprang to life, and everypony could see the tunnel head downward. “Down there,” Grannie said, “You will find the candidates for the Elements of Honesty and Loyalty. They have been trying to bring her back to us.” “The candidate for the Element of Kindness,” Twilight asked as they walked toward Grannie. When she arrived, she peered into the tunnel. There was no indication of how deep the stairway went, but it seemed that this would be their next destination. “I’m sorry,” Twilight said, “I don’t mean to cause you pain, but who was she?” Grannie dimmed slightly before saying, “She was my daughter.” Fluttershy let out a soft gasp at the news and ran to Grannie. “I’m so sorry,” she said, “That must be awfully hard for you.” “I’ve long grown used to her, our, deaths. She fell into a deep despair, and we haven’t heard from her in so long.” Grannie brightened and said, “If you can help her return to us, I promise you that I will offer no resistance and gladly leave this home of ours.” She then floated back to the other two orbs and said, “All of this has made me weary. We shall go for now. Please return with news. Either good or ill will be welcomed.” The three orbs disappeared, and the six ponies remained in the disconcerting silence of the long-dead temple. The only sounds were the occasional tree when the winds blew through them, animals having long abandoned this place. “Well,” Twilight said, “I guess we know our next task. Let’s see if these ghosts are friendly.” Each pony gave a nod, Fluttershy being slower than the rest, and began to walk single file down the staircase.