//------------------------------// // Act 1 - Nightmare Night // Story: The Lords of Harmony // by Whinifree //------------------------------// The orange glow of the evening sun reflected in Twilight's goggles as she raced across the bridge and back into the forest. Twilight's magic lit her way along the path, but the shadows of the woodland seemed to close in all around her. No trace of sunlight could be seen through the trees, and every branch appeared as a terrible claw reaching out at her. Twilight's ears perked as they picked up the sound of rushing water nearby and she came to a large river. Stopping on the riverbank, she looked back the way she had come, but except for the mist that glided through the air, the path was empty. She turned forward and breathed a heavy sigh as the pounding in her chest slowed. She leaned over the river and dipped her hooves into it. Splashing a small bit of water on her face, she gently shook her head and allowed the water to drip from her muzzle. Twilight gazed deep into her reflection on the river's rippling surface, and the image of the stranger penetrated her thoughts. “What in the wide wide world of Equestria was all that?” She stared at the ground and began to pace along the riverbank, mumbling to herself. “The magic of this world... the Element? No, that can't be it...” After a few minutes, she stopped and let out a loud groan, placing her hooves over her head. “None of this makes any sense at all!” Twilight sighed as a throbbing in her head began to surface. “What am I saying? This was obviously just some elaborate prank.” She paused and stared at her reflection once more. “But then, I wasn't looking away for more than a second. How could they have left without me seeing or hearing...?” Shaking her head, she kicked a pebble into the river. “Never mind. I haven't got time for this. The others are probably back in Ponyville by now.” She stretched her neck and started back down the path. Before long, the sound of the river faded away and was replaced by Twilight's hooves on the grass. Slowly, the mist became so dense that the light from Twilight's horn bounced off the smoky surface and struck her directly in her eyes. With a wince, she came to a halt and put a hoof over her face. The glow from her horn faded, and upon returning her hoof to the ground, Twilight saw the path before her was now completely blanketed by thick clouds. “We weren't in there for long. How did this mist get so thick so quickly?” After a few minutes of walking in silence, Twilight spotted a pair of shadowy figures off in the distance. Although the damp grass muffled her steps, her approach did not go unnoticed and the creatures turned to face her. She stopped and gazed at them, trembling as she beheld two pairs of glowing golden lights staring at her. The creatures made no sounds, nor did they make any movements. “I-is that you, girls?” Twilight's voice caught in her throat, and she swallowed hard as she waited for a response. The creatures let out low growls, and crouching down, they began to creep toward her. Twilight gasped, and stepping back, she let out a yelp as she stumbled over a rock and fell against a tree. “Get back!” She fired a bolt of magic at the ground in front of her. The bolt struck the forest floor, and a small explosion pierced the thicket as a strong gust of wind twisted out from the point of impact. Huddled against the tree, she put her forelegs over her head and closed her eyes. When the wind died down, she peeked one eye open and saw a small crater where the bolt had struck. The creatures were nowhere in sight. “Looks like they're gone. Thank Celestia.” Twilight's breathing slowed, and she wiped the sweat from her brow before glancing over herself. Spotting grass and clumps of dirt stuck to her costume, she grimaced and shook herself off. “Ugh. Now I know how Rarity feels. I hope she can get these stains out.” Her ears perked as she heard a cry nearby and she ducked into a tall bush, covering her eyes. The sound of hooves trampling underbrush soon broke the silence, growing louder with each passing second until it suddenly stopped only mere feet away. Attempting to remain still, Twilight peeked through the thick leaves and her heart raced as she spotted her friends examining the crater. “This must be where that ghastly sound came from!” cried Rarity. “Do you think it was her?” “I know it was.” Applejack stomped her hoof on the grass and frowned. “I knew we shouldn't have left her out here all alone, not in this goll-darned forest!” “Twilight!” called Pinkie. Rainbow leaped into the air and hovered over the others, gazing down at them with grim determination. “She can't be far.” “I'm here!” Jumping in shock, the ponies turned to face Twilight as she burst from the bush and they beamed at her in relief. Before her friends could respond, Twilight bounded forward and tackled Applejack and Fluttershy, gently nuzzling them. The two of them grunted as they were knocked onto their backs, and they returned the embrace. Spike climbed onto Twilight's back and hugged her neck. Pinkie ran up to the pile of ponies and began to bounce around them. “Here she is! I found her!" “We came as soon as we heard the explosion,” said Applejack. “Thank goodness you're okay!” Rarity frowned as she examined the stains on Twilight's costume from head to hoof. “Oh, you poor dear... you look simply dreadful. What happened?” Eventually, Twilight pulled back from her friends and gazed at them, sniffling and rubbing her snout. “There were these creatures...” “What creatures?” Fluttershy gulped and trembled. Twilight hesitated and briefly looked down at the ground. “There was so much mist in the area, I couldn't tell what they were. They looked like large shadows with glowing eyes. I don't want to jump to conclusions, but I think they might have been timberwolves.” Applejack rose to her hooves and dusted herself off. “Timberwolves? You absolutely sure about that, hon'?” “I don't know, but there's more...” The others listened quietly as Twilight began to recount the tale of her encounter with the stranger in the ruins. When she finished, everypony gazed at her; uncertain how to respond. Applejack looked ponderous for a moment and gave her an inquisitive stare. “Twilight, have you ever heard the legend of The Pony of Shadows? “I've heard of it,” said Twilight before pausing raising an eyebrow. “Wait, you're not seriously suggesting that this was some kind of ancient, dark spirit.” “I ain't sayin' it was, but you don't think it's a bit of an odd coincidence?” “Maybe somepony else who's heard the legend decided to do it as a Nightmare Night prank.” “In the old castle? Where nopony ever visits?” Twilight hesitated for a brief moment. “Um...” “One little problem with that theory, Applejack.” Rainbow crossed her forelegs and stared dubiously at her. “There's no such thing as ghosts, and even if there was, it's still daytime. According to your legend, the Pony of Shadows only appears in the castle at night.” “Well, maybe there's more to the story than we know.” Spike, Fluttershy, and Pinkie glanced between them as they debated. “Would you both just stop!” Rarity snapped. The ponies all went quiet and stared at her. “How can you two be so dreadfully insensitive?” She gave Twilight a hug before glowering at Applejack and Rainbow. “Our dearest friend Twilight could have been seriously hurt, and you're going to argue about some silly old ghost story?” Applejack and Rainbow frowned, and drooping their ears, they glanced down at the grass. “You're... you're right, Rarity,” said Applejack as she glanced back at Twilight. “I'm mighty sorry about that, Twilight.” “Me too,” Rainbow added. Twilight watched for a brief moment before giving them a comforting hug and nuzzle. “It's okay. I'll admit it was rather strange, even for a day like today.” “Don't worry about it, Twilight,” beamed Fluttershy. “All that really matters is you're safe.” Pinkie skipped up alongside Rainbow and grinned at her. “You should totally put this in your book, Zapp. Ancient legends, shadowy shadows, big adventure, tons of fun! Ooh, I already can't wait for it!” As Twilight basked in the warmth of her friends' company, the dark voice of the stranger returned to haunt her memory. Taking a step back, she glanced in the direction of the old castle and stood unmoving. “Um, Twilight?” inquired Spike as he climbed onto her back and gripped her shoulders. “Maybe we should tell Princess Celestia about this.” Twilight turned her head back, gazing firmly at Spike with a look of determination dominating her countenance. “I was thinking the exact same thing, Spike.” She glanced between her friends and walked to the front of the group. “Come on, girls. Fluttershy's cottage is closest. Just to be on the safe side, we'll tell Celestia what happened here, and then we can join the festival.” With her friends in tow, Twilight trotted down the path and kept her horn aglow to light the way. Her eyes darted from one edge of the foliage to the other, keeping her ears peeled for any sounds of the shadowy creatures. The sounds of wildlife slowly returned to the forest, and small beams of sunlight began to pierce the thick treetops. Finally, the ponies exited the dark woodland and stepped into the wind-swept grassland that separated the Everfree Forest from the rest of Equestria. Twilight let out a deep sigh as she became awash in the warm glow, and spotting Ponyville off in the distance, she beamed and all other thoughts were pushed from her mind. “Sure feels good to be out of that forest, but there's no time to lose, let's keep going.” Before long, Fluttershy's cottage came into view and the ponies were greeted by a small white rabbit as they stepped inside. “Hello, Angel,” said Fluttershy. “Twilight just needs to send a teensy little letter to the princess. Could you get her a paper and quill?” Angel raised an eyebrow at Fluttershy and folded his paws, tapping his foot as he pointed to an empty white bowl. Fluttershy smiled brightly at him. “Pretty please? I promise I'll make it up to you. I'll give you extra extra carrots tomorrow.” Angel shrugged and hopped up the stairs, returning a minute later carrying a quill and roll of paper. “Ready when you are, Twilight.” Spike grabbed the quill and paper and hopped onto a chair. “I'll keep this brief,” said Twilight. “Dear Princess Celestia, I wish I could be doing this under happier circumstances...” She paused briefly and gazed out the window at the Everfree Forest. “My friends and I visited your old castle in the Everfree Forest today, and I am writing to you to express concern about something that happened there...” After she finished, she opened the window and nodded at Spike. Spike rolled the paper and gently breathed a stream of green flame over it. The paper transformed into a cloud of smoke, and being carried on the wind, it flew off through the window in the direction of Canterlot. Twilight stared intently at the cloud as it disappeared from sight. After a moment, she closed the window and turned to face her friends. She began to pace back and forth, stopping periodically to glance at the clock hanging above the door. “Relax, Twilight,” stated Rainbow. “You're giving me the zig-zags over here.” Applejack put a hoof around Twilight's shoulder. “Don't be so nervous. I'm sure the princess is just busy with things over at Canterlot.” Before Twilight could respond, Spike gripped his stomach and belched out a stream of green flame. A rolled up piece of paper emerged from the smoke, and Twilight grabbed it with her magic. An uneasiness slowly invaded the cottage as Twilight read the letter in silence. “What does Celestia say, darling?” asked Rarity. “Um... Twilight?” Spike walked up to Twilight and tapped her shoulder. The ponies stared as she let out a quick yelp and jumped back. “It's okay, Twilight,” said Applejack with a gentle smile. “It's just us; your friends. Tell us, what's in that letter that has you actin' jumpier than a long-tailed cat in a room full of rockin' chairs?” Twilight rolled up the letter and gently placed it in her saddlebag before turning back to face her friends. Her voice cracked as she began to speak, and she coughed. “Come on, we don't want to miss the mayor's speech.” The ponies exchanged uncertain glances and followed Twilight outside. “Are we playing a guessing game now?” inquired Pinkie. “Ooh, I know. The answer is it's a secret!” Twilight led her friends into Ponyville's southern district and she scanned the vacant streets. The windows gleamed in the orange light, and the banners that hung between the streetlamps swayed gently in the breeze. “Looks like they're about to start,” said Twilight. She looked back and gave her friends a firm look. “Keep a sharp eye...” “For what?” Rainbow replied. Twilight returned her gaze to the road and trotted forward. “Anything...” “If you mean more timberwolves, I'm ready!” Pinkie began to kick the air. “Hiyah! Take that you nasties! Punch, kick, right in the muzzle!” “Try that with an actual timberwolf, Pink,” stated Applejack. “Them varmints are about as heartless as—” Rarity let out a small groan. “Can we please talk about something more cheerful? Like how we are sure to win this year's costume extravaganza.” She beamed and gently flicked her mane, making it flow over her face again as the gems in her mane glimmered in the evening sun. As they passed through the decorated streets, the ponies began to converse about the haunted apple orchard that Applejack had setup for the festival. Twilight's thoughts strayed to the forest, but they were brought back when Rainbow and Applejack started taking bets on who could drink the most cider. With a smile, she gently shook her head. “Is there anything you two won't have a contest over?” “Nope,” they replied together and everypony laughed. Before long, they spotted a large crowd of chattering ponies gathered in the town center. They joined them as the door to the Town Hall opened and Mayor Mare emerged wearing big glasses, a red clown nose, and a large rainbow wig. Upon seeing the wig, Spike groaned under his breath and slapped his palm over his eyes. “Again? Seriously? It didn’t work last time and it doesn’t work now.” Twilight and the others chuckled as the mayor stepped up to the podium. Mayor Mare tapped the microphone and a hush fell over the crowd. She beamed and cleared her throat. “Good evening, everypony, and welcome once again to the Nightmare Night festival!” The ponies cheered and stomped their hooves on the ground. After a brief moment, Mayor Mare raised her hoof high above her head and the townsponies went silent once more. “You all know the rules. Number one: be safe.” “Boring,” Twilight overheard Rainbow mutter from beside her. With a snort of irritation, she poked her friend sternly in the ribs and shushed her. “Number two: have fun. And number three...” Mayor Mare grinned as she watched the townsponies stare at her in confusion. “First learn rules numbers one and two!” She let out a hearty laugh and scattered chuckles came from the crowd. “Okay now, quiet down, everypony. There is one more thing before the festival can begin.” As the townsponies exchanged glances and murmured to each other, a bright smile crept onto Twilight's face. She began to prance in place, and gave Spike a quick nudge and wink. The streetlamps slowly flickered to life, and the sky began to darken as the sun disappeared beneath the distant treetops of White Tail Woods. “We have a very special guest with us here this evening,” stated Mayor Mare. The door to the Town Hall opened once more and the ponies shifted to try and glance inside. “Please welcome our beloved Ruler of the Night, Princess Luna.” Luna walked out from the Town Hall dressed in her purple phoenix costume, beaming and waving to the crowd. “Glad tidings good citizens. It brings me the greatest of joy to be back in Ponyville with all of you this evening.” The ponies gasped as they gazed upon Luna. After a moment of silence, they burst into thunderous cheers and threw their hooves high above their heads, waving at her in return. The raucous resounded in Twilight's ears and she glanced between the ponies in view before returning her attention to Luna. Welcome home, Princess. We really missed you. Luna stared wide-eyed out over the crowd. She paused briefly and smiled, lifting her beaked mask and wiping her eyes. “Thank you... thank you all so much for your kind welcome.” “We love you, Luna!” shouted a group of school fillies as they bounded up and down; giddy with excitement. “You're the greatest!” Eventually, the townsponies quieted but maintained their gaze on Luna. “The honor is ours, Your Majesty.” Mayor Mare bowed once more before stepping back from the podium. “Permit me to say that your costume is spectacular.” “Many thanks, Madam Mayor,” replied Luna. “My good friend Rarity made it.” A loud squeal broke the crowd's silence and everypony turned in its direction. Rarity bounced up and down while making loud squeals of delight, but stopped when she opened her eyes and spotted everypony staring at her. With a weak laugh followed by a cough, her cheeks turned red and she gazed at Luna. “Sincerest apologies for the interruption, Your Highness.” Everypony returned their attention to Luna. She chuckled and winked at Rarity. “Wow, Rarity,” muttered Twilight. “An endorsement from Princess Luna!” “Of all the best possible things,” whispered Rarity as she beamed and fidgeted uncontrollably. “This is the best possible thing!” Breathing heavily, she levitated a small towel from her saddlebag. With a long breath, she wiped the sweat from her brow and returned the towel to its pocket. Applejack placed a hoof on Rarity's shoulder. “You'll have customers lined up at the door.” They went quiet as the mayor moved toward the podium again. “Alright everypony, the time has come!” She turned to face Luna. “Would you like to start the festival, Your Majesty?” “I would be honored.” As the last of the daylight faded from the land, stars began to flicker in the vastness of the darkened sky. Swarms of fireflies danced around the streetlamps as they flickered on one by one, and crickets chirped from every corner of Ponyville. Luna gazed upward and stood firm with a look of determination upon her countenance. Unfurling her wings, she rose into the air and closed her eyes as her horn glowed a deep blue. The bright moon slowly rose up from the eastern horizon, casting its silver radiance across Equestria. The townsponies gazed in awe at the heavenly body, and with loud cheers, they stomped their hooves on the ground. As she watched the moon climb toward its apex, the image of the Mare in the Moon flashed in Twilight's mind. She glanced over the crowd of ponies in front of her and then up at Luna. All other sound was drowned out by the thunderous applause from the townsponies, but then all seemed to go silent as Twilight kept her gaze fixated on the princess. If only it could have been like this before... Spike moved his head around Twilight's shoulder and gazed into her eyes. “Twilight?” Twilight's friends glanced at her then at each other. “She's doing it again,” Rainbow whispered. “It's really starting to creep me out.” “Yoohoo!” cried Pinkie. “Equestria to Twilight!” Twilight did not reply. “Snap out of it, Twi,” said Applejack. Spike tightened his grip as Applejack shook Twilight gently. Twilight faced her friends and they waited in earnest. “Listen...” She closed her eyes and allowed the rumbling of hooves and wild cheers of the ponies to fill her ears. “All I hear is a bunch of ponies going 'woo' and hooves going 'stomp stomp',” said Pinkie. “They really really need some lessons on rhythm and beat.” “I don't think that's what she meant,” replied Fluttershy. “Um, or is it?” “That's the sound that could have prevented the greatest disaster in Equestrian history.” Twilight hung her head and her ears drooped. “Things might have been different, possibly better...” Applejack let out a sigh. “Listen, sugarcube. I know you're sad about what happened back then. We all are, but there just ain't anythin' you can do about it.” She put her hoof to Twilight's chin and gave her a warm smile. “Buck up, Twi. Try to think of it like this, if things had been different, would the six of us have ever become friends? Would we have even met?” Twilight and the others slowly began to smile as they listened to Applejack speak. “Luna's story is a tragedy. Ain't nopony debatin' that, but it did do somethin' else as a result. It brought all of us into each other's lives, and not to sound disrespectful to Luna or anythin', but I wouldn't be havin' it any other way.” A warmth ignited deep inside Twilight's heart as Applejack concluded. “You're right, Applejack. Before Celestia sent me to Ponyville, I was a hopeless shut-in who thought friendship wasn't important.” “Don't you fret none, Twi.” Applejack beamed and returned her hoof to the ground. “Now what do you say we stop the gabbin' and watch Luna do her stuff?” Twilight smiled and nodded, and the ponies returned their attentions to Princess Luna just in time to witness her set herself back down on the stone steps of the Town Hall. With a bright smile, Luna gazed out across the crowd and raised her hoof high into the air. “Thank you very much, good citizens. And thus I declare, let the festival begin!” The crowd cheered once more and the townsponies began to disperse, chatting to each other in excitement. The streets of Ponyville became alive with ponies trotting through the town. They carried bags and buckets overflowing with sugary-sweets, showed off their costumes, danced to the barn-house band, and jumped out at each other from behind the houses. Twilight turned and faced her friends, giving them a stern look. “Okay, remember the plan. I'll be at the library. Anything at all, inform me immediately.” Rainbow saluted and flapped her wings. “Aye aye!” “What about me, Twilight?” asked Spike. “I would certainly love it if you'd help me at our table, but I won't stop you if you want to go and enjoy the festival.” Spike glanced behind himself. After a quick moment, he smiled and climbed onto Twilight's back. Twilight beamed, and she turned her head back, giving Spike a gentle nuzzle before gazing back at the others. “All right, Power Ponies. Fan out.” The ponies formed a circle and clapped their hooves together. With last smiles and glances at each other, they went their separate ways. Twilight returned to Golden Oaks Library with Spike seated on her back. She sat on the porch and hummed to herself as she watch the festival progress; occasionally twitching at the shadows that the streetlamps cast on the ground. She grabbed a cookie from the table, and took a swig of her sparkling apple cider. Spike wiped the crumbs from his mouth, and tossing the napkin into the trash bin, he gazed curiously up at Twilight. “So... what was in that letter?” Twilight bit her lip and glanced away. She waited for a minute, but before she could respond, she spotted Luna and three fillies walking toward them. The uncertainty of the day's earlier events were immediately pushed to the back of Twilight's mind, and beaming, she waved at Luna and bowed to her. “Hello, Princess Luna. It's so good to see you again!” “Likewise, Twilight Sparkle. And greetings to you too, Spike.” Luna smiled at them and dipped her head as her mane and tail flowed behind her. “How do you both fare this evening?” “Doing great!” said Spike. “Would you like a pumpkin cookie, or perhaps some of Applejack's famous apple cider?” “I would love some. Thank you.” Luna levitated a cookie off the table and hummed as she took a small bite. “I'm doing well,” replied Twilight. “And yourself? Having a good time, I hope.” “I am enjoying the festival greatly.” Luna glanced down at the three fillies then back to Twilight. “I believe you know these young ones.” “Nightmare Night! What a fright! Give us something sweet to bite!” the fillies cried in unison. Twilight gave the fillies a warm smile. “Happy Nightmare Night, girls. Help yourself to some cookies and cider.” She pointed to the table and glanced between them. “Love the costumes. You don't need to tell me what you are, Scootaloo. You're a Wonderbolt." The orange filly with a purple mane, goggles, and wearing a blue body suit with yellow lightning bolts stood tall and puffed out her chest. “The best there is! Why? Because I learned everything I know from the one and only Rainbow Dash!” Twilight glanced to the white filly wearing a white gown and a bell strung onto a necklace. “Wow! That's a gorgeous dress, Sweetie Belle. Um... but what's with that?” She pointed to the white lampshade on Sweetie's head. “Oh, nothing. I just thought it looked funny! And it matches my dress.” “Are you a singer, or something?” “I'm a bell!” Beaming at Twilight, Sweetie Belle tapped her necklace and giggled as a little ping rang out. Twilight let out a small chuckle. “Oh, right.” The yellow filly with a red mane and brown cowgirl boots tipped her stetson to Twilight and nodded. “Howdy-do, Twilight. I'm a rootin-tootin'-ropin' rodeo pony, just like my big sister.” “It definitely suits you.” Twilight gazed at Apple Bloom for a moment, giving her a warm smile. “You know, we have a lot in common. You look up to your big sister the same way I do with Shining Armor.” “Do you miss your big brother, Twilight?” Twilight went silent and glanced down at the ground. “All the time... him, mom and dad, Cadance...” Realizing the sensitivity of the subject, Apple Bloom frowned. “I'm sorry, Twilight. I didn't mean to make you upset.” “The ones we love are never truly apart from us,” said Luna. Turning her head, she gazed off in the direction of Canterlot. “So long as we keep them within our hearts...” Twilight peered at Luna and slowly lifted her hoof to her chest. As she felt the steady beating of her heart, the loving faces of her family and friends appeared in Twilight's mind and she smiled before gazing back at Luna. “You're absolutely right, Princess. As long as we never forget them, our loved ones are always with us. I think I should make that my next letter to Princess Celestia.” Without warning, Twilight pulled Spike into a hug. She laughed as he yelped in surprise, and gently put him down. Scootaloo groaned. “Come on, guys. No more of this mushy talk.” “But surely you agree,” said Luna. “Right, Scootaloo?” Scootaloo blushed but maintained her proud stance and cleared her throat. “It's just... we can talk about this whenever. We're losing valuable crusading time!” Twilight grinned. “I should have known.” “Well, we'd love to stay and talk,” said Sweetie Belle, glancing at Apple Bloom. “But we've got a ton more candy to get if we want to earn our cutie marks for candy collecting.” “Cutie marks for collecting candy?” Luna stared blankly at them. The fillies raised their hooves into the air and clapped them together in a circle. “Cutie Mark Crusader Candy Collectors! Yay!” Luna raised an eyebrow and gazed at Twilight. Twilight chuckled. “Just go with it.” “Come on, Crusaders,” said Scootaloo. “We need to find Zecora and see what kind of candy she's giving out this year.” Scootaloo turned and began to walk away from the library, with Sweetie and Apple Bloom following close behind. Sweetie and Apple Bloom stopped momentarily, glancing back at Luna, Twilight, and Spike and waving at them. “Bye!” "Later!" replied Spike. Luna smiled and nodded to the Crusaders. “Until next we meet, my little ponies.” “Bye, girls!” Twilight waved back and watched as the Crusaders disappeared into the festive crowd. “Stay safe...” Once the fillies were out of sight, Luna sat down beside Twilight and gazed at her. “What is a Cutie Mark Crusader?” “Those girls desperately want to get their cutie marks,” said Twilight. “So they try anything that comes into their heads. When that doesn't get them what they want, they do it again.” “Perhaps I should explain to them so that they will understand?” “We've tried. Believe me.” Twilight smiled and let out a soft chuckle. “My friends and I have learned to just live with it. They'll understand one day.” The conversation was interrupted by Twilight's friends as they appeared from the crowd. Stopping in front of the library, they beamed at Luna and bowed down to her. “Good evening, my friends,” said Luna. She gave them a gentle smile and dipped her head in greeting. “It has been some time since our last meeting. I hope you are all well.” “Howdy, Princess!” said Applejack. Pinkie began to hop in place. “Are you having a super mega fun time? Did you know that the eyeball lamp posts were my idea?” “I am enjoying the festival very much.” Luna chuckled at the comment about the lamp posts. “They are indeed an interesting touch, Pinkie Pie.” Remembering previous years, Twilight gazed at Fluttershy and smiled. “How have you been doing, Fluttershy? I know you don't really like Nightmare Night.” “It's...um...” “She's doing excellent,” Rainbow interjected. “Because she's got us here to watch out for her. Isn't that right, Fluttershy?” With a playful grin, Rainbow draped her foreleg around Fluttershy and held her close. Fluttershy blushed and gently poked at the ground. “I guess...” “We just came to tell y'all that Zecora is about to start with story time,” said Applejack. “I hear she's got somethin' different for us this year.” “Something different?” Twilight stared past her friends and tapped her chin with a hoof. As she pondered what Applejack meant, she recalled her meeting with the mayor earlier that week. She glanced at Luna, and let out a gasp. “Oh! So that's what that was.” The ponies all stared at Twilight. “Come again, darling?” asked Rarity. Twilight merely chuckled. “Nothing.” Standing up, Twilight stepped off the porch and past her friends. “Let's go. We don't want to miss Zecora's story.” Twilight began to lead her friends down Ponyville's central district. When they saw Luna, the townsponies moved to the side of the road to clear a path, waving excitedly to her as she passed by. Before long, the ponies reached the Town Hall and spotted a group assembled in front of the building. The Crusaders waved to them from the back of the crowd. “We saved you a seat!” cried Sweetie Belle. Twilight and the others beamed as they joined the fillies. Apple Bloom climbed onto Applejack's back, Sweetie Belle climbed onto Rarity's back, and Scootaloo sat proudly next to Rainbow. “Careful with the mane, Sweetie Belle,” said Rarity. “These are genuine amethyst.” With a sly grin, Rainbow ruffled Scootaloo's mane. “And how's my favorite pipsqueak?” “Much better now that you're here, Rainbow Dash.” “Well would you look at us!” beamed Pinkie as she bounced up and down. “One great big happy family!” Rarity opened her saddlebag, and after a quick moment of digging through it, she let out a loud gasp. “I forgot the camera! Of all the tragedies that could befall us, this is the worst possible thing!” Everypony laughed then turned their attentions to the stage as the curtain opened, and a zebra wearing a wooden face mask and a cape made of leaves stepped forward. Spike leaned up to Twilight and whispered into her ear. “What is she supposed to be? A tree?” “Uh oh.” Twilight suppressed a laugh and glanced at Spike. “Looks like that time we all thought she was a wicked enchantress might have given her some ideas.” Zecora scanned the excited faces of the ponies before her, and she paused as her gaze fell upon Luna. “Ah, greetings to you, the Ruler of the Night. To this humble zebra, thou art a welcome sight.” Luna smiled as Zecora bowed to her. “The pleasure is mine, Zecora.” “Alright, everypony,” said Mayor Mare. “Welcome to story time. I hope you're all excited for these tales of mystery and terror!” Mayor Mare let out a loud, wicked laugh and the townsponies grinned. With an unimpressed look on his face, Spike continued to stare at the mayor's rainbow-wig. “Now then, I know we usually tell the Legend of Nightmare Moon.” Mayor Mare gave Luna another gentle smile before gazing back out over the group. “But to show respect for our esteemed guest, Princess Luna, Zecora and I have agreed to tell a different story this year.” Spike gazed at Twilight and whispered to her. “So that's what she wanted the book for.” “This story is one of my personal favorites,” Mayor Mare continued. “The Legend of the Headless Horse.” Wearing a sinister grin, Zecora cleared her throat and gazed out over the crowd. “Ponies, prepare to gaze deep within, because now, our story begins. For one night every year, the boundaries fade between this land, and the World of Fear.” The townsponies cheered for a moment and then went silent, beaming at Zecora. “It is on this night that ponies claim to hear a cry so shrill, that down the spines of even the bravest of ponies was sent the coldest chill.” An uneasiness washed over Twilight and she rubbed her foreleg as she listened to Zecora recite the tale. Her thoughts strayed back to the letter sitting in her saddlebag, and for a brief moment, the image of the stranger flashed in Twilight's mind. Suddenly, the street lights flickered and went out, until only the silver light of the moon shone down on them. Zecora stopped and the townsponies began to murmur in confusion. “What's going on?” asked Fluttershy with a shudder. “It's so dark...” A sharp sting suddenly shot through Twilight's horn, and her friends turned and gazed at her as she let out a loud yelp that was quickly mimicked by many of the townsponies. Twilight stumbled back, her vision blurred, and all sound became garbled in her ears. The world seemed to spin all around her, and during brief moments of clarity, she witnessed the concerned eyes of her friends staring at her. Eventually, her sight and hearing returned to normal. A throbbing manifested in her head, and with heavy breaths, she sat down and groaned as she rested one hoof on her forehead and rubbed her horn with the other. “What... what just happened?” “Are you all okay?” asked Fluttershy. “All?” Glancing between the townsponies within her sight, Twilight raised her eyebrow as she saw the unicorns in the crowd all trembling and caressing their horns. She spotted Rarity, Luna, and Sweetie who were doing the same and she frowned. “Did you all feel it too?” “It was like a chill suddenly fell upon me,” whined Rarity. “And for a moment there, I couldn't feel my horn.” Mayor Mare tapped the microphone on the podium. “Everypony please remain calm. We'll get this fixed.” Still trembling, Twilight gazed up at Luna. “Princess Luna, what in Ponyville just happened? Why is every unicorn acting like they've just been drained of their magic?” “Not drained...” Luna leaned in closer and began to whisper into Twilight's ear. “But I must tell the mayor to announce that this festival is over.” Twilight sat quivering as she felt the fear within Luna's voice. “Huh? What do you mean?” “That was an arcane pulse of a high magnitude. Something has disturbed the natural magical energies of the area.” With a frown, Luna glanced off in the direction of the Everfree Forest. “I haven't felt anything like it since...” Twilight looked down at the ground and put her hoof to her chin. Her eyes darted back and forth, and as she mumbled to herself, a sense of deep dread overcame her. She gulped and returned her attention to Luna. “Princess, I was at the old castle today. There was someone there...” Without warning, loud screams were heard off in the distance. The ponies gathered near the Town Hall jumped, and turning in the direction of the screams, they huddled close together and quivered violently. Rainbow kicked into the air and strained her eyes. “It's too dark! I can't see what's happening!” “The festival is over!” Luna stood in front of the frightened townsponies and gave them a firm stare. “Everypony return to your homes immediately!” At Luna's command, the townponies scattered and charged off into the darkened streets of Ponyville. “It's coming from the southern part of town!” Rainbow said. “What in tarnation is goin' on down there, Princess?” called Applejack. Luna gave the same firm stare to Twilight and her friends. “Twilight Sparkle, you and your friends will return to the library and warn my sister. Ponyville is under attack!” The ponies gasped. “What?” cried Twilight. “What's attacking Ponyville? Please, can't we help?” Luna shook her head. “I cannot allow it. This power is beyond any of you.” “But, Princess–” “I will not allow you or your friends to senselessly place yourselves in danger. Please go...” Twilight's ears drooped as she gazed longingly at Luna. As tears began to form in her eyes, she approached Luna and wrapped her forelegs around her neck, resting her head on Luna's shoulder. “We'll be waiting for you.” Gazing down at Twilight soothingly, a single tear ran down Luna's face and returned the embrace. Twilight broke the hug and backed away, keeping her attention on Luna. “Please be careful...” Luna nodded, and giving a last smile to Twilight and her friends, she charged down the street and faded from view. Twilight's friends walked up behind her, and with the Crusaders pressing close to them, they watched as Luna disappeared into the shadows of Ponyville's southern district. “Twilight,” said Rarity. “Darling...” Luna's image remained ingrained in Twilight's mind. Without a word, she took a step forward then suddenly pulled back, sitting down and maintaining a constant vigil. Applejack placed her hoof on Twilight's shoulder and smiled. “Luna knows what she's doin'. Come on, sugarcube. We gotta get out of here and warn Celestia before whatever those things are get here.” Finally, Twilight sighed and turned the opposite direction, leading her friends away from the Town Hall. The ponies raced through the darkened streets, following the glimmering light of Twilight's horn. Behind them, the screams of the townsponies, carts being demolished, and tables and trash cans being knocked over pierced the air. Before long, the boughs of Golden Oaks Library appeared before the ponies. Lighting her horn, Rarity opened the door, and it slammed shut behind them as they streamed into the library. “Hurry, Spike!” cried Twilight. Spike ran to Twilight's desk and grabbed a quill and paper, hastily scribbling down a note. Once finished, he inched open the window and breathed a quick stream of fire over the paper. The letter flew off toward Canterlot, and closing the window, he rejoined the ponies. The chaos of the world outside surrounded the library. Dark figures rushed past the windows, and the walls and floor rumbled as the creatures crashed against the tree. "What are those things?" cried Fluttershy. “Any varmint that wants to hurt my family is gonna have to go through me first!” declared Applejack as she glared and planted herself between the group and the library door. “And me!” Rainbow replied in suit, joining Applejack's side. As she glanced between her friends on all sides of her, a burst of warmth ignited deep inside Twilight's heart and her life prior to moving to Ponyville flashed in her mind. Thank you, Celestia. Staring at the door along with the others, Twilight lit her horn and the entire library became encased in a translucent lavender glow. “And this.” Time seemed to freeze, but eventually, the library stopped rumbling and the noises outside ceased. The ponies waited in silence, but all was peaceful. “Is it over?” whispered Spike. “Nopony move.” Keeping her shielding spell active, Twilight stood up and slowly crept toward the door. With heavy breaths, Twilight's friends watched as she inched the door opened and peeked outside. After a moment, Twilight backed away and turned to face her friends. “Looks clear. Spike, you and the Crusaders wait here. Everypony else come with me.” The ponies exited the library, and emerging onto the street, they gasped as the world before them was laid bare. Candy and decorations littered the ground from one end of the street all the way down to the other. Many of the carts and booths were destroyed, garbage bins were overturned, and several houses had holes in their walls. “Look at this place,” said Applejack with a frown. “I can't even..." No longer wearing her trademark smile, Pinkie picked up a fallen banner and hung her head. “Some party this turned out to be.” Scanning the area, a wave of despair washed over Twilight as she watched townsponies sift through the endless debris, huddle together, and parents comfort their crying foals. "What manner of beast could have done this?" asked Rarity as her ears drooped. Twilight briefly gazed up at the moon in the cloudless sky before facing her friends. "There's no time to clean up. We have to find Princess Luna." The ponies continued their way through Ponyville, looking down every street and alley they passed. Finding only emptiness, Twilight's breath quickened and her heart began to race. With every ounce of strength she could muster, she called out and her voiced echoed all throughout the ravaged town. “Princess Luna!” She waited, but no response came. “She's just got to be here!” “Why don't we check out where we saw her run off to?” Rainbow asked. Applejack nodded in agreement. “Good a place as any to start.” The ponies resumed their trek until they arrived at the spot where they had first heard the screams. They spotted a large group of ponies fitted in golden armor, and standing near them with frightened townsponies crowding around her was Princess Celestia. Twilight galloped toward the assembly with her friends in tow and they made their way through the crowd. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight walked up to Celestia and hesitated for a moment before gazing up at her. Celestia looked deep into the ponies' eyes and dipped her head down, giving them all a gentle nuzzle before whispering into Twilight's ear. “Come inside, quickly.” The townsponies stared quietly at Twilight as she and her friends followed Celestia up the stairs and into the Town Hall, and the royal guards shut the door behind them. Entering the main lobby, Twilight and the others kept their gazes fixated on Celestia as they sat down in a half-circle in front of the doorway. Celestia turned around and gazed at each of them in turn. “My friends, I came as soon as I got your letter, but the attackers were already gone by the time I arrived.” The ponies exchanged nervous glances and then returned their attention to Celestia. “Princess,” said Twilight, “what just happened out there? Did you feel the arcane pulse too? Where's Luna?” Celestia hesitated for a brief moment. “I couldn't find her...”