//------------------------------// // Friendship Is Magic // Story: Trixie's Master // by Infamous //------------------------------// By the time Trixie had returned to the castle, the sun was already setting. She could see the castle growing closer as they descended onto the landing platform. When they landed Princess Luna was standing by ready to greet her. “We take it that it went well?” she said approaching Trixie smiling. “Yes it did.” Trixie replied. “Good, Blitz could you bring Trixie’s things to her chambers please while I walk her to the dining room to eat supper?” Luna asked facing to one of her night guards who was one of the ponies who pulled the carriage. “Yes ma’am.” the night guard said saluting and stepping forth. He had a sapphire coat with a powder blue mane. “Sorry Luna, but some of the things I’ve brought are personal and I'm still quite tired from yesterday. Would it be ok if I skipped out on supper and go to bed?” Trixie said quickly moving away from the approaching night guard. The night guard stood there dumbfounded and a little hurt at her reaction. “Yes I understand and it’s quite alright,” Luna said with a reassuring smile. “By the way you have a busy schedule tomorrow so i guess it makes sense that you get a good nights rest I'll explain the details tomorrow at breakfast.” Trixie responded with a nod and started walking towards the entrance. When she reached the entrance she turned around showing off a goofy smile. “Heh, I still don't know how to get back to my room.” she said with a slight chuckle and rubbing the back of her neck. “I guess that falls on my part. I seemed to have forgot to re teach the tour.” Luna responded with a chuckle of herself. “Nightcrawler could you bring Trixie to her bed chambers?” Luna concluded. “As you wish” he said walking next to Trixie. He held out his hoof for her and she paced her hoof on top of his and closed her eyes. In a heavy black smoke they were gone in a blink of an eye. “You're all dismissed for the night. Luna said making her way towards the exit looking back to address the night guards. “YES MA’AM” they all said in unison with a salute. When the princess was out of sight, all the guards all sighed and began to relax. Some of them rubbed their shoulders while other trudged along to the exit. “I swear if something on the job doesn't kill me, standing still for hours will.” one guard said rubbing his shoulder making it pop. “I'm with ya there,” another guard said walking with his partner cracking his neck. “Hey you wanna hit up the bar, I hear that the drinks are free ‘til midnight.” he said with a sly smile. “Buck yeah! Anything would do to relax my sore muscles.” the other guard said massaging his cracked shoulder. “You guys wanna join us?” he said in a hurry. “Sure, I'll go” “Eh, why not.” “I'm going to bed.” the saddened night guard said with his head down. “Gah, you're no fun Blitz. You coming Selene?” the night guard said standing at the exit calling out to an onyx colored pegasus mare with a combed back cerulean blue mane. “You know I can't resist a free drink.” she said with a wink. She walked towards the saddened guard, put a hoof on his mane, and ruffled it. “Aw cheer up little bro, keep trying and you’ll win her over...eventually.” she said sticking out her tongue teasing him. “Thanks.” he said swatting away her hoof and fixing his mane. “Shesh, you are no fun.” she said shaking her head. She was about to say something else but she heard her comrade call out behind her. “Coming! See ya later Blitz.” she said as she flew towards the door leaving the guard to himself. He sighed with his head hanging low. He slowly lifted himself off the ground and flew towards the exit. ~~~~~ In a matter of seconds, Trixie was standing in front of her bedroom door. She looked at both ends of the hallway to see that they were empty. “Aren't the guards supposed to be patrolling or something?” she asked looking at Nightcrawler. “This is about the time that the guards change shifts. The day guards get ready to leave while the night guards prepare for their shifts.” he replied as a pair of night guards came around a corner. The duo caught eye of Trixie and Nightcrawler and made their way towards them. “You two! Do you have permission to be out in the halls?” one guard said approaching the duo. When they reached them, one guard immediately recognized Trixie and Nightcrawler. “Oh! My apologies. I didn't recognize you two from afar.” the bat pony said with a slight bow “It's alright,” Trixie interjected. “What seems to be the problem?” Nightcrawler followed “We received an anonymous tip that someone infiltrated the castle earlier this evening. We’re conducting a full sweep of the whole castle to find the intruder.” the bat pony said “Weren’t the guards patrolling and does the princess know about this?” Nightcrawler asked. “Yes and yes, but they were knocked out. They reportedly have a concussion cannot remember a thing except that the last thing they saw was the intruder take form of one of the guards. ” The bat pony’s partner said with a sigh. “A changeling! I wouldn't think they would return after the last time.” Nightcrawler said “Yes that’s what we thought, but the captains’ barrier spell would've gone off.” the guard said reassuringly. “You're right,” Nightcrawler said with a sigh. “It would be best if you go get some rest while I help with the search.” he said facing Trixie, which she nodded in response. She walked into her room, which was illuminated by the gentle light of the moon. She placed her saddlebags on the dresser, walked over to her bed, and lifted her hat, placing it with her saddlebags. “It’s alright Shadow,” she said in a soft voice as she lifted up the figure and tucked it into her bed. “Get some sleep.” seconds later she could hear muffled snores within the sheets. She walked back over to the dresser and pulled out the small family portrait with her magic. She stared at it remembering the time when the picture was taken. She walked over to her bed and placed the picture on the nightstand. Trixie lifted up the sheets and shifted until she was comfortable. Once she was satisfied, she turned to look at the picture once more until sleep came to her. She slowly started to drift off to sleep when something hit her. “Wait, if there was an intruder inside the castle, how would the guards know if it wasn't me or Nightcrawler.” she thought to herself silently crawling further into the bed. “Good morning Trixie.” Luna said with a smile sitting at the table as her student walked into the dining hall with Moon Shine. “You're dismissed Moon Shine.” “Thank you again.” Trixie said after Moon Shine gave a slight bow. “Hey don't worry about,” she said heading for the exit. “We should hangout sometime.” she beamed Trixie a smile. “Definitely.” Trixie replied as a servant came to pull out her chair and with that, Moon Shine exited the dining hall leaving Trixie with Luna and a couple of guards. Trixie let out a short yawn as a servant brought her the main course. “I take it you slept well?” Luna said, taking a sip of her coffee. “Too well,” Trixie replied taking a bit of her toast. “Good to hear, because I have an assignment for you to do.” Luna replied looking Trixie in the eyes. “What is it?” Trixie said returning the look. “I want to have a celebration for my student.” at that moment, Trixie lost concentration on the magic that was gripping her coffee and dropped it onto the table causing its contents to spill out. Luna saw the look in her students’ eyes and gave her a warm smile. “Don't worry; it won't be public for now. I understand that some ponies would be in an outrage but it will be a small gathering I promise.” she said in a soft tone. “Ok, but what's the assignment?” Trixie curiously asked. “Well seeing on how it’s going to be a dinner party, I wanted you to wear something formal,” Luna sighed and looked down. “But apparently all the renowned fashion designers are all away at business.” she continued. “But the only good fashion designer still available is...” Luna paused regretting on what she was going to say. “Is what?” Trixie said getting her attention. “In Ponyville.” she concluded. Trixie froze in place with anger in her eyes. She would have to go back to the place that ruined her life. “This was my last option and I did not think it would have to come to this. We could wait until Photo Finish comes back or Sapphire Shores-” Luna was interrupted b a hoof slamming onto the table. “No! I'll go.” Trixie said interrupting Luna. “Are you absolutely positive about this? You could get hurt or-” “I'm sure!” Trixie interrupted Luna again gritting her teeth. Luna knew fighting this would be pointless. If she said no, she would just leave anyway and start up trouble. Luna let out a heavy sigh and gave in. “Alright. You’ll find the fashion designer and come right back you hear me?” “Yes.” Trixie said sitting back in her seat. “Ok I’m ready.” Trixie called from the hallway. “Alright. Here, take this.” Luna said walking up next to her student with Nightcrawler next to her. She handed her a tan cloak to cover up her cutie mark and her face. “Perfect,” Luna said as Trixie put on the cloak and just as its purpose, Luna could see neither Trixie’s cutie mark nor face. “I'll have Nightcrawler teleport you to the train station. If he teleported you to Ponyville, your arrival would only cause only more suspicion.” she continued. Trixie nodded in response. Nightcrawler stuck out his hoof and Trixie grabbed onto it. “Trixie, please be careful.” Luna said with worried eyes. “I will.” Trixie replied as she gave her a reassuring smile. “Lets go.” she said signaling Nightcrawler and in a black smokescreen, they were gone within seconds. The duo arrived at the train station with a few curious eyes on them. Nightcrawler accompanied her to buy her ticket and waited until the train arrived. “I will be here when you come back.” Nightcrawler said facing Trixie as the train came to a screeching halt. She nodded in response and started to board the train until she turned around and asked. “What if my disguise doesn't work how would I get a hold of you?” “You won't need to.” he replied. “But what if I get attacked or I run into Twilight Sparkle or one of her friends? I'll need you to bring me back.” Trixie said with a puzzled expression. “That won't happen.” Nightcrawler replied stoically. “You won't need me.” “But-” Trixie was about to speak back until the trains’ conductor yelled out from a nearby window. ALL ABOARD! Trixie hesitantly looked from the train then back to Nightcrawler. He walked up to the distressed mare and put a hoof on her shoulder. “You'll be fine, just don't get reckless.” Nightcrawler advised. Trixie backed away and made her way onto the train. She took the nearest window seat and locked eyes with Nightcrawler. She stared into his golden eyes and felt a slight shiver run up her spine. Ever since she met him, she has been having a strange feeling around him and it was something that Trixie did not like. Something cold... something ominous. Before she could pinpoint the feeling, Nightcrawler turned around and vanished with his signature black smoke. The train blew its whistle and it was off the place that ruined her life. ‘You would think that as many times I've been here, I would know where to go.’ Trixie thought to herself as she frantically tried to find the fashion designer. Trixie walked around aimlessly through the streets trying to find a sign or something to get her to the fashionista. ‘I should've asked for what this place looks like or even her name.’ she thought sighing. She continued to walk around through the streets until she finally stopped and decided to ask for directions. There was nopony on the streets, so she decided to stop by a nearby house. The house looked identical to the rest of the houses on the block, with the shingled rooftop and two stories. ‘I hope this disguise works.’ she thought as she raised a hoof to knock on the door. Before her hoof even touched, the door and loud boom emitted from the house causing the surrounding ground to shake. Trixie stood there trembling with the ground unable to move. She could a faint voices coming from within the house. “It's time to clean these dishes on a microscopic level!” one voice boomed from within the house while the other voice was barely audible. “Vinyl turn that insufferable racket down!” in a moment of seconds the trembling and loud noise stopped. Trixie’s ears were ringing loudly and she felt disoriented. She shook her head to regain her composure and raised a hoof to knock once more. When she knocked, she could hear hoof steps drawing near. “Just put the dishes in the sink and I will wash them.” the voice said in a soft proper tone. “Killjoy.” the second voice responded from within the house. Trixie stood at the door, her heart pounding hoping that she wouldn't be caught. The door opened and a light grey earth pony mare with a dark gray mane and tail. The mare had amethyst eyes and wore a pink bowtie with a white collar around her neck. “Well hello there.” the mare said politely. “Um hi,” Trixie replied as she let out a sigh of relief. “I heard there was a fashion designer living here and I was wondering if you know where it is.” she said not lifting up her head. “Oh? I'm sorry but my roommate and I are still relatively new in Ponyville and barely know any shops.” the mare said. Before Trixie could respond, a white unicorn mare walked into the doorway. Trixie cocked an eyebrow at the strange mare not when she noticed the electric blue mane, but the tinted purple alien glasses she wore. “Shesh, the only time I'm willing to wash the dishes, you say no. Hey who’s this?” the mare said. Trixie stood there shaking and trying to come up with a fake name. “I-I’m-” she said stammering but was interrupted. “Oh! I know you, you're Trixie right?” the unicorn blurted out aloud. Trixie looked around quickly to see if anypony heard her. “Uh, yes. How did you know?” Trixie said shrinking slowly into her body. “Eh lucky guess.” the white mare said with a crooked grin. Trixie mentally tripped herself at her statement. “So what are you doing wearing that blanket thingy?” she continued. “I was just- wait you're not mad at me?” Trixie replied changing topics. “Pssh! Why would I?” the unicorn mare said tilting her head. “Well, for all the things I did.” Trixie said remembering her actions. “Vinyl has no room to be mad at somepony for she almost burned down the whole town on our first day here, trying to bake a pie.” the grey mare interjected still standing in the doorway scolding her roommate causing her to flinch from the tone of her voice. “I thought it was a good plan at the time.” the unicorn respond drooping her head low causing the grey mare to roll her eyes. “Since we know your name, it would make sense to acquaint ourselves,” the gray mare said clearing her throat. “I am Octavia Philharmonica.” she said proudly until she motioned a hoof to her droopy friend. “And this, by some strange fate, is my roommate Vinyl Scratch.” As soon as she finished her droopy friend popped up with a wide grin on her face. “Yep! Also known as the awesome DJ PON3!” the unicorn said. A smile slowly crept onto her face and Trixie could feel a warm feeling in her body. What is this feeling? She thought. “Anyway as for your question, try asking Bon Bon that owns that shop at the end of the street. She would be a better help than us.” Octavia said. Trixie started her way down the street before she heard a voice call out behind her. “Hey, we should hang out sometime!” Vinyl yelled from behind her. Trixie stopped in her tracks having the warm feeling return. She smiled and turned to face the duo. “Sure, I'd like that.” Trixie said with a growing grin. In addition, with that the duo returned to their home leaving Trixie to walk towards the shop at the end of the street. ‘Sweet Treats. Catchy name’ she thought to herself looking at the pink and mint green candy shop. She walked into the store and saw vast compartments of candy of all different flavors and sizes. Trixie wandered round the store looking at the different assortments of candies, not paying mind to the other wandering customers. “Good afternoon! Welcome to Sweet Treats! Is there anything I can help you find?” Trixie turned around to a beige coated earth pony with a blue mane and tail and a rose pink streak running down the middle. Her eyes were cerulean blue with three candy bow ties as her cutie mark. Remembering her purpose of walking into the shop, Trixie turned her mind to the task at hand.   “No, actually I was wondering if you know where the fashion designer lives in this town?” Trixie replied. “Oh you must mean Rarity! If you make a left from here and keep walking until you see Town Hall. Once you get there, make a right at the fountain.” the quirky shopkeeper said. “Thank you.” Trixie made her way towards the door when something delicious caught her eye. She walked over to one of the compartment doors and read the label. ‘Caramel truffles’ the label read. Trixie’s mouth started to water at the thought of eating them. She pulled open the drawer only to be disappointed at the sight that there was no candy. Trixie could feel her heart drop at the sight and dropped her head and sighed. “I have some more in the back if you want to buy some.” the shopkeeper said approaching Trixie with a comforting smile to rid her of her gloomy face. “Thank you.” Trixie replied. The shopkeeper walked through folding doors into the back room leaving Trixie to sit there patiently for her return. She returned shortly after with a small box on her back and placed it onto the ground. She opened it and Trixie’s mouth watered at the sight of all the candy inside. “Sorry about that, this particular type of candy is very popular, especially with my roommate Lyra. She once ate a whole box of these in a day.” she sighed refilling the compartment. “That’s ok, I used to eat these all the time when I was filly.” Trixie said with her mouth still watery. “Ok, so how much do you want?” the shopkeeper asked as she finished filling up the compartment. Trixie remembered that she wasn't supposed to stay long so bringing money would be pointless. “Sorry, I forgot to bring my money.” Trixie lied. “That’s ok, tell you what. I'll give you a pound to go with for free. Is that ok?” she said as she began to scoop the candy into a clear plastic bag. “Oh, no I couldn't-” “It’s ok. I can see that you really like these, besides my roommate is just going to come and eat them anyway.” the shopkeeper interrupted with a sigh at the end. “Th-thank you.” Trixie said having the warm feeling from before return but even warmer. ‘There it is again. What’s going on?’ she thought to herself. “No problem!” the perky shopkeeper said trotting towards the counter, which Trixie followed. She returned to the counter and pulled out a twist tie and tied it around the bag to seal it. “All set!” she said pushing the bag across the counter. Trixie didn't bring her saddlebags so she just grasped the candies with her magic. “Thanks again.” Trixie said walking out the candy shop. “Please come again!” the shopkeeper said with a wave and a warm smile as Trixie walked out. Trixie remembered the shopkeeper’s instructions and saw Town Hall down the road. She made the left and continued her path until she ran into the fountain eating her candy along the way but instead she ran into something else. OMPH “Ow!” “Hey watch where you're go-” Trixie scolded as she saw a mint colored unicorn mare with light grey cyan mane with white highlights on the ground and bright golden eyes with the same kind of candy Trixie just bought. “Hey are you ok?” Trixie asked getting up and brushing herself off, she held out her hoof to help up the mare. “Yeah, I'm ok,” she replied getting up, looking down at her candy on the ground. “But I got these from Bon Bon and she won't let me have anymore.” Trixie saw the look in the mares’ eyes and couldn't resist. “Here.” Trixie said holding out her bag of candy to the mare. The mare looked at Trixie with an open mouth and a smile creeping onto her face. “You-you mean it?” the mare said giddy with excitement like a foal. Trixie nodded her head in response. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” the mare said pulling Trixie into a big, tight hug.  When the green mare was thanking Trixie, she felt the strange feeling from before again.  My chest...it’s burning, but it feels good. “N-no problem.” Trixie said gasping for air when the mare let go. “Heh, sorry about that. My roommate Bon Bon makes these and they’re my favorite!” the mare continued. “But she said I eat to much of her candy so she gave me an ultimatum to stop eating so much of them or she’ll ban me from her shop.” “I see. So wait you must be Lyra?” Trixie asked “Yep the one and only! Wait, how did you know?”  The green mare asked with a curious expression. “Heh lucky guess.” “Oh well, what's your name?” the friendly mare asked. “Oh my name is-” “Oh shoot! I'm so sorry but I've got something really important to do,” the jumpy green mare said walking past Trixie. “Hey thanks again for the candy!” the mare said as she waved goodbye and ran in the direction of the candy shop. Trixie just stood there surprised and a smiled formed on her face and continued her walk. Trixie could see the boutique within the distance. “Finally.” she said aloud with a sigh. She picked up her pace with a slight trot down the dirt pathway. The shop was closing in, until the ground around her suddenly became darker. Trixie stopped and looked around for a second before she looked up, it was too late to evade whatever was coming at her and it hit her right in the head and sent her tumbling. Trixie lay on the ground dazed and ears ringing and for some reason a bunch of mail was lying on the ground but she could hear a faint voice calling out to her. “Ohmygosh, ohmygosh, ohmygosh! I'm so sorry I didn't mean to!” the voice called out. Trixie regained focus and steadily stood up shaking her head to rid the ringing in her ears. Once she regained her composure, she saw a light blue grey pegasus mare with a blonde mane and golden eyes wearing a mail mare uniform. But something seemed off about the strange mare; one of her eyes was looking at Trixie’s hooves whilst the other was looking up at the sky. “I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to!” the mare repeated. “Are you ok?” “Yes, I'm fine.” Trixie answered rubbing her head. “Please don't be mad at me! I didn't mean too, honestly!” the mare said pleading for forgiveness. “It’s alright. And why would I be mad at you? You said it was an accident.” “I know, but I always mess everything up and ponies are always mean to me because of It.” the mare said looking down at her hooves. Trixie couldn't believe what the mare had just said. ‘Did she just really discourage herself like that?’ Trixie thought. Trixie looked around at all the nearby ponies that were casting dirty looks. Trixie could see that the ponies that were looking at Derpy had a look of disgust in their eyes. They looked at Derpy like she was a worthless piece of trash. They looked down on Derpy like she was inferior. Trixie was all too familiar with the looks.   Trixie gritted her teeth and used her magic to pick up the mail lying on the ground and put them in the mares’ saddlebag. She got close to the mare and put a hoof on her shoulder. “What is your name?” Trixie asked. “Derpy. M-my name is Derpy.” the mare said raising her head. “Don't pay any mind about what those other ponies think about you. You're a wonderful mare who is doing a great job,” Trixie said tightening her grip on Derpy's’ shoulder. “And I think it’s obvious but you the mail mare of this town right?” “Yep! Derpy Mail Service at your service!” the mare said with a lopsided smile. “Wait, you have your own business?” Trixie said surprised. “Yep! I mess everything up so ponies think I'm useless, that’s why I started up my own business! I want to prove to everypony that I'm not useless, that I could do something good!” the mare said with a determined smile, which pleased Trixie. “Well I hope everything works out good for you Derpy.” Trixie said returning the smile. “Thanks Trixie! Hey you want to get some muffins later?” Derpy asked with a big grin and flapping her wings. Wondering how Derpy knew her name, Trixie looked at a nearby glass window to see that her hood was off and her face was visible. “Uh yeah sure.” the unicorn said quickly putting on her hood. And at that, Derpy squealed and hugged Trixie and flapped her wings bringing them a few feet off the ground. “Yay, I made a new friend!” Derpy yelled piercing Trixie’s eardrums. Trixie could feel the warmth in her chest once more but even stronger, but this time it was coming from her heart. ‘This feeling... it feels... nice.’ she thought smiling. Derpy let down Trixie and start to drift away. “I’ve got to finish delivering the mail, but I'll see you soon. Thanks!” Derpy called out as she started flying away. Trixie stood there waving at her new ‘friend’. She stood there until she was out of sight. Trixie turned around to see her destination was all but a few feet in front of her. She walked towards the shop until she was standing in front of it. ‘Carousel Boutique’ the sign read. The two-story boutique was decorated exactly like a carousel. Trixie walked into the boutique and saw the whole interior decorated with white and dark purple. Ponnyquins with all colors of dresses aligned the walls and windows. ‘Wow’ Trixie thought to herself being amazed at the details on each dress. “I'll be right there darling.” a proper voice called out from what looked like a kitchen. Trixie sat down patiently admiring all the different designs on the dresses that surrounded the boutique. Trixie could hear dishes clattering together and hoofsteps coming towards her, a cold chill went up Trixie’s spine as the hoofsteps drew near. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where every garment is chic, unique and magnifique! I'm -EEKK” the mare suddenly squealed and flinched as she saw Trixie. Two things went through Trixie’s mind. ‘Darn, did she see me through my disguise? Wait, I’ve seen her before.’ Trixie had remembered her last encounters with this mare before when she came to Ponyville. ‘She’s one of Twilight Sparkle’s friends!’ Trixie remembered. Trixie took a defensive position as the pristine white mare drew near. “Oh no, no, no, this garment is simply... atrocious.”  The proper mare said flicking at a piece of the cloak with a disgusted tone. ‘Is she serious?’ Trixie thought with a deadpan tone. “I don't understand ponies styles these days,” the white mare said with a long sigh. “Anyway, what may I help you with?” the mare continued. “I-I need a dress.” Trixie answered hesitantly, still nervous. “Oh of course! What kind of occasion dear?” the mare asked grabbing a quill and paper from her working table across the room with her magic. “A dinner party.” Trixie bluntly replied. “All right, what kind of dinner party?” the mare asked jotting down notes on the paper. “A... royal dinner party.” Trixie said looking away. The mare stopped writing and stood still for a couple of unnerving seconds until she squeaked and made her way to Trixie. “YOU GOT INVITED TO A ROYAL DINNER PARTY?” the mare asked with a big menacing smile. “Is it at the Crystal Empire? Oh! in Canterlot perhaps?” all the questions the mare was asking were making Trixie even more nervous and was forced to slowly retreat in the shop until she hit a wall. “Oh you must tell me who invited you darling!” the mare said calming down and trotted to her measuring tape laying on a piece of cushion. “Come tell me all about it while I take your measurements.”   Trixie relaxed her nerves and slowing made her way to the fashionista that is until she stepped on a hanging piece of her cloak. RRRRIIIIIIIIPPPPPP The sound echoed throughout the whole boutique leaving the two mares silently looking at each other with surprised expression. Trixie was surprised at the little accident that could really put her in a heap of trouble and the mare for she immediately recognized exactly who the cloaked mare was. “Oh, its you.” the fashionista said with venom in her voice making Trixie shrink into her body. “What are you doing back here? Are you here to put another hideous dress on me or dye my hair green?” the mare said scowling. Trixie bit her lip trying to form a response. “Wait, you got invited to a royal dinner party?” the fashionista continued raising her voice with wide eyes. Trixie hesitantly nodded silently. “Wha- how?” the mare asked stammering. “Princess Luna invited me.” Trixie replied without telling the whole truth in fear that it will make it worse. There was an unsettling silence in the room leaving the fashionista speechless. “I just need a dress and I will leave quietly.” Trixie continued, breaking the ice. “Fine. But I'm only doing this only because the princess asked.” Rarity said, looking away. “Come, stand here.” she motioned her hoof to a nearby pedestal. Trixie obeyed quietly not speaking or moving a muscle as the mare took her measurements and wrote down notes on the paper. Trixie stood still for a couple of silent minutes as the mare walked to spools of fabric lying next to her working table.   “I'm sorry.” Trixie said in a hushed voice. “Excuse me?” the fashionista said with a surprised expression knowing well what Trixie had said, but she was curious as to why. “I'm...sorry” Trixie repeated more clearly. The boutique fell silent once more until the white mare decided to speak. “Well, I see that you matured from our previous encounters,” Rarity said putting down everything and making her way to Trixie and put a hoof on her shoulder. “So I forgive you.” the mare said smiling. Trixie stood there a smile slowly creeping on her face. “Thank you-” It had just occurred to Trixie that she didn’t know the mares’ name. “Rarity.” The white unicorn informed her. “My name is Rarity.” “Thank you, Rarity.” Trixie said with glossy eyes. “Anytime dear, but I'm still quite upset about what you did to me. A mare of your talents shouldn't stoop so low as to dye a beautiful mare’s mane... green.” Rarity shuddered at that last part and stroked her beautifully styled indigo mane, causing Trixie to laugh. Minutes past as Rarity brought up different colors of fabric to Trixie to blend the right colors together. When she was finished she put the colors off to the side and Trixie was free to move. “Alright, we’re all done here.” Rarity said with a smile. “I'll have your dress ready and shipped as soon as possible.” Trixie nodded in response and made her way towards the door. “And you shall receive payment once I return to Canterlot.” Trixie said. “Sounds like a deal.” Just before Trixie left, she turned back to Rarity and gave her a sincere smile. “Thank you again.” she said earnestly. Rarity waved a hoof and smiled back. With that Trixie exited the boutique and made her way back to the train station as best as she could. It took here a couple of minutes of Trixie walking down each street and passing the same landmarks to admit to herself that she was lost... again. Trixie walked down a dirt pathway she had not taken yet and decided might as well go check out to see what was at the end. She reached the end of the pathway to come to the center of town again. ‘Great.’ she thought sighing heavily. She was making her way past Town Hall again until she heard her name being called out of nowhere. “TRIXIE!” a voice called out as Trixie was tackled to the ground by a certain wall eyed pegasus. “Derpy! Where on earth did you come from?”  Trixie asked as she was pulled in for another levitating hug. “I was with my friends at Sugarcube Corner!” Derpy said putting Trixie down on the ground. “Friends?” Trixie said looking behind the mare at what looked like a pink bakery and could see several ponies waving at her. “Wait, I know them.” she said remembering the faces of all the ponies she encountered. “Come, join us!” Derpy said interrupting Trixie’s thoughts. “O-ok.” Trixie replied hesitantly as she was dragged towards the bakery. The duo reached the bakery and was greeted with warm smiles. “Hey there!” a certain electric blue maned mare said nonchalantly. “Oh its you! Thanks again for the candy!” a green unicorn followed. “I swear I'm going to put you on a diet.” the shopkeeper said facehoofing herself along with a sigh. “It’s nice to see you again. Did you find what you were looking for?” Octavia asked. “Yes, yes I did. Thank you.” “Here you go dearies. Cupcakes for everypony and a muffin for Derpy.” a light cerulean earth pony mare with a pale, light grayish crimson mane said as she made her way towards the table, balancing four vanilla frosted cupcakes and a blueberry muffin with them on a tray. “MUFFIN!” Derpy said happily, clapping her hooves together as the food came to the table. “Come join us Trixie, we don't mind.” Octavia said with a warm smile. “One more cupcake over here!” Vinyl called out. Trixie hesitantly sat down with them while the baker came back with another cupcake. “What do you need to wear that hood on for, take it off we’re all friends here.” Vinyl said. Trixie took off her hood slowly and when it was off a couple of gasps escaped from Lyra and Bon Bon. “Oh its you!” Lyra exclaimed causing Trixie to hide her head. “You do some pretty awesome magic tricks.” she continued in a cool tone. “Wait, really?” Trixie asked surprised. “Yeah, it was funny how you took Pinkie’s mouth off. In fact she deserved it.” Bon bon said drinking a cup of coffee while everypony else was staring at her. “What?” she asked “Why do you say that?” Trixie asked taking a bite of her cupcake. “Well once upon a time, in this wonderful town. There lived a hyper, energetic pink pony. One day she walked into a candy shop owned by a lovely mare. The pink pony asked for candy so the mare gave her some candy. Next thing she knows, she gets a letter from Princess Celestia herself saying that if i were to give her any candy at all, well lets just say it isn't pretty.” Bon Bon said annoyed. The table was silent all except for Derpy enjoying her muffin. “Oh so that’s why you get mad every time you see Pinkie?” Lyra said which Bon nodded in return. “I wouldn't blame her, in fact I dislike that mare myself.” Octavia followed drinking her coffee. “What did she do to you?” Trixie asked. “She ruined my dream.” Octavia said in a venomous tone as she gripped the cup tighter and clenched her teeth, remembering that night at the Gala. The tension was so high that Trixie was getting rather uncomfortable... “So how did you all become friends?” Trixie asked changing the topic. “Hmm, well it all started back when this little filly had something called the ‘cutie pox’...” Bon Bon said changing her mood. The six sat there discussing how they met, funny moments in their lives and talking about anything that happened when they were young while the baker made trips bringing more cupcakes and muffins and refilling their coffee mugs. “Hahaha Sweetie Drops.” Lyra said taking in gulps of air from laughing so hard. “Shut up! I hate my real name!” Bon said pouting but couldn't stop from forming a small smile on her face. Trixie joined in on the laughing and took a glance at the clock on the wall that read 7 o’clock. “Oh shoot!” Trixie said getting up, putting on her hood “I’m sorry but I have to go.” “Aww you can't stay a little longer?” Derpy asking like she was a filly. “Sorry but I can't. It was nice chatting with you girls.” “Yes it was. We must do this again sometime.” Octavia said receiving approving nods from everypony. Derpy gave Trixie another death hug and the others waved giving a warm smiles and saying goodbye as Trixie quickly made her way to the train station. As trixie made her way to the train station, she remembered something. She needed money to buy a train ticket. She ran back to the shop and bursted into the doors. “I’m sorry about this but, do any of have money for me to purchase a train ticket?” Trixie said huffing and puffing. “Sure! Where you going?” Bon Bon asked looking for her money pouch. “Canterlot.” Trixie replied hesitantly. All five friends paused in shock at Trixie’s response. “Woah, ponies who make it big in Equestria only live there.”  Vinyl informed. “So what do you do that’s so important that you have the honor of living in Canterlot society?” Octavia asked. “Well... it’s a long story.” Trixie replied. “We could come and visit you sometime if you want.” Lyra said. “Yeah, you can give us a tour of Canterlot!” Bon Bon excitedly said pulling out some bits for Trixie. “Sure, i’d like that.” Trixie said giving her friends a smile and taking the bits. “Well I hope we can see each other soon.” Trixie said in a sad tone making everyone feel a little empty that she has to go. “Group hug!” Derpy yelled out as she and the rest of her friends joined in on cheering up Trixie with a suffocating hug. Trixie stood there shocked to see ponies whom she just met, were here to comfort her. Trixie felt the warmth in her heart grow to its peak. She could feel the feelings of love and friendship flowing into her once cold, selfish and lonely heart. An uncontrollable teardrop made its way down Trixie’s cheeks, not to hit the floor but bury itself within Trixie’s fur. As much as Trixie did not want the feeling to end, she remembered the order that Luna had given her before she left. The quintuplet of friends backed away from Trixie, all smiling except Derpy who was on the verge of balling her eyes out. “Don't worry, i'll see you all again soon.” Trixie said  looking at Derpy with a reassuring smile. With that she left Sugarcube Corner leaving the quintuplet of friends standing there waving goodbye as their friend quickly made haste to the train station. “Derpy how can you eat nothing but muffins?” Vinyl asked her friend who could only cope with Trixie leaving is by eating a muffin. “I’m on a muffin diet.” Derpy coolly replied taking a big bite of her muffin.   “Huh?” the rest of the group scratched their heads trying to figure out their strange friend. Trixie was now full on sprinting now towards the train station. ‘Heh, good thing I remembered where to go.’  She thought as she turned a corner.  She found the train station and purchased a ticket with the money that her new friends gave her and waited patiently on the platform for the train. A couple minutes passed as Trixie waited for the train until she felt it coming. She boarded the train and sat at a window seat. She sat looking out the window at the setting sun, already missing her new friends. The train pulled off and she was on here back to the castle. The train stopped at Canterlot after a 30-minute ride, and once Trixie disembarked and stepped onto the platform, she let out a light sigh and made her way to the castle. “Miss Trixie, the Princess has expected your return. She has requested to see you in the throne room.” one guard pony said as he saluted to Trixie who reached the castle gate with the full moon shining behind here. ‘Good thing I know where to go this time.’ Trixie thought as she made her way into the castle, up a couple of stairs and around a few corners. Once there she stood staring at two huge white doors. She hesitantly raised her hoof to knock for she remembered that she wasn't supposed to stay long. “You may enter.” the Princess said in a voice that didn't set right with Trixie. Trixie took a deep breath as if she was underwater and opened the large doors. There sitting on the throne to the right sight side of Princess Celestia’s throne was Luna, sitting motionless. Her wavy cobalt blue mane was flowing when no breeze was present in the room. The moon cast a shadow one side of the throne room giving it an eerie feeling. “Why were you out so late?” Luna asked in a serious tone. “I-I ran into a few ponies there,” Trixie stammered. “Meaning?” Luna urged. “I... made a couple of friends.” Trixie said, scared of the consequences. “I see,” Luna, said with a slight smile that Trixie couldn't see. “Well you rest up for this week.” Trixie nodded in response and made her way out of the throne room. As she reached the door she turned around to face Luna. “Is-is it ok if I invite a couple of ponies to the dinner party?” Trixie asked. “If it is what you want, then yes. Give me the names tomorrow morning.” Luna replied. Trixie smiled and exited the throne room. She sighed once she was in the hallway and made her way to her room. Trixie was proud of her that she memorized the route to her room and walked into the illuminated room with a pair of dark eyes staring up at her from a distance. “Sorry I was gone for so long Shadow.” Trixie said as she pulled out pieces of fruit she had in her saddlebags as food. She placed them on the floor at the foot of the bed and not a second too soon, the figure made it way to the food eating it up. Trixie crept into bed and slowly fell asleep with a smile on her face thinking about the new friends she made. ~~~~~ Back in the throne room, Luna waited until there was no noise outside in the halls, making sure that nopony was around. “Was there any problem?” Luna said aloud in the supposed to be empty room “None at all, Princess.” a voice replied as a pony stepped out from the shadows only to show the snout and hooves. “Good, I knew you wouldn't fail me. You are dismissed.” she said as the figure stepped back into the shadows and disappeared leaving Luna to herself alone in the throne room. Luna rose from her throne and walked to a nearby plain glass window and stared off at her night. “Humph, she made some friends,” she said to herself. “It appears that this friendship will be stronger than my sister’s students”. ~~~~~~~ Earlier that day. “Twilight, come quick! It’s an emergency!” a certain rainbow haired Pegasus said as she flew into the library homing a baby dragon and lavender unicorn. “What is it Rainbow Dash?” an annoyed Twilight asked as she grouped up with the rest of her friends. “Yes, I run a business so I can not afford to leave the boutique as I please.” Rarity followed up. “Yeah, ah got apples to sell ya know.” Applejack said tapping her hoof on the ground. “Somepony said that they spotted Trixie looking really suspicious around town. I was following her but I got sidetracked and lost her!” Rainbow Dash said causing everyone to change their mood. “Oh my.” the timid yellow pegasus said. “Alright we’ll spread out and search for her and- wait where's Pinkie Pie?” Twilight asked, causing her friends look around for their hyperactive friend. Not a moment too soon, Twilight spotted their pink friend looking through the top of a barrel. “Pinkie! What are you doing? We need your help!” Twilight said as she made her way to the barrel. She opened it back up to find no Pinkie there. “Not now Twilight, my tail started to twitch. See twitcha twitch, twitcha twitch!” Pinkie said as she somehow got behind Twilight showing her, her twitching tail. “Followed by an ear flop, body shudder, a itchy nose and another tail twitch!” Pinkie continued motioning out each of her senses. “Well what the hay does that mean?” a confused Applejack said. “It means... somepony’s watching us.” Pinkie whispered to her friends. “Well of course everypony’s watchin’ us when ya makin’ a big scene.” Applejack retorted. “No, no, no, not that kind of watch. Somepony’s spying on us.” Pinkie replied in a loud whisper. “I’ve been trying to track down the spy since this morning, but every time I get close, poof he’s gone!” “Well we can't worry about that now, help us find Trixie.” Twilight said changing the topic. “Okie Doki Loki!” “Alright if we don't find her by sunset, meet up back at Town Hall.” Twilight ordered and in an instant all six friends ran, flew or bounced in different directions. ‘I hope I find Trixie before the rest of them.’ Rarity wondered, worrying about what would happen if they did. ... “Nopony found her?” Twilight asked as she regrouped with her friends which they replied by shaking their heads. “Darn, she got away!” Rainbow Dash said, stomping her hoof on the ground. Achoo! “I hope nothing bad happens.” Fluttershy stated. ‘At least she got away before anypony found her.’  Rarity thought relieved. Achoo! “Pinkie, are you alright?” Fluttershy asked sincerely. “Yeah I'm alright. Just somepony talking about me.” Pinkie said rubbing her nose. “Is that one of your Pinkie senses?” Twilight asked. “Nope! If you sneeze out of the blue, that means somepony is talking about you. How could you not know that?” Twilight responded by shaking her head with a chuckle. “You really need to get out more Twilight.” Pinkie said making everypony else laugh leaving Twilight dejected. “Twilight.... its.... a...” a certain baby dragon yelled through breaths from a distance who was running towards Twilight gripping his stomach. When he reached Twilight he toppled over and burped out a letter. “Ugh” Spike said on the ground. “What does it say Twi?” Applejack asked. As Twilight grabbed the letter and began to read it aloud. “Dear Twilight Sparkle, you and your friends are cordially invited to attend a royal dinner party-” “Party! There’s going to be a party?” Pinkie interjected sticking her face in the letter. “It’s a dinner party Pinkie. Calm down.” Twilight said pushing Pinkie’s face away. “Still a party.” Pinkie teased sticking out her tongue. “You and your friends are cordially invited to attend a royal dinner party in favor of Princess Luna’s new student at the Canterlot castle this Saturday.” Twilight continued. “Oh that sounds wonderful” Fluttershy said smiling in her quiet voice. “Awesome, Princess Luna has her own student too!” Rainbow Dash said hoof bumping the air. “Ah wonder who her student is?” the farm pony asked. “I don't know, but we’ll see this Saturday.” Twilight replied. ‘Wait, a royal dinner party?’ Rarity thought, putting the pieces together. ‘Oh no’.