//------------------------------// // Chapter VI - Wild Accusations // Story: Repercussions // by GaryOak //------------------------------// Chapter VI Wild Accusations =============== A deafening explosion jolted Twilight awake. Her eyes shot open and she called out to Greyhoof in panic, but when her gaze fell upon the guest bed, she found it empty. She tried to take a steadying breath, but the suffocating smell of smoke made her gag and splutter. Looking downstairs, Twilight cried out in alarm when she saw the entire ground floor in flames which were beginning to make their way up the stairs toward her. Unsure of whether she could fight the flames, Twilight turned tail and galloped toward the only available escape route: the bedroom window. Blasting it to smithereens, she leapt out as far as she could, and not a moment too soon; she had scarcely cleared the window when a gout of flame billowed out in hot pursuit. Landing hard on her back leg, she heard a loud crack accompanied by a sharp burst of pain. Twilight grunted as her leg gave out beneath her. Desperately trying to get up, she cried out as her leg refused to cooperate. Wincing through tears, she looked back at the library. Twilight could do nothing but watch as her home was entirely engulfed by the inferno. The library was far from the only structure ablaze; the entirety of Ponyville was being mercilessly consumed by hungry flames. Gritting her teeth, Twilight used her three good hooves to limp away from the burning town. “Let me help you!” The voice came from a lavender pegasus with an amber and yellow mane. “Grab my hoof!” Cloud Kicker swooped down to carry Twilight off to safety, but a split second before Twilight's hoof made contact with her own, an inexplicably solid wisp of dark purple smoke swatted her away like a fly. Twilight kicked the dirt with her good hoof when she saw the smoke coalesce into the dark mare. Only this time, it seemed larger and of greater density. “How quaint...” mocked the dark mare, advancing on Cloud Kicker. “You thought you could escape me, Cloud Kicker, or perhaps you thought that Twilight could save you...” Cloud Kicker struggled to pick herself back up, the blow she had received appearing to have done serious damage. “T-Twilight... what is that thing?” Each of her words was permeated with terror. Twilight's coat was matted with sweat. Whether it was from the heat of the inferno or sheer panic, she could not say. “Run!” she screamed. “Run away as fast as you can!” Cloud Kicker didn't need telling twice. She flared her wings and took off in the opposite direction from the dark mare at a speed that would have made even the Wonderbolts turn their heads. She might as well have laid down and allowed her attacker to take her, for all the good it did. Within seconds she found her path blocked by the creature, who had galloped on thin air at an impossible velocity. Twilight felt an icy fist clench around her heart when she realized what was about to happen. “NO!” she shouted. “I won't let you take her too!” Her entire body surged with power as magenta pulsed around her like an aura. Uttering one last, valiant battle cry, Twilight blasted the dark mare with everything she had. The immense burst of magic struck home, causing a blinding flash of light that forced Twilight to throw a hoof in front of her eyes to shield them from its intensity. When the blast cleared and Twilight could see again, she slumped back in despair. Although she had put enough power into her attack to give even a mighty ursa pause, it failed to leave so much as a dent in the vapour that comprised the mare. Loosing a mirthless chuckle, the mare wrapped itself around Cloud Kicker, who struggled futilely against it. Cloud Kicker's feeble screams were muffled as the dark mare dispersed itself into vapour and enveloped her completely. Suddenly, Cloud Kicker fell silent and Twilight heard a loud crack. Cloud Kicker fell to earth lifelessly, her neck visibly broken. Twilight looked at the body in the distance, where it had landed in a crumpled and broken heap. “What is happening? Why are you doing this?” she sobbed. The dark shape reformed itself in front of Twilight, balefully regarding her through its nonexistent eyes. “For somepony who possesses as much raw ability as you, you are powerless...” “Enough of your riddles! Enough of your games!” Twilight attempted to grasp the shape with her magic in hopes of strangling it, but it felt as if she were grasping at thin air. “Games?” chuckled the dark mare. “This is far beyond the boundaries of a simple game, young filly. This is a warning.” “A warning about what?” demanded Twilight through gritted teeth. The sound of collapsing buildings could be heard in the distance as the fire consumed their partitions. “One would think that somepony as clever as you could figure it out!” snipped the creature. “I do not exist.” “Finally, something we agree on,” quipped Twilight. “Now, get out of my head and leave me alone.” The mare chuckled. “Although I may not exist, I am a manifestation of past, present, and future. I cannot be destroyed. Only the demise of the evil one can bring about my end.” The dark mare raised a hoof, as if it was preparing to stomp on its defeated foe. “You can choose to deny it all you want, but until you embrace your fate, those around you shall die, one by one, until somepony you hold dear is taken from you!” Twilight's eyes widened. “Somepony I hold dear? Who? What am I supposed to do? What do you want from me?” she screamed out her last question in rage and confusion. “That would ruin the surprise, wouldn't it now?” mocked the dark mare. “Your potential is the key, Twilight. Only you can vanquish the evil one...” Before Twilight could utter another word, the mare brought its hoof down on her skull. Normally, such a blow would've crushed it like a watermelon under a cartwheel. Instead, Twilight felt a splitting pain in her head, accompanied by a blinding white light and the dark mare's eerie laughter. When the light faded, the laughter went with it. Twilight suddenly felt the familiar comfort of her bedsheets and mattress, as well as the absence of the pain in her leg. She opened her eyes and noticed several things at once. She was in the library, a pleasant mid-morning day shone through the window, and Greyhoof was still curled up in a ball, sleeping deeply on the guest bed. Sitting up, Twilight took several deep breaths as she went over what she just saw. Twist, then Holly Dash, and now Cloud Kicker... I can even feel pain – real pain in my dreams. Just how real are these? She felt a chill ripple through her body. Does this mean that Cloud Kicker will go missing as well? Even if it is true, who would possibly believe me? What if they think I'm the pony doing this? They'll really think I've finally lost it... Twilight swung out of bed and softly trotted down the stairs, taking care not to wake the slumbering Greyhoof. When she reached the library's ground floor, Twilight slumped backward, her latest dream weighing her down like an anchor. What can I do? Maybe my friends will believe me, but how do I convince the entire town that Cloud Kicker's in danger? She looked around the bookshelves aimlessly. Then it came to her. Greyhoof said he'd heard stories of magical dreams! Maybe one of my books in the basement has the answer! I'm getting to the bottom of this. Twilight flung the door open and galloped down the stairs with renewed vigour. In a matter of seconds, Twilight surrounded herself with a whirlwind of books that she stripped from their shelves. As soon as she settled on a promising volume, she dropped the others in a scattered mess and began delving through with a vengeance. None of its pages contained any useful information, so she set the book aside and grabbed another, refusing to be discouraged. The stack of books at her side grew higher and higher as she tore through them. “Ah-ha!” shouted Twilight triumphantly as her gaze fell upon a page that outlined magical dreams in great detail. “Oh no...” she muttered as she read through the pages. The information she gleaned was contradictory and unreliable. “I should've known that the study on this sort of thing was a bunch of incomplete nonsense.” She was about to drop the book in defeat when a paragraph at the bottom corner of a page caught her eye. “Hello, what's this?” Twilight scanned it carefully and began to smile. “It's unreliable like the rest of the stuff written here, but it may work. And I know just the pony who can help me.” Nodding to herself, Twilight trotted up the stairs, the book floating beside her. She even found herself humming a merry tune as she ascended the steps. The prospect of being finally free from nightmares was quite uplifting. “Good morning, Twilight. Did you sleep well?” Greyhoof tossed her a smile as he ambled down the stairs. “No.” Twilight shook her head, “but I did get some healthy research done while you were sleeping the morning away.” The tips of Greyhoof's ears reddened. “What happened? What did you find?” he asked Twilight, his tone going from casual to serious in a heartbeat. “Well, I had another nightmare. A pegasus pony named Cloud Kicker was murdered.” Twilight looked at him grimly. “If my last two dreams were any indication, that means that who or whatever is out there will be going after her next.” “Do you remember anything else about the dream?” pressed Greyhoof. “It could possibly be even more important than the victims.” Twilight shivered involuntarily. She remembered the dark mare's threat that she would soon lose somepony close to her. For reasons she could not explain, she chose to withhold this particular piece of information from Greyhoof for the time being. “Yes. Each time I have one of those dreams... that mare made out of dark purple smoke that I told you about gets more powerful. This time, I attacked her with everything I had, but it didn't even slow her. She keeps saying I can prevent this from happening if I use my true potential to destroy this 'evil one' she keeps talking about. I – I don't understand.” Twilight let a drawn-out sigh. “Ponyville being burned to the ground in each and every dream isn't exactly helping matters.” Greyhoof's brow furrowed, his ears flattening themselves against his head. “That is... curious, to say the least. I have no doubt that the 'evil one' being referred to is the ponynapper... or the murderer. I cannot imagine where Ponyville's destruction fits into all of this. Is this evil one's ultimate goal to destroy Ponyville?” “I don't know. The way the mare was talking, I think what's happening isn't this evil one's work, at least not directly.” Twilight raised a hoof to her muzzle. “Perhaps...” she said slowly, “these disappearances are only happening at the evil one's command. If I understand what the mare was saying, once I destroy the evil one, all of this will stop.” Greyhoof laughed mirthlessly. “Great – all you have to do is find out who the evil one is and destroy it. Simple, right?” Twilight frowned. “Therein lies the problem.” Her face suddenly brightened, her frown being washed away by a broad smile. “Princess Celestia! She'll know what to do!” She galloped around the library happily. “I can't believe I didn't think of this sooner! Now, where did Spike get off to?” Greyhoof grinned sheepishly, his hooves shifting from side to side uneasily. “Um... I guess he's still out.” “Huh?” Twilight's face had confusion written all over it. “I never sent him on an errand.” Greyhoof cleared his throat nervously. “I did.” Twilight eyed him suspiciously. “Greyhoof? What did you do?” Greyhoof guiltily avoided her gaze. “You see, I woke up in the middle of the night and discovered that I had skipped dinner, so...” “So?” demanded Twilight. Greyhoof backpedaled. “Let's just say that your kitchen isn't exactly well-supplied right now...” Twilight facehoofed and groaned. “You didn't wake him up, did you?” Greyhoof quickly shook his head. “Oh, no. I left him a note explaining what happened. If he's not here, I'd imagine he's shopping right now. He should be back soon.” Twilight sighed. “Well, I may as well write the letter now and have Spike send it as soon as he returns. And since we're out of food, I guess we'd better go to Sugarcube Corner or something and grab a bite to eat.” “Good plan.” Greyhoof nodded. “So, why do you need Spike to send letters, anyway?” Twilight grabbed a scroll of parchment, a quill, and a bottle of ink. “Oh, it's quite simple, really. Spike has magical dragon breath that sends and receives letters from the Princess instantly.” “I thought as much,” said Greyhoof. “I have heard of such a method before, and being her personal protege, such a method of communication seems fitting.” “Exactly.” Twilight began to write with haste, the quill strokes not up to her usual standard. Dear Princess Celestia, This may come as a great shock to you, but things are not well in Ponyville. I've been having a series of vivid and troubling dreams for the past few days. The first was me on a mountaintop on the day that you took me as your student. The next dreams each depicted a Ponyvillian being murdered: first, a young filly named Twist, then a unicorn called Holly Dash. The scary part is, both of those ponies disappeared recently. Last night, I had another dream in which the pegasus Cloud Kicker met a similar fate, and I fear the worst. In each dream, Ponyville was also burning. A dark cloud of purple smoke has been warning me of the presence of an 'evil one' that is responsible for the horrors in my visions. It has told me that only my full potential is capable of destroying it. Each time I see it, the dark cloud grows more powerful. Now it appears in the shape of a fully grown mare and it seems to be impervious to anything I can throw at it. Do you know what these dreams, mean? What can I do? Please, Princess, I have nowhere else to turn. I can't put my friends lives or the whole of Ponyville in danger any longer. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Satisfied, Twilight rolled up the scroll and set it on a desk. She quickly scribbled a note that read “Spike, please send this scroll to the Princess ASAP. Twilight.” Taking the book she had brought from the basement, Twilight opened it to the relevant page and laid it beside Greyhoof. “I need your help with something.” Greyhoof's eyes flicked to the scroll before returning to Twilight, his expression more serious than was usual for him. “It has to do with the dreams, doesn't it?” He glanced at the open book next to him. “So it does. What did you find?” Twilight's face fell as the momentary relief she'd experienced from the act of writing about her troubles faded away, replaced by the dread she'd almost grown accustomed to. “Nothing at all conclusive,” she said dejectedly. “However... there is something...” As he leaned closer to Twilight, Greyhoof's eyes continuously darted between her and the book. “What? What did you find?” he asked again, his tone earnest. “If you look at the bottom of the page, there is a spell that should help free me from the nightmares.” Twilight indicated the passage she was referring to. “The only catch is, I can't perform this spell on myself. I need somepony who's magically gifted to do it.” Greyhoof offered Twilight a smug look. “Say no more.” He focused intently on the section Twilight had indicated, muttering to himself. Nearly a minute later, he looked up at her and nodded solemnly. “This is unlike any spell I've seen before, but it looks simple enough nonetheless. Now, close your eyes and try to relax. I'm honestly not sure what will happen, but if all goes well, your subconscious should be shielded from further troubling visions.” He paused for a moment. “I must ask, is this truly a good idea?” Twilight blanched. “What in Equestria do you mean? Of course it's a good idea! These dreams... they hurt me, Greyhoof.” Greyhoof inched closer to Twilight, his gaze blazing. “Your dreams may be providing you foresight on what's about to happen. If we work quickly, we may be able to save Cloud Kicker if she's really in danger. They may eventually even lead us to the one responsible for this whole ordeal. Are you absolutely sure that this procedure is wise? We could potentially be throwing away our only chance at stopping this before it gets out of control.” Twilight felt Greyhoof's eyes burning a hole straight through her conscience, but she refused to back down. “I'd never thought of it that way, but you forget one important factor: Princess Celestia. The moment she gets my letter, she'll be over here and will put a stop to this herself. Trust me, the Princess has always cared deeply for each and every pony under her rule.” She craned her neck to bring her eyes level with his. “I want you to try. Please. Knowing what will happen only makes me feel helpless when I can't prevent it.” Closing his eyes, Greyhoof exhaled slowly. “Very well.” His horn began to shimmer. “Remember, close your eyes and clear your mind. I hope this isn't too unpleasant.” Twilight rested a hoof on Greyhoof's shoulder. “I have complete confidence in you.” She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “I'm ready.” Greyhoof brought the tip of his horn to Twilight's head, lightly making contact. “Get ready,” he muttered. Twilight's whole body shivered when Greyhoof's horn touched her. Ripples of magic began pulsing from it, slowly enveloping her. Within seconds, it formed a sort of tight bubble around her head. The sensation was somewhat pleasant at first, but it quickly turned into a migraine as the bubble suddenly began contracting. It took all of her willpower to not open her eyes and scream in pain. After what felt like an eternity, the magic stopped its contraction and focused on a small spot deep inside her skull. All of the visions Twilight had seen in her nightmares began flickering in her mind's eye, and with each passing second, the scenes before her faded into darkness. Once the surreal slide show had ceased, the pain faded along with it. “There...” said Greyhoof, sounding slightly winded. “How do you feel?” Twilight rubbed her head. “I – I don't know. I hope it worked.” “Time will tell,” mused Greyhoof. “Now if you don't mind holding off on lunch for a little while longer, I have a matter of utmost importance to discuss.” Twilight's stomach growled defiantly. “Are you sure this can't wait?” Greyhoof slowly shook his head. “I'm afraid not. I've been doing some thinking about this whole situation – expanding on my theory, if you will.” Twilight swallowed. It wasn't Greyhoof's stony expression or the seriousness of his voice that caused her to feel fear – she had grown accustomed to these mannerisms by now – but the searing fire in his eyes. “You now believe things to be worse than you'd originally thought, don't you?” “I'm afraid so,” he said grimly. “As you know, there have been cases like this in the past. Throughout towns similar to this one, chains of murders occurred through the ages. Recall how I said the culprit never seemed to have rhyme or reason for going berserk?” He paused, allowing his words to sink in. “What if they didn't just go berserk? What if those murders happened for a reason?” Twilight was momentarily rendered speechless by Greyhoof's latest theory. She mouthed words a few times, but nothing came out. “I'm not sure I understand,” she finally said. “Think about it,” pressed Greyhoof, “do ponies simply go berserk in such a manner? And, if so, what do you think the odds are of it playing out in such a similar fashion each time?” He spoke with a tone of eagerness that Twilight had never heard in his voice, as if reciting his theory was making him reach a breakthrough in the mystery. “What if they weren't acting of their own accord?” Twilight gasped. “You don't mean?” Greyhoof struck the floor with a hoof, as if he was disgusted by his own revelation. “Mind control. If I'm right, that means it'll be even more difficult to link clues together, as motives won't likely come into play.” Twilight's mind raced as the implications of what Greyhoof said began to hit home. “You mean like the 'Want It, Need It' spell?” “Possibly, but something far more subtle, and far worse,” said Greyhoof pensively. “If I'm right, it means that the pony behind this possess powerful magic. I can't imagine a spell like that being a simple task to perform. That could greatly narrow down the list of suspects...” Greyhoof's gaze slowly drifted to the scroll laying on the desk. “Greyhoof!” shouted Twilight. “You aren't saying what I think you're saying, are you?” Backpedaling, he raised a hoof. “I'm saying we cannot rule out the possibility. It all fits, in a bizarre sort of way.” He sighed apologetically. “It certainly is a link between these cases, and the power of mind control makes it a perfect crime. When her use for the pony has come to an end, the pony 'slips up' and is caught.” Greyhoof's expression softened as he rested a comforting hoof on Twilight's shoulder. “I'm not saying that this is the only answer, but... due to our recent... discoveries...” “So, the Princess killed her brother, and is now mind controlling her subjects to murder her other subjects?” Twilight seethed. “You may want to think that, but I refuse to believe it. That's not who she is. There has to be some other answer.” Greyhoof continued to backpedal cautiously. “Please, Twilight, I don't mean to offend. I am merely stating a plausible theory. This doesn't mean I'm unwilling to accept others. Trust me, I want to be wrong. I'd much rather have Princess Celestia with us than against us.” “I'm sorry, I think I overreacted,” said Twilight, backing down. “All of this has just been getting to me. I'll try not to snap at you again. I know you're just doing your best to solve this.” “Thank you.” Greyhoof smiled at her. “Now, how about that lunch?” Twilight opened her mouth to respond, but another loud growl from her stomach spoke for her. Greyhoof laughed and opened the library door. The streets of Ponyville were blessed by a warm sunny day, but the inhabitants were treating it as if there were dark storm clouds overhead. They darted from place to place quickly, eyeing each other suspiciously and going about their day-to-day activities in an almost hostile manner. “This is bad...” said Twilight as she took in the scene before them. Greyhoof took a step forward, motioning for Twilight to follow. “The town is rife with fear. I hope Princess Celestia can get to the bottom of this soon.” Twilight tried to reply, but she was so distracted by the state of the town that she only managed a sort of mumble. Her heart sank further and further as they walked through the streets of Ponyville on their way to Sugarcube Corner, the town looking no less bleak than when they left the library. Whatever happens, I can only hope the culprit is caught, and caught soon, she lamented. It hurts to even think of it... but what if Greyhoof is truly onto something? Images of the Princess exerting her vast and terrible power on helpless ponies in villages throughout Equestria flashed before her. I... wish this didn't make so much sense. As outrageous as Greyhoof's theory seems, I can see a connection of sorts. Twilight cringed as she had just realized what she was thinking. Am I really thinking of somepony who is practically my second mother this way? She can't be some sort of tyrant who murdered a member of her own family and uses her magic to maintain her crown. She just can't. As they drew closer to Sugarcube Corner, she could vaguely hear Greyhoof speaking to her, but the words sounded like unintelligible garble to Twilight. No, she thought. I refuse to believe it. The Princess can't and wouldn't do something so evil. There is another explanation for all this, and I'm determined to find it. She nodded absently at Greyhoof, who was giving her a concerned look. That whole story about King Cosmo is just an old mare's tale written by some crazy pony hundreds of years ago to make a few bits. Somepony's gone off the deep end, and nothing more. “Twilight!” She was shocked back to reality by Greyhoof, who now stood in front of her. They were almost at Sugarcube Corner, and he wore an annoyed expression. “Sorry, I've just been thinking about things,” said Twilight sheepishly. “About what I've been saying regarding the Princess and this crisis, no doubt,” said Greyhoof sagely. He looked inside the bakery window and heaved a sigh of relief. “Oh, thank goodness, there doesn't seem to be any party going on. Maybe we'll be able to enjoy a good, refreshing treat in peace.” “Ah-ha! Just the ponies I wanted to see!” Greyhoof groaned. “Not her. Not now...” Putting on the best face she could, Twilight smiled and waved at a pony behind Greyhoof. “Hello, Miss Mayor. Are there still search parties looking for Twist and Holly?” “Yes, several,” said the Mayor, coming to a stop next to them. “I've been meaning to talk to the both of you all day, since the two of you seem to have a good idea about what's going on. Have you figured anything out?” Twilight opened her mouth to answer, but Greyhoof spoke before she had a chance. “Nothing conclusive, I'm afraid.” The Mayor's face fell as Greyhoof continued to look grimly at her. “Unfortunately, while some theories have been voiced, the only firm one seems to be last night's. Somepony is likely on a killing spree, and for what reason or to what end, I cannot say.” “Really? Nothing at all?” asked the Mayor dejectedly. Greyhoof held up a hoof to silence Twilight's forthcoming reply. “I'm sorry. If we find anything, one of us will inform you straight away.” The Mayor sighed before thanking Greyhoof and walking back toward the town hall. Twilight's cheeks flushed as she turned to Greyhoof angrily. “What do you think you're doing? We could've told her your expanded theory, warned her about Cloud Kicker, or –” “Please, Twilight.” Greyhoof's tone was soft, almost pleading. “Even if one or both of us are right about what we think or what we've seen, how do you think that would go over with the Mayor? She'd either think we're insane or would send the town into a full panic. Look at the ponies around us!” He waved a hoof at the various ponies in the streets. “This is them scared. Until we can truly prove part of our theories, is it worth risking panic?” Twilight slumped, her head lowering. “I suppose you're right.” She took a few steps forward and opened the bakery door. “Let's eat. Maybe that'll clear our heads.” Greyhoof followed her into the shop. “My sentiments exactly.” After ordering a pair of pastries and a half-dozen cupcakes, Twilight and Greyhoof sat in a corner of the bakery and ate their lunch. In a matter of seconds, the scrumptious meal had vanished, leaving behind only a few crumbs as evidence of its existence. Rising to her hooves, Twilight smiled and nodded at Greyhoof, the meal filling her with renewed determination. “Spike should be back soon,” noted Twilight. “Once he's sent the letter, I think we should lay out the victims' profiles to see if they've gotten on anypony's bad side, as well as their last known whereabouts before they went missing. Maybe we can find a connection.” “Good idea. I think I need to take a bit of a walk first, however. I may have jumped to certain conclusions a bit too easily, and I wanted to apologize for that. I was out of line and I need some time away from everypony so I don't make that mistake again this evening.” Twilight hugged him. “Thanks. It means a lot to me to hear that. Please, come back soon.” She paused for a moment. “What about Cloud Kicker? Somepony needs to warn her.” Returning her embrace, he smiled at her. “I can take care of that if you tell me where to find her. We will get to the bottom of this. I promise.” As she watched Greyhoof trot in toward downtown Ponyville, a thought struck Twilight. I hope Rarity's alright. She began striding almost mechanically toward the Carousel Boutique. I haven't seen her for a while. I can't believe I didn't check on her sooner. “Ouch!” Twilight was so engrossed in her own thoughts that she hadn't noticed the dress shop directly in front of her, nor did she prevent her muzzle from crashing into its door with a loud thump. “Can I help you?” Twilight staggered backward and rubbed her muzzle before opening the door. At least Rarity seems to be okay. The shop was an absolute mess. Paper and fabric were strewn about the floor as if a small tornado had recently passed through. The only semblance of order were a few mannequins outfitted with what looked to be platinum-embroidered dresses, which Twilight would've stopped to admire on almost any given day except this one. “Rarity?” called Twilight, her eyes darting around the shop, but finding her friend nowhere in sight. “Twilight, darling, is that you?” came Rarity's voice from somewhere in the back. A door opened and Rarity stepped out, a pincushion and measuring tape floating along beside her. “What brings you here? Have you come to get a sneak preview of my brand-new platinum line?” Twilight mumbled something about the weather and gave Rarity a half smile. Rarity looked at Twilight, her face suddenly full of concern. “Is something the matter, dear?” Before Twilight could say anything, Rarity discarded her dressmaking tools, cleared a path in the Boutique, and steered Twilight toward another door with surprising firmness. It wasn't long until Twilight found herself sitting down at a table with a cup of hot tea in front of her as well as a small plate of crumpets. “Go on, help yourself,” said Rarity, pushing the crumpets a quarter of an inch toward Twilight. “I just ate,” said Twilight, staring at her tea. How do I tell her? Rarity cleared her throat. “Twilight, I know something's bothering you.” “It's – it's nothing.” Taking a sip of her tea, Rarity narrowed her eyes. “It's hardly nothing! Now come on, Twilight. There's no use in hiding your feelings from me.” She set her teacup in its saucer with a soft clink and trotted over to where Twilight sat. She gave her a gentle pat on the back. “Let it out. It'll help.” Twilight's whole body quivered and she screwed up her face, looking as if she was resisting the urge to be sick. Her eyes glistened with tears as she slowly turned her head to meet Rarity's worried gaze. Exhaling, Twilight paused for a moment before she began explaining everything that had been happening, starting from her first dream a few days prior. Her explanation came as an unabated torrent of words that washed over an increasingly horrified Rarity. She gasped when Twilight told her of the vividness of the dreams, and how they seemed to predict a catastrophic future, and frowned when Twilight ended her tale with Greyhoof's spell. Twilight took care to leave Greyhoof's theories regarding Princess Celestia out of her recount. “Oh, you poor dear! I can't believe you didn't come here sooner!” cried Rarity. “But, I must ask... you say you're absolutely sure that you can trust him?” “Of course I am,” snapped Twilight. “Greyhoof is the most gifted unicorn I've ever met. He'll make sure Cloud Kicker is safe. Or did you forget how he saved my life – and yours?” “You may be right...” said Rarity reluctantly. “But... this spell of his that he did. is it safe?” “It's not his spell, Rarity,” Twilight corrected. “I found it, as a matter of fact, and I have complete confidence that he performed it properly. Whether or not the spell will work is another matter.” “Well, be that as it may now, but what about the dreams themselves?” asked Rarity. “I simply can't imagine anything like it. Seeing tragedy before it happens... what a curse. I'd have gone to pieces days ago if it was me. I don't know how you do it, Twilight.” “Me neither,” she replied glumly. “At first, I came here to see if you were okay. Because of... you know... But really, I think I just needed somepony to talk to. I also hoped you might be able to give me some advice.” Rarity took both of Twilight's hooves in hers. “You were right in coming here. Talking about something always helps, and I'm here for you. As for dealing with it, all I can think of is to hope that whatever you had Greyhoof do worked. In the meantime, you can always do what I'd do in a situation like this: a nice day at the spa.” “That does sound quite relaxing,” said Twilight, wistfully envisioning herself being massaged and pampered by Aloe and Lotus. “I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful,” said Rarity. “But I've never dealt with something like this before.” “I don't think anypony has,” said Twilight. “I do think you're right, though. I need to go and forget about this whole mess for a few hours. Worrying about it right now will only make things worse.” Rarity nodded. “Good. Now how about some tea before you leave?” “I'd love to.” Twilight had scarcely raised the teacup to her muzzle when she heard a loud crash from the front of the shop. Startled, Rarity opened the door and Applejack charged into the room, looking winded. “Twi!” she gasped. “Ya gotta come quick! It's Greyhoof!” * * * “So, why are we here again, exactly?” asked an exasperated Rainbow Dash, flying a few feet above the ground of Whitetail Wood. “To look for the poor little animals,” replied Fluttershy patiently. She opted to trot on the forest floor instead of flying. “Well, you said you'd help me look for the animals, remember? I volunteered to search for Twist and Holly here because I haven't searched for the animals here, either.” “But what makes you think they'll be here?” pressed Rainbow. “I mean, you said they weren't in their homes, so why would they be in Whitetail Wood?” “Why not?” countered Fluttershy. “I think it's as good a place as any. I can't explain it, but... I feel like we might find them here, somehow.” Rainbow sighed. “I hope you're right. At least out here it's... uh... nice and quiet?” Fluttershy nodded enthusiastically. “Oh yes, it's great! The perfect atmosphere for finding those animals!” When she was sure Fluttershy wasn't looking, Rainbow facehoofed. This really is a waste of time... She looked down at Fluttershy, who continued her progress through the woods with a look of pure optimism on her face. But I guess I should humour her. A promise is a promise, and it is sorta peaceful out here... Rainbow and Fluttershy began moving off the beaten path in the hope of finding animals in the more secluded sections of the wood. In spite of the dire situation, the beauty of the forest in the midsummer afternoon was strangely calming. It was fairly hot, but the gentle breeze rustling through the browning leaves counterbalanced the heat. The only thing preventing it from being a perfect trip through the woods was the distinct lack of the local wildlife. Rainbow noticed Fluttershy's demeanor steadily declining toward sadness as they continued their trek. Fluttershy's face lit up for a moment each time she poked her head into a den or warren, but moments later she trudged away from it dejectedly, finding nothing. It was well into the afternoon when they neared the eastern edge of the wood – the mountain that Rainbow fondly remembered tricking Applejack into going up during the last year's Running of the Leaves coming into view. Flying down next to her friend, Rainbow gave her a consoling hug. “Look, Fluttershy, I think it's time we turned back, or looked somewhere else in the woods. We're not gonna find anything up there.” Fluttershy unfurled her wings and shook her head. “No, Rainbow, I say we should go up the mountain.” Taking to the air, Rainbow narrowed her eyes and focused intently on the mountainside, finding no signs of life. “But why?” Fluttershy joined Rainbow midair, following her gaze. “I – I don't know... but at the same time... I just... know.” “Fine, we'll circle it once, then we're looking somewhere else.” Rainbow sped toward the mountain, Fluttershy only a short distance behind her. Wow, she's flying pretty quick. She must really be onto something here. When they reached the mountain, Fluttershy took off toward its northern face. That was then they saw it. A fairly large cave at the end of a narrow, winding trail – mostly obscured by vegetation – came into view. Without a moment's pause, Fluttershy landed at the cave mouth and beckoned Rainbow to do the same. “This way, Rainbow, hurry!” she squeaked, galloping headlong into the tunnel as if she were possessed. “Wait!” Rainbow called after Fluttershy, but it was no good. “Oh, horseapples.” Rainbow flew in as quickly as she could, determined not to lose Fluttershy in the darkness. They didn't make it far into the tunnel before they heard a loud, ominous rumbling noise. It was drawing closer, and it was fast. Finally catching up to Fluttershy, Rainbow landed in front of her and stood on her hind legs, spreading her front legs wide as if to shield her from what was coming toward them. “Fluttershy, get back! I'll hold 'em off!” Fluttershy rested her hooves on Rainbow's shoulders gently. “No, Rainbow,” she said calmly. As the rumbling grew almost deafening, its source was revealed. A myriad of various animals leapt past Rainbow and jumped on Fluttershy, hugging her fiercely. Rainbow stood there, blinking in disbelief as Fluttershy became engulfed by hundreds of animals of all shapes and sizes. “Now why were you hiding here?” Fluttershy asked them in an almost scolding manner. “I was worried sick!” Rainbow gently removed a badger that had been hugging Fluttershy's face so she could speak with her more easily. “When did they run away, again?” “Well, I think it was the night of the party...” Fluttershy answered slowly as she thought back. “The night of the party!” shouted Rainbow. Fluttershy shushed Rainbow and began cooing the animals around her. “It'll be okay, little ones. Big mean Rainbow Dash won't hurt you.” “No, no!” pressed Rainbow. “That was right before Twist went missing, wasn't it? What if the thing that scared the animals also got Twist?” Fluttershy gasped, covering her mouth. “But... who – or what – could do that?” Rainbow shook her head. “I don't know, but I think we've finally got a clue. Let's get the animals out of here and tell Twilight what we've discovered.” Fluttershy gasped. “Oh no...” “What's the matter?” “I just thought of something Twilight showed me, about the animals,” said Fluttershy. “Rainbow, I think you're right, and that means we're dealing with something terrible – much worse than just a ponynapper!” * * * “He's innocent!” Twilight yelled at the Mayor. The two ponies stood by a podium at Ponyville town hall, surrounded by a throng of townsfolk. Rainbow flew over the crowd with Fluttershy in tow. The setting sun cast everything into bleak shadow. Landing beside the podium, Rainbow adopted an aggressive stance. “What in the name of Celestia is going on here?” “It's Greyhoof,” choked a sobbing Twilight. “He's – he's –” “Greyhoof has been convicted of the abduction and murder of three ponies,” said the Mayor sternly, hairs falling out of place in her unkempt mane as she spoke. “As such, he is to be detained unless he is absolved. Bring forth the prisoner!” Emerging from the town hall, two burly stallions escorted Greyhoof, who wore heavy manacles around his hooves and a chain leash around his neck. “You have to believe me,” he shouted, looking at the Mayor. “I've done nothing wrong!” Fluttershy landed beside Rainbow, the jubilation at finally finding the missing animals fading in a heartbeat. “Oh no...” she squeaked. “W-what did he do?” “Greyhoof was caught on his own this afternoon,” said the Mayor accusingly. “There has been another abduction today as well. A pegasus named Cloud Kicker, the very pony Greyhoof claimed to be after. She was reportedly last seen near the spa. He's known too much about this whole catastrophe all along.” The Mayor ignored Twilight's protesting sobs and continued shrilly, trying to drown her out. “Nopony here would do such a thing! These murders didn't start until right after he showed up. It's clear as day that he's the one behind all of this.” She gave Twilight a dirty look. “It wasn't until Twilight kept insisting that I have no actual evidence that it was decided that he will be merely detained pending further investigation, instead of being publicly executed, here and now.” “I told you, town mayors haven't had that sort of power for seven-hundred and eighty-three years!” screamed Twilight, her vocal cords raw from the effort. “Decree of Princess Celestia Number –” “I know the damn law!” barked the Mayor. “Surely in a case like this, the Princess wouldn't mind if somepony took the initiative! Regardless, his life will be spared – for now.” “But he saved my life!” cried Twilight, taking an aggressive step toward the Mayor. “Think about what you're doing! You haven't given him a hearing, a trial, nothing! If it weren't for Greyhoof, I wouldn't be here right now, and neither would Applejack or Rarity!” “Be that as it may,” said the Mayor dismissively, rubbing her eyes. “For now, he shall reside in the clock tower. Take him away!” She motioned to the two stallions. “Ponyville can rest easy once again. There will be no further killing sprees as long as I am mayor of this town!” As Twilight saw Greyhoof being slowly dragged away, she felt as if a piece of her went with him. “No. No! I won't let you do this!” she screamed, staring daggers at the Mayor. “Do you not understand the magic of friendship? The very friendship that saved Equestria from both Discord and Nightmare Moon? Friendship is not skin-deep, Mayor. Greyhoof is my friend, and I can assure you with no uncertainty that he is innocent! Just because it's convenient to pin everything on him doesn't mean it's right.” Twilight continued to scream, magic crackling from her horn and surrounding her whole body as she began to lose control. “There are too many other things going on. Greyhoof isn't responsible for this! He's been with me for most of his stay in Ponyville, and I won't stand idly and watch you throw an innocent stallion in prison!” Tears streamed down her face unabated as she didn't even bother to wipe them away. “I swear by my status as the disciple of Princess Celestia – no, on my own life – that my dear friend Greyhoof is not to blame for this ordeal!” The Mayor only responded by looking away. Her mind was racing wildly, though it was a slightly calmer now that she had vented some of her anger and frustration. This is like what happened with the masticore, only worse! Why isn't Greyhoof using his magic to free himself? Twilight knew the answer to her own question, however: If he uses force to defy the Mayor, then that only reinforces her heinous claims... Twilight tried to ignore the jeers of the crowd, and the cries of astonishment and outrage coming from her friends. She could feel an anvil being dropped in her stomach as she saw Greyhoof being torn away from her, and all she could do was stand there and watch. She knew that as outrageous and unjust as the situation was, she didn't dare interfere, lest she became branded a criminal herself. Greyhoof closed his eyes and bowed his head as the stallions led him away from the town square. The crowd parted to let them through, slinging insults. Some even threw pebbles at him. As a particularly sharp stone struck the side of Greyhoof's head, drawing blood, Twilight lost what little composure she had left. As she saw the blood run down his face, Twilight collapsed onto the ground and sobbed openly, unable to watch any longer. Nopony, with the exception of Rainbow, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie, paid the slightest bit of attention to her as Greyhoof was dragged forcibly toward the clock tower, which the sun was ominously setting behind, ushering in a dark nightfall.