Wherever the Light Shines: Part 3

by MLPSolarDash1907

Chapter 7 - Attempting to form a new bond

The next day, as she sat in the school plaza, Mystic continued to take notes as the students talked all around her. Mystic didn’t need to look up in order to see them talking with one another, playing, or just studying like she was.

Those creatures came to her one by one earlier that morning, attempting to bond with her, but every time Mystic managed to form an excuse to not hang out with them.

They seemed to grow more agitated, though they seemed to hide it from her.

What is with them? Mystic thought, Why are they obsessed with me?

All of them were except the orange dragoness she believed was named Smolder.

Mystic concentrated more on her note taking about the kindness classes. It wasn’t her problem. Instead, she focused more on remembering the animal showcases on top of the classes.

Fluttershy knows how to teach, she thought, cracking a smirk, she was unable to believe she had a winning streak of being teacher of the month for a long time.

“Students! Please don’t throw those balloons on the plaza!” Starlight called.

Mystic heard some students groan in disappointment.

“It’s just water this time!” one complained.

“Don’t talk back or it’ll be detention for you three!”

Mystic looked to her right to see Starlight at the far end of the plaza and next to one of the school’s entrances.

I wonder how she’s doing... Mystic thought. It was almost like she was thrown a boomerang every time she saw Starlight. She couldn’t deny it now, but who knew what she was going through after Oogundaa?

Mystic couldn’t take her gaze off the unicorn until she walked back into the school.

Had they found her friend yet? How bad were his injuries? The questions kept running through her mind.

There’s no way she could be functioning normally after such traumatic events, Mystic thought, closing her notebook. But what could I do about it?

She remembered the encouragement and the lessons she’d learned about expanding her circle of friends and finding connections between one another.

Hmmm, maybe that could be a way, she thought, scratching her foreleg. I think maybe if I can find out something, I’ll be able to help her. It could work.

Couldn’t it?

Mystic stood up and began making her way towards the Headmare’s office.

---

The unicorn gently opened the door to see Twilight levitating some paper and writing on them. As eccentric the headmare could be, Mystic knew she had to take a shot of getting access to Starlight.

“Headmare Twilight,” said Mystic.

Twilight paused in her writing and turned to see Mystic. She smiled. “Hello my student! Can I help you with something?”

“Probably,” replied Mystic.

Twilight’s smile grew wider. “Well, let me pull you up a seat and you can tell me what’s on your mind.” She levitated a seat close to her desk as she made the papers vanish in winks of purple. Mystic went up to the chair and sat down.

“Sooooo,” Twilight started, “How’re things treating you at the School so far?”

Mystic remembered how she learned about the Elements of Harmony and how each one taught a different quality. But she had failed in helping friends resolve their conflicts.

“It’s... decent enough,” replied Mystic.

“Well, it’ll only get better!” Twilight insisted, “You’ve only been here a few days and it’ll take a day or so more for your experience here to get into its prime.”

“Really?”

“Oh, just a small joke! You’ll love it here,” Twilight said with a slight eye twitch.

Mystic ignored that and cleared her throat. “To what’s on my mind.”

“Oh, of course!”

“Are you okay?” Mystic asked, “You seem nervous.”

“No!” Twilight waved her off, “I’m just excited to be having you here.”

Mystic raised an eyebrow but shrugged it off, “Anyway, since I’ve been studying and taking part in activities, they’ve taught me about gaining more friends. And there’s one pony I want to try and befriend. One who is a part of the faculty.”

“What’re you suggesting, Mystic?” Twilight asked, confused.

“Well, since I’ve been assigned to this school,” said Mystic. “I’ve been wanting to try and speak with Starlight.”

When Mystic finished speaking, Twilight’s eyes were wide.

“Starlight Glimmer?” Twilight repeated.

“Yeah,” said Mystic, “I think she needs somepony as a friend and maybe your ways could help her. I want to help.”

“Mystic, I appreciate your concern with Starlight, but she’s going through a rough time right now,” said Twilight.

“One I’m assuming she’s trying to suppress?”

“Right, and Starlight can be a bit tricky when it comes to things like this,” Twilight explained. “My friends and I have been trying to reach out to her whenever we can but she’s just been asking us to leave her alone.”

“And?”

“And she won’t talk much to her closest friends.”

“Could it be somepony else could try and get her to open up?”

“I don’t know,” said Twilight, “But I think it’s best if we just give her some space.”

And you’re going to decide when ponies should and shouldn’t get her to talk? Mystic thought, almost saying it aloud. She probably needs to talk to at least somepony.

“I see,” said Mystic, deciding not to argue.

“Please just leave her be for now and let her get back into the swing of things,” said Twilight.

“Fine,” said Mystic. “Thanks.”

She stood up and began to leave.

“Remember! Just be who you are! We celebrate all uniqueness here!” Twilight called.

---

And my uniqueness is that I’m going to find Starlight anyway, Mystic thought.

She had been walking through the corridors to find her, but she had no luck. Until one pony said they saw her going out front for a break.

So, Mystic made her way out of the school to the front yard. She was greeted with lush green grass and a couple of school towers to the left. In the middle of the yard, she saw Starlight sitting next to the stream.

She walked up next to her and gently patted her back.

“Huh?!” Starlight looked behind her with wide eyes, causing Mystic to take a step back. “Oh, it’s you.”

“Yeah, it’s me,” said Mystic. “Can I join you?”

Starlight didn’t respond at first, as if she were processing the question. “Sure.”

Mystic sat next to Starlight. She saw the stream wasn’t too deep, much to her relief. The CMC’s swimming lessons in the floatation device might have helped her some but she was still nervous.

“So,” said Mystic, “Is this a favorite spot of yours?”

Starlight nodded. “I come out here on my breaks to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and view.” She looked out into the distance. Mystic followed her to see the village of Ponyville, the rolling hills beyond it, a few mountains and the mountain that held Canterlot.

“It’s beautiful,” said Mystic. “I can see why you come here.”

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Starlight nod.

“It helps me clear my mind if things get a little hectic, or if I just feel like coming here,” said Starlight.

Mystic didn’t respond but she just kept looking out onto the view before her. She needed to get to the issue at some point, but she wasn’t sure--

“Why are you out here?” Starlight suddenly asked.

That question caught Mystic off guard, “Uh, well...”

“Did Twilight put you up to this?” Starlight asked.

“No,” replied Mystic. “I came myself.”

“You might as well not try,” said Starlight, frowning, “They’ve tried multiple times to comfort and help me. You don’t need to hear all of what I went through.” She looked at Mystic, “I’m trying myself to get back in the swing of things and I feel like they’re hindering me.”

How did she know I was here for that? Mystic thought.

“Just because you thought that, doesn’t mean I’m necessarily trying to help in the same sense they are,” said Mystic, “I just wanted a new friend.”

“You don’t need to make friends with me to keep in line with the program, Mystic,” said Starlight, causing the unicorn to tense. “I know you want to be free of a certain somepony out there.”

Dang it! Mystic thought, doing her best not to move her facial expressions. “That is true, but who’s to say I don’t care about you?”

“I do,” said Starlight.

Mystic held back a growl. She began racking her brain for a solution.

This mare isn’t cooperating, Mystic thought. She began to think some more. Her stomach twisted and she felt uneasy. It’s time for another approach. The uneasiness grew, as she knew this would be a bold, risky move concerning herself. But how else could she reach her?

---

Starlight glanced over her shoulder to see Mystic still hadn’t left. She opened her mouth to tell her to leave--

“Starlight,” said Mystic, “Since you’re trying to push me away, I think it’s time for me to do something.”

“What’s that?” Starlight asked warily.

Mystic sighed, “To tell you about my past.”

At that, Starlight gasped and her eyes flew wide open.

“Mystic, why would you tell me, of all ponies, about your past?” Starlight asked.

“Because I feel like it’s needed,” replied Mystic.

She makes it sound so simple. Starlight shook her head, looking away.

“I’m going to tell you regardless of what you say,” said Mystic.

Cringing, and feeling annoyed, Starlight took a glance at Mystic. She saw her tag-along’s eyes looked uneasy, yet determined. She lightly shook, but did her best to stay composed. Starlight ran a hoof down her face, unsure of how this would turn out.

“Fine,” the word just came out of Starlight’s mouth, causing the unicorn to immediately regret it.

But it was too late. Mystic turned her body right at Starlight. Despite her trembling lip and the shudder going down her spine, Starlight did her best to play it cool and face Mystic.

“Let me ask you a question first,” said Mystic. “How would you feel if you woke up in the middle of nowhere, at ten years old, with no memory of what came before?”

That was a very odd question. Starlight processed what she’d heard, but she couldn’t imagine such a traumatizing event happening to her. She wanted to open her mouth to speak, but all she could do was blink in response.

“It would be terrifying, wouldn’t it?” Mystic asked. Starlight just nodded in response. She began to analyze Mystic to see how the mare’s body language would be. “Because,” Mystic sighed, “It happened to me. I woke up with no memories in the middle of a winter street.”

Starlight’s eyes widened. Was that true? “Really?”

“Yes,” replied Mystic. The younger mare frowned. “I was lost, confused, and in an evil world. I didn’t imagine I would ever see anypony that would be friendly to me.”

“Are you really saying you don’t remember who you are before then?” Starlight admonished. Mystic winced, causing Starlight to do the same internally. I probably touched a nerve... good going, Starlight.

“I probably shouldn’t have begun to open myself up,” Mystic’s look slightly hardened.

“No! No! No!” Starlight waved her hooves, “I didn’t mean to offend you!” Mystic narrowed her eyes. Starlight could detect the mare was on edge, yet hidden behind a tough image. One she knew too well. Careful how you speak now, Starlight... “I was just curious! I’ve...”

“Not heard of something like this before?” Mystic cut in.

“No! I just want to know more about you,” replied Starlight. The unicorn immediately regretted saying that. I’m babbling and acting stupid yet again... Mystic slowly exhaled and inclined her head.

“I’ll continue,” said Mystic. Starlight nodded, trying to make herself look as interested as possible. But the unicorn realized Mystic knew she was acting hypocritical when it came to knowing ponies.

Mystic cleared her throat. “I was in city slums filled with families out for themselves, criminals rummaging through the streets and con artists.” She paused, sighing. “I had to fend for myself. I didn’t know what was going on. And then... I was arrested and put on trial.”

Starlight couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Was this mare setting her up?

“The Leader of the city managed to keep the General from throwing me in prison or worse,” said Mystic. “And...” she growled, her eyes hardening and brow furrowing. “I had to be taken in by the General and help the city with various chores as if I were a prisoner anyway.”

“Oh, my,” Starlight lightly gasped. “How did you fare up?”

Mystic looked at Starlight, softening her look but her eyes were rock hard. “I had to do very disgusting work like cleaning up bathrooms and toilets. Someponies even bullied me into dunking my head into a toilet that had been filled with crap for hours.”

Starlight let out a loud groan of disgust, covering her lips and holding back a gag. “For crying out loud!”

Mystic sighed, “But that wasn’t the worst part.”

It gets worse? Starlight thought, unable to think of what else could’ve gone wrong.

“The General did whatever he could to punish me as if I were the lowest scum of the world,” Mystic continued, a disdained look in her eyes. Starlight’s heart sank into her stomach. “Whippings. Lash marks. Constant yelling. Every little mistake I made. He did whatever he could to psychologically and physically hurt me.”

Starlight felt some tears welling up. But she blinked to try and keep them at bay. She couldn’t believe how much suffering this pony had gone through.

“The final thing I want to tell you, is that I managed to use the pain and survive,” Mystic continued, looking down at the ground. “And I managed to escape with the help of a group that wanted to fight back against the government.”

Starlight felt a fire rise in her chest. Was justice going to be delivered?

“It was a lot of fun with that group,” Mystic lightly smiled, but Starlight could see the sadness in her eyes. “They... meant a lot to me and we did do great things together...” She sighed, the smile dropping as did Starlight’s fire

Starlight’s hooves went to her lips, eyes widening. Her heart thudded, examining Mystic. No matter how she looked at the younger unicorn, she couldn’t get any dishonesty coming from her lips. But, something in her gut told her that something felt off.

“The point I’m trying to make, is that you’re not the only one here with a rough past and in a tight spot,” said Mystic, looking directly at her. “I just wanted you to know that.”

“I... don’t know what to say...” Starlight said meekly.

“You don’t need to say anything,” replied Mystic, placing a hoof on Starlight’s shoulder. “Just know, that I’d like to try to help you whenever and however I can.”

Starlight expected this kind of thing from Twilight but to hear it from a pony who she barely knew wanted to help her?

“You mean that?” Starlight asked, hoping to get an honest answer and what her motive might be behind it.

Mystic nodded. “Yes.”

I’m not worth her trouble, Starlight thought, but managed to force a smile on her face. This poor, poor mare! She needs somepony to speak to! She felt a wave of responsibility come over her. She mentally cursed herself for letting it do so, but there’s no way this unicorn should suffer anymore.

And certainly not for her own, pathetic self.

“I want to ask you something,” said Starlight.

“Shoot,” replied Mystic, pulling back.

Swallowing her nervousness, Starlight spoke, “You mentioned you can’t remember anything what came before you’d woken up. How do you deal with that?”

“I’ve no longer concerned myself over those lost memories,” said Mystic. Starlight swore she could’ve saw Mystic’s hindleg hoof twitch. “I’ve become who I wanted to be and I’ve been doing it quite beautifully.” Another twitch.

Now I’m certain she’s lying, Starlight thought.

“Well, I don’t know how you could’ve made it without anypony to guide you,” said Starlight. I bet she eventually found somepony but she’s probably not telling me who...

Mystic shrugged. “I made it, didn’t I? I could fend for myself and gained these.” She flexed her right foreleg, showing off her muscles. “That was work’s only good thing for me.”

Starlight couldn’t help but crack a smile. “They look lean, Mystic.”

“Lean and mean,” Mystic smirked.

Starlight giggled. “Maybe you could teach me how to gain them.”

“It’d take a lot of work,” said Mystic.

I bet it would, Starlight thought. She and Mystic went silent again. Starlight processed what Mystic had told her. She had never heard of something like this before. Was she the only pony Mystic told?

“Do you want to take a walk into town?” Mystic suddenly asked.

“Sure,” replied Starlight. Maybe going into town won’t be such a bad thing... Thinking of how she could probably comfort Mystic.

---

“And you tried meditating? Yoga? Anything that can help with memory loss?” Starlight asked as they approached a drink stand.

“I did all I could think of,” replied Mystic, “Nothing has ever come up.”

“Oh my,” Starlight frowned.

“It’s not much of a big deal anymore, really,” Mystic said. Starlight could hear she was sincere but she wasn’t convinced. “I thought we should get to know each other more. That’s friendship, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” said Starlight as she levitated a couple of bits for their drinks. She grimaced when she saw she was using magic again.

“So, I think you should return the favor by letting me get to know you more,” said Mystic.

“Well, I like kites,” Starlight said with a sheepish grin.

“Kites?” Mystic asked as she levitated her drink.

“Yep!” Starlight curtly nodded, grabbing her cup with a hoof.

“Huh,” said Mystic as she and Starlight began walking down the street again, “So, is there anything else you like to do?”

“Well, I love guidance counseling,” Starlight said with forced smile, “It gives me a time to use my talents to help those in need. Would you like to try it sometime? I can teach you.” Starlight began to sip on her straw.

“Teach me some magic,” said Mystic.

Starlight did a spit take. “What?”

“Teach me some magic,” said Mystic. “I know you’re good at it, and I feel like I need to learn some more about it.”

“I...”

“And magic could come in great use during a fight on one of my travels,” said Mystic with a tone that suggested no argument or objections.

Couldn’t she have chosen something else that wasn’t magic?!” Starlight thought with a sigh to cover her anger.

Magic was Starlight’s entire world. But now, it felt like a curse. Every time that accursed horn glowed and surged with it, Starlight felt like ripping it off. The unicorn squeezed her eyes shut.

From hypnotizing my friends, recklessly using it, turning Sunburst and I into foals... Starlight paused. Sunburst. They hadn’t found him yet. Or is Twilight sparing her the emotional trauma? A nice thought by her but she couldn’t help but feel nervous and angry.

“Well?” Mystic asked. Starlight looked up at her. “I just thought we’d get to know each other more is all.” She could feel that Mystic was getting ready to leave.

Despite her complete opposition to this, maybe she could use this as an opportunity for this poor unfortunate soul.

“Fine... I’ll teach you magic,” Starlight wanted to die right then and there.

Mystic nodded. “I look forward to our lessons.”

“There you are!” a voice echoed, causing Starlight’s heart to skip a beat. No! Not now! I’m not ready!

Starlight turned to see a very familiar blue unicorn with a white mane and tail. Only she didn’t have her signature purple cape and hat on.

“T-Trixie...” Starlight breathed.

“You inconsiderate, stupid, reclusive buffoon!” Trixie scolded, stomping up to her. “How could you avoid me?!”

“I-”

“I’ve been trying to reach you for a week and you didn’t respond to me!” Trixie shouted, tears brimming her eyes.

She’s hurt because of me...

“What do you have to say for yourself?!”

Starlight slightly looked to the right at an annoyed Mystic but was mostly blocked by Trixie’s distraught face.

She remembered Twilight’s words. “Just remember, Starlight, that we’re all here for you no matter how many times you make a mistake. We love you and want to maintain the bond we have. Just try speaking to us.”

I’ll try and take one baby step at a time, Starlight thought, not knowing how things could go.

“Trix...” Starlight frowned. “I am so so sorry. I...” She bit her bottom lip, “I was just... caught up in my own mind with all I went through and I didn’t think to trouble you with it...” She placed a hoof on Trixie’s shoulder, “But I honestly didn’t feel good for some of that time.”

“I could’ve comforted you. I could’ve helped you,” said Trixie.

“I know, and I realize that now...” Starlight sulked. “I just was stupid and inconsiderate. I hope you can forgive me for not reaching back to you.”

Starlight weakly looked back at Trixie whose look appeared to be softening and becoming calmer.

“Of course, I forgive you,” said Trixie, a solemn smile breaking out. “But just don’t shut me out like that again.”

“I won’t,” said Starlight, inwardly unsure of herself.

But Trixie seemed to take it as her smile grew.

“Well, I don’t care what happened in that nasty land,” said Trixie, straightening herself up and forming a look of determination. “All that matters is that my best friend is safe and well.”

Starlight allowed herself to smile. “I’m glad I’m safe too...” But what about Sunburst?

“Excuse me,” said Mystic, who Starlight momentarily forgot she was there. Both she and Trixie looked at her.

“Uh, who are you?” Trixie asked.

“Miss Van Winkle,” Mystic spoke, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Trixie inclined her head, completely confused, “Uh, okay? I don’t know how to respond to that.”

“Oh, this is Mystic,” said Starlight, pointing at the young unicorn, “She’s started at our school.”

“Delightful,” said Trixie, turning back to Starlight. “Anyway, since you’re out and about, I figured we could treat ourselves to a little girl’s trip to the spa.”

“I’d like that,” said Starlight.

“Well, then, let’s go!” Trixie grabbed Starlight’s hoof and began trotting. Starlight joined her and they made it about twenty feet.

“Hold on,” said Starlight. She turned back to Mystic who hadn’t moved. “How about you join us, too?”

“What?” Mystic asked, followed by Trixie’s surprised “Huh?”

“Yeah!” Starlight beamed. “I mean, you helped Twilight and her friends save me.”

“Say what?” Trixie cut in.

“And I think it’d be wonderful to have you,” Starlight finished.

“She helped save you?” Trixie asked as if she were a filly, but Starlight pushed the thought aside. Mystic raised an eyebrow before taking one last sip of from her cup and tossing it aside into a trash can.

“I think I wouldn’t mind that,” said Mystic, walking over and joining the unicorn and magician.

“We would... be glad to have you?” Trixie said.

“Well, let’s get going!” Starlight smiled, remembering a lesson she’d learned. A big thing of friendship is to get new friends to connect with your old ones.

---

“Well, Mystic,” said Trixie as the trio walked into the spa. “This here is Starlight and I’s most favorite spot in Ponyville. The Ponyville Spa!”

“Yeah, I’ve been here before,” replied Mystic.

“Excellent!”

“Didn’t you say that the open fields were your favorite spot too, Trixie?” Starlight asked.

“There’s nothing wrong with having multiple favorite spots,” Trixie scoffed.

Starlight smiled but she gained an uncertain feeling when she saw Mystic’s impassive look.

“Do you have any favorite spots, Mystic?” Starlight asked.

“I’ve seen a lot in the world, so it’s hard to say,” replied Mystic.

“Ooh, a world traveler?” Trixie leaned over with interest, “What did you go see? The Great Wall? The tropics? The city of Venace?”

“Not remotely close for any of those,” said Mystic. “I go to remote places and look into strange, unexplained things.”

“Oh, boring,” Trixie said with a yawn.

“Nooow, Trix,” said Starlight, “Remember what we learned about appreciating other’s interests?”

“Well, I don’t think we need to be into it right away,” said Trixie as the spa grew ever closer.

“I might’ve passed by some cities but I don’t like being around them,” said Mystic.

“Oh, you need to expand your horizons,” said Trixie.

“Oh, hey! We’re here!” Starlight cut in before anypony could say anything else. She hastily opened the spa door revealing the lobby where a few ponies were talking and heading into the main section of the spa.

Keep it cool, keep it cool, Starlight thought.

“Ah!” came Aloe’s voice from behind the counter, “Trixie and Starlight! We’ve got a reservation just for you!”

“Reservation?” Starlight inclined her head.

Lotus Blossom stepped out into the lobby to meet them, “Ah, and is this Mystic Missus Rarity had drop in before?”

“How did you guess?” replied Mystic.

“Ah, I have a memory of an elephant,” Lotus winked and turned to Trixie and Starlight, causing the latter to feel unworthy of being around such ponies like the Spa twins. “Missus Trixie has been adamant of reserving a place here. Shall we take you to the steam room?”

“Indeed! My friend deserves the utmost care from the best,” said Trixie, raising a hoof high.

Lotus giggled and motioned them to follow her. Trixie went first followed by the other two ponies. When they reached the door leading to the steam room, Trixie stopped and held a hoof up, keeping Mystic from following them.

“Sorry, I only reserved it for Starlight and I,” said Trixie, “I’ve been planning this thing for days.”

Starlight gave Mystic an embarrassed look, “I’m sorry, Mystic. Do you think you could let Trixie and I catch up real quick? We hadn’t spoken in a while.”

“Fine,” Mystic breathed out. “I’ll try and see about a massage.”

“Good!” Trixie chirped, grabbing Starlight by the hoof and trotting into the steam room.

“Don’t you think you could’ve been a little more polite about that?” Starlight asked.

“Wellll, I would have but I’m in one of my moods,” Trixie reasoned.

Starlight rolled her eyes, “I don’t think she took that well.”

“Oh, don’t worry, she likes me,” said Trixie, grabbing two white spa robes with her magic “As all ponies do.”

---

“I don’t like her one bit,” Mystic muttered, clutching the green spa robe she’d been given. She was annoying. Boastful. Prideful. And just all about herself.

Mystic stepped into the massage room. Several ponies were lying their stomachs on the beds as spa ponies massaged their backs, hooves or necks.

Her gaze scanned the room to find a place to unwind until Starlight and Trixie got out of the steam room.

She paused when she saw a familiar rainbow mane. Wait, Rainbow Dash?!

It was indeed Rainbow. The pegasus was lying on her back with a purple robe on. She had a pleasant smile on her face.

Fortunately, her eyes were closed.

I think I might’ve stumbled onto something I shouldn’t see, Mystic thought, thinking in terms of Rainbow. She smiled mischievously.

Should I call out for her? Poke her? Or... Mystic suddenly got an idea and rubbed her forehooves together.

She gently tiphoofed over to Rainbow’s side. Nopony was giving her a massage yet. She must’ve had it already. Her hooves were sparkling and her mane was groomed.

Mystic’s heart raced in excitement as she prepared to do what she wanted. She leaned forward to Rainbow’s ear.

“I know your secret,” Mystic whispered.

“Yah!” Rainbow shot up from the spa bed, nearly hitting the ceiling. She looked down with eyes as wide as saucers. Mystic had to keep herself from rolling on the floor in laughter.

“Gee, you really are the fastest pegasus around,” Mystic chuckled.

“Wh-what are you doing here?!” Rainbow cried.

“I came to bother you,” Mystic giggled.

She expected Rainbow to retort as the blue pegasus’ face turned beet red. But she flew out the window with a trail of color behind her. Mystic held a hoof to her mouth and began giggling into it.

Sweet success!

“It’s not polite to harass customers,” a voice Mystic recognized said. She turned to see the pink earth pony with a blue mane and tail.

“I was just poking a little fun,” Mystic awkwardly grinned.

“Well, do you want to get our services or just bother ponies?” Aloe asked.

“I’ll have a massage,” Mystic quickly answered, practically running over to the changing room to remove her outfit.

---

The steam filled the warm room. With a robe on, Starlight’s coat on her face and lower legs tingled as the white wispy moisture wrapped around her body. Starlight allowed herself to relax some, having almost forgotten about how good this room felt whenever she came here.

“I tell you, Aloe and Lotus deserve the reward for most exquisite spa in Equestria,” said Trixie, a towel wrapped around her mane.

“Wait ‘til Rarity hears you say that,” said Starlight. “She went to the one in Canterlot.”

“Psh! Canterlot might be exquisite, but Aloe and Lotus have charm, care, and perfection,” said Trixie. She cleared her throat, “I think they’re great in their own ways.”

Starlight furrowed her brows briefly but shrugged.

“I think we should get started on our magic shows at a much later time, because my friend deserves to be treated first,” said Trixie. Starlight was grateful at the thought. She didn’t have to tell Trixie right away about not being into magic anymore.

“Thanks, Trix,” said Starlight, “This spa visit means a lot.”

“Not as much as you mean to me,” Trixie said with a wink.

Starlight lightly blushed. “So, besides worrying about me, how have things been for you?”

“Oh, marvelous,” Trixie giggled, “I’ve done some magic shows across Ponyville and the kids seem to enjoy them. I might be doing more for them and this fair village.”

“I’m proud of you,” Starlight smiled, “Also, getting to do a show in the Crystal Empire?”

“Indeed,” said Trixie. “I might be a showmare, but I like coming to Ponyville to take it easy.”

“I take that because I’m here, too,” said Starlight.

“Yep!” Trixie chirped, “You, Maud, and everypony else are the best parts!”

Maud...

Starlight inwardly frowned, remembering Maud’s hard look. How could she have not tried harder to reconcile with her?

I needed to speak with her right then and there... she thought. But she had to know something from Trixie.

“Aren’t you going to ask me what I was doing out in Oogundaa?” Starlight asked.

“I would, but I feel as if you aren’t ready for that,” Trixie waved her off. “If you want to talk about it, talk. But let’s just enjoy ourselves.”

Starlight smiled, “Wow. Thanks, Trix.”

“You’re welcome, my buddy!” Trixie giggled, lightly punching Starlight on the shoulder.

Starlight let out a pleased sigh, enjoying the steam once again. But she barely had time to do so as she thought of Trixie wanting to do more magic lessons, and Mystic wanted to do some too. The unicorn inwardly facehoofed, wishing there was another way to try and talk to Mystic.

A thought came to her. Maybe my guidance counseling sessions could help with that.

It would help her avoid doing those lessons.

“It’s gotten quiet in here,” Trixie suddenly said.

“Oh,” Starlight nervously chuckled, “Should we keep talking?”

“Not unless you want to,” said Trixie, “After all, this is for you and curing your past boo-boos.”

Starlight smiled again. Spending time with Trixie did feel great and powerful. But she definitely felt that she needed to at least say something.

“I admit I am worried about Sunburst,” said Starlight.

“We’re all worried about Sunburst, Starlight,” said Trixie. “But I know you’re probably having it worse than the rest of us, correct?”

“Yeah,” Starlight frowned. “We finally became an official item and...”

“Oh my!” Trixie gasped, “I knew it would happen but this calls for extreme measures to helping you out!” She cupped Starlight’s cheeks, “We will get the ultimate supreme package from the spa!”

---

She had been at the spa for a couple of hours. As Mystic approached the rim of the hot tub, she looked at her bare flank. The bullies’ attempt to bother her didn’t hurt much, but the event did push her into truly wondering things about herself.

Do I really look like a guy? Mystic thought, wondering about how her outfit made her look. Why am I feeling uncertain about my flank?

Mystic rubbed her foreleg as she tried to enjoy the water. She remembered moving from place to place, discovering one thing or another about the world, planning ahead to what comes next.

How long have I moved without stopping? she thought, splashing some water onto her face.

She sighed, unable to stop thinking about these things.

Why do I go around trying to figure out the world? Discovering new and forgotten legends? Mystic thought.

She paused for a second. Where had that come from? Since when did she wonder about what she’s been doing? It was her life’s purpose.

Wasn’t it?

Mystic shook her head, trying to shake off the thoughts. But her gaze went back to her blank flank. When she looked at it, she felt... incomplete.

Mystic looked up at the ceiling, thinking even more until she realized something.

I hadn’t paused in any point in my adventures...

Even when she stopped every year to visit her beloved ponies’ grave, she still had adventure on her mind.

All that she’s been doing for the past week has been doing all kinds of activities with the CMC, working on a farm, being with the Apple family and ponies in this village.

Were the travels a distraction from me looking at myself? Mystic thought, surprised at it. She felt as if she were softening and she didn’t like the sound of that.

What made my friendships with the Liberators and Sunshine so special? Mystic thought.

She had been somewhat putting off looking into that for some reason and she didn’t know what. It ticked her off. But she was thinking more of Sunshine whenever she was thinking of friendship. She did think of the Liberators some but not as much.

It was all so confusing.

Mystic looked over at Starlight and Trixie both lying on their stomachs on the spa beds. Each of them had white robes on and towels wrapped around their manes. Mystic’s eyes narrowed at Trixie. While Starlight looked happy and content with her “best friend” as said by the showboat, Mystic had been listening in on some of their conversation.

I know to rely on my instincts and to assess the situations, Mystic thought, eyes narrowing even more. After observing for over half an hour, Mystic reached a conclusion. She’s treating the symptoms unlike what I wanted to do.

She recalled some conversations she had with Sunshine about forming a connection to understand others.

And Cierra, “It’s best to find out what others need or what they are struggling with so they can find their way to heal.”

It looked like both of them had the right ideas when it came to that stuff.

But how could Mystic, a pony of her stature, possibly help a troubled pony?

Mystic sighed, deciding to just try.

When this boastful pony scrams, I will see if I can find a way into Starlight, Mystic thought, growing irritated the more she looked at Trixie.

As she tried to relax again, Nightfall’s sinister gaze flashed through her mind.

“Who do you think sent the lions ahead of his invasion? Why did you think you weren’t killed by the lion who attacked you?”

Mystic began to get goosebumps and a wave of nervousness came over her.

“Don’t be scared to ask me, Mystic.” She remembered the dead serious look he gave her. “I know who you really are.”

That guy claimed that, Mystic thought, shaking off her uneasiness. But who knows how much of it would’ve been riddled with lies?

She shuddered, he was so insistent and bold in his declarations.

Mystic splashed water onto her face, “He’s gone. And I will find out what my memories are.”

The unicorn continued to splash water onto herself, trying to suppress what he said. Mystic sank beneath the surface as his voice echoed again, “Do you really think that you coming to Equestria just fell out of the sky for you?”

---

Starlight walked out of the spa, feeling cleaned up and refreshed along with Trixie and Mystic.

“You seriously got an extra-strength-hot-stone-deep-tissue massage?” Trixie asked, looking at Mystic.

Mystic cracked her back and neck, “Gosh! That was intense but I liked it.”

Starlight grimaced, “I don’t think I could’ve handled that.”

“Trixie even less so,” said Mystic.

“Hey!” Trixie shouted, causing Starlight to giggle, which caused Trixie to look aghast at her friend.

“Anyway, I think we all had a good time, didn’t we?” Starlight asked.

“I did,” Mystic nodded.

“Well, that’s surprising,” said Trixie. “I had an excellent time!”

“Want to put your mane where your mouth is?”

“Okay!” Starlight said, not wanting them to fight, “Thanks Trixie for a good afternoon. I needed that.” She heard Mystic clear her throat and saw Mystic motion with her head to ‘come on.’

“Excuse me, Trix, I need to catch up with Mystic,” said Starlight.

“Oh? Why?” Trixie asked. Starlight could detect a tinge of jealousy.

No, she doesn’t need to fight over me, Starlight thought, slightly panicking at the image of Trixie and Mystic arguing.

“Well, Twilight is wanting me to do my guidance counseling on her,” Starlight toothily grinned, “And I’ve been assigned to give her sessions.” Yet another lie.

Trixie raised a curious eyebrow causing Starlight to grin even wider.

“Okay then. But remember I have plans for the rest of the day and week for you,” said Trixie. “I’ll see you at the Café later.”

The showmare left, leaving Starlight alone to be with Mystic again.

“Sorry,” said Starlight, “She’s like that. But she’s a good pony.”

“I wonder how ponies get past the boasting,” said Mystic.

“You’ll get used to it, though she has toned it down since we first met,” said Starlight.

Mystic rolled her eyes in response.

“Speaking of which, I am going to be your guidance counselor and we’re both going to meet to talk about things,” said Starlight.

“I see,” said Mystic.

“Now, let’s talk more about you,” said Starlight.

“What about you?” Mystic asked.

“Up-up! I asked the question first,” said Starlight, “Since we hadn’t been able to learn more about what came before you woke up, maybe we could find out about your time before you left that city.” Mystic’s eyes widened. “Now, who’re the ponies you were with? Anypony close? Any hidden things I don’t know about yet?”

“What’s it to you?” Mystic retorted.

“Oh, excuse me, I’m just trying to see what makes you tick,” replied Starlight.

“And you’re going through some trauma that I have no experience dealing with,” replied Mystic.

“Then why did you even bother coming to me?” Starlight demanded, leaning forward.

“Because you don’t deserve what you’re going through and I think you should just work things out with those closest to you,” replied Mystic.

Starlight scoffed, turning her nose up at Mystic. “I just think this probably a big waste of our time.”

“Then go and leave me.”

“Oh, it’s a little too late for that,” Starlight looked back at Mystic with a bit of a glare. “You and I have serious business with each other.”

Mystic stared at Starlight, annoyed. “Then, I guess we’re just going to have to see which one will spill first.”

Starlight scoffed. “We shall.”

“Magic lessons?”

“I will teach you when my schedule allows it,” Starlight narrowed her eyes even more, “Then, we’re going to see if we can reach an understanding at some point.”

“Fair enough.”

Both stood there. Unmoving.

“I’d better go meet Trixie,” said Starlight.

“Go. I’ve got to do some more studying anyway,” said Mystic.

Starlight turned and walked off in the direction Trixie did, taking one last look at Mystic’s departing figure.

Comments

[sonicfan05]

Man, this chapter has a lot of development!

So Mystic actually opened up about her past (most of it) to Starlight to get her to open up. She even agreed to teach Mystic magic... which she regretted afterwards.

Trixie was also upset with Starlight for pushing her away, but at least she was understanding and they made up.

Mystic was reflecting on her life, wondering what her purpose was, but also curious about her past. I wonder if that's going to come back into play?

That one bit with Mystic bothering Rainbow Dash was funny.

And jeez, both Mystic and Starlight are stubborn! With Starlight not wanting to do magic and refuse to open up about her problem, while Mystic refused to talk more about her past. Oh brother!

Can't wait for the next chapter!

[Adood]

Dual Therapy session???

I’d like to see how this goes

[redmar]

The conversation between Mystic and Starlight was interesting.