//------------------------------//
// Welcome to Ponyville. 
// Story: My Little Foils 
// by Purplescales42 
//------------------------------//

	“Daddy, Daddy, tell Trixie a story,” demanded a little blue Unicorn filly as her father tucked her into bed. An older, dark blue Unicorn stallion raised a brow.
“What do we say, Trixie?”
“Um, please tell Trixie a story?” asked the filly. She gave her father big sad puppy dog eyes for effect. Her father chuckled in amusement.
“Alright, Sweetie, which story do you want Daddy to tell?” he asked. 
“Hmm. . .” Trixie rubbed her chin as she thought of what story she wanted to hear.  To her left, was a small bookshelf that all sorts of stories she loved to hear, but Daddy had already read all of them to her. “Tell me your favorite story.” Daddy looked confused.
“My favorite story?” he asked. Trixie nodded her head. “I don’t know it’s kind of scary.”
“Pfft, Trixie isn’t afraid of anything,” Trixie scoffed with a wave of her hoof. “Especially when Daddy’s there to keep her safe.” Her father chuckled again.
“Well, alright then,” he said. “A very long time ago there were two sisters. Both of them were very gifted and had important jobs to keep Equestria safe.”
“Like the Princess?” asked Trixie.
“Yes,” replied Daddy. “Very much like the Princess. And like the Princess, these two sisters controlled the day and night. The elder sister ruled over the day while her younger sister was the guardian of the night. Both sisters worked very hard to make sure both the day and night were beautiful, however, only the elder sister was thanked for her hard work.”
“Aaw, that’s not fair.”
“The younger sister didn’t think so either. Finally, there came a night where she refused to lower the moon to make room for the sun. The younger sister became so corrupted by hatred and jealousy that she became an evil but powerful force of darkness: Nightmare Moon!”
“Ooooo. . .” Trixie sat up in her bed. “What did the older sister do?”
“Unfortunately, the older sister had to use ancient magical relics called The Elements of Harmony to seal her sister away in the moon. That’s where they say the Mare in the Moon comes from.” Trixie looked out the window by her bed and saw the dark image of a mare on the moon’s surface. She sat back in bed with a solemn expression.
“That’s more of a sad story than a scary one,” she said. Daddy sighed and nodded.
“It is. But legends say the younger sister will come back.”
“Will she get along with her big sister?” asked Trixie.
“I don’t know. I hope so. I think that would make them both very happy.”
“Yeah, and then Trixie could put on a cebala-, celebry, cel-e-bra-tor-y show for them!” said Trixie excitedly. Daddy chuckled. 
“I’m sure they’d like that very much,” he said. “But you can’t put on a show if you’re tired.” Trixie nodded and lay back down in her bed. “Even the greatest and most powerful unicorn’s need sleep.” Daddy tucked her in and gave her a kiss on her head. “Goodnight, Trixie.”
“Goodnight, Daddy.” Trixie watched as Daddy left her room and closed the door. “Don’t worry, Sisters,” Trixie said softly. “You’ll be together again someday. And it’ll be the best day ever.”

Fifteen years later. . .

The small town of Ponyville was abuzz with excitement and anticipation. Tomorrow was the Summer Sun Celebration, and while this was normally a very busy holiday in Ponyville, this year’s celebration was twice as exciting since Equestria’s ruler, Princess Celestia, was coming to celebrate it there. No one could remember the last time Celestia spent the celebration anywhere other than Canterlot. This was a huge honor. Mayor Mare had the most capable ponies she could find making sure everything was perfect for the Princess’ arrival, and everypony in town was dedicated to helping.
Well, almost everypony.
Trudging into town pulling a large trailer behind her was a blue unicorn mare with a purple cape and hood with a Cutie Mark of a crescent moon and wand. She was not one of the town’s normal residents and was unaware of all the excitement. Not that she cared. The unicorn was only there to have a safe place to park her trailer for the night and maybe put on a show if she could. 
“Trixiiiee,” whined a purple and green dragon poking his head out of the trailer window. “Can I come out now? You know I hate being cooped up in here.” The blue unicorn sighed in irritation. Her small companion had been pestering her the whole trip that day.
“Yes, Scales, you can come out now,” she said. The door to the trailer opened and out leapt the baby dragon. He stretched his arms and legs while letting out a loud grunt.
“Aaah, that’s much better,” said Scales. “Travelling is so exhausting.”
“You don’t say,” said Trixie dryly. Scales chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his neck.
“Heh, heh, sorry, Trixie,” he apologized. “At least we found a town to stay tonight.” Trixie smiled and parked the trailer by a small well in the middle of town. Scales helped her get unhitched from the wagon. “That must feel better, right?” Trixie stretched out her back and rolled her shoulders.
“Much better,” she said. “Scales, could you grab me some water.”
“Uh-huh, sure,” said Scales compliantly. He scurried into the trailer and came out with a large glass of water. Trixie took picked it up with her magic. “I put some ice in it for you.”
“Thanks,” said Trixie. She took a drink and let the cool icy liquid pour down her throat and refresh her. She was grateful for Scales’ sensitivity. 
“So why did I have to be all cooped up to begin with anyway?” asked Scales.
“I already told you this,” said Trixie doing little to hide her annoyance. “We had to travel through the Everfree Forest to get here and I didn’t want you to get lost or taken by some wild animal.” Scales crossed his arms and huffed. 
“You don’t have to worry about me!” he said. “I could totally take on anything that tried to mess with us!” To prove a point, Scales let out a burst of green fire.
“AH!” screamed Trixie as she ducked just in time. The flames went over her head and simply singed the tip of her hat. She glared at the baby dragon who was now nervously wringing his tail. “I also didn’t want to risk you starting a forest fire. Again!”
“Hey, it was only a small one!” Scales said defensively. Trixie raised a brow and stared at him unamused. “Well, um, uh, do you think you’ll put on a show today?” he asked desperately trying to change the subject. Trixie rolled her eyes and decided to go along with it.
“I don’t know,” she said standing up. She scanned the town and noticed that everypony seemed to be rather anxious. Some were setting up decorations while others were clearing the streets or setting up flowers. She noticed the shops were closed as well. “Doesn’t seem like anyone would come to watch.”
“That’s because they wouldn’t.” Trixie jumped at the sudden new voice. The whirled around and found herself staring at a gray Earth Pony mare with a purple mane and tail and wearing a blue gray frock and black belt. 
“Hey, don’t sneak up on ponies like that!” scolded Scales.
“Sorry,” said the mare in a flat, monotone voice. “I just heard you wondering why everypony seemed so busy and thought I’d answer.”
“Oh,” said Trixie. “Well, um, what is everyone’s big deal?”
“It’s the Summer Sun Celebration,” said the gray mare. “Princess Celestia herself is coming.”
“Really?” asked Trixie.
“Wow, that’s so cool!” said Scales excitedly. 
“Yeah, we’re all very excited,” said the mare. However, neither her voice nor her face betrayed any indication of excitement. 
“Uuuhh, yeeeaah,” said Trixie. She turned her attention to Scales. “Well, guess that means we won’t be putting on a show. There’s no way that even the Great and Powerful Trixie can compete with a Princess.” Scales nodded. “You didn’t have to agree!”
“Oh, um, sorry!” Scales quickly apologized.
“You’re a performer?” asked the mare.
“Why, yes,” said Trixie confidently. “You are looking at the Great and Power-”
“Yeah, I already caught that,” the mare interrupted. Trixie was thrown off by the gray mare’s blunt interruption. 
“Well, excuse you!” she said. “And just who do you think you are interrupting Trixie?” Scales glared at the mare and nodded.
“My name is Maud,” said the mare. “And if you’re a performer, I would speak to Suri Polomare. She’s the one the mayor put in charge of the festival. She might appreciate having someone perform before the Princess arrives.”
“So, you would demean Trixie to a simple opening act?!” shouted Trixie. “Trixie has never had such an insult spoken to her like that her entire life!”
“Yeah!” added Scales.
“Do you always talk like that?” asked Maud.
“Yeah!” replies Scales.
“Scaaales?!” snapped Trixie.
“Sorry!”
“It wasn’t an insult,” said Maud. “I just thought you would appreciate the opportunity to perform. I’m sure you would be rewarded for your services.”
“We do need the bits,” Scales reminded. Trixie tapped her hoof against her chin as she thought over the offer.
“Very well,” she said. “Trixie will look into your offer. Would you be so kind as to show Trixie to this, Suri Polormare?”
“Sure,” said Maud. “Just one thing.”
“What?”
“Stop talking in the third person. It’s annoying.” Despite her words, Maud’s appearance remained neutral although her voice did seem to carry some hint of irritation in it. Trixie and Scales just looked at each other confused, then back at Maud.
“Well. If you insist. Trixie, er, uh, I mean, I could oblige you on that.” 
“Great. Follow me.”

***

“Step right up, step right up” shouted a Unicorn stallion with a red mustache. “Get you Summer Sun Celebration souvenirs right here!” Trixie, Scales, and Maud approached the only vendor stall that was still open. Two Unicorn stallions with red and white mane and tails, wearing blue and white striped vests, red bowties, and flat straw hats were selling various souvenirs such as t-shirts, hats, and even  a couple of Princess Celestia plushies. 
“Who are they?” asked Scales. 
“The Flim and Flam brothers,” said Maud. “A couple of salesponies. They’re always the first ones to try and make a profit when the opportunity arises.”
“Seize the day types, eh?” asked Trixie. “I can respect that.”
“They’re good at their jobs,” said Maud. “Just be careful around them. They aren’t always the most honest.” 
“Maud!” shouted the one with the mustache. He quickly approached the trio. “And how are you on this lovely day?”
“Fine,” answered Maud bluntly. “How are you, Flam?” she asked. 
“Why, I’m doing fantastic now that I’ve had chance to speak with you my dear.” Trixie looked at Maud who didn’t seem at all fazed by Flam’s less than subtle flirting. She looked back at him and noticed his Cutie Mark. An apple with a missing slice. 
“What are you two up to today?” asked Maud.
“Just selling a few trinkets to celebrate the holiday,” said Flam. He rushed over to Scales and put a hoof over his shoulder. “Including little stuffed toys for the little ones. Only eight bits!”
“To think it was only nine bits yesterday,” said Maud in what Trixie and Scales assumed was a sarcastic tone. 
“Well, since it’s the day of the celebration, we thought we’d have a sale,” said Flam. “Interested in anything?”
“No,” said Maud.
“Hey, Trixie, can I get a t-shirt?” Scales asked pulling on Trixie’s cape. 
“We’re kind of short on bits, Spike,” said Trixie. Suddenly, she noticed the other twin by her side.
“New in town, eh?” he asked.
“Um, yeah,” said Trixie. This twin was almost an exact duplicate of Flam minus the mustache. His Cutie Mark was an apple slice. He was kind of cute too if she was honest. Wait, what? 
“Well, my dear, allow me to introduce myself,” said the stallion. “My name is Flim.” He scooped Scales up onto his back. “And for newcomers to our fair little town, I’d be willing to bring the price down to seven bits.”
“Five bits,” bartered Trixie.
“Six,” said Flim. Trixie and Flim stared at each other with firm glares. Neither seemed to be willing to give up. However, Trixie glanced over at Scales and his pleading puppy dog eyes. She could feel her resolve waver slightly. “You wouldn’t want to disappoint your kid would you?” asked Flim seeming to pick up on Trixie’s hesitation.
“Wh-what?” asked Trixie. “He’s not-well, he kind of, it’s complicated, grr, oh fine!” She pulled out six bits and tossed them to Flim. “I hope you choke on them,” she grumbled under her breath. Scales hopped off Flim’s back and hugged Trixie’s leg while Flim went back to the stall.
“You’re the best,” he said. Trixie smirked as she patted the baby dragon’s head.
“I do have my moments,” she admitted.
“Can I get a poster too?’
“Don’t push it.”
“Sorry.” 
“Here you are,” said Flim handing Spike a small teacher that had a picture of Celestia’s Cutie Mark and read: Happy 1000th Summer Sun Celebration
“That was a cheap trick,” said Trixie. 
“Just business,” replied Flim. “But if it would make me feel better, how about dinner later?” Trixie felt herself blush for a brief second but quickly regained her composure.
“You always con girls out of their bits before asking them out?” asked Trixie.
“Only the cute ones.” Trixie couldn’t help but smile a little. She picked Scales up with her magic, placed him on her back and trotted past the twins with Maud following behind. 
“Trixie will think about it,” she said with a smug grin. Trixie thought she heard Maud grumble something when she spoke in the third person again but decided to ignore it. She felt Scales tap her on the shoulder.
“Hey, Trixie, do like my-” he was cut off as a blue and yellow blur crashed into the two of them. 
“Oooowww,” moaned Trixie as she got off the ground. “Scales?” she asked she looked around. She spotted her friend on the ground lying on his back groaning. “Scales!” She rushed over to him and checked for injuries. “Are you okay?” Scales sat up and wobbled around in dizziness. 
“Trixie?” he asked. “Why are their three of you?” Trixie sighed and lifted Scales up with her magic and put him on her back. “Ugh, not so fast Trixies. My head hurts.” Trixie looked around for the pony who crashed into them and spotted a light blue Pegusus with a golden mane and a Cutie Mark of a lightning bolt and three stars. “Hey!” She trotted up to the Pegasus. “Just what do you-eep!” she squealed when she saw the Pegasus get up revealing she was crushing Trixie’s hat. She nabbed it with her magic and placed it back onto her head. 
“Sorry about that,” said the Pegasus.  She looked up at the sky with a pondering expression on her face. “I need to tighten the turn in that loop,” she muttered to herself.
“Lightning Dust,” said Maud, “you need to be more careful.” Lightning Dust snapped out of her stupor and looked at Maud.
“Oh, lighten up, Maud,” she said. “They’re fine. See?” She pointed a hoof at a seething Trixie and dizzy Scales whose head was still spinning. 
“Tell, the three blue ponies to stop shouting,” moaned Scales.  Trixie gave him a worried looked. He’d probably be fine, but she still got concerned whenever he hurt himself. Oh, wait. Someone else hurt him this time! She shot a venomous glare at Lightning Dust as she stormed over to her.
“I ought to knock you senseless for that!” she shouted.
“Hey, hey, easy, it was an accident!” said Lightining Dust backing away from the raging Unicorn. Dust was clearly afraid of Trixie. Of course anypony would be right now.
“Trixie,” said Maud a little louder than usual. Trixie looked back at Maud.
“What?!” she snapped. 
“There’s a doctor close by if you want to stop by.” Scales finally sat up and rubbed his head.
“No, I’m okay,” he said. He gently stroked Trixie’s mane. “You don’t need to worry about me.”
“See? The little dude is tough,” said Lightning Dust hovering next to Scales and rubbing the spikes on his head causing him to blush. Dust quickly backed off when Trixie looked like she was about to bite her hooves off. 
“Aren’t you supposed to be making sure the skies are clear for the celebration?” asked Maud. 
“Aw, that won’t take very long,” scoffed Dust. She took another look at Trixie who still had that murderous glare. “Buuut then again. I should probably go check on how that’s going.”
“Maybe you should,” spat Trixie. Dust didn’t need to be told again as she quickly took off into the sky. 
“You’re very protective of him,” said Maud to Trixie.
“Hmph,” grunted Trixie. “Well, he’ll hurt himself if I don’t watch him.”
“I will not!” shouted Scales. Suddenly, he clutched his head. “Ow.”
“Are you sure you’ll be alright?” asked Trixie. 
“Yeah, I’m okay,” assured Scales. 
“We’re almost to Suri’s,” said Maud. “Maybe she’ll have an ice pack for him or something.” Trixie nodded and followed Maud to their destination.

***

“This is the place,” said Maud as she opened the door to Carousel Boutique. Trixie walked in to see a pink Earth Pony mare with a purple mare scolding a younger cream colored mare with a light blue mane.  
“What do you mean their behind schedule?” shouted Suri to her assistant Coco. The younger mare cowered before her boss.
“Well, um, Gilda was-” she began to explain.
“Say no more,” said Suri holding up a hoof to stop Coco. “That explains it. Just tell the others they better get their flanks in gear to fix it, okay?” 
“Well, they have but they’ve been working all week and they wanted to spend the day-”
“How often does the Princess visit Ponyville?” interrupted Suri.
“Oh, um, well, I don’t think anyone remembers the last time she-”
“Exactly. And what do you think her reaction might be we do not present our best to her?”
“Well, she probably-”
“Would assume we have no respect for her authority or the fact she was so kind to grace us with her presence.” Coco didn’t try to reply this time. “Now get over there and make sure everything gets done to my satisfaction.”
“Shouldn’t you go?” asked Coco. “I don’t think they’ll listen to-”
“Now please!” snapped Suri. Coco didn’t reply as she simply walked out of the store.
“Hi, Maud,” she greeted as she passed the trio.
“Hey,” replied Maud casually. Trixie walked up to Suri who hadn’t noticed the three of them yet. She noticed Suri’s Cutie Mark of three buttons.
“Excuse me,” she anounced.
“Yes what is it?” Suri asked looking at Trixie. Hers eyes went wide in surprise when she noticed Trixie’s outfit. “A little tacky don’t you think, hon?”
“Tacky?” asked Trixie. “Why you-”
“Pardon the interruption, Suri,” Maud intervened before things got out of hand. “Do you mind if we get a bag of ice for our friend’s head?” Suri looked at the purple dragon on Trixie’s back.
“Does my shop look like a hospital to you?” she asked. She noticed Maud’s unamused expression and Trixie’s ever growing angry glare. “Give me a minute, okay?” She went into the kitchen leaving the three alone. Trixie looked around the shop at all the drawings for dresses, miscellaneous pieces of fabrics scattered around the shop, and ponyquins dressed in various outfits. 
“She certainly has skill I guess,” said Trixie. 
“Coco does at least half of the work,” said Maud. 
“Seriously?” asked Trixie. “Does that poor girl ever get any slack?”
“She gets a roof over her head and three square meals a day,” replied Suri walking back into the room with a bag of ice. “If that isn’t generous, I don’t know what is.” She gave the ice to Scales who gratefully accepted. 
“Thanks,” he said putting it on his head. Suri nodded and even gave the baby dragon a small smile. 
“Is that all or do you want me to treat this unicorn’s ailing fashion sense as well?” she asked looking at Trixie earning her a small growl.
“Actually, we thought Trixie might be able to help you with the celebration,” explained Maud.
“How?”
“Well, for your information,” began Trixie, “I happen to be a renowned performer who has travelled all across Equestria.”
“Oh?” asked Suri in disbelief. “What’s your name?”
“The Great and Powerful Trrrrixie!” she announced. Her horn glowed creating a few small magical fireworks bursts. 
“Never heard of you,” Suri deadpanned. The fireworks immediately ceased and Trixie gave Suri a look of shock and disbelief. She was seriously starting to hate this mare. “The fireworks are a nice touch though, I’ll admit.” She tapped a hoof to her chin. “A brief show would be nice to get the townsfolk into the spirit of things.”
“I don’t work for free,” Trixie was quick to add. After the day she had so far, she was going to make sure she got paid.  Suri chuckled and smirked.
“Of course you don’t,” she said sounding like she expected Trixie to say that. “But before I decide, I’ll need to see a better demonstration.”
“I suppose I could swing that,” said Trixie. She looked at Scales. “Are you up to put on a short show?”
“You bet,” he replied happily.

***

Trixie had brought the group back to her trailer. Scales climbed off her back and went inside. He crawled into a small little workstation where a series of levers and ropes were located. He pulled a couple levers and a rope causing the trailer to turn into a stage. Trixie took her place on the stage and cleared her throat. It was show time.
“Ladies and Gentlecolts!” she announced as if speaking to a crowd even though only two ponies were present. “Welcome to the travelling road show of the Great and Powerful Trrrrrixie!” Her horn lit up releasing more magical fireworks. Scales pulled a lever causing a banner reading “The Great and Powerful Trixie” to appear.  
“Well, she certaintly doesn’t lack for confidence,” Suri whispered to Maud who only nodded in response. 
“For her first trick, Trixie will need a volunteer from the audience. Suri and Maud looked at each other than back at Trixie. “Come now, don’t be shy. It is not often Trixie requires assistance. This is the opportunity of a lifetime!” Scales was glad Trixie couldn’t see him roll his eyes. He loved her like family but she really could be an unbearable show off sometimes. Noticing neither pony was about to volunteer, Trixie looked around and noticed Lightning Dust flying around in the sky. “Hey you!” she shouted. Dust stopped and looked at her.
“Oh, you,” she said. “Listen I’m sorry about before!”
“Trixie bears you no hard feelings!” Trixie assured her. “In fact she needs your assistance.”
“Really?”
“Really.” 
“Eh, okay, I guess,” said Dust with a shrug of her shoulders. She flew down to Trixie’s stage.
“Ah, you are indeed a brave volunteer!” said Trixie wrapping a hoof around Dust’s shoulders. “For you are about to help Trixie perform a trick of great daring and bravery.” Scales pulled a rope causing a small box to come out from underneath the stage.
“Sounds pretty cool,” Dust admitted. “But why are you talking like that?”
“Shut up and get in the box,” Trixie deadpanned. Dust shrugged and did as she was told. Trixie sealed the box with her magic. By this time, the Flim Flam Brothers as well as some other townsponies approached the stage out of curiosity. “For her first trick, Trixie will saw Lightning Dust in half!”
“What?!” screamed Dust.
“Ooooo,” went the audience. Suri chuckled.
“I think that’s the first time I’ve seen Lightning Dust scared,” she said.
“Should have seen her when she met Trixie earlier,” said Maud.
“She won’t actually cut Lightning in half will she?” asked Flam. 
“You know?” asked Maud sounding surprisingly confused. “I don’t know.” Dust looked like she was going to panic.
“H-Hey, I thought you said we were cool,” said Dust. “Your little dragon dude wasn’t hurt more than he looked was he?”
“Behold the might of Trixie!” cried the showpony ignoring her assistant’s pleas. “She will now cut the mare in half without harming her. She used her magic to cause a saw to appear. 
“Aaaahh,” went the audience. Dust gulped. Trixie brought the saw down and Dust closed her eyes preparing for the worst. However, when she heard the audience give amused whispers and comments rather than screams of terror, she risked opening an eye. The saw was just finishing cutting through her and Trixe then removed Dust’s legs from her body. The audience gasped but soon began cheering when they noticed Dust was unharmed. Trixie reattached the Pegasus’ legs and released her. 
“Woah, that was impressive,” said Dust hovering above Trixie. “I thought I was a gonner. How’d you do that?” Trixie gave a smug smirk.
“Trixie never harms any volunteer,” she assured Dust, “and she never reveals her secrets.” In the crowd, Flim had a smirk of his own.
“Pretty impressive illusion spell,” he whispered to Flam.
“Mhm,” agreed Flam with a nod. The audience continued to cheer and stomp their hooves in applause. 
“Thank you, thank you, everypony!” said Trixie. She stomped her left forehoof three times signaling for Scales to pull one more lever releasing some heavy duty fireworks that Trixie’s magic couldn’t conjure. He pulled the switch releasing the fireworks earing more “Ooo’s” and “Aah’s” from the audience. However, one firework went a little off course and exploded near a cloud where a certain griffon happened to be napping.
“Hey!” she shouted. She looked over the edge of her cloud and noticed Trixie’s stage show. She flew down and landed in front of Trixie. “What’s your problem?” 
“Uh-oh,” said Flim.
“Gilda,” said Flam.
“Excuse me, but what’s your problem?” Trixie retorted. Gilda growled.
“My problem is that one of your stupid fireworks nearly exploded on me! I was trying to take a nap!”
“Well, while I apologize for the inconvenience, Trixie cannot be held responsible for anypony’s careless choice of napping locations near-” She was cut off by strong talons around her throat.
“Oh, will you shut up?”
“Gilda, let her go!” shouted Suri.
“Sorry, Gilda’s tired,” said Gilda mocking Trixie’s speaking pattern. “Gilda can’t be held responsible for her actions when she’s tired.” Suddenly, she felt herself being pulled away from Trixie. “Hey, what gives?” She turned around to see Lightning Dust. 
“Lay off, Gilda!” she snapped.
“Oh, what? Like you could stop me?”
“I could stop you,” said Maud stepping forward. Flim and Flam also stepped forward with their horns glowing. Gilda huffed.
“Pfft, whatever. I’m wasting time with you dweebs anyway.” With that, she flew off leaving the group be. Maud approached the stage.
“You alright?” she asked Trixie. Trixie rubbed her neck. Someone was probably about to strangle her. If there was ever a straw that broke the camel’s back, that was it.
“You know what?” she asked. “No! I am not alright! First, I’m dragged around town by an emotionless husk of a pony, then I’m conned out of hard earned bits, crashed into, Scales is hurt, my fashion sense is criticized, and just when things start looking up, a griffon of all things tries to choke me! You’re all crazy! I don’t get why anypony, let alone the Princess would ever visit such an insane town! Shows over, everypony! Go home and leave me alone!” Taking the hint, Scales pulled a rope causing the stage to close up back into a trailer.

***

Trixie lay on her bed crying into a pillow. She never cried. In fact, she hated it when she did. But after the worst day of her life, she had to let it all out. Scales was smart enough to let her be. He honestly couldn’t blame her; he didn’t exactly have the best day either. He looked around the trailer for any tissues but found they were out. Looking down at his shirt, an idea came to his head. He took it off, went into Trixie’s room, and handed it to her. “We’re out of tissues,” he said.
“I don’t want to ruin your shirt, Scales,” said Trixie.
“You bought it with money you shouldn’t have had to spend. It’s only fair you get some use out of it.”
“I don’t mind spending money on you, Scales,” Trixie assured him. Scales climbed onto the bed and dabbed some of the tears away with the shirt.
“I just really hate seeing you sad,” he said. Trixie smiled and pulled him closer with her magic.
“You’re too sweet,” she said giving him an affectionate nuzzle. 
“I have my moments,” he said making Trixie chuckle. “You know, when we met Maud, I thought today might end up being a pretty good one. I thought you would actually make some friends.” 
“I’m doing just fine without anypony else.” Scales gave her an unapprovingly look.
“Don’t lie to me, Trixie,” he said. “I see how lonely you can get. You really could use some more friends.”
“Hmph, you can think that if you want but I’m perfectly content with how things are.”
“But it doesn’t seem like you’re happy. I just don’t want you to be alone.”
“Are you still around?” asked Trixie. Scales nodded. “Do you ever plan on leaving any time soon?”
“That’s a stupid question,” scoffed Scales. “I’ve always got your back.” Trixie wrapped a hoof around him and hugged him.
“Then I’m not alone, I’m not unhappy, and I don’t need any other friends. You and my job are all I’ve ever needed. Now why don’t you go lie down? It’s been a very hectic day for both of us.” 
“Okay,” said Scaled obediently as he hopped off the bed and curled up in the basket in the corner of the room. Trixie decided to take a nap too. He laid her head down on her pillow and pulled her blanket over her. 
“The moment we wake up, Scales, we’re leaving this town and not looking back.”
“Whatever you say, Trixie,” said Scales pulling his blanket over him. “At least today can’t get any worse, right?”

***

*Knock, knock, knock*
Trixie was startled from her sleep. She looked at her clock. 6:00 a.m.? Who could be could be knocking at this hour? She got out of bed and approached the door. Opening the top part, she found that Maud, Flim, and Lightning Dust had come. “Can Trixie help you?” asked Trixie.
“Actually we came to apologize,” said Maud.
“Yeah,” added Dust. “We didn’t actually give you the warmest welcome before.”
“And we were wondering if you would be so kind as to give us another chance to remedy that,” said Flim. “Besides you never did give me a reply about that date.” He smirk appeared on his face.
“Hmph, why should Trixie give any of you the time of day let alone hang out with you?” asked Trixie. “Does Trixie need to remind you that your griffon friend tried to strangle me.”
“Well, you did launch a firework at her,” Dust reminded her. She was rewarded with an elbow in the ribs by Flim. “Ow!”
“We’re very sorry about that,” said Maud. “Gilda isn’t exactly the nicest griffon around. But we would really appreciate it if you let us try and make up for our mistakes at least.” Trixie just stared at them for a moment.
“What did you have in mind exactly?” she asked.
“We were thinking you could come to the Summer Sun Celebration,” suggested Flim. “Princess Celestia is going to be raising the sun in about an hour. It should be quite a show.” 
“Hmmm. . .Trixie supposes that she could come along. It isn’t often one gets to see the Princess in person.” Flim and Dust both gave her wide smiles. Even Maud let a little grin appear on her face. “Just give Trixie a moment.” She headed back to her room and tapped Scales on the shoulder. “Hey, Scales, want to go to the celebration.?” 
“Hm? What?” asked Scales sitting up and rubbing his eyes. “Why?”
“It’s a holiday,” said Trixie. “May as well try and have a little fun.” Scales yawned.
“Yeah, okay,” he agreed. Trixie placed him on her back and started to head out of the room. “You’re not going to wear your hat and cape?”
“Nah, I don’t plan on performing. Let’s just have a little fun tonight for once.”
“Who are you and where’s Trixie?”
“Oh, ha, ha, very funny.” The two left the trailer to join the others. Scales looked around nervously at the visitors.
“Uum, Trixie?” he asked nervously.
“No, need to worry, little guy,” Dust assured him. “We aren’t gonna cause any trouble. Hey, wanna fly over to the celebration? Consider it my apology for crashing into you before.” Scales looked at Trixie.
“Can I?” he asked eagerly. Trixie gave an uncertain look at Dust then looked back at Scales puppy dog eyes. She always hated it when he did that. It made him too adorable to say no to.
“Alright,” she conceded. Scales climbed off Trixie’s back and onto Lightning Dust’s. “But if he gets-”
“Geez, you sound like my mom,” Dust interrupted.  She took off before Trixie could protest. “Don’t worry,” she shouted. “There won’t be a scale out of place.” And with that the two were off. 
“Shall we be going as well?” asked Flim. 
“May as well,” sighed Trixie. As the three headed to town hall, Trixie glanced over at Maud. She felt a small pang of guilt for what she said earlier. Out of all the ponies she had met that day, Maud had been the nicest to her and Scales. Her demeanor was peculiar to put it lightly, but she was at least a good guide. “Hey, Maud?”
“Hm?” replied Maud not even looking over.
“Trixie, er, I, want to say I’m sorry, for calling you an emotionless husk earlier. That was uncalled for.”
“Don’t worry about it,” said Maud. “I’m well aware I don’t express myself the same way others do. My dad used to say that the rocks on our farm were better conversationalists.”
“That’s a little mean.” Maud shrugged.
“It was just a joke. He was right anyway.” Trixie could have sworn she heard a chuckle come from Maud. She gave a little chuckle of her own. 
“Something funny?” asked Flim.
“Just your hat,” said Trixie.
“You’re one to talk,” Flim retorted. 
“Mine adds to the aesthetic appeal of my performance,” explained Trixie. “Was does yours do exactly?”
“Why it makes me look more handsome,” said Flim with a cocky grin.
“You could use the help,” said Trixie with a grin of her own. Maud seemed slightly amused at the comment. 
“I guess I walked into that one,” Flim admitted with a chuckle. “So, do-”
“We’re here,” Maud interrupted. Trixie looked in the direction Maud was and saw everypony heading into town hall. The trio headed inside and were greeted by Flam and Suri.
“Ah, Miss Trixie, so nice of you to arrive,” greeted Flam. 
“You didn’t bring your trailer?” asked Suri.
“No,” replied Trixie.
“A shame. Your show was amusing.”
“Um. . .thank you?” A compliment was the last thing Trixie expected from Suri.
“I’d say it was far more than fantastic,” said Flam. “Why with proper advertising, you could wow all of Equestria with your magnificent performance.” He slipped her a business card. “Of course, my brother and I would be more than willing to help.
“Let’s talk business after the celebration, eh, Brother?” asked Flim. 
“Oh, very well,” Flam conceded. 
“Hey, Trixie!” called Scales running up to the group.
“Hey, Scales,” Trixie greeted. “Have a nice flight?”
“Yeah, it was totally awesome! Lightning Dust is an awesome flier!” Behind him, Lightning Dust smiled confidently. 
“Hah! As if!” said the voice of a familiar griffon. Gilda landed next to Scales. “She’s alright for a pony, but I could fly circles around her in my sleep.” She ignored Dust’s protests as she noticed Trixie. “Hey, Fireworks.” It took Trixie a second to realize that “Fireworks” was supposed to be some sort of nickname or something.
“Gilda,” spat Trixie. The others just looked between the two waiting for a fight to break out. 
“Attention everypony!” called the mayor. “The time you’ve all been waiting for has come!” As the mayor continued to give her speech, Trixie looked out one of the windows and looked at the moon. She thought she saw the stars around it rearrange themselves.
“What?” she asked.
“What’s your deal?” asked Gilda.
“Look at the moon,” said Trixie pointing at the moon. Gilda looked up just in time to see the image of the mare disappear. 
“Whoa,” said Gilda.
“That can’t be good,” added Trixie. 
“And now without further ado,” announced the mayor. “I present Princess Celestia!” The guard pulled back a curtain revealing nothing. The audience gasped. “Where did she go?”
“She’s gone!” said the guard.
“Mwahahahahaha!” laughed a disembodied voice. A cloud of dark blue mist appeared in the hall and swirled onto the balcony. Suddenly, there was a bright flash of light. When it died down, a black Alicorn with an ethereal blue mane and tail was standing on the balcony. “Greetings, my little ponies.”
“Who the hay is that?” asked Gilda. 
“What have you done to the Princess?” Maud asked the Alicorn.  
“Do you not recognize me?” asked the Alicorn. “Does my crown mean nothing now that I have been banished for one thousand years?” No pony answered. “Did not recall the legends?” Trixie looked at the now blank moon. “Did you not see the signs?”
“It can’t be,” gasped Trixie louder than she intended. The Alicorn looked at her.
“Ah, somepony who remembers me.” She hovered in the air above Trixie. “You know who I am?”
“Y-You’re Nightmare Moon,” announced Trixie. Nightmare Moon laughed.
“And do you know what I plan to do?”
“I-I, um. . .”
“Ahahahahahahaaaa! I hope you enjoyed your last day of sunlight my subjects! For now the night shall last forever!”

To Be Continued