Chapter Five - Beauty in Truth
Sunset Shimmer sighed as she took in the atmosphere at Sugar Cube Corner, a smoothie in her hand and a soft smile on her face as she waited for her friends in their usual booth. Granted, she had to learn to be a morning person, but after nearly three years in the human world, she’d adjusted well enough.
The bell chimed, and she caught sight of Pinkie at the head of the group. The party girl’s enthusiastic wave was returned with a smile and a gentle one, and Sunset quietly waited for her friends to get their usual orders and join her. “Thanks for holding the booth for us, Sunset!”
“Hey, no problem. The sun certainly helped to keep me awake. And thanks again for helping me and Vinyl out on Saturday.”
“No problem! It never hurts to help a friend, especially when they have religious stuff going on.”
Once again, it was the Monday morning before the start of another week of school, and the group of friends started it with drinks and a gathering of strength to survive the week to come. And they’d need it, as the Musical Showcase was on the horizon…though the more immediate problem of midterms was looming closer. For now, however, they could rest and take their minds off of school for one moment…by pestering their friend for gossip.
“So any good news from Twilight?”
Sunset laughed. “No concrete results on her research project yet, Dash, just some promising leads.” She smiled. “And apparently, I have some paternal relatives that I might meet someday too, if they’re up for it.”
“Good for you, sugarcube.” Applejack sipped at her drink. “Give me the choice between more family an’ more money, an’ Ah know which one Ah’ll pick every time.” General murmurs of agreement sounded before the farmgirl prodded, “Anyway, keep us in the loop. Ah’m lookin’ forward to hearin’ more ‘bout this whole Siren story.”
“I’m just hoping that it has a happy ending.” Fluttershy gently held her teacup and studied it as she noted, “Though I am a little surprised that Equestria’s Sirens are different from the ones in our world’s myths. Things have lined up so much already.”
Rarity shrugged. “Well, in their defense darling, there’s already something of a disconnect. Our myths only had one singular Pegasus rather than an entire ethnic group, thestrals are simply the creation of J. K. Rowling, and alicorns are only slightly older than the Harry Potter series thanks to certain eighties animated programs.”
“For the honor of Greyskull!” Pinkie giggled as she dramatically held aloft a tiny straw like a sword.
Sunset rolled her eyes with a smile at her friend’s antics before contemplating her own drink. “Still, I’m a little surprised that there were two recorded incidents in Equestrian history involving Sirens. I knew about the later one, but this early one’s thrown me.”
“Well what happened with the later one?” Dash asked. “I mean, Star Swirl was involved the first time, right? Maybe he used whatever trick the first time to win the second time?”
“If he did, it was solo, and three on one.” Sunset shrugged. “Twilight will keep me in the loop though, don’t worry.”
“Oh, we aren’t worried about that, dear.” Rarity turned to her and asked, “Speaking of loops, have you given any thought to bringing Sparkler and Rose in on the truth?”
“Yeah, but I’m a little surprised that they haven’t come to me about what happened with Crystal Faire yet. You’d think they’d have come to me faster than Photo Finish did.”
“Well, Lyra ain’t tryin’ to pump you fer info yet. Maybe somethin’s holdin’ ‘em back.”
“Maybe.” She sighed. “I don’t know. It feels kinda wrong to keep them out of the loop, though. I mean, they did help out during that whole incident with the Nightmare.”
“True, but the fewer who do know about all of this, the better.” Rarity offered her friend a smile. “We’ll leave it up to you dear, but whatever your decision, we’ll support you.”
Sunset smiled. “Thanks, Rarity.”
-
“Well ain’t that a bonnie sight.” Rockhoof’s tone was clearly approving as the group approached the ornate greenhouses that had been set up on the road leading to the new capital. “A wee bit fancy for my taste, but still, nice enough.”
Flash Magnus grinned. “Mistmane must have picked up a thing or two from the Cloudsdale pegasi when she made this. We practically invented greenhouses. We needed to when one of the old Commanders wanted cucumbers year-round.”
Somnambula sighed in approval. “Given how cucumbers taste, I can understand his desire for them.”
As much as Stygian was eager for the quest to continue, he was glad that the group was working together so well with each new member. Rockhoof and Magnus had kept their bickering to a friendly level, and between Somnambula’s bright outlook and Meadowbrook’s skills as a cook, the group’s mood had remained positive. He only hoped that Mistmane would mesh well with them, but as he looked into the greenhouse, it appeared dark and abandoned. “Lady Mistmane?” He knocked upon the door with one hoof. “Lady Mistmane, may we speak with you?”
“Is it possible that she could be somewhere else?” Meadowbrook approached and explained, “From what Ah’ve heard of Mistmane, she does enjoy travelin’.”
The scholar considered the doors. “As plausible as that seems, I think something might be wrong.”
As the healer examined the doors, she realized what Stygian meant. “Oh my stars, Ah think Ah see what you mean! The doors are locked and chained from inside the greenhouse!”
“Well, she is a unicorn.” Flash Magnus looked among the group and offered, “Maybe she locked them from the inside as extra security?”
“That’s possible, but not likely. Especially given the chains.” Stygian turned to the rest of the group. “Besides, this is a greenhouse. If someone wished to break in and steal something then they would shatter the glass. I think Mistmane might be inside, held hostage by something.”
The party looked among themselves before Flash Magnus stepped up. “Alright then, Stygian. Do you have a plan?”
“I think so, yes. Flash, fly overhead and see if there’s an open skylight or some sort.” The pegasus stallion nodded and took wing as Stygian turned to the two mares among them. “Somnambula, can you encircle the greenhouse and see about any further entrances on ground level? I’d rather we not smash our way in if we can avoid it.”
The mare smiled. “This is easily accomplished.”
He then turned to Meadowbrook. “There aren’t many options for what could be holding Mistmane at bay, Meadowbrook. Can you check your stores and see about any potions that could help against her captors?”
“Ah might have somethin’, but Ah can’t guarantee anythin’.”
“Please, do what you can.” As Meadowbrook moved to the side, Stygian then turned to the last of their number. “Rockhoof, let’s take a look at this door and try to deal with those chains.”
“Aye lad!” The two stallions approached the door and examined it. “Now, from the way this door’s built, I’d say that the doors can open inwards and outwards. Rather unusual, but then again, we don’t have greenhouses where I come from.”
“And this would likely ease her getting in and out regardless.”
Rockhoof nodded at his friend’s assessment. “So with a strong enough push, I might be able to snap those chains right off and let us inside!”
Stygian frowned. The brute force approach might work. “We’ll hold that in reserve in case…”
A loud BANG interrupted his thoughts, and further sounds of blunt impact caught the scholar’s attention before Somnambula returned with a semi-conscious Magnus in her hooves. “I found him on the other side of the greenhouse! Either he hit something really hard, or something hit him!”
“Well then, that settles it!” Rockhoof turned. “Brute force then!”
As Rockhoof reared back, the door actually opened inwards behind him. The rest of the party hardly had time to react before the mighty stallion’s hooves hit thin air and knocked him off balance, only for the door to slam shut directly against his hindquarters and push him away by several inches.
The mighty stallion snorted in disapproval. “Something ain’t right about this greenhouse. Maybe Mistmane attracted a spirit, something terrible and vengeful from the other side.”
Stygian could see vines curling about inside the greenhouse, and pondered aloud, “That’s one possibility.”
Meadowbrook appeared to be of similar mind, but spoke her mind very loudly. “Then Ah’m afraid we won’t be visitin’ this greenhouse today! Which, Ah must declare, is a terrible, terrible shame, given the beauty of the plants outside! Why, Ah’d wager those inside are a class onto their own!”
While Rockhoof gave the mare a perplexed look, Somnambula seemed to catch on. “Indeed! For if the grandeur out here is any sign, then the plants within must truly be living works of art!”
“Why is everyone talking loudly?” Flash was back on his hooves, but still dazed from his collision.
To his credit, Stygian had caught on. “And further, we had a delivery for Mistmane! We cannot simply leave it outside, lest it be stolen by bandits!”
“Indeed! Ah was tasked with bringing this fantastic growth potion!” Meadowbrook had already found one weedy-looking plant and produced a tiny bottle from her bags. “Though if we can’t leave it, then perhaps Ah should demonstrate its potency! So that she knows to get back to me!”
The scholar smiled. “I agree! It’s only good sense!”
One tiny drop, and the weedy vine suddenly surged with growth until it was as wide as any of them were long and taller than Rockhoof.
“Very impressive!” Stygian’s attention was fixed on the vine as he continued, “Now if only we had an open door…”
The sound of a heavy lock and chain being undone sounded, and the door swung open. Stygian and the two mares shared smiles of victory even as the remaining stallions watched with horror.
“Rockhoof, that wasn’t some concussion-based hallucination, was it?”
“Nay, Magnus, that actually happened.” The mighty stallion seemed paler as the group approached. “And I won’t deny, I’ve got chills running down my spine right now.”
The glowpaz on her necklace shone as the group ventured into the dark, and Somnambula led the way as Stygian called, “Now stay close, everypony. We need to find a desk of some sort, somewhere that we can safely place the potion where Mistmane can find it.”
“And hopefully leave so that we can find her and…”
“Flash Magnus, you dolt!”
The door to the greenhouse slammed shut as plants started wrapping themselves around the door handles. Magnus barely had a moment to realize his mistake before the vines shot forth to attack the party.
“They’re after the potion!” Meadowbrook cried out.
“And the rest of us!” Rockhoof, despite his bulk, was a bit too fast for the vines. “Stygian, that one big bulb there at the other side of the greenhouse! Glowin’ with light from within! That look big enough to hold a pony to you?!”
“Yes!”
“Wait, you’re not saying these plants eat ponies, do you?!” Magnus saw one particularly large bulb heading right for him and did his best to hold it off with his shield.
“Don’t jump to conclusions!” Rockhoof took up his shovel and jammed it into the gap in the bulb, a gap that brought to mind lips on a particularly large mouth. “Stygian, a little magical push would help!”
“Move fast!” Meadowbrook’s bag slipped from her grip as the vines dug through it. “They have the potion!”
The scholar lent his magic to his friend’s effort, and the bulb opened just enough for a brilliant light to issue forth from within. The bulb opened the rest of the way to reveal an ancient-looking mare, wrinkled and garbed in soft fabrics styled from a faraway land, with her long mane trailing behind her like mist. Despite her predicament, her mood was calm as she smiled upon her guests.
“Hello everypony. I am Mistmane, and I am glad that you have arrived at last.”
-
The morning sun was rising over Canterlot as Rainbow Dash sped through the skies towards the castle grounds. Ignoring the fact that she was in her element, the prismatic pegasus was over the moon with excitement and couldn’t wait to meet up with Twilight. Best case scenario, they’d be able to share their respective awesome bits of news with each other. Worst case…well, her news was awesome enough for both of them.
“Excuse me!” Much to her surprise, the mare slowed to a halt to find a mare in Royal Guard armor in the air beside her. The mare stopped and turned to face her. “Mind identifying yourself, miss?”
“Wha-?” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “You know, I’m all for you guys taking your job seriously, but I’d think you guys would know who I am.”
“For all I know, you’re a changeling in disguise.” She gestured to the ground below and pointed out, “We’ve already had one pony show up this morning unannounced, and I’d rather not take any chances.”
Dash barely had a second to look before she saw a familiar pink pony surrounded by Royal Guards enthusiastically wave and shout, “HI RAINBOW DASH!” She sighed, then turned to the Guard. “Hit the dirt?”
“Please.”
The two pegasi landed as the remaining guards approached with their unexpected guest in tow. “Rainbow Dash. Bearer of the Element of Loyalty, born in Cloudsdale, first and so far only pony to pull off a Sonic Rainboom in centuries.”
“Dashie, you’re not doing it right!” Pinkie Pie bounded up and explained, “All that stuff is something anypony could look up in a library! You gotta tell her something secret, something…!”
The Guardsmare cleared her throat to prompt the pink mare’s silence, then turned to Dash. “Name three ponies who were part of your course at Wonderbolt Academy.”
“Thunderlane, Bulk Biceps, and Cloudchaser.”
“And the officer who oversaw your written exam for the Wonderbolt Reserves?”
“Whiplash.”
“And the flavor of pie that you saved for Soarin at the Grand Galloping Gala last year?”
“Apple.”
The Guardsmare smiled, then turned to her subordinates. “They’re clean. I’ll take it from here.” The others guards gave a brief salute, then went on their way. “Sorry about that. Other guards might let security get lax, but not me.” She slipped off her helmet. “First Lieutenant Indigo Zap. It’s an honor to meet the both of you.”
“Aw, thanks!” Pinkie noticed the puzzled look on her friend’s face. “Dashie? Rainbow Dash?”
“Oh, sorry.” Dash turned to the Guardsmare and explained, “You just look familiar to me is all.”
“Like somepony named Lightning Dust?”
“Hey, yeah…!” Her eyes went wide, and she groaned. “Oh no, don’t tell me! You two are cousins, aren’t you?”
The Guardsmare laughed. “Heck no. Sisters.” She then grinned. “And don’t worry. Dusty had what happened to her coming.” The mood now relaxed, Zap then ventured, “I’m guessing that the two of you are here to check in on Princess Twilight and her little research project?”
“Uh-huh!” Pinkie bobbed her head up and down excitedly.
“Alright then. Odds are she’s still having breakfast with the rest of the team and the Royal Sisters, but we might get lucky and they’ll be done by the time we get to them. Follow me.”
“Oooh, before we do that!” Pinkie turned to her friend and asked, “How’d the test go? Did you pass?”
Rainbow Dash’s written examination to get into the Wonderbolts had been a major topic in Ponyville for some time, especially after the community had come together to help her to study for the test. The young mare wasn’t the most studious, but after a suggestion from a visiting member of the Royal Guard had pointed out that she was exceptionally attentive when flying, that talent had been taken advantage of to help Rainbow Dash to pick up every bit of information that she’d need for the test, and then some.
The prismatic Pegasus grinned and declared, “I aced it!”
Pinkie’s expression went from eager to ecstatic so fast that it practically broke the sound barrier. “WHOO-HOO! I KNEW YOU COULD DO IT!” As the other two ponies rubbed their hooves in their ears, the party pony produced something from nowhere. “And I got you something to celebrate! Surprise!”
“Oh, hey! A pie!” The confection found itself in Rainbow Dash’s hooves. “Thanks, Pinkie, I… Hey, what’s that?!”
Pinkie’s gaze spun about to the far horizon behind her, and Dash chucked the pie away as far as she could. The prismatic pegasus then made several dramatic ‘nom-nom-nom’ sounds and felt her mane rustle as Pinkie turned her attention back to her. “What was what?”
“Thought I saw something. Don’t worry about it.” Dash then made a fake swallowing motion. “Now let’s go…”
“Ahem.” The pair then turned to find Indigo Zap standing beside them, the discarded pie in her hooves as she hovered above them. “I don’t suppose there’s a good explanation for you tossing away a perfectly good pie, is there?”
Pinkie let out a scandalized gasp, then turned to her friend. “Rainbow Dash! You don’t like my pies?!”
“No!” At her friend’s expression, she whimpered and explained, “It’s not that I don’t like your pies, Pinkie. I just don’t like pies in general.” She then tried to be reassuring. “Lots of other ponies did though! Tank loves ‘em, too! He can’t…!”
“Oh no! Don’t you try to distract me!” She gave her friend a pleading look and asked, “If you didn’t like my pies, then why didn’t you tell me?”
“I…didn’t want to hurt your feelings. I mean, I remember the last time you thought that nobody liked something you did and…”
Pinkie Pie sighed. “Dashie! You could’ve just sat me down and explained what was going on in the first place! Sheesh, what is this, some cheap comedy that relies on nopony talking to each other?”
Indigo gave the party pony a dry expression. “No, it’s real life.” As Pinkie rolled her eyes in the direction of the fourth wall, the Guardsmare explained, “Still, she’s not wrong.”
Dash groaned, then turned to her friend. “Sorry Pinkie.”
The party pony pouted for a precious picosecond, then took her friend into a hug. “It’s okay, Dashie. I just wish you’d said something sooner. I’d have made you cakes instead.” She then turned to Indigo and asked, “What about you? You can have the pie if you want it.”
“Not while I’m on duty, sorry.” She then eyed the pie and grinned. “But I think I know a way around that.”
-
Stygian momentarily found himself speechless, but quickly recovered. “Arrived at…? You mean, you knew we were coming?”
“Indeed. My plants could sense that something was amiss.” Mistmane stepped out of the opened bulb with as much worry as a foal stepping from one cobblestone to another. “I fear that is why you had so much trouble. They worry for me, you see.” She then cleared her throat and shouted, “Every plant! Stop at once!” The assorted plants throughout the greenhouse ceased, much to the relief of the ponies they had ensnared. “This is not how we treat our guests! Now, kindly release them, and return whatever you might have taken from them!”
The plants did as told. Meadowbrook was the first to be released, with one vine daintily setting her potion down before her, while Flash Magnus and Somnambula swiftly followed. All three were visibly relieved and awestruck at their savior. “Thank you,” the earth pony mare said as she collected her potion, then turned to Mistmane and said, “Ah am much obliged to you.”
The wizened mare smiled and accepted the healer’s thanks with a nod, then looked up to address her menagerie. “Now then, I appreciate your concern for my safety, but trapping me in here is hardly going to do any good for me, you, or anypony outside. If this danger you sensed is indeed dire enough for you to even consider such actions, then I simply cannot stand idly by and allow it to act unimpeded. I seek to help bring beauty into this world, after all, and I can’t do that if I’m locked away.” She gently cupped one small flower in her hoof as she noted, “I might even find you some new homes if I have the chance. As safe as it is here, do you really want to be here in this greenhouse, rather than out in the world?”
Many of the plants drooped slightly, as though they were apologetic, and receded into other corners of the greenhouse.
That prompted a sigh from Mistmane, and her gaze swept over the group. “I do apologize for the poor reception. And I hope that what brought you here, and what my plants sensed, are one in the same. Otherwise, we might be in even greater trouble than it seems.”
“I hope so as well, Lady Mistmane.”
The wizened mare laughed at Stygian’s words. “There’s no need for such formalities. Despite what stories you might have been told, I am nopony special.”
“Given you speak with and command plants, I would argue otherwise.” Flash Magnus uneasily eyed one of the pony-sized bulbs. “How are you able to do that, anyway? Some sort of Eastern magic?”
“No, I merely pay close attention. I can feel the world is holding its breath, as though something of great import is on the immediate horizon.” She turned to Stygian and asked, “Regardless, I assume that you have brought everypony together?”
“Yes, and you’re right, there is a danger on the horizon.”
“Then let’s not waste any time.” Mistmane opened the doors to her greenhouse with her magic, and led the group out. “Is there anypony else you seek to collect before we continue further?”
“Yes, one more pony. Star Swirl the Bearded.”
“Star Swirl?” Rockhoof looked at his friend in amazement. “The mentor to Clover the Clever? Advisor to King Bullion and Princess Platinum?”
Stygian nodded. “And now to the Royal Sisters. He’s likely with them.”
Mistmane laughed. “You’re right, but I doubt that he’s exactly where you think he is. Fortunately, he’s not too far away.”
-
Within the castle itself, the research team found itself gathered for what they hoped would be a pleasant start to the day, settled around a table for breakfast.
Twilight giggled like a schoolfilly as she looked at her breakfast. “Oh, this brings back so many memories!” Before her was a stack of pancakes, lovingly decorated with whipped cream and fruit so that a smiling face was upon it.
“For me, too.” Celestia was seated beside her protégé at the head of the table, Luna at the opposite end, with the rest of the research team ringed about the table itself. “Though it’s been a while since I’ve made so much for so many. Usually it’s just me and Luna in the mornings.”
“You made these yourself, ma’am?” At his sovereign’s nod, Flash Sentry smiled. “Wow. No offense, but I’d think you’d leave this for somepony else.”
“I could, but that’s horribly impersonal.” She grinned and admitted, “And not nearly as much fun. Anyway, dig in everypony.” As syrup was provided for all those who wanted it, Celestia turned to Twilight and prodded, “Now then Twilight, where to from here?”
“Well, I think the best course of action at this point would be to go with the documents that we know are not only legitimate, but also contain information that could corroborate with what we’ve found in Star Swirl’s study. Namely, Meadowbrook’s journals.” Twilight turned to Sunburst and suggested, “If we’re lucky, we can build from that, and maybe find something to work from.”
The bespectacled unicorn nodded. “That’s probably the best we can do. I just hope…”
Attention was claimed as a throat was cleared at the entrance to the entrance to the small dining room, Kibitz at the door. “Apologies, your Highness, however…”
“However, I feel that this cannot wait.” Into the room strode a tall, slender stallion, light grey in color with a slightly greasy-looking black mane slicked back out of his eyes and short beard, clad in collar and long tunic that concealed much of his torso. Over his front was a sash with a medallion upon it, marked by an emblem that Twilight instantly recognized. “My apologies for barging in.”
Celestia frowned, then nodded to Kibitz. The aide stepped out of sight, and she turned to address the newcomer. “Chancellor Neighsay. To what do I owe this impromptu meeting?”
“I merely wished to take a moment to express some concerns I’ve had with activities taken by yourself and Princess Luna of late.” He then turned to the latter royal and explained, “Ivory Tower has informed me of your recent visit to Neigh Orleans and the results thereof. While I am appreciative of the information you’ve brought to light, I must question your methods.”
Luna was decidedly less patient than her sister as she scowled at the academic. Nonetheless, she kept an even tone as she explained, “Had it not been for my methods, the information may not have come to light at all. And regardless, I was aiding Princess Twilight.”
“Regardless, this sort of research is best left to proper academic scholars. Your time and effort is best kept to your duties.”
The scowl deepened, and Luna rose from her seat. “Do excuse me, dear ones. The night was long and I must retire.” She glared at Neighsay and added, “Besides, I fear that I have lost my appetite.”
Neighsay’s gaze followed her out before he turned his attention to the third princess in the room. “Princess Twilight Sparkle. I don’t begrudge you for your research efforts, nor do I discourage them, whatever they may be. The debt that Equestria owes to you and your fellow Bearers cannot be understated. However, where you are currently without portfolio or governmental duties, each of your fellow Princesses have responsibilities, ones which you shouldn’t be drawing them away from. Important things such as national security shouldn’t be neglected for idle research projects.”
Twilight took a second to wipe her mouth with a napkin before she answered. “With all due respect, Chancellor, I am well aware of my duties, as well as those of my fellow princesses. And nopony’s responsibilities are being neglected in favor of idle research.”
The chancellor considered her for a moment. “Very well, but kindly remember that all scholars can find themselves going down rabbit warrens seeking information that cannot be found. It’s not a wise idea to waste time on something that may never produce anything of value.” He then turned to Celestia and noted, “I will see you again this afternoon, ma’am. Good day to you.”
Once the chancellor departed, Celestia managed an aggrieved sigh. “I’m sorry that you all saw that. Chancellor Neighsay is, to put it politely, very conservative in his views regarding duty and obligations. He takes his as head of the EEA quite seriously, which is good, but he tends to frown on others acting outside their areas of expertise, so to speak. And that puts aside his lack of flexibility.”
“In his defense, he is operating with incomplete information.” Heads turned to Sunny Flare, who looked about. “Well, I doubt that he’s aware of what we’re hoping to find. I’d certainly consider the origins of the Tree of Harmony and the Elements to be vital to national security.”
“Considering they played a role in stopping three major crises in the last year, most would be inclined to agree with you.” Twilight turned to Celestia and admitted, “And I don’t think that’s the only thing he’s wrong about. I mean, you’ve told me about research projects that have stalled, and I haven’t heard anything different about them.”
“Unfortunately, neither have I.” The elder alicorn gave an encouraging smile to her protégé. “Still, what seems without value to one individual can mean everything in the world to another. And adding to knowledge, helping us to learn about our history, is anything but idle research. So don’t let some stuffy old academic discourage you. You’ve overcome greater challenges than him.”
Twilight smiled. “Thank you, Celestia.”
Kibitz chose that moment to return. “Guests to see you, ma’am. Associates of Princess Twilight. Shall I prepare seats for them?”
“Of course, Kibitz.” Celestia’s surprise turned to delight as Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie stepped into the room. “Good morning. Come to aid Twilight in her research?”
“That’s what we’re hoping for, assuming she hasn’t already got it licked.” Kibitz barely moved Luna’s abandoned meal out of Pinkie’s reach before Rainbow Dash asked, “So, any good news?”
Twilight shared a grin with Flash Sentry. “Actually, we do have something. And you’re going to be floored by it.”
-
“My stars.” Stygian looked up awestruck at the sight before him, a sentiment shared by most of his compatriots. “This is a beautiful castle.”
“Mark mah words, one day, there’ll be a bustlin’ city all ‘round this castle.” Meadowbrook smiled at the thought. “Thrivin’ businesses, growin’ families…”
Rockhoof was similarly smiling. “The sort’ve place that can bring us all together an’ unite us. A shining city on a hill.”
Flash Magnus snorted. “Pegasi will always have some independence, mark my words.” Cultural pride gave way to some pleasure as he admitted, “Still, this is a worthy sight. Strong foundations at least.”
“I only hope there are no gigantic snakes about.” Somnambula turned to the newest of their number and asked, “Are there?”
Mistmane quietly chuckled. “No. Now come along, Star Swirl should be in the castle gardens.” The wizened mare led the group along the castle grounds as she explained, “He likes to go there to be alone with his thoughts. I can understand, but it did complicate completing them in secret.”
The group reached an archway, the cobblestone path ahead leading into an area of lush greens. Within was a stallion that instantly caught Stygian’s attention. Clad in a bell-laden cloak and hat, his mane and tail white as a sheet, was the very pony they sought. “Star Swirl the Bearded. The greatest conjuror of our era, and there he is, naught but a few yards away.”
“Then why don’t you go and speak with him?”
The scholar shot the wizened mare a shocked expression. “Me?! But I…” At her encouraging smile, he nodded, screwed up his courage, and stepped into the gardens.
Near the center of the garden, scroll and writing implements floating before him, Star Swirl was jotting away, clearly trying to work through a spell. “From one to another, another to one. A mark of one’s…purpose? No, no, that won’t do…”
“Excuse me? Star Swirl the Bearded?”
The sorcerer let out a groan. “Simply Star Swirl is fine.” He turned to face Stygian, and raised an eyebrow. “Young pony, if you’re simply here to waste my time, kindly leave and waste yours elsewhere. I barely get a moment away from two moody teenagers whom I am attempting to mold into the rulers of this realm that I know they are able to be, and this spell is giving me far more trouble than it should.”
“Right, my apologies, but… I need your help.” The scholar straightened himself as best he could and explained, “My name is Stygian, and I come from the western coast. My home is under attack from a creature that came from the sea, a being of great magical power that I’ve come to call a Siren.”
The sorcerer snorted. “Not the most imaginative of names.”
“It seemed most appropriate. He has attributes like those of the kelpies that you’ve written of, particularly his hypnotic magic and vocal talents, but…”
“Wait, you’ve read my works?” At Stygian’s nod, Star Swirl probed, “What else of mine have you read?”
“Your chronicles of the great heroes of Equestria. Though, forgive me, but I think perhaps you weren’t quite accurate when you depicted them.”
Star Swirl’s expression was both annoyed and curious. “And by what grounds do you believe this?”
“By the grounds that he’s met us.” Star Swirl turned and goggled at the gathered ponies as they entered the garden, Rockhoof in the lead. “Apologies, Stygian, but you and I both know that time isn’t a luxury right now.”
“Of course.” Stygian gestured. “Star Swirl the Bearded, meet the very heroes whom you wrote of. I asked for their aid as well as yours. Will you join us? Please?”
-
Second Chance Silver was, on the exterior, a nondescript building. Those who ventured inside, however, found themselves impressed at both its wares and its proprietor. The shelves were filled with antiques and rare finds of one variety or another, and many ponies found themselves wandering about just taking it in, especially after Twilight Sparkle’s ascension and crowning helped attract attention. A few even wondered if the establishment was bigger on the inside than the out, given how much it seemed to hold…
As for the proprietor, Sterling Silver was one of the more curious residents of Ponyville. A stallion of wealth, his family had come to Ponyville early in its history both for the atmosphere and to invest in the town’s newborn industries. Other members of his family looked after their collective wealth, however, which left him with his own little corner of the family’s businesses to look after. The shop was, compared to what the rest of the family looked after, a hobby. That said, business was light and he had competent employees, which left him plenty of time to look after his young daughter. Still, he wasn’t afraid to mind the store, especially when it allowed him to repay a debt.
The door chimed, and Sterling looked up to the door. “Quiver Quill. I thought you worked on Mondays.”
“I do, but they had too little work and too many ponies, so I got voluntary time off.” The young stallion approached. “I figured I’d stop by and take a look around.”
“Well, you chose a good day to do so.” The elder stallion beckoned for the other to follow, and led him to a set of bookshelves. “We just received some new product, including a selection of books. I’m a little surprised that Princess Twilight hasn’t come to take a look herself.”
“Well, she’s been in Canterlot on business since yesterday morning.” Quiver looked over the various volumes as he elaborated, “Research project.”
“I assume this has something to do with what Silver visited Golden Oak Library about last Wednesday?”
Quiver nodded. “How’d that parent teacher conference go, by the way?”
“I’m happy to say very well. Silver’s grades are good, and she’s kept her nose clean. I think you’ve been a good influence on her and Diamond Tiara.”
The young stallion smirked. “I didn’t do anything special.” His eyes landed on an ancient-looking volume, and he gently plucked it from the shelf. “Hello.”
Sterling frowned. “Terrible shame about its condition. That book has clearly had some hard wear to it.”
“I’ve seen worse. My father kept a lot of old books in our attic. Then one summer, some squirrels got in.” The other stallion winced as Quiver carefully opened the book and went through the pages. “Dad wasn’t happy about it. Lots of trashed books left behind. And three guesses who had to clean up the mess.”
The elder stallion raised an eyebrow. “I would think that would be a job for a professional.”
“You’ve never met my father. Any job worth having done was worth dropping onto my back, especially if it saved money.” Quiver’s eyes went wide as he examined the text. “Where did you get this again?”
“This shipment came in a little while ago. I acquired them through an estate sale. Why?”
“Take a look.” Quiver turned the book around. “That looks like Old Ponish to me. I don’t remember a lot of books being published in that language, save for the odd specialty release. New translations of Coltic epics, or that one promotional version of ‘There and Back Again’.”
“Oh yes, I remember. Promotion for the films.” Sterling frowned. “Did you think that romance subplot was gratuitous too, or is that just me?”
“It was, but that was enforced by the studio, so I don’t blame the director or screenwriters.” Quiver flipped through the pages further. “Anyway, those were all put out within the last twenty years, and they included copyright noted and other things. This doesn’t even have a…” In his page-flipping, Quiver stopped and found his eyes resting on an illustration depicting six rings, with each ring encircling an illustration of a pony. The six ponies, in turn, were divided equally between genders and the three main tribes, with one pair each of earth ponies, pegasi and unicorns, with the unicorn stallion in the center ring having an unmistakable image. “Sweet Maker.” He closed the volume and asked, “How much?”
Sterling was caught off-guard by the question, but quickly recovered. “Well, given the condition of the volume and its curious contents, I’m not certain many would…”
“I’ll give you sixty bits for it right now.”
Sterling Silver was many things, but he was no fool. “Right this way.”
Funds were exchanged, and Quiver quickly departed with his purchase. Sterling had barely paid the book any thought, and suspected that few would take much notice of it. Odds were that, with enough time, it would end up in one of his blind buy barrels. That it was out of his mane already was both a surprise and a relief. Still, he had to wonder why Quiver had taken so much interest in it, and why the stallion seemed so eager to pay so much for it.
He shrugged. Perhaps he’d learn the answer someday.
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A most excellent chapter, as always, Echo.
Loved it!
Now to business:
Aaaand one of my least favorite ponies from FiM enters the picture. Wonderful.
And he certainly didn't do anything to change my initial opinion of him from back then, either.
Stiffnecked jerk.
*sighs* You would think that when you've got two ponies who lived through that back then that the idiots would shut their arrogant, ignorant yaps and defer to the ones who know just what the bloody hell that they're talking about!!!
Sheeesh!
*takes a deep breath*
*ahem!*
Sorry 'bout that, folks.
Ivory Tower, Neighsay; etc.; are NOT doing a whole heck of a lot to raise my already low opinions of them.
And likely won't, either.
Still, I'm looking forward to the lot of them getting their well-deserved comeuppances when the time comes, and I know that you'll make it a doozy, Echo.
And on THAT note:
very much looking forward to it, and to see what happens next!
Awesome, and looking forward to it!
Indeed.
11404054
Yeah, Neighsay has hardly endeared himself to anyone, has he? And I fear that his introduction into the Quiververse isn't too far away from his appearance in canon. Then again, canon showed that as bad as he was, there were ponies who were far worse. And the Quiververse is no different. Time will tell indeed regarding how he fares, but I can assure you right now that before this story is finished, Neighsay will find himself facing an argument against his policies and beliefs that he can't really argue against. Part of it, in fact, is already written. Suffice it to say, Neighsay should take great comfort in the fact that he hasn't crossed paths with Quiver Quill yet.
As for Ivory Tower...well, like I said, there are worse ponies out there than Neighsay.
11404110 No, he definitely hasn't.
*nods*
That it did, and that is true. (Kinda why I've never liked him.)
Which is cool, and why I like the Quiververse so much.
Oooooo, color me intrigued, good to hear, and I can't wait to read it!
Yes. Yes, he should... mainly because if I know Quiver like I think I do, he'd have ripped the guy a new one.
Still might, if they ever DO meet at some point in the QV.
Oooo.
You said "yet".
I'm sensing that they will at some point along the way.
Yeah, you did, and yes, there definitely are.
Sadly enough.
That was a good chapter goodluck with the next one.
11404154
Thanks. I'm happy to say that work has already started on the next chapter. Got my fingers crossed that more will be done before the end of the day.
Glad to have settled in and caught up on this.
I really enjoyed this as always. Particular standouts included the opening sequence with Sunset Shimmer; the visit to Canterlot (I got a guilty laugh out of the quick aversion of "Secrets and Pies" - I love that episode, so even if it'll never come to pass here, the acknowledgement of it made me smile); the breakfast at Canterlot... and even the bit finally introducing the beloved Chancellor himself. What a card, that guy.
I also enjoyed the final scene involving Echo and Sterling Silver. It's a little touch but I enjoyed the reference to Silver Spoon in their conversation prior to the plot-important bit... I always thought Silver's background had interesting potential to contrast against Diamond Tiara's. (My own headcanon was that I saw her father as being in banking, and her mother as a jeweler or somesuch.) But I like the idea presented for the Quiververse, for sure.
As always, solid work, and looking forward to seeing where things go from here.
11404344
I personally don't hate the episode in question, but it does have a plot that could've been readily solved if everyone involved had just said something. It's a silly cartoon plot that's been done repeatedly, and while that's not a bad thing, it wasn't one that I wanted to repeat.
And yes, Chancellor Neighsay has rather endeared himself, hasn't he? As much as I've tried to stay true to his character, I think I've succeeded a little too well. All the better for what's to come, I suppose.
I'm personally rather fond of the idea of a person of wealth running a small business where he finds items of good quality and resells them. You don't become rich without recognizing the value in something, or someone. Still, it wouldn't surprise me if he's got at least one banker in the family, and if you don't mind, I'm happy to borrow that idea for Silver's mom.
Fingers crossed that you don't have too long to wait and that you enjoy what's coming next.
11404365
Yeah, that's quite fair, and I understand that. No criticisms here. ^^
As I said before, I look forward to seeing what's to come. Even where it concerns Neighsay.
Sounds like a solid idea to me. And I have no issue with you borrowing my headcanon for Silver Spoon's mom.
Yep.
Although while I know you've got Vignette #20 up, I don't think #19 is yet.
Can't wait to read that one when it goes up.
11405044
I haven't even written it yet, unfortunately. Looking forward to doing so, however, as well to getting it out there.
11405057 Yeah, that'd be why.
Cool to know, m' friend.
No hurry, though; take your time.
As I've often said, your stories are WELL worth waiting for.
Interesting developments all around.
I have to admit, I was a bit surprised to see Sunset and the other Rainbooms, but I certainly have no objections to that surprise, as I like them all and am happy to know what they're up to. And that was an interesting detail about the 'disassociation', so to speak, between Basso Profundo and certain three familiar faces who ended up having two different origins in the comics, the second of which retconned the first. I was wondering how you would handle those three faces, and I have to say, I like the answer. :) I do confess I prefer the second backstory, but I still like the solution you found so you could follow the first one, and have no actual objections to the first backstory either, much less to you or any other fan liking the first backstory better. Now the only questions I have left are exactly how different Basso is from Star Swirl's second siren foes, and whether in the Quiververse he sent them forward in time (like the first comic hinted) or they are actually centuries old despite looking like teenagers (like a significant amount of fans believes).
Another surprise was the encounter between Rainbow Dash and Indigo Zap, but it was definitely a welcome one too, as I liked their interaction. I kind of worry about what kind of relationship Indigo Zap and Lightning Dust have, though, if Indigo Zap will so readily and openly admit that her sister had it coming. I'm not saying she didn't, mind you... but it was still a touch surprising. And on a similar front, I wonder how dear old grandpa feels considering his recommendation was a huge waste at best and made him look bad at worst, and by extent, how both Lightning Dust and Indigo Zap will feel if Rarity Investigates occurs in a comparable way in the Quiververse.
But I'm getting ahead of myself. What matters now is that the two of them are getting along well, that Rainbow Dash aced her test, and also that she and Pinkie came to an understanding over the whole series of pie incidents. Good on Pinkie for being so kind and understanding, though, and on Rainbow Dash for still coming clear about it relatively fast, even if she did need Indigo Zap to intercept the pie in order for that to happen. I confess I didn't particularly mind the original episode as it happened in canon, but I'm also ambivalent on it no longer happening in the Quiververse. Hopefully from here on Rainbow Dash will simply enjoy the cakes Pinkie will make for her, not to mention that the hamster of Cheerilee's class and Tank should have considerably less stomach crises.
Though speaking of indispositions... I hope that despite of Luna's comment, neither she nor anyone else actually get sick over Neighsay's visit. I don't know how things went when she returned, but judging from Luna's reaction to his visit, they didn't exactly hit it off, which is a valid portrayal, considering Neighsay can be rather closed-minded. That said, he easily wins when compared to Ivory Tower, given how he ultimately did relent when Twilight explained herself (even if rather stiffly and in a way that conveyed he's not willing to 'fully give', so to speak) and did convey actual gratitude to her and her friends for their efforts in saving Equestria, which is more than a lot of ponies do, in canon or in the Quiververse. That does make sense, considering that in canon he did see the light in School Raze, and even in School Daze one could sort of see where he was coming from, given that at least some of the students were of races known to have been hostile to ponies recently, and most of the leaders didn't exactly help their case by wanting to start wars over the missing students without hearing out the ponies (and ironically, the only one who wanted diplomacy was also from the most openly hostile race to Equestria in recent history). I'm not saying that makes it right, or justified, but it does explain the matter... and while he is confirmed to have gone a bit farther here with his politics in Scars of the Sun, I still don't think he crossed the Moral Event Horizon. Not yet, at least, and I do hope he won't.
Going back (to the past)... I have to confess I wasn't expecting that both Mistmane and Star Swirl would be found in such quick succession, but there's nothing wrong with it by any means, and it's certainly good that the group is already all together, even if Star Swirl is coming across as considerably grumpier than I remembered him being from the show or from Reflections - Quiververse Edition. I can only imagine the fact Celestia and Luna are still young and at odds gets on his nerves more... but still, he could have been more polite, and poor Stygian, even if he's happy that he can actually start to stop Basso Profundo, clearly got a very sad surprise when he learned from personal experience the issues with meeting one's heroes.
I have to say, though, as far as surprises go... the biggest one would have to be in the ending. I did figure we'd see Quiver's find in the Quiververse at some point, but I had absolutely no idea that it would be this soon! I'm certainly not complaining, mind you. If anything, I'm even more hyped, not only for what it looks like may happen soon, but also for what other differences there may be from canon, especially once other familiar faces start popping up.
All in all, yet another great chapter! I'd even go as far as to rate this chapter my favorite one of Legends of Magic so far! Very much looking forward to the next.
11405571
That little segment with Sunset and the Rainbooms at the start was one part timeline establishment, one part clarification regarding the Dazzlings, and one part setup for stuff later in the story. The setup for later will get paid off by the end of this one, don't worry. And as for the Dazzlings themselves, I won't be elaborating too much for now, but I can assure you that all will eventually be revealed where they're concerned. There is a plan!
I've been planning for a long time to have Rainbow Dash meet Indigo Zap, though I'd initially planned on it happening much later. Circumstances, however, conspired that led to them meeting now, which allowed me to finally indulge in a small dig at my own tendency towards familial connections. In case you hadn't noticed, I've had several occasions where Dashie's found out that one pony or another ended up being a cousin of some sort to somepony else that she knows (Pinkie Pie to Applejack, Sunrunner to Sunset Shimmer, Sour Sweet to Quiver Quill), and that ignores the ones she doesn't know about just yet. Her finding out that Indigo is Lightning Dust's sister is as much a surprise about them being related as it is about how. As for all the crazy family stuff, well, that will be covered eventually...as well the Quiververse's version of the events of Rarity Investigates.
But yes, Rainbow Dash and Indigo Zap have gotten off on the right hoof, which is a good thing for a number of reasons (some of which are a ways down the road). And as for averting Secrets and Pies, I didn't hate the episode either, but it seems unlikely that something like this hadn't occurred sooner...and honestly, if it hadn't been Indigo Zap, it would've been Quiver Quill or Sunrunner.
Luna claiming that she had lost her appetite was really more a polite way of getting out of the room before she decided to do something unpleasant to Neighsay. Let's not forget that, a thousand years previous, somepony making comments like Neighsay's would find themselves in rather dire straights, and that's if they were lucky. She's already expressed a low opinion of academics, given how dismissive they've been regarding not only her views but also her very existence right up until her return, and Neighsay is a rather prominent figurehead for all of that. Neighsay, for his part, doesn't quite see how he's done wrong, and as Sunny Flare's admitted, he is operating with incomplete information. But as canon showed, he can be encouraged to change his viewpoints, given the right circumstances. Whether those circumstances will come by the end of this story is something you'll have to wait and see on.
I think part of it is not being used to youthful exuberance and having to put up with such great quantities of it that's prompted Star Swirl to be somewhat grumpy. You are right, however, that Stygian's going to have a poor time of it, though things are different from canon and will be different going forward.
And speaking of differences in canon...Quiver being the one to find Star Swirl's journal rather than Sunburst is very much a deliberate change on my part. Don't get me wrong, I love Sunburst and he's still playing a role in all of this, but Quiver was just in the right place and the right time. And don't be too surprised if he ends up taking on the role of somepony else's part in all of this.
I'm looking forward to the next as well, and very much eager to resume work on the next chapter. My fingers are tightly crossed that said work will continue very soon, though alas, work's decided to throw me a curveball and shift things around again. Still, I'm confident that I'll make my planned release date.
11405987
Well, if I may say so, I never doubted there was a plan. ;) That only makes me more eager to see it, though.
Rainbow Dash meeting Indigo Zap certainly worked out very well here. Looking forward to see what comes of it, and of the Quiververse's version of Rarity Investigates, especially if Rainbow Dash learns of Indigo Zap's and Lightning Dust's family connection before then.
Yes, I get what you mean. Even considering that the show took place over less time than its duration in real life (although perhaps not that much less if the amount of Hearth's Warming Eves is anything to go by) that's a bit long for Rainbow Dash disposing of Pinkie's pies not to have been noticed. And for what it's worth, while I don't object to Indigo Zap having been the one stopping it, I have no doubt that Quiver or Sunrunner would have done a good job, both at the pie interception and at being the voice of reason.
I see what you mean about the reason's for Luna's opinion on Neighsay, and that makes perfect sense. And it's true what you and Sunny Flare said that he doesn't know everything. Hopefully he'll change his views at some point in the Quiververse too, even if not at the end of this story.
I see what you mean on the reasons for Star Swirl's grumpiness too. Even if one is used to youthful exuberance, it can be draining if it's too much or if it's the wrong kind (as in, actual malicious treatment towards caretakers by youths who supposedly should nevertheless be old enough to know right from wrong), so for one who isn't used to it, it could be even worse. I feel sorry for Stygian, though. Hopefully things will look up for him eventually.
Don't worry, I didn't think you had anything against Sunburst when you made Quiver the one finding the journal instead, and I don't think I will feel so either when he ends up taking the role of somepony else in an upcoming event.
And well... I know I say this a lot, but know I mean it as always: fingers crossed for you, on writing and all other fronts. Take care. :)