In the midst of her unconsciousness, Melody woke up to find herself in a meadow full of flowers.
“Where… is this place?” she asked herself while getting up. “Am I dead?”
“No, you’re not, silly girl,” a stallion’s voice came from behind.
Startled, Melody turned back to see an orange Pegasus stallion with striking blue mane and tail with a blue shield with a lightning as his cutie mark.
“I guess you pushed too much, huh, Melody?” the stallion continued.
“Who are you, and how did you know my name?”
“Why wouldn’t I forget your name, my dearest daughter?”
Melody became stunned when she heard the word “daughter”. She looked at the stallion again. Then, she remembered the photos she saw from her family album.
“Are you… Dad?”
“Bingo, my dear princess!”
Overjoyed, Melody galloped forward and hugged him tightly.
“I… I’ve long to see you, Dad…” she cried, with happy tears.
“Me, too. You’ve grown into a beautiful, young mare now, Melody,” replied Flash Sentry.
As Melody stopped crying, Flash asked her. “So, how was your life?”
“Basically, fine all the way, until my charm got scratched,” she sighed.
“Actually, you don’t have to worry much about it now.”
“Huh?”
“Because basically,” Flash explained. “My charm was to protect you until you’ve turned eighteen.”
“Is that so?”
“Oh, and by the way, belated birthday to you, daughter!”
“Err, thanks, Dad.”
“Here, let me do this for you.”
He took her charm and using only his hoof, magic gathered all around it and in a flash, the charm was now sparkling new, like the day it was given to her!
“There, all done. You can wear it as a decoration item from now on.”
“Whoa, thanks, Dad!”
“And how was your relationship with Chaos Control?”
“How exactly did you know everything?”
“Don’t you know that, my dear daughter? I’m looking over your mother, your brother, and everypony else I know, so I know exactly what’s happening on them.”
“Oh, really?”
“Yeah, and as far as I know,” he sighed. “Orion needs me the most. He misses me daily.”
“What about everypony else?”
“Everypony I know do miss me as well, particularly Soarin. Do you know that he used to compete well with me when we first met?”
“I didn’t know that!”
“There are many other things that your mother didn’t tell you about me, huh?”
“Uh, well…”
“Forget it. I’m sure she’ll tell you everything someday. And by the way,” he spoke to her. “You’ve finally done your part in saving the world. Everypony owes you a lot.”
“I know, thanks, Dad. She really was a tough enemy to defeat.”
“You also showed that friendship is magic, just like your mother’s heroic acts with her friends in the past. In fact your future self has hailed you as the inheritor of the Elements of Friendship.”
“Heh-heh, I know,” said Melody. “You know, Dad, I’d really wished that you’re by my side every day, giving me support and confidence…”
She went into her father’s hugs and embraced him tightly. For the first time since she was born, she felt the gentle atmosphere from her father, warm and tender.
“Now then,” excused Flash. “I need to go now, but don’t worry, I’ll be back soon.”
“Back? When?”
“Wait and see,” he winked at her as he began to fade in white light. “It’ll be a surprise for you and the rest of your family and friends…!”
“Wha-” Melody woke up with a start to find herself in a brightly-lit room, with the scent of medicine.
“Melody!” Twilight’s voice called. “Are you feeling better?”
“Mom?” she answered weakly, feeling dazed.
“Melody! Thank goodness you’re alright,” sighed an extremely relieved Orion.
“Orion?” she asked further, trying to get up, then seeing everypony else. “This is the hospital, right?”
“Yes, Melody,” came Princess Celestia’s voice.
“Wait, I defeated Queen Myra, right?”
“Yes, and the moment she was gone, the whole place began to crumble, but we managed to escape in time.”
Melody then felt a stinging pain on her head. “Ow… what’s going on with my head?”
“You put too much pressure while you’re doing the finishing blow towards Myra. As a result, your horn broke,” explained Twilight.
“Really?” She tried to feel it, but was stopped by Princess Celestia.
“Don’t touch it! It’s still in the process of healing. If it comes loose you’ll corrupt yourself.”
“!!” Melody gulped at the idea.
“But don’t worry. Your horn will be healed in less than a week. You just can’t use magic for the moment.”
“Oh, thank goodness.”
“If there’s nothing wrong further then you’re discharged from here in two days,” resumed Princess Cadance. “We’re glad to know that you’re fine.”
“I know, Auntie Cadance.” She stretched her hoof, trying to reach her mother’s. “I tried, Mom…”
“Rest yourself, my daughter.”
“Well, basically,” Melody reached to take out her charm, but the moment she took it out, all faces turned to surprise. Melody’s charm was now free of scratches and was glittering like brand new!
“B-But how?” asked Shining Armor.
“Well first,” began Melody. “I met Dad…”
All gasped even more.
“You dreamt our father!” cried Orion like an excited pony, with his hooves on her. “Tell me, what did he tell you?”
“Basically,” she replied. “All he wanted was to see me, and check me out, and also, he’ll come back, and surprise us in a special way!”
“Ooh…” All replied.
“Like how?” asked Princess Luna.
“I guess we’ll have to wait,” said Twilight. “Surprises aren’t what we expected, you know.”
Chaos came and held her hoof. “Melody, you did it. You saved the world,” he told her.
“Thanks to you, the moment we reached Ponyville,” added Beryl. “The mayor happily told us that many of the patients have recovered from the sleep. You broke the spell!”
“I got word from my messenger at Canterlot saying that all patients, including Prince Blueblood have woke up as well,” said Princess Celestia.
“The townspeople would like to send their thanks to you on the day you’re discharged from the hospital,” continued Raisin Brandy. “In addition we’ve got a surprise party for you that day.”
“And it’s my idea!” called Pepper Flake, popping a party popper.
“Heh-heh, slow it, Pepper,” giggled Melody.
“You did it, Melody! I love you,” said Malinae as she hopped onto her, hugging her.
“Your hard work has really paid off,” said Platinum Royale. “You’re our hero.”
“You really proved everyone that friendship is the ultimate magic to defeat Myra!” said Applejack.
“You saved the day, Melody!” praised Greenie Hats.
“All hail Melody!” cheered Rainbow Dash.
As everyone in the ward sent praises to Melody, Princess Celestia could see Twilight walking out of the ward unnoticed.
“Um, if you all excuse me, I’m out of this ward for a while,” Celestia excused.
Outside, she found Twilight sitting on the bench, looking moody.
“Care to explain what’s wrong with you, Twilight Sparkle?” she asked gently.
“You see, Princess,” Twilight tried to explain. “I’ve been watching my daughter growing up learning everything about friendship from me, and now I’m almost getting old. I fear that I would no longer watch her teaching her next disciples or even descendants about friendship. The others? I think they’re quite happy with their own lives…”
Princess Celestia sat beside her. “Everypony faces ageing, and then death. It’s an inevitable life sequence for everypony. But, it’s surely a pride seeing your hard work all the years being paid off to your disciples and descendants.”
Twilight gave a weak smile, showing that she acknowledged Celestia’s advices.
“One more thing, Twilight,” continued Celestia. “In a month I’ll be holding a ceremony for Melody’s heroic act. At the same time, you and your friends will be getting some surprise as well.”
“Really? What is it?”
“Wait and see,” she chuckled.
The big day arrived.
Canterlot Castle was packed with ponies from all over Equestria wanting to see their heroic princess given an award.
“Excuse me, coming through!” Rainbow Dash called as she pushed through the crowd with Soarin, Greenie Hats and Thunder Clash. Then she heard a familiar voice.
“Rainbow Dash! Is that you?”
Rainbow Dash turned back to see a well-dressed tan brown mare with grayscale mane and tail. “Daring Do?”
Surprised that her idol was still there, Rainbow Dash hugged her.
“It’s been a long while, Rainbow Dash.”
“Yeah, how’s it goin?”
“All well. Why don’t you meet my son Fearless Fray?” she introduced. “Fearless, this is Rainbow Dash.”
“Uh… hi, Rainbow Dash.”
“Nice to see you again, Fearless!” said Greenie.
“You know him?” asked Rainbow.
“We met him way back on our adventure,” answered Thunder.
“I see you’re still keeping in touch, then,” mused Soarin.
“Nice to meet you all,” said Fearless.
“Soarin! Rainbow Dash! I would like to talk to you all a little,” the voice of Spitfire called.
“Uh, we’d better go first. You all have a nice chat. See y’all later!” said Rainbow as she left with Soarin.
“Wonderbolts, eh?” asked Daring.
“Yep, that’s what calls for them!” replied Thunder proudly.
Rarity entered the throne room with Platinum Royale, Prudence Aura, Bloodthirst with her husband Elusive Streak. He’s a handsome sky blue unicorn stallion having golden mane and tail and having a black stylish floppy hat as his cutie mark.
“So where’s our pony-of-honor?” asked Elusive.
“She won’t be out soon, dear. But you can get to approach her later. Remember that you don’t always see her often!” replied Rarity.
“Don’t forget that you’re always at Manehattan all the time!” reminded Platinum.
“And you don’t get to see us so often,” added Prudence.
“But hey, as long as you remember me and I remember you all, it’s fine.” He turned to Bloodthirst. “And I’ve heard that you’ve been Platinum’s guardian?”
“Err, not exactly,” he replied, blushing. “Just that I’m trying to learn a lot more from normal ponies like you all, at the same time strengthening our relationship.”
“Then that’s good to hear that.”
“Coco Pommel!” Rarity called out as she spotted a familiar figure.
“Hey, Rarity!” Coco responded, coming towards the family. “Glad to meet you again. You’re bringing your whole family along?”
“Exactly, and this is my husband, and these are my daughters and my adoptive son,” she introduced them all.
“Greetings to you, Madam Coco,” introduced Platinum.
“Oh, my, you certainly got manners!” smiled Coco as they continued their conversation.
Applejack and her family were waiting for her cousin Braeburn to arrive. Soon he arrived, dressed in a fancy outfit.
“Howdy, guys!” he called. “Had I missed anything?”
“Nnope,” replied Big McIntosh.
“Just waiting for you all along,” added Applejack.
“Ah, I see, but where’s Apple Bloom?”
“Off for a meeting with her former schoolmates,” said Niku. “She claims that she’s got somepony important to invite over.”
“If that’s the case,” continued Braeburn. “How are you kids as well?”
“Superbly good, Uncle Brae,” replied Raisin.
“Oh, isn’t it Applejack?” A middle-aged white, red-maned mare with a cherry cutie mark called them.
“Aunt Cherry Jubilee!” called Malinae.
“Well, time for some long talkin’,” remarked Fiji.
At another corner, Cheerilee was waiting at a corner with her former students.
“I wonder what’s taking them so long,” she wondered.
“There’s too many people,” replied Diamond Tiara.
“Yeah, you can’t blame them,” added Silver Spoon.
“But what if they’re striking?” asked Snips.
“Rubbish! They wouldn’t do that,” hushed Twist.
“Speak of the devil, here they come!” called Snails.
The Cutie Mark Crusaders arrived, bringing their old friend Pipsqueak with his son Ticky Shanks.
“Pipsqueak! It’s a pleasure seeing you after a long time!” called Cheerilee.
“I do miss you, too, Miss Cheerilee,” Pipsqueak spoke. “And all of you, too, everypony.”
“We’re glad to be together again, Pips,” said Scootaloo.
“Cool as ever,” remarked Diamond Tiara.
“Can we get to a group photo? I’ve requested this the first thing he’s with us,” said Apple Bloom.
“OK, here we go,” said Sweetie Belle as the group neared together.
“I wanna be in there, too!” cried Ticky.
“Alright, sonny. Hang on to me tight,” Pipsqueak instructed.
“Alright, smile, everypony!” ordered Featherweight as he prepared to shoot. It was successful.
Meanwhile, Orion, formally dressed was with Fluttershy and her family.
“So where’s your sister right now?” asked Discord.
“Err, preparing herself, I can say.”
“She should be very proud of this day, don’t you think, Orion?” asked Honey Drops.
“Yeah, I felt proud of her, too. You know, that feeling when you’ve ended something that’s a pain in the neck.”
“Totally agree,” chuckled Beryl.
“Well, everypony is proud to have a hero like her. Technically, we are heroes as well,” said Fluttershy.
“Look, here are the princesses,” called Chaos.
The four princesses ascended to the thrones, all formally dressed.
“Today we are gathered here for a joyous occasion,” began Princess Celestia. “In conjunction with somepony special who has helped to save the universe from a terror that begin about twenty years ago. Now, may I let Princess Twilight Sparkle to continue the speech.”
Twilight went ahead.
“A month ago, there was somepony who ended a threat which was trying to begin the suffering all over Equestria and the universe. From the time she was born, she learned to socialize, and learned everything about friendship with her friends. Fillies and gentlecolts, may I present to you my daughter, Princess Melody Aurora!”
The door opened and Melody entered with the royal procession entering the throne room.
“Now, Princess Melody, would you like to tell everypony about your achievements made?” Celestia asked her.
Melody stepped forward, clearing her throat, and began.
“A long while ago, there was an evil pony called Queen Myra who wanted to take over the universe for her own self. That time, my mother and friends didn’t know that until somepony came from the future and warned them.
“On the day I was born, I was taught about everything, socializing with everypony and learning everything that interests me. I faced many hardships, including one point when I was kidnapped and almost made a slave, and I was depressed when no one told me that that somepony was me from the future who tried to warn everything. But, with the strong spirit of friendship gained from my friends, family and everypony I know, I was given true courage and spirit, and that helped me to end the threat once and for all. Without all of you, we wouldn’t have survived today! Thank you, thank you everypony and all my beloved ones!”
The crowd cheered and all hailed Melody as their hero.
“So… touching,” said Pinkie, shedding a tear.
“I’m so proud of my children to be with her,” said Applejack.
“Thank you so much for your speech, Princess Melody,” said Princess Celestia. “Now, may Princess Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash come forward?”
“Huh?” All were puzzled, but still came forward.
“All of you have taught well about the knowledge of friendship towards your children. They have gained the traits of whatever good deeds you did in the past. Now, you will be greatly rewarded…”
As she spoke, she lit up her horn. Then magic began to envelop each of them, emitting a bright light which made the crowd gasp.
When the light cleared, the crowd became surprised.
Twilight turned to look at her friends. To her surprise, all of them were now Alicorns! What’s more, all six of them gained wavy and more colorful features for their manes and tails.
“You… you all…”
“Yay! Alicorns again!” cried Pinkie, jumping with joy.
“Oh, gosh, I look young again!” gasped Rarity as she no longer felt her wrinkles.
“You don’t only look young,” Fluttershy told her. “I feel like I’m younger than before!”
“Whoo yeah!” shouted Rainbow Dash, zipping through the air.
“But, I don’t get it. What does this mean to us?” asked Applejack.
“Since all of you have shown the true spirit of friendship to your descendants and everypony else all the years,” explained Celestia. “You shall gain eternity to be served as a role model of the Elements of Harmony for future generations.”
“But… doesn’t that mean that we’ll live forever?” asked Rainbow Dash. “What about the rest of our friends?”
“As long as something makes you happy,” Soarin told her. “I’m happy, too to see you being a role model for the future.”
“I agree with that. May your good deeds continue to influence the young,” said Niku.
“Be happy, Pinkie,” Cheese Sandwich told her.
“We love you, Mom. Even if we won’t live longer than you, we’ll still treasure you,” said Platinum.
Twilight and her friends were moved by their words. “You all are so grateful. I can’t thank you all ever enough!” she told them.
“Now then, Spike?” asked Princess Celestia.
“Here!” Spike showed up with a tray, with a few medals and all the Elements of Harmony.
“Now then, would all of you like to present the Elements of Harmony to your successors?”
Rainbow Dash stepped up first. “I shall now present the Element of Loyalty to my daughter, Greenie Hats!”
Greenie came and wore the element. It glittered, accepting her as the new wielder.
“The Element of Honesty to my daughter, Fiji, as well as my son Raisin Brandy,” said Applejack.
Fiji wore the Element of Honesty, while Raisin wore the medal bearing the element. To everyone’s delight, the medal glittered as well.
“The Element of Generosity to my daughter, Platinum Royale,” said Rarity. She came and wore it.
“The Element of Kindness to my son and daughter, Chaos Control and Beryl,” announced Fluttershy. Both twins claimed the medal and the element respectively.
“The Element of Laughter to my daughter, Pepper Flake!” continued Pinkie Pie. Pepper came forward.
“Way to go!” Lapis Lazuli cheered at her cousin, while her mother Maud Pie watched with delight.
“And last but not least, the Element of Magic, my daughter Princess Melody Aurora!” beamed Twilight.
Their relatives cheered and clapped loudly as they went to claim the elements.
“From one to another, another to one. A mark of one's destiny singled out alone, fulfilled,” Melody recited Star Swirl the Bearded’s friendship spell. “From all of us together, together we are friends. With the marks of our destinies made one, there is magic without end!”
“Orion?” called Celestia. He came forward.
“And now,” he announced. “I shall present the Heroic Award to my sister, Princess Melody Aurora in her lifelong efforts in saving the universe!” He wore the medal upon her.
The crowd cheered and chanted, hailing Melody as their hero.
“Three cheers for Princess Melody Aurora! Hip hip Hooray!”
Then, another familiar figures approached. It was Trixie, with her daughter Pixie Dust.
“Didn’t think you’d became a young hero,” said Trixie.
“Congratulations, Melody,” Pixie said, shaking her hooves. “You really are an inspiration for me.”
“You’re the best model we’ve ever had,” said Fiji.
“We all love you, Melody,” said Beryl.
“I love you all, too!” responded Melody.
“Now then, Mom?” Greenie turned to Rainbow.
“What? What can I do?” Rainbow asked, surprised by her daughter’s request.
Soon, all eyes full of eager turned to her. She didn’t get what they meant.
“Go do your special skill,” encouraged Princess Celestia. “Everypony wants to see it.”
Finally realizing what she meant, Rainbow Dash aimed to the window and shot off with extreme speed. With a loud boom, Rainbow Dash made yet the most beautiful Sonic Rainboom for the first time in many years.
“Best… day… EVER!”